4×4 Trails
There are four 4×4 trails for offroad enthusiasts to take advantage of, at no extra cost.
Nuweveld (90km) and Afsaal (13km) Trails
Enable visitors to explore and experience the remoteness of the Park. They divert off the Potlekkertjie Loop towards the west and takes a circular route back to the rest camp. The entire route from the rest camp (via the Potlekkertjie route) to the Embizweni Cottage and back is approximately 91km (of which approximately 55km is on 4×4 tracks).
Guests can do this trail in one day or decide to make use of the Embizweni Cottage. Day visitors should start the trail by no later than 11:00 in the morning and overnight Embizweni visitors not later than 14:00. This is to enable visitors to reach their destinations safely and before dark in the event of any unplanned occurrences such as flat tyres, rain, etc. The area through which the route traverses is very remote and harsh with very limited cellphone reception along the way.
The Nuweveld mountain range is in full view during the drive and the scenery of the mountains and from Embizweni is spectacular. Herds of gemsbok, mountain zebra, kudu, red hartebeest and many other animals may be seen along the way. For birding enthusiasts, look out for kori bustards, verreaux’s eagle, karoo korhaan, chanting goshawk and martial eagles.
Kookfontein Loop (7km) and Sandrivier Loop (7km)
These trails branch off the Nuweveld and Afsaal Loops respectively, providing varied 4×4 route options.
Klipplaatsfontein Trail
Connects to the Nuweveld route. It requires a free permit in order to monitor access.
The Pienaars Pass Trail (6km)
The Pienaars Pass Trail is the first 4×4 route of its kind in SANParks and took ten years to complete. This 6km route takes visitors to the middle plateau of the Park.
This route, while spectacular, is challenging and not for beginners.
It is accessible after checking in at Reception and paying a R362.59 fee per vehicle.