JOURNEY TO THE OKAVANGO
An off-road focused motorcycle tour of Botswana’s salt Pans ending in the Okavango Delta.
DATES:
August 8 - 15th, 2025
DAYS:
8 Days - 7 Nights
START/END:
Maun, Botswana
PREFERRED
BIKES:
ROAD TYPE:
90% Dirt & Sand
MOTORCYCLE RENTAL:
Scramblers & Dual Sport Motorcycles
Honda CRF 300 Rally
ADVENTURE LEVEL:
10/10
8 Days, 7 nights accommodation - 3 nights wild camping under the stars (with tents, stretchers & mattress), ALL meals, Makoro River Boat Overnight, All park fees, Honda CRF 300 Rally rental (internationals), event merch, welcome packet, GPX routes and event photographer.
INCLUDES:
THE ADVENTURE
The adventure kicks off in Maun, Botswana, where a fleet of Honda CRF 300 Rallys will be waiting for you just 15 minutes from the airport.
After your first night at our bush camp, we set off into the untamed wilderness, carving through winding sand tracks that weave between towering acacia trees and open savannah. The ride is raw, 90% dirt and sand, demanding full focus as the bikes dance beneath us. Nights are spent camping under a vast, starlit sky, where the distant calls of hyenas and the occasional roar of a lion remind us that we are deep in the heart of Africa.
The route leads us to the legendary Kubu Island, where ancient baobabs stand like sentinels over a prehistoric salt pan. The riding is fast and loose across the wide, open expanse, dust plumes trailing behind as we chase the horizon. As the sun dips, the island’s rocky outcrops glow in hues of gold and orange, marking the perfect spot to set up camp. With the hum of the wild around us and another day of epic riding ahead, this is what true adventure feels like.
The journey end’s back in Maun where we swap motorcycles for Makoro boats, drifting silently through the Okavango Delta’s labyrinth of reeds, spotting elephants wading and fish eagles soaring overhead. Back on two wheels,
ITINERARY & HIGHLIGHTS
MAKORO EXPERIENCE
Exploring the Okavango Delta by Makoro boat is a peaceful, immersive experience. Gliding through narrow channels, you’ll pass towering reeds, floating lilies, and mirror-like waters reflecting the vast sky. Along the way, spot tiny reed frogs, vibrant kingfishers, and hippos surfacing nearby. The slow, rhythmic journey feels like drifting through a dream.
The delta is alive with wildlife yet incredibly tranquil. Elephants wade gracefully, red lechwe bound through flooded plains, and crocodiles bask on the banks. The air carries the calls of fish eagles and the rustling of reeds. As the sun sets, golden light transforms the landscape, making every moment on the Makoro unforgettable.
CAMPING ON THE PAN
Sleeping on bedrolls under the stars on the Makgadikgadi Pans is an experience that feels almost otherworldly. With no trees, no landmarks, and no artificial light, the vastness of the salt pan stretches endlessly in every direction. As night falls, the sky transforms into a dazzling display of stars, with the Milky Way glowing so brightly it casts faint shadows on the ground. The silence is absolute—no wind, no insects, just an eerie, peaceful stillness that makes you feel like you’re on another planet.
Lying back on your bedroll, wrapped in the cool night air, you watch shooting stars streak across the sky and feel the deep solitude of the pan settle in. The ground beneath is firm yet strangely soft, holding onto the warmth of the day. There’s no need for a tent—just the open sky above and the vast, empty horizon stretching infinitely around you. Drifting off to sleep in this untouched wilderness is a humbling experience, a rare moment of true connection with nature.
KUBU ISLAND
Kubu Island rises from the vast expanse of the Makgadikgadi salt pans like an ancient fortress, its giant baobabs standing as silent sentinels over the barren landscape. The rocky outcrops and weathered trees create an almost otherworldly scene, where time seems to stand still. Riding across the endless white pan to reach the island is an adventure in itself—dust trails stretching behind as the horizon shimmers in the heat.
As the sun dips, Kubu Island transforms into a golden wonderland, its twisted baobabs casting long shadows across the cracked earth. Camping here under a sky ablaze with stars is pure magic, with nothing but the whisper of the wind and the distant call of jackals breaking the silence. It’s a place that feels untouched by time, offering a true escape into the wild heart of Botswana.
ELEPHANT SAND’S
Elephant Sands is a one-of-a-kind destination where wildlife and adventure collide in the heart of Botswana. This unfenced lodge and campsite is built around a natural waterhole, attracting elephants from miles away. With no barriers between you and the animals, you can watch massive herds drink, bathe, and interact just meters from where you sit. The experience is raw and immersive, offering an up-close view of these gentle giants in their natural habitat.
As the sun sets, the waterhole becomes a stage for unforgettable encounters. Elephants arrive in waves, their massive silhouettes outlined against the fading light, while the sounds of splashing and low rumbles fill the air. Sitting by the fire, drink in hand, you witness the hierarchy of the herd, the playful shoves, and the quiet moments of stillness. There’s no other place quite like it—Elephant Sands is pure, untamed Africa at its best.
HUNTERS ROAD
Riding motorcycles on Hunters Road is a wild and exhilarating experience, with deep sand tracks weaving along Botswana’s border with Zimbabwe. This remote route cuts through untouched bushveld, where elephants, buffalo, and even big cats roam freely. The riding is technical, demanding constant focus as the bikes carve through soft sand and dodge hidden ruts. Every twist of the throttle kicks up a trail of dust, blending into the golden afternoon light.
With no settlements or facilities along the way, the ride feels truly off the grid, offering a pure, unfiltered adventure. The sense of remoteness is heightened by the raw beauty of the landscape—wide-open plains, dense forests, and watering holes where wildlife gathers. Each stretch of the journey presents a new challenge, making Hunters Road one of Botswana’s most thrilling and unforgettable motorcycle routes.
