My Lessons from a Cape-Cairo Journey on Public Transport
Let me tell you about an incredible adventure I had, traveling from Cape Town to Cairo using only public transportation. It was a challenging journey, but one that taught me so much about different cultures, breathtaking landscapes, and the incredible resilience of the people I met along the way.
Firstly, I discovered that traveling by public transport is an adventure in itself. From crowded buses to rickety trains, every mode of transportation had its own unique charm. Sure, it wasn’t always comfortable, but it allowed me to see the real, authentic side of each country I visited. Instead of breezing through airports and hotels, I got to experience the true essence of Africa.
One of the key lessons I learned was the importance of patience and flexibility. When you’re relying on public transport, delays and changes in plans are inevitable. Instead of getting frustrated, I learned to embrace the unpredictability and go with the flow. It taught me to appreciate the journey itself, rather than getting fixated on the destination.
Throughout my journey, I had the pleasure of meeting so many incredible people. From chatty locals to fellow adventurers, every encounter was an opportunity for connection and learning. I discovered that no matter where we come from or what language we speak, there is always a way to communicate and understand each other.
Another valuable lesson I learned was the importance of embracing discomfort. Traveling by public transport meant leaving behind the comforts of a private car or a luxury hotel. Instead, I found myself in crowded buses, sharing cramped spaces with locals and fellow travelers. It was in these moments of discomfort that I truly grew as a person and gained a deeper appreciation for the simple things in life.
Lastly, this journey taught me the beauty of simplicity. In a world that often values material possessions and the need for “more,” I realized that true happiness can be found in the simplest of things. Whether it was a breathtaking sunset over the African savannah or sharing a humble meal with newfound friends, it was the little moments that made this journey truly unforgettable.
In conclusion, my Cape-Cairo journey on public transport was an eye-opening adventure that taught me valuable lessons about patience, resilience, connection, and the beauty of simplicity. It reminded me of the importance of embracing discomfort and appreciating the journey itself. So, if you’re looking for a truly transformative travel experience, I highly recommend embarking on a public transport adventure of your own.
So here’s the thing. A lot of people might tell you that taking a whirlwind tour of a place isn’t the best idea. But let me tell you, based on my two-month adventure traveling from Cape Town to Cairo using public transportation, there’s something truly magical about it.
Picture this: I’m sitting in a cozy train cabin, savoring a lukewarm beer that I bought from the little restaurant onboard. I also have a dense muffin and a couple of biscuits to keep me company. It may sound strange, but at that moment, I feel an overwhelming sense of happiness. Sure, I’m sleep-deprived and not exactly comfortable, but as I stretch my legs across the seats in front of me and manage to close the window to keep out the freezing air, I can’t help but think that there’s nothing quite like this experience.
The train moves along, making all sorts of noise. It’s a bit shaky and rickety, and the rusty railway tracks aren’t exactly smooth. We’re not speeding through the African night, but we are making progress. And that, my friend, is what matters. There’s just something about being in motion in this vast continent that fills me with awe.
As I reflect on my journey on the TAZARA train from Mbeya to Dar es Salaam in Tanzania, I can’t help but question what made me feel happy amidst the constant train delays. It all started when I arrived in Mbeya after a long day on cramped minibus taxis, transitioning from the tranquil beauty of Malawi to the brisk atmosphere of Tanzania. Exhausted, I spent the night restlessly tossing and turning on an old couch, only to discover that both first and second-class cabin tickets for the TAZARA train had been sold out. This news was followed by a frustrating 9-hour wait at the Mbeya train station due to yet another inevitable train delay.
Here I was, in that moment. I had this affordable ticket, which I like to call my ‘super-saver’ ticket, securely tucked away in my pocket. The train seat I sat on was uncomfortable, bathed in a sickly yellow light that made me feel even more suffocated. Through the dirty windows, all I could see was the vast darkness of the night. I clutched my warm beer and tasteless muffin tightly, my stomach growling with hunger, my back aching from the uncomfortable seat. Despite all this, my eyes heavy with exhaustion, I couldn’t help but feel a certain happiness.
It’s hard to explain why, but maybe it’s because in that moment, I knew that I was on my way to Lake Malawi. The mere thought of the cool waters and the breathtaking sunsets that awaited me there was enough to lift my spirit. It was as if Lake Malawi had cast a spell on me, filling me with excitement and anticipation.
The TAZARA snakes around a bend as the sun begins its descent. I’ve had ample time to ponder over my Cape-Cairo adventure travelling on public transportation from November to December in 2014. My journey spanned eight countries, with the majority of my travel taking place on buses and trains. However, I had to deviate from my strict rule of public transport when I flew from Nairobi, Kenya, to Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. The inconvenient visa regulations of Ethiopia forced me to obtain a visa on arrival at the airport instead of acquiring one at the border. Despite this slight setback, my journey remained swift and unwavering, with at least half of my time dedicated to being in transit. Whether crammed in the back of a minibus taxi, pressed against the bus window, or, as is the case now, attempting to find comfort on the train, I persisted. The only respite from the perpetual motion of road and rail was the tranquil ferry ride across Lake Nasser from Sudan to Egypt.
Going on a trip like mine at the speed I did has sparked many debates. One of the main arguments against it is that I wouldn’t be able to truly understand the culture, personality, or emotions of the countries I visited. Take Zambia for example – I only spent three days there, staying in Livingstone and leaving Lusaka pretty much as soon as I arrived. How could I claim to have “experienced” Zambia? What could I have possibly learned from such a short visit to one of the most captivating countries on the continent?
