In the heart of Gaborone West industrial, Hi-Range Safari City has quietly established itself as Botswana’s premier outfitter for overlanding and 4×4 customization. Since its inception in 2003, the company has transformed from a modest workshop into a comprehensive one-stop shop for adventure travelers, safari operators, and off-road enthusiasts across Southern Africa.
Specializing in bespoke vehicle builds, Hi-Range Safari City offers a range of services from full-scale adventure conversions to essential gear installations, catering to both local and international clients seeking to explore the rugged terrains of Botswana and beyond.
Beyond their mechanical expertise, Hi-Range Safari City has played a pivotal role in fostering the overlanding culture within Botswana. By providing top-tier products and expert guidance, they have not only equipped travelers for the challenges of the wild but have also contributed to positioning Botswana as a sought-after destination for self-drive safaris and off-road adventures. Their commitment to quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction continues to drive the growth of overlanding tourism in the region.
We caught up with Alex Rochard, Marketing Manager at Hi Range Safari City / Canopy Centre to have a chat about this trendsetting company.
Company Origins and Evolution
- Can you share the story behind the founding of Hi-Range Safari City? What inspired its inception?
Hi-Range Safari City was founded by Chris Thomson, who grew up in Gaborone, Botswana. His lifelong passion for adventure travel across Southern Africa inspired him to establish a business that supports others in exploring the region’s rugged landscapes. Chris’s experiences in self-sufficient overland journeys, where adaptability and preparedness are crucial, shaped the company’s mission to provide high-quality 4×4 accessories and custom vehicle builds tailored to the unique demands of Botswana’s terrain.
- Over the years, how has the company evolved in terms of services and product offerings?
Over the years, Hi-Range Safari City has significantly expanded its services and product offerings, evolving from a specialized 4×4 outfitter into a comprehensive provider for both leisure adventurers and commercial clients across Botswana.
Notable Achievements and Milestones
- What are some of the significant milestones or achievements that Hi-Range Safari City has accomplished since its establishment?
Since its establishment, Hi-Range Safari City has achieved several significant milestones that have solidified its position as a leading provider of off- road and overland solutions in Botswana. Grand Relaunch and Facility Upgrade (2018): In November 2018, Hi-Range Safari City underwent a significant relaunch, unveiling upgraded facilities, including a spacious showroom and organized workshops.
The event showcased their enhanced capabilities and product offerings, attracting customers and suppliers from various regions. Integration with Canopy Centre (2009): In 2009, Hi-Range Safari City joined forces with Canopy Centre, creating a one-stop shop for both leisure and commercial 4×4 markets. This collaboration expanded their product offerings to include commercial accessories like tow bars, canopies, and poly linings.
Community Engagement and Charity Support: The company has actively engaged in community events, such as the 4×4 Fun Day, and has supported charitable causes like the La Modimo Charity, demonstrating a commitment to social responsibility. Through these milestones, Hi- Range Safari City has demonstrated a commitment to growth, quality service, and community involvement, reinforcing its reputation as a trusted partner for overland and off-road enthusiasts in Botswana and beyond.
- Are there any particular projects or collaborations that stand out in the company’s history?
Hi-Range Safari City collaborated with Ground Control Industrial Supplies on a project that showcased their combined capabilities in vehicle customization. This partnership emphasized their shared commitment to delivering high-quality builds tailored to specific client needs. Another standout project in Hi-Range’s portfolio is the restoration of a classic Toyota Land Cruiser 2F.
The team undertook a comprehensive rebuild, preserving the vehicle’s vintage aesthetics while integrating modern enhancements. Custom features included diamond-stitched canvas interiors, a triple-tube roof basket with a gun rest, integrated rifle racks, and a detachable A-frame for towing. This project exemplifies Hi-Range’s dedication to craftsmanship and attention to detail!
These projects and collaborations underscore Hi- Range Safari City’s role as a leader in off-road customization and its commitment to enhancing the overlanding experience in Botswana and beyond
Memorable Builds and Projects
- Could you highlight some of the most memorable or challenging vehicle builds the company has undertaken?
Hi-Range Safari City has undertaken numerous remarkable and challenging vehicle builds, showcasing their expertise in crafting bespoke overlanding and safari-ready vehicles tailored to the unique demands of Botswana’s terrain. All builds are available to the public on our Social Media Pages, as well as our website
- What made these projects stand out, and how did they align with the company’s expertise?
These standout vehicle builds reflect Hi-Range Safari City’s core strengths in precision customization, rugged reliability, and deep knowledge of overland travel needs specific to Botswana and Southern Africa. Here’s why these projects were memorable and how they aligned with the company’s expertise
Build Process and Timelines
- On average, how long does it take to complete a full vehicle build or customization?
On average, a full vehicle build or customization at Hi- Range Safari City typically takes between 2 to 3 weeks, depending on the scope and complexity of the project.
- What factors influence the duration of these projects?
Several key factors influence the duration of vehicle customization projects at Hi-Range Safari City. Scope and Complexity of the Build, Availability of Parts and Accessories, Fabrication and Custom Work, Client Specifications and Revisions, Vehicle Type and Condition, Workshop Load.
