The best road cycling routes around Johannesberg

There are over 360 road cycling routes available around Johannesburg on komoot, catering to various skill levels. This includes 48 easy routes, 218 moderate routes, and 101 difficult routes, ensuring options for every cyclist.

Road cycling routes in Johannesburg offer a diverse range of terrain. You'll find beautifully tarred country roads, such as those in the Cradle of Humankind, alongside urban paths, green spaces, and river trails. Some routes feature grasslands, wetlands, and rocky hills, providing varied elevation profiles and challenges.

Yes, several areas offer family-friendly road cycling. The Emmarentia Dam and Johannesburg Botanical Garden are local favorites with flat paths and gentle slopes, suitable for all fitness levels. The Cradle of Humankind also has dedicated cycle lanes, making it a safer option for families, though some sections can be longer.

For challenging rides with significant elevation gain, consider routes that explore the more undulating landscapes. The Climb to Engländer – Forest Inn "Zum Engländer" loop from Schimborn, for example, features over 620 meters of ascent over 46 kilometers. The Klipriviersberg Nature Reserve also offers diverse terrain with rocky hills for a more strenuous workout.

Johannesburg's routes offer several scenic highlights. The Cradle of Humankind provides views over the Crocodile River valley and passes the Rhino and Lion Nature Reserve. Within the city, the Johannesburg Botanical Garden offers lush greenery and colorful flowers. You can also find viewpoints like the Ludwig Tower (Hahnenkamm) and the View of Johannisburg Castle on routes around the region.

Yes, many road cycling routes around Johannesburg are designed as loops. For instance, the central loop in the Cradle of Humankind spans approximately 30 km, with options to extend it. Routes like the Hohler Buckel Ascent – Descent to Hohl loop from Hörstein and the View of Hohl – Alzenau Castle loop from Schimborn are also popular circular options.

The road cycling experience in Johannesburg is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 1,100 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse terrain, from the well-maintained country roads of the Cradle of Humankind to the serene green spaces within the city, and the variety of routes suitable for different fitness levels.

Yes, especially in popular cycling areas. The Cradle of Humankind, for example, features bike-friendly cafes and venues that cater to early-morning riders. Many routes, particularly those passing through urban areas or popular parks, will have nearby options for refreshments. The Hahnenkamm Mountain Inn is one such spot.

Absolutely. Some routes offer a blend of cycling and cultural exploration. The View of Hohl – Alzenau Castle loop from Schimborn passes by Alzenau Castle. Other notable historical sites in the broader region include Seligenstadt Abbey and the Seligenstadt Old Town, which can be incorporated into longer rides.

Johannesburg generally offers good cycling conditions for much of the year. The region experiences a mild climate, making it suitable for road cycling outside of the peak summer rainy season (typically November to February) when thunderstorms can occur. Cooler, drier months, particularly autumn (March to May) and spring (September to October), often provide the most pleasant riding temperatures.

While many routes are moderate in length, the Cradle of Humankind offers options for longer rides. Its central 30 km loop can be extended to 50 km by including Sterkfontein Caves, or even up to 150 km by completing the loop multiple times, making it ideal for long-distance training or extended weekend rides.