Absolutely, when traveling with a reputable tour operator and taking sensible precautions, overlanding in Africa is generally safe. It’s an adventurous journey, but that doesn’t mean it’s reckless. With experienced crews, well-maintained vehicles, and thoughtful route planning, safety is a top priority.

Here’s how operators ensure a safe and secure experience and what travelers should be aware of:

How our Professional Operators Keep You Safe

Expert Crews

Reputable tours are led by seasoned guides and drivers who know the routes, conditions, and local cultures inside out. They’re trained in first aid, crisis response, and vehicle maintenance, and their regional knowledge is invaluable when navigating remote areas.

Reliable, Purpose-Built Vehicles

Overland trucks and 4x4s are specifically designed for Africa’s rugged terrain. Operators conduct regular maintenance, carry spare parts, and often have support networks along the route, reducing the risk of serious breakdowns in remote regions.

Smart Route Planning

Tours are carefully routed with safety in mind. Operators monitor travel advisories, local conditions, and political developments daily and work closely with campsite managers and local contacts. If a region becomes unstable, they adjust the itinerary.

Hassle-Free Border Crossings

African border crossings can be confusing, but crew-led crossings make things smoother. The team handles paperwork and understands local processes, minimizing delays and avoiding potential complications.

Campsite Security

Most tour campsites are secure, fenced, and often patrolled. Vehicles may include onboard safes for passports, money, and valuables. When wild camping, guides follow strict safety protocols. Common Concerns & How They’re Managed

Petty Theft in Cities

Like in any travel destination, theft can occur, especially in busy urban areas. How it’s handled: You’ll receive advice on staying vigilant, using money belts, avoiding nighttime walks alone, and keeping valuables secure. Tours often limit city stays or arrange secure transport.

Challenging Road Conditions

African roads can range from smooth highways to rough dirt tracks. Wildlife is also a hazard, particularly after dark. How it’s handled: Drivers are trained to handle a wide range of terrain. Most tours avoid night driving altogether to reduce risks.

Health & Illness

Travelers may experience mild illnesses or encounter tropical diseases. How it’s handled: Operators advise on vaccinations and malaria prevention before the trip. Tour leaders are trained in first aid, carry medical kits, and provide guidance on food, water, and hygiene. Travel insurance is mandatory.

Wildlife Encounters

Camping in or near wildlife areas adds to the adventure, but comes with responsibility.

How it’s handled: Guides are trained in wildlife behavior and safety. Campsites are carefully selected, and clear instructions are given about staying within safe zones and respecting animals’ space.

Political Instability

Though rare on tourist routes, unrest can happen.

How it’s handled: Operators continuously monitor regional stability and will reroute or cancel affected sections of a tour if necessary, prioritizing traveler safety at all times.

The Bottom Line

Overlanding in Africa is adventurous — but not unsafe. Traveling with the right operator ensures you’re in expert hands every step of the way, from remote bush camps to border posts.

Still unsure? Check out our traveler reviews and see how hundreds of others found their journey both safe and unforgettable.

The great thing about overland travel is the flexibility; you can choose the style that fits you best, whether you’re all about roughing it in the wild or winding down in a comfy bed after a day of adventure.

Camping Tours

For the true adventurer, camping is at the heart of the overlanding experience. You’ll stay at a mix of well-equipped campsites (with showers, toilets, and sometimes even electricity) and more remote “bush” or “wild” camps where you’re completely off-grid. What’s included: Tents and mattresses What you bring: Sleeping bag and personal gear

What to expect: You’ll usually help with setting up and taking down your tent and might pitch in with cooking or cleaning

Why choose it:

Budget-friendly, incredibly immersive, and perfect for starry-night lovers

Accommodated Tours

Prefer a bed to a sleeping bag? No problem. Accommodated tours swap tents for a range of local stays from guesthouses and hostels to traditional lodges and hotels. If you want your own bathroom, this might be for you.

What to expect:

Simple but comfortable rooms, usually with your own en-suite bathrooms. It is still adventurous, but with a bit more rest and comfort at the end of each day.

Camping & Accommodation Combo

Not quite ready to go full-rough? Many tours offer comfort camping think camp beds, fewer chores, and a team to handle tent setup and cooking. Some itineraries also blend both styles: a few nights in tents and a few in lodges, giving you the best of both worlds.

