10 favourite African overlanding destinations

It’s a new year and with it comes a renewed focus on living our best life – setting goals and pursuing that which brings fulfillment. For us that means new adventures and more exploring, whether in our own country or across the continent. Africa offers vast landscapes, rich cultures, and unparalleled adventures for overlanders and we’ve put together a brief guide to 10 favourite overlanding destinations, including why they’re loved, the best times to visit, and essential travel advisories.

Namibia: Vast and otherworldly

Namibia’s excellent gravel roads, abundance of campsites, and a sense of isolation make it an overlander’s paradise. The unspoiled night skies are a bonus for stargazers.

Highlights:

  • Sossusvlei’s red dunes: Sunrise views that redefine serenity.
  • Etosha National Park: Spectacular salt pans teeming with wildlife.
  • Skeleton Coast: Rugged beauty and haunting shipwrecks.
  • Damaraland: Rich in desert-adapted wildlife and ancient rock art.

Best time to visit: May to October offers cool, dry conditions, ideal for game viewing and exploring the desert.

Travel advisory: Namibia is safe, but urban petty crime and wildlife on rural roads are concerns. Avoid driving at night and stay at reputable campsites in remote areas.

Botswana: Raw and wild

Botswana’s emphasis on low-impact, high-value tourism ensures unspoiled landscapes and fewer crowds. Its remote campsites and challenging terrain are perfect for seasoned adventurers.

Highlights:

  • Okavango Delta: A wetland wonderland bursting with life.
  • Chobe National Park: Home to Africa’s largest elephant populations.
  • Makgadikgadi Pans: Surreal salt flats under endless skies.
  • Moremi Game Reserve: A thrilling 4×4 playground.

Best time to visit: June to October is dry season, when wildlife congregates around water sources. For the pans, visit after summer rains (January to March) to witness dramatic bird migrations.

Travel advisory: Generally safe, but remote areas require careful planning. Stock up on fuel and supplies and avoid night driving due to wildlife.

Zambia: Off-the-beaten-path adventures

Zambia’s untamed wilderness and less commercialised parks appeal to adventurers seeking solitude. Its excellent network of bush camps enhances the experience.

Highlights:

  • Victoria Falls: A bucket-list natural wonder.
  • South Luangwa National Park: Renowned for walking safaris.
  • Lower Zambezi: Canoeing among hippos and crocodiles.
  • Lake Bangweulu: A birdwatcher’s dream, especially for shoebills.

Best time to visit: May to October is dry season, offering optimal wildlife viewing and manageable roads.

Travel advisory: Though generally safe, heavy rains can make rural roads impassable during the wet season (November to April). Ensure your vehicle is equipped for recovery.

Tanzania: Epic landscapes and wildlife

Tanzania’s blend of iconic destinations and off-the-beaten-path parks caters to all kinds of adventurers. It’s also an excellent gateway to East Africa’s overlanding circuit.

Highlights:

  • Serengeti: Witness the breathtaking Great Migration.
  • Ngorongoro Crater: A natural amphitheatre packed with wildlife.
  • Zanzibar: White sandy beaches and Swahili charm.
  • Ruaha National Park: A hidden gem for crowd-free safaris.

Best time to visit: June to October is dry season and best for safaris. For the migration river crossings, visit between July and September.

Travel advisory: Avoid border regions with Mozambique and Burundi due to sporadic security issues. Stick to established routes in national parks.

Kenya: A safari classic

Kenya’s extensive network of parks and reserves makes it a staple for African overlanding. The friendly locals and vibrant culture add depth to the journey.

Highlights:

  • Masai Mara: Famous for its annual wildebeest migration.
  • Lake Nakuru: A haven for flamingos and rhinos.
  • Samburu National Reserve: Home to unique wildlife like reticulated giraffes.
  • Tsavo National Park: Rugged landscapes and vast savannahs.

Best time to visit: July to October for the migration or January to March for fewer crowds and dry weather.

Travel advisory: Exercise caution in urban areas due to petty crime and avoid regions near the Somali border.

Uganda: The pearl of Africa

Uganda’s mix of challenging terrain and unique wildlife experiences – like gorilla tracking – makes it a dream destination for adventurers.

Highlights:

  • Bwindi Impenetrable Forest: Gorilla trekking at its finest.
  • Murchison Falls: Witness the power of the Nile.
  • Queen Elizabeth National Park: Diverse landscapes and rich wildlife.
  • Lake Bunyonyi: A serene escape for kayaking and birdwatching.

Best time to visit: June to September is dry and best for trekking. Avoid the rainy seasons from March to May and October to November.

Travel advisory: Avoid the border regions with the DRC due to instability. Permits are required for gorilla tracking, so book well in advance.

Rwanda: Small but mighty

Rwanda’s excellent infrastructure and compact size make it easy to explore. The country’s commitment to conservation is a significant draw.

