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Durban isn’t just a city of great beaches and delicious bunny chows… it’s also an epic spot for some top-notch biking.
From the Golden Mile to the indigenous forests, there are endless biking trails that allow you to experience Durban up-close, with family and friends.
And now you can explore some of Durban’s best-kept biking trails through the eThekwini Mountain Bike Association (EMBA).
What’s the EMBA?
This is a not-for-profit organisation that’s been doing the good work for nearly two decades.
They create safe, legal, well-managed access to some of Durban’s most scenic riding terrain.
Thanks to a landmark agreement with Tongaat Hulett Sugar (first signed in 2007 and renewed annually), registered EMBA members can explore acres of private farmland without trespassing, while keeping the trails protected and maintained.
Two epic trail zones. One membership. Big adventure energy.
Where can you cycle?
EMBA offers around 180km of riding across two main regions:
Shongweni (West of Durban)
Expect rolling valleys, grasslands, indigenous bush, and views so unique, you can’t believe you’re still in Durban! You’ll find everything from chilled gravel rides to technical singletrack, with safe parking at the Shongweni Club.
KZN North Coast (Cornubia to Tongaat)
Coastal riding at its best, with entry points at Cycle Lab Cornubia and Salta Sibaya. Think flowing singletrack, sugarcane fields, fast sections, and even the occasional ocean view if you time it right.
What you need to know
Cost: Annual membership is R990 for adults | R750 for pensioners (70+) | R150 for under-18s and students.
Benefits: You get two R125 Cycle Lab vouchers, 20% off Cadence Nutrition online, and a once-off MTB skills day.
Trial Run: Grab a day pass for R50 to give it a try.
Info & Membership Applications: www.emba.org.za
The best part is that EMBA is volunteer-run, with membership fees going straight back into trails, access agreements, and safety, including a R500,000 maintenance budget for 2026.
Don’t miss Cycle Sunday
Want something more city-bound and super beginner-friendly?
Cycle Sunday presented by Cycle Lab is happening on Sunday, 8 February 2026. Ride the scenic M4 motorway from Moses Mabhida Stadium to Portland Drive, Umhlanga… completely traffic-free.
Cost: R50 per person
Info & Bookings: www.racepass.com/za/races/cycle-sunday
Whether you’re a dedicated mountain biker or a ‘just cruising’ cyclist, Durban is ready.
All you need is a bike. And a helmet. And water. And sunscreen.
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