4x4 Driving Adventures
Unless you have tried it, it is hard to understand why South African 4x4 driving is such a popular recreational activity in South Africa. Requiring mental alertness, driving skill and physical vitality, 4x4 driving is, for many, the ultimate way to test their navigational skills. Modern drivers also make use of GPRS to guide them as their make their way around unpaved roadways or unmarked country but more traditional methods of guidance are often necessary. 4x4 driving can be likened to the more mature person’s Boy Scout experience. It is definitely not for the quitter.
4x4 driving in South Africa can take two main forms – guided safaris or self-guided safaris. In a guided safari you may drive your own vehicle but your vehicle forms one member of a larger party. The front driver will usually be a more experience 4x4 driver who may or may not have driven in the area before but who will usually guide you safely through your planned route. On self-guided safaris, you may work along with a small group of other 4x4 drivers who have roughly the same level of experience as you do, or you can drive solo. Self-guided 4x4 drives are more challenging since they require that you plan the route, pack the equipment and organize any other necessary details yourself. On solo drives you need to always ensure that someone is aware of your planned route and estimated daily travel distances so that if anything should happen, you will be relatively easy to find.
Many people consider 4x4 driving to be a great family experience. Each member of the family team can be given important tasks to do – such as navigating, packing, supplying food or refreshments for the group, etc. In doing so, the whole family works together towards a common goal and thus the family bond is strengthened. It should, however, not be forced. 4x4 driving is a great way to see the country since it takes you off the beaten track onto less used trails or roads where animals are less weary and the bush is wild. So give 4x4 driving in South Africa a try the next time you visit the country!