Rocky Road

Last night, it blew a hooley but no sandstorm. We were both strangely looking forward to seeing a proper sandstorm but no go. This morning, the sun was out (as usual) but thankfully, the temperature was a balmy 20c and very pleasant for motorcycling. The air had cleared and visibility was improved to the point that it was worth taking a picture of the huge dunes.


We set off and a gaggle of kids spotted us and gave chase, some as young as 4 years old. This is a common theme, being chased by dogs or children. The kids were much friendlier than the dogs. 'Un Stylo, Un Dihram, Un Bonbon' was the normal request but sometimes they pointed to their teeth asking for something but we couldnt figure out what the wanted. You cant carry that many pens, sweets rot the teeth and I dont want to encourage begging....call me stingy.....but it makes you wonder how the kids can be out in the middle of nowhere chasing two guys on motorcycles for a 'gift'


We hit off to the west and decided to take a 'short cut' to Zagora via a Piste. We knew the first 8k would be rocky but didnt realise how much it would take out of us. It was real boneshaking stuff and not a lot of fun. We hoped the remaining 48k would be easy hardpack but no such luck. After a while the rubble gave way to intermittent sand, baked mud, gravel and occasional general rockiness.


We came across this very cheerful guy who had a little cafe and souvenir fossil stall in the middle of nowhere. I think he relied on passing tourist 4x4s and motorcycles. A glass of super-sweet mint tea and some advice on the route was duspensed and off we went again.



Just before Zagora, the piste finally became easy and fast. At this point it was a bit of an effort to stop to take a pic as I was hot and tired and craved a cold beer. A real 'Ice Cold in Alex' moment. SWe stooped in the second hotel on the way into town...only because the first one ( next door) is full.

Distance 293km

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