Cycling the Cape and Winelands

The tour is 12 days long with 9 days cycling.

This tour is classified Road and Activity Level 3 (Moderate).

There are nine days of cycling with an average distance of approximately 34mi (55km) per day with full vehicle support. Cycling durations stated in the itinerary are approximations and vary depending on the group’s pace.

This is a classic road tour with some relaxed rides and the opportunity to tackle a few challenging climbs. You'll primarily be riding on good quality paved roads with a few excursions onto hard-packed graded roads. This trip uses main roads, which can be busy, but the scenery is wonderful.

There will be a local cycling leader and an assistant leader driving the support vehicle. For groups with 9 passengers upwards, a second sweeper cycling support leader will also accompany groups.

There are no required vaccinations. However, recommended vaccinations include hepatitis A, tetanus, typhoid, cholera, hepatitis B, rabies and tuberculosis. You will also need a yellow fever vaccination certificate if you’re arriving from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission or transiting for more than 12 hours through a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. Please confirm with your doctor or travel clinic.

Malaria prophylaxis is essential if travelling in the greater Kruger area; seek advice from your doctor or travel clinic about which tablets to take. The rest of South Africa, including the Garden Route, has a low risk of malaria.

Dengue fever, a tropical viral disease spread by daytime biting mosquitoes, is also a known risk in places visited. There is currently no vaccine or prophylaxis available, so it is recommended you take the usual precautions to avoid mosquito bites.

Yes, a Giant Giant Escape 2 Disc (touring/hybrid) is provided as part of the tour.

1. The equipment remains the property of the supplier and you may not sell, hire out or part possession with the equipment.

2. You must not misuse the equipment and must return it in the same condition as when received (ordinary wear and tear excepted). The supplier is entitled to charge for any damage caused to the equipment during the period of hire.

3. You must ensure that the equipment is adequately secured when not in use. In the event of the equipment being lost or stolen, you may be liable for the replacement value of the equipment

4. You must not use the equipment whilst under the influence of drink or drugs and should immediately notify the Supplier in the event of breakdown or loss.

Wearing a helmet is mandatory for anyone taking part in this cycling holiday. Group members must bring their own helmets, as they are not available for hire.

Cycling of all kinds has its dangers and accidents can happen from time to time. Please ensure that you are properly prepared for the riding you are going to undertake.

Recommended Cycling Clothing

Padded cycling shorts (with loose 'over-shorts' where recommended), breathable clothing, and a lightweight waterproof/windproof top. Shoes with relatively stiff soles are better for biking but are not essential unless you are cycling long distances. Most people want to carry certain items with them during the day while cycling, for this we recommend a large bum-bag or small close-fitting daysack.

Yes. It is a condition of joining this holiday that you must be fully insured against medical and personal accident risks (to include repatriation costs and air ambulance or helicopter rescue services where appropriate). On arrival in destination for your trip, you will be asked to present details to your leader or local representative of your policy.

All breakfasts are included on this holiday.

For breakfast, expect continental buffets with fresh fruit, cereals, bread, yogurts and tea and coffee. On some days, the guides prepare a cooked breakfast when they have the facilities to do so. Lunches can consist of a good spread of fresh salads, cold meats, cheese, bread, condiments, fresh fruit and a selection of cold drinks. For evening meals, expect a large braai (barbecue) with lots of locally sourced steaks, sausages and vegetables. Restaurant menus are very varied and the guide will be available to recommend the best options for your personal tastes and budget. You can expect stews, pasta, curry and steaks.

Vegetarians and vegans can be well catered for on this holiday, please let us know on booking.

February is the hottest month in Cape Town with an average temperature of 23C (73F). June is the coldest month of the year with an average temperature of 13C (55F). At the times we run most of our trips, expect warm days with the temperatures around 20C (68F).

The best time to see the carpets of wildflowers and fruit blossoms is August and September. In summer, the southeasterly wind can blow up to 43mph (70kph) at least a few times a month. This helps to cool things off but can be a little tiring if cycling into it. The programme is flexible enough to accommodate any major changes in weather, and yet still be enjoyable.