travelling around africa on a budget

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Traveling Africa On A Budget: Expert Tips For Affordable Adventures

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Looking to embark on an unforgettable adventure through Africa, but worried about the cost? Don’t fret! We’ve got you covered with expert tips that will help you travel Africa on a budget without sacrificing the awe-inspiring experiences this diverse continent has to offer.

From exploring vibrant cities to discovering stunning landscapes and encountering unique wildlife, there’s something for every traveler.

Start by choosing the right time to visit, when prices are lower and crowds are thinner.

Research affordable accommodations that offer comfort without breaking the bank.

Utilize public transportation to get around and save on expensive taxis.

Pack smart and light, ensuring you have everything you need while avoiding excess baggage fees.

Indulge in delicious local and street food for a taste of authentic African cuisine at wallet-friendly prices.

Hone your bargaining skills to score great deals at markets and negotiate prices wherever possible.

Venture off-the-beaten-path to discover hidden gems that won’t break your budget or be overrun by tourists.

Connect with other like-minded travelers for cost-sharing opportunities, making your journey even more affordable.

And most importantly, stay flexible and open-minded, embracing unexpected adventures along the way.

With these expert tips, traveling Africa on a budget has never been easier or more rewarding!

Choosing the Right Time to Travel

If you’re looking to make the most of your budget while traveling Africa, you’ll want to know when is the best time to go! The continent offers a plethora of affordable adventures, and choosing the right time can help you save even more money. When it comes to traveling Africa on a budget, timing is everything.

One of the first things to consider is which region of Africa you plan on visiting. East Africa, with countries like Kenya and Tanzania, offers stunning landscapes and incredible wildlife in national parks such as Serengeti and Maasai Mara. The best time to visit this region on a budget is during the low season, which falls outside of peak tourist times. This will not only save you money on accommodation but also allow you to enjoy the beauty of these places without large crowds.

Southern Africa, including countries like South Africa and Namibia, has its own set of attractions. From exploring vibrant cities like Cape Town to experiencing breathtaking views at Victoria Falls, there’s something for everyone. To save money in this region, consider traveling during shoulder seasons when prices are lower and tourist traffic is reduced.

No matter where in Africa you choose to travel , one surefire way to save money is by exploring local markets and enjoying local food. Not only will this give you a taste of authentic African cuisine but it will also be much cheaper than dining at fancy restaurants catered towards tourists.

When planning your trip to Africa on a budget, don’t forget about visas. Some countries in East Africa offer an East Africa visa that allows entry into multiple countries for a reduced fee compared to individual visas.

Lastly, if you’re feeling adventurous and looking for an off-the-beaten-path experience that won’t break the bank, consider exploring West African countries such as Senegal or Ghana. These destinations offer unique cultural experiences and beautiful landscapes at more affordable prices than some other popular African destinations.

Choosing the right time to travel to Africa can make a huge difference in terms of saving money. Whether you decide to visit East Africa, Southern Africa, or venture into West Africa, planning your trip during the low or shoulder seasons and taking advantage of local markets and food will help stretch your budget further. So go ahead, start planning your affordable African adventure today!

Researching Affordable Accommodations

When researching accommodations, it’s important to prioritize cost-effective options for your budget travel adventure in Africa. Finding affordable places to stay will help stretch your Africa travel budget and allow you to allocate more funds towards other exciting experiences.

Start by looking for cheap flights and consider booking them well in advance to secure the best deals. Once you’ve arrived at your destination, consider renting a car or taking advantage of local transportation options to get around, as this can be much cheaper than relying on taxis or private transfers.

When it comes to accommodations, there are various budget hotels and guesthouses available in many African cities and towns. These establishments offer comfortable rooms at reasonable prices, making them perfect for travelers on a tight budget.

Additionally, exploring street food and local restaurants can save you money on meals while allowing you to experience the vibrant culinary scene of each destination.

If you’re feeling adventurous and want an even more affordable option, consider overland tours. These guided trips often provide transportation, accommodation, and meals bundled together at a discounted rate. This can be an excellent way to see multiple destinations without breaking the bank.

Lastly, don’t forget about the importance of travel insurance. While it may seem like an unnecessary expense when traveling on a tight budget, having insurance can protect you from unexpected costs such as medical emergencies or trip cancellations.

By prioritizing cost-effective accommodations and incorporating these tips into your planning process, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying an incredible adventure through Africa without straining your wallet.

Utilizing Public Transportation

One great way to explore and get around in Africa is by utilizing the convenient and cost-effective option of public transportation. For budget travelers looking to experience Africa on a budget, local buses are a fantastic choice. These buses connect various cities and towns, allowing you to visit multiple countries without breaking the bank.

Whether you’re embarking on an overland tour or venturing out on your own for some solo travel , hopping on a local bus is a reliable and affordable way to get from one destination to another.

When traveling in Africa’s capital cities, public transportation options such as minibusses and taxis are readily available. Minibusses are often crowded but offer an authentic local experience, while taxis provide a more comfortable ride at a slightly higher cost. It’s important to negotiate fares before getting in any taxi or minibus to ensure fair pricing.

By using public transportation instead of private vehicles or tours, you can save money not only on transport costs but also on fuel expenses and parking fees. Additionally, traveling by public transport allows you to immerse yourself in the local culture, interact with locals, and gain insights into community development initiatives.

It’s worth noting that during school holidays or peak travel seasons, public transportation may be busier than usual. Plan accordingly and be prepared for longer wait times and potential delays.

Overall, utilizing public transportation is an excellent way for budget travelers exploring Africa on a budget to navigate the continent affordably while enjoying the vibrant cultures and breathtaking landscapes it has to offer.

Packing Smart and Light

To make the most of your journey through Africa, pack smart and keep your luggage light. Traveling to Africa can be an incredible adventure filled with diverse landscapes, vibrant cultures, and unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re backpacking through Cape Town or exploring the East African countries, packing smart will ensure a hassle-free trip.

Firstly, invest in a sturdy backpack that fits comfortably on your shoulders. This will allow you to navigate crowded streets and uneven terrains with ease. Pack versatile clothing that can be layered for different weather conditions. Remember to include essentials like a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a reusable water bottle.

When it comes to electronics, bring only what you absolutely need – a smartphone for communication and navigation purposes is usually sufficient. Don’t forget universal adapters for charging your devices!

As you plan your itinerary, consider using budget airlines for intercity travel . They offer affordable fares that are perfect for travelers on a tight budget. Additionally, opt for local transportation such as buses or trains instead of expensive taxis.

Eating local foods not only supports the economy but also allows you to experience the authentic flavors of each destination without breaking the bank. Explore bustling markets or small eateries where locals gather to enjoy delicious meals at reasonable prices.

Lastly, don’t forget to research free or low-cost attractions in each capital city or national park you visit. From breathtaking natural wonders to historical landmarks, there are plenty of budget-friendly options that will enrich your African adventure.

So pack smartly and embark on an unforgettable journey through Africa while staying within your budget!

Eating Local and Street Food

Indulge your taste buds and savor the authentic flavors of Africa by exploring the vibrant street food scene and trying local delicacies. Traveling Africa on a budget doesn’t mean sacrificing culinary adventures. In fact, eating local and street food isn’t only affordable but is also an excellent way to experience the culture and traditions of each destination.

From bustling markets in Southeast Asia to the lively streets of most capital cities, you’ll find an array of mouthwatering options that won’t break the bank. Whether you’re craving spicy stews, grilled meats, or exotic fruits, there’s something for everyone.

In Chobe National Park, enjoy a traditional braai (barbecue) under the starry sky while listening to tales from locals around the fire. In South America, sample empanadas filled with savory meat or cheese as you explore vibrant city markets. And when visiting Victoria Falls, don’t miss out on trying some delicious biltong (dried meat) or freshly caught fish from the Zambezi River.

If you’re adventurous enough, consider gorilla trekking in Central Africa where you can try dishes made with plantains and groundnuts. You’ll be amazed at how far your money can go when dining like a local in Africa. So don’t let Western prices deter you from embracing these authentic culinary experiences that are sure to leave a lasting impression on your palate and memories.

Exploring Free or Low-Cost Activities

When exploring Africa, don’t overlook the abundance of free or low-cost activities that allow you to immerse yourself in the local culture without breaking the bank. From bustling markets to stunning natural landscapes, there are plenty of ways to make the most of your budget while experiencing all that Africa has to offer.

Start by visiting local markets and bazaars, where you can get a taste of authentic African life without spending a fortune. Wander through colorful stalls filled with fresh produce, vibrant fabrics, and traditional crafts. Engage with locals, bargain for souvenirs, and savor the sights and sounds of these bustling hubs.

Nature lovers will find joy in Africa’s breathtaking landscapes. Many national parks offer affordable entry fees or even free access. Whether it’s spotting wildlife on a safari or hiking through lush forests, there are countless opportunities to explore Africa’s natural wonders on a budget.

Additionally, take advantage of community events and festivals that often showcase traditional music, dance performances, and cultural exhibitions at little to no cost. These lively celebrations provide a unique window into African traditions and customs.

So when planning your trip to Africa on a budget, remember that memorable experiences don’t always come with hefty price tags. By embracing free or low-cost activities, you’ll not only save money but also create lasting memories immersed in the rich tapestry of African culture.

Visiting National Parks and Wildlife Reserves

When visiting national parks and wildlife reserves in Africa on a budget, there are a few key tips to keep in mind. Firstly, research the different options available to you. Some parks have higher entrance fees than others, so it’s worth comparing prices before making your decision. Additionally, consider visiting during the low season when prices may be lower.

Once you’ve chosen your park or reserve, prepare yourself for an unforgettable experience. As you venture into these protected areas, be sure to bring binoculars for up-close animal sightings and a good camera to capture those magical moments. Take advantage of guided tours or self-guided walks that are often available at no additional cost.

Remember to respect the animals’ space by keeping a safe distance and following any rules or regulations set by the park authorities. By doing so, you won’t only protect yourself but also help preserve these incredible ecosystems for future generations.

Visiting national parks and wildlife reserves in Africa is an affordable way to immerse yourself in nature’s wonders. So pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready for an adventure like no other!

Engaging with Local Communities

Immerse yourself in the vibrant cultures and traditions of local communities as you embark on your African wildlife journey. Engaging with local communities is not only a great way to experience the true essence of Africa, but it can also be a budget-friendly option for travelers.

One of the best ways to engage with locals is by staying in community-run accommodations or homestays. These options not only provide a more authentic experience, but they also directly benefit the local community by providing them with income and employment opportunities. You’ll have the chance to interact with friendly locals, learn about their customs and traditions, and even participate in cultural activities such as traditional dances or cooking classes.

Another way to connect with local communities is through volunteering opportunities. Many conservation organizations and community development projects welcome volunteers who are passionate about making a positive impact. Whether you’re assisting with wildlife monitoring or helping to build schools and infrastructure, your contribution will be invaluable.

When visiting markets or shops, make an effort to buy locally made handicrafts and products. This supports local artisans and helps preserve traditional craftsmanship. Plus, you’ll have unique souvenirs to bring back home!

Engaging with local communities not only enriches your travel experience but also contributes directly to sustainable development in Africa. So go ahead, immerse yourself in the vibrant cultures of Africa’s local communities – it’s an adventure like no other!

Taking Advantage of Group Discounts and Special Offers

Now that you’ve learned about engaging with local communities during your budget-friendly African adventures, let’s dive into another fantastic way to save money while exploring this vibrant continent: taking advantage of group discounts and special offers.

Traveling in a group can be an incredible way to cut costs and make lasting memories. Many attractions, accommodations, and tour operators offer discounted rates for larger groups, allowing you to stretch your travel budget even further. Whether you’re exploring the breathtaking landscapes of South Africa or immersing yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Morocco, these group discounts can make a significant difference in your overall expenses.

When planning your trip, keep an eye out for special offers as well. From discounted flights to reduced rates on guided tours or accommodation packages, there are often promotions available that can help you save money without compromising on the quality of your experience.

To take full advantage of these opportunities, consider joining travel forums or online communities where fellow adventurers share their experiences and discuss current deals. By staying connected with other like-minded travelers, you’ll have access to insider tips and up-to-date information on the best discounts available.

So gather your friends or join a group of fellow explorers and get ready to embark on a budget-friendly African adventure filled with unforgettable experiences!

Planning Self-Guided Tours

To make the most of your African journey, consider planning self-guided tours that allow you to delve deeper into the local culture and create a more personalized adventure. By opting for a self-guided tour, you have the freedom to explore at your own pace and discover hidden gems off the beaten path.

One of the advantages of planning a self-guided tour is that it gives you the opportunity to truly immerse yourself in the local culture. You can interact with locals, try authentic cuisine, and participate in traditional activities. This hands-on experience will provide a deeper understanding and appreciation for Africa’s rich heritage.

When planning your self-guided tour, be sure to research popular attractions and landmarks in advance. Create an itinerary that includes both must-see sights and lesser-known spots. Remember to leave room for spontaneity – sometimes the best experiences happen when you stumble upon something unexpected.

To enhance your adventure, consider hiring a local guide for certain parts of your trip. They can offer valuable insights, share fascinating stories, and ensure that you don’t miss out on any hidden gems. Plus, supporting local guides helps contribute directly to the community’s economy.

As you embark on your self-guided African journey, embrace all that this vibrant continent has to offer. Immerse yourself in its diverse landscapes, connect with its welcoming people, and create memories that will last a lifetime. Get ready for an unforgettable adventure!

Opting for Homestays or Couchsurfing

Consider staying in a local home or couchsurfing to fully experience the authentic culture and hospitality of Africa. This isn’t just a budget-friendly option but also an incredible opportunity to immerse yourself in the local way of life.

Homestays allow you to live with a local family, sharing meals, stories, and traditions. It’s an intimate experience that will leave you with lifelong memories. When choosing a homestay, research thoroughly and read reviews from previous guests. Look for hosts who have positive feedback regarding cleanliness, friendliness, and willingness to share their knowledge about the area. Reach out to potential hosts beforehand to discuss expectations and any dietary preferences or restrictions you may have.

Couchsurfing is another fantastic way to connect with locals while keeping your expenses low. The Couchsurfing community is active in many African countries, offering free accommodation on locals’ couches or spare beds. It’s essential to create an engaging profile that showcases your interests and why you want to stay with locals.

While staying in someone’s home requires mutual respect and consideration, it can be an enriching experience beyond what money can buy. You’ll gain insights into everyday life, discover hidden gems known only by locals, and forge meaningful connections that could last a lifetime. So go ahead, embrace the warmth of African hospitality through homestays or couchsurfing!

Avoiding Tourist Traps

Escape the tourist traps and explore off-the-beaten-path destinations in Africa, where you can truly experience the rich cultural heritage and natural wonders of the continent. When traveling on a budget, it’s important to avoid falling into tourist traps that cater to foreigners and charge exorbitant prices.

Instead, immerse yourself in local culture by venturing to lesser-known places. Start by researching destinations that are not commonly frequented by tourists. These hidden gems often offer authentic experiences without breaking the bank. For instance, instead of visiting well-known attractions like Victoria Falls or Serengeti National Park, opt for quieter alternatives such as Wli Waterfalls in Ghana or Hwange National Park in Zimbabwe.

To further stretch your budget, consider staying in guesthouses or small family-run accommodations rather than luxury hotels. These options not only provide a more intimate experience but also support local communities directly. Engage with locals and ask for their recommendations on affordable dining options and transportation.

When exploring these off-the-beaten-path destinations, make sure to pack a sense of adventure. Take public transportation or hire a local guide who can show you hidden trails and secret spots that aren’t mentioned in guidebooks.

By avoiding tourist traps and embracing authentic experiences, you’ll uncover the true essence of Africa – its vibrant cultures, breathtaking landscapes, and warm-hearted people – all while sticking to your budget. So go ahead, step off the well-trodden path and embark on an unforgettable adventure through this awe-inspiring continent.

Learning Basic Local Phrases

When traveling through Africa on a budget, taking the time to learn a few key phrases can make all the difference. Not only will locals appreciate your efforts, but you’ll also gain a deeper understanding of their way of life.

Start with greetings like ‘hello’ and ‘thank you.’ These simple words can go a long way in showing respect and building rapport.

As you venture further, expand your vocabulary to include phrases like ‘how much does this cost?’ or ‘where is the bathroom?’ This’ll help you navigate daily activities and negotiate prices without feeling lost or taken advantage of.

Learning basic local phrases also allows you to engage in conversations beyond mere pleasantries. Imagine being able to ask about traditional customs, local cuisine recommendations, or even getting directions to hidden gems off the beaten path. The possibilities are endless when you can communicate effectively with the people you meet along your journey.

To enhance your language learning experience, consider downloading language apps or using phrasebooks that provide pronunciation guides. Practice speaking aloud whenever possible; locals’ll appreciate your efforts even if your accent isn’t perfect.

Remember that communication isn’t just about words but also about gestures and expressions – so be open-minded and willing to learn from non-verbal cues as well.

By incorporating basic local phrases into your travels, you’ll find yourself connecting with Africa’s vibrant cultures in ways that guidebooks alone can’t offer. So go ahead, embrace the challenge of learning some new words – it’s a small investment that’ll pay off big time during your affordable adventures across this breathtaking continent.

Embracing Public Markets and Street Vendors

Explore the bustling public markets and connect with friendly street vendors – their vibrant displays and local products will immerse you in the authentic culture of Africa. When traveling on a budget, embracing public markets and street vendors can be a game-changer.

Not only will you find unique souvenirs and delicious local food, but you’ll also get a chance to interact with locals and learn more about their way of life.

Public markets in Africa are a hub of activity, filled with colorful fruits, vegetables, spices, handicrafts, and clothing. The sights, sounds, and smells will awaken your senses as you weave through the narrow aisles. Don’t be afraid to haggle for a better price; it’s all part of the experience.

Engaging with street vendors is another way to support the local economy while enjoying affordable goodies. From mouthwatering street food like grilled skewers or savory samosas to handmade jewelry and artwork, there’s something for everyone.

Embracing public markets and street vendors not only saves you money but also allows you to connect with the people who call Africa home. You’ll witness their entrepreneurial spirit firsthand as they passionately showcase their products. Take some time to strike up a conversation – locals love sharing stories about their traditions and customs.

So next time you’re in Africa on a budget adventure, make sure to immerse yourself in the culture by exploring public markets and interacting with friendly street vendors. It’s an experience that will leave lasting memories while giving back to the communities you visit.

Participating in Volunteer Opportunities

Get involved and make a difference by participating in volunteer opportunities, lending a helping hand to local communities, and experiencing the impact of your actions firsthand. Africa offers a wide range of volunteer programs that allow travelers to give back while exploring this beautiful continent on a budget.

Volunteering in Africa is not only an affordable way to travel, but it also provides a unique cultural immersion experience. You can choose from various projects like teaching English, working with wildlife conservation organizations, or assisting in community development initiatives. Imagine spending your days teaching eager children in a rural village or helping rehabilitate injured animals at a wildlife sanctuary – these experiences will stay with you forever.

One of the great things about volunteering is that it often includes accommodation and meals, making it even more cost-effective. Many organizations offer flexible durations for volunteers, ranging from just a few weeks to several months. This allows you to tailor your experience based on your time and budget constraints.

Not only will you be contributing to the betterment of local communities, but you will also have the opportunity to meet other like-minded individuals from all over the world who share your passion for making a positive impact. Volunteering in Africa is not only rewarding but also an incredible way to create lasting memories and forge lifelong friendships.

So why not take this chance to explore Africa differently? By participating in volunteer opportunities, you can embark on an adventure that goes beyond sightseeing – one that truly touches lives and leaves an enduring mark on both yourself and the communities you serve.

Taking Advantage of Local Transportation Options

When it comes to getting around in Africa, taking advantage of local transportation options can add an element of excitement and authenticity to your journey. Instead of relying solely on tourist buses or expensive taxis, embrace the adventure and hop on a minibus or shared taxi known as matatu in East Africa, dala-dala in Tanzania, or tro-tro in Ghana.

These local modes of transportation are not only budget-friendly but also offer a unique opportunity to interact with locals and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture. Picture yourself sitting shoulder-to-shoulder with friendly passengers while colorful fabrics decorate the interior and lively African music fills the air.

In some cities, you can even experience riding on a boda-boda motorcycle taxi. Hold on tight as you zip through traffic-filled streets, feeling the wind against your face as you witness daily life unfold before your eyes.

If you’re up for a more adventurous journey, consider taking a ride on a rickety train that rattles along at its own pace. As you chug through picturesque landscapes and pass by bustling markets, this nostalgic mode of transport will make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time.

So why stick to conventional means when exploring Africa? Embrace the diversity of local transportation options available and embark on an unforgettable adventure filled with authentic experiences that will leave lasting memories.

Bargaining and Negotiating Prices

Now that you’re well-versed in utilizing local transportation options, it’s time to dive into the art of bargaining and negotiating prices. This skill will prove invaluable during your budget-friendly adventures across Africa.

When it comes to shopping at local markets or haggling for a taxi fare, bargaining is not only expected but encouraged. In many African countries, negotiating prices is an integral part of the culture and can lead to significant savings if done right.

To successfully bargain, remember to approach it with confidence and a friendly demeanor. Start by engaging in small talk with the vendor or driver, showing genuine interest in their products or services. This establishes a rapport and sets a positive tone for negotiations.

As you begin discussing prices, keep in mind that bargaining is a give-and-take process. Make sure to start with a lower offer than what you’re willing to pay, allowing room for counteroffers from the seller. Be prepared for some back-and-forth until both parties reach a mutually agreeable price.

Remember that patience is key during these interactions. Don’t be afraid to walk away if the price isn’t right – oftentimes, this can prompt the seller to reconsider their initial offer.

By honing your bargaining skills, you’ll not only save money but also gain insight into local customs and traditions. So go ahead and embrace this exciting aspect of traveling Africa on a budget!

Exploring Off-the-Beaten-Path Destinations

Discover hidden gems and uncover the magic of lesser-known destinations in Africa by exploring off-the-beaten-path spots. While popular tourist destinations like Cape Town, Marrakech, and Victoria Falls are undeniably breathtaking, venturing off the beaten path allows you to experience the true essence of Africa.

One such hidden gem is Lalibela in Ethiopia. Nestled in the rugged mountains of Northern Ethiopia, this UNESCO World Heritage site is home to 11 remarkable rock-hewn churches dating back to the 12th century. Marvel at their intricate architecture and immerse yourself in the rich spiritual atmosphere that permeates this ancient town.

For a taste of untouched wilderness, head to Namibia’s Skeleton Coast. This desolate stretch of coastline boasts stunning landscapes with towering sand dunes meeting crashing Atlantic waves. Explore shipwrecks scattered along the shore or embark on a thrilling safari through Etosha National Park.

In Madagascar, venture to Isalo National Park for a unique hiking experience through canyons, natural pools, and lush vegetation. Encounter lemurs swinging from tree branches as you traverse this otherworldly landscape.

By stepping off the beaten path, you not only save money but also get an authentic glimpse into Africa’s diverse cultures and natural wonders. So go ahead, embrace adventure and create unforgettable memories as you explore these lesser-known destinations across Africa!

Connecting with Other Travelers for Cost-Sharing

Connecting with fellow travelers is a great way to share costs and make new friends along your journey. Not only does cost-sharing help you save money, but it also allows you to create unforgettable memories with like-minded adventurers.

There are several ways to connect with other travelers while traveling Africa on a budget.

One option is to join online travel forums or social media groups dedicated to budget travel in Africa. These platforms provide a space for travelers to connect, share tips, and even plan trips together. You can find potential travel buddies who have similar itineraries or interests, making it easier to split expenses such as accommodation and transportation.

Another way to meet fellow travelers is by staying in hostels or guesthouses that encourage social interaction among guests. Many budget accommodations organize group activities like city tours or game drives, providing opportunities for you to mingle with other adventurous souls. Take advantage of common areas like lounges or communal kitchens where conversations often spark between travelers from different corners of the world.

Lastly, consider joining organized group tours specifically designed for budget-conscious individuals. These tours often cater to small groups and offer shared accommodations and transport options at affordable rates. Traveling in a group not only reduces costs but also boosts safety as you explore unfamiliar destinations together.

Remember, connecting with other travelers not only helps lighten the financial burden but also adds another layer of excitement and camaraderie to your African adventure. So go ahead and reach out – you never know what incredible experiences await when you open yourself up to new connections!

Being Flexible and Open to Unexpected Adventures

When you are flexible and open-minded, you create space for serendipitous encounters, unique experiences, and unforgettable memories.

One of the best ways to embrace unexpected adventures is by veering off the beaten path. While popular tourist destinations can offer incredible sights and experiences, exploring lesser-known areas can uncover hidden gems that few others have discovered. Take a detour from your planned itinerary and wander through local markets, stumble upon charming villages, or find secluded beaches where you can relax in peace.

Being open to spontaneous opportunities also means saying yes to invitations from locals or fellow travelers. Whether it’s joining a group for an impromptu hike or attending a cultural event you hadn’t planned on, these unplanned activities can lead to remarkable connections with people and provide insights into the local culture that guidebooks may not cover.

Moreover, being flexible with your travel plans allows you to take advantage of last-minute deals or unforeseen opportunities. Maybe you hear about an affordable safari tour just as you arrive in town or meet someone who invites you to join their road trip across breathtaking landscapes. By remaining adaptable, you give yourself the chance to seize these chances for adventure.

Remember that traveling is not only about ticking off famous landmarks but also about immersing yourself in different cultures and embracing new experiences. So let go of rigid schedules and expectations; instead, welcome unexpected adventures with enthusiasm. Who knows what extraordinary stories await when you allow spontaneity into your African journey?

Frequently Asked Questions

How can i ensure my safety while exploring off-the-beaten-path destinations in africa.

To ensure your safety while exploring off-the-beaten-path destinations in Africa, research and plan ahead, travel with a group or local guide, be vigilant of your surroundings, stay updated on current events and advisories, and trust your instincts.

What are some tips for effectively bargaining and negotiating prices with local vendors?

When bargaining with local vendors in Africa, start by researching the average prices for goods and services. Be friendly, but firm, and don’t be afraid to walk away if the price isn’t right.

How can I connect with other travelers for cost-sharing during my African adventure?

Connect with other travelers for cost-sharing during your African adventure by joining online travel communities, such as forums or social media groups. Post about your plans and budget, and find like-minded adventurers who want to share expenses and experiences.

Are there any specific volunteer opportunities available for travelers in Africa?

Yes! There are numerous volunteer opportunities in Africa for travelers like you. From wildlife conservation to community development, you can make a positive impact while experiencing the beauty and culture of this amazing continent.

What are some basic local phrases that I should learn before traveling to Africa?

Before traveling to Africa, it’s helpful to learn some basic local phrases. Greetings like “Jambo” in Swahili or “Salam” in Arabic can go a long way in connecting with locals and showing respect for their culture.

In conclusion, traveling Africa on a budget is not only possible but also incredibly rewarding. By choosing the right time to travel, researching affordable accommodations, and utilizing public transportation, you can save money without compromising on your adventure.

