The Karoo is Calling...
An Epic Journey on Two Wheels
This motorcycle adventure is more than just about navigating the Karoo’s physical terrain on a bike. It’s an opportunity to immerse yourself in the abundant wealth of knowledge, history, and experiences that this distinctive region of South Africa provides.
So, bring along your curiosity and set out on an expedition of enlightenment with us...
Set in the Nieu Bethesda area of the eastern Karoo, South Africa, this tour is the first in a series of back road adventures through the Karoo that you can join us on. You have the option to either bring your own adventure motorcycle or take advantage of our motorcycle rental services. This adventure biking experience brings a whole new meaning to the words 'adventure motorcycle tour'. With its perfect balance of cultural richness and excellent riding routes, we guarantee you will experience places you didn’t know existed in South Africa.
Duration
5 Nights
Gravel / Tar
55% / 45%
Places Available
4 of 12
12 of 12
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Overview of the Experience
This exciting adventure motorcycle tour takes place in the captivating Nieu Bethesda region of the Eastern Karoo in South Africa, a place filled with stunning landscapes, rich history, and a sense of untouched beauty. Our back-road motorcycle adventures are well known for their ability to take riders off the beaten path and into the heart of the Karoo. This tour is just the beginning of a series of unforgettable journeys that will allow you to explore the hidden treasures of this remarkable region. As you embark on this motorcycle tour, prepare to have your senses awakened by the Karoo’s sights, sounds, and smells. The carefully curated route combines both paved and gravel sections, ensuring that riders of all skill levels can participate and enjoy the experience. Whether you're a seasoned off-road adventure rider or a complete beginner, this bike tour is designed to accommodate and challenge you in equal measure. This journey is about more than just riding. It's about immersing yourself in the culture and history of the Karoo. Along the way, you'll have the opportunity to visit charming Karoo towns, meet friendly locals, and indulge in delicious cuisine. The Nieu Bethesda region, in particular, is famous for its traditional architecture, quaint streets, and intriguing art and food scene. You'll have the chance to explore these hidden gems and discover a world you never knew existed. As you traverse the Karoo on your bike, you'll not only explore its beauty but also hone your adventure bike riding skills. Our expert guides will be with you every step of the way, providing guidance and tips to help you navigate any challenges that come your way. You'll acquire new on and off-road riding skills and techniques, enhancing your overall riding prowess. So, if you're ready to redefine your notion of adventure riding, join us for an extraordinary motorcycle tour through the captivating Eastern Karoo. Get ready to immerse yourself in the beauty, culture, and thrill of this remarkable journey. It's an experience that will leave you with memories to cherish for a lifetime…
Meeting Day
The enchanting allure of the Karoo beckons, and as we meet up at our exquisite accommodation nestled along the serene banks of the majestic Orange River near Colesberg, the anticipation of the adventure ahead fills the air. Tonight, we are treated to a delicious Karoo farm-style dinner, a culinary delight that will tantalise your taste buds while providing the perfect opportunity to forge connections and get to know your fellow adventurers. As the evening progresses, the Motorrad Adventures crew, a seasoned group of travellers, will share their extensive knowledge and experiences, providing a comprehensive overview of the upcoming tour. Their wealth of expertise and captivating tales from past motorcycle odysseys will transport you to distant lands and ignite your inner explorer. They'll also delve into the rich history of this particular corner of the Karoo, gaining insights that will deepen your appreciation for the region. After an evening of camaraderie and enlightenment, we retire to our luxurious, first-class rooms. The comfort and elegance of your accommodation ensures a restful night's sleep, allowing you to awaken refreshed and ready for the extraordinary motorcycle adventure that awaits you in the morning.
Day 1: Orange River to Nieu Bethesda
Before we begin our exciting day of riding, we will hold a short workshop to teach you some helpful off-road riding skills. This session will give you important tips to prepare you for the gravel sections of our trip. After the workshop, we'll mount our motorcycles and start our journey on beautiful back roads, with our first stop at the wall of the largest dam in South Africa, Gariep. From there, we will mainly travel on gravel routes that lead us to the historic village of Nieu-Bethesda. While these gravel roads are not very technically challenging, the stunning scenery and encounters with wildlife are sure to captivate you. We'll enjoy a delicious and authentic Karoo lunch at a farm just 7 kilometres outside Nieu-Bethesda. The lunch will be expertly prepared by the talented Hester. While there, we will have the opportunity to learn about Karoo fossils from our knowledgeable host JP, who will guide us through the largest collection of Karoo fossils in South Africa. Additionally, we will explore the cave shelters on the farm, which house ancient paintings left by the San bushmen hundreds of years ago. After this fascinating afternoon, and a short ride on our bikes, we will check into our splendid guest houses in Nieu-Bethesda for a truly remarkable and unforgettable experience.
