Frequently Asked Questions
About Our Tours
What countries do Ride Down South motorcycle tours visit?
Our guided motorcycle tours cover Southern and East Africa, including South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Malawi, Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda. Our most popular routes include Cape Town to Windhoek, Victoria Falls and the Kruger National Park. We also offer rides through the Cape Winelands and Garden Route.
How long are Ride Down South motorcycle tours?
Our tours range from 1-day rides to short 3 to 7-day rides through the Cape Winelands to epic 14, 20 and 24-day adventures in South Africa, Namibia and into Southern and East Africa. Our signature "Winelands, Mountains & Magnificent Namibia" tour is 14 days with 11 riding days and 2 free days, covering 3,300km.
On all our longer tours there are hop-off points you can take if you have less time available. Tours of 7-10 days are possible with this option.
Book a call with us to explore the best tour for the time you have available
What skill level is required for your motorcycle tours?
Our tours are suitable for riders with basic to intermediate motorcycle skills, however you do need to be comfortable riding a larger capacity motorcycle (500-1000cc). Ideally you have been riding a 500cc+ motorcycle for more than 6 months. We cater to riders who are comfortable on highways, graded gravel roads and in built-up areas. Our lead guide Michael is an excellent riding coach who can help you get comfortable on the roads as we ride. If you feel out of your depth at any stage you are always welcome to load your bike on the trailer and ride in the support car for as long as you need to.
What motorcycles do you provide for tours?
We use Honda motorcycles in our fleet. Specifically the:
- Honda Africa Twin CRF 1000 & 1100
- Transalp 750
- NX 500
These bikes are specifically chosen for African conditions - reliable, comfortable for long distances, and capable on both tarmac and gravel roads. All bikes are maintained to the highest standards by our expert mechanics.
Safety and Support
What happens if my motorcycle breaks down during the tour?
You're covered by our expert support crew who travel with every tour. Andrew Vaughan, our lead guide and chief mechanic, is a qualified mechanical engineer with extensive motorcycle maintenance experience. We carry spare parts and tools, and have never left anyone behind due to mechanical issues.
Do you provide support if I lose my passport or documents?
Yes, our support crew is experienced in handling all kinds of travel emergencies, including lost passports, phones, and other documents. We have protocols in place and local contacts to assist with emergency document replacement and other travel issues.
What medical support is available on tours?
Our guides are trained in first aid and we carry comprehensive medical kits. We have established relationships with medical facilities along our routes and can assist you with procuring evacuation insurance coverage through Global Rescue. In serious cases like injuries, we coordinate with medical services and ensure you get proper care.
How do you handle personality conflicts between riders?
We've been running guided tours for over ten years and we know that sometimes conflicts arise on a tour. Travelling together can be difficult. Our guides are experienced in group dynamics and creating a positive riding community. We focus on building "true mateship" among riders. If issues arise, our team works to resolve them quickly, and we have procedures to ensure everyone has an enjoyable experience.
Booking and Pricing
How do I book a Ride Down South motorcycle tour?
Booking is a simple 3-step process: 1) Pick your route or book a Zoom chat with us to choose the best option, 2) Secure your spot with transparent pricing and flexible payment options, 3) Join us for your African adventure with expert guides.
What payment methods do you accept?
We prefer Wise for international payments as it's fast and cost-effective. We also accept direct bank transfers. Full payment details are provided once you secure your booking.
Can you create custom motorcycle tours?
Yes! We offer custom tour options. Contact us to discuss your specific requirements, preferred countries, duration, and riding preferences. We can create a personalized itinerary based on your interests and experience level.
What's included in the tour price?
Our tours include motorcycle rental, expert guide services, support crew, accommodation bookings, route planning, mechanical support, and emergency assistance. Specific inclusions vary by tour - contact us for detailed pricing breakdowns.
Practical Information
What should I pack for a motorcycle tour in Africa?
We provide detailed packing lists for each tour. Generally, you'll need riding gear (helmet, jacket, gloves), weather-appropriate clothing, sun protection, basic toiletries, and any personal medications. We recommend packing light as space is limited on motorcycles.
Do I need special licenses or permits?
You need a valid motorcycle license for motorcycles over 125cc from your home country. An International Driving Permit is recommended but not necessary, unless your home licence is not in English. We can assist with information about visa requirements for different countries on your route. Requirements vary by nationality and destinations.
What's the weather like?
