We're not the only people doing this trip! This is the ultimate online source of
information about travelling overland across Africa. A large collection of websites
for others doing similar trips. The west coast is a far less trodden route than
the east, for 3 reasons I believe.
- Loads more mud!
- Having to go through the (not so) Democratic Republic of the Congo. Apparently a
toss up between here and Angola for the worst roads in the world. Although, looking
at other people's diaries the western DRC sounds lovely and friendly. Not sure
I'd want to head too far east however.
- Having to get in to Angola. Just getting a visa is a nightmare, especially from
the North.
If you want to become too scared to ever leave your house, let alone travel overland
across Africa then this is a great site! Although they do provide valuable information
about countries. It's worth taking note of their advice, even if it is with a pinch
of salt. Just remember, it is their job to be cautious, and they'll only ever
list the bad things, not the good!
After lots of trawling the internet trying to find someone to help get us a capable
vehicle we eventually settled on Footloose 4x4. People spoke very highly of the
experience, knowledge and attention to detail that is provided as part of the service.
Well worth having a chat with Paul to discuss plans and listen to suggestions brought
on by years of experience, even if you don't take things any further than that.
The tale of three surfers heading up the west coast in search of waves. Well written,
upbeat and fairly comical at times. No overlanding info, but the diary makes a nice
change from all the "We're having a great time, but here's a list of all the latest
disasters" diaries out there!
Another tale of Surfers, this time heading down the west coast. Ill-equiped in a
fairly unhealthy vehicle they never quite made it!
These guys are pretty much following our west coast route just over a year ahead
of us. We've been following their progress to syphon off useful information.
These guys have gathered together lots of very useful information for people overlanding
across the mother continent.
Another good read for overlanders. Lots more useful information on countries.
I'm not sure it's the best business model to specialise in publishing guide books
for countries that no one ever goes to, but they seem to be doing ok. If you're
wanting guide books, then these are probably the ones you want.