Absolutely stunning... and I know that feeling of being alone out there, although I was not allowed a bike when I was a youngster (dumb parents), so I hitch-hiked often and sometimes my friend Marion joined me.
I don't know what SA was like in those days, I only arrived here in 1976, but it sounds like it was pretty cool. And after my little ride I think it is still pretty amazing!
Great RR and even greater memories... ;D