4x4 Trails in and near Empangeni

Continental Offroad Academy SA

On arrival at Simunye Protea Hotel, we will meet for sundowners in the Open-air pub. After which dinner will be served under the Lantern lit tree with entertainment around the fire. ... more

South Africa is a 4x4 enthusiast's paradise. Dozens of trails are available and almost every part of this country has something to offer if you'd like to explore the landscape in this exciting and challenging way.

The mountainous regions and coastal areas of the Western Cape offer the most diverse and challenging 4x4 choices. Some of the best are the Cederberg Mountain range north of Cape Town. Using Clanwilliam or Citrusdal as a base, you can choose from everything from beginner trails to overnight expeditions for experts only where you must have at least two vehicles for safety.

Then, drive yourself down to the Garden Route where 4X4 trails around Mossel Bay and Knysna take you over beautiful landscapes and coastal roads. This location is especially good for the novice as there are many escape routes available while the more adventurous can test their vehicles and their nerves on the more challenging sections.

If you would like to combine game viewing with your 4x4 experience, head to Sabie and the Kruger National Park in Mpumalanga. The Sabie area is famous for waterfalls, and there are tour operators available to guide you to the best viewing points. Offroading in the Kruger Park is a unique experience as it gives you a chance to see parts of the park other guests rarely get to see. As there is a limit on the number of cars that can access a route on any given day, it is wise to book in advance when you arrive at camp.

For more of an off-the-beaten track experience, head to Alexander Bay in the Northern Cape and experience driving over sand dunes, or turn towards Clarens on the border of Lesotho for steep mountain terrain and spectacular scenery. For those without their own vehicles, many rental companies will happily provide you with transportation, and some will even help you with your driving skills before you head out on the open road.