Buckle up for a hardcore 4×4 adventure bar none.
The Boegoeberg 4×4 trail near Graafwater is a dead ringer for getting your wheels dirty on every type of terrain – from softroader routes to near-impassable Grade 5 technical challenges. All under the umbrella of thrilling scenery, fascinating ruins and a great camping site.
Situated on the working buchu and rooibos farm Lambertshoek on the slopes of Engelsman se Berg in the Cederberg, this terrain was only accessible via donkey-cart paths previously. In 2000, farmer Sybrie de Beer decided to open up the mountains to 4x4s. Over several months, 10 men worked tirelessly to construct what’s today an impressive 4×4 route.
The low-down
From the start of the 30-km trail, the route passes Buurman-se-gat, Sarel-se-kop, Kliphuis, Die Poort, Groenvlei and Stillerus. Finally, you’ll reach the Platklip viewpoint to enjoy gobsmacking 360-degree views of the Sandveld region.
With a difficulty grading of 3 – 5, Boegoeberg isn’t for sissies. Only experienced drivers will be able have a crack at the steep cliffs and off-camber ascents, as well as awfully precipitous descents. Your vehicle’s ability also needs to be tops because the trail runs clockwise and turning around is well-nigh impossible.
Although a diff-lock isn’t necessary, a long-wheelbase vehicle with a minimum 250 mm ground clearance would certainly help.
Along the mountain route you’ll find other technical sections with marked sandstone boards. In addition to the mountain trail, there’s a short circular route with several challenges to test your nerves, including a sandy hill-climb.
From Platklip, brace yourself for a long technical descent, followed by a steep ascent. There’s also a stream which you have to cross several times and the difficulty varies according to the seasons. But you can’t futz around: your driving prowess and the vehicle’s traction will certainly have to go for broke. If it becomes too daunting, make use of the escapes at the obstacles.
An expert’s take
According to motoring journalist Andrew Middleton, no parts of the trail are car-breakers. “Even the fynbos shrub is kept in check, and (with careful driving) you should have no scratching issues. The terrain is extremely technical in places and it would be very dangerous for a beginner to attempt some of the sections that can’t be avoided on the long mountain trail.
“Most impressive though, is a steep 40-degree descent of about 150 m between large boulders on a loose scree surface that offers precious little traction. And some sections are so steep and technical that it takes a touch of madness to drive them.”
Don’t worry, 4×2 vehicles can also go green-laning at Boegoeberg on a purpose-built trail, while hepped-up Atlantis dune drivers can scoot around a sand-pit challenge.
GPS: S 32°17’15.96″ E 18°45’13.65″; Cost: R250 per vehicle for all trails, R150 for the short route, R200 for the long trail. Boegoeberg offers a variety of accommodation options. Pets welcome by request. Book: Sybrie de Beer, 027 4822933/083 6322634.
Ref: www.sa4x4.co.za/travel-review-boegoeberg-4×4;
Photo: onlyinafrica.com
