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The route follows the C26 gravel road from Windhoek to top of the Kupferberg Pass ( C26 / D1982 intersection), continues along the D1982 down the Us Pass and then turns off right onto the D1985 to the C28 which takes you into Swakopmund. Stage 1 starts in Windhoek and winds up to the top of Kupferberg. All riders of a team do this stage. Distance - 36km.  Stage 1 profile Stage 2 ends at the Kuiseb river bridge. A strong headwind might be encountered and for the backmarkers nightfall will arrive on this stage. Distance - 67 km  Stage 2 profile Stage 3 ends at the farm Khomas Safari and is the toughest section with many short, steep climbs and descents as the route criss-crosses valleys and rivers of the Khomas Hochland. Distance - 70 km.  Stage 3 profile Stage 4 ends at the Blutkopje/Hotsas crossing and is a slight downhill through the starkness of the Namib desert. Depending on the condition of the road it can be a little soft, and therefore deceptive in the dark. Distance - 70 km.  Stage 4 profile Stage 5 ends at the power station and although the profile shows a nice downhill, a monster headwind from the sea can turn this stage into a real suffer fest. "It's suppose to be downhill, why am I only going 14km/h?" Distance 71 km.  Stage 5 profile Stage 6 ends in Swakopmund with a few sandy bits and detours through town that really tests your sense of humour. At least you'll have the rest of your team riders with you on this stage to keep the spirits high. You can smell the finish (ocean)! Distance - 30 km.  Stage 6 profile
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