The Goukamma Nature Reserve and Marine Protected Area is situated along the scenic Garden Route on the Western Cape’s southern coast. A hard-core ride-cum-push through sand, sand and more sand. Scenery is awesome though.

On your bike

From the reserve gate, follow the tarmac road towards Buffels Bay. Turn right before reaching the backpackers lodge on the right, following the low-water mark along the beach. Be aware that the sand can be loose which makes the ride a real slog. Look out for a sign on top of the dunes and follow the sandy trail to the ferry across the river and back home.

Off the bike

Goukamma Nature Reserve: Hiking, horse riding, fishing, bird watching, canoeing and pedalling on plastic pedal boats, whale-watching, picnic and braaiing.

GPS: 34°4’6.73″ South / 22°56’52.29″ East