Tomorrow, Saturday 1 November, Shamwari Private Game Reserve will welcome the finishers of the Nedbank Gravel Burn, the world’s largest gravel race. This landmark event celebrates South African sport, conservation, and luxury tourism in one extraordinary finale.
Image: Supplied
Over seven days and 800 kilometres, an elite international field of cyclists and 500 adventurous riders from around the world have tackled gravel passes and country roads across South Africa’s Great Karoo. The final stage ends at Shamwari, one of the country’s most prestigious Big Five reserves, where riders will experience the perfect blend of wild beauty and refined luxury.
A True Test of Grit and Endurance
From icy mornings to punishing winds, the Gravel Burn has pushed participants to the limits of endurance. On Day 2, riders faced a rain-soaked, ice-covered landscape. Day 6 brought gusting winds and low visibility, delaying the race start and challenging every rider’s resolve. Africa’s extremes test both mind and body, but the journey rewards with unparalleled natural beauty. Nowhere is this more evident than at Shamwari.
Image: Supplied
Kevin Vermaak, founder of the Nedbank Gravel Burn, says:
“In an ideal world, what could be a more fitting finish for global gravel race participants than a Big Five welcome at a world-class reserve? Shamwari was the first name on our list. CEO Joe Cloete leads a team that combines luxury hospitality with forward-thinking conservation, and their financial director, Ruan Fick, is a passionate cyclist who joined us for our very first Trial Burn.”
Luxury Meets Adventure at Shamwari
Joe Cloete, CEO of Shamwari Private Game Reserve, adds:
“When Kevin approached us with the idea of ending the Gravel Burn in a game reserve, we jumped at the opportunity. This is the perfect way to showcase the Eastern Cape, the Greater Karoo, and our reserve. International tourists often head to Cape Town and Kruger National Park, but we have so much more to offer. Tomorrow evening, we will welcome over 800 guests, and the lodge is fully booked for the next three days. It is our chance to show the world true African hospitality and the very best of South Africa.”
Image: Supplied
After a week of extreme conditions, riders can finally rest and recover in the luxury Shamwari is known for. From rugged terrain to refined elegance, the Gravel Burn concludes in a celebration of endurance and sophistication.
An Elite International Line Up
This year’s race has attracted Olympic champions, Grand Tour stage winners, Monument victors, national champions, and top gravel specialists. From the Knysna start line, riders have braved unpredictable Garden Route weather, making this South Africa’s first seven-day gravel stage race and one of the most competitive ever.
Elite male riders include Tom Pidcock, two-time mountain-bike Olympic Champion, Lachlan Morton, multi-discipline Australian star, and Lukas Pöstlberger, Giro d’Italia stage winner. The women’s field features Ashleigh Moolman Pasio, South African road ace, Alison Jackson, Paris–Roubaix Femmes winner, Hayley Preen, South African Gravel Champion, and Haley Smith, former Olympian and Swiss Epic winner.
A Connection to South Africa’s Natural Heritage
Shamwari offers more than luxury. It provides a deeper connection to South Africa’s wildlife. Home to Vulpro, the country’s leading vulture conservation organisation, the reserve rehabilitates injured birds, restores populations through captive breeding, and educates communities about these vital scavengers. Select riders will visit Vulpro to witness the next generation of vultures before their 2026 release.
Image: Supplied
“Shamwari is proud to be the final destination of the Nedbank Gravel Burn,” says Johan Joubert, Head of Conservation. “We have ensured the race route respects our wildlife while showcasing the Eastern Cape’s best. Our animals roam free. This is their home. Visitors also experience the very best of our reserve.”
For reservations, contact [email protected] or call +27 42 203 1111, or visit www.shamwari.com.
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