Packing smart and light, eating local and street food, bargaining for prices, exploring off-the-beaten-path destinations, connecting with other travelers for cost-sharing, and being flexible will all contribute to an affordable and unforgettable experience.

So go ahead and embark on your African adventure without breaking the bank!

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How to Travel Around Africa

Africa is a massive continent known for its exotic animal encounters, dramatic landscapes, world-class beaches, and rich cultural traditions that vary from region to region. It’s a continent few explore in-depth (there are 54 countries here after all), yet one that always seems to captivate anyone who visits.

Stretching over 30 million square kilometers and home to over 1.2 billion people, Africa is a vastly diverse landscape — both geographically and culturally. Most world maps end up distorting the continent’s true size, leading many to underestimate just how big it is (contrary to what a Mercator map shows, Africa is actually 14 times larger than Greenland!).

Clearly, there is a lot to see here.

Where many countries in Africa do have their struggles, there are also many places where tourism is booming. Whether you’re looking for an intrepid budget backpacking experience or a more luxurious safari getaway, you’ll be able to find it somewhere on the continent.

But how do you get around while you’re there?

To help you plan your next adventure, here’s everything you need to know about traveling Africa — no matter your budget!

• How to Get around By Safari Tours
• How to Get around By Public Buses
• How to Get around By Minivans
• How to Get around By Hitchhiking
• How to Get around By Renting a Car

Overland Africa Safari Tours

Overland tours are more expensive than doing things yourself, but food, transport, and accommodation costs are all included. You can usually find a wide variety of options as well, from basic backpacker tours to more luxurious options. Small group tours will be your cheapest option, though private tours will also be available (though much more expensive).

These tours are generally perfect for people who don’t want to plan and research a trip and/or travelers who want to minimize hassle while they’re there.

If you’re specifically interested in animal safaris and seeing the Big Five (lion, leopard, buffalo, elephant, rhino), South Africa , Kenya, Namibia , and Tanzania are some of the best places for safaris in Africa .

Public Buses

It will require a bit more planning, but it’s an affordable way to travel. Plus, you’ll get the opportunity to converse with the locals. You’ll find that people will go out of their way to make sure that you, as a visitor, are comfortable and safe as possible.

Public buses will usually cost between $3–$30 USD depending on how far you’re going. More often than not, they are used for city travel or inter-city journeys where there is a good network of sealed roads. These buses are generally comfortable, safe, and spacious.

Countries or regions that have fewer or no sealed roads will usually have much older buses that frequently break down and are overcrowded. You’ll want to make sure you plan ahead, secure your valuables, and expect delays.

For these trips, make sure that all your valuables are stored on you/within reach and not in your luggage that’s checked below or above the bus. While thefts are rare, it’s always better to be safe rather than sorry.  

While this may not be the most luxurious method of travel, it’s definitely a memorable one — and an affordable one, too! Minivans are an incredibly cheap way to get around and are usually taken for journeys up to six hours long within a country (or to a neighboring country). Unless you’ve pre-booked a journey with a company, most minivans don’t leave until they are full, so jump on one that looks ready to go and avoid waiting for hours until it fills up.

Like public buses, prices are cheap. Expect to pay anywhere from $1-20 USD depending on how far you are going.  

Hitchhiking

While hitchhiking does bring some risks and challenges, it’s an easy way to get around if you’re flexible and on a budget. If you hitch from the side of the road, it’s best to wave your hand up and down instead of sticking out your thumb as sticking out your thumb is often considered rude in Africa.

Chances are you’ll get a good mix of locals and travelers picking you up. While it’s not necessary, giving your driver (if they are a local) a tip is never a bad idea. Just be sure to use common sense and take precautions if you’re hitchhiking.

Generally, I’d suggest you have some hitchhiking experience before doing it in Africa. This isn’t the best place to try hitchhiking if you’ve never done it before.

For the most up-to-date tips and advice, consult Hitchwiki .  

In addition to renting a car for safaris, another popular option is to rent a car to drive the beautiful Garden Route, a popular and scenic stretch of the South African coast. Car rentals from South Africa can be found for as cheap as $35-55 USD per day, especially if you book online.

For the best deals on rental cars, use Discover Cars

If you are planning on long-term travel in Africa, you may even consider buying your own 4WD to tour the continent in. South Africa would be the best place to find a vehicle to purchase. You can also look for a departing traveler ready to sell their vehicle.

When planning your African travel adventure, carefully consider your budget, itinerary, and safety interests before making your transportation decisions. While public transport is cheap and authentic, it’s generally uncomfortable and less safe than other options.

Hiring or buying a car is the more expensive choice but will give you greater freedom as well as maintain an authentic experience. Overland safari tours will be expensive and less authentic but will give you an all-inclusive package and the greatest sense of safety.

But no matter how you get around Africa, you’ll definitely find the experience unforgettable!  

Book Your Trip: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Find a cheap flight by using Skyscanner . It’s my favorite search engine because it searches websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is being left unturned.

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld . If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as it consistently returns the cheapest rates for guesthouses and hotels.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• SafetyWing (best for everyone)
• InsureMyTrip (for those 70 and over)
• Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

Want to Travel for Free? Travel credit cards allow you to earn points that can be redeemed for free flights and accommodation — all without any extra spending. Check out my guide to picking the right card and my current favorites to get started and see the latest best deals.

Need Help Finding Activities for Your Trip? Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace where you can find cool walking tours, fun excursions, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more.

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I may earn a commission if you make a purchase. I only recommend products and companies I use. Opinions, reviews, analyses & recommendations are mine alone and have not been reviewed, endorsed, or approved by any of these entities. This page does not include all card companies or all available card offers.

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How to Travel to Africa on a Budget

Last Updated: February 13, 2024 References

This article was co-authored by Stef Katz and by wikiHow staff writer, Jessica Gibson . Stef Katz is a Travel Agent and the Founder of The Travel Superhero. She has helped clients enjoy convenience, access, personal attention, and ease in their travel planning for 6 years. Stef specializes in elevated social travel and finds ways to bring peace of mind to her travelers with open communication, genuine care, and professional support. She holds an Associate's Degree in Liberal Arts from Miami Dade College and a Bachelor's Degree in Marketing from the University of Florida, as well as numerous certifications with destinations, tour companies, and cruise lines in the travel industry. There are 15 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been viewed 31,378 times.

Vacationing in Africa has a reputation for being expensive, but it doesn't have to be! It's totally possible to book an affordable flight. From there, you can save on lodging and meals, especially if you're not afraid to backpack or eat local cuisine. We'll give you some tricks and travel hacks so you can enjoy Africa even on a tight budget.

Travel during the off-season.

• Yes, the off-season is hotter and wetter than the peak tourist season, but the rain is usually brief. To deal with the temperature, pack loose clothes that are made of breathable fabric.
• By some estimates, you could save 20% to 40% on travel expenses by traveling during the off-season. This makes it one of the most effective ways to stick to a budget!

Check out the cheapest African destinations.

• Kigali, Rwanda
• Cairo, Egypt
• Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
• Cape Coast, Ghana
• Livingstone, Zambia
• Marrakech, Morocco
• Dakar, Senegal

Find a budget airline that flies to Africa.

• Keep in mind that cheaper flights will probably have more than one stop.
• The site might show flights with budget airlines like Kulula, Fastjet, Mango, Flysafair, Fly540, JamboJet, Dana Air, Flydubai, or Skywise.

Take local transit to get around your destination.

• If you're traveling in Kenya, look for matutus. These vibrant private minibuses cover short and long distances within the country.
• To get between countries, look into riding the train. A second-class fare usually costs around the same as a similar bus fare. [4] X Research source

Camp or stay in a hostel to save money on accommodations.

• Budget hotels are also a great option if you book in advance. Use an aggregator website that searches for hotels at your destination, then ranks them by cost.
• For example, a South African hostel in the Nqileni Village runs around $10 and includes village visits, canoeing, breakfast, and other great amenities.
• If you'd rather backpack and camp, you've got tons of options. You could camp in Kenya's Hell's Gate National Park for around $70 or camp in Namibia's Naukluft National Park for about $26.
• Be careful with places that seem too cheap or shady. It's important to read up a lot about the location you plan on staying beforehand.

Sign up with a volunteer program in exchange for cheap accommodations.

• For instance, you might do community development in Tanzania for a cost of $200 USD a week or you may give musical instructions to kids in Ghana for around $650 USD a week.
• You're sure to find a program that caters to your interests. There are volunteer opportunities for sports coaching, AIDS prevention, wildlife refuges, shark conservation, and more!

Make your own food or shop at local markets.

• Avoid shopping at expat-owned supermarkets. They usually charge a premium. Instead, get the basics where the locals shop.
• Check to see if your accommodations offer meals. You might be able to eat a filling breakfast and make do with snacks later in the day. Some accommodations might also offer inexpensive dinners.
• The Centers for Disease Control recommends that you avoid drinking tap or well water while in Africa. Stick to bottled water or water that's been disinfected. [8] X Research source
• Be careful when accepting drinks from strangers. Always go for bottled drinks that are opened in front of you.

Buy a SIM card to avoid roaming fees.

• If your plan has a limit, keep track of how much data you use, so you're not surprised with charges on your next bill.
• ATM fees are another way to break your budget. If you use ATMs in Africa, you'll most likely be charged high international fees for withdrawing cash. Plus, you can't assume that you'll be able to easily find one!

Develop your haggling skills.

• Remember, be polite and have fun! Haggling in the market will be a memory you take back with you—especially if you make it fun or make a connection with someone.

Look for affordable safaris.

• For instance, a luxury safari could cost you hundreds of dollars or even thousands if you have to rent a private vehicle. By comparison, you could stay do a safari out of South Africa's Kruger National Park for $70 a night.

Visit free or inexpensive parks.

• Depending on where you're traveling, you may be able to spend time at a breathtaking beach. Check out Wimbi Beach in Mozambique or Grand Baie Public Beach in Mauritius for instance.
• If you love elephants, be sure to visit Chobe National Park which is known as the elephant capital of Africa! The entry fee is only $13.
• Want to see Mt. Kilimanjaro? Skip Kilimanjaro National Park which costs $70 a day and see the volcano from Amboseli National Park for half the price.

Plan activities that don't cost you money.

• For example, spend an afternoon walking around Morocco's famous markets in Fez, or enjoy the sounds of street musicians playing in Cape Town. [14] X Research source

Expert Q&A

• You might experience people shouting at you as soon as you get out of a bus or taxi. These people are called touts and they're usually trying to sell you something or offer a service. Don't let them give you things or take you around for a tour since they will expect you to pay—usually more than it's worth. Firmly say "no" and walk away. [15] X Research source Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
• Have physical and online copies of all your documents at all times. This is important so you don't face any problems in case you lose anything during your trip. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
• The first thing you should do is decide what's the experience you're looking for. Is it a guided tour with an opportunity to make lifelong friends or just a quick trip with your traveling partners? After answering this and figuring out your schedule, work with a traveling agent to find what you want in your budget—or the closest thing possible, if your budget is not high enough. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

• If traveling by yourself, make sure to activate the location services on your cell phone and share it with someone you trust, like a partner or a close family member. Thanks Helpful 2 Not Helpful 2

You Might Also Like

• ↑ https://ntabaafrica.com/east-africa-safari-off-season/
• ↑ https://travelnoire.com/10-cheap-tourist-destination-africa
• ↑ https://www.expatarrivals.com/africa/kenya/transport-and-driving-kenya
• ↑ https://www.lonelyplanet.com/africa/narratives/practical-information/transport/getting-around/train
• ↑ https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/jan/20/top-10-backpacker-lodges-south-africa-eastern-cape
• ↑ https://www.volunteerforever.com/article_post/cheap-affordable-volunteer-abroad-programs-low-cost-overseas-projects/
• ↑ https://www.nationalgeographic.com/traveler/extras/planner/africa/budget.html
• ↑ https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/traveler/none/south-africa
• ↑ https://umabroad.umn.edu/resources/travel/electronics
• ↑ http://hipafrica.com/features/the-art-of-haggling/
• ↑ https://www.travelandleisure.com/trip-ideas/safaris/ten-amazing-affordable-safaris
• ↑ https://national-parks.org/africa
• ↑ https://www.victoriafalls-guide.net/victoria-falls-entrance.html
• ↑ https://www.fodors.com/news/trip-ideas/how-to-fly-business-class-to-africa-for-the-price-of-an-economy-ticket
• ↑ https://www.worldnomads.com/travel-safety/africa/tanzania/dealing-with-touts-in-tanzania

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Traveling Africa on a Budget

By: Author Zachary Friedman

Posted on Last updated: February 13, 2024

Categories Africa , Travel Budgeting

Home » Africa » Traveling Africa on a Budget

Africa is a travel destination that can be as cheap or expensive as you want it to be. If you’re willing to take local transport, eat local foods, and camp, Africa is one of the cheapest places on the planet. After all, millions of people survive on the continent on less than $1 per day. On the other hand, if you want to go on safaris, take tours, and stay in decent hotels, Africa is one of the more expensive continents to travel. In this guide, I outline all of the major costs of traveling Africa on a budget.

Each section in this guide begins with a rough budget. After, I’ll break down the costs more specifically to show you where your money is going. I tend to be conservative with my travel budgets so keep that in mind. I’ll also provide some helpful money-saving tips in each section.

This guide is designed for those traveling in Africa independently. If you plan to take an overland tour, most all of your expenses will be included in the price of the tour. If you’re undecided, check out my Africa independent travel vs overland tour pros and cons list.

