Mountain Biking

Mountain Biking in South Africa

For mountain biking enthusiasts, South Africa is a smorgasbord of exciting and exhilarating mountain biking routes. South Africa's weather allows for cycling any time of the year. Although it goes without saying that during the rainy season, most routes become a little more tricky. Either way, you should be prepared for an exhilarating, adrenaline pumping South African mountain biking experience.

Did you know? Quad biking and mountain biking are fabulous options for the entire family as they combine excitement and fun, while still being safe enough for even the relatively young.

Every region in South Africa offers mountain biking opportunities in some form or another. Whether it's a man made course for experienced trick riders, or a steep mountain trail, mountain biking in South Africa is well established, well supported and sure to satisfy any level of rider. In the Magaliesberg, mountain bike trails will take you through the dazzling valleys, rivers and indigenous woodlands. Being on top of the Drakensberg mountains in KwaZulu Natal is one of the most spectacular places to be. This view is unsurpassed by any other.

In Knysna, you will cycle through mystical indigenous forests and just 15km out of Knysna you will find the Hamtini Mountain Bike Trail in the Farleigh State Forest. The entire town surrounds a large salt-water estuary called the Knysna Lagoon. Therefore, besides the nitty-gritty of South African mountain biking fun, you can also enjoy numerous recreational activities, such as boating, fishing, swimming and lots of adventuring.

In Cape Town in the Western Cape you will have the spectacular opportunity to mountain bike up the notorious Table Mountain. Valleys surround you with flora, fauna and beautiful streams. This is a mind blowing trail and the view from Table Mountain is absolutely incredible! There are also trails that will take you through the flourishing Cape Winelands, up the mountains near Cape Point and all through the Cape Peninsula.

There are a few intense trails near Swellendam but for those who wish to take it easy, you will find just what you're looking for in the picturesque De Hoop Nature Reserve near Swellendam. There are four terrific, laid-out circular tracks in the Harkerville Forest, ranging from pleasantly challenging, to wildly intense. Nearby are two long, rather strenuous linear trails namely the Homtini and Petrus se Brand.

Live to Ride offers mountain bike tours trails and holidays from Langebaan and Cape Town to the tranquil and untouched Cape West Coast. Destinations include Malmesbury, Piketberg, Beaverlac and the isolated and picturesque Cederberg. South African Mountain Bike Tours offer 21 day tours covering the Magaliesberg, Drakensberg, Knysna and Cape Town and include accommodation and transport.

Johannesburg has a vast active South African mountain biking population and there are loads of trails nearby. Many head out to the magnificent trails in Mpumalanga. If you wish to be part of a mountain biking group then why not join The Johannesburg Mountain Bike Club or JMBC.

The JMBC is possibly the largest mountain bike club in South Africa and has a membership of over five hundred. The JMBC provide rides that are grouped for a range of fitness and skill levels. No matter where you decide to mountain bike in South Africa, it is a truly a exhilarating and adrenaline pumping experience. The views and forests are absolutely magnificent and worth visiting.