Off-roading, in the true sense as opposed to driving on gravel roads, is a big problem in South Africa no matter how you look at it.
Although the majority of SUVs with proper off-road capabilities are impossible, stupidly, will not show protentional in anything, but only crawl on the pavement, the same percentage of buyers use it for what they want.
The only big problem with the vehicle you are buying is the available accessories. From lift-kits, nudge bars, heavy duty all-terrain tires and snorkels, the 4 × 4 business scene is wide and often prone to “mine is more than your mentality”.
Also read: Family travel: Five must-experience travel routes
Regardless of which side of the off-road track you are a beginner or a veteran with many years of experience, one thing that is important, apart from the choice of vehicle, is the desire to choose the best route for cycling and cycling.
While the debate will certainly take place about the best 4×4 route, everyone there will have a good time if a few less are chosen and the diff lock, if needed, is implemented.
In this regard, there are five routes in the South African region that must be followed. Again, while not necessarily the best in the country, the test for 4 × 4 and skill behind the wheel can still be expected.
Sani Pass
The gateway to Lesotho and always open the risk of being fully tarred, beautiful and legendary Sani Pass ranks as one of the toughest 4 × 4 trails to negotiate.
The challenge of reaching the summit, literally, in winter when the Drakensberg is covered in snow, remains a quintessential off-road route like no other if you arrive at the hotel located at the top of the 45 km 2 865 m track. above the sea.
Difficulty Rating: 2 to 4
Namaqua Eco Trail
Although the name may be deceiving, at 600 km, the Namaqua Eco-Trail in the Northern Cape is the longest in South Africa and is famous as the gateway to the section known as Gamaskloof or as it is nicknamed, in Hell.
Although shorter than Sani at 37 km, the narrow roads at the base of the Swartberg Mountains are notoriously challenging and unforgiving as you scale rocks, bend hairpins and even wade through the odd stream.
Like Sani, it is a must but unless it requires a loyal driver, it should not be attempted with a low range vehicle.
Difficulty rating:4 is 5
Baboon Canyon
Located in the heart of the citrus region of the Eastern Cape with Patensie as the gateway, the majestic and stunning route is located in the world heritage site of the Baviaanskloof Mega Reserve and stretches 80 km to Willowmore in the Langkloof.
While not at the same level as difficult in Hell or Sani, still be careful not to fall into the abyss if you make a mistake.
Although certain sections can be passed with a two-wheel-drive vehicle, four-wheel-drive is still recommended as important washouts and river crossings, along with difficult sections that require all-paw traction.
Difficulty rating:1 is 4
Hennops 4×4 Trail
A staple of off-roading in Gauteng, Hennops Trail outside Pretoria is famous not only for its many 4 × 4 driving instruction courses, but also for its massive dongas, rocky outcrops and water crossings.
A test that can be difficult to pass, but also rewarding, it additionally comes with incredible scenery and thriving wildlife that deserves very few will mock at it.
Difficulty rating: 4
Richtersveld 4×4 Trail
Only known as Sani and in HellThe Richtersveld trail in the desert of the Northern Cape on the border with Namibia presents yet another difficult but useful test for those who are willing to venture in its 200 km.
Boiling heat, even in winter, sports terrain varies from gravel to rock laded mini-pass, deep ditches and thick sand ready to trap those who are not in four-wheel-drive or some less.
In addition, it also shows its best side during the growing season besides being a haven for wildlife from antelopes to reptiles.
Difficulty Rating: 2 to 4
Record: The four-wheel-drive difficulty classification is as follows:
- 1: Easy: often gravel roads that do not require four wheels
- 2: Easy Moderate: Gravel road with some challenges where four-wheel-drive is a must
- 3: Moderate: Terrain requires a four-wheel-drive vehicle with low range
- 4: difficult: Experienced drivers only in vehicles with at least one diff-lock
- 5: Extreme: Traveling with other vehicles must in addition have recovery equipment and a vehicle that can withstand harsh treatment.
Additional information from tracks4africa.co.za and 4wd-wc.co.za.