Nieu-Bethesda 4 Day MTB
4-Day MTB Tour
COST PP: From Sharing from R16 990 | Single R21 990
DATE AVAILABLE: ENTER ON THE DATE BELOW
Ride the Hidden Trails of Nieu-Bethesda: A Mountain Bike Escape Like No Other
Discover the untamed charm of the Eastern Cape on a mountain biking adventure through the enchanting landscape of Nieu-Bethesda — a secluded gem surrounded by sweeping valleys, scenic farmlands, and rugged jeep tracks begging to be explored.
This one-of-a-kind MTB tour takes you beyond the ordinary, pedaling through private farms and game reserves where few riders ever venture. Surrounded by vast skies and tranquil terrain, you’ll experience the pure, off-the-grid beauty of South Africa’s Karoo heartland.
Led by seasoned mountain bike guides Hano and Sonja of Trisport, who bring over 24 years of experience, you’ll explore exclusive routes and hidden highlights that showcase the very best of this remarkable region. Their deep local knowledge ensures a tour that’s both exhilarating and seamless — with just the right mix of challenge and reward. Sonja and Hano deliver unrivaled, personalized service with warm, attentive hospitality.
Expect awe-inspiring vistas, crisp Karoo air, and a powerful sense of freedom as you ride through wide-open spaces and charming, remote settings.
Whether you’re chasing solitude, scenic beauty, or unforgettable rides, Nieu-Bethesda delivers it all — with a touch of Trisport magic.
4 Day Nieu Bethesda MTB Tour
An Exclusive Karoo MTB Experience
Discover the Untouched Sneeuberg: We are proud to announce an absolutely unique mountain biking experience. This tour traverses remote landscapes and “secret” routes that very few people have ever seen or even know exist. Our journey centers around the iconic village of Nieu-Bethesda, nestled in the foothills of the majestic Sneeuberg Range, approximately 60 km north of Graaff-Reinet in the heart of the Karoo.
The History of Nieu-Bethesda: The village was established by Rev. Charles Murray, the Dutch Reformed minister of Graaff-Reinet. Upon seeing the fertile valley and its abundant water, he reportedly declared, “Laten wy deze plaats nu Bethesda noemen” (Let us now call this place Bethesda), inspired by the biblical Pool of Bethesda (John 5:2). Over time, the name evolved into “Nu Bethesda” before officially becoming the Nieu-Bethesda we know today.
Rider Requirements & E-Bikes
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E-Bike Recommendations: We strongly advise the use of E-Bikes for participants aged 65 and older, or for those who may currently feel their fitness is not at peak levels.
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Participant Responsibility: It is each rider’s responsibility to ensure they are fit enough to maintain the group’s pace.
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Terrain: While the tour is classified as non-technical, the route includes rugged jeep tracks with ruts and loose surfaces that require confident bike handling.
Highlights of the Tour
Experience the Magic of the Sneeuberg & Nieu-Bethesda
Cultural & Historical Highlights:
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Nieu-Bethesda: Explore the quaint and artistic village of Nieu-Bethesda, a true Karoo gem.
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The Owl House: Visit Helen Martins’ world-famous “Camel Yard” and the mystical Owl House.
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Ancient Folklore: Discover well-preserved Bushman rock paintings and engravings on Ganora Guest Farm, bringing to life 10,000 years of indigenous history.
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Paleontology: Explore rich fossil beds and unique rock formations that tell the story of the Earth’s ancient past.
The Cycling Adventure:
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Peak Performance: Challenge yourself as you circumnavigate Kompasberg, the highest peak in the Eastern Cape outside the Drakensberg range.
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Untamed Nature: Cycle through the pristine Sneeuberg Nature Reserve, enjoying vast, open landscapes with no one else around you.
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Hidden Gems: Discover “secret” mountain villages and remote settlements tucked away in the rugged “koppies.”
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Diverse Wildlife: Keep an eye out for a wide array of Karoo wildlife and bird species as you traverse the plains.
Karoo Hospitality:
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Authentic Stays: Enjoy the comfort of en-suite accommodation at hand-picked venues, including the historic Ganora Guest Farm.
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Local Flavors: Experience the legendary warmth of the Karoo people and savor traditional, home-cooked regional cuisine.
Information
Sneeuberg & Nieu-Bethesda MTB Expedition
Experience the thrill of a lifetime on our exclusive mountain biking adventure! * Limited Access: Join an intimate group of a maximum of 18 riders as we explore hidden, off-the-beaten-path routes that few have ever ventured on before.
