For many years, we have explored Southern Africa, sometimes by 4×4 overlanding but predominantly by adventure enduro motorcycles. That adventurous spirit eventually gave birth to Wild & Moto Media, a platform through which we share our journeys in various forms of overlanding, discover remarkable places, and occasionally capture the stories and images of adventure events through the lens of photography.

Yet, some journeys remain unfinished chapters for us; Kaokoland, Van Zyl’s Pass and the Marienfluss had long occupied that space. It was a challenge we had spoken about for years, one that slowly evolved from a dream into a plan. More importantly, it represented the closing of a chapter we had hoped to complete together.

As we left Johannesburg and pointed our vehicle northwest towards Botswana and Namibia, the planning gave way to reality. Fourteen days, thousands of kilometres and countless memories later, we would return with a deeper appreciation for the landscapes of Kaokoland, a healthy respect for Van Zyl’s Pass, and renewed confidence in both our machines and the equipment that carried our lives across some of Southern Africa’s most demanding terrain.

What followed was more than a New Year’s trip; it became the culmination of years of dreaming, planning and exploring — and ultimately a journey that reminded us why we ride in the first place.

Day 1 – Heading West

The wait was finally over; months of planning, route discussions, maps, and dreams gave way to an early departure from Johannesburg. Kang, Botswana, would be our first overnight stop on the road to Windhoek and eventually Kaokoland. Border formalities at Skilpadshek proved less painful than expected, although two motorcycles on a trailer caused enough confusion among officials to briefly bring proceedings to a standstill before common sense prevailed and the paperwork was stamped.

Botswana welcomed us with unexpected potholes around Kanye and persistent rain. Beyond that, the roads opened up and the kilometres slipped by easily. By late afternoon we rolled into Kang, where cold beer and a warm meal marked the beginning of the trip. The only thing with more endurance than an adventure rider proved to be the local mosquitoes, which ensured that sleep would remain somewhat elusive.

Day 2 – Chasing Blue Skies

Clouds and rain remained our travelling companions as we continued towards Windhoek. Yet the weather had transformed both Botswana and Namibia. Landscapes normally associated with dust and drought had become green and alive, and neither of us complained about the overcast conditions.

Once in Windhoek, the support vehicle was unloaded, and attention shifted to the bikes. Luggage was secured, final checks completed and anticipation steadily built. The tar roads had done their job; tomorrow the adventure would truly begin.

Day 3 – Finding Our Rhythm

The cool morning air around Windhoek made for a pleasant start, but Namibia quickly reminded us that recent rains had changed the game. Corrugations, mud, standing water and riverbeds showed evidence of flash floods that had swept through only days before.

The route towards Omaruru and Vingerklip provided spectacular scenery and abundant wildlife, and somewhere between the river crossings and the rocky two-spoor tracks we began to find our rhythm. There was chaos at first. Riding gear, luggage and gravel all seemed to have their own opinions, but eventually the kilometres started flowing.

By the time we reached Khorixas, temperatures had climbed to 35 degrees, and we realised something important: being fit and being riding fit are two completely different things. Tomorrow, Namibia would raise the stakes.

Day 4 – Welcome to Namibia

Leaving Khorixas, we knew the warm-up was over. The wide gravel roads soon narrowed into two-spoor tracks before eventually introducing us to Elephant Trail, Khowarib and later Klein Serengeti. Over the next 160 kilometres, rocks, sand, riverbeds and fesh-fesh slowly replaced the easy rhythm we had found the previous day.

Temperatures climbed relentlessly, eventually pushing beyond 44 degrees. Progress slowed, and the kilometres became hard-earned. Somewhere along the route, an elephant skeleton lying next to the track served as a reminder that this is a harsh environment where nature sets the rules.

By the time we reached Sesfontein, our fun meters were full. The original camping plans had disappeared long before, and with daylight fading, we found ourselves searching for a place to spend the night.

Eventually, a quiet spot in the bush became home. A small fire, a cup of coffee and the sounds of the African night were all we needed. Unknowingly, the day had prepared us perfectly for what still lay ahead.

Day 5 – Gathering Strength

After the punishment of the previous day, we allowed ourselves a slower start. Twelve hours in the saddle and a night under canvas had taken their toll, and for the first time since leaving Windhoek, there was no urgency.

The ride north towards Ruacana proved to be a welcome change of pace. Mountains and open landscapes accompanied us to Opuwo, where fuel and a quick meal replenished both bikes and riders. From there, the tar road carried us to Ruacana and eventually to Ryacana Campsite, a hidden gem tucked away in the bush overlooking the Kunene River valley.

For the remainder of the afternoon, life slowed down. Mud was washed off the bikes, chains were serviced, clothes were cleaned and luggage was reorganised. The simplicity of camp life returned and, with a pair of well-deserved T-bone steaks on the fire, spirits rose again. But beneath the relaxation, we knew this was more than just another overnight stop, tomorrow, the journey would enter a different chapter.

Epupa Falls, Van Zyl’s Pass and the remoteness of Kaokoland lay ahead. Fuel would become scarce, water precious and distances measured not in kilometres, but in hours. As darkness settled over the valley and the fire burnt low, we checked the bikes one last time and packed with purpose. The next three days would become the heart of the journey.

Day 6 – The Road Nobody Talks About

Leaving Ruacana, we followed the old border road alongside the Kunene River towards Epupa Falls. After the previous day’s rest, both body and mind felt recharged, and the easy pace along the river made it difficult to imagine what lay ahead.

