Cape Gravel Tour
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Cape Gravel Tour
Why you'll love this trip
Bespoke, luxury gravel touring at its best. Join us on this five-day, five-night adventure through the wild heart of the Western Cape, exploring remote gravel roads, dramatic mountain passes, and the raw beauty of the Cederberg Mountains.
You’ll love the Cape Gravel Tour for its rare balance of adventure and refinement. This journey takes you deep into one of South Africa’s most striking, untamed landscapes, where quiet gravel roads, flowing dirt passes, and dramatic mountain backdrops create days of riding that feel truly immersive. Designed for riders who crave exploration without giving up comfort, the tour pairs exceptional gravel routes with seamless support, thoughtful logistics, and carefully chosen accommodation — allowing you to focus fully on the ride, the scenery, and the freedom that defines great gravel cycling.
Why Ride With Us
Join the Ride
All Inclusive
Enjoy a truly all-inclusive experience where every detail is taken care of. All you need to do is ride, relax, and take in the incredible scenery. We handle the rest.Luxury Accommodation
Every evening, premium accommodation will be provided in hotels, with a minimum of three-four star, depending on availability. Maximum two persons per room will be assigned for shared accommodation.Fully supported & safe
Safety is one of our biggest concerns when we think cycling in South Africa, whether it be on tar or dirt roads. The route and support along the way has been carefully planned, giving you the safest experience both on and off the bike.Water & Lunch On Route
We carefully plan out the water points and lunch stop for each stage. Deliberately planned, you will have rolling water points on every stage, with a variety of tasty snacks. Depending on the distance of the stage, lunch will either be enjoyed on route or at the finish venue for the stage.Bike Wash & Transport
Your bike is fully supported throughout the tour with dedicated transport. After each ride, your bike will be cleaned by the Drake Cycle Tours crew. If you need time off the bike, we'll safely and carefully transport your bike on our enclosed bike trailer.Recovery & Rider Care
Riders will have access to Rapid Recovery boots after each stage to aid circulation, reduce muscle fatigue, and help prepare the body for the next day’s ride.Goodie bag
The amazing partners and sponsors have provided great samples, vouchers & useful products for a special goodie bag. We’re sure some of the goodie bag items will come in handy through the tour. Enjoy!Airport Transfer to Hotel
The tour shuttle will collect you from the airport and take you to the hotel to get settled in for the start of the tour. Check-in at the hotel will only be from 14H00. One shuttle will collect everyone collectively at 15H00. Please plan your flights accordingly.
PLATINUM PACKAGE ARRIVAL 22 September, 2026
Kickoff to Adventure
Your journey begins with a warm welcome in Riebeek-Kasteel, where you'll check in, meet the crew, and get settled into your accommodation.
For riders flying into Cape Town, a shuttle will meet everyone at the airport to transfer you to Riebeek-Kasteel. Once at the hotel and registered, you’ll have the chance to prep your bike, connect with fellow riders, and soak in the excitement of what lies ahead. The atmosphere is relaxed yet filled with anticipation as everyone gears up for the adventure of a lifetime.
That evening, we’ll gather for a welcome dinner and tour briefing. You’ll receive a detailed overview of the route, our support structure, safety protocols, and daily expectations. This is also a fantastic opportunity to connect with the group, ask any questions, and ease into the tour mindset—one founded on camaraderie, breathtaking scenery, and unforgettable experiences.
Shuttle from Airport: Pick-up at 15H00
Self-Drive Arrival at Hotel: Check-in from 14H00
GOLD ARRIVAL & STAGE 1A 23 September, 2026
Welcome to Cape Gravel
The tour opens with an immersive first day in the Western Cape, combining riding for Platinum Package guests with arrivals for Gold Package riders.
