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Tour d'Afrique Ltd. | Global Bicycle Expeditions, Races and Tours

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The 2012 Route

Sections

Diamond Coast

Windhoek to Cape Town

Diamond Coast
Start: April 27, Windhoek, Namibia
Finish: May 12, Cape Town, South Africa
Price: €1,700
Distance: 1,732km
Riding Days: 14 days
Resting Days: 2 days
Starting from Windhoek, you will cycle southwest on dirt and sand roads, across the central Namibia plateau and then down into the Namib desert. The highlight of this section is bound to be the dawn visit to the world’s highest sand dunes at Sossusvlei, near Sesriem. Departing the dunes, our route turns south and traverses harshly beautiful and thinly populated lands, en route to the Fish River Canyon, another of Namibia’s natural wonders. From there it’s a long day’s pedal to the scenic Senqu (Orange) River and the final border crossing into South Africa. The excitement builds everyday, as full Tour and sectional riders share in the emotional conclusion of this incredible journey.

Late April in Namibia is equivalent to late October in the Northern Hemisphere. Riders can expect perfect sunny days in the low to mid 20ºs C, and cool cloudless nights ranging from 7 to 12ºC.

Few countries can match South Africa's natural beauty and wealth. Spinning along the quiet highways of Northern Cape Province takes you across the heather strewn hillsides of Namaqualand and past picturesque wine valleys towards the Atlantic Ocean. From Vredendal to Elandsbaai riders tackle the last short stretch of off road corrugation and sand, and revel in the ruggedness of the Coast and its cool, foggy conditions.

Before you know it, the end of the Tour d'Afrique will arrive and you will be raising your bike high over your head at Melkbosstrand, within sight of majestic Table Mountain. From there it’s a leisurely convoy ride into Cape Town, one of the most visibly breath taking and diverse cities in the entire world. After cycling the “Diamond Coast”, you will not want to miss the party at the end, and the opportunity to explore Cape Town and the surrounding Cape of Good Hope region for a few days before bidding farewell to dear friends and heading for home.

Countries: Namibia and South Africa