If You Enjoy 4 x 4 Adventures, Don’t Miss These World-famous Southern African Trails
Overland 4×4 adventures are exceptionally popular in Southern Africa, and there is an entire community of off-road enthusiasts who are ready to tackle any terrain. For individuals born and bred on African soil, the call of the endless bushveld is far too challenging a temptation to resist. Below we take a look at five popular 4×4 trails in Southern Africa, and how we can help set you up on any one of these adventures.
The Namaqua Eco-trail, South Africa
Situated in South Africa’s largest province, the Northern Cape, the Namaqua eco-trail is an astounding 600 km long. With a formal grading between two and three, the trail takes anywhere from 54 to 72 hours to complete. This is the longest off-road route in South Africa and will test the driver’s skills as it features impressive slopes and zigzags, as well as terrains such as gravel, sand, rocks, and a few fun river crossings. A stunning backdrop of winding rivers, breathtaking mountains, and rolling hills painted with hundreds of species of curious flora will make this three-day journey one to remember.
The Polentswa Wilderness Trail, Botswana
Along Botswana’s region of the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park lies the Polentswa Wilderness Trail. As far as 4×4 adventures go, this one boasts the same untouched, natural splendour as it did hundreds of years ago. Magnificent Kalahari wildlife, including lion, can be spotted roaming the grasslands and even wandering into campsites on occasion. The 257 km route features tall grass, sandy dunes, and links to several fascinating pans in the region.
The Quthing Valley Route, Lesotho
This is one route known for plenty of cultural attractions and picturesque scenery. If you are seeking challenging 4×4 adventures, this trail requires a robust off-road vehicle and a little bit of experience navigating tough terrain. The exciting route begins at Mount Moorosi and ends at Ongeluksnek Pass along the South African border. Lake Letsie, the true showstopper of the trip, is an afro-alpine sump and the only Ramsar wetland site in this enclaved country. Enjoy this short and scenic trip as you are sure to spot various birdlife, such as rare Blue Cranes and Drakensberg Rockjumpers.
The Isabis Route, Namibia
The stunning Namibian Isabis Route lies within the catchment area of the Gaub River, a subsidiary arm of the famous ephemeral Kuiseb River. The route itself is made up of various trails, so you can choose your journey according to the kind of 4×4 adventures you enjoy most. Whether you wish to travel for three hours or two days is all up to you. The landscape includes traversing through gorges and sandy areas, crossing rivers, and steering over tricky mountainous ground.
This trail meets at the Versamelberge, a sheer cliff meeting point of the three provinces of Kwa-Zulu Natal, Mpumalanga, and the Free State. At 32 km long (along with an additional nine km Tierkloof trail and five km Bobbejaan Krans trail) this trail boasts rocky landscapes, muddy trenches, and dense bushveld.
If you are keen on planning a few 4×4 adventures, let us help you do it. From quality 4×4 vehicle and equipment hire to route planning assistance, we will ensure your journey is one to remember.