4X4 Excitement - Great African Trails

by: Dan Rosen

PART I

OK, I admit it - I'm soft on Africa. The African bush is my dream . . . and my passion.

Imagine the rolling hills shimmering before you in the glow of dawn, the special golden light at sunset, the incomparable wildlife right next to you, the baobabs withering in the blistering sun, the camp out in the bush - at these moments you are in contact with the very essence of your primeval being!

I have been on safari in Africa many times. It is definitely a favorite destination. This particular trip was the highlight of all my African excursions - a 4X4 12 day camping safari that started in Windhoek, the beautiful capital of Namibia, through some of the roughest terrain on the planet through like the Okavango Delta in Botswana and up to Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe.

Known to the local African tribesman as "Mosi-oa-Tunya" - the smoke that thunders - Vic falls are truly a spectacular site.

Remarkably preserved in its natural state and one of the most spectacular natural wonders of the world, the falls inspire magical inspiration to all visitors. At 1708 meters wide and a drop of between 90 - 107 meters, this is the largest curtain of water on earth.

The falls and the surrounding area have been declared National Parks and a World Heritage Site, thus preserving the area from excessive commercialization. The Falls are spectacular throughout the year, but February onwards, after the rain season, has the heaviest flow and volume of spray.

I find that a self drive 4x4 is the best way to explore the natural wonders of Southern Africa. On this trip we booked a 4X4 campervan which is basically a modified LandRover or other 4X4 with additional gas tanks, gear racks and an unfolding tent on the roof. After picking up our vehicle at the rental depot we set off as part of a convoy led by a qualified guide. While I usually prefer to wander around on my own, the terrain here is so rugged and so full of wild game, that you are definitely advised to take the guided convoy route.

One of the greatest highlights of any Safari is the gin and tonic sundowner after a hard day in the bush. Roughing it in Africa is more than a gin and tonic with a bottled lime juice instead of fresh, however. This is no pussycat trip; this is hardcore Africa... everyone is expected to pitch in and help, even if it means dragging the 4x4 out of the mud. We did - one of our team-mates got stuck in the fine sand - and we made it with the broadest smiles we've ever had.

Starting from Windhoek, a perfectly preserved German colonial style town (Namibia was formerly German South West Africa), every day of this trip held a new and different thrill. From big game, bushmen tribes-people and spectacular natural wonders, this trip still makes my heart sing!

Read Part II in our next post.

About the Author:

Dan Rosen is a professional traveller and travels several times a year to various countries around the world in search of the perfect travel adventure. He also operates the CamperTrails website. (www.campertrails.com)