While there will be no future Cape to Kili expeditions, riders can experience a similar route on our annual Tour d’Afrique Cycling Expedition.

It has been just over a month since the riders on the 2025 Cape to Kili Cycling Expedition completed an epic journey through Africa and they have now had time to reflect on their adventure. Here’s what some riders had to say:

“I absolutely loved it. Wish I were still out there!” – Zach Allen (USA)

“Adventurous, challenging, and eye-opening. Truly a once in a lifetime opportunity.” – Jamie Fuhrman (USA)

“The tour has been an amazing, deeply immersive experience for me. Thanks to the kindness and constant support of the staff, I never once felt overwhelmed or stressed by the physical effort — I always felt safe, cared for, and confident. I achieved more than I ever thought I could, and that’s very much because of the truly wonderful team.” – Kristin Waeterloos (Belgium)

“The crew on the tour was outstanding.” – Matthias Kramer (Germany)

“The crew were excellent , professional, enthusiastic , motivating , helpful . They were well led to deliver a great adventure.” – Ted Malden (UK)

“The northern Cape and Cederberg mountains in South Africa were beautiful. Namibia was simply stunning and the star of the tour. Vic Falls and rafting were amazing and Tanzania and the nature were beautiful too!” – Hubert Schanne (Germany)

“We had excellent support in every way from bike maintenance to medical and most importantly nutritious meals. The staff were outstanding and riding with a bunch of like minded cyclists is highly recommended.” – Jim Pollock (Australia)

“An incredible adventure!” – Simon Prince (Canada)

“Nothing can prepare you, for how you will feel, when you are riding along a road and a family of elephants casually crosses in front of you. Those memories remain forever whether you managed to get the camera out or not!” – Adel Tyson (UK)

“This was my first “real” cycling trip. TDA helped me push the boundaries of what I was capable of in a way that felt safe but the right amount of challenge. It’s ignited a passion for bike packing and I’m excited to continue to explore this form of travel in the future. I felt that the experience with TDA has really well equipped me with the knowledge and experience to be able to do trips on my own in the future.” – Josh Zweig (Canada)

“Tour Leader Yanez noted we should ‘fill our buckets with silence in these quiet places.’ The ride wasn’t a race but an adventure full of fun, an opportunity to challenge yourself and to meet new people along the way – riders, crew and strangers, embracing each other in our shared journey. Growing up in South Africa but having been living abroad for many years the sectional ride from Cape Town to Windhoek renew my love for the place and people and exposed me again to the wild, ancient landscape that can so captivate the mind and replenish the soul. Thanks for making it happen.” – Michael Viljoen (Australia)

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Rihab Gwayed was the Content Creator for the 2025 Cape to Kili Cycling Expedition.

I thought the end would be simple: four more days on the bike, two rest days, then an easy roll to the finish near Kilimanjaro. Two months from Cape Town, our group of about twenty had found a steady rhythm – couples, friends, a father and son, and plenty of solo riders woven into one. Then Tanzania, our final destination, changed.

We heard about the political protests a few days after crossing the border from Malawi. We continued riding for two stages until we reached an amazing camp at Mto wa Mbu. We were lucky to stay there, in a safe, quiet mountain town with a wide view over Lake Manyara. Yanez, our Tour Leader, made the call to stay put until we had a clearer sense of what was happening after we heard that it wasn’t safe to keep cycling toward Arusha which had been affected by the protests. The internet was down and without the distraction of the online world, we shifted into the one right in front of us. We were allowed to make calls from TDA’s satellite phone and that helped many of us reassure our families that we were safe and sound.

Many of us spent time in Mto wa Mbu, a small farming town with a Maasai community that felt far from what was happening in the big cities. The internet being down didn’t really change much about our days. Ine, Joris and Anton did what they always do on rest days: they rode up into the mountains for a long spin, hundreds of kilometres. I stayed closer to camp – walked the forest nearby, swam in the river, and listened to the sounds of the African rainforest.

Even with that calm, tension lay underneath. We trusted Yanez, and that trust made the waiting possible. While we rested, he kept moving – talking with local people, checking nearby towns, and sharing updates each evening at our rider meeting, trying to piece together a picture of potential risk and possible safe routes. As we were in a disconnected world, we didn’t know how the situation was unfolding. Some information from the capital spoke of hundreds of deaths. We couldn’t confirm details, but the weight of it settled over us. Flights routed through the capital started to look uncertain. Plans for holidays after the tour started to fade. I caught myself running through worst-case scenarios and then pulling back to the basics: stay patient, stay together, listen.

The crew worked through every option. Do we keep riding as planned? Reroute and risk the unknown? Do we wait, and if so, for how long? What if our food runs out? Somewhere in the middle of the worry, we even laughed together about needing to learn hunting skills to get by, a small release that made the atmosphere feel lighter. With no reliable news, each path had shadows. Ultimately, we made a straightforward choice: move to our final destination in a convoy to avoid cycling through Arusha.

It meant missing two riding days and our planned rest day at Snake Park. Some of the riders felt disappointed to lose those kilometres, especially because they were the last ones, but at the same time, relieved that we were choosing the safest route we could. Once the plan was set, the mood shifted. We formed up as one, the police escorted us to make it as safe as possible, passing through Arusha and seeing few signs of any violent events.

Arriving at River Trees Lodge, our finish line, I felt my tension finally ease. It was our last stop on the tour and what a wonderful reward – a luxury hotel room in the middle of the forest with a river flowing through it. We considered continuing the convoy to the Kenyan border and flying out from there but then the internet began to return, slowly. We checked our phones, reached our families, and read the current news. The situation looked more stable. Some riders rebooked flights; others were able to fly straight from Kilimanjaro and avoid Dar es Salaam.

