AFRICA ADVENTURE TOUR II Zimbabwe, Botswana Namibia and South Africa
Africa Tour
South Africa Namibia Botswana Zimbabwe powered by MotoXplorers & BMW Motorrad
Welcome to Africa Motoxplorers welcomes you to a Tour that will lead you to some of the most emblematic places in Austral Africa. We will start in big style, after visiting one of the World’s Wonders, Victoria Falls, we will be lodged at the hotel with the same name. An incredibly beautiful location and more than a hundred years of luxury history. In between elephants, hypos, zebras, lyons, rhinos and an infinity of other animals our adventure will start on the shores of the Zambezi River and will continue with a sunset cruise in the Chobe Natural Park. We will also explore this rich game reserve on a 4x4.
Still in Botswana, we will fly over the Okavango Delta, the river that spreads endlessly in the Kalahari Desert, one of the richest regions of all Africa in terms of animal life. In Namibia we will climb the highest dunes on the planet, will feel overwhelmed at Dead Vlei, visit the red sands of Sossusvlei, we’ll cross dry lakes the size of Switzerland and will traverse the mythical Kalahari Desert. We get into South Africa visiting the Cederberg Mountains. where, if we’re lucky, we’ll be treated to some leopard sighting. But we will finally reach the Cape! We will witness the fusion of the Indic and Atlantic Oceans, visit the fearful Cape of Good Hope, circle Table Mountain and celebrate!
Feedback The Tour was fabulous. An incredible experience! Rui Silva, Portugal Another incredible Tour with Motoxplorers, wonderful landscapes and a lot of fun and enjoyment. Carlos e Carmen Fonseca, Brasil
Africa Adventure Tour was the mot significant trip I did to date, and I do believe I’ll hardly ever have another opportunity like this. The project is phenomenal and execution by Motoxplorers was impeccable Paulo de Tarso Brandão, Brasil
A lifetime-breathtaking adventure! Wilson Nogueira, Brasil
The optimal format to know Southern Africa on a motorcycle. José Bragança Pinheiro, Portugal
Fantastic! Pedro Bueno, Brasil
Congratulations to Motoxplorers for the excellent tour!!! Luís Fonseca, Portugal
Competence, adventure, respect, friendship. fabulastic hotels and a spotless organization. Marco Cid, Portugal
An unforgettable tour! Congratulations MotoXplorers team! Sérgio Rosa, Portugal
Memorable trip. Susana Coimbra, Portugal
Fantastic opportunity to get to know Africa. Nelson Del Nero, Brasil
African super tour very well organized by Motoxplorers! Fantastic route, fabulous lodgings and all the safety required! Unmissable! Henrique Marinho, Portugal
Lets go again?! NĂŠlia Carvalho, Portugal
An unforgettable tour by the heart of Africa! JoĂŁo Jacob, Portugal
I found in Motoxplorers honest and committed people. People that I now consider friends and that I hope to meet again in adventures to come. Clayton Tavares, Brasil
Day
Day’s Stage
Day’s Highlights
Kms
1.st Day
Victoria Falls
Meeting at Vic Falls Int Airport and transfer to The Victoria Falls Hotel, Initial Briefingl, visit to the falls. African welcoming dinner.
0 kms
2.nd Day
Victoria Falls Kasane
Transfer from Victoria Falls to Kasane, Botswana. Bike pick-up, safari sunset cruise in Chobe River.
90 kms transfer
3.rd Day
Kasane -‐ Gweta
4x4 Safari at Chobe National Park. The famous Elephant Road between Botswana and Zimbabwe.
411 kms 100% tarmac
4.th Day
Gweta -‐ Maun
Arrival to the Okavango Delta, the river that spreads in the Kalahari Desert. Scenic Flight at sunset.
225 kms 99% tarmac
5.th Day
Maun -‐ Ghanzi
At the heart of the Kalahari -‐ InteracKon with the Bushman people.
317 kms 98% tarmac
6.th Day
Ghanzi - Windhoek
Botswana border with Namibia. Arrival to Windhoek, capital of Namibia. Dinner at the famous Joe’s Beer House.
527 kms
Windhoek Sossusvlei
Crossing of central Namibia to the Sossusvlei Dune Area. First significant gravel roads of the Tour.
351 kms
8.th Day
Sossusvlei
Rest Day - Guided visit to Sossusvlei on a 4x4, Dune 45, Big Daddy e Dead Vlei.
