Few places on the planet resonate with the adventurer like the African continent, from the vibrant cultures to the ancient civilizations, megafauna, and some of the most remote and inspiring landscapes on earth. At Overland Journal, we have been fortunate to circumnavigate the planet three times and cross all seven continents. Still, we had one journey that has continually called to us- crossing the long axis of the African continent.Today marks day zero of the journey, as our Ineos Grenadier arrives in Durban, and we begin lightly modifying the vehicle to meet our needs as travelers. We selected the Grenadier because of its "Built on Purpose" design, robust construction, off-highway capabilities, and wagon configuration (Editor's Note: We are not being paid to use the Grenadier). As we often share, pinnacle overland vehicles like the Grenadier require few changes for overlanding, and the Grenadier is no exception. We have no modifications planned for the vehicle, but we will add some storage and systems that help support the adventure. Taking Delivery of the GrenadierWe took delivery of the Grenadier in London and spent a week exploring the countryside and testing the vehicle at the Millbrook proving grounds in Bedfordshire. In London, I worked with the Ineos team on securing RORO shipping, spares, support equipment, and the Carnet de Passage for importation. Our preparations have begun in Johannesburg, working with longtime friends and partners to help source the needed kit and discussing the route plans with experienced Trans-Africa overlanders. After a few weeks in Joburg, we will conduct a test run through Lesotho and the surrounding bushveld before heading to Cape Town and our launching-off point.Planned Grenadier Fieldmaster Modifications and Support Equipment:
Secure vehicle storage, including a drawer system
Inside sleeping platform that retains the rear seats
Garmin GPS navigation and satellite communication
Recovery gear, tools, and spares
First aid and emergency supplies
Melvill and Moon canvas seat covers and bed rolls
Redarc battery management with auxiliary lithium battery
Additional 80 liters of auxiliary fuel in Giant Loop bladders and NATO cans
That is it. . .
Our Trans-Africa Overland Route PlanThe original plan was to drive along the classic eastern track from Cape Town to Cairo. With Sudan's closed border, we are looking at all possibilities, including driving north to Kenya and crossing through Rwanda to the DRC and up the west coast. Adjustments are all part of the adventure, and I am being in the moment and taking the journey country by country. To help document the journey, I will have Joe Fleming along for most (if not all) of the trip. Joe is an inspiring visual storyteller, an experienced traveler, and a good friend. Others are planning to join for short sections too, and we will share our experiences on the pages of Overland Journal, in articles for expeditionportal.com, on our YouTube channel, and on The Overland Journal Podcast. I am so grateful for the support of my family and the Overland International team in undertaking this trip, along with the generous help from Aether Apparel, Front Runner, Garmin, Ineos Automotive, Redarc, and others. We look forward to meeting some of you along the Overland Journal trans-Africa continental crossing journey and celebrating what will become a historic first (more on that soon). Yours in adventure, Scott BradyPublisherInstagram and Threads: @scott.a.bradyTwitter: @scott_bradyFull show notes available at Overland Journal Podcast