One thing remained constant: Yanez and the crew didn’t leave until they were sure everyone had a safe way home. They checked itineraries, helped with changes, and kept their eyes on the details until the last rider’s plan was solid. That mattered to all of us. It reflected the kind of finish we wanted – shared, safe, and cared for. So did it still feel momentous? For me, yes. Not loud. Not a sprint. More like an arrival that carried relief, gratitude, and respect for the week we’d just lived through. We didn’t finish the tour we planned; we finished the tour we had. In that difference, the ending felt genuine and earned – shaped by the place, the people around us, and TDA’s choice to put safety first.

Rihab Gwayed is the Content Creator for the 2025 Cape to Kili Cycling Expedition.

Michael Viljoen is one of the riders who joined the first section of the TDA Cape to Kili Expedition, cycling from Cape Town to Windhoek. He has been one of the most generous riders on the tour, always delighting others with the incredible photographs he captures along the way. With a true artist’s eye, Michael sees the world in a unique way and immortalizes those moments through his lens, sharing his vision and inspiring fellow riders with every shot.

Background & Motivation

Q: Can you tell us a bit about yourself?

I was born in South Africa and now live in Australia. I’m married to Linda from Scotland, and we have an Australian son. I have a passion for quite a few things – cycling is one, photography is another. I also enjoy a good glass of wine from time to time, and I’m a total Rugby Union fanatic.

Q: What inspired you to take on this tour?

When I stopped working last year, I wanted a challenge. I came up with the idea of cycling 1,000 km on each continent. It seemed like the perfect way to combine cycling, travel, and photography. Most of my rides so far have been more like photographic cycling trips. Last year I did the Munda Biddi Trail in Australia, and earlier this year I rode the Wild Atlantic Way in Ireland. On those rides, I filmed with a drone and action cameras while cycling. This tour is another step in that journey.

Credit: Micheal Viljoen (also feature photo)

Cycling Experience

Q: Is this your first TDA tour, and how does it compare to your usual cycling?

Yes, this is my first TDA tour. I’ve done some longer rides before, but this is by far the most consistent daily distance I’ve ever covered. Normally, I’d ride about 50 km a day on a road bike, but here I’m doing 120–130 km on gravel. That’s a big step up and definitely a challenge.

Q: How has it felt to cycle through South Africa and Namibia?

It’s been fascinating. Even as a South African, I’ve ridden through areas I’d never seen before. Crossing into Namibia really reinforced just how spectacular southern Africa is.

Q: And after this TDA section, what’s next?

I joined the tour from Cape Town to Windhoek, and I plan to ride another thousand kilometres on each of the other continents – probably Japan, Canada or North America, and the Carretera Austral in South America. Antarctica might be the tricky one!

Credit: Micheal Viljoen

Photography & Cycling

Q: How does photography shape the way you experience cycling and travel?

I try to combine three things on my trips: cycling, tourism, and photography. I carry an action camera, my phone, a drone, and a DSLR. For some riders, this is purely a cycling holiday, but for me, it’s just as much about capturing the journey. Photography changes the way you see the world. You notice colours, shapes, and small details in the landscape that you might otherwise pass by. Sometimes the cycling is tough, but if the photography is good, I still count the day as a success. Other times, the riding is fantastic but the scenery isn’t so photogenic — and that’s fine too. And then there are those magical days when both line up perfectly. Even when the cycling and photography are both difficult, you still end the day sharing experiences with the group, which makes it worthwhile. Photography keeps me engaged and opens my eyes to moments I might have otherwise missed.

Group Riding Experience

Q: How has it been riding with a group, compared to riding alone?

This is the first time I’ve cycled in a group like this, and it’s been great. You’ve got the flexibility to ride at your own pace if you want, but there’s also the social side — sharing meals, conversations, and time together on rest days. At the same time, if you’d rather have some privacy, nobody minds if you just sit quietly and read a book. There’s also a difference between being alone and being lonely. In a city, people can feel lonely, but out in nature you feel part of something bigger. You notice the sky, the wind, the birds, and it puts things into perspective. These rides really clear the mind — you stop worrying about work or other stresses, and you can just be in the moment. It’s almost meditative, as if your brain finally has space to simply receive everything around you.

Credit: Micheal Viljoen

Challenges on Tour

Q: What are the biggest challenges you’ve faced on this tour?

The challenges are both physical and mental. Physically, you definitely get sore hands, saddle sores, and aches in your arms, shoulders, hips, and sit bones. A well-fitted bike makes a huge difference, and I got some good advice from Simon to wear two pairs of cycling shorts on the bumpiest sections, which really helps. Mentally, the distance can feel daunting – riding 120 km a day is a lot. But I break it down into smaller sections. For example, I’ll think, “It’s 30 km to the Coke stop,” then another 40 km to lunch, and so on. Once you hit each milestone, the whole distance feels much more achievable. With that mindset, it’s all manageable.

Michael successfully completed his 1,000 km challenge in Africa and finished this first section of the TDA Cape to Kili Tour. We wish him all the best for his future cycling adventures and hope to have him join us again on another tour soon.

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Rihab Gwayed is the Content Creator for the 2025 Cape to Kili Cycling Expedition.

Do you know that moment when you realize you’re exactly where you’re meant to be? That’s how I felt watching the sunrise paint the South African sky on my first morning with the TDA tour. Coming from Tunisia, where cycling tours are practically unheard of, I never imagined I’d find myself here, surrounded by such incredible energy. Twenty brave souls from all corners of the world have gathered in Cape Town, ready to pedal their way to Kilimanjaro. Some are seasoned cyclists, others complete newcomers to long-distance touring. What unites them all? A beautiful kind of madness, I’d say.

