Augrabies Falls Desert Dash

The Augrabies Falls Desert Dash listing captures the longer-distance gravel adventure experience in the Augrabies region — most compellingly expressed by the annual Trans Augrabies MTB and Gravel Bike Stage Race, but equally accessible as an independent multi-day bikepacking route through the surrounding Green Kalahari gravel road network.

Trans Augrabies MTB Stage Race

Since its inception, the Trans Augrabies has grown into one of South Africa’s most distinctive cycling events — limited to 300 entries to preserve the boutique character and remote atmosphere that define the race. The 2-day format (introduced from 2025) covers more than 172 kilometres of Green Kalahari terrain, alternating between the park interior, surrounding private farm roads and the broader Orange River valley landscape. Terrain varies from smooth hard-pack to corrugated desert track, loose shale and sandy Kalahari jeep track. E-bikes are welcome but cannot compete for prizes. A Mini category caters to riders wanting a taste of the adventure without the full expert distance.

Independent Desert Bikepacking

For riders who prefer self-directed adventure, the Green Kalahari gravel road network around Augrabies offers days of exploration. A typical independent loop of 60-100km uses the N14 between Kakamas and Augrabies town, the R359 park approach road, park interior roads and Orange River valley farm tracks. Full self-sufficiency is essential — water refill points are scarce, temperatures extreme, and mobile signal absent for extended sections. Always inform someone of your planned route and expected return time. A gravel bike or hardtail MTB with 35mm+ tyres and minimum 2 litres of water capacity per hour is the minimum equipment recommendation.

Getting There

From Upington: N14 west past Keimoes and Kakamas, then R359 north to park gate (120km total). GPS: -28.5965, 20.3403. Tel: +27 54 452 9200. Trans Augrabies entries and race information at transaugrabies.co.za.

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