Recent rains had transformed the Kunene into a powerful river. Flood marks stood high in the trees, and the falls themselves thundered through the gorge beneath ancient baobabs. Camp Cornie offered a welcome stop and a cold beer overlooking the river before we continued to Epupa Falls, where swollen waters provided one of the most spectacular sights of the journey.

After topping up fuel at Okangwati, we set off towards Van Zyl’s campsite, seventy kilometres away. Seventy kilometres – it sounded simple enough; it wasn’t. The track immediately deteriorated into a mixture of sand, rocks and rough two-spoor. Progress slowed. Temperatures climbed beyond 40 degrees, and the terrain became increasingly hostile. Downhills littered with loose rocks forced us off the bikes and onto our feet. At times it felt as though every kilometre demanded complete concentration.

The landscape became wilder, the mountains steeper and the rocks larger. Somewhere along the route, exhaustion slowly replaced excitement. Then came one of the greatest blessings of the entire journey: a cattle borehole. Friendly locals switched on the pump, and we drank deeply, replenishing every bottle and hydration pack we had. At that moment, fresh water was worth far more than fuel.

Eventually, after nearly twelve hours in the saddle, we rolled into Van Zyl’s campsite. Dinner was simple, conversation minimal, and sleep came easily. Tomorrow we would finally meet the pass everyone talks about; little did we know that the hardest work had already begun.

Day 7 – The Heart of Kaokoland

The morning started quietly; a guinea fowl announced the dawn, and the cool air along the river brought welcome relief. Ahead lay twelve kilometres of road that have become legendary amongst overlanders and adventure riders alike. On paper, it didn’t seem intimidating. Reality had other ideas.

Loose rocks, steep descents and technical sections demanded patience more than bravery. Several times the motorcycles had to be switched off and carefully walked down rocky slopes. Momentum was important, but so was knowing when to stop and help each other.

Ironically, the famous descent seen in countless YouTube videos proved less intimidating than some of the sections leading to it. Slowly, metre by metre, the valley floor came closer, and then, suddenly, it was over. The relief was enormous, but the day was far from done.

Ahead lay the Marienfluss, stretching into the distance beneath towering mountains. Beautiful, remote and unforgiving, it offered a different kind of challenge. Corrugations, sand and temperatures approaching 46 degrees steadily drained what little energy remained.

Then came Joubert’s Pass. By now, the appetite for rocks had long disappeared, but the mountain had one final lesson to teach. Slowly and carefully we picked our way through the pass before eventually descending into the valley below.

When Marble Camp appeared in the early afternoon, it felt like an oasis. Cold Coke, cold beer, shade and the kindness of strangers, never had simple things felt so luxurious with Van Zyl’s Pass and Joubert’s Pass behind us. And somewhere between the rocks, the heat and the exhaustion, we realised that the reward had never been the pass itself.

It had been the journey to get there.

Day 8 – Fuel and Perspective

After the previous day’s battle through Van Zyl’s Pass and Joubert’s Pass, simply riding in fourth and fifth gear again felt like a luxury. Bodies were stiff, knees sore and the accumulated fatigue of the previous days still very much present, but the mood had changed. The major challenge was behind us, and we could finally allow ourselves to absorb the vastness of Kaokoland.

The morning started with more sand and rocks, as if Namibia wanted one final reminder that easy kilometres are earned in this part of the world. Fortunately, the D3702 eventually brought relief, and the motorcycles settled into a more comfortable rhythm. Fuel consumption improved, and for the first time in days, we found ourselves simply enjoying the ride rather than focusing on the next obstacle.

And what a landscape it was! Wide plains stretched towards distant mountains, grasslands met desert sand, and the endless horizons made us appreciate just how remote this corner of Namibia truly is. Along the way we came across several stone mannetjies standing silently in the wilderness, their origin unknown but somehow perfectly at home in the landscape.

Fuel, however, remained the theme of the day. Puros provided relief, while Sesfontein delivered uncertainty when the pumps stood dry. Eventually, with a little help from the locals and a measure of patience, we secured enough fuel to continue south.

By the time Palmwag appeared on the horizon, one motorcycle had barely sixty kilometres of range remaining. It was a small reminder that in remote places, plans often take second place to circumstances. After days of dust, heat and hard riding, Palmwag Lodge offered something equally valuable — a hot shower, a proper meal and a comfortable bed. Luxury is a relative thing, and that evening it felt absolutely wonderful.

Day 9 – Learning to Slow Down

Palmwag marked a change in tempo. The objectives we had dreamed about for years were behind us. Van Zyl’s Pass, the Marienfluss and Joubert’s Pass had become memories rather than challenges still waiting ahead of them. For the first time since leaving Windhoek, there was no pressure to reach somewhere or to prove anything.

We allowed ourselves a slow breakfast and deliberately chose the easier roads toward Brandberg. Recent rains had transformed the landscape and provided beautiful contrasts between green plains, dark mountains and dramatic skies. Corrugations remained part of the journey, but after Kaokoland they felt almost insignificant.

A brief stop near Twyfelfontein and the Burnt Mountain provided an opportunity to stretch our legs and enjoy something cold before continuing south. Eventually, a different D-road tempted us away from the main route, and soon enough we found ourselves back on two-spoor tracks, following a riverbed toward Brandberg White Lady Lodge.

