Suzuki Safari live and breathe adventure. As a dedicated overland expedition outfit, they specialise in exploring the untamed beauty of Africa in lightweight, capable Suzuki Jimnys. Their vehicles are tested in the toughest conditions, proving that with the right preparation, even the smallest 4×4 can take on the wild. Among their fleet, one Jimny stands out above the rest – Safari San, their legendary Suzuki Safari guide vehicle. Having covered an astonishing 120 000km across some of Africa’s most remote and demanding terrains, Safari San has rightfully earned its place as the hardest-working Jimny on the planet. We’ll let them tell the story.
The origins of a legend
Adopted by Suzuki Safari in 2022, Safari San already had an impressive track record before joining our fleet. It was the first Generation 4 Jimny to enter South Africa and remains one of only two UK-spec units in the country.
Before becoming part of our expeditions, it was initially used by Suzuki South Africa for dealer training. By the time it came into our hands, Safari San had already clocked 33 000km under tough conditions. From that point forward, it became the backbone of our expeditions – leading convoys, scouting new routes, and representing Suzuki Safari at numerous exhibitions and events.
Conquering Africa, one trail at a time
For two years, Safari San has ventured across Southern and East Africa, tackling some of the most gruelling terrains on the continent. From the Cape to Lake Tanganyika and from the Indian Ocean to the Skeleton Coast, it has taken on everything Africa could throw at it.
It has conquered the towering dunes of the Namib, navigated the rugged mountain passes of Lesotho, and braved the treacherous roads leading to the Serengeti. Through all of this, not once – not a single time – did Safari San suffer a mechanical breakdown. This isn’t just a testament to Suzuki’s renowned reliability – it’s proof that in the right hands, a Jimny can conquer Africa.
A true off-road warrior – stock standard
What makes this achievement even more remarkable is that Safari San remains stock standard. Unlike most overlanding vehicles that are heavily modified, we’ve kept Safari San as close to factory spec as possible, with only minimal enhancements.Upgrades & accessories
- Dunlop Grandtrek AT5 215/75 R15 Tyres still within 3 percent of factory spec, and not a single puncture!
- 5-litre fuel and water cans mounted on the rear door ladder.
- Dash cover for protection.
- Roof rack which is rarely used.
- Clip-on awning for lightweight, on-the-go shade.
- Plastic four-drawer system with a Snowmaster fridge (without a dual battery system).
- Seat covers by Melville & Moon.
- Rear door table by FT Design.
Routine maintenance & replacements
- Full-service history maintained as per Suzuki’s recommendations.
- Tyre rotation and wheel alignment after every safari – critical for durability.
- New air filter after every expedition.
- Prop shaft bearing replacement.
- Release bearing and clutch replaced at 148 000km.
Even after relentless use, Safari San still runs strong, proving that regular maintenance, proper driving techniques, and correct tyre pressure make all the difference.The legacy grows
Now with 150 000km on the clock, Safari San continues to be a rolling testament to Suzuki’s engineering. However, even legends need reinforcements. That’s why we’re introducing a new 5-door Jimny – Safari San’s big brother – to share the load on future expeditions. But don’t think for a second that Safari San is retiring anytime soon. This legendary Jimny is ready for many more kilometres of African adventure!
And for the record – despite all the extreme conditions, neither Safari San nor its former sidekick Coddiwomple (now replaced by Daisy, a kinetic yellow Jimny) has ever experienced the infamous ‘death wobble.’ Why? Because we take meticulous care of our vehicles, proving once again that a well-maintained Jimny is truly unstoppable.
Here’s to the next 100 000km Safari San. Africa awaits!
Contact Suzuki Safaris! +27 84 874 7388
