Agterpaaie

Adventures Southern Africa

Guided mountain bike tours on the gravel passes, poorts and farm roads the maps forgot.

01 / 07

ag·ter·paaie

Afrikaans · noun, plural

The back roads. The gravel tracks, mountain passes and old farm roads that run quietly behind the main routes.

Why we ride

The best of Southern Africa is found off the tar.

We plan multi-day mountain bike tours that follow the agterpaaie — through narrow poorts, past waterfalls, over passes and into small towns where the coffee is strong and the welcome is warmer. You ride. We take care of the route, the back-up, the beds and the braai.

Small groups

Intimate groups so everyone rides at a pace that suits them, and the guide knows your name by the first climb.

Full back-up

A support vehicle carries luggage, water, spares and tired legs. Mechanicals get fixed on the side of the road.

Local routes

Routes scouted by riders who know these valleys — the right turn-offs, the best viewpoints, the farm stall with the pies.

Every level

Each tour is graded honestly, from gentle gravel days for newer riders to big-mileage passes for the fit and hungry.

Upcoming tours

Pick your route

Sunlit mountain road curving below a fynbos-covered slope Few spots left Beginner

Overberg · Western Cape

Overberg Weekender

An easy-going introduction to multi-day riding on rolling gravel through wheat lands and fynbos.

Duration
2 days
Distance
±90 km

14–15 Nov 2026

From R3 950 pp

Register
Gravel road through a narrow rocky gorge beside a river Intermediate

Klein Karoo · Western Cape

Poort to Poort

Three days threading the Klein Karoo's dramatic poorts on old gravel roads beneath towering red cliffs.

Duration
3 days
Distance
±180 km

5–7 Feb 2027

From R7 450 pp

Register
Gravel road winding toward a waterfall in a rocky mountain kloof Intermediate

Swartberg · Western Cape

Waterfall Passes

Four days of kloofs, river crossings and waterfall stops, with a big climb to finish each morning strong.

Duration
4 days
Distance
±240 km

12–15 Mar 2027

From R9 800 pp

Register
Wet mountain pass road disappearing into low cloud New route Advanced

Boland Mountains · Western Cape

Cloud Pass Traverse

Five big days linking high mountain passes. Long climbs, fast descents and weather that keeps you honest.

Duration
5 days
Distance
±380 km

16–20 Apr 2027

From R13 500 pp

Register

How it works

From sign-up to saddle in three steps

  1. 01

    Choose your route

    Find a tour that matches your fitness and your calendar. Not sure which? Tell us how you ride and we'll point you the right way.

  2. 02

    Register & secure your spot

    Fill in the registration form below. We'll confirm availability and send you the booking details and payment info.

  3. 03

    Show up & ride

    Arrive with your bike and your legs. Route, guides, back-up vehicle, accommodation and meals are handled.

Every tour includes

  • Experienced ride guide
  • Support vehicle & luggage transfer
  • Accommodation each night
  • Breakfast, dinner & trail snacks
  • Route navigation & GPX files
  • Basic mechanical support

Riding experience

Bike

Good to know

Questions riders ask

Something else on your mind? Drop us a line.

How fit do I need to be?

Each tour is graded. Beginner tours suit anyone who can comfortably ride 40–50 km on gravel. Intermediate tours expect regular riding and some climbing. Advanced tours involve long days and big passes back to back. The back-up vehicle is always there if you need a break.

What kind of bike do I need?

A mountain bike or a sturdy gravel bike in good working order. E-bikes are welcome on most routes — tell us when you register so we can plan charging stops. Bike hire can be arranged.

Where do we sleep?

Guesthouses, farm stays and country hotels along the route, chosen for character and a good night's sleep. Your luggage is waiting when you arrive.

What should I bring?

Helmet (compulsory), riding kit for each day, a warm and a waterproof layer, hydration pack or bottles, sunscreen and your personal medication. We'll send a full packing list once you're booked.

What happens if I need to cancel?

Our cancellation terms are shared with your booking confirmation. If you can't make it, let us know as early as possible and we'll do our best to help — including moving you to another date where we can.

The back roads are calling.

Register for a tour