The Complete Guide to Cycling South Africa

At the southern tip of the African continent, South Africa is a land of striking contrasts and vast beauty. Bordered by the Atlantic and Indian Oceans, it stretches from the rugged mountains of the Cape to the savannah plains of Kruger, offering some of the most diverse landscapes on Earth. Each region has its own rhythm, from cosmopolitan Cape Town and the vineyard-covered valleys of Stellenbosch to the forested coastline of the Garden Route and the wild bushveld of the north.

Cycling in South Africa captures this variety in motion. Riders can climb mountain passes through wine country, follow coastal roads beside turquoise bays, or pedal along dirt tracks that lead to watering holes where elephants roam. The roads are well maintained in most regions, and the cycling culture is thriving, with local riders filling the routes every weekend. It is a country where adventure and everyday life meet on two wheels, and every turn reveals a new side of its character, cultural, natural, or wild.

In this guide, we will explore what makes cycling in South Africa such a rewarding experience. From the vineyards of the Cape Region to the ocean air of the Garden Route and the untamed landscapes of the Kruger Region, you will discover routes that combine scenic beauty, warm hospitality, and unforgettable riding.

Topography

South Africa’s landscape unfolds like a continent in miniature. From the peaks of the Drakensberg Mountains to the long coastal plains of the Indian and Atlantic shores, it offers an astonishing variety of terrain for cyclists. Much of the interior lies on a high plateau known as the Highveld, a vast open grassland that drops sharply toward the coast through a series of escarpments and fertile valleys.

In the south and west, cyclists encounter rugged mountain chains, fertile winelands, and deep-cut valleys that produce some of the country’s most scenic riding. Coastal regions contrast this with smooth, rolling roads that wind past beaches, lagoons, and dunes brushed by ocean winds. Inland, the terrain flattens into wide, open stretches where long-distance riders can lose themselves in the rhythm of the road beneath big African skies.

For mountain bikers, the country’s geology provides an endless playground: sandstone ridges, gravel passes, and dirt trails that trace the contours of ancient landscapes. Road cyclists find plenty of challenges too, from alpine-like climbs through the Cape mountains to gentle rides along the Garden Route’s coastal flats. This range of elevation and surface makes South Africa a destination that can match every cycling style, from leisurely exploration to high-endurance adventure.

Flora

Few countries rival South Africa for biodiversity. It is home to nearly ten percent of the world’s known plant species and a vast range of wildlife that thrives across its mountains, forests, grasslands, and deserts. Riding here means moving through living landscapes that change constantly in scent, color, and sound.

The southwest is part of the Cape Floral Kingdom, where fynbos vegetation blankets the hills in shades of green, gold, and red. Proteas, ericas, and restios bloom through spring and summer, filling the air with a dry, herbal fragrance. Moving east, the scenery shifts to subtropical forests rich with yellowwood and wild fig trees, while the interior gives way to karoo scrub and hardy desert plants that survive in arid conditions.

Wildlife is never far away. In rural areas, cyclists often glimpse antelope or baboons along quiet roads, and birdlife is abundant in almost every region. In national parks and reserves, the experience deepens, with giraffes, zebras, and elephants visible even from cycling routes near the boundaries. Whether you are pedaling past vineyards, along the coast, or through open bushveld, the natural world here feels close and vivid, a constant reminder of how connected cycling and landscape can be.

Fauna

South Africa’s wildlife is as varied as its landscapes, with more than three hundred mammal species and nearly nine hundred bird species spread across the country’s parks, mountains, coasts, and grasslands. It is one of the few places in the world where cyclists can ride through vineyard valleys one day and glimpse wild antelope or zebras the next.

In the countryside, it is common to see springbok, impala, or vervet monkeys near quiet roads, especially in early morning or late afternoon. Baboons are frequent along mountain routes near the Cape Peninsula, while dassies, the small rock hyraxes, bask on the cliffs of Table Mountain and the Cederberg. Birdlife is abundant everywhere, from bright sunbirds hovering over garden flowers to fish eagles circling above reservoirs and rivers.

In more remote regions and nature reserves, the experience becomes even more remarkable. Cyclists in areas bordering the Greater Kruger or other private game reserves may encounter giraffes, zebras, or elephants on guided rides, always under expert supervision. The bushveld hums with life, with hornbills, rollers, and weavers filling the air with movement and sound, creating a sense of being immersed in a living ecosystem.

