In honor of World Bicycle Day, we celebrate not only the incredible ways bicycles help our guests explore the world, but also how they serve as a critical resource for communities in need. They are pathways to education, to health care and to economic opportunities.
When I first joined Backroads, I never imagined how far this adventure would take me—literally and metaphorically. From cycling and hiking the far corners of Europe, trekking the jungles of Central America to guiding guests in the vibrant cultures of Asia, I’ve been privileged to learn, grow and share in some of the world’s most extraordinary places. But nothing has felt quite as much like coming home as leading trips in Tanzania.
Backroads has been offering trips in Tanzania since 2019, and I’m proud to say I’ve been part of this journey from the beginning. Born and raised in neighboring Uganda, I’ve always felt a deep connection to East Africa. The region’s magic—its abundance of life, color, history and the spirit of its people—was something I longed to share. When the opportunity arose to contribute to the development of a Tanzania trip, I jumped right in!
If you’ve never been to East Africa, let me paint you a picture: life here is abundant, vibrant and rich in every sense. You feel the presence of everyone and everything around you: the wafts of meals being prepared, the street vendors shouting out to the homes, the dust finding its way to every nook and cranny, the sounds of music and the rhythms of daily life. It is an experience! The diversity of languages, cultures and traditions is astounding. Every day, I feel blessed to have an intimate connection with the people and places here—a connection that fuels my desire to learn more and share these experiences with others.
Backroads trips are known for their exceptional service and attention to detail. In Tanzania, we’ve had the opportunity to blend the “Backroads way” with the warmth and hospitality of the locals. The result is an experience that feels both familiar and entirely new—an experience where the natural charm, spirit and vibrancy of the Tanzanian people and the country speak for themselves in an organic and effortless way, drawing travelers closer to the communities we visit.
From the guides who know every hidden trail to our drivers who navigate the roads with ease, each member of our team has welcomed my co-leaders and me into their homes and families. Their generosity and warmth have made me feel like part of the community, and their insights have shaped every aspect of our journey.
For me, travel is about more than ticking off landmarks. It’s about slowing down, settling in and building relationships that last. Between trips and throughout the season, I’ve had the privilege of forming relationships that began professionally and have blossomed into true friendships.
As an example, one of my favorite experiences has been collaborating with local chefs to offer cooking classes for our guests. These classes are more than just a lesson in Tanzanian cuisine; they’re a window into daily life, family traditions and the stories behind every dish.
Another highlight is our relationship with a local school supported by our trips. Meeting the students, hearing their dreams and seeing the impact of our collective efforts is incredibly rewarding. These visits often become the most memorable moments for our guests, offering a genuine glimpse into the heart of Tanzania.
And now, significantly expanding our impact and solidifying our commitment to the people of Tanzania, we’re celebrating a milestone in our decade-long support of World Bicycle Relief (WBR): their expansion into Tanzania. WBR is a global organization that provides bicycles—a reliable means of transportation!—to millions of people, with a focus on access to education, health care and economic opportunity. Their “Buffalo Bicycles” are designed specifically to handle rough roads and carry heavy loads, making them perfectly suited to the unique terrain of Africa. With the help of these bicycles, health care workers can reach more patients and deliver lifesaving care more quickly. Children can get to school quicker and easier, reducing absenteeism and dropout rates. Farmers can transport more goods to markets, increasing their revenues and improving the quality of life for their families.
As anchor funders and donation match sponsors, Backroads has helped raise $97,000 to date for WBR’s Tanzania program alone.
A Backroads trip in Tanzania is so much more than a safari. It’s about riding through the countryside, stopping to chat with friends we’ve met along the way and immersing ourselves in local life. Whether you’re throwing spears with Maasai cattle herders, shopping for fresh produce at the market or simply sharing stories around a campfire, every moment is an opportunity to connect and learn.
Leading trips in Tanzania has been one of the greatest honors of my life. The friendships I’ve made, the lessons I’ve learned and the connections I’ve witnessed between our guests and the local community are powerful. If you’re looking for a journey that goes beyond the ordinary—one that will stay with you long after you’ve returned home—come to Tanzania. Bring your open heart, and you’ll leave with memories and friendships that last a lifetime.
We are thrilled to continue our journey in Tanzania and to see the far-reaching impacts of WBR’s work. To learn a bit more about this program, watch a video from our Chief Experience Officer, Avery Hale, as she shares more about the life-changing work being done.
