Nothing gets the blood pumping like hitting the track with a quad bike. Luckily for South African quad-biking enthusiasts, there is a massive selection of tracks for beginner or seasoned riders passionate about life.
There are also many terrains to choose from locally (nine biomes in total), such as venturing over giant sand dunes, crawling over rugged mountain terrain, exploring dense forests, or darting across an empty beach. South Africa is home to gorgeous and diverse landscapes.
Let’s start with a Cape Town favourite for quad-bikers and 4×4 enthusiasts.
1. Dunes 4×4 (Atlantis Dunes) – Western Cape
Cape Town’s Atlantis Dunes (commonly called the Dunes) are one of the closest and most popular off-road adventure destinations. Located 45 minutes from the center of the Mother City, the Dunes offer riders an easy-to-reach trail that’s also a thrilling 4×4 venue.
The dunes span over 32 square kilometres and are known for their white sands, reaching up to 50 meters tall. However, with constant winds battering the dunes, they move around, meaning every session is unique, promising riders a different experience every time.
Other elements that make the Dunes a must-visit are the spectacular views of Table Mountain and the surrounding areas. The soft sand also provides riders with a semi-comfortable landing.
Be aware that the dunes are part of a protected nature reserve. Riders need a permit to enter and must explore the area responsibly.
If you are visiting, you can arrange quad bike rentals through several Cape Town adventure companies for a day to explore the majestic dunes.
While the trail is open all year round, the best time to visit is during the cooler summer months, either in the early morning or late afternoon, when the dunes cast much-needed shade.
2. Areena Riverside Resort – Eastern Cape
The Wild Coast is known for its untamed beauty, wildlife, and pristine beaches, but it also offers adventurers an untouched environment to explore.
Nestled on the banks of the Kwelera tidal river is the Areena Riverside Resort, which is inside the vast 450-hectare game reserve. Located just 23km from East London, the reserve marks the start of the majestic Wild Coast.
While this isn’t a quad-bike track, so to speak, it is a fantastic safari experience with expert instructors who will take you on adventures that last from a 20-minute short tour to an epic wildness experience of 120 minutes.
Areena’s reverse is also home to an extremely friendly giraffe named Abby, whom guests can get close to. Some even feed the tallest animal on earth.
The best time of year to visit the Wild Coast is between May and September, when the weather cools down and becomes less humid. Also, during this time period, the terrain is easier to ride on, as the trails are less muddy.
And if you’re travelling with friends or family who are not keen on quad-biking, the remote resort offers loads of other activities for them.
3. Drakensberg Quad Bike Trails – KwaZulu-Natal
Known for its awe-inspiring beauty, the Drakensberg’s landscape makes it perfect for all adventurers.
For quad biking enthusiasts, the Drakensberg Quad Trails offer a thrilling way to explore the heart of this UNESCO World Heritage site. These trails wind through the towering mountains, dense forests, and pristine rivers, providing an adventure combining rugged terrain and stunning scenery.
The Drakensberg Quad tracks start from the Cathedral Peak Hotel, which is in the epicentre of the mountainous area.
The trail here runs through open valleys, up challenging inclines, and winds along narrow mountain paths. Riders can enjoy views of the dramatic Cathedral Peak, one of the region’s most recognisable summits.
While you can ride around this region all year round, the best times are during spring and autumn, when the weather is mild, as the trails are bound to be less muddy and slippery.
4. Induna Adventures – Mpumalanga
Close to Hazyview and the Kruger National Park, Induna Adventures offers a variety of off-road quad biking trails through beautiful natural surroundings.
Professional guides will assist novice riders, while the mountainous terrains, forests, and valleys offer veteran riders a genuinely immersive experience.
If you’re looking for a more tailored rider, contact Induna Adventures, which will plan an adventure tailored to your riding capabilities.
The best time to visit Induna Adventures for quad biking is during the dry season, typically from May to September. During this time, the weather is cooler, and the trails are less muddy, making for a smoother riding experience.
But what if you’re looking for something different to do on a quad bike?
5. Wine Valley Adventures – Western Cape
Located in the heart of the Western Cape’s Franschhoek wine region, Wine Valley Adventures offers a unique blend of adventure, nature, and wine tasting.
Riders can take in the panoramic views overlooking the charming vineyards. The trails wind through farms, forests, and natural reserves high in the mountains dotted around the region.
Overnight stays can be arranged for those wanting to enjoy the sunset from the Cape’s majestic winelands.
And remember to enjoy your beverages responsibly.
If you want to get your quad-bike started on its next adventure, ensure its battery is working, or bring it to your closest SABAT Xpress branch for testing.