Neither of us had much appetite for more sand and rocks, but the scenery more than compensated. With Brandberg rising ahead of us and the late afternoon sun softening the landscape, the final kilometres passed easily. White Lady Lodge proved to be the perfect place to slow down. The rustic tents, a proper shower and a relaxed evening around good food reminded us that recovery is also part of adventure.

Looking back, we realised that while difficult roads create memories, it is often the quieter moments in between that give a journey its meaning. Tomorrow, we will make our way to a place that has always held a special place in our hearts — Spitzkoppe.

Day 10 – Returning to Spitzkoppe

After two days of rest at Brandberg White Lady Lodge, we were ready for the short ride south to Spitzkoppe. Since our first overlanding journey in 2017, the granite peaks have held a special place in our hearts. There is something about Spitzkoppe that brings calm. It is a place that reminds you how small you are in the grand scheme of things, while at the same time allowing you to appreciate the raw beauty that Namibia offers so effortlessly.

Recent rains had transformed the landscape yet again. Green grass stood in contrast to the ancient granite formations, and under overcast skies the ride south unfolded at an easy pace. Even after our rest days, the accumulated fatigue of Kaokoland was still present. We had reached the point where concentration in technical sections required effort and where the body quietly reminded us of the previous weeks.

By late morning we arrived at Spitzkoppe, but rather than immediately searching for a campsite, we headed for the community restaurant and enjoyed a few cold beers while reflecting on the roads already travelled. There was an unspoken realisation between us that the journey was slowly drawing to an end.

Later that afternoon, once the worst of the heat had passed, we ventured towards the southern side of the reserve. A few kilometres beyond the old graveyard, we found exactly what we were looking for — a quiet campsite with spectacular views and complete solitude.

The remainder of the afternoon was spent wandering among the granite formations with cameras in hand, enjoying the scenery and taking in every last moment. As darkness settled over the mountains, we prepared supper and sat quietly beneath the stars.

With Spitzkoppe casting its shadow over camp, it felt like the perfect ending to an unforgettable adventure. Tomorrow we would return to Windhoek.

Day 11 – Closing the Chapter

It does not happen often, but we allowed ourselves the luxury of sleeping until 07:30. A light shower during the night had left the tent damp, and there was no urgency. Coffee was made, and, unusually for us, very little was said.

Part of us wanted another day on the road, another campfire, another destination, another sunrise somewhere in Namibia. The other part looked forward to Windhoek and the comfort of a proper bed. If we are honest, the greater part wanted to stay and continue riding.

Eventually camp came down for the last time, and we headed towards Windhoek. The final gravel roads, which only days before would have demanded our full attention, now felt almost effortless. Somewhere during the previous two weeks, without really noticing, we had adapted.

Halfway to Windhoek, a padstal and some Geelveld biltong provided one last excuse to delay the inevitable. Eventually, though, the city appeared on the horizon. Back at the lodge, we loaded the motorcycles and spent the afternoon resting before sharing dinner with Petra, who had faithfully watched over our vehicle while we explored Namibia.

Heading home felt good, but it also marked the closing of a chapter. Looking back, we realised that the journey had become far more than a New Year’s trip through Namibia. Together, we had reached what we considered the pinnacle of adventure riding — completing Van Zyl’s Pass, Marienfluss and Joubert’s Pass unsupported on heavily loaded motorcycles.

Yet the greatest reward was never the passes, the photographs or the kilometres; it was sharing the experience together. Because one day the dust is washed off the bikes, the gear is packed away and life returns to normal, but some roads remain with you and long after the journey ends, they quietly begin calling you back.

The next chapter is already loading – mid-2026 awaits.

Packing for the Unknown

Adventure riding has a way of exposing poor decisions. Carry too much and the bike becomes difficult to manage. Carry too little and you quickly discover what you left behind. The challenge is finding the balance between comfort and self-sufficiency, especially when the route ahead is measured in days rather than kilometres.

For this journey, simplicity became the guiding principle. Both KTM 890 Rallys were fitted with Turkana Gear’s MadMules rackless system. The bulk of our equipment was carried in a pair of 15-litre Turkana bags mounted to the MadMules, while separate 5-litre bags housed the technical essentials. Two 20-litre duffel bags completed the luggage setup and carried our camping equipment, clothing and personal items.

The arrangement allowed us to separate living necessities from technical necessities — a small detail that proved invaluable as the days unfolded. Clothing was intentionally kept simple. A few changes of clothes, base layers, rain gear and camp shoes were all that made the cut. Space was reserved for the things that mattered most: water, food and tools.

The technical bags carried everything needed to keep the motorcycles moving — tubes, tyre levers, pumps, a chain breaker, spare bolts, filters, oils and a carefully assembled tool roll. Nothing excessive, just the essentials built up over years of riding and travelling across Southern Africa. They also housed those items you hope never to use but are grateful to have when the unexpected happens.

Food was basic and functional. Coffee, gas cartridges, ration packs and enough supplies to remain self-sufficient when the nearest town or campsite was still many hours away. Water, however, received special attention. In Kaokoland, fuel can usually be found eventually. Water is not always guaranteed.

Over eleven days, thousands of kilometres, endless corrugations, sand, rocks, river crossings and temperatures ranging from cool mornings to 46°C afternoons, the luggage simply did its job.

