Tankwa Karoo 60km Challenge

The Tankwa Karoo 60km Challenge extends the Buitekring MTB and park road network into a full expert gravel day, incorporating the notorious Ouberg Pass — a sustained and brutal climb from the ancient Tankwa basin to the Roggeveld plateau that features in international bikepacking expeditions and is consistently described by riders as one of the most punishing climbs they have encountered in South Africa.

The Ouberg Pass

The Ouberg Pass is not a manicured cycling route — it is a mountain pass road in its original desert state, rising steeply from the Tankwa floor to the Roggeveld escarpment on loose gravel, shale and eroded sections. International bikepacking guide Willy Mulonia (who has cycled from Ushuaia to Alaska and completed multiple Iditarod Trail Invitationals) describes the Ouberg as the toughest day in the broader Tankwa Karoo gravel adventure. That recommendation comes with significant credibility. The descent from Roggeveld is equally demanding — loose surface, steep gradient, fully exposed. The views from the top are extraordinary: the entire Tankwa basin spread out below, surrounded by the escarpment range.

Combined with the 50km Buitekring MTB circuit and additional park road exploration, a full 60km challenge day through the Tankwa is a true expedition for experienced adventure cyclists.

Self-Sufficiency Requirements

This is genuine wilderness. Carry minimum 4 litres of water, a comprehensive repair kit, an emergency bivouac layer, and ensure someone knows your planned route and return time. Mobile signal is absent throughout the park. Weather can change rapidly on the escarpment. Never ride this route alone.

Getting There

Access via Middelpos or the Gannaga Pass direction. GPS: -32.3167, 19.8333. Tel: +27 23 317 0937. High clearance vehicle strongly recommended for all park access roads.

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