In a quest that merges adventure with altruism, Kyle Malyon, a seasoned motorcyclist, is circumnavigating South Africa in a breath-taking solo effort to raise awareness and funding for HERD (Hoedspruit Elephant Rehabilitation and Development) Trust, an elephant orphanage just outside Hoedspruit, in Limpopo, South Africa.

  HERD’s mission is to safeguard and nurture orphaned elephants, effectively giving them a second chance for survival. Embarking on this daring expedition, Kyle’s journey is not just about the thrill of the ride; it’s a heartfelt endeavour to raise crucial funds for the HERD.

  Setting off from the bustling streets of Johannesburg, with 30 – 40 fellow bikers riding the first 50 km as a support ride, Kyle’s journey is a testament to the power of individual action in the face of environmental challenges. With the wind in his hair and the roar of his motorcycle echoing through the countryside, he has begun his journey through some rugged terrain, all in the name of a noble cause. Day 3 found him in Hoedspruit (via Thoyandou from Musina), somewhat tired but chirpy, nonetheless – the light beer easily caressing his parched throat.

  This epic ride will see Kyle follow the closest tar roads to the country’s borders, covering all 9 provinces (he will do a detour at the end of the ride to travel through the Free State!). It will take 21 consecutive days with little respite in between, as time is of the essence and a full-time career beckons at the end of it all. Rustenburg, Pongola, Salt Rock, Port St. Johns, Cape Aghullas, Springbok and Kuruman as just some of the towns that he will pass through.

  The decision to embark on this odyssey was deeply personal for Kyle, who has long harboured a passion for wildlife conservation. “Elephants are not just symbols of Africa’s natural heritage; they are integral to its ecological balance,” he remarked, reflecting on his motivation. “Their survival is intertwined with the health of entire ecosystems.” The undertaking has seen Kyle engrossed in six months of fundraising and planning – no stone has been left unturned, down to the exact distance to be travelled each day (averaging 350km/day).

  Elephants face numerous threats, including habitat loss, poaching, and human-wildlife conflict. With every kilometre he conquers, Kyle’s determination to make a difference grows stronger. Along his route, he stops at local communities, schools, and conservation centres, spreading awareness about the plight of elephants and the urgent need for their protection. Through these interactions, he not only raises funds but also fosters a sense of stewardship towards wildlife among the people he meets.

  Kyle’s journey is not without its challenges. Thankfully accommodation en route is supplied by family and friends, BnB’s, backpacker lodgings and lodges. All have supported him in some way or another along the way. From unpredictable weather conditions to mechanical setbacks, every twist and turn in the road presents its own set of obstacles. Yet, fuelled by his unwavering commitment to the cause, (water and two tins of tuna en bord, just in case) he presses on, drawing inspiration from the resilience of the very creatures he seeks to safeguard.

  Powered on this journey by his trusty Honda NS 700, he has been on many of the roads he will traverse, but not all. The Eastern Cape and Northern Cape are totally unknown to him and will present their own challenges.

  As news of Kyle’s endeavour spreads, support pours in from far and wide. Donations come in from individuals, businesses, and organizations, all eager to contribute to the conservation efforts spearheaded by HERD. Messages of encouragement fill Kyle’s inbox, serving as a reminder of the collective goodwill behind his solitary ride. His target is a humble but essential R 25 – 35 000. He feels that if he can achieve that, then it would be a substantial input into the fund-raising coffers of HERD.

  What began as a solitary quest is slowly becoming a movement, uniting people from all walks of life in support of a common cause.

  “It will be an incredible experience, filled with moments of challenge and triumph,” he remarked, gazing out at the sun-drenched road stretching before him. “But the real reward lies in knowing that together, we’ve taken a meaningful step towards securing a future for the elephants.”

  With his motorcycle roaring beneath him and the African sun blazing overhead, a co-founder of a social motorcycling club, Fiery Octopus, Kyle rides on, a beacon of hope for the elephants and a testament to the power of one individual’s determination to make a difference.

  Kyle’s supporters can follow his journey on social media (Instagram: the mammoth ride), where he’ll be sharing regular updates, breath-taking photos, and insights into the realities of his expedition.  He’s also encouraging donations, no matter how big or small. Every contribution brings him closer to his fundraising goal and makes a difference for HERD’s vital work.