Can you cross Africa in a stock 4x4? — featuring ASPW 4xOverland

In this video: Africa Expedition in a Stock 4x4. Can it be done? 4/16. Heading West

ASPW 4xOverland · 10 years ago

🛒 Get items mentioned in this video

What is the total cost of entering Zambia at Kasungula?

Visa fees depend on passport origin (around $80 USD each for UK citizens), plus a ferry crossing fee of 200 Pula, plus five separate tax forms (Zambezi Revenue Authority temporary importation, road tax, carbon tax, district council tax, and mandatory insurance).

At a glance

Length
11 min
Channel
ASPW 4xOverland
Video from
May 2016
Rating
⭐⭐ Great video · 2/2
Best for
Overland travelers weighing whether a stock 4x4 suits African travel; Zambia route researchers; budget expedition planners.

What this video answers

  • What is the total cost of entering Zambia at Kasungula?
  • Can a standard, unmodified 4x4 genuinely handle this route?
  • How long is the walk to Ngonye Falls, and is it worth the effort?
  • Why is carrying fuel in plastic containers a bad idea on an overland expedition?
  • What is the difference between Ngonye Falls and Victoria Falls?
Reads the guide aloud in your browser — free, no account.

A Stock 4x4 Expedition Through Zambia's Western Routes

This episode follows Andrew and Kate as they navigate the northwestern stretch of Zambia between Livingstone and Luiwa Plains, proving that a minimally equipped stock 4x4 is genuinely capable of serious overland travel. After crossing into Zambia at the Kasungula border post, the pair tackle diesel fuel leaks, push through deteriorating tar roads, and discover some of Africa's most overlooked natural attractions—all without expensive modifications or luxury kit.

The video suits anyone considering an independent overland journey through southern Africa, particularly those who worry they lack specialized gear or a heavily modified vehicle. It's equally valuable for travelers researching Zambia's practicalities—visa costs, border procedures, road conditions, and accommodation options—or those simply curious whether adventure travel actually demands the vast spending commonly advertised.

Key Moments

Key Sights and Moments on This Zambian Route

  • Ngonye Falls (also called Theon Falls): A dramatic waterfall complex 300 km upstream from Victoria Falls, featuring seven separate cascades with a modest 10–25 meter drop but comparable width to its famous neighbor—reached via a hot, exposed walk requiring water supplies
  • Kasungula border crossing: A chaotic entry point between Botswana and Zambia where officials require five separate tax and import forms, with combined costs around $350 USD, offering insight into real border-crossing friction
  • Camp Quazi on the Zambezi: A mid-range lodge 40 km west of Livingstone that welcomes campers (unusual for luxury properties) and serves coffee to visitors arriving with their own vehicles
  • Volcanic rock riverbank near the Zambezi: Stunning but camping-unfriendly terrain that forces travelers inland to community campsites despite riverside vistas
  • Parakito mosquito armbands product test: Andrew and Kate trial citronella-cartridge wristbands as a practical alternative to chemical sprays, reporting results over the expedition's duration
  • Poor tar road conditions: The video documents how Zambia's paved highways can be slower than quality gravel, averaging only 40 km/h despite being officially "tar"
Featured image for the guide to Africa Expedition in a Stock 4x4. Can it be done? 4/16. Heading West by ASPW 4xOverland

What to Expect: Costs, Conditions, and Planning Tips

  • Border procedures: The Kasungula crossing requires patience and cash; expect to pay visa fees (around $80 USD per UK passport, double-entry), ferry crossing (200 Pula), and five separate tax forms totaling roughly $350 combined
  • Road quality: Tar roads in this region are often heavily potholed and degraded, making travel times unpredictable; do not assume highway speed averages—aim for 40 km/h on "tar" sections
  • Fuel storage: Do not carry diesel or petrol in plastic containers if there's any friction risk; Andrew recommends steel jerry cans exclusively to prevent leaks and spills
  • Ngonye Falls walk: The walk to the falls is longer and hotter than initially apparent in 36°C heat; bring water and sun protection, and allow extra time despite early appearances
  • Camping logistics: Riverside camping is often unavailable due to rock conditions or local restrictions; community campsites are the realistic option, sometimes 500 m–1 km inland
  • Mosquito management: Standard repellents help, but lightweight wearable options (citronella armbands) offer a hands-free alternative worth testing before relying solely on them

Frequently Asked Questions About Overland Travel in Western Zambia

What is the total cost of entering Zambia at Kasungula?

