Planning guide

Africa Self-Drive Planning Guide

A reliable self-drive plan starts with the worst road segment, the range between services and the written territory covered by the rental agreement.

Start with the route, not the vehicle

List every border, ferry, overnight stop and unpaved section. Then check what documents and support each stage requires. This prevents an attractive vehicle from becoming the plan itself.

Questions to put in writing

  • Which countries and roads are authorized?
  • Where is the insurance valid?
  • What happens after a breakdown?
  • Which documents will be supplied?
  • What is excluded from the quotation?

Keep operational details current

Border hours, ferry schedules, road conditions and permits can change. Recheck them shortly before departure rather than relying on an old itinerary.

Prepared by the AfricaTourVisa Overland Travel Research Team.

Last reviewed: