BEHIND THE SCENES
The final instalment of Ian Tyrer’s rollicking Travel Journal is here – see page 118. Ian’s wife Mandy was an integral part of the team’s madcap mission: She supported the expedition from their farm in Richmond, KZN.
Mandy, what’s it like to have your husband set out into the “unknown”? I love Ian’s adventurous spirit – it’s what attracted me to him 20 years ago. I don’t worry about Ian when he’s away. The more that goes wrong, the better the story he gets to tell afterwards! He can cope with most curveballs, but should he ever be in real trouble, I’m also generally calm in the eye of a storm and I know I’ll be able to sort out a rescue plan.
I’ve been on my fair share of crazy adventures with Ian, like in 2019 when we backpacked through Mozambique and Malawi. I’ve been known to climb down the outside of a ferry to get off the boat quicker, and once in Mozambique I even slept in a brothel because there was no other kind of accommodation. Basically, I’ve done everything your mama told you not to do!
Ian, why this trip? And what gear would you consider essential? I’m fascinated by Africa and I enjoy exploring the continent using various modes of transport. On this trip we used everything from taxis to ferries to trains.
In terms of gear, I always take malaria pills, a good tent and backpack, and smaller things like earplugs, in case someone snores or you have to sleep in a noisy place. Tupperware containers are also super useful – you can use them to pack anything from medication and toiletries to your phone and wallet.
What’s next on the travel wish list?
Ian: We have a “gentle” trip in mind for 2024, to Zimbabwe, Mozambique and Malawi – we’ll eventually finish in Gabon. The year after that, I’m feeling Colombia, Peru, Ecuador and the Amazon…
Mandy: Dream places for me would be Madagascar or the Seychelles. I love the sea, but also forests, waterfalls and mountains… Variety feeds my soul.
What are some of your favourite destinations in your own backyard?
Mandy: We live on the most picturesque farm, with indigenous forests and a treehouse where guests often sleep. Sometimes we even pitch tents in the garden. We also love to hike along the Wild Coast.
Ian: The Wild Coast, for sure, especially the section between Mnyameni and Mtentu. At Mtentu there’s a beautiful fishing shack run by Kelly Hein ( mtentu-ramble.co.za). When we need a bit more luxury, there’s the Salt Rock Hotel ( saltrockbeach.co.za) just north of Ballito – it’s an hour’s drive from our farm.