The winter mornings here are brutal – teeth-chattering, finger-numbing cold at 4C. It’s easy to question my life choices when crawling out of warm sleeping bags in the pitch dark but here’s the thing about the TDA family – we’ve got each other’s backs. Take this morning: John, the Chef, was already whistling while prepping breakfast in the freezing dark, his laugh somehow making the cold more bearable. Someone huddled in their sleeping bag quipped, “This cold is not for sleeping alone in the tent – I should have brought my wife!” And suddenly, the whole camp was alive with laughter.

What strikes me most is the incredible machine that is TDA’s organization. Like a perfectly choreographed dance, our convoy of trucks transforms from mobile homes into a fully functional camp kitchen, mobile bike shop, and logistics hub. Twenty years of experience shows in every detail – from the meticulously packed trucks to the seamless coordination between crew members. While riders conquer the road, our lunch truck creates a pop-up restaurant in the middle of nowhere. Cyclists arrive to find a feast designed to restore their energy – fresh salads, protein-rich spreads, hearty sandwiches, and cookies for that sugar boost. Every dietary need is carefully considered, from vegetarian options to gluten-free alternatives.

Then there’s our dinner truck, already at the next camp, working its own kind of magic. As riders roll in, exhausted but triumphant, they’re greeted by the most comforting welcome imaginable – a steaming pot of homemade soup. While waiting for the main dinner, they gather around, sharing stories of the day’s adventures, the soup becoming a daily ritual that transforms road warriors back into camp family. This journey strips away all pretense. Whether you’re a CEO or a college student, a seasoned athlete or a newcomer to cycling, out here we’re all equally vulnerable to flat tyres, headwinds, and sore muscles.

We’re practicing what NASA astronauts call ‘Expedition Behaviour‘ – that vital mix of self-care and group support that makes challenging adventures possible. The support flows naturally: experienced riders share route tips during dinner, others lend tools or spare parts when needed, and everyone celebrates together when someone conquers their first grueling climb. These small acts of kindness and shared experiences forge bonds that transcend our different backgrounds.

A Tunisian proverb says, “A burden carried by a group feels as light as feathers” – perfectly capturing the essence of the TDA experience. Every checkpoint is precisely calculated, every route meticulously planned, every safety protocol tested and proven. Beyond the impressive logistics, it’s the human connections that make this journey extraordinary. In our vulnerability, we find our humanity, and in our challenges, we discover a humility that bonds us together, one kilometre at a time.

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The inaugural Cape to Kili Cycling Expedition reminded us that any new tour, even one that takes place largely along the same route as our Tour d’Afrique, faces an extra element of adventure and the unknown. Cycling in the opposite direction of the Tour d’Afrique, during a different time of year produced challenges, surprises and wonders in equal numbers, making the Cape to Kili experience distinctly different from its older trans-African brother.

Without a doubt, it was not, as some may have assumed, a ‘Tour d’Afrique Lite.’ While only 60% as long as the Cairo to Cape Town expedition, the challenges were equally tough in places – the weather, the roads, the traffic – and the rewards, equally sweet – the wildlife, the scenery, the people. We learned a lot during the 2 months the expedition was on the road and these lessons have encouraged us to make some changes for the 2025 Cape to Kili trip.

>>SEE 2025 CAPE TO KILI TOUR DETAILS HERE

Sunset on Lake Kariba, Zimbabwe

The larger change is that we are very excited to be adding a new country, Zimbabwe, and a new route from Victoria Falls to Lusaka. This includes an overnight ferry crossing of Lake Kariba (the world’s largest man-made lake), which gives the cyclists a chance to experience a less travelled region with amazing birds and wildlife.

We are sure that the 2025 Cape to Kili Cycling Expedition will once again offer no shortage of adventure and challenges, as it pedals across one of the world’s most astonishing continents.

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Each country along the route of both the Tour d’Afrique and Cape to Kili Cycling Expeditions can produce some lasting memories for the cyclists but it is Namibia that seems to resonate in their memories perhaps more than any other.

Zebra crossing

Perhaps it is the vastness of the country? The incredible endless views? The immense night skies? The unexpected wildlife?

Spreetshoogte Pass

Or maybe it is the challenging cycling? The corrugation? The sand? The gravel?

Read these 3 blogs below and decide..or better yet, sign up for the Dunes & Atlantic section of the Tour d’Afrique or the Mountains & Dunes section of the Cape to Kili expedition and discover the answer for yourself.

Nine Days Of Namibian Dirt

In 2023, Tour d’Afrique Content Creator Mats Fredrix wrote about the challenging nine day stretch of off-road cycling in Namibia.

“You could tell something big is in the offing by the hustle and bustle surrounding the bike clinic on the rest day. Tires everywhere. Different types of shock absorbing mechanisms being tested and scrutinized: from suspension forks to handlebar and seat post suspension. When it comes to absorbing the shocks, most still stuck with lowering the tire pressure significantly as their primary tactic to tackle the dirt.” (Read More)

Namibia: Deserts, Diamonds & Apple Pie

2022 Tour d’Afrique Content Creator Tate Drucker took a closer look at the history of the country and its unique characteristics.

“With each passing place, and with each casual conversation with a campsite manager who has their own history to tell and apple pie to offer, more and more of the riders have come to question how these people ended up living out in the desert in one of the most sparsely populated countries in the world.” (Read More)

The Dunes At Sesriem

The 2014 Tour d’Afrique saw staffer Bina Bilenky Trahan marvel at one of Namibia’s iconic sights, the dunes at Sesriem.