Day 2: Outride Around the Compassberg
Nieu-Bethesda offers a wide range of experiences, and we are delighted to have extended our stay here for two nights. We will start the day with a hearty breakfast to fuel us for the exciting activities ahead. After breakfast, we will hop on our bikes and begin an off-road adventure around the well-known Compassberg, a captivating pointed mountain that welcomes visitors to Nieu-Bethesda. As we explore, we will keep our eyes open for some "stone men," adding an element of adventure to our ride. Along the way, there will be plenty of opportunities to capture the beauty of Karoo windpumps and landscapes with our cameras. Upon returning to Nieu-Bethesda in time for lunch, you'll have the option to take a tour of the famous Owl House. The Owl House is a masterpiece created by the talented artist Helen Martins, also known as "Miss Helen". During this exclusive viewing, you can explore the camel yard and house, immersing yourself in the magical ambience while learning about the histories and stories behind each sculpture. After your tour of the Owl House, you'll have the opportunity to visit the James Kitching Fossil Exploration Centre. Here, Andries, the local fossil expert, will share his vast knowledge about the peculiar creatures that once roamed the Karoo plains a staggering 150 million years ago, predating even the most famous dinosaurs. Andries will lead you down to the river, where you'll witness unexcavated sites containing actual fossils still embedded in the sediment. This thrilling fossil adventure will provide a deeper understanding of the ancient history of this region. Following your fossil exploration, you'll have ample free time to thoroughly explore the village until dinner. This is the perfect opportunity to uncover the hidden gems and unique charm that Nieu-Bethesda has to offer. As the day draws to a close, we will savour a delectable Karoo meal at an award-winning restaurant, ensuring a memorable and satisfying end to our day in Nieu-Bethesda.
Day 3: Nieu Bethesda to Graaff-Reinet
After enjoying a satisfying breakfast in Nieu-Bethesda, we will set off on an exciting off-road journey to Graaff-Reinet, a delightful town that holds the distinction of being the fourth oldest town in South Africa. Our route will take us through the stunning Camdeboo National Park, where we will be treated to a breathtaking sight - the Valley of Desolation. From this vantage point, we will be able to envision the once grand inland swamp that has now transformed into the vast and arid Karoo landscape. The sheer beauty of the Karoo will leave you speechless. As we continue our journey, we will arrive in Graaff-Reinet. There, we will enjoy a delicious lunch at one of the town's fantastic restaurants. Following our meal, we will have the opportunity to visit a nearby Agave farm. Owner Tim Murray will educate us about the thriving craft Tequila or Agave Spirit industry in Graaff-Reinet. Tim will lead us through the farm, sharing his knowledge and expertise, and offering us the chance to taste some of the finest Karoo Agave drinks. After reawakening our senses, we'll hop back on our motorcycles and head to our luxurious accommodations for some well-deserved relaxation. As evening descends, we'll venture out to one of the town's renowned restaurants, where we'll savour a delightful dinner, revelling in the flavours and ambience that Graaff-Reinet has to offer. It's the ideal conclusion to a remarkable day of adventure motorcycle riding.
Day 4: Graaff-Reinet to the Orange River
The final day of our Karoo adventure promises to be truly epic. As we set out on our motorcycles, we will take in the breathtaking Karoo scenery and navigate carefully selected gravel back roads. Our destination is a hidden gem - an abandoned old Boer War hospital in Deelfontein, rich with history that will leave you in awe. The sheer mystique of this place will captivate your imagination. After exploring this strange but astonishing place, we head to the small town of De Aar. It's here that we stop for lunch at Olive Schreiner House. Olive Schreiner (24 March 1855 – 11 December 1920) was a South African author, anti-war campaigner, and intellectual. She is best remembered for her acclaimed novel "The Story of an African Farm". After lunch, we'll head back to our lodge on the banks of the Orange River, using some stunning gravel routes for our last night together on this adventure. As we gather around the dinner table, we will reflect on the incredible experiences and camaraderie we have shared throughout this off-road motorcycle adventure. It will be a time to integrate all the memories, laughter, and stories we have accumulated along the way, creating lasting bonds and cherished moments. With hearts full and spirits high, we will bid a temporary farewell to the Karoo, knowing that this remarkable journey will forever hold a special place in our hearts.
