The 5 most popular types of 4x4 route!

People’s tastes differ when it comes to their favourite terrain. Some yearn for the green forests of the Garden Route, while others prefer red Kalahari sand. We checked with our Facebook friends about the five kinds of 4x4 trails they like the most.

1. Open plains

The wide plains of the Great Karoo have a special charm for those who grew up there. Many others don’t appreciate feeling so insignificant in the vastness.

Plains go hand in hand with speed so you can get the long distances out of the way – and this is why you have to watch out for punctures.

“I vote for expansive landscapes.” – Ria MJ Pieterse

2. Mountain trails

Some people joke that the Cape would be more beautiful if the mountains didn’t block the view. The biggest danger of mountain passes is obviously that you can fall off them.

Then there are the rocks that chew tyres and dents the chassis, but the views more than make up for the potential dangers.

“Back roads through unkown mountain routes.” – Jan Maritz

3. River routes

You’ll encounter all kinds of surfaces in a dry riverbed: mud, rocks, sand and grass.

Riverbeds also have unique challenges, such as deep water crossings and boulders.

Sometimes you’re rewarded with deep ravines where ferns and tamarisk trees unexpectedly sprout from rocky crevices.

“I choose rivers as the vegetation is so interesting.” – Suzaan Kritzinger-Klopper

4. Desert crossings

Driving through a desert can be challenging, but when you succeed, it comes with an immense feeling of gratification.

Sand requires next level driving skills and techniques – and recovery gear when things go awry. But wow, what fun when you dash up a dune and manage to crest it safely!

“Challenging sand tops my list.” – Nelia Grundling

5. Beach bums

Everybody loves the sea. We may not all want to live there all of the time, but it’s fun to drive next to the ocean, go fishing or sunbathe. Like deserts, the sand here requires superior driving skills and good ol’ common sense. Remember to thoroughly wash the body and chassis of your vehicle with fresh water!

“Sandy roads on the coast.” – Cornell Mans