Cape Gravel Experience
Riding a BMW R 1300 GS Adventure on the gravel roads of the Western Cape is a distinct experience that a lot of ADV riders seek out — a masterclass in South African gravel riding, with the perfect ramp-up from skills to scenery to serious terrain. From off-road training at Country Trax, through the open Karoo plains and the legendary Swartberg Pass, to the Cape coastline and the ride home into Sea Point.
Tour overview
Riding a BMW R 1300 GS Adventure on the gravel roads of the Western Cape is a distinct experience that a lot of ADV riders seek out — a masterclass in South African gravel riding, with the perfect ramp-up from skills to scenery to serious terrain. From off-road training at Country Trax, through the open Karoo plains and the legendary Swartberg Pass, to the Cape coastline and the ride home into Sea Point.
Reserve your spotHighlights
Country Trax Training Day
The smartest possible start: a full off-road skills day — loose climbs, braking drills, tight turns. By the end of it the big GS Adventure feels a size smaller.
Karoo Gravel
Hard, dry surfaces, stretches of loose dusty gravel, washboard and wind. Remote, quiet and vast — the stretch that teaches patience.
Swartberg Pass
The crown jewel. Steep climbs, loose rock, tight switchbacks and sheer drop-offs with unreal views, then a flowing descent to Barrydale.
Cape Agulhas
From dust to ocean at the southernmost point of Africa, where the Atlantic and Indian Oceans meet. Coastal wind, cooler air, salt on the visor.
Cape of Good Hope Finale
The victory lap — fully tarred, twisty coastal roads with iconic views, finishing in Sea Point with a bike that looks like it has lived a story.
Accommodation & Food
We believe that what happens off the bike is just as important as the ride itself.
On every FLYTORIDE tour we carefully select high-quality accommodation that reflects the character of each destination — from boutique hotels and mountain lodges to comfortable guesthouses with a personal touch. Our focus is always on comfort, great locations and an authentic overall experience.
After a full day of riding you can relax, recharge and enjoy the atmosphere in carefully chosen places that enhance the journey.
Food is an essential part of every tour. We select restaurants and stops that offer authentic local cuisine, quality ingredients and memorable settings — from scenic lunch stops during the day to relaxed dinners in the evening.
This is more than just a motorcycle tour. It's a complete travel experience — on and off the bike.
Backup & Safety
Your safety and comfort come first.
Your safety and comfort are our top priorities on every FLYTORIDE tour. Each tour is supported by a dedicated backup vehicle carrying your luggage, spare equipment and — most importantly — a backup motorcycle ready to go in case of any technical issue. Your journey continues without disruption, no matter what happens.
Our guides are not only experienced riders but also trained in first aid, ensuring a quick response in any situation. On selected tours a professional paramedic is also part of the crew.
With FLYTORIDE you can ride with confidence — knowing you are supported every step of the way.
Daily schedule
- 1
Day 1 · Cape Town → Country Trax (Off-Road Training Day)
The smartest possible start. A full off-road skills day at Country Trax — loose climbs, braking drills, tight turns. You learn to trust the front wheel on loose gravel, standing becomes second nature, and by the end of the day the big GS feels smaller. You leave no longer just riding gravel — you're working with it.
- 2
Day 2 · Country Trax → Nieuwoudtville
This is where the trip opens up. Mostly fast, hard-packed farm roads with long sight lines and the occasional loose marble in the corners. The GS Adventure hits its sweet spot — planted, stable, serene. Big sky, open plains, and that helmet-grin you didn't notice creeping in.
- 3
Day 3 · Nieuwoudtville → Sutherland
Welcome to the edge of the Karoo. Hard, dry surfaces with stretches of loose, dusty gravel, occasional washboard, and wind as a factor. The boxer torque shines — effortless cruising. Remote, quiet, vast. This stretch teaches patience.
- 4
Day 4 · Sutherland → Prince Albert
One of the most atmospheric days. A mix of compact gravel and rougher, rocky sections as you approach the mountains, with real temperature swings. Suspension earns its keep and standing becomes instinctive. Stark Karoo beauty and long, lonely roads — by now you and the bike are a team.
- 5
Day 5 · Prince Albert → Swartberg Pass → Barrydale
The crown jewel of the trip. The Swartberg Pass delivers steep climbs, loose rock, tight switchbacks and sheer drop-offs with unreal views. Demanding but incredibly rewarding — first-gear torque pulls you up with authority. The flowing descent to Barrydale turns adrenaline into awe. The day you'll talk about long after the trip.
- 6
Day 6 · Barrydale → Cape L'Agulhas → Hermanus
From dust to ocean. A mix of gravel and tar on generally smoother surfaces, with coastal winds and cooler air. After days of standing, the comfort feels luxurious and the bike feels composed at speed. Salt air, rolling farmland, and that 'coming back to civilization' feeling.
