The Mountain Bike Camino isn't just a bike tour, it's a life changing pilgrimage, a physically challenging and spiritual journey like no other. The Western Cape is not only one of South Africa’s premier tourism destination but one of the best cycling destinations in the world. As a registered MTB Camino pilgrim you will gain access to our network of hand-picked Camino Camping partners on this 600k
m route of spectacular gravel back roads and bike trails, perfect for a camping adventure with your MTB. Gravel Bikes - are welcome, but some of the farm roads are rough, and you won't be able to enjoy / explore the amazing MTB trails that you will encounter on some of the farms. E-Bikes - also welcome, most of the campsites do have electricity, but depending on your range we might just have to ask for a special top up charge in one or 2 places. This amazing 600km route stretches from the famous Franschhoek vineyards to the beautiful seaside village of Plettenberg bay. The cost is R2100 per person to register as a Pilgrim, you will receive your Pilgrim passport and the exact GPX route as well as Google maps route. Your first 5 nights camping accommodation will also be free of charge. If you would like to extend your passport date longer than 5 days it is R200 per person per day extra. Camping will be available at 5 campsites and 5 working farms along the route where you can camp with your own MTB and hiking tent. no extra fees payable for as long as your passport is valid. Experience the soul of the Western Cape with its back roads winding through magnificent natural rivers, lush forests, wide open landscapes, deep blue oceans and small off the beaten track historic villages. There are plenty of adventures on offer to explore along the way, and pilgrims will have the opportunity to meet our friendly local partners to experience the diverse culture of the region. You may join the route at any point, Franschhoek, Plettenberg bay or anywhere in between. Franschhoek pass to Greyton area - 78km, 520m climbing (power available)
Greyton to Bonnievale area 79km, 1071m (power)
Bonnievale to Grootvadersbos area 75km, 1106m (power available, and can also buy meat / produce from farmer)
Grootvadersbos to Riversdal area - 63km, 927m (power)
Riversdall to Gourits River near Albertinia area - 69km, 926m (power available, and can also buy meat / produce from farmer)
Goutits River to Hartenbos area - 72km, 1053m (power)
Hartenbos to Hoekwil area 69km 1164m (power available, and can also buy meat / produce from farmer)
Hoekwil to Knysna area - 48km, 837m (no power at campsite, can also buy meat / produce from farmer/deli)
Knysna to Plett area - 77km, 1649m (power)
Total climbing 9289m. To put it in perspective Mount Everest is 8848m, you will do slightly more with your MTB, so you need to be relatively fit. Please note it is not a supported slackpacking tour, and pilgrims will have to make sure they ca
