If you’ve never stepped foot onto Africa soil in your lifetime and are excited about the idea of planning your very first trip to Africa, keep reading to discover a few handy tips which will ensure that you enjoy a memorable, exciting trip.
Africa 101: First-time trip tips
- Make sure to carry small amounts of cash with you
Depending on the cities, towns, and villages which you plan on visiting, you may want to carry around a small amount of petty cash, that you can use to purchase small items such as souvenirs and to pay for food drink and tips. As some marketplaces, shops and eateries may not accept credit cards. Just ensure not to carry large amounts of cash, in order to avoid attracting pickpocketers.
- Make sure to dedicate a minimum of two weeks to your first African adventure
As you’re bound to fall in love with Africa, it’s well worth putting aside a minimum of two weeks for your African adventure. As you may be interested in taking a few full day excursions to popular tourist attractions such as Gorilla tracking in Uganda and also national parks. So if you want to be able to truly experience the best attractions and locations which Africa has to offer it’s well worth spending a reasonable time in Africa.
As an example, you could easily spend two weeks exploring Uganda’s national parks, lush jungles, and wildlife sanctuaries. On a two week trip to Uganda, you’ll be able to see a variety of African animals such as rhinoceros, lions, gorillas, chimpanzees, and buffalo.
- Try a bit of local food
Part of the magic of discovering a new culture is getting to sample local foods and drinks. If you’re unsure of where to find a reputable establishment which serves delicious local fare, simply ask your hotel’s concierge or reception staff for their recommendations.
- Pack a variety of clothes, so that you’ll be well prepared for any occasion as well as a variety of weather conditions
As the temperatures in most African countries tend to plummet when the sun goes down, it’s well worth packing a few pairs of trousers as well as a sweater and a waterproof jacket.
- Visit a local market in order to pick up beautiful hand-sewn shirts and dresses as well as one of a kind jewelry pieces
Instead of paying an exorbitant sum of money to pick up souvenirs at a boutique, head straight to your chosen destination’s largest market. Where you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to patterns, colors, and textures.
While you can experiment with haggling for your chosen items, you should find that the initial price which you’re quoted will be far cheaper than you expected.
- Dress conservatively if you plan on heading out of large cosmopolitan cities
If you don’t want to risk offending conservative locals, it’s well worth keeping your shoulders and knees covered. However, it is safe to show your shoulders and knees at a wildlife lodge, hotel or resort.
If you keep the six tips listed above in mind, you’ll be guaranteed to enjoy the trip of a lifetime, when you first step foot onto African soil.
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