0 kms
9.th Day
Sossusvlei -‐ Aus
Mountains of Tsaris by the Tsaris Pass, Maltahoe, Tirasberg Mountains
417 kms 100% gravel
10.th Day
Aus - Orange River
Aus Mountins, Canon Roadhouse, FishRiver Canyon, Paris-Cape track of 479 kms, Ros Pinah 60% gravel
11.th Day
Orange River Clanwilliam
Border with South Africa, Springbok, Crossing of the desertic regions of northern South Africa.
473 kms 100% tarmac
12.th Day
Clanwilliam - Cape Town
Crossing of the Cederberg Mountains by the Natural Park. Lunch at Tulbagh. Arrival to Cape Town. Dinner at the Waterfront.
360 kms 40% gravel
13.th Day
Cape Town - Cape Town
Cape Peninsula Loop: Chapman’s Peak Drive, Hout Bay, Cape Good Hope, Constantia and Signal Hill. Farewell dinner at The Africa Cafe.
180 kms
Cape Town
Check-out and Transfer to Cape Town International Airport
0 kms
7.th Day
14.th Day
98% tarmac
55% tarmac
100% Tarmac
MotoXplorers Team Tour Leaders: Carlos Azevedo | Carlos Martins | Support Van: Leonard Mateko Carlos Azevedo is a compulsive traveler. Through the last 15 years he rode more than half million quilometres across a hundred countries. He planned and successfully completed the expedition “Until the End of the World - an Adventure from Pole to Pole” in which he travelled all the latitudes inhabited by man in his BMW. He’s one of the founding partners of MotoXplorers, a BMW Motorrad Certified OffRoad Instructor, a BMW Motorrad Certified TourGuide and he was responsible for the reckoning of this Tour. mobile: (+351) 914 546 651 email: cazevedo@motoxplorers.com
Carlos Martins was born in Africa and has spend the rest of his life trying to get back there on a motorcycle. Motorcycling is a first love, combined with the desert it grew into a vocation. He was born with the gift of mechanical improvisation: with his Leatherman multitool he’s usually able to bring back to life the stubbornnest of machines. He’s one of the founding partners of MotoXplorers, a BMW Motorrad Certified OffRoad Instructor and a BMW Motorrad Certified TourGuide. Mobile: (+351) 919 923 015 email: cmartins@motoxplorers.com
Leonard Mateko was born in Zimbabwe but he calls home to all the South Cone of Africa. A qualified professional driver and mechanic, Leonard has been guiding 4x4 tours between Cape Town and Quenia for more than 10 years. Fluente in several local dialects he is a certified field guide by the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority and he graduated with honours through the demanding Field Guides Association of South Africa. Leonard is also an excelente cook and an enthusiast with wildlife. His qualifications make him quite demanded for expeditions through all of Africa, from its Southern tip to Egypt.
Meeting and Briefing - Victoria Falls, November 14th This Tour will start in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, on the 14th of November of 2015 and will end in Cape Town, South Africa, on the 28th of November, 2015. Schedule your air tickets accordingly.
Meeting on the 14th of November Inform us of you flight plan, we will be waiting for you at the Victoria Falls International Airport to transfer you to our Hotel, aprox 40 min away: The Victoria Falls Hotel Phone +263 13 44751 Please schedule your air travel to be at the hotel at 2:00 pm. We’ll have our initial briefing at 2:00pm (please ask for the location of this meeting at the Hotel reception). The briefing will give you a thorough overview of the Tour and will include practical information on how to enjoy it the most. We will handout the Tourbooks at the end of this meeting. Please bring with you your Passport, Drivers’s Licence and Travel Insurance details. You will also need a Credit Card with an amount of apron 2000 Eur of available credit to assure the mandatory deposit of the bike you are going to use.
Motorcycles In this Tour we will have available the latest trail models from BMW Motorrad. To ease the riding and keep the bikes light, they won’t be equipped with either side nor top cases. Most of you luggage will be transported by the support vehicle. Tied in the luggage rack we recommend a soft waterproof bag like an Ortlieb 32 litres, carrying your first need items like water, rain gear, toilet bag, a change of clothes and flip flops.
