Safari Trucks - Choosing the Right Safari Vehicle for Your Adventures in Africa

If you’re planning a trip to Africa, the safari vehicle you choose may seem like a minor detail. But it’s one that can have a major impact on how comfortable and enjoyable your trip will be. And that’s because safari vehicles vary in design and size to suit different types of adventures.

On fly-in safaris in Botswana, Namibia, Zambia, and Tanzania, you’ll usually travel by light aircraft and then switch to a safari truck for the drive between airports and wilderness camps or lodges. These vehicles are specially adapted and built to help you explore the wild without getting ripped off by the African landscape or harsh weather elements.

Typically, these are 4x4 Land Cruisers or Rovers with open sides and tiered seating so that everyone can see the sights, sounds, and smells of the natural environment. They also have removable roofs that you can use to block the sun during the hottest times of the day or keep you dry if it starts to rain.

For more adventurous safaris, you’ll likely travel in an expedition safari truck on a scheduled safari tour or private wildlife adventure. These are large trucks that can seat up to 14 people (including the driver) and have extra room for luggage. They’re often modified and adapted to handle off-road driving and terrain, and have features like raised suspension and engine snorkels for river crossings. They also have a special viewing pop-up roof hatch so you can get up close to the scenery or take photos without blocking the view of those in front of you.

On some adventure tours, you’ll travel in a safari truck with padded bars or sand bags to rest your camera on so that it doesn’t slide around. Other adventure tours may be conducted in a standard minibus, or on an all-inclusive trip with private vehicles reserved exclusively for your group of friends and family.

On some guided safari tours, you’ll be traveling in an open-sided safari vehicle with three rows of seats and a jump seat for the safari tracker. These safari vehicles allow you to feel more connected to the wilderness and are great for observing and photographing animals from all directions. These safari vehicles are not recommended for long-distance road transfers between destinations because they can be uncomfortable against the wind and sun or when you encounter rough terrain. However, they’re ideal for game drives and will give you an incredible experience in the bush!