Itinerary Expand all Depart London. Take an overnight flight from London to Cape town. Day 1 Start Cape Town; free day to explore. Arrive Cape Town; the day is free for relaxing, shopping, catching a few rays of sunshine or exploring the endless activities in and around the city. The guide will be on hand to advise and assist, but here are a few recommended options: a cable car ride up Table Mountain for the fantastic view over Cape Town and the coastal regions; a visit to the world famous Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens or a half-day trip to the infamous Robben Island, the prison where Nelson Mandela and other members of the ANC served their long sentences (this trip can be done on day 12 depending on the weather on Table Mountain). Sweetest Guest House or similar Arrive Cape Town; free day to explore. Arrive Cape Town; the day is free for relaxing, shopping, catching a few rays of sunshine or exploring the endless activities in and around the city. Your guide will be on hand to advise and assist, but here are a few recommended options: a cable car ride up Table Mountain for the fantastic view over Cape Town and the coastal regions; a visit to the world famous Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens or a half-day trip to the infamous Robben Island, the prison where Nelson Mandela and other members of the ANC served their long sentences (this trip can be done on day 12 depending on the weather on Table Mountain). Sweetest Guest House or similar Day 2 Ride over Hellshoogte, passing vineyards; to Rosenview. This morning we have a short transfer from our lodge to the harbour and then we cycle to Bloubergstrand - it's from here that the iconic pictures of Cape Town with the backdrop of Table Mountain are taken. After taking the obligatory photos, we're off on a short transfer into the centre of the winelands. In the afternoon we cycle over Hellshoogte' (Hell's Heights) and then freewheel the rest of the way to the famous Boschendal vineyards where we stop for a well-earned drink (optional) before transferring to our accommodation at the Rosenview winery in Stellenbosch. Rosenview Guest House or similar Meals included: Breakfast Day 3 Ride the Franschhoek Pass. In the morning we have a short transfer before cycling through Franschhoek and up the Franschhoek Pass (739m) for some of the most breath-taking views of this region. We then continue to cycle to Villiersdorp. After a lunch we get back on our bikes and cycle towards Nuy Valley and then take a short transfer to Montague. Montague Hotel or similar Meals included: Breakfast Day 4 Ride through the semi-arid desert of Great Karoo. Today we head east, cycling from our accommodation in Montague to our accommodation in Barrydale. Along the way the landscape changes to the semi-arid desert of the Great Karoo, a huge ancient plateau making up almost a third of South Africa's landmass and littered with remains of ancient Bushman cultures. We cycle a scenic back road traversing a more fertile region known as the Little Karoo, a short climb brings us to the Tradouws Plateau before arriving in Barrydale, our base for the night. This quiet old Dutch village is in a fertile valley surrounded by a colourful mix of vines, fruits and wild flowers (in season). While here we will visit a local co-op cellar and have an opportunity to taste their produce, including the local Chardonnay which is well respected for its unique taste. Tradouw Guest House or similar Meals included: Breakfast Day 5 Ride through Langeberge Mountains to Bontebok N.P.. After breakfast a short climb takes us up and over the spectacular Tradouws Pass. Near the top of the pass is the remains of a prison camp once home to the convicts that constructed the pass in 1873. From here the route is mainly downhill through the Langeberge Mountains to the small town of Suurbrak. Built by the London Missionary Society in 1812 many of the buildings have been restored and now the town has the feel of a living museum. Moving on we reach our base for the night - Swellendam. From here we drive to the Bontebok National Park. This park boasts some rare antelope as well as mountain zebra and some endangered crane species. The park has two 2km self guided nature trails, which can be explored independently. Aanhuizen Guest House or similar Meals included: Breakfast Day 6 Ride and transfer to Cape Agulhas N.P., Africa's southernmost point. A short transfer (20km) brings us into the Overburg district, and we cycle through the cultivated farmlands of the Western Cape to Bredarsdorp. The road gently rolls through neat wheat fields and remote fishing villages facing the Indian Ocean, arriving at Cape Agulhas. This is the southernmost point of Africa, and South Africa's newest national park, encompassing a large area of wetlands and coastline and extending some kilometres out to the sea. Whales and other sea life that frequent the warm waters of the Indian Ocean enjoy the protection within its boundaries. It also provides a home to thousands of sea birds and seals that can be seen along the rugged beaches. Cape Agulhas Guest House or similar Meals included: Breakfast Day 7 Cycle towards Hermanus; sample local beer at Birkenhead. This morning we cycle through the picturesque