The celebrations for the 20th anniversary of BMW Safari got off to an amazing start with 85 BMW GS riders heading across the top of Australia in the BMW GS Safari-Enduro.

Setting out from Darwin, the eager group was treated to some incredible riding and scenery and many were challenged with the ever-changing conditions as they made their way to the coast at Palm Cove.

Through floodways, dust, sand and the magnificent Northern Territory and Queensland Gulf Country, the BMW GS Safari-Enduro treated riders to an experience that they will remember for a lifetime.

Throughout the week the Safari-goers shared their experiences along the way and at the end of each day over a well-earned drink to wash away the dust.

As the BMW Safari Enduro headed into the outback, on several nights the group spent the night under the stars in a BMW Safari swag that was specially produced for the event.

After a week of riding through areas that the majority of riders would not attempt solo, it was a mix of satisfaction and sadness when they gathered at the Palm Cove for the farewell function.

The farewell dinner was a time to share the memories and say goodbye to old friends and new, as well as give away some prizes and hold an auction for the number one entry on either the BMW TS or GS Safari in Tasmania later this year. The auction raised money for the Black Dog Ride charity, bidding was furious and $3500 was raised.

For BMW Motorrad Australia marketing manager Miles Davis, this was an amazing BMW GS Safari Enduro.

“We first started talking about this remote and exotic ride a few years ago, so it’s very satisfying to see it come together so well,” Davis reflected. “The riders were challenged at times and blown away by this part of our amazing country. At the safari’s everyone looks after each other, a lot of friendships are made and everyone has a ball.”

To cap off the 20th year of BMW Safari in Australia, a TS and GS Safari will take place in Tasmania in November.