Meet the face behind CvA travel: I’m Claudia van Aken – founder, owner, and the soul behind this travel company.
By now, the name probably makes sense. And that little word “travel”? It speaks to my adventurous spirit – and a deep desire to explore the world, one journey at a time. The seed was planted some years ago.
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It all began with Kilimanjaro – gruelling, humbling, unforgettable. Later came Mont Blanc, where I stood knee-deep in snow, wrapped against the cold, heart racing with the thrill of the climb. It was tough. But I knew – deep down – that I wanted more. From shivering through a snowstorm on Aconcagua to road cycling across continents, adventure became a way of life.
I first took to road cycling close to home, then gradually ventured further afield. But it was in France, on Alpe d’Huez, that something shifted. As much as I longed to keep up with the group, my body didn’t always cooperate. My adventurous spirit was strong – but my energy often fell short. It felt like a struggle. A quiet, unspoken one.
Once again, I found myself travelling with a company bound to a rigid schedule. And all I wanted was the freedom to adjust the pace – to embrace the journey, on my terms. That’s when my conviction grew: adventurous travel should be possible for everyone – for anyone ready to stretch beyond their limits, physically or mentally.
At the time, I had a regular job. And I kept asking myself: “Am I truly happy doing this?”
The answer was clear: no, I’m not. The seed began to grow. And one day, I took a leap. I quit. And decided to build something I believed in. Something with passion. Something with travel. Something with adventure.
And so, CvA travel was born – not yet fully defined, but with a clear heart.
Today, I look back in awe at all that’s happened: the website is live, journeys are taking shape, the first bookings are in, and there’s so much more ahead. Best of all? I’m happy. And our goal now is to make sure you are too.
CvA travel is not your average travel company. We believe in the power of adventurous journeys – the kind that stay with you, long after the road ends. We create cycling holidays for all kinds of riders – from seasoned explorers to those just finding their rhythm. Because we believe that discovering the world by bike should be possible for everyone – no matter your pace.
CvA travel is not your typical travel company – we do things differently. And how we do that, together with you, lies in our values, our mission, and our passion for creating journeys that leave a lasting impression.
CvA travel isn’t like other travel companies – we do things differently. Our mission is to create journeys you’ll carry with you – for life. Does that speak to your adventurous spirit? We’d love to hear from you.
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A journey is only as memorable as the people you meet along the way. At CvA travel, we work closely with a dedicated local team of guides, drivers and mechanics – people who bring every journey to life with knowledge, warmth, humour and heart. Uganda is where our roots lie – both literally and figuratively.
Our base in Kampala is the beating heart of our operations across Uganda and Rwanda. It’s here that our fleet of (e-)mountain bikes is stored, serviced and prepared – and from where every adventure begins. Everything is carefully arranged, locally grounded and delivered with a personal touch.
Get to know the people who make it all happen: the trusted faces behind your ride.
Michael is a guide who leads cycling tours through Uganda for CvA travel with great enthusiasm. With his spontaneous nature, warm personality, and extensive knowledge of the country, he ensures relaxed and personal trips. Michael feels most at home on the hilly routes around Lake Bunyonyi, where nature, culture, and impressive views come together. Along the way, he loves sharing stories about local life, allowing guests to experience the real Uganda.
As a guide for CvA travel, Peter combines his passion for cycling tours with extensive technical knowledge of the bikes along the way. Peter feels most at home on remote roads and hidden paths in East Africa. He enjoys taking travellers along the lush green landscapes of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and the impressive views at Lake Mutanda. Always on the lookout for new routes and special places, he turns every trip into a mini adventure. With his technical expertise and calm presence, Peter ensures that guests set off with confidence.
Joseph is a guide for CvA travel and, when he isn’t out on tour, provides behind-the-scenes support for the organisation of our trips in Uganda. In doing so, he helps to ensure that every trip runs smoothly. With his calm demeanour, sense of humour, and positive energy, Joseph brings a lot of relaxation and a welcoming atmosphere to the group. He has a natural way of putting people at ease and is always ready to help. Joseph loves introducing travellers to the nature, culture, and hospitality of Uganda. His favourite routes run around Lake Bunyonyi, where green hills, fresh air, and friendly local communities come together.
Abdul is one of our drivers you might meet during a trip with CvA travel. With over 20 years of experience, he knows Uganda like no other and ensures that every ride is safe and relaxing. He has a great passion for Uganda’s wildlife and loves sharing his knowledge about wild animals and their behaviour along the way. Thanks to his experience, he often knows exactly where to spot extraordinary animals and talks enthusiastically about the nature and national parks along the route. Although Abdul loves being behind the wheel, he is just as happy to get on a bike himself. It is exactly this combination that makes him truly understand what makes a cycling holiday so special.
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