This Apartment on Wheels Took a 1930s Explorer Through Africa

Mae Ariate
December 20, 2024

Attilio Gatti: The Luxurious Explorer

Attilio Gatti explored the African wilderness in luxury, traveling with a five-room motor home that included a bedroom, kitchen, and full amenities. Unlike other explorers, Gatti's comfortable setup even allowed his wife to join him on the adventure.

Photo Credit: Daily Mail @LYLE BRENNAN

The Jungle Yachts. Custom-Built Luxury on Wheels

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The custom-built "Jungle Yachts" were oversized, luxury trailers designed for avid explorers, featuring a Buick-inspired front and a streamlined, Airstream-like rear. With metallic detailing, window canopies, and geometric shapes, they offered both comfort and style in the Congo's wilderness.

Photo Credit: autoevolution @Elena Gorgan

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Inside the Jungle Yachts: A Home on Wheels

Inside, the vehicle featured a living room, two bedrooms, a bathroom, a kitchen, and a spacious room with a library and bar. Styled with architectural details of the time, it provided the ultimate relaxation spot with views of the outside.

Photo Credit: Worldkustom

Comfortable Living in the Midst of the Jungle

The bedrooms featured soft, romantic lighting and were designed for comfort, creating an oasis in the jungle. The bathrooms included full amenities like a bathtub, vanity, and sink, with added details for extra luxury.

Photo Credit: Karavansara @Davide Mana

Rivaling Luxury at Home

When not exploring, the Gattis lived in a penthouse on Park Avenue, and their mobile apartment matched its luxurious features. The kitchen was fully equipped with electric conveniences, and the trailer prioritized comfort and ample storage over practicality.

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Photo Credit: Vintage Everyday

Living in Style on Expeditions

While other explorers camped in tents, the Gatti family traveled in luxury for three years during his tenth expedition. Commander Gatti, known for his reports on tribal rituals and exotic species, used the same mobile home for his eleventh expedition.

Photo Credit: National Historical Park Service
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Mae Ariate
Writing is how I make sense of the world—capturing fleeting thoughts and transforming them into meaningful stories. I’m passionate about crafting pieces that make people pause, reflect, and see familiar ideas in a new light. I enjoy storytelling, creative thinking, and exploring new cultures, always aiming to create impact through words and leave a lasting impression.

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