A medium to good level of fitness and some team spirit is required for this trip. 70% of the route leads over tar streets, 30% over gravel. Height changes between 200 and 500 meters. A good basic level of fitness is necessary for this tour. The roads are all tar roads. You will cycle many mountains passes with up to 1950 ft difference in height. A vehicle accompanies you at all times. The climate is just as varying as the tour is: in Little Karoo summer afternoons can reach 95 °F, along the coast it is a comfortable 68 – 77 °F.

Day 1: Port Elizabeth - Transfer to Addo National Park
Upon your arrival in Port Elizabeth where you will be met by your tour guide and transferred (1,5 hours) to the Addo Elephant National Park. Accommodation for two nights will be in the beautifully positioned Addo Zuurberg Mountain Village Lodge 4*. You can relax by the pool, catch some sleep or join the guide for a short bike ride near the lodge.

Day 2: Safari in ADDO Elephant National Park
While on a game drive in an open top safari vehicle, you can see elephants, buffalos and ostrich, and, with luck, buffalos, rhinos and lions as well. We will be back in the late afternoon.(B)

Day 3: Tsitsikamma National Park, approx. 51 km
Travel via Port Elizabeth, and drive to the Tsitsikamma mountain range from where we will start cycling on a quiet gravel road, where baboons may cross our path. Continue cycling, passing the old Storms river Bridge, before descending into the Tsitsikamma National Park, where we will go on a 1 hour walk to the wild and rugged Storms river mouth. A climb back on to the plateau will lead us to the comfortable Tsitsikamma Village Inn 3*. (hg 350m, tar/gravel) (B)

Day 4: Nature’s Valley and a Hike on the Robberg Peninsula
In the morning, cycle into the deep Bloukrans River Valley filled with lush indigenous forest and continue to Nature’s Valley, where one of South Africa’s most beautiful beaches entices one to go for a swim. (40km, hg 430m, tar) After lunch, go on a unique hike around the Robberg Peninsula (2 hours) and enjoy the beautiful vistas of the Tsitsikamma Forest and the ocean. Stay close by in the charming Cornerway Guest Houses 4* for the night. (B)

Day 5: Lake District National Park, approx. 45 km
In the morning, we will cycle along a section of the historic old Cape Road, which traverses beautiful valleys filled with indigenous forests until we reach Sedgefield. We will spend the afternoon at the ocean. Besides swimming one can go on a Kajak trip or try Stand-Up paddling. A transfer late afternoon takes us to the comfortable Acorn Guest House 4* in George. (hg 500m, gravel/tar) (B,L)

Day 6: The Outeniqua Mountains, approx. 54 km
A short transfer takes us over the historic Montagu Pass (745 m). A route, we are rewarded with stunning views of the coast and the surrounding Outeniqua Mountains. The changing landscape could not be more impressive as we cycle from lush green pastures to and through semi-arid shrub and bushveld. Lunchtime will be on an ostrich farm, and we will also learn more about this giant bird. Oudtshoorn is regarded as being the centre of the ostrich industry. Accommodation will be in the cosy Adley Guest House 4*. The owner wishes to invite us to a traditional South Africa barbeque which, of course, also includes tender ostrich meat! (hg 280m, gravel/tar) (B)

Day 7: The Klein Karoo – Ostrich country, approx. 30 km
After having participated in a tour of the Cango Caves, we will cycle through the Schoemanspoort gorge, it’s warm rocky slopes, covered with many unique succulent plant species such as the botterboom and aloes back to Oudtshoorn. In the afternoon, shuttle transfer through the beautiful desert scenery of the Little Karoo to the charming village of Montagu with the beautiful Cape Dutch houses.  (hg 180m, gravel/tar) (B)

Day 8: The Wine Region of the Breede River Valley, approx. 61 km
After a hearty breakfast, cycle through the narrow Kogmannskloof gorge into the beautiful Breede River Valley Wine Lands region. Enjoy a wine tasting and a picnic basket while doing a boat cruise on the Breede river. Another 15 km takes us to the charming accommodation in Robertson. (hg 350m, tar) (B,L)

Day 9: Kleinmond to Gordon’s Bay, approx. 51 km
Continue towards Kleinmond at the coast. Here, the bikes will be unloaded. Cycle along the unique coastal route to Gordon’s Bay, all the while keeping the Cape Peninsula in one’s view. Whales and seals are seen frequently on the route. In Betty´s Bay we will visit one of the two land based colonies of the African Penguin. We will reach the sea side village of Gordon´s Bay and spend the night close to the beach in the Manor on the Bay Lodge 4*. (hg 500m, tar) (B)