No shifting loads, no broken straps, no drama. Perhaps that is the greatest compliment one can give adventure equipment. By the end of the trip, the Turkana Gear bags had become part of the motorcycles themselves — quietly carrying our lives across some of Southern Africa’s most demanding terrain while allowing us to focus on what really mattered.

The journey ahead.

About the Authors

With a lifelong connection to nature and the outdoors, I have spent many years exploring Southern Africa, sometimes by 4×4, but predominantly by motorcycle. Through Wild & Moto Media, these journeys have found expression in stories and photographs that seek to capture not only the places themselves but also the emotions and experiences that come with travelling through them.

My journey began behind the lens as a freelance sports photographer, and I still return to that world whenever the opportunity arises. Motorcycles, however, have become far more than a subject to photograph. They have become a way of exploring landscapes, meeting people and experiencing the quieter side of adventure.

Together with Ezelda, we continue to explore Southern Africa in various forms of overlanding. Ezelda, who represented South Africa at the International GS Trophy in Mongolia in 2018, is a phenomenal rider and adventurer in her own right, whether behind the wheel of a 4×4 or in the saddle of a motorcycle. Over the years, we have shared countless journeys, believing that adventure is not measured by distance travelled, but by the experiences shared and the stories that remain long after the dust has settled.

Nature remains our refuge, while motorcycles provide the means to reach places where the ordinary gives way to something more meaningful. The camera has become a companion rather than the destination — a way of preserving the moments found between the dust, the light and the uncertainty that accompany every journey.

Wild & Moto Media is simply the expression of that journey.
– Callie & Ezelda

Copyright ©WildMotoMedia. All photographs, text and content featured in this article remain the property of the authors unless otherwise stated. No part of this publication may be copied, reproduced, distributed or used in any form without prior written permission from the copyright owners.

The post Two Weeks, Two KTM Adv motorcycles, and the Long Road to Kaokoland – Namibia appeared first on Turkana Motorcycle Adventure Gear.

That is exactly where Brian Cheyne found himself after a year aboard the Royal Enfield Himalayan 450. No ego. No horsepower wars. No “bro, you need at least 1200cc for touring” nonsense. Just a lightweight motorcycle, gravel roads, coffee stops, solo wandering, and the kind of riding that reminds you why you fell in love with motorcycles in the first place.

Brian’s article is refreshingly honest and dangerously relatable for anyone secretly tired of picking up heavy adventure bikes in sand. Bonus points: his trusty Turkana Duffalo quietly tagging along and doing what it does best without drama, rattles, or needing a software update.

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We are Mia & Max, and with our two travel companions (currently two Honda CRF 300Ls), we love to throw ourselves into adventure. We love travelling on small roads, discovering other countries and cultures, and letting ourselves be captivated by this wonderful planet called Earth, with all the beauty, diversity and challenges that this can sometimes bring.

In 2022, we rode from Hamburg (Germany) to Tehran (Iran) and back on a BMW F650ST and a Honda Transalp. Chronically overloaded, we filled every millimetre of the Turkana HippoHips. This included more than three pairs of trousers, chocolate and unnecessary items in the ‘better to have than need’ category.

We quickly realised that our possibly somewhat excessive luggage also posed challenges off-road, and it didn’t take long before we ended up on our sides with the heavy bikes. The HippoHips stood by our side, cushioned the fall, allowed us to crawl out from under the motorbike effortlessly and were a reliable and robust companion.

With the switch to the small CRFs, it was time for a change – we opted for the 15-litre version of the MadMules. With the smaller bags, we had to reduce our load, and it worked!
Because, as described above, it usually looked as if we had a support vehicle or at least a mule for our luggage. (Maybe Turkana chose the name MadMules because of people like us?)

Three weeks in Scandinavia – lakes, mountains, rain.

We have just returned from a three-week holiday in Denmark, Norway and Sweden. Sounds like a picture-postcard idyll, and it was. But not only that. We started in sunny Denmark, driving along small coastal roads between wide fields. A few days later, we were already on the Norwegian high plateaus, barren, windy, sometimes above the clouds

And then there are the seemingly endless forests in Sweden, where you can walk for hours without encountering anyone and be completely immersed in nature, until suddenly three moose cross the track in front of us! The surprise at this unexpected encounter is as great for the moose as it is for us. These animals are so majestic and large that we feel very small on our CRFs afterwards.

Why Small Adventure Bikes Like the Honda CRF300L Make Big Motorcycle Trips Better

And yes: the weather. It can be quite unpredictable in northern Europe. One minute it’s blue skies, the next it’s black clouds and rain that feels like you’re standing under a shower. That’s why the north is not for motorcyclists who shy away from rain

All these amazing places, once taken for granted when you live a life of freedom and space which you believe will last forever. This journey was a pilgrimage for which I am so grateful and blessed to have been able to achieve.

Practical, waterproof and… usable as an airbag!

It was important to us that our luggage solutions could withstand heavy rain and remain reliably watertight even if the bikes ended up in a puddle – it’s all happened before! In addition to being waterproof, they needed to be robust, lightweight, durable and easy to repair. That’s another reason why we chose Turkana luggage solutions.

We mainly ride off-road and away from the main roads, where we regularly get our Hondas dirty. Sometimes because the ground was softer than expected, sometimes because we underestimated a muddy path, or because Max hadn’t had enough to eat and was no longer as focused.
NOTE! Chocolate MUST remain on our packing list.
The MadMules also have an unexpected additional function: they act as airbags for the bike. The outer pockets cushion the impact when you fall, protecting the fairing and, above all, your legs, as the bike rests on the bags and not on your limbs. When we find ourselves lying in the mud again, we get up, shake ourselves off, check the bikes and bags – and everything is fine.

