15 Myths of Bicycling and Travel In Africa

by David Mozer
International Bicycle Fund

It is interesting to watch the reaction of people when they pickup literature on bicycling in Africa. Many react like it is an oxymoron and ridicule it to their friends. A few react like it is the greatest idea they have heard in years and you see the urge to sprint and buy an airplane ticket sweep across them. Hundreds of Westerners have bicycled in Africa: some were so emotional moved by the experience they cried when they had to leave. Many have returned in subsequent years to take additional bicycle tours in Africa. It doesn’t have to be “one of the world’s most dangerous places.” Why is there such a range of reactions to “bicycling in Africa”? Which reaction best reflects the facts?

Certainly bicycling in Africa is not for everybody. It is not for those who aren’t interested in bicycling or interested in Africa. But there are those, who might really appreciate it, who because of preconceived notions, or false information, have prematurely dismissed it. This is not to say that Africa does not have its problems or that one should not be a well informed traveler. However, there are huge areas where bicycle touring is practical, enjoyable and highly rewarding. Bicycle touring in Africa is for the good natured realist who can appreciate the rewards of not being confined by barriers of glass, steel and speed. The potential participant doesn’t even have to like dirt roads and rustic accommodations.

Read the 15 myths