“Sesriem is the gateway to some of the biggest sand dunes in the world. Most of us went to see the dunes either at sunrise or sunset when the lighting on the red sand is spectacular.” (Read More)

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The Green Hills of Africa section runs between Nairobi and Lilongwe and includes 3 countries – Kenya, Tanzania & Malawi – that are often considered the ‘Heart of Africa.’ This is the Africa that many of us have in mind when we think of that continent – rich, red earth, vast plains of Acacia trees,  lush rainforests, spectacular wildlife, endless green hills and red-cloaked Masai tribesmen.

You can experience this amazing cycling adventure on either the Tour d’Afrique Cycling Expedition in March going north to south covering all countries starting in Nairobi, Kenya or in the opposite direction on the Cape To Kili Cycling Expedition in October which ends in Moshi, Tanzania near Mt Kilimanjaro.

Here are 5 great reasons to cycle this stunning section:

Mount Kilimanjaro

Kilimanjaro is an incredible sight, especially from the seat of your bicycle or from your campsite. At 5995 m, the highest mountain in Africa, it stands out sharply from the flat plains that surround it. Riders can enjoy the view, preferably while listening to Toto’s iconic song, Africa, and reading Ernest Hemingway’s famous short story – The Snows of Kilimanjaro.

Fun fact: Douglas Adams, author of The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy, once wore a rhino costume while climbing Mount Kilimanjaro to raise money for a charity to save endangered rhinos.

Wildlife Safaris

The Tour d’Afrique pauses for 3 days in Arusha, Tanzania to allow the riders the opportunity to take a wildlife safari out to such famous attractions as Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Crater. Here they may be able to observe the Big 5 – lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant, and African buffalo. Riders on the Cape to Kili ride, on the other hand, make a stop at Lake Manyara, home to vast flocks of pink flamingoes and tree-climbing lions, before concluding in Moshi, where they can also arrange safaris to the Serengeti and Ngorongoro.

>>Related Video: Cycling Cairo to Cape Town on the Tour d’Afrique – Part 4

Rural Tanzania

In 2009, in response to increasing vehicle traffic on part of our route through Tanzania, I was sent to see if there was an alternative way through the country. Initially, I glanced at a map (paper…remember the year!) and noticed a skinny line heading south from Arusha through Western Tanzania and headed out to see for myself. The new route has turned out to be a highlight of the tour, a 7 day stretch through some of the most remote regions of the country on striking red earth roads amidst lush green jungle.

>>Related Video: Cycling Cairo to Cape Town on the Tour d’Afrique – Part 5

Bamboo Bridge

Hidden away just outside Chitimba Beach is an incredible bamboo bridge first constructed in 1904 – making it over 120 years old years old. Each year the local villagers get together and make the needed repairs, ensuring it lasts for another century or so.

Keep your eyes peeled for the sign…it is easy to miss!

>>Related Post: 9 Surprising Reasons To Cycle Southern Africa

Lake Malawi

If Malawi is the “Warm Heart of Africa’, then Lake Malawi is the warm heart of Malawi. The 3rd largest freshwater lake in the world, it is home to an astounding 1000 species of fish, some of which end up in local kitchens while others end up in aquariums around the world. Beautiful sand beaches are backdropped by verdant green hills and its crystal clear waters are the perfect setting for riders to enjoy some spectacular sunrises as the local fishermen head out onto the waters.

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Nick Coe was the Content Creator on the 2024 Cape to Kili Cycling Expedition. In this post he looks back at the love/hate relationship cyclists had with Africa’s roads.

Biking for two months and covering 6,300 kilometres means encountering both gravel and tarmac roads—and developing a complex relationship with each. The Cape to Kili expedition features significant stretches of gravel, essential for reaching incredible sights like Sossusvlei and the world’s largest sand dunes. While gravel roads can be challenging, both road types offer unique benefits on a long cycling adventure.

Tarmac roads allow us to cover greater distances efficiently. For instance, one of our longest days was in Botswana, where we rode 217 kilometres. Despite battling headwinds, we knew that navigating a slow gravel road would have made this feat nearly impossible. On our tarmac days, we consistently racked up more kilometres. However, tarmac comes with its own set of challenges: traffic.

The paved roads tend to be close to bustling towns and cities, which means sharing the space with heavy transport trucks. This led us to take buses into two cities—Windhoek, Namibia, and Mbeya, Tanzania—where the traffic made cycling unsafe.

In Malawi, though, we enjoyed sharing the tarmac with fellow cyclists, which added a sense of camaraderie. “You crossed the border from Zambia to Malawi, and immediately see so many people on bikes. The first photo I took was the first thing I saw – a guy biking with a goat strapped to the back of his bike!” – Rider Alice.

On the gravel sections, we found ourselves in the most remote areas of our African expedition. Namibia, in particular, felt like a land dominated by gravel roads. As noted on the TDA website: “This sparsely populated country is full of wide-open spaces and night skies bursting with stars as you’ve never seen before. After a stop at one of the world’s largest sand dunes at Sossusvlei, riders will continue northeast through the Namib Desert, past quiver trees and grazing impala.” Experiencing this stunning country often meant enduring some challenging road conditions. We became connoisseurs of gravel types: chunky, sandy, bumpy, washboard, smooth, and occasionally unrideable.

These roads slowed our pace and limited our distances, but despite the frustration, we felt fortunate to cycle through vast, isolated landscapes. With few vehicles on the road, we often enjoyed stretches where we might only see one car a day.