Southern Africa's riding season runs year round. From March/April to October we ride from Cape Town to Namibia and Victoria Falls. From October to April the weather is best further south in South Africa. Temperatures range from pleasant to warm during the day, with cooler evenings. We provide detailed weather information for each tour and time of year.
Can I join a tour as a single rider?
Absolutely! Many of our riders join solo and form lasting friendships with fellow adventurers. Our community-focused approach ensures single riders feel welcome and included throughout the journey.
Experience and Expertise
How experienced are your guides?
Andrew Vaughan, our founder and lead guide, has ridden over 30,000km from Vancouver to Cape Town and has explored 17 African countries by motorcycle. Our team combines mechanical expertise, local knowledge, and years of guiding experience to ensure safe, memorable adventures.
What makes Ride Down South different from other tour companies?
We focus on "reliability with flexibility" - structured itineraries with room for spontaneous detours to interesting places. Our guides are mechanical engineers and experienced riders, not just tour guides. We emphasize building genuine community among riders and providing insider access to hidden gems.
How many tours have you run?
Since 2016, we've completed over 259 tour days, guided 124+ happy clients, and our fleet has covered more than 334,000 miles across African roads. Our experience shows in our attention to detail and problem-solving capabilities.
Do you support local communities?
Yes, we're committed to responsible tourism. We use local accommodation, restaurants, and services where possible. Our founder also runs an education non-profit called This Better Work, demonstrating our commitment to positive impact in Africa.
Routes and Destinations
What's your most popular motorcycle tour?
Our "Winelands, Mountains & Magnificent Namibia" 14-day tour is very popular, featuring South Africa's Western Cape, the Karoo, and Namibia's dramatic landscapes including Fish River Canyon, Sossusvlei, and the Skeleton Coast.
Do you offer shorter tours for beginners?
Yes, we offer short rides from Cape Town through the winelands and fold mountains, perfect for those wanting to experience African motorcycle touring without committing to longer adventures.
Can I see wildlife on your tours?
Many of our routes include visits to top-rated game parks and reserves. The Victoria Falls tours particularly feature Eastern Highlands and game reserves where you can experience Africa's incredible wildlife alongside spectacular riding.
What are the road conditions like?
Our tours combine excellent tarmac roads with well-maintained gravel routes. We choose roads that offer great riding experiences while maintaining safety. Conditions vary by country and season, but our Honda Africa Twins handle all terrain confidently.
Motorcycle Tours by Country
Are there motorcycle tours in Namibia?
Yes! Namibia is one of our most popular destinations for guided motorcycle tours. Our Namibian routes include the iconic Fish River Canyon, the towering red dunes of Sossusvlei, the coastal town of Swakopmund, and the mysterious Skeleton Coast. Namibia offers some of Africa's most dramatic landscapes with excellent gravel roads perfect for adventure motorcycling. Our 14-day "Winelands, Mountains & Magnificent Namibia" tour covers 3,300km from Cape Town to Windhoek, showcasing Namibia's vast desert landscapes and incredible night skies.
Can you take motorcycle tours in Botswana?
Absolutely! Botswana features in several of our Southern African routes. The country offers excellent riding through the Kalahari Desert, access to the Okavango Delta region, and opportunities to see incredible wildlife. Botswana's well-maintained roads and stable infrastructure make it ideal for motorcycle touring, while its pristine wilderness areas provide unforgettable experiences for adventure riders.
Do you offer motorcycle tours in Zimbabwe?
Yes, Zimbabwe is a key destination in our East African routes. Our 14-day Victoria Falls loop tour starts and ends at the spectacular Victoria Falls and takes you through Zimbabwe's Eastern Highlands and top-rated game reserves. Zimbabwe offers diverse landscapes from the dramatic granite formations of the Matobo Hills to the lush Eastern Highlands, combined with excellent wildlife viewing opportunities and rich cultural heritage.
Are there guided motorcycle tours in East Africa?
Definitely! We operate extensive guided motorcycle tours throughout East Africa, including Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, Malawi, and Zambia. Our epic Victoria Falls to Rwanda tour covers multiple East African countries, showcasing the region's incredible diversity - from the Serengeti plains to Rwanda's thousand hills, from Lake Malawi's shores to the Rift Valley escarpments. East Africa offers some of the world's most spectacular motorcycle touring with diverse landscapes, wildlife, and cultures.
What motorcycle tours are available in Zambia?
Zambia features prominently in our East African motorcycle tours. Starting from Victoria Falls, our routes take you through Zambia's varied landscapes including the Zambezi River region, copper belt areas, and connections to neighboring countries. Zambia offers good riding conditions and serves as a gateway to exploring multiple East African destinations on extended motorcycle adventures.
