You wake up to the sound of a bird you have never heard before and the waves crashing on the shore. As your tent warms from the sun you crawl out to prepare breakfast from fresh ingredients you bought from the local market the day before. As the coffee percolates over the open fire you chat to your group leader about the day’s journey ahead. You put on your hiking shoes, prepare the camera, and get ready for today’s adventure-you have survived your first night as an overlander.

The travel style called Overlanding is not a new way to travel, but it is becoming a more popular way to see places that are considered a little more ‘off the map’ than most. Overlanding trips are truck based journeys that can take anywhere from 2 weeks to 6 months. Accommodations are camping, transport is 4×4 trucks, and adventure is everywhere.

These trips tend to be a bit more physically demanding as the group cooks together, sets up and tears down camp, and there are usually some long driving days. However the perks far outweigh any challenges you might face physically. A great shared traveling experience with like minded people, seeing the everyday life of locals in the countryside, and visiting places accessible only by 4×4 trucks is what this kind of travel is all about.

Getting off the beaten path and getting involved in the adventure rather than just being a passenger is the true highlight of the overland style. It is also a great way to add some spice to an extended career break, or a jumping off point for the start of your travels. No matter what order you so it in, it will add to the richness of your time abroad.

Africa, Central Asia, South and Central America, and Southeast Asia are all classic Overland destinations. All these places have vast areas to explore, and offer a landscape best explored by driving. It is also a way to get the most bang for your buck. Since your transport, accommodation, and most meals are included, overlanding is a way to travel for an extended amount of time without blowing the budget.

Through August, Intrepid Travel is offering 20% off their new Overlanding trips.

Are you an overlander? There is only one way to find out, so get those hiking boots ready and prepare yourself for an adventure you will never forget.

We are proud to have Intrepid Travel as a National Meet, Plan, Go! sponsor.