The most Frequently asked Questions about Africa; Answered

When you think of Africa, the questions range from the wildly imaginative to the very practical. “Do lions roam the streets?” (No!) “Do people live in huts?”(Only in specific rural communities, our cities are bustling metropolises!)

There are many questions about costs, safety, and what to expect from an overland tour. Africa is one of the most diverse and rewarding continents to visit, and to get the most out of it requires a bit of “know-how”. Here are some frequently asked questions that will help you before you land.

The Safari Basics

What is an African overland tour?

Picture a road-trip style adventure, with a bit more thrill thrown into the mix as you travel across one or more African countries. The vehicles you travel in are designed to handle the rugged terrain and keep you comfortable at the same time. As much as we want your final destination to be unforgettable, our tours focus on the journey, ensuring you are in the best care, comfort and safety while covering long distances and stopping at various parks as you go. 

What is an overnight tour?

An overnight tour is usually a short adventure – between 2 to 3 days of travelling. These are popular for travelers who are staying in the big cities like Nairobi, Johannesburg or Cape Town who want a taste of an African safari to a nearby national park, without the commitment to a multi-day or multi-week expedition. 

Who can travel?

One of the reasons that an African Overland Tour is so amazing is that it attracts a wide range of ages. With both the camping tours and accommodated tours, we accommodate a mix of people –  from the younger crowd to the elderly. Essentially, there is no upper age limit, provided you are reasonably fit. 

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Who is an overland tour suited for (and who is it not for)?

If you are the 5-star luxury kind of person who struggles with long days of driving on bumpy roads, or prefer a set-in-stone schedule, then an overland tour might not be up your alley. BUT if you have a sense of adventure, don’t mind a bit of dust and want to see as much of Africa while meeting new people, then we have a tour best suited for you! While sleeping on the floor under the African stars seems too much, explore our accommodated tours that give you the safari experience with a bit of fanciness – replacing the tents with a lodge or chalet. 

Is an African Overland safari safe?

Safety requires awareness, like in any global destination. It is true that Africa does have a high crime rate, however, this is mostly in areas where poverty is strife. These areas include the townships, rural and/or informal settlements and usually not close to tourist hotspots. It is important to make yourself aware of the areas you are planning to visit, understanding that each country (in Africa or anywhere else in the world) has its own challenges. Do not fear – so long as you are aware of your surroundings you will be safe. 

While in the wild, you are safe as long as you listen to your guide. Never exit your vehicle without permission, and do as your guide instructs. The reserves and national parks are situated on the outskirts or a distance away from the city, which make them safer with more controlled security. Game reserves and some parks are privately owned, and access is controlled. In the city, don’t flaunt your valuables, stay in well-known tourist areas and avoid walking alone at night. Watch our video on being safe when overlanding in Africa:

When is the best time to go on safari?

The best part of an African safari is that it is beautiful all year-round! It all depends on the experience you are chasing. Different seasons means that your experience will change, and each season has its own highlights. Important factors to consider include the weather during the time you’d like to plan your trip, seasonal events, best times to view wildlife (especially if you’re planning to see the infamous Great Migration). 

The Dry season (Winter & Spring) is the best for viewing wildlife as animals assemble around water holes. In South Africa, this is the “off-season” which means fewer crowds and lower rates. The Wet Season (Summer) is the picturesque of an African safari. The green lush landscapes are perfect for birdwatching, and the newborn animals make for the cutest photoshoot. If you are seeking a beach holiday or you’re seeking mountain climbing, then the wet season is your ideal. Keep in mind that prices tend to peak though. The Great Migration is the ultimate bucket list goal – but timing is everything. The best time to see The Great Migration is July to October. 

Is hands-on involvement required on an Overland Safari?

Of course, it is! Overland tours are based on socializing and participation. While you will have a professional guide and driver as you travel from one place to the next, helping your fellow travel mates as you go along, helping with camp chores like setting up your tent, helping with meal preps or washing dishes. Being involved builds a great sense of community within the group – and makes for wonderful memories created along the way. 

What different tour types do African Overland Tours offer?

