Top motorbike destinations in Southern Africa

Famous for spring wildflowers and endless gravel backroads. Ride coastal sand tracks, link small towns, and overnight in rustic camps or guest farms.

• Coastal sand tracks and inland gravel loops
• Wildflower displays Aug–Oct (seasonal)
• Great for dual‑sport and ADV touring

Best season: Aug–Oct for flowers; winter–spring for mild temps.

Coastal riding with classic mountain passes like Swartberg and scenic gravel into the Klein Karoo. Forest sections, ocean viewpoints, and rider‑friendly stops abound.

• Swartberg Pass and Outeniqua viewpoints
• Forest backroads and coastal detours
• Easy logistics, many lodging options

Best season: Year‑round; spring and autumn are prime.

Raw desert landscapes along the Orange River. Remote sand and rock tracks, rugged passes, and dramatic camping for confident riders.

• Remote sand and rock sections
• Spectacular desert and river scenery
• Requires careful fuel and water planning

Best season: Apr–Sep (cooler). Avoid peak summer heat.

Big‑sky gravel, desert dunes, and remote lodges. Link the Skeleton Coast, Damaraland, and Etosha surrounds with planned fuel and realistic daily distances.

• Iconic gravel highways and desert scenery
• Wildlife areas and remote overnights
• Long fuel ranges suit ADV bikes

Best season: May–Sep (dry, cooler). Summers can be extreme.

Alpine passes, high‑altitude gravel, and technical options like Sani Pass. Weather can turn quickly; plan layers and conservative timelines.

• Sani Pass and high‑mountain gravel loops
• Massive views and quiet backroads
• Cold snaps and wind at elevation

Best season: Oct–Apr for less snow; winters are cold.

Salt‑sprayed coastal roads, fishing villages, and sandy two‑tracks. Mix beach viewpoints with inland gravel through fynbos and reserves.

• Coastal detours and lighthouse stops
• Fynbos backroads and wildflowers
• Wind can be a factor on open sections

Best season: Late winter–spring for flowers; calmer days in autumn.

Wide‑open gravel highways, quiet passes, and star‑filled skies. Ideal for relaxed touring between historic towns and farm stays.

• Classic gravel passes and panoramas
• Low traffic and big distances
• Iconic small towns and farm hospitality

Best season: Autumn and winter are milder; summers are very hot.

Untamed coastline, river crossings, and rolling green hills. Mix scenic gravel with challenging tracks— local knowledge helps with tides and bridges.

• Clifftop viewpoints and beach approaches
• Multiple river crossings and rural backroads
• Best with flexible daily plans and light bikes

Best season: Apr–Jun and Sep–Nov. Summer rains can raise rivers.

Iconic gravel passes, rocky viewpoints, and remote camps within a few hours of Cape Town. Winter sun is excellent; summer heat demands early starts.

• Gravel passes and sandstone vistas
• Remote camps and starry skies
• Technical spurs optional

Best season: Autumn–spring. Summers are very hot inland.

Rugged wilderness riding through a UNESCO World Heritage area of narrow kloofs, riverbeds, and dramatic mountain passes. Expect water crossings, gates, and remote stretches between Patensie and Willowmore—best tackled with flexible timelines and solid bike protection.

• Multiple river crossings and rocky spurs
• Gravel passes with sweeping views
• Limited services—plan fuel and permits

Best season: Autumn–spring; avoid heavy rains that raise water levels.