BMW F800GS The sportiest member of the big GS family. A very versatile bike, very competent either on or off-road. A snappy engine that will assure a constant thrilling riding. Twin in-line cylinder, liquid cooling, double overhead camshafts, dry-sump lubrication. Electronic fuel injection, electronic engine management. Secondary transmission by O’ringed chain and sprocket. Six speed gear box. Power: 63 kW (85 hp) @ 7.500 rpm Dry Weight: 191 kg Seat Height: 890 mm
BMW R1200GS Powerful, refined and comfortable. Characteristics that define the new watercooled R1200GS. The boxer GS is the reference in adventure moto-touring for the last 30 years. For someone accustomed to the size and weight of this natural born traveller it is the perfect option for this Tour. Twin Boxer cylindered. Air and Watercooled, electronic fuel injection, electronic engine management, Shaft drive secondary transmission. 6 speed gearbox. Power: 92 kW (125 hp) @ 7,750 rpm Dry Weight: 212 kg Seat Height: 850 or 870 mm
Adventure Tours MotoXplorers Our tours are designed to take maximum profit from the freedom and versatility that a motorcycle can bring. Regardless of the logistic and planning that such a demanding itinerary demand, we want you to feel that you are doing your tour and e want you to have a genuine, authentic and very special experience. Don’t forget that you are in Africa, riding a motorcycle through one go the most magical portions of the Earth: feel, enjoy, taste every moment. All the information in the provide TourBook aims at informing you to take the most of this magnificent experience. Your Tour Leader will travel at a safe rhythm and will stop at the nicest attractions and viewpoints. On the longest days other stops are planned to hydrate and gather stamina.You may as well stop at your own convenience, the support vehicle will close the group. Beware that you are travelling in desértica regions and conditions may change rapidly. be conservative on your riding and don’t challenge your limits. High speeds don’t match adventure motorcycling, besides the obvious risks of unknown ground wildlife and different traffic behaviour you will clearly see a lot more if you travel at a relaxed pace. Your Tour Leader has extensive knowledge about the route and the terrain conditions and he his a certified BMW Motorrad Off-Road Instructor. He will brief the group daily but don’t hesitate to address him at any moment about additional safety information during the Tour.
Difficulty classification and type of terrain
The key condition for a safe and successful Adventure Tour is the right choice of route based on good solid knowledge of the region to cross. For that reason, all our Tours are reckoned by our Tour Leaders that along several weeks travel and explore the region in depth, creating the final tour route as a result. The type of terrain, the road characteristics, the stage distances and the climatic probable conditions are optimised and evaluated and determine the difficulty grade of every MotoXplorers Tour. This Tour is considered of moderate difficulty Most of the route happens in good quality tarmac roads with very light traffic. The graded gravel roads used are well kept, very wide and safe overall. Close to the few urban centres we’ll be passing, traffic increases but the drivers’ behaviour in this part of Africa can be described as generally very responsible and safe. It is however very important to keep a defensive posture and never forget that we will be riding under left-hand traffic rules which can be quite demanding for those not familiar with them. We can also face small stretches of loose gravel or even short sandy passages - nothing complicated if crossed carefully and at low speed. And, of course, crossing wildlife is another factor to keep in mind. The main reason to classify this Tour as of moderate difficulty is due to the daily distances that can be high on certain days. This can be aggravated with eventually tough climatic conditions. In these stages it is very important to sleep well, keep well hydrated and attentive to the Tour Leader recommendations.
Lodging, meals and activities Each of our Tours aims at exploring the specificities that each region of the Planet provides. Lodging is carefully picked in order to bring comfort as well as diversity.
All dinners and breakfasts are included in the Tour. We will have lunch stops every day, but each participant will pay his own lunch.
Our route was crafted with minutia to aggregate cultural, historical and natural experiences to the sheer riding pleasure. Wildlife being still so abundant in this region, this Tour tries to keep in touch with it at every opportunity and our chosen lodges have to serve this purpose.
We are including a lot of activities in the Tour. This is one of the prime reasons these destinations are famous worldwide. In the day by day description ahead you will be able to see all the safaris, visits and activities included.
Time schedule, luggage and support vehicle Distances and travelling times described in this document are approximate and can vary with a few factors hard to control or even foresee. In any case, we will ride approximately 5 to 7 hours a day. The Tour Leader will set the rhythm and will stop at locations like cafes, attractions and sightseeings that are considered in the daily riding times. Usually we start riding at 7h30 am and will have a lunch stop of approximately one hour. Keeping this time schedule we will arrive usually around 4:30 pm giving us enough time to rest and enjoy the day’s end.
This Tour will be escorted by a support vehicle, a 4x4 double cab pick-up. It is its mission to provide assistance, first-aid and the transportation of luggage or sometimes pillions. If a breakdown occurs with one of the bikes, the support vehicle will help until a solution is found. A trailer will carry a spare bike and it’ll have space for to participants’ bikes, should that need arise. For this reason there’s a possibility that the support vehicle may arrive later to some hotel than the group of bikes. And this is why we recommend a change of clothes and the toilet bag on the motorcycle. Space in the support vehicle is obviously not infinite. For better organisation we require that you choose one piece of soft luggage like a holdall to be transported in the support vehicle.
