Day 1: Johannesburg to Waterval-Boven

The intention was to go further, as close as possible to the borderpost. However, we only finalised the car about 1pm, and then some shopping for the "essentials" turned out to be quite long (but comprehensive). So, overall, we only really left Johannesburg about 2:30pm.

Near Delmas on the N12, we realised that we needed to fill up the tank - but there was no garage in sight. The GPS suggested a truck stop, which ended up being a detour through Delmas - which incidentally uncovered quite a few garages.


Tobias on top of the defender (still packed)


My other travel companions, Petra (left) and Annette (right)

The drive towards Nelspruit is stunning, through the hills and lush countryside. We stopped at a campsite (Elangeni Holiday Resort) just after Waterval-Boven, about 50Km West of Nelspruit - idea was to learn what we have in this hired car. The defender is surprisingly more comfortable than I remember, but it is not an easy vehicle to drive. The campsite is empty (only one other camper) - and even though we are next to the river, no mosquitos yet.

Tomorrow will be a long drive - intention is to go as far north in Mozambique (while remaining by the sea). Not sure if I will have Internet access ... even if it is GPRS like this link ...