Episode 90: Meryem Belkihel

A bicycle tour from Morocco to Tanzania – the long way across Africa

Traveling by bicycle often leads to unexpected adventures and profound human connections. In this episode I feature the fascinating journey of Meryem Belkihel, a fearless Moroccan adventurer who has spent over 570 days cycling across Africa.

Rediscovering Africa on Two Wheels

Meryem’s adventure commenced from the vibrant streets of Morocco, leading her southward along the West African coast to Cape Town. Despite the physical challenges, she emphasises that her journey is as much about internal discovery as it is about the external mileage covered.

“It’s also about an inner journey of self-discovery,” Meryem shares. “Before this, I’d already pushed my limits, climbing all the 4,000 meter peaks in the Atlas Mountains.”

The First Pedal Stroke

Meryem’s first significant bike journey began during the COVID-19 pandemic when Casablanca was under lockdown. With buses and cars at a standstill, she saw an opportunity to take her bike into the Atlas Mountains, which was the start of her now relentless pursuit of biking adventures.

“I took my bike and went to the Atlas Mountains. This was my first trip,” Meryem recalls. “It was not easy with all the luggage, but every day was so exciting.”

Challenges and Triumphs

Meryem’s journey across Africa has not been without its hurdles. Visa issues and the cultural constraints placed on women travellers in many African countries make her story all the more compelling. Despite these setbacks, her determination never waned.

“African women face many challenges. It’s not just about me; it’s about all African women wanting to travel. The money is not strong, and it’s hard to get visas,” she explains.

Even more striking is her resilience in the face of health challenges. Meryem has survived malaria four times during her trip, and I can’t imagine what it would be like to be dealing with sickness like this, far from the familiarity of home.

The Wildlife Encounters

One of the highlights of cycling through Africa is encountering wildlife in its natural habitat. Meryem talks about an unforgettable experience in Namibia where she camped alone, surrounded by the sounds of wildlife that included lions and elephants.

“In the north of Namibia, I was warned about lions and elephants. I camped and at night heard noises next to my tent. I thought, ‘This is it. How did I end up here?’”

Human Connections

Beyond the landscapes and wildlife, it’s the human connections that stand out for Meryem. In Guinea, she encountered a woman who took her in and treated her like family, a testament to the warmth and generosity of the people she met along the way.

“She opened her house for me, gave me a room, dates, and juice. She called me her daughter. It’s experiences like these that make the journey worthwhile,” recounts Meryem.

Looking Ahead

Miriam’s journey is far from over. She aims to reach Tanzania and climb Mount Kilimanjaro, a dream that encapsulates her love for mountains and her unyielding spirit for adventure.

“What’s next? I look forward to more local experiences and the mountains. I still have a long way to go.”

A Journey of Inspiration

Miriam’s story is not just her own; it’s a source of inspiration for many. Her interactions with locals, her ability to navigate unexpected terrains, and her resilience in the face of health and bureaucratic challenges showcase the spirit of true adventure.

“I get messages from people who are inspired by my journey. It motivates them to pursue their own adventures. That makes all the challenges worthwhile.”

Follow Meryem’s Journey

To witness Meryem’s adventure unfold and to get inspired by her incredible journey, follow her on Instagram and YouTube.

Meryem’s journey through Africa is not just an adventure; it’s about human connection, and following the road less travelled to learn all about ‘Mama Africa’. I’m sure that listening to her talk about her incredible experiences will get you motivated to embark on your own path of adventure.

The Seek Travel Ride podcast