Bike & Safari South Africa’s Garden Route to Cape Town
South Africa Bike Tours
Bike the most beautiful places along the Indian Ocean & the Karoo Savannah in South Africa
- Tour Type
- Skill Level
- Length12 days
- Prices from$2785 Rates
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Overview
Bike and safari along the Garden Route in South Africa and explore for yourself this cycling paradise. As the name implies, it truly is a garden, featuring a rich and ecologically diverse landscape, including, numerous lagoons and lakes, coastal sea routes, National Parks, and desert beauty.
This tour has it all, cycling, hiking, and immersing in the exotic world of this beautiful country!
Your tour will feature a game drive in the Addo Elephant National Park, with a surface area of over 400,00 acres. This is a sanctuary to a multitude of diverse wildlife species and abundant birdlife. It is also home to the big seven, which consists of leopard, Cape buffalo, African elephant, rhino, lion, whale, and great white shark.
Highlights
- Port Elizabeth, a city reinventing itself, and stunning Cape Town
- Hiking the Tsitsikamma National Park, Robberg Peninsula, and Table Mountain
- Boating in Breede River Valley Wine Lands region with picnic lunch and wine tasting
- Cycling the unique coastal route to Gordon’s Bay, Cape of Good Hope National Park, and more
- Cultural and immersive experience visiting a Kindergarten in the township of Khayelitsha
- Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden
- The Big 7 animals of South Africa
- The incredible diversity in wildlife, including land and sea, and lush forests, farms, and national parks
- Stunning vistas and changing landscapes
Please take a look at our other bike tour in South Africa!
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Port Elizabeth – Transfer to Dungbeetle River Lodge
Day 2: Safari in ADDO Elephant National Park
Day 3: Tsitsikamma Mountains, 36 mi (58 km)
Day 4: Storms River - Nature’s Valley, 37 mi. (60 km)
Day 5: Robberg Peninsula (hike). Knysna - Sedgefield (bike), 22 mi. (35 km)
Day 6: George - Oudtshoorn, 38 mi. (60 km)
Day 7: Swartberg Mountains, 19 mi. (30 km)
Day 8: Montagu - Robertson, 38 mi. (61 km)
Day 9: Kleinmond - Gordon’s Bay, 32 mi. (51 km)
Day 10: Cape of Good Hope National Park, 33 mi. (52 km).
Day 11: Hike Table Mountain, 4 hours
Day 12: Official end of the tourDay 1: Arrival in Port Elizabeth – Transfer to Dungbeetle River Lodge
Upon your arrival in Port Elizabeth, you will be met by your tour guide and transferred (3/4 hours) to your lodge. Accommodation for two nights will be in the beautifully located 4-star Dungbeetle Lodge. You can relax by the pool, recover from your long flight, or join the guide for a short bike ride near the lodge.Bus transfer: 40 km
Accommodation: Dungbeetle River LodgeDay 2: Safari in ADDO National Park
Today, you are in for a treat and one of the major highlights of the tour. After breakfast, you will embark on a half-day game drive in an open-top safari vehicle. You will see elephants, zebras, antelopes and if luck is on your side, buffalos, rhinos, and lions. Just as impressive is the vivid and rich birdlife, including the ostrich. During the game drive, you will stop at different viewpoints and might also do a short guided walk in the bush. In the afternoon you can head out on another bike tour or join an afternoon boat cruise from the lodge towards the large sand dunes along the coast. (B, L)Accommodation: Dungbeetle River Lodge
Day 3: Tsitsikamma Mountains, 36 mi (58 km)
You will travel via Port Elizabeth, and drive to the Tsitsikamma mountain range from where you will start cycling on the quiet Old Cape road towards the Storms River. On a remote gravel road through some rain forest, you drop into the valley, where baboons may cross your path. Continuing cycling, up on the other side, you arrive at the comfortable 3-star Tsitsikamma Village Inn for your overnight stay. (B)Altitude: 470 m
Bus transfer: 175 km
Accommodation: Tsitsikamma Village InnDay 4: Tsitsikamma - Nature’s Valley, 37 mi. (60 km)
In the morning, you descend into the Tsitsikamma National Park where you will enjoy a 1 hr. walk to the wild and rugged Storms River mouth. A climb back to the plateau will lead into the deep Bloukrans River Valley with its 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. (B, L)Altitude: 715 m
Bus transfer: 50 km
Accommodation: Cornerway Guest HouseDay 5: Robberg Peninsula (hike). Knysna - Sedgefield (bike), 22 mi. (35 km)
After breakfast, you will enjoy a unique hike around the Robberg Peninsula (2 hours) and soak in the beautiful vistas of the Tsitsikamma Forest and the Indian Ocean. Later on, you cycle along a section of the historic Old Cape Road through fertile farmland and the beautiful Homtini Valley filled with indigenous forests until we reach Sedgefield. Enjoy the stunning views of the 1600 m high Outeniqua Mountains. By a late afternoon transfer, you will arrive at the comfortable 4 star Acorn Guest House in George. (B)Altitude: 387 m
