The People Behind the Journey
Routes Rediscovered Under the Hood takes a closer look at what it really takes to bring an overland journey to life.
At first glance, it’s easy to focus on the destinations—vast deserts, incredible wildlife, and remote camps under starlit skies. However, behind every seamless adventure sits a network of passionate individuals, each playing a vital role in shaping the experience.
Through our Under the Hood series, we set out to tell those stories. Along the way, we introduce the people driving our journeys behind the scenes. Ultimately, it’s about real stories, real people, and a shared passion for wild places.
Lukas & Bianca – Joubert Overland
@joubertoverland
With strong, real-world experience, Lukas and Bianca specialise in preparing travellers for African overlanding. For example, their training covers everything from vehicle setup to recovery techniques. As a result, clients build both practical skills and confidence. Their philosophy remains simple: preparation creates freedom on the road.
Paul Marsh – 4×4 Expedition Specialist
@paulmarsh4x4
With decades of global expedition experience, Paul brings a wealth of knowledge to every journey. Over time, he has worked in some of the world’s most extreme environments. From Siberia to the African bush, his expertise extends far beyond vehicles. Instead, he focuses on precision, preparation, and pushing boundaries. Because of this, he remains a trusted name in overland travel.
Mike van Eck – Founder of Digital Khaki
@digitalkhaki
Mike is the voice behind the brand’s digital storytelling. He connects wild places with modern platforms in a meaningful way. With a background in both traditional and digital media, he understands how storytelling has evolved. Therefore, he creates content that feels both authentic and engaging. His work ensures that each journey is not only experienced—but also shared.
Nicole – Untamed Tribe
@untamed_women_overlanding
Nicole is reshaping the overlanding space. She has created a platform that supports and empowers women in a traditionally male-dominated industry. Through Untamed Tribe, she encourages confidence, connection, and growth. More importantly, she reminds us that adventure is not just about the destination—it’s also about personal development along the way.
Jo Marsh – Author & Mindset Mentor
@jo_marsh_reflexologist
Bringing a different perspective, Jo focuses on the human side of adventure. Her work highlights the importance of emotional resilience, alignment, and mindset. In addition, she helps travellers prepare beyond the practical aspects. This ensures they are ready not only physically, but mentally and emotionally as well.
Mark Bland – Founder
@routes.rediscovered
The real ‘Tom Sawyer’ of Routes Rediscovered, at the centre of it all is Mark, whose lifelong connection to Africa shaped the vision behind the brand. His philosophy is rooted in slow, immersive travel, where the journey is just as important as the destination, and where the real discovery is often internal.
Mark’s Parents – The Origin Story
The final chapter of the series takes us back to where it all began. Through stories of family road trips, dusty tracks, and a shared love for the outdoors, we see how a foundation of curiosity and exploration sparked what would eventually become Routes Rediscovered.
A Brand Built on People
At its core, Routes Rediscovered is built on people, passion, and purpose. Each individual brings something unique to the journey. At the same time, they share a common belief: travel in Africa should be immersive, respectful, and deeply personal.
In the end, overlanding is about more than just the road.
Rather, it’s about how you experience each moment, who you meet along the way, and what stays with you long after the journey ends. The Routes Rediscovered Under the Hood series brings this idea to life.
Because ultimately, it’s the people behind the journey who make it unforgettable.
