Routes Rediscovered
Routes Rediscovered offers premium overlanding expeditions and self-drive safaris across Southern and East Africa. Founded by Mark Bland, we specialize in transformative adventures that combine expert planning with authentic African experiences.
Contact Information
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Our Services
Self-Drive 4x4 Safaris
Expertly planned self-drive adventures with detailed route planning, vehicle arrangements, and 24/7 support.
Key Features:
- Route Planning
- Vehicle Hire
- Camping Gear
- 24/7 Support
Hosted Safaris & Expeditions
Fully guided expeditions with expert guides, luxury camping setups, and small group experiences.
Key Features:
- Expert Guides
- Luxury Camping
- Small Groups
- All Inclusive
Overlanding Consulting
Professional consultation for planning your own African adventure, leveraging our extensive network and experience.
Key Features:
- Route Advice
- Supplier Network
- Permit Assistance
- Emergency Support
Mobile Camping
Premium mobile camping experiences with professional setups in Africa's most spectacular locations.
Key Features:
- Professional Setup
- Quality Equipment
- Scenic Locations
- Full Service
About Routes Rediscovered
Routes Rediscovered was born from founder Mark Bland's life-changing adventures through Africa and his desire to share his deep passion for this incredible continent with fellow adventurers. After years of exploring Africa and building an extensive network of contacts and suppliers, Mark founded Routes Rediscovered to offer truly transformative travel experiences.
Our philosophy is simple: traveling through Africa is not only a discovery of landscapes, people, fauna, and flora, but also a journey of self-discovery. We understand that every expedition is deeply personal, and we're committed to helping you plan the trip of a lifetime with authentic, professional, and personalized service.
Based in Cape Town with a new location coming soon in Hoedspruit, we leverage our extensive local knowledge and network to ensure our clients are always well looked after and have access to the most unique experiences Africa has to offer.
Why Choose Us?
Destinations We Cover
With extensive experience across 14+ African countries, we offer adventures from the Sahara to the Cape.
Meet the Founder
Mark Bland
South African born and raised, Mark brings years of hospitality experience, culinary training, wine expertise, and yoga instruction to create holistic travel experiences. His personal highlights include sitting under Baines' Baobabs at sunrise, drinking from the source of the Zambezi River, and guiding vintage Bentleys through Africa.
"Time in the bush and the many kilometres spent overlanding is a very personal thing. It is my goal with Routes Rediscovered to share this deep passion and knowledge in the most authentic, professional, and personal way possible to help deliver the trip of a lifetime for you."
Client Testimonials
"Mark and his team have helped us plan and execute 4 separate trips across 14 East African and Southern African countries. Their detailed planning with reservations for every night and emergency support when we needed spare tires made our adventures worry-free and incredible."
Holly Melton
International Traveler
"Mark's expertise and creativity massively surpassed all expectations. He showed us many sides of South Africa we were yet to explore and his periodic check-ins during our trip were reassuring."
Hannah & Christian
United Kingdom
"Mark has been all over southern Africa and has contacts everywhere! We left all arrangements to him and he really delivered. He's only a phone call away when you need help on the road."
Per & Annica
Sweden
"Mark's travel philosophy of seeing the journey itself as part of the adventure, meeting people and understanding cultures, really resonated with us. His Zambia blogs gave us lots of inspiration."
Rod & Siobhan
South Africa
"Mark organized everything - vehicle, route, camping gear. All we needed to do was was pack our bags. It was such a great adventure exploring remote areas we never would have considered before."
Richard
South Africa
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you provide vehicles for self-drive safaris?
Yes, we can arrange fully equipped 4x4 vehicles with camping gear, or we can help you plan routes for your own vehicle. All our recommended vehicles come with comprehensive insurance and 24/7 support.
What's included in your hosted expeditions?
Our hosted expeditions include expert guides, luxury camping equipment, all meals, park fees, and transportation. We focus on small groups (maximum 8 guests) for a more intimate experience.
How far in advance should I book?
We recommend booking 3-6 months in advance, especially for peak season (May-September) and popular destinations like Botswana and Namibia. This ensures availability and better rates.
Do you offer trips for solo travelers?
We can arrange solo self-drive adventures or match you with small groups for hosted expeditions. Solo travel through Africa is one of our specialties.
What level of 4x4 experience do I need?
For self-drive safaris, basic 4x4 experience is recommended. We can arrange training courses before your trip if needed. For hosted expeditions, no 4x4 experience is required.
Do you handle permits and border crossings?
Yes, we handle all permits, border documentation, and provide detailed guidance for international travel. Our network ensures smooth border crossings throughout Africa.
Awards & Recognition
Ready for Your African Adventure?
Let Mark and his team plan your transformative journey through Africa. From self-drive safaris to luxury expeditions, we'll create the trip of a lifetime.