The Atlantis dunes are one of Cape Town’s quiet marvels – a sweep of pale sand between fynbos, sea and sky. Quad biking with Breathless Nomad, a member of Cape Country Routes, offers a closer look at this extraordinary landscape: a combination of thrill, striking natural beauty and adventure. A truly visually unforgettable experience.
The Atlantis Dunes are part of the Witzands Aquifer Nature Reserve, 40 minutes north of Cape Town, and is an expansive, sandy landscape with striking natural beauty. The white dunes have a dramatic, other-worldly quality: sweeping curves, crisp ridges, and views leading all the way back to Table Mountain.
Quad Biking in Spring
We arrived mid-morning, having learnt from a previous trip that the midday sun can make reading the contours of the dunes quite tricky, so we wanted to tour at a time where there were a few more shadows, making the landscape easier to interpret.
The tour will begin with signing indemnity forms, getting your helmet, hairnet and purchasing your permit to enter the dunes at the permit office. (If you have a group booking, this will be automatically included and organised ahead of time.) This ensures all the “paperwork” is out the way and the adventure can begin!
Each tour is led by a knowledgeable guide who shows you how to use the automatic quad bike as well as some safety instructions. They will also lead you through the dunes on a one hour tour.
What to Bring / Wear:
- Closed shoes for extra protection on the quad bike.
- Long pants to block the sun and wind (I put sunblock on knees).
- Anorak – I wanted something light so that I didn’t get too hot, but also something to protect me from the sun.
- Sunglasses are great for blocking the glare of the dunes.
- You can bring a hat but you can’t wear it at the same time a a helmet so I wouldn’t bother.
- There is a kiosk at the venue but water in your car may be useful.
- A camera or phone with a strap – you’ll want to capture the views. Guides often help with photo stops.
Cost per Session
To make sure you get the best out of the experience, here are some things to consider:
| What | Typical Cost / Detail |
|---|---|
| 60-minute quad biking tour | ~ R799 per person (excluding entry permit). |
| 30-minute “Blitz” version | ~ R499 per person (excluding entry permit). |
| Entry permit to Nature Reserve | ~ R250 per person (for quads) + extra for sandboarding permit if doing that too. |
| Age / Weight limits | Minimum age usually 16 (for solo riding) and weight maximum ~ 140 kg. For children, some tours or parts may allow younger with a passenger or under supervision. |
Things To Keep in Mind
- Weather matters: wind can blow sand and make riding / visibility tougher. If it’s very windy the experience might be less comfortable.
- Physical requirements: if your back is sensitive, or if you have any injuries or are pregnant, discuss with the operator. It’s bumpy.
- Permits & entry fees: these need to be budgeted for separately; they’re non-negotiable for access to the dunes.
- Arrival time: get there a bit ahead, so orientation and safety briefing can happen without rushing. Booking in advance is wise, especially in busy tourist seasons.
- Gear and cleanliness: sand gets everywhere. Be ready to get dusty or sandy, with clothes/shoes that can be cleaned.
Final Thoughts
Quad biking with Breathless Nomad in Atlantis is one of those experiences that sticks with you: the adventure of riding over sand, the openness of the landscape, the contrast against Cape Town’s more familiar mountain and sea scapes. If you’re after something scenic, fun and out of this world like, this is the adventure for you.
Find Breathless Nomad, member of Cape Country Routes just off the R27 in Atlantis.
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