Some travel companies offer epic overland trips to explore individual destinations or whole continents. You’ll travel in a purpose built truck and get to discover new amazing places and go off the beaten track. Popular destinations to travel on overland tours include Africa, Asia, Europe and South America.
Best Overland Tour Operators
What is an Overland Tour?
Overland tours take place onboard the overland truck which are recognised all over the world as the very symbol of outdoor adventure. Overland tours are participation tours and every one gets involved in the day to day running of the trip, pitching in to cook, clean and set up camp. The more you put in to a tour, the more you’ll get out of it and the smoother the trip will run.
The Vehicles
A big converted truck will virtually be your home, perhaps for many weeks (or months), so travel companies make trucks as comfortable as possible. Onboard you’ll find mostly forward facing seats, a coolbox, stereo, safe for valuables and even a small library. There is ample storage space and all of the camping/cooking equipment is carried on board. Vehicles carry a comprehensive range of spare parts and they are all well maintained by local mechanics. Constructed to specifications, rugged trucks take mountains, deserts and riverbeds in their stride, and will carry you off the beaten track.
Crew
Your truck crew will consist of a tour leader and a driver (some tours have a cook), who will be there to assist and offer their support and knowledge.
Camping
Overland tours are sometimes 100% camping and stay at designated camp sites as well as free camps. Tents are of the two person type and if you are travelling solo they are shared on a same-gender basis. You are sometimes required to bring your own sleeping bag and mat. You might be expected to share in setting-up camp and helping out with the chores.
Local Payment
A local payment is usually required that covers 3 meals per day, and campsite fees for passengers and crew. The local payment is payable to your tour leader in US dollars cash and or travellers cheques at the pre-departure meeting. It is managed by the tour leader and one of the passengers.
Food
3 Meals a day are provided whilst camping. Cooking is done over a campfire or gas cookers and you will be suprised at the quality of food prepared and the generous helpings – some tours even come with a cook onboard. Hygiene is very important and strict routines are followed to keep you healthy and happy. Special diets can be catered for – let your travel consultant know about your dietary requirements in advance.