AfrikaBurn Vehicle Guide [Updated 2023]

What is AfrikaBurn?

Every year, thousands of artists come together for AfrikaBurn, a week-long celebration of independence and self-expression. The gathering, which takes place in South Africa’s Tankwa Karoo desert, is based on Burning Man’s festival in the United States.

The burning ritual is a spectacular sight to see | Photo credits: David Gwynne-Evans

The event’s 11 guiding principles, which include radical self-expression, self-reliance, and leaving no trace behind, inspire participants to produce original art, burn visually magnificent structures, dress up in creative costumes, and more.

If you’re thinking about going to AfrikaBurn in 2023, you should know that there aren’t any spectators there. Everyone is asked to take part and offer their support in whatever manner they can.

Afrikaburn Outfits are out of this world | Photo credits: Michael Groenewald

Therefore, it’s a good idea to get a vehicle, such as a car rental, early so that you can get there and get ready for the event by dressing up and participating.

At AfrikaBurn, you’ll also have the chance to meet some of the friendliest individuals from all over the world, making it a truly unique and memorable experience.

Where is AfrikaBurn held?

In South Africa’s Tankwa Karoo desert, AfrikaBurn is held. The Stonehenge Private Reserve, in the Northern Cape province, some 300 kilometers (186 miles) from Cape Town, is where the event specifically takes place.

The area is renowned for its rough, desert terrain, which makes it the perfect setting for the independence and self-expression at the heart of AfrikaBurn.

When is AfrikaBurn held?

Usually in late April or early May, AfrikaBurn takes place. It will happen in 2023 from April 30 to May 6. The event normally starts on a Monday and ends on a Sunday, lasting seven days.

For the most recent information, it is best to visit the AfrikaBurn website as the event’s specific dates may change somewhat from year to year.

What type of vehicle should I book for AfrikaBurn?

Choosing a vehicle for AfrikaBurn can be a tricky task. You’ll want comfort, a place to rest, somewhere to freshen up and also a place to store your food.

Remember, you’ll have to look after yourself in every possible way – from accommodation to food and water. There are public toilets available, but no showers. It’s all about self-reliance. Hiring one of these babies will help to cover your bases.

Here are your three best options for car rentals to Afrikaburn:

4ST 4 Berth Mercedes Camper (I like to party, but I also want to be comfortable)

The 4ST 4 Berth Mercedes Camper is probably your best option in terms of comfortability. It can take 4 adult passengers. Make sure you book fast though, campers for AfrikaBurn sell out in an instant.

What makes the Mercedes Camper hire ideal for AfrikaBurn?

• There are two beds. No sleeping on the hard desert floor.
• You’ll have your own flush toilet and a shower with hot water.
• It’s air-conditioned.
• It comes with an 85L fresh water tank.
• A fridge and freezer to keep your food fresh.

Toyota Hilux Double Cab Camping Equipped 4X4 (I like to party, look rugged, but still be pretty comfortable)

This powerful and reliable 4×4 offers excellent fuel consumption and good off-road performance. It can take up to 4 adult passengers.

What makes the Toyota Double Cab car hire ideal for AfrikaBurn?

• 60L freshwater tank
• Full kitchen
• 40L fridge/freezer
• Bedding: sleeping bag, mattress and pillows
• Camp shower

Nissan Single Cab Camping Equipped 4×4 (I like to party, showering is optional and those biodegradable toilets aren’t so bad)

The Nissan Single Cab Camping Equipped 4×4 is perfect for couples. It doesn’t come with a shower or toilet though, so you’ll either have to rent a portable shower and porta-loo.

What makes the Nissan Single Cab car hire ideal for AfrikaBurn?

• The tyres can withstand the rough desert terrain. It also comes with a spare tyre.
• It has a fridge/freezer with a 40L capacity.
• It comes with a 55 L freshwater tank.
• Its equipped with all living, kitchen & sleeping equipment.

If you want to see more options, have a look at our Campers and 4×4’s.

When should I book a vehicle for Afrikaburn?

Book your vehicles now! Due to the large number of participants AfrikaBurn attracts each year, cars get booked well before the event. Feel free to give us a call now to speak to our friendly consultants.

What must I bring to AfrikaBurn?

