THE ESSENTIALS
Seasons & Routes
SEASONS: We can ride all year in South Africa. However, the dry season, usually from October until end of April, is usually considered the most appropriate for off-road motorbiking. Summer months can be very hot, with temperatures rising up to 45ºC in semi-desert areas.
ROUTES: Drifts can become impassable after heavy rains, as a consequence we may have to modify the initially scheduled route without prior notice. On another note, some private gates may be locked, which can lead to a short section to be re-routed.
Insurance
Motorbiking is a hazardous activity, so please ensure that you have contracted an appropriate insurance cover. In the unlikely event of a severe injury, and considering the remoteness of the tour areas, the fastest rescue would be a helicopter evacuation. Ask your insurance broker whether this mode of transport is included in your coverage.
Please verify to which extend your liability insurance does cover the costs in case of damage or loss of a rental motorbike used off-road.
PLEASE NOTE THAT YOU MUST CONTRACT A REPATRIATION INSURANCE, COVERING EMERGENCY MEDICAL EXPENSES
Group size & Language
GROUP SIZE: Because we want our tours to be a unique personal experience, we usually limit the number of participants to 6. However, we can on request accommodate larger private groups.
Due to the additional equipment needed for wild camping, water and petrol, the Namaqua tour is strictly limited to 5 guests.
MINIMUM NUMBER OF PARTICIPANTS: 3 for the Baviaanskloof and Cederberg tours, 4 for the Namakwa, 1 for day tours
LANGUAGE: Our guides can speak English, French, German and/or Italian
Fitness
Off-road motorbiking is physically demanding. You may have to stand on the bike’s foot pegs for not less than 6 hours per day.
Although there in no need to be in Dakar shape to enjoy your journey, a reasonable level of fitness is strongly recommended.
We kindly request all our guests to complete the form “Declaration of Medical Condition” that can be found in the [Downloads & Links] page.
Trail grading
Grade 1
Novice, meaning these trails are suitable for riders with no, or limited off-road riding experience.
Grade 2
While some off-road riding experience is beneficial, it is not required. Novice off-road road riders should have no trouble on grade 2 trails.
Grade 3
While grade 3 trails generally do not require expert off-road riding skills, some off-road riding experience is highly advisable, if not actually required, since grade 3 trails could include thick sand, deep mud, gradients with loose surfaces, and even water crossings.
Grade 4
Riders attempting grade 4 trails should be fully conversant in, and have extensive off-road riding experience.
Grade 5
Grade 5 trails are only for expert off-road riders with extensive technical off-road riding experience, since off-road driving hardly ever gets worse than the conditions found on grade 5 trails.
Equipment
Please visit the [Downloads & Links] section and download the recommended “Equipment List” document. Usually, functional and quick drying outdoor gear should be sufficient. A hydration bag (Camelpak or similar) is mandatory, as well as appropriate protective equipment.
Although you might want to bring own apparel, or at least part of it, we offer the possibility to rent equipment, which might be more appropriate to the local weather conditions.