This was my 8th motorcycle tour with Ayres Adventures. Second to New Zealand. The trips are well planned, well organized and well led. The accommodations, routes, food, motorcycle selection, and tour leadership have been excellent on each and every trip. I would not hesitate to recommend one of their adventures to anyone looking for a great trip and adventure.

Lee's Adventures include:
New Zealand Top Down Adventure
Patagonia and Ushuaia Adventure
Viking Run
Scotland - Castles, Kilts and Whisky
Iceland Adventure
Bohemian Rhapsody
New Zealand Top Down Adventure

Ayres Adventures refers to its genre of travel as "premium" motorcycle touring. Think of a luxury cruise line except that you ride a motorcycle form port to port instead of a ship. Everything is top notch; rooms, meals, assistance, preparations ... all of it. Great ride. Great People. Great hosts and tour operations by Ayres Adventures.

David's Adventures include:
New Zealand Top Down Tour
Iceland Adventure
Alaska/Yukon Adventure

Touring New Zealand with Ayres Adventures; renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and rich cultural heritage, presents an unparalleled opportunity for motorcycle enthusiasts to experience the ride of a lifetime. Taking to the paved back roads on two wheels allows riders to immerse themselves fully in the natural beauty and exhilarating routes that this island nation has to offer. From the verdant hills of the North Island to the rugged, dramatic scenery of the South Island, a motorcycle tour of New Zealand promises adventure, freedom, and unforgettable memories.

Ayres offers a worry-free ride, excellent accommodations, well-prepared motorcycles, and unforgettable scenery. The guides are extremely knowledgeable, locally experienced, and professional. You won't be disappointed.

A motorcycle tour of New Zealand is more than just a ride; it’s an odyssey through some of the most stunning landscapes on the planet. The freedom of the open road, coupled with the country’s rich history, vibrant culture, and welcoming people, creates a journey that is as enriching as it is exhilarating. Whether you’re carving through mountain passes, cruising along coastal highways, or exploring charming towns and cities, New Zealand offers an endless array of experiences that will leave a lasting impression on every rider. So, gear up, make your reservations with Ayres Adventures well in advance then hit the road, and discover the magic of New Zealand on two wheels.

Bill's Adventures include:
New Zealand Top Down Adventure
Iceland Adventure

New Zealand was my first motorcycle tour with any tour group. The ride itself was phenomenal! The guides Chris and Janis were awesome. New Zealand roads were made for motorcycles. The scenery, amazing! If you are thinking about riding the tour... Do It! You will not be disappointed.

Dale's Adventures include:
New Zealand Top Down Adventure

Our second tour with Ayres Adventures to Norway was just as fantastic as our first one to New Zealand. The guides were excellent in knowledge of the area and the roads and stops to make. The scenery was awesome beyond words to describe. The best way to see a country is on a motorcycle and a support van to carry your luggage. Ayres is truly a premium tour company that handles all the details so the riders can enjoy the tour. The nightly accommodations were first class and outstanding. I'm looking forward to my next tour with Ayres.

Robin's Adventures include:
Norwegian Midnight Sun
New Zealand Top Down Adventure

Our Norway adventure was great. The scenery was fantastic, the food tasted great, the route was well organized, and the tour leaders were professional and knowledgeable. Everyone we met in Norway was friendly. We had a great time and would recommend this tour highly.

Robert's Adventures include:
New Zealand Top Down Adventure
Norwegian Midnight Sun

This tour is the best way I can think of to see 15 different countries in one tour which means 15 different cultures, different geographies, different customs, and best of all 15 different nationalities of people.

While the rest of the group was touring Dracula’s Castle, I went out for a ride by myself up in the mountains. An old sheepherder (pictured) waved at me as I rode by and I turned around and went back to say hi. We had about a half hour conversation with neither of us speaking the others language but with pantomiming he was able to tell me his story. He pointed out the house he grew up in and still lived in. Ninety-three years old and still riding a motorcycle. I figured out that he had a 10-year-old Ducati Monster 600 bike, and rode it out to the pasture where the sheep were.

He relished looking over my bike and indicated BMWs were great bikes. This type of encounter is one of the main reasons I like to go on Ayres motorcycle tours. The freedom to explore on your own and not always have to be with the group sets your company apart from most of the others. There isn't the pressure to stay with the group and I never would have gotten a chance to meet this fella if I wasn't by myself. You don't get this interaction with the locals driving a car.

