If you’re dreaming of a transformative, otherworldly experience in the heart of South Africa’s desert, AfrikaBurn might just be what you’ve been looking for. Held annually in the Tankwa Karoo, this Burning Man regional event is a celebration of art, self-expression, and community—and it’s unlike anything you’ve ever experienced. Herewith a rough guide to help you navigate getting there, staying safe, enjoying the activities, making use of the facilities, and coming back home. Let’s dive into the dusty magic of AfrikaBurn, set for April 28 to May 4, 2025!
Getting There: The Journey to Tankwa Town
AfrikaBurn takes place at Quaggafontein, a remote spot in the Tankwa Karoo, roughly 306 kilometers (about 191 miles) north of our depot in Somerset West. The journey is an adventure in itself, so preparation is key. Most attendees drive from the Cape Town area, and the trip takes around 4 to 5 hours, depending on your route and stops. Here’s how to make it happen:
- Route Options: The most straightforward route is via the N1 highway toward Paarl, then turning onto the R46 through Ceres, and finally taking the R355 gravel road to the event site. Alternatively, for a scenic drive, consider the Bainskloof Pass route via Wellington—though it’s twisty, so take it slow. The last 100 kilometers or so are on a dirt road infamous for shredding tires, so drive cautiously and keep your speed low.
- Vehicle Prep: Rent any of our campervans which have made the journey there and back (with a few scrapes and flat tyres). Our our campervans are equipped with a spare tyre, a jack, and tools, as punctures are common on the rocky R355. Fill up your petrol / diesel tank in Ceres, the last major town before the desert, since there’s no fuel at the event.
- Timing: Aim to arrive during daylight hours (gates open at 9 AM on April 28). The dirt road can be treacherous in the dark, and you’ll want time to set up camp before nightfall. Carpooling with friends or joining a convoy of Burners can make the trip safer and more fun—check AfrikaBurn’s social media groups for ride shares.
The drive is long and dusty, but the anticipation builds as you leave civilization behind and enter the vast, surreal Karoo landscape. Trust me, the moment you see the first mutant vehicle on the horizon, you’ll know it’s worth it.
Be Safe: Surviving the Desert with Smarts
AfrikaBurn’s desert setting is as harsh as it is beautiful—think scorching days, freezing nights, and dust storms that can white out your vision. Safety is all about self-reliance, so here’s how to keep yourself in one piece:
- Water is Life: Bring at least 5 liters of water per person per day for drinking, cooking, and washing. All our campervans hold 20 litre canisters however we recommend taking additional water just in case. Dehydration sneaks up fast in the dry heat, so carry a reusable bottle and sip constantly.
- Weather Protection: Pack sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses or goggles for dust storms. Layer up with warm clothes for nights that can drop below freezing. Closed-toe shoes are a must—flip-flops won’t cut it with sharp rocks and hot sand.
- First Aid: All our campervans have a basic medi-kit with bandages, disinfectant and painkillers. If you have chronic conditions (like asthma or diabetes), double up on meds and let your campmates know your needs.
- Rangers and Medics: Tankwa Town has volunteer Rangers (look for the orange vests) who mediate issues and ensure safety, plus a medical tent for emergencies. They’re not police, but they’re there to help—don’t hesitate to flag them down if you’re in trouble.
The ethos here is radical self-reliance, so plan ahead and stay aware. The desert doesn’t mess around, but with preparation, you’ll thrive.
Activities: Dive into the Do-ocracy
AfrikaBurn isn’t a spectator event—it’s a “do-ocracy” where you create the experience. From dawn to dusk (and beyond), Tankwa Town buzzes with art, music, and spontaneous magic. Here’s what to expect:
- Art Installations: Massive sculptures dot the plateau, many destined to burn in spectacular blazes over the final nights. Wander the Binnekring (inner circle) to see creations like towering wooden figures or mechanical beasts—some you can climb, others you can just marvel at.
- Theme Camps: These participant-run hubs offer everything from dance parties to workshops. You might stumble into a camp serving iced coffee, hosting a yoga session, or staging a circus act. Bring a gift (a trinket, a skill, a hug) to share—it’s a gifting economy, not a barter system.
- Mutant Vehicles: Keep an eye out for these mobile art cars—think pirate ships on wheels or a giant rolling snail. Hop on for a ride if they’re offering, or just enjoy the parade.
- Burns: The big burns happen late in the week, with crowds gathering to watch artworks go up in flames. It’s primal, mesmerizing, and a highlight you won’t forget.
Bring a bike to explore—it’s the best way to cover ground. There’s no set schedule, so let curiosity guide you. One minute you’re dancing to a DJ in a dust storm, the next you’re painting a stranger’s face under the stars. Participation is the key—jump in with both feet!
Facilities: What’s There (and What Isn’t)
AfrikaBurn is a temporary city built from scratch, so facilities are minimal and self-managed. Here’s the rundown:
- Toilets: Portable “Throne” toilets are scattered around, but they’re basic. Bring your own one-ply toilet paper and hand sanitizer. Only human waste and TP go in—tampons and wipes belong in the provided bins.
- Water: There’s none on-site. You must bring all you’ll need, including for washing. Some camps set up evaporation ponds for greywater—check with yours, or plan to haul it out.
- Ice: The only thing for sale is ice at Die Yskas, a lifesaver for keeping food fresh. Bring cash (it’s one of the few times money matters).
- Trash: It’s a Leave No Trace event. Pack rubbish bags and take everything home—no bins, no excuses. MOOP (Matter Out Of Place) is the enemy here.
- Power: No electricity unless you bring a generator (quiet ones only, per the rules) or solar setup. A portable power bank is handy for charging phones or lights.
Camps vary—some are bare-bones tents, others elaborate setups with shade and communal kitchens. Joining a theme camp can ease the load, as they often pool resources. Either way, you’re building your own world out there.
Coming Back: Leaving the Dust Behind
Leaving Tankwa Town is bittersweet—you’re dusty, tired, and buzzing with memories. Here’s how to make the exodus smooth:
- Pack Out: Everything you brought in must leave with you—trash, gear, greywater. Double-check your site for MOOP; a clean desert keeps AfrikaBurn welcome at Quaggafontein.
- Timing: Gates close at 9 AM on May 4, but most start heading out earlier to avoid the rush. The dirt road gets congested, so patience is key. Caravans often form—stick with one for safety.
- Vehicle Check: Inspect tires and fuel up before the return. The R355 is just as brutal on the way back, and you don’t want to be stranded.
- Reentry: Back in civilization, expect a mix of euphoria and disorientation. A hot shower and a nap help, but the “default world” might feel strange for a bit.
- Returning to Depot: Check out our ‘Happy Guide’ on your return your campervan
The drive home gives you time to process the wildness of it all. You’ll likely start planning your next Burn before you even unpack.
Final Thoughts
AfrikaBurn is more than an event—it’s a mindset. Getting there tests your grit, staying safe hones your prep, the activities spark your soul, the facilities (or lack thereof) teach you resilience, and coming back leaves you changed. Whether you’re a solo traveler or rolling deep with a crew, embrace the chaos and gift your energy to the community. See you in the dust, Burner—April 28 can’t come soon enough!
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