Africa is like no other place on Earth—vast, sweeping, diverse, complicated, and breathtaking," says Christine Dolan, a former spokesperson for Nelson Mandela, who's taken more than 50 safaris. "You'll have one of the most memorable trips of your life there."
To create our comprehensive Africa Travel Planner, we interviewed 18 Africa experts—including award-winning journalists, noted local guides, and famed wildlife photographers—to offer insider tips, key resources, helpful websites, book recommendations, and more.
North Africa
Colorful culture abounds in Morocco, Egypt, and Tunisia—North Africa's most popular destinations. Egypt offers the famed Pyramids of Giza, the Sphinx, ancient Luxor, the Nile River, and belly dancers, while Morocco features treasure-filled open-air markets (where you can buy rugs, woodwork, and jewelry), and enticing cities such as Tangier, Casablanca, and Marrakesh.In Tunisia—where desert scenes were filmed for Star Wars—beach resorts line the country's 746 miles (1,200 kilometers) of coastline. Must-visit historical sites there include Zitouna Mosque, a prayer hall surrounded by 200 columns salvaged from the ruins of Roman Carthage, and the mausoleum Tourbet el-Bay, which houses the remains of Husseinite princesses and ministers.
Related Web Resources:
Egypt Tourist Authority Cultural information, diving sites, adventure trips, and more.
Morocco National Tourist Office Rental cars, hotels, events, books, and music.
Africa Travel Magazine Tunisia's food, hotels, safaris, events, and more.
Lonely Planet—Egypt Practical information, attractions, and transportation.
The Travel and Tourism Guide to Tunisia Attractions, culture, sports, festivals, restaurants, hotels, and more.
AllAfrica.com News articles and political coverage.
North Africa Geo Net A forum for exchanging information and ideas on area geological studies.
The Open Directory Links to sites on North African countries, including Algeria, Egypt, and Morocco.
Lonely Planet—Morocco Attractions, transportation, fast facts, and history.
About.com—African History for Countries of North Africa Links to historical information on North Africa's countries and cultures
Washington Post Articles on North Africa, written by journalists from The Washington Post.
Recommended Reading:
Rediscovering Ancient Egypt: Chronicles from National Geographic, edited by Arthur M. Schlesinger and Fred L. Israel (Chelsea House Publishers, 1999) In-depth information on Egypt's history and geology.
The Complete Pyramids: Solving the Ancient Mysteries, by Mark Lehner (Thames and Hudson, 1997) A leading Egyptologist surveys the history, building, and use of every major Egyptian pyramid.
Africa: Biography of a Continent, by John Reader (Vintage Books, 1999) Photojournalist John Reader chronicles the evolution of African people, animals, and plants.
The Best of African Folklore, by Phyllis Savory (BHB International, 1997) An extensive collection of well-crafted African folktales.
Africa—A Continent Revealed, by Rene Gordon (State Mutual Book and Periodical Service, 1988) Striking photographs that illustrate the need for greater conservation efforts in Africa.
West Africa
More than 40 cultures thrive in West Africa. Walk the streets, and you'll likely hear a mix of French, English, Arabic, and tribal languages (some 70 African languages are spoken). Don't miss the slave forts in Ghana and on Île de Gorée, off Dakar, Senegal, which tell a fascinating history, or a motor caravan adventure in the Sahara Desert to see dinosaur fossils, rock paintings, and relief sculptures that date back more than 4,000 years. Two other must-sees in Ghana: 1690s relics from the Ashanti Kingdom and the home where American Pan-Africanist W.E.B. Du Bois died in 1963. In the Gambia, take a riverboat tour to see colonial fortresses, trading posts, monkeys, and crocodiles. Visit Mali for its interesting mosques made of mud and storied pink sandstone villages.
Related Web Resources:
Senegal Tourism Office
Attractions, accommodations, history, and more.
Lonely Planet—Senegal
Hotels, restaurants, practical information, and more.
Lonely Planet—Ghana
Events guide, currency, tips for getting around, and more.
Lonely Planet—The Gambia
Attractions, restaurants, hotels, culture, and history.
Lonely Planet—Niger
Hotels, restaurants, attractions, history, culture, and more.
Abidjan International Airport
Flight schedules and routes to and from Côte d'Ivoire.
Lonely Planet—Côte d'Ivoire
Money, attractions, recommended reading, and more.
Lonely Planet—Mali
Attractions, restaurants, hotels, culture, history, and languages.
West Africa News
Current events and news articles about West Africa.
AllAfrica.com
Headline news and more.
Africa Resource Center
Publications that serve West Africa, including the West Africa Review.
Global Gourmet
An online guide to West African cuisine.
Recommended Reading:
Africa: Biography of a Continent, by John Reader (Vintage Books, 1999)
Photojournalist John Reader chronicles the evolution of African man, animal, and plant.
Malaria Dreams: An African Adventure, by Stuart Stevens (Atlantic Monthly Press, 1990)
A humorous tale of a road trip across several West and East African countries and cities, including a bizarre search for a functional set of springs in Timbuktu.
The Best of African Folklore, by Phyllis Savory (BHB International, 1997)
A collection of well-crafted African folktales.
Africa—A Continent Revealed, by Rene Gordon (State Mutual Book and Periodical Service, 1988)
Striking photographs that illustrate the need to increase conservation efforts in Africa.
