Routes Rediscovered

13/12/2024

Known as "The Smoke That Thunders," Victoria Falls is one of the world’s most awe-inspiring natural wonders. Standing at the edge of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, you'll witness the sheer power and beauty of nature as the mighty Zambezi River plunges into the gorge below, creating a mist that can be seen from miles away.

Whether you’re walking the scenic rainforest trails, taking a thrilling helicopter flight for a bird’s-eye view, or cruising the river at sunset, Victoria Falls offers an unforgettable adventure.

Feel the spray on your face, hear the roar of the falls, and soak in the magic of Africa’s greatest natural spectacle. Email: [email protected]

Routes Rediscovered. Specialists in authentic African adventure and overlanding travel.

11/12/2024

Discover the Essence Of Overlanding.

In this film, Bud and Mary Melcher share their heartfelt story of courage and inspiration. Leaving it all behind.

We hope you are enjoying this series from our favourite overlanding team, Jo Marsh - Author & Mindset Coach and PaulMarsh4x4 from the Essence Of Overlanding

Watch episode 2 here - https://ow.ly/5FFH50Uo2IO

With over 30 years of overlanding experience, they are on a journey to share their stories and experiences through films, that will inspire the courage and confidence in you, to follow your own dreams!

Routes Rediscovered. Specialists in authentic African adventure and overlanding travel.

Retirement can be daunting or daring - it’s a choice. It’s an opportunity to reflect on who you are, what you want for yourself and how you want to live the...

08/12/2024

Gateway to Africa: Authentic African Adventures!

Embark on the journey of a lifetime with our 22-day luxury 4×4 guided tour from the iconic Kruger National Park to the breathtaking Okavango Delta in September 2025.

View the full itinerary here - https://ow.ly/F8eW50UlqB3

This isn’t just a road trip, it’s your passage into the soul of Africa, where culture, history, and unspoiled wilderness come alive. Crafted in collaboration with PaulMarsh4x4 and Essence Of Overlanding, this adventure blends the thrill of discovery with the comforts of luxury, guiding you through Southern Africa’s most cherished destinations.

Highlights include:
- Scenic drives on lesser-known trails and iconic landmarks.
- Immersive wilderness experiences in Africa’s best-kept secrets.
- Expert guidance ensuring a seamless, unforgettable journey.

Spaces are limited, so contact us at [email protected] for an unforgettable overlanding experience.

Routes Rediscovered. Specialists in authentic African adventure and overlanding travel.

06/12/2024

Why less is more!

In part II of the truck walk around, Mark explains why it is so important to keep it simple, keeping in mind what do I need most often on the road, and how easily can I access it.

We really hope you enjoyed this walk through. If you have any questions, please drop Mark a question in the comments below. We would love to hear from you.

Routes Rediscovered. Specialists in authentic African adventure and overlanding travel.

04/12/2024

Discover the Essence Of Overlanding

Most of you follow our posts and journeys are likely already familiar with two wonderful people that we work with, Jo Marsh - Author & Mindset Coach and PaulMarsh4x4. We therefore thought it would be remiss to not formally introduce their incredible YouTube channel, The Essence of Overlanding, brainchild of Jo.

Watch episode 1 here - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZyRA-tf9BVQ

Routes Rediscovered. Specialists in authentic African adventure and overlanding travel.

WHO ARE WE?We are fellow travellers on the journey of life with a desire to share our inner journey through our overland expeditions - our highs and lows; th...

29/11/2024

Route Spotlight: West Lunga & Kafunfula.

Discover Zambia’s hidden treasures off the beaten path. West Lunga National Park and Kafunfula, are two gems often overlooked but brimming with adventure.

West Lunga National Park is a remote wilderness of lush forests, pristine rivers, and incredible biodiversity. Perfect for those who crave solitude and untouched landscapes.

Kafunfula offers a serene retreat, a place to recharge before journeying to the source of the Zambezi River, a sacred and awe-inspiring site for nature and history lovers alike.