So far, I’ve visited 12 African countries. I have found that Africa is one of the more expensive places to travel. It is possible to visit on a backpacker’s budget. In this guide, I’ll share my budget and some money saving tips.

Table of Contents

• Safaris and Tours Budget
• African Visas
• Vaccines and Medicines Budget
• Airfare to and Within Africa

Accommodation Budget in Africa

Transportation budget in africa.

• Food and Drink Budget

Travel Insurance Budget

• Travel Gear and Additional Expenses

Volunteering in Africa Budget

Example monthly africa travel budgets, a note about atms and money tips in africa.

Safaris and Tours Budget in Africa

Safaris and tours are the most expensive part of your trip to Africa. Expensive tours are the reason that so many travelers complain about the high cost of travel in Africa. Permit costs are high. Some sites require that you take a guide. Often times, you’ll need to hire a vehicle. It all adds up.

Popular Tours and Safaris in Africa and Their Costs

• Serengeti National Park, Tanzania- This is probably the best and most famous safari park in Africa. It’s located in Tanzania. Expect to pay around $400-$500 for a 2 day one-night safari. This includes your guide, safari vehicle, and one night of accommodation in the park. Food may or may not be included.
• Maasai Mara National Park, Kenya- Located just across the border from the Serengeti, Maasai Mara offers a similar safari experience for around $300-$350. To reduce costs, check out my guide: How to Safari in the Maasai Mara for less than $200.
• Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania- Depending on route and number of days that you choose, expect to pay $1200-$2000. This includes a guide, permits, and food. If you don’t have the proper gear, you may need to rent some in Arusha or Moshi. This adds a bit of cost.
• Gorilla trekking in Uganda, DR Congo, or Rwanda- Expect to pay $800-$2000. This includes a guide, permit, and accommodation for one night. The permit for Uganda costs $600, Rwanda costs $1500, and Congo costs $400.
• Victoria Falls, Zambia and Zimbabwe- Entry on the Zimbabwe side costs $30 and entry on the Zambian side costs $20. You may also wish to hire a guide to walk you across the top of the falls to visit Angel’s or Devil’s pool. Expect to pay around $50 for this service.
• Sossusvlei, Namibia- Here, you can climb some of the largest sand dunes on the planet and visit one of the most photogenic spots in Africa, Dead Vlei. Expect to pay around $300-$400 for a tour. You can save some money by self-driving. For a step-by-step guide, check out my article: How to Visit Sossusvlei, Namibia Independently and On a Budget.
• The Omo Valley of Ethiopia- Visit the tribes. Tours from Addis Ababa go for around $1000. You can visit independently for around $200-$300. Check out my guide: How to Visit the Omo Valley for more info. Also, check out my guide to Dimeka, Ethiopia.
• Cape of Good Hope, South Africa- Day tours from Cape Town start around $25. Other activities- If you plan to bungee jump, whitewater raft, SCUBA dive, take a hot air balloon ride, etc. expect to pay $100-$200 for each activity.

How to Reduce Safari and Tour Costs

For whatever reason, Africans love pushing tours. You’ll encounter people all over the continent trying to sell their guide services. Even when a tour is completely unnecessary. In fact, most of the time it’s just a money grab. Even when guides are required.

Permits and entry tickets are also ridiculously expensive. Some are even a bit of a scam. For example, when you visit the Serengeti, you must pass through Ngorongoro National Park both when you enter and leave. Each time, you must pay the entry fee. You must pay twice even if you don’t care to see the park. That’s a $150 fee that can’t be avoided.

A few ways to cut tour costs include:

• Don’t book in advance- Every tour can be booked when you’re there. If you book online in advance, you’ll end up paying a higher price every time. For example, while traveling in Uganda, a guide approached my friend and I and tried to sell us a gorilla trekking tour for around $800. My buddy had already booked his tour in advance online and paid around $1200. The same is true with safaris. You can save at least $50-$100 by booking in person once you arrive. Tours rarely sell out.
• Negotiate hard- Prices of tours are always negotiable. You can save hundreds of dollars if you’re willing to spend the time bargaining.
• Shop around- Different tour companies cater to different types of tourists. Some cater to budget tourists while others are more high end. If you’re on a budget, shop for a budget tour. You’ll enjoy the same experience with fewer comforts.
• Find a group of people to take a tour with- This can lower your cost in a couple of ways. First, you can use your group to negotiate a lower price per person with a tour company. Second, you can put together your own tour by hiring a guide, vehicle, and booking a campsite by yourself. This is how my buddy and I were able to save around $100 on our safari in Maasai Mara in Kenya.
• Do your research and know the rules- For example, if you know a guide isn’t required, you can save yourself $50 or so for a day tour. When I went to visit Sipi Falls in Uganda, several guides approached trying to sell me their services. I knew a guide wasn’t required so I didn’t hire one. I just explored on my own.
• Choose a cheaper safari park- The animals are the same. You can save a few hundred dollars by skipping Serengeti and going to Maasai Mara instead, for example. Check out my pros and cons list to see if the savings is worth it to you.
• Skip some things- Do you value a longer trip or enjoying a specific tour? Sometimes you have to choose. For example, you could travel for an extra month or two if you forego climbing Kilimanjaro or gorilla trekking. Prioritize the activities that interest you most and skip the rest.

African Visas Budget

African visas are a significant expense that you have to budget for. The price varies depending on your nationality. Most African visas cost between $50 and $100 for a single entry visa that is valid for 30-90 days. If you want multiple entries, the cost increases. If you want a visa with a longer validity, the cost increases.

Before leaving for your trip, you’ll want to do some research on visas. Check which are available at the border on arrival and which must be arranged in advance. If you need to arrange a visa in advance, check whether you can get from an embassy while you’re traveling or if it must be obtained in your country of residence.

You can obtain most African visas either on arrival or along your journey. There are a few exceptions that you must get at home before your trip.

To make a rough estimate of visa costs for your trip, assume $75 per country that you plan to visit. You’ll probably spend less but this will give you an idea of what to budget for. For example, I visited 11 countries on my trip. 11 X $75= $825. In reality, I spent about $650 on visas.

A Note about Paying for African Visas

Pretty much all African visas must be paid for in US dollars. Local currencies are not accepted. The banknotes that you pay with must be in good condition and issued after 2004. Most borders only accept large bills in denominations of $20, $50, and $100. Be sure to bring enough cash as most borders don’t have ATMs.

I tried to pay with 1s and 5s at a couple of borders to get rid of them but was turned away. They told me to go exchange them somewhere then come back. Luckily, you’ll find a currency exchange booth near most every border. You’ll also encounter independent currency exchange guys who can sometimes give you a better rate by working on the black market.

For info on African visas by country including requirements, availability, and prices, check out my Africa Visa Guide.

How to Save Money on African Visas

• Avoid multiple entries- Try to plan your itinerary in such a way that you don’t need to enter any countries twice. This way, you’ll avoid having to pay extra for a multi-entry visa or a new visa.
• Skip countries with particularity expensive visas- The most expensive visa I had to pay for on my trip was Tanzania at $100. It wasn’t worth it. This is just one of the reasons that I’ll never return to Tanzania.
• Take Advantage of the East Africa Visa- This visa allows you to travel between Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda for up to 90 days. The cost is $100. This saves you a minimum of 30 dollars and a bit of hassle. If you buy each visa separately, you’ll spend $50 for Kenya, $50 for Uganda, and $30 for Rwanda. If you need multiple entry visas, you’d be saving even more.
• Don’t get scammed- Some immigration officials are corrupt and can solicit bribes. Sometimes, you’ll encounter a scammer offering to help you with the visa. The best way to avoid getting scammed is to know the cost of the visa before you arrive at the border and have patience. For more info, check out my guide: 19 Common Travel Scams and How to Avoid Them.

While traveling from Ethiopia to South Africa overland, I spent about $650 on visas alone. I travel on a US passport. For most European nationalities, the cost will be about the same. I’m currently planning a West Africa trip and expect to spend over $1200 on visas and related expenses. As you can see, this expense is significant enough that you need to consider it while traveling Africa on a budget.

Vaccines and Medicines Budget for Travel in Africa

Before traveling to Africa, chances are you’ll need to get a few travel vaccines and medications to help you stay healthy during your trip. Which vaccines you need depends on where you’re planning to travel, for how long, and the activities that you plan to participate in. Some vaccines are required and some are recommended. Some you’ve probably already had. The cost of these varies greatly by country. In some places, they’re free and in some, they cost hundreds of dollars.

Recommended Travel Vaccines for Africa and their Costs

To get most travel vaccines, you must visit a travel clinic. Your regular doctor’s office usually doesn’t stock them. I recommend you visit a clinic that is operated by your city or state government. Prices will be lower than in private clinics. The staff can direct you as to which vaccines you’ll need for your specific trip. The following prices are for the US. They are generally cheaper in other parts of the world.

• Yellow Fever- This is the most important one because it’s an entry requirement for many African countries. Unfortunately, it’s often the most expensive. Expect to pay $150-$200.
• Typhoid- This one is available in oral or injection form. Expect to pay $30-$50.
• Hepatitis A- This disease is transmitted through contaminated food or water. Expect to pay around $100 for the vaccine.
• Rabies- This one is only recommended if you plan to travel in rural areas or participate in outdoor activities.
• Cholera- This one is only recommended if you plan to travel in rural areas or participate in outdoor activities.
• Meningitis (Meningococcal)- While the risk is pretty low, you should consider getting this vaccine if you plan to travel to a place where Meningitis is present. Expect to pay $100-$150.

In addition to the above, you should also make sure that all of your routine vaccines are up to date. Check your vaccine history and make sure that you didn’t miss any during childhood. Your health insurance should cover the cost of routine vaccines. Disease rates are significantly higher in Africa so you want to make sure that you’re protected.

If you don’t already have any of the above travel vaccines, budget $400-$500 to get them. It’s expensive but the good news is that most of these vaccines last for many years or even a lifetime.

How to Save Money on a Yellow Fever Vaccine

Consider waiting until you arrive in Africa to get your Yellow Fever vaccine. In some countries, you can get the vaccine at the airport when you arrive for a fraction of the price of getting it back home. You could save over $150 this way.

Before you do this, be sure to do your research. You don’t want to be denied entry because you don’t have your yellow fever vaccine which is required in some countries. Also, know that the Yellow Fever vaccine takes around 10 days to become effective. You won’t be protected during that time.

Malaria Tablet Budget for Africa

Malaria still kills hundreds of thousands of people per year. Including some tourists. While traveling in much of sub-Saharan Africa, you’ll want to take prophylaxis if you’re visiting a malaria zone. You have three options in terms of tablets. Each has its own pros and cons. Prices also vary. Options include:

• Malarone (Atovaquone/Proguanil)- This is the most expensive but has the fewest side effects. It is taken daily. Expect to pay around $5 per day.
• Doxycycline- This is the cheapest option. It is effective against most types of malaria and is taken daily. This is the malaria tablet I use. Expect to pay around $0.50 per day.
• Lariam (Mefloquine)- This is the most convenient option as you only have to take it once per week. Unfortunately, many travelers complain about side effects. Expect to pay around $0.75 per day.

As you can see, prices vary widely. To help you decide which is best for your situation, visit a travel clinic for a malaria consultation. This usually costs $30-$50. Budget around $30 per month on malaria prophylaxis if you don’t take Malarone (Atovaquone/Proguanil).

How to Cut your Malaria Tablet Budget

Consider purchasing your malaria tablets when you arrive in Africa. I waited until I arrived in Ethiopia to purchase a 4 month supply of doxycycline for less than $10.

Airfare Budget for Travel to and Within Africa

Airfare to and around Africa is expensive. There are simply fewer travelers which means fewer flights and more expensive tickets. Your airfare will be a major chunk of your Africa travel budget.

Of course, the cost of your flight to Africa depends on where you’re starting from. Most flights to Africa originate in Europe or the Middle East. If you’re traveling from outside those regions, you’ll probably have a layover somewhere along your journey.

For a round trip ticket to Africa from the US, expect to pay $1200-$2000. Tickets from Europe and the Middle East are cheaper. Expect to pay around $500-$1000 for a round trip ticket.

Air travel within Africa is expensive for the same reason. One way fights between African capitals often run around $200-$300.

Domestic flights within larger African countries are often more affordable. Even then, the bus is always significantly cheaper.

Tips to Reduce Your Africa Airfare Budget

• Fly into a major hub in Africa- Choose a major African city to start your journey in. Flights are cheaper. Nairobi, Addis Ababa, Johannesburg, Dakar, and Cairo are a few good cities to fly into.
• Fly from a city with a lot of flights to Africa- London, Pairs, Frankfurt, Istanbul, and Dubai are a few of the cities which offer numerous flights all over the African continent. Prices in these cities are more reasonable due to higher supply. You can save money by taking a budget flight to your nearest major hub first then catching your long haul flight to Africa.
• Fly with a low-cost or budget airline- The African airline with the most reasonable prices is probably Ethiopian Airlines. Kenyan Airways also offers some decent prices. Keep an eye out for deals- Occasionally airlines offers specials on flights to Africa. It pays to shop around.
• Take the bus instead of flying- Once you’re in Africa, avoid flights. Just travel overland if possible. For example, I traveled from Addis Ababa to Nairobi overland* for about $40. The same flight costs around $200.

Accommodation in Africa is expensive. Particularly when you consider the quality you get for your money. If you’re traveling alone and plan to stay in budget accommodation every night, expect to spend around $20-$30 per night on average.

In this section, I’ll outline each of your African accommodation options and their cost per night. I’ll offer some tips to lower your accommodation cost.