An Africa overland tour isn’t your average holiday, it’s an unforgettable, boots-on-the-ground adventure. These journeys are all about the experience of traveling overland: crossing vast landscapes, spotting wildlife, meeting local communities, and embracing the unexpected.

Whether you’re exploring South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, or beyond, this is travel at its most raw, real, and rewarding.

It's definitely not for everyone — but perfect for those who want a true adventure.

Expedition Vehicles

Travel in rugged, purpose-built overland trucks, 4x4s, or expedition vans.

These vehicles are designed for tough conditions and long distances from smooth tarmac to remote dirt tracks.

Small Group Travel

Most tours run with 4–20 people, creating a friendly, team-based environment.

Expect to make friends quickly you’ll be sharing campsites, stories, and daily responsibilities.

Immersive Cultural Experiences

Go beyond the guidebook.

Visit remote villages, interact with local communities, and experience traditions and ways of life far from the tourist trail.

Flexible Itineraries

No two trips are ever exactly the same.

Weather, road conditions, or spontaneous local events might shift the route but that’s part of the fun.

Stunning and Varied Landscapes

From the towering dunes of Namibia to the wetlands of the Okavango Delta and the savannas of Kruger, you’ll see some of the most breathtaking natural sights Africa has to offer.

Hands-On Involvement

Many overland tours are participatory.

You’ll help with setting up camp (if you doing a camping safari), prepping meals, and pitching in where needed. It’s all part of the experience and part of the story you’ll tell later.

Yes, especially in wetter months. Consult your doctor for prophylaxis and pack strong repellent.

The best way to tour Africa overland depends on your travel style, budget, and how adventurous you’re feeling but the most popular and practical option for most travelers is to join a guided overland tour. Here’s a breakdown of the best options and what to consider:

Join a Group Overland Tour (Most Popular & Hassle-Free)

Why it’s the best for most travelers:

These are pre-organized tours run by professional operators using rugged, expedition-style vehicles. They handle logistics, safety, accommodation, permits, and border crossings — so you can focus on the experience.

Key Features:

Overland truck or 4×4: Purpose-built for Africa’s roads and terrain

Set itineraries: Ranging from 7 days to 60+ days across multiple countries

Accommodation: Options include camping, lodges, or a mix (see: camping vs comfort)

Inclusions: Transport, some meals, park fees, and a crew (guide + driver, sometimes a cook)

Group size: Typically 6–20 travelers

Ideal for: Solo travelers, couples, and anyone who wants a mix of adventure and convenience

Best for first-timers, bucket-listers, or those who want a deep, immersive experience without doing all the planning.

Self-Drive Safari if you have off-road driving experience (Independent & Flexible)

Best for experienced travelers who want full control and don’t mind handling logistics. You can rent a 4×4 (often with a rooftop tent), plot your own route, and camp or stay in lodges. This is only recommended for Southern Africa do to road conditions and safety.

Pros:

Full freedom and flexibility

Ideal for travel in South Africa, Namibia, Botswana (great road infrastructure)

Great for families or friends traveling together

Cons:

Requires planning, confidence, and navigating cross-border rules

Not recommended in some East African countries due to road conditions or safety

Best for: Return visitors, adventurous couples, or travelers with off-road driving experience.  

Best Overall Months: June to October and January to February

If you’re looking for a sweet spot for both Southern and East Africa, the dry season from June to October and January-February is widely considered the best time to visit. Why?

Dry weather easier travel and fewer mosquitoes

Peak wildlife viewing animals gather around waterholes and are easier to spot

Cooler temperatures  especially pleasant in places like Namibia, Botswana, and Kenya

Southern Africa (South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Zambia)

Best months: May to September

June–August: Excellent for safaris; cool mornings, dry days

September–October: Hotter, but fantastic for wildlife as animals cluster near water

November–April: The green (rainy) season — landscapes are lush, but wildlife is harder to spot and roads can get muddy. Great for birdwatching.

Top pick: July or August — dry, clear, and great for game drives in Kruger, Chobe, and Etosha.

