When it comes to camping with your campervan, there are a lot of things to take into consideration. How long you want to camp each day is one of them! Do you want to drive around all day looking for the perfect spot, or do you want to find a place and stay put? In this guide, we’ll explore some options for how long to drive your campervan when camping each day. Read on for more information!
How Long to Drive my Campervan when Camping Per Day?
When deciding how long to drive in a single day when on a campervan on your safari, consider the 2 2 2 rule. This rule was started by the Caravan and Motorhome Club, who recommend that you try to limit your driving hours to two hours before stopping for a break, two hours after starting again, and then two more hours before finally settling down for the night.
If you’re traveling long distances or on a particularly tight schedule, this rule may not
So, what’s the 2 2 2 Rule?
The 2/2/2 rule for camping says to drive no more than 200 miles in a day, stop and stretch every two hours, arrive at the campground by 2 p.m., and stay put for at least two nights. Let me elaborate:
Distance to travel per day: 200 miles/321 km
200 miles is the maximum distance you should be driving in a single day. This is to ensure that you are not driving too long and tiring yourself out. I suppose whoever came up with 200 miles was an American but to keep the rule numerically similar to the established 2/2/2 norm, you can use 200 kilometers or to be accurate to the 200 miles requirement, your maximum will be 321 kilometers.
When starting your day reset your odometer and make sure you keep track of mileage. When the odometer hits 200 miles (321 kilometers), it’s time to check into a campsite and take a break, relax and enjoy the scenery!
I recommend using our suggested routes when doing camping safaris with our safari vans. Some routes that may not be well-maintained may require you to drive some extra miles. Just make sure that when the 200-mile mark is reached, it’s time to find a place and camp there for the night!
Break & Stretch: Every Two Hours
Every two hours of driving should be followed by a break lasting at least 15 minutes. This break gives you an opportunity to stretch your legs, walk around, take some pictures and enjoy the scenery. It’s also a good time to check on your vehicle to make sure everything is working properly.
Although it may seem like stopping every two hours will slow you down and add more time to your journey, it can actually help save you time in the long run! By taking frequent breaks, you’ll be less likely to become fatigued and more alert while driving.
I usually try to incorporate short hikes even to someone’s farm or engage with local communities by asking them how they are doing. If you meet a Maasai or Samburu man, try to say hello in their language. It will make their day. When you book our vans, we share our travel pack with some helpful information on the culture of each region.
Arrive at the Campsite by 2 PM:
Once you’ve reached your 200-mile/321-km limit for the day, it’s time to start looking for a campground. When possible, try to arrive at campsites before 2 p.m., as many places have check-in times for later in the afternoon. This will allow plenty of time to settle into your spot, set up camp and explore the area before nightfall.
Some of our safari packages do not adhere to this rule as we at times recommend going for game drives in the afternoon before the sundowner.
Stay Put for At Least Two Nights:
Whenever possible, try to stay at least two nights in the same campground. This will give you enough time to relax and unwind without feeling rushed. Plus, it gives you an opportunity to explore the area more thoroughly. You may even want to extend your stay if you really love the campground.
I always recommend spending an extra night or two in one place when time allows so that you don’t have to rush through the experience. This way, you can truly appreciate the beauty of each destination and make lasting memories with your loved ones.
Want to rent a campervan in Kenya? Check out this page.
Why the 2/2/2 Rules may not apply in a Kenya Safari:
The size of Kenya is considerably smaller compared to other countries and if you start from the coast you can easily drive to many of the parks without having to spend more than 5-6 hours on the road. You can easily do a 10-hour drive from Nairobi to Masai Mara National Park with short breaks in between.
The 2/2/2 Rule was started by the Motor Caravan Club in Australia, but it does not necessarily apply everywhere.
I spoke to as seasoned tour guide with over 10 years leading safaris across East Africa, who said that he has found that the rule works better in some regions than others. For example, if you’re traveling through a remote area with winding roads and no campgrounds in sight, then following the 2/2/2 Rule may not be possible.
The most important thing is to always stay safe, alert, and aware of your surroundings while driving. It’s also important to take frequent breaks and get plenty of rest.
Therefore, it is not necessary to stick strictly to the 2/2/2 rule while camping in Kenya. Although I would still recommend a break every two hours or so, depending on your preferences and itinerary.
Our recommendation on how long to drive per Day:
If you are within the Park such as the Mara, you can do game drives for as long as you want. Just make sure you’re driving slowly not exceeding more than 40km per hour (25 miles per hour).
If you are outside the Park, then I would recommend that you drive no more than 4 to 5 hours each day. This will give you enough time to explore your destination and not feel too rushed.
Overall, there is no hard and fast rule for how long to drive when camping in a campervan, but following the suggested guidelines above can help make your journey more enjoyable and safe. As long as you’re taking frequent breaks, not driving too far and arriving to campgrounds before dark, your camping experience in a campervan should be memorable and fun!
What to do for two days in a destination:
- Game drives: If you are in the national parks of East Africa, you have to go for game drives. A game drive is a great way to explore nature and witness some incredible wildlife sightings. You can spot animals like lions, zebras, giraffes, elephants and more!
- Visit local attractions: Another way to enjoy your destination is by visiting local attractions. Depending on the area, you may find that there are some great places to visit such as historical sites, cultural centers, botanical gardens and more. Check out things to in Nairobi here.
- Enjoy nature: When camping in East Africa you’ll be surrounded by some amazing natural landscapes. Take advantage of this opportunity to get out and explore! Hike a nature trail, go for a swim in a nearby lake, or relax by the campfire under the stars.
Check out our other guide on how long to go on a Kenyan Safari here.