Riding across the breathtaking Himalayas on a motorcycle seems to be one of those bucket list adventures for everyone, including myself, it has been on my list for years. And I can finally tick it off, after an incredible eight days of epic but largely intense riding I completed the ultimate Himalayan adventure across India on the new 2024 Royal Enfield Himalayan 350cc motorcycle.
Day 1
Following 2 days of altitude acclimatization in Leh (12,500 feet / 3,810m) we set off into the Himalaya mountains. Leaving the hustle of Leh it was apparent within minutes that we were in for some spectacular scenery on this adventure. The expanses of rugged mountains, the rock formations, raging rivers and aggressive canyons. The road quality was an immediate expectation exceeder, with such high military activities close to the Chinese border the roads are better than most in Europe. We left the tarmac on some small windy canyon roads with dramatic rock faces and minimal traffic. With just 28km to go we turned a corner to face a huge landside, thankfully the Himalayan is made for all roads or no roads…
Day one landslide haults bucket list trip in Himalayas India
Day 1: Leh to Zangla
Total time: 11hr 10min Riding time: 7hr 52min Distance: 176miles (283km) Max altitude reached: 16,257ft (4,955m) Mountain passes/Road/Highway Names: Indus Valley, Yapola River, Sir-Sir La Pass, Sing La Pass, Zanskar Valley (landslide/diggers)
Day 2
The second day in India was by far the scariest & most intense day on a motorbike I’ve had outside of extreme desert racing! In the Himalayas you have to plan for the unexpected!
After an awesome day with some beautiful scenery, we arrived to the Shinkula Pass military check point at 15.30… which was less than ideal as the friendly soldier told us we were too late. The weather was pulling in and strong winds and snow would make it dangerous and impassable. The 2-hour ascent would mean a 17.30pm summit in the worst of the blizzard… But after showing him and explaining what gear we had and that we were equipped he happily let us pass. Well the 2 hour accent quickly turned into 3 and then into 4… The terrain was quickly becoming more slippery, the wind, snow and ice were increasing rapidly, and temperatures were dropping even quicker, the desicion to ride the 16,580ft mountain pass became questionable.
Caught in a snowstorm at 16580 feet in India – brutal day
Day 2: Zangla – Darcha
Total time: 9hr 43min Riding time: 5hr 12min Distance: 113miles / 181km Max altitude reached: 16,532ft Mountain passes/Road/Highway Names: Shinkula Top Pass (Blizzard Mountain pass)
The Himalayas as definitely living up to expectations! A trip of a lifetime! Next up we will be facing the infamous Manali Highway on motorcycles
Day 3
The day of three peaks, riding the Himalayas in India but on a magnitude like nothing before – the Manali Highway, notoriously known as one of the most dangerous roads in the world. And after facing numerous near head on collisions, suicidal chicken buses, plus herds of shaggy goats, pedestrians and stray dogs…and then a 4 hour traffic jam…I can see why!
Riding the Manali highway we faced a mega traffic jam at over 16,000 feet. And at 16k ft on a motorcycle we’re vulnerable. A weather front could be life changing without a car for protection. Politely but forcefully we got vehicles to move slightly and allow bikes through. Soon, 50+ bikes were moving. I stopped to kick snow away to make a gap & quickly realised how little oxygen was available for my increased heart rate. Thankfully we had oxygen tanks and a few puffs later I was back hustling with the goal… Get off this mountain!
4 hour traffic jam on world’s most dangerous road – the Manali highway
Day 3: Darcha – Tso Kar
Total time: 10hr 28min Riding time: 7hr 03min Distance: 170miles/ 275km Max altitude reached: 16,643ft Mountain passes/Road/Highway Names: Baralacha La 16168 ft, Nakee La 16158 ft, Lachalung La 16634 ft
More episodes to come with a new episode posted on my YouTube every Sunday at 6 pm (GMT)
If you’re new to my page – it’s more than just dirt bike riding and racing, I’m on a mission to prove that nothing is impossible if you want it bad enough. See more about my story plus read about my life changing accident, which started it all.
For many people across Africa the only way of reaching medical care is to walk miles by foot, travel the bumpy roads on a donkey and cart or get pushed in a wheelbarrow. And many do not make it at all. Two Wheels for Life works to ensure healthcare reaches people in the poorest and most remote parts of Africa – using reliable, appropriate vehicles including motorcycles. This is a charity for moto lovers!!