Check out more books on Africa in our Travel Library.
East Africa
Nature lovers are well rewarded in East Africa. Some unforgettable experiences: taking an overland safari in Kenya or Tanzania, scaling the formidable, 19,340-foot-high (5,895-meter) Mt. Kilimanjaro, watching gorillas in Uganda, and searching for lemurs in Madagascar. Other must-visit places include the Seychelles, an archipelago of pristine islands 800 miles (1,287 kilometers) off the coast of East Africa, and culturally rich Ethiopia, which some believe is home to the Ark of the Covenant.
Related Web Resources:
Kenya Tourist Board
Noteworthy attractions, news articles, customs information, and more.
Kenya Tourism Portal
Weather reports, outdoor excursions, accommodations, safaris, and more.
Lonely Planet—Kenya
Events, attractions, currency information, and more.
Tanzania Tourist Board
Accommodations, tour operators, safaris, parks, and reserves.
Zanzibar Commission for Tourism
Historical and cultural information—plus travel tips and diving sites.
Tourism Uganda
Currency information, entry requirements, news, attractions, and more.
Lonely Planet—Uganda
Tour operators, nature reserves, hotels, restaurants, and more.
The Jane Goodall Institute
How to become a member of, or volunteer for, the Jane Goodall Institute.
Seychelles Tourist Office
History, geography, activities, accommodations, and more.
Africa Net
Information on 27 different African countries.
AllAfrica.com
A searchable database for information on Africa.
Integrated Regional Information Networks
Eastern Africa news.
Centers for Disease Control
Vaccination requirements for Eastern Africa.
Recommended Reading:
The Eighth Continent: Life, Death, and Discovery in the Lost World of Madagascar, by Peter Tyson (Harperperennial Library, 2001)
A detailed history of the world's fourth largest island.
Through a Window, by Jane Goodall (Houghton Mifflin, 2000)
A narrative about Goodall's experiences with Tanzania's chimpanzees.
Maasai, by Tepilit Ole Saitoti (Abradale Press, 1997)
The challenges that Maasai tribal members face in modern-day times.
I Dreamed of Africa, by Kuki Gallmann (Penguin USA, 2000)
The triumphs and tragedies of the conservation activist's life in Kenya.
African Nights: True Stories from the Author of I Dreamed of Africa, by Kuki Gallmann (Harperperenial Library, 2000)
A collection of narratives that highlight Gallmann's experiences in the Kenya Highlands, with essays on topics such as interacting with locals and participating in tribal rituals.
The Tree Where Man Was Born, by Peter Matthiessen (Fine Communications, 1997)
An observation of Africa's ancient forms, settings, and behaviors.
Out of Africa, by Isak Dinesen (Modern Library, 1992)
Stories by Danish aristocrat Karen Blixen, who fled to Europe after her coffee plantation in Kenya failed.
The Flame Trees of Thika: Memories of an African Childhood, by Elspeth Huxley (Penguin USA, 2001)
An account of life on a 20th-century coffee plantation in Kenya.
Longing for Darkness: Kamante's Tales from Out of Africa, by Peter Beard and Isak Dinesen, and others (Chronicle Books, 1998)
The main character of Dinesen's Out of Africa offers his rendering of European fables.
Check out more books on Africa in our Travel Library.
South and South-Central Africa
South and south-central Africa offer a mix of lively cosmopolitan cities like Johannesburg and Cape Town, and wildlife-rich countryside for safaris in Botswana, Zimbabwe, and beyond. Adventurous spirits can tackle the rapids of the Zambezi River, while history buffs will want to visit places such as the Robben Island Heritage Site, where former South Africa president Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for 27 years. Other memorable experiences include a day-trip to Soweto, the all-black Johannesburg township where political energy helped put an end to apartheid; and wine tastings in South Africa (the seventh largest producer of wine in the world), most notably in and around Cape Town.
Related Web Resources:
South Africa Travel
Safaris, wine routes, wine tastings, and more.
South Africa Online Travel Guide
History, culture, tours, game reserves, attractions, and more.
Lonely Planet—South Africa
Hotels, tour operators, and restaurants.
Tourism in Botswana
National parks, accommodations, public transportation, visa requirements, currency, and more.
Lonely Planet—Botswana
Safari operators, restaurants, hotels, culture, and more.
Welcome to South African Tourism
Adventure travel, medical facilities, airlines, banks, beaches, and more.
Lonely Planet—Zimbabwe
Hotels, restaurants, culture, history, and more.
A Quick Guide: South Africa's Wine Regions
An overview of South Africa's major wine routes.
South African Wine
Where to buy South African wine, vineyard tours, and wine routes.
Africa: Biography of a Continent, by John Reader (Vintage Books, 1999)
Photojournalist John Reader chronicles the evolution of African people, animals, and plants.
Wines and Vineyards of South Africa, by Wendy Toerein (New Holland/Struik, 2001)
A guide on the best wines and vineyards in South Africa, written by the former editor of Wine magazine.
South African Wine: A Celebration (New Holland/Struik, 2001)
An introduction to South Africa's wines—plus tips on wine tasting, deciphering wine terminology, and more.
