The High Mountains
Adventure Motorcycle Tour
An extraordinary journey of exploration to the highlands of the Eastern Cape that unveils the mesmerising high passes of South Africa, including some of the esteemed Ben Ten Eco-Challenge routes. This motorcycle adventure is an exhilarating experience that will showcase the best of the Eastern Cape's beautiful mountain kingdom.
Embark on a thrilling motorcycle adventure through the untamed wilderness of the Eastern Cape highlands. Prepare to be awe-struck by the magnificent vistas that will undoubtedly leave an indelible impression on your adventurous spirit. Explore the majestic peaks and vibrant valleys of South Africa's mountain kingdom, where every moment of this exhilarating motorcycle tour promises to be brimming with beauty and wonder.
Duration
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5 Nights
Gravel / Tar
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50% / 50%
Places Available
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11 of 12
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Overview of the Experience
Get ready for an incredible adventure as we ride motorcycles through the untamed wilderness and rugged terrain of the Eastern Cape's highlands. This journey will leave an everlasting mark on your soul with its breathtaking vistas, from majestic peaks to vibrant valleys. But it's not just about the natural beauty; the memories and friendships we create along the way will stay with you forever. Share laughter, camaraderie, and a sense of accomplishment with fellow adventure riders who share your passion for exploring the unknown on motorcycles. Embrace the spirit of discovery as we venture into the heart of the Eastern Cape's highlands, uncovering hidden trails and routes that few have had the privilege to ride.
As you navigate through some of South Africa's highest mountain passes on your bike, you'll not only experience their beauty but also hone your riding skills and techniques. Our expert guides will be with you every step of the way, offering guidance and tips to help you overcome any challenges that may arise. You'll acquire new on and off-road riding skills, enhancing your overall riding prowess. This once-in-a-lifetime opportunity will ignite your sense of adventure, push your limits, and elevate your adventure bike riding skills.
So, if you're ready to redefine your adventure motorcycle riding experience, gear up, rev up your engines, and embark on this epic motorcycle adventure to the mountains that will challenge you and invigorate your soul. The captivating highlands of the Eastern Cape await your exploration, and we invite you to join us on this remarkable journey. It's an experience that will create cherished memories that last a lifetime.
Meeting Day
Feeling drawn by the majestic allure of the beautiful mountains, we gather at our lovely lodging in the charming little town of Matatiele, brimming with excitement for the upcoming motorcycle journey.
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Tonight, we are lucky to savour a delectable dinner that will tantalize our taste buds and give us a perfect chance to bond and acquaint ourselves with our fellow adventure motorcycle enthusiasts.
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As the evening unfolds, the Motorrad Adventures team, a group of seasoned motorcycle adventurers, will captivate us with their vast knowledge and experiences, offering a comprehensive preview of the upcoming tour. Their extensive expertise and enthralling tales from previous adventure motorcycle trips will transport us to distant lands and kindle our passion for exploration. We will also delve into the intriguing history of the area we are going to be travelling through, gaining a deeper comprehension that will enrich our admiration for the region.
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After a night of companionship and enlightenment, we retire to our rooms for an invigorating night's rest, allowing us to awaken feeling refreshed and ready for the start of the extraordinary motorcycle tour that awaits us in the morning.
Day 1: Matatiele to Rhodes
Before setting out on an exciting day of off-road adventure motorcycle riding, the skilled Motorrad Adventures team will lead an informative workshop focusing on essential riding techniques. This session is designed to provide you with valuable insights and practical tips to build a solid foundation for tackling the off-road segments of our journey.
Once adequately prepared, we will mount our motorcycles and embark on an exhilarating adventure, navigating through breathtakingly scenic routes that will take us to the highest peaks in South Africa's mountain kingdom.
Our route will predominantly consist of gravel back roads leading to the picturesque village of Rhodes in the Eastern Cape. While the gravel roads we'll encounter are not overly technical, there will be certain challenging sections that will put both your riding skills and the capabilities of your adventure bike to the test.
We will conquer a series of high mountain passes throughout the day, including Lusipoort, Pitseng, and Naudes Nek. These passes promise to provide awe-inspiring views and unforgettable riding experiences. Get ready for an unforgettable day of adventure and exploration.