An additional convenience for everyday travel? The waterproof inner pockets!

Quickly take them out, tuck them under your arm and you’re done. No more hours of dismantling and reassembling. And that’s priceless when you’re riding through rain for the third day in a row and want to at least put on a dry T-shirt in the evening

In addition to the side pockets, we also have the duffel bag with us. We store our tent and all our camping equipment in it. Everything is rainproof and in one place. But more importantly, there’s enough room for food!

Because let’s be honest: travelling without food is only half the fun. In Scandinavia, we got lost in the huge supermarkets and bought far too much. From Swedish cinnamon buns to Norwegian chocolate, Danish liquorice and delicious smørrebrød, we had it all. And all of it had to be stored somewhere. The duffel bag has room for it all – and keeps it dry, no matter how hard it rains.

The duffel bag – our rolling pantry

Conclusion – less baggage, more freedom

This trip showed us once again that the MadMules and the duffel bag not only ensured that we carried less, but also changed the way we travel. Less stuff means more freedom – and more focus on what matters: the landscape, the encounters, the adventure.

And the next time we find ourselves somewhere in Scandinavia – rain from above, mud from below – we’ll know that we have everything we need.

Credit: We are Mia and Max, motorcyclists and explorers from Hamburg – the perfect “Gateway to the World.” In 2022, we rode east for six months, crossing 13 countries and 20,000 km of roads and trails. We left our comfort zone, discovered new cultures, and met incredible people along the way. That was just the beginning. With our bikes, we want to keep venturing into the unknown, exploring Europe and beyond, chasing the bigger adventures still waiting for us.
https://wege-wagen.world/
https://www.instagram.com/wege_Wagen/

Copyright ©Wege-Wagen. All photographs, text and content featured in this article remain the property of the authors unless otherwise stated. No part of this publication may be copied, reproduced, distributed or used in any form without prior written permission from the copyright owners.

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How does one plan or even decide that this is going to be the trip of a lifetime?

After all, there will surely be more trips; whether done by myself or others, there will always be journeys planned and adventures to ride.

This particular trip started from a light-hearted question to a mutual friend one day while we were out on a ride. “Would he like to accompany me on a bike trip to my homeland, Zimbabwe?” I didn’t think for a moment he would take my question seriously. His riding ability far supersedes my own, his knowledge of adventure riding through Africa is extensive, and while he would be the perfect chaperone, I could not imagine that he would want to babysit an under-skilled, middle-aged female rider through Zimbabwe. But he did. And so did my nearest and dearest.

I now had two of the most suitable, most experienced, and most capable men a person could ever wish for on board with my idea, and so it started.

Not being experienced enough to know what luggage gear to purchase, as this was my first ever long-haul trip (and by long trip I mean more than just a weekend away), I was nudged in the direction of the Turkana Mad Mule luggage system. Usually, my nearest and dearest carried my overflow of essentials, which never included tools. This time, I had to kit myself out properly.

A light-hearted question turned into 1,000Km (620miles) of unforgettable roads.

I spent a couple of hours browsing the internet, looking at reviews, asking questions, and eventually purchased the 15L setup. I couldn’t wait to get it onto my bike for a test ride. Once I had it woven through the system, I loaded the inners with my washing, and off we went to test the balance and how it would affect my handling.

A middle-aged rider, a homeland calling, and the gear that carried it all.

Let me explain. I have only been riding a bike for three years. My skills and experience are limited, and any change to my bike raises my awareness of potential catastrophe or crisis. This is natural and comes with age — so any advice I can give is this: don’t start riding bikes at 53; it sets you back.

The luggage, however, with a balanced weight of about 6kg on each side, did absolutely nothing to the handling of my bike. I was delighted, as this had been one of my biggest concerns about the trip. 

We entered Zimbabwe, locked and loaded, on the 8th of September 2025. We travelled fabulous rural roads and clocked over 1,000km, albeit slower than my two bright lights would have wanted. But we were safe, we didn’t have any problems with the bikes, and we got to see the places we planned:
Honde Valley, with lunch at Aberfoyle Lodge, before taking the Tangenwa Road to Nyanga.
The Big Tree in Chirinda Forest, Mt Selinda.
Dear friends in Chipinge.
Lifelong friends in Chimanimani — visiting Bridal Veil Falls, Tessa’s Pool, Rathmore Forest.
My old homes on the forest estates: Charter, Tilbury, and Imbeza Valley, where I lived as a young woman starting my family.

All these amazing places, once taken for granted when you live a life of freedom and space which you believe will last forever. This journey was a pilgrimage for which I am so grateful and blessed to have been able to achieve.

Lessons, fears, and blessings from my first long-haul motorcycle trip.

I say to those who dream of riding adventure: just do it. You don’t have to ride like Adam Riemann or Chris Birch. Get the right people on board who share your dream and who have the skills and patience to support you on your trips. Plan your ride and load your Mad Mules for… a trip of a lifetime.

Credit: Jackie Anderson

Part of Jakie’s trip was to nail the Turkana Challenge Safari #3 points

The post From Nervous Rider to Adventure Pilgrim: My Journey Home – Zimbabwe appeared first on Turkana Motorcycle Adventure Gear.