At African Overland Tours, we have four tour categories; camping overland tours, accommodated overland tours, small group tours and private safari. We also offer a mix of both camping and accommodated tours combined.

A camping overland tour consists of you camping in high quality tents. While the guide will assist when needed, you will get the opportunity to set up your own tent to enhance the camping safari experience. Not to mention, it is also a budget-friendly and safari-like way to travel.

The accommodated overland tours offer more comfort and a touch of luxury. You will travel in the same vehicle as those who choose a camping tour, but instead of a tent you will reside in chalets, lodges and/or permanent tented camps. This option is ideal if you would like the safari experience without sleeping on the ground. 

The small group tours create an intimate safari experience – bringing you closer to nature and wildlife. These groups consist of a maximum of 14 travelers. Sometimes you might not travel in an overland truck, but rather in a quantum or sprinter style vehicle to ensure your comfort.

A private safari is a more curated trip that can include a small (9 people) or large group setting. At times there are no set departure dates either. 

What To Pack?

When on safari, prioritizing comfort and functionality is essential. The best colours are to go with neutrals (olive, khaki and tan). Avoid bright colours that may attract unwanted attention. While the day time is quite hot, the early morning game drives can be chilly (even in summer!) That is why we encourage you to dress in layers. For the full safari look, make sure to wear a wide-brimmed hat, sturdy walking shoes, use high-SPF sunscreen, sunglasses, and carry a camera with extra batteries. 

What To Pack For an Overland Safari

Do I need to vaccinate before going on an Overland Tour?

When visiting certain areas like East Africa (Kenya, Tanzania or Zambia), you will most likely need a Yellow Fever certificate. We recommend getting the vaccinations a week or two before you leave for your Overland safari tour, as they can make you feel like you are coming down with the flu (which is a perfectly normal reaction). Your travel agency will inform you on which vaccinations are required for certain African countries. 

Some safari areas are known to be high malaria areas. We encourage you to consult your health professional about prophylactics beforehand, pack an insect repellant, and bring along a long sleeve pants and shirt to wear at night for extra protection. Mosquitos are more prone to come out at night, which is when you need the most protection. Fun fact: Eastern Cape and Madikwe Game Reserves, both located in South Africa, are malaria-free reserves!

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What is a typical day on safari like?

A typical day on safari usually involves an early morning game drive, followed by breakfast back at camp. Midday is usually free time for relaxing, with lunch and some downtime. In the afternoon, there’s another game drive or guided walk, followed by dinner back at camp. Bedtime is usually early, as you’ll need to be up before dawn for the next day’s game drive.

What animals will I see on safari in Africa?

Africa is home to a vast array of wildlife, including the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino), as well as zebras, giraffes, hippos, crocodiles, and countless bird species. The specific animals you’ll see on safari will depend on the destination you choose and the time of year you visit.

Is it safe to view the animals on Safari?

It is exhilarating and daunting to come into close contact with animals when on safari. Being so close to a lion or elephant has that element of danger. After all, we are in their territory and they can be unpredictable. However, if you do not interfere with them, they tend to mind their own business. Your guide will ensure you are at a safe distance from the animals – close enough to marvel at their grandness, but far enough to keep you safe. The only time you will be in danger is if you deliberately stray from the safety precautions implemented for you. Adhere to your guide’s instructions and you will have nothing to fear – you will be as safe as can be.

Can I go on safari and go to the beach?

YES! Our tours cater for the best of both worlds. Africa has some of the most spectacular beaches. Game reserves are open all year round. Our advise would be to choose a destination that has a game reserve close to a beach, to reduce travel time. The best time of year for a best-of-both-worlds safari tour would be before winter, so that you can soak up the sun during the hotter months.

See our tours to paradise, better known as Mozambique and Zanzibar!

We try to cover most of our frequently asked questions about Overland Safari tours. If we have missed something, our consultants are more than happy to set your mind at ease and find you the tour that is best fitted for you! 

Note: this blog was written and published by Andrew Walton on 24 November 2025. It has been rewritten and republished by Faatima Suliman in 12 February 2026.