African Laughter: Four Visits to Zimbabwe, by Doris Lessing (Harper Collins, 1993)
A true story about a British writer who returns to her roots after her exile from old Southern Rhodesia.
The Lost World of the Kalahari, by Laurens Van Der Post (Harvest Books, 1977)
An account of the author's journey to find the ancestors of the Kalahari bushmen.
Long Walk to Freedom: The Autobiography of Nelson Mandela (Little Brown and Company, 1995)
A revealing account written while Mandela was imprisoned for 27 years on Robben Island by South Africa's apartheid regime.
South Africa—The Beautiful, by Brian Johnson Barker (BHB International, 1997)
A colorful description of Africa's flora and fauna.
Songs to an African Sunset: A Zimbabwe Story, by Seki Nzenza-Shand (Lonely Planet, 1997)
The true story of a woman who returns from Australia to her homeland and sees the effects of AIDS, drought, polygamy, and witchcraft.
My Traitor's Heart, by Rian Malan (Grove Press, 2000)
A South African who was exiled returns to face his country, his tribe, and his conscience.
Check out more books on Africa in our Travel Library.
Deciding When to Go
Seasons in places south of the Equator—which cuts across the lower half of Africa—are opposite from those in North America. Southern Africa gets cool in winter (40° to 50° F [4° to 10° C]), especially in higher elevations. Closer to the Equator, the climate ranges from temperate in higher elevations to hot. Most travelers will want to avoid visiting during the rainy season (for example, from April to May in Kenya and Tanzania; December to March in Botswana; and November to June in Zimbabwe and Namibia). If you're on a tight budget, however, traveling during rainy season often means deep discounts on hotel rooms, tours, and airfare.
Related Web Resources:
The Weather Channel
Weather reports for major cities throughout Africa, including a ten-day outlook and current temperatures.
Weather Underground: Africa
Weather reports for cities throughout Africa—plus, "real time" reports.
Calculating Currency Exchange Rates
To get the best value while spending overseas, it's often wisest to use your debit or credit card. (Check with your bank first, however, as policies vary.) In remote regions, where ATM machines don't exist, you may have to exchange travelers' checks or money at the airport. Here, we offer trustworthy online resources for currency used in Africa and current exchange rates.
Related Web Resources:
Xe.com
Current exchange rates, and more.
Learning Local Languages
More than 1,000 languages are spoken in Africa, including English, French, Arabic, and Portuguese. Lonely Planet offers several pocket-size language guides, including phrasebooks for the relevant Swahili, Portuguese, and French languages. Before you go, visit these websites below for the basics.
Related Web Resources:
Travlang
Basic instruction in common words and phrases in over 150 different languages—plus, pronunciation guides and chat rooms so you can try out your new language skills.
Africa: Languages and Software
Links to language programs and teaching software designed to teach at least one language spoken in nearly every African country.
Determining Time Differences
The time in Africa is eight to ten hours ahead of EST. To pinpoint the current time and date in the city or region you're traveling to, consult the website below.
Related Web Resource:
The World Clock
The time and date in various African regions and cities.
Making Telephone Calls
Making telephone calls from the United States to Africa can be tricky. Countries such as Niger and Ethiopia have stretches of time when phone lines are down due to poorly built infrastructure. Then there's the task of figuring out country codes and city codes. For help, consult these websites below.
Related Web Resources:
International Telephone Country Codes
Dialing instructions for various countries in Africa and beyond.
International Telephone Codes-World Travel Gate
Codes for countries and cities throughout the world.
Planning Your Safari
For many, Africa's main draw is its wildlife, notably in eastern and south-central countries: The International Union for Conservation of the Nature and Natural Resources estimates that more than 800 different species of mammals roam the continent. An easy way to watch wildlife is to book a private or group safari, known as an overland journey. Since safaris are often once-in-a-lifetime adventures, it's crucial to get it right the first time. Here's how:
Determine what you want out of the experience, recommends Christine Dolan, who's taken more than 50 African safaris. The great wildlife migration of East Africa? The gorillas in Central Africa? Elephants or leopards? Animal watching via horseback, elephant trek, walking tour, or mountain trek? Flying between destinations, or driving? Staying at an enclosed campsite or an unfenced one? The lap of bush luxury or a minimalist bush camp?
Get recommendations: "Talk to veteran safari goers," says Jennifer Lawson, who produced a TV series on Africa for National Geographic. If operators are uncomfortable providing contacts for past clients, ask them to pass along your own contact information and request a reference call. If they refuse, move on.
Consult a book: Steve Krenzen, founder of the Association of Professional Safari Guides, recommends the African Safari Journal by Mark Nolting. Another expert recommendation: Lonely Planet's "Africa" series, which offers 34 Africa-related guides, including Watching Wildlife in East Africa and Trekking in East Africa.
Go online: The Web has thousands of pages devoted to Africa travel. In this Africa Travel Planner, we offer dozens of websites to take the guesswork out of planning your journey.
Mike Nesbitt, president of the African Safari Company, recommends taking a safari that lasts at least ten days so you can experience more than one park. "But don't try to do more than two countries during a two-week trip," says Nesbitt. "Otherwise you'll spend too much time at airports and be forced to stay overnight in big cities. Flight schedules between countries are usually only once a day, if that, and frequently don't connect conveniently." Shorter safaris are rewarding if well arranged. You can visit the Maasai Mara in Kenya in three days, for instance, because it's a small park. If exploring a bigger region, such as the Serengeti, "you could easily spend eight to ten days and never be bored," says Nesbitt.
