- Kei Mouth, Eastern Cape, South Africa
The Investec Great Kei Trek 2025: Three Events; One Adventure
It seems like only yesterday that Kei Mouth was welcoming a bunch of cyclists into the village, and now it’s set to do it all again!
While the K2K sees cyclists start and end their adventure in one day, the Investec Great Kei Trek is a multi-day event that stretches both the stamina of its participants and their sense of adventure.
Comfort By Night, Challenge By Day: The Investec Great Kei Trek
When first launched, the Investec Great Kei Trek meandered through farmland and remote rural settlements as it travelled down from Queenstown to finish at the coast.
These days, things stay a little closer to home with the riders safely ensconced in the luxury of self-catering cottages, B&Bs, and other accommodation establishments in and around Morgan Bay and Kei Mouth.
What happens during the day couldn’t get much further from the comfort of a feather pillow and soft duvet the riders get at night, and anyone entering should be ready to take on all the challenges the Wild Coast is famous for.
Whether climbing steep riverine valleys, navigating rugged coastlines, or battling unpredictable weather, this journey is not for the faint-hearted.
Those who’ve participated before know that it is, as its organisers attest, “one of the most unforgettable adventures in South African mountain biking.”
Beyond The Ordinary: The Thrill Of The Wild Coast
That’s a pretty impressive feat given how many incredible events take place around the country. Enthusiastic cyclists could spend a weekend putting their pedal power to the test in the heart of the Karoo or tackling the Beast of the East in Gauteng. Still, those who opt to chase the sun along the Wild Coast get to swap cityscapes for sweeping ocean views, and long traffic jams for life on the open road.
The Investec Great Kei Trek: Bigger, Bolder, Better
As we gear up for the 2025 Investec Great Kei Trek, the organisers have shaken things up with not just one race, but three. If it wasn’t already on your bucket list, it should be now! First up on the start line is the Investec GKT Original — three days packed with lung-busting climbs, jaw-dropping views, adrenaline-fueled descents, and some of the best-stocked water points you’ll find on any ride.
And when we say stocked, we’re not talking about a few energy gels and bananas — think toasted sandwiches, soft drinks, pizzas, and boerie rolls. Just be careful not to get too comfortable; there’s still a race to be ridden, and those hills won’t climb themselves!
Before riders hit the start line, they’ll get the full lowdown on the route, the challenges — and the legendary refreshments — before experiencing their first taste of Wild Coast hospitality at the welcome braai.
Day One: Into the Wilderness
The Investec Great Kei Trek Original has lost none of its appeal, and when it kicks off on 16th May, organisers expect to see around 150 riders lining up with their pedals poised. This first day will see them head off across the Great Kei River via the legendary pontoon and into the Old Transkei, where the real wilderness of the Wild Coast begins.
Relying purely on pedal power, they’ll head up the coast to Seagulls Hotel, where their first fully stocked water point will be waiting. All riders must log in at the compulsory checkpoint, and some will no doubt linger over a cold beer, even though they’re only halfway through the day’s adventure.
After soaking up the sea views, it’s time to head up the beach before veering inland towards The Gates, where some might be tempted to cool off in the sparkling waters before continuing their homeward journey. The organisers have even been considerate enough to incorporate a slightly shorter option for those who consider themselves too “technically challenged” to tackle the main route.
Hop on the pontoon for a quick trip across the river before stopping (at their peril) for a quick one or two at the recently revamped Bushpig Bar. From there, it’s spitting distance to their next stop — Kei Mouth Country Club, where they can squeeze in another “refreshment” before popping over the hill to their finish point at the Morgan Bay Caravan Park.
By that point, riders will, we estimate, have covered approximately 53 km, consumed at least one sarmie and a boerie roll, and polished off at least five refreshing beverages! Some may not be walking straight!
What happens after that is anyone’s guess, although the itinerary suggests “enjoying a cold one” before sitting down to dinner and a well-earned night snuggling up with that feather pillow and crisp white duvet!
Day Two: Steep Climbs, Big Swims
After what was hopefully a good night’s rest, the riders should be all set to do it all again, this time heading south towards Haga Haga. Another 53 km awaits, with slightly more ascent than the day before, pushing them to test their endurance and determination as they navigate the rugged terrain and breathtaking views.