They support the mobility of healthcare in areas where the roads would be considered more like a ‘fun enduro track’ to many of us. Providing 300+ motorcycles and 100+ vehicles without Two Wheels For Life many people would be left with absolutely no medical help. The sounds of that two-stroke entering their village must be an incredible noise to hear.
In the video below I will share with you everything you need to know about the incredible work Two Wheels For Life do to support the mobility of healthcare in Africa. Including a guided tour of the Riders For Health HQ that is supported by the funds raised by Two Wheels For Life in The Gambia. I will be showing you the key elements of the organisation from the mechanical workshops, maintenance bar, stores and stock department, refueling areas and processes, plus showing the Yamaha AG bikes used by healthcare workers and of course riding them, testing out their capabilities and exploring the remote villages of The Gambia.
Motorcycles save lives – here’s how
Two Wheels For Life have a zero breakdown policy supported by extensive mechanical training to both the healthcare workers and the network of facilities across The Gambia for vehicles to have regular services. Here, if a vehicle breaks down it means medical support stops and that could quite literally mean a life being lost. They also train them on riding and provide safety gear for a holistic life cycle for use.
Without them, there would be zero ambulances or healthcare vehicles in The Gambia – zero!! That’s something I personally want to continue to support.
I hope you also feel inspired by the work they do. It’s an honour to be working amongst such brands and individuals.
How can you help?
The simplest way you can help that does not cost anything is by watching or sharing my video above. Every extra soul who sees this video is a step towards greater awareness, support and hopefully donations.
As the official charity partner for the Goodwood Festival of Speed and MotoGP, Two Wheels For lIfe provide merchandise you can purchase, take part in auctions, buy official MotoGp memorabilia, meet your motorcylce hero’s, exclusive behind the scenes tickets for MotoGp and so much more! With which every penny raised helps Two Wheels For Life deliver this life saving healthcare.
Alternatively you can make donations directly via the Two Wheels For Life website.
What does a day in the life of a healthcare worker look like in The Gambia?
It’s time to get behind the scenes and see! I had the opportunity to ride alongside Lamin, a local Gambian healthcare worker, on the Yamaha AG motorcycle and spend the day visiting the remote villages and seeing firsthand the amazing and impactful work that Two Wheels For Life provide.
Watch here:
It was an absolute honour to be able to spend time on the ground, visit rural villages, visit the immunization clinics, and be part of this incredible programme. I hope you enjoyed watching and reading about Two Wheels For Life, this is an organisation that does so much more than I could fit into these videos and article so if you would like to learn more, see what else they do, or see other ways you can help or support, please check out their website below.
If you’re new to my page – it’s more than just dirt bike riding and racing, I’m on a mission to prove that nothing is impossible if you want it bad enough. See more about my story plus read about my life changing accident, which started it all.
The Ultimate One-day Motorcycle Trip in the UK – The Wye Valley
The UK has some incredible riding and it’s time to get out and make the most of it! The ultimate one-day road trip in the UK begins and ends in the beautiful Wye Valley. I challenge you to try this route in Monmouthshire near Bristol or simply get out and explore your home area.
In the video below I will show you where to go, best places to stop, things to see and do, where to eat and as well as riding footage of some exceptionally scenic roads.
The ultimate one-day road trip in the UK – Welcome to the Wye Valley
Below I have detailed the full road trip including a route plan, the best roads and top places to stop for refreshments and photos.
Paddle Café Firetruck, near Symonds Yat [view point / coffee / snack / food]
Bigsweir Bridge, River Wye [to see not stop]
The Old Station Tintern [coffee / snack / food]
Tintern Abbey [view / self-guided tour]
Anchor Inn Tintern [coffee / food]
Chepstow race course
This is a fantastic one-day road trip around the Wye Valley but if you are able to spend more time or wish to make it into a weekend trip there are plenty more scenic roads to ride, along with many other attractions, activities, viewing points and scrumptious restaurant and cafes around. I have compiled a small list below of some of the other exciting things you could do and see.
Other Attractions nearby
Clearwell caves: spectacular natural cave system that has been mined for more than 4500 years underneath the Forest of Dean.
Wild Bore spotting in the Forest of Dean
Puzzlewood, Forest of Dean: A magical, enchanting, ancient woodland, filled with fantastic tree and rock formations. A popular film location, from television series such as Merlin & films such as Star Wars
Wye Valley Butterfly Zoo: Walk amongst free-flying tropical butterflies, play mini golf, get lost in the maze, plenty of things to see and do.
