Essential Dos and Don’ts when Traveling to Africa
Africa is a vast continent with over 50 countries, each with its unique cultures, languages, and travel requirements. To ensure a safe and enjoyable trip, it’s crucial to be aware of certain dos and don'ts.
To make the most of your trip, it's important to be prepared and respectful.
Here’s a guide to help you navigate your journey with ease and confidence.
1. Research and Preparation
Do:
Learn About the Country: Research the history, culture, and current events of the countries you plan to visit.
Get Necessary Visas: Ensure you have the correct visas and travel documents for each country.
Understand Local Laws: Familiarize yourself with the laws and regulations to avoid any legal issues.
Don't:
Ignore Travel Advisories: Pay attention to travel warnings and advisories issued by your government.
Forget to Register Your Trip: Register your trip with your embassy for safety.
2. Health Precautions
Do:
Get Vaccinated: Ensure you are up-to-date with necessary vaccinations, including yellow fever, malaria prophylaxis, and others recommended by your doctor.
Pack a First Aid Kit: Include medications, bandages, antiseptic wipes, and any prescription drugs you may need.
Don't:
Drink Tap Water: Always drink bottled or filtered water to avoid waterborne diseases.
Neglect Travel Insurance: Ensure comprehensive travel insurance covering medical emergencies. It’s good to prepare for the worst just in case. (this isn’t a must, most health care overseas is overall affordable. but if you’ll feel safer you can go this route)
3. Cultural Respect
Do:
Dress Modestly: Respect local dress codes, especially in conservative regions.
Learn Basic Phrases: Learn greetings and polite phrases in the local language.
Don't:
Disrespect Traditions: Avoid behaviors or actions that might be considered disrespectful to customs.
4. Safety and Security
Do:
Stay Aware of Your Surroundings: Be vigilant and aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.
Keep Valuables Secure: Use a money belt or secure bag to keep your valuables safe.
Don't:
Walk Alone at Night: Avoid walking alone at night, especially in unfamiliar areas.
Display Wealth: Don’t wear flashy jewelry or display expensive electronics openly.
5. Wildlife Etiquette
Do:
Follow Guide Instructions: Always follow the instructions given by your guides during safaris and wildlife tours.
Maintain a Safe Distance: Keep a safe distance from wild animals for your safety and theirs.
Don't:
Feed the Animals: Feeding wild animals can be dangerous and disruptive to their natural behavior.
Leave Designated Paths: Stick to designated paths and areas to avoid disturbing wildlife.
6. Transportation Tips
Do:
Use Reputable Transport: Use reputable taxi services or arrange transportation through your accommodation. (uber and bolt are the two I usually use & never had a problem with it)
Confirm Prices in Advance: Agree on taxi fares before starting your journey to avoid disputes. (can’t stress this enough! especially with bolt- iykyk)
Don't:
Hitchhike: Avoid hitchhiking as it can be unsafe in many regions.
Overload Vehicles: Don’t travel in overloaded vehicles as it can be dangerous solo.
7. Packing Essentials
Do:
Pack Light: Pack only what you need to avoid carrying heavy luggage. (personally not good at this hahaha)
Include Essentials: Pack essentials like a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, and comfortable walking shoes.
Don't:
Forget Chargers and Adapters: Bring chargers and the appropriate power adapters for your electronic devices. (most African countries use the EU changers so finding a simple international charger adapter on amazon will do the trick!)
8. Communication
Do:
Get a Local SIM Card: Consider getting a local SIM card for affordable communication. (if you’re staying longer than 1 week I recommend getting a sim it’ll make it easy & you won’t have to carry any physical cash.)
Use Translation Apps: Use translation apps to help with language barriers.
Don't:
Rely Solely on Internet: Be prepared for areas with limited or no internet access. (you might have to look into international data services)
9. Food and Drink
Do:
Try Different Cuisine: Embrace the the food and try traditional dishes.
Eat at Reputable Places: Choose to eat at reputable restaurants and street vendors.
Don't:
Eat Unwashed Produce: Avoid eating unwashed fruits and vegetables.
Ignore Dietary Restrictions: Be aware of your dietary restrictions and communicate them clearly.
10. Financial Tips
Do:
Carry Emergency Cash: Have some local currency in cash for places that don’t accept cards.
Notify Your Bank: Inform your bank of your travel plans to avoid card issues.
Don't:
Exchange Money on the Street: Use official exchange bureaus or banks for currency exchange or off the road kiosks.
Keep All Cash in One Place: Spread out your money in different secure places.
11. Photography Etiquette
Do:
Ask for Permission: Always ask before taking photos of people or their property. (Africa is more than you taking a picture of a “starving” kid or lion in a national park)
Respect No Photography Signs: Adhere to signs that prohibit photography.
Don't:
Intrude on Private Moments: Avoid taking photos that intrude on personal or private moments.
12. Shopping and Souvenirs
Do:
Support Local Artisans: Buy souvenirs from local artisans to support the community.
Negotiate Respectfully: Bargain respectfully and understand the value of the items.
Don't:
Buy Prohibited Items: Avoid buying items that are illegal to export, such as ivory or certain animal products.
Fall for Scams: Be cautious of deals that seem too good to be true.
13. Accommodations
Do:
Choose Safe Lodging: Choose accommodations with good reviews and safety measures.
Respect House Rules: Follow the rules and guidelines set by your lodging. If you need tips on how to pick safe & real stays take a look at this blog post.
Don't:
Leave Valuables Unattended: Always use the safe or secure your valuables when leaving your accommodation.
Make Excessive Noise: Respect other guests by keeping noise levels down.
14. General Travel Tips
Do:
Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, especially in hot climates.
Be Flexible: Be prepared for changes in plans and adapt as needed.
Don't:
Overbook Activities: Leave some free time in your schedule to relax and explore spontaneously.
Ignore Local Advice: Listen to local advice and tips for a smoother travel experience.
Traveling to Africa can be an extraordinary adventure filled with unforgettable experiences. By following these dos and don’ts, you’ll not only ensure your safety and enjoyment but also show respect to the local cultures and environments. Safe travels.
- xoxo
Mutanu
