12 Day South Africa Expedition Guided Motorcycle Tour

Overview

Johnny Clegg's song "Asimbonanga" and Nelson Mandela's smile hover over a country that experienced one of the most spectacular political turnarounds in history, converting hatred into forgiveness and peace. Between turquoise waters, mountains, deserts, and vineyards, South Africa offers a variety of breathtaking landscapes. Among the most beautiful roads and tracks in the world are the famous Chapman's Peak Drive along the cliffside and the impressive Swartberg Pass, which marks the boundary between the small and great Karoo desert. This 50% off-road trip explores the wonders of the Karoo and showcases an incredible variety of wildlife: giraffes, elephants, lions, leopards, zebras, baboons, penguins, and more.

Highlights

• Starts and ends in Cape Town
• Ride along breathtaking coastal roads, including a visit to Cape Agulhas, the southernmost point of Africa
• Encounter diverse wildlife, from giraffes and baboons to penguins and more
• Ride through the iconic Swartberg Pass, offering stunning mountain views
• Visit charming towns like Knysna and Stellenbosch, known for their history and culture
• 11 nights of accommodation
• Airport transfers included
• Breakfasts are included, with other meals available along the route

Itinerary

1. Day 1: Cape Town

   Welcome to Cape Town! Nestled between the majestic Table Mountain and the Atlantic Ocean, Cape Town is a vibrant city, rich in history and culture. Here you can discover colorful neighborhoods, sublime beaches, and delicious cuisine.

2. Day 2: Cape Agulhas - 320 kilometers (200 miles)

   Pick up the motorbikes in the morning and ride along the turquoise coastline, greeting the penguins. Reach the southernmost point of Africa, Cape Agulhas, where the Atlantic Ocean meets the Indian Ocean. The spectacular views and wild beauty of this place are unforgettable.

3. Day 3: Riversdale - 230 kilometers (143 miles)

   Leave Cape Agulhas and head north, crossing the Malgas River before reaching Barrydale via the magnificent Tradouw Pass. Along the way, there may be opportunities to spot giraffes or baboons. The day continues on beautiful tracks along the Garcia Range, where the night will be spent.

4. Day 4: Knysna - 265 kilometers (165 miles)

   Follow the mountain range of southern Africa to reach the coast via Ruiterbos National Park. This historic road, with an old customs post, leads along the Indian Ocean to Knysna, a coastal town famous for its lagoon and indigenous forests.

5. Day 5: Swartberg - 250 kilometers (155 miles)

   Leave the coast to enter the wild region of the Western Cape, the Karoo, a vast semi-arid area extending to the Namib Desert in the neighboring country. Cross the ostrich farming region from the north and spend the night at the foot of the Swartberg Pass.

6. Day 6: Swartberg – Break - 120 kilometers (75 miles)

   Rest day at the foot of the Swartberg Pass. In the morning, cross the pass to reach Prince Albert at the gateway to the great Karoo Desert. This 27-kilometer pass reaches 1,585 meters above sea level and offers spectacular bends and breathtaking panoramas. Known for its geological formations, it is considered a jewel of South Africa.

7. Day 7: Ladismith - 180 kilometers (112 miles)

   Begin the day with an early departure for new adventures in the Karoo. Experience a memorable giraffe walk, approaching the herd in a four-by-four vehicle before continuing on foot to get closer to these majestic animals.

8. Day 8: Montagu - 180 kilometers (112 miles)

   Follow desert and lunar tracks through the Anysberg Nature Reserve to reach Montagu. The arid lands of the Karoo gradually give way to the lush greenery of the Western Cape, with its orchards and plantations.

9. Day 9: Stellenbosch - 180 kilometers (112 miles)

   Enter the South African vineyards, a legacy of the 17th-century French Huguenots. Stop at Franschhoek, the "French Corner," before reaching Stellenbosch. A wine tasting at one of the oldest vineyards in Stellenbosch concludes the day.

10. Day 10: Cape Town - 170 kilometers (106 miles)

    Drive toward Cape Town, following the Atlantic Ocean to the Cape of Good Hope, before heading up the west coast via the splendid Chapman's Peak Drive. This road, considered one of the most beautiful in the world, winds between the sea and mountains, offering stunning views of the ocean and cliffs. Return the motorcycles at the end of the day.

11. Day 11: Cape Town

    Spend a full day exploring Cape Town. This bustling cosmopolitan city, nestled at the foot of Table Mountain, combines wild nature, rich history, inventive gastronomy, and exceptional wines. Walk in the footsteps of Nelson Mandela on Robben Island, where he spent nearly 19 years of his life.

12. Day 12: Departure

    Transfer to the airport or continue to the extension at Kruger National Park.

Ride Details

Terrain

A mix of paved roads, coastal routes, mountain passes, and off-road tracks (50% off-road)

Bike

rental bike adventure motorcycle (upgrade to grand adventure motorcycles)

Mileage

Approximately 2,275 kilometers / 1,413 miles total

Daily rides

120–320 kilometers / 75–200 miles

Riding gear

Riders must bring their own protective gear, including helmets, durable high-top hiking boots, real biking boots, or crossmotor boots. Rain gear is also recommended.

Meals

Breakfasts included; other meals vary based on location and personal preference. Dining options available en route.

Accommodation

You will be accommodated in various hotels.

Getting There

This journey begins in the vibrant city of Cape Town, nestled between Table Mountain and the Atlantic Ocean. It continues through the southernmost point of Africa at Cape Agulhas, the charming town of Riversdale, and the coastal beauty of Knysna. Venturing inland, explore the rugged wilderness of Swartberg and the quaint town of Ladismith before reaching the lush landscapes of Montagu. The itinera