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From Lagos to Windhoek: My Journey as the First African to Travel overland from Nigeria to Namibia
From Lagos to Windhoek: My Journey as the First African to Travel from Nigeria to Namibia by Road We did it! After months of preparation, countless visa applications, and an unforgettable road trip through 9 African countries, we’ve finally made it from Lagos, Nigeria, all the way to Windhoek, Namibia! And let me tell you, it has been nothing short of an adventure of a lifetime. We’re now in Namibia, and I’m absolutely loving it here. I know many of you have followed along with me as I planned this epic journey, and now, the feeling of completion is surreal. The road from Lagos to Windhoek took us through Central, East, and Southern Africa, and I’ve seen, experienced, and learned so much along the way. The journey wasn’t easy, but it was 100% worth it. And now I am crowned as the First african to travel overland from Nigeria to Namibia by road Read Interviews on Dailytimesnews A Road Few Would Dare to Travel A lot of people have asked me: “Why go by road? Isn’t it easier to fly?” And to be honest, I’ve heard everything from “this is a white man’s adventure” to “Why would you suffer like that?” I get it. Overland travel in Africa is often seen as grueling, risky, and unnecessarily difficult. But for me, it’s about more than just the physical challenge. It’s about showing the world—and ourselves—just how beautiful, diverse, and resilient Africa is. For too long, the narrative of African exploration has been written by outsiders. But it’s time for us, as Africans, to tell our own stories. We don’t need a European explorer to “discover” Africa for us, nor do we need to travel to the West to find opportunities. Our continent is rich with history, culture, and potential, and I’m here to share that with the world. This journey was my way of reclaiming the narrative, and I hope it inspires you to do the same. The Highlights of the Journey The road trip itself wasn’t just about the destinations—it was about the people we met and the places that stole our hearts along the way. Reimagining African Travel Now that we’ve arrived in Namibia, I’m even more determined to continue advocating for a more integrated Africa. The journey highlighted just how difficult it is for Africans to travel freely within our own continent. The visa restrictions, high fees for non-locals, and the lack of true regional integration are real barriers that we need to address. For example, in Kenya, I paid 1,500 shillings to visit the Giraffe Centre, while East Africans paid only 350. These kinds of discrepancies make it harder for us to truly unite as one continent. But this only fuels my passion to push for change. I want to see an Africa where we can move freely, where borders aren’t obstacles, and where we can build meaningful connections with one another. It’s time to create an Africa that is connected, not divided. What’s Next? So, what’s next for me? Well, I’m not stopping here. I’ve seen just how much Africa has to offer, and now it’s time to share those stories with the world. I hope this journey inspires you to look at Africa not just as a place to escape from, but as a place to explore, invest in, and celebrate. We have everything we need right here. It’s up to us to unlock our continent’s full potential. Here’s to more adventures, more discoveries, and more stories to share. Africa, I’m just getting started!
Overlanding Africa: How to plan an overland trip across West Africa
1: What is Overlanding Africa? Overlanding Africa is about embarking on a road journey that lets you explore the vast landscapes, rich cultures, and hidden treasures of the continent without flying. It’s not just about reaching a destination but enjoying the journey itself. Whether by public transport or your own vehicle, overlanding allows you to truly connect with the people, history, and environment, making every stop an adventure. 2: History and Why Overland West Africa West Africa is a region with a fascinating history, spanning thousands of years. From ancient kingdoms to the colonial era, every corner of West Africa tells a story. Overlanding this region gives you the unique opportunity to witness landmarks like the Niger River and explore diverse cultures firsthand. The resilience of its people and the vibrancy of its traditions make it a must-visit for anyone curious about the real Africa. 3: My Journey Overlanding West Africa My overlanding journey through West Africa took me through Niger, Burkina Faso, Mali, Senegal, and The Gambia. From experiencing the rich Tuareg culture in Agadez, Niger, to the vibrant music scene in Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso, each country left its mark. Mali’s bustling Bamako offered an energy I hadn’t felt anywhere else, while Senegal’s serene Saint-Louis and Lac Rose left me in awe. The ease of traveling through The Gambia, with its English-speaking population and laid-back vibe, rounded off my unforgettable West Africa adventure 4: Preparation – Travel Documents, Money Matters, and SIM Cards Preparation is key when backpacking or overlanding West Africa. You’ll need your international passport, yellow fever vaccination card, and COVID-19 certificate. As for money, carry plenty of local currency, particularly CFA francs, which are used in many West African countries. When it comes to connectivity, getting a local SIM card in each country ensures you stay connected and can navigate easily with maps or contact hosts and guides. 