Mountain Biking in and near George

Garden Route & Karoo

This is 450km of continuous cycling over 5 days. We start our pedalling in the dry Karoo semi-desert with an ascent up the daunting but very do-able Swartberg Pass which ascends 700m to 1600m before rewarding us with the inevitable downhill rush. ... more

Mountain Biking is a very popular sport in South Africa. There are worthwhile trails all over the country that will challenge even the most seasoned of riders and many leisurely trips through spectacular scenery for those who prefer a pleasant afternoon in the fresh air. If you don't bring your own equipment, some lodges have bikes on hand you can borrow and local bike shops rent out whatever you require.

For the experienced rider who really wants to rip it up through untamed wilderness, head to Coffee Bay on the Wild Coast of the Western Cape. It is the site of the yearly Imana Wild Ride where mountain bikers from all over the world pedal from The Kei to the mouth of the Umngazi River. It is an experience of a lifetime and not to be missed for any mountain biker looking for the ultimate adventure.

Knysna, along the Garden Route of the Western Cape, has many of the best mountain biking trails in the country. The area offers everything from challenging multi-night guided excursions to a leisurely afternoon out with the family. The beautiful scenery and dense forests make for pleasant and memorable rides.

Deep in the Eastern Free State, the trails surrounding Korannaberg mountain near Marquard provide some of the best trails in the country. For the rider who really wants to get away from it all, there is the choice to spend the night in a cave - a real African bush experience.

Other ideal locations for mountain biking in South Africa include Arniston, Augrabies, Ceres, Cape Town, Kruger National Park, Montagu, Oudtshoorn, Paarl, Potchestroom, Plettenberg Bay, Sabie, Stellebosch and Underberg.