hamlet of Elim and past 55km of undulating farmlands to the coastal town of Kleinbaai. Following lunch, we take a short transfer into Standford where have the chance to sample local beer at the Birkenhead Brewery. We finish our day in the town of Hermanus - famous for the very close sightings of the Southern Right Whale, which come into the secluded bay to mate and calf each year from July through to December, it is a great place to relax. In the afternoon we have the option of cycling from one of the local viewpoints of Walkersbay along the Hermanus coastal road to our accommodation, offering the best chance of spotting the whales. Windsor Hotel or similar Meals included: Breakfast Day 8 Free day to relax in Hermanus. We have a free day today to rest our legs in Hermanus. In the 1920's the town was known as a place to convalesce and was being recommended from as far a field as London. Grand hotels were built and its reputation as a holiday resort was established. Nowadays it still manages a delightful balance between the two industries of fishing and tourism. In addition to this the World Wildlife Foundation recognises Hermanus as among the twelve best places in the world for whale watching. Join us on our September to October departures for the best chance to see whales swimming off the coast. Windsor Hotel or similar Meals included: Breakfast Day 9 Ride the Whale Coast to Gordon's Bay. Today we cycle the Whale Coast, from Hermaus to Gordon's Bay, possible one of the most scenic rides in the world. The road follows the rugged coastline passing through fishing villages with dramatic views over False Bay and the Cape of Good Hope. Along the route there is a good chance that our efforts will be encouraged by the numerous troops of Cape Baboon. Today is the longest cycle day, but those preferring a shorter ride can catch a lift in the support bus for part of the day. We transfer at the end of the day from Gordon's Bay to Simonstown. Quayside Hotel or similar Meals included: Breakfast Day 10 Stunning Cape Peninsula ride; visit penguin colony. After breakfast, a short 30km transfer brings us to the Cape Point Nature Reserve. We then walk from the Cape of Good Hope to the old lighthouse at Cape Point. From here we cycle through the Cape Point Nature Reserve and then along the very scenic coastal road to the historic village of Simonstown, downhill for most of the way, with panoramic views over False Bay. After a rest stop and lunch at Boulders Beach we visit the local penguin colony (optional). We then continue our cycle along the coastal road to our overnight accommodation. Quayside Hotel or similar Meals included: Breakfast Day 11 Cycle to Cape Town via Chapman's Peak, Hout Bay and Camps Bay. The ride today follows part of the annual Cape Argus route, one of the largest cycling events of the world, and is arguably the most scenic route that South Africa has to offer. We complete our circuit by cycling from Glencairn over the redhill pass along an old navy road to Scarborough and then all along the Atlantic coast via the stunning Chapman's Peak drive into Hout Bay. After lunch in Hout Bay we cycle up Suikerbos Ridge past Llandudno and then on to Cape Town via Camp's Bay and the 12 Apostles all the way to our accommodation in Seapoint. We celebrate the end of the cycling at one of the many venues at the Waterfront. Sweetest Guest House or similar Meals included: Breakfast Day 12 Optional morning visit to Robben Island; end Cape Town. The day is free for last minute shopping, catching a few last rays of sunshine or the half-day trip to Robben Island before the trip ends here. Meals included: Breakfast Arrive London. Land in London where the trip ends.
Cycling the Drakensberg & Kruger 27 reviews Explore South Africa by bike, from the epic Drakensberg mountains to Kruger N.P.. Cycling Activity level: Moderate / Challenging Ages: 16+ 12 Days from CHF2’924 Guided (Excl. Flights) View More Details
Lodges & Chalets Throughout the trip we stay in locally run lodges and chalets with plenty of individual character. The majority of these are small, privately owned establishments and all are clean and comfortable. We have chosen a range of properties, most specifically for their excellent locations; in Cape Town we stay in Seapoint, near the Waterfront which is a very popular and central area, in Hermanus we are close to the sea and in Stellenbosch we stay at the Rosenview wine farm where we can sample the locally made wines. All accommodation has en suite facilities and are of a high standard throughout the tour.
March 2, 2021 Ngumu, the story continues: The Mountain Lioness Scholarship Kitaba Wadia Kapanya, one of our newly qualified lionesses explains, “I hope we will be
February 15, 2021 Our Top 8 Adventure Holidays to Get Away from it All Exotic lands of deserts, majestic lakes, and breathtakingly beautiful islands where Komodo dragons dwell are on the h
January 12, 2021 6 Off-the-Beaten-Track Cycling Tours in Europe for 2021 With most of us spending time exploring hidden gems across the UK in 2020, the number of bike sales sky-rocketed as m
December 17, 2020 The 7 Best Peaks and Summits to Hike in 2021 No doubt after 2020 you’re desperate to alleviate those itchy feet with a hike of a lifetime.
Reviewed January 2020 Mike MacRae Trip: Cycling the Cape & Winelands Fantastic scenery, challenging cycling A challenging 3 with plenty of uphill. Some quaint places to visit and stay. Luckily the majority of the group were like minded people. What was the most inspirational moment of your trip? Completing the section over Chapman's Peak. What did you think of your group leader? Bradley did a good job of keeping a difficult group together and was flexible in his approach to the itinerary. Sifiso, the driver was a great support to him. Bikes were fine tuned daily. Do you have any advice for potential travellers? You need to read the trip notes before signing up. People on our tour potentially ruined this through lack of preparation. If need be I.e being more than an hour behind the leaders get in the bus and listen to the leaders advice. Is there anything else you would like to add? Enjoy the experience come with an open mind.
Reviewed May 2019 Elaine Willett Trip: Cycling the Cape & Winelands This trip was awesome. One of the best cycling holidays I've done. The contrast in the scenery that you cycle through is amazing; mountains, passes, vineyards, the coast fabulous. Wine tasting at the end of a ride. Oh and the penguins! Great cycling, quite hilly but stunning, very varied. Great accommodation and very varied. Loved the penguins. What was the most inspirational moment of your trip? The penguins waddling down the street holding wings!!! What did you think of your group leader? Warren was amazing Do you have any advice for potential travellers? There are quite a few hills so I would advise getting a few of these in before you go. Is there anything else you would like to add? Go go go
Reviewed April 2019 lyn Morrow Trip: Cycling the Cape & Winelands cycling the cape and wine regions It was great trip thoroughly enjoyed it. The scenery along the coast was stunning. Accommodation was wonderful the bus and bikes in very good condition. What was the most inspirational moment of your trip? Making it to the top of the passes without stopping along the way. Also the group support and that of the our leader Warren What did you think of your group leader? Our group leader Warren was exceptional. He was passionate knowledgeable easy to approach for a chat and of course very conscious of our safety at all times. Do you have any advice for potential travellers? Just enjoy the moment holidays don't last forever.
Reviewed April 2019 David Barker Trip: Cycling the Cape & Winelands Wonderful Country, Wonderful Ride A challenging ride, for a rating of 3, through the beautiful countryside and coastline of this small part of Africa. Stopping for a few tastings of wonderful wines and visiting many iconic landmarks along the way. Add to this the natural enthusiasm and deep knowledge from the guide and a lovely group of people to share - this really was the most memorable and amazing trip. What was the most inspirational moment of your trip? The ride from Simonstown to Cape Town on the last day. The climb through Chapman's Peak, the crystal clear Ocean, the lovely beaches with waves breaking were all amazing - then to finish by cycling past the 12 apostles and ending at the hotel was both inspirational and emotional. What did you think of your group leader? Warren was very knowledgeable, has a deep love of the country and clearly is a very accomplished rider. He went out of his way to accommodate the little things that such a tour inevitably brings (a late request for optional trips, additional sections to ride, additional wine tastings etc) and did this with his full enthusiasm. Thank you for making this a truly memorable holiday. Do you have any advice for potential travellers? This is relatively hard ride for a rating of 3. This should not put people off as there is full vehicle support, but ensure the training has been done and be prepared to hop on the vehicle at certain times. Is there anything else you would like to add? Just enjoy this lovely country.
Reviewed January 2019 Keith Dipper Trip: Cycling the Cape & Winelands A really amazing trip The route of this tour encompassed all types of terrain which provided stunning views. The accommodation mainly in guesthouses was so much more interesting than staying in posh hotels. The tour guides took us to some really good restaurants and were informative and helpful adding substance to the cyclin.g What was the most inspirational moment of your trip? Cape of Good Hope What did you think of your group leader? Our group leader ensured the tour went off smoothly Do you have any advice for potential travellers? TAKE factor 50 suncream Is there anything else you would like to add? A gazebo would have been nice to,provide some shade when we stopped for refreshments
Reviewed January 2019 Keith Dipper Trip: Cycling the Cape & Winelands A really amazing trip The route of this tour encompassed all types of terrain which provided stunning views. The accommodation mainly in guesthouses was so much more interesting than staying in posh hotels. The tour guides took us to some really good restaurants and were informative and helpful adding substance to the cyclin.g What was the most inspirational moment of your trip? Cape of Good Hope What did you think of your group leader? Our group leader ensured the tour went off smoothly Do you have any advice for potential travellers? TAKE factor 50 suncream Is there anything else you would like to add? A gazebo would have been nice to,provide some shade when we stopped for refreshments
Reviewed December 2018 Jill Baker Trip: Cycling the Cape & Winelands Ride those coastal roads! Stunning cycling on rugged coastal roads, spectacular gorges, though balanced by less inspiring cycling alongside wheat fields on long straight undulating roads. Some cycling on main roads with hard shoulders. Overall, cycling is a great way to see the area. Plenty of wildlife seen, land based: springbok, ostriches, blue cranes, hawks, buzzards, antelope, hamsters, tortoise, and the big 5 wet ones: penguins, seals, dolphins, sharks and whales. The wine estates were pristine, wine tastings were slick. Also plenty of craft breweries for the ale drinkers. The friendliness and service at all restaurants, cafes and accommodation was excellent, with a real desire to please. What was the most inspirational moment of your trip? 1. sat on a rock next to the ocean watching the sunset over the water at the most southern point, Cape Agulhas (though this was not on the itinerary; i was late to dinner). 2. cycling Clarence Drive and Chapman's Peak along the coast, simply stunning. What did you think of your group leader? Warren was a great leader, very enthusiastic and knowledgeable. Adonia was also great, sharing the driving and cycle leader duties. The tour was very well organised. Do you have any advice for potential travellers? Keep your wits about you in the city/towns, there are those waiting to take advantage. Use caution at cash machines, don't trust anybody, even if in uniform.
