Episode 103: Rob MacLennan

Cycling All the Way From the UK to Cape Town – Part 1

Journey of Resilience and Discovery: Rob MacLennan’s Epic Ride from London to Cape Town

I had the pleasure of interviewing guest Rob MacLennan who embarked on an awe-inspiring cycling journey from London all the way to Cape Town. Covering nearly 17,000 kilometers across 19 countries over 199 days, Rob’s adventure was a whirlwind of challenges, life-changing moments, and profound introspection.

The Genesis of an Adventure

For many, the idea of cycling thousands of kilometers through diverse and often harsh landscapes would seem daunting. Yet for Rob MacLennan, a self-proclaimed novice – who once disliked cycling -the trip became a call to adventure born out of a desire to escape the daily grind. He wanted to challenge himself in new ways and what better way than a long bike tour through Africa? His early curiosity about Africa, stemming from a childhood spent in Malawi, laid the foundation for an adventure which would allow him to reconnect with the continent in an unprecedented way.

A Humbling Beginning

The journey began in August 2023, with Rob setting out from London. Despite his minimal preparation Rob quickly found his rhythm. Accompanied by his friend Seb through the initial leg in Europe, Rob navigated France’s cornfields and Spain’s mountainous terrain, gradually acclimating to life on two wheels. Morocco marked Rob’s first encounter with cultural diversity, offering rich challenges and joys that set the stage for what was to come.

The Heart of Africa

As Rob crossed the Straits of Gibraltar into Morocco, he ventured into uncharted territory, each country presenting new challenges and experiences. Spanning the North and West Africa deserts, Rob faced the blistering heat of the Sahara and the expansive solitude of its sands. Yet, amid this vast emptiness, magic moments emerged, painting the desert skies with vibrant sunsets and a night sky that made him feel profoundly connected to nature.

In West Africa, Rob uncovered the warmth of human connection. From Senegal to Guinea’s lush jungles, he found himself embraced by communities that saw his presence as newsworthy. These interactions provided a humbling reminder of the kindness and generosity that can be found in unexpected places, deeply influencing his view on humanity’s inherent goodness.

Trials of Resilience

Rob’s journey was not without its perils. A harrowing encounter with a rebel militia in Nigeria marked one of the darkest points of his adventure. Held at gunpoint and interrogated, Rob’s instinct was to remain calm and connect on a human level. This experience, while terrifying, reinforced his resolve, ultimately becoming a pivotal moment of personal growth. Buoyed by the support of loved ones and his own inner strength, Rob continued, learning to value each day as a precious gift.

A Story of Wholeness, Not Hardship

While Rob’s story includes intense trials, he emphasises that adversity does not define his journey. Instead, it enhances the narrative of resilience and discovery. His adventure across Africa serving as a reminder of the immense capacity for growth when we dare to step out of our comfort zones.

Speaking with Rob it was clear that this trip was more than just merely reaching a destination. It was very much about the journey along the way and the life lessons that Rob was able to gain for himself were pretty profound.

During our conversation it became pretty clear to me that Rob had so many stories to share and so this episode stops part way through his adventure. Be sure to tune in to the next episode to listen to him share more insights from his adventures across the African continent.

In the meantime you can follow Rob via his instagram account – @Robbo_On_the_Road

The Seek Travel Ride podcast