There is much important information you'll want to know about the country, it’s people, customs and layout, before planning a tour here. To find answers to your most important questions, please click on the links below. If there is anything you would still like to know, please send me an E-mail or feel free to call me ; I’ll gladly assist wherever possible!...

Essential requirements for your tour.
Additional recommended items.
Do you offer group discounts?
What languages are spoken?
How much money do I need? Is foreign currency accepted?
How safe will I be while I’m touring?
What about local diseases?
Will I need an international driver’s licence?
Who can I ask to give my bike a check-up before the tour begins?
How common are petrol (gasoline) filling stations?
What are the national speed limits?
All motorcycles I see have their headlights on. What’s up with that?
What’s the law regarding alcohol?
Do I have to worry about roadside MOT’s being carried out?
What kind of road hazards can I expect?
What kind of distance will we travel each day?
What is the riding style? Do we ride in convoy?
What kind of pace will we be riding at?
What type of bike can you use to attend the tours?
I’m worried that my bike may be a bit thirsty. What about fuel stops?
How secure is the accomodation, especially with regard to bikes?
Where can I hire a motorcycle?
Where do the tours start?
Where do the tours finish?
What is the average age of people who choose your tours?
What standard of accomodation can I expect?
What other activities are on the itinerary?
Which meals are included?
What if I’m a vegetarian?
What is the weather going to be like?
How much luggage can I bring along?
Is there a support vehicle, and what happens if I break down?
Do you supply travel/medical insurance?

The following are essential requirements for your tour:
• Passport valid for six months from your date of arrival in South Africa (foreign visitors only.)
• Visa (foreign visitors - if applicable.)
• Motorcycle protective clothing (one-piece or zip-together two-piece leathers are strongly recommended) and crash helmet (full-face helmets are recommended.) These can be hired from the motorcycle rental contractors if you don't have them. Note that early mornings can be very cold. Also, although the days may become very hot, it is not recommended to ride without arms, legs and neck covered as this will more than likely result in severe sunburn, as well as unnecessary injuries should a crash occur. Darkened, silvered and iridium visors are 100% legal in South Africa, and are recommended for daytime use in lieu of sunglasses while riding, as they are much less likely to shatter and injure your eyes.
• Personal accident cover and medical insurance / medical aid documentation.
• Valid driver’s licence (if not in English with photograph, you will require a valid international driving permit.)
• Local currency, plus travellers cheques or credit card (it is recommended that you carry sufficient cash in South African Rands to pay for fuel and to cover emergencies, as most petrol (gasoline) stations do not accept credit cards or travellers cheques for fuel payments.)
• Security deposit on any motorcycle you may be hiring (only payable with cash or credit card.)

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These items are also highly recommended:

• If bringing your own motorcycle, hard luggage (panniers and topboxes) or throw-over panniers are by far the best way of carrying your belongings. Tank bags are also highly useful. Rucksacks aren't generally comfortable unless used to carry very light loads. If you are hiring a motorcycle and require panniers or other luggage, please specify them when booking your tour and I'll be glad to inform you whether they are available for the model you want!
• You will need some means of easy access to the route map and route guide I will supply you with. The easiest way of accomplishing this is a tank bag with a clear plastic top layer (these are specially designed to carry maps.)
• Motorcycling wet-weather gear (A two-layer one-piece rain suit is recommended, quality two-piece rain gear is even better!)
• Smart-casual wear: Most hotels up to four-star do not have official dress codes, though arriving for dinner or drinks in your leathers is generally frowned on! It is recommended that you bring along some smart-casual clothing (ties are not required.) Jeans or chinos with a sweater or open-necked shirt for men, and blouse and jeans or similar for ladies, are recommended.
• Insect repellent lotion or spray.
• A high-SPF sun protection lotion (The African sun is formidable!)
• Swimming shorts / bikini and beach towel.
• Sunglasses.

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Are any discounts offered?