The basic necessities:

1. Water. Lots of it. At least five litres per person, per day. Carry a bottle of water with you at all times as well and make sure you stay hydrated.
2. Food and drinks. If you’re under the impression that you’ll be able to buy a burger there, you’re mistaken. Nothing, besides ice, will be on sale. Good foods to take with are biltong, nuts, dried fruit. They will last in the heat and won’t make too much of a mess.
3. Shelter. Somewhere to sleep with bedding. Make sure that your shelter is windproof as well, the weather tends to get blustery.
4. A first aid kit. You could bang your toe on a rock or fall out of bed. Seriously though, its one of the most important items to add to your list.
5. Lighting. Camping lights, torches, headlamps. Don’t forget to pack in extra batteries as well.
6. Plastic bags to throw all your trash in. You’re taking all your rubbish with you, make sure you have somewhere to store it.
7. A fire extinguisher. Make sure that everyone else knows where it is as well.
8. Toilet paper. There is nothing worse than being stuck in a dessert without ‘white gold’.

Recommended items:

1. Shade (an umbrella or hat will do), sunscreen, lip balm as well as a cool pair of sunglasses.
2. A bicycle to help you move around. Make sure you decorate it though and even add some lights to it for evening riding. Cars aren’t allowed to be driven around. They stay parked.
3. A portable shower if you’re keen to freshen up properly every day. Our luxury campers below are ideal.
4. A portable ashtray if you’re a smoker. You’re not allowed to throw your cigarette butts on the floor.
5. Spare car keys. Just in case.
6. Costumes, musical instruments and anything fun that can add to the AfrikaBurn experience.
7. A camera. To snap all those memorable moments!

What can’t I bring to AfrikaBurn?

1. Plants and flora of any kind. If it doesn’t belong in the Tankwa Karoo National Park, leave it where it is.
2. Feathers, styrofoam and anything else that can blow away and that’s difficult to collect.
3. Too much packaging, it will just make things heavier for you. Just bring the contents instead.
4. No explosives or firearms. This includes BB guns and pellet guns.
5. No pets.

Where can you stay during Afrikaburn?

Participants at AfrikaBurn have a selection of accommodation options, including camping. Within the event site, there are a number of approved camping areas where you can pitch your own tent or bring a campervan.

The event follows the “leave no trace” philosophy, so it’s crucial to remember that you must take all of your camping gear and other possessions with you when it’s over.

Transport through Afrikaburn | Photo credits: Sean Furlong

You can even take part in “Theme Camps,” which are gatherings of individuals who come up with a theme or experience for other participants. Some of them provide lodging in the shape of communal tents, yurts, or other buildings.

A short drive from the event site, such as in the direction of Calvinia, Ceres, or Tankwa Town, offers accommodations. These towns provide a variety of lodging options, including campgrounds, hostels, hotels, and guesthouses. However, since demand for lodging is high during the event, it’s crucial to make your reservations well in advance.

One of the awesome Afrikaburn Space Trucks | Photo credits: Dung Beetle crew

It’s also important to keep in mind that the event will take place in a remote desert area, so you must prepare by bringing enough food, water, and other supplies to last the entire time.

Afrikaburn Space Trucks – what are they?

In Quaggafontein or at any other event, the Afrikaburn space truck is a distinctive and striking recreational vehicle that is guaranteed to draw attention. This remarkable art vehicle is a member of the DMV (Department of Mutant Vehicles) and is intended to be a moving work of art that fuses the creativity and self-expression of an art car with the practicality of a caravan or camper.

Photo credits: Alex Noble

The striking and vibrant design of the Afrikaburn space truck, which draws inspiration from the futuristic aesthetic of space travel, makes it a genuinely one-of-a-kind vehicle. The truck’s exterior is decorated with minute decals and detailed murals that show views of the universe, replete with stars, planets, and galaxies.

The Afrikaburn space truck has every amenity you would anticipate from a leisure vehicle inside. There is a spacious living area with furniture and a dining table, a fully functional kitchen, and a shower-equipped bathroom. The truck is ideal for long journeys or prolonged stays at events because it has lots of storage room for all your equipment and supplies.

The powerful engine and tough suspension of the Afrikaburn space vehicle allow it to handle rocky terrain and off-road situations. This art automobile is designed to handle it all, whether you’re driving through the city or exploring a desolate wilderness.

