South Africa by Motorcycle: A Dream Come True Amidst Breathtaking Landscapes and Adventure!
February 2024: A month etched in our hearts, an experience that surpassed all expectations. We rode motorcycles across South Africa, an on-the-road adventure that gave us indescribable emotions, breathtaking landscapes, and unforgettable encounters. Fasten your helmets, let's go!
Day 1-3: Cape Town, the Pearl of the Cape, and the Iconic Cape of Good Hope
Landing in Cape Town was our first thrill. The city, nestled between the imposing Table Mountain and the Atlantic Ocean, welcomed us with its vibrant energy. Our first evening was dedicated to dinner at the Waterfront, an explosion of flavors and colors, with our gaze lost on the water and the city lights.
The following day, the crisp morning air accompanied us on our bikes towards the far south. The wind in our hair, the salty scent of the ocean, and then there it was: Cape of Good Hope. An iconic place where two oceans meet, a symbol of hope and adventure. Photos here are a must, as is the feeling of truly being at the ends of the earth. The return to Cape Town offered us breathtaking coastal views, foreshadowing the beauty that awaited us.
The Vastness of the Karoo and the Charm of the Inland Roads
Leaving Cape Town behind, we ventured into the boundless Karoo Area. The landscape changed radically, from green coastal hills to a semi-desert vastness, dotted with cacti and resilient shrubs. The straight, almost endless roads were our red carpet in this majestic scenery.
We stopped in Robertson, an oasis of vineyards and tranquility, before heading to Oudtshoorn, the ostrich capital of the world. Here, the Little Karoo Valley welcomed us with its rugged and authentic beauty.
On the Historic Route 62 and the Imposing Swartberg Pass
The beating heart of our road trip was undoubtedly the Historic Route 62. A legendary road, comparable to its American counterpart, winding through breathtaking landscapes, charming towns, and thrilling curves. Every kilometer was an immersion in South African culture and nature.
The excitement peaked with the crossing of the Swartberg Mountain Pass. A masterpiece of engineering and an unforgettable driving experience. The winding roads that climb through the mountains, with sheer drop-offs, require attention but reward you with unparalleled views. Once we crossed the pass, we ventured into the mysterious Cango Caves, an underground world of stalactites and stalagmites that leaves you breathless.
The day ended in picturesque Prince Albert, a small colonial gem that gave us an evening of relaxation and authenticity.
Addo: The Kingdom of Elephants and the Magic of the Bush
After days on the asphalt, a change of pace was essential. We headed to Addo, where we spent two nights and immersed ourselves in the magic of the Addo Elephant National Park. An unforgettable experience, surrounded by majestic elephants, but also zebras, antelopes, warthogs, and a myriad of birds. Sunset and sunrise safaris gave us moments of pure connection with the wild. The nights under a starry sky, unlike anything we had ever seen before, will remain etched forever.
The Lush Garden Route and the Far South
Back on our bikes, we embarked on the famous Garden Route. A ribbon of asphalt winding through lush forests, crystal-clear lagoons, and golden beaches. Every turn revealed a new corner of paradise. Knysna, with its lagoon and "Heads," was a fascinating stop, where time seemed to slow down.
Our route then took us to another cardinal point: the Cape Agulhas Lighthouse. Here, the sign indicating the southernmost point of the African continent, where the Atlantic and Indian Oceans merge, filled us with a sense of completeness and wonder.
Hermanus, Clarence Drive, and the Return to Cape Town
Continuing along the coast, we reached Hermanus, famous for whale watching (although February wasn't the ideal time, its intrinsic beauty remained unaltered). From there, Clarence Drive was the icing on the cake of our coastal journey. One of the most beautiful scenic roads in the world, it winds along cliffs overlooking the ocean, with spectacular views at every turn.
The circle closed with our return to Cape Town for the last two nights. We dedicated time to further explore this magnificent city, ascending Table Mountain by cable car to admire a breathtaking 360-degree panorama, a perfect farewell to a land that had captivated us.
Farewell South Africa, We Will Be Back!
Returning the motorcycles marked the end of an unforgettable chapter. With hearts full of memories, emotions, and an incredible sense of freedom, we departed for Italy.
South Africa by motorcycle was not just a trip, but a transformative experience. The endless roads, the drastically changing landscapes, the richness of the wildlife, and the warm welcome of the people created a mosaic of moments that we will always carry with us. If you love adventure and discovery, put South Africa by motorcycle on your wish list: you won't regret it!