Goodrich Castle Ruins: One of the finest and best preserved of all English medieval castles. Boasting a remarkable history and unforgettable views.
MTB adventure (Pedal A Bike Away Bike Hire)
Sex education tour: Have you ever watched Sex Education TV series on Netflix? A large amount of this was filmed in the Wye Valley, including the infamous red house where Otis and his mum lived, the woods where Otis and Eric cycle to school, the high school, the shop where Adam and Ola work, plus so much more
Accommodation
There are numerous amounts of places to stay in the Wye Valley area, below are a few auggestions that are following the route I have provided above, but be sure to check out others online as there are many hidden little gems and Bed and Breakfast tucked away in the magical forests and valleys.
Lion Inn, Trellech
Premier Inn Monmouth
The Wye Valley Hotel, Tintern
Booking.com / AirBnB
If you’re new to my page – it’s more than just dirt bike riding and racing, I’m on a mission to prove that nothing is impossible if you want it bad enough. See more about my story plus read about my life changing accident, which started it all.
What kit to wear motorcycle adventure through the Himalayas, India
Adventure motorcycle riding can result in us facing a huge array of weather conditions, and so getting the right kit is critical to our safety and enjoyment. I recently rode motorcycles in the Himalayas and wanted to share the kit I used to help you plan the right kit, be prepared and ready for the unexpected when riding adv, especially in the Himalayan mountains in India.
Adventure motorcycle conditions mean you are battling extreme temperature changes, high altitude, rocky and unpredictable terrain, pedestrians, landslides, snow storms and not to mention navigating your way through and around the suicidal chicken buses on some of the most dangerous roads in the world.
In this episode of my multi part Himalayan motorcycle adventure tour I will run you through the most important pieces of kit you should be thinking about taking when setting off on your next adventure.
Key areas of focus when choosing your adventure riding kit:
Base layers (Revolution Race, Alpinestars, Dainese)
What materials to wear and what to avoid – spoiler alert… cotton should be BANNED!!
How to layer correctly for warmth and coolness (Mosko Ectotherm heated jacket)
Jacket and trouser options (Mosko Moto Basilisk, Mosko Moto Woodsman)
I hope this video helps you work out what kit to wear motorcycle adventure riding in the Himalayas. Please let me know any questions in the YouTube comments or message me on Facebook/ Instagram.
Remember, kit is very personal so you need to find what suits your body, your bike, your riding and your budget! You’ll notice that my kit includes a variety of brands, that is because my personal preference doesn’t mean one brand meets all my needs. I hope my honesty helps you stay warm, dry and with a smile as your explore the world! Watch the what kit to wear adventure riding in the Himalayas below:
How to survive in the brutal Himalayas
If you’re new to my page – it’s more than just dirt bike riding and racing, I’m on a mission to prove that nothing is impossible if you want it bad enough. See more about my story plus read about my life changing accident, which started it all.
Off road enduro motorcycling adventure in Iceland with Ride with Locals
Iceland is my number one riding country in the world and I am on a mission to show you why!! Below you will find my full adventure series from my trip to Iceland. Armed with a KTM enduro bike and 6 days of never-ending off-road terrain you will see why this is the number one motorcycle riding destination in the world. This is a multi-part off-road motorcycle adventure with Ride With Locals.
Riding the KTM EXCF 350 enduro motorcycle we travelled 200-240 kms each day into the heart of Iceland. Ride With Locals offers motorcycle riding experiences through Iceland like nowhere else on Earth and I hope this video will help you see why!
Over 2.5 million tourists visit Iceland each year to see the big sights. Hot spas, waterfalls, glaciers, geysers, tectonic plates and lava fields. They pack into coaches or hire cars. But riding here with Ride With Locals on off-road bikes changes your perspective.
Come along and watch as we discover the untouched but must-see spots of Iceland. Exploring the things most tourists might only glimpse from the plane window.
Part 1: Off-road motorcycling through the heart of ICELAND – Part One – Ride With Locals
Part 2: Experience Daily Volcanic Eruptions While Riding Motorcycles With Ride With Locals – Amazing!
We rode up close to Hekla, slept below the Myrdalsjokull Glacier, recharged in a spa, explored huge craters without a soul in sight, picked across lava fields such as Veiðivatnahraun, crossed valley basins and crested mountains, riding volcanic ash berms. It was riding heaven combined with cultural and geological discovery.
This is a trip only motorcycles can make possible. We had six days riding, covered roughly 1400km doing 9 to 11- hour riding days and got to see the real Iceland – which is unseen by most tourists.
