thanks JeanM! We do plan on buying meals from locals whenever we can, but we've been told we will be passing through very remote areas where that won't be an option. We've also been warned that water will be very, very scarce, so we won't be able to cook - hence, the quinoa option is out. I plan to stuff my panniers with as much food as I can, but I want it to be high calorie and nutrient dense food rather than plain bread and crackers! I will make some oatmeal cookies with lots of nuts and dried fruit - that should be a good source of energy.