WESTERN CAPE

This Western Cape motorcycle adventure with Bonafide Moto Co is a fully guided motorcycle tour through some of South Africa’s most spectacular riding. From legendary mountain passes and gravel backroads to dramatic coastal routes and wide Karoo landscapes, this journey showcases the very best of motorcycle touring in South Africa. More than just a ride, it’s an opportunity to connect with the land, meet local people, experience incredible South African cuisine, and share the spirit of adventure with riders who understand the freedom of the open road.

Swimming in Rivers, Swartberg Pass, Tankwa Karoo, Rooiberg & Anysberg Nature Reserve, River crossings, downtime at the coast, Barrydale, Prince Alfred Pass

DAYS:

March 11 - 20th, 2027

DATES:

10

START/END:

Cape Town, South Africa

HIGHLIGHTS:

60-70% dirt

ROAD TYPE:

BIKE RENTAL:

CF Moto 450

Moderate - All public roads. No single tracks.

DIFFICULTY:

Max 8

GROUP SIZE:

No

PILLIONS:

Team Medic, Motorcycle technician & driver, Guided Route, Support vehicle and Trailer

SUPPORT:

All meals, 9 Nights accommodation, CF Moto 450 rental, event merch, breakfast & dinner, welcome packet, GPX routes and event photographer.

INCLUDES:

Three men and a woman are standing in shallow water near the shore, surrounded by motorcycles and gear, with trees and a clear blue sky in the background.

The Western Cape Adventure – A Bonafide Moto Co Experience

This is more than just a motorcycle trip — it’s a journey through one of the most spectacular regions in South Africa.

Over the course of the adventure we’ll explore the backroads of the Western Cape, riding through mountain passes, desert landscapes, quiet farm roads, coastal cliffs, and some of the most beautiful terrain this country has to offer. From the wide-open spaces of the Karoo to the dramatic coastline near Cape Town, every day brings a completely different landscape.

Along the way you’ll experience the food, people, and places that make this region so special — stopping at great local restaurants, small towns, nature reserves, and hidden gems you’d likely never discover on your own.

This adventure is about great riding, good company, and experiencing the Western Cape in a way that feels real. By the end of the journey, the group of riders you started with will feel more like a group of friends who’ve shared something unforgettable together.

A motorcyclist in black riding gear and a helmet riding on a dirt trail through a barren, rocky desert landscape with distant hills and a clear blue sky.

THE RIDING

This adventure is all about experiencing the incredible off-road landscapes of the Western Cape by motorcycle. The majority of the riding takes place on well-maintained gravel roads and scenic two-track routes, allowing us to explore remote areas while still keeping the ride enjoyable and flowing. There is no single track riding on this trip.

As with any proper adventure, the conditions can change depending on the weather and time of year, which can influence how demanding certain sections feel. That’s part of what makes riding in this part of the world so rewarding.

Throughout the journey we ride with both a lead rider and a sweep rider, meaning you’ll never be left behind. The lead rider sets a comfortable pace and riders are encouraged to ride at their own rhythm, stopping to take in the views or capture the moment along the way. We regroup at key turns and stops to keep the group together.

All riders are required to bring a navigation device — either a GPS unit or a smartphone with navigation — along with a secure mount on their motorcycle for the duration of the trip.

Two men in motorcycle gear on a dirt road in a desert, one is sitting on an orange motorcycle and the other is taking a photo of him with a smartphone.

THE STOPS ALONG THE WAY

While you’re here in South Africa, we want to take you on a route that showcases the incredible variety this part of the country has to offer. Over the course of the journey you’ll experience everything from rugged mountain passes and vast desert landscapes to nature reserves, small local towns, and some of the most beautiful coastline in the country.

This region is spectacular year round, but the timing of this adventure gives us some of the most enjoyable riding weather of the season.

Along the way we’ll ride through and explore places like Tankwa Karoo National Park, the Cederberg Mountains, Swartberg Pass, Anysberg Nature Reserve, Plettenberg Bay, and sections of the famous Garden Route. The journey eventually brings us toward Cape Town where we finish the trip riding along one of the most iconic coastal roads in the world — Chapman’s Peak Drive.