A train platform somewhere in Tanzania midway through the long journey to Dar es Salaam. Photo by Simeon Gready.
After my trip ended, I sat down and flipped through the notebooks where I recorded my thoughts almost every hour. I came across my Tanzania notebook and paused on a page where, with a dull pencil, I had written, ‘I’m happy.’ It reminded me of the time I was on the TAZARA train, and it hit me that I was genuinely content in that moment, even with a lukewarm beer, as I prepared for the grueling 25-hour journey across the heart of Tanzania.
And that really got me thinking. This trip wasn’t just about the time I spent in each country. It wasn’t about the famous places or the relaxing moments by Lake Malawi with cold beers (although those were nice!). This trip was about the spaces in between, the bus rides, the train journeys, and, most importantly, the people who shared those cramped metal vehicles with me.
Anton Crone once wrote, “It was the spaces between that gave me a chance to take a breath, reflect on where I had been, and dream about the places I would soon see” (The Spaces Between, Africa Geographic). I would take it a step further: those long journeys I took, covering hundreds of kilometers with plenty of potholes and farm animals, gave me countless opportunities to connect with the people of the countries I traveled through.
As I look back on my visit to Zambia, I can’t help but remember the local boys playing football on the station platform. It was a snapshot of everyday life, capturing the spirit of the people. I was reminded of this moment when news of President Michael Sata’s passing reached me. It was a time of mourning, but also a time to celebrate his legacy.
While waiting in Lusaka for my bus to the Malawian border, I found myself engaged in a captivating conversation with a man who had clearly had a few drinks. Despite his drunken state, he spoke passionately about what Sata meant to Zambia. It was an illuminating glimpse into the hearts of the Zambian people.
The journey itself was not without its challenges. The bus ride was repeatedly disrupted by untimely punctures, causing delays and frustration. However, these setbacks provided me with more opportunities to connect with the locals. They shared stories about their lives and their hopes for the future of their country.
My time in Zambia was a reminder that even in the face of adversity, the human spirit can shine through. It was a humbling experience, one that I will carry with me always.
Imagine this: you’re on a bus, one hour away from the border of Malawi. Suddenly, there’s a loud bang coming from the left side of the bus. It startles you, but it also reminds you of something incredible about public transport. You see, when you’re crammed into a minibus taxi or squeezed against the window of a bus for hours on end, you can’t help but interact with the people around you.
That’s the beauty of public transport. It forces you to connect with others, whether you like it or not. And in my opinion, that’s one of the best ways to truly experience a country, no matter how long you’re there. It’s an adventure that unfolds right before your eyes.
On my travels throughout Africa, I found happiness in the most unexpected places. It wasn’t the popular tourist destinations that filled me with joy, but rather the moments spent on various modes of transportation. Whether it was the first bus from Cape Town, the bumpy ride on a minibus taxi in Malawi, the thrilling tuk-tuk journey in Kenya, the unique experience of riding a camel in Sudan, or even the seemingly mundane ferry ride to Egypt, these were the moments that truly made me smile.
Ironically, it was often at the so-called “destinations” where my spirits were at their lowest. I vividly remember my time in Lalibela, Ethiopia. I found myself alone and surrounded by darkness in a budget room with no electricity, desperately wishing for a flicker of light. To make matters worse, I was informed that I needed to pay a hefty $50 fee just to see the famous rock-hewn churches. I knew that the mental images of these churches would fade over time, making the cost seem unreasonable.
However, it was the unexpected encounters that lit up my journey. I struck up a conversation with a police officer on the bus ride to Lalibela, and his hospitality extended far beyond a simple chat. He invited me to his home for a cup of coffee, where I was warmly welcomed by his family. These conversations and connections made a lasting impact on me, reminding me that human connections are far more valuable than any sightseeing experience.
These moments taught me that true happiness lies not in the destination, but in the journey itself. It’s the unexpected twists and turns, the people we meet along the way, and the stories we share that truly make our travels meaningful. So, next time you embark on an adventure, remember to embrace the unfamiliar, engage in conversations with strangers, and allow yourself to be captivated by the beauty of a journey that goes far beyond the final destination.
The police officer and his family in Lalibela, Ethiopia, after a massive feast of injera (a staple Ethiopian dish) and coffee. Photo by Simeon Gready.
As I zoomed along bumpy roads and rattling train tracks, my main focus was on these special encounters. I didn’t waste any time and poured all my energy into these moments and the conversations that took place. Africa, with all its captivating beauty, held my undivided attention.
Hey there! It’s me, the adventurous traveler, ready to share another amazing story with you. And this time, we’re taking a wild ride on a camel in Sudan. How cool is that? I can’t wait to dive into the details, so let’s get started!
Picture this: I’m sitting on a camel, wind blowing through my hair, as we explore the beautiful landscapes of Sudan. It’s an experience like no other, filled with excitement and wonder. The camel’s owner, who graciously let me hop on, snapped a photo to capture this incredible moment.
Now, if you’re eager to hear more about my travels, I’ve got something special for you. It’s called Conversations from the Road, and it’s a collection of fascinating stories that will transport you to different corners of the world. Trust me, you won’t want to miss it!