Can I take motorcycle tours in Kenya?
Yes! Kenya is included in our comprehensive East African motorcycle tours. Kenyan routes showcase the Great Rift Valley, diverse landscapes from savannah to highlands, incredible wildlife viewing opportunities, and rich Maasai culture. Kenya's well-developed infrastructure and spectacular scenery make it a highlight of our East African motorcycle adventures.
Are there motorcycle tours in Tanzania?
Tanzania is a key destination in our East African routes. Our tours include riding through Tanzania's diverse regions, from the Serengeti ecosystem to the Southern Highlands, with opportunities to experience the country's incredible wildlife and varied landscapes. Tanzania offers excellent motorcycle touring conditions and unforgettable cultural experiences.
What about motorcycle tours in Uganda and Rwanda?
Both Uganda and Rwanda feature in our East African motorcycle tours. Rwanda, known as the "Land of a Thousand Hills," offers spectacular mountain riding and is the endpoint of our epic Victoria Falls to Rwanda tour. Uganda provides diverse landscapes from mountains to lakes, with excellent roads for motorcycle touring. Both countries offer unique cultural experiences and stunning highland scenery perfect for adventure motorcycling.
Do you offer motorcycle tours in Malawi?
Yes, Malawi is included in our East African routes. Known as the "Warm Heart of Africa," Malawi offers beautiful Lake Malawi shoreline riding, highland routes, and welcoming local communities. The country provides excellent motorcycle touring with good road conditions and spectacular lake and mountain scenery.
Specific Destinations and Attractions
Can I visit Victoria Falls on a motorcycle tour?
Yes! Victoria Falls is a centerpiece of our Southern and East African motorcycle tours. Our 14-day Victoria Falls loop tour starts and ends at this spectacular UNESCO World Heritage site, one of the world's largest waterfalls. You'll experience the thundering falls from multiple viewpoints while using Victoria Falls as your base for exploring Zimbabwe's Eastern Highlands and premier game reserves. The town of Victoria Falls offers excellent accommodation and is perfectly positioned for motorcycle touring adventures.
Do your motorcycle tours visit Sossusvlei?
Absolutely! Sossusvlei is a highlight of our "Winelands, Mountains & Magnificent Namibia" tour. This iconic destination features some of the world's highest sand dunes, with the famous red dunes creating dramatic landscapes perfect for photography. Our motorcycle tours include visits to Sossusvlei and nearby Deadvlei, where ancient camel thorn trees create striking silhouettes against white clay pans and towering orange dunes. The ride to Sossusvlei through the Namib Desert is unforgettable.
Can I ride to the Skeleton Coast on your tours?
Yes! The mysterious Skeleton Coast is included in our Namibian motorcycle routes. This remote Atlantic coastline is famous for its shipwrecks, seal colonies, and dramatic desert-meets-ocean landscapes. Our tours take you along sections of the Skeleton Coast, where you'll experience the contrast between the Namib Desert and the cold Atlantic Ocean, with opportunities to see Cape fur seals and desert-adapted wildlife.
Do you visit Swakopmund on motorcycle tours?
Definitely! Swakopmund is a key stop on our Namibian motorcycle tours. This charming German colonial coastal town serves as an excellent base for exploring the surrounding desert landscapes and offers a variety of adventure activities. Swakopmund provides comfortable accommodation, excellent restaurants, and fascinating architecture, making it a perfect rest stop during our multi-day Namibian adventures. The ride from Windhoek to Swakopmund through diverse landscapes is spectacular.
Can I see Fish River Canyon on your motorcycle tours?
Yes! Fish River Canyon, Africa's largest canyon and the world's second-largest canyon, is a spectacular destination on our Namibian motorcycle routes. The dramatic canyon offers breathtaking viewpoints and challenging riding terrain that our Honda Africa Twins handle perfectly. Our tours include stops at multiple viewpoints along Fish River Canyon, allowing you to experience this geological wonder's immense scale and beauty. The canyon region also offers excellent stargazing opportunities.
Do your tours visit Etosha National Park?
While our primary focus is motorcycle touring rather than extended game viewing, some of our Namibian routes can include access to Etosha National Park region. We can arrange custom tours that incorporate game park visits, though our standard motorcycle tours focus on the spectacular riding experiences and landscapes that make Namibia famous among adventure motorcyclists.