Along the coast, marine life adds another dimension. Whales and dolphins are often visible off the southern shores between Hermanus and Plettenberg Bay, while seals and seabirds thrive in the cold Atlantic waters near the Cape. Even in more urban stretches, the presence of wildlife feels constant, adding spontaneity and wonder to every ride.

Cycling in South Africa brings you closer to the country’s incredible biodiversity, where each turn of the pedal might reveal a flash of wings, a rustle in the grass, or the sight of animals moving freely through the land they have shaped for millennia.

Climate

South Africa spans several climate zones, which creates a long and flexible cycling season across the country. The coastal regions are shaped by the Atlantic and Indian Oceans, while the inland plateau experiences a more continental pattern. This variety allows cyclists to ride comfortably through much of the year, choosing regions based on preferred temperatures and seasonal rhythms.

The southern and western parts of the country, including Cape Town and the surrounding winelands, have a Mediterranean climate. Summers, from December to March, are warm and dry with daytime temperatures often between 25°C and 32°C (77°F to 90°F). Winters are cooler and wetter, with averages around 12°C to 18°C (54°F to 64°F) and regular rainfall that brings the landscape to life. The breezes along the peninsula can be strong, so riders often plan for early morning starts in mid-summer.

Along the Garden Route, the climate softens into a temperate pattern, with mild temperatures year-round. Summer highs sit around 24°C to 28°C (75°F to 82°F), while winter remains comfortable, usually between 10°C and 18°C (50°F to 64°F). Regular coastal moisture keeps the forests lush and green, and cyclists often enjoy cooler conditions than in the Cape interior. Further north, the Lowveld and Kruger region shift into a subtropical climate with warm winters and hot summers. Winter, from May to August, is the most pleasant time to ride with clear skies, low humidity, and temperatures between 20°C and 26°C (68°F to 79°F). Summers can be humid and often reach 30°C to 35°C (86°F to 95°F), with afternoon thunderstorms that cool the air but require flexible planning.

Spring and autumn are widely considered the best seasons for cycling across South Africa. From September to November and again from March to May, the days are warm, rainfall is moderate, and the landscapes range from flowering fynbos in the Cape to open, golden grasslands in the north. Layering is essential throughout the year, as conditions can shift quickly with coastal winds, mountain shadows, and afternoon heat.

Economy

South Africa has one of the most diverse economies on the African continent, with strong sectors in mining, agriculture, manufacturing, tourism, and financial services. Major cities such as Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Durban anchor this economic landscape, supported by a network of smaller towns where local industries shape the character of each region.

Mining has long played a central role in the country’s development. Gold, platinum, and diamonds continue to be significant exports, supported by extensive industrial infrastructure. At the same time, the service sector has grown steadily, with banking, telecommunications, retail, and technology forming an increasingly large part of national GDP. South Africa’s financial system is one of the strongest in the region, and Johannesburg is a key economic hub for the African continent.

Agriculture is another pillar of the economy, especially in rural areas where cycling routes often pass orchards, vineyards, and farmlands. The Western Cape is known for producing world-class wines, while fruit farming, grain production, and livestock remain vital across the country. Small towns often reflect this agricultural rhythm, with farm stalls, markets, and local products forming part of the everyday landscape.

Tourism also plays a significant role, creating jobs in hospitality, conservation, guiding, and outdoor recreation. National parks and game reserves support thousands of livelihoods, and cycling-focused regions such as the Cape winelands, the Garden Route, and the Lowveld benefit from sustainable travel that connects visitors with local communities. For cyclists, this mix of industries creates a rich and varied experience, where modern cities, rural farmlands, and wildlife reserves all contribute to the country’s wider economic story.

From coastal cliffs to mountain passes and wildlife-filled savannahs, South Africa offers cyclists an exceptional mix of landscapes and riding styles. Smooth tar roads, scenic gravel routes, and well-loved mountain biking networks make it a country where every rider can find their rhythm. These regions stand out as some of the best for cycling in South Africa.

1. The Cape Winelands and Stellenbosch

The Cape Winelands are the heart of South Africa’s cycling culture, with Stellenbosch at its center. This region blends dramatic mountain scenery with rolling vineyard valleys, creating a paradise for both road cyclists and mountain bikers. Smooth routes weave through orchards and farmland, while forest trails in Jonkershoek, Elgin, and Somerset West offer flowing singletrack and challenging climbs.