Here's what to ask a potential tour company. If you hang up the phone unsatisfied, look elsewhere.
Do staff members regularly travel to Africa, especially to parts where their tours are conducted? "It's a surprising—even frightening—fact that many of the agents advising clients on visiting Africa have never been there," says Nolting.
Does the company use a variety of accommodations (camps, lodges, or hotels), or must they use ones they have contracts with? Many travelers to the African bush spend serious cash—safaris can cost $15,000 or more, though prices vary from operator to operator. So pick a flexible company that can grant your wishes.
Are they open to making customized safaris based on your travel needs? Since a safari to Africa is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for most, be sure to get exactly what you want. There are hundreds of itineraries out there, but if they don't meet your criteria, then design your own.
Do they accept credit cards? Some companies don't. "A policy of non-acceptance of credit cards should raise a big red flag," says Nolting.
How long has the company been in business? An indication of a solid track record is a company that's been around for at least ten years, because they've survived the Gulf War, says Nolting. Though fought in the Middle East, the war caused many companies that catered to Africa travel (and other nearby regions) to go out of business, because some travelers were more fearful of terrorist attacks overseas.
Does the International Air Transport Association or the Airlines Reporting Corporation license the company? Companies with in-house air departments can handle your international and inter-Africa flights. That way, if a flight is cancelled or the departure time is changed your operator can immediately "go to Plan B," says Nolting.
Is your operator willing to take you to villages that surround the park preserves? Villages can provide a memorable taste of African culture. Around some game parks (parks created in wildlife eco-systems to earn revenue from tourists), "tourist villages" are set up to imitate village life for tourists. A better bet: the real villages located farther away from the park, where you can interact with locals living their lives—not staging a performance.
Does the operator use your dollars to benefit the local economy and protect the local environment? Conservation efforts in Africa are slowly improving, especially when local people receive the benefits of nature tourism. You can help by choosing safari operators that hire and train local people, support local operations such as schools and conservation programs, give you the chance to buy local crafts and other products, and take care not to harm the environment.
For example, Wilderness Safaris—which runs camps in countries such as South Africa, Botswana, and Namibia—builds walkways from natural materials to prevent trampling of natural wildlife habitats. Luca Safari Limited in Kenya hires only guides from the local Maasai tribe. Robin Pope Safaris in Zambia donates a portion of its proceeds to a local school it built. (To book a safari with any of these operators, contact the Boulder, Colorado-based African Baobab Safaris, +1 303 473 0950.) The high-end Conservation Corporation of Africa is the continent's largest eco-tourism operator (see our Operators Our Experts Recommend section).
Most people book safaris with a private guide, but some opt for a group experience. Keep groups small, warns Nolting. "The people in the first vehicle see game, while those in the vehicle behind eat dust," he says. Go with no more than six or eight people. Booking privately does not necessarily mean greater cost, says Nolting. "A private group of four or more can often travel with us for the same price as a group of 16 or 20."
Deciding How Far in Advance to Plan
If all you want is a standard group lodge safari to Kenya or Tanzania, then planning three to six months in advance will suffice, says Nolting. If, on the other hand, you want top safari camps, notable lodges, or renowned guides, book a year or more in advance. "Many top specialists have most of their time already booked up a year or more in advance," says Nolting. For extra security when booking in advance, purchase trip cancellation insurance. (Check out Travel Insured.)
Operators Our Experts Recommend
Conservation Corporation of Africa (CC Africa)
High-end safaris offered by the continent's largest eco-tourism operator. A variety of land, air, and river packages in six different countries, including Botswana, Kenya, and South Africa, are backed by 30 years of experience. Headquartered in South Africa.
African Baobab Safaris
Customized safaris and cultural trips, with an emphasis on natural history, in nine southern and eastern Africa countries, backed by Brian Cockburn, a wildlife biologist. Also books safaris with environmentally conscious local operators, such as Wilderness Safaris, Luca Safari Limited, and Robin Pope Safaris.
The African Safari Company
A variety of land, air, and river tours in eight countries—including Egypt, South Africa, Kenya, and Tanzania—ranging from 10 days to three weeks. Based in the U.S.
The Africa Adventure Company
Travels to more than eight countries, including Kenya, Botswana, Zimbabwe, and Namibia, with specialized itineraries geared toward families and honeymooners. Based in the U.S.
The Association of Professional Safari Guides
A U.S. guide association that arranges 25 different packages with local guides in over ten countries, including Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Uganda, and Egypt. Customized safaris available.
Africa's Top Wildlife Countries, by Mark Nolting (Globe Travel Publishers, 2000)
A definitive guide to safari-planning with information on safari options, game reserves, ideal travel times, the best wildlife-watching countries, and more.
The African Safari Journal, by Mark Nolting (Globe Travel Publishers, 2001)
Information about prime safari destinations in Africa—plus packing lists, itineraries, weather resources, maps, a mammal guide, phrase guide, and more.
Field Guide to the Larger Mammals of Africa, by Chris and Tilde Stuart (Ralph Curtis Publishers, 1998)
Detailed information on primates, hoofed mammals, elephants, and more—plus, details on breeding habits, behavior patterns, and geological area.