I offer a 10% discount on all advertised tour rates for motorcycle clubs, corporate customers and parties of eight or more: to qualify, you need to supply a confirmed booking request naming the organization in whose name the booking is made. This discount does not cover bike hire costs, as individual bike hire contractors apply their own discount structures; details of these are available upon request.

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What languages are spoken?

Except in isolated tribal areas, English is almost universally understood, though Afrikaans is the language of choice in most small towns. Where necessary, I'll act as interpreter.

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How much money do I need? Is foreign currency accepted?

Traveller’s cheques are widely accepted, as are most of the major credit cards (American Express, Diners Club, etc.), although you can't pay for fuel by either of these means (see also: How common are petrol (gasoline) filling stations? below.) Only in extremely rare cases is foreign currency accepted, and the majority of exchange operators or vendors who accept foreign currency will impose handling charges.

Approximate daily costs include:

• About R200 in cash for petrol (gasoline)
• About R80 for lunch
• About R150 per person for dinner (if not included in the tour price). In most cases, this can be paid for by credit card. You will have to put down a security deposit on any hire motorcycle you may rent (this includes it's equipment). This can be paid by cash or Traveller’s Cheque upon arrival. Upon safe return of the motorcycle, the deposit is refundable.

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How safe will I be while I’m touring?

All our tours traverse parts of South Africa which are rated as ‘safe’ for tourists by the major travel agencies. However, as with any country, caution should be exercised when walking or travelling at night in the major cities. I specifically avoid townships and informal settlements which are known as risk areas for this reason. I also suggest that should you be touring unguided, or become separated from your group, you refrain from entering these areas. If you're not sure, I'll always be pleased to advise on the local geography.

For your safety and convenience, please do not:
• Show money in public areas.
• Wear jewellery outside your clothing (necklaces, obvious rings, etc.)
• Enter alleyways or deviate from main paths. Travelling on foot alone at night is not recommended in the major centres.
• Hand strangers your camera or ask them to take photographs for you.
• Divulge your credit card details to anyone.

On the other hand, do:
• Keep your camera and handbag secure at all times. Keep wallets in the front pocket of your trousers. Never hand any valuables to a stranger for ‘safekeeping’ or any other reason.
• Walk in groups wherever possible.
• Avoid abandoned locations. When in doubt, busy areas are best.
• While touring, make a note of my mobile phone number, and notify me immediately in case of any emergency; I'll be more than happy to assist you!

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What about local diseases?

Malaria is endemic to parts of South Africa’s East and Northeast regions. The KwaZulu Odyssey tours occasionally pass through regions which are known malaria zones, and I recommend that you take anti-malarial medication when passing through these areas. If in any doubt about the region you are visiting, please consult a doctor or pharmacist. If you have arrived in South Africa from a yellow fever zone, you are required to produce a valid international yellow fever innoculation certificate. Immunisations against cholera and smallpox are not required.

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Will I need an international driver’s licence?

A valid driver’s licence applicable to motorcycles, printed in English, with the photograph an integral part of the licence, is acceptable for your tour and essential if you plan to hire a bike. If your licence does not comply with these requirements, you should obtain an International Driving Permit applicable to motorcycles and valid for South Africa, prior to your tour.

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Who can I ask to give my bike a check-over before the tour begins?

If your bike needs a check-over before we leave, please feel free to notify me at least fifteen working days in advance (please note that this applies only to those starting their tour in Gauteng.) I'm a qualified vehicle diagnosis technician with experience in numerous makes of cars, trucks and motorcycles. I also double as the designated mechanic on all tours, so rest assured that your motorcycle is in good hands. I recommend at all times that your motorcycle be serviced regularly and any damage repaired promptly!

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How common are petrol (gasoline) filling stations?

