Getting Around Africa: Expert Guide to Air, Road, Rail, and Adventure Travel
In Africa, the journey often rivals the destination. Transportation options span crowded minibuses on rugged roads to high-standard international flights linking major cities.
Air Flights connect Africa's major capitals efficiently; smaller cities may involve layovers.
Bus & Bush Taxi Essential in rural areas, shared taxis depart when full; buses link cities.
Car & 4WD Paved roads connect urban centers; off-road conditions demand 4WD, especially post-rains.
Train Services thrive in West and South Africa, with limited routes elsewhere and few cross-border options.
Air Travel
Africa's intra-continental air network is robust, making flights ideal for crossing vast deserts like the Sahara or challenging regions such as Central African Republic and South Sudan. Always verify schedules, as delays and cancellations occur. Note: airlines rarely provide upscale accommodations for disruptions.
For multiple flights, book add-ons with your primary ticket via a reputable agent for better rates and flexibility.
Key airlines with extensive networks:
- EgyptAir (www.egyptair.com.eg)
- Ethiopian Airlines
- Kenya Airways
- Royal Air Maroc
- South African Airways
- Interair (www.interair.co.za)
Air Passes
Air passes deliver major savings—up to 50% or more—on multi-leg trips. The Star Alliance Africa Airpass covers 30+ airports in 23 sub-Saharan countries with 3-10 flexible coupons. Operated by Ethiopian Airlines, South African Airways, and EgyptAir; details at www.staralliance.com.
Bicycle Travel
Cycling Africa is demanding yet immersive, offering unparalleled access to remote villages and authentic encounters. Prepare thoroughly: carry a tent and seek village headman permission for wild camping near settlements.
Opt for rugged mountain bikes over touring models—26-inch wheels handle potholes better. Hybrid tires suit mixed terrain. Tailor components and spares to your route.
Vehicles pose greater risks than wildlife; yield to traffic on low hierarchy roads. Avoid urban cycling. Carry 4L+ water; supplement with buses or boats as needed.
Consult the International Bicycle Fund (www.ibike.org/africaguide) for country-specific advice, though some data may be dated.
Bringing Your Bike
Fly with your bike disassembled in a box or as checked luggage (remove pedals, rotate bars, protect with cardboard/foam). Most withstand handling if Africa-ready. Fees vary: some free in baggage allowance, others ~US$50 extra.
Boat Travel
Boating in Africa delivers unforgettable adventures.
Rivers & Lakes
River ferries range from cargo-laden boats to spacious vessels with cabins, bars, and dining. Upgrade from crowded 3rd class. Pirogues and pinasses serve remote West African waters; mokoros offer Okavango sightseeing. Rare vehicle ferries include Zambia-Botswana.
Key routes:
- Lake Malawi/Nyasa (Malawi, Mozambique, Tanzania)
- Lake Tanganyika (Tanzania, Zambia)
- Lake Victoria (Tanzania, Kenya)
- Congo River (DRC, Republic of Congo)
- Nile (Egypt)
- Senegal River (Senegal)
- Gambia River (The Gambia)
- Zambezi River (Zimbabwe, Zambia)
Coastal Ferries
Dar es Salaam-Zanzibar is prime; others in Sierra Leone, Guinea-Bissau, Cameroon-Nigeria, Equatorial Guinea, Gabon, and São Tomé & Príncipe. Romantic dhows sail Mozambique's Quirimbas; feluccas grace the Nile.
Safety Note
Boats often lack regulations, life jackets, or capacity limits. 3rd-class holds can trap passengers; prioritize safety.
Bus Travel
Buses excel on paved networks. International services abound; opt for air-conditioned luxury where available, or endure basics elsewhere. Rural routes cram passengers, animals, and goods with frequent stops.
Survival Tips
- Touts aid navigation but earn commissions.
- Pay bush taxis at departure.
- Use mats for bumpy rides.
- Balance hydration and stops.
- Scarves block dust.
- Beware baby surprises.
- Carry passport for checkpoints.
- Book ahead.
- Converse with conductors, not drivers.
- Choose shady seats.
Car & Motorcycle
Self-driving unlocks Africa's wonders with preparation.
Your Own Vehicle
Enter via Morocco ferry from Europe. Avoid unstable Sahara routes; Western Sahara (Morocco-Mauritania) safer. Challenges: Egypt-Sudan barge, DRC roads/war. Resources: Africa Overland Network (www.africa-overland.net), Horizons Unlimited (www.horizonsunlimited.com).
East/South starts: Ship to Mombasa/Cape Town or buy locally (South Africa easy). SA vehicles need no carnet in Southern Africa; secure insurance, licenses, plates via AA (www.aa.co.za).
Motorcycles demand self-sufficiency amid variable roads and inattentive drivers.
Carnets de Passage
Required in most African countries (except Morocco/Algeria/Tunisia). Issued by motoring clubs with bond/insurance for duties up to 150% value. Obtain from AA South Africa (www.aa.co.za) or RAC UK (www.rac.uk). Southern/West Africa often issue border permits.
- Insurers wary of 'war zones'.
- Plan sales with customs.
- Abandonment incurs full duties.
Vehicle Hire
Ideal for Southern Africa (Botswana, Namibia, Zambia); 25+ years old typically. Costs: US$75+/day 2WD, US$150+ 4WD. South Africa bargains (~US$30/day long-term). Cross-border to neighbors possible.
Southern Africa 4WD Rentals
- Africamper (South Africa)
- Avis Safari Rentals (Botswana, Namibia, South Africa)
- Britz (South Africa, Namibia)
- Bushlore
- Drive Botswana (multi-country)
- Safari Drive (upmarket)
- Self Drive Adventures
Insurance
Buy border policies where required (low limits); supplement with comprehensive coverage. UK: Campbell Irvine (www.campbellirvine.com).
Road Tips
- Avoid potholes, animals, cyclists.
- No night driving.
- Slow for poor local skills.
- Branches signal hazards.
- Watch reckless overtakes.
- Full tank + jerry can; roadside fuel dubious.
- Prepare for checkpoints.
- Carry spares, tools, winch.
- 4WD for off-road.
- No bikes in parks.
Hitching
Not recommended due to risks, though common in remote areas (pay usual). Pairs safer; wave hand, avoid thumb gesture. Easier in Ghana, Kenya, etc.
Train Travel
Trains offer scenic, cultural rides—safer/comfier than roads, though slow outside North/South Africa. Fares competitive; sleepers upscale. Book whole compartments for mixed genders.
Security/sanitation varies; secure belongings.
Iconic routes:
- Nairobi–Mombasa (Kenya)
- Zouérat–Nouâdhibou (Mauritania)
- Dakar–Bamako (Senegal-Mali)
- Transgabonais (Gabon)
- Windhoek–Swakopmund (Namibia)
- Pretoria–Swakopmund (South Africa-Namibia)
Truck Travel
Vital in remote areas; pay for cab or roof seats. Arrange at truck parks; fares below bus. Sun/dust protection essential; slower than buses. Multi-day: self-cater.
Budget Overlanding
Northbound empty trucks from South Africa offer cheap returns to Tanzania/Kenya; inquire at backpacker spots.
