Have you seen our new tours? Chasing the Sahara (Morocco), Sea to Safari Self-Guided (South Africa), and Garden Route Self-Guided (South Africa).
info@rideexpeditions.com +44(0) 1202 156791
Newsletter
Login
Guided & Supported

Cape Crusader

12 Day Adventure Motorcycle Tour of South Africa

Travel through South Africa from tarmac highways to the untamed beauty of the Cederberg Wilderness and Tankwa Karoo. Epic mountain passes and winding dirt roads carry you through landscapes of astounding natural beauty. This is the trip for those who are ready for a real challenge.

Africa , South Africa
Adventure Bike , Big Adventure Bike
WATCH THE VIDEO
From: £5085
Rider (Incl. bike rental)
Pillion Friendly?
With difficulty
Pillion riders often join these trips. But please be aware, the pilot must be a highly experienced rider, on both paved and unpaved roads with loose gravel, sand and with technical riding skills required. Our support vehicle should never be far behind - the pillion rider has the option to hop into the support vehicle for the more challenging sections if needed.
Terrain
50% unpaved
Approximately 50% of this route is paved, and 50% is unpaved. The route features frequent sections of loose gravel and sandy patches, particularly in low-lying areas. You'll encounter multiple water crossings, some of which are lengthy and require technical riding skills. Road conditions vary significantly based on maintenance levels, with potential water damage and severe corrugation in some sections.
Total Distance KM
2255
This is the total riding distance from start to finish. This is not exact, and the real distance covered may be affected by conditions & road closures etc.
Support
Fully supported and guided
Our tour leader, who is trained as a wilderness first response medic, rides at the front of the group (carrying a medical kit), and we have a support vehicle travelling behind the group. The support vehicle carries all of your main luggage, spare parts, water, snacks and further med kit. Back at base, we have a consulting expedition doctor, ready to assist and advise telephonically in the case of a medical emergency. Additionally, we have access to GPS tracking and a satellite phone on this tour. Support is dependent on the size and needs of the tour. This means that each tour could have a different set of support staff.
Airport & Transfers
Arrival: Cape Town International Airport (CPT) Departure: Chief Dawid Stuurman International Airport (PLZ)
Standard of Accommodation
7 (out of 10)
This is our best effort to provide an average accommodation rating on tour based on various factors and additional amenities. Some accommodation is very nice, and some are rather basic, with limited options. We've hand-picked accommodations that will enhance your experience on this tour - from a selection of hotels, chalets and guesthouses to a night in a cave - you'll experience the full range of South Africa on this tour.
Difficulty Rating (overall)
8 (out of 10)
This is our best effort to give an average rating for the trip, based on the average rider. This is subjective though, and will vastly depend on your riding experience and ability. It can also vary depending on the weather conditions during your trip, and other things such as road works, road closures/diversions etc. For those with less experience riding adventure bikes with the required technical skills for this tour, you might find this more challenging, increasing the difficulty level for you. If you're in any doubt about your riding ability, or if this difficulty rating concerns you, we strongly recommend you arrange a chat with one of our experienced tour leaders.
Average Daily Ride Hours
6 - 7
Generally, we depart at 9am and aim to arrive at the accommodation by 4pm, stopping for drink/photo stops and lunch along the way. These are not strict times, though, and can vary depending on the conditions at the time, the ability/pace of the group and the distance. It is unlikely to spend more than 6 hours in the saddle on any given day in this tour.
KEY INFO

