My Epic Adventure: Crossing South Africa in a Ford Ranger

Hey there! Let me tell you about the incredible journey I embarked on – a thrilling off-road trek covering 2,300km through the stunning landscapes of South Africa. Strap in and join me as we explore the power, durability, and excitement of the Ford Ranger!

Picture this: the wind in my hair, the dust swirling around, and the engine roaring as I hit the open road. Driving through South Africa was like stepping into a breathtaking postcard. From lush green valleys to rugged mountain ranges, this diverse country offered jaw-dropping views around every turn.

But this trip wasn’t just about sightseeing; it was an adrenaline-fueled adventure that pushed me and the Ford Ranger to our limits. The terrain varied from gravel roads to rocky mountain passes, and the Ranger handled it all with ease. Its robust design and powerful engine made traversing even the toughest trails a breeze.

One of the highlights of the journey was crossing the vast expanse of the Karoo desert, a seemingly endless stretch of golden sand and sparse vegetation. It was a harsh and unforgiving environment, but the Ford Ranger’s off-road capabilities and advanced features allowed me to conquer this challenging landscape without breaking a sweat.

As I ventured deeper into the heart of South Africa, I encountered wildlife in its natural habitat. From graceful antelopes to majestic elephants, these encounters added an extra layer of excitement to my trip. And thanks to the Ranger’s high ground clearance and advanced safety features, I could observe these incredible creatures from a safe distance.

The Ford Ranger proved to be more than just a reliable companion; it was my ticket to freedom and exploration. Whether I was tackling steep mountain trails or cruising along vast plains, this powerful machine never let me down.

So, if you’re looking for an adventure of a lifetime, hop into a Ford Ranger and hit the road. Trust me; it will be an experience you’ll never forget. Get ready to embrace the unknown and write your own off-road story!

Imagine this: you’re on a road trip, cruising along a never-ending road that twists and turns, making your heart race with every bend. The excitement builds as you speed up and slow down, encountering new surprises along the way. It’s a wild adventure that keeps you on your toes.

Well, let me tell you about a journey that perfectly captures this thrill. Ford South Africa sent me on a four-day off-road drive all the way from Cape Town’s stunning winelands to the vibrant city life of Johannesburg. And let me tell you, it was an experience like no other.

When I arrived at the beautiful Meerendal Wine Estate in Durbanville for my adventure known as the ‘Gravelog’, I was greeted by a fleet of Ford vehicles. There were two Ranger XLT’s, two Wildtraks, and two Raptors, all lined up and ready for the journey ahead. At first, I felt a little overwhelmed by their size and power, but as I took a moment to get to know these 4x4s, my apprehension quickly transformed into a sense of wonder and anticipation.

Image: Kyro Mitchell

As I embarked on our Gravelog adventure, my fellow explorers and I gathered for a delicious country breakfast, courtesy of Meerendal. It was during this morning meal that I had the pleasure of meeting the diverse group joining me on this journey. From seasoned motoring journalists to aspiring South African vloggers, we were an eclectic bunch. Our capable leaders for this epic voyage were the skilled head-driver Gideo, the expert navigator Manesh, and Bertis, a legendary bush mechanic and master of jokes.

I decided to go with the Ford Ranger XLT for the first part of my journey. It was the perfect choice for me because I had never driven on gravel roads for such a long time before. Starting with the XLT model, which was not the most powerful but still comfortable, seemed like a wise decision. This allowed me and my co-driver to get used to the 4×4 properly. Moving from my old VW Golf to the brand new Ford Ranger meant that I had to get accustomed to a few different things, like the XLT’s super-responsive steering and brakes. But after driving about 15 kilometers on those twisty gravel roads, my confidence in the vehicle skyrocketed.

As we embarked on the first leg of our Gravelog adventure, something unexpected happened. We decided to make a small detour through the charming town of Darling, and it turned out to be a fortuitous choice. We stumbled upon a generous farmer who offered to donate over 50 hay bales to another farmer who was in desperate need after the devastating droughts. It was an act of kindness that left us in awe.

However, there was a problem. The two farmers were separated by a vast expanse of 500 kilometers, filled with mountains, dunes, and wildlife. How could we bridge this immense gap? That’s when we realized that our Ranger convoy had a higher purpose. We became the bush-delivery service, ensuring that these much-needed hay bales reached their intended destination.

