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My Life with Ndoto: Exploring Africa in a Forty-Year-Old Land Rover
A story of love, loss, and Land Rovers. Travel from Cape Town to Northern Kenya and back with the author and her husband in a 1973 Series III Land Rover, a quintessential African overland safari vehicle that screams adventure with every bump in the road and every broken leaf spring,. Their yearlong, 48,000 kilometer journey in Ndoto (Swahili for dream) takes them through South Africa's national parks and into Mugabe's Zimbabwe. They travel over the Kalahari in Botswana, and into the deserts and dunes of Namibia. Traveling up the Great North Road from Zambia to Tanzania, they dodge potholes, people, and sometimes Police. Dangerously lost in Burundi, they manage at last, after their gear stick shears off one day and the transmission dies the next, to summit the road to post-genocide Rwanda. Uganda brought more adventure and challenges when the author has to drive up an escarpment through Queen Elizabeth National Park--in reverse. War prevents the couple from entering South Sudan, the newest country in the world and their northernmost goal of the trip. Kenya is highlighted by memories of pomegranates and a visit to Lamu, an island that feels stuck, beautifully, in time. They are driven from from the pristine beaches of Malawi by monsoon rains and insect invasions and the author is brought to her knees in Mozambique after too much Peri-Peri and civil war conflict. Along the way, Ndoto is attacked by a honey badger, described as "Strong!" (even when she was limping) by almost everyone, including bribe-seeking police and more mechanics than the author can count. Not only will you feel you are along for the ride in this funny, insightful, and touching story, O'Kane also offers practical tips for overlanding, and shares how you can live your Safari Jema, your own good journey.
Kindle Edition
Published December 13, 2019
About the author
Teresa O'Kane
3 books30 followersWinner of two Travelers' Tales Solas Awards for Best Writing and the Indie Book Award for Best Memoir, Teresa O'Kane writes from around the world and from her home in San Jose California. She has restored old homes, owned and operated a small business, sailed a catamaran to Hawaii, lived in Africa and traveled the seven continents all with her lover and husband (same person) Scott. She earned her degree in Economics from the University of Hawaii at Manoa, which is where she learned to see the humor in life and commerce and that experiences, not things, have the greatest value.
When she is not in Africa or out exploring new destinations, Teresa writes about travel and gives lectures on Africa, budget travel, and The Camino de Santiago, a 500 miles pilgrimage across Spain.
Safari Jema, A Journey of Love and Adventure from Casablanca to Cape Town, is her first book.
When she is not in Africa or out exploring new destinations, Teresa writes about travel and gives lectures on Africa, budget travel, and The Camino de Santiago, a 500 miles pilgrimage across Spain.
Safari Jema, A Journey of Love and Adventure from Casablanca to Cape Town, is her first book.
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
May 14, 2024
Great travel narrative, enjoyed reading about their year long drive and camping across Africa in an ancient Land Rover.
January 14, 2020
I was so impressed with Teresa's first book, Safari Jema, that I was waiting for this next book to come out and purchased my copy straightaway.
This book has a different feeling from the first one, and it's so much more emotional and real. In this journey, we find Scott ad Teresa with complete autonomy and independence over their journey, so they go to the places people rarely even write about. Some of the stories invoke piloerection (if you aren't familiar with the word, you will be!) because anyone who has traveled knows the sinking feeling of things not going right or something so eerie, you're unable to shake it.
This book isn't as light as her first book. While it's part love letter to Scott and contains some pretty critical marriage advice (face it, they're defining #couplegoals), it's also a book about coping with grief, and addresses the sour parts of living your dreams and what you sometimes give up when you're in them. I'm so impressed with her ability to showcase what it really means to be adventurous, romantic, and brave without being reckless or joyless. In an age where everything is glossy and filtered and distilled down to a few glossy images, Teresa lets you feel what she's feeling and see Africa through her eyes. As she changes, the tone changes, and so does her perspective of the world around her.
This isn't a book about hitting the big destinations in Africa. While they certainly encounter the "Big 5", the biggest thing you'll take away is a sense that you've traveled over 48,000 kilometers in their tire marks, and you'll feel the pull to do a journey like it yourself.
This book has a different feeling from the first one, and it's so much more emotional and real. In this journey, we find Scott ad Teresa with complete autonomy and independence over their journey, so they go to the places people rarely even write about. Some of the stories invoke piloerection (if you aren't familiar with the word, you will be!) because anyone who has traveled knows the sinking feeling of things not going right or something so eerie, you're unable to shake it.
