Cycling Through Africa from Cairo to Cape Town
Cycling from Cairo to Cape Town is an extraordinary African adventure by anyone’s standards. It’s a journey that requires grit, determination, courage – and a high level of physical fitness. This epic journey covers approximately 10,000 to 12,000 kilometers (6,200 to 7,500 miles). It’s a journey that traverses nine African countries and all types of terrain.
With careful preparation and a spirit of adventure, this epic journey is within reach of anyone who dares to dream big. It’s an unforgettable solo African odyssey in a vast and dynamic continent.
With careful preparation and a spirit of adventure, this epic journey is within reach of anyone who dares to dream big. It’s an unforgettable solo African odyssey in a vast and dynamic continent.
Image: Tristan Ridley
What to Expect When Undertaking this Amazing African Cycling Expedition
The Route
How Long Will It Take?
The amount of time it takes to cycle from Cairo to Cape Town depends on your fitness level, the route you choose, the weather conditions, and how many days you take off to rest or go sightseeing.
Typically, cyclists who travel this route take anywhere from two to six months to complete the journey, covering approximately 10,000 to 12,000 kilometers (6,200 to 7,500 miles). That is some serious mileage by any standards!
On average, if you're cycling consistently without too many rest days or sightseeing trips, you might aim to cover around 80 to 100 kilometers (50 to 62 miles) a day.
Typically, cyclists who travel this route take anywhere from two to six months to complete the journey, covering approximately 10,000 to 12,000 kilometers (6,200 to 7,500 miles). That is some serious mileage by any standards!
On average, if you're cycling consistently without too many rest days or sightseeing trips, you might aim to cover around 80 to 100 kilometers (50 to 62 miles) a day.
9 Countries In 2-6 Months
1. Egypt
Image: Pexels
You will begin your journey in Cairo, cycling southward through Egypt towards Sudan. As you travel southward, you'll pass through lush agricultural fields, picturesque villages, and the canals of the Nile Delta.
Along the Mediterranean coast, you'll encounter several coastal cities, ancient ruins, and beautiful beaches.
Along the Mediterranean coast, you'll encounter several coastal cities, ancient ruins, and beautiful beaches.
2. Sudan
Image: Pexels
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Next comes the Sudan. As you move closer to the Egyptian-Sudanese border, you'll transition into desert landscapes, characterized by vast expanses of sand dunes and rocky terrain.
Sudan is a country of diverse landscapes ranging from deserts to fertile riverbanks along the Nile. However, the country has faced significant geopolitical unrest in recent years, marked by periods of political instability. While the situation has improved since 2019, sporadic violence and conflicts still persist. Cyclists travelling through Sudan should stay informed about the current situation before entering the country. |
3. Ethiopia
Image: Pexels
4. Kenya
Image: Pexels
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Once you get to Kenya, the landscape changes radically as you enter East Africa. Take some time to soak up the vibrant culture of Nairobi (think Out of Africa) before cycling through the Great Rift Valley and the savannahs of the Maasai Mara, encountering abundant wildlife along the way.
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5. Tanzania
6. Zambia
Image: Chobe National Park
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Cross the Zambezi River and take the type to visit the awe-inspiring spectacle of Victoria Falls before continuing southward on your journey. |
7. Botswana
8. Namibia
9. South Africa
Practical Things to Consider Before Embarking on Your Epic African Cycling Adventure
Image: Granfondo Cycling
1. Research and Planning
If you’re thinking of undertaking such a demanding journey, you will need to plan carefully, considering factors such as safety, visa requirements, and the availability of accommodations and supplies along your route.
Thoroughly research each country on the route, including health risks and safety advisories. The political situation in certain African countries can be volatile, so plan your itinerary accordingly and stay informed of any political unrest or security threats. Be sure you’re familiar with border crossing procedures and visa requirements before reaching the border of each country.
Thoroughly research each country on the route, including health risks and safety advisories. The political situation in certain African countries can be volatile, so plan your itinerary accordingly and stay informed of any political unrest or security threats. Be sure you’re familiar with border crossing procedures and visa requirements before reaching the border of each country.
2. Physical Fitness
You will need to train thoroughly before embarking on such a challenging journey if you want to maintain a consistent 80 to 100 kilometers a day. Make no mistake, undertaking this kind of long-distance cycling expedition will be nothing short of gruelling.
3. Health Precautions
Find out what vaccinations/medications are needed for each country. For example, for common tropical diseases like malaria. Most African countries are not malaria free, except for South Africa.
Pack a comprehensive first aid kit and carry sufficient supplies of clean water and food (beware of drinking tap or river water in most, if not all, African countries).
Pack a comprehensive first aid kit and carry sufficient supplies of clean water and food (beware of drinking tap or river water in most, if not all, African countries).
4. Road Conditions
Be prepared for varying road conditions, from smooth tarmac highways to washboard dirt tracks to sandy tracks. Equip your bicycle with sturdy tyres and carry a puncture kit and essential tools for repairs.
5. Safety
While the allure of an African adventure such as this is undeniable, safety should always be your top priority when undertaking such a challenging journey. Here are some key safety considerations:
It might be advisable to carry some protection such as pepper spray or a Taser that can be used in emergencies. Also be aware that in many parts of Africa, a bicycle, especially an expensive one, can be sold for cash. Undesirables might get it into their heads to attack you just to steal your bicycle – and/or your possessions. The rule of thumb is always to be vigilant and, wherever possible, don’t leave your bike unattended.
- Exercise caution in urban areas
- Avoid cycling at night.
- Be vigilant against theft and scams
It might be advisable to carry some protection such as pepper spray or a Taser that can be used in emergencies. Also be aware that in many parts of Africa, a bicycle, especially an expensive one, can be sold for cash. Undesirables might get it into their heads to attack you just to steal your bicycle – and/or your possessions. The rule of thumb is always to be vigilant and, wherever possible, don’t leave your bike unattended.
What to Pack
Packing smart is crucial for a long-distance cycling expedition. Rule of thumb? Travel light. Pack only the essentials.
Here's a list of basic items:
Here's a list of basic items:
Clothing
- Invest in reflective clothing for visibility for nighttime cycling.
- Choose quick-drying, wash-and-wear clothing to make it easy to wash your clothes on the fly.
- Include warm clothes for those cold nights and high-altitude regions.
- You’ll need a hat or a cap, whichever is more comfortable. Africa is a hot, intensely sunny continent and you don’t want to get sunstroke.
- Pack waterproof clothing (such as a waterproof jacket and trousers) for those sudden African downpours.
Camping and Other Equipment
You’ll need a lightweight tent, sleeping bag, water bottle, and a small camping stove. Other essentials:
Water: water from streams or rivers in Africa is not safe to drink, especially near rural settlements. In Africa, there’s the risk of runoff from agricultural lands, and cattle drink at the rivers and frequently defecate and urinate in the water. Another common practice among rural people is to do their washing in the river. So, even though a river may look picturesque and perfectly safe, it’s probably teeming with all manner of bacteria, parasites, and chemicals that, if consumed, can result in serious bouts of diarrhoea – or worse.
- A multi-tool and spares for your bicycle
- A pump and puncture repair kit
- A flashlight and/or headlamp (with spare batteries)
- Power bank to recharge digital devices
- A portable water filter (or water purifying tablets) to purify your drinking water if you plan on filling up at rivers
Water: water from streams or rivers in Africa is not safe to drink, especially near rural settlements. In Africa, there’s the risk of runoff from agricultural lands, and cattle drink at the rivers and frequently defecate and urinate in the water. Another common practice among rural people is to do their washing in the river. So, even though a river may look picturesque and perfectly safe, it’s probably teeming with all manner of bacteria, parasites, and chemicals that, if consumed, can result in serious bouts of diarrhoea – or worse.
Navigation and Communication
Carry detailed maps or a GPS device to navigate your route. Have a reliable means of communication, such as a satellite phone or a mobile phone with international roaming capabilities (however, the possibility of getting a signal in remote areas with a normal cellphone, is very slim).
Personal Essentials
Pack toiletries, sunscreen, insect repellent, headache tablets, nausea tablets, anti-diarrhoea tablets, and any prescription medications you may need.
What kind of bicycle is best for such a long-distance trip?
Embarking on a cycling trip from Cairo to Cape Town requires careful consideration when it comes to choosing a bicycle for the journey. Key factors? Comfort, reliability, and durability. Other factors include gearing (especially for tackling steep climbs), tyre size and tread pattern, and the sturdiness of the frame construction.
Accessories: lights and reflectors - and a comfortable saddle! You will also need racks/panniers, to carry your gear and supplies.
Here are some types of bicycles to consider for the journey:
Touring Bicycle
These bikes are specifically designed for long-distance travel and are well-suited for carrying heavy loads. They have sturdy frames and mounting points for racks and panniers and are built with durable components capable of handling rough terrain.
Adventure/Gravel Bike
These versatile bikes offer a blend of road and off-road capabilities, making them suitable for a wide range of terrains. They often have wider tyres for stability on rough roads, as well as mounting points for racks, and a more relaxed riding position.
Fat Bike
If you anticipate encountering sandy or exceptionally rough terrain, fat bikes with oversized tyres may be the right choice. They provide excellent traction and stability on loose surfaces like sand and gravel, although they can be slower on conventional tarred roads.
Custom Build
Some cyclists go for custom-built bicycles tailored to their specific needs. This might involve prioritizing durability, reliability, and comfort over lightweight performance.
Accessories: lights and reflectors - and a comfortable saddle! You will also need racks/panniers, to carry your gear and supplies.
Here are some types of bicycles to consider for the journey:
Touring Bicycle
These bikes are specifically designed for long-distance travel and are well-suited for carrying heavy loads. They have sturdy frames and mounting points for racks and panniers and are built with durable components capable of handling rough terrain.
Adventure/Gravel Bike
These versatile bikes offer a blend of road and off-road capabilities, making them suitable for a wide range of terrains. They often have wider tyres for stability on rough roads, as well as mounting points for racks, and a more relaxed riding position.
Fat Bike
If you anticipate encountering sandy or exceptionally rough terrain, fat bikes with oversized tyres may be the right choice. They provide excellent traction and stability on loose surfaces like sand and gravel, although they can be slower on conventional tarred roads.
Custom Build
Some cyclists go for custom-built bicycles tailored to their specific needs. This might involve prioritizing durability, reliability, and comfort over lightweight performance.
Further Reading
For a firsthand account of someone who has cycled from Cairo to Cape Town, you can read more here.