A Life behind the bars
I am Dorothee Fleck, a passionate bike traveler who has been exploring the world on two wheels since I was 14 years old. From short tours around Lake Constance to trips around the world lasting several years – the bicycle is my constant companion.
Why Women’s Cycling Guide?
As a woman, I have often heard that cycling trips in certain regions are too dangerous. I have proven that this is not true! My adventures in Africa, Australia and many other countries have shown me that the world is just as open to women on bikes as it is to men.
With the Women’s Cycling Guide, I want to inspire other women to realize their dreams and discover the world by bike. Here you will find practical tips, exciting stories and everything you need for your next cycling trip.
What can you expect here?
Ready to conquer the world on two wheels? Then take a look at my guide, where you’ll find everything you need for your next big bike trip: from the right equipment and visas to tips on where to stay along the way. And above all, lots of inspiration.
I’m constantly working on expanding my guide and providing you with even more inspiration and practical tips. Stay tuned!
You can also find me on
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My Storyline
1977 – 1984
Finally my first new bike. I felt completely free with it and got to explore new areas, for example southern Germany, Alsace and Sardinia.
1984 – 1994
During my studies, I traveled the world with a backpack. I was told that cycling was far too dangerous in Kenya or Israel, for example. I also encountered many new cultures this way.
1994 – 2003
I rediscovered my love of cycling during several tours. The highlight was my trip through Australia and New Zealand in 2003/2004. The freedom, the vastness and the breathtaking nature left a lasting impression on me.
2004 – 2008
The wanderlust gripped me tighter and tighter. My cycling trips became longer and longer expeditions that took me to the remotest corners of the earth. The open-plan office was no longer my world. In 2008, I put all my eggs in one basket and quit my job.
2008 – 2010
My first trip around the world started in 2008 and took me through 26 countries, from the icy roads of Russia to the heat of the Gobi Desert, the outback of Australia and the high Andes of South America. It was a time full of adventure, challenges and unforgettable encounters.
2012 – 2014
From the historic caravan routes of the Silk Road to the vibrant metropolises of Asia and the untouched landscapes of Australia and South America – my second trip around the world was a rollercoaster of emotions and impressions.
2015 – 2018
I was the first woman to take on my biggest challenge to date: circumnavigating Africa by bike. Starting in Morocco, I followed the west coast to the south and then the east coast to the north. Only in Egypt was I unable to head west again. This journey was not only a geographical adventure, but also a personal challenge.
2018 – 2024
After Africa, I returned and discovered the beauty of Europe on shorter bike tours. From the Baltic Sea to England and Scotland.
The coronavirus pandemic forced me to take a break in 2020, but I was able to continue my explorations in Denmark, Norway and Sweden in 2022 and 2023.
2024 – Jetzt
2024 will be a year full of adventure! After years of smaller tours, I’m once again tempted by the call of the unknown. I’m not yet revealing where the journey will take me, but one thing is certain: it will be an unforgettable experience. I’m looking forward to new encounters, breathtaking landscapes and, of course, many kilometers on my bike.
