Many people have mentioned that overlands keep the traveller somewhat insulated, like rolling around in a small chunk of the West through a 3rd world country. Other people have mentioned that spending 24 hours a day with the same travelling companions, whom you've had no say over, can be a chore. But for most travellers to Africa, the disadvantages don't outweigh the advantages, and they take an overland at some point on their trip. Ah, dem good ol' African buses. If culture is what gets you, take a bus, even just once.
Some people only manage once-they truly are for the adventurous.
Finding your bus, let alone the bus station can be fun in itself. Usually they are on the outskirts of town, and believe me, you will get attention when you show up. Chances are someone will latch on to you and make sure you get on the right bus. Buses generally don't run on a schedule. Yes, this is annoying, and no, you can't find a way around it.