South Africa's Kruger Cycle Safari Bike Tour

Your journey begins with a warm welcome in the Lowveld, where even the road from the airport offers glimpses of wildlife. Passing through a small town, we soon reach the calm banks of the Olifants River, our base for the first two nights. After settling into Rukiya Safari Camp, we set off on our first cycling ride through the Wild Rivers Reserve. This gentle 10 km stretch over 1.5 hours is the perfect way to stretch your legs and ease into the adventure. The day closes with a sundowner as the African sky glows in soft evening light.

The morning begins with a longer cycling ride in the Wild Rivers Reserve, covering 35 km across varied landscapes. With no Big Five here, the ride feels free and unhurried, filled with the smaller wonders of the bush and the songs of birds overhead. In the afternoon, the scene changes as we drive into Kruger National Park for a sundowner safari. Watching elephants, lions or giraffes under a fiery sunset makes the day unforgettable.

Elevation: +200m

Surface: 100% unpaved.

We begin with coffee by the Olifants River, followed by our final cycling ride in the Wild Rivers area. This 20 km, 3-hour stretch is alive with diversity and is a perfect farewell to this reserve. After a hearty breakfast, we journey deeper into the Greater Kruger National Park. At Toro Yaka Bush Lodge, comfort meets wilderness, and by evening we are out again on a sundowner game drive, where each turn holds the promise of a new sighting.

Elevation: +150m

Surface: 100% unpaved.

Today is a non-cycling day, devoted to slower rhythms and new perspectives. In the morning, we set out on a guided bush walk, experiencing the land on foot and noticing details often missed from a vehicle. Returning to camp, a generous African buffet breakfast awaits. The afternoon is for rest, perhaps by the pool, watching wildlife at the nearby waterhole. As the sun dips, we head out once more for a sundowner game drive in the Greater Kruger, a fitting close to a day both calm and rewarding.

Activities: Guided bush walk and Greater Kruger sundowner game drive

The day begins early with a must-do sunrise game drive, soaking in the magic of Kruger National Park one last time before heading to your next adventure. After breakfast, we depart for Selati Game Reserve, arriving mid-afternoon at the main gate, where you are escorted to your private camp. Once settled, a safety briefing introduces this new Big Five territory.

For those feeling energetic, an optional afternoon cycling ride or walk is available. For those preferring a gentler pace, a game drive ensures no wildlife is missed. Either way, the day concludes with your first Selati sundowner, a perfect introduction to this spectacular reserve.

Elevation: +200m

Surface: 100% unpaved.

Your first full day in Selati takes you south toward the Lillie “Koppies,” a series of stunning granite outcrops and home to the rare Lillie Cycad. As elephants roam the green valleys between the rocks, we slow our pace to enjoy the scenery. The changing topography makes this ride particularly scenic and rewarding. A quick stop for snacks and drinks recharge your energy before heading back to camp. The afternoon offers another opportunity for a game drive or a short walk, giving you a deeper glimpse of Selati’s southern area before the evening sundowner caps off the day.

Elevation: +150m

Surface: 100% unpaved.

We start the day early with a light breakfast before heading out to track fresh wildlife signs as we cycle down to the Selati River. Your sightings will shape the route, making each ride unique. Mid-morning, we pause for a bush breakfast surrounded by nature’s calm before continuing toward Klipspringer Lodge. The trails are adjustable, catering to different fitness levels, so everyone can enjoy the ride. The afternoon is at leisure, allowing time to relax and soak in the surroundings, followed by an evening game drive to spot nocturnal animals emerging under the African sky.

Elevation: +250m

Surface: 100% unpaved.

After an early morning coffee overlooking the lodge’s waterhole, we set out to explore the northern reaches of Selati Game Reserve. This area is home to a healthy rhino population, and we ride slowly through mopane thickets and along scenic drainage lines. A bush breakfast snack at a lookout fuels the morning, as we continue to explore the rich landscapes and wildlife. We gradually circle back to the lodge, ending the day with a memorable sundowner game drive to watch the sun dip over the bush.

Elevation: +200m

Surface: 100% unpaved.

We start the day with one final ride before departure. After an early coffee, we head out at first light for a loop around the Koppies. With a bit of luck, you might spot the resident leopard along the way. After the ride, we return to camp for breakfast, followed by farewells and transfer to Hoedspruit Airport.

Cycling Ride (optional): 15 km | 1.5 hrs