Day 2: Rhodes to Bidstone
Today promises to be an exhilarating day filled with adventure as we set out on our motorcycle journey. Our route will take us deep into the towering mountains, leading us along breathtaking twin-track paths.
Along the way, we will triumph over two of the infamous Ben Ten high mountain passes, the Volunteershoek pass and the absolutely mesmerizing Carlieshoekspruit pass. But that's not all. We'll also tackle the challenging route down to the War Trail area and have the incredible opportunity to witness the remarkable Ben Macdhui, the highest peak in South Africa's Eastern Cape region, standing proud at an impressive 3,001 meters. At the base of this imposing peak lies the stunning Loch Ness, where we'll pause to rest and bask in the natural beauty surrounding us.
As we continue our thrilling adventure, we'll make our way down to the War Trail area, culminating in our arrival at Bidstone Farm, our accommodation for the evening. Here, we'll savor a delectable lunch, featuring the finest wood-fired homemade pizza and apple pie you've ever had. Today's triumphs will include conquering a series of high passes, including Carlieshoekspruit, Volunteershoek, and Bidstone.
Day 3: Bidstone to Mountain Shadows
Today's journey begins with a fond farewell to the peaceful Bidstone Farm as we set our sights on the charming village of Lady Grey. Our path winds along well-maintained gravel roads, offering a smooth and exhilarating ride through picturesque landscapes.
Our adventure leads us to the breathtaking Lundeans Nek, where we capture stunning photos at the magnificent Dangers Hoek lookout point. We conquer shallow river crossings and make unforgettable memories against the backdrop of the striking countryside and our trusty motorcycles.
After a satisfying lunch, we eagerly take on the remote yet awe-inspiring Jouberts Pass, just outside of Lady Grey. Our day concludes at our evening retreat perched atop the majestic Barkley Pass. Today's escapade is a thrilling exploration of the high passes of Lundeans Nek and Joubert's Pass.
Day 4: Mountain Shadows to Matatiele
On our adventure today, we skirt the base of another of the Eastern Capes's high mountain passes, the infamous Bastervoetpad pass. The Bastervoetpad Pass is one of the last true mountain passes in South Africa, and it's rated high amongst the top eight high-altitude passes of the Eastern Cape. Officially named the Dr Lapa Munnik Pass, we won’t actually ride the 8km pass itself.
Unfortunately, it has fallen into disrepair and is no longer suited for adventure bikes. We will, however, skirt the base of it and see the Vultures Crag rock formation as we ride through the beautiful Gatberg Nature Reserve. You can often see cape vultures circling the upper peak.
After a break for lunch in the town of Mclear, we'll follow a scenic gravel track to the stunning Tsitsa waterfall, a sight that's not to be missed. Our journey ends back at our lodge in Matatiele, where we started.
Gathering for our final night, we'll reminisce about the incredible experiences and connections we've made on this off-road motorcycle adventure. We'll treasure the memories, laughter, and stories, knowing that this extraordinary journey will always have a special place in our hearts...
Accommodation and Food
Guest House Accommodation:
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Finding the perfect accommodation is crucial for a comfortable and enjoyable motorcycle adventure. In the Eastern Cape, there are a variety of charming and welcoming guest houses that will make you feel right at home.
During this adventure bike tour with Motorrad Adventures, you can expect a mix of historical cottages, luxurious guest houses, and quirky hotels, all carefully selected for their stunning gardens, peaceful surroundings, and breathtaking views of the Eastern Cape's majestic mountains. This allows you to fully immerse yourself in the serene and tranquil atmosphere of the area.
The guest houses take great pride in providing exceptional service and creating a warm and inviting environment for their guests. The friendly and knowledgeable hosts are passionate about sharing their enthusiasm and love for this unique region of South Africa.
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Restaurants:
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To truly complete this experience, it is essential to treat your taste buds to the delicious local cuisine available at charming restaurants. The Eastern Cape is renowned for its satisfying and mouthwatering home-cooked dishes that will leave you craving for more.
We have made every effort to uncover the hidden culinary gems, ensuring a unique gastronomic journey for you. These restaurants and eateries offer a wide range of options, from traditional dishes to international cuisine infused with local flavors. With fresh and locally sourced ingredients, these establishments create flavorful and authentic meals. Whether you crave a succulent lamb shank, a juicy steak, homemade pizza, or a delightful vegetarian dish, this off-road motorcycle tour has it all covered.