The farmer who needed the bales was just a short 10-kilometer detour from our original path. It seemed like a small sacrifice for a significant cause. So, we gladly accepted our new role as the bearers of hope. Through rough terrains and unpredictable weather, we pressed on, determined to deliver this essential aid.

Hey there! I bet you’re wondering why images are so important, right? Well, let me tell you all about it!

First of all, images are like little visual stories that can grab your attention and make you stop in your tracks. They have the power to capture a moment or emotion in a way that words sometimes can’t. It’s pretty amazing, if you think about it!

When you see an image, it’s like your brain takes a little trip – you start imagining what it must have been like to be there in that exact moment. It’s almost like magic!

But images aren’t just pretty pictures. They can also help you understand things better. Have you ever looked at an image and thought, “I get it now!”? That’s because images have this incredible ability to make complex ideas seem simpler and more relatable. They can help you connect the dots and see the bigger picture.

And here’s another cool thing about images – they can make you feel things. Have you ever looked at a picture and felt happy, or sad, or even a little bit scared? Images have this incredible power to evoke emotions and make you experience something on a deeper level.

So, next time you come across an image, take a moment to really look at it. Let it tell you its story and show you something new. And remember, images are more than just pictures – they’re windows into a world of imagination and emotion. How amazing is that?

Image: Kyro Mitchell

Image: Kyro Mitchell

So, we arrived at this little town called Redelinghuys, which turned out to be quite a gem. We were starving by that point, so we decided to grab some food at this adorable place called Affi Plaas. Let me tell you, it was a total oasis. Surrounded by all this lush greenery and beautiful plants, it was like stepping into a whole new world after spending hours in the dry and sandy landscapes.

After we had lunch and stretched our legs, it was time to switch things up for our first round of driving. We had planned two driving shifts each day to make sure no one got too tired. This way, we could all take turns and have a co-pilot to keep us company. I was lucky enough to get a break during this shift, which meant I had the chance to really take in the scenery. Plus, I got to play around with the entertainment system in the Ranger. I used voice commands to connect my phone to Apple Car Play and create the ultimate road-trip playlist. The XLR had so many other cool features, too!

As I drove off-road for another five hours, signs appeared that indicated where I would be staying overnight. The first sign was the shadowy figure of a pirate ship on the horizon – a bit out of place in the Little Karoo, I must say. The next sign came in the form of strange statues scattered around us. When we arrived at the entrance, which had an apocalyptic vibe to it, everything started to make sense. This is where I would be spending the night: the grounds of the AfrikaBurn festival in Tankwa Karoo National Park. Unfortunately, I had arrived too early for the festivities. AfrikaBurn would only be happening from April 27th to May 3rd, 2020, so I would have to wait a bit to experience it all.

Once we settled into our unexpectedly spacious tents, it was time to relax and enjoy ourselves. We decided to head up to a lookout spot on a mountain to catch the breathtaking sunset over the endless hills and dunes. After taking in the stunning view, our stomachs started to growl, signaling that it was dinner time. We indulged in mouthwatering chops, pap, and veggies, all served with a refreshing open bar to quench our thirst.

When I saw this shrine at the peak of the lookout spot on the mountain, I was filled with awe. The sight was so marvelous that it made me wonder about the beauty and mystery of the world we live in. The shrine, standing tall and proud, seemed to be a testament to the wonder and power of nature.

As I gazed at the shrine, I couldn’t help but think about the significance of the sun’s journey across the sky. When it reaches the center of the wheel and disappears below the horizon, it marks the beginning of a new day. It’s a moment of transition, a signal that the old day has come to an end and a new one is about to begin.

There’s something magical about this daily ritual. It’s a reminder that life is full of cycles and that each day brings new opportunities and possibilities. It’s a chance to start afresh, to let go of the past and embrace what lies ahead.

Standing there, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of gratitude for the sun and its role in our lives. It’s easy to take it for granted, but without the sun, life as we know it would cease to exist. The sun’s warmth and light provide us with energy and nourishment, and its beauty brings joy and inspiration.

As I left the shrine and made my way down the mountain, I couldn’t help but carry a sense of wonder and awe with me. The experience reminded me of the importance of appreciating the beauty of nature and the everyday miracles that surround us. It’s a reminder to pause, to take a moment to marvel at the world and all its wonders.

