SOUTH AFRICA

LOCATION

7 DAYS

DURATION

575 KM

DISTANCE

8215 M

DESCENT

7873 M

CLIMBING

WHAT IS GO2BERG?

The Old Mutual go2berg is a seven-day mountain bike stage ride through the heart of South Africa.

This is more than just a ride; it is an uplifting experience that leaves a lasting impact on both the riders and the communities we pass through.

It is a proper challenge, that requires fitness, and preparation to enjoy the experience. For some, it is a race. For most, it is a tough but rewarding adventure where the journey is as important as the destination. While every rider gets a time, our true goal is to ensure you have a great time.

WHO IS IT FOR?

It is for mountain bikers who ride to see the world, and it is also great for fit gravel and road cyclists who own a mountain bike or who want to try mountain biking. (We can arrange bike hire)

  • Fitness required to enjoy the experience 4/5
  • Fitness required to win your category 8/5
  • Skill level required 2.5/5
  • All racing categories are solo

It is a marathon mountain bike stage ride and race. The racing is solo. We encourage groups friends to ride together but you will all be timed solo.

We are also E Bike friendly for those who want to “tour” with friends. (We have an E Bike hiring option)

WHERE IS GO2BERG?

The route to happiness.

It starts one and half hours south of Johannesburg in the North-Eastern Free State town of Villiers. You ride through the Free State towns of Frankfort, Reitz, and Clarens (a famous tourist town) hosted by passionate communities along the way. The route then heads to the spectacular Sterkfontein Dam. From Sterkfontein it is a massive drop from the Free State into Kwa-Zulu Natal. A few nights in Emseni near Winterton and then onto the finish on the foothills of the mighty Drakensberg Mountain Range – a world heritage site.

Day 1 - Villiers to Frankfort

The “Warm-up” – 58km

Day 2 - Frankfort to Reitz

“Free State of Mind” – 85km

Day 3 - Reitz to Clarens (The Boss Stage)

The “Boss” stage – 116km

Day 4 - Clarens to Sterkfontein Dam

“The Journey to Mt Paul” – 85km

Day 5 - Sterkfontein Dam to Emseni

The “BIG Drop” – 98km (1750 descent!)

Day 6 - Emseni to Emseni

“Super Single Track Stage” – 50km

Day 7 - Emseni to Drankensberg

“The Champagne Stage” – 85km

WHAT OUR RIDERS HAVE TO SAY

Chrissy Conyers - Australia

Our first go2berg and our first race in South Africa—and it exceeded all expectations!

A huge thanks to Craig, who we constantly crossed paths with at water stations, cheering Aussie Aussie Aussie and introducing us to local treats. And to Gary—you, along with Lee, kept the banter going and the laughs rolling. Unforgettable experience!

Christopher Rønne - Denmark

If you’re going to do one MTB race, this is it. Go2Berg blends breathtaking landscapes, incredible trails, and a unique sense of rider unity, bringing you closer to the heart of South Africa and its people. An experience we’ll never forget!

Koos Basson - South Africa

In true Wappo and Gary style, and if the success of Joberg2c is anything to go by, expect the 3rd edition of Go2Berg to be race and ride ready in September 2025. Expect tough challenging stages (you must train for this race), exceptional single tracks and endless vista views. Add great hospitality with a dash of Wappo and Farmer Gary the team behind the scenes who run the show and you have a winner.

David Pelletier - France

To be passionate about mountain biking and beautiful landscapes, the Go2berg is the ideal place. A truly extraordinary welcome from the organization and volunteers. 6 and a half days of racing in the middle of these breathtaking, magnificent landscapes and sublime courses with very very well-stocked refreshments. Our base camps were all out of the ordinary, magical, we lacked nothing. A very beautiful race with very nice organizers, very available and above all, wonderfully well organized.
Looking forward to coming back

Mark Webber - United Kingdom

The inaugural ride from just south of Johannesburg to the Drakensberg was nothing short of extraordinary—a 530km off-road adventure with nearly 9,000m of climbing through breathtaking African landscapes. From frost-covered mornings to golden afternoons, each day delivered a blend of rugged trails, warm hospitality, and unbeatable camaraderie. The organisation was flawless, the feed stations legendary, and the spirit of the event unforgettable. Sharing this journey with fellow adventurers—young and old, local and international—was the highlight. It’s tough, it’s wild, and it’s utterly rewarding. To my 3 boys I say: “You have to do this!”

QUICK HITS

Old Mutual

Old Mutual

Buffalo Foundation

By simply riding the Old Mutual go2berg you are part of uplifting communities on our route. In addition, you may want to consider supporting this incredible is organisation called the Buffalo Foundation. This cycling charity is focused on improving the lives of South Africans through education and the bike. Formed by a bunch of passionate riders who do have the means to travel the world and ride, they put every cent raised to young riders hoping to make strides through cycling.

If you would like to ride for this cause email. cr***@********co.za

CMH Nissan Ballito

CMH Ballito

Book your Extras

When entering the race, don’t forget to book your extras to make the experience smoother and more enjoyable. Choose from a well-equipped Recovery Zone to help tired legs bounce back, reliable Bike Mechanics to keep your machine race-ready, and convenient e-Bike hire if you need a boost. Supporters can join in the adventure too with a dedicated Supporters Package, and if you’re bringing your own wheels, the Camper Van option has you covered with designated parking and access.

The Courier Guy

The Courier Guy

Young Rider Special

We are keen to grow mountain biking especially among the students who find it difficult to get into the sport due to cost of bikes and stage race entries. We have a great special thanks to Old Mutual for young riders between 19-29.

This is also a great opportunity for companies or individuals to sponsor a young rider.