For Platinum Package riders, the Opening Ride delivers the first taste of Cape gravel, departing from Riebeek-Kasteel, at the gateway to the Cederberg Mountains, and exploring flowing gravel roads through the Swartland. The focus is on rhythm and flow — a purposeful introduction designed to encourage group riding, a steady pace, and time to absorb the scale and character of the landscape that defines the days ahead. For Gold Package riders, airport transfers are arranged for those flying into Cape Town, ensuring a smooth and relaxed start, with time to check in, meet the Drake Cycle Tours team, and prepare their bikes. The day concludes with a shared welcome dinner and comprehensive tour briefing for all guests, outlining the route philosophy, support structure, and expectations for the week, and bringing the group together to set the tone for an exceptional tour experience.
Distance: 100km | 62mi
Terrain: Fast gravel and mixed farm roads
Route Difficulty: ✯✯
Riding Pace: Steady endurance pace, regrouping throughout
RIDING FOCUS: Endurance and flow
Water Points: 3
Lunch Stop: Served at the finish venue
Stage 1B 24 September, 2026
Gateway to the Cederberg
A full day of Cape gravel adventure through iconic mountains and open valleys.
The first full day of riding takes you deeper into the Cederberg Mountains, where flowing gravel roads, open valleys, and rugged ridgelines set the scene for a true Cape gravel experience. Riders will enjoy a mix of steady climbs and long, sweeping descents, allowing the group to find rhythm and flow while taking in the expansive scenery. This stage balances endurance with exploration, giving a real sense of place and the freedom of remote, traffic-free roads. Support is seamless throughout the day, with rolling water points - ensuring everyone regroups, stays comfortable and connected. The ride concludes at a carefully selected lodge, where riders can relax, reflect on the day, and enjoy a post-ride meal before the evening briefing, setting the tone for the next day’s adventures.
Distance: 125km | 78mi
Terrain: Flowing gravel, farm roads, and moderate climbs
Route Difficulty: ✯✯✯
Riding Pace: Steady endurance pace, regrouping throughout
Riding Focus: Endurance and flow
Water Points: 4
Lunch Stop: Served at the finish venue
Stage 2 25 September, 2026
Into the Heart of the Cederberg
Departing Citrusdal, the route turns inland toward the remote interior of the Cederberg, leaving cultivated valleys behind for raw mountain wilderness.
Stage 2 builds momentum as the ride heads north from Citrusdal toward the fringes of Clanwilliam before turning decisively inland into the rugged interior of the Cederberg Mountains. Expansive valleys give way to rising mountain roads as the landscape shifts from farmland to dramatic, untamed terrain. Traffic disappears and a deep sense of remoteness takes over, with long gravel stretches rewarding steady pacing and sustained climbs followed by flowing descents that invite rhythm and focus. Big skies, striking rock formations, and quiet roads define the day, delivering the true essence of Cederberg riding. Seamless support and planned regrouping points keep the group connected before arriving at a remote lodge or guesthouse to recover, refuel, and reflect on a stage that feels both demanding and deeply rewarding.
Distance: 100km | 62mi
Terrain: Mixed gravel, mountain roads, remote valleys
Route Difficulty: ✯✯✯✯
Riding Pace: Steady endurance pace with structured regrouping
Riding Focus: Endurance, climbing, and rhythm
Water Points: 4
Lunch Stop: Served at the finish venue
STAGE 3 26 September, 2026
The Wild Heart of the Cederberg
Deep mountain roads, ancient rock formations, and one of the most spectacular gravel riding regions in South Africa.
Stage 3 takes riders deeper into the raw beauty of the Cederberg, where towering sandstone formations, vast valleys and remote gravel roads define the landscape. Leaving camp in the quiet mountain morning, the route winds through flowing gravel sections, steady mountain climbs and rewarding descents that reveal sweeping views across this ancient wilderness. With regular support points and regrouping along the way, the focus is on settling into a strong rhythm, riding together as a group and fully experiencing one of South Africa’s most remarkable gravel riding regions before returning to camp for a well-earned recovery.
