Some classic Volkswagens are beautiful. Some are rare. And every now and then, a bus comes along that combines both qualities with a story that is almost impossible to make up.This 1967 Volkswagen Type 2 Splitscreen Highroof Camper is one of those buses.
Ever since we acquired this bus, one particular detail has caught our attention: the unusual trade description “T1 Safari” on the registration document. We know of very few Splitscreen VW Buses carrying such an unusual designation. And the more we started researching the history of this Volkswagen Camper, the more fascinating the story became.
A Splitscreen VW Bus with an African past?
Among the original paperwork we found an invoice from Fa. Oettinger for a gearbox with a limited-slip differential, supplied to Dr. Franz Schönmetzler. Interestingly, the invoice also lists his address at the time.
This turned out to be a very interesting clue. Further research revealed that Schönmetzler was a passionate hunter and that he had his Volkswagen Bus converted into an expedition vehicle.
Although specific registration records from the 1960s are unfortunately not publicly available, Schönmetzler is well known among enthusiasts for his hunting memoirs. In his famous book Kapitale Trophäen: Eine herrliche Herausforderung, he describes his adventures in Africa. His stories indicate that he travelled southwards in a Volkswagen Bus, all the way “bis ans Kap” – to the Cape.
Whether this exact Splitscreen VW Bus actually completed that entire journey cannot be established with absolute certainty from the surviving records. However, the combination of the original documentation, the unusual specification and the known history of Schönmetzler’s expedition makes the story particularly intriguing.
We have ordered a copy of the book and are hoping it may provide even more information – and perhaps even photographs of this very Volkswagen Camper during its African adventures.
A classic Volkswagen Type 2 Splitscreen travelling overland from Germany through Africa in the 1960s? It certainly fits the character of this remarkable Highroof VW Bus.
From Africa to Europe
The bus was fully restored in 2001, and an extensive photographic record of the restoration is available.
Approximately fifteen years ago, the Splitscreen Camper changed hands again and went to its current owner. Since then, this Highroof VW Camper has continued to live the life it was built for. It has been taken on numerous holidays, mainly travelling throughout Europe.
This is therefore not a classic VW Bus that has spent decades sitting in a collection. It is a genuine travelling vehicle with a history.
A Volkswagen Type 2 that has already experienced countless adventures, journeys and holidays – and is now ready for its next chapter.
Rare and unusual specification
From a technical and historical perspective, this Splitscreen VW Bus is particularly interesting. It features a remarkable number of unusual details and accessories, including:
- Rare ambulance fans in the driver’s compartment
- Original SAFARI windows at the front
- Unusual fanfare horns
- Factory-fitted towing eyes
- Tow bar
- Authentic Blaupunkt radio
- Highroof with a large roof hatch
- Various other period accessories and equipment
The combination of these features gives this Type 2 Camper the distinctive appearance and character of a genuine expedition VW Bus.
Unusual camper interior
The interior is equally interesting. This Splitscreen High Roof Camper features the rare walk-through configuration, providing access from the front into the rear camping area.
The camper section includes:
- Two sleeping berths
- Gas stove
- Running water
- 12V and 230V electrical connections
- Extensive storage space
- Large roof hatch providing plenty of natural daylight
- Westfalia awning
Everything you need to head out on an adventure is already there.
A VW Bus that has been lived in
If you are looking for a 55-plus-year-old Splitscreen VW Bus that looks as though it has just left the showroom, this may not be the bus for you.
This Volkswagen Camper has lived a life, and there are some signs of use here and there that are entirely in keeping with the many adventures and holidays it has enjoyed.
At the same time, the overall appearance of this Highroof VW remains beautiful and highly appealing.
And perhaps that is exactly what makes this Type 2 Camper so attractive. It does not need to be treated like a museum piece. It was built to travel.
Ready for the next adventure
From a technical perspective, it is simply a matter of getting in and going. No immediate work is required before setting off on your next journey.
A rare 1967 Volkswagen Type 2 Splitscreen Highroof Camper, featuring an unusual specification, an extensively documented restoration, an intriguing history and many years of experience as a genuine travel and camping vehicle.
From the African plains – if the historical clues eventually confirm what we hope – to the European holiday roads of recent decades.
Now it is time for the next owner to continue the story.
Who will take this unique Splitscreen VW Bus on its next adventure?