This lesser-known route is a must for intrepid explorers seeking a deeper connection with Zambia’s wild beauty.

Top Tip: This route makes for the perfect pit stop on your way to the iconic Zambezi source!

Pack your sense of wonder, and let us guide you there. Email: [email protected]

Routes Rediscovered. Specialists in authentic African adventure and overlanding travel.

27/11/2024

Part II, truck walk around.

Join Mark Bland from Routes Rediscovered as he takes us through a detailed walk-around of his trusted 2007 Toyota Land Cruiser 76 Series.

Whether you're an overlanding pro or just starting your adventure, this rugged beauty is packed with features designed to conquer any terrain.

Part III of the truck walk-around is coming soon in the next episode - stay tuned!

Routes Rediscovered. Specialists in authentic African adventure and overlanding travel.

22/11/2024

In August I had the privilege of living out a life long dream of doing my bush guide training in Botswana.

What made the experience that much more special and memorable was that I got the opportunity to spend two weeks in one of the most iconic safari destinations in the world, the Okavango Delta (on an exclusive private concession), and got to do it with one of the most respected training providers on this continent.

Learn more about my adventure and view some of my favourite images here - https://ow.ly/XXyR50UbwRV

Routes Rediscovered. Specialists in authentic African adventure and overlanding travel.

21/11/2024

Join Mark Bland from Routes Rediscovered as he introduces us to his trusty overlanding companion, 'Huck the Truck'!

Get ready to explore, discover, and make unforgettable memories with a vehicle that’s as much a character as the journey itself.

Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer, or dreaming of your first road less travelled, this is your perfect intro to the world of overlanding.

Part I of the truck walk around in the next episode.

Routes Rediscovered. Specialists in authentic African adventure and overlanding travel.

15/11/2024

Into the Wild!

There's nothing like the freedom of a 4x4 overlanding adventure through Tankwa Karoo National Park.

Known for its lunar-like desert plains, rugged mountain ranges, and surreal silence, Tankwa is an overlander's dream come true.

Here, you’ll journey across challenging terrains, tackle sandy tracks, and navigate rocky trails that reveal hidden gems like blooming desert flora, ancient fossils, and some of the darkest night skies on Earth – perfect for stargazing.

Routes Rediscovered. Specialists in authentic African adventure and overlanding travel.

13/11/2024

For the love of vellies!

There's something timeless about a good pair of vellies! Made even better when custom made for you.

Strassbergers Leather Shoes have been crafting custom veldskoen by hand using skills passed down since 1834.

It's inspiring to visit the factory and see each pair made with care, a nod to both heritage and durability.

Wupperthal’s deep-rooted history in shoemaking adds even more character to these iconic shoes. If you’re a fan of authentic South African craftsmanship, this is a must-do experience!

Routes Rediscovered. Specialists in authentic African adventure and overlanding travel.

12/11/2024

Some fun in the sun at Rogge Cloof Private Nature Reserve. The final two days of our Durban to Cape Town overlanding adventure!

'Situated at an altitude of 1,400 to 1,700 meters in the heart of the Karoo, Rogge Cloof is part of the Roggeveld plateau, an area known for its sweeping plains and crystal-clear skies, making it an ideal dark sky reserve for stargazing. Named after the wild rye once abundant here, the Roggeveld is a natural treasure, home to awe-inspiring mountain ranges and rich biodiversity.'

Routes Rediscovered. Specialists in authentic African adventure and overlanding travel.

11/11/2024

This has to be one of my top drives in the Cape so far! Our Durban to Cape Town overlanding adventure is just getting better!

The journey from Enjo to Rogge Cloof was nothing short of epic. 250km of rugged, all-gravel roads, winding through around 10 jaw-dropping mountain passes (listed below). Over 8-9 hours (including all the necessary stops ), each stretch unveiled a new facet of the Cape’s raw beauty.