Day 10: Cycle in Cape of Good Hope National Park, approx. 54 km
During a township tour in the morning, you will have the unique opportunity to visit a Kindergarten in the township of Khayelitsha. You can become aquainted with Cape Town’s largest township and the people. Carry on to the Cape of Good Hope National Park. A short walk takes us up to the light house above Cape Point, where the spectacular view of Cape of Good Hope with great vistas and rugged coastline can be seen. The following spectacular coastal road, known as Chapman’s Peak, lead into the fishing village of Hout Bay. (hg 660m, tar) (B)

Day 11: Hike Table Mountain
We will visit the Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden in the morning and, via a shady ravine, hike up to the top of the Table Mountain, Cape town’s most famous landmark. (4 hours, weather permitting). Enjoy stunning views of the mother city as well as the Atlantic and Indian Oceans. The descent will be by cable car. Undertake a short walking tour of the city, stopping at the Castle, the City Hall, Greenmarket Square, the Company’s Gardens and the Malay Quarter. (B)

Day 12: Cape Town
The morning remains at leisure. There are many shops and markets to visit. In addition, the Two Oceans Aquarium at the V&A Waterfront or a trip to Robben Island are worthwhile. Depending on your flight departure details, we will transfer you to Cape Town International Airport, where this beautiful journey will end. (B)

ROUTE A (March & October) & ROUTE B (February & November)

Day 1: Port Elizabeth
Arrival in Port Elizabeth where you will be met by your tour guide and guided to your hotel Brookes Hill Suites. Accommodation for two nights.

Day 2: Bike Tour Clarkson - Tsitsikamma National Park, approx. 49 km
In the morning, depart to the nearby ADDO Elephant National Park. While on a game drive in an open top safari vehicle, one will see zebra, blesbok and elephants, and, with some luck, even black rhino and lion! Thereafter, transfer to the Tsitsikamma Mountain Range, from where one will commence our bike tour to Cape Town. After a final bike check, begin cycling on a beautifully positioned side road with a backdrop of the Tsitsikamma Mountains to the comfortable Tsitsikamma Village Inn 3* where we will stay overnight. (hg 390m, tar/forest path) (B, L)

Day 3 + 4: BikeTour Tsitsikamma National Park-Nature‘s Valley, approx.58 + 35 km
We will cycle on a forested plateau before descending to the mouth of the Storms River on the wild and romantic coast. After lunch, cycle back up to the plateau, passing through valleys, filled with rich, indigenous forest on route to Nature‘s Valley. The dense Tsitsikamma forest draws us deeply into it, as we absorb it’s natural beauty. Overnight accommodation will be for two consecutive nights at Holiday Homes Natures Valley, lying at the edge of a secluded beach on the Garden Route. ( hg 700m,tar + hg 300m tar/forest paths/tracks) (B, L, D)

Day 5: Hike on the Robberg Peninsula
Today we will go on an unforgettable hike around the wild and romantic Robberg Peninsula. (5-6 hours) View at Stone Age caves, a seal colony, bottle-nosed dolphins and the threatened black oystercatcher.  (B, L)

Route A & Route B will diverge in Plettenberg Bay for 9 days.
During the months of October and March, Route A takes one inland through the Little Karoo savannah, and during the months of November and February, Route B takes one closer to the cooler coastline.

ROUTE A:

Day 6: Bike Tour from Knysna to Uniondale, approx. 49 km
Today the landscape is isolated and the route steep, as we leave the coast and cycle on good tracks through the dense Knysna Forest to Prince Alfred’s Pass (1050m). (hg 1170m, tar/tracks) (B, L)

Day 7: Bike Tour from Uniondale to De Rust, approx. 88 km
After ascending the pass, the landscape changes, as we cycle through the dry Little Karoo with it’s bizarre yet impressive and infinitely desolate and rocky landscape to the small town of De Rust, where another grassroots level project runs, in support of the local population. Tonight, overnight accommodation will be in private homes of members of the local coloured community, and you will gain unique personal experience of the new South Africa. Our hosts will prepare a typical local meal, and will sing with guitar accompaniment. (hg 930m, tar/tracks) (B, L, D)

Day 8: Bike Tour from De Rust - Swartberg Mountains, approx. 69 km
Today’s journey starts with the highlight of the day, the Meiringspoort, which is enclosed by towering sandstone walls of up to 800m as we continue through the imposing Swartberg Mountains to the nearby Cango Dripstone Caves. A long downhill ride through Schoeman’s Gorge takes us to the comfortable Adley Guest House 4*, where we will be accommodated for the next two consecutive nights. The owner will prepare a barbeque for us and tender ostrich steaks are included. (hg +830m, tar/tracks) (B, L, D)