Riding two-up? You are welcomed! The Tour as innumerable attractions also for people not riding themselves. But we all know that when the climatic conditions become harsh or fatigue accumulates the back seat of a motorcycle is not the best place to be. Thats’s why the support vehicle has always room for the pillions and that’s why we limit pillion participation to 3 each Tour. The feedback of all participating pillions has been awesome, so don’t throw away the opportunity to share a very special Tour!
Arrive earlier, leave later! It is worth it! At the end of this document you’ll find suggestions of programs for the initial and final days of the Tour. Victoria Falls is a big playground for adventurous grown-ups. We recommend that you arrive early enough to enjoy its several possibilities - with more or less adrenalin!
1º Day - Arrival to Victoria Falls Welcome to Africa, welcome to Zimbabwe, welcome to Victoria Falls! A fabulous energy is felt as soon as the plane door opens at Victoria Falls International Airport. Red earth, sweet smell, warm temperature, all the signs of Africa become palpable at that moment. Motoxplorers staff will be waiting for you at the Arrivals Hall and will transfer you to majestic The Victoria Falls Hotel. A colonial architecture five star hotel, with a colossal location facing the Falls. A century of history but recently remodelled - which better venue to start such a tour? At the Reception you can ask for the location of our initial briefing at 14H00. During this meeting we will hand out the Tour Books and we’ll discuss the route details besides enlightening your doubts. We’ll sign the Rental Agreements for the bikes: make sure to bring Passport, Drivers License and Credit Card. After the briefing we proceed to a guided visit of one of the Worlds Wonders, Victoria Falls. Classified by Unesco as World Heritage, they’re one of the World’s most spectacular falls: two quilometres wide, the mighty Zambezi River cascades down a 108 metre cliff creating a fog cloud that is visible at several quilometres away. Our visit is at sunset, when the golden dropping light is most awesome. We end the day with a cheerful african dinner during which we’ll be able to test our rhythmic abilities by learning how to play a tan-tan: don’t get over-carried - save your fingers, you need them for clutch and front brake!
Lodging: The Victoria Falls Hotel is the perfect start for this great adventure: Luxury, history and an indescribable location.
Day’s resume: Arrival at Vic Falls Int Airport, Transfer to the hotel, initial briefing, guided visit to the falls, welcome dinner. Included: Transfer from the airport, guided visit to the Falls, Victoria Falls Natural Park Fees.
2nd. Day - Transfer to Kasane and Cruise Safari in Chobe River We start the day crossing the border from Zimbabwe to Botswana. We’ll do it while being transferred to Kasane. Once there, we’ll pick-up the rented bikes and we’ll have a bit of time to enjoy the superb Lodge location on the shore of the Chobe River. Mid afternoon we take off to a sunset cruise in one of the Lodge’s private boats. The proximity and silence provided by boat will allow close observation of the wildlife in the river. Hippos, crocs, waterbuck, buffalo and springbok are common sightings.
Lodging: Located on the right margin of the Chobe River, the Lodge borders Chobe National Park and is very close to a geographical significant point: the only quadripoint in the world - a point where four countries share border. The architecture is typical african luxury hunting lodge and it holds the better terraced bar in town, overlooking Sedudu Island.
Day’s Resume: Included: Transfer to Botswana, River Cruise, Chobe National Park Fees
3rd. Day - Safari at Chobe and Elephant Road We’ll have an early start with a 4x4 safari in the famous Chobe National Park. Chobe is one of the places where travellers can still have immediate encounters with all the legendary Big Five - all we need is a bit of luck - a requirement of any Safari. In any case it’s a unique opportunity to watch and photograph up close whatever wildlife shows up as the unique location of the Park between the Chobe and Zambezi Rivers makes it one of the richest in Africa. After the safari we’ll have breakfast and we’ll finally start our road trip, riding South along the border with Zimbabwe. This road is famous for the frequent elephant crossings to the point of being known as The Elephant Road. Other wildlife crossing or grazing in sight of the road is also possible: beware. After the Elephant Road we’ll take a little detour from the main road to see another attraction: the dry salt lakes of Mkgadigadi and Nxa: a huge pan system well worth checking out.
Lodging: Today’s lodge is probably one of the most original in all of the region of the Pans. The cabins are built in the typical local fashion of the salt pans with strong colours and thatched roofs. A nice swimming pool and a bar surrounded by gigantic baobab trees makes one forget that this is one of the driest places in Africa.