Can I visit the Okavango Delta on motorcycle tours?
Our Botswana routes provide access to the Okavango Delta region, though the delta itself is primarily explored by mokoro (traditional canoe) and boat. Our motorcycle tours take you through the gateway areas to the Okavango Delta, where you can arrange additional activities to experience this UNESCO World Heritage wetland. The riding in the delta region offers unique landscapes and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Do you include Blyde River Canyon in your tours?
Our South African routes can include spectacular canyon regions, and we can customize tours to include destinations like Blyde River Canyon depending on your specific interests and route preferences. Contact us to discuss incorporating specific South African highlights into your motorcycle adventure.
Can I visit Table Mountain and Cape Town on motorcycle tours?
Yes! Cape Town serves as a starting point for several of our tours, including our popular "Winelands, Mountains & Magnificent Namibia" adventure. While motorcycle access to Table Mountain itself is limited, Cape Town offers incredible riding through the surrounding winelands, along coastal routes, and through the dramatic mountain passes of the Western Cape. Our shorter tours focus specifically on the Cape Town region, including the famous Chapman's Peak drive and wine regions.
Do your tours visit Great Rift Valley in East Africa?
Absolutely! Our East African motorcycle tours showcase spectacular sections of the Great Rift Valley, particularly in Kenya and Tanzania. The Rift Valley offers dramatic escarpments, crater lakes, and diverse landscapes perfect for adventure motorcycling. You'll experience the geological wonder of this massive continental rift system while riding through some of East Africa's most spectacular scenery.
Pricing and Tour Costs
How much do motorcycle tours in Africa cost?
Our African motorcycle tours range from approximately $300-500 USD per day depending on tour length, destinations, and inclusions. Shorter 4-day Cape Winelands tours are more cost-effective per day, while longer 14-22 day adventures across multiple countries offer better overall value. Prices include motorcycle rental, expert guides, support crew, route planning, and mechanical support. Accommodation, meals, fuel, and personal expenses are typically additional.
What's included in Ride Down South tour prices?
All tours include Honda Africa Twin motorcycle rental, expert guide services, mechanical support, route planning, GPS navigation, support vehicle, emergency assistance, and pre-tour briefings. We also provide detailed packing lists, travel documentation assistance, and 24/7 support during your adventure. Accommodation bookings are arranged by us, though accommodation costs are separate.
Are there budget-friendly motorcycle tours in Southern Africa?
Yes! Our shorter Cape Winelands and Garden Route tours offer excellent value for riders wanting to experience African motorcycle touring without the cost of extended multi-country adventures. These 4-7 day tours provide the full Ride Down South experience - expert guides, quality bikes, and spectacular riding - at a more accessible price point.
What's the price difference between 7-day vs 14-day tours?
Longer tours offer better value per day due to economies of scale. While a 7-day tour might cost $350-400 per day, a 14-day adventure typically runs $300-350 per day. Extended tours also provide deeper cultural immersion, more diverse landscapes, and the satisfying achievement of completing epic cross-country journeys.
Do you offer payment plans for motorcycle tours?
Yes, we offer flexible payment options to make your African adventure more accessible. Contact us to discuss payment schedules that work for your budget. We require a deposit to secure your booking, with the balance payable closer to your departure date.
Safety and Risk Management
How safe are motorcycle tours in Africa?
Safety is our top priority at Ride Down South. We've completed over 259 tour days and 334,000+ fleet miles without serious incidents. Our safety record comes from experienced guides, well-maintained Honda Africa Twins, comprehensive route planning, constant support crew backup, and detailed pre-tour safety briefings. We choose stable countries with good infrastructure and avoid high-risk areas.
What happens if there's a medical emergency during the tour?
Our guides are first aid trained and carry comprehensive medical kits. We have established relationships with medical facilities along all our routes and maintain emergency evacuation insurance coverage. For serious emergencies, we coordinate with local medical services and international evacuation services. We've successfully handled various medical situations and never left anyone without proper care.
How do you handle political instability in African countries?
We continuously monitor political conditions in all our tour destinations and maintain flexibility to adjust routes if needed. We only operate in stable countries with good infrastructure and avoid areas with political tensions. Our local knowledge and government contacts help us stay informed about current conditions and make route adjustments when necessary.
What about wildlife encounters during motorcycle tours?
Wildlife encounters are possible but manageable with proper precautions. Our guides are experienced in wildlife areas and know how to safely navigate regions with large animals. We provide detailed briefings about wildlife behavior and safety protocols. Most encounters are positive experiences - seeing elephants, antelope, and other wildlife from a respectful distance adds to the adventure.
