My story about a solo motorbike trip around Africa in 2019

In 2019, I decided to embark on a solo motorbike trip around Africa, a continent that had always fascinated me with its diversity, culture, and history. I had been riding motorcycles for over a decade, but this was the biggest challenge I had ever faced. I wanted to see Africa with my own eyes, to experience its beauty and its hardships, to meet its people and learn from them. I also wanted to test myself, to see how far I could go on two wheels, and how much I could grow as a person.

What inspired me to take this trip? Well, it was a combination of factors. I have always loved traveling and exploring new places, especially on a motorbike. I had done some trips in Europe and Asia before, but Africa was a different story. It was a continent that I knew very little about, but that intrigued me with its mystery and diversity. I read some books and watched some documentaries about Africa, and I was amazed by the stories of adventure, courage, and discovery. I wanted to be part of those stories, to create my memories and experiences.

I also had a personal reason to take this trip. I was going through a difficult time in my life, after a divorce and a career change. I felt lost and unhappy, and I needed a change of perspective. I wanted to do something meaningful and challenging, something that would push me out of my comfort zone and make me grow as a person. I wanted to find myself again, to rediscover my passion and purpose in life.

So I decided to take the plunge and plan my solo motorbike trip around Africa. It was not an easy decision, as there were many risks and uncertainties involved. But I felt that it was the right thing to do for me, that it was my dream and my destiny.

I started my journey in Morocco, where I crossed the Atlas Mountains and rode through the Sahara Desert. I visited ancient cities like Fez and Marrakech and camped under the stars with nomads. I then entered Mauritania, where I faced sandstorms, corrupt officials, and a lack of fuel. I managed to reach Senegal, where I enjoyed the vibrant music and art scene of Dakar and visited the haunting island of Gorée, a former slave-trading post. I continued south along the coast, passing through Gambia, Guinea-Bissau, Guinea, Sierra Leone, Liberia, and Côte d'Ivoire. I witnessed the scars of civil wars and the resilience of the people. I also encountered some of the most stunning landscapes and wildlife of my trip, such as the Fouta Djallon highlands, the rainforests of Mount Nimba, and the elephants of Tai National Park.

From Côte d'Ivoire, I turned east and entered Ghana, where I was welcomed by the friendly and hospitable Ghanaians. I visited the historic castles of Cape Coast and Elmina, where millions of Africans were enslaved and shipped across the Atlantic. I also explored the lively capital of Accra and the cultural hub of Kumasi. I then crossed into Togo and Benin, two small but fascinating countries with rich traditions and voodoo practices. I visited the stilt village of Ganvie, the royal palaces of Abomey, and the sacred forest of Ouidah. I also met some amazing fellow travelers and locals along the way.

I continued my journey through Nigeria, Cameroon, Gabon, Congo, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Angola. This was the most difficult part of my trip, as I faced bad roads, armed rebels, malaria, and mechanical problems. I also had to deal with bureaucracy, bribery, and border hassles. But I also had some unforgettable experiences, such as riding through the lush jungles of Gabon, crossing the mighty Congo River by ferry, witnessing the gorillas of Virunga National Park, and marveling at the waterfalls of Kalandula. I also learned a lot about the history and politics of these countries and the challenges they face in their development.

I finally reached Namibia, where I felt a sense of relief and accomplishment. I had made it to Southern Africa, after more than six months on the road. I enjoyed the stunning scenery of Namibia, such as the dunes of Sossusvlei, the rock formations of Spitzkoppe, and the wildlife of Etosha National Park. I also visited the German colonial town of Swakopmund, where I met some old friends who had joined me for this part of the trip. We then crossed into South Africa, where we rode along the scenic Garden Route to Cape Town, the final destination of my journey.

I arrived in Cape Town on a sunny day in December 2019. I felt a mix of emotions: joy, pride, gratitude, sadness. I had completed my solo motorbike trip around Africa, covering more than 40 000 kilometers in 10 countries. It was an incredible adventure that changed my life forever. I had seen some of the most beautiful places on earth, met some of the most inspiring people, and learned some of the most valuable lessons. It was not easy, comfortable or safe at times but it was worth it.

This is my story, and this is what inspired me to take this trip.