Reviewed December 2018 Jessica Rutledge Trip: Cycling the Cape & Winelands Cycling, wine and Food! This was a wine and culinary cycling adventure. The landscapes were breathtaking and our guides informative and attentive. What was the most inspirational moment of your trip? Reaching the Cape summit. Those views! What did you think of your group leader? Our group leader was an excellent cyclist who saw to everyone’s needs. He was knowledgeable and taught us about the communities we were visiting. Do you have any advice for potential travellers? Read the trip notes... some on our trip were surprised by the number of winery stops, cycling distances and meals included (but there were no surprises...)
Reviewed December 2018 Peter Eggleston Trip: Cycling the Cape & Winelands A great holiday/adventure Our first Exodus trip, and what a wonderful experience. The accommodation, cycling, trip leadership and support were all first class. There are two elements out of their hands - the flight (in our case with BA on superannuated 747s) and the people who pay for the holiday. Our tour party was excellent, a great and disparate group of interesting and enthusiastic people. The less said about BA's performance the better. If we'd been unlucky enough to have been booked on the Thursday flight back to What was the most inspirational moment of your trip? Three unforgettable moments: A whale watching trip from Hermanus that was the best (of quite a few) I have experienced. As my wife (who suffers from sea-sickness) said, I don't think we need to do one of those again. I can't imagine it could be bettered. Arriving at Barrydale after a longish bus transfer from Stellenbosch and a "undulating" 60 odd km ride everyone was quite tired and too late for the planned brandy-tasting. The recipe for a grumpy evening was complete, but instead it was the making of our group, bonding over a really good meal. The whole party getting to the summit of Chapman's Peak just before lunch on the last day's cycling at the same time after one of the most beautiful morning's cycling I have ever experienced. The shared experiences are the best. What did you think of your group leader? Peter was excellent. He was always enthusiastic, determined that we should eke out every last experience available to us, and always knowing where they could be found, whether it was a venue for our evening meal, a walk to a viewpoint (when we were all tired and were less than enthusiastic ourselves) or a drive to a local beauty spot for a pre-dinner G&T. His team, Bradley and Voyu were similarly motivated to go that extra km to help us all enjoy the adventure as much as possible. Do you have any advice for potential travellers? Go! I doubt that you'll regret it. Is there anything else you would like to add? The cycling is challenging in parts, as much due to the wind as the gradients, but you can do it! (and if you can't the bus is not far behind you!)
Reviewed December 2018 Jenny Martin Trip: Cycling the Cape & Winelands A stunning holiday! If you're looking for a great mix of exercise, wine-tasting, wildlife spotting and camaraderie, this is the trip for you! As this was our first organised holiday we approached it with some trepidation, but our expectations were surpassed many times over. Every day brought new experiences - different landscapes and vistas, unfamiliar but delicious wines, the highest quality local dishes, friendly hosts and quirky accommodation, and a developing bond between all participants as we slogged up the inclines and sailed down the descents. What was the most inspirational moment of your trip? There were too many highlights over the 10 days to mention here, but the satisfaction of riding over majestic mountain passes to be rewarded with beautiful vineyard visits, seeing whales, sharks and penguins up close in their natural habitat, and swimming in the Indian ocean were some of the best. What did you think of your group leader? Our group leader, Peter, really went the extra mile to make our trip special. He offered numerous little add-ons that were hard to resist, e.g. a hike up to a view point overlooking the Whale Coast in Hermanus, and G&Ts above Cape Agulhas at sunset. We left South Africa with so many special and unique memories thanks to the hard work of Peter and his team, Bradley and Voyu. Do you have any advice for potential travellers? Do get reasonably fit for this trip as, although the distances aren't massive, the route is undulating and, at times, hilly, and it can be windy. You will enjoy it more if you do. You also need to factor in the wine-tasting - this is bound to make your legs a little heavier in the morning! Be open-minded about the accommodation - our hosts offered comfortable, quirky rooms that gave a fantastic flavour of local life. I will never stay in a chain hotel again!