No guesswork required on any of the tours: every fuel stop is calculated to get you to the next one. Wherever possible, fuel stops are a minimum of 60 Kilometres and a maximum of 150 Kilometres apart. All filling stations used on the tour are clearly marked on the route maps and route guides supplied. The majority do NOT accept credit cards or cheques, therefore cash is required for fuel. In rural districts there are often considerable distances between filling stations, and due regard to this should be taken if planning your own route and when leaving towns.

Fuel quality in South Africa is of an international standard (93 and 95 octane unleaded at altitude; 95 and 97 octane unleaded at sea level) and octane boosters are neither required nor recommended. Petrol (gasoline) prices in South Africa are subject to regulation and prices are fixed at government-determined levels. It is recommended that you use the highest octane unleaded fuel available, particularly if your bike is equipped with a catalytic converter, though fuel-injected bikes can usually use the available lower-octane fuel grade without concern. Fuel pumps are manned by attendants and tips may be given at your personal discretion.

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What are the national speed limits?

The national limits are generally:
• 60 Km/h (37 mph) when approaching and leaving towns and villages, or travelling in built-up areas.
• 100 Km/h (62 mph) on rural roads.
• 120 Km/h (75 mph) on national routes and freeways.

Speed limits are usually clearly signposted, and the above values are to be used as a guide only. Laser and radar speed-enforcement equipment, both fixed and mobile, is used year-round countrywide by most traffic departments. The use of laser and radar detection equipment is 100% legal if you choose to do so. If signalled to do so by a traffic officer, stop, and remain calm, friendly and co-operative. DO NOT attempt to bribe an officer, and be aware that traffic fines cannot be paid on the spot. Be aware too, that if caught exceeding any given speed limit by more than 150% of the posted value, an arrest is likely.

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All motorcycles I see have their headlights on. What’s up with that?

On South African roads, it is a 24-hour legal requirement to ride a motorcycle with it’s headlights activated for extra visibility. I further recommend that you make use of your ‘high’ beams during the day, but be sure to dim your lights at nightfall.

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What’s the law regarding alcohol?

Operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or any controlled substance is a criminal offence and taken extremely seriously, usually resulting in jail terms and substantial fines.

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Do I have to worry about roadside MOT’s being carried out?

The MOT (Motor Ordinance Test) has a South African equivalent referred to as the ‘roadworthy’ which is not as strict. Traffic officers and Metropolitan Police are empowered to stop you at any time to check the roadworthiness of your vehicle, though South African legal requirements with regard to exhaust emissions and noise are quite vague. Loud exhausts do not generally constitute a roadworthy failure, though a loose, leaking or non-silenced exhaust does. Items which may be penalised in a roadside spot test include:
• Oil leaks
• Tyres worn past the legal limit (Not less than 1 millimetre tread depth over at least 75% of the total tread area.)
• Worn shock absorbers.
• Any lights or horn out of order.
• Excessive particulate emissions (smoke.)
• Licence plates not conforming to legal requirements and/or insecurely fastened.
• Please be aware that as a designated rider, you are responsible for the roadworthiness of your own motorcycle at all times.

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Any other legal issues?

The wearing of helmets is compulsory at all times if you ride a motorcycle on public roads.

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What kind of road hazards can I expect?

The same hazards you encounter worldwide are common to South Africa. As with everywhere else, your safety on the roads is as much your responsibility as that of the next person. The majority of South African drivers are fast, but courteous and fairly clued up. It’s all relative: our pace is certainly brisk if you’ve just come from Saudi Arabia, but positively relaxing if you’ve come from Calcutta, Paris, Hong Kong or Los Angeles!...

In rural areas, watch out for:
• Stray livestock, dogs and baboons, which may occupy or cross the roads without warning.
• Pedestrians, especially children and especially in built-up areas and small towns.
• Slow-moving vehicles, especially on blind bends and rises.