Our next encounter with gravel came in Tanzania, where we faced a five-day stretch of remote roads and bush camping. With limited resources, we camped at schools, leading to a unique experience that felt communal.

This arrangement fostered connections with locals and offered a firsthand glimpse into the culture, enriching our journey as a group. This leg of the tour was significant; we knew we were seeing parts of Tanzania and Africa that few get to experience. Even our drivers, who work in overland travel, admitted they had never taken this route!

Ultimately, the love/hate relationship with gravel and tarmac is part of the adventure. Each road type contributes to the unforgettable experience of cycling through Africa, revealing both its challenges and its breathtaking beauty. There’s something about gravel that strips away the distractions of daily life and brings a deeper connection to the world around you—both the landscape and the people. These gravel sections may have developed some bad attitudes in the moment, but at the end of the day they are the heart of our journey. It’s the kind of experience that keeps you coming back, the sort of love-hate relationship that stays with you long after the dust settles and the road ahead smooths out.

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Nick Coe is the Content Creator on the 2024 Cape to Kili Cycling Expedition. In this post from Lilongwe, Malawi, he looks at the bonds between riders that are created on expedition tours.

Embarking on an expedition tour is more than just a journey through breathtaking landscapes and foreign cultures; it’s an opportunity to forge connections that can last a lifetime. When you’re part of a group for an extended period of time, like on a TDA expedition tour, these connections deepen in ways you might not expect. Imagine cycling and camping alongside others for two months straight – it’s nearly impossible not to make friends! Rather than retreating to separate rooms each night, we gather around communal meals, telling stories and enjoying each other’s company.

This shared experience fosters a unique atmosphere where we naturally look after one another. On days filled with challenges, this bond becomes even more evident. The collaborative spirit among us is palpable, particularly when faced with the physical demands of long rides, unpredictable weather, and the occasional mechanical mishap.

During a recent rider meeting, Tour Leader Yanez addressed the entire TDA Cape to Kili team after one of the toughest days on the tour—a gruelling 217 kilometre stretch against a relentless headwind, including a border crossing from Namibia to Botswana. He remarked, “What I witnessed yesterday was remarkable. People made healthy decisions about when to ride and when to rest. I saw a crew that communicated effectively, and I watched as individuals faced seemingly impossible tasks together, strategizing and supporting one another. Some riders adjusted their pace, while others challenged themselves to push harder. It was inspiring to see how everyone contributed to the collective effort. A day like that reminds us that we cannot do this alone—everyone was a vital part of the equation.”

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The spirit of camaraderie was evident throughout that day. Rider Scott generously offered to set up tents for fellow cyclists arriving at camp, demonstrating the selflessness that characterizes our group. Another rider, Alice, recounted how Neil had stopped to assist her with a flat tire, despite her insistence that she could manage it alone. “That was extremely helpful and kind,” she reflected, highlighting how these small acts of kindness can significantly impact our experience.

Over the past month and a half, I’ve witnessed countless similar gestures. Whether it’s someone sharing a spare tube at a moment’s notice or a fellow rider offering to grab refreshments at a coke stop, the atmosphere of support is ever-present. Even something as simple as lending out sleeping pads showcases our willingness to look out for one another. Traveling as part of an expedition tour offers a unique sense of community – a feeling of ‘we are in this together.’

The bonds we form transcend geographical boundaries and cultural differences, creating an environment where everyone is invested in each other’s well-being and success. “It’s been very interesting getting to know the folks from all the different countries on this trip,” shared Rider Andy. “It’s a very self selecting bunch so you get slightly weird people, weird in a good way. Anyone who is interested in taking this on in the first place is my kind of person. I’ve enjoyed meeting everyone.”

In a world where many people travel solo or in small groups, the camaraderie of an expedition tour is a refreshing reminder of the power of connection. As we pedal through Africa together, we create not only unforgettable memories but also lasting friendships forged through both the good times and the challenges we face.

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Nick Coe is the Content Creator on the 2024 Cape to Kili Cycling Expedition. He looks back at the tour’s time in Botswana cycling the aptly named, Elephant Highway.

As the Cape to Kili expedition transitioned from Namibia to Botswana, we moved from the ‘Mountains & Dunes’ section to ‘The Elephant Highway.’ Crossing the border was like stepping into a new world: the landscape shifted from rolling dunes to flat bushland, gravel roads turned into smooth tarmac, and our roadside attractions transformed into animals.

Once we crossed into Botswana, we found ourselves in the land of elephants – a new and awe-inspiring territory. It quickly became apparent that we were visitors in their domain. Elephants are the largest living land animals so in order to navigate this unique environment safely, TDA has established strict rules to follow. As our tour leader Yanez explains, “Elephants are complicated creatures. They have complex relationships with humans, and each one is extremely intelligent.”

>>Learn more about the Elephant Highway section of the Cape to Kili ride

One of the most crucial rules is to always give way to elephants. If you encounter one, remember – they have the right of way. “The worst thing you can do is separate a family,” Yanez cautions. “If you find yourself in the middle of the road with an elephant on one side and a baby on the other, just back away.” We were advised to keep at least 100 meters from them and to never stop nearby – just keep biking. What might simply annoy a human could provoke a 6,000 kg elephant. “They can get startled by unexpected noises—ringing your bell, flash photography, or yelling. FYI, they can run at 40 km/h, which is faster than you can bike,” Yanez adds.

As we cycled through elephant country, we learned to recognize signs of their presence. One of our drivers, Noah, pointed out the unusually large dung we encountered daily. “If you look at this type of elephant droppings, it’s quite young. This elephant still has two sets of teeth, which is why the grass is ground up so finely,” he explained.

