So, you’re taking an African safari … Congratulations! You are about to embark on an exciting adventure filled with beauty and wonder. Ah, but there will be some challenges too, for Africa is still exotic and wild and she will have a surprise or two waiting for you.
There is a saying that once you go to Africa, it never leaves your heart. You’re going to meet people, go places, and see things unlike any you’ve experienced before – in fact, this experience may very well change your view of life and the world around you…are you ready?
At African safaris Guide we boil down our years of living and working in Africa into useful, nuts and bolts information to help you prepare for your trip to Africa.
It doesn’t matter whether you’re traveling solo or with friends or family, whether you’re backpacking or taking a luxury African safari, whether you’re taking a gap year break or fulfilling a lifelong dream in retirement, this guide will help you make the most of your adventure.
Basic Information
- What to Take on Safari
- What to Wear on Safari
- Safari Books & Resources
- Etiquette on Safari
- When is the Best Time to Go
Guides
- Wildlife Spotting Guide
- Gorilla Trekking Guide
You’ll find answers and resources for all your burning questions, like.
- What should I pack?
- What kind of shots do I need?
- Should I book a tour or travel independently?
- Will I be safe?
- Can I drink the water?
- How are the people and customs different?
On this free, informational site you can find the answers to all these questions and many more. In fact, if you have a question that we haven’t addressed, or if you can think of a way to make this site better, we want to hear from you.
Africa will always be in our heart, and we want it to stay in yours too.
Important Things to Know
Africa is a unique travel destination. It’s not nearly as advanced or developed as most of the rest of the world and even if you are an experienced traveler, but its visitors need to pay attention to certain few basics before they get here.
Checking With Your Local Embassy
In Africa, things are done differently and the rules and regulations aren’t always what you’d expect. For this very reason the first and most important thing you need to do is to check with your local embassy on the safety and political climate of both the country and the region that you are traveling to. Africa is characteristic of economic and political uncertainties. And as a traveler, you don’t want to get caught in the middle.
Visa / Entry Requirements
Acquiring the appropriate visa is imperative so be warned. Citizens of all countries need a legitimate national passport or official travel documents and a legitimate visa granted by Missions abroad for entering Africa. It can take a long time to get the right papers and the right documents. So plan it well in advance. We highly recommend contacting a professional travel agent in your country of destination in Africa. Also as a precaution it’s plausible that you make photocopy of all your travel documents for purposes of security.
Travel insurance
Travel insurance is paramount for Africa bound travelers. It’s not uncommon for luggage to ‘disappear’ at airports. Visitors need to be sufficiently insured against such and other mis-happenings. Also, tightly keep all your valuables with you all times.
Health insurance
Getting health insurance for your African trip is crucial. Many African countries require that visitors take medication weeks (or months) before you leave and it’s very important that you check this well in advance. Health care in most countries is still lacking and where it is, it’s pretty poor. Take all the necessary health precautions or else you pay a heavy price.
What to Wear
Most countries in Africa are still conservative. Culture and dress code are still sound in Africa particularly when visiting places of worship and cultural places. It is advisable to dress modestly. Usually there is emphasis on the ladies to dress conservatively. Short and too tight revealing clothes should be avoided. Pack clothing in mindful of the weather of the country you are going to tour. While visiting Southern Africa during summers carry some warms clothes as it is cold there.
Conn Men
Travelers should beware of unscrupulous agents or fake travel guides. There are many who will try to overcharge you, so arm yourself with information as to standard rates before leaving the hotel. You will also come across many street beggars in most cities in Africa. It may seem heartless but it is much safer to ignore them. If you give alms to one then you will be overwhelmed by all the beggars in that area.
Accommodation
Book Accommodation in Advance: A lot of good hotels in Africa provide online reservation facilities. Search the internet and book a hotel room that meets your preference and budget well in advance.
Eating Out
Most countries in Africa are famous for their delightful cuisines. But it is very important to pay attention to where you eat from. Strictly avoid street food and cut fruits. Go to a well gazetted restaurant. Be careful where you buy what to eat.
Travel Agents
Finally, the travel agents factor. Always book your travel with a reliable travel agent so that you get the best deal and also heavy discounts on your Africa tour packages. If you book your trip with a well-known Africa travel agency then you can completely relax and travel without any worries. A reputed Africa travel agent would also double-up as your tour guide and offer rich tourist information in many ways.