The feature gave a nod to our Sloth Utility Bag, ChipCheeks Packing Cubes, and Magpie EDC Utility Bag, while also pointing out what makes Turkana different: gear built by scruffy long-distance riders who actually live out of this stuff on motorcycles, 4x4s, and overland expeditions, not by folks staring at CAD drawings in an air-conditioned office.

Honoured to be featured in Overland Journal Magazine, one of the most respected voices in overlanding.

The feature, written by none other than Luisa Bell of the legendary A2A Expedition, put a spotlight on our Sloth Utility Bag, ChipCheeks Packing Cubes, and Magpie EDC Utility Bag. And she got it exactly right — Turkana is different because our gear is built by scruffy, long-distance riders who actually live out of this stuff, not by people pushing pixels on a CAD screen in an office tower.

As Luisa put it, Turkana Gear is “handmade in South Africa by the finest craftsmen from the finest materials… designed with real-world experience and rigorous on-road testing.” Which is a polished way of saying we’ve broken enough kit on enough bad roads to finally get it right.

We’re genuinely grateful to Overland Journal and Luisa Bell for including us in such a prestigious publication. For our small South African crew, it’s proof that what we’re building for 4×4, motorcycle, and overland travel isn’t just tough enough for the Richtersveld; it’s good enough to stand on the global stage.

The post Look Who Accidentally Made It Into a Real Magazine – Overland journal appeared first on Turkana Motorcycle Adventure Gear.

After finishing the 2024 Safari with a ride to the historic little town of Kaapschehoop, Brian is now tackling the new season solo. Free from group plans, he can chase his own lines through South Africa’s backroads, gravel passes, and small villages — the kind of riding that makes the country such a playground for adventure bikes.

Brian Starting the Turkana Safari on a Royal Enfield Himalayan

On this trip he scored more than just dust and scenery. At a local B&B, the owners handed him an old broken Tissot watch. Brian, being handy, fixed it, and now plans to return it on a future ride — a reminder that adventure isn’t only about the bike and the road, but also about the people and stories along the way.

This is what the Turkana Safari Challenge is all about: real-world rides, gear that can take a beating, and the freedom to make the journey your own. Whether you’re on a Royal Enfield, a GS, or a scrambler, it’s less about the machine and more about getting out there and riding South Africa’s wild and wonderful roads.

The post Turkana Safari Challenge: Royal Enfield Himalayan Takes on South Africa’s Backroads appeared first on Turkana Motorcycle Adventure Gear.

Three amigos on a mission to prove you don’t need big adventure motorcycles — or good decisions — to have a great day. We grabbed a Triumph Scrambler 400X, a Royal Enfield Himalayan, and a CFMoto 450MT Ibex.

Then we slapped on some Turkana MadMule rackless soft saddlebags, fitted a Bullfrog 5L tank bag on a GeckoGrip harness, and strapped a PelliPouch handlebar bag to each bike. After that, we hit the streets and the ridiculously scenic mountain passes around Cape Town for the day, ghosting work like total delinquents.

The idea? The TurkanaGear soft luggage motorcycle pannier systems aren’t just for big 1200cc monsters. Turkana pannier rackless bags fit pretty much anything; no racks, no drama.
And to prove the new generation of small-capacity motorcycles are fun, good-looking and great for more than just commuting.

Turkana Motorcycle Soft panniers: Rugged, Rackless, waterproof, and Ready for Any Bike

They’re tough, modular, waterproof, adjustable for any size motorbike, simple to strap on, and just as happy on the morning commute as they are bombing down a gravel pass.

The bikes? All surprisingly capable. The Triumph is the flash retro one, lightweight and agile; it can do dirt but is happier on asphalt. The Himalayan? The Himalayan is laid-back, built like a tractor, and will get you anywhere. The CFMoto? Total wildcard. Punchy and fun, it shows up with no pedigree but still walks out like it owns the place.

They’re all beginner-friendly, but don’t let that fool you; these bikes aren’t just for first-timers figuring out which end of the clutch to pull. Whether you’re new to riding or have years of dirt under your nails and sand in your helmet, these machines deliver.

From City Streets to Gravel Passes: One Setup for Every type of motorbike Ride

They’re light, easy to handle, forgiving when you stuff up, and simple to fix when you eventually do. Cheap on fuel, low on maintenance drama, and built to take a beating, they’re the kind of bikes that let you focus on the ride, not the stress.

From weekday commutes and coffee shop runs to weekend camping trips and long-haul gravel adventures, they’ll get the job done and still make you grin while doing it.

 Triumph Scrambler 400X

• Engine: 398cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled, 29 hp, 37.5 Nm torque.
• Weight: Around 179 kg wet.
• Ground clearance: ~195 mm.
• Why it rocks: Classic scrambler looks with solid build quality. Light, flickable, comfy on tarmac, and capable on light gravel.
• Good to know: It’s not a hardcore dirt machine, more of a retro street bike that can handle mild trails. Ideal for mixed rides with a bit of show-off style at the café, just unadulterated fun!
• Tank Size: 13 litres Decent for mixed use, roughly 300+ km range if you’re not riding like a hooligan.