The Behavior Guide to African Mammals: Including Hoofed Mammals, Carnivores, Primates, by Richard Despard Estes (University of California Press, 1991)
Information on African animals' behavior patterns based on the author's extensive fieldwork and the research of other scientists.
Africa's Vanishing Wildlife, by Chris and Tilde Stuart (Smithsonian Institution Press, 1996)
Detailed information on endangered and already extinct African animals.
African Elephants: A Celebration of Majesty, by Daryl and Sharna Balfour (Abbeville Press, 1998)
Stunning photography that reveals the life patterns of African elephants.
Cats of Africa, by Paul Bosman and Anthony Hall-Martin (Smithsonian Institute Press, 1998)
An illustrated account, featuring the paintings and drawings of Paul Bosman that chronicle the life, history, and future of African cats.
Wildlife of Southern Africa: A Field Guide to the Animals and Plants of the Region, by Vincent Carruthers (New Holland/Struik, 2001)
A detailed reference guide for animals and plants living in southern Africa, including mammals, fish, frogs, reptiles, insects, and arachnids.
Wild Ways: A Field Guide to Mammal Behavior in Southern Africa, by Peter Apps and Stephany Waisler (Southern Book Publishers of South Africa, 1997)
A guide to southern Africa's mammals, their behavioral patterns, and their lifestyles.
Birds of Kenya and Northern Tanzania, by Dale A. Zimmerman, Donald A. Turner, David J. Pearson, and Ian Willis (Princeton University Press, 1999)
A reference to indigenous bird life in a region of Africa that offers some of the greatest bird-watching in the world.
Running Wild: Dispelling the Myths of the African Wild Dogs, by John McNutt, Lesley Boggs, Helene Heldring, and Dave Hamman (Smithsonian Institution Press, 1997)
A chronicle of the life of the endangered wild dog, which roams the savannas of sub-Saharan Africa.
Last Chance to See, by Douglas Adams and Mark Carwardine (Ballantine Books, 1992)
An account of an author's and a zoologist's quest to see Africa's endangered animals.
The End of the Game: The Last Word From Paradise, by Peter Beard (Chronicle Books 2000)
A black-and-white photo history, with over 300 images, of African wildlife that focuses on the widespread destruction of the African elephant population.
Taking Public Transportation
If you are traveling independently, public transportation—when approached with a degree of caution and a sense of adventure—is a viable option that can add flavor to your trip. Here, our experts weigh in on each option.
By Air
Though expensive, planes can jet you from place to place safely and with little hassle. (Many African countries, like Madagascar, are known for having poorly maintained roads.) Or you can charter a private plane. In Kenya, consider calling Nairobi's Tropic Air Wilson Airport, recommends Kuki Gallmann, author of I Dreamed of Africa (which takes place in Kenya). Elsewhere, seek a recommendation from a U.S. consulate, embassy, or tourist board.
By Taxi
"Head straight for the information booth at the airport first," says Karen Cockburn, co-founder of the Africa Travel Centre. "They can recommend a bus or taxi and can negotiate the fare for you." Don't wander out to the curb to hail your own taxi. Uncertified drivers target foreigners unfamiliar with routes and zones and jack up costs.
By Bus or Train
Trains offer scenic glimpses of Africa's countryside, but many are unreliable, except in South Africa. Buses allow access to the widest area, but they're few and far between, and passengers are much more susceptible to petty thievery. "Just try getting on a bus designed to take 40 people but is carrying over a hundred, and see if you don't get your pocket picked," challenges Mark Nolting, author and founder of the Africa Adventure Company. Safety on buses varies from country to country. Consult a local or a like-minded traveler for advice. "They can tell you about procedures, advise you about food and water for long trips, and give you pointers on local and long-distance buses or vans," says Jennifer Lawson, who produced a TV series on Africa for National Geographic.
Renting a Car and Hiring a Private Driver
Unless you're in South Africa—where the roads are generally in better condition than countries like Madagascar, and road signs in English—think carefully about renting a car. For many, it's easier to hire a private licensed guide who leads motor trips, or a private driver.
Packing Your Suitcase
"Pack for function, not style," advises Chris Johns, Editor in Chief of National Geographic magazine and author of Valley of Life: Africa's Great Rift. "Tourists should blend in, not attract attention," adds Mike Nesbitt, founder of the Africa Safari Company. Here, our experts recommend the basics.
Passport/Visa: You can't leave a U.S. gateway to Africa or enter an African country without a passport, and in many cases a visa, too. Keep copies in a secure place, such as taped inside a money pouch that's strapped across your chest or waist. (For visa requirements for the country you're traveling to, contact the appropriate U.S. embassy.)
Proof of immunization: You may not be allowed to enter a yellow fever or malaria-infested area, such as the savanna zones of West Africa, without proof of immunization.
Sunscreen: "It doesn't matter how much sun you think you can take," warns Christine Dolan, who's been on more than 50 safaris. The strong African sun's stinging rays can cause up to third-degree sunburns. Use a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15.
Insect repellent: Biting flies and mosquitoes hide out in the bush, so slather on insect repellent. Traveler's medical consultant, Martin Wolf M.D., a tropical medicine specialist, recommends Ultrathon, Sawyer Controlled Release, and Permethrin.
