Land Cruiser 200 - ready for overlanding

[e9999]

thanks for the reply. Interesting to read. I hear you about the reduced need for spare parts. I guess things are getting more civilized all the time even out there. (I couldn't quite figure out the various references to fuel filter in the blog unfortunately. Sounded like one of them got clogged, is that it?)
I am pleasantly surprised at your mention of never having problems with locals. That is always a potential problem in people's minds. But maybe exaggerated. Then again, I had read the blog of the couple who crossed the DRC in their cruiser. Not the most pleasant interactions. And unfortunately, just now actually had read about the scary incident in Peru, which is exactly the sort of thing that people fear when going way off the touristy circuits. You must have been very skilled at dealing with locals -or very lucky maybe.
And it's great to see that water, food, and gas were never a problem. Surprising. Would you say you were mostly on busy main roads or mostly on little-used trails?

Do you think it would make more sense to go with a second truck, as in having a backup, or would that make things just too complicated? I can see for one thing that your checkpoint technique may not work as well for the second truck. And things may start to look more like a convoy than some poor lost tourists. Then again, what a great comfort it must be to have another vehicle nearby for emergencies.

One thing I have to say is that I'm amazed you only went for 50 days. I would have had to take at least 6 months or even a year myself. But no doubt it's a trip of a lifetime no matter how long. Good for you that you went!

 

[Jordan345]

Nice to read a blog where someone has taken the time to write about their experience. I have to say, i think those that haven't spent time in africa think its a big bad place with armed bandits and 4x4 tracks as the only means to get a across the continent and requires a serious expedition platform to do it. People that haven't spent time in canada or even some parts of the u.s. might think the same i.e. Canada is a big epic trek to get across and that going to alaska is a huge mission. These trips can be as simple and easy to do or as hard as you want, depending on the route. you can drive to alaska in a honda civic, or do trans canada in a toyota tercel. you can also drive throughout most of africa the same way. It doesn't require monumental gear and planning. There are people there no different that here that live, have families, commute to work, have bbq's on the beach, meet for a beer, go camping in the bush etc etc in many seemingly 'remote' and 'wild' places that we tend to obsessively prepare for. Africa is wild and remote, but like anywhere, has development and adequate tar roads, easily accessible bush etc.. I lived and worked in Africa, my wife and family have lived their their whole lives; tanzania, botswana, South Africa, etc.. our friends ride the desert 1000 motorcycle race across the Kalahari every year unsupported and we pack a cool box had drive into the okavango delta to camp in the bush for the weekend (okay, so you need an adequate cruiser and gear for these things). we also think nothing of getting in the cruiser or hilux and driving from South Africa to kenya over a 4 day period.. tar roads all the way if you want, even if you're in a two wheel drive car.

of all people, we appreciate the places that you can get to in a cruiser and the things you can see in our beautiful world, although its a shame it is easier and easier to get there. It's not as hard or complicated as one might think, it just takes some getting used to different ways of doing things - different expectations from people and cultures.. for the most part, people are good and are genuinely curious about you as a foreigner and are much willing to help (even if it is for a small fee.. remember, most of these people are poor beyond your imagination and often satisfied if you give them the decency of your time and basic courtesy.

 

[Itsky]

Great experience!

 

[e9999]

