Sandra Sischka shares the incredible story of cycling from Portugal to Cape Town over two years with almost no prior bikepacking experience. From crossing the Sahara Desert to navigating conflict zones in West Africa, Sandra reflects on fear, freedom, hospitality, and the people she met along the way. This conversation dives into border crossings, survival, cycling culture, and what long-distance travel teaches you about humanity. Along the journey, she experienced overwhelming generosity, dangerous moments, and life-changing friendships. A powerful conversation about adventure, resilience, and seeing Africa beyond the headlines.

# === CHAPTERS ===================================

00:00 - Welcome Sandra Sischka

02:10 - Growing Up With Bicycles in Germany

06:00 - Why Sandra Sischka Chose Africa

10:15 - Planning the Route & Preparing for the Unknown

15:30 - Starting the Journey in Portugal

19:45 - Entering Morocco & First Impressions of Africa

27:30 - Hospitality, Family & Culture in Morocco

35:00 - Crossing the Sahara & Mauritania

40:00 - West Africa: Food, Borders & Daily Challenges

50:30 - Malaria, Recovery & Finding Human Connection

55:00 - Ghana, Travel Advice & Perspective on Africa

57:00 - Nigeria, Conflict Zones & Dangerous Decisions

01:02:00 - The Open Water Boat Crossing to Cameroon

01:08:00 - Jungle Routes, Wildlife & Cycling Through Cameroon

01:15:00 - What Africa Taught Sandra Sischka

# === LISTEN ON THE GO ===========================

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5GselFmeym7YgYXtcyPUXU

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/active-hobo/id1846864699

# === FOLLOW ACTIVE HOBO =========================

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# === THE CREW ===================================

Dave @davlewjenkins

# === WORK WITH US ===============================

Sponsorships & collabs: [email protected]

Send a question for the show: [email protected]

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