Fun on Two Wheels
One of the best ways to experience the beauty of South Africa is on a bicycle. Imagine feeling the breeze on your face as you soak in the natural splendor of the country...an absolute must-do on any holiday-maker’s list.
There are designated cycling routes all over SA, offering both locals and tourists a chance to explore the gorgeous scenery of every region of the country. You can rent a bike at a local shop (depending on your location) and then the Mzansi landscape is your oyster!
History of Cycling
Cycling was introduced to SA when 19th century European settlers made their way to the country, with the first South African cycling race held around the mid-1880s. The first cycling club in Southern Africa was the Port Elizabeth Bicycle Club, which was founded in 1881, and the South African Amateur Cycling Union was founded in 1892 in Johannesburg. Cycling became a popular activity in Witwatersrand during the early 1890s.
When cycling races were introduced, local cyclist Lourens Meintjes won five world titles and established sixteen world records over distances of 4.8 to 80.5 km. His victories further inspired the activity’s staying power, and local competitions sprung up around the country. By 1897, SA had 39 cycling clubs, and cities started to construct cycling tracks shortly after. The first reference to the Springbok in South African sport was introduced with cycling, as the Cape Town firm of Donald Menzies & Co. manufactured the Springbuck bicycle in 1898. In 1905, the SA Cycling Union and SA Athletic Union merged to form the SA Amateur Athletic and Cycling Association.
Since then, South Africa has built a sound tradition around cycling, boasting a number of annual cycling competitions and more cycling clubs than thought possible.
Popular Cycling Spots
Whether you cycle for fitness or fun, there’s a variety of routes all around South Africa to choose from. The major cities all have a bigger range of tracks, but you’ll find the perfect route for you almost anywhere. Grab your exercise buddies or family for an outdoor adventure on two wheels!
Cape Town is a thriving hub for cyclists - every broadwalk and side street swarms with troupes of cyclists speeding to work, testing their endurance levels or enjoying a leisurely weekend ride. The Chapman’s Peak route is an absolute must-do to explore the fabulous eastern coast of the Mother City. The Cape Winelands also offer various off-road trails that will challenge even the best of riders. The Constantia and Tokai areas make for a scenic ride through lush forestry, while the Overberg region further east is another great coastal route to take.
There are various route options through Durban, particularly Pietermaritzburg, that will put your skills to the test, with hilly terrains and rolling landscapes. Meandering on bicycle through the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands is a fun, family-orientated escape from city life, and for a countryside ride, opt for the popular routes of Howick and Hogsback.
An array of scenic nature reserves await you in the Gauteng and Free State regions, where cycling and fauna-related activities go hand-in-hand. Bird-watching and game viewing can be done while cycling through the Highveld.
The Northern Cape is more suited to mountain biking enthusiasts as the terrain is quite rocky, but cyclists can opt for softer tar routes and experience the mystical Kalahari on wheels. Both the Groot and Klein Karoo are gems in terms of cycling routes, with kilometers of unspoiled landscapes to explore.