101 Trail Guide | 2010

Riviersonderend 4x4

The Riviersonderend farm has two circular 4x4 trails that snake through the foothills of the Riviersonderend mountain range, winding up and over fynbos-covered hills and across mountain streams to the plateau.
Both trails pass between sheer rock faces and rocky outcrops with numerous ascents and descents that are guaranteed to keep even the more experienced off-roaders on their toes.
Both are manageable for inexperienced drivers when dry, but become far more demanding when wet. The tracks meander for 5 km and 7 km respectively, winding through various forests on the valley floor.
Kruisbos forest is some 2 ha big, while Platbos forest extends over about 20 ha. At some 30 ha, the largest and most impressive forest, Bettie’s Bos, has the range of indigenous trees you would find in a Knysna forest.
The vegetation forms a canopy that keeps the track cool, even in summer. You could drive all the way to this forest. There are pools to swim in, monkey ropes to swing from and, at certain times of the year, waterfalls.
A shorter 4x2 option caters for softroaders.
Low-range and good ground clearance are essential for the two 4x4 trails and you will need diff lock for the 4x2 trail. There is also an optional section open only to vehicles with a winch.

What you need to know

Accommodation:
Riviersonderend farm offers basic accommodation. A comfortable self-catering cottage that sleeps 6 is situated among fynbos with plenty of bird life and small buck.

What else?
Mountain biking, horse riding, hiking and bird watching

Contact:
Solms Beyers
083 273 8371,
028 261 1063;
info@rhinodivot.com,
www.rse4x4.co.za;
www.rhinodivot.com

Nearest town: Riviersonderend (15 km)

Best time to go: All year round

Trail distances: 5 km, 7 km    How long will I be driving? 5-10 hours

GPS: S34.10448 E19.79565