The terrain mixes gentle valley roads with steep passes like Helshoogte, making it ideal for riders who enjoy varied gradients. The region is also known for its wine estates, where cyclists can stop for farm-to-table meals, tastings, and views over terraced vines. With its warm climate and deeply ingrained riding community, the Cape Winelands are perfect for cyclists who want culture, scenery, and quality riding in one place.

2. The Cape Peninsula and Table Mountain Region

South of Cape Town, the Cape Peninsula delivers some of the country’s most iconic coastal cycling. Chapman’s Peak Drive is a highlight, offering cliffside curves above turquoise water and steady gradients suited to all levels. Inland, Table Mountain National Park provides a network of gravel tracks and mountain roads with panoramic views over the city and Atlantic Ocean.

The combination of ocean breezes, rugged cliffs, and protected fynbos makes every ride visually striking. Cyclists often spot baboons on quieter stretches or watch paragliders launch from Signal Hill as they pass by. With lively beach towns, cafés, and viewpoints along the way, the peninsula blends physical challenge with the vibrant outdoor energy that defines Cape Town.

3. The Garden Route

Stretching between Mossel Bay and Tsitsikamma, the Garden Route is a favorite for cyclists who love coastal scenery and forested trails. The region offers a balanced mix of rolling coastal roads, lagoon-side paths, and shaded routes through indigenous forest. Riders can pedal through Knysna’s quiet backroads, climb into the Outeniqua Mountains, or explore the coastal cliffs around Plettenberg Bay.

The routes are well maintained and the scenery constantly shifts between beaches, lakes, and wooded valleys. Wildlife is common here, with birds, small antelope, and monkeys often appearing near the road edge. The Garden Route’s relaxed atmosphere, pleasant climate, and natural beauty make it perfect for multi-day tours and leisurely scenic rides.

4. The Karoo and Little Karoo

For riders seeking open space and long horizons, the Karoo offers a completely different cycling experience. This semi-arid region stretches across central South Africa and is known for its wide gravel roads, big skies, and dramatic silence. The terrain is mostly gentle but can include steady climbs over rocky ridges and passes. Small towns such as Prince Albert, Matjiesfontein, and Oudtshoorn provide character-rich rest stops, each with its own history and architecture.

Cyclists often ride past windmills, sheep farms, and red earth hills that glow at sunrise and sunset. The dry climate, low traffic, and sense of solitude make the Karoo ideal for gravel riders and touring cyclists who enjoy remote landscapes and slow, steady journeys.

5. The Kruger and Lowveld Region

In the northeast, the Lowveld offers warm weather, red dirt roads, and a sense of pure African wilderness. Cycling routes near private reserves and rural areas around Hoedspruit, Phalaborwa, and the Greater Kruger region take riders through acacia woodland, riverbeds, and gentle savannah slopes. Although cycling inside Kruger National Park is restricted for safety, guided rides in surrounding reserves and conservancies allow cyclists to experience the landscape in an intimate way.

It is common to see giraffes, zebras, and antelope in the distance, and birdlife is abundant. The combination of warm climate, open terrain, and the possibility of wildlife encounters gives the Lowveld a unique and adventurous character, especially for gravel and safari-style cycling.

South Africa’s cycling routes span rugged mountains, dramatic coastlines, vineyard valleys, arid plains, and wildlife-rich savannah. From peaceful multi-day journeys to challenging mountain passes, the country offers something for every type of rider. Here are some of the most rewarding cycling routes in South Africa.

1. Chapman’s Peak and the Cape Peninsula Loop

Often called one of the most scenic coastal rides in the world, this route winds between Hout Bay and Noordhoek along a cliff-hugging road sculpted into the mountainside. Cyclists travel past steep rock faces, turquoise ocean views, and lookout points that feel like natural balconies above the Atlantic. The full peninsula loop continues through Cape Point Nature Reserve and along the False Bay coast, offering smooth tarmac, steady climbs, and refreshing sea breezes. Riders pass penguin colonies at Boulders Beach, colourful harbor towns, and long stretches of protected fynbos. It is a perfect mix of coastal drama, iconic views, and a satisfying level of challenge.

