Karoo Wanderlust (wɒndəʳlʌst)
An Uncontrollable Desire to Travel and Explore...
Get ready to fuel your wanderlust with an exhilarating motorcycle adventure tour through the rugged wilderness of South Africa’s Karoo region. Prepare to be amazed by the stunning landscapes that will surely leave an unforgettable mark on your adventurous spirit. Explore the breathtaking Karoo, riding through iconic mountain passes all the way down to the Indian Ocean and the garden route aboard an adventure motorcycle.
Duration
7 Nights
Gravel / Tar
60% / 40%
Places Available
11 of 12
12 of 12
12 of 12
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Overview of the Experience
The Karoo Wanderlust adventure motorcycle tour promises an exhilarating journey, taking riders on a captivating exploration of the rugged Karoo region and parts of the picturesque garden route on the east coast of South Africa. Departing from the historic town of Graaff-Reinet, this multi-day motorcycle tour winds through vast, arid landscapes, some of the most famous gravel mountain passes offering breathtaking vistas, stunning off-road sections, and immersive experiences in the rich cultural heritage of the areas we'll be travelling through.
Our support crew will be there for you throughout the entire journey, providing guidance and tips to help you overcome any challenges that may come up. You will develop new on-road and off-road riding skills, improving your overall riding abilities. This once-in-a-lifetime adventure will ignite your wanderlust, push your limits, and enhance your adventure motorcycle riding skills.
Prepare to redefine the concept of adventure motorcycle riding. Gear up, rev your engines, and set out on an epic motorcycle journey from the Karoo to the coast and back. This adventure will test you and rejuvenate your spirit.
The itinerary below captures the essence of the journey, offering insights into the route, terrain, and the remarkable experiences awaiting you on this extraordinary motorcycle adventure.
Meeting Day
Captivated by the tranquillity of the stunning Karoo, we come together at our historic guest houses in Graaff-Reinet, the fourth-oldest town in South Africa, filled with anticipation for the upcoming motorcycle adventure.
Tonight, we have the pleasure of enjoying a delightful Karoo-style dinner. It's a great opportunity for us to connect and get to know our fellow adventure motorcycle enthusiasts while treating our taste buds to something truly amazing.
Throughout the evening, the Motorrad Adventures team, a group of experienced motorcycle adventurers, will share their wealth of knowledge and experiences, providing a detailed sneak peek of the upcoming motorcycle tour. With their extensive expertise and captivating stories from previous adventure motorcycle trips, they will transport us to far-off places, igniting our wanderlust for exploration. They will also delve into the fascinating history of the areas we will be journeying through, gaining a deeper understanding that will enrich our appreciation for the region.
We head to our rooms after a night of camaraderie and storytelling, looking forward to a rejuvenating night's sleep that will leave us refreshed and prepared to kick off the remarkable motorcycle tour awaiting us in the morning.
Day 1: Graaff-Reinet to Duiwekloof
Before embarking on a thrilling day of off-road adventure motorcycling, the Motorrad Adventures team will host an informative workshop that focuses on essential adventure bike riding techniques. This session is designed to provide you with valuable insights and practical tips to help you build a solid foundation for navigating the off-road sections of our journey.
We're heading towards the Baviaanskloof. This narrow valley spans nearly 200 kilometers and is hemmed in by two mountain ranges: the Baviaanskloof Mountains to the north and the Kouga Mountains to the south. Along the way, we will encounter diverse terrain, including well-maintained gravel roads, rocky tracks, and challenging mountain passes. This variety will test our riding skills and offer breathtaking vistas of the surrounding landscapes.
As we approach the small village of Steytlerville, we will pass through the Valley of the Flags. The cliffs beside the road are painted with colourful flags representing the historical national flags of South Africa. We will stop in Steytlerville to have lunch at the historic Royal Hotel, established in 1896 by the knighted Sir Kauffman Richardson. You will also notice that Main Street is unusually wide. It was designed in 1876 to allow ox wagons to turn around.
After enjoying a delicious lunch, we will continue our journey towards the Baviaanskloof, a world heritage site, and reach our accommodation in the afternoon. Our lodge, nestled in the heart of the mountainous region, offers a peaceful retreat from the rugged landscape. During dinner, we will reflect on the day's adventures and prepare for the journey ahead.
Day 2: Baviaanskloof to Wilderness
After breakfast, we will depart from the Baviaanskloof area and make our way to the beautiful coastal town of Wilderness, situated on the picturesque Garden Route.
Riding through the Kouga Mountains on our bikes, we will encounter a diverse range of terrain, from meandering gravel roads to more challenging off-road sections that will appeal to the wanderlust spirit within us all.
Along the way, we'll stop for a coffee break in Uniondale, a charming town in the Little Karoo region of the Western Cape. This town is perhaps best known for a local ghost story about the Uniondale hitchhiker. According to local legends, the Uniondale ghost is a young woman who stands alone on the lonely road between Uniondale and Willowmore. When drivers stop to offer her a ride, she gets into the car but mysteriously vanishes.
After enjoying a coffee in Uniondale, we will continue our journey towards the picturesque town of Wilderness. Our route will take us along the legendary Prince Alfred Pass, one of the most awe-inspiring and challenging gravel passes in the region. This pass was constructed in the 1860s by the renowned road engineer Thomas Bain. As we ascend and descend through the dramatic mountain scenery, we will be able to take in the panoramic vistas of the Outeniqua and Tsitsikamma mountain ranges.
As we head towards the coast, we travel along the Old Cape Road and join the Phantom Pass. The Phantom Pass, which is named after a butterfly and not a ghost, is the first of the Garden Route's seven passes between Knysna and George that we will be riding our motorcycles down on this adventure. The scenery here is breathtaking, with lush indigenous forests, rocky outcrops, and sweeping views of the Indian Ocean.
Our final destination for the day is the charming seaside town of Wilderness. We check into our accommodation and enjoy a well-deserved drink together, discussing the highlights of the day's journey.
Day 3: Wilderness to Rooiberg
After having breakfast in Wilderness, we set off on our motorcycle adventure for the day, firstly completing the last of the passes on the Old Seven Passes road. We then head into the Outeniqua mountains via the Rooiberg Pass in the Assegaay Bosch Nature Reserve. The Assegaay Bosch Nature Reserve is home to an abundance of indigenous flora and fauna, including rare bird species and the endangered Cape Mountain Zebra.
While navigating through the mountains, we will pass through the Homtini, Karatara, Hoogekraal, and Hoekwil passes, each offering its own breathtaking views. These passes were originally used as wagon routes in the 1800s to navigate the challenging terrain and transport goods and people.
We will continue exploring the reserve, taking in the remarkable natural landscapes and seeking out opportunities to spot some of the local wildlife until we reach our destination for the night. This accommodation is situated in a secluded valley, providing a tranquil haven for our group to rest and recuperate after the day's ride. Dinner will be served at the lodge's restaurant, where we can share stories of our adventures and prepare for the next leg of our Karoo Wanderlust Adventure.
Day 4: Rooiberg to Sutherland
After breakfast, we'll leave Rooiberg and travel further into the Karoo. Today's journey will lead us into the Moordenaars Karoo, a vast semi-desert region of the Karoo famous for its expansive landscapes, striking rock formations, and clear night skies. We'll ride into the heart of the Roggeveld Mountains on our bikes, passing through the winding Anysberg Pass. The Anysberg Pass is a challenging gravel road offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Along the way, we may spot various species of wildlife, including the elusive Cape Mountain Zebra.
We'll take a break for lunch in the small town of Matjiesfontein, which has kept its old-fashioned Victorian style and is often called a "living museum." Matjiesfontein used to be a popular resting place for tired travellers passing through the Karoo, and it still feels like a trip back in time with its well-preserved historical buildings. We'll have a delicious lunch at The Laird’s Arms, a classic pub with an old Western feel, right next to the Lord Milner Hotel.
After lunch, we head towards Sutherland and take a scenic route that goes through three mountain passes in a big loop to the west before joining the road near the top of the Verlatenkloof Pass. These passes are Bakenshoogte, Smoushoogte, and the larger Komsberg Pass. During spring, the Bakenshoogte Pass, which means "Beacon Heights," is covered with beautiful wildflowers.
After travelling through the Rooikloof Pass, which provides breathtaking views of the surrounding Sutherland area, we will make our final descent into the town. Sutherland is located in a valley on the undulating hills of the high Roggeveld Plateau, sitting at an elevation of about 1,450 meters above sea level. It is known for being one of the coldest towns in South Africa, often covered in snow during the winter months. Sutherland is renowned for its clear night skies and is home to the Southern African Large Telescope (SALT), which is the largest single optical telescope in the southern hemisphere.
Upon arriving in Sutherland, we will check into our accommodation and have some free time to explore the quirky little town before coming together for a group dinner.
Day 5: Sutherland to Loxton
Departing from Sutherland, our route today takes us deeper into the heart of the Karoo, passing through small towns and vast open spaces. We will follow the R356, with the Southern African Large Telescope on our left-hand side just before we reach the gravel road.
