Question 1

Is a self-drive through Africa safe?

Accepted Answer

Yes, a self-drive through Africa is relatively safe, provided you set off well prepared. Most tourist routes are excellent for independent travel. We do recommend taking the local traffic rules into account and preferably using Tracks4Africa or another navigation app with maps available offline. Mobile coverage can sometimes be limited, so a good offline map is indispensable. We also advise against driving in the dark (with a hire vehicle, it is often not allowed either). Not only is street lighting outside the cities often limited, but people, livestock and wildlife also regularly walk on or alongside the road. During the day, you have much better visibility and can fully enjoy the surroundings. If you choose less touristy or more remote areas, good preparation becomes even more important. In these places especially, it is essential to have the right information about road conditions, fuel availability, mobile coverage, border crossings and any alternative routes. If you travel with us, we will go through the full route and the different route options with you in detail beforehand, so that you are well prepared and can begin your African journey with confidence.

Question 2

Do I always need a 4WD?

Accepted Answer

No. This depends entirely on the country, the season and the route. In South Africa many routes can be driven perfectly well in a regular passenger car. In Botswana , Zambia and remote parts of Namibia a 4WD is often essential. Together, we will look at which vehicle best suits the trip you want to take.

Question 3

Do I need prior 4x4 experience?

Accepted Answer

It is not compulsory, but it can be useful. The vehicles are very user-friendly and beforehand you will receive an explanation of the key principles, such as engaging four-wheel drive in good time and using the  diff locks . However, your own driving skills, lowering the tyre pressure in deep sand and keeping calm often matter more than the vehicle’s technology itself.

Question 4

Is there a limit to the number of kilometres I can drive?

Accepted Answer

When you book a vehicle through us, the hire includes an unlimited number of kilometres ( unlimited mileage ). So during your  road trip  you never have to worry about extra costs per kilometre driven.

Question 5

What are the main differences between the Hilux and the Land Cruiser?

Accepted Answer

The Toyota Hilux is a modern, comfortable vehicle with very favourable fuel consumption and good handling on both tarmac and gravel. The Toyota Land Cruiser, on the other hand, is the unstoppable king of the wilderness. The Land Cruiser is heavier, offers substantially more interior storage space and is deliberately built mechanically without vulnerable electronics, making it the absolute first choice for the most remote wilderness areas such as Savuti or the Kalahari.

Question 6

What is the fuel policy for the hire cars and how is this arranged?

Accepted Answer

All vehicles are supplied with a full tank and must also be returned at the end of the hire period with exactly the same amount of fuel. Any difference in the tank level will be charged or settled afterwards.

Question 7

What specific equipment is included with the Land Cruiser models?

Accepted Answer

The Land Cruisers are equipped with both front and rear differential locks ( front and rear diff locks ) for the most demanding off-road conditions. They also have a dual fuel system ( dual fuel tank ) for an enormous range, a built-in water tank, a dual battery system for the fridge, a powerful compressor for inflating the tyres and a complete camping setup including a sturdy  braai rack.

Self-drive holidays