Embracing the Continent: A Spiritual Pedaling Across Africa's Diverse Landscapes

The Origin of an Extraordinary Trek: From Carting Supplies to Cycling Freely Across Continents

Initially, James Baxter, a British explorer, conceived a challenging plan to traverse Africa by pulling a heavily loaded cart, containing all his provisions. He even developed prototypes, including a fragile wooden one and a more robust steel-framed version. However, concerns about the physical strain, potential animal encounters, and personal safety in remote areas led him to reconsider. This led to the pivotal decision to abandon the cart concept in favor of a bicycle, transforming his planned arduous trek into a cycling expedition across the continent.

The Pioneering Stages: Navigating the Namibian Wilderness by Bicycle

From late May to early June, Baxter initiated the first segment of his African cycling adventure in Namibia, covering approximately 900 kilometers from Swakopmund on the Atlantic coast to Grootfontein in the northwest. His route took him through a stunning array of landscapes, from misty coastal areas and arid deserts to sun-drenched savannahs and agricultural lands. He maintained a consistent daily rhythm, starting early, navigating long gravel paths, and frequently encountering local wildlife. Accommodation varied from guest houses on farmsteads to wild camping in the bushveld, providing a deep immersion into the Namibian environment.

Beyond the Scenery: Unveiling Namibia's Social Landscape and Transitioning Borders

As Baxter cycled through Namibia, he observed the complex social structures, particularly the land ownership patterns that reflect historical inequalities. While he received warmth and hospitality, his interactions were primarily with the white population, highlighting the enduring legacy of uneven land distribution. His journey through this phase culminated near Grootfontein, where the landscape shifted from open wilderness to extensive agricultural areas. On June 4, after 26 days of cycling, he smoothly crossed a quiet border, embarking on a more isolated and rural section of his adventure into Botswana.

Into the Heart of Botswana: Battling Sandy Tracks and Finding Respite

Upon entering Botswana, Baxter faced a demanding six-day stretch, covering over 350 kilometers through remote northwestern regions towards Maun. The initial days were characterized by sandy, unmaintained tracks, making cycling incredibly challenging and often requiring him to push his bike through deep sand. Despite the slow progress, the road conditions gradually improved, leading him to Sehithwa, a tranquil village near the former Lake Ngami basin. After a brief interlude, he completed the remaining 100 kilometers to Maun, where he enjoyed a much-needed rest and a wildlife viewing safari, rejuvenating for the next stage of his expedition.

Journeying Through Botswana's Expansive Terrain: From Wild Camps to Zebra Crossings

The subsequent segment of Baxter's journey led him northeast towards Kasane, situated near the Zambian border, which he reached on June 26, marking 46 days into his cycling odyssey. Similar to his experiences in Namibia, he frequently engaged in wild camping or sought shelter with accommodating local residents. His path included memorable encounters with wildlife, such as a large herd of approximately 300 zebras crossing the road, a vivid testament to the vibrant natural environment he was traversing. These moments underscored the raw beauty and unpredictable nature of his African traverse.

The Zambian Passage: Remote Challenges and Welcoming Communities

Entering Zambia around June 25, Baxter embarked on a four-week journey across the country from west to east. The initial western section presented a remote and sparsely populated landscape, characterized by vast distances between amenities and basic infrastructure. While water was generally accessible, food resupply proved inconsistent, and lodging options were limited to wild camping or church-operated guesthouses. Despite these logistical hurdles, Baxter maintained a steady pace over the manageable terrain. As he progressed into central Zambia, the landscape became more challenging, especially around the Luangwa Valley, with increased settlements and busier roads signaling his approach to the Malawian border, though much of the region remained rural and agrarian.

Malawi's Unexpected Detour: Adapting Routes and Sustaining the Expedition

Upon entering Malawi on July 30, Baxter faced an unforeseen challenge: a significant portion of his planned route through a wildlife reserve was inaccessible to cyclists due to the presence of elephants. This necessitated an immediate and complete revision of his path across central Malawi. Instead of navigating remote backcountry roads, he opted for a safer, more direct route towards the capital, Lilongwe, and then along quieter rural roads leading to Lake Malawi. Although this new route was more populated and less adventurous than his original intention, it allowed him to avoid heavily trafficked corridors and maintain his commitment to independent travel, without relying on external assistance, ensuring the continuity of his trans-African cycling journey.