Night 1-2
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Explore the Western Cape of South Africa by bike
The Western Cape of South Africa is one of the most beautiful places on earth. From endless stretches of coastline to towering mountain ranges, cycling through the Western Cape is a must-do. The 14-Day Western Cape Cycling Tour is the perfect way to experience all that this region has to offer from your bicycle seat.
The 14-Day Western Cape Cycling Tour takes you from the enchanting city of Cape Town through nature reserves dotted with zebra to Stellenbosch, where wineries and picturesque homes flank your ride. Climb high mountain passes and whiz by farms filled with giraffes, cruise to Plettenberg Bay and keep your eyes on the sea for whales and dolphins. Rub elbows (or wings?) with ostriches before the 14-Day Western Cape Cycling Tour takes you up the Outeniqua Mountains. Then, ride into the seaside mecca of Knysna, where pristine beaches, jet skiing, and boating might tease you off your bike. The 14-Day Western Cape Cycling Tour takes you to Mossel Bay, where people play in the blue waters and enjoy the one of a kind beauty of the Garden Route. Nature reserves and stalagmite caves lead you to Gansbaai, where Great Whites swim. Wineries and rolling hills lead you and your bike to Durbanville, where picturesque sunsets and wine and cheese pairings mark the end of your once in a lifetime 14-Day Western Cape Cycling Tour.
You made it to South Africa! Once you touch down in Cape Town, your guide will meet you at the airport and take you to the hotel, where you have some time to freshen up before spending the evening as you please. Sleep off the jetlag or enjoy dinner on the town, it’s up to you!
Today is the Tour of the Cape Peninsula! You’ll explore the most southwestern corner of the continent, starting with the Cape Point Nature Reserve. This is one of the most famous areas near Cape Town, where cape zebras, baboons, and buck roam and the Indian Ocean meets the Atlantic. Then, it’s back on the bike and onwards to Simon’s Town, the seat of the South African Navy. This cute coastal town has a vibrant history, and there are a few excellent museums worth visiting. Not far from here is Boulders Beach, where a massive colony of penguins delight visitors from all over the world. If the weather holds, you can squeeze in a visit to Table Mountain before dinnertime.
Day 3 of your cycling tour of South Africa begins with a drive through Stellenbosch to Jonkershoek Nature Reserve, a 9800-hectare reserve of incredible mountains, native flora and fauna, monkeys, klipspringers, and ospreys. This is perfect mountain biking terrain! After you tear it up in the reserve, it’s onto Stellenbosch, where you can explore, cruise between the shops, and stop for some wine tasting. This picturesque town with its oak-lined streets and chic restaurants is the perfect place to spend the evening exploring.
Start the morning with a transfer to Franschhoek, where you’ll start your ride at the top of the Franschhoek Pass, descending through the Huguenot Memorial and along the Berg River Dam. The stunning path leads you through the Glenwood Winery (quick stop for a sip, anyone?) and then through Four Paws Wines (another quick stop?) before climbing back towards Franschhoek, where you can stop for lunch… and some more wine tasting. Then, it’s on to Stellenbosch for another evening.
The next leg of your cycling tour through South Africa takes you towards Oudtshoorn, the feather capital of the world. You’ll start with a ride through Framer Redbeard’s land, a glorious wine valley that houses fruit orchards, honey, and wildlife. Riding along the beautiful Route 62 gives you chance to stop in the charming Karoo town of Barrydale, a welcoming countryside haven. Then, it’s onwards to Affie Plaas, a farm stall that holds a foodie’s dream. Grab lunch, but expect to have a hard time choosing between the juicy cling peaches, refined salads, and fresh toasts. After you’ve eaten, it’s back on the bike. You’ll pass through Robertson Winery, where you’re more than welcome to stop and explore. Dr. William Robertson will greet you with open arms and a warm smile. Then, you’ll ride along to the Cango Caves, a subterranean marvel of stalactite and stalagmite formations, before reaching Oudtshoorn for the evening. What a day!
Today, experienced cyclists have the option of beginning with a ride along the Swartberg Pass. The ride climbs the pass before descending to Prince Albert. Since it’s a tougher ride, you can opt to just be transferred to the viewpoint at the top, where breakfast awaits. If you’d still like to cycle but prefer an easier ride, you can ride to Calitzdorp. This path has perfect views of the Swartberg Mountains and meanders easily past a game farm where you can spot giraffes and buck. After lunch in Calitzdorp, you’ll be transferred to Oudtshoorn for the night.
After breakfast, the next portion of your Western Cape cycling adventure begins with a ride to Plettenberg Bay. You’ll stop in at the Safari Ostrich Farm along the way, where 1800 hectares houses 280 ostriches. If you’re there in the breeding season (June through February), you might just get to witness some brand-new chicks being born! You’ll be able to make friends (or foes) with three species of ostrich: South African, Kenyan Red, and Zimbabwe Blue ostriches. After the farm, it’s back on the bike and to Montagu Pass, where you’ll ride along magnificently scenic gravel roads to George. Here, you can catch your breath before reaching Plettenberg Bay.