Check out the bonus videos for this series below:
Enduro bike off road review on KTM EXC-F 350 in Iceland:
Top tips for riding motorcycles in Iceland:
For a fully-inclusive motorcycle Iceland trip on KTM EXCFs with a support vehicle, fuel, meals, snacks, mountain huts, hotels, beer and all the local knowledge from the Vikings, expect to pay around €4400 per person.
Ride With Locals are the only Icelandic enduro company and based just a 2h 45min flight from the UK.
If you’re new to my page – it’s more than just dirt bike riding and racing, I’m on a mission to prove that nothing is impossible if you want it bad enough. See more about my story plus read about my life changing accident, which started it all.
Follow my journey as I take on one of the most difficult and prestigious off-road races in the history of Motorsports. The original and real Dakar Rally; The Africa Eco Race. This multi episode series is an incredibly real and honest look at what it takes to battle through the toughest, most extreme and historically renowned endurance rally races ever.
I will take you through the whole two-week journey; from the preparations to the start line wobbles, to traversing giant sand dunes, to crying alone in the middle of the desert all the way to standing proud on the podium in Dakar, Senegal holding the 1st place trophy.
This is one series you don’t want to miss!!!
Terrified! Ready to watch the brutal desert rally adventure racing to Dakar Senegal?
This first episode I will introduce you to my support crew, show you around my support vehicle and trailer, and take you through some of the key components of preparing for this brutally challenging race. Including a day in the mud with Bowler in the Land Rover beasts.
For 13 days I race over 6,000kms of some of the most remote, rugged and punishing terrain in the world. Facing extreme weather, limited sleep, high speeds, long days, isolation and unforgiving terrains, this is one series you do not want to miss.
Part 2 – Too Scared to Fall Asleep – Race to Dakar
This episode is a rollercoaster of emotions! From the nerves of the sign on and the last-minute bike adjustments in scrutineering, to the thrill and excitement of the opening ceremony, followed quickly by the intense realization that this is it… The official start of the Africa Eco Race is now… Emotions are high as I say my teary goodbyes and question myself, why am I here and what have I gotten myself into?
Am I ready to face the extreme weather, limited sleep, high speeds, long days, isolation and unforgiving terrains?
This prestigious race follows the original and historical route of “The Dakar” rally through the African continent, beginning in France and continuing through Morocco, Mauritania and Senegal traversing across the unforgiving Sahara Desert with one goal – make it to the finish line; Dakar…
Part 3 – Close Call: Heart-pounding Escape From Car Crash In Race To Dakar Senegal
Equipped with nothing but an odometer, compass and a paper scroll road book I must navigate my way over thousand of kms of punishing terrain. It is no easy task enduring extreme desert temperatures of up to 50°C during the day and -5°C during the nights while navigating through difficult and punishing terrain, staying focused all while fighting exhaustion and energy depletion after racing for days on end.
Part 4 – Appalling day – crashed and totally lost in the desert racing to Dakar Senegal
This episode is a thrilling journey of stage two racing to Dakar Senegal on my KTM desert rally bike where I totally forget how to ride and have a nasty crash. Facing the infamous Merzouga sand dunes, enough jaw rattling rock to make Morocco proud. Oh and of course, my first off, causing my Alpinestars Tech Air off road airvest to deploy. Did I mention I also get lost? Very… Very lost!
I’ve entered the full rally class, so I am racing against the elite, with names like Joan Pedrero and Pol Tarres. This Rally is a true test of endurance for both the drivers/riders and their support vehicles, and it’s not for the faint of heart
Part 5 – Painful day racing – stuck in the pitch black fighting to get to Dakar Senegal
This episode marks part 5 of my 13-day journey across the Sahara on a KTM450RR, tackling what’s known as the world’s most challenging off-road race. Despite the hardships faced, including exhaustive 13-hour rides and the complexities of navigating in the dark, the adventure remains exhilarating. Each day brings a mix of physical and mental challenges, but with determination and a newfound partnership, the path forward, even in the harshest conditions, seems a bit more navigable…
Part 6 – Cruel but epic Dakar motorbike adventure – If this was a one day race, no one would enter
The massive challenge in Part 6 was not just the length and the brutal rocky terrain of Africa, but the navigation was tough too. Navigating over several hundred kilometers of relatively flat but open plain and barren desert with nothing in sight other than a horizon and rock after rock that looks the same is a lot more challenging that one may think in extreme desert racing. There is no GPS technology. It is like being lost at sea, left looks the same as right and vice versa, it is no wonder so many people got lost on this day and didn’t make it back until well after dark!
Part 7 – Riding so fast his pants fell down! Averaging 85km/h in the Africa Eco Race to Dakar
Faced with endless feeling terrain, Part 7 saw me racing fearless at full throttle for many hours. It was a mentally and physically draining day, with endless horizons, no major landmarks or features and nothing but vast empty spaced desert meaning navigation was to take center stage. Thankfully with my strong navigational skills and some tweaks to my bike yesterday it meant for a faster and shorter day today… only 9.5 hours riding my KTM rally replica bike.
Part 8 – Rest Day Shenanigans – Africa Eco Race
In the 13 day race all riders, drivers, competitors, service crew, support crews and organisers are given 1 rest day to be able to recharge and refuel their bodies, review equipment, service and maintain their vehicles and have a stretch, this rest day occurs on the 6th day of racing; the last day in Morocco before heading across the border into Mauritania.
Part 9 – What’s it like racing to Dakar? It’s time for Mauritanian sand
Riding over the border into Mauritania saw a transition in such an emotional and moving way; from the level of rubbish to the quality of living in the communities, and also the colossal amount of sand and to think this is just a teaser of what the adventure in Mauritania will be like over the second week of the race.
https://youtu.be/qttZqg-VhQg?si=24TyDl449onbcCpz
No wonder this is one of the hardest off road races in the world, I have made it just over halfway of this 13-day race, and tackling some of the gnarliest terrain Africa can offer. I have ridden over 3,800km so far and still have over 2,100km to go. This race is not designed for the weak, the mental toughness is just as hard if not harder than the physical endurance it takes on your body.
Everyone put the fear of God into me about Mauritania and how horrifically soft and brutal the sand was, which of course meant I have been terrified for days, weeks, months even years! Dreading the day I was to face this punishing terrain that the original Dakar route was to provide. Watch the next episode below to see the riding footage of me vs the Mauritanian sand dunes as I continue the race to Dakar.
Part 10 – Another day alone in the desert – fighting for Dakar in the Africa Eco Race
Part 11 – Africa is trying to break me….will I actually be able to make it Dakar?
The toughest day of the Africa Eco race so far. Extreme endurance racing from Monaco to Dakar, Senegal covering 6,000km following the original Dakar route is a grueling test… From the moment I woke I could tell it was going to be a hard day. The fatigue has really started to settle in. With another 478km to get through, I face not only the physical battle but the mental battle of the burning question – can I make it another day, and will I actually be able to make it Dakar? Watch below
Part 12 – Seeing such a huge crash in monster size dunes really shook me up
Consisting of 70% sand and at least 125 km of giant soft sand dunes and some very poor quality rocky tracks, day 10 (Part 12) was really hard going. In this extra warm part of Mauritania I had to be vigilant with my bike and body temperatures throughout the largest and most magnificent dunes in the country, reaching heights of up to 400meters!
Part 13 – Worst injury so far but I’m fighting on
After racing over 4,000km so far my body is fatigued, my energy levels are low and I need to dig deep. I can understand why being able to say you finished the original Dakar is such a huge achievement.
Another intense day in Africa racing to Dakar in the Africa Eco Race on my KTM. The toll on my body from day after day racing across the desert is really kicking my butt! Thankfully my incredible support crew are helping me keep going. As always I’m sharing the real honest reality of extreme rally racing with you, injuries and all. Watch below!
Part 14 – How do you race when your body is shutting down… This is killing me
The penultimate day! Dakar seems to be in sight but my body seems to be shutting down. The pain in my arms, pure exhaustion and mentally drained is a combination that sounds ready to quit. But with 837km left to Dakar the end feels so close! I really hope this Dakar series racing the original Dakar route in the Africa Eco Race gives you some behind the scenes understanding of what it takes to compete in such a grueling infamous race!
Part 15: – Massive crash 12km from Dakar
It’s finally time for the last day of the Africa Eco Race. The 6000+ km gruelling 13 day extreme desert rally all the way from Monaco France down to Dakar in Senegal has been the most monumental challenge on my body and mental resilience I have needed to just keep fighting on each day.
My mission has always been to share the real honest behind the scenes reality of what it takes to finish in Dakar. In the final episode things go dramatically wrong just 12 km from the 6000+ km finish line. On the famous beach race into Lac Rose I didn’t see shipwreck debris in the sand, throwing me over the handlebars and landing hard.