Bus transfer: 50 km
Accommodation: Acorn Guest HouseDay 6: George - Oudtshoorn, 38 mi. (60 km)
A short transfer will take you over the historic Montagu Pass (745 m). En route, you are rewarded with stunning views of the coast and the surrounding Outeniqua Mountains. The changing landscape could not be more impressive as you cycle from lush green pastures to and through semi-arid shrub and bushveld. Lunch will be at an ostrich farm where you can learn all about this giant bird. Oudtshoorn is regarded as being the center of the ostrich industry. Accommodation will be in the Oue Werf Country House and Manor. The owner will offer a traditional South African barbeque which, of course, also includes tender ostrich meat! (B, D)Altitude: 340 m
Bus transfer: 30 km
Accommodation: Oue Werf Country House and ManorDay 7: Swartberg Mountains, 19 mi. (30 km)
First, a short bus transfer will transport you to the impressive Kango stalactite caves. After the visit, you will cycle past fertile fruit, ostrich, and tobacco farms, first on asphalt and later on the dirt road. After lunch in Oudtshoorn, you drive through the vastness of the Klein Karoo to Montagu, a small town with charming colonial-style houses. Today's 4* hotel is built in the style of the 1950s, and if you like, you can explore the town and the surrounding area on a trip in an original Cadillac. Accommodation will be in the historic 4-star Montagu Country Hotel. (B)Altitude: 180 m
Bus transfer: 270 km
Accommodation: Montagu Country HotelDay 8: Montagu - Robertson, 38 mi. (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 leads to the charming accommodation in Robertson. (B, L)Altitude: 405 m
Accommodation: Gubas De Hoek Guest HouseDay 9: Kleinmond - Gordon’s Bay, 32 mi. (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 en route. In Betty´s Bay, you will visit one of the two land-based colonies of the African Penguin. Final destination, the seaside village of Gordon´s Bay and to spend the night close to the beach in the Manor on the Bay Lodge. (B)Altitude: 560 m
Bus transfer: 150 km
Accommodation: Manor on the Bay Guest HouseDay 10: Cape of Good Hope National Park, 33 mi. (52 km)
During a township tour in the morning, you will have the unique opportunity to visit a Kindergarten in the township of Khayelitsha which is supported by our local representative. You can become acquainted with Cape Town’s largest township and its people. Carry on to the Cape of Good Hope National Park. The great views of Cape of Good Hope and the rugged coastline form the perfect place for a picnic. Then the spectacular coastal road, known as Chapman’s Peak, leads into the fishing village of Hout Bay. Stay for two nights in the 4 star Bantry Bay Suites Hotel in the quiet suburb of Sea Point close to the Atlantic Ocean. (B, L)Altitude: 600 m
Bus transfer: 90 km
Accommodation: Bantry Bay Suites HotelDay 11: Hike Table Mountain, 4 hrs.
You will visit the Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden in the morning and, via a shady ravine, hike up to the top 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. If somebody finds the hike up the mountain to strenuous he/she can get up by cable car as well. 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)Altitude: 1000 m
Bus transfer: 30 km
Accommodation: Bantry Bay Suites HotelDay 12: Official end of tour
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, you will transfer to Cape Town International Airport where this beautiful journey will end. (B)Bus transfer: 20 km
Looking for a different flavor? Check out our entire list of bike and boat tours or view all our featured bike trips, news, and specials.
Accommodation
You will be accommodated in mostly 4-star accommodations. On the detailed day to day, you will find the hotels that are generally used for each overnight stay. Final hotel list will be based on availability.
Inclusions
What’s Included
- Accommodations for 11 nights in 3 & 4* establishments
- 11 breakfasts, 4 picnic lunches, and 1 dinner
- 30-speed MTB bike (Hardtail Merida Big nine - 20) with front shocks equipped with bottle holder, pump, repair kit with tire lever, spare tube, patches, and one rear pannier
- Arrival & departure airport transfers
- Qualified English-speaking tour guide
- Transport of bikes on the trailer and constant support
- All entrance fees
- All transfers and travel in an air-conditioned minibus
What’s Not Included
- Tips for guides, porters & waiters
- Meals not mentioned in this itinerary
- Beverages & mineral water on non-cycling days
- Personal expenses e.g. laundry at accommodation facilities, telephone & internet services etc.
