Trip Reports

On our return trip in 2025 from Mana pools, we crossed into Botswana at the Panda Matenga border. We had such a nice trip and was in such good spirits that I could not believe when the fridges were checked that there were about 4 packs of frozen meat left in the freezer. Now we had a problem. The lady who searched the vehicles explained our options to us, we could leave the meat there or we could cook it. So, we cooked it, right there at the border post on the gas stove. She was satisfied and we went on our way, with cooked meat back in the freezer. During a trip to the Tuli Block in May 2026, we crossed the border at Platjan into Botswana. Being aware of the issues with taking meat across the border we made sure that we had no raw meat but only cooked meat in the freezer. Being aware of the issues the previous trip, the ladies made sure to prepare and pack several precooked meals. Amongst the precooked meat was a sliced leg of lamb that was placed in zip lock bags and kept in the freezer. Some of the people in the other vehicles had done similar pre-pact meals, cooked mince, salted ham and sliced steak from the previous night's braai, which were also packed in a zip lock bags. This time the "officials" had one look at the contents of the freezer and informed us that we are not allowed to cross with any meat products, cooked or uncooked. No amount of debating would change their minds, and we had to hand it over. Needless to say, we were all very unhappy. We were in a group of three vehicles. By the time we drove out of the border post I noticed that all the packets of meat were put onto a table under a tree and was being keenly inspected by all of the officials. We left and I am unsure what happened to our meals, but I have a pretty good idea.... When arriving at our camping destination, the owner told us that this is a regular occurrence and that they are frequently subjected to this kind of behavior when crossing the border. So, a word of advice, perhaps take some tinned food. Not sure if anyone had similar experience, but please share.

I’ve been into overlanding and 4x4ing for as long as I can remember—long before it became a “thing,” as I’m sure is the case for many here. Growing up in Namibia, it was almost inevitable; like many of my generation, I spent plenty of time in—and occasionally behind the wheel of—a Series Land Rover as a young boy. My journey started with a Land Rover 88 and eventually ended in a fancy Discovery II TD5. As life evolved (and with a young family joining the adventures), practicality started to matter more. That shift led me to Toyota—specifically Land Cruisers—for their reliability, especially when heading deep into remote areas. That said, the Land Rover days never really leave you. The quirks, the breakdowns, the frustrations… but also some of the best memories I’ve had behind a wheel. When production of the Defender stopped about 12 years ago—and later with the launch of the new Defender (capable, yes, but in my view more luxury than utility)—I more or less accepted that I’d be sticking with Land Cruisers for the long haul. Then came Sir Jim Ratcliffe and the idea that many of us had quietly held onto: bringing back a no-nonsense, purpose-built 4x4 inspired by the original vision. Enter the INEOS Grenadier. This isn’t an INEOS sales pitch—just an introduction and a bit of a trip note to break the ice. I recently had a short stint with a Grenadier, though unfortunately time was limited, so this won’t be my usual detailed, photo-heavy report. We headed into a part of the Namib Desert I’ve been exploring for nearly 30 years. It’s one of those places that never gets old—the shifting light, endless shapes, and ever-changing colours make every visit feel new. Looking forward to seeing more trip reports and experiences from others here, especially from around Southern Africa. I’ll do my part as well—hopefully with a few more frequent (and slightly more detailed) outings to share in the near future. https://youtu.be/jbA25JApe9A?si=1zk4qo5YgCwaFiOz