Each stop along the way offers a different side of South Africa, giving you a deeper experience of the landscapes, people, and places that make riding here so special.

A white house with a stone foundation and wooden balcony, surrounded by trees and mountains in the background.

THE ACCOMMODATION

We make sure that you’re looked after each night of the adventure. Our accommodation options range each day so that you can experience diverse locations throughout the Western Cape. Dinner and breakfast is included (alcohol is not) at each night accommodation or when necessary we’ll head into town for meals.

Shared room ticket holders will share a room/shalet/cabin/cottage with one other person. Each location will offer an en-suite or will have a bathroom close by for you and you’ll be able to shower each day.

Private room upgrades are available should you wish to have your own privacy and place to sleep each day.

Person using tongs to handle grilled chicken on an outdoor barbecue grill, with another person nearby. In the background, there are parked cars, motorcycles, and a brick building.

SOUTH AFRICAN CUISINE

One of the best parts of travelling through South Africa is the food, and over the years our team has spent plenty of time on the road discovering some of the great local spots that truly capture the flavours of this country.

Throughout the journey we’ll stop at a selection of our favourite restaurants, lodges, and local hangouts, connecting you with the people behind the food and the places that make each stop memorable.

Each meal is thoughtfully arranged with the venue ahead of time, giving you a set menu that showcases some of their best dishes and a real taste of the region we’re travelling through.

And if you’re someone who enjoys great meat and food cooked over an open fire, you’re going to feel right at home. Around here, good food, good company, and a fire at the end of the day are all part of the adventure.

ITINERARY

ACTUAL STOPS AND LOCATIONS ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE

A dirt road winding through a rocky desert landscape with sparse vegetation, hills, and mountains in the distance under a clear blue sky.

CEDERBERG

The Cederberg is where South Africa’s wild heart truly comes alive. Towering sandstone cliffs, ancient San rock art, and winding gravel roads define this remote region, just a few hours north of Cape Town. It’s raw and untamed – the kind of place where the silence is broken only by the crunch of your tyres on dirt and the call of a distant bird.

You’ll ride through dramatic landscapes sculpted by time, discover hidden waterfalls, and soak in vast, uninterrupted skies. With friendly farmstalls, rooibos tea plantations, and wholesome local fare along the way, the Cederberg offers the perfect blend of adventure, natural beauty, and authentic South African charm.

Two motorcyclists with helmets resting beside their bikes on rocky terrain near a river, surrounded by tall rocky cliffs and a partly cloudy sky.

SWARTBERG PASS

The Swartberg Pass is one of South Africa’s most iconic mountain routes – a breathtaking gravel pass carved into sheer cliffs and towering peaks. Built by hand in the late 1800s, it winds dramatically through the Swartberg Mountains, offering panoramic views, tight switchbacks, and a true sense of riding history.

As you ascend, the landscapes shift from lush valleys to rugged rock formations, with every turn revealing something new. It’s a ride that demands your attention and rewards you with awe. Riding the Swartberg Pass isn’t just a highlight – it’s a rite of passage for any adventure motorcyclist.

A person riding a red dirt bike on a forest trail surrounded by tall pine trees and mountain landscape.

KNYSNA FOREST

The Knysna Forest is a magical, ancient woodland tucked between the town of Knysna and the Indian Ocean. With towering trees, thick canopies, and a chorus of birdlife, it feels like stepping into another world. The air is fresh, earthy, and alive with the sounds of nature, providing a welcome contrast to the open roads and rugged landscapes of the preceding days.

Riding through this lush forest is an experience in itself, as the road winds through the trees, offering glimpses of moss-covered trunks, ferns, and vibrant undergrowth. The forest feels both timeless and intimate, offering a peaceful escape where the natural world is at its most captivating. It’s a perfect place to pause and reflect, surrounded by the serenity and beauty of one of South Africa’s most famous natural wonders.

Motorcyclist riding on a winding dirt trail through a barren, rocky desert landscape under a clear blue sky.

TANKWA KAROO

The Tankwa Karoo is a vast, otherworldly landscape that feels like riding across the surface of the moon. With its endless gravel roads, stark beauty, and wide open skies, it’s a place that tests your spirit and rewards your sense of adventure.

