SandtracksSouth Africa's 4x4, camping & overland guide

Bivane 4x4 Trail

Ithala Game Reserve · KwaZulu-Natal 4x4 trail

Map sheet around Bivane 4x4 TrailBivane 4x4 Trail
Sheet 2731CA · 27°30.8′S 31°12.2′ENo photo of this route yet. We only show photos of the place itself, never a stand-in. Run it? Send us one · Open in OpenStreetMap

The main 4x4 challenge in Ithala Game Reserve, an out-and-back track that starts near the park offices in the north-west of the reserve, close to Doornkraal Campsite. It opens with a rocky crossing of the Thalu River, then runs through forest, loose rock and steep climbs with hairpins. It must be booked at Ntshondwe main camp, and only three vehicles are allowed at a time; after heavy rain parts become dangerous, so check conditions first.

Along the way

  • Thalu River crossing
  • Rock crawling
  • Three vehicles at a time
  • Phongolo River lookout

Before you drive it

  • Check with the operator for closures after rain. Conditions change faster than any website.
  • Tell someone your route and your expected time out.
  • Carry recovery gear you know how to use, and rated recovery points on the vehicle. See our recovery gear spec comparison.