Tour Snapshot

Pillion Friendly?
With difficulty
Pillion riders often join these trips. But please be aware, the pilot must be a highly experienced rider, on both paved and unpaved roads with loose gravel, sand and with technical riding skills required. Our support vehicle should never be far behind - the pillion rider has the option to hop into the support vehicle for the more challenging sections if needed.
Support
Fully supported and guided
Our tour leader, who is trained as a wilderness first response medic, rides at the front of the group (carrying a medical kit), and we have a support vehicle travelling behind the group. The support vehicle carries all of your main luggage, spare parts, water, snacks and further med kit. Back at base, we have a consulting expedition doctor, ready to assist and advise telephonically in the case of a medical emergency. Additionally, we have access to GPS tracking and a satellite phone on this tour. Support is dependent on the size and needs of the tour. This means that each tour could have a different set of support staff.
Terrain
50% unpaved
Approximately 50% of this route is paved, and 50% is unpaved. The route features frequent sections of loose gravel and sandy patches, particularly in low-lying areas. You'll encounter multiple water crossings, some of which are lengthy and require technical riding skills. Road conditions vary significantly based on maintenance levels, with potential water damage and severe corrugation in some sections.
Standard of Accommodation
7 (out of 10)
This is our best effort to provide an average accommodation rating on tour based on various factors and additional amenities. Some accommodation is very nice, and some are rather basic, with limited options. We've hand-picked accommodations that will enhance your experience on this tour - from a selection of hotels, chalets and guesthouses to a night in a cave - you'll experience the full range of South Africa on this tour.
Difficulty Rating (overall)
8 (out of 10)
This is our best effort to give an average rating for the trip, based on the average rider. This is subjective though, and will vastly depend on your riding experience and ability. It can also vary depending on the weather conditions during your trip, and other things such as road works, road closures/diversions etc. For those with less experience riding adventure bikes with the required technical skills for this tour, you might find this more challenging, increasing the difficulty level for you. If you're in any doubt about your riding ability, or if this difficulty rating concerns you, we strongly recommend you arrange a chat with one of our experienced tour leaders.
Average Daily Ride Hours
6 - 7
Generally, we depart at 9am and aim to arrive at the accommodation by 4pm, stopping for drink/photo stops and lunch along the way. These are not strict times, though, and can vary depending on the conditions at the time, the ability/pace of the group and the distance. It is unlikely to spend more than 6 hours in the saddle on any given day in this tour.
Total Distance KM
2255
This is the total riding distance from start to finish. This is not exact, and the real distance covered may be affected by conditions & road closures etc.
Airport & Transfers
Arrival: Cape Town International Airport (CPT) Departure: Chief Dawid Stuurman International Airport (PLZ)
×
Dust, Distance, and Pure Determination

Tour Overview

Experience South Africa’s breathtaking diversity from the saddle of an adventure bike, as you journey from tarmac highways to the untamed beauty of the Cederberg Wilderness and Tankwa Karoo. Epic mountain passes and winding dirt roads carry you through landscapes of astounding natural beauty. Enjoy encounters with Africa’s magnificent wildlife. From whale watching along the Indian Ocean coast to visiting nature reserves and safari parks.

When the day’s riding ends, retreat to accommodations that mirror South Africa’s varied character: luxuriate in plush hotels, experience the wilderness in style at game lodges, or discover authentic charm in remote farmhouses. Each carefully selected stay ensures your evenings are as memorable as your days on the road.

Cape Crusader - map

Tour Highlights

Here's a taste of what makes this ride unforgettable.

Experience the vast wilderness of the Cederberg and the Tankwa Karoo

Experience the vast wilderness of the Cederberg and the Tankwa Karoo.

Visit the penguin colony at Betty_s Bay

Visit the penguin colony at Betty's Bay.

Ride the world famous Chapman_s Peak Drive

Ride the world famous Chapman's Peak Drive... If this is not the most beautiful coastal road you've ever ridden, please do let us know where we can find better!

Arrive a day early and ride the cable car up to the top of Table Mountain

Arrive a day early and ride the cable car up to the top of Table Mountain and enjoy the spectacular views across Cape Town and the Atlantic ocean.

Whale spotting in Hermanus

Whale spotting in Hermanus - the best land based whale spotting location in the world.

Explore the Cederberg Wilderness with its rich and ancient rock art heritage

Explore the Cederberg Wilderness with its rich and ancient rock art heritage.