Accommodation and Food
Ensuring the ideal accommodation is crucial for a comfortable and enjoyable adventure to the Karoo. The Karoo offers a variety of charming and welcoming guest houses that will make you feel right at home.
The Karoo has it all. During this tour, Motorrad Adventures provides a variety of accommodations, including cosy cottages, luxurious guest houses, and charming farmhouses. All the lodgings on this motorcycle adventure feature beautiful gardens, peaceful surroundings, and stunning views of the Karoo landscape, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the calm and tranquillity of the area. The guest houses in the Karoo pride themselves on providing excellent service and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. The always friendly and knowledgeable hosts are eager to share their passion and appreciation for this unique region.
Immersing yourself in the Karoo experience would not be complete without treating your taste buds to the delightful local cuisine offered at the charming restaurants. The Karoo is known for its hearty and mouthwatering dishes that will leave you craving for more.
We have ventured to discover lesser-known culinary gems to offer you a unique gastronomic journey. From traditional Karoo dishes to international cuisine with a local Karoo twist, these restaurants and eateries provide a diverse selection to satisfy every palate. These establishments create flavorful and authentic dishes using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Whether you desire a succulent Karoo lamb shank, a juicy steak, or a delectable vegetarian option, the Karoo is Calling adventure motorcycle tour has it all.
This tour package includes 5 nights of accommodation and all your breakfasts.
Tour Highlights
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Stunning Karoo landscapes
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Seeing the Gariep Dam Wall
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Karoo fossil presentation Ganora
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Viewing ancient San cave paintings
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Lunch at Ganora farm
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The Owl House in Nieu Bethesda
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The James Kitching Fossil Exploration Centre
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Outride around the Compassberg
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The Stone Folk of Ongeluksloot
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Exploring the village of Nieu Bethesda
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Seeing the Valley of Desolation
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Tequila farm and tasting tour outside Graaff-Reinet
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Outstanding Karoo accommodation and cuisine
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Learning new adventure bike riding skills
This Motorcycle Tour is for you if:
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You’ve never taken your adventure motorcycle off-road before.
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You’ve ridden off-road but would like an extra boost of confidence to take your motorcycle off the beaten path.
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You would like to further your off-road knowledge and learn new off-road adventure bike riding skills and techniques.
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You'd like to invest in yourself and become a safer, more confident off-road adventure bike rider.
What you'll Learn on this Adventure
Embarking on a motorcycle adventure through the Karoo is more than just experiencing the thrill of the ride. It's also about immersing yourself in the natural, cultural, and historical wonders of this incredible region. So, get ready to learn, discover, and be amazed by the diverse offerings of the Karoo.
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Geology and Ancient Past: The Karoo is known for its unique geological structures and deep natural history. As we explore the area, you'll have the opportunity to become familiar with the rock formations, preserved fossils, and evidence of ancient life in the Karoo.
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Biodiversity and Nature: The Karoo is home to a wide range of animal species, including majestic lions, swift cheetahs, elegant Cape mountain zebras, and agile springboks. The region also provides a haven for various bird species, such as the elusive blue crane, and is adorned with distinct and remarkable Karoo flora.
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Rich Cultural Legacy: Immerse yourself in the captivating history and vibrant culture of the Karoo. This region proudly bears the imprints of its diverse inhabitants. Delve into the past with visits to museums, galleries, and historical landmarks, where you can uncover the fascinating stories that shaped the Karoo's remarkable heritage.
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Astrological Wonders: Known for its clear skies, the Karoo attracts both stargazers and astronomy enthusiasts to experience its celestial wonders. Immerse yourself in an enlightening exploration of the cosmos, deepening your knowledge of the universe and marveling at the mesmerizing beauty of the Karoo's night sky.
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Sustainable Living and Farming: The vast expanse of the Karoo's plains, along with its semi-arid climate, has created a unique environment for its inhabitants. Discover the challenges and successes in implementing sustainable farming practices in this arid region from agave to sheep, cattle and ostriches.
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Spirituality and Mindfulness: The spacious and tranquil surroundings of the Karoo create the perfect setting for reflection and mindfulness. Whether practicing meditation or simply connecting with nature, experience the spiritual significance of this ancient land and its profound impact on personal harmony and well-being.