East Africa (Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda)

Best months: June to October and January to February

July–September Prime time for the Great Migration in the Serengeti and Maasai Mara

January–February Short dry season, good for safaris and gorilla trekking

March–May Long rains — travel is still possible, but muddy conditions and wildlife dispersal can be a challenge

Top pick July or August — Great Migration + ideal gorilla trekking conditions in Uganda and Rwanda

An overland tour is an incredible and unique way to explore, but it’s definitely not for everyone. It appeals most strongly to a specific type of traveler seeking adventure, cultural immersion, and a hands-on experience.

Here’s who an overland tour is perfectly suited for:

Social and Flexible Individuals

Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a small group, overland tours thrive on a communal atmosphere. You’ll be sharing experiences, meals, and often close quarters with your fellow travelers (typically 4–20 people). A willingness to be adaptable, contribute to the group dynamic, and embrace unexpected changes is key.

The Adventurous and Open-Minded

If your idea of a perfect trip involves embracing the journey, enjoying diverse conditions, and you’re genuinely up for camping or hybrid comfort options, an overland tour is ideal. You’ll experience everything from wild camps under starry skies to more equipped campsites, and sometimes simple local accommodations. This isn’t a trip where every detail is rigidly planned; a spirit of adventure is essential.

Culture Enthusiasts and Nature Lovers

Those eager for authentic wildlife encounters, deep cultural immersion, and varied landscapes will find overland tours incredibly rewarding. You’ll venture off the beaten path, meeting local communities, witnessing incredible wildlife in their natural habitats, and traversing diverse terrains from deserts and mountains to savannas and coastlines. It’s about experiencing the “real” place, not just the polished tourist facade.

Active Participants Who Enjoy “Mucking In”

Many overland tours are participatory. This means you’ll be actively involved in the trip, whether it’s helping set up tents, preparing meals, loading luggage, or simply contributing to the group effort. If you enjoy being hands-on and part of the daily rhythm of travel, you’ll thrive.

Who is the typical traveller?

Solo Female and Male Explorers (Ages 25-45): Looking for Safety in Adventure and generally Camp on tour.

We understand that safety is paramount when traveling solo, especially in new and exciting destinations. Our overland tours are specifically designed to provide a secure and supportive environment for independent female travelers seeking adventure:

Built-in Buddy System

You’re never truly alone. Travel in a small, like-minded group with a fantastic camaraderie. Shared experiences foster instant connections and a natural sense of mutual support and safety.

Expertly Led

Our experienced tour leaders and local guides are your navigators and protectors. They are well-versed in local customs, safety protocols, and are equipped to handle any situation, from border crossings to medical needs. They act as your reliable point of contact and local knowledge hub.

Secure Accommodations

Whether camping under a blanket of stars or staying in local guesthouses, we prioritize safe and reputable overnight stops. Our campsites are often fenced and patrolled, and fixed accommodations are carefully selected for your peace of mind.

Responsible Travel

We adhere to strict safety standards, ensuring our custom-built vehicles are meticulously maintained and routes are planned with current advisories in mind. Your safety is our top priority, allowing you to fully embrace the thrill of discovery.

Freedom to Explore, Safely

Enjoy the freedom of independent exploration within a supportive group framework. Our tours allow you to push your boundaries and achieve your adventure goals with confidence.

Couples & Bucket-List Travelers (Ages 45-75): Looking for Comfort (stay in accommodation) and Unforgettable Experiences

For those with a lifetime of travel dreams and a desire for meaningful experiences without sacrificing comfort, our overland tours offer the perfect blend:

Balanced Comfort & Authenticity

While adventure is at the core, we offer options for hybrid comfort, incorporating a mix of well-appointed camping and comfortable, locally-owned hotels or lodges. You can still experience the raw beauty of Africa, knowing a comfortable bed and private facilities are often just around the corner.

Effortless Exploration

Leave the logistics to us. Our dedicated crew handles all the heavy lifting – from setting up camp (on camping-focused tours) to preparing delicious meals and navigating complex routes. You’re free to relax, soak in the scenery, and focus on creating incredible memories.

Rich Cultural & Wildlife Immersion

Our itineraries are curated to deliver those once-in-a-lifetime moments you’ve always dreamed of: spotting the “Big Five” on thrilling game drives, interacting with local communities, witnessing breathtaking natural wonders, and enjoying sunsets over vast African landscapes.

Diverse Group Dynamics

Our tours attract a vibrant mix of ages and backgrounds, creating an engaging and supportive group dynamic. You’ll share incredible moments and forge new friendships with fellow travelers who share your passion for discovery.

