5 life-changing 4×4 trails in South Africa's neighbouring countries
This article will introduce you to five Southern African trails that every South African 4×4 lover should put on their adventure calendar.
Travelling across the breadth of South Africa’s northern neighbours from Namibia, through Botswana and Zimbabwe to Mozambique will reveal diverse landscapes of eye-watering beauty. If you are like many out there and believe the best way to see the world is from the seat of a 4×4, then these 5 trails, weaving through some of Southern Africa’s most famous landscapes, are sure to take your breath away.
- 1. Namib Naukluft Park Trail
This is regarded as one of the toughest off-road trails in the world. If you are planning on doing this one, then you better be prepared. It is a 73km, 2-day adventure that starts at Lüderitz and takes you through the epic National Namib Naukluft Park. You will have to traverse incredible, steep mountain terrain and will find yourself in the expansive desert plains, famous the world over, littered with endless mustard coloured dunes.
- 2. Messum Crater 4×4 Trail
The second trail on this list is another situated in Namibia. If you enjoy more than just the open, wild landscapes that make Namibia famous and also love archaeology, then this is the trail for you.
This is a 250-kilometer trail that takes you through the Cape Cross and Lagunen Mountains, you drive along the coastline and on the way you will discover the Messum Crater. It was created by volcanic activity that erupted before Africa and South America broke apart hundreds of millions of years ago and is about 18km in diameter. You can see ancient rock art and other archaeological artifacts that remain in this area from when Damara nomadic tribes roamed this area hundreds of years before.
It is considered to be quite a dangerous trail so don’t go at it alone in the rainy season.
- 3. Xai Xai
We jump to Mozambique for our third trail. Xai Xai is known for its long stretches of unspoiled beaches, a perfect environment for long 4×4 drives. You will see the Boa Paz lighthouse at the north of Xai Xai along the way, and two exquisite, glinting fresh water lakes.
- 4. Maun to Xakanaxa
Our next trail will take you through the one of a kind Eden known as the Okavango Delta. The Okavango is well known for its wildlife, where plenty of rhino, hippo, elephant and many other beauties of Southern Africa roam as free as they ever have.
From Maun you travel to the Moremi Game Reserve and travel through Xakanaxa in the Central Okavango. The Xakanaxa Lagoon is an especially gorgeous attraction. This route is a self-drive route so it is not difficult, and that is best, so you can simply enjoy the scenery around you.
- 5. Victoria Falls 4×4 Adventure
Zimbabwe has seen its fair share of political turmoil over these last couple years. Many people stay away for that reason, but that just means there is more space to be left alone. There is a 9 day guided tour that gives you the opportunity to see Victoria Falls in all its glory. You don’t need any previous experience so it’s perfect for the 4×4 layman.
You don’t have a 4×4?
Botswana, Mozambique, Zimbabwe and Namibia have some of the most heart-melting landscapes in the world. Each host to familiar yet completely unique fauna and flora. If you do not have a 4×4 that’s not a problem, there are many 4×4 rental specialists out there. South Africa 4×4 for example, hire out Land Rovers and offer great deals on Toyota Hilux 4×4 rentals. If you do not have a 4×4 don’t let that stop you from exploring these amazing Southern African landscapes.
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