2. Stellenbosch, Franschhoek, and the Winelands Passes

The Winelands region is a dream for cyclists who enjoy scenery, fine food, and a blend of rolling roads and rewarding climbs. The classic route links Stellenbosch, Franschhoek, and Paarl through quiet valleys, vineyard estates, orchards, and shaded mountain folds. The highlight is Franschhoek Pass, a steady ascent that reveals sweeping views over the valley before dropping into the rugged landscapes beyond. The area also hosts a vast network of mountain biking trails in Jonkershoek, Elgin, and Banhoek, where singletrack flows through forests and over ridgelines. With charming towns, farm kitchens, and wine estates along the way, this region is ideal for leisurely touring and stronger road riding alike.

3. The Garden Route Coastal Ride

Stretching between Mossel Bay and Tsitsikamma, the Garden Route offers one of the country’s most scenic long-distance rides. Cyclists move through a landscape where forested hills meet lagoons, cliffs, and long sandy beaches. The route passes through Knysna, with its famous lagoon, and continues to Plettenberg Bay and Storms River, where suspension bridges and sea cliffs frame the horizon. The terrain is a mix of rolling coastal roads and shaded forest climbs, making it suitable for a wide range of fitness levels. Wildlife and birdlife are part of the experience, and the region’s pleasant climate makes it a favourite for multi-day touring.

4. The Karoo Gravel and Mountain Pass Route

For cyclists drawn to remote, open landscapes, the Karoo delivers a powerful sense of space. The classic gravel route links towns such as Prince Albert, Matjiesfontein, and Oudtshoorn through wide roads, rocky ridges, and passes that reveal sweeping desert views. The terrain is mostly gentle but can include steady climbs over historical passes like Swartberg, a winding road that rewards riders with dramatic red rock formations and panoramic vistas. The Karoo’s quiet roads, low traffic, and luminous sunrises create an almost meditative riding experience. Along the way, cyclists encounter historic settlements, windmills, and long horizons that stretch as far as the eye can see.

5. Lowveld Safari Cycling near Kruger

Near the borders of the Greater Kruger, cyclists can explore a network of rural roads, dirt tracks, and reserve trails that bring them close to Africa’s wildlife and savannah scenery. The route around Hoedspruit and the Wild Rivers area is especially popular, offering gentle undulations through acacia woodland, riverbeds, and open plains. Although cycling inside Kruger National Park is restricted, guided rides in private reserves and conservancies provide safe access to landscapes where giraffes, zebras, and antelope roam freely. Sunrises paint the sky in pink and gold, and afternoon heat gives way to cool evenings filled with bird calls. This region offers riders a rare chance to cycle through ecosystems shaped by wildlife and wilderness.

Best Season

The best time for cycling in South Africa is during spring and autumn, from September to November and March to May. These months offer mild temperatures, generally between 18°C and 25°C (64°F to 77°F), along with clear skies and comfortable riding conditions. Spring brings blooming fynbos in the Cape region and lush green landscapes in the Garden Route, while autumn delivers calm weather, warm light, and stable winds. These seasons are ideal for riding through the Cape Winelands, exploring the coastal stretches of the Garden Route, and enjoying long days in the Lowveld before winter cools the savannah.

Peak Season

Summer, from December to February, is the busiest travel period in South Africa. Temperatures range from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F), especially inland, and coastal areas become lively with holiday crowds. It is a great time for early morning rides along the Cape Peninsula or shaded forest routes in the Garden Route, where sea breezes help moderate the heat. The long daylight hours make it possible to plan sunrise or sunset rides, though cyclists should be prepared for warm afternoons and carry plenty of hydration.

Off Season

Winter, from June to August, is the quietest time for cycling in most parts of South Africa. The Cape experiences cooler temperatures and regular rainfall, which can limit outdoor riding, although crisp clear days still appear between fronts. Inland regions, especially the Highveld and the Karoo, stay cold at night but offer dry, sunny conditions during the day. In the Lowveld near Kruger, winter is actually one of the best times to ride, with warm daytime temperatures around 20°C to 26°C (68°F to 79°F) and low humidity. Overall, winter can still be enjoyable for cycling if riders choose regions with stable dry weather and plan for cooler mornings.