Day 9: Day at Leisure – Visit to an Ostrich Farm
Today you have time to rest. Visit an ostrich farm and learn more about this funny creature. How about relaxing by the pool or taking a stroll into town? (B)

Day 10: Bike Tour from Oudtshoorn to Calitzdorp, approx. 85 km
The majestic Swartberg Mountain Peak forms the backdrop, as we depart from Oudtshoorn. The asphalt roads then change into tracks as we cycle through a wonderful, secluded valley and past ostrich farms to the idyllic wine producing town of Calitzdorp, where accommodation will be at the Portwine Guest House 3*. (hg 800m, tar/tracks) (B, L)

Day 11: Bike Tour from Calitzdorp to Ladismith, approx. 56 km
We will cycle over the Huisriver Pass (650m) and past the Amalienstein missionary station in the wonderful Seweweekspoort, having a lunch break while on route. Continue cycling towards Ladismith to the simple Mountain View Guest House 2* in front of the Swartberg Mountains. (1859m) (hg 1180m, tar/tracks) (B, L)

Day 12: Bike Tour from Buffelspoort to Montagu, approx. 107 km
Cycling on good tracks, we will traverse a few dry valleys in the sparse expanse of the Little Karoo, before making our way up the Ouberg Pass (950m) on route to the town of Montagu with it’s charming colonial style houses. Cycling on asphalt again, we reach the charming Montagu Country Hotel 4*, where we will be accommodated for two consecutive nights. (hg 1060m, tar/tracks) (B, L)

Day 13: Day at Leisure – Hiking to the Thermal Springs
Depart from the hotel and walk through the quaint village of Montagu with it’s beautiful private gardens. The lovers walk, just beyond the town, leads us through a narrow gorge with beautiful sandstone formations to the thermal springs. (Walking time 1.5 hours) We will be back at lunch time and the afternoon is at leisure. (B)

Day 14: Bike tour Montagu – Robertson, approx. 91 km
After a hearty breakfast, cycle through the narrow Kogmannskloof gorge into the beautiful Breede River Valley Wine Lands region. Enjoy a wine tasting and a chees platter on Weltevrede Wine Estate. Ride along the flat banks of the Breed River onto the charming accommodation in Robertson. (hg 725m, tar) (B)

Day 15: Bike Tour from Kleinmond to Gordon‘s Bay
Drive to the green university town of Stellenbosch in the African Bikers vehicle. A walking tour of the town gives us a good look at the history of the second oldest town in South Africa. We continue to Kleinmond at the coast, where we will unload the bikes and, keeping the Cape Peninsula in sight, cycle along the unique coastal route to Gordon‘s Bay. (hg 590m, tar) (B)

Day 16: Bike Tour Cape of Good Hope National Park, approx. 69 km
During a township tour in the morning, you will have the unique opportunity to visit a Kindergarten in the township of Khayelitsha. You can become aquainted with Cape Town’s largest township and the people. Carry on to the Cape of Good Hope National Park, where we will unload the bikes and cycle along the far side of the Cape Peninsula and the Atlantic seaboard back to Cape Town. The coastal route via Chapman‘s Peak Drive and Hout Bay is truly one of the most breathtaking routes in South Africa. It is not a coincidence, that the annual Cape Town Cycle Tour Race, with over 35,000 participants, should take place here. You reach Camps Bay with beach pubs and a bit later the Bantry Bay Suites Hotel 4*, close to the Atlantic Ocean. (hg 830m, tar) (B)

Day 17: Hike on Table Mountain
In the morning we will visit Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden and, weather permitting, hike up to the Table Mountain. (4 hrs.) The view across Cape Town, 1000m below us, is breathtaking. The descent will be by cable car. In the afternoon, we will walk to Greenmarket Square, the Houses of Parliament in Government Gardens, the Castle and City Hall and the Malay Quarter. The rest of the afternoon remains at leisure. African Bikers will advise you on what there is to discover in the mother city. The V&A Waterfront has many shops, good restaurants and the famous Two Ocean Aquarium! (B)

Day 18: Cape Town
The morning remains at leisure. There are many shops and markets to visit. In addition, the Two Oceans Aquarium at the V&A Waterfront or a trip to Robben Island are worthwhile. Depending on your flight departure details, we will transfer you to Cape Town International Airport, where this beautiful journey will end. (B)