African Hotels Budget

I’ll start off by going on a bit of a rant. African hotels are a rip-off. A basic, run-down hotel room that hasn’t been updated since 1960 can cost $25-$50 per night. Often, that’s the cheapest option in town. Paying this much for such low quality is particularly annoying when you consider what you could get for the same price in Southeast Asia or Latin America.

You’ll encounter three types of hotels while traveling in Africa. Listed in order of cheapest to most expensive they are:

• Basic hotels- You’ll find these in small villages and rural areas. They are basically just a small room with a bed and maybe a table and chair. Bathrooms are shared. Some don’t have running water so they bring you a bucket to bathe. Expect to pay $2-$10 per night for a basic African hotel room.
• Standard budget hotels- This is your typical hotel with a private bathroom, bed, and maybe a tv. Most have hot water. You’ll find these hotels in any decent-sized city. Expect to pay $20-$40 per night for a standard budget hotel room in Africa.
• High-end hotels or lodges- Larger cities and tourist cites offer high-end accommodation options with all of the facilities you expect a hotel to have. Prices start around $150 per night and go up from there.

Tips to Save Money on African Hotels

• Don’t book in advance- Prices are significantly higher online. Most of the time, hotels don’t even check their online reservations. These places rarely fill up in Africa. You can save a nice chunk of money by just showing up.
• Negotiate hard- Hotel prices are almost always negotiable in Africa. If you’re staying multiple days, try to negotiate a price for the full stay to get yourself a lower nightly rate.
• Stay outside of the city center or in less desirable neighborhoods- Hotels in these areas are cheaper. For example, I stayed in Eastleigh in Nairobi for a couple of days for $12 per night in a room with a private bathroom and tv. That’s cheaper than a hostel dorm.
• Split the cost with another traveler- If you can share the room with someone else, it becomes more affordable. Hotels are the main reason that solo travel in Africa is so expensive.
• Shop around- Africans love to overcharge foreigners. If you ask around at a few hotels, you may find an honest one that offers you a room at a reasonable price.

Hostels in Africa

Hostels are still pretty uncommon in Africa. Having said that, most capital cities and tourist areas have at least a hostel or two. Expect to pay $10-$15 per night for a bed in a dorm room.

Overall, the facilities are fine. Most African hostels include a basic breakfast in the price. They generally have decent wifi. Most have hot water. Hospitality is excellent in Africa.

Camping in Africa

While traveling in Africa, I recommend you travel with a tent  or some kind of camping shelter. You can greatly reduce your Africa travel budget and have some unforgettable experiences while camping in the bush.

Many African hotels and hostels allow you to camp in their compound for a reduced rate. For example, if a room costs $40, maybe you can camp outside for $10. This is a significant savings. In this case, you still have access to the restroom and other facilities.

While visiting a national park or going on safari, many times your only accommodation options are camping or staying in a fancy safari lodge that charges well over $100 per night. In this case, camping is almost a necessity for most budget travelers.

Most African campgrounds charge around $10-$25 per night. If you have your own tent, expect to pay toward the lower end of this range. If you need to rent a tent, prices are higher.

For those more adventurous travelers, you can also wild camp in parts of Africa. If you decide to do this, I recommend you be very careful about choosing a campsite. You don’t want to stay on someone’s land or be discovered in the night. A good alternative is to ask local villagers if they know of a spot where you can camp for the night. Usually, you’ll be given a safe spot in the village.

Some of my best memories of my trip are camping. Viewing the Milky Way while camping in the middle of the Namib Desert while visiting Sossusvlei is an unforgettable experience. I also camped in Serengeti National Park in Tanzania and just outside of Maasai Mara National park in Kenya. Both nights were spectacular.

Airbnb in Africa

If you’re looking to stay in a larger city for more than a week or so, check Airbnb. Many hosts offer long term discounts. A room can end up costing less than a hotel. Plus, you’ll get access to a kitchen and other facilities. Expect to pay $10-$20 per night for a private room in an apartment. You can also find private apartments for just a bit more.

Long Term Accommodation Cost in Africa

If you want to travel in Africa on an extremely tight budget, like less than $800 per month , you can if you don’t travel around too much. By staying in long term accommodation, you can travel in Africa on a low budget.

In small villages, you can rent a basic room for as little as $20 per month. As I said earlier, millions of people survive on the continent for next to nothing. If you’re frugal and not too concerned with comfort, you can travel in Africa on very little.

In larger cities, you can find a decent studio apartment for as little as $150-$300 per month. This will probably be outside of the city center but it will be secure.

Another good place to look for long term accommodation is Airbnb. Many hosts offer major monthly discounts. Sometimes as much as 50% off the normal rate. While this is more expensive than renting, it is much easier and convenient. You can rent a room for around $200-$300 per month in many cities.

Even though transportation is pretty affordable in Africa, costs add up because the continent is so large. Traveling from one tourist destination to another can take days. Your transportation budget while traveling in Africa depends on how fast you want to travel and your desired level of comfort.

On average expect to pay $20-40 for an international bus journey between two capital cities. The price depends on the distance and the quality of the bus. For domestic journeys, assume around $1-$2 per hour of travel.

If you don’t mind squeezing into a minibus for hours or days on end, you can get around pretty cheaply. If you only have a limited amount of time to travel and you need to fly to cover some legs of your journey, costs increase significantly.

Shared Taxi or Minibus Travel Budget in Africa

This is the main mode of transport across Africa. It’s how the locals get around. Shared taxis and minibusses travel both within and between cities. They operate on set routes and just run back and forth all day. Expect to pay between 50 cents and $1.50 per hour of travel when traveling between cities. You’ll pay about the same to cross a large city.

When you travel long distance by minibus, you’ll have to make transfers. Most intercity minibuses travel back and forth between two towns that are several hours apart. Once they reach their destination, you get out and find a minibus on toward your destination. Sometimes you pay once and sometimes you must pay each driver separately. This is a hassle, but it’s the cheapest way to get around.

Money-saving tip: Minibus drivers love to overcharge foreigners. Be sure to ask the price before accepting a ride. You can also ask a fellow passenger how much the ride should cost. If the driver tries to overcharge you, negotiate hard. As a foreigner, you’ll usually end up paying a bit more than the locals.

If the driver tries to blatantly rip you off, just wait for another minibus to come by. In most situations, you’ll find one within 15 minutes. Of course, there are routes with only one bus per day. In this case, you may just have to accept that you’re overpaying.

Africa Bus Travel Budget

For many longer journeys, coach services are available. Expect to pay $1.50-$2 per hour of travel. Most long-distance coach tickets usually end up costing $20-$40. For example, a ticket from Nairobi, Kenya to Kampala, Uganda  usually costs about $25.

If coach service is available for your desired route, I recommend you take it instead of a minibus for several reasons. First, prices are set. This means that you don’t have to negotiate. You also get to enjoy relative comfort. Some coaches even have AC. Coaches are also safer. Africans often drive pretty fast.

For more info on coach and minibus travel including pricing and step-by-step guides to some of the most popular routes on the continent, check out my Ultimate African Bus Guide.

Train Travel Budget in Africa

Train routes around Africa are limited. Schedules are often unpredictable due to maintenance and break downs. Expect prices similar to the bus, around $1-$2 per hour of travel.

Train travel in Africa is an experience. If you have the choice on a particular route, I recommend choose the train over the bus. A few popular African train routes include:

• Victoria Falls to Bulawayo or Harare in Zimbabwe
• Iron Ore train in Mauritania
• Cairo to Aswan in Egypt

I’ve only enjoyed one African train journey so far. To read about my experience, check out my guide: How to Travel Between Victoria Falls, Bulawayo and Harare by train.

Ferry Travel Budget in Africa

One ferry journey that many travelers will make in Africa is the trip to Zanzibar from Dar es Salaam. A round trip ticket on the fast ferry costs about $70-$80.

Several other ferry trips are possible on Lake Victoria and Lake Malawi. If you’re traveling in West Africa, you’ll cross a number of rivers by boat or ferry. Ticket prices vary. Expect to pay anything from a dollar or two to $50 or so for longer journies. 

Uber or other Rideshare Apps in Africa

Ridesharing is surprisingly popular in Africa. Uber operates in many large cities on the continent. Many cities also have their own rideshare apps which are often cheaper. Some even offer motorcycle taxi services.

Expect to pay $3-$5 for an average length ride half way across town. For a longer ride to the other side of a city, expect to pay $8-$10.

If ridesharing is available where you’re traveling, I recommend you use it over Taxis. Prices are lower, you don’t have to negotiate, and you’re less likely to encounter a scammer or shady driver. All of the drivers that I met were honest and friendly. I can’t say the same of taxi drivers.

Self Drive Cost in Africa

If you prefer to have your own wheels, you have several options in Africa. You can:

• Rent a car or 4×4 and drive yourself- Rental costs vary by location and vehicle type. For a basic economy car, expect to pay around $40-$50 per day. I rented a car in Namibia for $43 per day when I visited Sossusvlei.
• Buy a car or motorcycle and drive it through Africa- If you’re feeling really adventurous, you can buy a vehicle or ship your own to Africa and explore the continent with your own wheels. This type of travel is called Overlanding. For a trip like this, you must consider the cost of the vehicle, maintenance, gas, insurance, and all necessary documents such as a carnet de passage.

Hiring a Driver in Africa

If you want the freedom of having your own vehicle, but don’t want to actually drive yourself, you can hire a driver in Africa. Expect to pay $50-$150 per day for a car and driver.

I realize that this is a large range but the price varies greatly by country and type of vehicle required. For example, some routes require 4 wheel drive to navigate.

Bicycle Touring in Africa

Bicycle touring  is becoming more and more popular. Probably because it’s just so economical. Traveling by bicycle cuts your transportation budget to almost nothing. All you need to worry about is the cost of maintenance.

Of course, there are quite a few upfront costs to bicycle touring such as buying a bike, tools, and panniers or bags. All in, you’re probably looking at around $2000 for a decent touring setup.

For my next trip to Africa, I’m considering traveling with a folding bike to cut my transportation budget. This way, I’ll be able to enjoy the benefits of bus travel for long-distance journeys and bicycle travel for local transport.

Food and Drink Budget while Traveling in Africa

Overall, food prices are very reasonable in Africa. You can maintain a healthy, filling diet on about $150-$200 per month. This includes mostly local foods with the occasional western meal.

If you only eat local foods and cook for yourself on occasion, you could get by with a food budget of $80-$100 per month. In Africa, you can enjoy a nice local meal at a small roadside restaurant for around $1-$2.

Common African foods include:

• Various stews

After a while, basic African foods get a bit boring in my opinion. The cuisine just isn’t that exciting. It’s nice to splurge once in a while and treat yourself to a western or Indian meal. Expect to pay $5-$10 for a decent sized portion of spaghetti, pizza, burger and fries, or a nice curry.

Drink Budget in Africa

Drinking water budget in africa.

Because of the heat, you will drink a lot of water while traveling in Africa. Unfortunately, tap water isn’t potable through most of the continent. Bottled water is available everywhere. Expect to pay $0.50-$1 per liter.

Water Budget Tip: Travel with a Water Filter

Assuming you drink 2 liters of water per day, you’ll spend a $30-$60 per month on drinking water alone. This is just too much. A water filter is almost an essential piece of gear while traveling in Africa. You can use your water filter to make tap water or water from a river or stream to safe to drink. A good filter will pay for itself in less than a month. I like the Sawyer Mini. It filters out bacteria, protozoa, and debris. Check out my full review of the filter here.

Alcohol Budget in Africa

The most popular alcoholic beverage in Africa is probably beer. It’s sold everywhere. Most every country has its own national brew for you to try. Expect to pay around $1-$1.5 for a beer on average.

The cheapest and best beer I found in Africa was in Ethiopia where a bottle costs only 50 cents. Beer in Kenya was the most expensive and most disappointing in terms of taste. I paid $2-$3 per beer in Nairobi.

In Uganda, you can buy 100ml bags of spirits for around $1-$2. They don’t taste that great but it’s probably the cheapest way to get a buzz.

If you decide to travel through Ethiopia, be sure to try the honey wine called tej. This sweet homemade beverage is served in small roadside stands where people congregate to drink. Expect to pay $1-$2 for a large bottle.

Coca Cola products are available seemingly everywhere in Africa. Even in the smallest villages in the Omo Valley of Ethiopia. Expect to pay around $0.50-1.50 for a cold glass bottle of coke or sprite.

Travel insurance is optional but highly recommended. Africa is such an unpredictable place to travel with risks that other destinations just don’t have. For example, your bus could break down and leave you stranded for a day, causing you to miss a flight. You could contract a bad strain of malaria and end up in the hospital for a few days. You could get mugged. Travel insurance can save you money in the event of one of these unfortunate occurrences.

Additional Travel Gear Budget

While traveling in Africa, you should pack all of your important gear from home. Don’t expect to wait until you arrive to buy any important items. Finding quality gear in much of Africa can be a challenge. Imported items are more expensive in Africa as well due to high import costs. The only country where you can pretty easily buy whatever gear you need is South Africa.

For example, if you need a new pair of shoes, you’ll probably need to travel to a capital city to find a shop that sells name brands. Once you’re there, you’ll notice that prices are significantly higher than they are back home. It’s also hard to determine what is genuine what is a Chinese knockoff.

Most travelers already have all of the necessary gear for traveling in Africa. If you need help with packing, check out my ultralight travel packing list.