Hat: Your head, which is a major source of warmth for the entire body, quickly absorbs sunrays. A baseball cap, cloth or leather safari hat, or sarong-turned-turban will provide ample protection. (Check out HatsNet.com.)
Sturdy footwear: On treks and long walks, ankle boots will support and protect your feet from infectious blisters and cuts. If you're traveling during the rainy season (which varies according to region) douse boots in waterproof spray. (Visit LA Sportiva.)
Bush attire: Stick to basics in natural colors, such as tans, browns, and greens. Skip the whites, which "can be spotted by game a long ways off and could keep you from getting close to wildlife," says Mark Nolting, author, and founder of the Africa Adventure Company. Perfume also deters wildlife and attracts biting bugs.
Ankle-length skirt or pants: Women in North and West Africa, where large Muslim populations reside, adhere to strict dress codes. "Away from the hotel pool or beach, it's a good idea to wear knee-length skirts or pants," says Jennifer Lawson, who produced a TV series on Africa for National Geographic. "Shorts, short skirts, and shoulder-baring tops can provoke verbal and physical harassment."
Camera supplies: If you shoot with a film camera, Johns suggests taking your favorite color negative ASA 100, 200, or 400 film (log onto Kodak or Fuji Film). If you're going digital, be sure to bring a battery charger with an adapter for the local electrical outlets, and plenty of memory cards (a one-gigabyte card holds about 300 photos). With either type of camera, bring an extra battery or two.
Flashlight: While traversing the Sahara desert at night via Land Cruiser, Lawson discovered her pocket-sized flashlight was invaluable. The small beam of light enabled her to consult a phrasebook in an attempt to communicate with the crew when their vehicle got stuck in mud at night.
Guidebook: Reputable guidebooks offer experts' trustworthy takes on hotels, restaurants, attractions, and more. Some even offer key phrases in a few of the 1,000 different languages spoken throughout Africa. (Try Lonely Planet's "Africa" series.)
Toiletries: The luxuriously soft toilet paper that you're used to in the United States probably won't be provided in the bush, unless you're on a luxury tour, so bring your own. The same goes for special soaps, shampoos, and lotions.
Binoculars: Indispensable. You won't want to miss up-close views of a zebra coddling her young or a majestic elephant crossing a grassy plain.
Liquid anti-bacterial gel: Combat pesky germs while on the go with an anti-bacterial wash such as Dermalogica. (Log onto GreatSkin.) In a pinch, use baby wipes containing bacteria-fighting agents.
Duct tape: Rips in boots and luggage could slow you down. A sturdy piece of duct tape will hold you over until you can buy new shoes. (Try Staples Office Supplies.)
Warm clothing and rain gear: Though widely perceived as warm and dry year-round, Africa has hot and cold and rainy and dry seasons. "Some of the coldest I've ever been has been in Africa," confirms Johns.
Journal: Jot down notes to encapsulate your memories.
Clearing Customs
"Customs is very easy and smooth in most countries," says Steve Krenzen, founder of the Association of Professional Safari Guides. To sidestep hassle, hire a local tour guide to meet you at the airport. "It can be worth the extra cost in time saved," says Jennifer Lawson, who produced a TV series on Africa for National Geographic. "They can assist you in clearing Customs and help if you're not fluent in the dominant languages." Bring proof of immunizations. Carry a copy of a confirmed itinerary if you've already paid an operator or hotel. Check on visa requirements with the appropriate U.S. embassy to Africa. Prepare to pay a departure tax when leaving most countries.
Related Web Resources:
U.S. Embassies
Embassies worldwide, with customs information.
Dining Out
Restaurants: "Africa offers a culinary feast," says Jennifer Lawson, who produced a TV series on Africa for National Geographic. Don't just stick to the Western-style food served in reputable hotels. Know, and try, the regional specialties. "North Africa, for example, has excellent French fare and heavenly couscous," says Lawson. "East Africa offers German and Indian foods as well as great local lobster from coastal waters. South Africa offers excellent Malaysian, Indonesian, and Indian foods."
Street vendors: Don't overlook the pleasures of dining on the street. "In some cases, street vendors have achieved the vaulted status of preparing the best grilled meats, samosas (deep fried vegetable turnovers), roasted corn, or nuts in town," says Lawson. But, stick to the popular stands. "If a vendor's booth is crowded, recommended by locals, has a means of refrigeration, and is open—meaning you can see how clean it is—then it's probably safe to eat there," says Karen Cockburn, co-founder of the Africa Travel Centre.
Safaris: Meals are included in many safari packages. Advise operators of what you will and will not eat, if you're a vegetarian, or have food allergies. Most operators prepare both Western and local specialties. "The main complaint on most safaris is that the food is so good travelers wind up gaining weight," says Mike Nesbitt, founder of the African Safari Company.
Related Web Resources:
South Africa Restaurants
Links to restaurants throughout South Africa.
Veg Dining
A vegetarian's guide to dining in Africa.
Finding a Place to Stay
Accommodations in Africa range from spartan youth hostels to ultra-luxurious beachside resorts. Narrow the scope by researching online. Before you book a room, however, always get a recommendation from a friend, publication, or agent. (Another good source is Epinions.) Images online can be suspect, because many are taken by professional photographers paid to capture an establishment in a positive light—which may not be a true representation of the actual property.
