WATCH: Across Zimbabwe on two wheels…Walter Wanyanya’s epic journey on his motorcycle

ZIMBABWE is a land of natural beauty and wonder, home to one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, the Victoria Falls. This awe-inspiring attraction draws visitors from all over the globe, but to truly appreciate the splendour of Zimbabwe, one must explore it from within. That’s what Walter Wanyanya did, and he did it on his motorcycle.

Wanyanya is not just a passionate rider, but also a promoter of local tourism. He joined the #Uripi/Ungaphi campaign, an initiative by the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority (ZTA) and the Ministry of Tourism and Hospitality that ran from November 6, 2023 to January 15, 2024. The campaign encouraged Zimbabweans to travel within their own country and discover its hidden gems.

Wanyanya is also a music lover and the founder and artistic director of the Jacaranda Music Festival, one of the biggest festivals in the country. But his love for motorcycling goes beyond music and entertainment. It is a way of life, a way of connecting with his homeland and a way of inspiring others to do the same.

He shared his story with Saturday Leisure, revealing how his adventure began during a school holiday, when he stayed with friends who had motorbikes on their farm. He was fascinated by the freedom and thrill of riding and his friend taught him how to ride. That was the start of a lifelong passion that would take him to places he never imagined.

Over the years, Wanyanya has travelled to countless destinations on his motorcycle, each one leaving a lasting impression on him. But his favourite place is Zimbabwe’s eastern highlands, a region of stunning beauty and serenity.

“I have journeyed and rode to many destinations and this is a hard question. I love Cape Town, Victoria Falls is amazing on the bike too but Zimbabwe’s eastern highlands is my all-time favourite destination,” he said.

Wanyanya owns two motorcycles, a sleek Harley Davidson Road Glide exclusive and a powerful BMW GS Adventure 1250. But his first bike, a Triumph America Boulevard, still holds a special place in his heart. He also owned a Harley Davidson Fat Bob, which added to his memories.

Wanyanya enjoys riding alone, but he also loves riding with others. He is a member of the Ulysses MC club, a social club for motorcyclists over 40 years old. He has made many friends and shared many experiences with them. Group rides are especially exciting and fun for him.

Wanyanya has had his share of unforgettable and scary moments on his motorcycle.

“The scariest moment as a motorcycle rider was an accident I had in Marondera on my way from Nyanga. I got off with no injuries because I had full gear on. The most memorable one was riding with friends from Harare, Johannesburg, Botswana and Bulawayo and back to Harare,” he said.

He stressed the importance of safety and wearing protective gear while riding.

Wanyanya does not mind riding in the rain, as he sees it as part of the journey. He embraces the challenges and joys of riding a motorcycle, and he invites others to join him in exploring Zimbabwe on two wheels.

“Rain is part and parcel of the pleasure of riding. We don’t stop unless it’s really necessary or dangerous to continue riding in the rain and for some bikers it’s more about preference. Riding is very much about the journey itself than it is about the destination, so a lot of bikers aren’t really ‘racing’ to get to the destination. It’s about savouring every moment, relishing the freedom that comes with the wind in their hair and the road beneath our wheels.”

For Wanyanya, these motorcycle rides represent more than just a means of transportation. They embody an opportunity to explore his beloved Zimbabwe, forge deep bonds of brotherhood and friendship and experience life-changing moments. Biking has become a way for him to connect with kindred spirits who share the same passion for adventure and the open road.

As he sets his sights on his next adventure, a ride to Johannesburg, Wanyanya eagerly anticipates the experiences that await him. With the wind at his back and the thrill of the unknown ahead, he will continue to carve his path through life, embracing the freedom and joy that can only be found on two wheels. –@MbuleloMpofu