Rhodes 500

Embrace the ultimate unsupported gravel challenge at the Rhodes 500, a premier bikepacking adventure through the remote highlands of South Africa's Eastern Cape from 2nd to 4th March 2026. This demanding 412km journey with 7,530m of climbing traverses breathtakingly rugged terrain near the Lesotho border, testing self-sufficiency, resilience, and strategic planning. Limited to a field of just 13 riders, the event strips away all support—no aid stations or route markings—for a pure, raw encounter with the elements and landscape.

Beginning in the historic, mist-shrouded village of Rhodes, the route tackles iconic segments like the formidable Tenahead–Tiffindell Traverse and the legendary Naudés Nek Pass. Prepare for extreme self-reliance, requiring meticulous planning for water and nutrition while navigating high-altitude gravel tracks that promise both profound solitude and stunning vistas. This is more than a race; it's a pilgrimage for seasoned adventurers seeking to test their limits against one of the world's most epic and unforgiving gravel routes. Secure your place for an unforgettable journey where every pedal stroke writes a personal story of endurance and discovery.