This book isn't as light as her first book. While it's part love letter to Scott and contains some pretty critical marriage advice (face it, they're defining #couplegoals), it's also a book about coping with grief, and addresses the sour parts of living your dreams and what you sometimes give up when you're in them. I'm so impressed with her ability to showcase what it really means to be adventurous, romantic, and brave without being reckless or joyless. In an age where everything is glossy and filtered and distilled down to a few glossy images, Teresa lets you feel what she's feeling and see Africa through her eyes. As she changes, the tone changes, and so does her perspective of the world around her.
This isn't a book about hitting the big destinations in Africa. While they certainly encounter the "Big 5", the biggest thing you'll take away is a sense that you've traveled over 48,000 kilometers in their tire marks, and you'll feel the pull to do a journey like it yourself.
March 4, 2020
For armchair travellers, My Life with Ndoto offers a vicarious look at the delights, challenges and frustrations of an overland journey through southern and eastern Africa. For those who keep their backpacks and hiking boots at the ready, author Teresa O’Kane extends an invitation to follow along with her and her husband Scott on the ‘road less travelled’ through a dozen countries, covering 45,000 kms in just over a year.
Ndoto (Swahili for ‘dream’) is the name O’Kane and her husband Scott gave to their forty-year-old Land Rover. The rugged vehicle, with all of its quirks, odd noises and periodic breakdowns is a central character in the book. Land Rovers, especially classic models like Ndoto, have a special place in the hearts of Africans. It is Ndoto, as much as her two human companion’s nomadic spirit, that opens the door to some of their best adventures. With a rooftop tent bolted to Ndoto’s roof racks as their mobile home, O’Kane and her husband venture into the remote corners of sub-Saharan Africa that few travellers on commercial safaris get to see.
O’Kane is a talented writer, relating her tale in a warm, personal, anecdotal fashion infused throughout with ample humour. She in an unabashed rosy eyed, optimist, often waxing poetic about beautiful African sunsets, incredible wildlife encounters and the remarkable people they meet along the way, from Norman, a venerable old bull elephant who sleeps holding the bones of an old friend, to Rosamond Carr, who established a home for children left orphaned after the Rwandan genocide. For those of us who are more jaded, O’Kane sometimes comes across as a bit of a Pollyanna, but in the end her heartfelt passion for Africa and her people wins through.
That’s not to say that O’Kane shies away from the challenges and discomforts such an intrepid journey entails, from poisonous snakes and malarial mosquitoes, to the inescapable heat and bone jarring roads lined with crater-like potholes, deep soft sand or thick mud. Her point is that the ephemeral rewards of being wholly present in the moment, in tune with the African bush, is worth it for those willing to endure the hardships.
Nor does she shy away from the multitude of problems in present day Africa: conflict, disease, poverty, corruption and the many legacies of post-colonial exploitation. It is a troubling paradox for those of us who travel through the developing world – coming from affluence, bearing witness to these things and then moving on. O’Kane doesn’t pretend to have any glib answers, but one occasionally wishes she would engage more deeply with the issue.
In the end, My Life with Ndoto is a great adventure tale. Beyond that, it is an inspiration to dare, to dream and to fully engage in what O’Kane calls “this short story called life.”
Ndoto (Swahili for ‘dream’) is the name O’Kane and her husband Scott gave to their forty-year-old Land Rover. The rugged vehicle, with all of its quirks, odd noises and periodic breakdowns is a central character in the book. Land Rovers, especially classic models like Ndoto, have a special place in the hearts of Africans. It is Ndoto, as much as her two human companion’s nomadic spirit, that opens the door to some of their best adventures. With a rooftop tent bolted to Ndoto’s roof racks as their mobile home, O’Kane and her husband venture into the remote corners of sub-Saharan Africa that few travellers on commercial safaris get to see.
O’Kane is a talented writer, relating her tale in a warm, personal, anecdotal fashion infused throughout with ample humour. She in an unabashed rosy eyed, optimist, often waxing poetic about beautiful African sunsets, incredible wildlife encounters and the remarkable people they meet along the way, from Norman, a venerable old bull elephant who sleeps holding the bones of an old friend, to Rosamond Carr, who established a home for children left orphaned after the Rwandan genocide. For those of us who are more jaded, O’Kane sometimes comes across as a bit of a Pollyanna, but in the end her heartfelt passion for Africa and her people wins through.
That’s not to say that O’Kane shies away from the challenges and discomforts such an intrepid journey entails, from poisonous snakes and malarial mosquitoes, to the inescapable heat and bone jarring roads lined with crater-like potholes, deep soft sand or thick mud. Her point is that the ephemeral rewards of being wholly present in the moment, in tune with the African bush, is worth it for those willing to endure the hardships.
