About Race
An Unforgettable Cycling Challenge in Africa
This isn’t just a cycling challenge – it’s the ultimate test of grit endurance, and determination. The Tanzania Cycling Challenge is a 40-kilometre ascent up the Great Rift Valley escarpment, starting from the serene shores of Lake Manyara and climbing into the breathtaking highlands of northern Tanzania.
Don’t let the short distance fool you. With over 1,000 metres of elevation gain, the course is relentless, pushing you harder with each kilometre. The gradient starts gentle but gradually intensifies, peaking at an unforgiving 23% incline It’s just a race; it’s a journey of willpower.
Whether you are seasoned cyclist chasing the thrill of competition or an adventurous amateur looking to test your boundaries, the Tanzania Cycling Challenge is your stage to shine.
The Challenge Awaits: Are You Ready?
Key Race Details
Distance
60 km
Elevation Gain
1,000 metres
Max Gradient
Peaks at 23%
Race Date
April 10, 2025
Cut-Off Time
4 hours
Prize Pool
20M TZS
About the Experience
More Than a Race: A 5-Day Immersive Adventure
The Tanzanian Cycling Challenge is more than just a day on the bike – it’s a 5-day cultural journey that combines the thrill of competition with the heart of Tanzania. From the moment you arrive in Arusha, you’ll be welcomed into a community of like-minded adventurers ready to embrace everything the region has to offer.
Day 1: Arrival
Welcome to Tanzania! We will be ready to greet you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel in Arusha. With so many different flights coming in, and with many people travelling very long distances, today is a day to relax and catch up on sleep. Enjoy the evening at your leisure. Dinner will be provided at the hotel.
Day 2: Immerse Yourself in Tanzania’s Culture
Let the fun begin!
After a leisurely morning to rest and recharge dive into the hear of Tanzania with a selection of optional activities designed to showcase the vibrant cultural and natural beauty of the region. Whether you’re craving adventure or a deeper connection with local traditions, there’s something for everyone. A few of the options available include:
Connect with Local Tribes: Discover the rich heritage of Tanzania as you visit local tribes to learn about their customs, traditions, and way of life.
Cook Like a Local: Step into a Tanzanian kitchen and try your hand at preparing traditional dishes under the guidance of local women, who will share their culinary skills and stories passed down through generations.
Explore the Market: Wander through the bustling local market, a sensory feast of colours, scents, and flavours, perfect for picking up souvenirs or sampling fresh produce.
Paddle on Lake Duluti: Experience the tranquillity of Lake Duluti, located near Arusha, with a peaceful paddle surrounded by lush greenery and birdlife.
As the day winds down, prepare for a warm and vibrant welcome dinner. Enjoy a feast of traditional Tanzanian cuisine while soaking in the lively energy of cultural performances and dancing. This your chance to meet fellow participants, exchange stories, and revel in the excitement of the adventure ahead.
Day 3; Race Prep and Thrills
Day 3 is all about anticipation, preparation, and a touch of adrenaline as we gear up for the Tanzania Cycling Challenge. The morning kicks off with a comprehensive race briefing, where you’ll receive vital details about the course, strategies, and safety measures. This is your moment to ask questions, align your gear, and connect with fellow cyclists. The afternoon takes an exhilarating turn with a series of bike gymnastics and death defying stunt displays. Witness incredible feats of skills and precision as local performers and professional stunt riders showcase the art of pushing boundaries on two wheels. It’s an electrifying preview of the determination and daring that define this event. After the sun sets we will gather for a casual dinner before retiring for an early night ahead of tomorrow’s challenge.
Day 4: Race Day – Conquer the Rift
The big day is finally here! It starts with an early morning wake-up call, fuelling up with a hearty breakfast, and a two-hour transfer to the shores of Lake Manyara – the starting line for the Tanzania Cycling Challenge.
READY, STEADY, GO!
We will be waiting for you at the finish line! Whether you’re in it to win it or simply to finish, you’ll be greeted with applause, refreshments, and a well-earned medal. The celebration doesn’t stop there! An epic after-party awaits at the finish line, complete with food, music, and dancing. It’s a chance to revel in your achievement, share stories with fellow riders, and soak in the electric atmosphere of accomplishment.
As the day winds down, we’ll board the transfer back to Arusha, where a final night of rest and relaxation awaits. Celebrate your triumph, relive the highlights, and toast to an unforgettable journey!
Day 5: Farewell and Departure
After an unforgettable adventure, it’s time to say goodbye to Tanzania. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast as you soak in the final moments of your journey. For those with a bit of extra time before their flights, there’s the opportunity to explore Arusha one last time, pick up some souvenirs, or simply relax at your accommodation.
When the times comes, we’ll provide transfers to Kilimanjaro International Airport, ensuring a smooth journey home. As you board your flight, you’ll leave not only with memories of an incredible cycling challenge but also with a deeper connection to the people, culture, and landscapes of Tanzania.
It’s not just the end of a race – it’s the start of stories you’ll share for a lifetime.
Set in the heart of East Africa, the Tanzania Cycling Challenge is a one-day ascent that takes you 40 kilometres from the serene shores of Lake Manyara to the dramatic heights of the Great Rift Valley escarpment.
Don’t let the distance fool you – this is no casual ride! The route begins on flat terrain, lulling you into a false sense of ease, but as the kilometres tick by, the gradient sharpens, culminating in a punishing 23% incline. Every metre is a test of strength, resilience, and determination.
This event is more than just a race – it’s an invitation to immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and stunning landscapes of Tanzania. Over the course of five unforgettable days, participants will experience everything from thrilling cycling action to rich cultural exchanges.
Before the big day, take time to explore Arusha, the bustling getaway to Tanzania’s wild heart. Participate in traditional dance, savour local delicacies, and connect with the welcoming Tanzanian people. After the race, unwind at a celebratory party where you’ll toast to your triumph alongside fellow riders.
Extend your adventure with optional safaris to witness Africa’s iconic wildlife, hike the majestic Kilimanjaro, or relax on Zanzibar’s pristine beaches.
The Tanzania Cycling Challenge is the first event of its kind in the region, offering riders an unparalleled opportunity to blend endurance sport with cultural immersion. The route takes you through local communities, offering glimpses of daily life, and past wildlife that will leave you in awe. It’s the unique combination of sport and scenery that makes this of the best cycling challenges in Africa.
Be Part of Something Epic
When you sign up for the Tanzania Cycling Challenge, you’re not just entering a race – you’re joining a community od adventurers who are passionate about exploring the world on two wheels. From the camaraderie of fellow riders to the breathtaking vistas of the Great Rift Valley, this event is about more than just cycling – it’s about discovering what’s possible when you go beyond your limits.