Related Web Resources:
Africa Point
Links to information on Africa hotels.
World Executive Hotel Directory
Links to hotels in 32 different countries.
About.com—Africa Hotels for Honeymooners
Links to hotels throughout Africa that cater to honeymooners.
First Global Hotel Reservation Service
Links to hotels in major African cities.
Eco Resorts
Environmentally conscious resorts throughout East Africa.
Global Resorts
A network of resorts in South Africa, with photographs and overviews.
Staying Healthy
"Relax," says Isabelle Young, author of Lonely Planet's Healthy Travel Africa. "If you prepare before you leave and take common-sense precautions while away, you're unlikely to get anything more serious than traveler's diarrhea or sunburn." Here, Young offers suggestions for staying healthy in Africa.
Be smart about malaria: This is your biggest health risk in Africa, especially south of the Sahara. Rely only on advice from travel-health specialists. (Editor's Note: Call the Traveler's Medical Service in Washington, D.C.: +1 202 466 8109.)
Get immunized: Stop worrying about nasties like yellow fever and Hepatitis B by getting the right immunizations. (You may have to show proof of vaccination against certain diseases before you can enter the country.)
Visit the dentist before you go: Who needs a lion-size toothache? Bush medicine is one thing, but bush dentistry?
Protect yourself from insects: Malaria, dengue fever, and yellow fever are transmitted by bug bites. Cover up with clothes, use insect repellent, and sleep under a mosquito net. (Editor's note: Traveler's health consultant Dr. Martin Wolf, a tropical-medicine specialist, recommends Ultrathon, Sawyer Controlled Release, and Permethrin.)
Think before you take a dip: Schistosomiasis (also known as bilharzia) is a parasite-carried disease that you can catch by swimming, bathing, or paddling in fresh water in South Africa, sub-Saharan Africa, Lake Malawi, and the Nile River Valley in Egypt.
Respect the heat: Take time to acclimate, drink plenty of bottled water, and take it easy during the heat of the day.
Bring sturdy footwear: Sore feet can ruin a trip, and blisters, chafing, and other injuries are common causes of major foot infections.
Be prepared: A well-stocked, sterile medical kit, including painkillers, blister ointment, and adhesive tape is vital. If you're on an adventure trip, such as river rafting on the Zambezi, consider getting basic first-aid training first.
Have an escape clause: Don't travel in Africa without a good insurance policy. (Editor's Note: Try Travel Insured.)
Related Web Resources:
Centers for Disease Control
The definitive source for travelers on diseases, immunizations, and prevention.
U.S. State Department
Contact information for agencies to consult for medical emergencies abroad.
Sentex Communications Corporation
Provides lists of English-speaking doctors worldwide
Fit for Travel
Links to every country for information on immunizations.
About.com: Health and Safety in Africa
Regularly updated information on disease outbreaks in Africa.
The Africa Guide
Recommended reading, links for travel insurance, an overview of diseases, and immunization information.
Staying Safe
Always check travel warnings from official sources, like the U.S. State Department, before you travel to any foreign country. Basic, common-sense notions will help prevent petty thievery and other crime. Here, our experts give their top tips.
General Safety
Be aware of your surroundings: "Remember that you're a visitor from one of the world's wealthiest countries traveling in one of the poorest places on earth," says Jennifer Lawson, who produced a TV series on Africa for National Geographic. "Travel as lightly and as modestly as possible, without flashy expensive jewelry, gadgets, and lots of luggage and bags."
Don't dangle camera bags or purses on the back of a restaurant chair: You'll invite snatching. Carry only small bags that can be stowed on your lap during dinner or tucked away in your front pants pocket.
Use a waistband pouch: In pouches you can safely stash money, credit cards, a passport, and airline tickets close to your body, where it's less likely to be snatched. "If you lose everything else, you can still eat, get home, and fly without difficulty," says Christine Dolan, who's taken more than 50 safaris.
Watch your belongings: Most thieves can snatch in seconds. Store equipment on your lap or in a bag with the strap wrapped around your wrist or ankle. Count your bags as they are loaded onto airport vans.
Avoid political gatherings or protests: Be smart—even if you're curious, stay away. Both can turn violent quickly.
Don't walk around at night with your hands full: Heavy bags slow you down and make you unable to react quickly. Check with your hotel or a trusted local on the safest way to travel at night.
Avoid drugs, alcohol, and unprotected sex: Drugs and alcohol hinder your judgement. Unprotected sex—always a serious risk—is a game of Russian roulette in a continent where the AIDS epidemic is at its worst.
Don't hitchhike: Contrary to advice in some backpacker guidebooks, hitchhiking in Madagascar or any other African country is a dangerous risk. Only rely on transport recommended or provided by your tour operator or hotel.
Safari Safety
Listen to and stay with your guide: Animals living in game reserves are wild and unpredictable.
Don't panic if surprised by wildlife: "If you come face to face with a lion, don't panic and don't scream," says Dolan. "The animals are just as scared as you are if caught off guard." Follow instructions from your guide.
Don't push your driver to get too close for that last great photograph: "Don't challenge your driver to prove that it's wise to drive through a pride of lions," says Dolan. "Any interference with nature can do you and the animals possible harm. Don't offer a bigger tip to cross that line."
