South Africa is a land of exquisite beauty and offers tantalising riding that’ll leave you wanting more. The country is brimming with rich culture, friendly locals, mind-blowing landscapes and fascinating wildlife. And most importantly, it’s home to some fabulously curvaceous roads and mountain passes that’ll leave your throttle hand twitching and your heart pumping with adrenaline. Sounds like a bit of alright doesn’t it?
With that in mind, we teamed up with the folks at My Africa Bike Tours, a company that offers once-in-a-life-time motorcycle tours, to take a look at five epic roads you need to ride in South Africa. So, bucket lists at the ready…
1. Bain’s Kloof Pass, Western Cape
Situated on the R301, between Wellington and Ceres, this 17-mile beauty boasts outstanding views and challenging twisties which hug the side of the rugged Western Cape mountains. The landscape is out of this world, and as you ride you’ll struggle to keep your eyes on the road (but please do!). The pass’s surface can be a little rough in places, so you’re best off tackling it with an adventure bike rather than a sports model.
2. Baviaanskloof Road, Eastern Cape
This 120-mile road stretches between Patensie and Willowmore and offers some thrillingly challenging bends and knee-tickling curves for you to really get stuck into. The road is not tarred, so you’ll want to take care if you plan to tackle this one. The surrounding mountainous landscape is breath-taking and the views are sure to leave an everlasting imprint on your memory.
3. Sani Pass, KwaZulu-Natal
Photo: Vaiz Ha
Sani Pass is considered one of South Africa’s most iconic mountain passes and is notorious for being one of the most difficult too. Once you’ve ridden it, you’ll understand why. This incredible pass was built in the 1950s and has never been tarred, so it’s beautifully rugged. The road is laced with exciting twists and treacherous curves that require your full attention, but it will reward you with heart-racing thrills and sublime views that creep out of every bend. The pass starts at an elevation of 1,544m and reaches the summit of 2,876m, so make sure you stop off for some photos at the top.
If you fancy the challenge, the ‘Motion to the Ocean‘ tour route by My Africa Bike Tours includes this fantastic mountain pass, as well as the Drakensberg Mountains, stunning nature reserves and ancient rock formations.
4. Franschhoek Pass, Western Cape
This pass is a technical climb which will require your full concentration, one single wrong move could land you into a very tricky situation. This being said, the danger is paralleled by its unbelievable staggering beauty. The tight bends may require short bursts of power followed by sudden braking, but this is one hell of exhilarating ride which is worth all your efforts.
5. R44, Clarence Drive, Western Cape
The R44 connects Gordon’s Bay with Rooi Els and is a 13-mile stretch of tarmac with stunning coastal views and exhilarating curves. In fact, the road boasts around 77 bends for you and your two-wheeled machine to really get into. The sun shines down on the sparkling coastal waters and the vast, open views that stretch out to sea are awe-inspiring. You’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to photo opportunities.
Want to experience South Africa’s spectacular riding for yourself?
The guys at my Africa Bike Tours are bikers who used to explore Africa by two-wheels in their spare time, so they know a thing or two when it comes to motorcycling touring here. Today, with their wealth of experience, their aim is to show other bikers the true beauty of this stunning part of the world. The company offers a selection of incredible tours designed to show the best that South Africa has to offer, and you’ll come away from the experience feeling exhilarated with fond memories that you’ll never forget.
Not only will you experience exceptional riding, but the tour packages also include some pretty exciting activities such as safari experiences, sensational national parks and wildlife encounters (as well as the best burgers in Africa). You’ll also be able to choose from a selection of different bikes to suit your riding style and ability. You won’t just stick to the tarmac either; they aim to introduce riders to the people, wildlife and landscapes that makes this country so special.
Head over to the My Africa Tours website to find out more about the company and to browse their selection incredible motorcycle tours.
Featured photo: Vaiz Ha
