Frequently Asked Question - OverlandingAfrica.com

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Africa Overland Questions and Travel FAQ's

The OverlandingAfrica.com FAQ's section has been divided up into themes that include:

Medical help in Africa
Money Matters (includes insurance)
Overlanding
Accommodation, food and vehicles
Visas, vaccinations and passports

MEDICAL HELP IN AFRICA

• What vaccinations do I need?

Most countries in Africa require that you have a yellow fever vaccination and you will need to produce documentation as proof of having the vaccination. You will also need to be aware of the anti-malaria drugs that you will need to take before travelling to the malaria infected areas of Africa. If you wish to find out more about malaria, yellow fever and vaccinations then please read our section about health and vaccinations.

• Are the crew reliable if there is a medical emergency?

Your crew are experienced and there is a first-aid box on board. The overland crew have an extensive knowledge of tropical diseases and are aware of where the closest hospitals are. If you do get sick on tour then inform your crew immediatly. If you are sick upon return to your home country then consult your doctor and make them aware of what tropical diseases you have been exposed to.

• Is overlanding safe?

Yes, it is. The trucks are all inspected before departure and crew are experienced. Everything you need is on board and the crew will never put you in any unexpected danger.

• What is included in the price of an overland tour?

Different tours include different things. Your more luxury tour will have all of the adventure activities included in the cost whereas the budget tours you can pick and choose which acitivity you want to do as some of them can get expensive.

Read our section about money on an overland tour

• Is there somewhere for my money and valuables?

There are safes on the trucks which are locked at all times. It is always important to insure your valuables just to be certain.

• Should I insure my camera equipment?

Yes, the terrain that overland trucks covers 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.

Read more about travel insurance

• How long beforehand should I book?

If you are thinking about travelling during the peak tourist seasons it is best to book a few months beforehand. It is possible to turn up on the day of departure and squeeze into the truck (provided there is space and you have all of your correct documents, travel insurance and vaccinations are in order).

• What is the kitty?

The kitty is a fund into which everybody contributes. The kitty pays for certain activities and food. It is worked out on a per person basis and it is paid upon arrival to the crew. It saves you the responsibility of carrying large quantities of cash.

Read more about money matters

• What is the local payment?

The local payment is exactly the same as the kitty (the fund into which everyone contributes to pay for food and activities). Some overland companies prefer to call it the kitty, others the local payment.

• What are the group sizes like?

Overlanding groups range from 12 people to about 24 people. Group size all depends on the type of tour that you go on and the season you travel in.

• Can people of any age go overlanding?

Overlanders are usually aged between 18-50. Overlanders need to be relatively fit and healthy. Exceptions are made to the age bracket. 18 is the legal age in African countries, which is why it is a sensible minimum age limit to set. Those over the age of 50 are welcome provided they are healthy and young at heart.

• Who travels on an Overland Trip?

People from all walks of life. Students, corporate businesmen and basically anyone that has an interest and passion for experiencing Africa.

• How much time do we spend on the road?

Most of your overland trip will be spent in or around the truck, which is why it is so important to read through the overland truck section so that you have an understanding about the vehicle you choose to travel in.

• What type of Accommodation is included?

Overlanders will mostly be camping. In certain areas you will stay in hostels and on certain trips full accommodation is included. Remember, the aim of overlanding is to be at one with nature and camping adds to your experience of Africa!

Read more about overland accommodation in Africa

• What type of vehicles are used?

A fully equipped truck is used. Some overland trucks have windows, others just have a cover. The truck is geared towards covering all different types of terrain and is safe in extreme conditions. There are a number of different types of overland trucks that are used for each trip. View our overland truck section for information about our Africa overland trucks.

• What type of food will we be eating?

There is all sorts of food which is well prepared. Types of food will also include the local cuisine of the country you are visiting. At times when you stay in a hostel, breakfast is included. If you have any special dietary requirements then you need to let the overland crew know. On the more luxury overland tours there will be a cook who will deliver a host of culinary delights. On other tours the crew and overlanders all get turns to cook.

• What vaccinations do I need?

The majority of areas in Africa require that you have a yellow fever vaccination and it is important to bring the vaccination certificate with you when you travel. In some areas if you do not produce the relevent document you will be denied access into the region. Malaria is another serious mosquito borne disease that you will need to take prescription tablets for before you travel.

Read more about health and vaccinations in Africa

• Must I organize my own visas?

Most African visas can be purchased at the border posts or in the countries you travel into. Please note that all visas are solely your responsibility. Please consult our Visa and passport page where you will find up to date, accurate information. Your personal travel consultant will also provide you with up to date information.

• My passport is nearly full, should i get a new one?
  

We suggest applying for a new passport if you are travelling to South Africa. South Africa requires that you have two blank pages (alongside each other) in your passport. You will also need space for all of the visa and country stamps.