John's Adventures include:
Munich to Istanbul Adventure
Roof of Africa
Southern Cross
Taste of Chile (and Dash of Argentina)
Portugal, Spain, Morocco
SA Splendors
Escape to Ushuaia
New Zealand Grand Tour
Rendezvous in Rio

Once again Ayres Adventures came up trumps for our Father / Daughter private tour in South America. The booking and arrangements were made with the minimum of fuss. Jason Kilian and Chris Gladstone are two of the most friendly and professional tour leaders anyone could wish to travel with. Well done, Ayres Adventures!

Richard and Paula's Adventures include:
New Zealand Top Down Adventure
Machu Picchu Excursion (Empire of the Incas)
Switchback Challenge The Alps
Private Bariloche to Ushuaia tour

I have participated in numerous tours with Ayres Adventures as well as other tour companies and can comfortably report that Ayres is the Premier touring company. They always go above and beyond to take care of the client.

Rob and Christine's Adventures include:
New Zealand Top Down Adventure
Australia and Tasmania – Adventure Down Under
Dutch Treat Adventure
Spain and Morocco
Viking Run
Escape to Machu Picchu
Southern Cross
Best of Alaska/Canada

I expected Australia/Tasmania to be fun and it was. What I hadn't expected were the fantastic twisties in the mountains and the almost magical scenery - from beaches to valleys to mountains. A great experience.

Daniel's Adventures include:

Dutch Treat Adventure (now named Normandy and the North Sea)
Australia and Tasmania – Adventure Down Under

Now that I am finally back home I wanted to send some words with my impressions after this adventure in your wonderful country.

This was my ninth motorcycle tour of this type and I can say without hesitation that what I have experienced this time has nothing to do with my previous tours. I had very high expectations of the tour based on the multiple things I read and videos I watched in preparation of this adventure. All of them have been highly exceeded.

Of course the many wonders of New Zealand, as well as the quality of the accommodations and restaurants chosen, had a lot to do with that, but what really made the difference was the level of enthusiasm and professionalism that you and Jason showed every single day of the tour, taking care of every detail, anticipating any potential issue, ensuring that everyone was safely enjoying those superb riding opportunities that this country offers, and making sure that each of the participants was getting the most out of each day.

If this is the way in which Ayres delivers the adventures offered in its catalogue then I am afraid that you will be hearing a lot more about me, because this is the way I want to experience this type of trips going forward.

All my gratitude for this unforgettable adventure and all the strength for the times to come.

Fuerte abrazo (Big Hug)

Raul

Raul's Adventures include:
New Zealand Top Down Adventure

The tour leaders were way more than I ever anticipated. They are thorough, knowledgeable about motorcycling and the area and they both have really good people skills. I saw them accommodate every person on the tour in a unique way for each person and they made it look easy ...which I know is not the case.

Bravo to these two guys and to you for hiring and training them. They are what made this tour so exceptional.

The ride scenery in New Zealand was unbelievable and fantastic and the dinners were first class.
Thank you, thank you for a trip of a lifetime that exceeded my highest expectations.

Mark's Adventures include:
New Zealand Top Down Adventure

Just returned from New Zealand and the Top Down Tour and can't wait to return. Chris and Janis could not have made a better set of guides.

David's Adventures include:
New Zealand Top Down Adventure

Travelling with Ayres Adventures was stellar. It was a great opportunity to tour another country with absolutely no worries. Each day we were briefed as to what the day ahead would look like and off we went. The guides, Chris and Axel, were knowledgeable, organized and a pleasure to be with. We made many stops to look at beautiful sites or to take a break. It gave us an opportunity to meet new friends and share the love of motorcycle touring. We cannot think of a better way to see the world and would definitely travel with Ayres again.

Wendel and Janet's Adventures include:
New Zealand Top Down Adventure

This was a really adventurous trip, going to places where few others go. The riding is challenging and makes the land soak into your entire body. The vast spaces are a relief from our crowded lives and free up the imagination like no other place. It takes a long time afterwards to process all the experiences and tell the stories, truly a "once in a lifetime”!

Cordelia's Adventures include:
Mongolia and Eastern Siberian Adventure
New Zealand Top Down Adventure

If you haven't toured Alsace Loraine, Normandy, WW I battlefields and then the North Sea coast, you haven't toured Europe. From Omaha Beach to the ancient cities along the North Coast up to Denmark, this is a tour that is special. Most of the riding is on back country lanes through spectacular country scenery or on the dykes of Holland or in picturesque villages. I've traveled many countries of the world via motorcycle but this tour is special.

