Visa requirements

Obtaining a visa to enter the most popular countries in Africa is not difficult. However, it is worth checking the requirements for your country in advance to learn about the visa application process. Most of the time, you can get a visa to African countries in advance online or upon arrival at the airport.

Vaccinations

A few countries still require every traveler to have vaccinations. Also if you are planning a tour to a country where there is a high risk of malaria, you need to take anti-malarial pills. Remember that any preventive measures should be taken in advance. It is better to consult your doctor to get information about suitable drugs and timing. For example, yellow fever vaccinations should be taken at least 10 days before you arrive in the country.

Safety

Safety in Africa is one of the most important criteria for choosing a country. Most tourists head to East or Southern Africa, as most national parks with excellent safari conditions are located there. These regions are the most developed and are absolutely safe for tourists.

National Parks

Conservation is a very important aspect to protect Africa’s wildlife and ecosystem. Most tourists in Africa go on safari to the national parks. It is very important to know the rules of conduct in the parks during safari, because noncompliance with them could ruin your vacation. It is forbidden to make noise in the parks, leave the jeep without the permission of the guide-driver, feed the animals, try to catch or touch them. It is forbidden to litter in the parks, leave the lodge unaccompanied by a ranger, especially at night. For violation of these rules a tourist may be held criminally responsible.

Plastic ban in Africa

Developed countries in Africa, such as Kenya and Tanzania, refused to use cellophane bags, plastic dishes, etc. If you need to put some things in bags, please support Africans in their efforts to preserve the environment. Replace cellophane with paper or cloth.

Local currency

In many cases you can pay in dollars, for example. However, the prices for all services are given in the local currency of the African country, so for your own convenience we recommend exchanging money. Under no circumstances you should not trust people on the street, who offer currency exchange services. It is safest to change money in exchange offices, for example, directly at the airport. Or withdraw cash at one of the ATMs.

Tipping

Tipping is not mandatory in African countries, but tourist etiquette does recommend leaving a small amount for you in the local currency to waiters, maids, and guides. You will see for yourself how hard these people work, often away from home, to support their families. Despite the fact that it is their job, they sincerely try to make you feel comfortable and you will be satisfied with rest.

If you are planning a trip to Africa, contact the experts at Iconic Expeditions for detailed consultation on a trip to an African country of interest to you.