Royal Enfield Himalayan

• Engine: 411cc air-cooled single-cylinder, ~24.5 hp, 40 Nm torque.
• Weight: About 196 kg wet.
• Ground clearance: 230 mm.
• Why it rocks: Simple, rugged, dead easy to fix. Built like a tractor. Loves slow, technical stuff and chewing up rough roads.
• Good to know: Not powerful, but that’s the point; you can plod over rocks and through rivers all day without drama. Super forgiving for newer riders or chilled adventurers.
• Tank Size: 17 litres A bigger tank suits longer stints. Can push 400+ km on calm rides thanks to low fuel use.

CFMoto 450MT Ibex

• Engine: 449cc parallel-twin, ~31 kw, 42 Nm torque.
• Weight: About 185 kg wet.
• Ground clearance: 220 mm.
• Why it rocks: Total dark horse. Peppy engine, light clutch, surprisingly refined. Affordable, cheerful, and punches above its price.
• Good to know: Not a prestige brand, but they’re getting serious; parts support is improving, and these bikes are proving themselves under rough use.
• Tank Size: 17.5 litres On the 450MT Ibex ADV spec. That’s seriously big for this class; you’ll get a very solid range, easily over 400 km. Making for a great continent-crossing machine.

Proof you don’t need sense, MAD skills, or a giant bike to have a damn good day

What makes the Turkana MadMules so damn versatile?

The MadMules are a rackless, modular, waterproof, soft luggage system, which means they strap directly onto just about any bike; no expensive, heavy metal pannier racks are needed. And the system only weighs around 2,5-3kg

That’s a huge deal, because it cuts weight, cost, and faff.

They’re built from custom-developed adventure-grade fabrics, tougher than your average Cordura or nylon, and designed to handle excessive UV, mud, grit, rocks, and whatever else Africa, Patagonia, or the Rockies can throw at them.

Why they work on anything:

• The fully adjustable harness system plus clever tension straps means you can mount them on a skinny dual-sport, a chubby ADV bike, or even a small street scrambler.
• The side pockets and top roll help distribute weight properly so you’re not messing up your bike’s balance; they don’t flap around like cheap one-season bags.
• Modular design: you can strap on or remove extra bags (like your TrekBag, Bullfrog tank bags, or PelliPouches) depending on whether you’re popping out for a weekend or disappearing into the sticks for two months.
• A lightweight setup = keeps your bike nimble and doesn’t overstress subframes (especially critical on small bikes).
• Fully waterproof inner liners keep your kit dry without needing ugly rain covers.

GeckoGrip, Bullfrog & PelliPouch: small bags, big damn difference

The GeckoGrip tank bag harness is basically your universal problem solver. It wraps around just about any bike’s tank or seat and lets you secure a Bullfrog 5L motorcycle tank bag without scratching paint or worrying about weird shapes. No magnets, no flappy straps, just a clever hold-fast system that hugs your bike like a persistent piece of mud between the front wheel and fender.

The Bullfrog 5L itself is a bombproof little waterproof rolltop. Big enough for snacks, cameras, gloves, chargers, bribes, or whatever you carry. And because it mounts on the GeckoGrip, you can swap it to another bike in minutes.

Then there’s the PelliPouch handlebar bag a small, tough stash spot that bolts straight onto your bars. Perfect for your phone, documents, or anything you’d rather not dig around for in the main bags. It’s all built with the same overkill-level adventure fabrics and waterproof liners, so rain, dust, or that surprise water crossing won’t kill your day (or your phone).

Together, these bits turn your bike into a modular adventure rig. Want to ride light? Just run the PelliPouch. Longer days? Slap on the Bullfrog. Weekend trips? Fill up the MadMules. Easy, fast, and zero drama.

What makes Turkana gear such a no-brainer? It’s dead simple. This kit doesn’t care if you ride a skinny little street scrambler, a chunky dual-sport, or a dirt-chomping beast. Modular, rackless, and fully adjustable, it straps on with zero fuss, with no fancy racks or four-hour garage sessions needed. It’s waterproof, dustproof, and built from fabrics that laugh at rocks, thorns, or your worst packing decisions.

Commute to work, blast off for a quick overnighter, or vanish into nowhere for a month. Add a bag, drop a bag, switch it to another bike, all done in minutes. Stop overthinking it; just ride.

Why we’ve got it so damn good right now

The truth is, we’re living in a golden age for two wheels. Not that long ago, your choices were either a rattly, shitty-looking delivery bike or something so pricey you’d have to sell a kidney just to insure it.

Now? You’ve got sharp-looking, mid-sized machines like the Triumph 400X, Royal Enfield Himalayan, BMW 310/450, KTM 390 Adventure, and CFMoto 450 that are easy on the wallet, easy on the eyes, and dead simple to ride. Whether it’s your first bike or your tenth. Or part of your 5 must-have-in-the-garage collection.

They sip fuel, laugh at rough roads, and pull double duty as weekday commuters and weekend wanderers. Paired with Turkana’s modular, bloody tough soft luggage that fits anything and goes anywhere, it means adventure isn’t locked behind a fat bank account or a giant ADV rig.

Basically, there’s never been a better time to grab a bike, strap on some bags, and go see what’s around the next corner. No excuses, just ride.

Thanks to Royal Enfield South Africa, Triumph South Africa, CFMoto, Mira ActiveWear, Claude Deyzel and Mike aka LekkaRides for all the help ghosting work, and have a blast of a day

The post Why Turkana’s Rackless Panniers Are Perfect for Any Bike, Even the Little Guys appeared first on Turkana Motorcycle Adventure Gear.

