Exploring East Africa in a 4×4 rooftop tent car is an unforgettable adventure and a once in a lifetime experience. East Africa is the land of captivating landscapes, diverse culture and breathtaking wildlife. The vast savannahs, the rolling hills of Rwanda, the majestic rift valley of Uganda and the diverse ecosystems of the entire region are best explored at your own terms without any pressure. That is why it is advisable to rent a car for self drive. Better still, a 4×4 rooftop tent car.
Renting a 4×4 rooftop tent car guarantees you the freedom to explore the remote locations without worrying about where you’ll spend the night.
4×4 rooftop tent cars haven’t been around quite that long, having been invented in the mid-20th century. Even though they’ve been around for over half a century, many people have never seen one in action, let alone slept in one while camping.
If you’re a first-time visitor in East Africa, it is important to know that most of the good gems are located deep in remote areas. These can only be accessible by 4WD vehicles because of their robust features. The also have strong engines, high ground clearance and the ability to navigate even the worst road conditions. A 4×4 vehicle will take you just anywhere!
You can only imagine the benefits you’ll enjoy if you have a 4×4 rooftop tent car!
In this blog, we’ll explore some of the best vehicles to consider for rooftop tent camping in East Africa but first, let us take a look at why you should consider rooftop camping in the first place.
Easy setup and takedown
Pitching a ground tent is not an easy task and not everyone knows how to. You have to worry about the tent stakes, the running fly lines, or any other setup needed for most tents. With a rooftop tent, all you have to do is open the container, unfold the tent and it is ready to use. For takedown, you don’t need to do it a certain way or roll it up to fit inside the packing bag. Everything just folds up into the container and ready to use the next camping session.
Safety form ground animals
A rooftop tent gets you off of the ground so you don’t need to worry about animals or other critters paying you a visit in the night. This is something that can be particularly important in regions where dangerous animals might wander close to a sleeping camper. You access the tent with a ladder, which you can fold up at night if you want to be extra sure you’re out of reach.
More comfort
Compared to the ground tent, a rooftop tent is more comfortable and secure. You won’t end up lying in a pool of water when it rains and you won’t have to worry about someone tripping on you while you’re asleep. There is also better air circulation in elevated surfaces compared to the ground.
Flat surface
In camping sites, it is hard to find an evenly flat surface to pitch your tent. This is not the case with a rooftop tent. The metal base gives you a solid, flat sleeping surface so you don’t need to worry about rocks, branches, or other debris underneath you while you sleep
Better view
Inbuilt mattress
Most Roof top tents have a built-in mattress that stays in place when you pack up the tent. You don’t need to worry about inflating an air mattress or sleeping pad and it doesn’t take up any storage space in your vehicle. The built-in mattress is also more comfortable than most camping mattresses, especially the thin sleeping pads that many people use.
Best vehicles for rooftop tent camping in East Africa
To ensure a successful and enjoyable rooftop camping experience trip, proper preparation is key. Some of this preparation involves choosing the right car for your adventure. The best vehicles for rooftop camping are 4WD widely known for their resilience, strength, and ability to manoeuvre the most challenging terrains.
When renting a car with a rooftop tent, consider the vehicle’s compatibility with the tent’s weight, size, and aerodynamics, as well as the cost of the rental and any additional fees for the tent. Also, look at the fuel economy and driving stability when a tent is loaded on the roof. You’ll also want a vehicle that’s reliable, spacious and capable of handling rough terrain.
The following are the most popular vehicles for rooftop tent camping in East Africa.
Toyota Land Cruiser V8
This is a powerful and luxurious option, ideal for off-road trips and wildlife safaris. It has an anti-lock braking system and four-wheel drive make it well-suited for rugged terrain. It costs anywhere between $100 and $120 but prices may vary depending on the season.
Toyota Land Cruiser Prado
This is the most popular Land Cruiser variant used for rooftop camping in East Africa. This vehicle is perfect for navigating rough roads. It has a 4WD system, a cosy interior and it is a very comfortable vehicle for smaller groups like couples. It is also very affordable and prices may range between $70-$80 a day.
Toyota Land Cruiser GX
This is a great alternative to the V8. It is a strong and reliable option, suitable for muddy roads and remote areas. It has a manual transmission with a diesel engine and 4×4 system. It also costs $120 per day, just like the Land Cruiser V8
Toyota Land Cruiser Hardtop
The hardtop perfect vehicle for one-way road trips, offering ample space for passengers and gear. Its hardtop design provides additional protection for the camping gear and passengers. Prices may range between $110-$120.
Toyota RAV4
Though not a common option for rooftop camping, some car rental agencies may improvise. It is a compact and fuel-efficient SUV, ideal for couples/solo self-drive road trips because of its small size.
Nissan Patrol
This is a series of large four-wheel drive vehicles, known for their strength and reliability. Its sleek interior and exterior design make it a stylish option for rooftop camping. It costs $100 for a day.
Toyota Hiace
This is suitable for small groups. It has a cozy interior, sliding roof and is a midrange or budget friendly option Costing $100 a day.
The prices of these vehicles are usually inclusive of the camping gear like folding table, chairs, gas stove, and cooking utensils.
Consider renting these vehicles with a driver for added convenience and expertise about the destinations you intend to visit in East Africa.
Also, take part in local guided tours or cultural experiences on your trip. Engaging with local communities is a fantastic way to learn about the diverse cultures and traditions that thrive in Africa.
Finally, do not hesitate to contact Gofurther 4×4 Car Rentals for all your 4×4 rooftop tent car needs. Our vehicles are well maintained, in good mechanical condition and we provide round the clock assistance during your car rental period. Trus us for an unforgettable camping experience.
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