More information on this series:
EasySim www.easysim.global use discount code TGOAB15 for 15% off all data bundles
Guardian Bell tracking system www.guardianbell.co.uk
I’m riding Big Buddy a KTM 450 rally replica with some key modifications:
KTech Suspension set for my weight
Michelin desert bib mousse and tyres to ensure zero punctures
Caulfield custom made seat for a happy Vanessa bottom
Cross Country ADV mega rally pegs
And my own personalized graphics designed by me
Custom tool kit hidden under the seat with Teng Tools and my emergency flare
My riding kit:
Mosko moto Woodsman Enduro pants and Backpack
Custom Owayo jersey
Alpinestars TechAir off road air vest [more information – link https://youtu.be/b7rRSbrQMrg]
Alpinestars Tech 7 boots
Scott goggles with scratch proof lens films by Infinite Optics
Hebo helmet with mouth water pipe
My support vehicle:
Land Rover Bowler Defender 90 on BF Goodrich tyres with Lazer lamp
If you’re new to my page – it’s more than just dirt bike riding and racing, I’m on a mission to prove that nothing is impossible if you want it bad enough. See more about my story plus read about my life changing accident, which started it all.
Wern Ddu Quarry – UK’s toughest hard enduro location
Wern Ddu Quarry, arguably the best and toughest hard enduro venue in the UK. Offering an array of different level hills, tracks, gnarly rocky streams and more.
Welcome to Wern Ddu Quarry, arguably the best and toughest hard enduro venue in the UK. Finding decent places to ride and train hard enduro can be tough, especially with so many places closing down. The venue offers an array of different level hills, climbs, single track and even gnarly rocky streams. This means it is suitable for notice through to highly experienced riders.
In this video I’ll share a day riding at Wern Ddu Quarry in North Wales and you can see for yourself why it is one of the best enduro venues in the UK and how it nearly killed me!
Welcome to Wern Ddu
Expect to be exhausted and bruised by the end of the day, but you will be leaving with a huge smile and improved skills. It is open on weekends pretty much all year round, with pre booking available on their website.
Enduro bikes and trials bikes are allowed but there is a noise limit on bikes, so be sure to check as they are strict [OEM pipes recommended].
If you’re new to my page – it’s more than just dirt bike riding and racing, I’m on a mission to prove that nothing is impossible if you want it bad enough. See more about my story plus read about my life changing accident, which started it all.
The Africa Eco Race is one of the most difficult and prestigious rally raids in the history of Motorsport, following the original and real route of The Dakar.
What is the Africa Eco Race (AER):
This legendary off-road race is one of the harshest, most brutal rally raids (race) in the world. 500+ participants race their motorcycles, trucks, quads and cars, for 12 straight days across thousands of miles of some of the most remote, rugged and punishing terrain in the world.
Facing extreme weather, limited sleep, high speeds, long days, isolation and unforgiving terrains are some of the reasons why the Africa Eco Race remains to be one of the most difficult and prestigious rallies in the history of motorsport.
Why it is the real Dakar rally:
The Africa Eco Race was launched in 2009 by two men who wanted to keep the original spirit and route of Dakar alive after “The Dakar” Rally was moved in 2008 from its original location in Africa to South America, followed by Saudi Arabia where the race is currently held now. Subsequently with this move and the desire to keep the traditional, legendary and historic Paris to Dakar rally alive the Africa Eco Race was born.
The AER follows the original route of “The Dakar” rally through the African continent, crossing thousands of miles over multiple countries while traversing through the Sahara Desert with one goal – make it to the finish line; Dakar. Every year the AER makes minor alterations to various stages of the race to keep things fresh and exciting but ultimately the race is the same as the original just with a different name.
Why is it called Africa Eco Race and why is it special:
Although the Africa Eco Race has recaptured and kept the original Dakar spirit alive by racing the real and traditional route of Paris to Dakar, there have been some major changes in the values, focus and goals of the rally. During the time when “The Dakar” was in Africa there were many criticisms made in regards to the environment, inhabitants, livestock and human rights. Which is why the AER has captivated the world with their values and the way it is operated.
The Africa Eco Race has a special focus on the environment, the communities, the people and local businesses of those that which the race passes through. It operates in a way that puts the true values of human lives, eco responsibility, authenticity, sustainable development, environmental impact and sportsmanship at the forefront.