A few additional items you may need for travel in Africa include:

• A tent or other camping shelter- As mentioned earlier, camping in Africa can save you a good amount of money. Look for an ultralight option. I have the Big Agnes Fly Creek HV UL 1 and am really happy with it. Check out my review here.  
• Water filter- This small piece of gear can save you hundreds of dollars over the course of a long trip. 
• Mosquito net – Most hotel rooms have one but some don’t. It’ s a good idea to pack your own just in case.
• Extra credit and debit card- If your card is lost or stolen, you’ll want to have a backup. Getting a replacement could be a challenge as receiving mail in many African countries is expensive and time consuming.
• Spare glasses and contacts- While you can buy new glasses and contacts in Africa, it’s a hassle and expense that is best avoided. It’s best to just bring some spares. For more tips, check out my guide: Tips for Travel with Glasses and Contacts.
• Money belt- In Africa, you need to carry quite a bit of cash. You need to pay for expensive visas and sometimes ATMs aren’t very readily available. I recommend you use a money belt to keep your cash, passport, cards, and other small valuables hidden. This will reduce the risk of losing it in the event of a mugging or robbery. I like the Eagle Creek Silk Undercover money belt. For more info, check out my full review here.

Many travelers choose to pair volunteer work with their travels in Africa. They work for a charity organization for a few weeks or months then travel independently after. I recommend skipping the volunteer work for the following reasons:

• Volunteer programs are expensive- Many of these volunteer programs charge over $1000 per month. Personally, I can’t imagine paying someone to work for them. It just seems illogical. I do understand paying a small fee of a couple of dollars per day to cover food and accommodation but anything beyond that feels like they’re taking advantage. 
• Volunteer work often does more harm than good- Most volunteers are unskilled. They can’t contribute in any meaningful way. In fact, volunteer work often takes jobs that locals could preform. If you want to help, donating money to a legitimate charity is generally much more productive than volunteering. Of course, there are exceptions. Skilled volunteers like doctors and engineers can do a lot of good.
• Many African charities are scams- Corruption is so bad in Africa that finding a legitimate charity can be a challenge in itself. Much of your work and money will just go toward lining some corrupt official’s pocket. You can do more good by supporting local businesses with your tourist dollars.

Most travelers can comfortably travel Africa on a budget of $1400-$1800 per month. This includes airfare, safaris, tours, food accommodation, and all other necessary expenses. On this budget, you’ll eat good, see most of the main sites, and travel in relative comfort. Of course, you’ll miss out on some of the more expensive or luxury activities.

Here is the breakdown of an average Africa travel budget:

• Accommodation- $20 per day equals $600 per month. On this budget, you can stay in budget hotels most nights with the occasional night couchsurfing, camping, sleeping in a hostel, or AirBnb.
• Food- $200 per month. On this budget, you’ll eat mostly local foods with the occasional higher-end or western meal. You may wish to prepare some of your own meals to balance costs if you like to eat out more.
• Drinks- $100. Enjoy a couple of beers in the evening or a soda with your meal.
• Transportation- $100 per month. On this budget, you’ll travel mostly by bus or minibus with the occasional taxi or Uber. You won’t fly within the continent on this budget.
• Visas – $100 per month. This is assuming you visit about 1-2 countries per month.
• Flight- The cost per month depends on the length of your trip. Assuming you spend $1200 on a ticket and travel for 6 months, you’ll spend $200 per month.
• Safaris and tours- Assuming you travel for 6 months and visit some of the more expensive destinations, you’ll spend $1800. That comes out to $300 per month.
• Additional travel gear- budget around $100 per month for replacement items. Sometimes things get broken, lost, or stolen. For example, if your phone gets pickpocketed , you can buy a new one out of this budget.

If you add this all up, it comes out to $1600 per month. Your monthly budget will be lower if you travel longer. The cost per month of your flight and tours decreases when you divide it between more months. If your trip is shorter, you’ll spend more per month.

Of course, it is possible to travel in Africa on a much lower budget as well. To achieve this, you’ll have to skip the expensive tours and seek cheaper accommodation. Some destinations may be inaccessible because of the high cost.

Breakdown of Costs While Traveling Africa on a Budget

• Accommodation- $10 dollars per day equals $300 per month. On this budget, you’ll be able to stay in basic hotels occasionally. To balance the cost, you’ll have to couchsurf, camp, and stay in hostels where available.
• Food- $100 per month. Your diet will mostly consist of local food with the occasional western meal. You’ll also need to prepare some of your own meals.
• Visas- $100 per month. This is assuming you visit 1-2 countries per month.
• Transportation- $50 per month. To cut your transportation budget, you’ll have to travel slower and take minibusses instead of expensive taxis.
• Flight- $1200 or $200 per month for a 6 month trip.
• Safaris and tours- $0. If you’re on a low budget, you’ll just skip these. Additional gear- $50 per month for replacement of lost, stolen, or broken gear.

If you add this all up, it comes out to $800 per month. You can further reduce this Africa travel budget by traveling slow. By staying in one place longer, you can find significantly cheaper accommodation. For example, you could rent a basic room for less than $100 per month in many 2nd tier cities. Traveling slower also reduces your cost of transportation and visas.

It’s possible to cut your Africa travel budget to around $500 per month if you’re frugal. While you’d be living a pretty basic existence, this is still 5 times more than millions of people live on.

My Africa Travel Budget

Over the course of about 4 months, I traveled from Addis Ababa to Cape Town overland by bus. I ended up spending about $4000. This includes all food, accommodation, tours, and transportation. It does not include my airfare which I got for free through credit card points. Had I paid my own airfare, it would have cost me around $1000 round trip from Los Angeles.

During my trip, I skipped two major tours. I did not hike Mount Kilimanjaro and I did not go gorilla trekking. These are both $1200+ tours that I decided to skip to reduce my Africa travel budget.

My one regret is skipping the gorilla trekking tour. I hope to travel to DR Congo on my next trip to see the mountain gorillas in Virunga National Park.

As an alternative to Kilimanjaro, I’d like to climb Mount Kenya on my next trip to East Africa. The permit price is much lower.

Overall, the money situation is a bit more tricky in Africa than many other travel destinations. Credit cards aren’t as widely accepted. You need to carry cash.

Luckily, ATMs are fairly easy to come by in Africa. This makes withdrawing local currency pretty easy. All larger cities have ATMs. Many small towns surprisingly have an ATM as well. For example, I was surprised to find a working ATM in Jinka in the Omo Valley of Ethiopia. I also used one in Karonga, a small town in northern Malawi.

A Few Africa Money Tips

• Carry some cash as a backup- If you find yourself in a place without a working ATM or if your debit card gets lost or stolen, you need to be able to get by until you’re able to get more cash. I recommend carrying at minimum $500 in USD in denominations of 20,50, and 100. You can exchange them anywhere for local currency. You can use these to buy visas as well.
• Plan cash withdraws ahead- If you’re traveling to a rural area, withdraw enough cash from the ATM to support yourself until you make it to another city. Small villages don’t have banks.
• Know the exchange rates- If you need to exchange money, you want to shop around or negotiate the best rate. You also need to know what things cost so you don’t overpay.
• Do your research- In some countries, it is difficult or impossible to get cash from an ATM. For example, when I arrived in Zimbabwe, I found that all of the ATMs were empty. In Sudan, you can’t use foreign cards at the ATM. You must bring enough cash to last you the duration of your stay.
• Carry backup cards- Keep them separated so if you lose one, you may not lose the other. You need to have access to your money.

Final Thoughts on Traveling Africa on a Budget

In general, Africa is one of the more expensive travel destinations. When you factor in the high price of flights and safaris, you’re paying more to travel in Africa than you would to visit Latin America, Southeast Asia, or even much of Europe.

On the other hand, if you’re traveling long term and don’t care about seeing the main tourist sites, Africa is probably the cheapest place in the world to travel. You could get by on just a few dollars per day.

Personally, I believe the experience of traveling in Africa is well worth the cost. I completely fell in love with the continent. It’s my favorite continent that I have traveled.

Are you planning to travel to Africa on a budget? Share your plans in the comments below!

More Africa Guides from Where The Road Forks

• How to Plan a Cairo to Cape Town Trip
• 13 Best Things to do in Nairobi
• 5 Incredible Things to Do in Uganda
• Why Nairobi is the Best African City
• Scams in Ethiopia: My Afternoon with a Con Man
• 15 Great Rift Valley Lakes to Visit in East Africa

Zachary Friedman is an accomplished travel writer and professional blogger. Since 2011, he has traveled to 66 countries and 6 continents. He founded ‘Where The Road Forks’ in 2017 to provide readers with information and insights based on his travel and outdoor recreation experience and expertise. Zachary is also an avid cyclist and hiker. Living as a digital nomad, Zachary balances his professional life with his passions for hiking, camping, cycling, and worldwide exploration. For a deeper dive into his journey and background, visit the About page. For inquiries and collaborations, please reach out through the Contact page. You can also follow him on Facebook.

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Saturday 18th of March 2023

This is so much information to plan my trip to Africa. I live in Africa so I will spend less on Visas. However, I wanted to ask if the east Africa Visa you talked about is open to everyone as I stay in west Arica?

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Beyond Safaris: Affordable Travel in Africa

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Below you'll find average travel costs by country. You can dig in to each country for specific details about cities in each country, too. We also have costs for hotels, hostels, and tours for Africa.

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Africa , Budget Travel Ideas

9 cheapest countries to travel in africa.

Correct me if I’m wrong, but I really think that most people have a strong perception that travelling in Africa is cheap.

And I’m guessing this is something to do with the economic disadvantage many of the countries in this continent suffer, coupled with the presumption that places where less tourists go tend to be cheaper.

But sadly, I’m here to bring you the news that it’s just not the case. Or at least not always.

Indeed many travellers tend to be shocked by the costs of travelling in Africa, where lack of infrastructure, remote locations, few tourist numbers, a high risk backdrop and let’s be honest, often corruption, can all hike the prices.

This isn’t to say if you do many things the local way, such as buses and food, you can travel cheaply in Africa.

It’s just that if you want to enjoy some of the experiences that are more geared towards tourists – like hotel or lodge stays, safaris or adrenaline sports (which let’s be honest most of us do) this can really send your budget soaring.

But fear not!

As you know, I love Africa travel and have adventured across 16 nations in this continent (with more planned of course).

What this means, is that I have a fair idea of the real costs of travelling this continent, and with that experience behind me I’m bringing you this list of the cheapest countries to travel in Africa… so here’s my top 9!

Related Posts

• 55 Best Things to Do in Africa
• 5 Unforgettable Africa Itineraries
• Ultimate Female Packing List for Africa

This page contains affiliate links meaning Big World Small Pockets may receive a small commission on any purchases at no extra cost to you.

Prices and currency conversions given in this article are correct at the time of publication.

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We’re going to kick off this list in Northern Africa because, for tourists at least, this can be the cheapest end of the continent.

And straight into number 1, it’s that classic budget traveller favourite, Morocco.

Edging the Mediterranean, Morocco is only a short distance from Spain and, as such, is incredibly cheap to get to, either care of a budget flight or a (more ecological) train and boat journey from Europe .

TOP BUDGET TIP: I always use Skyscanner to find the cheapest flights, including via budget airlines, and use Trainline to find the cheapest trains / buses across Europe.

This is the first reason Morocco is on this list.

But the bargains don’t end there, because Morocco is also super cheap to travel in once you arrive.

Dorm beds in hostels can be picked up across the country for as little as £5 / $6 USD and usually include a free breakfast.

In addition, local food in restaurants and cafes, such a delicious vegetable tagine, can be found for around 40-80 Dirham, which is about £2 / $3 USD, while a delicious mint tea or coffee will set you back just 5-10 Dirham, aka under a pound / dollar.

Trains and local buses are easy and cheap to use across the country too and even car rental is affordable, which makes exploring the diverse landscape and ancient cities of this country very accessible.

Learning more about Morocco’s rich culture is also easy with museum entries and local hammam experiences cost only around 10-20 Dirham – again around a pound or a dollar.

What can start to hike prices in Morocco however are tours, such as those to the Sahara or into the Atlas Mountains. The key here is joining a budget group tour, doing as much as you can via local transport and then haggling as much as you can!

Here’s a well priced tour overnight camel tour to Erg Chebbi Dunes that will give you some idea of costs

And the haggling doesn’t stop there!

No one can visit Morocco without picking a few souvenirs, so hone those skills well enough and you can pick up some real bargains!

All in all, Morocco is definitely one of the cheapest countries to visit in Africa and here’s my list of the 21 best things to do in this fabulously diverse country.

Morocco Estimated Daily Budget for Shoestring Traveller: £30 / $40 USD

And sticking with the North African theme, although moving slightly east, we come to Tunisia, another definite spot on any list of the cheapest countries to travel in Africa.

Long a preferred package destination for many European travellers, Tunisia has sadly experienced a great amount of civil and political unrest in recent years that seriously put traditional tourists off.

As such the industry near-collapsed and despite peace and stability once again having been largely restored, Tunisia’s travel title as a safe destination has not.

While extremely unfortunate, this does mean travel to and within Tunisia is extremely cheap right now and budget travellers can have an amazing time discovering this nation’s beautiful landscapes and dazzling deserts.

Cheap airline flights can be picked up from across Europe, or for those looking to cut their carbon footprints, boats to Sicily in Italy are an easy and short ride.

Budget guesthouses in Tunisia can be found for as little as £10 / $12 USD per night per double, while food at local eateries costs around only £1-3 / $2-4 USD.

Visits to some of the historical sights in Tunisia are a bargain, with entrance to El Jem, for example, setting you back just £6 / $5 USD and you can easily take local shared minibuses, known as a louage, around the country for a few dollars.

It’s totally possible to avoid more expensive organised tours in Tunisia and you should do this if you want to keep your budget low, because they normally involve a private driver which can cost up to £100 / $130 USD day.