We stopped by Wuppertal, an iconic village home to the oldest factory in South Africa, where they still hand-make vellies (more on that later). We grabbed some goodies at the Aankoms farm store and, of course, the legendary Tankwa Padstal, a must for road trippers in these parts.

Every pass had its own character, its own view, making this drive an unforgettable adventure through the heart of the Cape. Here is a list of passes to name a few...

Kouberg Pass
Kerskop Pass
Nek of Names
Grootrivier Pass
Blinkers Pass
Katbakkies Pass
Skittery Pass
Jukhoogte
Thyshoogte
Verlatenkloof

Routes Rediscovered. Specialists in authentic African adventure and overlanding travel.

10/11/2024

Witness the magic of sunset among the iconic quiver trees at Enjo Nature Farm, where the rugged beauty of the Biedouw Valley transforms into a breathtaking dreamscape.

As the sun dips, the quiver trees stand silhouetted against a painted sky, casting an otherworldly glow over the landscape.

And when night falls, the valley becomes a paradise for stargazers and photographers, with crystal-clear skies that showcase a dazzling array of stars. Perfect for those seeking solitude and inspiration under the vast heavens.

📍 Enjo Nature Farm, Biedouw Valley

Routes Rediscovered. Specialists in authentic African adventure and overlanding travel.

08/11/2024

Finding peace and quiet at Enjo Nature Farm in the picturesque Biedouw Valley, a lush and fertile region just 32 kilometers from Clanwilliam, in the scenic Cederberg area.

A short break in our Durban to Cape Town overlanding adventure.

With 4x4 drives, braais and some well needed down time, the road less travelled delivered once again.

Routes Rediscovered. Specialists in authentic African adventure and overlanding travel.

07/11/2024

Braving the elements! The next chapter in our Durban to Cape Town overlanding adventure!

We set forth and braved the stormy roads from Franschhoek to Enjo Nature Farm in the Cederberg, taking in the scenic Piekenierskloof Pass and Pakhuis Pass along the way.

What was supposed to be a 4-hour trip turned into a 7-hour adventure, thanks to irresistible detours and stops at some of my favourite padstals scattered along the route - including a VIP coffee lounge.

The journey was as unforgettable as the destination!

Routes Rediscovered. Specialists in authentic African adventure and overlanding travel.

04/11/2024

The next leg of our Durban to Cape Town overlanding adventure involved a journey back in time and a few unforgettable passes!

From Robinson Pass, we ventured along the scenic back roads all the way to Riversdale, seeking traces of some of our early ancestors on the Garden Route, dating back to 1825 (and when the first official mayor of Mossel Bay held office), with our family being traced back to 1688. A visit to the Old Meurant Historical Cemetery, which has a few of the remaining graves of some of the original founders of the town.

From there, we continued through Garcia's Pass and the winding back roads to Montagu for an overnight stay. Our route then took us through the well-traveled Houw Hoek Pass, stopping at Peregrine’s Padstal, and over Sir Lowry's Pass for a night in Cape Town, where we celebrated multiple birthdays with Jo and Paul.

Finally, we journeyed onwards to Franschhoek, capping the day with a sundowner on Franschhoek Pass.

Routes Rediscovered. Specialists in authentic African adventure and overlanding travel.

31/10/2024

The next leg of our Durban to Cape Town overlanding adventure!

After leaving Maclear, we made our way to Mountain Zebra National Park in the Eastern Cape - one of my favourite parks in all of South Africa. The park’s stunning mountains and landscapes provide an exceptional backdrop for wildlife sightings. We were fortunate to spot a variety of animals, including two cheetah sightings, a bat-eared fox, eland, gemsbok, springbok, and, of course, the rare Cape mountain zebra.

Our next destination was Gamkaberg Nature Reserve, but midday brought unexpected news: the park had closed due to flooding. With a quick change of plans, we detoured down Robinsons Pass, stopping at EIGHT BELLS MOUNTAIN INN for a well-timed pit stop.

Routes Rediscovered. Specialists in authentic African adventure and overlanding travel.