South Africa Motorcycle Film Festival 2026
De Rust · Klein Karoo · Route 62 · September 26, 2026
Beyond the Ride.
We are inviting creators from every corner of the globe to document the spirit of the ride. R10,000 for the best short film. One day. One stage. De Rust, Western Cape.
Early bird registration closes 31 July 2026.
Motorcycle Film Competition — South Africa 2026
We don't film bikes. We film what they unlock.
The South African Motorcycle Film Festival begins the moment you start your engine.
Whether you are carving through the Garden Route, cruising the iconic Route 62, or exploring the urban landscapes of Johannesburg and Cape Town, we want to see the world through your lens. Your entry fee unlocks more than a competition; it is your pass to a global community of storytellers. Capture your ride wherever it starts and join us in the heart of the Klein Karoo. From your local backroads to the deep red gorges of Meiringspoort, every mile is a story waiting to be told. Pick up your camera, claim your slot, and show us what the ride means to you.
Gear up — any camera, any lens
Whether you're shooting on a Canon or an iPhone, the story is what matters. Capture the vibration of the road from wherever you start.
The crossroads — where the ride begins
From the urban pulse of Johannesburg to the winding coastal curves of Cape Town, capture that moment of transition when the city ends and the open road starts.
R10,000 prize — best short film
Sign up, pick up your camera, and join the legacy at Hotel De Rust. The top film screens to a live audience on September 26.
Hotel De Rust — Official Festival Basecamp
The Physical Basecamp.
You do not need a camera to join the pilgrimage. On September 26th, Hotel De Rust opens its gates for a free, open-access gathering of the South African motorcycle community. Experience the raw local atmosphere, grab a cold one at the bar, and catch the late-night karaoke vibes. In the screening room - a converted vintage motor workshop - we will be showcasing an exhibition of beautiful local bikes alongside the festival's cinematic finalists. Whether you are premiering a film or just riding out for the weekend, your spot is at the bar.
See what last year looked like — watch the films on our YouTube channel.
Book accommodation via WhatsApp →SAMFF 2026 — Frequently Asked Questions
- The South African Motorcycle Film Festival takes place on September 26, 2026 in De Rust, Western Cape, on the iconic Route 62. The official venue is Hotel De Rust in the heart of the Klein Karoo.
- Register on FilmFreeway before 31 July 2026 to secure your early bird creator pass. Standard deadline is 1 September 2026. Late deadline is 20 September 2026.
SAMFF 2026 has three competition categories:
- Open / International Category — open to creators worldwide. Maximum 3 minutes.
- South African Category — exclusively for South African creators. Maximum 3 minutes. Early bird from R250.
- Best Independent Short Film — open to creators worldwide. Minimum 3 minutes, maximum 20 minutes. For independent filmmakers working outside the studio system.
All categories accept narrative, documentary, experimental, and animation.
- You do not need to own a motorcycle to enter. You can film another rider, a club, or document the culture and community around the ride. The story is what matters, not whether you are in the saddle.
- The South African Category Early Bird Pass starts from R250 for the first 20 creators before 31 July 2026. Open and International Category from R1,000 early bird. Best Independent Short Film from R1,800 early bird. Standard pricing applies from 1 August. All passes include a digital entry kit, festival prizes if shortlisted, and discounted accommodation rates at Hotel De Rust.
- Yes — general attendance on September 26 is completely free. No ticket required to watch the screenings, see the bike exhibition, or enjoy the bar. For accommodation, Hotel De Rust is the official festival basecamp. Message us on WhatsApp to book your room.
Early Bird Passes.
Lock in your slot before the price increases. The first 20 registered creators get the Early Engine Pass rate. Early bird deadline 31 July 2026.
- Chance to win R10,000
- Festival prizes if shortlisted
- Discounted rates for accommodation at Hotel De Rust
Entry to the September 26 event is completely free for all attendees. Pricing from R250 applies to creators entering the film competition only.
Tickets and creator registration are handled securely through FilmFreeway.
For creators registering after the first 20 Early Engine Pass slots have been claimed. Standard deadline 1 September 2026. Late deadline 20 September 2026.
- Chance to win R10,000
- Festival prizes if shortlisted
- Discounted rates for accommodation at Hotel De Rust
Tickets and creator registration are handled securely through FilmFreeway.
Register Through FilmFreeway
SAMFF 2026 creator registration and ticket sales are managed securely through FilmFreeway — the global platform for film festival submissions.
Early Engine Pass from R250 · Standard Creator Pass from R600 · First 20 early bird spots only.
Early bird deadline 31 July 2026 · Standard deadline 1 September 2026 · Late deadline 20 September 2026 · Film submissions due 10 September 2026.