News

With just under two months to go before the next Tour de Addo heads out, only seven spots remain for the next two tours taking place at the end of March.

Officially launched in 2020, the Tour de Addo is steadily growing in popularity among cyclists not just locally, but around the world. This is a unique and exclusive mountain bike adventure that takes riders through Addo Elephant National Park – all on exclusive roads that are off-limits to the general public.

The tour was founded in 2019 by SANParks Honorary Rangers (SHR) and the team from the Gqeberha-based Red Cherry Events company. The planning of the tour involves working with local communities and park officials to create a route that would showcase the best of the park while also being challenging and rewarding for riders.

The tour offers riders the opportunity to experience the Park in a way that is not possible on a traditional safari, as they are able to ride through the Park and have the chance to see elephants, lions and other wildlife up close. E-bikes are welcome as charging stations will be available for bikes and cell phones.

The ride, which is not a race, will see a limited field of 35 riders tackle a five-day mountain bike experience using two glamping sites in the heart of Addo Elephant National Park. Due to the nature of the terrain and the wildlife, the group is accompanied by armed rangers with a lead and sweep vehicle to ensure safe passage for all.

The ride is a truly social affair with daily distances ranging from 25km to 50km. Adding to the social ride are the tented villages offering luxury tents with comfy bedding, exquisite cuisine, game walks, star spotting and interesting, informative talks in the evenings.

The tour is open to riders of all skill levels, but it is important to note that it is a challenging tour and riders should be prepared for long days in the saddle and some steep climbs. The safety net is that there are always vehicles following the riders, so the option to load bikes up, whenever they wish, is always available.

The two upcoming Tour de Addo mountain bike events take place from 22 to 26 March and 29 March to 2 April. Further information can be found and bookings can be made by visiting www.tourdeaddo.com. Funds raised from this event with go towards the SANParks Honorary Rangers, to assist with conservation projects within Addo Elephant National Park.

Issued By

South African National Parks (SANParks) Frontier Region

Enquiries

Fayroush Ludick
Regional Communications Manager
Cell: 082 888 0201; Email: [email protected]