Ride Grading
Why should you choose Motorrad Adventures for your next adventure motorcycle Tour? It's simple - our unparalleled experience and expertise set us apart. With a track record dating back to 2009, we have been orchestrating off-road motorcycle adventures across the globe, demonstrating our proven ability to deliver exceptional experiences. Our portfolio includes successful ventures in diverse locations such as Peru, Bolivia, Chile, Argentina, Namibia, and South Africa. Our reputation is further strengthened by our collaborations with esteemed individuals and companies including Charley Boorman, Billy Ward, Claudio Von Planta, Dylan Wickrama, SA Adventure, Moto Aventures, and Compass Expeditions. At Motorrad Adventures, safety reigns supreme. We go to great lengths to ensure your well-being and security during your adventure. We provide a fully equipped support vehicle and trailer 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, confident that you have the support you need. When you select us for your South African motorcycle adventure, you can relax and relish the journey. We take care of all the details, from crafting optimal routes to arranging top-quality accommodation and delightful meals. Our aim is to provide you with an indelible motorcycle riding experience that will resonate with you for years to come. This motorcycle tour is classified as a Grade 2 difficulty.
See our ride grading system HERE for more details
Our Adventure Bikes
From as little as R 2 350 per day, our adventure motorcycle rental service allows you to ride some of the world's top-of-the-line motorcycles specifically designed for off-road adventures.
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 diverse terrain.
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 being rented out.
Furthermore, our bikes are fitted with navigation systems and tyres specifically chosen to match the terrain of your adventure. You can be confident that you'll ride a reliable and safe motorcycle on your adventure.
Motorcycle rental prices for this tour can be found in the cost configurator at the bottom of this page. The quoted price covers the entire tour duration, and there are no hidden fees. The price displayed is exactly what you'll pay.
Please read our bike rental T & C's HERE
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Low mileage late model bikes
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BMW 310 GS
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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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Unlimited kilometres
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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
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.
1252cc | 150 HP at 9 000 rpm
Std seat height: 875 mm
Low seat height: 850 mm
ABS | ESA | Rider modes | Cruise Control
Fuel tank capacity 21 liters
Wet weight 245 kg
Tubeless tyres
BMW 1250 GS
Experience the thrill of adventure on your terms with the BMW 1250 GS. With its advanced technology and comprehensive equipment, you can safely and dynamically navigate any terrain with this adventure motorcycle.
1254cc | 136 HP at 7 750 rpm
Std seat height: 850/870 mm
Low seat height: 820/840 mm
ABS | ESA | Rider modes
Fuel tank capacity 20 liters
Wet weight 249 kg
Tubeless tyres
BMW 1200 GS Rallye
Unleash your sense of adventure with the exhilarating BMW 1200 GS Rallye. Packed with technology and a comprehensive array of features, this adventure motorcycle empowers you to conquer any terrain with confidence and agility.
1170cc | 125 HP at 7 750 rpm
Std seat height: 850/870 mm
Low seat height: 820/840 mm
ABS | ESA | Rider modes | Cruise Control
Fuel tank capacity 20 liters
Wet weight 249 kg
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.
853cc | 90 HP at 8 250 rpm
Std seat height: 860 mm
Low seat height: 835 mm
ABS | ESA | Rider modes
Fuel tank capacity 15 liters
Wet weight 233 kg
Tubeless tyres
BMW 750 GS
The F 750 GS is a powerful motorcycle that is perfect for exploring the open road. With its responsive handling and advanced suspension system, it promises an unforgettable adventure on two wheels.
853cc | 77 HP at 7 500 rpm
Std seat height: 815 mm
Low seat height: 790 mm
ABS | ESA | Rider modes
Fuel tank capacity 15 liters
Wet weight 227 kg
Tubeless tyres
Dates and Pricing
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15-19 February 2025
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27 April - 1 May 2025
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R 11 950 per person sharing (price increase on 1 Jan 2025)
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Single room supplement at R 2 200
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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 Stone Folk of Ongeluksloot
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Guided outride around the stunning Compassberg
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A visit to explore Helen Martin's famous Owl House
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Exploring the abandoned Imperial Yeomanry Hospital
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Full Motorrad Adventures support team
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
Configure Your Tour Costs
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Congratulations on taking the first step towards the adventure of a lifetime! We're thrilled that you are interested in joining us on an incredible journey through the stunning landscapes and fascinating cultures of South Africa's Karoo region. Once you have selected your tour date, motorcycle, and rooming option, and are satisfied with the costs, click the button below to complete the tour booking form.