Southern African Overland Safari (big 5 country...)

In the township streets of South Africa the African people sing a song which goes 'Africa, Africa is beautiful...". At Swartberg Biking, we as Africans often get asked about these words - do they hold any truth? The Cape to Cairo journey has become somewhat mundane and we are sure that even Cecil John Rhodes, who dreamt of a main route between Cape Town in the south and Cairo in the north, might agree. Not all motorcycle enthusiasts aspire to traverse the continent, but most riders do sometime fantasize about Africa at one time or another.

At Swartberg biking we have created an exclusive 25 day journey through Southern Africa to suit most riders. Our epic journey commence in the Gauteng province of South Africa from where we ride in an easterly direction.  We traverse the Highveld escarpment to reach the border where we cross into Mozambique heading towards Maputo, the capital city. Mozambique is aptly also known as the land of smiles. We follow the shores of the Indian Ocean as we head north, roaming the floodplains of Mozambique and stopping over at two popular beach resorts on the tropical coast.  We visit Lake Cahora Bassa in Mozambique, the fourth largest manmade lake in Africa, also known for its superb tiger fishing opportunities. En route we cross some of the major rivers - the Save and the Zambezi , appreciating the engineering feats in doing so.

We cross into Malawi, formerly known as Nyasaland and one of the smaller countries on the continent. Much of the country lies within the Great Rift Valley of Eastern Africa. The Rift Valley floor at the lakeshore is almost at sea level but the bordering plateau rises to between 490m and 1500m. The roads lead one through numerous traditional villages as 85 % of the 12 million population lives in the rural areas. Lake Malawi offers superb snorkeling and diving at Cape Maclear and here one can find over 600 different species of fish. The lake is also known for its laid back atmosphere and unique sunset cruises which will liven up any weary rider. Good quality roads and pleasant vistas will keep riders entertained as we criss-cross the hilly plateau of Southern Malawi.

After relaxing on the shore of Lake Malawi we head towards Zambia. This landlocked mineral rich country has been described as the "true Africa". After a brief stopover at Lake Kariba we head towards Livingstone to enjoy Victoria Falls. The road conditions are good and the landscape compliments the windy roads with its smooth curves.  Again riders will enjoy numerous traditional villages with friendly people all over. One cannot but ponder upon what Dr. David Livingston encountered when he first arrived here. Victoria Falls - the lady, presents herself with a roar! She also offers an array of activities from white water rafting and bungee jumping for the more adventurous to helicopter rides for the less so.

After a rest at Victoria Falls we briefly ride through Botswana and Chobe National Park, known for its variety of wildlife. Here the chances are excellent to encounter elephant and various other forms of wildlife. We cross the border into Namibia, an extraordinary country with its wide horizons, contrasting landscapes and pristine beauty. We ride through the Caprivi Game Park where free roaming elephant herds are to be found and numerous road signs will attest to that. We say goodbye to the Zambezi River and head towards the Mudumu National Park along the Kwando River. Time permitting we will enjoy a late afternoon game drive. We continue to the coastal town of Swakopmund to meet up with the Atlantic Ocean and the world's oldest desert - the Namib Desert. We follow the desert dunes southwards as we head towards the Namib Naukluft Park, home to Sossusvlei, Deadvlei and Sesriem Canyon. Our last stop before leaving Namibia is the Fish River Canyon before we cross the Orange River.

Our journey ends in Cape Town and no visit will be complete without having explored the best of the Cape Peninsula and a visit to Table Mountain - weather permitting. Our last days on the bikes should allow us time to reflect on the experience we have enjoy, places we have visited and friends we have made as we ride into Cape Town...and you will know the answer to the song - "Africa, Africa is beautiful"