SOUTH BY DUST & FIRE
I decided to solo travel to volunteer with wildlife to Namibia by myself and then meet up with my mum to take a brand new 2025 5-door suzuki jimny to some of South Africas beautiful wildlife parks, during the rainy season!
"What started as a clean, untouched Jimny ended mud-stained and well travelled, carrying memories we’ll never lose. Africa leaves its mark on you. If you are considering an adventure like this, I’m always happy to share advice to help ensure you travel safely, comfortably, and make the most of the experience. I can’t wait to return and keep exploring the continent’s wild places. "
"But the adventure wasn’t over after this experience. Next came the road trip of a lifetime — South Africa. I wanted to explore national parks, visit family, share the experience with my mum, and do it all in a five-door Suzuki Jimny. As two women travelling alone, safety and preparation mattered. Being South African meant we knew what to expect, but planning, local advice, and trusted contacts were essential. Driving a brand-new Jimny through South Africa was so much fun. No number plates yet, a basic off-road setup, camping gear on the roof, and just enough tech to keep us going. The Jimny was hired through a company called Treadlite — 4WD self-drive rental experts that provide route plans, off-road vehicles, and equipment for adventure travellers. The vehicle modifications were light, a simple shock upgrade with Bilstein shocks and larger 215/75R15 tyres. The combination provided stability without needing excessive lift. The route we planned did not require any more than that. Along with all the camping gear, the vehicle came with 40-litre roof storage, a Dometic fridge, collapsible solar panels, and a lithium battery."