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E-Bike Friendly: Whether you are on a traditional mountain bike or an E-Bike, our trails are designed to provide a rewarding and exhilarating experience for all.
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Karoo Immersion: Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty and rich cultural history of Nieu-Bethesda. This is more than a ride; it is a journey through the soul of the Karoo landscapes.
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Pure Adventure: Get ready to reconnect with nature, conquer the rugged Sneeuberg terrain, and feel truly alive.
Why choosing Trisport to organise your tour
Trisport stands apart from the rest.
Owners on the ground, Hano and Sonja Otto, are hands-on, personally investing in your trip and the local community. With 24+ years of experience in the sport tourism industry, this dynamic duo merges limitless passion with expertise to deliver a tour unlike any other.
Each tour is meticulously planned, with the area’s best accommodation chosen. Expect warm, genuine hospitality, infectious smiles, and experiences that forge lifelong friendships.
If you want to feel pampered and truly cared for, Trisport goes the extra mile. The owners’ genuine care ensures you’ll feel special at every moment.
Experience the difference: 24+ years in sport tourism, a personal touch, and hospitality that feels like family—courtesy of Sonja and Hano
Itinerary
Location & Arrival Logistics
Start & Finish Point: Ganora Guest Farm
About the Venue: Ganora is a working sheep farm steeped in history, perfectly situated just outside Nieu-Bethesda in the foothills of the majestic Sneeuberg Range. Located in the heart of the Karoo, it sits approximately 60 km north of Graaff-Reinet.
Getting There:
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By Car: Private vehicle is the only way to reach the farm. Ganora is located roughly 7 km outside Nieu-Bethesda.
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GPS & Navigation: Detailed directions will be provided in your final pre-tour briefing.
Sneeuberg & Nieu-Bethesda MTB Itinerary
Please Note: Participants are responsible for their own transport to the start of the tour at Ganora Guest Farm.
Day 1: Arrival in the Karoo
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14:00 onwards – Check in at Ganora Guest Farm. Take some time to settle in and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
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18:00 – Welcome drinks and briefing.
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19:00 – Dinner.
Day 2: Fossils & Scenic Loops
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07:00 – Breakfast.
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08:00 – Depart on a scenic circular MTB route returning to Ganora.
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11:00 – Coffee break at the halfway point.
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14:00 – Lunch at Ganora.
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17:00 – Karoo Paleontology: Join JP for a fascinating talk on Karoo fossils and view significant local historic findings.
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19:00 – Dinner.
Day 3: Nieu-Bethesda & The Owl House
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07:00 – Breakfast.
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08:00 – Drive in convoy (using your own vehicles) to Nieu-Bethesda to park.
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09:00 – Set off on a breathtaking circular route back into the village.
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11:00 – Coffee break on the trail.
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14:00 – Lunch (Cheese Platters) at The Brewery in Nieu-Bethesda (for your own account).
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15:00 – Optional visit to the Owl House, followed by the drive back to Ganora.
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19:00 – Dinner.
Day 4: Into the Sneeuberg Wilderness
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07:00 – Breakfast.
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09:00 – Check out of your room. Cycle from Ganora to Sneeuberg Nature Reserve.
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Logistics: Leave your vehicles and main luggage at Ganora; we will transport your overnight bag to Sneeuberg for you.
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13:00 – Arrival at Sneeuberg followed by lunch.
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14:00 – Afternoon at leisure to enjoy the Game Reserve and views of the mighty Kompasberg.
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18:00 – Dinner.
Day 5: The Kompasberg Circuit
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07:00 – Breakfast.
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09:00 – Cycle around the impressive Kompasberg, heading back toward Ganora via Nieu-Bethesda.
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14:00 – Pizzas at Zalig Restaurant (for your own account).
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15:00 – The final 7km stretch back to Ganora Guest Farm.
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18:00 – Farewell Dinner.
Day 6: Departure
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08:00 – Breakfast.
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09:00 – Final goodbyes and departure
How to get there
Location & Arrival Logistics
Start & Finish Point: Ganora Guest Farm
About the Venue: Ganora is a working sheep farm steeped in history, perfectly situated just outside Nieu-Bethesda in the foothills of the majestic Sneeuberg Range. Located in the heart of the Karoo, it sits approximately 60 km north of Graaff-Reinet.
Getting There:
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By Car: Private vehicle is the only way to reach the farm. Ganora is located roughly 7 km outside Nieu-Bethesda.
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GPS & Navigation: Detailed directions will be provided in your final pre-tour briefing.
Distances
Day 1: 65km Elevation 950
Day 2: 60km Elevation 900
Day 3: 30km Elevation 570m
Day 4: 65km Elevation 620
Entries Available
Limited to 20 entries
Experience and Age Limits
Rider Requirements & Fitness Policy
Experience Level: Intermediate to Advanced This tour is strictly for intermediate riders and above. It is not suitable for beginners.
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E-MTB Welcome: Experienced E-Bike riders are welcome.
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Age Guidance: We strongly advise that participants aged 65 and older utilize an E-MTB to ensure an enjoyable pace.
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Age Limit: For safety reasons, the maximum age for participation is 75 years. Fit and active riders over 75 are welcome but must contact Sonja at sonja@trisport.co.za prior to registration to discuss their experience level.
Tour Classification & Technical Expectations: While this is classified as a non-technical tour, it remains physically demanding. To participate, you must meet the following criteria:
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Sustained Pace: You must be capable of maintaining an average speed of 15 to 18 km/h over a 50 km route on an MTB or E-MTB.
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Terrain Handling: You must have experience navigating sandy sections and rough jeep tracks that may feature water damage, ruts, and holes.
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Climbing & Descending: You must be confident enough to cycle up steep inclines and ride down technical descents without walking your bike.
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E-Bike Proficiency: If riding an E-MTB, you must be fully confident in handling the bike’s power and weight on off-road terrain.
Important Notice regarding Group Safety Trisport cannot accommodate riders who are unfit or inexperienced. One individual’s inability to maintain the group pace can negatively impact the safety and experience of the entire group.
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Compliance: Failure to meet these fitness and technical requirements will result in your inability to participate in the group ride.
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Responsibility: It is the participant’s responsibility to adhere to these standards; Trisport accepts no responsibility for individuals who register without the required fitness or skill level.
Fitness Level Required
MTB Skill & Fitness Requirements
Experience Level: Intermediate to Advanced This tour is strictly not suitable for MTB beginners. To ensure the safety and enjoyment of the entire group, all participants must meet the following criteria:
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Technical Proficiency: You must be capable of navigating technical sections, including rocky terrain and steep gradients.
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Cycling Competency: You must be able to cycle both up and down steep hills without dismounting or walking your bike.
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Pace & Endurance: On flat sections, you must be able to maintain a minimum average speed of 17 km/h.
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E-Bike Riders: Experienced E-MTB riders are welcome, provided they are confident in handling their bike’s power and weight on rugged off-road tracks.
Important Group Policy: To maintain a consistent pace and ensure the tour stays on schedule, we cannot accommodate riders who lack the necessary fitness or technical experience. One participant’s inability to manage the terrain can significantly impact the safety and experience of the entire group.
Terrain
Tour Classification & Fitness Expectations
Classification: Non-Technical but Physically Demanding While this tour is classified as non-technical, it requires a solid level of fitness and bike handling to be truly enjoyable. To ensure you are prepared for the terrain, please review the following requirements:
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Pace & Endurance: You must be capable of maintaining an average speed of 15 to 18 km/h over a 50 km distance on either a standard MTB or an E-MTB.
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Terrain Handling: Participants must have experience riding through sandy sections and navigating steep climbs and descents without dismounting.
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Surface Conditions: You should be comfortable on rough jeep tracks that may feature ruts, holes, and areas of water damage or erosion.
Rider Responsibility: To ensure the safety and flow of the group, we kindly ask that you honestly assess your fitness and technical skills before registering. If you are unsure about these requirements, please reach out to us to discuss whether this tour is a good fit for your experience level.
Entry Fee and Highlights Includes
What is Included: Sneeuberg & Nieu-Bethesda MTB Expedition
Accommodation & Duration:
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5 Nights’ Accommodation: Comfortable stays at hand-picked Karoo venues, including Ganora Guest Farm and Sneeuberg Nature Reserve.
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4 Days of Guided Riding: Expertly scouted routes through the heart of the Sneeuberg Range.
Meals & Trail Support:
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Full Board: All meals are included from dinner on arrival to breakfast on departure (Note: Lunch in Nieu-Bethesda is for your own account).
