Pitsmoezen

Congratulations on taking the plunge and hiring a 4X4 for an awesome off-road African adventure!

As a newbie to the wonderful world of 4-wheel drive, you’ll fall into one of two camps – those who think they know it all already, and those who are totally terrified and have no idea how to handle ‘their’ Camel-man-mobile safely, let alone get the best out of it!

This article is for you, whichever side you fall; never be too proud or too petrified to learn, for your sake and the sake of your passengers and fellow off-road track users.

Speed & Momentum

If you hit a spot of trouble DON’T accelerate – it can get you into a worse position. Slow down and take it easy – this helps you to keep traction and your tyres will work for you instead of spinning aimlessly.

When approaching an obstacle, you need momentum. The trick is to start a little way back to gain the momentum you need. This is a skill which you will master over time.

Limits

Don’t try new tricks when you’re out alone. Test your limits when you’re with more experienced drivers.

Mud

Use a stick to test a new mud hole for depth and softness. Remember a soft hole can prove impossible to escape! Enter the mud hole with a little momentum and if you feel that you’re getting stuck turn the wheel left to right to gain traction. Once you’ve gone as far forward as you can try reverse out.

Throughout the EU (European Union) driving rules and regulations may be different to that of your Country of residence, so as a responsible driver you will need to familiarize yourself with the latest information so as to avoid breaking any laws in the countries that you are visiting, or even just driving through. The following essential guidelines are provided to assist you prior to your departure, but it is best to check the specific laws for each country which you intend travelling through.