Epic Cape to Kruger South Africa Bike Tour

Touch down in Cape Town and transfer to the scenic Elgin Valley, where a cycling-focused hotel welcomes you. Settle in, meet your group, and soak up the relaxed vibe of gardens, bar, and lounge. A short briefing sets the tone for the days ahead, with time to unwind and shake off travel. Surrounded by mountains and vineyards, it feels like a hidden retreat.

Enjoy dinner, share first conversations with fellow riders, and let excitement build for the rides waiting on the legendary Cape trails just beyond the hotel’s doorstep. Adventure begins in a laid-back, welcoming setting.

Wake up to fresh mountain air and roll straight onto the Oak Valley trails, famed for flowing singletrack through forests and vineyards. The ride delivers thrilling climbs and sweeping descents, all framed by spectacular valley views. Pause to enjoy the energy of the Elgin Railway Market with its buzz of food, craft stalls, and live music before looping back to your hotel.

The ride balances adventure with a playful local experience, leaving you energized and satisfied. By evening, relax in comfort, swap stories with fellow cyclists, and toast the first full day on South African trails.

Elevation gain: 200m/ 656ft

Surface: 90% unpaved, 10% paved

Start with a ride on the lesser-known Elgin Trails, tucked against dramatic mountainsides, offering a wilder and quieter cycling experience. Afterward, cross the pass to Stellenbosch, where the town’s energy contrasts with the solitude of the trails. Climb back on the bikes for a casual wine tour on two wheels, visiting vineyards and sampling the region’s acclaimed wines.

The day mixes adrenaline and indulgence, giving you both rugged natural beauty and refined tastes. Evenings invite relaxation, with the easy rhythm of Stellenbosch life setting the backdrop for memorable conversations and anticipation of what lies ahead.

Elevation gain: 250m/ 820ft

Surface: 20% unpaved, 80% paved

Head into Stellenbosch’s rugged mountains for an epic ride along trails that weave through vineyards and forested slopes. The mix of terrain keeps the ride exciting, with rewarding climbs and exhilarating downhills. Later, stroll through Stellenbosch on a cultural walking tour, discovering historic streets and Cape Dutch architecture.

The day ends with a South African Braai, where smoky flavors and local hospitality take center stage. Between the challenging ride, rich history, and authentic food, the experience captures the very essence of the Cape, blending culture, adventure, and camaraderie in one unforgettable day.

Elevation gain: 400m/ 1312ft

Surface: 90% unpaved, 10% paved

An early start takes you onto Jonkershoek’s legendary trails, carved into valleys beneath towering peaks. The ride is shorter but packed with technical fun and sweeping views. After freshening up, transfer into Cape Town and dive into its vibrant energy. From beaches to bustling streets, the city offers endless choices to explore before regrouping for a special evening.

A traditional African dinner paired with rhythmic drumming immerses you in local culture. Between adrenaline on the trails and Cape Town’s cosmopolitan vibe, the day bridges outdoor adventure and cultural discovery in perfect harmony.

Elevation gain: 200m/ 656ft

Surface: 80% unpaved, 20% paved

Spend the day exploring Cape Town at your own pace. With so much to see, from iconic Table Mountain and golden beaches to bustling markets and adventure activities, the choices feel endless. Wander through neighborhoods rich in culture, or try something active like a cable car ride or kayaking. From your centrally located hotel, the city’s best attractions are within easy reach.

As evening falls, savor a final Cape Town sunset and dine at one of its celebrated restaurants. The day blends freedom and exploration, giving you Cape Town your way before the journey shifts north.

Leave the Cape’s bright lights behind and fly north to Hoedspruit, gateway to the Greater Kruger. A short drive delivers us into the heart of Selati Private Game Reserve, where wilderness replaces city energy. Settle into your exclusive camp, surrounded by untouched bush. In the afternoon, head out on a sundowner game drive, watching wildlife as the sky glows orange and pink.

Back at camp, enjoy dinner beneath the stars, the night alive with the sounds of hyenas and cicadas. The shift from vineyards to wild savannah feels dramatic, stirring anticipation for days of safari cycling.

As dawn breaks, roll out onto elephant paths, following trails shaped by giants. The ride is gentle yet thrilling, with wildlife encounters possible at every turn. Your guides keep the pace relaxed, allowing time to spot antelope, birds, or even the Big Five.

Later, stretch your legs on a sundowner walk to a rocky outcrop, where views stretch across the reserve in golden light. The combination of pedaling through raw wilderness and pausing for nature’s quiet moments leaves a lasting impression. Back at camp, stories flow easily around the fire under Africa’s immense night sky.

Elevation gain: 150m/ 492ft

Surface: 100% unpaved. Mix of dirt tracks and gravel

Pedal toward the Selati River, where massive trees shade the path and the ride feels timeless. Along the way, wildlife sightings make every kilometer unpredictable. Stopping at the riverbank, enjoy a hearty bush breakfast surrounded by nature’s soundtrack. In the afternoon, head out on another game drive, scanning the plains for elephants, lions, and giraffes.

The combination of morning adventure and afternoon safari rounds out the experience perfectly, offering both physical challenge and relaxed wildlife viewing. The river ride and riverside meal create one of the most memorable highlights of the Kruger chapter.

Elevation gain: 200m/ 656ft

Surface: 100% unpaved. Mix of gravel and dirt tracks.

Today’s ride explores the southern Kopie region, where rocky outcrops rise above thicker bush. The slower pace suits the wilder terrain, as leopard tracks or unexpected encounters keep senses sharp. Wildlife viewing from the saddle is unmatched, blending adventure with awe.

In the evening, a special sundowner spot becomes the setting for reflection and celebration of your time here. As the sky deepens to violet and the bush falls into twilight, the moment feels magical. Both the day’s ride and the evening toast leave you more connected to the rhythms of the African wilderness.

Elevation gain: 250m/ 820ft

Surface: 100% unpaved

Rise before sunrise for a last loop in the bush. This optional ride often brings surprise encounters, from patrolling lions to playful antelope at first light. The air feels crisp and alive, the silence broken only by crunching tires and birdsong. After breakfast, it’s time to bid farewell to camp and transfer to Hoedspruit Airport for your onward flight.

Though the cycling ends, the memories of Cape Town’s trails, Stellenbosch’s wines, and Kruger’s wildlife linger, carrying the spirit of South Africa long after the journey concludes.

Elevation gain: 100m/ 328ft