15 Day South Africa is Calling: Guided Motorcycle Adventure Tour

Overview

Motorrad Adventures' South African motorcycle tours offer a safe, exciting, and unforgettable way to experience the landscapes, culture, and hidden gems of this diverse country.

Highlights

• Starts in the Cradle of Humankind outside Johannesburg and ends in Cape Town
• Ride the Prince Alfred's Pass
• Visit Cape Agulhas, Africa's southernmost point
• Explore Helen Martin's famous Owl House and visit the Motorcycle Room museum
• Experience elephant and lion spotting in Addo National Park
• Cross the Breede River by ferry
• Satellite communications and tracking, and GPS with tracks and waypoints supplied
• 14 nights of guest house or hotel accommodation, plus a support team, included

Itinerary

1. Day 1: Meeting day

   Upon your arrival in South Africa, Motorrad Adventures will transfer you to the stunning lodging in the Cradle of Humankind area, north of Johannesburg. This area is renowned for its significant fossil discoveries, including the evolution of Homo Sapiens around 200,000 years ago. Once you've checked into your room, they will introduce you to your motorcycle. After this, the team will lead a comprehensive tour briefing providing an overview of the upcoming tour, followed by a delicious traditional South African boma-style dinner under a starry African sky. As the evening progresses, your Motorr

2. Day 2: Motorcycle, GPS familiarization, and off-road riding skills course

   As you prepare to embark on your exciting motorcycle adventure through South Africa, Motorrad Adventures will first ensure that you’re acquainted with your chosen bike. They'll guide you through the setup process, show you how to use your GPS, and even take you on a scenic outride to Motorrad Adventure's training grounds for an off-road riding skills workshop. This workshop will equip you with crucial tips and techniques to help you navigate the off-road sections of your journey with ease and confidence. Once you've had your fill of adventure for the day, you'll enjoy a scrumptious lunch at on

3. Day 3: The Cradle of Humankind to Clarens (360 kilometers / 227 miles)

   After indulging in a hearty breakfast at the hotel, eagerly jump on your bike, ready for the adventure of a lifetime! The first day of riding will be a delightful blend of smooth paved roads and well-maintained gravel back roads, leading you away from the Cradle of Humankind and into the serene South African countryside, towards the quaint and charming village of Clarens. This picturesque village is nestled in the foothills of the Maluti Mountains, located in the Free State province. Renowned for its breathtaking sandstone mountains and idyllic climate, Clarens is truly one of the most enchant

4. Day 4: Clarens to Himeville (335 kilometers / 208 miles)

   Get ready for an unforgettable adventure on this day. Just outside Clarens lies the breathtaking Golden Gate Highlands National Park. As you wind your way through the park's twisty roads on your motorcycle, you'll be blown away by the stunning golden sandstone cliffs. You might even catch a glimpse of some of the wild creatures that call this place home, like black wildebeest, blesbok, zebra, and maybe even the elusive bearded vulture. But, the excitement doesn't stop there. This day’s ride will also take you through the awe-inspiring Drakensberg Mountains, past the mighty Sterkfontein Dam, an

5. Day 5: Himeville to Hogsback (560 kilometers / 348 miles)

   Get ready for an exciting ride on this day because you'll be picking up the pace just a little. You'll be cruising through some twisty roads that will take you out of Kwa-Zulu Natal all the way to the Eastern Cape province. The destination will be a charming and peaceful village called Hogsback nestled in the breathtaking Amathole Mountains. Did you know that many people believe that J. R. R. Tolkien was inspired by this very place when he wrote The Lord of the Rings? The scenery there is awe-inspiring, with lush forests, rolling hills, and stunning waterfalls at every turn. On route, you'll b

6. Day 6: Hogsback to Nieu Bethesda (340 kilometers / 211 miles)

   During this day's ride, you'll notice that the landscape will open up and the vegetation will thin out as you transition into South Africa's Karoo region. The Karoo is a vast area that covers around 32% of South Africa's landmass and is mainly a semi-arid desert, although it has different microclimates. It's one of the best places in the world to ride an adventure motorcycle! To truly experience the Karoo, you'll travel its back roads, enjoying the vast open spaces, the indigo-blue dome of the sky overhead, and the unique landscapes that blend into the horizon. If you stop your bike anywhere i

7. Day 7: Rest day in Nieu Bethesda with an optional 90-kilometer off-road ride around the Compassberg mountain

   Nieu-Bethesda offers a plethora of experiences, and they are thrilled to have an extended stay there. You will begin the day with a hearty breakfast, fuelling you for the exciting activities ahead. After breakfast, hop on your bikes and embark on an optional 90-kilometer off-road excursion around the famous Compassberg. This captivating pointed mountain greets visitors as they enter Nieu-Bethesda. As you explore, keep your eyes peeled for some “stone men,” adding an element of adventure to your ride. Along the way, your cameras will allow you to capture the beauty of Karoo windpumps and landsc

8. Day 8: Nieu Bethesda to Zuurberg Mountain, Addo (335 kilometers / 208 miles)

   It’s always sad to leave Nieu Bethesda, but after a fulfilling breakfast, embark on an exhilarating off-road ride towards Graaff-Reinet. This charming place holds the distinction of being the fourth-oldest town in South Africa. The journey will take you through the magnificent Camdeboo National Park, where you will witness a sight that will leave you in awe - the Valley of Desolation. From this vantage point, you can imagine the once grand inland swamp that has now transformed into the vast and arid Karoo landscape. The sheer beauty of the Karoo will take your breath away as you ride along som

