Collage strip with Warthog

What should I bring on a tour?

Your bike gear, clothing, medication, passport, drivers licence and credit card.  You will need cash to pay for various things but we have ATMs in SA that accept most cards.  Bring a great attitude and fun is guaranteed!

What motorcycle gear is required?

The following is the minimum motorcycle safety gear:

  • Helmet
  • Jacket
  • Good quality motorcycle boots
  • Gloves

Your safety is your responsibility. Please make sure you wear protective gear as this will protect you should you have an accident. Even slow-speed accidents cause serious gravel grazes that can really ruin a great trip.

Can I get gear in South Africa before the trip?

You can hire gear or buy gear before the trip. Please allow extra time if you need to go shopping before the tour! Let us know what you need so we can advise you on what to get and where to find it.

What are the visa requirements?

You will require a visa when entering South Africa.  For the latest information on visa requirments, please contact your local South African Embassy.  Without meeting visa requirements your tour cannot start!  Also please check that your passport is valid and has enough pages – and sort that out immediately.

Please go to this website Visiting South Africa (URL http://www.southafrica.info/travel/documents/visas.htm) for more information.

Visas are required for Botswana, Namibia, Zimbabwe and Mozambique.  Mostly visas are obtained at the border and do not cost much.  Please check with the Embassy to make sure you are aware of your specific requirements.

Two Wheel Africa Tours will sort out the papers for hired bikes to cross borders.

What about malaria and other illnesses?

You need to look after your own health and health insurance.  Please check that you are fit to travel and ride a bike with your doctor if you have any concerns.  Make sure you bring your medication with and any prescriptions you might require. 

We may cross malaria areas – we will let you know if you will.  Please investigate the medication that will suit you best.

You will be exposed to all kinds of bugs that you are not exposed to in your home country.  It doesn’t mean you will catch them but it is always most sensible to take precautions when drinking water, eating food and use insect repellant.

You need to be mindful of the sun that causes dehydration and sunstroke.  Please bring sunblock and a camelpack.  Wear sunglasses to protect your eyes.

Do I need to spell out the problems with HIV in Africa?  No. Good.  Don’t and if you do, use protection.

How much clothing and personal stuff can I bring with on the tour?

Packing space is limited so please choose you clothing wisely. “Technical” fast-drying clothing tends to be the most useful on longer trips. Evenings can be cold so bring a light-weight but warm fleece jacket. Summers can be rainy so light-weight waterproofs will be handy especially if you wear leather. Bring swimwear and sunblock. Flip-flops are great and sunglasses that fit comfortably under your helmet are a must.

Do I have to bring a sleeping bag?

If you are booked on a camping tour then YES please bring a sleeping bag that packs into a small bag!  If you are going for bed and breakfast accommodation then there is no need to bring your own sleeping bag.

What other advice can you give on packing?

And some advice from a well travelled traveller – pack everything in plastic bags. Especially your documents should be in zip-up plastic bags that seals. And don’t forget to do the same for medications.

Are flights included?

No.  Fights are your responsibility to pay for and book.  Please check your dates and give yourself time before and after the trip too.

What is included in the Tour?

You will receive a Quote setting out exactly what is included or excluded from your specific tour.  For basic rules on in- and exclusions please refer to the Terms and Conditions that you can download from Book Now.

Please go to our Adventure Motorbike Travel Forum and for more information – or ask!