Guide

Pajero Convoy & Events Calendar

Upcoming Mitsubishi Pajero convoys, trail days and 4×4 events across South Africa — dates, regions, difficulty and how to join the next run.

A Pajero convoy is a group run where Mitsubishi Pajero owners tackle a trail or overland route together, in a planned, marshalled line. Our convoy and events calendar is the home for organised group runs, trail days and 4×4 events across South Africa — from gentle gravel meetups in the Cape winelands to harder rock and sand routes in the Highveld and beyond. This page explains how Pajero convoys work, how trails are graded, how to join the next run, and the safety and etiquette that keep everyone moving and unbruised.

Running in a convoy is the best way to build confidence in your truck. You are never alone if something goes wrong, there is always an experienced hand nearby, and you cover ground you would not attempt solo. It is also where the SA Pajero scene is at its friendliest.

How a Pajero convoy works

Every run has a structure. A lead vehicle sets the pace and route, a sweep (or “tail-end Charlie”) brings up the rear so no one is left behind, and radios keep the line talking. Group sizes are kept sensible so the convoy stays together at gates, river crossings and technical sections.

  • Lead: knows the route, sets the pace, calls obstacles ahead over the radio.
  • Sweep: last vehicle, confirms each truck is through before moving on.
  • Briefing: a pre-run talk covering the route, radio channel, grade, and recovery plan.
  • Spacing: keep the truck behind you in sight, never lose the one in front.

Trail grades explained

South African 4×4 trails are commonly graded on a 1-to-5 scale. Knowing the grade tells you whether your Pajero and your experience are a fit before you commit. A stock Super Select truck running 2H, 4H, 4HLc and 4LLc copes with most of the lower grades; the top end demands lockers, recovery kit and a cool head.

GradeTerrainWho it suits
1Easy gravel and district roadsAny stock Pajero; complete beginners
2Mild trails, light mud and sandStock 4×4, first-timers wanting a taste of low range
3Moderate climbs, ruts, water crossingsConfident drivers; AT tyres and recovery gear advised
4Technical rock, steep descents, deep sandExperienced drivers; lockers and a spotter recommended
5Extreme, build-dependent obstaclesModified trucks and seasoned crews only

If you are still shopping for the right truck to do this in, the Used Pajero Buying Guide and its 20-point inspection will help you pick a sound one, and it pays to read up on Pajero common problems by generation so you know what to check before a hard run.

How to join a run

Joining a Pajero trail day is straightforward. Pick a run that matches your grade, register your interest, and turn up prepared. Most runs cap numbers, so booking early matters — especially for popular dates.

  • Join the SA Pajero community to see and register for runs.
  • Choose a grade you and your truck are ready for — start lower if in doubt.
  • Confirm what is required: recovery points, a strap, tyre deflator, and a working radio.
  • Arrive with a full tank, correct tyre pressures for the terrain, and a serviced vehicle.

Safety and trail etiquette

Good etiquette keeps convoys safe and welcome at the venues we use. A few simple habits make every run smoother.

  • Never overtake within the convoy; hold your position in the line.
  • Wait at every junction until you can see the vehicle behind you.
  • Tread lightly — stay on the marked route and take your litter home.
  • Use recovery points, not towbars or suspension arms, and clear the area during a recovery.
  • Listen to the lead and sweep; if you are unsure of an obstacle, ask for a spotter.

What’s coming up

Through the year we run a steady mix of beginner-friendly gravel days, weekend overland trips and the odd harder technical run, spread across the country so there is usually something within reach. Specific dates, venues and grades are published to members as each run is confirmed — we would rather list a confirmed run than promise a date we cannot hold, so the live calendar is the place to check what is next.

Premium members get first pick of limited spots on popular runs. You can see how that works on the premium membership page, and the truck that shines on a run might just become our next Pajero of the Month.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a modified Pajero to join a convoy?
No. Plenty of runs are graded 1 to 2 and suit a completely stock Pajero. Pick a run that matches your grade and build up from there.
How do I find out about the next run?
Runs are published to members as they are confirmed. Join the SA Pajero community to see the live calendar and register your interest.
What gear must I bring?
At minimum: rated recovery points, a recovery strap, a tyre deflator, and a working radio. Each run’s briefing confirms anything extra for that grade.
Can premium members book convoy spots first?
Yes. Priority spots on popular runs are a premium benefit — see the premium membership page for details.
Is it safe for a first-timer?
Very — that is the point of running in a marshalled convoy with a lead and sweep. Start on a grade 1 or 2 trail day and you will have experienced hands all around you.

Ready for your first Pajero convoy? Join the SA Pajero community to register for the next run, and consider premium membership for priority spots when popular dates fill up fast.