South African cuisine is shaped by many influences, including Indigenous traditions, Dutch and Malay heritage, coastal cultures, and the country’s rich agricultural regions. When cycling through its towns and landscapes, food becomes an essential part of the experience. From hearty stews to Cape Malay spices and fresh coastal seafood, the country’s dishes reflect both its history and its incredible natural diversity. These are some of the must-try foods when cycling in South Africa.

1. Bobotie

Often considered one of South Africa’s signature dishes, bobotie is a warmly spiced mince bake topped with a golden egg custard. The flavors come from a blend of curry powder, chutney, and dried fruit, creating a balance of savory and slightly sweet notes. Served with yellow rice, sambals, and sometimes chutney, bobotie is a comforting reward after a long day of riding through the Cape region. Its roots lie in Cape Malay cooking, a tradition that adds depth and character to South African cuisine.

2. Cape Malay Curry

Lighter and more aromatic than many Indian curries, Cape Malay curries use a fragrant mix of ginger, cinnamon, turmeric, and cardamom. They often include slow-cooked chicken, lamb, or vegetables, served with rice or roti and a variety of chutneys. The flavors are gentle but complex, perfect for refueling after rides through Cape Town or the Winelands. This style of curry reflects centuries of cultural blending and remains a defining taste of South African coastal cooking.

3. Braai (South African Barbecue)

A braai is more than a meal. It is a cultural tradition built around fire, conversation, and the simple pleasure of cooking outdoors. Cyclists traveling through small towns often smell wood smoke drifting from gardens and public braai spots. Popular choices include boerewors sausage, lamb chops, chicken, and grilled corn, all cooked over charcoal or hardwood. Served with salads, breads, and local sauces, a braai offers a relaxed way to enjoy the country’s hospitality after a ride.

4. Biltong

Biltong is a dried and seasoned cured meat that makes an ideal cycling snack. Traditionally made from beef or game, it is marinated with vinegar, salt, coriander, and pepper before being air dried. The result is a protein-rich, savory treat that fits easily into a jersey pocket. You will find it everywhere, from farm stalls to roadside cafés. Many cyclists enjoy it on long rides through the Karoo or the Lowveld, where distances are wide and energy demands are high.

5. Bunny Chow

Originating from Durban’s Indian community, bunny chow is a hollowed-out loaf of bread filled with spicy curry. It is hearty, flavorful, and easy to eat without utensils, making it a favorite among travelers. Versions include chicken, mutton, bean, or vegetable curry, and the dish is especially popular along the KwaZulu-Natal coast. After a coastal ride or a warm day in the sun, bunny chow delivers both comfort and heat.

6. Fresh Line Fish and Seafood

South Africa’s coastline offers abundant seafood, and cyclists along the Garden Route or Cape Peninsula will find plenty of restaurants serving fresh catches of the day. Popular fish include hake, kingklip, and yellowtail, often grilled with lemon and herbs and served with chips or salads. Coastal towns also offer mussels, calamari, and prawns. The crisp, clean flavors pair beautifully with ocean views and a cool sea breeze after a day of riding.

7. Melktert

Melktert, or milk tart, is a classic South African dessert with a smooth custard filling made from milk, sugar, and cinnamon. It has a light texture and a comforting sweetness that makes it the perfect end to any meal. Cyclists often find slices in local cafés, farm stalls, or small-town bakeries. Enjoying melktert with a cup of coffee feels especially rewarding after long climbs or warm-weather rides.

South Africa offers visa-free entry to citizens of many countries for stays of up to ninety days, including visitors from the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, much of Europe, Australia, New Zealand, and several Asian nations. Travelers from countries that require a visa must apply in advance through a South African embassy or consulate, as visas are not issued on arrival.

Tourists typically receive a visitor’s permit stamped into their passport upon entry, valid for short stays and tourism-related travel. Passports must be valid for at least thirty days beyond the intended departure date and must contain at least two blank pages for entry stamps.

Up-to-date visa information, eligibility lists, and application requirements are available on the official South African Department of Home Affairs website. Since regulations can change, travelers are encouraged to confirm details before planning their trip.

Currency

South Africa’s official currency is the South African Rand (ZAR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in cities and tourist areas, including Visa, Mastercard, and American Express. Smaller towns and rural shops may prefer cash, so carrying a small amount is useful for markets, farm stalls, and local cafés. ATMs are common in urban centers and shopping districts, and contactless payments are increasingly used across the country.

