• Mount Kilimanjaro and Mount Meru — ride across the open plains of northern Tanzania with views towards Africa’s highest mountain and Mount Meru when conditions are clear.
• Pare and Usambara Mountains — winding mountain roads, forested slopes, cooler temperatures and far-reaching views from the Mtae area.
• The Maasai Steppe — remote tracks, traditional settlements and vast grasslands around Orkesumet.
• Lake Burunge and baobab country — long unpaved sections through one of northern Tanzania’s most distinctive landscapes.
• Varied adventure riding — approximately 35% asphalt and 65% gravel, dirt roads, and single tracks.
• Wildlife country — opportunities to encounter animals while crossing open landscapes, although wildlife sightings can never be guaranteed.
• Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 — motorcycle rental and fuel included in the tour price.
• Full route support — MotoBirds guide, local guide and mechanic, support vehicle and luggage transport.
• Optional Mkomazi experience — a possible 4×4 visit to Mkomazi National Park and its Rhino Sanctuary, booked separately.
• Optional Ngorongoro Crater safari — use the free day in Karatu for a separately booked 4×4 safari into one of Africa’s most remarkable wildlife areas.
• Small supported group — a minimum of 6 and maximum of 12 motorcycles.
• Characterful accommodation — a combination of lodges, comfortable hotels and safari-style camps.

OCTOBER: PREPARE FOR HEAT, DUST AND RAIN

Early October is a transition period in northern Tanzania. It follows the main dry season but also marks the beginning of the short-rain period. Many days may be warm, sunny and dry, but showers can develop and their timing varies from year to year. No dry-weather guarantee should be expected.

Conditions also change considerably along the route. The open plains around Kilimanjaro, the Maasai Steppe and Lake Burunge can be hot, dry and dusty during the day. The Pare and Usambara Mountains are higher, greener and usually cooler, with a greater chance of cloud, mist or rain. Mornings and evenings around Mtae and Karatu may feel surprisingly cool after a hot day on the plains.

Rain can change the riding conditions quickly. Firm gravel and red-earth tracks may become slippery, muddy or deeply rutted after a heavy shower. If weather makes a planned track impractical or unsafe, the itinerary may need to be adjusted.

Bring ventilated protective riding gear for the hotter sections, but also carry a waterproof outer layer, warmer mid-layer and waterproof gloves. Strong sun remains possible even on cooler days, so hydration and sun protection are essential.

Tanzania may be close to the equator, but that does not mean every riding day will be hot and dry. Pack for the route, not the postcard.

AN ENDURO OUTFIT WORKS BEST

From our experience on this route, a light and well-ventilated enduro outfit works better than a heavy touring suit. It provides better freedom of movement on rough sections, handles heat and dust more comfortably, and makes it easier to add or remove layers as conditions change.

Each rider must bring their own complete protective motorcycle equipment. We recommend:

• a full-face adventure, enduro or motocross helmet with a clear visor or goggles;
• clear goggles or a clear replacement lens for dust, rain and reduced visibility;
• body armour protecting the chest, back, shoulders and elbows;
• knee braces or robust knee and shin protection;
• full-height enduro or motocross boots with proper ankle, shin and impact protection;
• enduro trousers and a well-ventilated riding jersey;
• a lightweight waterproof jacket and trousers that fit over the riding equipment;
• a light insulating layer for cooler mornings and mountain sections;
• a neck tube or buff for dust and sun protection;
• a hydration pack with a water bladder of at least 2 litres.

A well-ventilated adventure suit can also be used, provided it offers proper impact protection and does not become excessively hot or restrictive away from asphalt.

Open-face helmets, city motorcycle shoes, soft touring boots, jeans and casual riding clothing are not suitable for this route. Dust, loose stones, thorny vegetation and uneven tracks require proper protection.

Use equipment that you already know and trust. Do not arrive with new boots, an untested helmet or goggles that you have never worn for a full riding day.

LUGGAGE

TRAVEL LIGHT—THE SUPPORT VEHICLE CARRIES THE REST

Each participant may bring one soft, dust- and waterproof travel bag weighing no more than 20 kg. This is the bag that will be transported in the support vehicle.

Do not bring hard-shell suitcases or rigid motorcycle cases. They take up too much space in the support vehicle, are difficult to load and can be damaged on rough roads.

The main luggage is loaded into the support vehicle each morning and may not be accessible during the riding day. Carry the items you may need on the road in a small hydration pack or securely attached waterproof day bag.

Keep the day bag small. Large backpacks become hot, uncomfortable and tiring during consecutive days of off-road riding.

Laundry service can be arranged at some hotels, usually for an additional charge. It is not available at every overnight stop, and same-day return cannot always be guaranteed. Bring quick-drying base layers and do not plan your packing around having laundry available every day.

Additional luggage that is not required during the tour may be left at the starting hotel in Arusha.