Once again, strategically placed water points will offer refreshments that are as revitalising as the stunning views surrounding them, making it difficult for riders to tear themselves away even once they’ve stocked up on fuel!
In addition to the usual challenges of steep ascents, technical sections, and grit-spitting descents, the riders must also navigate the river at Double Mouth. The organisers have been very considerate in this regard, and rather than leaving them to sink or swim, have recruited some able kayakers from Great Kei Adventures to facilitate their crossing.
Whether they’ll be ferrying the riders or their bikes remains to be seen, but we can confirm that the Sky Blues Rugby team will be on hand to help out, so no one’s getting across without a good laugh, a cheer, or maybe even a friendly push!
As a second eventful day comes to a close and some 150 riders have over 100 km under their tired legs, it’s time for a slight change of pace as Bayview Farm opens its doors and its kitchens and welcomes everyone for an impromptu pizza night followed by what will be for some a slightly earlier night.
Day Three: From Trails to Triumph
With the main part of the adventure behind them, the third and final day sees participants climbing out of Morgan Bay before circling through the scenic streets of Kei Mouth, where a few thirsty riders will stop at The Yard for a refreshment and one of the best views of the Great Kei River.
From there, the only way is up as the route heads for Rocky Ridge, where cyclists can once again rest their legs and exercise their taste buds with a boerie roll before the final push home.
Situated just a few miles outside Morgan Bay, Bayview Farm is perfectly positioned to refuel those riders who feel the finish line is more than just a beer away, and for those who failed to consume enough at Rocky Ridge to see them through to the end!
A Finish Worth Celebrating
After lingering longer than planned, it’s time for the final stretch back into Morgan Bay, taking in the dramatic cliffs for one last photo opportunity — and, of course, one last cold one. While some will be packing up to head home, those in the know will stick around for the legendary after party on Sunday night — the perfect way to toast an unforgettable adventure.
Just shy of 150 km, the Investec Great Kei Trek Original is a serious undertaking — even with all those well-stocked “water” points. Thankfully, the organisers have been kind enough to offer a slightly gentler alternative for those whose legs (or enthusiasm) might not be up for the full challenge.
The Investec GKT Tour Lite offers a slightly shorter, two-day adventure, running alongside the Investec Great Kei Trek Tour over the weekend of 24–25 May. The full three-day itinerary follows the same route as the original, but with the order of the first two days switched around to mix things up, while the Investec GKT Tour Lite skips the first 53 km to Haga Haga and back.
Of course, you don’t have to ride a bike to enjoy the event — spectators are encouraged to gather along the trails (routes available here), adding energy and cheers to help motivate the riders through every tough climb and thrilling descent.
You can also meet up with the riders at one of their stopping points and enjoy a beer and some banter before they head off again, leaving you to enjoy a few more refreshments at your leisure!
More Than a Ride: Changing Lives and Communities
The ride itself might end there, but its ripple effects keep reverberating throughout the year. Events like these not only bring people to the area — they also bring investment. Each year the Investec Great Kei Trek takes place is another year of funding for projects that breathe life into our local communities. As organizer Rob Jackson says, “We’re not just riding through these communities — we’re riding for them.”
To date, funds raised by the Investec Great Kei Trek have contributed to the numerous projects, including the rebuilding of Ferndale Primary School, contributing towards the construction of a soccer field in Gxara Village, upgrading the facilities and infrastructure at two rural clinics in the Old Transkei to name but a few.
All of this commitment to the communities they ride through resonates with Investec’s mission to “live in society, not off it.”
Conclusion
The Investec Great Kei Trek isn’t just about kilometres conquered or hills climbed — it’s about community, adventure, and creating memories that will last long after the last bike is racked. Whether you’re taking on the full three-day challenge, opting for the lighter two-day version, or simply showing up to cheer on the riders, you’re part of something special, especially if you’re spending the whole weekend in the area.
With its unbeatable combination of rugged trails, stunning coastal views, and warm Wild Coast hospitality, the 2025 Great Kei Trek promises to deliver an experience that’s as rewarding as it is unforgettable. So saddle up, raise a glass, or simply join the celebration — because this is one South African adventure you won’t want to miss.
Particpate, support, enjoy! Book your accommodation here!
Comments
Fantastic initiative thanks Investec!
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