The majority of people have the misconception that safaris are nothing more than canoeing or walking through the wilderness; however, they are incorrect. The vast majority of safaris provide adults with the opportunity to let loose and have an experience of a lifetime using quad bikes or mini bikes. On the other hand, mountain biking is not offered at nearly as many game reserves as it should be. Even if they do, you will never be alone; a guide or ranger will always be by your side.
When you rent an ATV or quad bike, you can put yourself in the driver’s seat and go off the beaten path as you discover new trails. Off-roading through salt flats, dunes, and rolling hills, where nothing is standing between you and the vastness of the landscape, will instill in you a profoundly unique appreciation for the extraordinary natural beauty of the region. Those who are addicted to adrenaline will find that going on an ATV safari or a quad biking safari is the ideal way to satiate their need for the rush while also getting to experience the great outdoors.
Mountain biking provides a unique perspective on the terrain because it allows the rider to explore on two wheels rather than four. Participants on this type of safari will move almost in complete silence and at a pace comparable to that of a snail, continuously scanning the horizon for indications of the presence of life. These could be anything from zebras, wildebeests, and antelopes like impala to larger species like elephants, but they would have to keep a safe distance from one another. When one decides to go on a cycling safari and make use of pedal power while viewing wildlife, one can select from several different options made available by specialized tour operators. Mountain bike races that have a connection to conservation issues will appeal to the more daring participants, while family-friendly events typically involve relatively small groups moving at a leisurely pace along well-traveled routes.
What is Quad Biking?
The term “quad bike” refers to a category of small, all-terrain vehicles that typically have four wheels and are propelled by a relatively small motor engine. They are similar to the handlebars on a bicycle and come equipped with brake and throttle controls. During this activity, you will be required to wear protective gear, including a full-face, off-road helmet, which has a design that is similar to that of a motorcycle helmet. The majority of time spent behind the wheel of a quad is spent on specialized off-road courses.
While you are driving around the track on the quad bike, you will have the opportunity to work on maintaining your balance and improving your coordination. It teaches you to keep an eye out for other people around you while also keeping an eye on where you’re going to make sure you can get around the corners safely. When you are the driver of your motor vehicle, you have the independence and freedom to make your own decisions while you are on the road. You will also gain a better understanding of the significance of driving safely around the track, ensuring that you are maneuvering in a controlled manner around the corners, and providing sufficient space for your friends so that they can also drive safely and with confidence.
Quad Biking Safaris
Because you get to ride a quad bike (also known as an all-terrain vehicle) through an environment that you thought you could only see on postcards – lush forests, outstanding dunes, and wildlands filled with exotic flora and fauna – quad biking is the ideal activity for people who identify as both adrenaline junkies and nature lovers. Quad biking is the perfect activity for people who identify as both adrenaline junkies and nature lovers. Nowadays, there are a lot of locations where you can ride a quad bike:
1. Namibia
When out on the quads, the remote desert scenery opens up in the most dramatic and exhilarating manner possible, making Serra Cafema Camp in northwest Namibia one of the best places in the world to go quad biking. However, it is also one of the most remote and expensive places in the world. Dune driving is an exhilarating experience, and descending the steep scarp slopes of some of the more massive dunes is the kind of thing that will make your mouth water.
At Sossusvlei, where guided quad-bike trips take small groups of guests along fixed trails to the very edge of the great Namib dune sea, some options are both significantly more accessible and more affordably priced.
The exceptional Kwessi Dunes Camp can be found a little further to the south in the Nambrand Reserve. This is where you’ll find some of the best quad-biking in the country; the course takes riders up those well-known red dunes.
2. Republic of Zambia
The Republic of Zambia is not only well-known for the magnificent Victoria Falls, but it also has several other attractions that are sure to impress both cautious explorers and seasoned risk-takers.
The eco-trail at Batoka Land and the village trail are both available for quad bike tours that are provided by the Livingstone Quad Company. The first one is roughly an hour long and travels through 42 acres of unspoiled African bushland, which features rugged terrain, sharp turns, and sudden drops. Some people believe that experiencing the hike during the night adds a new dimension of excitement to the experience. If you do decide to give it a shot, just make sure to wear something reflective so that you don’t put yourself in danger.
If after reading that you felt more anxious than excited, then you should probably go with the village trail because it’s more suited to your personality. However, you shouldn’t take that to mean that it won’t provide you with a satisfying rush of adrenaline. The village trail not only provides you with the opportunity to take a guided tour of the area from Mukuni village past Muchenje, but it also allows you to ride your quad bike up over dunes and past a dense bush while passing through Sichilobe village. To put the cherry on top of everything, you also have the option to engage in conversation with the natives.