Is it safe for solo travelers and women to join tours?
Absolutely! Many of our guests travel solo and form lasting friendships during tours. We maintain a supportive, inclusive group environment where everyone feels welcome. For women travelers, our professional guides and group setting provide additional security and peace of mind while exploring Africa.
Equipment and Technical Requirements
What motorcycle gear do I need for African tours?
Essential gear includes a quality helmet (we can provide if needed), protective jacket and pants, riding gloves, boots, and weather protection. We provide detailed packing lists specific to each tour and season. Quality gear is crucial for comfort and safety on African roads - we're happy to recommend specific brands and items based on our experience.
Do you provide motorcycle helmets and protective gear?
We can provide helmets and basic protective gear, though many riders prefer bringing their own for fit and comfort. Our rental gear meets international safety standards. We recommend bringing your own helmet if possible, as proper fit is crucial for safety and comfort during long riding days.
Can I bring my own motorcycle to Africa?
While possible, we strongly recommend using our Honda Africa Twins. Shipping personal motorcycles to Africa involves complex logistics, customs procedures, and insurance requirements. Our fleet bikes are specifically maintained for African conditions, come with local registration, and include full mechanical support throughout your tour.
What size motorcycle is best for African roads?
Our Honda Africa Twin 750s are ideal for African touring - powerful enough for highway speeds, light enough for gravel roads, reliable in remote areas, and comfortable for long distances. Mid-size adventure bikes (650-800cc) offer the best balance of power, weight, and fuel efficiency for African conditions.
Do I need special motorcycle training before the tour?
While we cater to intermediate riders, some gravel road experience is beneficial. We recommend practicing on gravel or dirt roads before your tour if you're primarily a street rider. We provide pre-tour briefings covering African road conditions, riding techniques, and safety protocols specific to our routes.
Travel Logistics and Planning
What visa requirements for multi-country African tours?
Visa requirements vary by nationality and destinations. Many countries offer visa-on-arrival for tourists, while others require advance applications. We provide detailed visa information for your specific tour and nationality, including application procedures, costs, and timing. Some routes may require multiple visas planned in advance.
What vaccines do I need for African motorcycle tours?
Common requirements include Yellow Fever (mandatory for some countries), Hepatitis A/B, Typhoid, and routine vaccinations. Malaria prophylaxis may be recommended for certain regions and seasons. Consult a travel medicine specialist 4-6 weeks before departure for personalized recommendations based on your specific route and medical history.
How to get motorcycle insurance for African tours?
Our Honda Africa Twins include basic local insurance coverage. We strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance including motorcycle touring coverage, medical evacuation, and trip cancellation protection. We can recommend insurance providers experienced with African motorcycle touring and adventure travel.
What's the best way to get to Cape Town for motorcycle tours?
Cape Town International Airport is well-connected globally with direct flights from Europe, Middle East, and other African cities. Many riders arrive via Dubai, Doha, or European connections. We recommend arriving 1-2 days early to recover from jet lag and handle any travel delays before your tour begins.
How far in advance should I book my motorcycle tour?
We recommend booking 3-6 months in advance, especially for peak season tours (April-October). This allows time for visa applications, travel planning, gear preparation, and securing the best accommodation options. Popular tours like our Namibia adventure can fill up months ahead during peak season.
Group Travel and Customization
Can you organize private group motorcycle tours?
Yes! We specialize in custom private group tours for clubs, corporate teams, and friend groups. Private tours offer complete flexibility in dates, routes, pace, and activities. We can customize everything from route selection to accommodation standards and special activities based on your group's preferences and budget.
What's the ideal group size for motorcycle tours?
Our standard groups range from 4-8 riders, allowing for personalized attention while maintaining group dynamics. Smaller groups offer more flexibility and intimate experiences, while larger groups can be more cost-effective. Private groups can be any size, though 6-10 riders often provides the optimal balance of camaraderie and logistics.
Do you offer corporate team building motorcycle tours?
Absolutely! Motorcycle touring provides excellent team building through shared challenges, stunning scenery, and group problem-solving. We've organized corporate tours that combine adventure with team development, offering both riding challenges and group activities designed to strengthen professional relationships and communication.
Can couples book romantic motorcycle adventures?
Yes! Many couples join our tours for unique romantic adventures. African sunsets, starlit skies, and shared motorcycle adventures create unforgettable romantic experiences. We can arrange special touches like private dinners, upgraded accommodation, or sunset stops at scenic viewpoints to enhance the romantic aspect of your journey.
