South Africa is a haven for adventure bikers, with a plethora of stunning routes to explore. From the rugged mountains to the vast savannahs, there's something for every thrill-seeking rider. In this blog post, we'll be exploring the top 10 scenic routes for adventure biking in South Africa.
- Route 62: This 850-kilometer route takes you through the Western Cape, showcasing the picturesque countryside and quaint towns. Make sure to pack a camera to capture the stunning vineyards, orchards, and mountain passes along the way. We suggest stopping in the towns of Barrydale and Montagu, which offer affordable accommodations and plenty of activities for adventure seekers.
- Garden Route: The Garden Route stretches along the southern coast of South Africa and is a popular destination for adventure bikers. The 300-kilometer stretch takes you through lush forests, stunning beaches, and coastal towns. Riders should pack a light jacket for the cooler coastal temperatures and explore popular tourist destinations such as Knysna and Plettenberg Bay.
- Sani Pass: This iconic pass, located in the Drakensberg Mountains, offers breathtaking views of the surrounding scenery. Riders should pack warm layers and waterproof gear, as the weather can be unpredictable in the mountains. For affordable accommodations, we recommend staying in the nearby town of Underberg.
- The Panorama Route: Located in Mpumalanga, this 290-kilometer route takes you through the scenic vistas of the Blyde River Canyon and God's Window. Be sure to pack comfortable hiking shoes to explore the surrounding hiking trails. Riders can stay in the nearby towns of Graskop and Sabie, which offer a range of affordable accommodations.
- The Battlefields Route: This route is perfect for history buffs and takes you through the significant battlefields of the Anglo-Zulu and Anglo-Boer wars. Riders should pack a light jacket and explore popular tourist destinations such as Dundee and Ladysmith. Affordable accommodations can be found in the nearby town of Newcastle.
- The Karoo Route: This 1,000-kilometer route takes you through the heart of the Karoo, a vast semi-desert region in South Africa. Riders should pack plenty of sunscreen and water, as temperatures can soar in the summer months. Popular tourist destinations include the towns of Graaff-Reinet and Beaufort West, which offer affordable accommodations and stunning scenery.
- The Whale Coast Route: This 150-kilometer route takes you through the stunning coastline of the Western Cape, known for its whale sightings in the winter months. Riders should pack a light jacket and explore popular tourist destinations such as Hermanus and Gansbaai. Affordable accommodations can be found in the nearby towns of Stanford and De Kelders.
- The Diamond Coast Route: This route takes you through the rugged coastline of the Northern Cape, known for its diamond mining history. Riders should pack a light jacket and explore popular tourist destinations such as Port Nolloth and Hondeklipbaai. Affordable accommodations can be found in the nearby towns of Springbok and Kleinzee.
- The Wild Coast Route: This 280-kilometer route takes you through the rural areas of the Eastern Cape, known for its rugged coastline and traditional Xhosa villages. Riders should pack warm layers and waterproof gear, as the weather can be unpredictable. Popular tourist destinations include the towns of Coffee Bay and Port St. Johns, which offer affordable accommodations and a range of outdoor activities.
- The West Coast Route: This 400-kilometer route takes you through the scenic West Coast, known for its stunning wildflowers in the spring months. Riders should pack plenty of sunscreen and explore popular tourist destinations such as Paternoster and Langebaan
No matter which route you choose, adventure biking in South Africa is an unforgettable experience. So pack your bags, hit the open road, and get ready for the ride of a lifetime!