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​​This tour package includes 5 nights of accommodation and all your breakfasts.
Tour Highlights
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Naudes Nek Pass
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Carlieshoekspruit Pass
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Volunteershoek Pass
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Lundeans Nek Pass
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Jouberts Pass
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Pitseng Pass
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The War Trail area
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Home-made pizza and apple pie at Bidstone Farm
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Exploring the historical village of Rhodes
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Riding some of the Ben Ten high mountain passes
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Seeing the majestic Ben Macdhui mountain
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Vultures Crag and Dangers Hoek viewpoints
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The ride to Tsitsa Waterfall
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Fantastic accommodation and food
This Motorcycle Tour is for you if:
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You have previous experience riding adventure bikes off-road, and now you are seeking a more exhilarating and demanding challenge.​​​
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You are eager to expand your expertise in off-road riding and acquire advanced adventure riding skills and techniques.​​
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You have a strong desire to invest in your personal development as an adventure motorcycle rider and transform yourself into a highly skilled, safer, and more confident rider.
What you'll Learn on this Adventure
Embarking on this adventure motorcycle tour is not just about the thrill of the ride. It's also about fully immersing yourself in the stunning natural landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and fascinating history of this remarkable region. Get ready to be captivated, enlightened, and astonished by the incredible array of experiences that the Eastern Cape has to offer.
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Geology: As we explore the Eastern Cape, you will have the opportunity to become familiar with the extraordinary geological formations that characterise this region. The unique sandstone and shale structures form the stunning mountains we will pass through on our journey. Get ready to see and admire the ancient rock formations that have endured over time as we travel through this breathtaking landscape.
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Biodiversity and Nature: The Eastern Cape boasts an incredible natural diversity, showcasing the rich variety of South Africa's biodiversity with all three of the country's biodiversity regions represented. Get ready to be amazed by the abundance of unique ecosystems and species that call the Eastern Cape home.​
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Rich Cultural Legacy: The Eastern Cape is historically significant as the birthplace of Nelson Mandela and is rich in cultural heritage. Its history includes the reigns of Xhosa Kings and the stories of battles fought for land and country. From legendary tales to historical truths, the Eastern Cape weaves together a tapestry of narratives that reflect the indomitable spirit and resilience of its people.
Ride Grading
Why choose Motorrad Adventures for your next adventure motorcycle tour? It’s simple – our extensive experience and expertise set us apart. Since 2009, we have been organising off-road motorcycle adventures worldwide, consistently delivering exceptional experiences.
Our successful ventures span diverse locations such as Peru, Bolivia, Chile, Argentina, Namibia, and South Africa. We have established strong partnerships with well-respected individuals and companies, including Charley Boorman, Billy Ward, Claudio Von Planta, Dylan Wickrama, SA Adventure, Moto Aventures, and Compass Expeditions.
Safety is our top priority at Motorrad Adventures. We ensure your well-being and security with a fully equipped support vehicle and trailer complete with satellite communications and tracking, a lead and sweep rider, and a dedicated medic on every tour. With our exceptional backup crew, you can ride at your own pace with the necessary support.
When you choose us for your South African motorcycle adventure, you can relax and enjoy the journey. We take care of all the details, from planning optimal routes to arranging top-quality accommodation and delicious meals. Our goal is to provide you with an unforgettable motorcycle riding experience that will stay with you for years to come.
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PLEASE NOTE:
This motorcycle tour is classified as a Grade 4 difficulty.
See our ride grading system HERE for more details.
Our Adventure Bikes
You can choose to bring your own adventure motorcycle or rent one of ours. Either way, we guarantee you'll experience the thrill of exploring South Africa's stunning landscapes on a motorcycle. From as little as R 2 450 per day, our rental service allows you to ride some of the world's top-of-the-line motorcycles specifically designed for off-road adventures. Whether traversing rugged terrains or cruising along scenic routes, our motorcycles provide the perfect blend of power, performance, and comfort. With our well-maintained fleet of both BMW GS and Harley-Davidson Pan America's, you can fully immerse yourself in the excitement of exploring South Africa's highest passes and discover the true spirit of adventure.
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We take pride in the quality of our motorcycles and ensure that they are maintained to the highest standards. Our fleet comprises late-model bikes that are carefully selected to provide you with a comfortable and hassle-free riding experience. Each bike undergoes thorough inspections and servicing to ensure that it is in optimal condition before renting it out to you. Furthermore, we equip each bike with a navigation system and fit it with tyres that are specifically chosen to match the terrain of your adventure. These, as well as fully comprehensive insurance, are included in the daily hire costs listed. You can be confident that you'll ride a reliable and safe motorcycle on your adventure.
Please read our bike rental T & C's HERE
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Low mileage late model bikes
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BMW 1250 GS
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BMW 850 GS
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BMW 750 GS
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BMW 310 GS
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Harley-Davidson Pan America
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All bikes have crash bars and skid plates
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Tour specific tyres
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Navigation systems
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Comprehensive insurance
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​Roadside assistance
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All bikes have ABS, ESA and rider modes
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All bikes have a basic tool and puncture repair kit​
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Security deposit required for rental bikes
BMW 1250 GS
Experience the thrill of adventure on your own terms with the BMW 1250 GS. Equipped with advanced technology and comprehensive features, this adventure motorcycle allows you to navigate any terrain safely and dynamically. R 3 830 p/day
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1254cc | 136 HP at 7 750 rpm
Std seat height: 850/870 mm
Low seat height: 820/840 mm
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ABS | ESA | Rider modes
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Fuel tank capacity 20 liters
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Wet weight 249 kg
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Tubeless tyres
BMW 850 GS
Get ready for the ultimate adventure with the 850 GS. It offers the perfect balance of performance and comfort. With a powerful engine that packs a punch, you'll be able to tackle any terrain with ease. R 3 110 p/day
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853cc | 90 HP at 8 250 rpm
Std seat height: 860 mm
Low seat height: 835 mm
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ABS | ESA | Rider modes
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Fuel tank capacity 15 liters
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Wet weight 233 kg
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Tubeless tyres
BMW 750 GS
The F 750 GS is a powerful motorcycle perfect for exploring the open road. With its responsive handling and advanced suspension system, it promises an unforgettable adventure on two wheels. R 3 020 p/day
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853cc | 77 HP at 7 500 rpm
Std seat height: 815 mm
Low seat height: 790 mm
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ABS | ESA | Rider modes
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Fuel tank capacity 15 liters
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Wet weight 227 kg
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Tubeless tyres
Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250
Designed to meet the demands of both on- and off-road adventure touring, the Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special is engineered to explore and endure, no matter what turns you take. R 2 450 p/day
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1252cc | 150 HP at 9 000 rpm
Std seat height: 875 mm
Low seat height: 850 mm
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ABS | ESA | Rider modes | Cruise Control
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Fuel tank capacity 21 liters
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Wet weight 245 kg
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Tubeless tyres
Dates and Pricing
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25-29 October 2025
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2026 dates TBA
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R 9 950 per person sharing (price increase on 1 Jan 2025)
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Single room supplement at R 2 200
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We take a maximum of 12 motorcycles on this tour
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Your soft luggage goes in the support vehicle
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Guides, medic and support vehicle on the tour
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Satellite communications and tracking
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Tracks and waypoints supplied for GPS units
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Pillion friendly
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Please note the following: All the areas we visit during this motorcycle tour are completely safe. There is no need to worry about your safety. Our team can address any concerns you have to ensure that you have a comfortable and enjoyable experience.
Included In Your Motorcycle Tour Package
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5 nights of guest house accommodation
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All breakfasts
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On-the-fly off-road rider training and guidance
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Visit to the Rhodes museum
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Riding the highest mountain passes in South Africa
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Rock pool swimming at the Tsitsa Waterfall
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Vultures Crag and Dangers Hoek viewpoints
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Full Motorrad Adventures support team and guides
Not Included
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Fuel and motorcycle hire
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Security deposit if hiring a motorcycle
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International flights and visas
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Lunches, dinners and drinks
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Optional activity costs Motorcycle Tours in South Africa
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Congratulations on taking the first step towards the motorcycling adventure of a lifetime! We are thrilled that you are interested in joining us on an incredible journey through the stunning landscapes of South Africa's mountain kingdom. Once you have selected your tour date, motorcycle, and rooming option and are happy with the costs, click the button below to complete the tour booking form.