A pulsating adrenalin rush best describes the experience felt in a 4x4. Not the thousands used only in the urban jungles of cities and towns, but the few used for their real purpose – driving over rocks, through rivers and up steep inclines, throwing dirt and tackling rugged terrains.
The experience then needs to be enhanced by a picturesque backdrop, and Mpumalanga’s breathtaking landscape certainly played its part.
While Mpumalanga hosts the king of all wildlife sanctuaries, the Kruger National Park, the surrounding areas of Nelspruit, Sabie, Hazyview and White River deserve just as much credit as the world-famous game park.
A recent trip through this countryside convinced me that the endless green forests and subtropical vegetation deserved a longer look.
Ford recently launched its impressive collection of Rangers and journalists were invited to test-drive these mechanical beasts on the province’s winding tarred roads, as well as the dirt roads that trek through timber forests.
Launched in several derivatives and levels of power, including 4x2 and 4x4, the new Ford Rangers were a pretty sight.
Pretty is not often associated with these masculine, brute-force vehicles, but in this case it was a fitting description. With new interior and exterior design – and said to have been built from scratch – these vehicles certainly leave an impression.
The journey began when journalists from across the country boarded a chartered flight at Joburg’s OR Tambo Airport. The plane, equipped with propellers, was an experience in itself. Owing to its small size, it came off second-best when pitted against turbulence.
Our group was more than thankful to land at the majestic Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport which, with its thatched roof and African architecture, was a welcome sight. Once briefed, we were greeted by several squeaky clean Rangers (the sexiest being the new orange WildTrak Ranger), leaving many licking their lips and eager to drive them.
Travelling north towards Sabie, and then on towards White River, one is captivated by the sights and smells of the area’s vibrant subtropical fruit industry – mangoes, litchis, bananas, pawpaws, citrus and nuts. Many of the roads travelled are along endless fields of produce.
En route to White River, the convoy made its way to the Riverwild area, where excitement mounted in anticipation of the first off-road stage. It was my first experience driving off-road so I was super-focused as I navigated the turns carefully, being mindful of the roads’ edges and rough surface.
The Ranger did keep its cool, offering a safe drive, but the real test was when the convoy reached River’s Edge.
Hidden behind rich forestry, River’s Edge, which has a conference venue and accommodation, provided a welcoming lunch stop where a sumptuous buffet was prepared. With bellies filled, journalists interacted with the chief engineers for the Ranger before strapping up in a 4x4 for the real experience.
For this, professional drivers were at the wheel and journalists were taken though a glorious off-road course, designed to push the performance of the vehicle. From negotiating tight hairpin turns on shaky surfaces to climbing over 45º inclines and chugging through flowing streams, it was a treat, and an experience difficult to describe.
The convoy then made its way through small sleepy towns towards Elephant Whispers, an elephant interaction and safari venue on the banks of the Sabi River. With the sun setting over the natural terrain, the team was greeted by six magnificent African elephants.
The tamed and trained pachyderms, varying from nine to 26 years, demonstrated their memory and ability to respond to commands. Elegant and gracious, the massive animals tugged at our hearts, especially the intelligent six-ton Tembo, who posed for pictures with us and ate from our hands.
Final goodbyes were exchanged and the team left in union with the fading light. After a long day, overnighting at White River’s Casterbridge Hollow Boutique Hotel offered guests a luxurious experience. Dinner was enjoyed alfresco, followed by drinks around the pool. The hotel’s contemporary style is enhanced by richly textured baskets and items, sleek furnishings and African designer fabrics. It offers 26 spacious rooms, as well as four deluxe family suites.
After a good night’s rest and a hearty breakfast, it was time for the short drive back to the Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport and memories of a sweet but all too short getaway. I’ll definitely be back with more time to explore. - The Mercury