Daniel's Adventures include:

Dutch Treat Adventure (now named Normandy and the North Sea)
Australia and Tasmania – Adventure Down Under

Even though I had high expectations, I was not prepared for how heart achingly beautiful New Zealand is. Every day on the tour another stunning ride unfolded, each completely unique and full of surprises. The accommodations were equally unique and in prime spots, with nice meals in a variety of restaurants. Both tour leaders had a deep knowledge about the places we visited and taught us a lot. After this fantastic tour, I am afraid I can never do a "normal" vacation again!

Cordelia's Adventures include:
New Zealand Top Down Adventure
Mongolia and Eastern Siberian Adventure

First class all the way! Awesome roads and amazing lodging. Staff brings the group together and makes everyone feel welcome and at ease. Gives us plenty of time on the bikes and off the bikes to enjoy our new friends. Does a great job dealing with the unexpected and last minute changes which are bound to happen with any event. Why go with any other group - once you travel with Ayres Adventures there is no going back - they are top notch. This is my 4th trip and saving my money for the next one.

John and Heidi's Adventures include:
New Zealand Top Down Adventure
Ushuaia and Antarctica
Africa Call of the Wild
Iron Butt Viking Run

Hi Ron,
I just wanted to touch base with you about our recent trip to New Zealand with Ayres Adventures. It was a trip of a lifetime that was more awesome than we could ever have imagined.

Chris and Bryn did an outstanding job in leading us and showing us their country the New Zealand way. The bikes ran great, the weather was excellent, the scenery outstanding, the roads were awesome with lots of curves, the food was amazing and our tour group of people all got along as good friends.

I could go on and on, but words cannot express the fun we had on this tour. Everything was top notch! A truly amazing journey!

Bob and Robin's Adventures include:
New Zealand Top Down Adventure
(Auckland to Christchurch)

Before we left for New Zealand, we told ourselves it would be the trip of a lifetime...it was all that and ten times more. Every aspect of the entire experience far exceeded our wildest expectations.

The accommodations and the meals were fabulous, the rides amazing, and the people were the absolute best. It was without a doubt the most wonderful vacation we've ever had.
We will return to New Zealand some day, and we will ride with Ayres again--somewhere in the world.

John and Jane's Adventures include:
New Zealand Top Down Adventure

"I've taken two Ayres Adventures motorcycle tours, two years apart, on two continents - they were both topnotch! I don't normally treat myself to the finest things, but Ayres Adventures did treat us to the finest things, and they did it humbly, with knowing smiles on their faces. They knew the next site, the next route, or the next hotel, was going to knock our socks off. And, sure enough, it did!

I encourage anyone considering an overseas motorcycle trip to choose Ayres Adventures as your host. You won't be disappointed"

Steve's Adventures include:
Rendezvous in Rio
New Zealand Grand Tour

The camaraderie of our tour group, good natured people, well cared for roads, twistie turns and gorgeous scenery enhanced by beautiful silver ferns, crystal blue lakes, and of course lots of sheep!

These all describe the memories I will cherish when I think about New Zealand. My husband loves motorcycle touring and now I must admit I have grown to love it too! ...Susan"

Bob and Sue's Adventures include:
New Zealand Top Down Adventure
Call of the Wild
Escape to Antarctica (and Ushuaia)
Machu Picchu Excursion
Norwegian Midnight Sun

I’ve ridden eight Ayres Adventures tours, three of them IBA (Iron Butt Association) specific rides and haven’t been disappointed. All have been first class, unique, and full of very pleasant surprises. Ron and his staff have always been courteous, helpful, and patient. In fact, he has found some special tour leaders and guides. By the end of the tour, they become friends that we look forward to seeing again.

Each tour had it’s own highlights. The IBA tours fit our style of riding since we are interested in seeing as much as we can and not spending a lot of time at the destination hotels. If you ride one, be prepared to cover some distance in all kinds of road and weather conditions.

Ushuaia had been one of those must see places for us and the South America IBA ride was the perfect way to do it, we ended up with more than we expected. The scenery was spectacular, the food was excellent, and this group of riders made it a ride to remember.

We enjoyed this one so much, we’re already signed up for the Alps IBA ride this September and the Portugal, Spain, and Morocco tour next year.

Tom and Mona's Adventures include:
IBA Ushuaia Tour
IBA Africa Tour
IBA Extreme Alps Tour
Machu Picchu Excursion (Empire of the Incas)
Spain and Morocco
New Zealand Top Down Adventure
Namibian Splendors (Africa)
Russia - Beyond the Golden Ring
Munich to Istanbul
Japan Cherry Blossoms and Mt. Fuji
The Epic Journey - Moscow to Hong Kong

You win the Oscar for the category of "The Company that Works the Hardest to Please a Client!"