Nice to read a blog where someone has taken the time to write about their experience. I have to say, i think those that haven't spent time in africa think its a big bad place with armed bandits and 4x4 tracks as the only means to get a across the continent and requires a serious expedition platform to do it. People that haven't spent time in canada or even some parts of the u.s. might think the same i.e. Canada is a big epic trek to get across and that going to alaska is a huge mission. These trips can be as simple and easy to do or as hard as you want, depending on the route. you can drive to alaska in a honda civic, or do trans canada in a toyota tercel. you can also drive throughout most of africa the same way. It doesn't require monumental gear and planning. There are people there no different that here that live, have families, commute to work, have bbq's on the beach, meet for a beer, go camping in the bush etc etc in many seemingly 'remote' and 'wild' places that we tend to obsessively prepare for. Africa is wild and remote, but like anywhere, has development and adequate tar roads, easily accessible bush etc.. I lived and worked in Africa, my wife and family have lived their their whole lives; tanzania, botswana, South Africa, etc.. our friends ride the desert 1000 motorcycle race across the Kalahari every year unsupported and we pack a cool box had drive into the okavango delta to camp in the bush for the weekend (okay, so you need an adequate cruiser and gear for these things). we also think nothing of getting in the cruiser or hilux and driving from South Africa to kenya over a 4 day period.. tar roads all the way if you want, even if you're in a two wheel drive car.

of all people, we appreciate the places that you can get to in a cruiser and the things you can see in our beautiful world, although its a shame it is easier and easier to get there. It's not as hard or complicated as one might think, it just takes some getting used to different ways of doing things - different expectations from people and cultures.. for the most part, people are good and are genuinely curious about you as a foreigner and are much willing to help (even if it is for a small fee.. remember, most of these people are poor beyond your imagination and often satisfied if you give them the decency of your time and basic courtesy.

yup. Then again, there is Africa and there is Africa. I did cross South Africa in a japanese sedan. I could have done it entirely on beautiful asphalt highways -much smoother than our wretched california potholed horrors. There were beautiful modern hotels everywhere and the national parks had luxurious accommodations (and damn expensive too even by US standards ). For all we knew, we could have been in California. Same tourist accommodations, park systems, hotels with buffets, rental cars, highways, gas stations, banks, bars, fast food, vineyards, and cafes. Stayed in a gorgeous ultramodern condo on the harbor in CT . But that was the top veneer. There were also places I was told not to go. And a few times I went off the modern tourist circuit and it got a bit tense near townships and the like. But alltogether, could have been the US or Europe, the worst thing that happened was I got a ticket from a moustached ruddy brit type cop for going too fast in a park. He made a point of showing me the radar read out... I think he was even right.

But then there is Africa... the DRC.... tourist there? I don't think so... Your life there isn't worth the value of your wristwatch and they may work you over a bit to get more than what you carry on you that day, or just for fun, no doubt... Our smart swiss friend above understood that very well apparently as it seems he crossed in a record time at the narrowest point. Good thinking...

 

[Surfy]

thanks for the reply. Interesting to read. I hear you about the reduced need for spare parts. I guess things are getting more civilized all the time even out there. (I couldn't quite figure out the various references to fuel filter in the blog unfortunately. Sounded like one of them got clogged, is that it?)

We had two tanks, together around 270l. Between the spare tank and the main tank is a filter - who get clogged. We always use a MrFunnel prefilter - who saved us till angola. In Angola we had to replace the fuel filter, and to wash out that one between the tanks. For the next trip we will cary a spare for that middle filter too. But we dont have a breakdown because oft he fuel. With MrFunnel it consume much time for refilling – we will add some pictures about soon.

And it's great to see that water, food, and gas were never a problem. Surprising.

We are equipped to stay without the need of restocking stuff over some days: 270l Diesel, 85L Water, had a 15L Freezer and a 15L Fridge - without to get in trouble.

Food we have enough for staying weeks in the bush if necessary - just Diesel was something we need often. Diesel was never a problem - Benzin just in Botswana.

I am pleasantly surprised at your mention of never having problems with locals. That is always a potential problem in people's minds. But maybe exaggerated. Then again, I had read the blog of the couple who crossed the DRC in their cruiser.

Do you can add a link here? I read many blogs – and have not found one note about really bad situations and the DRC. But we stop our research with the start of our trip.

Yes – there was situations where locals try to stop us. Yes maybe – if we had stopped each time, take out the dictionary and try to understand what they want – yes – maybe we would found some trouble.

You must have been very skilled at dealing with locals -or very lucky maybe.

They of them who try to stop us want everything - drive some kilometers with us, or want water, food, money - and dont looks like they had not enough food.

That starts in Cameroon - and stays till Angola - and was nothing what belongs to DrCongo itself.

We had no space in our car, for taking people with us. When the situation allows (look save to us) - we get in touch with the locals - get some tips about our route - or had a chat with hand and feet. Maybe we have a good feeling to detect - who wants to chat - and who only waste our time.

At sample we also stop when someone had a breakdown, and looks what is the problem, help with fuel or so. That one who want to beg - dont know – we was able to see that..

(...)
But then there is Africa... the DRC.... tourist there? I don't think so... Your life there isn't worth the value of your wristwatch and they may work you over a bit to get more than what you carry on you that day, or just for fun, no doubt... Our smart swiss friend above understood that very well apparently as it seems he crossed in a record time at the narrowest point. Good thinking...(...)

To life in a country seems to make another perspective. A complete other perspective.

Mostly the people we meet who lived locally - talk in a "bad kind" about their country, how dangerous it is, how expensive - and how bad the people are. Even more when it is the neighbor country. How often they laugh loud about our plan - to drive to capetown. Private people even more than police or military.

There is no "normal" Tourism outside of the capitals in westafrica, but overlanders aren't tourists who needs restaurants or hotels. There are also often no "well known" seightseeing hotspots.

We feel pretty save in DRC. More save than in other Country's before.

Also there was not once a bribe scenario - helpful police and military.

Therefore we couldn't speak french - we had not the opportunity to talk often with locals - we just travel and camp for our own. And for this way of life - is the DRC a save environment.

I cannot say something about, how secure it is to stay in smaller towns and so on..

I think when you live somewhere, you get more sensible for security stuff - and that change the kind of view. For travelers who just want to do holidays or a kind adventure trip - you can accept a more dangerous situations for a given time - without to get stressed. We enjoyed our trip much

One thing I have to say is that I'm amazed you only went for 50 days. I would have had to take at least 6 months or even a year myself. But no doubt it's a trip of a lifetime no matter how long. Good for you that you went!

We had planned to travel for a longer period - but had to change our plans (long story). There was the option to made it later in some years - or now - within of two months.

We though that we will have breakdowns and problems on our trip - and had to push more than necessary - to be able to handle potential problems. We had 8 days in the background - for such situations.
That days we spend in Botswana and the national parks - as we see that it don't looks like we are able to kill our cruiser in the given time

of all people, we appreciate the places that you can get to in a cruiser and the things you can see in our beautiful world, although its a shame it is easier and easier to get there. It's not as hard or complicated as one might think, it just takes some getting used to different ways of doing things - different expectations from people and cultures.. for the most part, people are good and are genuinely curious about you as a foreigner and are much willing to help (even if it is for a small fee.. remember, most of these people are poor beyond your imagination and often satisfied if you give them the decency of your time and basic courtesy.

Nice words! It is true, it gets easier and easier to drive down the way.

Then chinese works from Cameroon till and within Angola on new highways - and - when you want - you can today drive with a 2wd to capetown without a problem.
Maybe you need sometimes help when you get stuck - but - nothing what isnt possible.

We take several times the "unknown" small adventure track - because of our car was well prepared - and we enjoy that kind of stuff - it was not necessary to do drive that bad tracks. So you can select the level of adventure by yourself - like near anywhere

And also is true - that the people live their life there - they don't see a white man, and want to kills him. Maybe the travelers have to be careful where to stay (like you also have to do it in most parts of the world!) - but it is not near so dangerous like others here think.

But then there is Africa... the DRC.... tourist there? I don't think so... Your life there isn't worth the value of your wristwatch and they may work you over a bit to get more than what you carry on you that day, or just for fun, no doubt... Our smart swiss friend above understood that very well apparently as it seems he crossed in a record time at the narrowest point. Good thinking...