Botswana is renowned for its remarkable elephant population, hosting one of the largest concentrations of these majestic creatures in the world. The vast landscapes of Chobe National Park and the Okavango Delta provide ideal habitats, where elephants roam freely across lush grasslands and woodlands.

These gentle giants are not just a symbol of Botswana’s rich wildlife, they play a crucial role in the ecosystem by helping to maintain the balance of their environment. As they forage for food, elephants shape the landscape, creating pathways and water holes that benefit numerous other species. Their intelligence and complex social structures further highlight the need for conservation efforts, making Botswana a vital sanctuary for these incredible animals. Visitors like us to the region are often struck by the sight of elephants interacting with one another, showcasing their strong familial bonds and the profound connection they have with their habitat.

The abundance of elephants in this area is also partly due to government water irrigation. Alongside the roads we cycle, a pipeline supplies farmers and towns. Elephants have learned how to access this water by removing cement doors, which draws them to the roads. Rider Charlotte shared this insight into their daily habits – “Elephants generally graze for about 20 hours a day. If they stop grazing, it means they’ve noticed you. If they cease flapping their ears, stomping their feet, or moving their trunks, it’s time to turn around and cycle the other way.” Despite their size and power, elephants are also gentle giants.

While camping at Elephant Sands—a campground surrounding a water hole frequented by wild elephants – we had the chance to observe them up close. One night, an elephant wandered through our campsite, weaving between tents and bicycles. Crew member Mic described the experience vividly – “It’s 3 a.m., and I roll over in my tent, open my eyes. Just meters from my head is the foot of a female elephant. She silently navigated through a maze of six bicycles and around a 4×4, standing in a small gap between my tent and Jason’s.”

It’s a privilege to experience such an incredible environment. As our tour leader, Yanez, noted, “If we respect the animals, they respect us.” While cycling through this stunning region may sound romantic, the wildlife introduces an element of unpredictability. You never know what an animal might do or where it might appear, but you can control your own actions. “In 22 years of the Tour d’Afrique, we’ve never had an incident,” Yanez assures us, “but if you don’t use common sense and follow the rules, you’re not just jeopardizing your own safety but also ruining it for others who want to cycle through here.”

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Nick Coe is the Content Creator on the 2024 Cape to Kili Cycling Expedition. He looks back at the tour’s time in South Africa and Namibia.

As we journeyed through our first two countries—starting in the southern tip of Africa and traveling across the Tropic of  Capricorn toward the continent’s centre—the TDA Cape to Kili group experienced some drastic changes in landscape. This section, aptly named “Mountains & Dunes,” took us from Cape Town to Windhoek.

Cederberg Mountains (L), Sossusvlei Dunes (R)

In just three weeks, we traversed the lush Cederberg Mountains of South Africa and the striking red dunes of Namibia. However, we also witnessed the remarkable differences between the spring seasons in these two countries. South Africa was emerging from its wettest winter in 60 years. It even snowed on our first day in Cape Town—on Table Mountain, no less! Many locals shared that they had never seen snow there before. Thanks to this abundant rainfall, the environment has flourished.

When I say flourished, I mean the wildflowers absolutely thrived. Northern South Africa, particularly around Namaqualand, is renowned for its stunning wildflower displays. “Sometimes the flowers bloom early, sometimes late, and we’re fortunate to see them right now. On the Tour d’Afrique, you wouldn’t find this. We come through the same towns, but during the dry season, everything is grey,” noted Tour Leader and South African native Yanez. This year, the blooms were reportedly the best the locals have seen in a long time. It was truly magical to cycle through such a unique event. “You expect to see the mountains, but the flowers—what a surprise! We were incredibly lucky to witness this bloom. The flowers simply astonished me,” marvelled one rider.

Conversely, Namibia’s rainy season has painted a starkly different picture. Immediately after crossing the border, we encountered the devastating effects of an 18-month drought. While some regions of the world  can receive 200mm of rain in a single day, like where TDA staffer Mic Pye lives in Terrace, British Columbia, Namibia is fortunate to get 100mm in an entire year. One farmer we met described the ongoing drought – “The drought from 2019-2021 was severe, and now we’re facing it again. We’ve had to downsize our cattle due to a lack of greenery and water.” The difference in the rainy seasons between these neighbouring countries has been uncanny. Cape Town got 317mm of rain in July 2024, compared to an average of 128mm  while Namibia is currently in the midst of the worst drought in 100 years.

Despite these harsh conditions, our TDA group felt incredibly fortunate to cycle through Namibia. This leg of the tour was the most challenging but the local communities were incredibly supportive, providing us with water, showers, toilets and a warm welcome on their properties.

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It may be difficult to think about fall and winter as summer is just around the corner (well, here in the northern hemisphere that is), but now is an excellent time to plan a shorter, end-of-year adventure while spaces are still available. We have recently opened up a few spots in Patagonia on the South American Epic and spaces remain available in Southeast Asia on the Bamboo Road and in Tasmania & New Zealand on the Trans-Oceania. There are also a limited number of spots on the inaugural Cape to Kili African tour. These incredible adventures start in mid-October or later and range in length from 12 days to four weeks.

1. Bike Across the Andes in Argentina & Chile

*18 days starting October 11th in Salta, Argentina*

“The road climbs up to almost 4000 m in the shadow of Cerro Aconcagua, at 6922 m, the highest mountain in the Western Hemisphere. This is wild high country and the riders can expect gusting winds, chilly temperatures and, if clear, incredible views. The border crossing into Chile, one of the highest in the world, is at 3200 m. Once over pass, the cyclists will enjoy a twisting ride down the other side of the mountain range on a series of switchbacks – eventually reaching the country’s capital Santiago with its 19th century neo-classical architecture and winding side streets.”

