Independent Trip or Group Expedition: How Should You See Africa?

Overlanding in Africa is exhilarating – from deciding which country to go to and activities to book. One of the most important questions to ask yourself is how will you be travelling: independently or in a group with others?  

There are two very different philosophies that define the experience of travelling in Africa, and that is Independent Travel and Group Overlanding. Do you want to be in control and navigate the bush tracks at your own pace? Or do you prefer the security and camaraderie of a purpose-built overlanding truck, where the logistics are handled and the path is cleared for you? Deciding between going it alone or joining a tribe will shape every aspect of your journey—from your daily budget to the stories you’ll tell when you get home. Here is everything you need to know to make your decision.

The Freedom of Travelling Independently

If you are the type who considers “getting lost” an adventure, then independent travel might be for you. Independent travel requires a high level of resilience, especially when journeying through Africa. This means managing your own GPS through desert tracks, being your own mechanic, chef and strategist, and negotiating with border officials on your own. 

The highlights of independent travel is that your adventure works on your time. You decide the route, the pace, and how long you’d like to stay and watch the animals at the watering hole. Your adventure becomes more spontaneous, whether you are interacting with local communities or choosing a last-minute Gorilla trek. Apart from the solitude, there is a profound sense of accomplishment in successfully navigating a cross-continental road trip on your own terms. 

The downside, however, is that you are responsible for every element of your journey; from visas, to permits and safety checks. It also requires a lot more research, figuring out where the “no-go” zones are and what the political climates of some areas are. There is also the higher cost factor, paying a lot more for park fees and fuels than the tour operators would. 

The Social High-Road of Group Overlanding

Seeing Africa in a group is the most iconic overlanding adventure. You’ll join a crew of international travellers in a custom-built overlanding vehicle, designed to tackle all the terrains – from the lush mountains of Uganda to the salt pans of Botswana. All you focus on are the shared memories made with your new travel friends, and the horizon ahead.  

The logistics are handled for you, so no maps, no border paperwork, or worrying about where you will sleep. Your guide and driver have it all sorted out. Journeying with a group is an incredibly social way to travel. It’s great for solo travellers who want to share the experience with others. You also get to travel at unbeatable value! Food, transport, and accommodation are bundled. You benefit from significant group discounts on “bucket list” activities like gorilla trekking or Victoria Falls excursions.

But with group travel also comes the rigid schedules. The overlanding vehicles leave on time, whether you are ready or not. This also means that there’s little room for spontaneous detours. On some days you might travel for 10-hours in order to cover the vast distances between national parks. Journeying with others means leaning in toward your flexibility and easy-going nature. Things can go wrong, or vibes don’t match. It is all about embracing the present and making the most of it. 

Which fits you?

Take the Leap

Whether you choose a solo adventure, or the shared excitement of a group trip, your African adventure will be nothing short of magical. Browse our tour packages and let us help you find the right tour suited for you. From short regional loops to epic multi-month expeditions, our overlanding packages are designed to show you the best of Africa without the logistical stress.

N.B: This blog was first written by Sarah Duff on November 16, 2015.  It was rewritten and republished by Faatima Suliman on April 16, 2026.