African Overland Safaris
African overland safaris are somewhat different from conventional safaris because they’re completely self-sufficient and these overland expeditions last longer than typical safaris, sometimes crossing several countries along the route.
It is the kind of adventure travel where safari-goers journey by land through the African wilderness, using well-equipped and specially modified vehicles (usually 4x4 trucks). The overland tour will include a group of safari-goers, a tour guide, and sometimes one or two safari staff. Overland safaris specialize in traveling to remote areas in the African wilderness, often off-road, and at times over rough terrain. This type of safari is all about adventure, exploration, getting close to nature, and seeing wildlife in its natural environment. Image: Truckafrica
Duration of an Overland SafariThe duration of an overland safari can be anything from a few days to several weeks or even months. Some overland safaris cover several countries in their itinerary. Southern African overland safari routes may include countries such as South Africa/Namibia/Botswana or Kenya/Tanzania in East Africa.
Who Goes on Overland Safaris?
Overland safaris are for anyone who has a sense of adventure, who’s willing to rough it, to pitch in, who wants to visit wild Africa, get close to nature, see lots of wildlife, and experience local culture.
These safaris are all about camping in the great African outdoors. It’s a fantastic opportunity to experience authentic Africa… sleeping under the stars, sitting around the campfire at night, enjoying the camaraderie of the group, taking in the African wilderness miles away from civilization, and experiencing the thrill of seeing wild animals. Image: African Budget Safaris
Group travel
Safari-goers on an overland safari travel in a group. This can be a great way to meet people from all over the world and all walks of life. The camaraderie between safari-goers is one of the highlights of these trips. However, keep in mind that because it’s a group safari, you’ll have to be prepared for communal living.
What An Overland Safari Entails
Mode of Transport
Overland safaris use purpose-built vehicles that are designed for rugged terrain and long-distance travel. These vehicles are usually well-equipped, and carry everything from food, camping gear, tents, and fold-up chairs, to cooking utensils. Sometimes these vehicles even have sleeping quarters built into the vehicle. They’re fondly referred to as “coffin tours” because of the limited compartmentalized spaces to sleep in. By its very nature, an overland safari requires covering vast distances by land. Some days it may be just a short distance to the next campsite, and on other days, vast distances need to be traveled. A long day of traveling over rough, bumpy terrain can be tiring and coupled with pitching in to do chores around the camp, anyone contemplating going on an overland safari adventure should be relatively fit. Image: African Budget Safaris
Self-Sufficiency
Due to the nature of the tour, overland safaris need to be completely self-sufficient expeditions, carrying all necessary supplies, including food, water, camping equipment, and fuel. This self-sufficiency allows the vehicles to explore remote areas far from civilization, which adds to the appeal of the adventure. Adventure and Exploration Overland safaris focus on adventure and exploration, venturing off the beaten path to remote destinations less frequented by mainstream tourists. This type of travel is ideal for those looking for a deeper connection with nature and wildlife. Camping and Outdoor Living Overland safaris usually camp in remote locations along the route, cooking meals over campfires, and sleeping in tents under the stars. Some of the campsites will have only the most basic amenities, while others may have facilities such as showers and toilets, and even a shop to buy food and other supplies. On this type of safari, the group is often expected to pitch in by packing and unpacking gear, erecting and taking down their tents, and helping out with cooking chores. Image: Punda Milias
Flexible Itinerary
Unlike traditional guided tours, overland safaris often have flexible itineraries that can be adapted to accommodate unexpected opportunities. For example, the group can elect to stay a day or two longer at certain places of interest, or do a spontaneous detour for wildlife sightings. Safari-goers will also have opportunities to enjoy other activities such as hiking, hot air ballooning, or visiting local villages in the area. Cross-Country and Multi-Country Routes Overland safaris can cover extensive distances, traversing multiple countries or regions in a single journey. Popular routes include trips across East Africa and Southern Africa. Some overland safaris even travel across the whole continent - from Cairo to Cape Town. Cultural Experiences This type of safari provides opportunities to interact with local communities. The group may visit traditional villages, attend local markets, sample traditional foods, buy African curios, and learn about indigenous customs and culture. Wildlife Viewing Most overland safari routes pass through national parks and wildlife reserves – the last vestiges of wild Africa. This offers excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing. Viewing wild game in their natural environment is often the main purpose of the trip, together with enjoying and roughing it in the African wilderness. |
|