Distance: 169km | 105mi
Terrain: Remote mountain gravel, valley roads and Cederberg passes
Route Difficulty: ✯✯✯✯✯
Riding Pace: Controlled endurance pace with scheduled regrouping
Riding Focus: Climbing, resilience, and enjoying the wild landscape
Water Points: 4
Lunch Stop: Mid-stage refuel stop in a remote valley location
STAGE 4 27 September, 2026
Ride to the Atlantic
From the mountains to the sea — a fitting finale to the journey.
The final stage leaves the Cederberg behind as the route rolls westward through quiet farmlands and open valley roads, gradually descending toward the Atlantic coastline. After several days of mountain riding, the terrain opens up into flowing gravel sections that allow the group to settle into a smooth and steady rhythm. It’s a day to enjoy the last kilometres together, reflect on the journey already shared, and savour the approach to the ocean before arriving at the coast for a celebratory finish to an unforgettable week of riding.
Distance: 110km | 68mi
Terrain: Rolling gravel roads and open farmland
Route Difficulty: ✯✯✯
Riding Pace: Steady endurance pace with regrouping throughout
Riding Focus: Flow, consistency, and finishing together
Water Points: 4
Lunch Stop: Finish-line lunch and celebration at the coast
All-Inclusive Package
All expenses paid including;
Our all-inclusive package is designed to make your Cape Gravel Tour completely hassle-free.
From accommodation and meals to transfers and on-route support, everything is taken care of so you can focus on enjoying the ride and the beautiful surroundings.
◎ 4 or 5 Nights Premium Accommodation
◎ All Meals & Beverages (ex alcohol)
◎ Crew Assistance
◎ Private Shuttle
◎ Support Vehicle
◎ Airport Transfers
◎ Bicycle Transfers
◎ Nutrition & Fully Stocked Water Points
◎ Exciting Goodie Bag
*Substitutions: Price adjustments will not be made for substitutions, changes or exclusions. This is an all inclusive package to be provided for, per person, as advertised.
*Private Rooms: You may request your own private room for the duration of the tour. Upgrade your package for single supplement.
Transporting You and Your Bike Safely
Transfers
Seamless travel from arrival to departure.
All rider transfers are carefully coordinated to ensure a smooth and stress-free experience throughout the tour. From arrival in Cape Town through to the final stage finish, our team manages the movement of riders, luggage and equipment so that participants can focus entirely on the riding experience.
At the conclusion of the final stage, riders will have access to shower and changing facilities before scheduled transfers depart for Cape Town International Airport. Dedicated vehicles will transport riders and luggage comfortably, ensuring timely arrival for onward travel. Additional assistance with bike packing and equipment preparation will also be available where required.
Fuel Up & Refresh at Every Stop
Fully Stocked Water Points
Every water point will be fully stocked with 32GI, water, coke, banana’s, crunchies and sweets. At various water points we will change things up so you’re not eating the same thing all day.
Your final itinerary will have the detailed water point and lunch kilometre markers per day.
Water Points : 15 minutes
Lunch : 40 minutes
Punctures : Group Stops
Bike Rental
Take the stress off of flying with your bike. Check out the various options below of bikes available for hire.
The bike will come with the following:
- Pedals of your choice, unless you prefer to use your own.
- Bottle cages.
- Saddlebag containing a repair kit.
- Adjusting seat height, handlebar reach, and saddle angle to your preference.
- A helmet @ ZAR150 / USD20 once off.
- Water bottles available on request.
Gravel Bike: – ZAR 1350 | USD 85 per day
Mountain Bike: – ZAR 1350 | USD 85 per day
E-Bike (MTB or Gravel) – ZAR 1650 | USD 100 per day
Additional Parts: Price on Request
Refundable Damage Deposit: Aluminium Bikes – ZAR 3000 | USD 200 and Carbon & E-Bikes – ZAR 5000 | USD 300
From snacks to sips, we’ve got you covered
FOOD & BEVERAGES
Food and beverages for the full trip is included in your package.
