5-11 Days | Private Cycle Safari

5-11 Days | Private Cycle Safari

Trip Description

* This Journey Is Rated 5 Stars *

We transport you on a one-of-a-kind journey taking in the highlights of South Africa, departing from and returning to Cape Town in a full circle.

Experience a cycle through an ancient fossilized landscape where bushman paintings still dot the rock faces, frozen in place by a dry climate as much as by the arid inaccessibility of a land hostile to those not accustomed to its demands. We meet the people behind a rare white lion breeding program, in Southern Africa's largest private reserve, the culmination of a determined and visionary spirit, setting the pace among its peers.

Again and again, we will make the acquaintance of this rare breed of people, driven by their convictions to preserve a heritage of infinite value while contributing a leading entrepreneurial spirit.

We follow the mantis’ trail to the coastal wetlands of the Garden Route, to pristine and environmentally unique estuaries, populated by rare bird species and countless spawning fish, kayaking the serpentine twists and turns of the dark Touws river to its final resting place.

We cycle through forested highlands dotted with majestic pines and down some of the most breathtaking mountain passes part of the Cape's Fold mountains in the Outeniqua, before entering the plains of the Addo bush, and the home of Shamwari, arguably South Africa’s most prestigious private game reserve.

Here awaits stunning vistas of the African veldt, dotted with  wildlife, impressively large and fiercely committed to the age-old game of the hunted and the hunter. Our professional expert guides takes you closer to the landscape and its inhabitants, physically, but also explaining the tremendous dynamics that underpins the delicate balance, ensuring nature's survival.

The last leg of the journey brings us to a breathtaking vantage point. A seven thousand acre private game and marine reserve, with its majestic lodge overlooking the vast blue expanse of the Indian Ocean. Tracking the migratory path of the Southern Right Whale, as it rounds the tip of Africa on its journey South, promises to be one of the highlights of the journey.

On this magical journey, we cycle, walk and kayak, providing the perfect balance to enjoy the comforts offered by our exquisite lodgings at the end of every day. And we promise the chef’s offerings won’t go unnoticed either. Every day and every experience along this exquisitely crafted journey promises you the unexpected and when it’s over, you will have gathered a treasure chest of memories, to last a lifetime.

Contact us for the full schedule.

Highlights include:

Cape Grace Hotel - Cape Town
Grande Roche - Paarl Valley
Sanbona Wildlife Reserve - Route 62
Views Boutique Hotel - Garden Route
Shamwari, Eagles Crag Lodge
Oceana Marine & Wildlife Reserve

5-11 Days | Private Cycle Safari

Resting under a tree, Shamwari Game Reserve, Port Elizabeth

Kayaking the Serpentine, Wilderness, George, South Africa

A Bike & Saddle signature bush-dinner, Shamwari Game Reserve

Close encounters with Giraffe, Shamwari Game Reserve

Open plains of Sanbona Wildlife Refuge, outside Cape Town

French Toast, Oceana Wildlife & Beach Reserve, Port Alfred

Ocean bush walk

Private beach, Oceana

Sunset near Lake Pleasant, Knysna, South Africa

Longley Manor, Shamwari Game Reserve

Bike & Saddle's shuttle arriving at the Shamwari Gate

Lunch with Peter and Caroline Thorpe (owners) in the vinyards of Bramon Wine Estate, near Plettenberg Bay

Giraffes at Shamwari Game Reserve - early morning game drive

Bike & Saddle's custom designed, Zebra MTB

Grande Roche Hotel, Paarl Valley, South Africa

Swimming Pool, Grande Roche

5-11 Days | Private Cycle Safari

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2011/12 Season: Prices**

DATES:
This trip can run anytime; two persons minimum.

INCLUDES:
• Bikes and all equipment
• Ground transportation
• All meals, refreshments and alcoholic beverages
• Excellent and varied 5 Star accommodation
• Personal service from the best guides in the industry
• 'Special and Expert' excursions en-route
• Back-up vehicle and driver
• All admission fees to reserves, parks and attractions
• All domestic flights

** Note: Prices are quoted in South African Rand (ZAR) per person.

NB: This is a malaria free safari in South Africa's premier game reserves.

