AfrikaBurn, set to take place from April 28 to May 4, 2025, is South Africa’s answer to Burning Man—a vibrant and transformative gathering in the desert where creativity, art, and radical self-expression thrive. This event, held annually in the Tankwa Karoo National Park, offers participants the chance to co-create a temporary city built on principles of community, sustainability, and artistic freedom.
Overview of AfrikaBurn 2025
- Dates: April 28 – May 4, 2025
- Location: Tankwa Karoo National Park, South Africa
- Expected Attendance: 11,000+ attendees
AfrikaBurn is not your typical festival. There’s no fixed lineup or headlining acts—it’s a space where participants (never “attendees”) bring their own creativity, art, and performances to the event. Expect to see incredible art installations, themed camps, music, and performances that reflect the spirit of radical self-reliance and giving.
Tickets and Pricing
Tickets for AfrikaBurn 2025 are sold through a tiered system, allowing more affordability for those who plan ahead. These are some of the key ticket options:
- General Admission: Prices range from around R2,000 ($106 USD) to R3,000 ($160 USD) depending on when you purchase. Early bird tickets tend to sell out quickly.
- Low-Income Tickets: AfrikaBurn also offers low-income tickets for those who need financial assistance.
- Vehicle Passes: Since AfrikaBurn is held in a remote desert location, you’ll need a vehicle pass if you’re driving. These typically cost R400 ($21 USD) per vehicle.
Be sure to purchase your tickets early, as they often sell out well in advance! Check the tickets here
Participation and Art Installations
One of the core principles of AfrikaBurn is participation. Everyone attending is encouraged to contribute in some way, whether it’s through creating art, organizing events, or simply helping out fellow “burners.” Expect to see large-scale art installations, many of which are burned in symbolic rituals during the event. Art at AfrikaBurn is often interactive, encouraging exploration and personal reflection.
In previous years, art pieces like towering structures, intricate wooden sculptures, and themed art cars have captured the imagination of participants. In 2025, you can expect even more innovative creations, designed to inspire and challenge perspectives.
Camps and Communities
AfrikaBurn is known for its themed camps, where groups of people band together to offer unique experiences to others. These camps provide everything from music and dance parties to yoga sessions, art workshops, and healing spaces. Some popular camps from previous years include:
- The Space Cowboys: Known for their futuristic dance parties and art cars.
- The Dung Beetle Bar: Offering quirky drinks in an artistic environment.
Every camp at AfrikaBurn contributes something unique, and participants are encouraged to explore, interact, and give back to the community.
Radical Self-Reliance
AfrikaBurn is held in the harsh conditions of the Tankwa Karoo desert, meaning participants need to come prepared. Radical self-reliance is a core principle, so you must bring everything you need to survive, including:
- Water (at least 5 liters per person per day)
- Food (there are no vendors at AfrikaBurn, so bring all your supplies)
- Shelter (tents, shade structures, or RVs to protect yourself from the sun and cold desert nights)
It’s crucial to prepare for extreme weather changes, from scorching heat during the day to freezing temperatures at night.
Sustainability and Leave No Trace
AfrikaBurn operates on a strict Leave No Trace policy, meaning participants are responsible for taking all their waste with them when they leave. There are no trash bins at the event, so be prepared to pack out everything you bring in. The community strongly encourages eco-friendly behavior, including reducing waste, using reusable items, and minimizing the environmental impact of art installations and camps.
Preparation Tips for AfrikaBurn 2025
- Plan Early: Whether it’s organizing your transport or planning your contributions, the earlier you start, the smoother your AfrikaBurn experience will be.
- Bring Enough Supplies: Make sure you have more than enough water, food, and shelter supplies to last the entire event.
- Prepare for Harsh Conditions: Tankwa Karoo can be unforgiving, so be ready for hot days, cold nights, and dusty conditions. Goggles and dust masks are essential.
- Dress for the Occasion: AfrikaBurn is known for its creative and outlandish costumes. Embrace the opportunity to express yourself through fashion!
Conclusion: Embrace the Burn
AfrikaBurn 2025 will be a transformative experience for those who embrace its principles of community, art, and self-expression. Whether you’re building an art installation, organizing a camp, or simply dancing under the stars, AfrikaBurn invites you to become part of a temporary world where creativity knows no bounds. Now is the time to start planning your journey to the desert and get ready to burn in 2025!
Are you excited for AfrikaBurn? Let us know what you’re looking forward to the most