All things considered, the Afrikaburn space truck is a fascinating and interesting recreational vehicle that is sure to appeal to fans of art cars, motorhomes, and caravans. It is sure to draw attention everywhere it goes with its striking look and impressive features.

Are there toilets at Afrikaburn?

Yes, there are AfrikaBurn toilets. Participants may use portable toilets, sometimes referred to as “porta-potties,” located throughout the event grounds.

These restrooms are routinely cleaned and maintained throughout the event and are often situated close to the camping grounds as well as other important locations like the main stage.

It’s crucial to remember that the event follows the “leave no trace” philosophy, which calls on participants to properly dispose of their garbage and refrain from littering the event site.

There are restrooms accessible at some theme camps and art projects as well, but their quality varies and they aren’t always open. It’s always a good idea to bring your own hand sanitizer and toilet paper because these supplies might not always be available.

Afrikaburn Outifts – What to wear to Afrikaburn?

The possibilities for costumes at AfrikaBurn 2023 are endless. You can expect seeing a broad variety of unique and imaginative costumes and outfits because the event invites attendees to express themselves and embrace their originality.

The wearing of costumes with desert-themed themes is a common practice for AfrikaBurn costumes. This can include accessories like fringe, cowboy hats, and bandanas. Feathers, shells, and flowers are just a few examples of the natural materials that many participants decide to use in their costumes.

Cyberpunk Afrikaburn Costume | Photo credits: Isabel Corthier

Wearing extravagant and vibrant costumes that are based on science fiction, fantasy, or other alternate civilizations is another common trend. This can feature things like cyberpunk-inspired attire, fantasy-inspired armor, and LED lights.

Participants frequently wear costumes that are based on the 10 event principles, such as “Radical Self-expression” and “Radical Inclusion.” These costumes could be anything from intricate masks to painted bodies to bold outfits.

Science Fiction Costumes for Afrikaburn are a common trend | Photo credits: Space Cowboys

It’s crucial to remember that AfrikaBurn is set in a desert area, therefore you should dress appropriately for the climate and terrain. This calls for wearing breathable, lightweight clothing throughout the day and layers of thicker apparel during the chilly desert nights. It’s also a good idea to wear a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect oneself from the sun.

How do I buy a ticket for AfrikaBurn?

Tickets for AfrikaBurn 2023 are typically sold through the official website of AfrikaBurn or other authorized ticket dealers such as Quicket. You must have a Burner Bio, a profile you create on the official AfrikaBurn website, to buy tickets.

Visit the AfrikaBurn website for information on the precise dates that tickets will go on sale and when sales will end, as these dates may vary from year to year. To ensure your spot, it’s recommended that you buy your tickets as early as you can because the event has a limited capacity, and it’s likely that they’ll sell out quickly.

How much does it cost to go to Afrikaburn?

The price of attending AfrikaBurn might change depending on a variety of variables, including the kind of ticket you buy and your travel and lodging arrangements for the event.

Generally speaking, there are multiple types of AfrikaBurn tickets available, including early bird, normal, and late release options. The normal pricing range for these tickets is between $200 and $450.

One of the art pieces at Afrikaburn 2022 | Photo credits: David Gwynne-Evans

Some participants also decide to spend extra money on other services like parking, power, or ice. The cost of these services is often extra, and it can differ.

It’s crucial to take into account the price of travel, lodging, and supplies like food and water. Some attendees opt to drive and set up camp there, while others prefer to remain in neighboring towns and commute daily to the event.

For the most recent details on Afrikaburn ticket costs and supplementary services, it is recommended to visit the official AfrikaBurn website as prices can change from year to year.

How to get to AfrikaBurn?

Awesome Art Piece from Afrikaburn

It’s vital to keep in mind, though, that the roads getting to the event site can be difficult and call for a high clearance vehicle.

Another choice is to use a shuttle or bus service. Some event planners provide transportation by bus or shuttle from large cities like Cape Town to the venue. If you’d rather not drive or if you intend to show up at the event without a car, this might be a suitable choice.

You can alternatively take a flight to the closest airport, Cape Town International Airport, and then rent a car or campervan, ride a bus, or use a shuttle to get to the event site.

Due to the fact that the event will take place in a remote desert area, it is imperative that attendees bring enough food, drink, and other supplies to survive the entire time.