- Electric bike (E-Bike MTB Hardtail Trek Powerfly 7 available for supplement. See pricing)
- Bike protection
- Travel Insurance
Dates & Pricing
Dates
October 23, November 6, November 20, & December 18, 2023
Minimum of 8 participants and a maximum of 15.
February 5, February 17, March 4, October 21, November 11, November 25, & December 23, 2024
Minimum of 8 participants and a maximum of 15.
This tour can be booked with a minimum of 2 participants with a travel date you desire for a supplement. Just ask.
Please Note
- Rates are per person, based on double occupancy
- Tour prices are based on the fuel costs at time prices are set, often months or years in advance. In rare cases, additional fees may apply for fuel cost increases.
- Information to read before you book
- We recommend purchasing trip insurance
- Please see our FAQ
Pricing
Oct. & Nov. Dec. 18 Twin/double $ 4503 £ 2352 $ 3,895 € 2714 kr 395908 ₪ 10929 ¥ 423779 Mex$ 51200 NZ$ 4804 NOK 31123 kr 31471 $ 2,785 $ 4665 £ 2437 $ 4,034 € 2811 kr 410124 ₪ 11321 ¥ 438995 Mex$ 53039 NZ$ 4977 NOK 32241 kr 32601 $ 2,885 Single supplement $ 501 £ 262 $ 434 € 302 kr 44069 ₪ 1216 ¥ 47171 Mex$ 5699 NZ$ 535 NOK 3464 kr 3503 $ 310 $ 663 £ 346 $ 573 € 399 kr 58285 ₪ 1609 ¥ 62388 Mex$ 7538 NZ$ 707 NOK 4582 kr 4633 $ 410 Feb. to Nov. December Twin/double $ 4826 £ 2521 $ 4,174 € 2908 kr 424340 ₪ 11713 ¥ 454212 Mex$ 54877 NZ$ 5149 NOK 33358 kr 33731 $ 2,985 $ 4988 £ 2605 $ 4,314 € 3006 kr 438556 ₪ 12106 ¥ 469428 Mex$ 56716 NZ$ 5322 NOK 34476 kr 34861 $ 3,085 Single supplement $ 517 £ 270 $ 447 € 312 kr 45490 ₪ 1256 ¥ 48693 Mex$ 5883 NZ$ 552 NOK 3576 kr 3616 $ 320 $ 679 £ 355 $ 587 € 409 kr 59706 ₪ 1648 ¥ 63909 Mex$ 7721 NZ$ 725 NOK 4694 kr 4746 $ 420 3% early bird discount available if booked 6 months in advance.
Extra Options
Electric bike $ 186 £ 97 $ 161 € 112 kr 16348 ₪ 451 ¥ 17499 Mex$ 2114 NZ$ 198 NOK 1285 kr 1300 $ 115 Extra Info
Skill Level — Moderate
This wonderful tour featuring the Garden Route in South Africa offers manageable cycling distances on tar and gravel service with 30 - 61 km distances. Climbs do not exceed 1200 ft. Please refer to the detailed day to day itinerary which provides each day’s distance and elevation. There are a limited number of electric bikes available!
Airport Info
We advise flying to Port Elizabeth (PLZ) and departing from Kapstadt (CPT).
Local Travel
Airport transfers are included in your tour price.
Climate
The Garden Route region has an oceanic climate, with mild to warm summers, and mild to cool winters. It has the mildest climate in South Africa and the second mildest climate in the world, after Hawaii, according to the Guinness Book of Records. The climate is as varied as the travel route: The temperatures in the Klein Karoo can soar to 35 °C, but with low humidity, the higher temperature is easy to bear. At night it can get chilly, especially at higher altitudes. Rain occurs year-round, with a slight peak in the spring months, brought by the humid sea winds from the Indian Ocean rising and releasing their precipitation along the Outeniqua and Tsitsikamma Mountains just inland of the coast.
Recommended
“Beware of the baboons at the Cape of Good Hope!!” Gea, Tripsite team member.
Apparently, the baboons can and do become aggressive, especially involving food, and sometimes purely to display dominance. Be sure to talk with your tour guide about this and he/she will advise you regarding safety.Important to know
DOCUMENTS
Before you travel, please check your country's passport and visa requirements and the passport and visa requirements of the country/countries you plan to visit. For US citizens, the US Department of State website is a good source of information. The Country Information tab in the International Travel section provides details about passport validity, blank passport pages required, etc. For our other international clients, please be sure that you research your own country's travel requirements. It is each traveler's responsibility to ensure proper documentation.
A tourist visa is not required if your stay will be less than 90 days.
Tour Operator
This tour is run by African Bikers.
We value the strong relationship we have with our local partners and the services we provide.
We are not a broker.
We do not inflate tour prices.
We are simply travelers helping travelers.Would you like to learn more About Us? How about What Makes Us Different than other companies?
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