Imagine biking 20,000 km (that’s more than 12,400 miles!) through the heart of Africa, from Morocco to Cape Town. Sounds wild, right? Now picture doing it as a solo female traveler. That’s exactly what Meryem, a member of The Solo Female Traveler Network, accomplished. Her journey isn’t just about miles; it’s about proving that with a dream and determination, anything is possible.
For Meryem, it wasn’t just about reaching Cape Town. It was about exploring the African continent in a way that felt personal and meaningful. She wanted to challenge herself, connect with people and cultures, and show the world that being a solo female traveler from Morocco doesn’t limit you—it empowers you.
Meryem’s approach might surprise you. She kept things simple: preparing her bike, packing essential gear, and keeping an open mind. “I didn’t over-plan,” she admits. “A lot of the details unfolded as I went.” Sure, figuring out visas and routes was challenging, but part of the magic came from adapting to the unexpected.
Let’s be real: biking across Africa isn’t a walk in the park. Meryem faced everything from physical exhaustion to mental hurdles. “Dealing with fear—both mine and other people’s—was tough,” she says. In South Africa, constant warnings about safety were mentally draining. Then there were the bike issues in the jungle, the relentless headwinds, and the never-ending hills. But she stayed focused on small wins: a stunning sunset, a friendly smile, or a helping hand from a stranger.
What stands out most from her journey? It’s the little things that left the biggest impact. Meryem recalls kids running after her bike, strangers offering her shelter, and a priest who let her sleep in a church despite their different religions. These acts of kindness reminded her why she started: to connect, to learn, and to grow.
Through this adventure, Meryem discovered resilience she didn’t know she had. She saw how connected we all are, despite our differences. “The contrasts in Africa—poverty and wealth, fear and hospitality—were eye-opening,” she reflects. Most of all, she learned to find joy in the simple things and to never underestimate the power of human kindness.
Meryem has some advice for you: start small, trust your instincts, and don’t let fear hold you back. “You’re stronger than you think,” she says. The world is full of challenges, but it’s also full of amazing people and opportunities. Why not take the leap?
Her journey is far from over. East Africa and Kilimanjaro are next on her list. And after that? “Who knows?” she said. “I want to keep exploring and sharing stories that connect people.”
Meryem’s message is simple: don’t be afraid to be vulnerable. Solo travel isn’t about being alone; it’s about building connections, trusting the journey, and embracing the unexpected. You’re capable of more than you realize.
Meryem’s story isn’t just an adventure; it’s a call to action. Whether you’re dreaming of biking across a continent or taking your first solo trip, her journey proves that bold steps lead to unforgettable experiences.
Meryem’s journey across Africa is not just a story of a solo female traveler cycling through vast landscapes; it’s a story of courage, determination, and the power of breaking boundaries. Her adventure is a shining example that travel, especially solo travel, can be both transformative and empowering. Meryem’s ability to face challenges head-on and her commitment to embracing the unknown serve as a reminder that no dream is too big, no place too far. Whether you’re planning your first solo trip or seeking inspiration for your next adventure, remember that the world is full of opportunities waiting for those bold enough to chase them.
