FILM
The long way round SWAZILAND [S5 – Eps. 10]
EDITORIAL SUMMARY
This Season 5 episode follows a motorcycle journey from Kaapsche Hoop to Pongola in South Africa. Swaziland lies between the rider and the most direct, appealing route, but border and testing requirements shape the decision to take the long way around.
About this film
Part of Itchy Boots’ Southern Africa series, this 16-minute film centres on a practical choice during a ride between two South African destinations. Riding through Swaziland would be the most logical and interesting option, but doing so would involve finding clinics, taking two COVID tests and waiting several days for the results. The episode’s focus is how those requirements, alongside uncertainty over border access, affect the route.
The journey
The ride begins in Kaapsche Hoop and is bound for Pongola. Rather than enter Swaziland, the rider opts to go around it. The stated concern is that changing border conditions could leave her stuck in a small country; the testing process would also add time before she could continue. The detour makes the episode less about a direct crossing and more about adapting a motorcycle itinerary to travel restrictions. Swaziland remains a destination for another time, while this leg continues on the longer alternative route.
What to expect
- A South African ride from Kaapsche Hoop towards Pongola
- A route decision shaped by COVID testing and border uncertainty
- A detour around Swaziland, with a future visit left open
COMMUNITY
Discussion
Comments are limited to registered members.
No comments yet. Start the discussion.
Sign in to join the discussion. Requiring an account keeps the comments useful and cuts out automated spam.