Norwegian Cyclists Complete African Leg of Journey and Arrive in South Africa

Challenges of the Winter Season

Despite the joy of arrival, the pair faced new difficulties caused by the winter season in South Africa. As they move further south, they must contend with shorter daylight hours, later sunrises, and strong crosswinds, making daily rides increasingly challenging.

Annabel Golden explained that the reduction in daylight combined with the wind created serious difficulties, but they had to keep moving because time was limited. After reaching the first city in the Northern Cape, they were able to take a short break to eat fish crisps before continuing their journey.

Route and Travel Goals

Although they have reached South Africa, their expedition is far from over; the pair still has hundreds of kilometers to cover before arriving in Cape Town, where this stage will conclude. Golden's ambitious journey began in 2024 as part of her long-term goal of undertaking a round-the-world cycling trip.

A major milestone was reached in January 2025 when she and Okhta crossed the border from Spain into Africa. Since then, they have traveled through Morocco, Mauritania, Senegal, Gambia, Guinea-Bissau, Ghana, Nigeria, Sierra Leone, Angola, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Namibia, and now South Africa.

Golden's passion for cycling began in 2018, shortly after graduating from Amsterdam. Inspired by Okhta, the pair started their first joint cycling adventure—a two-week winter tour through Austria, following sections of the EuroVelo 6 cycling route. Now that Cape Town is within reach, their impressive transcontinental journey enters its final phase, inspiring thousands of followers who have been tracking their progress across Europe and Africa.