Our journeys are carefully researched and custom-designed to ensure a perfect balance of adventure and luxury - with zero hassle for you.

5-11 Days | Private Cycle Safari

We provide a variety of route options so you can do as much or as little activity as you like each day. You'll pass through the area's finest scenery, each route carefully selected based on our rigorous quality standards. You'll enjoy the best of the region's cuisine, as well as Bike and Saddle’s trademark grand picnics. Our Trip Leaders have undergone hundreds of hours of training and are the best in the industry. We are local and know the locality better than anyone!

ROUTE RATING

We’ve rated this trip LEVEL 2

ACTIVITY RATING EXPLAINED

LEVEL 1
10-20 miles/day (biking)
2-5 miles/day (walking)
2-3 hours/day

LEVEL 2
21-30 miles/day (biking)
5-7 miles/day (walking)
2-4 hours/day

LEVEL 3
31-40 miles/day (biking)
7-9 miles/day (walking)
3-5 hours/day

Bike&Saddle's route rating system is the most comprehensive and accurate in the travel industry.

5-11 Days | Private Cycle Safari

Bike and Saddle Tours are guaranteed to run once 5 or more guests book other than trips defined as Special Departures,* excepting only in cases of force majeure (including but not limited to natural disasters, war, or the failure of third parties—such as hotels or campgrounds—to honor their reservations) in which case all payments received to date will be refunded, which constitutes full settlement. Bike and Saddle is not responsible for expenses that are incurred in preparation for any canceled trips, such as airline tickets, or for costs that are incurred due to travel delays, flight cancellations or illness. *Special Departures are as follows: South Africa, Multi-day Trips as noted on our Web site.

Cancellation Policies

1. Rates are quoted per trip per person, in South Africa Rand, US Dollar, Euro and British Pound and are inclusive of Value Added Tax at 14%.
2. Bike and Saddle reserves the right to alter or amend rates and trip details at any time.
3. In the event of a cancellation see hereunder.
4. In the event of a “no-show” or cancellation see hereunder.
5. Please note that the cancellation must be made in writing.
6. The owners and management of Bike and Saddle cannot be held responsible for any loss or damage to the property or for any possessions of the guest participating in a trip.
7. Reservations are subject to terms and conditions as set out in the detailed trip planner.
8. Please note that departure hours are not flexible; therefore kindly ensure you are familiar with the trip departure location and time as provided in your detailed trip planner.

If you must cancel your reservation, your cancellation fee will be determined according to the policy outlined below. Exceptions to our cancellation policy cannot be made for any reason, including weather, terrorism, civil unrest or personal emergencies. There is no refund for arriving late or leaving a trip early. Private room and internal air charges are consider part of the total trip code and are subject to cancellation fees. Percentage charges are calculated on total trip cost.

Transfers: You may transfer from one trip to another up to 95 days before trip departure without penalty - except on our Special Departures,* where you can transfer up to 125 days before trip departs - after which time our cancellation policy applies.

Release of Liability: Guests are required to provide a signed "Release of Liability, Assumption of All Risks, and Arbitration Agreement" form and a completed Personal Information Form prior to trip departure; you will receive these materials shortly after reserving your trip. We are unable to allow guests to participage in any aspect of a Bike and Saddle Tour without a signed release form.

*Special Departures are as follows: South Africa, Multi-day Trips and others noted by your Trip Consultant prior to reservation.

†Rather than forfeit the cancellation fees, you may choose to keep your trip deposit ($600) in a holding account to use on a future Bike and Saddle trip (no expiration date).

Travel Protection Insurance

Bike and Saddle offers a guest protection plan that covers trip cancellation for medical reasons, trip delay, medical expenses, accidental death, lost baggage, medical evacuation and airline cancellation charges. Please call and speak with one of our Trip Consultants if you have specific coverage questions. Because so many guests purchase this plan, we have made it convenient for you to obtain by automatically adding the cost to your invoice. It's effective on the day your designated travel protection plan payment or final trip payment is received by our office. Please note that deposits may not be applied toward your travel protection plan premium. Should you not be interested in our travel protection plan, simply deduct its cost from the invoice total at time of final payment. You must comply to certain criteria as set out by the insurer to be eligible. You will receive these materials shortly after reserving your trip.