When I woke up in the morning after a surprisingly good night’s sleep in the tents, I could immediately tell that this was no ordinary campsite. The air was filled with the delicious smell of bacon and eggs, and the sound of scampering footsteps echoed through the bush. It was the perfect way to start the day before we embarked on the next part of our adventure: delivering the hay bales.

Getting to the drought-stricken farm, which was located a few hundred kilometers from AfrikaBurn, wasn’t an easy task. The journey was filled with challenges, but thankfully, the Ford Rangers were more than capable of handling anything that came their way. We tackled steep mountain passes and faced sheer drops that seemed endless. It was definitely the most difficult part of our trip. The pressure of not losing any hay bales added to the stress, but our trusty Ranger performed admirably.

Finally arriving at the farm in the Namakwa District was such a relief for all of us. It meant we had finished the longest part of the Gravelog journey. But even more importantly, it meant that the animals on the farm would finally get some food. The farmer told us that the hay bales we brought would be enough to feed his animals for a whole month. That’s a lot of food! And he said that during that month, the rain would come and give his crops a chance to grow without any disruptions.

As I finally parked the car after what felt like forever, I couldn’t help but feel relieved to have arrived at our overnight accommodation: Ganora Guest Farm & Excursions, just outside Nieu-Bethesda. Gone were the days of sleeping in tents; this time, we were in for a treat with sturdy cover, running water, and electricity! And as if that wasn’t enough, we were in for a culinary delight with a dinner of succulent Karoo lamb, perfectly paired with roasted potatoes and beetroot.

The next morning, our adventure continued with a remarkable surprise. We were given the opportunity to explore Ganora’s awe-inspiring fossil collection, which dates back an astonishing 280 million years. Who would have thought that the barren Little Karoo semi-desert was once a thriving swampland, teeming with life?

Waking up on the third day of our Gravelog journey, we were greeted not by the gentle chirping of birds, but by the lively bleating of sheep roaming nearby. It was a charming, albeit unexpected, wake-up call that added a touch of whimsy to our experience.

Another day lay ahead with a long drive, but fortunately, it was our turn to tackle the BiTurbo diesel, 157KW Ford Ranger Wildtrak. When I hopped into the Wildtrak, I couldn’t help but notice the little differences inside the cabin, like the bright yellow stitching along the dashboard and the electronically controlled seats. It struck me that this 4×4 was much more serious than the XLT Ranger I had driven before. After saying goodbye to Ganora Guest Farm, it was time to rack up some serious mileage.

Besides a few stubborn cows that didn’t want to budge and a slight diversion to an abandoned railway station in Xhariep, in the Free State, the Gravelog was mostly smooth sailing from there.

Hey there! I’m here to talk about the fascinating world of images and how they can captivate our attention and spark our imagination. So let’s dive right in!

Have you ever wondered how a single image can have such a powerful impact on us? It’s truly remarkable. Images can transport us to far-off places, stir up memories and emotions, and even inspire us to take action.

When I look at a beautiful photograph or a stunning work of art, something magical happens. My senses awaken, and I find myself completely absorbed in the image. It’s like I’m stepping into a different world, if only for a moment.

But why? Why are images so mesmerizing? Well, let me break it down for you:

Firstly, images have the ability to convey complex information in a way that is easy to understand. They can tell a story, evoke a feeling, or communicate an idea without the need for words. It’s amazing how a simple image can speak volumes.

Secondly, images have a way of grabbing our attention and holding it captive. In a world filled with distractions, it’s no wonder that we are drawn to the visual allure of images. They demand to be noticed and admired.

Lastly, images have the power to ignite our imagination. They can transport us to places we’ve never been, allow us to see things from a new perspective, and inspire us to dream big. A single image has the ability to spark a thousand ideas.

So, the next time you come across a captivating image, take a moment to truly appreciate its beauty and the impact it has on you. Allow yourself to be transported to a different world, to feel something deeply, and to embrace the power of visual storytelling.

Remember, a picture is worth a thousand words, but it’s up to you to interpret its meaning and find the stories hidden within.

Wow, look at this cool picture of Kyro Mitchell!