This is remote riding at its finest – no traffic, no noise, just you, your bike, and the hum of tyres on dirt. The terrain is raw and rugged, stretching out in all directions with dramatic mountain backdrops and the occasional windmill or farmhouse dotting the horizon.

Out here, you truly disconnect. It’s where solitude becomes part of the experience, and every rider finds a bit more of themselves in the stillness of the Karoo.

A landscape with green trees in the foreground, houses on hills, and mountains in the background under a cloudy sky with a faint rainbow.

BARRYDALE

Barrydale is a charming village at the foot of the Swartberg Mountains, known for its friendly vibe, local cafés, and stunning surroundings. It’s the perfect spot to relax and experience the heart of the Klein Karoo.

The ride to Barrydale is made unforgettable by the Tradouw Pass, a historic route through dramatic mountain scenery. With its winding road and breathtaking views, the pass offers an exhilarating introduction to the beauty of the region, leading you into the peaceful charm of Barrydale.

Group of five motorcyclists in riding gear standing by a railing on a scenic lakeside with mountains in the background and bright blue sky.

CHAPMAN’S PEAK

Riding back into Cape Town via Chapman’s Peak Drive is nothing short of spectacular. Hugging the cliffs between Hout Bay and Noordhoek, this coastal road offers sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean, towering mountains, and dramatic drops to the sea below.

It’s the perfect final stretch – smooth, winding tarmac with postcard-worthy scenery around every bend. As the sun begins to dip and the city comes back into view, you’ll savour every moment of this iconic ride, closing the journey in true South African style.

People swimming and socializing in a rocky beach area with large boulders, ocean, and cityscape of buildings on a hillside in the background under a clear blue sky.

CAPE TOWN

Cape Town is where your South African adventure begins – a vibrant, bustling city nestled between mountains and sea. From the moment you arrive, we’ve got you covered. You’ll be picked up from the airport and taken straight into the heart of this world-famous destination.

Expect stunning views, rich culture, and a buzzing energy that runs through its streets, markets, and waterfront. You’ll enjoy some of the best cuisine the country has to offer – from fresh seafood to Cape Malay spices – setting the tone for an unforgettable journey ahead.

Scenic view of a coastline at sunset with waves crashing on the sandy beach, green hills in the distance, and a cloudy sky.

WILDERNESS

Tucked between lush forests, tranquil lakes, and the crashing waves of the Indian Ocean, Wilderness is a peaceful coastal town that lives up to its name. After days of riding, it’s the perfect place to slow down, stretch out, and breathe deeply.

We’ll spend two nights here, giving you time to rest, recharge, and soak in the natural beauty. Whether it’s walking along the beach, enjoying a sundowner overlooking the ocean, or sampling fresh, locally-sourced cuisine, Wilderness offers a gentle pause in the heart of the Garden Route.

Two motorcyclists and an SUV riding on a dirt trail through a desert landscape under a cloudy sky.

ANYSBURG

Anysberg Nature Reserve lies nestled among the quiet mountains of the Little Karoo, offering a day of pure riding bliss through wide valleys and rocky mountain passes. The gravel roads here are made for adventure – winding through open plains, sandstone ridges, and gentle mountain curves that invite you to lose yourself in the rhythm of the ride.

By day, you’ll take in endless views, rare wildlife, and the unique solitude only the Karoo can offer. It’s a place where the horizon stretches forever, the skies are impossibly blue, and every turn reveals another postcard-worthy scene. Riding through Anysberg is less about speed and more about soaking up the stillness, the beauty, and the deep sense of freedom the mountains provide.

A group of older men swimming and relaxing in a shallow river with a grassy riverbank and hills in the background, under a clear blue sky.

THE BONAFIDE SPIRIT OF ADVENTURE

We've always been of the mindset that Bonafide Moto Co. curates adventures, rather than tours. The reasoning is simple – we're adventurers at heart. 

To us, adventures come with ups and downs along the way. Some days are easy, while others will challenge you. Either way, you’ll reach your journey's end with a feeling of real accomplishment. 

