Ready for Adventure? How to Safely Explore Africa by Car?

Hey, so I’m new to Reddit and seeking some advice for my upcoming trip through Africa. I’m a 19-year-old guy with a Ford Ranger diesel, and I’m pumped to capture some epic photos and videos with my camera and drone across the continent. Now, I know Africa can be a bit sketchy in some places, like the borders of Mauritania and Western Sahara and Nigeria and Cameroon. So, I’m planning to stick to the coastline until Cameroon, where it’s supposedly safer to venture inland.

Here’s what I’m thinking of packing: two spare tires, tire repair gear, diesel jerricans, solar battery to power my gadgets and even an electric stove, planks and shovel for sand mishaps, GPS beacon, and extra copies of all my important documents. Plus, I’ll have two weeks’ worth of dried food, compass, maps, spare car parts, tools, hiking backpack, camping gear, water purification tablets, medical kit, and more. Phew, that’s a lot, but safety first, right?

I’ll kick off my journey from Nice, France, and wrap it up in Cape Town, possibly detouring inland once I hit Angola. And before I hit the road, I’ll get some car repair and off-road training, slap on a bull bar, and brush up on navigation skills. As for cash, I’ve got a decent starting budget and plan to freelance online along the way.

Any tips on making this trip super safe would be awesome, although I’m dead set on doing it all by car, except for the ferry to Morocco. I’ve got some basic camping and repair skills under my belt, but I’m open to any advice on how to make this adventure a success. Oh, and I’m also curious about snagging some quick cash through odd jobs in different countries to fund my journey and meet new folks.

Thanks for taking the time to read this, folks! Feel free to drop any suggestions or tips my way. Cheers!