The Absa Cape Epic is an eight-day mountain bike stage race across the Western Cape, founded in 2004 by Capetonian Kevin Vermaak and now accredited hors categorie by cycling's world body. Two-person teams cover roughly 700 kilometres and 16,900 metres of climbing over a route redesigned every year.
Kevin Vermaak was working in IT in London in the early 2000s when a mountain bike stage race in Costa Rica changed his plans.
Often called the Tour de France of mountain biking, the Cape Epic pairs riders into teams of two who must finish every stage together, a format that turns the race into as much a test of partnership as fitness
Vermaak conceived it while competing in Costa Rica's La Ruta de los Conquistadores in 2002, then built it from scratch in a country where mountain biking barely existed as a competitive sport
today over 700 teams enter, professionals by invitation and amateurs through a lottery, riding a course that changes annually but has ranged from 647 kilometres in its shortest edition to 966 kilometres in its longest
The race has no ancient roots but has built its own two-decade tradition around the mandatory two-person team format
requiring partners to finish within strict time gaps of each other
a rule that shapes the event's culture around loyalty and shared endurance rather than individual glory
21–28 March 2027
Plan arrival around the route or course in Western Cape; closures can make normal travel slower.
Full mountain bike race kit is standard: padded cycling shorts, moisture-wicking jerseys, a well-fitted helmet, eyewear for dust and glare, and layered clothing for early starts that can be...
At Absa Cape Epic, respect barriers, moving equipment and marshal guidance; photos are never worth stepping into active areas.
Base yourself where the last trip of the day stays easy, especially if Absa Cape Epic runs late.
Check official or local sources for ticketed areas, paid stands, and same-year access rules.
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Absa Cape Epic is listed for 21–28 March 2027. Always re-check the official or local source close to travel.
The festival is listed in Western Cape, South Africa. The map coordinate is a planning reference, not a guarantee of a ticket gate or exact venue.
8 days is the listed festival span. Add time for arrival, local transport, queues, and any route changes during the event.
Official source linked. Eventisimus separates source confidence from travel suggestions, so check final details before booking.
Western Cape, Western Cape, South Africa
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