Solo travel at AfrikaBurn is a gateway to radical connection, creativity, and unforgettable friendships. Whether you’re flying in with just a backpack or road-tripping solo, the Tankwa desert is buzzing with opportunities to join theme camps, art collectives, and collaborative adventures. Here’s how to break the ice, find your tribe, and become part of the magic—even if you don’t know a soul when you arrive.
Table of Contents
- Why Join a Theme Camp or Collective?
- How to Find & Join a Theme Camp
- Making Friends as a Solo Burner
- Getting Involved in Art & Performance
- Real Stories & Pro Tips
- FAQs
Why Join a Theme Camp or Collective?
Theme camps are the beating heart of AfrikaBurn. These vibrant “villages” are more than just places to sleep—they’re creative hubs offering shelter, shared meals, wild parties, workshops, and a built-in community. Joining a camp makes solo travel easier by:
- Pooling resources (shade, water, food, gear)
- Providing instant connections and support
- Offering opportunities to participate in camp projects and events
- Reducing the logistical burden for solo or international travelers
If you’re new, solo, or coming from overseas, a theme camp is the fastest way to feel at home in Tankwa Town.
How to Find & Join a Theme Camp
1. Start Early & Research
- Theme camps often recruit months before the Burn, but last-minute spots do open up.
- Check the official AfrikaBurn Theme Camps Facebook group, Community group, and International group for announcements and open invitations.
- Review the previous year’s camp list (WTF? Guide) to find camps that match your interests. Many camps have recurring themes or activities.
2. Reach Out & Introduce Yourself
- Message camps directly via social media or email. Share your background, interests, and what you can contribute—skills, resources, or just good vibes!
- Ask about camp expectations, fees (if any), communal duties, and what’s provided (shade, meals, water, etc.).
3. Advertise Yourself
- Post in the Facebook groups or forums that you’re looking for a camp. Describe your skills, personality, and what you hope to experience.
- Think of it like “Burner Tinder”—be open, honest, and enthusiastic.
4. Use Official Channels
- If you don’t use Facebook, email themecamps@afrikaburn.com for help connecting with camps.
- You can also volunteer for art projects or join crews by emailing art@afrikaburn.com.
5. Stay Flexible
- Camps organize at their own pace—some months in advance, some just days before. Don’t panic if you’re still looking close to the event; spots often open up late.
Quick Reference Table: Where to Look for Theme Camps
| Platform/Resource | How to Use It |
|---|---|
| AfrikaBurn Theme Camps Facebook Group | Find/join camps, post about yourself |
| AfrikaBurn Community & International Groups | Connect with broader community |
| Previous WTF? Guide (Camp Listings) | Research recurring camps |
| Email (themecamps@afrikaburn.com) | Direct help if not on social media |
Making Friends as a Solo Burner
AfrikaBurn is built on radical inclusion and participation. Even if you arrive alone, you’ll find countless ways to connect:
- Get Out Early: Don’t hide in your tent—explore, greet neighbors, and join morning activities.
- Volunteer: Sign up for event roles, help build art, or serve at a camp. Volunteering is a fast-track to friendships.
- Attend Workshops & Events: Join communal meals, yoga, art tours, or dance parties—these are designed for mingling.
- Gift & Share: Bring small tokens (stickers, snacks, art) to break the ice and spark conversations.
- Be Open & Curious: Ask questions, offer help, and say “yes” to invitations. Everyone was a stranger once!
- Join Performances or Art Projects: Whether you dance, paint, cook, or build, there’s a place for your talents.
Getting Involved in Art & Performance
AfrikaBurn thrives on creativity and collaboration. Solo travelers can:
- Join a performance troupe if you sing, dance, play music, or act.
- Volunteer to help build, install, or run art installations—email art@afrikaburn.com to connect with artists.
- Offer your skills (cooking, construction, teaching, etc.) to camps or collectives.
- Attend open-mic nights, parades, and communal jams to meet creative souls.
Real Stories & Pro Tips
“I arrived knowing no one, posted in the Theme Camps group, and within hours had three invitations. My camp became my family, and I ended up helping build a giant sculpture with new friends from four continents.”
— Solo Burner, 2024
- Don’t be shy about reaching out—most camps love new members!
- Be upfront about what you can (and can’t) contribute. Some camps are fully communal, others expect more independence.
- Immerse yourself: The more you participate, the more you’ll connect.
- If you don’t find a camp before arrival, don’t stress. Many solo campers are welcomed into camps on-site or find their tribe through volunteering.
FAQs
1. How do I find a theme camp if I don’t use Facebook?
Email themecamps@afrikaburn.com for help connecting with camps.
2. What should I say when reaching out to camps?
Introduce yourself, share your skills/interests, and ask about their expectations and what you can contribute.
3. Can I join art collectives or performance groups as a solo traveler?
Absolutely! Contact art@afrikaburn.com or join workshops and open calls at the event.
4. What if I don’t find a camp before the event?
Arrive early, be proactive, and introduce yourself to neighbors or volunteer crews. Many camps accept new members on-site.
5. Are there fees to join a theme camp?
Some camps ask for a contribution to cover communal costs (food, shade, etc.). Always clarify before joining.
6. How do I make friends if I’m shy?
Start small: join group meals, volunteer, or offer to help with setup. The Burner community is famously welcoming.
7. What’s the advantage of joining a camp vs. camping solo?
Camps offer instant community, shared resources, and easier logistics—especially valuable for solo and international travelers.
8. Can I switch camps or join multiple groups?
It’s possible, but always communicate openly and respect each group’s culture and commitments.
9. What’s the best time to reach out to camps?
The earlier, the better—but last-minute spots often open up, so keep checking even close to the event.
10. What if I want to start my own camp or project?
You can! Register your camp or art project via the AfrikaBurn website, or email themecamps@afrikaburn.com for guidance.
Conclusion
Solo at AfrikaBurn doesn’t mean being alone. With a little initiative and an open heart, you’ll find yourself swept up in a whirlwind of creativity, friendship, and community. Reach out, participate, and let the Tankwa magic do the rest—your tribe is waiting for you in the dust.
