THE USA (PART 1)

2 292 Kilometres – 63 Days

Arizona

Nogales, Mexico – Green Valley, USA - 75km

The border crossing into the USA was a slow and tedious affair, with
only two of the ten booths staffed. Despite having visas, we still had
to queue for a permit, which took until 12:30 pm.

Sadly, I couldn’t see a “Welcome to the USA” sign; only the familiar
golden arches of McDonald’s, towering over the barren Sonoran
Desert.

As in all new countries, the day turned out interesting as we pedalled
through a desert-like landscape to Tubac, a historic village and
Spanish fort. However, Tubac had since become more of an artist
community than a fort.

We ended our ride at Green Valley, a small settlement near a copper
mine. The supermarket indicated prices and allowed us to draw US
dollars. We stocked up with provisions before setting off into the
desert to camp. Unfortunately, our chosen site was a tad of a
disaster. The area was littered with thorns, and one could barely find
a spot to pitch tents safely. We were fresh off the boat, so to speak,
and there was much to learn in this new country!