A Trailblazing Adventure!

Congratulations on completing Stage 1—now, gear up for Stage 2, where the excitement and challenge continue! Today, we return to a fan-favorite route from 2023, but with an exciting twist. Departing from Louvain, the trail winds eastward toward Noll, showcasing the pristine beauty of valleys nestled just north of the towering Outeniqua Mountains. Your first pit stop is at water point 1 at Ganzekraal—a moment to recharge amidst stunning surroundings.

Crossing under the N9, the route turns northward toward Eagle Falls and Buffelsdrift. This is where the twist unfolds: with the Kammanassie Mountains rising on your right and the Kammanassie River flowing on your left, you’ll journey along some of the most immaculate trails the Klein Karoo has to offer. The exhilaration builds as you descend rapidly into the Jacobsdal Farmhouse area, only to face the notorious steep climb out of the riverbed—a brutal yet immensely rewarding challenge.

As you head southward back to Louvain, water point 3 signals the final climb of the day. The panoramic views here are truly breathtaking and a fitting reward for your efforts. Crossing the finish line marks the end of another hard-fought stage as we prepare to transition into the true heart of the Karoo.

Well done on conquering two demanding stages—you’re proving unstoppable on this epic journey!

START: Louvain Guest Farm, Herold
FINISH: Louvain Guest Farm, Herold
Distance: 109 km
Vertical ascent: 2 250 meters

The Karoo Beckons!

Get ready for an unforgettable adventure as Stage 3 unveils the rugged charm and beauty of our beloved Karoo. This stage is a nod to history, featuring sections once traversed during the days of Katot, the visionary route founder of the original Pioneer. Known for his deep love of the land and straightforward grit, this stage pays tribute to his legacy with a route that is both challenging and awe-inspiring.

The transition to Oudtshoorn is no easy feat. Expect fast, technical jeep tracks and rough single tracks that demand focus and skill. This is a day where the diversity of the Pioneer truly shines, as the mild coastal climate gives way to the harsher, more unforgiving environment of the Karoo.

The shift in terrain happens just beyond water point 1and climate is palpable as riders enter the arid, desert-like landscape.

Approaching Oudtshoorn, just after water point 3, from a fresh perspective, you’ll find yourself on an exhilarating path toward the Langenhoven Gymnasium, our welcoming hosts for the next couple of days.

This stage is a testament to the endurance and spirit of adventure that defines the Pioneer. Embrace the challenge, and let the Karoo leave its indelible mark on your journey!

START: Louvain Guest Farm, Herold.
FINISH: Langenhoven Gimnasium, Oudtshoorn
Distance: 90 km
Vertical ascent: 1 450 meters

The Iconic Swartberg Awaits!

The pinnacle of the Pioneer, Stage 4, stands as an enduring icon of the race—legendary for its difficulty and celebrated as one of the best. The mighty Swartberg Mountain is as formidable as it is breathtaking, with its ever-changing, often extreme weather adding an element of unpredictability. Many have tried to conquer its heights, but only the truly determined reach the summit.

This Queen Stage promises to push every rider to their limits, but the reward is unmatched: awe-inspiring views and the pride of finishing at nearly 2000 meters above sea level after a staggering vertical climb of over 2000 meters.

The journey begins as the route departs Oudtshoorn, heading eastward through the foothills of this majestic range. Riders will gradually ascend toward the mountain, each pedal stroke bringing them closer to its legendary peak. The final 8km is an unrelenting climb, a true test of strength and willpower, culminating at the finish line atop the Swartberg—a World Heritage Site that greets every rider with unparalleled beauty and grandeur.

Here, the stage is set for the battle of the jerseys. The yellow and pink jerseys could find their rightful owners on this day, but the race is far from over—tomorrow holds yet another challenge.

Brace yourself for a stage that defines what it means to be a Pioneer. The Swartberg is waiting!

START: Langenhoven Gimnasium, Oudtshoorn.
FINISH: Swartberg Mountain, Oudtshoorn.
Distance: 84 km
Vertical ascent: 2 100 meters

The Grand Finale – A Celebration of Achievement!

Widely regarded as one of the best stages, the 2024 finale is a completely reimagined version of the beloved conclusion to a week of incredible riding. From the very start, a strategic climb will test the field, with the potential to reshape the overall standings one final time.

The iconic Chandelier section makes a triumphant return—but with a twist. While details remain under wraps, rest assured this segment will deliver excitement and memorable moments, all while keeping the focus on fun and celebrating the week’s achievements.

Covering 60 kilometers of thrilling terrain, riders will tackle jeep-track climbs and exhilarating single-track descents, racing toward the finish line in style. The stage concludes with a fast and electrifying sprint to the finish, the perfect way to cap off an unforgettable week in the saddle.

Here’s to an epic journey—see you again in 2026!

START: Langenhoven Gimnasium, Oudtshoorn
FINISH: Oudtshoorn CBD
Distance: 64 km
Vertical ascent: 1 100 meters