Africa Travel Advice

We’ve been tailor-making safaris for thousands of travellers from across the globe since 1998. We are one of the leading experiential travel partners in Africa, but being the experts in safari travel means more than just providing information about destinations and accommodation. All our Safari Experts are permanently based in Africa, are well travelled and have extensive first-hand experience in the destinations they recommend.

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Flights and Getting Around

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Africa is well served by international airlines and its gateway airports in Johannesburg, Cape Town, Nairobi and Dar es Salaam. Once you’ve arrived, we can easily arrange a group or private transfer that will take you directly to your city hotel. Or we’ll show you how to connect with your onward flights.

Our top safari destinations are usually accessed via a scheduled flight to the nearest airport and then a pre-arranged transfer to the lodge. Private charter flights, which will take you to the airstrip nearest your camp, can also be arranged.

For the more independent-minded visitor, South Africa and Namibia are great self-drive destinations, and suitable vehicles can be rented and dropped off at their major airports.

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Health and Safety

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A question often asked by first-time visitors to Africa is: “Is it safe?”. Well, our recommended African destinations are some of the safest in the world and many are ideal for families travelling with children. We have many child-friendly safari lodges to offer you, from malaria-free Big 5 reserves to beach resorts with professional kids clubs. Medical facilities in Africa’s cities and major tourist destinations are good and staff at safari lodges will brief you about camp safety on arrival.

Security issues are no worse in Africa than the rest of the world; it’s simply a case of using your common sense and not exposing yourself to risk. Our African Safari Experts will give you all the advice you need – and it always pays to ask for local advice once you’re in Africa.

One thing that you will need to take care of is any medication you need for your trip, whether it’s malaria prophylactics or a yellow fever injection. Consult your doctor during your planning or simply check with your African Safari Expert.

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Money and Spending

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With ATMs and bureaux de change found throughout Africa’s major towns, you can access cash almost anywhere. Most African countries accept US dollars as their currency of choice (as well as euros and pound sterling in some countries), but you’ll need rand (ZAR) for South Africa.

As for cards, Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted across the continent. But be aware of incurring high transaction fees in certain countries. For peace of mind, we’d recommend purchasing a world currency card or cash passport card before you leave.

While tipping and gratuities are not compulsory on your African safari, they are always appreciated. Ask your African Safari Expert for details on tipping, check out our country-specific travel advice pages, or simply ask your lodge manager or host on arrival.

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What to Pack

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Packing for Africa depends on where you’re going as well as what time of the year you’re travelling.

If you’re going on safari, it’s wise to pack decent walking shoes, light or neutral coloured clothing, and a warm top or jacket for the evenings. A sunhat is vital, as are sunglasses, binoculars, a camera, spare batteries or a charger, insect repellent, sunscreen and malaria prophylactics (if you’re travelling to a malaria area). An international plug, small daypack and personal water bottle are also recommended.

You may also need several items of warm clothing as night time temperatures can dip dramatically – especially if you’re visiting during the cooler months. If you’re heading off on a beach holiday, we recommend you bring along a bathing suit, beach cover-up, wide-brimmed hat and flip-flops.

 

Passports and Visas

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It’s essential to ensure you have the right paperwork in place before flying to Africa. Visa specifications will depend on your nationality and destination, but all passports need to have a number of blank pages available. Note that visa regulations can sometimes change without much warning.

We recommend contacting the relevant authorities in good time or simply chat to your Africa Safari Expert before you go.

 

Ready to Go?

Browse our best Africa tours and safaris for inspiration or get in touch with one of our Africa Safari Experts to help you tailor-make an itinerary: