Suzuki Motor Corporation is gearing up to make history once again as the Safari Town Festival returns to South Africa this September, with the Japanese automaker attempting to break a new Guinness World Record for the most cars closing their doors simultaneously.
The second annual Safari Town Festival, scheduled for 25-28 September at Louvain Guest Farm in the Outeniqua Mountains halfway between George and Uniondale on the N9, will see Suzuki attempt to surpass their previous world record achievement from the inaugural 2023 event.
In September 2023, Suzuki successfully set a Guinness World Record for “the most vehicles to switch their lights on simultaneously” when 787 Jimny 4×4 vehicles participated in the coordinated feat at Clarens in the Free State. The achievement was witnessed by Hisanori Matsushima, manager of Suzuki Motor Corporation’s Automobile Styling Department and designer of the current-generation Jimny.
“It’s happening – we’re going for another Guinness World Record,” announced South African comedian and Jimny owner Schalk Bezuidenhout, who serves as MC for the Jimny Gathering. “This time, for the most cars to close their doors at the exact same time. Ja, you heard me – a synchronized Jimny door slam!”
To qualify for official recognition, Guinness World Records requires a minimum of 250 vehicles, with at least one door on each participating model closed within five seconds of the starting signal. The attempt is scheduled for 27 September at the guest farm venue.
Brendon Carpenter, Brand Marketing Manager at Suzuki Auto South Africa, expressed confidence about exceeding their previous participation numbers. “In 2023, almost 800 Jimny, LJ, SJ and Samurai models from all over South Africa took part. We’re expecting to beat that number when we line up for the final countdown.”
While the world record attempt will be a highlight of th weekend, the Safari Town Festival offers entertainment for all attendees, regardless of vehicle ownership. The weekend lineup features prominent South African musical acts including Jeremy Loops, Spoegwolf, Karen Zoid, and Port Elizabeth rapper Early B.
The festival grounds will accommodate various food and beverage vendors, craft bars, a beer garden, wine bars, and a children’s entertainment area. Organisers have also arranged large screens for rugby viewing.
“Suzuki is a brand for all South Africians,” Carpenter emphasized. “While we have exciting activities planned specifically for Jimny owners, we wanted to ensure everyone visiting Oudtshoorn for the weekend can join the fun.”
Ticket prices for the weekend range from free admission for children under two years to R250 for adults, with early bird pricing available at R200. Tickets can be purchased online at www.safaritown.co.za.
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