3. Lake Mburo National Park
Lake Mburo National Park is a stunning area with a variety of ecosystems to explore. You can expect to see herds of zebra, impala, and eland in Lake Mburo, as well as groups of waterbuck, buffalo, and topi, as well as families of warthogs and baboons. Lake Mburo is home to a wide variety of animal and bird species. There is a chance that you will come across a lone oribi or klipspringer, a flock of egrets flying swiftly across the lake, a pair of crested cranes hanging out near a mud hole, or a group of black-backed vultures perched in a tree canopy or flying high overhead. This park is home to more than 300 different types of avian species, according to the records kept there. Additionally, this park does not contain any elephants or lions, making it an excellent destination for a visit on a quad.
A tour that begins in Jinja and travels along the Nile River’s banks promises to offer a wide variety of sights, including the opportunity to observe a large number of wild animals up close, as well as birds, fish, and mammals.
Take a moment to pause and take in the astoundingly diverse array of life that is flourishing along the banks of the Nile, the world’s longest river and the mighty source of all life.
What is Mountain Biking?
The sport of mountain biking consists of riding a bicycle on a variety of off-road trails of varying difficulty. To be able to navigate through difficult terrain successfully requires stamina, speed, balance, and technical expertise. Mountain bikers, as opposed to road bikers, actively seek out obstacles and view the world around them as a natural playground that is both challenging and full of winding trails. There are opportunities to put their abilities to the test at every turn, whether it be on sections of vertical descent, steep ascents, unstable rocks, water crossings, or even tree roots.
Mountain biking encompasses a variety of sub-genres, each with its unique challenges, from hair-raising descents to relaxing treks through scenic forest trails. You are very likely to find a trail that is a perfect match for your level and abilities, regardless of whether you are an experienced biker or a complete beginner. It is strongly suggested that individuals who are new to the sport of mountain biking go on their first ride with a guide.
The sport of mountain biking is high-energy and provides a full-body workout for riders. You don’t just work out your legs and strengthen your heart and lungs when you go for a ride; you also work out your upper body (when you climb with your bike or maneuver with your arms). The riders’ balance, coordination, and stability all improve as a result of cycling.
Mountain biking is a physically demanding activity, but it’s also great for relieving stress and relaxing the mind because you get to be outside and the scenery is always changing.
Mountain Biking Safaris
Since you will spend the majority of your time on your African safari inside a vehicle, you may want to consider switching to a mode of transportation that only has two wheels. Bicycle safaris are quickly gaining popularity as a popular activity that can be enjoyed all over Africa. These safaris provide participants with a unique vantage point of the surrounding environment.
There are African bicycle safaris in places that you might expect, such as the relaxed Winelands region of Cape Town. However, there are also African bicycle safaris in places that you might not expect, such as the South Luangwa National Park, which is Zambia’s premier destination for viewing big games. And a bicycle safari can take you to places that you won’t be able to reach with a four-wheel drive vehicle: hop on a wide-wheeled fat bike, and now you can conquer dune landscapes from the coast of the Cape to the Namib Desert.
There are two ways to book a bike safari: if you are staying at a safari lodge that offers biking, then it will be an option on your program of activities along with drives and walks. If you are not staying at a safari lodge that offers biking, then you will need to book a separate bike safari. Then there are the operators of bike safaris in places like Cape Town and Victoria Falls, which are booked separately from your accommodations. In either case, the lodges as well as the operators will provide the bike as well as all the gear you need. You also have the option of going on an e-bike safari, which is a pedal-assist bike that takes care of the uphill portions of the ride for you. This is a good option for novice riders or people who are concerned about their fitness levels. Here are mountain biking safari destinations:
1. Mountain & Sea – Whale Coast, South Africa
Grootbos is a private reserve that boasts luxurious lodging and some of the world’s best guides. It is located in the mountains with a view of one of the most desirable places in the world to watch whales. In addition to their other immersive activities, such as walks and drives, they offer biking as a means of experiencing the sights, smells, and sounds of the singular fynbos ecosystem of the Cape. You have the option of going at a leisurely pace on winding gravel roads while being led by a trained guide or picking up the tempo on more difficult single-track mountain bike trails designed for riders with more experience.
