Travelling overland in Africa as a 60 year old woman?

by Wilna Wilkinson
(Lalinde, France)

I have spent the last week studying all the websites of companies that provide transport for overland travel through Africa, trying to decide which company would suit me best. I plan to start this journey around November this year.

The biggest consideration for me is the itinerary -- but my concerns are:

1. Fellow travellers - I am not too keen on a group of gap year kids who have suddenly been given unlimited funds and freedom and all that that entails.

2. As much as I am yearning to travel over Africa, I have to admit I would love to do it in a slightly different and novel way - or go places not too well trodden by the countless who go before me. A big ask, I know, but I think you will definitely know what I am trying to say here!

I see you backpacked this journey - but confess I do not think that is for me. If for no other reason than to not to have to worry about getting through borders and past bureaucracy while on the road, I think I would prefer to be on a slightly more 'organised' trip. Any suggestions???

Answer:

First, Wilna, let me congratulate you for even thinking of traveling overland in Africa! Younger women are often daunted by this trip, even though they shouldn't be. I was in my 40s when I backpacked across Africa and had the time of my life. I also ran into many women who were far older, into their 80s.

I understand you'd rather not backpack - it's not the easiest way to travel, even though I love it. And you're right to be concerned about choosing the right tour operator. The last thing you want is to be mismatched with a group that doesn't have much in common with you.

I can't speak personally, since I've never taken this kind of tour. I can tell you that explore.co.uk has a good reputation. I have several friends who have traveled with them and have loved it. I've just checked and they have tours that last up to 23 days and cover 4 countries.

However, that may not be what you're looking for. Doing a bit of surfing I've found the following - but please note, I have no personal knowledge of any of these groups at all!

Safaris4Seniors
Africa in Focus - they specifically state they don't cater to the gap year market
Addicted to Travel - with a few specific senior-only tours

I also recommend you check out the Senior Travel or Overland Africa sections on both BootsNAll and Thorn Tree travel forums. Just post your questions and see what comes in. I'd also try Trip Adviser's Senior Travel Forum and Africa travel reviews, where readers post questions about specific tour operators and review them.

By the way, 'senior' doesn't mean old in any way - usually they start at 50 and we know how young that is these days. It's more of a shorthand to say physical effort will be watched closely and you won't be going to bars every night - unless you want to, of course!

Happy travels, and if you do go on an overland trip, other Women on the Road would love to share your travel stories!