Day’s Resume: Included: Safari 4x4 at Chobe and National Park Fees Distance: 414kms Tarmac: 411kms / Gravel: 3kms
4th. Day - Scenic Flight over the Okavango Delta Today the road distance is short. We will arrive early to our destination: a sort of private island with 300 hectare between two branches of the Okavango Delta and limited by the Moremi Game Reserve. The day will probably end with a grandious sunset. But before that we do a 20 km transfer to Maun airport. Maun is the Okavango region main city and there, a chartered plane awaits to take us exploring the world’s greatest inner delta. We will fly over islands, isolated palm trees, secret lagoons and water-lilli fields where hippos and elephants enjoy crystal clear waters.
Lodging: Located approximately 10 km from Maun and settled in a private reserve, our lodge rests on a branch of the Okavango called Thamalakane. The Delta’s typical vegetation assures cool shadows to enjoy the incredible view over the water.
Days's Resume: Included: Scenic Flight and transfers Distance: 205kms Gravel: 3kms Tarmac: 202kms
5th. Day - the Kalahari and its Bushmen We leave the fertile Okavango Delta to continue the crossing of the Kalahari. The vastness of the landscape is hard to convey: the Kalahari is better described as a semi-desert and the thorny bush confounds our distance perception. We will arrive early to our lodge and there we will meet the natives of the Kalahari, the Bushmen. The activity at Thakadu, where we’re staying, will be centred around a group of Bushmen know as the Nai Nai. Most of them are originally from the Kalahari Game Reserve. Though their language is far from easy (with all the click sounds) Nai Nai is translated as “people from the bush” and you may recall a comic movie from the 80’s “ The Gods Must Be Crazy” in which one of them amused the world when he found a Coke bottle thrown from a plane in the middle of the desert. Modernisation of Botswana is presenting hard challenges for the Nai Nai. We may be one of the last to get to know these people, witness their survival tricks in the bush and share their songs around the fire, as their present way of living is hanging by a thread.
Lodging: Hunting cots and bungalows spread in the shadow of the the thorn trees. There’s a charming little restaurant with view to a waterhole where some wildlife comes to drink. A swimming pool may tempt us in the desert heat.
Days's Resume: Included: Interaccion with the Nai Nai Distance: 317 kms Tarmac: 314 kms / Gravel: 3 kms
6º Day - Arrival to Windhoek A long day: we’ll cross the Botswana - Namibia border and will have to contend with the rest of the Kalahari until reaching Namibia’s capital, Windhoek. The route will take us to our hotel, very well located in the city center. We will arrive with enough time to explore a bit of Windhoek on our own. Dinner is reserved in an emblematic place: Joe’s Beer House. It’s almost a pilgrimage spot for the overlanders in the region, endless relics from travels in colonial times adorn the walls, roadside stories are told and most likely, exaggerated. A place where our imagination is carried to the memories of old movies about Livingstone and Stanley. Oh… there’s good food, too! and beer, and gin and tonic…
Lodging: A quiet, charming and welcoming place inside the capital. The location allows for a bit of city touring on foot if you so desire.
Days's Resume: Distance: 527 kms Tarmac: 524 kms / Gravel: 3 kms
7th. Day - End of Tarmac! Gravel road heaven in Namibia This morning we leave Windhoek to the South. The first third of today’s 350 kms is tarmac but after that we start the great crossing of Namibia’s gravel roads! We’ll do a stop in picturesque Solitaire to taste the best apple pie of the whole neighbourhood. We’ll excuse the immodesty of the superlative expression when we realize that the whole neighbourhood is 87 people. A few more kms and we’ll arrive to our destination for today, dusted and happy.
Lodging: The individual cabins have private accessible rooftops from where the Naukluft mountains can be seen changing from gray to pink to orange to magenta at sunset. Two swimming pools and the wonderful view from the bar invite us to relax and breathe deep. The landscape is desertic but orix, springbok and warthog do show up once in a while. After dinner sit by the fireplace in the bar terrace and enjoy the celestial view. The Milky Way can be seen at naked eye and even photographed without special equipment.
Days's Resume: Distance: 350kms Tarmac: 120kms / Gravel: 230kms
8th. Day - Rest Day (Visit to the Sossusvlei dunes) A very early wake up will be compensated with magnificent views of the sunrise and the color changing dunes while we’re being taken to the Sossusvlei National Park on a 4x4.
Our first stop will be at Dune 45, allegedly “the most photographed dune in the world”. In reality it is a dune with a particularly simple and elegant shape, about 170 m high and of redish color.
