Diving into solitude: DJ Fistaz Mixwell embraces the art of solo camping

IOL News

12-05-2025

South African DJ and producer Fistaz Mixwell has taken a daring plunge into the soothing sanctuary of solitude.
Image: Fistaz Mixwell Instagram
In an era dominated by fast-paced connectivity and the ever-present buzz of social media, South African DJ and producer Fistaz Mixwell has taken a daring plunge into the soothing sanctuary of solitude.
Striding away from the vibrant nightlife that typically characterises his profession, Mixwell has embraced an unexpected adventure: solo camping.
As a testament to his hard work and commitment, he recently unveiled a self-built camper, a project he described as a true 'labour of love.'
Sharing glimpses of his journey on social media, he captioned a video of his completed project with the phrase, 'Solo camping. Solitude. One man. No music.'
This declaration echoed deeply with fans, reflecting a newfound appreciation for quietude and introspection in an industry often characterised by relentless noise.
The path to creating his unique camper was fraught with challenges.
It took Mixwell six months to acquire some essential skills.
'I had to learn how to weld, carpentry, electrical work, and plumbing,' he remarked.
This venture into craftsmanship not only showcased his artistic abilities but also marked a significant philosophical shift.
With the din of the DJ booth replaced by the sounds of nature, Mixwell found rest in the quiet, allowing him to recharge and rediscover passions outside of his musical pursuits.
As fans have followed his transformative journey, many expressed their admiration and curiosity regarding the intricacies of his craftsmanship.
Some questions touched on the techniques he used for building the camper, sparking conversations about the intersection of creativity and practical skills.
Torino commented, 'Bro, seeing the trailer come together has been such a journey - I'm proud of how you pulled it off."
"From bouncing ideas to figuring out the wiring and layout, it's been dope being part of the process. You built something solid with your own two hands - that's legendary stuff. Can't wait to see it hit the road and turn heads! One more camp, then we hit Bushfire!'
Jack Devero added, 'If you ever get tired of DJing, you could just be a storyteller or a director. This is beautiful, my brother. I would've gone with a talking blanket, but this is lovely.'
Thee Jolly jokingly asked, 'Can you build us a new country?'
Rebabetswe remarked, '6 months, you say? It's amazing.'
For those inspired by Mixwell's journey and looking to forge their path into the world of solo camping, here are some invaluable tips to kickstart the adventure: Choose the right location: Start with established campsites known for safety and accessibility, such as national parks or marked hiking trails, which provide a balance of solitude and community.
Plan, plan, and plan some more: Comprehensive research about your destination's wildlife, terrain, and weather conditions is essential. Always share your itinerary with a trusted individual.
Pack wisely: Essential gear includes a quality tent, sleeping bag, and cooking supplies. Prioritise lightweight equipment and include safety items like a first-aid kit.
Practice essential skills: Familiarise yourself with the basics of camping in controlled environments before your solo adventure to build confidence.
Stay mindful of safety: Trust your instincts and alter plans as needed. Familiarise yourself with local wildlife safety procedures.
Embrace solitude and stay connected: While solitude is key, consider some form of emergency communication to maintain a connection with loved ones.
Reflect and enjoy the experience: Use journaling, photography, or quiet reflection to immerse yourself in the beauty of the outdoors fully.