Threes are a lucky number, right? On the majority of Overland safaris in Africa, a crew of three consists of a local guide, a driver, and a cook. The leader’s job is to plan the logistics, keep you safe, and make sure everything goes according to plan. Our African leaders, many of whom are from Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda, and South Africa, are passionate about their home countries, have a deep understanding of their destinations, and are not guided in the classic sense. In some instances, we may also employ knowledgeable local guides to give you a richer understanding of a location, particularly when locating and recognizing wildlife.

The cook’s responsibilities include grocery shopping, meal planning, and making sure everyone maintains a good level of sanitation. The truck’s upkeep and safe transportation from point A to point B is your driver’s responsibilities. The leader, driver, and cook frequently feel like new friends by the time the trip is over.

You will be a part of a group of no more than 10 to 20 individuals from various ages, countries, and occupations. Overland travel is all about exchanging experiences with other globetrotters who share similar interests. On some of our lengthier combination trips, your crew and group might switch around midway. It frequently happens that you will spend a lot of time together and meet new people.

African Overland safaris & tours entail spending a lot of time traveling over distances and beginning numerous early mornings. Despite taking frequent breaks, on certain days we’ll drive for five, six, or even nine hours straight. While watching the varied landscapes and local village life pass by just outside your window is one of the wonderful things about Overlanding, not all travelers are comfortable with so much driving. Drive times can vary by hours due to changes in weather, traffic, and road conditions, as well as unforeseen border and national park closures, so it’s vital to be open-minded and somewhat flexible. One of our destination-based short break experiences might be a better fit for you if you’re the type of traveler who prefers a rigid schedule.

The focus of the majority of Africa Overland tours is animal viewing. We frequently spend a few days in each national park, which gives us plenty of chances to see a variety of creatures. You’ll often go on two game drives each day on these days—one in the morning when wildlife is most active, and another in the early afternoon, right after lunch. Game drives frequently last 2-4 hours.

Occasionally, like in Tanzania’s Ngorongoro Crater, Uganda, Kenya, and Rwanda we do utilize open-roof 4×4 safari vehicles, but the majority of our game drives are done in the Overland truck, which is designed specifically for safe wildlife viewing with large sliding windows. The driver will halt the vehicle when we see an animal, allowing you to exit your seat and explore the truck’s inside.

The distinction between an African safari and a David Attenborough documentary must be made. There is no guarantee that you will see all five of the “Big Five,” and we never go from the designated paths in order to gain a closer look at a particular species. Wildlife comes to us when we are in their zone. Whatever occurs, you’re certain to encounter some truly mind-blowing things.

You work as a team on most Overland tours rather than merely as a passenger. You may be divided into smaller groups by your leader, who will also create a daily roster. Then, although it’s not difficult to work, you’ll alternate helping out with activities like cooking, shopping, cleaning the truck, and more. It’s all part of the fun, so please come prepared to roll up your sleeves and put in the work.

Breakfasts and the majority of meals and supper are provided when camping. While you may occasionally be asked to assist with basic cooking tasks like slicing vegetables and making dough, the cook is in charge of overseeing all dinner preparations. Your crew will gather up local foods along the journey to prepare tasty yet straightforward meals. We also mix in some regional specialties with the pasta or barbecue that we serve for dinner. Breakfasts frequently consist of bread, spreads, eggs, and tea or coffee, while lunch typically consists of a sandwich and some fruit; occasionally, if we’re going to be on a game drive all day, you’ll need to bring a lunch. Please inform us of any dietary restrictions you may have at the time of booking, and please remind your crew of them at the welcome briefing.

On days when we’re driving, we’ll typically stop at a market or shopping center so you can stock up on supplies and snacks. We frequently bring an esky with ice while visiting national parks for a few days so that you can buy some local beers or South African wine to sip by the campfire. We provide clean, filtered water to fill up your drink bottle every morning. Meals are not provided when staying in hotels, but your guide will suggest several reasonably priced and delectable neighborhood eateries.

While we try to follow to the schedules, overland travel can be unpredictable, especially in secluded areas of Africa. Your trip’s progress may be impacted by closed roads, bad weather, or mechanical problems. There are numerous other time-tested paths we can pursue in certain circumstances. Enjoying your experience requires an open mind and flexibility.

The schedule includes a variety of optional activities, including walking safaris, hot air balloon excursions, and bike rides. Please be aware that these are dependent on availability and that the given prices are only estimates. If you want to know more, ask your leader.

It’s best to bring as little as possible before Overlanding. While you won’t have to carry your bag far, you will need to assist in loading and unloading it from the vehicle. Your primary luggage will often be kept in a personal locker at the back of the truck, although occasionally, items are kept together in a single public compartment. In either instance, a backpack or duffel bag is strongly advised over a hard-framed suitcase. Keep your bag inside the standard locker measurements of 26 inches in length, 18 inches wide, and 10 inches high, and make sure it doesn’t weigh more than 20 kg.

Additionally, you’ll require a daypack to house your water bottle, camera, and other personal belongings (this is stored at your feet or in the overhead shelf of the truck). When we stop at supermarkets along the road, you can fill up on necessities like toilet paper, soap, batteries, and a little lock for your locker.

Your destination and the time of year will determine the clothing and equipment needed. Layers are usually a good idea because it can get cold at night even in the summer, especially when camping. Bring sturdy, comfortable clothing that you don’t mind getting muddy since that’s what will happen. You’ll need to bring your own sleeping bag and pillow, though we’ll provide the minimum ground mat and camping supplies. Check the Essential Trip Information for further details on what to pack.

You must be at least somewhat fit in order to participate completely in an Africa Overland tour. Overland travel can be physically demanding due to long journey days, hot, dusty weather, and rough roads. You must be physically fit to assist with camp duties and to climb the truck steps 8–10 times per day. Please carefully review the physical rating on our website to select a tour that is appropriate for your level of fitness.

We won’t have fast access to doctors or medical facilities in some of the more remote regions of Africa, so it’s a good idea to check with your doctor to see if any existing medical conditions will prevent you from taking part in the trip. As soon as you’ve made your travel arrangements, schedule a visit with a travel physician because you’ll also need to get a few shots. For more details on health, refer to the Pre-Trip Information.

On many of our Overland safaris in Africa, visas are needed for admission into the nations. Some are best acquired just before you go from your house, while others can be acquired en route. Although we are pleased to assist with any inquiries, it is the individual traveler’s obligation to obtain the necessary visas. Check the relevant consular websites for the most recent information related to your nationality as entry criteria are subject to change at any time. It’s ideal to apply as soon as you’ve made your travel arrangements because visas can take several weeks to process.

There’s no need to be anxious because your leader will walk you through the entire procedure of crossing the border between nations, explain what you need to do, and calm your fears. You might also need to provide confirmation of your Yellow Fever immunization, so be sure to bring it as well as your passport (your doctor or nurse should give you a small booklet following the immunization). You will frequently want cash if you are acquiring a visa at the border (in the local currency or in USD). All of this information may be provided to you on the ground by your commander, ensuring that you are ready.