It is the most environmentally friendly and ecologically aware rally race in the world, running a series of projects each year that help provide long term contributions to improve the lives of people in the remote areas of the countries that are raced across. Whilst also contributing to the local economy and ensuring they are involved at a maximum.
Where is the race and how long is it:
This extremely brutal, intense and challenging off road rally begins in Europe and ends in Africa. Beginning in Monaco and continuing through Morocco, Mauritania and Senegal traversing across the unforgiving Sahara Desert all the way to Dakar.
Participants come from all over the world to take part in this incredible race, upon arrival they are equipped with nothing but an odometer, compass and a paper scroll road book and must navigate their way over more than 6500km/4000miles of punishing terrain during the course of 12 days.
Who can do it:
The Africa Eco Race welcomes amateurs and professionals, but this Rally is a true test of endurance for both the drivers/riders and their vehicles, and it’s not for the faint of heart. It is no easy task enduring extreme desert temperatures of up to 50°C during the day and -5°C during the nights while navigating through difficult and punishing terrain, unforgiving conditions, constantly maintaining and repairing your machine all while staying focused for 2 weeks in a row during this insanely long race.
Watch me:
Follow me Vanessa Ruck “The Girl On A Bike” as I take on the Africa Eco Race in 2024. I will be documenting the whole experience from start to finish and sharing a unique perspective on what its like to take on the real Dakar.
The 2024 Africa Eco Race departs Monaco on the 30th December 2023 and finishes in Senegal on the 14th January 2024. See the table below for more information on the race schedule.
Dates:
Day:
Stages;
Daily Distance
Special Stage Distance
Accumulated Distance:
02-Jan
Tuesday
NADOR / BOUDNIB
598 KM
SS: 174 KM
598
03-Jan
Wednesday
BOUDNIB / MHAMID
425 KM
SS: 383 KM
1023
04-Jan
Thursday
MHAMID / ASSA
523 KM
SS: 463 KM
1546
05-Jan
Friday
ASSA / FORT CHACAL
473 KM
SS: 468 KM
2019
06-Jan
Saturday
FORT CHACAL / DAKHLA
593 KM
SS: 405 KM
2612
07-Jan
Sunday
REST DAY IN DAKHLA
2612
08-Jan
Monday
DAKHLA / CHAMI
635 KM
SS: 205 KM
3247
09-Jan
Tuesday
CHAMI/ CHAMI
475 KM
SS: 454 KM
3722
10-Jan
Wednesday
CHAMI/ AMODJAR
485 KM
SS: 395 KM
4207
11-Jan
Thursday
AMODJAR / AMODJAR
467 KM
SS: 363 KM
4674
12-Jan
Friday
AMODJAR / AKJOUT
415 KM
SS: 390 KM
5089
13-Jan
Saturday
AKJOUT / ST LOUIS
477 KM
SS: 248 KM
5566
14-Jan
Sunday
ST LOUIS / LAC ROSE
325 KM
NIOKHOB – LAC ROSE: 15 KM
5891
SS Distance
3963
Total distance
5891
If you’re new to my page – it’s more than just dirt bike riding and racing, I’m on a mission to prove that nothing is impossible if you want it bad enough. See more about my story plus read about my life changing accident, which started it all.
5 fantastic days in Southern Spain on immaculate BMW GS motorcycles – what more could you want from a trip? Here’s why I recommend Moto Hire Spain for bike rental.
As someone who has ridden a wide array of different adventure motorcycles I decided it was time to try the BMW GS. They are a massive love or hate bike, so I knew it was one I needed to get some decent saddle time on it, thus an adventure would be ideal. I found Moto Hire Spain near Malaga and decided to do 5 days around Granada, Zaraha de la Siere and Ronda with a girlfriend.
The Team
Run by English speakers who have lived and experienced Spain for many years, they are a perfectly armed team able to offer their extensive knowledge and services of the beautiful country. We had an easy and friendly welcome at the airport with our transfer and everything was easily explained.
Bikes
Moto Hire Spain have a large fleet of BMW motorcycles and offer pure rentals, part guided and full guided tours. We opted for the part tour where Moto Hire Spain provided us with a route plan and pre-booked hotels.
Bikes wise, in 2023 when I visited, they had:
BMW R1250GS ADV
BMW R1250GS
BMW R1200GS ADV
BMW R1200GS Rallye
BMW R1200GS
BMW 1200R
BMW F850GS
BMW F750GS
BMW F700GS
BMW F800R#
Triumph Tiger Explorer 800 XC/XR
You’ll notice that they are heavily BMW focused and all bikes can come with the option for luggage and tank bags. Our bikes were on premium Michelin Anakee tyres so a great choice but I realise that their fleet did have varied tyre brands on offer. Moto Hire Spain have the largest selection of adventure-ready motorcycles in Spain, outfitted with quality gear and maintained by an in-house staff of professional mechanics.
