AFRIKABURN
Freedom of expression, creativity, self reliance, sharing, teaching and music are just some of the words used to describe the epic Afrika Burn annual event. Come and experience the radically inclusive South African regional Burning Man experience. Participants and volunteers come together to create Tankwa Town for one week and here this festival of art, performance and burning structures flourishes in an atmosphere of themed camps, costumes and decorated mutant vehicles! Everyone is welcome in a celebration of acceptance, self expression and individuality. At the end of the event the town is dismantled and vacated with a strong principle of “leave no trace” so that the environment remains just as it was before.
Where is AfrikaBrun
Afrika Burn is held on the private reserve, Stonehenge. It is a very isolated farm next to the Tankwa Karoo National Park in the Northern Cape of South Africa about 300km north of Cape Town. It is an arid, semi-desert area that is harsh and unforgiving. There is no shade! Temperatures during the day can reach 40°C and nights get very cold. Strong winds, storms and flooding can occur. Total self reliance is essential when attending the event.
Types of vehicles, driving and getting around
It is not necessary to have a 4x4 vehicle. Regular cars and motorhomes can access Stonehenge Private Reserve. However the road that leads to the farm (the R355) is the longest road in the country without petrol stations or nearby assistance and it is notorious for ‘eating’ tyres! Two spare tyres must be taken along no matter what type of vehicle is used.
Very careful driving is essential. Do not drive after dark and avoid driving after midday as high temperatures further damage the vehicle tyres. Within Tankwa Town driving is not allowed unless it is a decorated mutant car. Generally participants walk or use bicycles. You need to take your own bicycle with a good bicycle chain and lock for security.
Self reliance is key
There are no shops, petrol stations, cooking facilities, garbage bins or dirty water tank dumping sites. The only thing you can buy is ice. Portable, ecological toilets are provided around the town. You must take everything you need with you and leave nothing behind when you leave. Here is a list of essentials:
- Your ticket & photo ID for entry
- Two spare tyres
- 5 litres of water per person per day
- Enough food and beverages for the duration of your entire stay
- Shelter, bedding, warm & cool clothing
- Hat, sunglasses and sun cream
- Trash bags
- Fire extinguisher
- Comprehensive medical kit
- Any required prescriptions (please note: the medics on site don’t dispense painkillers, headache tablets or antibiotics)
- Light: a headlamp, torch, bike light, fairy lights, EL wire (and spare batteries). Solar lights are excellent
- Duct tape & cable ties – to hold your equipment down in case of strong winds/storms
- Portable braai (barbecue) - campfires on the ground are NOT permitted
- Recycling bins/bags for wet waste, paper, plastic, metal, glass
Preparation
Tickets must be bought in advance online. Due to the harsh, isolated environment it is necessary to be well prepared. Please visit the official website and read up on what to expect. There is also a ‘Survival Guide’ on this website that offers vital information.
Vehicles Available
Motorhomes in South Africa
4wds in South Africa
Truck Campers in South Africa
Profile Vans in South Africa
General Info
Extraordinary country with many campsites and a developed road network.
Avoid driving at night and always spend the night in established campsites.
It is important to reserve your campsite in advance during peak seasons.
For 5 - 6 passengers we recommend booking long in advance.
For certain park and nature reserve roads (except Kruger) a 4x4 vehicle is recommended.