Pace Designed for Enjoyment

While journeying is a key part of overlanding, we balance travel days with ample time for relaxation, exploration, and optional activities, ensuring you can enjoy every moment at a comfortable pace.

Whether you’re embarking on a solo quest for self-discovery or checking off a long-held travel dream with your partner, an overland tour offers a truly immersive and safe way to experience the magic of Africa. It’s about authentic connections, breathtaking landscapes, and adventures that will stay with you long after you return home.

Those Seeking Luxury or Pampering

If your priority is five-star hotels, gourmet dining every night, and being waited on, an overland tour will likely disappoint. Comfort is often secondary to the experience and authenticity.

Travelers Desiring Minimal Effort

These tours require a degree of physical and mental resilience. If you prefer a highly structured trip where all logistical challenges are invisible to you, overlanding might feel too demanding.

Individuals with Limited Mobility or Specific Health Needs

The nature of overlanding often involves long drives, uneven terrain, getting in and out of a large vehicle, and sometimes basic facilities. If you have significant mobility issues or require constant access to specific amenities, it may not be suitable.

Those Who Dislike Group Travel or Sharing Facilities

If you prefer solitude, complete independence, or struggle with shared spaces and group decisions, the communal aspect of overlanding might be challenging.

When researching your ideal overland adventure, you’ll notice a range of prices for seemingly similar itineraries. This variation isn’t arbitrary; it stems from key differences in what each operator includes in their base tour price. Understanding these factors is crucial for an accurate comparison and to avoid unexpected costs. The main reasons why costs vary include:

Tour Inclusions (The “All-Inclusive” Factor)

National Park & Game Reserve Fees

These can be substantial in Africa.Some operators include all, or a significant portion of, the required park entry fees in their upfront price. Others may list these as a separate “local payment” to be paid in cash on arrival, or as optional extras.

Meals

Many overland tours include most meals prepared by the crew, offering excellent value. However, some operators might include fewer meals, leaving more lunches and dinners as personal expenses at local restaurants or markets.

Permits & Visas

While visa costs are typically the traveler’s responsibility, some operators might include certain specific permits (e.g., for gorilla trekking, which is a very high-cost activity) in their premium packages.

Included Activities

This is a major differentiator. Some tours boast a wide array of “included” activities – think game drives, guided walks, cultural visits, or even a mokoro (dugout canoe) trip in the Okavango Delta. Other, often lower-priced, tours might list many of these as “optional activities” that you pay for on the ground, significantly increasing your overall spend if you choose to participate in most of them.

Sleeping Options & Comfort Levels affect the pricing

Camping vs. Accommodated

As discussed, camping-focused tours are generally more affordable as they utilize campsites. Tours offering a mix of camping and accommodated nights, or entirely accommodated tours (using guesthouses, lodges, or hotels), will naturally come at a higher price point due to the increased cost of fixed accommodation.

Quality of Campsites/Lodges

Even within “camping” or “accommodated” categories, the quality can differ. Some operators might use more basic campsites or simpler lodges, while others opt for properties with more amenities like swimming pools, hot showers, and better facilities, impacting the price.

Vehicle Quality & Features

Newer, more comfortable, and better-equipped overland trucks (e.g., with USB charging points, air conditioning, larger viewing windows) may lead to higher tour costs. Older, more basic vehicles can be cheaper to operate.

Crew Composition

Some tours operate with a smaller crew (e.g., a guide/driver), while others might include a dedicated cook or additional support staff. More crew members contribute to a higher operational cost per traveler.

Operator’s Brand & Service Level

Well-established operators with decades of experience, strong safety records, and excellent customer service often command a higher price. Their investment in staff training, vehicle maintenance, and emergency protocols is reflected in their pricing.

Group Size

Smaller group tours (e.g., max 12 people) often come with a higher per-person cost than larger group tours (e.g., up to 24 people) due to fewer individuals sharing the fixed costs of the vehicle and crew.

Always Check What’s Included vs. Optional Extras:

To accurately compare tours, it is essential to scrutinize the “Inclusions” and “Exclusions” sections of each itinerary.

Don’t just look at the headline price. What might seem like a cheaper tour initially could end up being more expensive once you add up all the “optional” activities, extra meals, and local payments.