Nor does she shy away from the multitude of problems in present day Africa: conflict, disease, poverty, corruption and the many legacies of post-colonial exploitation. It is a troubling paradox for those of us who travel through the developing world – coming from affluence, bearing witness to these things and then moving on. O’Kane doesn’t pretend to have any glib answers, but one occasionally wishes she would engage more deeply with the issue.
In the end, My Life with Ndoto is a great adventure tale. Beyond that, it is an inspiration to dare, to dream and to fully engage in what O’Kane calls “this short story called life.”
Want to Read
January 18, 2020I am so looking forward to reading this 2nd book on travels in Africa. Her 1st one was a favorite of mine.
January 30, 2023
I loved this book even more than the first one! I fell in love with Ndoto the 40 year old Land Rover, and am inspired by these stories to see much more of Africa. There are more diverse emotional situations -- joy, wonder, sorrow, anguish -- that give this book heart and soul. I highly recommend this book.
Read
February 16, 2021Engrossing! The writer makes you feel as if you have been along on the ride with her and her husband! Love the details and the love for their Land Rover (Ndoto) and Africa. Her passion comes through to the pages of the book. Thank you Teresa for sharing your life with us.
May 21, 2022
Ndoto's African Safari
What an almost unbelievable expedition & description of Teresa's & Scott's African safari. Together they kept Ndoto alive & going. The three of them should not have got through so much IMPASSABLE sand, mud, shear cliffs, border regulations, accidents & more! Their spirit of determination & adventure got them through. Despite a tragic ending I'm sure they will go again somewhere. Jackie
What an almost unbelievable expedition & description of Teresa's & Scott's African safari. Together they kept Ndoto alive & going. The three of them should not have got through so much IMPASSABLE sand, mud, shear cliffs, border regulations, accidents & more! Their spirit of determination & adventure got them through. Despite a tragic ending I'm sure they will go again somewhere. Jackie
January 22, 2020
Strap yourself in for the ride of a lifetime with Teresa, Scott, and Ndoto, the loyal and enduring forty-year-old Land Rover slash tour guide that made it all possible. You’ll visit scenic wonders across vast Africa from the salt pan to a plethora of picturesque parks, where the Big Five roam and the human characters never disappoint. With every cursed leaf spring, broken gearshift, and ravine deep enough to swallow Ndoto whole, there is a story to tell. Teresa and Scott endure many hardships as they encounter the dangers of Africa, poaching in the shadows. They meet men, women, and children who provide a real sense of community and perseverance in this challenging land. Just when you feel sad or morose for the hardships, Teresa infuses humor that lightens the journey and the heart. This is not just a travel memoir—it is a journey of the soul—a glimpse into another world that most of us never get to see. I look forward to what Teresa and Scott have planned next. Never stop the pilgrimage or the writing. I’m a huge fan.
April 28, 2020
The perfect book to read when self-isolating at home. It takes the reader on a fascinating year long adventure through many parts of southern and eastern Africa.
This is a story of adventure, a story of love, a story of travel, a story of relationships, a story of Africa and a story of a forty year old Land Rover named Ndoto. I have never been to Africa, but I feel like I was traveling right alongside the author on her journey. She brought the places, the people, and the animals to life for me and I found myself falling in love right alongside her.
O'Kane is a woman with an adventurous spirit and a desire to keep learning. I found her likable and very human. She writes in a sincere and engaging manner, and doesn't try to gloss over the hard and painful parts. I really appreciate that she includes the horrible realities of wildlife poaching.
The ending of the book is equally honest and well-written, but exceptionally emotional and painful.
I received this book as a free goodreads giveaway. That does not influence my review.
This is a story of adventure, a story of love, a story of travel, a story of relationships, a story of Africa and a story of a forty year old Land Rover named Ndoto. I have never been to Africa, but I feel like I was traveling right alongside the author on her journey. She brought the places, the people, and the animals to life for me and I found myself falling in love right alongside her.
O'Kane is a woman with an adventurous spirit and a desire to keep learning. I found her likable and very human. She writes in a sincere and engaging manner, and doesn't try to gloss over the hard and painful parts. I really appreciate that she includes the horrible realities of wildlife poaching.
The ending of the book is equally honest and well-written, but exceptionally emotional and painful.
I received this book as a free goodreads giveaway. That does not influence my review.
Read
January 22, 2020Thank you Teresa, you made my journey real.
Teresa, I enjoyed your safari in Ndoto as if I was an invisible passenger. I've not been to Africa yet, but are even more anxious to travel -- not in a Ndoto, however. I will recommend this story to all of my friends.
Teresa, I enjoyed your safari in Ndoto as if I was an invisible passenger. I've not been to Africa yet, but are even more anxious to travel -- not in a Ndoto, however. I will recommend this story to all of my friends.
