Hey Adventure Seekers Explore Ethiopia and Jordan by Bike
The leading cycling operator celebrates a landmark 25 years with
exclusive new trips to Ethiopia, Jordan and beyond.
Saddle Skedaddle, a world-class cycling operator with nearly 25 years of experience curating diverse itineraries, has launched its new 2020 tours, exploring far-flung corners of the world by bike.
This 2020, jump on your saddle to explore the rock-carved churches of Ethiopia, the quiet coves and mountain summits of Croatia and the ancient elephant paths found in the savannah of the largest privately-owned game reserve in Africa.
Check out Saddle Skedaddle’s NEW 25th-anniversary collection:
Pedal the mountains of Ethiopia
Journey through the horn of Africa on this 15-day adventure through Ethiopia. Depart north from Addis Ababa to visit Lake Tana and the Blue Nile Waterfall before gaining more than 14,785 feet in altitude on a journey into the Simien Mountains. Spend two nights camping cliffside, surrounded by endemic wildlife including gelada baboons, bearded vultures, and Walia ibex. Later, hike through the Kaba Valley to the Geech Abyss for a spectacular view of Jinbar Falls, then visit the ancient obelisks in Axum and the rock-hewn churches of Lalibela, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Along the journey, sample a local delicacy, injera (sourdough flatbread), and learn the art of traditional Ethiopian coffee brewing.
Jaunt through Jordan’s eco-reserve
With Saddle’s exclusive new permit, be one of the first to ever peddle along the verdant jungle grounds of Ajloun Forest Reserve on the 8-day Cycling Adventure in Jordan. Located in the highlands, more than eight miles of biking trail remain untouched, where guests will cycle past wild pistachio and strawberry trees. In the Jordanian capital of Amman, marvel at the architectural feat that is the ancient Citadel and Roman Amphitheatre, then descend to the earth’s lowest point, The Dead Sea, to kick back and simply float. After cycling the famed King’s Highway—an ancient route linking Petra to Siq Al Barid—post up for the night in a desert resembling Mars to enjoy a Bedouin feast. Make your way to the Red Rose City of Petra, one of the Modern Seven Wonders of the World, to set sight upon the elaborately carved sandstone rock face of Al-Khazneh.
Cycle safari game tracks in South Africa and Botswana
Experience the incredible highlights of Africa—the expansive landscapes, the upscale mountain lodges and intimate wildlife viewings on the 9-day Mountain Biking in South Africa and Botswana tour. Kick-off the adventure at Summerplace Farm, known for its extensive network of trails ranging from gentle farmland to challenging singletrack. In Leshiba, discover some of South Africa’s highest biodiversity of flora and fauna at Luvhondo Camp. Cruise down ancient elephant paths while keeping your eyes peeled for wildebeests, zebras, giraffes and black-backed jackals. Indulge in camp cuisine, known as ‘braai’ (BBQ), which is an integral part of South African hospitality. Move on to Botswana, The Land of the Giants, for a relaxed cycle along Limpopo river at Mashatu, the largest privately-owned game reserve in the country.
On Saddle Skedaddle’s 7-day E-Mountain Biking in Croatia experience, guests can explore Istria, Croatia’s northern peninsula, home to more than 600 miles of bike trails that venture through quiet coves, over mountain summits, and along the sea. Conquer the highest peak of the Ucka mountains at 4,750 feet with the extra push from your E-MTB, then tackle singletrack trails on the way to a secret lookout over Krk. Peddle along the Parenzana, a converted railway, for a relaxed ride between the medieval hilltop towns of Grožnjan and Motovun. In Istria, sample local delicacies including black and white truffles and honey. Then, join a local guide to navigate trails through Istria’s nature reserves, and finish the journey with a cocktail toast on the Adriatic Sea.
Bike in search of Borneo’s beaches
Immerse your family in the abundant wildlife and tribal culture of Borneo on this 12-day Borneo Sarawak Family Adventure. Introduce the whole crew to verdant jungles, tropical rainforests, and tranquil sandy beaches as you explore small kampongs (fishing villages), rice paddy fields and vibrant fauna at the national parks. In coastal Buntal, grab binoculars to spot dolphins, crocodiles, and fireflies among the mangroves. Trek through the jungle at Bako National Park to observe proboscis monkeys and flying lemurs in their natural habitat. Cycle to the Matang Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre where the whole group can bond with the locals—a family of Orangutans.
For more information on Saddle Skedaddle and to view current offerings, visit www.skedaddle.com/us.