Backpacking Africa: What do I need to pack?

Hi Catherine, we can certainly assist you with a trip at the age of 60 years. All we do require is a letter from your doctor stating that you are fit enough to partake in an overland trip and you are good to go! I have emailed you some options. Cheers!

Are there any age restrictions on these trips? I am interested in a 3-6 month trip. I am 60, very fit, no meds, no illnesses or disabilities. I understand that we must participate in many physical acitivities, some requiring more physical strength. Any information you can give would be greatly appreciated.

Hi Deborha, we certainly do have trips available for you however this will also depend on your son's age. Due to your illness, we will require a letter from your doctor stating that you are fit enough to partake in an overland tour. I have emailed you some more information. Happy trails!

well my dream has always been to go to africa but commitments have made it not possible. My biggest problem now is I would like to go for 1 week in my son's half term feb 10th for 8days quickly because I am on medication at the moment for my kidneys and the surgeon has said that I will probably have to go onto dialysis soon before Aug, obviously I would get the necessary health insurance and vaccinations needed but I would really like to go sooner rather than it be too late. I would be on dialysis for at least 2 3 years while I wait for a transplant so you can see my dilema! I am worried that something may go wrong in the future and then it would never be possible.Do you think in the short time this would be possible I thankyou for your opinion. Best wishes Deborah

Hello, My friend and i are interested in the Cape Town to Vic Falls tour but are wondering if we should bring our own tent or that this is provided by the organisation. Thankyou!

Hi. My girlfriend and me are interested in the 11 day tour from Johannesburg to the Victoria Falls at the end of December. Problem is, that we are on a tour before the departure, but with a suitcase and no sleeping bag. Is there a possibility to solve that problem? Thanks!

Hi Roger! Yes there are quite a few places in Swakopmund where you will be able to buy a sleeping bag and sleeping mat. There is a CYMOT MIDAS shop in Swakopmund, it is in Sam Nujoma Drive and their telephone number is: 264 (0)64 400318. Please note that they close at 5pm in the week and on Saturday open until 12pm. Alternatively you can go to Pick n Pay or Woerman Brock which stays open for a little bit longer. Cheers!

Hi Minette I am coming straight from work in nigeria to swakupmond. is there a camping shop that you could send me the telephone number of so i can buy my sleeping bag etc there.

Hi Jules, if the World Health Organization has recommended you to get a Rabies shot for preventative measures, then I would get the jab! The countries who are at risk of rabies include all the countries that you will be visiting. Happy trails :)

I was on the WHO web site and they recommend a preventative Ra-bis shot. What do you think?? I will be over-landing from Vic Falls to Cape Town and then going To Tanzania. Thank you

Hi Julie, we recommend that you insure your camera equipment as the terrain that overland trucks cover can be rugged and you can never be too certain about what happens when you are out in the wilderness! Your camera could get stolen, get wet or caught in a dust storm. In the past I have had passengers that keep their cameras covered especially around areas where there is a lot of sand! Happy trails!

My husband and I have pretty expensive cameras. Of course the whole idea of going on this trip would be to take lots of pictures. How safe are our cameras regarding dust and water activities?

Hi Rajen! That is awesome to hear, I have emailed you some options so keep an eye on your inbox! Cheers.

My wife and I wish to do a 42 day overland camping safari from Nairobi to Cape Town about Aug / Sept 2011. Our departure from Nairobi has to coincide with our son's arrival in Nairobi at about the same time. My son and two of his friends are cycling from Cape Town to Cairo to raise awareness and funds for Cochlear Implants to give Deaf Children the gift of hearing. This may be an opportunity for us to do this trip which we have been planning for a long time.

What rated sleeping bag(0 degrees, 45 degrees, etc.)should be purchased for Oct.-Nov weather?

I think Africa is a kind a good place

Hey Andrew. Good question! It really depend on where she is going and what facilities are provided when she gets there, ie: mosquito nets? The biggest mistake people make is they take TOO MUCH STUFF especially clothes. Less is more! Less clothes, more money, less toiletries, more first aid kit and antiseptics etc. Sorry i can't be more helpful. Cheers.

I have a friend who is going on a mission to Zimbabwe through her church. It's her first time, she says she's well prepared, and I do believe her, but I really want to make sure she has everything she needs for sure! Is there anything that groups like that should travel with but usually don't?

Hi Allison, No they don't for hygiene reasons. Bottled water is readily available but the tap water at most overnight stops is also perfectly fine to drink. You are welcome to bring your own travel bottle if you like. :)

Do these overlanding tours include water bottles on the truck for the entire duration of the trip? I can't find any specifics regarding water bottles!

Hi Sara, We don't have them to hire but can point you in the direction of a few places where they can be purchased quite cheaply. Give us a shout when you get to Cape Town! Have fun!

Hi, just a quick query. I'm actually already on a trip in africa- and would be joining you straight from that. I have no rucksack, or sleeping bag- can these be hired? Thanks