Respect the animals' space: "Too many times, the viewers forget that they are the intruders," says Dolan. Stay still and keep the distance instructed by your guide.
Don't travel with an unlicensed guide: Check credentials before you book your trip.
Don't make sudden movements: Sudden movements might startle an animal and provoke an attack. Act as your guide advises and keep your movements slow, controlled, and steady.
Related Web Resources:
U.S. State Department
Official travel warnings on threats to travelers worldwide.
ComeBackAlive.com
Contains news on dangerous places, including a map with countries color-coded according to how safe they are.
INCORE: Conflict Data Service
Links to reports on political conflict worldwide.
Saving Money
"High cost doesn't necessarily mean high quality—just that a lot of money is going from your pocket to theirs," says Mark Nolting, author, and founder of the Africa Adventure Company. Budget travel to Africa isn't big, but it's possible to save if you plan well. The exception—game reserves and parks. "They have high fees, but you shouldn't miss what Africa has to offer just to save a few pennies," says Karen Cockburn, co-founder of the Africa Travel Centre. Here, money savers from our experts.
Book everything before you leave: "You will save money," says Steve Krenzen, founder of the Association of Professional Safari Guides.
Look for "budget" sections on the Web: Lots of operators' websites list so-called budget packages. Just remember that many prices don't include airfare, which can more than double the cost of your trip.
Eat at marketplaces: "Marketplaces usually offer the cheapest food," says Cockburn. "And some guest houses will include breakfast." (Only eat market fruit and vegetables that you peel yourself.)
Take public transportation: It's cheap in method, but costly in time. Bring a good book.
Visit during the off-season: Go to Kenya and Tanzania in April and May; Botswana from December to March; and Zimbabwe and Namibia from November to June.
Consult backpacker networks: Experienced backpackers and hostel-hoppers have made cheap travel an art form. (Go to the Independent Travel.Info.)
Stay in a hostel: YMCAs and the Peace Corps can recommend good ones. "They often give you a good sense of whether the facility is clean, safe, and well-located," says Lawson. (Visit Hostelling International.)
Volunteer: The International Volunteer Association, Volunteer Abroad, and Volunteer International take you worldwide . . . free.
Ask for hotel upgrades: "In many cases, it is only a few dollars more to upgrade from a tourist class hotel to a first class in Africa," says Nolting. "It's well worth it."
Photographing Africa
With its diversity and beauty, Africa is a paradise for photographers. Here, we offer photography tips from Brooks Walker, a Traveler contributing editor, and Chris Johns, Editor in Chief of National Geographic magazine and author of Valley of Life: Africa's Great Rift. (For more photography tips, check out the National Geographic Photography Field Guide: Secrets to Making Great Photographs.)
Pack lots of film or memory cards: Africa is a once-in-a-lifetime destination, where natural resources are rapidly depleting, so photograph it while you still can. Johns recommends packing your favorite ASA100, 200, or 400-speed film. Adds Walker, "I use almost exclusively Fujichromes, because of the heightened Japanese cultural sensitivity to colors and quality." If you're going digital, be sure to bring a battery charger with an adapter for the local electrical outlets, and plenty of memory cards (a one-gigabyte card holds about 300 photos). With either type of camera, bring an extra battery or two.
Bring at least two cameras: Blowing sand in harsh desert conditions can severely scratch your lens. Plus, if you lose one camera, you'll have a backup. To protect your equipment, Walker recommends storing it in heavy Ziploc baggies.
Use a zoom-in lens: You won't want to miss close-ups of eastern and south-central Africa's wildlife in its natural habitat. Use an 80-400 millimeter lens with a stabilizing unit built into it, recommends Johns.
Bring a flash: Night drives through game reserves afford some of the best pictures, because that's when many of the large predators are most active.
Research your destination's culture, history, environment, and geography before you go: "You can never know enough," says Walker. The better you understand a subject, the better you'll be able to capture it in a meaningful way on film.
Rise early and stay out into early evening: "Most African countries still run on solar rhythms, so the day begins before dawn, fades in the afternoon, and has a second wind in the evening as things cool off," says Walker.
Understand and respect cultures: Not all Africans want their pictures taken. For some cultures, it may be against their religion or beliefs. Always ask before you shoot.
Interact with the locals: By gaining their trust, you will be much more likely to capture the desired photograph. You can also pick up valuable insights on cultural practices.
Walk: On foot it's easier to meet locals and become involved with cultural activities that you want to photograph.
Travel lightly: "Forget the telephoto lenses and backpacks full of gear," says Walker. Lots of bulky equipment will slow you down and make photographing a burden.
Choose hotels wisely: "Stay as close as possible to the historical center, major monuments, or markets that you want to visit," says Walker. "The more you can walk to and from photogenic destinations, the greater the chance of getting good pictures."
Related Web Resources:
Africa on the Matrix—Tips for Photographers
Tips from photographer Bruce Stumpf on capturing Africa on film.
Photo Forum
A resource guide with links that connects photographers worldwide.
Africa Imagery
Images shot by several award-winning photographers, including Roger de la Harpe and Nigel Dennis.
Aqua Safaris Scuba Center
Tips for taking underwater photographs in Africa.