Born from a shared passion for accessible travel and 4×4 exploration, Suzuki Safari is a proudly Suzuki Auto South Africa initiative that invites Jimny owners to embark on unforgettable guided journeys across some of the most remote and jaw-dropping landscapes in southern Africa. Think of it as a rolling convoy of capable, quirky 4x4s, expertly shepherded through mountain passes, hidden valleys, and forgotten trails – no roof-top tent required, just a full tank and an open heart.
One of their latest escapades was a six-day immersion into the highlands of Lesotho – twelve Jimnys, dozens of passes, three dams, one “Sani-pilgrimage” and countless breath-stealing views. This wasn’t just a road trip; it was a spiritual reset wrapped in 1.2 bar of tyre pressure and low-range enthusiasm and Justin du Toit was there for all the action and adventure.
Himeville to the heavens
Our journey began in the charming town of Himeville, where we gathered beneath a canvas of morning mist and mountain dew. The convoy of twelve brightly coloured Jimnys, lined up like toy soldiers in a child’s dream garage, buzzed with anticipation. Drivers sipped strong coffee, double-checked gear, and snapped photos of their 4x4s like proud parents at a school play.
No sooner had the engines warmed than we were headed for the legendary Sani Pass, South Africa’s most fabled gateway to the Mountain Kingdom. The climb was as dramatic as ever: switchbacks clawing at the sky, sheer drops daring you to blink, and the Jimnys… well, the Jimnys simply purred. They skipped over potholes and scrambled up loose rock with all the tenacity of a mountain goat wearing trail shoes.
At the top, we were met with crisp alpine air and a view so vast it felt like we were staring into the soul of Africa. This is what the Jimny was made for: narrow tracks, big altitude, and adventure around every bend.
Mokhotlong, mountains and memories
Our first night was spent in Mokhotlong, a town that seems to cling to its mountaintop perch with equal parts pride and serenity. We overnighted at the Senqu Hotel, a Suzuki Safari staple that’s been hosting explorers for over 30 years. The welcome was warm, the beds soft, and the view out the window – golden light spilling across ancient ridges – was simply sublime.
The following day saw us tackling the recently tarred Senqu Pass, which unspooled before us like a ribbon laid out by giants. We paused often, not because the Jimnys struggled, but because the land demanded reverence. Wild horses trotted across ridgelines, rivers shimmered below, and silence settled over us like a prayer. At times, the only sound was the crunch of gravel and the quiet hum of wonder.
From the pass we moved on to the monumental Polihali Dam, still under construction but already an impressive testament to human ingenuity set against nature’s magnificence. We circled around to Mafika-Lisiu Pass, a winding, waterfall-laced marvel that kept our cameras clicking and hearts soaring.
Dams, passes and picnic pauses
Our third day slowed the pace slightly. We visited the peaceful Metolong Dam before making our way to the Bella Vista Pass. Despite its modest name, this pass offered views that humbled and hushed us all. We pulled over, unpacked a picnic, and simply sat. There was birdsong, a breeze, and that rare, golden kind of silence that you only find far from Wi-Fi and routine.
We followed this up with two of Lesotho’s oldest routes: God Help Me Pass and Bushman Pass. Tricky in places, but endlessly scenic, these historical tracks were navigated with ease by the Jimnys, who seemed to grin through every twist and turn.
Braais at altitude and Basotho warmth
Next came Mohale Dam, the third jewel in Lesotho’s hydrological crown. But the real showstopper of the day was Senqunyane Pass, where we staged what might be the highest boerewors braai in the southern hemisphere. With twelve Jimnys parked in a protective circle, smoke drifting into the sky, and laughter bouncing off canyon walls, it felt like a celebration of everything Suzuki Safari stands for – community, exploration and joy.
That night we were treated to a traditional Basotho dinner, seated cross-legged and passing plates like old friends. There was no formal toast, just the soft, contented hum of people who’d been touched by something special.
A waterfall that whispers to the soul
The next day saw us travel to Maletsunyane Falls… just the name sounds like a drumbeat in your chest. Towering at 192m, this thunderous plunge is somehow more than a waterfall. It’s an encounter. I’ve stood at the edge of many falls across Africa, but this one… this one felt like it belonged to the sky. No crowds, no fences – just you, the drop, and the sound of your heart forgetting how to beat.
Our final night was spent in the quiet charm of Semonkong, under stars so bright they felt alive. The journey was drawing to a close, but the memories were still ripening, steeping like rooibos in the bloodstream.
A reverent return
We ended our adventure with a gentle cruise through Thaba Bosiu, Lesotho’s spiritual heartland. There was no better place to reflect on the past six days in a land that challenged us, enchanted us, and, most of all, welcomed us.
Crossing the border at Peka Bridge, there was a sense that we weren’t just heading home, we were carrying something new with us. A deeper appreciation for our neighbours. A respect for the mountains. And a renewed love for our trusty little Jimnys. Because this wasn’t an off-road gauntlet. It was a guided, thoughtfully planned immersion in wonder. And the Jimnys? They were flawless: economical, agile, and full of cheeky character.
Somehow, despite the high-altitude terrain and 4×4 demands, many of the Jimnys returned astonishing fuel consumption figures of up to 14km/litre. That’s not just efficient, that’s borderline witchcraft, especially considering how often we stopped to marvel, meander and munch.
Evenings were spent around hearty dinners and shared tales, with mountain silhouettes framing every conversation. There’s a special kind of tiredness that comes from high-altitude travel; clean, satisfying, soul-deep exhaustion. And there’s nothing quite like sharing that with fellow wanderers.
Want in on the magic?
Suzuki Auto South Africa covers 50% of the Suzuki Safari cost if you’re a Jimny owner. Yes, half. That’s six days of fully guided exploration, excellent food, hot showers, comfortable en-suite accommodation and unforgettable memories for less than you’d pay for a long weekend of mediocre self-catering.
If you own a Jimny – or even just dream of owning one – this is your sign. Visit https://content.suzukiauto.co.za/suzukisafari2025 for more information.