EVENING CAMPFIRES
Ending each day around a campfire is where real connections are made. After a long day of riding, the fire becomes a gathering place, drawing everyone in with its warmth and flickering light. It’s where stories are shared—not just about the day's ride, but about past adventures, dreams, and moments that have shaped us. Laughter comes easily, barriers fade, and friendships deepen in the glow of the flames. There’s something about the simplicity of firelight that encourages honest conversations, making it a space where bonds grow stronger.
More than just warmth and light, the campfire creates a sense of togetherness that’s rare in everyday life. Without distractions, we are fully present, listening, reflecting, and appreciating the people around us. It’s a reminder that adventure isn’t just about the places we go—it’s about the connections we build along the way. The fire may burn down to embers, but the memories and friendships forged in its glow last long after the journey ends.
THE RIDING
Riding through Botswana on Honda CRF 300 Rallys is an adventure unlike any other, with endless dirt tracks, deep sand trails, and open salt pans that make every day an exhilarating challenge. The lightweight and capable nature of the CRF 300 Rally allows riders to confidently tackle a variety of terrains, from winding bush paths to fast, open stretches where the horizon seems to stretch forever. The riding is 90% off-road, demanding focus and skill, but also rewarding with incredible scenery, wildlife encounters, and a true sense of freedom.
One moment, you’ll be weaving through acacia-lined tracks, where elephant footprints mark the path ahead. The next, you’ll be powering through soft sand, feeling the bike move beneath you as you navigate the terrain. Riding across the vast salt pans is a completely different experience—surreal and almost weightless, with nothing but the shimmering white expanse ahead. The thrill of riding here is unmatched, whether it’s kicking up dust along Hunters Road or rolling into camp just as the sun sets over the African wilderness.
What makes this journey truly special is the variety of landscapes and the raw, untamed beauty of Botswana. There are no highways or city traffic—just open trails, endless horizons, and the kind of riding that makes you feel alive. Every day presents a new challenge and an unforgettable experience, all made better by the camaraderie of the group, the reliability of the bikes, and the thrill of exploring Africa on two wheels.
THE ACCOMMODATION
Accommodation in Botswana is a perfect blend of comfort and adventure, offering guests the best of both worlds. Some nights will be spent in well-appointed lodges, where cozy beds, hot showers, and hearty meals provide a welcome retreat after a long day of riding. These lodges offer a chance to recharge in beautiful settings, often with stunning views, swimming pools, and the sounds of nature just outside the door. Whether nestled in the bush or near a waterhole frequented by wildlife, each stay ensures relaxation and quality rest.
For a true taste of the wild, other nights will be spent camping under the vast Botswana sky. Out on the salt pans, guests will sleep on comfortable bedrolls with nothing but open space stretching to the horizon. The experience is raw yet peaceful, with a sky full of stars and the distant sounds of the African night. While these nights are more rugged, guests will always be well looked after, with delicious meals, warm hospitality, and a team ensuring their comfort and safety. It’s the perfect balance between adventure and ease, making every night a memorable part of the journey.
THE WILDLIFE
Wild animals in Botswana roam freely across vast landscapes, making encounters both thrilling and unpredictable. It’s important to remember that we are visitors in their territory, and respecting their space is key to coexisting safely. Always observe animals from a safe distance. Avoid sudden movements or loud noises that could startle wildlife, and never attempt to feed or interact with them.
When riding through wildlife areas, slow and steady movement is best. If an animal is blocking the path, be patient and give it time to move rather than trying to force your way through. At lodges or campsites, respect park guidelines, properly store food to avoid attracting scavengers, and listen to local guides for advice on safety. Being mindful of your surroundings and treating wildlife with respect ensures both your safety and the well-being of the animals, allowing for a truly immersive and responsible experience in Botswana’s wild landscapes.
HAVE MORE QUESTIONS ABOUT THIS TRIP?
PRICING & BOOKINGS OPEN MARCH 15TH, 2025
INCLUDED
8 days, 7 nights accommodation
3 nights wild camping with 3x3m canvas tents that come with stretcher, mattress and sleeping bag. Some nights there won’t be showers but we will have basins available to wash up.
Makoro river boat overnight cruise
Honda CRF 300 Rally Motorcycle Rental (NON-SA RESIDENTS)
All meals
All park fees
Certified Motorcycle Guide & Instructor
Medical First Responder
Support vehicle & trailer
Airport Shuttle
Event Merch
GPX routes
Event Photographer
1 Helluvah good time
OPTIONAL
Motorcycle Transport (round trip) JHB to Maun (Enquire within)
Sunrise Flights over the Okavango Delta (Enquire within)
Kubu Island Helicopter Flights (Enquire within)
Rider Requirements?
SKILL LEVEL: INTERMEDIATE
Sand is the biggest determining factor into “intermediate/sand”
The Honda CRF’s lightweight platform make navigating sand much easier than heavier adventure bikes.
No beginners.
Must be a confident rider & ‘riding fit’
Each rider is required to have a form of navigation on the bike at all times (GPS or Phone).
Must have a valid motorcycle license.
MEDICAL/TRAVEL INSURANCE: This is an essential item for you to have while on our adventure. We recommend using our partners at Global Rescue who can provide full coverage for our adventures
Not Included?
Kubu Island Sunrise Flight
Fuel
Motorcycle Insurance Deposit
Motorcycle damages
Flights
Alcohol
STAY SAFE OUT THERE
Bonafide Moto Co is a Safe travel partner with Global Rescue and recommend that all our guests purchase travel insurance to cover trip cancelation, medical emergencies, field evacuation, emergency assistance and travel delays.
The Global Rescue team can advise regarding travel insurance and emergency services.