We see another DRC than you. Like written - it is something different when you life there. Look at Communities from people who lives in another country.

There are a german expatriates community in thailand, with a big web community - and hell - there you see how dangerous thailand is. As tourist you see smiling peoples - and a very less percentage of travelers have trouble there. But: the german community isnt wrong - you can have trouble in thailand When you start reading the local newspaper- you will find stuff about criminality...

I read all blogs about transafricas from the last 5-6 years - not all write a blog - but none of them goes lost in DRC, no blog ends with the last message from DRC. Also there arent much tourists who goes lost in the recent time.

And there are many tourists (on their transafrica) - i guess there was at least 25 at the Year 2012 - when i remeber the blogs i found, and the guestbooks on the "overlanding hotspots" nearly correct.

For the east of the DRC - we cant talk - we wasnt there (and it looks dangerous there because of the news we hears) . Maybe your experiences are from there. The west we see in another way.

Surfy

 

[e9999]

very glad all worked well for you. You were well prepared, that's a big part of the trip.
I think having a good transafrica asphalt highway is not necessarily a bad thing for travelers. You can still do it the hard adventurous way if that's what you want, by staying away from the big road, but at least you can also get back to a modern lifeline of sorts when needed for parts, fuel, food etc.
And, yes, I think there is a big difference between the West of the DRC which seems reasonably calm and the East which is a true hell.

Are you back in CH yet? Is the 200 OK?

And if you have a chance, it'd be interesting to get a feel for an approximate overall cost for an expedition like that. CHF10K? 20K?

 

[Surfy]

Yes we flight back to switzerland in the meantime.

The overall cost are not easy to define. There are must have costs like Visas - but also there you can get cheap single entry ones, or the expensiv multiple entry Visas. We will wrote that in detail on our blog.

We spend each 1500 USD for Visas, the critical ones we get with multiple entry. This way we are able to drive back, if we had problems with water flooded landscapes - and able to take another route if necessary.

And we spend near 4000 USD for Fuel. But we drive in a way who brings some fun - and dont look for driving more sensitiv for a low fuel usage. With a smaller engine you can save some bucks - again - that are value that depends on you.

On the way we had no much options to spend money - food is cheap, the national parks are cheap, and sleeping in the car is free anyway - wildcamping too.

So there are minor amounts of roadtaxes - in africa maybe 35 USD, some campingareas in north and southafrica - arround 150 USD together.

We also got some 4-5 star hotels in Capetown, Cotonou and Swakobmund - which are very optional

Then also the car, and how he is equipped looks very optional. Just the mud tyres and snorkel was a must have - and the spare tyre.

Shure, we used too the winch and the additional fuel tank, the watertank and near every stuff we had equipped - but you can also use some canister for fuel and water - can carry a handwich and so on. The weight would be worse balanced - and you have to be more careful - but you can drive this roads also in a slower way...

So the vehicle itself and how it is equipped cant really get count here - all costs you can avoid. Without Frontbar we would had to drive slower and to look more - or we had loose some plastic parts.

A rearbar we have not fitted - and there is the plastic stuff damaged and needs an replacement. With a rearbar this could be avoid. To be honest - the rearbar is more expensiv than replacing some plastic i guess

I assume you will need at least 12000 USD to do that kind of trip (with shippings and ferry) - and you have to had at least 6000 in the background for stuff that can happen. I wouldnt do that trip, without the money on the bank - to solve every (technical) problem that can happen - or at least - to pay the shippment of the broken car to your home.

We had to replace the windscreen twice - not an usual part.

I will update the blog soon - with details about the costs.

