A Weekend of Dirt, Dust, and Camaraderie in the Heart of the Klein Karoo

Dates: October 3–5, 2025
Location: Karoo 62, Ladismith, Western Cape

As riders, we’re always looking for those special weekends that combine open landscapes, dirt under the tyres, and good people around the fire. One event that recently landed squarely on our radar is the Adventure Bike Fest 2025, set to take place from the 3rd to the 5th of October at Karoo 62 in Ladismith. While I haven’t had the chance to attend personally (yet), everything about this one ticks the right boxes for any adventure-loving rider.

Whether you’re in it for the technical trails, the community vibes, or just a reason to load up the bike and ride somewhere unforgettable, this event might be worth pencilling into your calendar.

The Setting: Wild Klein Karoo

Karoo 62 sits in a rugged part of the world that adventure riders dream about. Ladismith and the surrounding Klein Karoo offer a mix of mountains, dry riverbeds, gravel highways, and farm tracks — the kind of terrain that invites you to take the scenic route and get a little dusty doing it.

The venue itself has been getting a lot of positive attention lately. From what I’ve seen and heard, Karoo 62 strikes a great balance between wild and welcoming, rustic charm, meets well-thought-out facilities. And judging by the photos, it’s a place that begs for sundowners after a long day in the saddle.

What’s the Adventure Bike Fest All About?

From what the organisers have shared, the Adventure Bike Fest is not just about riding, though there’s plenty of that on offer. It’s about the whole package: community, music, food, stories around the fire, and making memories with fellow riders.

Guided Rides

The rides are organised in partnership with MotoAdventures SA, headed up by Mouton van Zyl. If you know the name, you’ll know he’s been doing this a while, leading well-organised, safe, and genuinely fun rides across some of South Africa’s best terrain.

Ride Options

Whether you’re new to gravel or a seasoned dirt junkie, the ride routes are planned with different skill levels in mind. So no matter what you ride — 450 or 1290 — there’ll be something for you.

Evening Entertainment

Live music, local food, cold drinks, and some serious bench-racing. It’s the kind of setting where you’ll hear tales taller than your panniers, and maybe even make a few new mates for your next trip.

Accommodation Options

One thing that makes this event even more appealing is how it caters to all types of travellers. Whether you’re a die-hard camper or prefer something with four walls and a roof, there’s a setup for you:

• General camping: Bring your tent and roll out your sleeping bag under the Karoo stars.
• Bush lodges and glamping: If comfort’s more your thing, Karoo 62 offers some solid options with a bit more luxury and space to unwind.
• Shared ablutions and proper facilities: Showers, toilets, and essential amenities are all available onsite.

Who Should Be Interested?

Honestly, this looks like an event that speaks to a broad crowd:

• New adventure riders wanting to dip their toes into group rides and build some confidence.
• Solo wanderers looking to connect with a few like-minded spirits.
• Veterans of the gravel who’ve done it all — and know the best rides are the ones shared.

There’s no snobbery here, no high-pressure scene. Just bikes, dirt, and people who enjoy the same kind of thing you do.

What to Bring (Besides Your Sense of Adventure)

If you’re thinking about going — and I know I am — here are a few practical reminders:

• Full riding kit: Helmet, jacket, gloves, and all the other bits.
• Basic tools and spares: Tyre plugs, pump, cable ties — the usual suspects.
• Cash or card: For food, drinks, and any extras you might want onsite.
• Layers: The Karoo can surprise you with cold evenings, even in October.

Why Events Like These Matter

If there’s one thing the South African adventure scene does well, it’s events that are about more than just the ride. Adventure Bike Fest is shaping up to be exactly that: a celebration of two-wheeled freedom in one of the country’s most iconic riding regions.

What stands out is that it doesn’t try too hard. There’s no pushy marketing, no over-the-top itinerary. Just a solid group of people putting together a well-thought-out event in a killer location. And that, in my experience, usually means a good time is almost guaranteed.

Final Thoughts: Will I See You There?

As someone who’s always on the hunt for the next great riding experience, this one has all the right ingredients. A stunning setting. Trusted organisers. Proper rides. Community. And that unmistakable feeling of being part of something real.

While I haven’t made it out to Adventure Bike Fest yet, it’s very much on my radar. And if you’re the type of rider who values open spaces, new faces, and a shared love for the road less travelled, it should probably be on yours too.

More Info and Bookings:
karoo62.com/adventure-bike-fest

If you’re planning to attend or have been in previous years, drop a comment or get in touch — I’d love to hear what your experience was like. Maybe I’ll even see you there this year…