5: Visa Requirements for Non-West Africans For non-West Africans overlanding through West Africa, visa requirements can vary. Some countries, like The Gambia, offer visa-free entry for certain nationalities, while others, like Sierra Leone, allow visas on arrival. For countries like Guinea-Bissau, it’s advisable to secure your visa in neighboring countries like Senegal. Always check visa requirements in advance and apply online where possible to make your overland journey smoother. 6: Planning Routes, Itineraries, and Visiting Multiple Countries When overlanding West Africa, it’s best to plan routes that allow you to visit multiple countries in one go. For example, traveling from Ghana to Burkina Faso, Mali, and Senegal is a great way to experience diverse cultures without excessive border backtracking. Planning your itinerary based on proximity allows for smoother, less time-consuming journeys. Always consider border fees and travel times between countries as part of your planning. 7: Languages in West Africa Language can be a barrier while overlanding West Africa, but with some basic knowledge of English, French, and local dialects, you’ll be just fine. French is widely spoken in many West African countries like Senegal, Mali, and Burkina Faso. English will get you by in countries like The Gambia, Nigeria, and Ghana. It’s always helpful to learn a few basic phrases to make interactions smoother and more enjoyable. 8: Best Time to Visit West Africa The best time to overland West Africa is during the dry season, from November to April. This period offers milder temperatures and fewer rains, making the roads more accessible. If you overland during the rainy season, be prepared for muddy, impassable roads in some regions, particularly in countries like Liberia and Ivory Coast. 9: Are You Ready to Explore? West Africa is calling! Whether you’re a seasoned overlander or a first-time adventurer, there’s no better way to experience this region than by hitting the road. With its rich history, diverse cultures, and stunning landscapes, West Africa is the perfect destination for those seeking adventure, connection, and discovery. 10: My West Africa E-Guide If you’re ready to start your overland journey but need guidance, check out my West Africa E-Guide. It’s packed with practical advice, border crossing tips, routes, and firsthand stories from my travels through 13 West African countries. Whether you’re planning a quick trip or a long-term adventure, this guide will be your go-to resource for overlanding West Africa. Get your copy now and begin your journey with confidence! Tags: #OverlandAfrica #BackpackWestAfrica #OverlandingWestAfrica
Migration of Africans Within Africa: A Case Study of Nigerians
Until we document and celebrate the success stories of Africans thriving on the continent, we will continue to perceive the West as the ultimate destination.
Getting my Passport stamped in Cameroon
If you’re going to go by boat: Go by Ship; They are certain ship that leaves Calabar once a week. You can follow them, you’ll be charged for transportation and passport stamping. It is better and safer use it..
Nigeria To Cameroon By Boat. Travelling by Sea.
Starting the Nigeria-Namibia trip,our journey aims to start from the beautiful country of Cameroon, which is one of the closest countries linking Western and Central Africa together with a vast border with Nigeria
Backpacking Nigeria to Namibia: A New Adventure
Dear Alarinkas, my beautiful people who love to see the world’s beauty, Your social prefect is at it again. Last year, for two and a half months, we backpacked across West Africa, through ten countries. It was such a beautiful journey, filled with the rich expressions of food and culture, and the challenges we faced along the way. As an ECOWAS citizen, traveling through West Africa’s borders was still a breeze, and I highly recommend it. This year, we’re at it again, traveling through Eastern and Southern Africa, connecting via Central Africa. I am backpacking from Nigeria to Namibia as a solo female, using public buses, staying with locals, and mixing it with comforts for the next 200 days. Our route will take us through 15 countries, listed belo This journey has already begun, which means I have a lot to share with you already. Get your pen and notepad ready because you’ll be getting all the information to help you embark on your own journey when you’re ready. For a more entertaining visual representation of this documentary, follow me on all my socials: Instagram & TikTok: @thattokelady Are you excited? Because, ladies and gentlemen of the Humans of Alarinka community, we are about to embark on one of the greatest adventures so far. ❤️