English being my second language and typical of South Africans, we have a weird accent; sometimes I run out of English airtime.

Nevertheless, I hope you enjoy the nonsense we get up to.

BTW, if you do not want to listen, keep the video playing in the background to trick the algorithm into thinking people actually love the vid and give ADVrider some mojo.

“Michnus Olivier had a good life working in the insurance business in Johannesburg. That is until his partner Elsebie goaded him into take a chance on taking a chance. There was no looking back. They hit the road to points unknown and, in the process, developed South African-designed-and-made touring gear via their Turkana brand.”
Neil

The post Lowdown Podcast#52 / He Took a Chance And it Changed His Life appeared first on Turkana Motorcycle Adventure Gear.

Designed from strong, waterproof material, the bags guarantee the rider’s goods remain dry and resist demanding environments. Two sizes—20 litres and 30 liters—of the Turkana HippoHipsTM bags meet different storage requirements. Long-distance motorbike trips will find the bags a dependable choice because of their practicality, durability, and simplicity of use.

The plates weigh 900 grams each and can be installed on the pannier racks of the major manufacturers thanks to their particular design, which also allows you to connect various accessories such as panels with MOLLE attachment from the same manufacturer or Rotopax tanks.

Using the appropriate adapter, the Turkana plates can also be installed on the flared frames of the BMW R 1200 GS, R 1250 GS Adventure, and F 850 ​​GS Adventure.

The HippoHips soft bags by Turkana, marketed in Italy by Motoviaggio Store, are available individually at the price of 159 euros for the 20-litre version and 169 euros for the 30-litre version.

Article by: Antonio Femi

The post Review RoadBook magazine – Turkana HippoHips Hybrid Soft saddle Bags appeared first on Turkana Motorcycle Adventure Gear.

Translated: Newcomer to the market of adventure motorcycle soft  ​luggage ​travel. Turkana Gear was born ​of the association of two great ​motorcycle adventure travelers, a ​Dutch and a South African, who decided to design the rackless baggage to be ideally suited for road and off-road travelers.

Our view? Easy, secure assembly ​safety and easy repair in case ​of an accident in the middle of nowhere. For our part, we tested ​the MadMules on the TET and the ​first good surprise is definitely the ease of assembly.
No hooks to screw, no metal, nothing complicated; everything is secured by straps.

Once the unique and universal basis easily attached even on a Triumph Tiger 900 equipped with grab handles for an XXL passenger, we attached the saddlebags. These are fixed based on the M.O.L.LE system (webbing grid), and then the different optional pockets attach to the main saddlebags by the same bias.

Easy and effective. The minimum configuration consists of the installation of the base and two bags of 5L, 10L, 15L or 20L sold with a removable waterproof inner bag. A baby blessing in the evening when it is necessary to charge because there is no need to disassemble the setup; we go out just the bag that is inside.

Also, the mounting type is interesting because the saddlebags are placed motorcycle-related and their narrowness​ so that they do not interfere with riding. Furthermore, the position operation of the main saddlebags blades is very widely adjustable; the latter can be more or less tilted.

Obviously, for the bag positioned on the exhaust side, it is sometimes necessary to use a heat protection on the exhaust silencer. We tested the 15L size, and the loading capacity is enough for a few days solo. Add a few additional elements, like the little 3-litre BushBaby bag, which allows you to take your toolkit and a compressor. Finally, Turkana Gear guarantees its products on a very long-lasting basis and replaces products at a friendly price in case of accidental destruction.

French:A newcomer to the Ivoyage soft luggage market, Turkana Gear was born from the association of two great adventure motorcycle travelers, a Dutchman  and a South African, who decided to design the ideal soft luggage for great off-road travelers. The specifications? Easy assembly, safety and easy repair in the event of breakage in the middle of nowhere.

For our part, we tested the MadMules on the TET and the first good surprise actually concerns the ease of assembly.

No screw hooks, no metal, nothing complicated, everything is done with Velcro and secure straps. Once the unique and universal base (sold for €274) is easily attached even to a Triumph Tiger 900 equipped with XXL passenger grab handles, the main  bags are attached. The latter are attached to the base using the MOLLE system (webbing grid) and then the various optional pockets are attached to the main bags using the same method. Easy and efficient.

The minimum configuration consists of the base and two rectangular saddlebags of 5, 10, 15 or 20 1 sold with a removable waterproof tarpaulin inner bag. A blessing in the evening when you have to unload because there is no need to disassemble the elements, you just take out the bag that is inside. Also, the type of assembly is interesting because the saddlebags are attached to the motorcycle and their narrowness  means  that they do not interfere with driving. In addition, the positioning of the main saddlebags is very widely adjustable, the latter can be more or less tilted and positioned high. Obviously, for the saddlebag positioned on the exhaust side it is potentially necessary to use heat protection on the exhaust silencer.

We tested the 15L elements and the loading capacity is sufficient for a few days solo. Adding a few extra elements like the small BushBaby bag of 3 | (45 €) allows you to take your tool kit and a compressor. Finally, Turkana Gear guarantees its products for a very long period and replaces the products at a friendly price in the event of accidental  destruction.

Article by: motomag.com
Pierre Siedzianowski, photos: Bruno Sellier

The post Review – Turkana MadMules – Moto Journal Hors-Série Trails appeared first on Turkana Motorcycle Adventure Gear.