Transport

South Africa has a well-developed network of domestic flights, long-distance buses, and regional transport options. Major airports in Cape Town, Johannesburg, and Durban connect easily to smaller destinations such as George, Nelspruit, and Hoedspruit, which are gateways for cycling regions like the Garden Route and the Lowveld.

Long-distance bus companies such as Intercape and Greyhound provide reliable intercity routes, although bicycle storage policies vary, so it is important to check ahead of time. Car rentals are common and affordable, and many cyclists choose to self-drive between regions before beginning rides.

Train services are limited compared to Europe, but the luxury Blue Train and the tourist-focused Rovos Rail offer memorable journeys for those combining travel and leisure. Within cities, ride-hailing apps like Uber and Bolt are widely used.

Language

South Africa is one of the most linguistically diverse nations in the world, with eleven official languages that reflect its complex cultural history. English is the main language used in business, education, road signage, and tourism, so travelers will find it easy to communicate in cities, restaurants, and hotels. It is spoken widely across generations, especially in urban areas and along major travel routes.

Afrikaans is another prominent language, especially in the Western Cape and parts of the Northern and Eastern Cape. It evolved from seventeenth century Dutch and shares similarities with both Dutch and Flemish. Many road names, town names, and local expressions come from Afrikaans, adding a distinct regional flavor to daily life.

Indigenous languages form the heart of South Africa’s linguistic identity. isiZulu and isiXhosa are the most widely spoken home languages, followed by Sesotho, Setswana, and Sepedi. Each carries unique speech rhythms, cultural phrases, and oral traditions. Visitors riding through rural areas or townships will often hear the melodic clicks of isiXhosa or the tonal patterns of isiZulu in markets, cafés, and community gatherings.

Although English is enough for practical travel, learning a few simple phrases, such as “molo” for hello in isiXhosa or “sawubona” in isiZulu, is always appreciated. These small gestures often open warm conversations and create meaningful connections on the road.

Culture and Religion

South Africa’s culture is shaped by many influences, including Indigenous traditions, European settlement, Asian heritage, and the creativity of its modern cities. This mixture gives the country a vibrant, layered identity often described as the Rainbow Nation. Warmth and openness are central to daily life. People greet one another easily, often with a smile or a friendly wave, and guests are usually made to feel welcome whether they are in a city café, a rural village, or a coastal town.

Social gatherings are an important part of South African culture. Braais, or shared barbecues, bring friends and families together around a fire, while weekend markets, outdoor concerts, and community festivals add energy to towns and neighborhoods. Storytelling, music, and dance remain strong cultural threads, with styles like gospel, jazz, amapiano, and traditional drumming often heard drifting from homes or street corners.

Values such as respect for elders, community support, and a strong sense of togetherness run deep across many cultures. Conversations can be lively and expressive, and humour is a way people connect across backgrounds. Visitors cycling through small towns or coastal villages often find locals enthusiastic about sharing stories, directions, or recommendations.

Religion also plays a visible role in South African life. Christianity is the largest faith group, with many communities centered around churches that serve as social and cultural hubs. Islam has a long history, especially in the Cape, while Hindu temples and synagogues reflect the Indian and Jewish communities that have shaped parts of the country. Indigenous beliefs and practices remain influential, especially in rural areas where traditional healers and ancestral customs play important roles. Visitors are welcome in many religious spaces, although modest dress and quiet behavior are appreciated as signs of respect.

Appliances and Devices

South Africa uses a unique plug type known as Type M, which has three large round pins. Newer buildings may include Type C sockets with two round pins, but travelers should still bring a Type M adapter to avoid complications. Electricity is supplied at 230 volts with a frequency of 50 Hz. Most modern electronics like laptops, cameras, and smartphones can handle this voltage, although it is always best to check labels in advance.

Load shedding, a scheduled electricity outage system used during high demand periods, can occur in some areas. Many hotels and lodges have backup power, but keeping devices charged and carrying a small power bank is recommended.

Mobile Coverage

Mobile coverage is strong across major cities and most towns, with widespread 4G and growing 5G service. Rural and wilderness areas, particularly near reserves or mountain regions, may have limited signal. Major providers include Vodacom, MTN, Telkom, and Cell C. For short stays, prepaid SIM cards or eSIM options from global providers offer good value. Data packages are inexpensive compared to many countries.