After breakfast, today begins with a ride along the famously beautiful Garden Route, passing through the lovely Plettenberg Bay and onwards to Roodefontein and Cairnbrogie Farm. The cycling today is some of the most beautiful of the entire tour. You’ll ride through nature reserves, past untouched coastline, alongside dense forest, and past impressive mountain ranges. The first portion of the ride ends at a farmer’s market for lunch. Of course, no trip on the Garden Route is complete without a stop in Knysna, where a famous waterfront boasts excellent leisure and shopping opportunities. Relax alongside luxury yachts in glittering lagoons until retracing your steps to Plettenberg Bay.
Formerly a small fishing village, Mossel Bay is now a thriving port town along the Garden Route, featuring miles of beaches and fantastic golfing. You’ll be riding through the Garden of Eden to reach Mossel Bay, which is one of the most diverse mountain biking trails in South Africa. Once you reach the town, you’re free to hit the beaches or get a round of golf in before the day ends.
Day 10 of your ride through South Africa will take you to Swellendam, a quiet heritage town at the foot of the Langeberg Mountains. You’ll ride through the Grootvadersbosch Nature Reserve, which is part of a UNESCO World Heritage site that features indigenous forest, unusual birds and animals, and a rare butterfly species. Then, it’s on to Witsand and through to the ferry at Malgas. Truly, the ferry is more like a floating wooden barge with a hand pull, but it’ll do the trick. Once on the other side, it’s time for a drive the rest of the way to Swellendam.
Day 11 of your cycling trip begins with a ride towards Gansbaai. You’ll stop in Bredasdorp, where lunch and wine tasting await. Then, you’ve got an easy afternoon with a transfer to Gansbaai. This fishing town is a popular tourist destination known for fabulous whale watching, shark diving, and dolphin spotting. Perhaps an on-water adventure would be a good way to spend the afternoon?
After breakfast, a coach will take you to the Walker Bay Nature Reserve, where you can cruise on your bike through the pristine scenery. This coastal reserve is one of the best spots for whale watching in South Africa, so you might get lucky with a sighting while you ride! Then, you’ll ride along to Beltang’s Cave, a restaurant built into the rocks of Walker’s Bay, for lunch. Grab a spot outside and you’ll be treated to ocean views dotted with dolphins and birds while you eat. Then, it’s back to the hotel in the evening, where you can spend the rest of the day however you please.
Today, you’ll have a quick transfer to Kleinmond. Once you make it to Kleinmond, you’ll hop on the bike for a 50km jaunt down the Whale Coast Route via Gordon’s Bay. This road is one of the most beautiful in the county, passing the penguin-spotted coast and several nature reserves along the way. You’ll end up at a cozy guest cottage in Durbanville, where you can taste the local wine and enjoy the picturesque sunset view.
Two weeks of unforgettable riding later, it’s time to leave South Africa. You’ll have a bit of time to enjoy the vineyards for free before your ride to the airport comes. Safe travels.
This guided cycling tour of South Africa is always run as a custom tour for your group only and the price depends on the size of your group.
Prices below are per person:
This tour is based in 3 and 4-star hotels. The hotels offer comfortable rooms with great locations. Rooms are double occupancy, and single travellers will pay a supplement.
In some cases, the accommodation listed below may need to be substituted for other, comparable accommodations.
Single Rooms and Solo Travelers
You can pay a supplement of $475USD to have a private room in a hotel. Contact us and we can try and match single travellers up where possible.
This hotel offers modern accommodations, free internet, spacious rooms, and flatscreen TVs.
The Zevenwacht Wine Estate has relaxing rooms and a great spa, but the real treasure is the wine and cheese on-site.
This resort offers bright, well-serviced rooms, laundry service, and a luxurious feel.
The Bayview Hotel is a quick stroll from the beach, and the rooms boast fantastic views, walk-in showers, private balconies, and cable TV.
The Point Village Hotel offers spacious, contemporary ensuite rooms with kitchenettes. The hotel is very close to Mossel Bay Point recreational area.
These guest houses are tranquil and welcoming, with ensuite rooms, a pool, and friendly staff.
This guest house offers rooms with kitchenettes, free wifi, comfortable beds, and plenty of space.
These luxurious cottages are situated on a wine farm that offers wonderful tasting and cheese pairing experiences. Each cottage has its own verandah and braai area.
13 breakfasts are included. One wine tasting at D’Aria is also included.
Accommodation for 13 nights is included.
Personal and luggage transfer to and from the airport is included, as well as necessary transfers during the tour.
How hard is the 14-Day Western Cape Cycling Tour?
We rate this tour as a 4 / 5. You will cycle longer distances each day through varied terrain, and those who are generally fit and comfortable on a bike will get the most out of this tour.
