I know that it's great to travel to Namibia, Botswana, Mozambique, Lesotho and even Angola, but in these trying financial times, is it totally neccessary to spend the extra on fuel? Can't we get a similar experience by staying within the borders of South Africa?

Desert regions can be found in the Kalahari, the Tankwa Karoo and other areas of the Northern Cape. The mountainous 4x4 trails of the eastern Freestate are beautiful without having to enter Lesotho. Our own game parks also offer fantastic wildlife and accommodation facilities. The West Coast has a character all of its own, as does KZN, Limpopo and Mpumalanga.

Adventure Tourism is on the increase in all provinces, so there isn't exactly a shortage of things to do once you arrive at your chosen destination.

With so many people working so hard to promote the tourism opportunities that abound in the rural areas of South Africa, I believe we almost have an obligation to thoroughly explore the hidden gems of our own country. Plus, you wont have as far to drive thus reducing the costs and the travelling time.

The message is simple. Don't think that due to the current financial climate you have to cancel your annual 4x4 trip to Namibia for example. Investigate where you can go locally and you may be surprised in what rural SA has to offer.

The photo in the attachment was taken just 2 hours from Ceres in the Western Cape. Can you guess where?