Nissan Patrol 4x4 (Africa)

We leave for the Transkei next week and heard two days ago that we need vehicle permits to drive to our accommodation. We were not aware of this and find that we should have applied 15 days before departure (damn) and that - if caught out- a fine of R2,500 applies. See the link below - of course none of the telephones are being answered so we emailed and faxed for what good it may do.

Green Scorpions currently have a drive in the Transkei (according to the EP Herald) against poaching and exceeding bag limits. So they may be in the area......

https://thewilds.co.za/permit-application/

You only need a permit to venture off proclaimed and/or designated roads within 1 km of the high water mark.

Check with the accommodation owners if they are on such a road or not. I believe the road to your accommodation is fine but of course if you want to go exploring you need the permit.

There is a reason for these permits and the law has been in force for a couple of years now. There are a lot of illegal cottages on the coast and you will not be able to get a permit unless you can provide a "permission to occupy" for the cottage.

You used to be able to walk into the office in Mthatha and get the permit in 5 minutes as long as you had the necessary paperwork with you. Check with your accommodation owner if this is still the case.

Thanks David. Transpires that the cottage is legal, getting there is no problem. But to move up and down the coast to fish or dive there are "farm roads" for which a permit is needed.