ROUTE B

Day 6: Bike Tour from Knysna to George, approx. 73 km
We will cycle along the old Cape Road until the Homtini Pass. The indigenous trees offer welcomes shade during the ascents and descents. In the afternoon, we will cycle along a flat section through the Lake district to the wilderness. The warm Indian Ocean in Victoria Bay is an inviting place to swim. (hg 690m, tar/tracks) (B, L)

Day 7: Bike Tour from George to Oudtshoorn, approx. 67 km
Today, we will cycle over the historic Montagu Pass (745m) into the interior to the town of Oudtshoorn. On route, we are rewarded with stunning views of the coast and the surrounding Outeniqua Mountains. The changing landscape could not be more impressive, as we cycle from lush green pastures to and through semi-arid shrub and bushveld. Accommodation will be at the cosy Adley Guest House 4* for two consecutive nights. The owner wishes to invite us to a traditional South Africa barbeque which, of course, also includes tender ostrich meat! (hg 880m, tar/tracks) (B, L, D)

Day 8: Day at Leisure – Visit the Cango Dripstone Caves + Ostrich Farm
Today remains at leisure. Transfer by minibus to the nearby Cango Caves. During a 1 hour tour, you will see many calcite formations, the huge flowstones formations being noteworthy. Afterwards, travel to an ostrich farm and learn more about this large 2m tall bird. Spend the afternoon at the poolside or take a walk through the town. The CP Nel Museum includes a complete 18th century pharmacy and has a permanent exhibition pertaining to the ostrich feather boom. Dinner will be at a Xhosa restaurant in the Bongalethu Township. (B, D)

Day 9: Bike Tour from Oudtshoorn to Klein Brakrivier, approx. 83 km
After crossing the Olifants Rivier, the ascending route eventually reaches the top of the Robinson Pass, (860m) from where one will enjoy magnificent views across the Indian Ocean, before descending to the coast at Klein Brakrivier. Transfer to the Point Hotel 4* in Mossel Bay, situated right on the rocky shores of the Indian Ocean for your overnight accommodation. (hg 890m, tar/gravel road) (B, L)

Day 10: Bike Tour from Albertinia to Riversdale, approx. 52 km
The Diaz Museum in Mossel Bay exhibits the history of the maritime exploration and discovery of Africa. This will be the last opportunity to swim before your arrival in Cape Town. In our vehicle, we travel inland to Albertinia, from where we will cycle along the Langeberg Mountains and through the hilly farm land to Riversdale, where we will stay in the comfortable De Doornkraal Country House 4*. (hg 610m, tar/tracks) (B, L)

Day 11: Bike Tour from Riversdale to Swellendam, approx. 85 km
Continue cycling along the mountain tracks on the Langeberg Mountains to Heidelberg, and then mainly on asphalt to Swellendam, the third oldest town in South Africa, lying idyllically at the foot of the Langeberg Mountains. (hg 1110m, tar/tracks) (B, L)

Day 12: Bike Tour from Swellendam to Robertson, approx. 72 km
Today, we will cycle through the wide Bree Rivier Valley via Bonnievale and vineyards to Robertson, where we will spend the next two consecutive nights in the charming Gubas De Hoek Guest House 4*. (hg 820m, tar/tracks) (B, L)

Day 13: Hike to Kogmanskloof in Montagu, approx. 40 km
Today, we will walk through the pretty little town of Montagu and take a short hike to the thermal springs, followed by lunch and a wine tasting on a wine estate. Those, who feel energetic, can undertake a bike trip (40km) to the historical village of McGregor. (B)

Day 14: Bike tour Franschhoek – Stellenbosch, approx. 61 km
A short transfer takes us to Theewaterskloof Dam, the largest water reservoir of Cape Town. The route enters the UNESCO World Heritage Site Capensis and during the steady climb up Franschhoek Pass (732m) you are rewarded with sights of many different Protea and Heath species as well as Klipspringer antelopes and baboons. Enjoy the great views from the top onto one of the famous wine growing areas of South Africa. On Boschendal Wine Estate, visit the well preserved manor house and have a light lunch under the shady oak trees. Carry on over Helshoogte Pass (380m) and you reach Stellenbosch, the second oldest town of South Africa. It boasts many historical buildings, erected in the local Cape-Dutch style. Ample of road side cafes, art galleries and craft shops makes this a pleasant place for a stroll. Stay close by in the historic Villa Grande Guest House 4*. Restaurants are just a save and short walk away. (hg 860m, tar) (B)

The rest of the tour for ROUTE B is identical to days 15-18 of ROUTE A.