Bonafide Moto Co. adventures are carefully designed to encapsulate the true spirit of adventure travel. They take you along paths unknown, push the limits of your skills, make you work for your reward – and most of all, bring like-minded people together. 

Adventures are all about a team effort. Each person finds a role, assisting others when they need help and knowing that each of us is in this together. 

We pride ourselves on having the ability to create this camaraderie, with many of our guests returning year-on-year to rekindle those lasting friendships at the end of every day around the fire. 

If you’re looking for a life-changing motorcycle adventure that will challenge you, make you part of a team, and help you grow as an individual – this is your next adventure and we look forward to hosting you!

YOUR HOST – JOE FLEMING (@SoTallRightNow)

Originally from the United States, Joe Fleming is a US Army veteran who has called South Africa home since 2014. What began as a personal journey to explore his new home quickly turned into a deep passion for sharing the landscapes, cultures, and stories that make this part of the world so special.

Over the past decade Joe has travelled extensively throughout Southern Africa by motorcycle, building strong local relationships and developing an intimate knowledge of the region’s backroads, communities, and hidden gems. Through Bonafide Moto Co, he now leads riders from around the world on purposeful motorcycle adventures across South Africa and beyond.

Joe is also the creator of the Here in South Africa platform (@SoTallRightNow), where he shares travel, food, and cultural stories that encourage people to explore the country more deeply. His storytelling and photography have connected thousands of people with destinations they may never have discovered otherwise.

Combining his military background, years of guiding experience, and a genuine love for this country, Joe creates adventures that go far beyond just riding motorcycles. His trips are about exploring incredible landscapes, connecting with people along the way, and experiencing Africa in a way that is authentic, memorable, and meaningful.

Whether it’s navigating remote backroads or sharing stories around a fire at the end of the day, Joe is passionate about helping others experience the magic of Southern Africa.

ADVENTURE INFO

PRICING

International Guests

  • $4300 - MOTORCYCLE RENTAL INCLUDED - SHARED ROOMS

  • $600 - PRIVATE ROOM UPGRADE

  • 35% DEPOSIT REQUIRED TO SECURE BOOKING

South African Residents

  • R45 000 - Shared Rooms

  • R55 000 - Private Rooms

  • 50% DEPOSIT REQUIRED TO SECURE BOOKING

INCLUDES

  • 9 NIGHTS ACCOMMODATION (SHARED)

  • MOST MEALS

  • CF MOTO 450 RENTAL

  • FUEL

  • TEAM MEDIC

  • SUPPORT VEHICLE & DRIVER

  • EVENT MERCHANDISE

  • GPX ROUTES

  • ROUTE NAVIGATOR

  • EVENT PHOTOGRAPHER

  • 1 HELLUVAH GOOD TIME

NOT INCLUDED

  • ALCOHOL

  • FLIGHTS

  • SOME MEALS

  • AIRPORT TRANSFERS

  • ANY MOTORCYCLE DAMAGES

  • MOTORCYCLE RENTAL CREDIT CARD HOLD R25 000

RIDER REQUIREMENTS

  • SKILL LEVEL: INTERMEDIATE. .

    • MUST CONSIDER YOURSELF TO BE A CONFIDENT OFF-ROAD RIDER, HAVE TAKEN OFF-ROAD TRAINING OR HAVE PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE WITH MULTI-DAY OFF-ROAD ADVENTURES

    • WE FIND THE HONDA CRF PLATFORM PROVIDES GREATER EASE OF RIDING TO NEWER RIDERS

    • PLEASE CONTACT US SHOULD YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS REGARDING YOUR SKILL LEVEL

BOOK YOUR ADVENTURE NOW

FILL OUT THE SIGNUP FORM BELOW TO REGISTER YOUR INTEREST FOR OUR 10 DAY DUAL SPORT ADVENTURE IN THE WESTERN CAPE. UPON COMPLETION WE WILL SEND YOU A BOOKING LINK FOR YOUR 35% NON-REFUNDABLE DEPOSIT WHICH WILL ALSO INCLUDE YOUR PAYMENT TERMS FOR THE OUTSTANDING AMOUNT.

HAVE MORE QUESTIONS ABOUT THIS TRIP?