Exploring Africa by Camper Van? Here Are 5 Ideal Routes to Take
Exploring Africa by camper van is one of the most thrilling ways to experience the continent’s vast landscapes, rich cultures, and incredible wildlife.
The freedom to travel at your own pace, wake up to breathtaking views, and immerse yourself in diverse environments is unmatched. Whether you’re crossing deserts, winding through lush valleys, or camping near iconic wildlife reserves, Africa offers an array of camper-friendly routes that cater to adventurers of all kinds.
If you’re ready to go on a road trip like no other, here are five ideal routes for camper van enthusiasts.
1. The Garden Route, South Africa
Why It’s Ideal for Camper Vans
The Garden Route is one of Africa’s most scenic drives, stretching along South Africa’s southern coastline from Mossel Bay to Storms River. This 300-kilometer route is perfect for camper van travelers, with well-maintained roads, abundant campsites, and a mix of coastal and forest landscapes.
Highlights Along the Way
Tsitsikamma National Park: Known for its lush forests, dramatic coastline, and the iconic Storms River Mouth suspension bridge.
Knysna Lagoon: A tranquil stop with opportunities for kayaking, boat cruises, and sampling local oysters.
Wilderness National Park: A paradise for birdwatchers and nature lovers, offering serene camping spots near lagoons and rivers.
Plettenberg Bay: Stunning beaches and opportunities for whale watching during the season (June to November).
Camping Tips
Many campsites along the Garden Route, such as Ebb and Flow Rest Camp, cater to camper vans and offer amenities like electricity, hot showers, and kitchen facilities.
Stock up on groceries and fuel in larger towns like George or Knysna before venturing into more remote areas.
2. The Skeleton Coast, Namibia
Why It’s Ideal for Camper Vans
For travelers seeking solitude and stark beauty, the Skeleton Coast delivers. This hauntingly beautiful route along Namibia’s Atlantic coastline is famous for its shipwrecks, vast dunes, and unspoiled wilderness. The desolation and mystery of the Skeleton Coast make it a unique and unforgettable destination for camper van adventurers.
Highlights Along the Way
Cape Cross Seal Reserve: Home to thousands of Cape fur seals, this reserve is a fascinating wildlife stop.
Shipwrecks: Scattered along the coast, these remnants tell tales of maritime mishaps.
Namib Desert Dunes: Explore the towering dunes of the Namib Desert, including the famous Dune 7.
Twyfelfontein: A UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring ancient rock engravings and otherworldly landscapes.
Camping Tips
Campsites are sparse along the Skeleton Coast, so plan your overnight stops in advance. Skeleton Coast National Park offers basic camping options.
Carry extra fuel, water, and spare tires, as this remote area has limited facilities and assistance.
3. The Serengeti Circuit, Tanzania
Why It’s Ideal for Camper Vans
The Serengeti Circuit takes you through one of the world’s most famous wildlife areas, offering unparalleled opportunities to witness the Great Migration, iconic predators, and vast savannah landscapes. Traveling by campervan gives you the freedom to move between parks and enjoy self-catering in the heart of Tanzania’s wilderness.
Highlights Along the Way
Serengeti National Park: Renowned for its annual migration of wildebeest and zebras, along with frequent sightings of lions, cheetahs, and elephants.
Ngorongoro Crater: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this volcanic caldera is home to a dense concentration of wildlife.
Lake Manyara National Park: Famous for its flamingos, tree-climbing lions, and beautiful views of the Great Rift Valley.
Tarangire National Park: Known for its iconic baobab trees and large elephant herds.
Camping Tips
Many campsites near the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater offer secure facilities, including Simba Campsite and Seronera Public Campsite.
Permits are required for self-driving in Tanzanian parks, so ensure you’ve secured them in advance.
4. The Okavango Delta Route, Botswana
Why It’s Ideal for Camper Vans
The Okavango Delta is one of Africa’s most unique ecosystems, offering a stunning blend of wetlands, islands, and savannahs. This route allows you to explore Botswana’s pristine wilderness while enjoying the flexibility and comfort of a camper van.
Highlights Along the Way
Moremi Game Reserve: The heart of the Okavango Delta, where you can see elephants, lions, and a diverse range of bird species.
Chobe National Park: Famous for its massive elephant herds and the Chobe Riverfront.
Makgadikgadi Pans: Explore the vast salt pans and spot unique desert-adapted wildlife.
Maun: A gateway to the delta, offering supplies and opportunities for scenic flights over the wetlands.
Camping Tips
Book campsites in advance, especially in Moremi and Chobe, as they fill up quickly.
Bring a robust 4×4 camper van, as the roads in this region can be challenging, particularly during the rainy season.
5. The Great Rift Valley, Kenya
Why It’s Ideal for Camper Vans
Kenya’s Great Rift Valley is a landscape of dramatic escarpments, shimmering lakes, and abundant wildlife. This route is perfect for camper van explorers looking to combine cultural experiences with incredible scenery and wildlife sightings.
Highlights Along the Way
Lake Naivasha: Known for its hippos and birdlife, the nearby Hell’s Gate National Park is where you can walk or cycle among wildlife.
Lake Nakuru National Park: A haven for rhinos and flamingos, with excellent campsites nearby.
Mount Longonot: Hike to the top of this dormant volcano for panoramic views of the valley.
Masai Mara National Reserve: Witness the iconic Great Migration and enjoy close encounters with lions, cheetahs, and leopards.
Camping Tips
Most campsites around the Rift Valley are well-equipped, with Naivasha’s Fisherman’s Camp being a popular choice.
Stock up on fresh produce at local markets for a taste of Kenyan cuisine during your trip.
General Tips for Exploring Africa by Camper Van
Plan Your Route Carefully
Research the roads, weather conditions, and availability of fuel and supplies along your chosen route. Some areas may require off-road capabilities, while others are best avoided during the rainy season.
Pack for Self-Sufficiency
Carry enough water, food, and fuel to last longer than you expect, especially in remote areas like Namibia’s Skeleton Coast or Botswana’s Okavango Delta.
Respect Local Customs and Laws
When traveling through rural areas, respect local traditions and customs. Always ask for permission before taking photos of people or their property.
Practice Responsible Tourism
Leave no trace by cleaning up your campsite and avoiding practices that could harm the environment. Stick to designated roads and campsites to minimize your impact on fragile ecosystems.
Be Prepared for Wildlife Encounters
Keep a safe distance from wildlife, and never feed or provoke animals. Use binoculars or a zoom lens to observe them safely.
Why Camper Van Travel in Africa is Worth It
Exploring Africa by camper van offers unparalleled freedom and intimacy with the continent’s natural beauty. You’ll wake up to sunrise over stunning landscapes, fall asleep under a blanket of stars, and encounter diverse wildlife and cultures along the way.
Each of these routes provides a unique glimpse into Africa’s vast and varied environments, from the wetlands of the Okavango Delta to the rugged coastline of Namibia.
So pack your gear, fuel up your van, and hit the road—you’re in for the adventure of a lifetime.
Do you have any questions or comments? Please feel free to leave them down below in the comment section!
Who am I? Well, the least you can say is that I am quite crazy about Africa, its nature, its climate, its culture, and more.
As a young woman in my twenties, I had already traveled to several African countries by traveling along in an overlander on my own and mostly camping ( or glamping ) and just fell in love with the diversity of it all.
So much, so that at the age of 26, I went back to university to study biology, which, unfortunately, I couldn’t finish because of health reasons (yes, I got sick from a tropical disease, oh cynicism). But this did not stop my dream of traveling back to Africa several times, and I still do.
My dream was back then to leave Europe and go study animal behavior, especially the elephants (sure, that’s every girl’s dream haha), but I am also very much intrigued by hyenas and other “ugly African animals“.
So, I “kind of” have a little bit of a scientific approach to my articles, when I write about African birds, for example. And most of all: the passion.
But life goes on, you move from one side of the country to the other, you get sick again and top it off with lower back problems, and before you know it, you are over 50 hahaha!
Now, I still travel to Africa, but take it a bit “easier” than the good old camping days, and stay in comfortable, yet affordable accommodations, together with my husband Wouter.
These are some of the countries I have traveled to: Kenya, Tanzania, Zanzibar, Malawi, Zambia, Zimbabwe, South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Tunisia, and a little bit of Lesotho LOL .
While clearly not being African territory, but Spanish, I also visited Gran Canaria and Tenerife, and location-wise, I consider them “African”, because of their climate and nature, sue me :-p
The last trip I took was to South Africa in the year 2023, and it sure got the fevers for Africa back! From the Barberton mountains to the Drakensberg and the Southcoast, one month wasn’t enough at all to see the whole country, so we’ll be back! At ease and with a little bit more luxury than in my younger days haha!
