Take the back roads: Discover the Northern Cape by mountain bike in 2027

Cycling over Hakskeenpan in the Kalahari

From the vast saltpans of the Kalahari to Namaqualand’s spectacular wildflowers, TriSport’s 2027 mountain biking adventures promise unforgettable journeys through some of South Africa’s most extraordinary landscapes.

There’s something wonderfully liberating about leaving the tar road behind, escaping the crowds and discovering places that most travellers never get to see.

And few destinations capture that feeling quite like the Northern Cape.

Here, gravel roads stretch towards distant horizons, ancient mountains rise from the desert and the silence is interrupted only by the wind, wildlife and the occasional crunch of tyres on gravel.

It’s a mountain biker’s dream.

Through years of exploring the region and building relationships with local landowners and communities, TriSport has developed a collection of guided mountain biking adventures that combine spectacular scenery, carefully selected routes and genuine Northern Cape hospitality.

If you’re planning your 2027 adventures, here are three experiences worth adding to your calendar.

Kalahari MTB Traverse: Ride through the great nothingness

Kalahari MTB 

Imagine cycling across an enormous saltpan, with nothing but open space stretching towards the horizon.

That’s just one of the unforgettable experiences awaiting riders on TriSport’s Kalahari 4-Day/5-Night MTB Traverse.

This adventure takes you through a fascinating landscape of red dunes, dry riverbeds, ancient black rock formations and vast saltpans.

One of the highlights is Hakskeenpan, where the sheer scale of the landscape creates an extraordinary sense of freedom.

Along the way, riders discover the mysterious Lost City of the Kalahari, remote gravel roads and the remarkable wildlife and birdlife of this desert region.

And when the day’s riding is done? Comfortable accommodation, delicious meals, warm hospitality and spectacular Kalahari sunsets await.

The routes are carefully selected to offer enjoyable riding without having to battle through deep dune sand.

2027 dates: 8–13 May

Suitable for: Intermediate mountain bikers. Experienced e-MTB riders are welcome.

Places on this departure are limited, so early enquiries are recommended.

Moep 2 Sea: From Namaqualand’s mountains to the Atlantic

Geology features along the way 

If you love variety, dramatic landscapes and discovering roads less travelled, Moep 2 Sea – Namaqua to Richtersveld 4-Day MTB Tour belongs on your adventure list.

Beginning at Nigramoep Guest Farm near Kasteelberg, this remarkable journey takes riders from the rugged mountains of Namaqualand towards the wild Atlantic coastline.

Expect mountain trails, exciting descents, semi-desert landscapes, remote valleys and fascinating coastal communities.

The route also reveals the region’s mining heritage, with opportunities to explore areas around Kleinzee and Port Nolloth.

What makes this tour particularly special is access to private properties and little-known trails, made possible through TriSport’s relationships with local landowners.

These are places most visitors would never discover on their own.

2027 dates: 29 July–3 August

Suitable for: Experienced intermediate mountain bikers comfortable with varied terrain and longer distances.

Namaqua Flower MTB: Ride through a sea of colour

Every spring, Namaqualand undergoes one of nature’s most remarkable transformations.

After seasonal rainfall, vast stretches of the landscape burst into colour as wildflowers blanket valleys, hillsides and plains.

Now imagine experiencing this spectacle from the saddle of your mountain bike.

TriSport’s Namaqua 3-Day Flower MTB Tour takes riders away from the busy tourist routes and into hidden valleys, private farms and beautiful flower landscapes.

Along the way, you’ll discover rugged granite mountains, ancient quiver trees and the historic Copper Trail.

The adventure also explores areas around Nababeep, Goegap Nature Reserve and the surrounding countryside.

Knowledgeable guides share insights into the region’s extraordinary biodiversity, history and local communities.

Because flower displays depend on rainfall and weather conditions, every season offers something different.

2027 tour dates:

• 13–17 August
• 17–21 August
• 21–25 August
• 25–29 August
• 29 August–2 September

Suitable for: Intermediate off-road cyclists. E-MTBs are welcome.

More than just a ride

What makes a TriSport adventure memorable isn’t only the scenery or the kilometres covered.

It’s the friendships formed along the way, the stories shared around the dinner table and the hospitality of the people who call these extraordinary places home.

By travelling the back roads, we also support local farmers, guesthouses, guides and small businesses that play an important role in keeping rural tourism alive.

So, why not make 2027 the year you discover more of South Africa from the saddle?

Your next adventure could be waiting just beyond the next gravel turn-off.

Visit www.trisport.co.za to explore the tours and register, or contact Sonja at sonja@trisport.co.za.

Tour dates and availability are subject to change. Please confirm details when booking.