Optional ride down the epic gravel road into _The Hell_

Optional ride down the epic gravel road into 'The Hell'

Spot giraffe & ostrich at our beautiful lodge

Spot giraffe & ostrich at our beautiful lodge.

Ride the challenging roads through adventure riding heaven_ _Baviaanskloof_

Ride the challenging roads through adventure riding heaven: 'Baviaanskloof'.

The BIG FIVE! We_ll go on safari at Addo National Park

The BIG FIVE! We'll go on safari at Addo National Park in search of lions, rhinos, cape buffalo, elephants, and leopards!

Tour Itinerary

WHAT'S INCLUDED AND WHAT'S NOT?

Plan your Adventure

Here’s exactly what’s covered (and what’s not), so you can hit the road fully loaded and stress-free. From meals to mileage, it’s all laid out right here.

Inclusions, Exclusions & Extras

YOUR ADVENTURE STEED

The Motorcycles

A trusty adventure steed comes as standard, perfect for this trip and raring to go. If you fancy something with a bit more bite… have a peek.

Bike Disclaimer: Bike models may vary due to ongoing fleet upgrades.

CHOOSE YOUR DATE HERE

Dates & Pricing

Pick a departure that works for you, then explore what’s included, upgrade bike options and optional extras, all in one neat booking card.
    2026
    October 19, 2026 – October 30, 2026
    Cape Crusader October 19 2026 booking details
    Tour price
    Rider (Incl. KTM 790 Adventure)
    £5,085
    Rider (own bike)
    £3,585
    Pillion
    £2,350
    The motorcycles

    (Bike Disclaimer: Bike models may vary due to ongoing fleet upgrades.)

    KTM 790 Adventure
    Included
    Fully booked
    BMW R1250 GS
    + £325
    BMW R1300 GS
    + £1,116
    1 left
    Optional extras
    Damage Waiver - KTM 790 Adventure
    + £375
    Damage Waiver - BMW R1250 GS
    + £455
    Damage Waiver - BMW R1300 GS
    + £500
    Single Room Supplement
    + £545
    2027
    April 5, 2027 – April 16, 2027
    Cape Crusader April 5 2027 booking details
    Tour price
    Rider (Incl. KTM 790 Adventure)
    £5,590
    Rider (own bike)
    £3,940
    Pillion
    £2,585
    The motorcycles

    (Bike Disclaimer: Bike models may vary due to ongoing fleet upgrades.)

    KTM 790 Adventure
    Included
    1 left
    BMW R1250 GS
    + £355
    Optional extras
    Damage Waiver - KTM 790 Adventure
    + £410
    Damage Waiver - BMW R1250 GS
    + £500
    Single Room Supplement
    + £595
    STRAIGHT FROM THE SADDLE

    Real riders. Real stories

    From epic fails to unforgettable trails, have a read and see what our riders had to say. It’s all here, straight from the saddle.
    BOOKING YOUR ADVENTURE
    TOUR PICS

    Cape Crusader

    A glimpse into life on the road. Real moments from real riders, the scenery, the stories, and everything in between. This is what adventure looks like.

    Why Ride With Us?

    No guesswork. No cut corners. A proper ride.

    Anyone can stitch together a route and call it an adventure.
    But what happens when the day gets long, the road gets rough, and things stop going to plan?

    We build our trips properly, test them thoroughly, and back them with the crew and support that let you focus on the ride, not the logistics.

    The ride you came for. The support you need.

    Choose Date Schedule A Chat With An Expert
    Ride Expeditions - Motorcycle Tour - The Road to Hell Gallery Images
    Ride Expeditions - Motorcycle Tour - The Road to Hell Gallery Images - Rider
    Ride Expeditions - Motorcycle Tour - The Road to Hell Gallery Images
    Cape Crusader
    from £5085 · Guided & Supported
    Book 12 months ahead, save 5% i Book at least 12 months before departure and save 5% off the base price. Excludes flights and extras. Subject to availability.