EVENT DETAILS AT A GLANCE
- Event: MAXXIS Arwald Extreme Land Cruiser Festival and Africa Record event
- Dates: 5 – 7 June 2026
- Venue: Sondela Nature Reserve & Spa, near Bela-Bela, Limpopo
- Record Attempt Day: Saturday, 6 June 2026
- Ticket Prices:
- Day Visitors: R60pp (Scholars Free)
- Cruiser Challenge (Saturday only): R250 per vehicle (max 4 pax)
- Cruiser Challenges (Fri – Sun): R850 per vehicle (max 4 pax, includes bush camping)
- Bookings & Registration: www.ekspo.co.za
- Accommodation (Resort): Contact Sondela directly at info@sondela.com or 014 736 8801
There is a unique kind of magic that happens when hundreds of Toyota Land Cruisers descend upon the Limpopo bushveld. It isn’t just about the heavy-duty axles, the legendary reliability, or the unmistakable silhouette of a 70 Series workhorse; it’s about the community that lives and breathes the “Cruiser” lifestyle. This June, that community is heading back to its spiritual home.
From 5 to 7 June 2026, the prestigious Sondela Nature Reserve & Spa near Bela-Bela will once again play host to the MAXXIS Arwald Extreme Land Cruiser Festival and Africa Record event. Now a cornerstone of the South African 4×4 calendar, this year’s gathering promises to be the biggest and boldest yet, thanks to the arrival of two powerhouse main sponsors: Maxxis Tyres and Arwald Extreme.
A New Era of Sponsorship
The inclusion of Maxxis Tyres and Arwald Extreme as co-main sponsors marks a significant milestone for the festival. Maxxis, a name synonymous with off-road dominance and rugged durability, brings a wealth of technical expertise to the event. Meanwhile, Arwald Extreme, renowned for its high-end off-road conversions and accessories, perfectly complements the “overbuilt and over-engineered” ethos of the Land Cruiser brand.
This partnership injects fresh energy into the festival, ensuring that whether you are a weekend warrior in a Prado or a hardcore overlander in a fully kitted-out Troopy, there is something new and exciting to discover in the exhibitor area.
Chasing the African Record
While the camaraderie is the heart of the event, the “big goal” remains the Africa Record attempt. Since its inception in 2013, the festival has grown from a modest gathering into a massive logistical feat. In 2025, the community set an incredible benchmark with 563 Land Cruisers gathered at a single venue.
On Saturday, 6 June, organisers aim to shatter that record once again. The criteria are simple but strict: all participating Land Cruisers must be present on the same day at one venue. It is a sight to behold – an aerial view reveals the word “LANDCRUISER” spelt out by hundreds of vehicles in a massive display of brand loyalty. Owners of FJ Cruisers, Lexus LX models, Prados, and the ever-popular Bakkies are invited to register and be part of history.
For those looking to kit out their rigs, the festival is a goldmine of opportunity. Specialist 4WD accessory providers and custom 4×4 product manufacturers will be out in full force, showcasing everything from heavy-duty suspension kits to bespoke canopy builds. It is the perfect place to chat directly with the experts who design and build the gear we rely on in the bush. Best of all, there are plenty of bargains to be found, with many exhibitors offering exclusive show offers and “festival-only” specials that make it the ideal time to invest in that long-awaited upgrade.
Adrenaline in the Action Arena
For those who prefer their diesel with a side of dust, the Cruiser Action Arena is the place to be. This is where the theoretical capabilities of the Land Cruiser meet the reality of the South African terrain. The arena features a variety of challenges designed to test both man and machine, including the hugely popular gravel drag racing, mud pits, and technical hill climbs.
It is a rare opportunity to see these vehicles pushed to their limits in a controlled, safe environment, providing plenty of “braai-side” conversation topics for the evening. Whether you’re competing for a trophy or just watching from the sidelines with a cold beverage, the atmosphere is electric.
Entertainment for the Whole Family
The festival organisers understand that Cruiser owners often travel in packs – usually with the whole family in tow. To that end, the event is packed with lifestyle activities.
Visitors can browse an extensive arts and crafts market managed by M4 Events, explore the latest 4×4 gear from outdoor lifestyle exhibitors, or let the kids run wild in the dedicated children’s entertainment areas. The Ketelkraal bar facilities provide a central hub for socialising, while live performances by Jimmy’s Sauces artists – including names like Logan Pietersen, David Fourie, Skemer, and Byron Minnie – will keep the spirits high throughout the weekend.
For those looking to slow things down, Sondela’s famous game drives (offered in convoy at sunset), heated swimming pools, and spa facilities offer a welcome respite from the high-octane action in the arena.
Where to Stay
Accommodation options cater to every level of “roughing it.” For those who want the full festival experience, bush camping facilities are available and can be booked directly via the event website. If you prefer a bit more luxury, Sondela Nature Reserve & Spa offers a range of resort accommodation, which should be booked directly with the venue.
Join the Legend
The MAXXIS Arwald Extreme Land Cruiser Festival is more than just a car show; it is a celebration of a vehicle that has helped build South Africa’s infrastructure and carried explorers to the furthest reaches of the continent.
If you own a Cruiser, your presence is requested on the front lines. Not only do you get to test your vehicle’s mettle and enjoy a world-class weekend of entertainment, but you also get to help put the South African Cruiser community on the global map.
To register your vehicle for the record attempt or to book your camping spot, visit www.ekspo.co.za. For day visitors, tickets are available at the gate for just R60 per person, making it an affordable day out for any 4×4 enthusiast.
We’ll see you in the dust!
Sponsors & Partners: A special thanks to our sponsors who make this event possible: Maxxis Tyres, Arwald Extreme, Sondela Nature Reserve & Spa, Belanet, Pretoria FM, Nuusweek, Camp & Live, Die Papier, Die Pos, Jimmy’s Sauces, Waterberg Toyota, Kamp-Mal, Lekker Kampplekke, Quickshade, Lift Airlines, and M4 Events.
For further details about this event or if you’re interested in attending, please complete the enquiry form below. A member of the Trio Events team will promptly respond to your enquiry. Alternatively, secure your spot at the MAXXIS Arwald Extreme Land Cruiser Festival by registering your Land Cruiser or booking your tickets online at www.ekspo.co.za, or call Tersia for assistance on 072 487 0000.
