There’s Only One Way Out of Wilderness — Up

The Cape Pioneer kicks off with a bang. For the second year running we roll out of the charming coastal town of Wilderness, hemmed in by the Outeniquas on one side and the endless ocean on the other. And as every local will tell you with a grin: there’s only one way out of Wilderness — straight up.

From the Wilderness Hotel the opening 15 km is pure magic, skimming the lakes and sweeping east toward Swartvlei Guest Farm, where the first real climb sets the tone and starts sorting the field. From there the fun begins in earnest — flowing singletrack across rolling grassland, past Libertas Cottages and into the famed Oakhurst trails, today’s undisputed highlight and worth the entry on their own.

Don’t get comfortable. Past water point 1 the course kicks back hard with a brutal ascent up Bergplaas toward the infamous Duiwelskop — the old ox-wagon crossing that generations of traders and farmers hauled themselves over long before anyone thought to do it for fun. A final water point offers brief respite before the exhilarating plunge into the Louvain Valley and a hero’s welcome.

Stage 1 is tough, spectacular and unforgettable — the perfect way to announce that you’ve arrived at the Cape Pioneer. Well done. The fun has only just begun.

Into the Land of Thirst

Stage 3 is where the race changes character completely, turning its back on the lush coast and plunging into the rugged heart of the Karoo — a name the Khoi gave this country meaning, simply, the land of thirst. It is also a tribute to the race’s roots: sections first pioneered by Katot, the original trailblazer whose grit and love for this land shaped the early days of the Pioneer.

The shift is immediate. A stiff climb out of Louvain delivers you onto a landscape that feels worlds apart — dry, vast and unforgiving. Water point 1 marks the entry into true Karoo country at Brakrivier and Kapteinskloof. From here, expect punchy, kicking jeep track and the kind of riding that demands skill and focus in equal measure.

Water point 2 sits at Homestead, a magnificent farmhouse beneath the Kammanassie mountains, and leads into a never-before-ridden section past Stolsvlakte and the beautiful setting at AfriCamps Klein Karoo — truly magnificent riding.

Past water point 3, Oudtshoorn comes into view: ostrich capital of the world, and a town built on feathers back when Klein Karoo plumes ranked among the Cape’s most valuable exports, behind only gold, diamonds and wool. A final charge carries you into town and across the line at Langenhoven Gymnasium — your base for the next two days.

Stage 3 is raw, honest and iconic. It tests endurance, showcases diversity, and leaves the Karoo’s stamp on every rider.

The Grand Finale — Chandelier Calls

The final stage is a celebration — a fast, thrilling loop that blends racing, adventure and pure joy on the bike. At 65 km it’s the shortest day of the week, but 1 350 m of climbing says don’t mistake short for easy, and it opens with a climb built to shake up the field one last time.

The legendary Chandelier section makes its return, this time with a brand-new twist we’re keeping under wraps until race day. What we will promise: flowing singletrack, sharp climbs and grin-inducing descents that bring out the very best of the Pioneer spirit.

The final kilometres are pure adrenaline — a fast, electric sprint to the line. Behind you: five days, 392 kilometres and more than 7 000 metres of climbing. Ahead: the cheers, the medals and a celebration you have richly earned.

You’ve taken on the Cape Pioneer, and you’ve won. See you again in 2027!

To WP1

From Oudtshoorn take the R62/N12 towards George, turn right into Chandelier Game Reserve and drive towards their reception area – water point will be on the left. Please park safely and well clear of the road and race route.

Water Point 1 – 33 km

Water Point 2 – 52 km  |  Tech zone 1 + Spectator zone 1 | S33° 39.755′ E22° 13.820′