Instead, tour guides for specific attractions can be sought out in local areas for around £15 / $13 USD.

Tunisia Estimated Daily Budget for Shoestring Traveller: £30 / $35 USD

And moving further east still, we come to Egypt, absolutely one of the cheapest countries to travel in Africa, if not the whole world!

Seriously, out of all the places I’ve been, there’s no question Egypt comes in as one of the biggest bargains going.

Even private rooms in hostels and budget guesthouses here can be picked up for as little as £6 / $7 USD and long-distance trains between major cities such as Luxor and Cairo are only £11 / $13 USD in first class!

While I have to admit I didn’t find Egyptian cuisine the best, it is certainly cheap and the national favourite of Koshari (essentially a mix of rice, lentils, macaroni and tomato sauce) can be wolfed down for as little as £2 / $3 USD.

Then, of course, there’s the sightseeing, because who can come to a country like Egypt and miss out on some of the major historical treasures they have here?!

Seriously when you get to somewhere like the pyramids, where entrance costs just £5 / $6 USD, it’s to hard believe you can really access this site for so little!

Another reason Egypt is one of the cheapest countries to travel in Africa is the fact you don’t need to take tours or guides to see the sights, sometimes, as in the case of Abu Simbel, they are even included in the ticket price.

But if you do want to take a day tour of the tombs and temples, for example, it’s good to know these can be picked up for as little as £13 / £15 USD.

I even scored an amazingly cheap Nile cruise when I was in Egypt – found out how here – and also got to dive the red sea for as little as £20 / $23 USD per dive.

No question therefore, that Egypt is definitely one of the cheapest countries to visit in Africa.

Egypt Estimated Daily Budget for Shoestring Traveller: £25 / $30 USD

And now we start on our journey south, as we move from Egypt overland into Sudan!

Yes this is exactly what I did back in 2018 (albeit in the other direction i.e. from Sudan to Egypt ) before president Bashir was overthrown, but from what I hear from other travellers, Sudan is just as safe and cheap as ever for travellers.

Seriously rivalling Egypt for the title of the cheapest country to travel in Africa, if not the world, things in Sudan are insanely cheap – a sad reflection of the desperate economic situation that has engulfed the country.

When I was in Sudan, I actually found a guesthouse where the price for a bed was £0.75 / $1 USD and with a limited menu (especially for vegetarians) the national dish of ful – basically beans with bread and peanut oil – also costs less than $1 everywhere you go.

Buses in Sudan are amazingly comfortable and still crazy cheap, setting you back just a few dollars for rides that take several hours. There are also trains in the country, but as they cost much the same and are slower and dirtier, why bother?!

Many people, myself included come to see the amazing Nubian pyramids in Sudan, which are free to enter – lying semi-abandoned in the desert – and there’s no need to take a tour.

In fact, I didn’t take any tours while in Sudan, saw everything independently and only spent money on food, coffee, water, guesthouses, buses and the odd camel ride.

There’s literally nothing else to spend your money on in this country, including alcohol, which is illegal under Sudan’s strict Sharia law.

Does it get any cheaper than Sudan? I think not!

Sudan Estimated Daily Budget for Shoestring Traveller:£10-20 / $13-25 USD

And now we really begin moving south into one of my favourite African countries, the mighty Kenya.

With so much diversity contained within its borders, Kenya is a feast for those looking to sample this continent for the first time, with hiking mountains, discovering amazing national parks, spotting insane wildlife and strolling along beautiful beaches all easy to experience.

Due to recent political disruption, Kenya tourism has slumped… and so too have the prices.

This is now one of the cheapest countries to safari in and with choices as fabulous as Amboseli National Park, Nakuru National Park and the world-famous Masai Mara – found out why it’s my favourite safari destination here – there’s no question Kenya is one of the best too.

3 day / 2 night safari trips to some of these big name parks can be found for around £350 / $410 USD and this includes food, safari drives, guides, entrance and accommodation – usually of the budget camping variety!

If you’re not camping in Kenya, because you’re basing yourself in cities or towns, then dorm beds in this country cost around £8 / $10 USD a night, which is a bargain, especially at the coast, given you’ll be nestled among some posh resorts at some beautiful beachy spots like Diani.

Read More: Full Review of Diani Beach Backpackers

Local food on the street or from small shops in Kenya will set you back around £10-15 / $15-20 per day if you’re doing it cheaply, and local buses / boats are even less.

Don’t forget budget flights can also be snapped up in Kenya – as an example, you can get flights between Nairobi and Mombasa for around £35 / $45 USD – and tuk-tuks or motorbike taxis (called boda-boda) will take you everywhere within small cities or towns for just a few Kenyan shillings.

Yes, Kenya is definitely one of the cheapest countries in Africa and a great option if you are looking to combine safari with the sea!

Kenya Estimated Daily Budget for Shoestring Traveller: £45 / $55 USD – activity dependent

And just next door to Kenya, is the equally amazing safari destination of Uganda, which is also one of the cheapest countries to travel in Africa if you want to enjoy the amazing wildlife and landscapes.

With similar pricing to Kenya in terms of accommodation, food and transport, it’s once again the case that your budget will massively be determined by how many other activities, tours and adventures you undertake in this country – how long they last and of what travel style they are!

The cheapest way to bag safaris to the most famous national parks in Uganda, such as Queen Elizabeth and Murchison River, is to head to the capital Kampala and arrange them from there… although you need to be flexible on dates for this.

Again, a 3 day / 2 night safari excursion will likely set you back around £300-350 / $430-500 USD.

Otherwise, self-drive safaris in Uganda are possible and another way to keep the budget low.

The other place to organise activities and tours from in this country is Jinja – the adventure sports capital of East Africa.

This town is set on the River Nile (in fact it marks the start of half of it) and offers a host of activities including rafting, horseback riding and quad-biking that can definitely hike up the price of travel in Uganda, costing from £35 / $40 USD an hour up to £110 / $140 USD for a full day.

Check out my article about Jinja, Uganda for more information, otherwise, if you want to makes this one of the cheapest countries to travel in Africa, make sure you do your research and choose your activities carefully!

If fact, you might want to hold back on all activities in lieu of the big daddy in Uganda, which is gorilla trekking.

Yes Uganda is the cheapest place (within the limits of safety) to see these amazing creatures and while it is still a huge ticket item, you can’t do it for less anywhere else in the world.

Check out my full guide to gorilla trekking in Uganda, including everything you need to know, pack and expect, here or learn more about some top-rated tours that include gorilla trekking in Uganda here .

Uganda Estimated Daily Budget for Shoestring Traveller: £55 / $70 USD – activity-dependent (and more with gorillas!)

And now we begin to move further south to the country known as the Warm Heart of Africa!

Yes Malawi is a long, thin-shaped country found on the cusp between Southern and East Africa.

Dominated by Lake Malawi – an African Great Lake – this is one of the best countries in the continent for chilling and one of the cheapest countries in Africa too.

Sadly Malawi’s economy is not doing the best and you’ll immediately see what I mean when you get there.

As the country’s accolade attests however, this has nothing to do with the people’s level of happiness and the friendly greeting you’ll receive.

Local food and buses can be bought for next to nothing in Malawi and accommodation costs here are some of the cheapest in this part of Africa – even at the lake where there are a number of backpacker hostels.

The lake also gives you the chance to scuba dive (around £35 / $45 USD a dive), as well as enjoy boat rides or fishing trips. There’s also some nice hiking to do in the mountains around the Lake, but outside of this, the main thing to do is chill!

With few national parks, Malawi isn’t really a safari destination here, which means just relaxing and getting into the local swing of things is the best activity around.

With this in mind, Malawi is certainly one of the cheapest countries to travel in Africa as you won’t be forking out for a huge number of activities.

Malawi Estimated Daily Budget for Shoestring Traveller: £30 / $35 USD

#8 Mozambique

And sticking with the watery theme, we now come to the coastal dream that is Mozambique – absolutely one of the cheapest countries to travel in Africa.

This really is your chance to sample a slice of paradise for next to nothing.

Tragically still suffering from the blight of the civil war that devastated this country for so many years, Mozambique’s economy is not in good shape and tourism is still a fledgeling industry.

But for those who do make it here, they will find amazing ocean views, great swimming, snorkelling, scuba diving and even the chance to spot some whale sharks, all for next to nothing.

The main spots to head are on the southern coast, including the backpacker mecca of Tofo.

Here a dorm bed will set you back around £8 / $10 and a meals in local cafés are between £3-7 / $4-9 USD.

Local buses to get to Tofo from the capital Maputo will only cost you around $3 USD and water-based activities start from around £35 / $45 USD.

As such, you can quickly see, Mozambique is certainly one of the cheapest countries to visit in Africa.

Mozambique Estimated Daily Budget for Shoestring Traveller: £30 / $35 USD – activity-dependent

#9 South Africa

And now we come to the last entry on this list and probably the most famous country to travel in on the continent, and that is the mighty South Africa!

More economically developed than many of the other countries in this part of the world, I’m nevertheless including South Africa as one of the cheapest countries to travel in Africa because of its popularity, ease and brilliance as a backpacking / independent budget travel destination.

Yes tourism infrastructure in this country is well-established and, as such, there’s a huge competition over hostels, buses, activities and other tourism services that keep prices low.

Cape Town is probably the priciest city – stunning as it is – but even here a dorm bed is likely to only set you back £12 / $15 USD.

You really can explore this city by yourself, without a  guide – check out my Cape Town itinerary for more ideas – and use services like Uber to get around cheaply too.

Greyhound buses and budget airlines can shuffle you around this vast country for very little and if you stick to buying food in supermarkets and cooking yourself, you can get by on a food budget of around £15 / $20 USD per day.

When it comes to tours and activities (especially safari ones, which are wildly popular here) the ability to rent a car and self-drive in many of these destinations keeps them much cheaper.

Check out my post about how to enjoy a Kruger safari on a budget for more ideas.

South Africa Estimated Daily Budget for Shoestring Traveller: £40 / $50 USD

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Mini Travel Guide to Africa

When to Visit?

As a huge continent, it’s impossible to give an overall best time to visit Africa, so I’ve split this question down in sub-regions.

When it comes to North Africa, I highly recommend visiting during the spring and autumn months, ie. April to May and September to October, so that the weather is pleasant enough for sightseeing.

In West Africa, the high season runs from December through February, when the region generally experiences its lowest rainfall and humidity – definitely a good idea to visit at this time!

In East Africa, visiting during the long dry season is a great idea. In general, this runs between the months of July and September and also conveniently aligns with the Great Migration too. the short rainy season in November and December can be another good time to visit this part of the continent.

And finally, we come to Southern Africa.

If you’re heading to Cape Town, I’d visit between November and February, but for Namibia and Botswana, the best months are May through October when it’s cooler and less humid.

Best Tours in Africa

While travelling solo in Africa is totally possible, if you are looking to include a lot of activities in your adventure, you may well find it cheaper to join a budget overland trip.

These are group tours that generally travel through several Africa countries using a price model that includes many safaris, activities and guides.

The cheapest overland options usually involve camping and, with access to group discounts, can often be the cheapest way to cover a lot of ground in Africa safely and in the company of others.

So, if you’re interested in an unforgettable, well-priced tour across Africa, with guides you can trust, or a self-drive trip organised by a great company, then email me at [email protected] and I’ll send you my top recommendations – simple!

Alternatively, I’m currently offering my readers an exclusive discount on all Absolute Africa tours , meaning you can now travel even more in the amazing regions of southern and east Africa for even less! Simply send this top African overland tour company an email to [email protected] , quoting the discount code BWSP, and start planning your incredible trip with them today!

Otherwise, if it’s strictly safari tours you’re looking for, check out these top picks .

You can also check out this post I wrote about how much an African safari will cost for lots of information about pricing variables and some top-money saving tips.

Travel Insurance for Africa

Alternatively, if you’re a long-term traveller, digital nomad or frequent remote worker seeking travel health cover, check out Safetywing’s Nomad Insurance policies.

6 Packing Essentials for Africa

#1 Swimwear and Sarong – One World Sarongs are always my go to and a must when you hit the beautiful beaches across Africa.

#2 Lonely Planet Guidebook – Their Africa edition is excellent and very helpful when it comes to a broad range of travel tips, maps and recommended itinerary routes.

#3 Insect Repellent and Anti-Malarials – I recommend a 30% DEET repellent for Africa and anti-malarials if you’re travelling in at risk countries – although please always consult the advice of a medical professional before any travels to this part of the world.

#4 World Power Adapter – There are at least 3 different types of adapters used across this continent, so make sure you come prepared with a Skross World Adapter at the ready.

#5 Camera and Lens – I love my Sony A6000 mirrorless , and have used it to capture the beauty of this continent and beyond. My GoPro Hero was also amazing for preseving some of the adventure of my Africa travels too!

#6 Good Sandals – You’ll live in sandals in most of Africa and I would never travel anywhere now without my trusty pair of Arizona Birkenstocks !

Travel Money in Africa

When it comes to paying for things across this continent, you want to ensure you’re not being charged overseas transaction fees or getting poor exchange rates when using your card or an ATM abroad, which is why I always take my Wise card away with me wherever I travel.

The easy way to spend abroad with real exchange rates, no markups and no sneaky transaction fees, you can use your Wise card just like a debit card… and it links easily with Google and Apple pay – sold! Grab yours here .

PIN IT TO PINTEREST!

And there it is, my list of the 9 cheapest countries to travel in Africa!

Which is top of your bucket list?