We travel through the beautiful Bloupoort Pass and ride our bikes through a scenic valley near Vaalpunt Mountain. We continue our journey on a gravel road through the countryside and pass through the short Poortjie Pass. Some maps and sources also refer to this pass as 'Die Poort se Nek'.
As we continue our motorcycle tour, we'll arrive at the dusty town of Fraserburg in the Northern Cape, where we take a break for lunch. Fraserburg is known for its well-preserved old buildings from the Edwardian and Victorian eras, as well as some unique and interesting structures that are special to the town. One of the most unique buildings is the Peperbus, which looks like a pepper shaker, and there's also a copy of a traditional Trek Boer Corbeled house. The area around Fraserburg is also where you can find the very rare and endangered Riverine Rabbit. Sadly, the number of these rabbits in the wild is very low, as their natural homes have been ruined by farming activities along the region's seasonal rivers.
After leaving Fraserburg, we'll continue our journey to Loxton, riding our motorcycles through more magnificent scenery. Along the way, we will pass a number of remote sheep farms, with occasional stone ruins and kraals.
Upon arriving in Loxton, we will check into our accommodation and have some time to relax before dinner. Loxton is a typical Karoo town, with wide streets and low-slung buildings, many of which date back to the late 19th century. The town is surrounded by the vast, open expanse of the Karoo and is a popular stop for those seeking a taste of true Karoo hospitality.
Day 6: Loxton to Graaff-Reinet
Leaving Loxton, we make our way back to Graaff-Reinet, passing through the rugged and isolated Bokpoort Pass. Along the way, we stop at the Apollo Theatre in the lively town of Victoria West for a coffee and to refuel. Victoria West is a small town in the Karoo region, nestled between tall ridges and situated next to the Brak River, which doesn't flow very often. The Apollo Theatre is a special place in this town - it's the only remaining Art Deco-style theater in South Africa. Even though its future is uncertain, local residents still use it as a cinema for occasional movie showings. The theatre was built in 1928 by a Greek immigrant named Andrew Aristides Bassil and was renovated in the 1950s to have a stylish art deco design. Because of its historical significance, it has been declared a heritage site by the National Monuments Council.
We're on the final leg of our motorcycle adventure, cruising through the beautiful Biesiespoort Pass in Victoria West. Along the way, we'll catch sight of the impressive Noblefontein Wind Farm, where you can see just how massive those wind turbine blades really are. After that, we'll continue on the Afrikashoogte Pass to Murraysburg, where we'll take a break for lunch.
Murraysburg is a small Karoo village in the northeastern part of the Western Cape Province. It is surrounded by beautiful hills and mountains, with the notable 1771-meter-high Middelkop towering over the western horizon.
After having lunch in Murraysburg, we'll keep going towards Graaff-Reinet. On the way, we'll stop to take in the breathtaking views of the Valley of Desolation.
Graaff-Reinet is the fourth oldest town in South Africa, founded in 1786. It's known for its rich history and well-preserved 19th-century buildings that line its picturesque streets. The town is surrounded by the expansive Camdeboo National Park. We'll have our final group dinner this evening in Graaff-Reinet, where we can reflect on the amazing sights and experiences we've shared during the Karoo Wanderlust Motorcycle Tour.
Accommodation and Food
Karoo Guest House Accommodation:
It's important to find the right place to stay for a comfortable and enjoyable motorcycle tour through the Karoo. The region has a range of lovely guest houses and lodges that will make you feel at home.
Motorrad Adventures offers a variety of accommodations, including cozy cottages, luxury guest houses, and charming farmhouses for this tour. All the places you'll stay at have beautiful gardens, peaceful surroundings, and amazing views of the Karoo landscape, so you can really soak in the calm and peaceful vibe of the area. The guest houses in the Karoo are known for their great service and welcoming atmosphere. The hosts are always friendly and eager to share their love for this special region.
Karoo Restaurants:
Exploring the Karoo on a motorcycle wouldn't be complete without savouring the delightful local cuisine offered at the charming restaurants. The Karoo is renowned for its hearty and mouthwatering dishes that are sure to leave you yearning for more.
We've gone the extra mile to uncover lesser-known culinary gems to take you on a unique gastronomic journey. From traditional Karoo fare to international dishes with a local twist, these restaurants and eateries offer a diverse selection to gratify every palate. These establishments create flavorful and authentic dishes using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Whether you're craving a succulent Karoo lamb shank, a juicy steak, or a delectable vegetarian option, the Karoo Wanderlust adventure motorcycle tour has it all.
This tour package includes 7 nights of accommodation and all your breakfasts.
