This might come as a surprise, but the off-roading community in South Africa is not only alive and kicking, but it’s growing. Well, with awe-inspiring landscapes, diverse wildlife, and a climate that all but encourages outdoor adventures, what would you expect? 

Not to mention the abundance of 4×4 trails littered across every province. And when you add in the fact that in recent years people were cooped up and unable to explore our beautiful country (we’re referring to the pandemic and ensuing lockdowns, of course), well, it just makes sense why the level of interest in this recreational activity has peaked.  

If you’re thinking of leaving your two-wheel drive SUV or family sedan locked up back home in favour of hitting the tough terrain, then it’s worth considering that specialised off-road 4×4 insurance.  

Here’s a look at what 4×4 insurance does and why it makes more sense to cover your rugged vehicle than the normal car insurance available.  

A Closer At 4×4 Insurance 

Whether you call it 4×4 or off-road insurance, this type of cover is more or less the same as a standard comprehensive car insurance – but with the addition of a few extra risks included and benefits that specifically cater to the unique needs and risks that come with off-road driving.  

What’s typically included with this policy:  

• Theft, fire, and accidental damage to your vehicle and the property of third parties. 
• Repairs relating to non-collision events, like damage to the undercarriage from rocks and uneven terrain. 
• Roadside assistance, emergency assistance, and some form of medical assistance.  
• A repatriation benefit, usually limited to certain African countries. 
• Separate cover for accessories, like winches, adventure lights, and bull bars.  

Why You Can’t Rely On Your Regular Car Insurance 

It’s a misconception that comprehensive car insurance will do the trick while you’re trekking up Sani Pass. It’s not that you won’t be covered, it’s that you won’t be covered for everything. You see, car insurance is designed for the average car and the average driver, so typical events are covered for people driving along on (usually) tarred roads – merrily going along their day, travelling to work or kids’ school drop off, or their local coffee shop.   

But off-roading leaves you open to other types of damage and risks. The kind that aren’t included with normal car insurance policies. As a driver dealing with rocky and uneven terrain, steep inclines and river crossings, you could end up with severe damage to the undercarriage and frame of your vehicle, along with a buckled rim or a blown-out tyre.  

Essentially, if you only have car insurance to rely on, this type of damage might not be covered and you’ll have to pay for it out of your own pocket. This makes it vital that you secure the right insurance, so that if something does happen, it won’t derail your journey and your financial standing.  

Beautiful Places To Explore 

We wouldn’t just leave you with information about insurance. Not when we can also point you in the direction of the amazing 4×4 routes that every off-roader should experience. 

Famous and challenging 4×4 routes: 

• Sani Pass, starting in KwaZulu-Natal, this route offers a gruelling, steep climb and rewards you with breathtaking views of the Drakensberg.  
• Richtersveld Transfrontier Park offers several off-road trails through rugged kloofs, dry riverbeds, and soft sand.  
• The Knysna Forest trail takes you deep into indigenous forests, filled with towering Yellowwood trees and streams. 
• Baviaans Kouga offers a trail that takes you around the World Heritage site, the Baviaans Kloof. 
• Kagga Kamma Nature Reserve, located in Central Karoo, is uniquely different – exposing you to desolate beauty, with so much to explore that you’ll forget you’re in a desert. 

Feel informed?  

Getting ready to join South Africa’s ever-expanding off-roading community? If you are, we hope this info helps keep you safe while you’re driving around. Don’t forget that AA Inform can help with a range of tools and tips, including our Fuel Consumption Calculator and Trip Fuel Cost Calculator – to make it easier for you to budget for your road trip, whether you’re exploring craggy mountains or sunlit, coastal dunes.