Acacia is Africa

Epic Overland Tours That Show You the Real Africa

Looking for a travel experience that’s off the beaten path but rich in wildlife, culture, and unforgettable moments? Africa overland tours with Acacia Africa might be just the thing. From camping in the wild to spotting elephants on a sunrise drive, these journeys go deep into the heart of the continent.

In this episode of Keep Traveling: Your African Vacation, host Rael Zieve chats with Vivian McCarthy—director at Acacia Africa and a man who’s been exploring the continent for over 30 years. What started as a personal adventure turned into a career helping others experience the magic of safari tours in Africa.

Falling in Love with Africa—One Trip at a Time

Vivian’s first African adventure was a five-month overland trip in the 1980s. He wasn’t leading the tour—he was a passenger. But that trip changed his life. Years later, Acacia Africa was born, built on that same spirit of adventure, and focused entirely on Africa.

“I just had to find a way to go back,” Vivian says. And go back he did—again and again.

Africa Overland Tours for the Modern Explorer

Acacia Africa started with long-haul, multi-country Africa overland tours—those epic journeys through deserts, jungles, and game reserves. Today, they offer more flexible options, from short getaways to multi-week expeditions.

The focus is still on authentic travel: campfires under the stars, waking up to birdsong, and seeing animals in their natural habitat—not behind glass.

Whether you’re a seasoned backpacker or a first-timer dreaming of a budget African safari, there’s a tour to match your pace and pocket.

Is Africa Safe for Travelers?

It’s a fair question. Many travelers from the US, UK, and Europe worry about safety. Vivian’s take? “The biggest danger you’ll face is a mosquito—or maybe a trail of ants!”

When you travel with experienced guides, you’re in good hands. Safety is baked into the planning, and wildlife encounters are thrilling but respectful.

Why Africa Just Hits Different

“Go,” says Vivian. “Just go.”

Africa has a way of grabbing your heart. Maybe it’s the wide-open landscapes, the sound of lions at night, or the kindness of the people. Vivian says first-time visitors often come for the Big Five, but leave talking about sunsets, local food, and village culture.

And here’s the kicker: Africa isn’t just one place. East Africa feels totally different from Southern Africa. Kenya has a different rhythm from Malawi or Botswana. Each country brings a unique flavor—and every overland tour reveals a new layer.

Elephants, Birdlife & Quiet Moments That Stick With You

Vivian recalls the first time a massive elephant walked past camp—quiet as a whisper. “You think something that big would make noise. But they just glide,” he says.

That’s the beauty of safari tours in Africa. You’re not just seeing animals; you’re part of the environment. You feel it, breathe it, and carry it home with you.

Funny Moments & Unexpected Adventures

Africa doesn’t just stir your soul—it also gives you some great stories. Like the time ants invaded their camp, and the crew had to pack up and move in the middle of the night. Or the moment Vivian got drenched by Victoria Falls, not realizing how close you get to the thunderous spray.

It’s the kind of stuff you remember forever—and it beats any story from a resort pool bar.

Conservation Starts with the Locals

Vivian’s big on this: tourism should benefit local communities. In places like the Masai Mara, where the Maasai help manage the land, conservation works because locals are invested.

Tourism in Africa supports jobs—especially for young people and women—and it brings funding to protect wildlife and wild spaces. That’s why ethical travel and small-group tours like Acacia’s matter more than ever.

Win a 7-Day Budget African Safari!

Feeling lucky? Acacia Africa is giving away a 7-day camping overland tour between Pretoria and Livingstone (Victoria Falls). You’ll hit Kruger National Park, explore hidden gems like Matobo National Park in Zimbabwe, and wrap up at the mighty falls.

It’s a perfect budget African safari experience—and a brilliant intro to Southern Africa.

Whether it’s your first safari or your tenth, Acacia Africa offers Africa overland tours that leave you changed—in the best way possible.

So what are you waiting for?

Book your trip. Make some memories. Keep traveling.

👉 Email us at: rael@wildsunsets.travel
🌍 Plan your adventure at: www.wildsunsets.travel