George and Sherri's Adventures include:
Southern Cross
New Zealand Top Down Adventure

"The Antarctica trip was our fifth tour (or 6th if you count Hyder) with Ayres Adventures and once again we came away thrilled with the experience.

The Antarctica portion was a life changing event, much the same as our three trips in Africa with Ayres forever changed our view of the world. Having now toured on all 7 continents, we can say that while the trip to Antarctica is costly and can be difficult at times, it is worth every cent if you enjoy adventure travel to new places. It will change your perspective of our planet and all it entails in a way that is impossible to explain unless you have made the voyage!

Mike and Cara's Adventures include:
Escape to Antarctica (and Ushuaia)
Call of the Wild (Africa)
Southern Cross (Africa)
Namibian Splendors (Africa)
Into Africa
New Zealand Top Down Tour
Greece and Italy - Golden Odyssey
Machu Picchu Excursion
Portugal and Spain Adventure
Portugal, Spain and Morocco Adventure

"When the memories of a trip stay with me every night while trying to sleep, I know that I have experienced something very memorable. I had such a good time that I signed up for your next 'Rendezvous in Rio' Adventure".

Consider your company whole-heartedly endorsed!

John's Adventures include:
Taste of Chile (and Dash of Argentina)
South American Splendors
Rendezvous in Rio
New Zealand Grand Tour
Escape to Antarctica (and Ushuaia)
Africa Off-Road
Southern Cross (Africa)
Portugal, Spain and Morocco

When we signed up for our Alaskan Splendors adventure, David and I thought we would have a good time, see some wonderful things, and meet interesting people. We never expected that a short trip to Alaska would prove to be the trip of a lifetime, led by guides who not only set the bar, but exceeded it, for professionalism, technical expertise, patience and pure fun!

John Jesson had us all laughing together from the first day, and working together as a team by the second. Traveling with him was a pleasure from start to finish, and you may be sure that we’ll look for him on future Ayres Adventures.

David and Ruth's Adventures include:
Alaskan Splendors
New Zealand Top Down Tour
Call of the Wild (Africa)

Biker's delight. These are the words that come to my mind when I think of my Ayres Adventures tours. Great rides, sensational places, good food and great fun. A big "Thank you!" to the whole Ayres team for creating such an experience, you're doing an awesome job. I am looking forward to riding with you again.

Michael's Adventures include:
Machu Picchu Excursion
Southern Cross
Namibian Splendors
Spain and Morocco
Norwegian Midnight Sun
New Zealand Top Down Adventure

It’s been less than two weeks since we completed the African trilogy and I’ve wondered how I’d ever find the words to describe our feelings about this extraordinary adventure. When the October 2008 Waypoints Bulletin arrived, it gave me the perfect start. As one who had to “overcome initial apprehension about travel to the ‘Dark Continent’,” I can honestly say that none of my fears materialized. Nick and I fell in love with Africa. From day one and throughout nearly seven weeks of travel, Africa grabbed us with the warmth of the people, the cultural diversity, the mind-blowing wildlife, and the spectacular scenery. Ayres Adventures delivered in its usual superb fashion on each and every day of the three distinctly unique tours.

The “Southern Cross” could be described as “Africa 101”, offering a taste of everything—from the busy, upscale Capetown waterfront to the luxury of L’Agulhas Country Lodge, from the cultural experiences in Eshowe and Shakaland to the overall African immersion at Otter’s Den. Leaving Johannesburg at the start of the second tour, we mistakenly thought ourselves steeped in a sense of place. Then came Shibula Lodge and we realized that a very different African adventure was just beginning. The “Call of the Wild” is truly all about the wildlife—watching the elephants crossing the river in Chobe can only be termed a life-altering event. As for Namibia, we’ll never forget the sands—towering over us on the dunes and shifting under our tires as we crossed the Kalahari! But the challenge was thrilling and the landscapes incomparable.

We’ll always be grateful to the Ayres “family” with whom we shared this amazing experience. So while "doing 'Africa Ayres Adventures Style'" may be addictive, I think it’s more accurate to say that we’ve simply become addicted to Ayres Adventures. We can’t wait for the next one!

Nick and Susan's Adventures include:
New Zealand Grand Tour
Southern Cross - TWICE!
Call of the Wild - TWICE!
Namibian Splendors
Escape to Ushuaia
South American Splendors
Best of the Mediterranean

Susan wrote an article about her African trips which was published in BMW Owners News. Click here to read her article.