FULL DETAILS HERE for the ‘Across the Andes’ section.

2. Cycle the Lake District south of Santiago, Chile

*15 days starting October 31st in Santiago, Chile*

As described in a blog from the 2017 tour, the Lake District is a welcome dose of pleasant. It is, of course, still challenging but it is below average in terms of the difficulty rating for the full tour. In fact, it is the only section on the South American Epic that is below a 4/5 rating. It has some fantastic campsites, beautiful lakes and mountain views and access to wonderful Chilean wines and cuisine.

FULL DETAILS HERE for the ‘Lake District’ section.

3. Explore Patagonia & the Carretera Austral

*28 days starting November 16th in Puerto Montt, Chile*

“You look here and there’s a mountain range. You look here there’s another mountain range, you look back and there’s a huge waterfall. It’s astounding.” – from our Cycling Patagonia video. In the final weeks of the South American Epic, riders experience the unique and awesome scenery of Patagonia – its mountains, waterways and roads that take them to the southern tip of the South American continent.

FULL DETAILS HERE for the ‘Carretera Austral’ section.

4. Enjoy Two Weeks Circling Tasmania

*14 days starting October 15th in Launceston, Australia*

“The Australian island of Tasmania is quickly gaining a reputation as a cyclist’s paradise – from cross country to downhill, to relaxing rides along quiet country roads with scenic coastal views. Lightly-trafficked roads in good condition provide a great network to explore the entire island…While you are happily pedalling along – on your own or as part of the Trans-Oceania Cycling Tour – be aware that Tasmania has a lot more to offer riders than just ideal cycling conditions.” Read 6 Reasons to Cycle Tasmania.

FULL DETAILS HERE for the ‘Tasmanian Devils & Tigers’ section.

5. New Zealand – North Island

*12 days starting November 21st in Auckland, New Zealand*

“[From Auckland] the riders begin their journey south and are treated to some of the world’s most scenic highlights like Lake Taupo and the hot springs/mud geysers around Rotorua. A rest day in National Park gives riders the option of experiencing the renowned Tongariro Crossing day hike. After a day of tasting the famous New Zealand Sauvignon Blancs, the cyclists will continue through orchards, sheep-clad rolling hills and yet more vineyards before arriving in beautiful Wellington, the country’s cultural capital and the end of this incredible section.”

FULL DETAILS HERE for the ‘Maori Magic’ section.

6. New Zealand – South Island

*12 days starting December 4th in Wellington, New Zealand*

“The west coast of New Zealand’s South Island is spectacular: the stunning Pancake Rocks, rushing rivers pouring into the ocean, snow-clad peaks, wild kiwis, the Fox & Franz Joseph glaciers, mysterious caves, abandoned mine shafts, empty beaches, hot springs and much more. Five days later the route heads inland past Lakes Wanaka & Hawea before heading up the Cardrona River and its abandoned goldfields. Cyclists will then traverse the Crown Range summit, before an exhilarating descent to historic Arrowtown. From there it is just a quick ride in to the end of this incredible journey in the country’s adventure capital, Queenstown.”

FULL DETAILS HERE for the ‘Kiwi Country’ section.

7. Bike The Classic Southeast Asian Route through Vietnam, Cambodia & Thailand

*31 days starting October 19th in Hanoi, Vietnam*

“Heading south from Hanoi, the riders will pass water buffalo, farmers, and rice paddies along secluded country lanes. Staying inland, they will travel through small villages along the famous Ho Chi Minh Trail before heading to the coast and the historic cities of Hue and Hoi An. The route then takes them into Cambodia past ancient Khmer temples before arriving in Phnom Penh…We stop in Siem Reap, home to one of the world’s most spectacular sights – Angkor Wat – 40 square km of temples and statues of gods and demons. The tour then continues on to Bangkok – known for its vibrant street life – and the end of this section.”

FULL DETAILS HERE for the ‘Golden Triangle’ section.

8. Discover Thailand & Malaysia

*15 days starting November 20th in Bangkok, Thailand*

“Leaving Bangkok, the riders will hug the coast of the Gulf of Thailand with palm trees, sand and warm waters on one side and forested mountains on the other. The cyclists will stop in Thailand’s oldest beach resort, Hua Hin. Further south…a rest day in the small southern city of Ranong. Riders can enjoy the laid-back atmosphere or a soothing dip in the local hot springs. There will be some challenging climbing here, our first since leaving Vietnam, and the riders will subsequently enjoy their rest day in Ao Nang…The expedition then turns back inland and crosses into Malaysia before jumping on a ferry into historic Georgetown, Penang, the end of this sun-soaked section.”

FULL DETAILS HERE for the ‘Thai One On’ section.

9. Explore Malaysia & Singapore via the Scenic Cameron Highlands

*13 days starting December 6th in Penang, Malaysia*

“The Cameron Highlands were first mapped out by the British in 1885 but it wasn’t until the 1930’s that they decided to turn it into a hill station, similar to those in British India, especially after it was shown that tea could be grown in the area. The Highlands are home to over 700 species of plants including many that are rare to the tropics. The Highlands are blessed not only with cool weather but also with verdant forests, picturesque lakes, sparkling waterfalls, rushing rivers and even hidden aboriginal villages.” Read more from High Tea on the Bamboo Road.

FULL DETAILS HERE for the ‘Singapore Sling’ section.

