By Boitumelo Shuping:
The Free State’s vast wilderness came alive as adventure seekers descended on Tussen Die Riviere (TDR) Nature Reserve near Bethulie for the annual 4×4 Eco Challenge, hosted by the Department of Economic, Small Business Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs (DESTEA) on 22 November 2025.
Water crossings and mountain climbs
The challenge unfolded with a dramatic water crossing as vehicles eased into the Orange River before moving toward the steep koppies. As the convoy climbed the rising slopes, participants could look back and see the deep orange shimmer of the river below and the point where it gently kisses the Caledon, a rare, breathtaking sight that captured the wild essence of Tussen Die Riviere.
Testing vehicles and skills
For participants, the designated 4×4 route was the heart of the experience. Deep river crossings, steep climbs, and rocky descents tested both skill and vehicle.
Tsepo, who was invited by Ford Human Auto to test the Raptor, said, “I am testing out my Raptor to its limit, it is exactly what it says it is, and it has delivered. This terrain is incredible.”
As the vehicles emerged from the riverbeds, water spraying in the sunlight, and crawled up boulder-lined slopes, cheers echoed from passengers bracing themselves in the back seats.
Connecting tourists with nature
The excursions were designed to reconnect tourists with the raw, unfiltered beauty of the Free State and foster a deeper appreciation for its landscapes and adventures.
Visitors shared the sentiment, calling it “the best, breathtaking exercise”. “We’ve never seen anything like this. I think this is the most hidden human treasure,” said Ben Ngeyakhe from Ford Human Auto.
A wildlife wonderland
Tussen Die Riviere Nature Reserve became the ultimate playground for the Eco Challenge. Stretching across thousands of hectares, the reserve is home to abundant wildlife, including blesbok, black wildebeest, springbok, eland, gemsbok, mountain reedbuck, impala, kudu, zebra, red hartebeest, warthog and buffalo, which can often be found along the shady riverbanks.
The landscape is characterised by sour karee and wild olive trees dotting the hillsides, while weeping willow and star apple trees line the rivers.
Camping and outdoor experiences
Beyond the adrenaline of off-roading, the camp-out element added depth to the experience. Visitors spent two days in tents beneath the stars, gathering around campfires, sharing stories of their toughest climbs, and participating in traditional outdoor activities such as game drives and a lively potjiekos challenge.
Promoting the Free State as a destination
The department emphasised that events like these are part of a broader strategy to shift perceptions of the Free State from a “go-through” province to a destination worth exploring. Mbulelo Nokwequ, HOD at DESTEA, said, “The idea is to expose the hidden gems. We are saying people should begin to explore the Free State, beyond the known places.”
With its blend of scenic wonder, wildlife encounters, and heart-pumping 4×4 action, the Eco Challenge succeeded in highlighting the province’s untapped potential.
An immersive weekend
For those invited to witness it, the weekend was more than an adventure; it was an immersion into the soul of the Free State’s unfiltered wilderness. – @NewsSA_Online
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