GWAHUMBE Game and Spa near Mid-Illovo in KZN, is fast becoming
quite the place to spot motoring journalists.
Already one of KwaZulu-Natal’s top spots for off-the-beaten track
weddings and steep MTB trails, the rehabilitated sugar-cane farm last week
hosted select motoring titles,Wheels
included, to experience the new Hilux and Fortuner range in their
preferred setting — the bush. Before us locals arrived, the new Top Gear crew also filmed at the site.
Off-road enthusiasts who love Africa need not look any
further.
The Ghahumbe valley is a recognised natural heritage site with
rhino, hippo, giraffe, zebra, a variety of antelope and an abundance of bird
life, including humming birds who join one for breakfast on the patio.
The 4x4 trail is nine kilometres long and comprises a number of
different trails through the game reserve. It has a grading of between one and
three, and takes between two and four hours to complete. 4x4 enthusiasts wind up
mountains to 700 m above sea level from 400 m in the river valleys, while
negotiating mud, slippery grasses, river crossings and a variety of interesting
obstacles en route.
And the scenic spot at the waterfall for a braai or picnic break
during your trail is one of the best
Wheels has experienced anywhere in Africa. But go there before the GP
plates arrive, as director Shanon MacKenzie told Wheels that motor manufacturers such as Land Rover and Honda
visit regularly to test their vehicles here.
(First published in The Witness)