After climbing Dune 45, our 4x4 will ventures along a very sandy track to Dead Vlei. This surreal place is a white clay pan sieged by some of the tallest dunes in the planet. Once on the path of the Tsauchaub River, humidity was enough for thorn trees to grow there. Continued draught allowed the dunes to start forming around the area and the river was never able to return to this magical place. Today the corpses of the thorn trees (that were dated with Carbon 14 to be more than 900 years old) give an eerie look to the natural amphitheater of incredible beauty. To get inside Dead Vlei we walk for 20 minutes between the smallest dunes encircling it or we take a real challenge and opt for the climbing of Big Daddy, the tallest dune - it’s a 1,5 hour excursion (if we’re in shape!) but definitely worth it.
Despite the dryness of this area (that has prevented the decomposition of the thorn trees in Dead Vlei in the last 1000 years), there’s some animal life to be seen. Ostriches and orix are usually spotted and our guide will show us some curious arthropods and small reptiles that are able to thrive in those hard conditions. Back to our hotel we get to visit yet another geological marvel, the Sesriem Canyon. After such an active “rest day” we will need … to rest. Nothing better than hanging by the pool still sunset.
Days's Resume: Included: 4x4 Safari in Sossusvlei. Park fees at NamibNaukluft Nacional Park.
9th Day - Namib Naukluft National Park It’s going to be a tough day but also one of the most spectacular stages of this Tour. We’ll face long deserted planes, rocky mountains and a lot of gravel riding. We’ll most likely meet some of the Namib Naukluft National Park inhabitants crossing the road: beware of springbok, orixs, ostrich or even zebra! We’ll make several stops to hidrate and rest, we will leave very early in the morning to get to our destination still on time for an afternoon swim in the pool and enjoy a sunset of cinematographic quality. Namib-Naukluft is one of the biggest Natural Parks in Africa, it covers most of the central desert of Namibia and the Naukluft range of mountains. We’ll cross it in it’s entirety from North to South. We end the day in Aus, the area of the famous Namibian wild horse.
Lodging: Confortable cabins overlooking the plane where the wild horses graze. Amazing sunset can be enjoyed from either the cabins or the restaurant.
Days's Resume: Distance: 370kms Tarmac: 0kms / Gravel: 370kms
10th Day - Fish River Canyon We leave Aus on tarmac to sleepy and picturesque Maltahoe. Then we get onto gravel roads again. We’ll stop at one of this route’s most iconic places: a fuel station / restaurant that dubs as a small hostel and museum. It tells a bit of the history of this very inhospitable yet so beautiful region.
Before we get back on the tarmac our route will pass Aussenkherr by the same track used by the mythical 1992 edition of the Dakar rally (Paris-Cape Town).
It’ll be a long day that will not be complete without a visit to the Fish River Canyon. The vastness of the landscape is truly impressive. The rocky cliffs and barren steep hills go down to 600 meters deep. The canyon is approximately 160 km long, in certain partes it spans 27 km wide. It is the second largest canyon in the world, after the Great Canyon in the USA.
Our bungalows are alongside the Orange River.
Lodging: Days's Resume: Included: FishRiver Canyon Natural Park Fees Distance: 479 kms Tarmac: 209kms / Gravel: 270kms
11th. Day - Bye bye Namibia, Hello South Africa Lodging: It’s not going to be easy to leave the Orange River, inhabited by an immense variety of birds and with its oasis style. The same way, it’ll be hard to leave beautiful Namibia at the Nordwoever Border Post. Along the South African tarred road heading south, we will probably be thinking when will we be able to return to Namibia. The feeling will soon subside, though. South Africa is fabulous and the landscape today won’t disappoint us. After the canyons and ravines of the Namibian desert, after Springbok the colours will change, like shading off from the pink/grey to green. At that point we reach Clanwilliam and its hills of geometrically laid vineyards.
At Clanwilliam, well in the northern boundary of the Cederberg Natbem na fronteira norte da Reserva Natural de Cederberg, Wilderness Area, our Lodge offers very plush accommodation and the typical South African hospitality.
Days's Resume: Distance: 473kms Tarmac: 473kms / Gravel: 0kms
12th. Day - Cederberg and arriving to the Cape An apotheotic day will start with the crossing of the Cederberg Mountains. A preserved area with a lot of ecological diversity, breathtaking landscape and curvy trails, makes it one of the favourite destinations for the South African motorcyclists. Also known for being home to a colony of wild leopards and a variety of other species, the Cederberg Mountains are crossed by perfect gravel roads in fantastic condition providing unique riding pleasure. Half way across the mountains we will stop for coffee at the famous Cederberg Oasis, a modest hostel that have received motorcyclists from all over the world. Few quilometres after the Oasis we say definitely goodbye to the gravel - it will be tarmac all the way to the end of this Tour. We’ll have lunch at Tulbagh, a centennial little village. And finally we’ll reach Cape Town - we’ll do an emotional stop at Table View beach (best view of Table Moutain) before proceeding to our home for the next two nights: the Portswood Hotel. Dinner will be at the lively Victoria and Albert Waterfront.
