Most of us hate to admit it but we all know that exercise is the answer to most of our issues – be it physical or mental. Once your heart rate is up and the blood is flowing, everything suddenly seems clear. We might hate it while in the moment but still always find ourselves saying afterwards, “Wow, I should really do that more often”.
So why not make your exercise routine that much more exciting and explore beautiful South Africa on a bike?
The Marrick Safaris MTB trail
This trail can be found in the Northern Cape in the region of Diamond Fields. The Marrick Safari Ranch is a quick drive from Kimberley and offers 3000 hectares of beautiful African savannah to explore.
The MTB routes all basically consist of an extensive network of 4×4 trails and roads within the Safari area. And occasionally the routes can ascend along with a variety of hiking trails where exciting singletracks awaits. These MTB routes are perfect for riders of all levels as it allows you to select distances and terrain suitable to your own fitness level and experience. However, be aware that many riders often underestimate the difficulty of the terrain and the apparent “flatness” of the area.
Marrick Safari Camp is known for its abundance of birdlife and as riders ride through the wide-open spaces, every now and then they might catch a glimpse of larger species – including giraffe, gemsbok, zebra and wildebeest.
What to keep in mind
If you are a guest at the Marrick Safari Ranch, it is free to ride. However, a day visitor fee will be applicable for outside riders. And the ranch also offers guesthouse facilities, self-catering cottages and bathroom facilities.
Bikes are also available to hire at the ranch.
When observing the area’s climate, hot, wet summers and mild, dry winters can be expected. And during the summertime, severe thunderstorms are the norm. But in the winter, temperatures can easily drop to below freezing during the nighttime.
What to do off the bike?
Once the MTB routes have been explored, it’s time to explore the rest of the area! Enjoy one of the stunning hiking trails, guided game drives or just relax by the swimming pool.
The ranch also has a shooting range available for skeet shooting and target practice.
And for the more adventurous group, whitewater rafting is available at the Orange River, which is about one hour’s drive away.
Or if you would rather learn something new bout the area, visit the fascinating mining museum in Kimberley and pay a visit to the Big Hole.