Visa fees depend on passport origin (around $80 USD each for UK citizens), plus a ferry crossing fee of 200 Pula, plus five separate tax forms (Zambezi Revenue Authority temporary importation, road tax, carbon tax, district council tax, and mandatory insurance). The cumulative cost is approximately $350 USD per vehicle, though this can vary by nationality and official mood.

Can a standard, unmodified 4x4 genuinely handle this route?

Yes—the video's entire premise is to demonstrate exactly this. Andrew and Kate use a stock Isuzu with no custom armor, snorkels, or premium suspension upgrades. However, "stock" still means a functioning 4x4 vehicle; it does not mean a sedan or low-clearance car.

How long is the walk to Ngonye Falls, and is it worth the effort?

The video does not specify an exact duration, but Andrew notes it is longer than initially apparent and very hot in 36°C conditions. He confirms it is "definitely worth coming here" and describes it as "an ideal spot" and "an amazing place" if you are traveling from Livingstone to Luiwa Plains, though you must bring water and sun protection.

Why is carrying fuel in plastic containers a bad idea on an overland expedition?

Plastic jerricans can rub and develop leaks, especially if they shift during rough driving or contact sharp edges. The resulting spills are difficult to clean and leave persistent odors in sleeping areas. Steel containers eliminate this risk and are strongly recommended for any fuel transport on rough terrain.

What is the difference between Ngonye Falls and Victoria Falls?

Ngonye is located 300 km upstream and features seven separate drops with heights of 10–25 meters, formed by the same geological process of basalt cracks eroding over time. While its individual cascade heights are modest compared to Victoria's 100+ meter plunge, Ngonye's combined width is impressive and it is far less crowded, earning the description "Victoria Falls without the tourists."

A still from the video Africa Expedition in a Stock 4x4. Can it be done? 4/16. Heading West by ASPW 4xOverland

Gear & products featured here

As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.

Check Tour Availability

Key Terms

Stock 4x4
An unmodified, factory-standard four-wheel-drive vehicle with no aftermarket armor, suspension upgrades, or auxiliary equipment.
Temporary importation (vehicle)
A tax or permit required by a country to allow a foreign-registered vehicle to enter temporarily without paying full import duties.
Tar road
A paved highway surface, typically asphalt; in southern Africa, often degraded and potholed despite official classification.
Community campsite
A basic camping facility run by or affiliated with a local community, usually cheaper and less developed than private lodges.

Sources: Stock 4x4 · Temporary importation (vehicle) · Tar road · Community campsite — definitions cross-referenced with Wikipedia

Justin’s Take

This video cuts through the mythology surrounding overland expeditions. Andrew's transparent breakdown of border costs, road conditions, and real vehicle failures (like the diesel leak) gives viewers a refreshingly honest picture of what independent travel in Zambia actually demands. He does not hide frustrations or pretend everything goes smoothly, which builds trust.

I was impressed most by the willingness to test and adapt on the go—trialing mosquito armbands, discovering that "tar" roads are sometimes slower than gravel, and accepting that riverside camping plans often fail to reality. This episode proves you do not need a six-figure expedition rig or years of experience to explore Zambia properly, and that message alone makes it worth watching for anyone considering the jump into African overland travel.

Great video · 2 out of 2

Justin
Justin

Years on the front lines of helicopter tour coordination — not as a travel blogger, but as the person responsible for making every guest experience go right. Managed 2,000+ cruise guests weekly as Shore Excursions staff aboard the Pride of America in Hawaii Personally coordinated with helicopter tour operators to confirm age, weight, and safety requirements.

