Are you over 40 and dreaming of an African adventure but unsure where to start? Meet Colleen, an inspiring traveller who recently embarked on a transformative overland tour from Victoria Fall to Cape Town —designed especially for those in their 40s and beyond. In our latest Traveller Diaries episode, Colleen shares her unforgettable experience, offering valuable insights, practical tips, and, above all, a dose of encouragement for anyone considering a similar journey.

Busting Myths and Managing Expectations

Colleen admits that the idea of “jumping on a truck with a bunch of strangers” might sound intimidating at first. But she quickly learned that many of the people on tour, may have the same concerns. Forget the stereotypes of danger and discomfort. Colleen was pleasantly surprised by the campsites and the charmingly unexpected sight of well-stocked supermarkets in remote areas. What she initially feared would be basic tent accommodations soon felt like a cozy home on wheels, offering a sense of comfort and familiarity after each day of adventure.

Fully Serviced Camping means that the guides set up your tents for you and assist with the entire management of your tour

The Raw and Authentic Appeal of Overlanding

While luxury safaris have their allure, Colleen emphasizes the unmatched authenticity of overlanding. This type of travel offers a rare opportunity to experience Africa in a way that’s far removed from the comforts of a five-star lodge. Her journey was full of once-in-a-lifetime moments—like being completely surrounded by wildlife in Chobe, witnessing a thrilling lioness hunt, and watching cheetahs work together as a team. She also recalls the stunning landscapes of Namibia and the Okavango Delta, and a particularly humorous (and slightly terrifying) experience of being chased by a hippo in a tiny boat. Overlanding allowed her to see Africa’s wild side in a way that felt intimate, raw, and deeply personal.

Why Choose an Over 40s Tour?

One of the key factors that drew Colleen to this particular tour was the demographic focus on travellers aged 40 and up. While she enjoys the energy of younger explorers, she felt more at ease with a group of people who were closer to her own age. “It just felt like more ‘our tribe,'” she explains, especially when it came to activity levels. She was right: despite having two distinct subgroups, the group gelled well, and Colleen forged lasting friendships. The pace and range of activities were perfectly balanced, with options available for different fitness levels. Even when she was feeling a little under the weather, she found the option of a jeep to experience Dead Vlei a perfect way to join in without pushing her limits too far.

Image Credit: Colleen Sims, Then we Walked. A beautiful depiction of the Desert, Namibia.

The Invaluable Role of Guides

Colleen can’t speak highly enough about the incredible guides who accompanied the group. Not only did they ensure everyone’s safety—spotting a camouflaged puff adder that could easily have gone unnoticed—but they also offered an educational experience that was second to none. They pointed out wildlife that many might have missed and shared captivating stories, fables, and history about the places they visited. As someone with celiac disease, Colleen was especially touched by the chef’s dedication to providing gluten-free options, making sure she never felt left out or compromised on meals. This attention to detail and expertise is one of the key benefits of a guided overlanding tour.

Practical Tips for the Overlanding Adventurer

Drawing from her own experiences, Colleen has a few practical tips to help you prepare for your own overlanding journey:

• Don’t overpack! You’ll be moving your bag around a lot, so pack light. Laundry facilities are available at many stops.
• Layer up! The weather can vary dramatically—hot during the day and chilly at night. Consider buying a cheap puffer coat, wool hat, and gloves locally.
• Bring a travel pillow. It’ll make a world of difference when camping.
• Pack a head torch. It’s essential for navigating campsites at night.
• A thin scarf can be your best friend. It helps block the sun during long drives in the truck.
• Check your travel insurance carefully, especially if you’re over 60—it’s worth ensuring everything is covered.

Stepping Out of Your Comfort Zone: A Powerful Message

Colleen’s journey is much more than a travelogue; it’s a testament to the power of embracing life and adventure—no matter your age. After surviving throat cancer and experiencing profound personal loss, Colleen reflects on how there will always be a reason not to do something. But, she notes, “The things you don’t do are the things you’ll regret.” Her decision to embark on this adventure, including some heart-pumping activities like shark cage diving, reflects a spirit of living fully, embracing new experiences, and stepping out of her comfort zone.

Image Credit: Colleen Sims, Then we Walked | Colleen & Gerry exploring Bo Kaap

Ready to Embark on Your Own African Adventure?

Colleen’s story is just one example of the transformative power of overlanding. If her journey has sparked the wanderlust in you, why wait?

The same tour that Colleen experienced—from Victoria Falls to Cape Town—is waiting for you to explore.

Whether you’re seeking a deeper connection with Africa’s wild beauty, a chance to push your own boundaries, or simply a group of like-minded travellers to share the experience with, this tour is designed for those over 40 who are ready to step outside their comfort zones and embrace the adventure of a lifetime.

Book your tour today and discover the Africa you’ve always dreamed of.

Ready to Explore?