Time Zone

South Africa operates on South Africa Standard Time (SAST), which is UTC+2. The country does not observe daylight saving time, so the time remains constant throughout the year.

Read:

Pick up Long Walk to Freedom by Nelson Mandela for a powerful journey through South Africa’s modern history, or Born a Crime by Trevor Noah for a witty and insightful look at growing up in Johannesburg. For something atmospheric on the natural world, try The Elephant Whisperer by Lawrence Anthony, set in the wilderness near Zululand. Travelers interested in the Cape’s layered past may enjoy Hermann Giliomee’s The Afrikaners, while nature lovers can dip into field guides on fynbos, birdlife, and the wildlife of the Kruger region.

Listen:

South Africa’s music scene is full of rhythm and emotion. Explore the smooth harmonies of Ladysmith Black Mambazo, the jazz greats like Hugh Masekela and Abdullah Ibrahim, or the energetic township sounds of kwaito and amapiano. For something more traditional, listen to Xhosa choral singing or Zulu percussion ensembles that echo the spirit of rural life. Many cafés and beach bars play a blend of Afro-soul, house, and acoustic folk that creates the soundtrack to coastal evenings.

Watch:

Watch Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom or Invictus for stories tied to the country’s history of resilience and unity. Tsotsi, which won an Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film, offers a gripping portrait of life in Johannesburg. For landscapes, My Octopus Teacher showcases the underwater world of the Cape, while travel documentaries on the Garden Route or Drakensberg Mountains offer inspiration for future rides. Sports fans can catch a live rugby match, a beloved part of South African culture.

Eat:

Taste Cape Malay dishes in Cape Town, enjoy a plate of grilled snoek along the West Coast, or tuck into a hearty bowl of lamb potjie during a countryside stay. Fresh seafood is abundant along the Garden Route, while the Winelands serve farm kitchens, cheese platters, and vineyard lunches with mountain views. Try biltong for a quick cycling snack, sample chakalaka with braai meats, or satisfy your sweet tooth with melktert or koeksisters.

Drink:

Sip award-winning wines in Stellenbosch or Franschhoek, ranging from crisp Sauvignon Blancs to rich Pinotage. Try locally brewed craft beers in Cape Town, Knysna, or Durban, or cool off with homemade ginger beer at rural farm stalls. In colder regions, rooibos tea provides a warm, caffeine-free treat with a distinct earthy flavor. For something special, visit a traditional shebeen for local drinks and lively conversation.

Learn:

Explore South Africa’s diverse cultural heritage, from Khoisan histories to Zulu kingdoms and Cape Dutch architecture. Learn how apartheid shaped the country’s past and how contemporary South Africa continues to evolve. Understand the importance of conservation in regions like Kruger, where communities and wildlife depend on a delicate balance. Familiarize yourself with local customs, greetings, and social etiquette that help visitors connect respectfully with residents.

Experience:

Walk through the colorful streets of Bo-Kaap in Cape Town, hike in the Drakensberg, or take a township tour led by local guides. Ride the cableway up Table Mountain, wander Franschhoek’s wine estates, paddle through Tsitsikamma’s Storms River Gorge, or watch whales breaching off Hermanus. Spend an evening at a braai with locals, join a coastal cycle in the Cape Peninsula, or savor sunrise game drives near the Kruger region. South Africa rewards travelers with moments that are raw, vibrant, and full of character.

From the rugged coastline of the Cape Peninsula to the vineyard valleys of Stellenbosch, the forested curves of the Garden Route, and the wild savannahs near Kruger, cycling in South Africa offers a rare blend of adventure, culture, and natural beauty. Each region reveals its own rhythm and personality, giving riders a deep connection to the landscapes and people who shape this remarkable country.

If you are ready to explore South Africa by bike, get in touch with us and we will be happy to help plan your perfect cycling journey. Each guided tour is led by an experienced local trip leader who provides on-route support, high quality bikes and equipment, and thoughtful insights into what to see, where to eat, and how to experience South Africa like a local.

Electric bikes are available on all tours, making the routes accessible to a wide range of fitness levels and ensuring that every rider can enjoy the scenery, the stories, and the sense of discovery that define cycling in this part of the world.

You can also explore our complete cycling guides to destinations such as Italy and Spain if you are looking for more inspiration for your next ride.