South Africa and Namibia Sand Route in May 2026

The tentative plans are to start in South Africa in May riding the Sand Route https://bikepacking.com/routes/sand-s1/

The plan would be to generally follow the Sand Route with possible detours to parks and other interesting places.  I prefer wild camping when possible.   After finishing the Sand Route in Namibia I will look at continuing to Botswana and further. 

Last year I cycled the length of South America.  Most trips I take end up 3 to 6 months in West Africa, Southeast Asia and many trips through Europe.  Not having a return ticket until needed is nice as there is no set schedule. 

I ride 60 to 70k when the roads and hills are good.  When food and the need for water drive me on I do 100k+ days.  Hills and other challenges I learned to enjoy and wonder which local god is having fun with me.