Grootbos also offers fat-biking on the coastal dunes of blue-water Walker Bay, which is famous for its whale-watching during the springtime months. The mountains have been taken care of. The extra-thick tires ensure that you won’t become bogged down in the sand, and the safari will take you to lookout points from which you can spot whales, dolphins, and seals. The combination of Cape Town and the Winelands is the perfect vacation spot.
2. By the Zambezi – Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe
The roaring waterfall at Victoria Falls isn’t the only reason to visit this destination; this is also a destination with traditional markets, giant baobab trees, and river-forest wildlife. Include all of these activities in a bike tour that lasts for half a day. You have the option of going on a bike safari through Victoria Falls first thing in the morning, before lunch, or later in the afternoon, and it is set on easy roads and pathways that are mostly flat. These tours are available all year round, provided that the weather cooperates. It is best to go early during the hot summer months, but during the winter months, an afternoon ride is preferable. Book your reservation when you are subsequently evaluating the weather conditions.
As you cycle along the riverside forest of the Zambezi, you have the opportunity to see antelope, baboons, and warthogs, among other animals, and there are many different views to look forward to, including those of Victoria Falls. The sighting of elephants, which are relatively common along the river, may come as something of a surprise to you but know that you are in the capable hands of experienced guides.
3. Primates & Wildlife Cycling Adventure
A journey through western Uganda that lasts for 9 days and 8 nights. This will allow you to see the most breathtaking scenery, engage with the native people, take part in an exciting water safari, search for the elusive chimpanzees, and observe the critically endangered mountain gorillas. This package can be shortened to four days and three nights, or it can be lengthened to cover additional fascinating areas to cater to the interests of individual travelers.
4. Lake Mburo Wild Cycling Experience
Lake Mburo National Park is the smallest of Uganda’s savannah national parks, but its fauna is noticeably distinct from that of parks such as Bwindi or Kibale. The park’s five lakes are home to hippos, crocodiles, and a wide variety of water birds. The fringing swamps, meanwhile, conceal secretive wetlands wildlife such as the sitatunga and the red, black, and yellow papyrus gonalek bird. Mburo is also the best place in all of Uganda to see cape eland, zebra, topi, and impala, the latter of which is the animal after which Kampala was named.
5. Big Game Country – South Luangwa, Zambia
In a place where the elephant, giraffe, buffalo, and lion are among the largest animals in the world, you could be forgiven for thinking that four wheels are superior to two in this location. But South Luangwa is the place where walking safaris were perfected; this is a destination that immerses you in the experience of the bush, and if you choose, cycling can be a part of that.
It is best to go for a bike ride in the early afternoon; this area’s predators are most active in the early morning and late at night when it is cooler. The bike safaris in Zambia are carried out at a leisurely pace on terrain that is relatively flat, and you will have the opportunity to view wildlife at various points along the route. You will have the opportunity to start your adventure in the community where you are staying before cycling into the heart of the big game country, where you will eventually catch up with your game-drive vehicle and make the transition to four wheels as the sun sets.
6. Desert Dunes – Swakopmund, Namibia
The rolling sand ocean of the Namib Desert, which is typically viewed from the air, is now accessible by bicycle, or at least by fat-tired bicycles. These specially designed bicycles, with their oversized tires, make it possible for you to cycle up and down the dunes, without producing any noise or pollution and leaving behind only shallow tire tracks, which the wind typically erases before the next morning. There is life to be found despite the stark, primitive, and elemental landscapes, including endemic birds and plants, flamingo-filled coastal lagoons, and desert plants.
The nearby desert dunes are the primary draw for visitors who depart from Swakopmund; the most common excursion is a half-day excursion; however, the town of Swakopmund itself is interesting to explore. There are also full-day safaris that go deeper into the desert as well as urban tours that take in the surprisingly harmonious influences of both German and African cultures.
Tips to Enjoy Mountain Biking and Quad Biking Safaris
It doesn’t matter if you’re going off the beaten path for a mountain biking safari or a quad biking safari; you’re almost certainly going to have a great time getting dirty. Having said that, it is imperative that you are well-prepared for your off-road adventure. With that in mind, the following are some helpful hints to ensure that you enjoy your ride.
1. Dress for the weather
It is imperative that you dress appropriately if you plan on participating in an outdoor activity like quad biking or mountain biking because these types of activities typically take place regardless of the weather. There is a possibility that some venues will provide overalls; however, it is recommended that you bring some old clothes that you don’t mind getting dirty or wet in. Don’t let the possibility of bad weather discourage you from coming; it’s all part of the adventure!