- 7
Day 7 · Hermanus → Cape of Good Hope → Peninsula → Sea Point
The victory lap. Fully tarred, twisty coastal roads with iconic views. The tall, commanding riding position is perfect here and tar feels almost surreal after the gravel days. Ocean cliffs, city skyline — you finish dusty, tired and deeply satisfied. Rolling into Sea Point, the bike looks like it's lived a story, and so have you.
The itinerary is a plan, not a promise. Weather, closed roads and passes, local or political conditions and safety come first — the guide decides on the spot and you always know before the stage starts.
Everything handled. You just ride.
One price covers the bike, the beds and the people who keep the trip running. No hidden extras to sort out on the road.
- BMW R 1300 GS included, no surcharge
- Off-road training included
- Support vehicle every day
- Hand-picked hotels and lodges
- Breakfasts and dinners included
- Bike insurance included
Pricing
€4,900
Tour price per rider
Ride the BMW R 1300 GS — included.
One price, the flagship bike. No model surcharges, no upgrade fees. While most BMW tour operators charge €300–400 extra for the R 1300 GS, it's our standard.
Optional extras
- Passenger in the support vehicleTravels the whole route in the support vehicle. Shares your room, joins every meal and activity in the programme.€2,800per person
- Zero excess coverA one-off, non-refundable fee that removes your excess: if you damage the motorcycle, you pay nothing.€500one-off
Extras are added to your enquiry — we confirm the final price by e-mail.
Included
- ✓BMW R 1300 GS as your standard tour bike (the model others charge extra for)
- ✓All accommodation
- ✓Breakfasts & dinners
- ✓Opening & closing dinner
- ✓Back-up van & driver
- ✓Bike insurance (excl. €1000 accident excess)
- ✓Off-road training at Country Trax
- ✓Shuttle service
Not included
- ✕Flight tickets
- ✕Personal healthcare insurance
- ✕Fuel & tollgates
- ✕Alcohol & drinks
- ✕Lunch and snacks
- ✕Items of a personal nature
Available departures
No public departures scheduled right now — get in touch and we'll help.
What riders say
5.0/5★★★★★Google · 6 reviews
“The experience we had with FlytoRide was very good—I’d even say excellent. The personal touch and the care shown to every single rider were outstanding. Thank you for showing us—along with Martín—what South Africa is all about.”
“An incredible experience, everything was excellent from the first day to the last. Thank you so much for everything.”
“Warren, Andrew, and Gerard were excellent guides on a fantastic motorcycle tour of South Africa. Flytoride's service was flawless; the motorcycles were in excellent condition, the chosen routes were superb, safety protocols for the entire group were always followed, the hotels and meals were also excellent, and the staff's hospitality was outstanding. I wholeheartedly recommend Flytoride to anyone who enjoys traveling by motorcycle to off-the-beaten-path destinations.”
“EXCELLENT! The commitment, safety, professionalism, and dedication with which I shared my South Africa experience with FLYTORIDE are truly remarkable. The motorcycle was excellent! The hotels were excellent, the excursions were very good, and the riding training was excellent.”
“An unforgettable experience in South Africa. I traveled with FLYTORIDE and they truly exceeded all my expectations. The organization was excellent from beginning to end, the motorcycles were immaculate, and the routes and places we visited were incredible. Great job, Warren and Andrew!”
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Frequently asked questions
How is payment for the expedition processed?+
After booking we send a confirmation with payment details. A deposit secures your place and the balance is due before departure.
In which currency can I pay?+
Tours are priced in EUR. Payment is made by bank transfer or card.
Is there a visa requirement in South Africa?+
Most nationalities can enter South Africa visa-free for tourism. We help with any documentation needed for the route.
Are vaccinations or special travel insurance required?+
We recommend comprehensive travel and medical insurance. Vaccination requirements depend on your home country — we'll advise before the trip.
Will there be support or service for motorcycles during the trip?+
Yes — every tour has a backup vehicle with a spare motorcycle and mechanical support.
Is this expedition suitable for off-road beginners?+
Most tours start with professional off-road training at Country TRAX, so riders of all levels are welcome.
What type of motorcycle will we use?+
Premium BMW GS machines — the flagship R 1300 GS as standard, fully serviced and equipped for adventure.
Do I need an international driving licence?+
Yes, a valid motorcycle licence and an International Driving Permit are required.
Can I bring an accompanying person?+
Yes — non-riding partners are welcome and can travel in the support vehicle. Get in touch and we'll arrange it.
Is gluten-free / special diet food possible?+
Absolutely. Let us know your dietary requirements and we'll accommodate them throughout the tour.