Video by ASPW 4xOverland on YouTube. If you enjoyed it, please subscribe to their channel and show your support for the great video.

Description

Africa Expedition in a Stock 4x4. Can it be done? 4/16. Heading West

The episode begins at the edge of the Zambezi River, where Andrew advises on border crossing issues, and then finds that the Isuzu’s load-bay is awash with stinking diesel. Andrew and Kate then clear up the mess before heading to Ngonye Falls, dubbed by some and the second Victoria Falls. More products are introduced including Parakito mosquito armbands. The episode concludes as the first of many river-crossings is negotiated on the route up to Luiwa Plains.

This video is by 4xOverland.com, makers of the best overland videos on the web.

Africa Expedition in a Stock 4x4. Can it be done? 15/16. Lower Zambezi

Our expedition concludes just outside of the Lower Zambezi National park, camped at Mvuu (Hippo) Lodge on the banks of the mighty Zambezi River. kate goes fishing while I talk about what a rich, learning experience Zambia and Malawi has been.

This video is by 4xOverland.com, makers of the world's favourite 4x4 and overland videos.


GET INVOLVED AND SUPPORT US: https://www.patreon.com/Andrew_StPierre_White.

DOWNLOAD ALL OUR VIDEOS NOW: http://4xoverland.com/member-options/

INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/4xoverland_com/
KATE'S INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/kate.talks.to.plants/

ANDREW’S 4X4 BOOK: http://bit.ly/Four_Wheel_Drive

ANDREW’S AWARD-WINNING MEMOIR: http://bit.ly/Torn_Trousers

ANDREW’S ADVENTURE FILM COURSE SHOOTING 50% discount coupon: http://bit.ly/Shooting_Course99

ANDREW’S ADVENTURE FILM COURSE EDITING 50% discount coupon: http://bit.ly/Editing_Course99

FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/4xoverland/

TWITTER: https://twitter.com/4xOverland

Video transcript for “Africa Expedition in a Stock 4x4. Can it be done? 4/16. Heading West” Accessibility

A full written transcript of this video, provided for accessibility. Select any timestamp to jump the video to that moment.

[Music]

it's this is camp quazi on the banks of the samb Bey River 40 km I would say west of the town of Livingstone um most luxury lodges and this is a fairly luxury Lodge not I doesn't it doesn't look like really really highend kind of middle um

normally they don't offer camping this one is does and we're camping and and that's actually quite nice most are too snobby campers no not at our lodge uh they even offer a cup of coffee to the campus that come down to the reception it's quite nice border post

yesterday my advice to you if you're going through Zambia keep a cool head especially if you're going through one of the larger border posts I thought we were going through one of the small ones kasung goua it is one of the smaller ones but it's one of the hectic ones the ferry Crossing cost 200 Pula

the uh visas two UK passport visas uh There Was 80 each uh US Dollars um Double Entry visas we were then taken for quite a bit of money for a total of five different forms and these were the forms the Zam be a revenue Authority for temporary importation of the vehicle this is the

um I think this was a road tax form then there's a carbon tax form uh of course I had to have the vehicle registration then there's a district council tax form and then this one which is the insurance form I actually had to cross the border walk across the border to go and purchase this insurance the total

cost was I guess about um I haven't actually counted the exact amount about $350 US to get through that border post so an expensive morning but Zambia as you can see is promising to be absolutely beautiful today we're heading up North

actually Northwest to some Falls that have been um described to me as imagine Victoria Falls without all the tourists and without all the the people trying to sell you curios well those are the Falls that we're going to today but first things first I have to clean up this diesel spill biggest problem of course is to

sort out the the dieseline problem um I'm going to send Kate in there with this um water doesn't really help it just spreads it around I was I was sleeping and I could smell dieseline the whole night and amongst all the line calls and the hippos which made up for it but I've got to try and get rid of the smell so I