Whether you stay for five or six days, enjoy fully catered meals and beverages for the entire journey. Beverages include all hot and cold drinks, excluding alcohol.
Meals provided includes breakfast, lunch & dinner daily whilst on tour. The meals starts with dinner on your day of arrival to lunch on the day of departure.
What You Need to Know
General Info
Accommodation: Should you require additional accommodation that falls outside our package dates, let us know so we can make arrangements for you and extend your stay.
Registration: Registration is a very simple check-in process on arrival. All apparel that has been ordered will be ready for collection at registration. It is a very quick process so you will have plenty of time to get settled in.
Goodie Bag: The amazing partners and sponsors have provided great samples, vouchers & useful products for a special goodie bag. We’re sure some of the goodie bag items will come in handy through the tour. Enjoy!
Daily Itinerary: An itinerary will be sent out closer to the tour date, which will have detailed daily check-in times, stage timings, hotel information and anything you need to know about the day-to-day happenings on tour.
CYCLING PACKAGES
Discover Your Ideal Gravel Journey
Continuing Drake Cycle Tours’ commitment to premium cycling experiences, the Cape Gravel Tour offers a carefully designed multi-day route through the striking landscapes of the Western Cape and Cederberg Mountains. Riders can choose between Platinum and Gold packages, each providing exceptional support, thoughtfully selected accommodation, and seamless logistics throughout the journey.
For added flexibility, guests may also select optional upgrades such as single-room accommodation, premium bike rentals, or extended stays before or after the tour. Whether seeking the full immersive adventure or a slightly shorter itinerary, every option is designed to deliver an unforgettable gravel riding experience in one of South Africa’s most spectacular regions.
4 - STAGE
Bronze Package
R 21500
1350
- Shared Accommodation
- 23-27 September, 2026
- → 503km | 313mi
- ↑ 7110m | 23330ft
- Fully Catered Meals
- Airport Transfer
- Bike Wash & Transport
- Goodie Bag
- Rolling Water Points
- Daily Recovery
- Private Tour Crew
4 - STAGE
Silver Package
R 24500
1550
- Single Supplement
- 23-27 September, 2026
- → 503km | 313mi
- ↑ 7110m | 23330ft
- Fully Catered Meals
- Goodie Bag
- Rolling Water Points
- Airport Transfer
- Bike Wash & Transport
- Daily Recovery
- Private Tour Crew
5-STAGE
Gold Package
R 26500
1680
- Shared Accommodation
- 22-27 September, 2026
- → 600km | 373mi
- ↑ 8180m | 26840ft
- Fully Catered Meals
- Airport Transfer
- Bike Wash & Transport
- Goodie Bag
- Rolling Water Points
- Daily Recovery
- Private Tour Crew
5 - STAGE
Platinum Package
R 30500
1930
- Single Supplement
- 22-27 September, 2026
- → 600km | 373mi
- ↑ 8180m | 26840ft
- Bike Wash & Transport
- Fully Catered Meals
- Airport Transfer
- Goodie Bag
- Rolling Water Points
- Daily Recovery
- Private Tour Crew
All expenses paid including:
- Premium Accommodation
- Private Crew Assistance
- All Meals & Beverages (ex alcohol)
- Shuttle (During Tour)
- Support Vehicle
- Bicycle Transfer
- Airport Transfer
- Nutrition & Fully Stocked Water Points
- Exciting Goodie Bag
We cover almost everything but the following must be arranged/ordered separately:
- Travel Insurance
- Medical Aid
- Alcoholic Beverages
- Bike Rental
- Flights
- Additional excursions and activities
Should you need assistance with any of the above, let us know so we can update your package.
Medical Insurance:
All cyclists wanting to enter the tour are required to have Medical Insurance with at least a hospital plan in place.
By entering the Cape Gravel Tour, entrants acknowledge that they are required to have valid medical insurance that covers them for the duration of the event. It is the sole responsibility of each entrant to ensure that they have adequate medical insurance coverage, and the organizers of the Cape Gravel Tour will not be held liable for any medical expenses incurred by entrants during the event.
Entrants who do not have valid medical insurance will not be permitted to participate in the event.
All cyclists wanting to enter the tour are required to have Medical Insurance with at least a hospital plan in place.
By entering the Cape Gravel Tour, entrants acknowledge that they are required to have valid medical insurance that covers them for the duration of the event. It is the sole responsibility of each entrant to ensure that they have adequate medical insurance coverage, and the organizers of the Cape Gravel Tour will not be held liable for any medical expenses incurred by entrants during the event.
Entrants who do not have valid medical insurance will not be permitted to participate in the event.
Kit for Every RIDE
Unique Tour Apparel
DCT26 Synergy Jersey
R1750
Sacramento Green
DCT25 Road Socks
R150
Blue / White
DCT25 Road Jersey
R1750
Blue / White *Limited Stock
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DCT25 Gravel Jersey
R1750
Blue / Navy *Limited Stock
DCT25 Gravel Socks
R150
Blue / Navy
Captured Highlights
Gallery
What you need to know
Frequently Asked Questions
A luxury, all-inclusive cycling trip from Riebeek Kasteel, through the Cederberg region and finishing on the coast, covering up to 600km and 8200m elevation.
No, this tour is open to anyone with a mountain bike, E-Bike or gravel bike.
All packages are all-inclusive: premium accommodation, all meals (excluding alcohol), refreshments, shuttles (during tour), support vehicle, bicycle transport, nutrition and fully stocked water points, and an exciting goodie bag.
No, no mechanic will travel on tour. Basic bike spares are available on consignment to fix basic mechanical issues. Should your bike have a more serious issue, we will call ahead to the next town to arrange the local bike shop to assist.
Yes! Take the stress off of flying with your bike. View our bike rental section or enquire to find out how we can assist with bike rental. Gravel, Mountain Bikes and E-Bikes are available.
Yes! Bicycle transport from start to finish is included. A bike trailer is also provided during the tour should you need to rest for a day off the bike.
A goodie bag with a special gift and samples/vouchers from the tour sponsors, as well as any ordered event apparel.
Yes, all riders require valid medical insurance with hospital coverage for the duration. No insurance, no entry.
Yes, a bike wash is available after each stage, included in your package!
This tour is not a race so no license is required.
Yes, Drake Cycle Tours will build a bespoke package for you to arrive earlier or depart later. This includes hotels, meals and any additional activities. Let us know what you want to do for your extended stay in South Africa.
Let's Give Back
Riding with Purpose
Drake Events proudly supports Pug Rescue South Africa, a nonprofit that rescues, rehabilitates, and rehomes over 210 Pugs each year. Their Benoni sanctuary provides lifelong care to unadopted and elderly Pugs, with a strong focus on matching the right dog to the right home.
Through the Thanda Inja Project, they also offer free basic vet care and food to over 450 dogs and 80 cats in under-resourced communities every two weeks.
Join us in making a difference.
As part of our commitment to giving back, Drake Events donates
R200 / €10 / $10 from every tour entry to support this life-changing work.
OUR VALUED PARTNERS
Backed by Excellence
Book Your Premium Cycling Experience Today
Your Luxury Ride Awaits, Book Today
Book Your Premium Cycling Experience Today
Your Luxury Ride Awaits, Book Today
Quick links
Contact
Wesley Drake
+27(72) 076 9245
wesley@drakecycletours.com
Xanné Drake
+27(82) 370 8614
xanne@drakecycletours.com
© Copyright 2025 Drake Cycle Tours | All Rights Reserved
In collaboration with Perfect Circle and SimonSAYS
© Copyright 2025 Drake Cycle Tours | All Rights Reserved | In collaboration with Perfect Circle and SimonSAYS
— Wesley Drake, Tour Director