Highlights:

  • Volcanoes National Park: Trek for gorillas and golden monkeys.
  • Kigali: A vibrant city with a poignant past.
  • Akagera National Park: Thriving with the Big Five.
  • Lake Kivu: A picturesque spot for water-based activities.

Best time to visit: June to September for gorilla trekking and safaris.

Travel advisory: Generally safe, but avoid border regions with the DRC.

Mozambique: A coastal paradise

Mozambique’s coastline, pristine beaches, and warm hospitality make it a favourite for those seeking both adventure and relaxation.

Highlights:

  • Bazaruto Archipelago: Stunning marine life and sandy shores.
  • Tofo Beach: Perfect for diving with whale sharks.
  • Ilha de Moçambique: A historic gem with rich cultural heritage.
  • Gorongosa National Park: A remarkable conservation success story.

Best time to visit: May to November for dry weather and clear skies.

Travel advisory: Avoid northern Mozambique, especially Cabo Delgado, due to ongoing conflict. Southern areas remain safer but require vigilance.

Morocco: Gateway to the Sahara

Morocco’s varied terrain and rich history make it a perennial favourite for overlanders, especially those venturing into the Sahara.

Highlights:

  • Erg Chebbi Dunes: The ultimate desert adventure.
  • High Atlas Mountains: Rugged trails and stunning scenery.
  • Fez: Morocco’s cultural heart with ancient medinas.
  • Chefchaouen: The iconic blue city of Africa.

Best time to visit: March to May or September to November for pleasant temperatures.

Travel advisory: Generally stable but avoid large demonstrations and remote desert routes without local guidance.

Malawi: The warm heart of Africa

Malawi’s welcoming people, serene landscapes, and accessible campsites create a relaxed yet rewarding overlanding experience.

Highlights:

  • Lake Malawi: Perfect for water sports and lakeside camping.
  • Nyika Plateau: Unique highland wilderness.
  • Liwonde National Park: A river safari paradise.
  • Mount Mulanje: A hiker’s dream.

Best time to visit: May to October for dry weather and clear lake waters.

Travel advisory: Roads can be challenging in the rainy season, so plan carefully.

Five more exotic African destinations

For those who thrive on venturing into uncharted territory, these lesser-explored mainland destinations offer unique landscapes, rich cultures, and unforgettable adventures.

Chad: A desert wonderland

Chad’s remoteness and rugged terrain make it a dream for overlanders seeking solitude and raw, untouched beauty. Be prepared for limited infrastructure and bring extra supplies.

Highlights:

  • Ennedi Plateau: Towering sandstone formations and ancient rock art.
  • Zakouma National Park: A conservation triumph with vibrant wildlife.
  • Lake Chad: An essential yet shrinking freshwater source surrounded by local communities.

Best time to visit: November to February for cooler, more comfortable conditions.

Central African Republic (CAR): A wild frontier

The CAR is the ultimate off-the-grid destination. Its dense rainforests and savannahs attract the most intrepid adventurers, though careful planning is essential due to limited infrastructure and security concerns.

Highlights:

  • Dzanga-Sangha Reserve: Encounter forest elephants and lowland gorillas.
  • Boali Waterfalls: A spectacular cascade during the rainy season.
  • Bamingui-Bangoran National Park: Rare wildlife like African wild dogs and Lord Derby’s eland.

Best time to visit: December to April for dry season, when roads are more accessible.

Niger: Ancient trade routes and desert landscapes

Niger offers overlanders a chance to traverse ancient trade routes and immerse themselves in the heart of the Sahara. The rich Tuareg culture adds depth to the journey.

Highlights:

  • Aïr Mountains: A dramatic volcanic massif rising from the desert.
  • Tenere Desert: Endless dunes and the iconic Tree of Tenere memorial.
  • Agadez: A historic Saharan trading post and UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Best time to visit: November to February for cooler weather, making desert exploration more bearable.

Sudan: A land of ancient treasures

Sudan’s rich history and welcoming locals offer a unique and deeply rewarding overlanding experience. The mix of archaeological wonders and vast desert landscapes creates a sense of stepping back in time.

Highlights:

  • Meroe Pyramids: Lesser known but equally stunning compared to Egypt’s pyramids.
  • Nile River Valley: Lush greenery amidst arid surroundings.
  • Jebel Barkal: A sacred mountain with ancient Nubian ruins.

Best time to visit: December to February for cooler weather, especially for exploring desert areas.

Ethiopia: Land of origins

Ethiopia’s unique landscapes, from volcanic deserts to lush mountains, offer an extraordinary overlanding adventure. Its ancient history and deep cultural roots make it one of Africa’s most fascinating destinations.

Highlights:

  • Simien Mountains: A hiker’s paradise with breathtaking vistas.
  • Danakil Depression: One of the hottest and most surreal places on earth.
  • Lalibela: Rock-hewn churches that are architectural marvels.
  • Omo Valley: Home to diverse tribes and vibrant cultural traditions.

Best time to visit: October to March for dry weather, especially in the highlands.

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