Local Adventures Archives

A pass to a forgotten world

While only four-wheel drive vehicles with good ground clearance will cope with the harsh conditions of the Richtersveld, this dramatic mountainous desert in the north-western part of South Africa is on many adventurers‘ bucket lists. And with good reason – it is absolutely stunning. It also plays host to seven official passes and poorts, ranging in difficulty. Trygve Roberts of Mountain Passes South Africa explores one of the two most challenging passes, Akkedis Pass.

Fortune favours the prepared

Conquering the Namakwa Eco Trail – which is basically right on his back door – has always been on Shaun Hutton’s bucket. He and a group of friends eventually managed to set a date, book and go!

The great escape

Each December, when all the other ‘Vaalies’ head to the coast, Liana Reiners and her family head for the hills of Mpumalanga to enjoy four of their favourite pastimes: relaxing, fishing, sightseeing and catching up with old friends. There’s usually also a lot of eating involved. For such a trip a great vehicle is a must, and the Hyundai Creta fits the bill perfectly.

That’s the spirit

Renowned for its challenging terrain and thrilling atmosphere, the Spirit of Africa challenge is the brainchild of local motorsport legend, Sarel van der Merwe. Described as one of the toughest 4×4 challenge in Africa for amateurs, this year saw the 19th edition of the event, run in partnership with Nissan for the first time. ANTON WILLEMSE SNR participated in the media challenge.
Photos by BRADLEY JONES

Lekker, boys!

HENRY JONKER and his two sons, LIAN and JEAN, are never satisfied with doing the ‘mainstream’ thing. Adventure is in this trio’s blood, and they are always searching for places off the beaten track. Recently, they discovered yet another gem – this time in the Karoo.

A tale of not-so-short shortcuts

A group of adventurers set off into the mountains and valleys for an unforgettable 4×4 weekend getaway that promises to be one for the books. ANGELIQUE and NICO DENNER share their fun-filled experience.

Go, hamba, gaan… Tsamaya!

The Karoo is not normally a place one would associate with a crossover vehicle such as the Kia Seltos. It sounds more like 4×4 country. ANTON WILLEMSE SNR met up with five fellow motoring scribes for a threeday roadtrip to prove that it can, indeed, be done.

DEFENDERS IN THE MIST

For the 2023 Defender Trophy – Limpopo, 16 Defenders and a sole Ineos Grenadier traversed one of South Africa’s lesser-known treasures, the Soutpansberg Mountains. PATRICK CRUYWAGEN joined in the fun.

Certainly no-one-trick pony: Ford Ranger Super- and Single-Cab Review

December 2022 saw Ford unveiling the long-awaited next-generation Ranger double cab, with immediate acclaim from critics and consumers alike. Now Ford is looking to take a big step in a market sector where it has historically fallen short, with the introduction of the Ranger single and super cab line-up. ANTON WILLEMSE JNR explains why this is his favourite segment of bakkies.

Local Adventures