Do I need a visa to travel to South Africa?
Check with your local country about visa requirements. You could also try this website, though you should verify with your government.
Are meals included on the 14-Day Western Cape Cycling Tour?
13 breakfasts are included.
Do I need insurance?
Yes, you will need to acquire travel insurance that covers cycling. Get your Travel Insurance.
How do I get to Cape Town to start this tour?
You can fly directly into the airport in Cape Town, where you will be picked up and transferred to your hotel.
Is the 14-Day Western Cape Cycling Tour guided?
Yes, you will have an English-speaking guide for the duration of the tour.
Where does the 14-Day Western Cape Cycling Tour end?
The tour ends in Durbanville, where you will be transferred to the airport in Cape Town.
Are equipment rentals included?
Yes, bikes are included. Please bring any additional equipment desired.
Do I need special vaccines to travel to South Africa?
Check with your family doctor.
Are there any travel restrictions for South Africa?
Please check with your local government about travel restrictions before you book your tour. This map from the US Department of State provides an overview of the current status in countries around the globe. The UK‘s Foreign Office and Government of Canada also provide advice on foreign travel. Note that the travel advice may change depending on your nationality.
When is the best time to travel to South Africa for this tour?
The 14-Day Western Cape Cycling Tour is available from January to the end of October. South Africa experiences very hot summers and occasionally chilly winters, so many travellers enjoy visiting in the late spring or early fall.
All tours on 10Adventures are operated by highly vetted local tour operators and guides.
Having local tour operators and guides means you get a more authentic experience, and your booking creates jobs in the local communities you visit.
Details of the local tour operator will be listed on your booking invoice. If you have questions about the local operator prior to booking, please click the “Ask a Question” button below.
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58 total ratings, 0 with reviewsStephen L.
I’ve been using 10Adventures route guides for a while, but had never booked a tour. My wife and I booked a self-guided hike in Greece and were so impressed with how we were able navigate the route without a guide with the detailed and easy to follow itinerary. We enjoy travelling independently, and 10Adventures made that happen.
Melinda S.
I was going through a tough time and really needed a getaway so I decided to book a tour through 10Adventures. My trip to Peru changed my life in so many positive and eye-opening ways. I am so thankful for the kind, empathetic team at 10Adventures.
Lina K.
I’ve adventured around a lot of Canada and the US, but I’ve always wanted to explore other parts of the world. I felt a bit scared before booking my trip to Israel, but my conversations with the team at 10Adventures helped ease any worry. I can’t wait to explore more of the world!
Gabriela H.
Travel companies have had to go through a lot during the pandemic but 10Adventures were super flexible and accommodating nonetheless. I had to cancel my tour in France due to the pandemic. 10Adventures was great and let me reschedule for a later date!
Mikael V.
My wife Sarah and I had a great experience booking our 7-day cycling trip through Portugal via 10Adventures. The communication between us and Nadine leading up the trip was top-notch!
Alexandra D.
Communicating with 10Adventures feels like talking with a family-run business. I love to explore and travel, and exploring with the comfort of knowing I can talk to the team at 10Adventures with almost immediate feedback helps to ease any stress that comes with adventuring!
Eric S.
Whenever I’m looking for my next adventure 10Adventures never fails. Their routes all over England are my main go to for exploring and I have only had great experiences booking both guided and self-guided trips in Europe and South America with them. I am looking into Africa next.
Valeria R.
I tend to have a lot of questions before travelling and was so happy to find that the team at 10Adventures responded to every single one of my inquiries in a timely fashion. I was never left waiting and waiting for a response. This was much appreciated!
Isabella N.
I have horrible dietary issues making it super hard to book a pre-planned trip sometimes, but the communication through 10Adventures helped me navigate this situation! I am so grateful for all of their help. I cant wait to book with them again!
Erika S.
I just got back from backpacking in the Sierra Nevada, and WOW. What an unreal journey! The alpine meadows, waterfalls, and the lakeside camping spot were memorable highlights! I wonder what other tours 10Adventures has to offer. That one went so well that I am now convinced I need to book another!
Robert D.
I'm not a big fan of traveling because of my fear of flying, but my girlfriend convinced me to go on the Aurora Borealis Tour in the Yukon. I will never forget the mesmerizing northern lights. Such a romantic (and cold) getaway. I would highly recommend it.
Monica L.
Wow! I am so happy with the experience I had with booking through 10Adventures for my tour in Italy! I worked with Nadine and she was super easy-going and helpful when it came to tweaking the itinerary provided on the website. 10/10 would book through 10Adventures again.
We rate this tour as a 4 / 5. You will cycle longer distances each day through varied terrain, and those who are generally fit and comfortable on a bike will get the most out of this tour.
Read about our scale for Tour Difficulty Ratings.
South Africa, Namibia, Botswana
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