Top 5 Reasons to Bicycle Across Africa
We’ve been asked more than a few times, “Why bike across Africa?” We undoubtedly will face challenges along the way, but that’s part of the allure. So, to get us started, here are our top five reasons for cycling across Africa.
#1: We Were in the Neighborhood
In the fall of 2019 we completed cycling across Europe, ending our trip in Istanbul, Turkey. From there it’s just a short-hop flight to Cairo. We’ve been talking about the possibility of cycling across Africa for years, and we’ll never be closer to the continent than we are now.
#2: Cycling Connects Us With People and Places
Traveling by bicycle is a very intimate way to tour a country. Your pace is slow enough that you can interact with people, even from the saddle of your bike. The slow pace also means that you can only go so far each day, requiring stopovers in the smaller villages and towns that get overlooked by most travelers. And when you’re on a bicycle, many people are motivated to reach out and connect with you, either to learn more about what your’e doing, or to offer assistance. We expect that these characteristics of bicycle touring will help us have a deeper experience of Africa - and to avoid the “Disneyland” aspects of many safari-driven trips.
#3: We Can Find Our Own Animals
Speaking of safaris, we find it more appealing to seek out wildlife on our own, rather than relying on a guide. We’ve heard stories of safari trips where your vehicle is just one of many surrounding a water hole, waiting for the “interesting” animals to arrive. For us, all of the wildlife and plants will be interesting, and we will enjoy the thrill of discovering it all for ourselves.
#4: Africa is Still Different
Many places have converged on a similar kind of development, that can leave you feeling like the cultures of the world are becoming homogenized, and a little bit too familiar. Africa has yet to come fully under the influence of these external forces. It stands out as being different. We hope to learn more about, and gain a deeper appreciation for, those differences.
#5: The Timing is Right
Part of the reason we’re tackling Africa now is that we’re still relatively energetic and healthy. Some of the challenges of a ride like this would only get tougher as the years go by. We feel like we’re more likely to enjoy the whole experience if we go sooner rather than later.