Clientele and Market Reach
- Who constitutes the primary clientele of Hi-Range Safari City? Are they mainly local, or does the company serve international clients as well?
Hi- Range serves a broad spectrum of local customers, including: Private vehicle owners, Commercial operators, Government and industrial clients. As well as International clients including: Overlanding tourists, Self-drive safari travelers, Expats and regional NGOs.
- How does the company tailor its services to meet the diverse needs of its clients?
Hi-Range Safari City tailors its services through a client- focused, consultative approach that adapts vehicle builds to the specific needs, travel goals, and environmental challenges its customers face—whether they’re locals or international explorers.
Product Range and Services
- What are the core products and services offered by Hi-Range Safari City?
Hi- Range Safari City offers a comprehensive suite of products and services tailored for 4×4 customization, overlanding, and safari readiness. Their offerings support both leisure adventurers and commercial operators in Botswana and across Southern Africa.
- Are there any unique or proprietary products that the company is particularly proud of?
Hi-Range Safari City distinguishes itself through its bespoke, in-house fabrication capabilities, crafting unique solutions tailored to the specific needs of overlanders, safari operators, and commercial clients in Botswana.
While they offer a wide range of premium 4×4 accessories, their proprietary strength lies in their ability to design and fabricate custom components that address the challenges of traversing Botswana’s diverse terrains.
Company Culture and Team Dynamics
- How would you describe the company culture at Hi-Range Safari City?
Hi- Range places a strong emphasis on teamwork and acknowledges the contributions of its staff. For instance, they celebrated “Staff Appreciation Friday,” highlighting the importance of their employees in delivering exceptional service and craftsmanship.
- What values and principles guide the team’s operations and customer interactions?
Hi-Range Safari City operates with a strong set of values and guiding principles that shape both its internal culture and customer relationships. These values are deeply aligned with the demands of overland travel, the needs of the Botswana market, and the company’s reputation for trust and reliability.
Employee Tenure and Experience
- Who is the longest-serving employee at Hi-Range Safari City, and what role have they played in the company’s journey?
While specific details about the longest-serving employee at Hi-Range Safari City are not publicly available, the company has highlighted several team members who have made significant contributions over the years.
- How does the company ensure employee satisfaction and retention?
Hi- Range Safari City fosters employee satisfaction and retention through a combination of positive work culture, skills development, and recognition of contributions.
Business Operations and Facilities
- Can you provide an overview of the company’s facilities and operational capabilities?
Hi-Range Safari City operates from a comprehensive facility in Gaborone West Industrial, Botswana, designed to support a wide range of 4×4 customization and overlanding needs. Their infrastructure and operational capabilities are tailored to deliver high-quality, durable solutions for both local and international clients.
- How does the infrastructure support the company’s commitment to quality and efficiency?
Hi-Range Safari City’s infrastructure is purpose-built to support their commitment to quality craftsmanship, operational efficiency, and customer satisfaction.
Overlanding Initiatives and Impact
- Hi-Range Safari City has been instrumental in promoting overlanding in Botswana and the region. Can you elaborate on the company’s involvement in overlanding activities?
Hi-Range Safari City has played a pivotal role in promoting overlanding in Botswana and the broader Southern African region. Their involvement spans vehicle customization, community engagement, and partnerships that enhance the overlanding experience. Hi-Range actively engages with the overlanding community through events and social media.
They host events like the “4×4 Fun Day,” bringing together enthusiasts to share experiences and showcase vehicle capabilities. Their social media platforms feature customer stories and adventures, fostering a sense of community among overlanders.
- How has the company contributed to the growth and popularity of overlanding in Botswana?
Hi-Range Safari City has significantly contributed to the growth and popularity of overlanding in Botswana through a combination of strategic offerings, community engagement, and infrastructure that makes self-sufficient travel more accessible, reliable, and appealing.
They have equipped hundreds of vehicles for both local and international adventurers—building trust in overlanding as a safe, enjoyable mode of travel. This has enabled more people—especially first-time overlanders—to confidently explore Botswana’s remote regions like the Okavango, Chobe, and the Kalahari.
- What challenges and opportunities have you encountered in fostering the overlanding community locally and regionally?
Fostering the overlanding community in Botswana and the Southern African region has presented both challenges and exciting opportunities for Hi-Range Safari City. Global supply chain disruptions or cross-border logistics delays have also occasionally slowed down builds or limited product availability.
Future Plans and Aspirations
- What are the future goals or expansion plans for Hi-Range Safari City?
Hi- Range Safari City is poised for strategic growth, focusing on enhancing its role in Botswana’s overlanding and 4×4 customization sectors.
- How does the company envision its role in the evolving 4×4 and safari industry landscape?
Hi-Range Safari City envisions itself as a trailblazer and trusted partner in the evolving 4×4 and safari industry, with a future focused on innovation, accessibility, and sustainable adventure.
You can contact Hi-Range Safari City / Capony Centre for their services at the below details
Phone: (+267) 3901148 / (+267) 3187003
Email:
Address: Plot 22021, Gaborone West Industrial