Between major centres, be aware of occasional potholes in the roads, especially during the rainy season. The local municipalities are usually aware of them, and post appropriate warning signs. A special note for all guests accustomed to driving on the right in their home country: the South African rule of the road is Keep LEFT, Pass RIGHT. DO NOT attempt to overtake on the left, or over solid white lines, or in the emergency lane (solid yellow line.) It is recommended that you maintain a following distance of no less than two seconds at all times. As with any other country, common sense and due care is the best policy in any situation. The police are vigilant here, and if you try to do Valentino Rossi impersonations, you'll get your collar tugged. It's as simple as that.

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What kind of distance will we travel each day?

I always try to limit daily distances on the planned routes to 400 kilometres (250 miles), though logistical arrangements can, on rare occasions, mean daily legs of up to 500 kilometres (310 miles.) I plan all daily routes with 60-100 kilometres (40-60 miles) between each stop. On trips longer than six days, the norm is to spend at least two nights in the same hotel, purely so you do not have to waste your holiday time packing and unpacking!

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What is the riding style? Do we ride in convoy?

The usual style is to ride in staggered formation, with bikes approximately 20 - 25 metres apart. Group members usually stay together with me backing up the group from the rear, but this is not compulsory! I usually do head-counts every 20 kilometres or so, and if I suspect you've accidentally become detached from the group, I will call you by cellular phone if reception is present. I do not insist that everyone stay together; if you feel the urge to ride solo or in your own groups, making your own way to each stop, you are welcome to do so! If you would like to do this, I ask only one favour: please inform me of your travel plan before leaving each morning, so I don't count the wrong number of bikes!

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What kind of pace will we be riding at?

I will be riding at a constant 120 Km/h on open roads, where safe to do so. I recommend you adhere to all speed limits, especially in small towns. Steamrolling small children is NOT fun.

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Which bike can I use to attend a tour?

You can use any road-legal make and model you like, though I recommend a four-stroke-engined bike of at least 400cm3. This is purely so that you will have no difficulty riding at group pace. The most commonly-used bikes on the tours are sports bikes or sports tourers, though on/off-road, touring-enduro, touring bikes and cruisers are also most welcome. No dirt roads or off-road trails are planned for the trip, though I can gladly give recommendations for such. If you need to hire a motorcycle, please contact me for more information, as I have access to a wide variety of BMW and Harley-Davidson motorcycles at preferential rates. (See also: Where can I hire a motorcycle? below.)

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I’m worried that my bike may be a bit thirsty. What about fuel stops?

All routes are planned to include fuel stops every 150 kilometres (90 miles) at most, and we'll always re-fuel based on the smallest fuel tank / thirstiest bike in the group – so if there are bikes along with limited range, we will try to re-fuel at least every 100 kilometres (60 miles.)

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How secure is the accomodation, especially with regard to bikes?

I try my best to book accomodation with secure parking arrangements if at all possible. If I'm not completely happy with the standard of security offered, I arrange extra overnight security for the duration of our stay. Of course, you may bring along whatever security devices you wish.

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Where can I hire a motorcycle?

If you do not plan to bring your own motorcycle, please inform me when booking your tour. My business partners include motorcycle hire companies who can supply expertly-maintained, late-model BMW and Harley-Davidson motorcycles cost-effectively to your specific needs, whether you are looking for a thrilling sports ride or a comfortable, relaxed tour. If you would like to hire a motorcycle, please feel free to browse through the selection.

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Where do the tours start?

By default, tours start from the BMW Lifestyle Centre parking lot, in New Rd, Midrand. See map. However, if prior arrangements are made, specially-arranged tours can also start from the locations below:

In Kwazulu Natal: From the Golden Mile beachfront, corner of Smith Street and Marine Parade, Durban. See map

In the Western Cape: From the Caltex filling station next to Auto Atlantic BMW, Dock Street, the V&A Waterfront, Cape Town. See map

In the Eastern Cape: From St. George’s Park, at the corner of How Street and Park Drive, Port Elizabeth. See map

These start points may be subject to change, so please check each individual tour itinerary for start and finish points. If in doubt, please ask me for advice or directions.

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Where do the tours finish?

By default, tours finish at the BMW Lifestyle dealership in New Rd, Midrand. See map

However, please be sure to check your individual tour itinerary for start and finish points, especially if alternate arrangements have been made.

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What is the average age of people who choose your tours?

I understand the specific needs of different age groups, and my company is geared to give a great experience to everyone who joins the tour, from South African legal riding age upward. The average age of those who join is probably 35 but my policy is: if you can ride, you’re more than welcome!

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What standard of accomodation can I expect?

I maintain the best balance of quality and value for money I can, especially for my local customers who don't pay in Dollars or Pounds. Therefore, most accomodation will be three- and occasionally four-star. I know all the venues well and the vast majority, no matter what rating, will include en-suite facilities, a swimming pool and other expected features. To ensure that you're treated personally at your accomodation points and are welcomed like the good friend you are, I always favour cosy bike-friendly guest-houses and B&B’s over hotels.

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What other activities are on the itinerary?

On tours longer than six days, I include at least one rest day, for which additional activities can gladly be planned upon request. Each day of each tour usually includes at least one rest stop doubling as a short visit to one of South Africa’s more unusual attractions. All attractions for each day of touring are advised of via the route maps and route guides supplied.

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Which meals are included?

Breakfast is always included with accomodation. Lunch is on the road, and I make use of bike-friendly restaurants which include all needed facilities. Dinner is arranged at local restaurants by group consensus, but hotel dinners with wine can be included in the tour itinerary for a small extra fee upon request. On tours longer than six days, I will usually include one or more rest days, on which you can eat out if you wish. This allows a refreshing change from group meals every night, and allows you to decide the type of eating experience you want.

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What if I’m a vegetarian?

You’re not alone; many more of my guests are vegetarian or Vegan too. I can make special provision for you via the information you supply on the booking form; so please let me know in advance of any special dietary requirements so that I can inform the hotels.

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What is the weather going to be like?

Unfortunately, no one can tell unless they’re there on the day!... Weather is usually pleasant year-round across the country, though you might want to prepare for winter rains in the West of the country and scattered summer showers in the East. During the winter season (March to August), it can be quite cold in the mornings and evenings. In cold weather, the mountainous areas may be susceptible to fog.

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How much luggage can I bring along?

I recommend that you don't bring more than you can carry hands-free on your motorcycle; this is why I advocate using panniers, top-boxes and tank bags. If using a rucksack, I don’t recommend carrying a load greater than 15% of your body mass with it. If you are hiring a bike and require the ability to carry large amounts of luggage, our BMW and Harley-Davidson hire contractors will be happy to provide you with panniers, tank bags and/or top-boxes. (See also: Where can I hire a motorcycle? above.)

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Is there a support vehicle, and what happens if I break down?

I do not operate a regular support vehicle, as this contributes to high operating costs which would be passed on to you, although our motorcycle hire contractors can usually make support vehicles available at extra cost. In the event of an emergency (accident, breakdown, etc.), the hire contractors are geared to provide full emergency backup, and can also supply back-up motorcycles (depending on availability.) I also make use of the AA (Automobile Association RSA), whose nationwide network ensures that most mechanical repairs can be carried out on the spot. I will always try and assist you in the event of a breakdown and I always carry a comprehensive toolkit, however I strongly recommend you take out breakdown recovery insurance, which will cover you for a replacement vehicle (this may be a car) so you can continue with the tour in the unlikely event that repairs cannot be carried out right away or a back-up motorcycle is not available.

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Do you supply travel/medical insurance?

I cannot supply travel/medical insurance, but certain insurance brokers can supply it if you take out breakdown cover. As with any holiday you book, this insurance cover must include options for holiday cancellation and repatriation in the event of an accident, illness or death.

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