2. Maintain momentum
Because your bike has momentum, which is the one thing it needs the most to continue moving forward, maintaining your speed, and even picking up your pace, when the terrain becomes more challenging makes it is easier to clear difficult sections of the trail. This will feel counterintuitive. Maintaining momentum is your best bet out there; use every opportunity you get to do so.
3. Shift your weight
You are going to encounter some difficult terrain, such as steep inclines and declines, so be prepared. To keep your traction while climbing a steep slope, shift your weight forward and lean forward so that your center of gravity is over the rear wheel.
If you want to avoid going over the handlebars, you should ride in the opposite direction when the trail begins to slope downward. Shift your weight behind the saddle and over the rear wheel to do this.
4. Make the most of the briefing
A comprehensive briefing will be provided to you before you get on the quad bikes. This will provide you with the ideal opportunity to ask any questions you might have to our highly trained instructors before you get started. You’ll also be given some time to get accustomed to driving the quad bikes, so make the most of the opportunity to build your confidence while you’re behind the wheel by putting in some practice time.
5. Sit correctly
Sitting appropriately on the quad bike will not only ensure that you have a pleasant ride but will also make it easier for you to negotiate off-road obstacles like bumps and hills. Make an effort to sit up as straight as possible, keep your eyes focused forward, and grip the quad bike with your knees. You will benefit immensely from adopting a relaxed riding position.
6. Keep your eyes open
If you fix your gaze directly on the rock that you want to avoid colliding with, there is a good chance that you will end up doing just that. The process is known as “target fixation,” and it causes your bike to go in the direction that your eyes are directing it to go. Instead, focus on seeing where you want to go once you get past the obstacles in your way. Your chin should be level with the ground, your eyes should be looking ahead, and you should make an effort to look as far down the trail as you can. Use your peripheral vision to navigate around obstacles that are directly in front of you. If you do fall because of an obstacle, upgrading to a helmet designed for use on trails will protect your head.
Why Do People Enjoy Quad Biking and Mountain Biking?
Mountain biking and quad biking are two activities that allow tourists to traverse vast stretches of grasslands, savannah, and woodlands while experiencing an adrenaline rush that is unparalleled by any other activity. Every discerning traveler ought to make it a point to cross off “up close and personal encounters while peddling along” from their bucket list. The following are some of the additional advantages they reap as a result of their participation in mountain biking and quad biking in addition to their enjoyment of the outdoors:
1. Reduced stress and improved mood
The strenuous demands of mountain biking and quad biking stimulate the body to release natural endorphins. Endorphins are the body’s natural way of feeling good and getting more energy. Serotonin is an important neurotransmitter in the brain that helps prevent depression and anxiety. Exercise helps boost serotonin, which in turn helps prevent depression and anxiety. The level of concentration and attention that is required to ride a difficult single-track trail can become a form of moving meditation, which, in the end, can help a person relax and cope better with the pressures and challenges of everyday life by serving as a distraction from the negative thoughts that can contribute to feelings of anxiety and depression. Acquiring new abilities and improving existing ones are both great ways to boost your confidence and sense of accomplishment while mountain biking and quad biking.
2. Improved balance and coordination
Mountain biking is a dynamic activity that requires the rider to constantly adjust to varying terrain, pitch, and elevation. This is in contrast to plodding along on a treadmill or stair stepper, which are both stationary forms of exercise. When riding a mountain bike, maintaining a steady and secure position not only prevents you from crashing but also helps to strengthen neural pathways and reinforce muscle memory. The brain, the senses, the muscles, and the nervous system all need to work together for someone to have good balance and coordination. Keeping these systems active as we get older helps stave off the disability that can come with getting older and reduces the risk of injury that can come from falling.
3. Social Benefits
Mountain biking and quad biking are frequently used as a means of interaction between members of different clubs and groups who participate in the activity together. It is a wonderful chance to cultivate personal connections and make new friends with people who take pleasure in the same activities as you do.
Conclusion
Mountain biking and quad biking safaris are a must-try because they allow you to test the limits of your quad bikes and mountain bikes in ideal conditions and terrain. Although everything in the entertainment industry is subjective, these safaris are a must-try because they allow you to test your limits. Once you’ve gotten the hang of controlling the bike, you can show off your riding skills on our track and really let loose. The sensation of riding a quad bike and mountain biking across a variety of safari terrains is incredible, which contributes to the excitement of the experience.