Quad Biking Devil's Cauldron 2-hour trail
The Devil's Cauldron Quad Trail consists of 8 kilometres of winding and criss-crossing quad track. The entire track was cut and built to optimize enjoyment and the development of quad-riding skills. The trail is situated adjacent to the Royal Swazi Sun Hotel in an area that was tin-mined 75 years ago. Over time the mining scars of deep donga's (gulley's) have been reclaimed by nature and now is well re-vegetated with grass, riverine forest and swampy reed beds. There is a small stream cascading through the area. Birdlife, flowers & small mammals, including duiker & nyala can be seen. The main central "canyon" with its characteristic red earth walls is what has given rise to the name "The Devil's Cauldron".
Initially opened in late 2006, after many months of detailed scoping and development, The Devil's Cauldron Quad Trail offers 8km of very unique quad track. The trail is manageable by beginners, yet still offers challenging options for experienced ATV (all terrain vehicle) enthusiasts. Trails are led by a full-time quad guide. 250cc Suzuki "Ozark" quads are utilised with one hour and two hour options available from 08h00 to 17h00 daily. Prior requests can be made for earlier or later departures (06h00 to 18h00) to fit busy touring, conference or golfing schedules.
Trails depart for a minimum of one and a maximum of eight persons. For pre-booked corporate groups, capacity can be boosted to 21 quads at a time, split between three guides. The quad trail can be combined with team-building challenges or multi-activity fun sessions including paint-ball, long-bow archery & orienteering. This can be arranged directly through Swazi Trails.
For a bit of visual motion visit the Swaziland Adventures section of our videos page.
This booking option that you are currently viewing is for a two hour trail. If you would prefer to only book a 1-hour trail please click here - 1 hour quad trail .
After the normal check-in procedures such as; registration, signing of waiver and the reviewing of quad trail rules, riders are fitted with helmets. Disposable sanitary caps provided for use. A detailed briefing is given on quad operating skills. Beginners are then availed time to practice basic riding the quads in the nearby parking lot area.
Once the group is confident to head off, the trail sets off behind the lead guide. Most trails start with an easy and relatively flat loop, which allows participants an opportunity to get used to the quad. When the guide assesses that the group is ready for the next level, a progression of looping routes with ever-increasing challenges is followed. At particularly tough challenge the guide often stops to run through the necessary technique required, then stands by to assist.
Only very competant quad riders are allowed onto the extreme sections of the trail. This is not a high-speed race track and due to the nature of the trail, most riding is done in 2nd and 3rd gear. The trail eventually finishes back at its starting point outside the Royal Swazi Sun Hotel.
Participant Guidelines
The Suzuki 250cc Ozark quad is semi-automatic. Although there is no clutch, participants still need to change gear using a toe pedal. These quads have an automatic start, front and back brakes, five forward and one reverse gear. These Suzuki quads are powerful, but stable ATV's and are rated as the ideal design for commercial trail operations.
Chilled still water is carried by the guide, and a refreshment break is taken mid-way through the trail.
No prior experience is required to attempt this activity and first-time quad riders are welcome. Participants are required to have a basic grasp of English so as to absorb operational and safety instructions. Industry policy indicate that 250cc quads are suitable for persons 16 years of age or older. All riders are required to sign a waiver and indemnity prior to departure and minors (under 18yrs) require the signature of a parent or guardian. It is essential that participants are fully sober and anyone arriving, who shows any sign of intoxication will be politely asked to re-schedule for a later slot.
The standard equipment provided, includes an open-face helmet. Participants are required to wear proper closed shoes. Slops, sandals or high heels just don't work! Sun cream is recommended on sunny days. A swimming costume can be included for those who'd like to take a swim after the ride. Valuables should not be be brought along on trips.
Other Disclosures
Participants in this Swaziland adventure activity are cautioned that this is a very active and participative experience and that lots of effort and physical activity is to be expected. It should be noted that any self-propelled vehicle brings with it the inherent risk of driver error. Like similar high-risk sports these risks can be minimized, through careful attention to pre-departure briefings and observance of all guide instructions. There is very little chance of injury for participants who ride conservatively and within their skill range.
By way of description: The Devil's Cauldron Quad Trail is not a go-cart track with crash barriers everywhere. It consists of tight corners, unprotected drop-off's into donga's, overhead tree trunks, regular steep inclines and descents as well as numerous trees and stumps close to the track. These are easily negotiated if maintaining an appropriate speed.
On arrival participants are usually requested to indicate to the guide whether they are beginners or experienced riders. Beginner riders are generally very carefully led for the first hour, with speed strictly controlled and route choice limited to flatter areas. During this training period the guide is responsible for supervision and any damage to the quad bike is covered by Swazi Trails. Beginners who rapidly gain confidence have the option of upgrading to a more advanced level of trail after the first hour is complete. This comes with the responsibility not to damage the quad bike.
Experienced riders, or graduated beginners are expected to ride responsibly and to exercise due care at all times. Any avoidable damage caused by poor quad handling or reckless riding will be charged for in full.
Quad guides on this trail are handpicked and competent in safety measures. A private hospital is found within 10min of the track and paramedic evacuation is also available locally if required.
Please note that trips may be cancelled at short notice during heavy rainfalls. A full refund or the option of alternative activities will be offered in this event.
This area in Ezulwini falls outside of malarial zones and precautions are not necessary.
Did you enjoy our nippy Suzuki quads - we are fans and recommend them as the best available. Speak to Suzuki SA: Tel: 011-974 1200 fax: 011-392 2528 or visit www.suzukisa.co.za for more information.
Children policy
Children under the age of 16 are not permitted to participate in this quad activity due to the manufacturer's specifications on the 250cc Suzuki Quads that are utilised. No exceptions are made.
The adult rate for quad rides applies to all participants.
Cancellation Policy
For Swazi Trails operated services, cancellations made 21 days or more in advance of arrival, will incur an administration fee of no more than 10% of the value of the amount paid. If cancelled within 14-20 days, 25% of the total price is forfeited, if within 7-13 days, 50% of the total price is forfeited, if within 0-6 days, 100% of the total price is forfeited.
Note: With this particular quad trail the above standard cancellation policy is largely waived in practise. Refunds are happily given to individual travellers whose plans change, even it the last moment.
Quad trail participants should meet 15min prior to the trip departure at the Swazi Trails tour desk, which is situated within the foyer of the Royal Swazi Sun Hotel.
Local hotel or lodge pick-ups within the Ezulwini, Mbabane and Manzini areas can arranged at an additional charge, please add this as a "special request" to your booking.
When booking please remember to list the time of day that you wish to ride. This can be submitted under the "Special Requests" section of your Booking Form. See "Departure Time" info.
If you wish to book more than 8 persons, please note that a maximum of 8 can be taken at any one time. To add additional persons first book the first group, then when on your "My booking" page add another quad booking for the same day to your existing booking reference number.
