SA AIA Launches Expanded Off-Road and Overlanding Chapter and more

The South African Adventure Industry Association (SA AIA) is proud to announce the relaunch and expansion of its former 4x4 Chapter under a new name: the Off-Road and Overlanding Chapter. This strategic move reflects the growing scope and diversity within South Africa’s off-road adventure sector and strengthens our commitment to professionalizing all branches of the adventure industry.

The newly formed chapter now includes four key legs of off-road adventure tourism:

• 4x4 Vehicles

• Trucks (Expedition-style/Heavy-duty vehicles)

• Quadbikes (ATVs)

• Motorbikes (Adventure and Enduro Tourism Riding)

By including the fast-growing adventure motorcycle sector, SA AIA takes an important step toward broader inclusion of both operators and guides working across terrain types, vehicle classes, and tourism markets.

“This isn’t just about vehicles—it’s about recognising the complexity and professionalism of those guiding overland experiences in wild spaces,” said Johan du Plooy, SA AIA Chapter Chairperson. “From guided motorbike adventures to multi-day 4x4 overland expeditions, the need for recognised standards and guide development is more important than ever.”

Setting the Path: Training Standards and Professional Development

As part of this relaunch, SA AIA has begun work on outlining training levels and pathways for overlanding professionals. The goal is to establish clear guidance for the development of overlanding guides, distinguishing between recreational users and those operating in a professional capacity—especially in remote, international, or cross-border contexts.

The Chapter will work toward:

• Defining progressive training levels tailored to different vehicles and guiding contexts

• Aligning standards with international best practices while contextualising for Southern Africa

• Collaborating with training providers and associations to build a clear development pathway

• Exploring the integration of safety, environmental impact, and cultural respect within all tiers of overland guiding

These discussions were the focus of the recent working session (9 April 2025), which included stakeholders from across the off-road and guiding sectors. Participants also explored the complexities of overland logistics, risk, and guide competency when trips span across borders, last several days, or involve solo leadership in remote areas.

“This chapter has the potential to build bridges between hobbyists, guides, operators, and educators,” said Jessi Sunkel, Executive Director of SA AIA.  “By setting clear training levels and strengthening professional development, we can uplift the entire sector.”

What’s Next?

The Off-Road and Overlanding Chapter will now focus on engaging with:

• Training providers interested in building and aligning programmes

• Overlanding guides and operators willing to contribute to the framework

• Adventure bikers, quadbike tour leaders, and expedition companies

• National and cross-border regulatory stakeholders

The next phase includes creating a consultative working group to finalise draft frameworks, support the SAQA recognition process, and explore inter-sector collaboration within the broader SA AIA ecosystem.

Get Involved

SA AIA invites all professionals, associations, and enthusiasts in the off-road and overlanding space to contribute to this exciting new chapter. For more information or to participate in the working group, contact us at info@saaia.org.za.

Issued by:SA Adventure Industry Association (SA AIA)📧 info@saaia.org.za🌍 www.saaia.org.za