Surfy

 

[e9999]

Surfy,
this is the blog about the belgian couple who crossed the Congo (country, not river) the hard way. You might have seen that, I imagine, but if not, it's maybe better that you read it now rather than before your trip...

http://www.expeditionportal.com/for...atic-Republic-of-Congo-Lubumbashi-to-Kinshasa

 

[Surfy]

Surfy,
this is the blog about the belgian couple who crossed the Congo (country, not river) the hard way. You might have seen that, I imagine, but if not, it's maybe better that you read it now rather than before your trip...

http://www.expeditionportal.com/for...atic-Republic-of-Congo-Lubumbashi-to-Kinshasa

I read that story and watch the pictures more than one time - know them before we start planning.

They had a nice trip - no reason not to plan something like this.. That is stuff who let us read start planning to do something similar.

Their breakdowns are something we had also guessed that we have them too.

I`m not to sad - that our car survived without problems.

But that we dont know before.

For a trip like this you should be able to ship the car from everywhere. I always told my friends here in switzerland - that we try to drive to Capetown - but dont know how far we came.

Then we had not the time for a bigger breakdown.. One repair who needs more than a week - and we had no chance to finish... Or much rain somewhere - and getting stuck for a week - also then we had to ship from angola or namibia - or where ever we stay at the end of the year.

Surfy

 

[e9999]

I can't say that I have the impression -after reading their posts and per their own analysis- that that belgian couple had a good trip in the DRC. Many many stucks, serious damage to the truck, expensive repairs -OK, fine, that is not an unexpected part of wheeling and overlanding- but also especially very high stress levels and unfriendly encounters with some locals (do people running after you with coupe-coupes (machetes) in several villages strike anybody as nice?)...
Then again, it seems to me that as far as the driving part, a major mistake they made was not to have a powered winch on board. That would likely have saved them from arduous labor in many many stucks and may well have prevented the drivetrain breakdowns they experienced. And of course, their itinerary did include many abandoned and unmaintained tough old tracks. It was apparently widely believed to be impossible to do. Not at all the main overlanding route.
There was a convoy of 3 trucks and a motorcycle that went the other direction later and seemed to have had a much easier time. They wisely chose to go during the dry season, IIRC, which probably helped a lot.

Anyway, no matter what other people did or didn't do. You had a great trip, no major issue. I'm glad for you.
I would love to do something like that someday soon.

 

[Surfy]

(do people running after you with coupe-coupes (machetes) in several villages strike anybody as nice?)...

In remote locations inside of the rain forst all of them wear machetes - you dont see people without. We had that in that less travelled part between cameroon and congo.

They work with that, not intend to attack the people on the street.

When they shout because they want to drive with you - they still have them in their hands. We didnt feels afraid about.

There was severall times incidents where the 2-3 people (no kids) start to run from their houses (little village) to the track and are crying loud and gesticulate.
Sometimes there was wood barriers (open) - but not everytime.

We thought that they want to get money for optaining the track, or an kind of "peage" - or maybe a bribe szenario - just for chatting they were to "aggressive"
We did wad we often did - keep driving (mayby with a little bit more throttle).

Maybe they were also from the police, and wants to see our papers. In remote areas they dont wear uniforms...

We dont are really afraid about, but we cant speak french, they cant speak english - just an annoying situation which we did avoid.

Far i remeber, did the beligian guys the same - and did not checked out what they want..

I`m shure, they had`nt killed us, when we had stopped

Then again, it seems to me that as far as the driving part, a major mistake they made was not to have a powered winch on board. That would likely have saved them from arduous labor in many many stucks and may well have prevented the drivetrain breakdowns they experienced.

Yes - that couple was not really well prepared for that kind of trip, but they finish it too

But interesting was, that he told in a blog or community entry, that he would start again without winch, because he also see the challange, far i remeber right.

Without our big tyres (33") (compared to the locals ones) - and the mud tyres - we would get stuck very often... Togehter with the power of the V8 - it saved us a lot lot of hard work.

I would love to do something like that someday soon.

Do it! It is a nice experience, and not near so dangerous than it looks like. Sh*t can happen everywhere, anytime.

Surfy