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Trail Nutrition: Coffee, water, and snacks provided at designated stops during the ride.
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Exceptional Catering: Experience the legendary home-cooked flavors and hospitality of the Karoo.
Logistics & Professional Support:
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Backup Vehicle: A dedicated support vehicle will be available throughout the tour for peace of mind.
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Gear Transfers: We will transport your overnight luggage to the Sneeuberg Nature Reserve and back to Ganora while you ride.
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Expert Leadership: Two highly experienced guides to lead the group and share local insights.
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Maintenance: A bike wash facility is available at the lodges (for your own account).
The Trisport Package:
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Branded Gear: A premium, custom Trisport goody bag for every rider.
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Access & Permits: All permissions, entry fees for private property, and Game Reserve permits are fully covered.
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Seamless Organization: Comprehensive planning and coordination by the Trisport team to ensure an unforgettable, stress-free adventure.
Entry Fee Excludes
Exclusions (For Your Own Account)
Travel & Logistics:
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Transport to Start: Travel to and from Ganora Guest Farm.
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Daily Transfers: Any personal travel required between venues (where not covered by the backup vehicle).
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Lunch: Lunches enjoyed in Nieu-Bethesda are for your own account.
Beverages & Gratuities:
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Drinks: All alcoholic beverages and soft drinks.
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Tips: Gratuities for the professional guides and hospitality staff.
Technical & Mechanical Support:
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Bike Maintenance: On-site bike mechanic services (available at your own cost).
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Spares: You must provide all personal bike spares (tubes, tires, brake pads, etc.).
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Tool Kit: While we offer mechanical backup, please bring your own basic tools and specialized parts for your specific bike model.
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Insurance: Personal insurance for your bicycle against theft or damage.
Medical & Travel Insurance:
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Medical Cover: Comprehensive personal medical insurance is mandatory.
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Evacuation: Costs associated with emergency medical evacuation, if required.
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Travel Insurance: Coverage for trip cancellations, delays, or personal interruptions.
List of Compulsory and Suggested Gear
Compulsory Safety Equipment
For your personal safety and as a standard precaution, the following equipment is mandatory for all participants. Please ensure you have these items with you at all times during the tour:
Safety & Emergency Gear
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Space Blanket: Essential for temperature regulation in an emergency.
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Whistle: For signaling in low visibility or remote areas.
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First Aid Kit: A small, basic kit for minor scrapes or emergencies.
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Sunscreen: Minimum SPF 50 is highly recommended for the harsh Northern Cape sun.
Communication & Electronics
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Cellphone: Fully charged with emergency numbers saved.
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Waterproof Protection: A Zip Lock bag or waterproof case to keep your phone dry.
Clothing & Protection
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Helmet: Must be worn and buckled at all times while riding.
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Wind / Waterproof Jacket: Weather in the high desert can change rapidly.
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Thermal Base Layer: Long thermal top and pants (compulsory if cold weather is forecast).
Hydration & Nutrition
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Water Bottles: Sufficient capacity for long stretches between stops.
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Emergency Food: High-energy snacks (bars, gels, or nuts) for unexpected delays.
Mechanical Support
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Small Backpack / Hydration Pack: To carry your gear comfortably.
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Bike Spares: You must carry your own essential spares (tubes, CO2/pump, multi-tool, and chain links) in case of a mechanical issue or puncture.
Suggested Gear:
*Cell phone
*zip lock bag to keep phone dry on hike
*Camera
*Chargers
*Spare batteries
*powerbank to charge phones in case of Eskom problems
*Long thermal base layer (pants and top), just in case it is cold or rainy.
*Snacks for in-between meals
*Personal medicine
*Water bottles or bladder
*powder energy drink
*Comfortable shoes
*enough socks
*sunglasses
*swimming trunks
*cash for tips
*Warm clothes for the evenings
*You can bring your own alcohol, some of the venues don’t have a liquor license
*No Towels needed
Bag size maximum 60cm (lenght) x 30cm (width) x 25cm (height). (Max 50-liter bag). We have limited space.
Safety Equipment
We have the following safety equipment with us:
- A Medical Kit, with bandages etc
- An AED (Automatic Electric Defib)
- Epipen
- Radios
- A Garmin Inreach (to be used in case of an extreme emergency only, not when you are tired. An helicopter to airlift you and you will be held liable for the cost of the evacuation)