Lodging: The Portswood Hotel at the V&A Waterfront has a superb location. The Atlantic is a few meters away, the conspicuous Table Mountain as a backdrop.
Days's Resume: Distance: 360kms Tarmac: 220kms / Gravel: 140kms
13th. Day - The Cape Peninsula Welcome to Cape Town! Ti incredible city is placed at the very tip of the african continent, between the Atlantic Ocean and a fabulous mountain. It is hard not to be impressed with the beautiful beaches of Cape Town, the vineyards, the picturesque downtown, and, of course, with Table Mountain - one of the World’s Seven Natural Wonders. By the foot of this iconic landmark you’ll find a variety of cafes, restaurants, market of african handcraft, museums, attractive art galleries and a vibrant nightlife. But your opportunity to explore the city will have to be postponed! We will go out riding around the Cape Peninsula, starting by Chapman’s Peak Drive, one of the most awesome coastal roads we know. Then we will enter the Cape Natural Reserve where we will visit Cape Point and a replica of one of the “Padrões” (navigation aids) planted here in 1488 by the Portuguese discoverer Bartolomeu Dias. A mandatory group picture will have to be made at Cape Good Hope before we return to Cape Town by the beautiful Simon’s Town, through the Constantia vineyards and finally watching the sunset at Signal Hill where a magnificent view of Table Mountain and the Lyon’s Head will make you promise to come back soon. The farewell dinner will be at the nicest capetonian restaurant: Mama Africa.
Lodging: The Portswood Hotel at the V&A Waterfront.
Days's Resume: Included: Natural Park of Cape Good Hope entrance fees, Chapman’s Peak toll charge. Distance: 180kms Tarmac: 180kms / Gravel:0 kms
14th Day - Flying Home This is the Tour’s last day, after breakfast you’ll have a transfer ready to take you to Cape Town International Airport. We recommend that you extend your stay in Cape Town so that you can rest a little before returning home and also experiment some of the many activities Cape Town has to offer. At the end of this booklet there are a few suggestions. Should you decide to stay a few days extra, your transfer to the airport is still included, just make sure to inform Motoxplorers of your schedule.
Days's Resume: Included: Airport transfer
What’s excluded - Visas and related costs - Personal taxes at border crossings (Namibia aprox 10 Eur, Zimbabwe aprox 36 Eur) - Lunches - Drinks, tips, laundry, phone calls and other items of personal nature - Flights to Victoria Falls and from Cape Town - Travel Insurance (mandatory) - Extra nights at Victoria Falls or Cape Town as well as extra activities - Fuell: Plan around 240 EUR for the whole tour. - Mandatory deposit on the bike rental will be made on your Credit Card as a Credit Authorisation. - Motorcycling Gear of any kind: you must bring your own, including a camel-bag, spare gloves and Enduro / Adventure Trail boots.
Mandatory travel insurance The authorities of the visited countries demand a travel insurance to all participants in overland tours. This insurance must include personal accidents and aerial medical evacuation to your country of residence in the event of accident or sudden illness. Make sure that no exclusions are made to the use of motorcycles and that the four countries visited are included (Zimbabwe, Botswana, Namibia and South Africa). Companies like www.worldnomads.com provide this kind of insurances reliably.
Inclusions - Transfers In and Out of the airport - Other transfers, as described in the itinerary - Lodging at superior category lodges and hotels - All dinners and breakfasts - Entry Fees at the Nacional Parks of Cape Good Hope, Fish River Canyon, Namib, Chobe and Victoria Falls - Excursions and activities as described in the itinerary: 4x4 visit to Sossusvlei / Scenic Flight over the Okaavango / Interaction with the Bushmen / River cruise at the Chobe / 4x4 Safari at Chobe / guided visit to Victoria Falls - Professional local guides at the included excursions - Motorcycle rental with liability and self damage insurances. - 4x4 Support vehicle with passengers and luggage capacity. Equipes with 1st aid kit, tools, spares and motorcycle trailer. - Spare bike. - Guides & Tour Leader: 1 tour leader on a motorcycle, 1 auxiliar staff auxiliar on the spare motorcycle. 1 driver/ guide in the support vehicle. The staff speaks English and is has good direct knowledge of this itinerary.
