While exploring the recent Overland Expo PNW, we rounded a corner and came across the impressive sight of three off-road trailers equipped with everything an explorer could ask for. Since its inception in 2010, Bush Lapa Offroad Caravans have been synonymous with robust and versatile off-road recreational vehicles designed and built in South Africa. This year, the company has introduced three models to the US market via the local Bush Lapa distributor. The Gogga, Baobab, and Ratel trailers each cater to the diverse needs of adventurers and off-road enthusiasts; these new models continue the brand’s legacy of delivering high-quality, durable off-road trailers suitable for the most challenging terrains.
All three models come standard with several features that ensure a comfortable and efficient camping experience. These include a stainless steel body and chassis, an aluminum interior and doors, and an aluminum nose box with two jerry cans. They also feature a heavy-duty jockey wheel and a Lock-N-Roll articulating hitch. The caravans are equipped with heavy South African canvas, a Bush Wing awning with walls and draft skirts, and a gas water heater. The trailers also come with AC 120-volt shore power with outlets, a 15-amp Victron battery charger, two 100 amp-hour AGM batteries, and a Victron battery monitor. DC interior and exterior LED lights, Hella socket outlets, and USB outlets are standard across all models.
The Gogga
The Gogga range starts at $45,000 and is designed for those who prefer a lighter caravan and is capable of handling challenging terrain. The interior of the Gogga trailer is designed to maximize comfort and functionality within a compact space. It accommodates two to four adults and features a thoughtfully organized layout to enhance the camping experience. The trailer is equipped with aluminum interior and doors, adding to its durability and lightweight design. Inside, you’ll find ample storage compartments to keep your belongings neatly organized. The interior includes a cozy sleeping area with comfortable accommodations. Although it has no inside sink or vanity, it offers functionality with a large exterior pantry and stainless steel kitchen counter equipped with a Cook Partner 2-burner LP gas stove, water is supplied by a freshwater tank that holds up to 28 gallons.
The specifications feature:
- Tongue weight of 225 pounds;
- Curb weight of 1,874-1,985 pounds;
- Payload capacity of 2,000 pounds;
- Gross weight of 3,968 pounds;
- Axle weight rating of 5,500 pounds;
- 12-inch electric drum brakes;
- Ground clearance of 13.7 inches, and an impressive departure angle of 44 degrees.
The Boabab
Starting at $50,000, the Baobab range offers a slightly larger and more robust option than the Gogga. With accommodations for two to four adults, the Baobab ensures a comfortable and convenient camping experience. The living space is well-organized, featuring ample storage compartments to keep all your essentials neatly stowed. This organization helps maintain a clutter-free environment, enhancing the overall comfort of the space.
A standout feature of the Baobab’s interior is the inclusion of an inside sink and vanity, which adds a touch of home-like convenience. The inside floor is carpeted, which some might find impractical, and the interior standing height is a generous 6.5 feet, allowing for easy movement and a spacious atmosphere.
The kitchen area has a stainless steel counter and an aluminum slide with drawers, offering an efficient cooking space. The Baobab also includes a 90-liter fridge compartment, ensuring plenty of storage for perishable items. A sizeable exterior pantry complements the kitchen, providing additional storage for food and cooking supplies. The Baobab includes a generous 40-gallon freshwater tank for those longer off-grid journeys.
The specifications feature:
- Tongue weight of 265 pounds;
- Curb weight of 2,403-2,635 pounds;
- Payload capacity of 2,200 pounds;
- Gross weight of 4,850 pounds;
- Axle weight rating of 5,500-pound;
- 12-inch electric drum brakes;
- Ground clearance is 13.7 inches, while the departure angle is 27 degrees.
The Ratel
The Ratel range, starting at $55,000, is the most spacious and feature-rich of the three. The interior of the Ratel trailer is designed to offer maximum comfort, space, and convenience. It accommodates two to six adults, making it ideal for larger groups or families and extended trips.
The Ratel’s interior is constructed with aluminum for both the interior and doors. The living space is thoughtfully laid out with ample storage compartments, allowing you to organize your belongings efficiently and maintain a tidy environment.
The Ratel’s kitchen is well-equipped, featuring a stainless steel counter, an inside sink, and an aluminum kitchen slide with drawers. This provides a functional space for meal preparation. The trailer includes a 90-liter fridge compartment, ensuring ample space to store perishables. Additionally, a large exterior pantry offers extra storage for food and cooking supplies, and the trailer features a 40-gallon freshwater tank.
The specifications feature:
- Tongue weight of 285 pounds;
- Curb weight of 2,514-2,756 pounds;
- Payload capacity of 2,100 pounds;
- Gross weight of 4,850 pounds;
- Axle weight rating of 5,500 pounds;
- 12-inch electric drum brakes;
- Ground clearance is 13.7 inches, and the departure angle is 22 degrees.
Bush Lapa offers several optional extras for those looking to enhance their caravan. These include an aluminum roof rack with solar panels, a Victron solar charge controller and 12-volt inverter, LiFePO4 batteries, and a National Luna fridge. These options provide additional convenience and functionality, allowing users to customize their off-road trailers to suit their specific needs and preferences.
The Bush Lapa Caravans are designed and built with the experience of a team that has put these trailers to the test in the unforgiving African bush. As a result, the trailers are not flashy and loaded with over-the-top features; instead, they are built with function in mind. Think of the Bush Lapa Caravans as the equivalent of a diesel 70 Series Land Cruiser, as tough as old boots.
With their robust construction, practical features, and optional extras, these caravans will provide a reliable and enjoyable outdoor experience for North American off-road enthusiasts. The current lead time from order to pickup is six months.
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