April 17, 2020
This was a delightful read! I sat in my comfy reading chair and traveled with Teresa and Scott in Ndoto all over Africa. Ndoto is the name of their 40 year old Land Rover bought online. The meaning of Ndoto is “Dream”, this couple makes their dreams come true. I visited scenic wonders, ate delicious foods, camped in some of the most beautiful places in the world while sleeping in a roof top tent on top of Ndoto. There’s, adventure, love, grief, humor, challenges and frustration. Each chapter is a mini stand alone story. The author ends the book with emphasis on love, the importance of family and caring for each other. With CO-19 it’s a good reminder for us. I highly recommend this book! I want to thank Goodreads and Teresa O’Kane for giving me the opportunity to read and review this book.
December 11, 2020
This book was the perfect escape for these times of Covid-19. Curl into a comfy chair and travel to Africa. Tris O'Kane takes you with her on the most amazing adventure. You will be transported to another world minus the discomfort of mosquitos , night time cumbersome trips to a relieve oneself and other misadventures. And then you will feast on the descriptions of animals and nature that will enchant you ( and have you searching google for images of animals, desserts and flora). This honest and intimate store is a treasure.
I gifted copies of this book (sent from indie bookstores) to several friends who needed a break from quarantining. Enjoy!
I gifted copies of this book (sent from indie bookstores) to several friends who needed a break from quarantining. Enjoy!
August 2, 2020
Having grown up in Congo (Zaire) as a missionary kid, and then gone on a number of safaris as an adult, I thoroughly enjoyed the book. It was well written and easily pulled you into their story. And I love Land Rovers, even old ones. :)
January 23, 2024
Second Hand Love
As someone who dreams of going to Africa, especially to Kenya, i read as much as I can on it. Ms O’Kane takes the reader on an upclose and personal journey that I didn’t want to leave. Her love for Africa, her joy and pain for Africa and it’s peoples, become the reader’s, ergo a second hand love.
Ndoto is Africa. Old, breaking down often, never giving up, Ndoto carries the writer and the reader on an intimate love affair with the African countries, peoples, and wildlife.
As someone who dreams of going to Africa, especially to Kenya, i read as much as I can on it. Ms O’Kane takes the reader on an upclose and personal journey that I didn’t want to leave. Her love for Africa, her joy and pain for Africa and it’s peoples, become the reader’s, ergo a second hand love.
Ndoto is Africa. Old, breaking down often, never giving up, Ndoto carries the writer and the reader on an intimate love affair with the African countries, peoples, and wildlife.
January 20, 2020
A good read to be sure, but disappointing in the coverage of some African destinations. Overlanding in Africa in any vehicle will be adventurous and rewarding for those with an open mind such as the Author’s, but her story misses the mark in truly incredible places like Rwanda. The Author labored on about the Genocide (a story that needs no retelling) and failed to discover the camping opportunities and natural beauty of Rwanda. Shame.
March 29, 2026
Beautiful Africa, brave adventures, a strong vehicle and love.
I purchased this book to read while I was myself on a Safari in Kenya. Africa is extraordinary and I learned so much from this easy going narrative. I thoroughly enjoyed following Tris and Scott on their adventures and it enhanced mine. It is true, you fall in love with this place, its people, its beauty and the incredible animals that roam free. I will go back…
I purchased this book to read while I was myself on a Safari in Kenya. Africa is extraordinary and I learned so much from this easy going narrative. I thoroughly enjoyed following Tris and Scott on their adventures and it enhanced mine. It is true, you fall in love with this place, its people, its beauty and the incredible animals that roam free. I will go back…
March 1, 2025
Enjoyable read, sometimes hilarious, sometimes heartbreaking and always thought provoking. Having been to Southern Africa 9 times, there are many experiences we can relate to. Africa courses through our veins and Mother Africa has us solidly in her grip. Thanks for a great read!
August 8, 2025
What an adventure.
Well written by a very articulate and adventurous lady. She was able to put us right there with her and Scott as they traveled through Africa. I will recommend her book to every one that enjoys a true to life adventure.
Well written by a very articulate and adventurous lady. She was able to put us right there with her and Scott as they traveled through Africa. I will recommend her book to every one that enjoys a true to life adventure.
June 27, 2024
A heartwarming adventure
This a poignant yet humorous first person true life story that made my laugh and cry. If you are at all interested in the real Africa this is for you!
This a poignant yet humorous first person true life story that made my laugh and cry. If you are at all interested in the real Africa this is for you!
September 5, 2024
A Joyful Trip through Africa
I will most likely never make it to Africa, but after reading both of Teresa O’Kane’s books, I have been there through her eyes and words. Thank you!
I will most likely never make it to Africa, but after reading both of Teresa O’Kane’s books, I have been there through her eyes and words. Thank you!
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews