Escape the noise. Find wild Africa.

Reclaim the spirit of old-school exploration unhurried, unplugged, and utterly real. VanAfrica isn’t all about social media fame; it’s about rediscovering solitude, silence, and soul in the wild.

Join us on any of our bespoke adventures and re-discover the true spirit of Africa.

@ Van Africa

We seek slow travel, authentic local connections, unhurried exploration, and nights under vast skies.

Founded by Riaan, overland guide and lifelong explorer, Van Africa is part of All in Safari Travel (Pty) Ltd and built on a deep love for the wild heart of Africa.

30 years overlanding experience

Guided trips • Bush chef & open-fire cuisine •

Partners: Waveney Campers (UK), EFS Africa, KhakiBush magazine

Cross-Border Safaris

Cross-Border Safari Itinerary through Namibia, Botswana, and Zimbabwe designed for those craving wild, remote routes, raw landscapes, local food, and immersive nature experiences.

This route works best for self-drivers in a 4x4

  • VW T3 Syncro Cox Camper

    Adventure-ready classic, kitted for two travellers.

  • Land Rover Defender TD5

    Robust off-road machine, ideal for long overland routes.

    More to follow

  • Keep an eye on our fleet, new vehicles arriving soon.

Top 3 Adventures

One Wild Journey

From the silence of the Karoo, through the untamed beauty of the West Coast, to the lush forests and ocean mist of the Garden Route. This journey captures the soul of South Africa. Three wild spaces, each with its own rhythm, inviting you to slow down, breathe deep, and rediscover the simple magic of the open road.

Garden Route image

Garden Route

Coastal forests, wild beaches, fresh seafood, and secret trails.

West Coast SA image

West Coast

Cold seas, raw landscapes, seafood shacks, salt in your hair, and starry nights by the fire.

Karoo & Inland image

Karoo & Inland Adventures

A soulful desert journey, wide skies, silence, starlight, and slow food.

Plan Your Next Safari

Adventure

Get our free Essential Overland Packing Checklist and insider tips for overland camping across Southern Africa.

No spam, unsubscribe anytime.

Van Africa

Overlanding & 4x4 Adventures — FAQ & Travel Tips

Compact guide for participants

🧭 Is it safe to travel through Africa on a 4x4 tour?

Travelling in a guided group is the safest and most rewarding way to explore Africa’s wild places. Experienced guides know routes, local customs, and safety protocols. We travel in convoy so help and support are always nearby.

🚗 What are road conditions like?

Expect a mix of tar, gravel, and off-road tracks. Conditions can vary — from smooth highways to sandy or muddy trails — especially after rain. With patience, lower speeds, and the right tyre pressure, every kilometre becomes part of the adventure.

🗺️ Can I rely on Google Maps for travel times?

Not always. African distances are best measured by road type, not just kilometres. Gravel or scenic B-roads can take longer. We plan each route with realistic travel times, rest stops, and opportunities to enjoy the scenery.

🏕️ Do I need a special vehicle or equipment?

Tours are designed for 4x4 vehicles in good condition. Recovery gear, proper tyres, and reliable suspension are essential. Unsure about your setup? We can help you prepare or arrange a rental vehicle suited to the terrain.

⛺ What type of accommodation is offered?

Each tour blends adventure with comfort — from bush camps under the stars to lodges and national park sites. Every stop is chosen for authenticity and character, reflecting the true spirit of Africa.

🌦️ When is the best time to travel?

Southern Africa is a year-round destination, but conditions vary:
May – September (Dry Season): Cool, clear days, fewer mosquitoes, excellent game viewing.
October – April (Green Season): Lush landscapes, dramatic skies, fewer crowds; some routes can be muddy.
Tip: In warmer months, travel early, rest midday, and enjoy cool mornings and evenings.

💉 Are there any health risks?

Take basic precautions — stay hydrated, use sunscreen and insect repellent, and consider malaria prophylaxis where advised. Bring your personal medication and a small first-aid kit.

🧾 Is travel insurance required?

Yes. Comprehensive travel insurance covering medical evacuation and vehicle recovery is mandatory for all participants.

🐘 How do I stay safe around wildlife?

Always follow your guide’s instructions. Keep a respectful distance, never feed animals, and stay inside your vehicle in game reserves. Respect the wild — it’s what keeps it magical.

🎒 What should I pack?

Keep it light, practical, and durable. Essentials include breathable clothing, a warm layer, hat, sunscreen, comfortable shoes, power bank, refillable water bottle, snacks, passport, insurance, and vehicle papers.
Tip: Less is more — every item should earn its space.

📶 Will I have cell signal or Wi-Fi?

Coverage is improving, but some remote areas may have limited or no service. Embrace the digital detox — most camps or nearby towns offer Wi-Fi when needed.

💰 What about currency and payments?

Cash is king in rural areas. Carry local currency or USD for small purchases and fuel. Cards are widely accepted in towns and lodges, but always have a backup cash reserve.

Final Travel Tips

Be patient and flexible — Africa moves at its own rhythm.

Respect people, cultures, and nature — it opens doors everywhere.

Stay hydrated and rest often; the sun can be intense.

Keep an open mind — the unexpected often becomes the best story.

Pro tip: Carry a copy of important documents (physical & digital). Store an emergency contact list in your phone and on paper.
© Van Africa (All in Safari travel Pty Ltd)
Van Africa

Overlanding & 4x4 Adventures

FAQ & Travel Tips

🧭 Is it safe to travel through Africa on a 4x4 tour?

Travelling in a guided group is the safest and most rewarding way to explore Africa’s wild places. Our guides know the routes, local customs, and safety protocols.

🚗 What are road conditions like?

Expect a mix of tar, gravel, and off-road tracks. Conditions vary — from smooth highways to sandy or muddy trails. With patience, lower speeds, and the right tyre pressure, every kilometre becomes part of the adventure.

🗺️ Can I rely on Google Maps for travel times?

Not always! Distances in Africa depend more on terrain than kilometres. We plan realistic travel times with stops for rest and scenery.

🏕️ Do I need a special vehicle or equipment?

Tours are designed for reliable 4x4s. Recovery gear, proper tyres, and suspension are essential. We can help you prepare or arrange a rental vehicle suited to the terrain.

🌦️ When is the best time to travel?

May–Sep (Dry): Cool, clear, fewer mosquitoes, great game viewing.
Oct–Apr (Green): Lush, scenic, fewer crowds. Some routes can be muddy.
Tip: Travel early, rest midday, and enjoy cool mornings.

💉 Are there any health risks?

Stay hydrated, use sunscreen and insect repellent, and consider malaria prophylaxis where advised. Carry essential meds and a small first-aid kit.

🐘 How do I stay safe around wildlife?

Always follow your guide’s instructions. Keep a respectful distance and never feed animals. Respecting the wild keeps it magical.

💰 What about currency and payments?

Cash is king in rural areas. Carry local currency or USD for fuel and small purchases. Cards are fine in towns, but always keep backup cash.

Final Travel Tips

  • Be patient and flexible — Africa moves at its own rhythm.
  • Respect people, cultures, and nature — it opens doors everywhere.
  • Stay hydrated and rest often; the sun can be intense.
  • Keep an open mind — the unexpected becomes the best story.
Pro Tip: Keep copies of key documents & contacts — both digital and paper.

© Van Africa (All in Safari travel Pty Ltd).

Contact Us

Email: tour@vanafrica.co.za

WhatsApp +27 774437221

Jeffreys bay SA

Help/FAQ

Partnered for Adventure

Waveney Campers UK
Khakibush Magazine
Jim Green Footwear
Tracks4Africa
EFS Africa
PRO TREK Nature
CASIO
Oasis Tech Solutions

All Rights Reserved.

Chat with Van Africa