Cradock Karoo Loop

Cradock sits on the Great Fish River in the heart of the Great Karoo — one of South Africa’s most iconic natural landscapes, where the semi-arid plains stretch to the horizon beneath vast skies and the silence is almost physical. The 38km Karoo Loop follows gravel roads through this extraordinary environment on a ride that is as much about the landscape as the cycling.

What to Expect

Gravel roads on flat to very gently rolling Karoo terrain. Distant koppies, Karoo scrub vegetation, the occasional farm dam and the vast open sky define the riding environment. Technical demands are minimal but the exposure, heat and isolation require solid preparation. The Mountain Zebra National Park lies nearby and kudu, springbok and other Karoo wildlife are occasionally visible from the road.

Cradock’s Heritage

Cradock is the birthplace of Olive Schreiner and a town of significant literary and political heritage. The Schreiner House museum is worth visiting pre- or post-ride.

Getting There

Cradock is on the N10 in the central Eastern Cape. GPS: -32.1734, 25.6123.

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