I was super impressed with the quality and presentation of the bikes. They were immaculate and very well maintained.
We hired a GS 1250 and F850 GS to do a comparison.
You can see my GS 1250 / 850 comparison review here:
Tours
Moto Hire Spain will organise as much or as little as you like and even offer fully guided tours. We went for a hybrid option, renting bikes and getting a pre-planned route with hotels prebooked. Given we rode in the heat of July we asked for medium length riding days, ranging from 3-4.5 hours in the saddle. This gave us time to stop at great photo locations, enjoy chilled coffees, have cool down dips in lakes and rivers, and of course enjoy Spanish cuisine for lunch. They can adapt the trips to your needs and know a large array of hotels to provide the best nights possible to explore the Southern cultures of Spain.
Their tours offer the perfect balance of scenery and riding in Southern Spain. Some of the roads we did were just incredible, from mountains, forests to coastal twisties. Their extensive knowledge provided a brilliant riding experience through some of the best scenery you could imagine whilst on a holiday adventure of a lifetime in Spain.
How to get to Moto Hire Spain
Fly into Malaga in southern Spain and the team will collect you from the airport.
Moto Hire Spain are located within a 50 minute drive from Malaga airport and offer an airport pick up/drop off transfer service. They collected us in a nice well kept van and it was super easy. The bikes are stored in a large warehouse with a mechanics area where they maintain the fleet in-house, they offer tea and coffees, and have a changing room to get ready for the ride. We were able to leave our suitcase in the corner of the warehouse for the week too, transferring our kit into the GS panniers.
Moto Hire Spain on site facilities
Fleet of BMW and Triumph motorcycles for rent
Warehouse storage for luggage
Toilet and changing facilities
Car parking (if arriving via car)
Mechanic workshop area with tools
Reviews
They have a lot of customer reviews on their website but here are some that I fully agree with:
”Anyone wanting great friendly service, excellent organisation and the finest experience in Spain and morocco then look no further than Tristam and Norman at Moto Hire Spain, Malaga. Nothing is too much for them to make your trip the ultimate adventure, a chance in a lifetime with a professional organisation, will use again”
– Geoff Cole
“Excellent service, they were very nice and helped us every step of the way! When we rent bikes in Europe again, we will definitely do it with them!”
– Daniel Ramos Lazcano
“Would highly recommend this company, very easy to deal with”
– Keith Sheridan
Summary
If you’re after bike rental, a part organised, fully organised or a guided trip on adventure bikes in beautiful Southern Spain then I definitely recommend Moto Hire Spain.
Here are some of my favourite photos from our trip with Moto Hire Spain:
If you’re new to my page – it’s more than just dirt bike riding and racing, I’m on a mission to prove that nothing is impossible if you want it bad enough. See more about my story plus read about my life changing accident, which started it all.
Discover the joys of group motorcycle adventures and how to make new friends! Learn the benefits of pre-organized rides and tours here.
Wondering how to make new motorcycle friends? Thinking about going on a group ride? After having been on group adventure motorcycle rides in over 15 countries I thought I would share my thoughts on why I highly recommend looking into pre-organized group rides, and how you can make new motorcycle friends.
In this video, I will also discuss some of the pros and cons such as:
Time
Admin
Experience
Legalities
Meeting new people
Riding different motorcycles
Watch why I love group motorcycle tours and making new friends
If you are not sure where to start but you want to meet new motorcycle friends or try a group adventure tour check out some of the videos from the group tour adventures I have been on and can highly recommend:
Tour1 – The wonders of New Zealand
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J94WFpjBJ9A&t=0s
Tour Enduro Sardegna, Sardinia
Big Little Rides [womens only] – 9 women take on Belize
Toro Trail, Spain – I flipped it
Altitude with Attitude – European Harley Davidson Road Trip
Ride with Locals, Iceland – Offroad experience
Superior Motorcycle Experiences, UK
Novo Adventures, Bolivia – Riding death road
Enduro Dreamland, Ukraine – Snow riding
If you’re new to my page – it’s more than just dirt bike riding and racing, I’m on a mission to prove that nothing is impossible if you want it bad enough. See more about my story plus read about my life changing accident, which started it all.