9. Day 9: Zuurberg Mountain to Oudtshoorn (430 kilometrers / 267 miles)

   You will be headed towards the East Coast of South Africa on this day, and past just north of Jeffreys Bay. If you’ve ever taken a stab at surfing, then you’re likely to be aware that Jeffreys Bay is one of the top five surfing meccas in the world. Every July, the World Surf League's surfing competition takes place there, drawing in surf enthusiasts and professionals from around the globe. As the day unfolds, merge onto Route 62, and you’ll be treated to South Africa's own version of America's Route 66. The route will take you through winding mountain passes that will slowly reveal breathtakin

10. Day 10: Oudtshoorn to Knysna (220 kilometers / 137 miles)

    This day, you will be heading towards the Indian Ocean, and your route will be truly remarkable. Start on fantastic gravel roads just outside Oudtshoorn, leading you to one of South Africa’s must-visit passes, the Prince Alfred Pass. This pass is undoubtedly one of the most picturesque in the country. It winds down from Uniondale in the Karoo and emerges at the coast near Knysna. Construction on the pass began in the 1800s and was carried out by Thomas Bain, a legend in the field. He constructed 29 passes in the Cape Colony during his lifetime, and this pass is his masterpiece. Despite using o

11. Day 11: Knysna to Barrydale (350 kilometers / 217 miles)

    On this day, your route will take you along the beautiful coastline and then up the renowned Seven Passes Road before you return to Route 62. Although the Seven Passes Road starts and ends on the tarmac, most of the journey is a well-maintained gravel road. You will be surrounded by lush forests, cross streams, rivers, and gorges, and enjoy scenic views of rolling farmlands. The Seven Passes Road is such an exceptional route that it has been declared a national monument, along with its historic bridges. You'll have a quick coffee stop at the charming village of Wilderness, which overlooks the

12. Day 12: Barrydale to Hermanus (305 kilometers / 190 miles)

    You will be in for an exciting day as you leave Barrydale and head across Tradouws Pass. Throughout your journey, you will enjoy some stunning views of the mountains, with plenty of opportunities to stop and take photos. If you’re lucky, you might even spot some baboons. The next destination will be Cape Agulhas, where the Indian and Atlantic Oceans meet. However, before you can get there, you will need to cross the Breede River using a small ferry at Malagas, which is always a thrilling experience. Cape Agulhas is renowned for its beautiful coastline, featuring both rocky and sandy beaches. I

13. Day 13: Hermanus to Paternoster (325 kilometers / 202 miles)

    As you leave Hermanus, you'll ride along the coast, and it'll be a common occurrence to see dolphins frolicking in the waves. You'll then head inland, passing through stunning landscapes towards the small village of Franschhoek, known as the country's food and wine capital. The name "Franschhoek" is roughly translated from Dutch to French Corner. The village is tucked into the Cape Winelands of South Africa. The tree-lined streets are filled with galleries and antique shops, and vineyards established more than 300 years ago cascade over the hills just outside town. Stop at one of the many beau

14. Day 14: Paternoster to Cape Town (287 kilometers / 178 miles)

    This day will be your last day of adventure together with Motorrad Adventures. Ride south down the coast, and as you approach Cape Town, the Mother City of South Africa, the sight of Table Mountain standing proudly above the bay will fill you with excitement. However, before you head to your accommodation at the famous Victoria and Alfred Waterfront, have some more exploring to do. Go on a visit to Cape Point for lunch, and you don't miss the epic ride down one of the world's greatest coastal roads, Chapman's Peak Drive. Your first stop will be Cape Point in the Table Mountain National Park, l

15. Day 15

    - Departure

Ride Details

Terrain

40% gravel, 60% tar

Bike

Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 / BMW 1250 GS / BMW 1200 GS Rallye / BMW 850 GS / BMW 750 GS (motorcycle hire not included)

Mileage

3,800 km / 2,361 mi

Daily rides

220 kilometers / 137 miles to 560 kilometers / 348 miles

Meals

A welcome and farewell dinner, and all breakfasts included

Accommodation

Embarking on a memorable journey requires a comfortable and pleasant place to stay. Luckily, South Africa boasts an array of charming guesthouses and hotels that will make you feel right at home. This tour provides the perfect blend of cozy cottages, luxurious hotels, and elegant guesthouses, all of which boast stunning gardens, serene surroundings, and awe-inspiring views of the landscapes, ensuring that you will have the perfect accommodation. These accommodations will immerse you in the peaceful and tranquil atmosphere of the area. The hosts of these lodgings are always welcoming, knowledgeable, and passionate about sharing their love of their beautiful country, making your stay an unforg

Food

If you want to get the full South African experience, you will have to try the delicious local cuisine at the charming restaurants that you'll visit. Motorrad Adventures will introduce you to hidden culinary gems that will take you on a unique gastronomic journey. The tour features a diverse selection of restaurants and eateries that serve traditional dishes, as well as international cuisine with a South African twist. These establishments use fresh, locally sourced ingredients to create authentic and flavorful dishes that will tantalize your taste buds. Whether you're in the mood for succulent Karoo lamb shank, juicy steak, or a delectable vegetarian option, the "South Africa is Calling Mot

Getting There

Starting in the Cradle of Humankind, just north of Johannesburg, the carefully crafted route ensures that riders of all skill levels can participate and enjoy the ride. With a perfect mix of paved and gravel sections, this journey spans five of South Africa’s nine provinces, including Gauteng, Free State, Kwa-Zulu Natal, the Eastern Cape, and the Western Cape, before culminating in the vibrant cit