That night, we found a place to stay at the 4-star Otterskloof Private Game Reserve. It’s a special place where you can see animals like kudu, eland, impala, and zebra. Our group had an amazing dinner in a unique dining area with a Game-of-Thrones-inspired table. We had an interesting challenge that night, too. We decided to put our phones in the middle of the table. The first person to grab their phone would have to pay for everything. It was tough for us journalists and influencers, but it was a good break from our screens. During this time, we took a moment to be grateful. Each of us held a special ‘talking-candle’ and shared what we learned from the Gravelog. We all felt like we had grown and made a difference.

Here’s a picture of our special tree at the Otterskloof Private Game Reserve. Image: Kyro Mitchell.

As I entered the main dining hall at Otterskloof Private Game Reserve, I couldn’t help but be captivated by its grandeur. The vast space was filled with a sense of adventure and the promise of new experiences that awaited me on this final leg of our journey.

With the most driving time ahead of us in the entire Gravelog, my co-pilot and I were excited to take on the challenge in the 10-speed, 2.0-litre BiTurbocharged diesel Raptor. Its powerful engine and rugged design made it clear that we were in for an off-road adventure like no other.

As I settled into the driver’s seat and looked around, I couldn’t help but notice the striking red dials and paddle shifters. They served as a reminder that this vehicle was built for a purpose – to conquer the untamed wilderness. The Raptor’s distinctive features, such as the raised body and bold Raptor stickers, were a testament to its off-road capabilities.

But it was the specially developed chassis that truly set the Raptor apart. With its ability to withstand the harshest off-road conditions, I felt an overwhelming sense of confidence as I pushed the vehicle to its limits. Whether it was navigating tight corners or tackling uneven terrain, I knew I could rely on the Raptor to keep me safe and in control.

On our last day of driving, our journey took us to Klerksdorp, where we decided to stop for a short lunch break. But as luck would have it, even in Klerksdorp, they were experiencing the infamous load shedding. It’s no surprise that this frustrating phenomenon affects people everywhere!

Nevertheless, we didn’t let this inconvenience dampen our spirits. We quickly found a solution by using a couple of generators, which allowed us to enjoy our meals and replenish our energy before continuing our drive.

Before I knew it, we were on the outskirts of Krugersdorp. It felt like such a short time had passed when we found ourselves approaching the bustling city. Suddenly, our lead driver, Gideo, crackled over the radio with exciting news. “Hey guys, Lanseria is just a few kilometers ahead!” I didn’t quite know how to feel about his announcement. On one hand, I was relieved that our long hours of driving were finally coming to an end. But on the other hand, I realized that this meant bidding farewell to the incredible people I had spent an amazing and adventurous week with. No more campfire stories that made us laugh until our sides hurt. No more inside jokes that only we understood. No more playful banter over the radio that kept us entertained for hours on end.

Hey there! Have you ever wondered how to choose the right team? It can be a tricky task, but let me break it down for you.

First off, you need to consider the qualities and skills you’re looking for. It’s like putting together a puzzle – you want all the pieces to fit just right. Think about what each team member brings to the table and how they complement one another.

Next, don’t forget about communication. It’s key! You want a team that can share ideas, ask questions, and work together smoothly. Good communication is like a secret code that helps everyone stay on the same page.

But wait, there’s more! Trust is another important factor to consider. You need to have confidence in your team members and know that they’ll do their part. Trust is like a sturdy bridge that connects all the team members together.

And let’s not forget about creativity! It’s like a spark that ignites new ideas and solutions. Having a team full of creative thinkers can take your project to the next level.

Lastly, keep in mind that diversity is a strength. When you have a team with different perspectives and backgrounds, you get a wider range of ideas and approaches. Diversity is like a colorful tapestry that adds depth and richness to your team.

So, when it comes to choosing the right team, remember these key elements: the right skills, good communication, trust, creativity, and diversity. With these factors in mind, you’ll be well on your way to building an amazing team!

Image: Kyro Mitchell

Just a few kilometers outside of Joburg, we made a quick stop to take one last picture of the vehicles before continuing on our journey. The folks at Ford South Africa had challenged us to put their Ranger series to the test: driving from Cape Town to Johannesburg without relying on paved roads. Although we had a few moments that made us hold our breath, the Ford Ranger series proved its worth and safely transported us all in utmost comfort and style. It’s clear that these vehicles are truly #BuiltForTough.

Image: Kyro Mitchell