FAQ
Are the roads in South Africa good for riding?
Yes, they are! Even though South Africa is a 3rd world country, our asphalt road
network is 1st world and surprising to most first time travellers to our country. For the
dual sport or off road traveller, South Africa offers over 400 000km’s of gravel or ‘dirt’
roads as we like to refer to them.
These range from gravel highways running
between the small farming villages to majestic mountain passes that link towns
across previously impenetrable mountain ranges. All in all South Africa offers every
type of landscape in one diverse and spectacular country.
Is touring in South Africa affordable?
With a reasonable fuel price, top quality hotels, restaurants and not to mention world
renowned wine all available at an enviable exchange rate for foreigners, travelling in
South Africa has never been more pleasurable or affordable.
Do people speak English in South Africa?
Although there are 11 official languages in South Africa, English is widely spoken
and understood in all parts, including Swaziland and Lesotho
Is the accommodation OK in South Africa?
There are plenty of available options for accommodation in South Africa, ranging
from 5 star internationally branded hotels to hostel type back packer style lodgings.
Either way, we will make sure you are comfortable by utilising preferred guest
houses, B&B’s and hotels along the way
How do I get there?
By air – Our local carrier is South African Airways, but most international airlines fly
into South Africa as well, these include; British Airways, Emirates, KLM, Air Franca,
Lufthansa, Cathay Pacific etc.
Will I be reimbursed for a portion of the trip if I am unable to carry on riding for whatever reasons or if the weather is bad?
Unfortunately not.
Will we receive tour t-shirts and/or tour memorabilia?
Yes you will receive a keepsake for your trip to cherish and remember fondly for years to come.
Can I drink the water in South Africa?
Tap water in South Africa is completely safe to drink, unless stated otherwise.
Do I need to take malaria medication before visiting South Africa?
South Africa, Lesotho and Swaziland are all malaria free areas; however, some parts
of the Kruger Park are low risk malaria areas.
What documents / visas do I need?
Please contact us for your exact requirements.
Do you pick us up and drop us off at the airport?
The Adventure Academy will gladly arrange a transfer for you from the airport to the
beginning point of the tour.
Can you arrange airline reservations?
Flights are not included in our packages, however if there is a request for this
service, we can assist with ticket bookings at a nominal fee
What is the best time of year to come?
Our tours are carefully plotted around rainy seasons and times when it’s very cold, however, the South African climate is very temperate with temperatures averaging around 15’c in winter and 28’c in summer.
Legal Alcohol limit?
At The Adventure Academy we do not promote drinking and riding, however we do understand that you’re all adults and can make your own decisions. Typically one beer at lunch to wash down the dust is considered legal in South Africa, but two will get you in trouble with the law and effect your tour negatively.
Contact Andy Biram on 072 850 9253 or andy@adventureacademy.co.za for further
information.
The bikes
Do you supply motorcycles? If not, where can I get one from?
The Adventure Academy does not have our own fleet, however we partner with
specialists in this area that will gladly provide you with a suitable steed for your
journey. Luggage and Navigation equipment is available upon request.
If I require adjustments to the motorcycle, can you provide these?
Within reason, your motorcycle will be spec’d to your individual requirements.
Contact Andy for advice or his input.
Can I bring my own motorcycle?
You certainly can bring your pride and joy along on the trip and this is preferable as
you are in tune with its habits.
What happens if my bike breaks down?
You will be assessed by the back-up vehicle or staff rider and if it is possible to get
you back on the road within 20 min we will assist you and get you rolling again.
However if your issue requires more time or attention, your motorcycle will be loaded
onto the trailer and brought to the overnight venue for evaluation. Should the
damage be terminal, The Adventure Academy will get you to the closest large town
en route where you can make arrangements to have your motorcycle collected and
transported home.
Riding Kit
Are helmets required?
It is advisable to bring your own or you can purchase one in our local accessory
store which stocks a great range.
Do you have rules for compulsory kit on your tours?
Obviously this is a very personal subject but yes, for your protection and the
convenience of the group we do insist on the following:
Full face helmet
For off road tours, Enduro spec motorcycle boots
Gloves
We recommend that you use a suitable ventilated touring suit and bring a waterproof
layer along for that inevitable downpour.
Contact Andy Biram on 072 850 9253 or andy@adventureacademy.co.za for further information.
How to get there
Travelling to South Africa – By air:
“South Africa has two major cities, with international airports, Johannesburg and Cape Town where most of our tours start. From these cities, you may need to take an internal flight to smaller cities, but these details are all communicated in the individual packages and will be pre-arranged as part of your tour. You are only required to arrange your international flight.”
You can check out the following websites for online flight bookings:
Contact Andy Biram on 072 850 9253 or andy@adventureacademy.co.za for further information.
Accommodation and food
The Adventure Academy takes great pride in the level of service we provide our
clients and we strive to make sure you feel comfortable and well-rested overnight, so
you can enjoy each day of riding to its fullest. On every stop, where possible, we
choose well-appointed hotels, B&B’s and guest houses – most of which have
internet access that enables you to let your families know you have arrived safely at
your destinations.
The accommodation has been carefully selected to have scenic views and
surroundings and in warmer climates, most will have a pool, an outdoor restaurant,
café or bar. Many of our lodgings are family run to ensure our guests get the firstclass, personal attention they deserve. All hotel proprietors speak English.
Breakfast, lunch and dinner options are detailed within each of the tour packages
and itemised on the “what’s included / excluded” tab.
All clients will be provided with the names of accommodation stops along each of the
routes, address and contact numbers about one month before the beginning of the
tour.
If you have any questions or special requests regarding accommodation, please call
or email us:andy@adventureacademy.co.za
We’ll be happy to give you more information on any of the below:
* Travel insurance – including medical
* Terms and conditions
* Destinations
* Guided Tours
* Tour Overview
* Tour Calendar
* Self-Guided tours