Tour Highlights
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Baviaanskloof World Heratage area
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Valley of the Flags near Steytlerville
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Riding down parts of the Garden Route on the coast
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The Prince Alfred and Phantom Passes
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Riding the Old Seven Passes road
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Riding the Rooiberg Pass into Assegaay Bosch reserve
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Lunch at The Laird’s Arms in Matjiesfontein
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Stargazing in Sutherland
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Riding the Bloupoort Pass
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Coffee and a tour of the Apollo Theatre in Victoria West
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A visit to the Valley of Desolation near Graaff-Reinet
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Riding through the Outeniqua and Tsitsikamma mountains
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Riding through the most beautiful areas in South Africa
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Amazing Karoo accommodation and food
This Motorcycle Tour is for you if:
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You are Wanderlust and have an uncontrollable desire to travel and explore on an adventure motorcycle.
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You have prior experience riding adventure bikes off-road and are now looking for a more exciting challenge.
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You are eager to enhance your skills in off-road riding and learn advanced adventure riding techniques.
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You are highly motivated to invest in your development as an adventure motorcycle rider and become a highly skilled, safer, and more confident rider.
What you'll Learn on this Adventure
Heading out on an adventure motorcycle tour is more than just a thrilling ride. It's about fully experiencing the beautiful natural scenery, diverse cultures, and fascinating history of the incredible places you're travelling through. Get ready to be amazed, learn new things, and be captivated by all the wonderful experiences the Karoo Wanderlust motorcycle tour has in store for you.
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Geology: During this tour, we will explore both the Karoo and coastal regions, giving you the opportunity to learn about the exceptional geological formations that define them. The remarkable sandstone, granite, and shale structures create the breathtaking mountains we will traverse during our motorcycle adventure.
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Biodiversity and Nature: The Karoo is inhabited by a diverse array of animal species, including impressive lions, swift cheetahs, graceful Cape mountain zebras, and nimble springboks. The area also offers a sanctuary for various bird species, such as the elusive blue crane, and is adorned with unique and exceptional Karoo flora.
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Rich Cultural Legacy: Explore the rich history and lively culture of the Karoo. This region carries the influences of its varied residents. Take a journey into the past by visiting museums, galleries, and historical landmarks where you can discover the captivating stories that have contributed to the Karoo's exceptional heritage.
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Astrological Wonders: Famous for its clear skies, the Karoo attracts both stargazers and astronomy enthusiasts who seek to witness its celestial marvels. Immerse yourself in an illuminating exploration of the cosmos, deepening your understanding of the universe while marveling at the captivating beauty of the Karoo's night sky.
Ride Grading
Are you considering Motorrad Adventures for your next adventure motorcycle tour? Here's why you should: With over a decade of experience, we have been organizing off-road motorcycle adventures worldwide, ensuring exceptional experiences for our clients since 2009.
Our successful ventures span across various breathtaking locations including Peru, Bolivia, Chile, Argentina, Namibia, and South Africa. We take pride in our strong partnerships with well-respected individuals and companies such as Charley Boorman, Billy Ward, Claudio Von Planta, Dylan Wickrama, SA Adventure, Moto Aventures, and Compass Expeditions.
At Motorrad Adventures, safety is our utmost priority. 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 to ensure your well-being and security. With our exceptional backup crew, you can ride at your own pace with the necessary support.
Choosing us for your South African motorcycle adventure means you can simply relax and enjoy the journey. We meticulously handle all the details, from planning optimal routes to arranging top-quality accommodation and delicious meals. Our aim is to offer an unforgettable motorcycle riding experience that will stay with you for years to come.
Please note this motorcycle tour is classified as a Grade 3 difficulty. You can view our ride grading system for more details HERE.
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.
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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Bonded security deposit guarantee
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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
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 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
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 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
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
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
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
Dates and Pricing
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20 - 26 March 2025
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15 - 21 June 2025
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15 - 21 Nov 2025
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R 15 730 per person sharing
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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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7 nights of guest house and lodge accommodation
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All your breakfasts
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On-the-fly adventure rider training and guidance
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Visit to the Valley of Desolation
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Riding the most beautiful passes in South Africa
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Coffee and a tour of the Apollo Theatre
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Motorrad Adventures gift pack
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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 renting 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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National Park entry fees
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Congratulations on taking the first step towards the motorcycling adventure of a lifetime! We're excited that you're interested in joining us on an incredible journey through the breathtaking landscapes of South Africa. After you've chosen your tour date, motorcycle, and rooming option, and are satisfied with the costs, simply click the button below to fill out the tour booking form.