“We give to get” – Trish Liggett

From a simple but powerful idea, Freedom To Roam Adventures (FTRA) has grown into a unique and deeply impactful initiative. This adventure gives an elite number of guests an unforgettable and rare experience of riding mountain bikes within a big five game reserve. Founded by Trish Liggett, wife of world renowned cycling commentator Phil Liggett, this bespoke adventure combines their love for nature and cycling with a heartfelt mission: to protect Africa’s wildlife and uplift local communities.

Inspired by their decades of travel across wild Africa and a growing urgency to take action, Trish launched FTRA in collaboration with Kariega Game Reserve and the Kariega Foundation. Their mission is as exhilarating as it is meaningful—an immersive, once-in-a-lifetime safari experience that directly supports conservation and community development.

Bespoke Itinerary Experiences

This annual event hosts only 18 guests to explore the reserve on mountain bikes (an activity not otherwise permitted at Kariega) offering a rare opportunity to roam where few have before. Guests enjoy 8 nights across the luxurious Ukhozi Lodge, River Lodge and Settlers Drift, with a full support team, world-class guiding, and enriching conservation insights throughout.

Our itineraries are built for an intimate group of conservation minded guests, forming personal connections with the Kariega family, including guests, owners, ecologists, animals, habitat.

Each FTRA itinerary includes:

• Mountain biking through the Big 5 reserve, with full support vehicles and top guides.
• Optional guided walks and daily game drives for non-cyclists.
• River cruises and birding expeditions on the Bushmans River.
• Talks and Q&As with conservation leaders including ecologists and anti-poaching experts.
• Wildlife photography tips with Trish Liggett.
• Private screening of The Voice of Cycling documentary and private screening of the Oscar Nominated The Last Ranger.
• Intimate evenings around the fire with like-minded adventurers.
• Community visits and hands on activities with community members, creating personal connections.
• Fire chats with family owner and CEO, Lindy Sutherland of the Kariega Foundation.

For Non-Cyclists: A Safari Like No Other

You don't need to ride to roam!

For guests who prefer not to cycle, Freedom To Roam Adventures offers an equally rich, immersive safari experience with wellness, nature and wildlife at its core. Every guest is catered to, ensuring your time at Kariega is relaxing, inspiring, and full of wonder.

Non-Cyclist Highlights Include:

• Big 5 game drives with experienced field guides.
• Guided nature walks to explore the smaller wonders of the bush.
• Birdwatching by river cruise and on foot with expert guides.
• Spa treatments and wellness options at Kariega’s luxury lodges.
• Leisure time to rest, reflect and recharge in stunning surroundings.

Whether you’re photographing wildlife, soaking in the tranquility of the river, or enjoying a massage at the spa, your experience will be purposeful, restorative, and unforgettable.The FTRA experience is truly designed for everyone, whatever your pace or passion.

Impact and Purpose

All proceeds from FTRA are donated to the Kariega Foundation, supporting a range of integrated conservation and community projects under the banner of  Conservation Through Community.

To find out more about this inspiring NPO read the Kariega Foundation integrated report.

The Kariega Foundation Trust is an all-encompassing NPO committed to holistic impact. Guided by the philosophy 'from cradle to career,' the Foundation recognises that meaningful conservation is only possible when local communities are active participants in protecting and restoring the natural world. Freedom To Roam Adventures supports this vision by investing in these initiatives.

A Freedom to Roam Adventure Gives Back.

Together we have funded:

• Habitat expansion and wildlife corridor development.
• Rhino translocations and anti-poaching training.
• Certification of local APU cadets and K9 handler training
• Infrastructure to support black rhino movements into the Bushmans River corridor.
• Youth Development Programmes in four local communities.
• Career pathways through social-emotional learning and skills training.
• Introduction of cheetah and other keystone species to the reserve.

Trish says it best:

“We do this to help others striving to protect nature’s delicate balance. These creatures stabilise our planet. Through FTRA, we spread the word and support efforts to keep wild things wild and free to roam.”

Art Safaris and Beyond

In 2024, FTRA proudly launched Art Safaris with acclaimed wildlife artist Sarah Stokes, opening a new path for creative conservation experiences. Guests stay at Ukhozi Lodge and paint directly from life, surrounded by elephants, giraffes, lions, and more. 

A portion of retreat fees also supports Kariega Foundation conservation and community projects.

“To be able to paint in such a spectacular setting, surrounded by elephants, giraffes and lions, and know that we’re contributing to something bigger it makes this experience even more powerful.” – Sarah Stokes

Find Out More.

Our Legacy and Community

Freedom To Roam Adventures has grown from one event post-Covid in 2022 to multiple annual events. Many of our guests return more than once. More than just a cycling event, it is a growing conservation community, working together to protect, preserve and benefit our planet, people and wildlife.

Through the Kariega Foundation, FTRA empowers local people to be part of the solution, from youth education to environmental protection. 

We believe that true conservation cannot exist without community.

Trish’s Motivation:

“In my wildest dreams, I never imagined Freedom To Roam Adventures would grow into such a powerful movement. It’s a joy and an honour to walk and ride this road with so many inspiring people. Thank you for being part of the journey.”

Partners Welcome

Freedom To Roam Adventures is proudly partnered with the Kariega Foundation Trust, and supported by a growing network of guests, funders, and advocates. Many of our partners began as guests—now they champion conservation in their own right.

Want to join the movement? 

Email us here.