Explore the best cycling and bike touring routes in Raleigh, from scenic greenways to wooded trails and smooth city rides—perfect for a vacation on two wheels.
WHAT ARE THE TOP CYCLING DESTINATIONS IN AFRICA?
Africa offers cyclists a diverse playground of terrains, from South Africa’s iconic wine routes to Kenya’s wildlife-filled savannah trails. This guide explores the best cycling destinations across the continent, revealing cultural highlights, natural beauty, and practical tips for riders. Whether you’re seeking challenging climbs, multi-day expeditions, or scenic leisure rides, Africa provides unforgettable experiences for every type of cyclist.
Cycling across South Africa’s diverse landscapes
South Africa has become one of Africa’s premier cycling hubs thanks to its mix of coastlines, mountains, vineyards, and safari trails. Cyclists can explore both world-class road routes and challenging mountain biking terrain, making it a versatile destination for enthusiasts of all levels.
Cape Town and the Cape Winelands
The Cape Town area is famous for the Cape Argus Cycle Tour, one of the largest timed cycling events globally. Beyond the event, the Cape Peninsula offers dramatic coastal rides with views of Table Mountain and Chapman’s Peak Drive. Riders who head inland can enjoy the Cape Winelands, where rolling vineyards provide scenic yet demanding rides with wine estates for recovery stops.
Mountain biking in KwaZulu-Natal and Mpumalanga
KwaZulu-Natal and Mpumalanga are hotspots for mountain biking. The Drakensberg Mountains feature trails that combine technical descents with sweeping valley views. Riders also encounter cultural heritage sites, from Zulu battlefields to ancient rock art, blending history with physical adventure. Mpumalanga’s proximity to Kruger National Park adds the thrill of wildlife encounters, though rides typically stick to designated areas for safety.
Cape Town’s iconic road routes with ocean panoramas
Stellenbosch wine country trails for leisure cycling
Drakensberg technical MTB routes with cultural landmarks
Kruger border rides with safari extensions
South Africa balances well-maintained infrastructure with raw adventure, making it ideal for both competitive and leisure cyclists who want diverse terrain within one country.
Exploring East Africa on two wheels
East Africa draws riders with its dramatic landscapes, cultural depth, and the possibility of cycling near wildlife. Though infrastructure may be less polished than South Africa’s, the region rewards cyclists with raw authenticity and unique challenges.
Kenya’s Rift Valley and national parks
Kenya’s Rift Valley offers expansive dirt trails and striking escarpments. Riders pass Maasai villages, volcanic lakes, and wildlife corridors. Popular destinations include Lake Naivasha and Hell’s Gate National Park, where cyclists ride between towering cliffs with opportunities to spot giraffes and antelopes.
Tanzania’s Kilimanjaro and safari routes
Tanzania attracts cyclists with the iconic Kilimanjaro base routes, offering both altitude training and breathtaking views of Africa’s tallest peak. The surrounding savannah provides safari-style rides, although guided tours are essential due to wildlife risks. Cultural interactions with the Chagga people enrich the cycling experience.
Rift Valley’s gravel trails for endurance challenges
Hell’s Gate cycling between volcanic cliffs
Kilimanjaro base circuits for altitude training
Cultural village rides with local communities
East Africa appeals to adventure cyclists seeking physical tests alongside cultural immersion. While riders must prepare for rugged conditions, the rewards include unparalleled scenery and stories that few destinations can match.
Undiscovered gems of North and West Africa
North and West Africa are often overlooked in cycling conversations, yet these regions offer unique terrains ranging from desert dunes to forested highlands. Cyclists here discover routes rich in culture, history, and untapped adventure potential.
Morocco’s Atlas Mountains and Sahara routes
Morocco is perhaps North Africa’s crown jewel for cyclists. The Atlas Mountains present steep climbs, winding roads, and Berber villages offering rest stops steeped in tradition. For those seeking more extreme adventures, Sahara desert cycling—typically done in supported tours—offers surreal landscapes with endless dunes and starry night skies.
West Africa’s hidden cycling havens
While less developed for cycling tourism, West Africa rewards explorers with authentic experiences. Ghana’s coastal roads blend colonial history with palm-fringed scenery, while Burkina Faso’s relatively flat terrain makes it accessible for casual riders. Sierra Leone’s Freetown Peninsula offers stunning coastal routes with minimal traffic, making it a rising star among cycling enthusiasts.
Atlas Mountain climbs with Berber culture
Desert tours across the Sahara’s vast expanses
Ghana’s coastal heritage cycling routes
Sierra Leone’s traffic-free peninsula trails
Cycling in North and West Africa is less about polished infrastructure and more about raw discovery. Riders willing to embrace unpredictability will uncover rare and rewarding adventures.
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