Transfering to another trip after having already made a reservation

In most cases you may transfer from one trip to another up to 95 days before trip departure without penalty, after which time our cancellation policy applies. For special departures you may transfer up to 125 days before trip departure without penalty, after which time our cancellation policy applies. When transferring to a different date or trip, if the trip costs more than your original trip, you must pay the difference.

5-11 Days | Private Cycle Safari

Q. How long has Bike & Saddle been in business and who owns the company?
A. Bike & Saddle was founded in 2007 by a group of leading southern Africa based active travel professionals, as a new and exciting international brand within the eco-active travel market. They bring to the business a combined professionalism, creativity and experience spanning 27 years. The business is proudly South African, and based in the fairest of cities, Cape Town.

Q. How can I reach Bike & Saddle?
A. You can e-mail us at trips@bikeandsaddle.com. You can also write, phone or fax us at:

PO Box 51196, Waterfront, Cape Town 8002 South Africa
tel: +27 21 813 6433
fax: +27 86 520 2216

Q. What do your trip prices include?
A.

• All accommodation
• All breakfasts, lunches and picnics and all dinners except for one, when you’ll have the opportunity to sample local fare on your own
• Personal and professional services of our experienced guides
• Snacks and beverages between meals
• Additional guides and experts from the region on all trips
• Van shuttles to support a variety of route options
• Comprehensive Travel Planner with detailed pre-trip information
• Private guided tours at museums, historic sites, wineries and other select attractions
• Special events, including wine tastings and other select attractions as mentioned in the Travel Planner
• On biking and multisport trips, use of fully equipped Bike & Saddle composite bikes plus helmet and accessories
  
• Equipment and experienced guides for kayaking, rafting, snorkeling, sailing, horse riding and canoeing as described in the Travel Planner
  
• All park and other entry fees
• All fares for trains, ferries and other modes of travel as listed in the Travel Planner
• Select coach transfers
• Baggage transfers and porterage
• Bike & Saddle T-Shirt and water bottle gift (only on multi-day trips)
  
  Not included: airfare, some alcoholic beverages (wines and sparkling wines are mostly included), gratuities for trip leaders and personal expenses
  

Q. What kind of shape do I need to be in to enjoy my trip?
A. Bike & Saddle vacations are designed for all levels of bicyclists, walkers and multisport enthusiasts. Some trips are more challenging than others and we suggest that you refer to the Activity Level Options page or talk to one of our Trip Consultants about your current activity level and the type of adventure you're looking for. They’ll help you pick the right trip for you. Call +27 21 813 6433 to speak to a Trip Consultant daily from 7 a.m.-5 p.m. (GMT+2 local time).

Q. How should I train for my trip?
A. You’ll get the most enjoyment out of your adventure if you are reasonably fit. Try running, hiking, swimming or other aerobic activity for at least 20 minutes, three times a week, to help you stay in shape. If you’re choosing a biking trip, the best training is to get out and ride—hills and flats—several hours at a time on consecutive days. The key is to just do it—and want to do it again the next day. Once you reserve a vacation with us, we'll send you specific training tips for your trip.

Q. How do you accommodate people of varying abilities?
A. On most days of your Bike & Saddle vacation, you’ll have a choice of three mileage options. One day you might go for the most challenging. The next day, you may take it easy by choosing the shortest route, leaving more time for relaxation, exploration or mingling with the locals. You and your fellow travelers may spread out over several miles* or you may choose to ride or walk together. For your peace of mind, one leader covers the route in a Bike and Saddle van, ready to offer assistance, refreshments or a lift to the hotel (or campsite).  *Special rules apply for our Safari Cycle Trips where spreading-out is not an option.

Our trips attract people of varying abilities so there’s typically someone else traveling at your speed. This is ideal for friends and couples with different paces; they can spend the day with similarly fit travelers and then reunite for the evenings.

Q. How long will we be active each day?
A. It’s up to you to decide how far you want to travel. Depending on the route options you choose and the pace you set, you’ll typically spend three to five hours each day, biking or walking or—on our multisport trips—engaging in a combination of biking and walking along with such activities as kayaking, rafting or snorkeling.