Meals: - All breakfasts and all dinners are included (on a fixed menu basis and not including drinks) Lunch stops will be made at selected restaurants during the day. Each client will pay his lunch directly. If you have any kind of dietary restrictions please let us know ahead.
Extras Pre and Post Tour Lodging - Victoria Falls Hotel : 220 EUR per double room per night (including breakfast) - Portswood Hotel Cape Town : 230 EUR per double room per night (including breakfast) If you need extra nights please book as early as possible.
Flights to Victoria Falls Flights to Victoria Falls depart daily from Cape Town, with a stop-over at Johanesburg. Cost is aprox 310 Eur.
Documentation and Currencies - Passaports and Visas Your passport should have at least 6 months of validity left (counting from your return flight. You must have at least two blank pages available after getting in Zimbabwe. European citizens don’t need previous visas for South Africa, Namibia and Botswana. Other nationalities please contact us for information. Visas for Zimbabwe and Zambia (should you decide to visit while in Victoria Falls) are issued at the border post. - Drivers Licence Drivers Licences issued by European countries are valid through all the countries visited by this Tour. No need for International Drivers Licence. Other nationalities please contact us for information. - Exchangerates and local currencies 1.00 eur = 13.44 Rand (South Africal) 1.00 eur = 11.24 Pula (Botswana) 1.00 eur = 13.44 Namibian Dollar (Namibia) 1.00 eur = 1.11 USD (Zimbabwe) Zimbabwe’s currency was replaced by the US dollar. Namibian dollar is in parity to the South african Rand. You can use Rand in Namibia, but Nam Dollars are not accepted in South Africa. Hotels and restaurants accept VISA and Mastercard. There are many ATM’s
Pre and Post Tour Suggestions We recommend that you arrive earlier or program a few rest days after the Tour. In these pages there are some recommendations, if you wish more information please contact us at mail@motoxplorers.com
Victoria Falls Victoria Falls has some fervent activity, kind of like Disneyland for grownups. All programs can be booked directly at the desk of The Victoria Falls Hotel. We do recommend: Bungee jumping Jumping from the bridge that separates Zimbabwe from Zambia is one of the world’s tallest bungees. 140 USD per jump.
Ultra Light Flight No doubt the best way to see the glory of the Falls. Flights take off from the Zambia side but there are transfers to take you across - USD 140 Rafting or canoeing in the Zambezi Two very different ways of taking incredible memories from this corner of Africa: leisurely floating down or jumping over the rapids of the mighty Zambezi River, in the company of elephants, hippos and crocodiles.
Cape Town Cape Town is an extraordinary, lively city. The visit to Table Mountain is sort of mandatory but there are other programs to do when you come visit: - Enologic Route Whole day with a professional wine guide. 750 to 1660 Rand (depending on the number of people) Wine tastings at 3 of the best wine makers in the Cape region. Stellenbosch, Franschoek, Tokara La Petit Ferme. - Visit to Robben Island (09h00-15h00) Rand 280 per persona (Duration 3-4 horas) It was “home” to some of the most famous political prisoners of Sout Africa like Nelson Mandela. The visit is guided by a former political prisoner.
- Cage Dive with White Sharks - Gansbaii Whole day with transfer from CapeTown. 1850 Rand per person. The dive is made inside in a sturdy cage and allows unique sights of these endangered animals.We recommend Shark Diving Unlimited, a company belonging to Mike Rutzel “Sharkman”, who has produced countless documentaries to National Geographic, BBC Wildlife and others. Mike is an expert in shark behaviour and as done a lot for the conservation of the so unfairly treated species. http://www.sharkdivingunlimited.com
Rua Francisco Lyon de Castro 14C - 1600 311 Entrecampos - Lisboa Tel: (+351) 210 143 101 I 914 546 651 Fax: (+351) 211 531 196 email: mail@motoxplorers.com www.motoxplorers.com
GPS: N38 44 48.8 W09 09 14.4 facebook.com/motoxplorers
Africa Tour
South Africa Namibia Botswana Zimbabwe powered by MotoXplorers & BMW Motorrad
MotoXplorers Lda Travel Agency Certified by Turismo de Portugal RNAVT 3631 AT NÂş2242011 Motorcycle Rental Licensee 129/2010 IMTT Rua Francisco Lyon de Castro 14C 1600-311 Lisboa Tel: (+351) 210 143 101 / 914 546 651 Fax: (+351) 211 531 196
Texts and images Š Motoxplorers Lda 2015 The pictures in this publication were made during previous Motoxplorers Tours All rights reserved