don't know why these things don't normally leak but this one is leaking so uh my advice carrying fuel steel steel steel steel and if you can't get steel don't carry fuel because the other danger of course with with plastic it can it can rub through maybe on a boat it's okay but I say so now I'm going to

decant I put on a dirty shirt in case I spill and I'm going to get rid of this diesel right now heading west uh to Theon Falls which are supposed to be spectacular also part of the zambesi and the road is not what I expected now it's so easy to get this

wrong when estimating times you know you look up yes the road from A to B is tar this road all the way to um lure Plains it's tar but this tar is actually slower than a good gravel road so when calculating times it's actually impossible to know and to and it's wrong

to assume that a tar Road you will be able to maintain 80 90 or 100 km an hour for the last hour and a half we've probably been averaging about 40 km an hour anyway uh guo Falls is supposed to be the second Victoria Falls and in fact I've even read in lowly planet guide is something like imagine the Victoria

Falls without all of the uh tourists well I'm looking forward to saying it we're at inona Fall's reception and it has a rather eclectic array of locally acquired ornaments to get to the falls means a walk and it turns out we have our own

guide well it's uh it's 36° and it looks like it's a bit of a walk and uh the water level looks quite low here as well which is no [Applause] surprise [Applause] as we're getting a bit closer the wow factor

is getting larger one thing there it's got a long walk take water we didn't take water we weren't told how long the walk was is so uh we didn't take water oh man this is [Music] unbelievable why don't people more people know about

this like Victoria Falls without the tourists he I read this in the Lonely Planet guide a bigger overstatement I can't imagine andona Falls is about 300 km Upstream from Victoria Falls I'm trying to imagine what these Falls would be like if the water level was even at its normal

levelon Falls has been formed by the same geological processes as Victoria with cracks in the Bassel being eroded to form the drop their height is only about 10 to 25 M but with a width comparable to Victoria there are in fact seven separate waterfalls definitely worth the walk definitely you're going to need

water to carry water with you um it's not a particularly long walk but at 30 36° it's quite a long walk worth coming here it's an ideal spot if you're going up to lure Plains from Livingston it's not quite halfway but it's the perfect stop off and an amazing Place back in Camp and it's time to

break out some mosquito repellent and a new product that I've been asked to test it's called bugger off that's clever bugger off it's a natural um mosquito stuff definitely citronella and it's supposed to ward off mosquitoes however I've got something else that I think we should try uh I got

you a green one perfect okay perfect these are they're called parakito they are armbands or ankle bands brace I suppose you could use it for anything each pack comes with two citronella cartridges said to ward off biting insects for up to 2 weeks so now I am going to try this and

I'm going to wear this and see if I can ward off mosquito bites because I got bitten twice yesterday we shall report back later in the Expedition and tell you how well they're working by counting the mosquito bites on various parts of our [Music]

bodies yesterday was a complete surprise again we have failed to set up the campsite that I really wanted to and that was I wanted a campsite on the banks of the zamb Bey well there she is but campsites quite you know kilometer half a kilometer Inland at the community campsite here no no possibility en

camping anywhere close to this River this volcanic rock is uh impossible it's difficult enough to walk on let alone to drive on but there she is today we head Northwest further to L PLS one of the the main reasons for this expedition was not just to discover the Wonder and beauty of Zambia but to prove

once and for all that it's just not necessary to spend lots of money on accessories and kit and that a stock 4x4 is all that is needed for a wonderful 4x4 Bush experience we've equipped this vehicle in a minimalist way just what's necessary and no and in the following episodes you'll be

finding out how we did it but what an amazing campsite ta

Latest Helicopter News

How videos are chosen here

Every video on Helicopter Tour Videos is hand-picked and reviewed by Justin — nothing is added automatically. Each one gets an original written guide and an honest rating: ⭐ 1 out of 2 means a good video worth your time, and ⭐⭐ 2 out of 2 means a great one we would recommend to anyone. The videos belong to their creators — every page links back to the original channel so you can subscribe and support them.

Contact us