The number of activity hours you can expect for each level per day:

Level 1:             2-4

Level 2:             3-5

Level 3:             4-6

Level 4:             5-7+

See our Route Rating info provided for each trip for more details about time and distance involved in each level.

Q. How do your leaders support the biking and walking routes?
A. On biking trips, one leader drives the support van, sweeping the route several times during the day and providing lifts and assistance as needed. Another leader rides the route, roving between groups traveling at different speeds. On walking trips, one leader usually takes the lead while the other brings up the rear. The amount of van support depends on the location of the walking routes. On trips with kayaking and rafting excursions, leaders typically team up with an experienced local guide to give you support and instruction.

Q. Do I have to carry any of my own luggage or gear?
A. The leaders transport all luggage between hotels (or campgrounds) in Bike & Saddle’ special trailers. They’ll also gladly pick up and transport any purchases you make along the way. You need only carry snacks, clothing and personal items for the day’s activities.

Q. Who travels with Bike & Saddle?
A. About half of the people who travel with us are between the ages of 35 and 55. Older and younger travelers are also well represented. Depending on your trip, you may meet solo travelers, families and couples. They’ll exhibit a diversity of interests and occupations and share a love of active travel and the outdoors.

Q. How large will my group be?
A. The average group size on all Bike & Saddle trips is 10. Maximum group size is 15.

Q. Are children welcome on all Bike & Saddle trips?
A. Bike & Saddle offers trips exclusively for families with kid-sized routes and activities. These trips feature family-friendly pricing. If you’re not able to take a Family Trip, your family may be able to join a non-family trip. We recommend that you talk to a Trip Consultant (at Call +27 21 813 6433 to speak to a Trip Consultant daily from 7 a.m.-5 p.m., GMT+2 time) to select the best trip for your family.

Q. If I'm traveling alone, will you find me a roommate or can I have a private room?
A. Our prices are based on double occupancy (two people per room). If you would like a roommate, we often can pair you with one (same gender). If no roommate is available, there is no additional charge if you sign up more than 60 days in advance of trip departure. If you sign up within 60 days, and Bike & Saddle cannot pair you with roommate, a single occupancy supplement will apply. On some occasions, twin rooms consist of one bed and one rollaway or foldout sleeper. On a few trips, twin room availability is limited; a single occupancy supplement applies if a twin room is not available, regardless of the number of days before departure.

Q. Should I bring my own bike?
A. Included in your trip price are Bike & Saddle’ high-quality, custom-designed composite bicycles for use and enjoyment on all biking and multisport trips. In rare instances when Bike & Saddle bicycles are not available, models of comparable quality will be provided. If you choose to bring your own bike, your Trip Consultant can offer tips on the best ways to ship it to the trip start.

Q. Do you provide children's bikes?
A. We offer children's bikes on all Family Trips, as well as trailer carriers to tote children 60 pounds and under, and the Giant Halfwheeler for children ages 4-10 or up to 85 pounds.

Q. Can you provide me with guest references for your trips?
A. Absolutely. Your Trip Consultant will be happy to give you the names and telephone numbers of people who have participated in the trip you're considering.

Q. How far in advance do I need to reserve my vacation?
A. The farther in advance you book, the greater availability of dates you'll find. For holiday periods and popular summer destinations, such as Cape Town & The Kruger National Park, to name two, we recommend reserving at least four to six months before the trip you’re interested in departs.

Q. Can I reserve my Bike and Saddle vacation with my travel agent?
A. Yes, Bike & Saddle accepts reservations from professional travel agents. If you prefer to have your travel agent handle your Bike & Saddle booking, please have him or her contact us directly. Pricing is the same whether you book directly with Bike and Saddle or with your travel agent. If you need an agency referral please let us know.

Q. Does information found on this Web site differ from that found in your catalog?
A. Because this site is continually updated to ensure posting of the most current information, trip dates and other details may differ from those found in our printed materials.

Q. What is Bike & Saddle's privacy policy?
A. Please refer to Bike and Saddle Privacy Policy page.