10. Take An East African Cycling Adventure With Views Of Mt Kilimanjaro

*20 days starting October 16th in Lilongwe, Malawi*

“We cruise downhill towards Lake Malawi and then head north into Tanzania where the red earth meets the deep green forest roads that cut through the centre of the country. From there it isn’t too many more days before we reach the end of our journey, with Mount Kilimanjaro towering above us in Moshi, Tanzania.” Read more on A New Tour d’Afrique Experience.

FULL DETAILS HERE for the ‘Green Hills of Africa’ section.

 To see everything we offer in 2024 and beyond, visit our tour calendar page.

We were pleasantly surprised at the reaction to our new 2024 Cape to Kili Cycling Expedition, to say the least. Less than 2 months after we announced it, we have had to close registrations for the tour due to overwhelming demand.

Fear not! We have now opened registration for the 2025 Cape to Kili Cycling Expedition so that more riders can pedal from the ‘Mother City’, Cape Town and iconic Table Mountain though the stunning desert landscape of Namibia, past lumbering elephants in Botswana, along Zambia’s legendary Great East Road, beside the warm shores of Lake Malawi and through the small villages of rural Tanzania before arriving in the shadow of Africa’s highest peak, Mount Kilimanjaro.

Don’t delay. Reserve your spot for 2025 today and experience the best of Southern Africa by bicycle.

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A new Tour d’Afrique in reverse from South to North starting late August 2024

We are thrilled to introduce Tour d’Afrique Cape to Kili – a new two month expedition in southern and east Africa scheduled for the second half of 2024. With the four month Cairo to Cape Town event sold out until 2026 and with a long wait list that continues to grow, we wanted to find a way to offer MORE Tour d’Afrique for all those hoping to cycle with us in Africa. Many have asked in the past about going South to North. Now is your opportunity to join our most popular event and cycle from Table Mountain in Cape Town towards the Roof of Africa – Mount Kilimanjaro.

Starting in Cape Town we pedal on city bike paths with Table Mountain over our left shoulder. The group will head north – a first for the Tour d’Afrique – through the Cederberg Mountains, across the Senqu River into Namibia, past the stunning red dunes at Soussusvlei then east into Botswana and the famous Elephant Highway section of the tour. From there, a stop at Victoria Falls and Lusaka before reaching lush and vibrant Malawi. We cruise downhill towards Lake Malawi and then head north into Tanzania where the red earth meets the deep green forest roads that cut through the centre of the country. From there it isn’t too many more days before we reach the end of our journey, with Mount Kilimanjaro towering above us in Moshi, Tanzania.

This trip is a great opportunity to cycle the Tour d’Afrique and explore parts of Africa that few other cyclists have seen. The tour will take 66 days total, will be primarily camping and supported by the same trucks and system as our annual 4 month Tour d’Afrique.

>>Learn more: Click here for all the dates, details and prices

What’s the Route Like?

We asked our Operations Manager Miles MacDonald why it was decided to create this new version of the Tour d’Afrique. “We wanted to give those who are keen to cycle the southern portion of the Tour d’Afrique the chance to do so next year, rather than needing to wait till 2026 or later. It’s also exciting for us to try this Cape to Kili version of the Tour d’Afrique, and we are ready for some incredible adventures!”

Our longtime head of Operations in Africa is Sharita van der Merwe designed the route. We wanted to know, does this follow the same route as the regular Tour d’Afrique? “For most of it the route is the same. Only 2 areas where it’s slightly different. In South Africa the route will go through the Cederberg Mountain range and then rejoin the traditional route at Strandfontein on the Atlantic coast. The other area in Tanzania we will go toward Lake Manyara for a rest day and do a loop to the north before we turn towards Moshi.” And regarding the weather that time of the year Sharita added “Overall it will be slightly hotter as we are heading into summer in the southern hemisphere. The big rain in East Africa starts in March or April and then again, small rains in June & July. So, rains are not an issue for this tour. The wind I think will be more in our favor in Namibia in some places.” She added “It will be interesting to see the same route from a different direction. And I’m sure there will be some surprises along the way.” There always are!

The Cederberg Mountains route is not new to us. Those who participated on the Tour d’Afrique 2014 will remember the route. Here is a comment from one of the participants. “This year the Tour d’Afrique scouted a new route through South Africa that would take riders through the Cederberg Mountains, citrus farms and rooibos tea plantations. What a great idea, as the route is spectacular! The roads have been mostly dirt with some pavement thrown in the mix. There have been epic climbs, crazy beautiful vistas and breathtaking sunsets. Riding past the citrus farms smelled just as you would imagine an enormous juice box would.” One of the drawbacks to that route in 2014 was the time of year (May) made it quite chilly for the Tour d’Afrique riders in the final days of their four month tour. But for the Cape to Kili temperatures will be more ideal in August and September as the southern hemisphere moves into the summer months. And everyone’s legs should be a bit fresher for the climbs too!

We asked TDA’s founder Henry Gold what he thought about the new Tour d’Afrique option. “For me the most exciting part of doing the CT to Kilimanjaro is the opportunity to see how different the areas we normally cycle looks at different time of the year. For example, starting in Cape Town in the spring with the scent of wildflowers along the way, and the sight of them carpeting the fields, should be a feast of the senses.”

Sharita, who is highly experienced with Tanzania and the various cycling options available, designed an interesting ending to the tour which includes Lake Manyara as an added bonus. As she said last year “Tanzania has it all. Blue skies, sunshine, fresh air, wildlife, craters, …friendly locals, bumpy roads and beautiful baobabs. What more can I say… nothing beats an African sunset. Inshallah, we will have a few of those.”

Follow the link for full descriptions of the route, pricing, dates and details…

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