Regional Tour Information
What's the best time for motorcycle tours in Southern Africa?
The ideal time for motorcycle tours in Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, and South Africa is during the dry season from April to October. This period offers excellent weather with minimal rainfall, comfortable riding temperatures, and optimal road conditions. The Southern African winter (June-August) provides perfect riding weather with clear skies and mild temperatures.
What's the best season for East African motorcycle tours?
East Africa has two main dry seasons ideal for motorcycle touring: January-March and June-October. These periods offer the best road conditions, clear weather for spectacular views, and optimal wildlife viewing opportunities. The timing can vary slightly by specific country and region within East Africa.
How do road conditions compare across different African countries?
Road conditions vary significantly across our tour destinations. Namibia has excellent gravel roads and good tarmac. Botswana offers well-maintained roads with some challenging sand sections. Zimbabwe has improving infrastructure with excellent riding routes. East African countries like Kenya and Tanzania have good main roads with some challenging rural sections that add to the adventure. Our Honda Africa Twins are specifically chosen to handle all these varied conditions safely.
Ready for your African motorcycle adventure? Contact Ride Down South to start planning your dream ride through Africa's most spectacular landscapes.
Is it safe to travel in Cape Town and South Africa?
As in most major cities around the world, Cape Town is a safe destination to travel to as long as you take common sense precautions. We have not had a single security incident in our three years of operating around Southern Africa, and as Cape Town locals we are quite happy to have this city as our home.
Here's a helpful article: Travel Advice: Is It Safe to Travel to South Africa?
"The vast majority of crimes in South Africa take place in the poorer neighborhoods of big cities - so staying clear of these areas is an effective way to reduce the risk of becoming a victim. If you're planning on spending time in Johannesburg, Durban, or Cape Town, make sure to choose a guesthouse or hotel in a reputable part of town.
...as a tourist, you can avoid most dangerous situations by simply being aware and making informed choices. Don't let negative media coverage put you off - this is one of the world's most beautiful countries and somewhere that everyone should visit at least once."
I'm nervous about sending money overseas to you - what assurance can you give that it will be safe to do so?
Sending money overseas can be a daunting experience if you're not used to doing so. Ride Down South is bonded with SATSA which means your money is safe. We prefer to use Wise for all our international payments. Using Wise for international payments to Ride Down South is generally safe, as the platform is regulated, uses robust encryption, and is widely trusted for secure and transparent currency transfers.
Our Motorcycles
Tell me more about your bikes
We run the classic Honda Africa Twin XRV 750. We love this bike because it's safe, fun to ride, capable of riding all the road surfaces we encounter and supremely reliable. Just about every one of our guests leaves a ride as an Africa Twin fan.
All our bikes have been completely rebuilt in the past few years with shocks, wearing engine components, chassis bearings etc overhauled or replaced. For extra peace of mind we bring along a spare bike on a trailer on all our rides into Southern Africa
The Africa Twins look like big bikes, I'm worried they will be too tall for me
We've specially lowered two of our bikes to suit shorter riders. The seat heights on these bikes are about 810mm. We also have a Suzuki V Strom 650cc bike which is quite a bit lower - at 780mm and a good bike for shorter riders.
What licence do I need to ride your bikes?
You need a motorcycle licence for any motorcycle over 125cc. Generally you do not need an International Driver's Licence if your own licence is printed in English but they are easy to get and not a bad idea to bring one.
I'm not sure I can handle the gravel roads on the trip we're doing
On our longer trips to Namibia and Botswana the gravel roads allow us to ride in some incredible spots. On these trips we usually have a support vehicle and trailer, so if necessary, we can load your bike on the trailer and let you ride in the vehicle. However, most riders find the gravel roads quite manageable - and the Africa Twins are lovely bikes to ride on these roads. If you're booked on a trip with gravel roads we highly recommend you take an off-road riding course before you arrive.
We also stay away from deep sand as much as we can - no-one likes to ride in that stuff.
Can I arrange single supplement accommodation?
Yes you can - just let us know and we'll organise that for you
Where Is Ride Down South Registered?
Ride Down South is a registered company in South Africa (Registration No. K2015293371). You can view our company registration certificate here. Ride Down South is also registered and bonded with South African Tourism Services Association (SATSA). View our SATSA page here
You can also read the Tripadvisor reviews of our guests from around the world who have ridden with us in Africa