Tell me all in the comments box below…

Creator of Big World Small Pockets, Stephanie Parker is a travel addict! Originally from Jersey in the Channel Islands, Stephanie adventures the world collecting tips, advice and stories, to share with a smile

18 thoughts on “ 9 Cheapest Countries to Travel in Africa ”

I thought Morocco would be costly but it is relatively cheaper. Glad you shared the list of cheap African countries. Good help for budget traveller like me

So happy this article has helped another budget traveller Pradish! That’s the aim of the game 🙂

hi i managed to travel in uganda do game drives for 15 days using reasonable comforteable hotels . total amount spent 1800 usd. now is that good. if any one wants me to share mos w elcome

Thanks Ernest, super info and a kind offer to help other travellers! Best, Steph 🙂

Thanks for the list with estimated budget per day. In my list I will add Morocco, Egypt and South Africa.

Great to hear the list was useful and happy to learn about the new destinations in your travel plans. Enjoy, Steph 🙂

I am African from Nigeria and I found this so cool. I’m So ready to explore Aftica

Great Funke, enjoy 🙂

What about the ease of getting visas and visa processes to these countries? I have a NZ passport

Hi Gagan, you will have to check your foreign office webite for visa and entry information about travelling to each country listed. All the information you need will be there. Best, Steph 🙂

Wow. great and informaive piece of writing.

Thanks guys, glad you enjoyed it 🙂

I have never been to any of these countries listed. However, Malawi is a country I would love to explore and I am glad its on the list of cheap places to visit in Africa.

That’s great to hear Magdalene – sure you will love Malawi! Best wishes, Steph 🙂

Thank you for sharing your insights on the cheapest countries to travel in Africa. Your article is informative, well-researched, and provides a great resource for budget-conscious travelers who want to explore this beautiful continent.

I appreciated your detailed breakdown of the costs of travel, including accommodation, food, transportation, and activities, in each country. Your personal experiences and anecdotes add a relatable touch to the article and provide a helpful perspective for anyone planning to visit these destinations.

Great to hear Hilary, thanks 🙂

Really cool. Never thought Morocco would be on the list.

Wow Helen, really? Did you not find it very affordable? Let me know, Steph 🙂

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Ultimate AFRICA Travel Guide

The  African continent  is the second-largest in the world, featuring 54 countries and 12 territories. To truly explore all it has to offer would take you a lifetime and man, would that be a wild ride. Our  Africa Travel guide  is here to serve you advice and insight on the most popular areas of the continent and places we have personally visited.

We have an insatiable love for the African continent and have returned four times since our first trip. You’ll be hard-pressed to find the sheer diversity and wonders that it offers on any other continent in this world.

The continent is generally divided into regions, which you’ll find references to throughout this guide and our other Africa content on this site.

Southern Africa  generally refers to the countries of South Africa, Lesotho, Eswatini (Swaziland), Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Zambia and Madagascar.

Eastern Africa  generally refers to the countries of Malawi, Mozambique, Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, Ethiopia, South Sudan, Djibouti, Somalia, Eritrea, Comoros, Seychelles and Mauritius.

Central Africa  generally refers to the countries of Angola, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the Republic of the Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Gabon and Sao Tome & Principe.

West Africa  generally refers to the countries of Benin, Burkina Faso, Cape Verde, The Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Ivory Coast, Liberia, Mali, Mauritania, Niger, Nigeria, Senegal, Sierra Leone and Togo.

North Africa  generally refers to the countries of Morocco, Western Sahara, Algeria, Tunisia, Libya, Egypt, and Sudan. Some of these countries are often grouped together with the Middle East region.

TOP Destinations

Africa country guides, africa travel: quick tips, don’t visit africa without:.

UNIVERSAL TRAVEL ADAPTER

GET A GUIDEBOOK

REUSABLE WATER BOTTLE

AFRICA BUCKET LIST

Go on safari & see the big five.

Taking a safari is on the top of every Africa bucket list, for good reason! You’ll spend your mornings and evenings viewing wildlife and searching for the  Big Five . Famous places include the  Serengeti , Masai Mara,  Hwange , Kruger, and  Etosha , to name a few.

HELICOPTER OVER VICTORIA FALLS

Spanning 1078 meters, Victoria Falls is one of the world’s largest waterfalls and it’s a sight to behold. One of the best ways to experience its glory is by taking a  helicopter flight over Victoria Falls  and the surrounding area. We’ve done it twice, it’s that good!

TAKE THE FERRY TO ZANZIBAR

If you’re planning to visit Tanzania, then  Zanzibar  should be on your list. This island features not only dreamy beaches on the Indian Ocean but rich history. Leave time to soak up the sun, scuba dive, and explore Stone Town during your visit.

MORE THINGS TO TRY IN AFRICA

There is no shortage of great things to do in Africa during your visit and the biggest problem you’ll face is fitting them all into your itinerary.

Each country has its own offering and unique things to check out during a visit, so be sure to look at our city guides once you decide where you’re itinerary will take you.

SEE PENGUINS IN CAPE TOWN:   One of the highlights of visiting South Africa is  visiting the famed Boulder Beach  in Cape Town to view a lively population of Jackass Penguins that live there. The beach, as its name suggests, features massive boulders set on white sands against a bright blue seascape.

GO CAGE DIVING WITH GREAT WHITE SHARKS:  One of the best places in the world to view and  cage dive with Great White Sharks  is off the coast of Gansbaai, South Africa. With the presence of a permanent seal colony, this area is like a giant buffet for hungry sharks. While the sightings are never guaranteed, if you have an encounter here, you’ll likely not forget it anytime soon.

SKYDIVING IN SWAKOPMUND:  One of the best ways to see the stretch of the mighty Namib Desert is by heading to the sky. For us, we chose to increase the adrenaline by jumping out of the plane too.  Skydiving in Namibia  gives you a perspective and appreciation of this part of the world in a way that few other can.

VISIT THE NAMIB DESERT:  Behind the mighty Sahara Desert to the North, the Namib Desert is one of the greatest in Africa. Located in Namibia, it features special places like Sossusvlei, Dune 45 and Deadvlei, featuring large salt pans with massive dune backdrops.

VISIT THE GRAND CANYON OF AFRICA:  Located just over the border of South Africa, in Namibia, is  Fish River Canyon . This massive natural landmark rivals the scenery of the Grand Canyon in the USA and offers not only incredible views but great hiking too.

CANOE SAFARI IN BOTSWANA:  If you’re looking for something a little different and more exclusive than a traditional safari, then you’ll want to head to the  Okavango Delta in Botswana . Here, you will navigate the vast wetlands by traditional Mokoro (dugout) canoe in search of hippos and the Big Five.

CAMP WITH ELEPHANTS IN BOTSWANA:  I know, it sounds crazy but trust us when we say it’s an incredible experience. The  Elephant Sands Camp in Botswana  is set up near a massive watering hole that provides refreshment for a huge herd of elephants. The camp features traditional campsites and cabins, along with a nice central lodge where you can enjoy the pool and watch the elephants in the water hole. It’s not unheard of for the elephants to walk right through camp, either.

VISIT MATOPOS NP IN ZIMBABWE:  Get off the beaten track and visit one of our favorite places in Africa, Matopos National Park in Zimbabwe. Here you can do two very special things, take a walking safari with Rhinos and see cave paintings from the dawn of humanity.

SCUBA DIVE IN LAKE MALAWI:  Get some freshwater diving under your belt and head underwater in the 4th largest freshwater lake in the world. Lake Malawi is home to more species of fish than any other lake in the world and offers up more than 700 species of cichlids. This makes  scuba diving Lake Malawai  a unique experience to add to both your diving resume and Africa bucket list.

CLIMB MOUNT KILIMANJARO:  Take on the tallest mountain on the African continent and one of the seven world summits, Mount Kilimanjaro during your visit to Africa. With a 66% success rate, it won’t be an easy climb but it will certainly be an adventure you won’t soon forget.

TOUR AROUND WEST KENYA:  If you are seeking a more off the beaten path experience, head to west Kenya. Here you’ll find some incredible national parks such as Nakuru, Hells Gate and Aberdere. You’ll also get an inside look at the major tea plantations of Kenya in Kericho.

RAFT THE NILE RIVER IN UGANDA:  Jinja, Uganda is the gateway to adventure on the Nile River. From here, you have the opportunity to white water raft and kayak on the might Nile River. This is a gnarly experience and you should expect big water, meaning you’ll spend more time in the water than you will sitting on the raft. If you’re okay with this, you’ll find few white water experiences to rival this one.

VISIT THE KIGALI GENOCIDE MUSEUM IN RWANDA:  Take a haunting look at Rwanda’s past by visiting the Genocide Memorial Museum in Kigali. This is often combined with gorilla safaris in Volcano National Park and shouldn’t be missed. You’ll get an insight into the history of the country and humanity as a whole.

STRADDLE THE EQUATOR IN UGANDA:  With the equator splitting the African continent in half, you simply cannot miss the opportunity to stand in both the Northern and Southern hemispheres, at the same time, if you find yourself traveling overland through Uganda.

VISIT TRIBES IN THE OMO VALLEY:  The Omo Valley in Ethiopia is one of the last truly wild spaces in Africa. Home to eight  Ethiopian Tribes  totaling more than 200,000 inhabitants, you’ll have the privilege of witnessing what life is like in the heart of Africa.

HIKE THE SIMIEN MOUNTAINS IN ETHIOPIA:  The  Simien Mountains in Ethiopia  offer some of the most beautiful hiking we have ever done in our world travels. Sitting at the very top of the Rift Valley, this is the last stand of the lush landscape before it drops off into the Nubian Desert and into Sudan. Not only does the park offer spectacular hiking, but you’ll have the change to see the endemic Gelada Baboons, also known as Bleeding Heart Baboons, that inhabit and thrive in the mountain hillsides.

NOTABLE AFRICA EVENTS

GREAT MIGRATION:  The Great Wildebeest River Crossing of the Mara River is one of nature’s greatest spectacles. Thousands of wildebeest and other migrating animals follow the lush land across the crocodile-infested waters. To witness the event is both heartbreaking and thrilling as plenty will not survive to cross again next year. The migration begins around late June, hitting its peak in July, although predicting an exact date is not possible.

KWITA IZINA : Taking place at the entrance to Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda, Kwita Izina is an annual event that takes place in September to name all of the gorillas that were born in the previous year. It is attended by more than 30,000 people from around the world, including the President of Rwanda (who we met when we attended in 2015!). It is a proud celebration of conservation.

START PLANNING YOUR ITINERARY!

Popular africa travel destinations, south africa.

South Africa is a classic African safari destination, as the country offers a range of safari parks, landscapes, and importantly, the chance to see all the  Big Five animals  – the lion, leopard, rhino, buffalo, and elephant. Across South Africa, you can visit a range of different reserves and national parks, while you can find accommodation and tours to suit many different budgets, be it camping out under stars or enjoying a luxury getaway in the wilderness. Kruger National Park, close to the city of Johannesburg, is the country’s most famous safari destination. The Addo Elephant National Park is the place to see elephants, while the nearby Shamwari Game Reserve is a popular place for safari too. South Africa is also one of the best places in the world to observe and  dive with Great White Sharks  off the coast in Gansbaai.

Although politically, Zimbabwe is never in the news for good reasons, for safari-goers, it’s always been, and always will be a  top spot on the continent . The country’s most famous game preserve is the  Hwange National Park , which actually borders Botswana’s northern national parks, to form one huge area of cross-border wilderness. Hwange National Park protects hundreds of species of animals, including elephants, leopards, cheetahs, lions, and even the rare wild dog, which survives in few other locations in Africa. Additionally, Zimbabwe is home to the famed  Victoria Falls , rich colonial history from its time as Rhodesia, insane Rhino viewing opportunities, accessible early humanity cave paintings, and the ruins of Great Zimbabwe. It’s a beautiful and diverse country that deserves your time spent. 

UGANDA & RWANDA

Uganda & Rwanda can be two of the most fascinating Africa travel destinations. If it’s gorillas you’re looking for , then head to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. In other parts of Uganda, you can visit the Queen Elizabeth National Park for a classic safari. Like neighboring Uganda, Rwanda is a fantastic place to see gorillas in their natural habitat. The best place for  gorilla trekking in Rwanda  is the remote Volcanoes National Park. In a way, this experience is more iconic than Uganda, as you are able to visit the area that Dian Fossey conducted her research. Additionally, Rwanda has a rich history and a visit to Kigali is worth a stop too. 

Found along the southwest coast of the continent, Namibia has a staggering diversity of climates and landscapes, making this a fascinating safari destination. The country is known for its dry and dusty deserts, like the famed  Sossusvlei  and  Deadvlei ,  and windswept coastline near  Swakopmund , and if you want to experience the best safari, head to the excellent  Etosha National Park  where you can find salt pans, grasslands, and even forests, not to mention elephants, rhinos, springboks, giraffes, and many more African animals. In Namibia, you can also visit the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park, which borders both Botswana and South Africa. 

Tanzania  is an excellent African safari destination on the east coast of the continent because as well as being able to enjoy classic game reserves, you can also spend time at the country’s beautiful beaches, like in  Zanzibar , – you might even see an elephant strolling along the white sands by the Indian Ocean. It’s possible to take a  Tanzania safari  across 16 national parks in total, with the most iconic being the  Serengeti National Park  and the Ngorongoro Crater. These great savannahs are classic safari territory, with sweeping plains and huge herds. You can even see the Great Migration here, as millions of animals move across the region in time with the changing seasons. Other great destinations include Selous Game Reserve, while along the coast, Saadani National Park might be the smallest national park in the country, but it’s here that you can enjoy both the beach and a classic African safari.

While not your typical safari destination in Africa, per se, you do have the chance to trek deep into the  Simien Mountains  to see the endemic and endangered Gelada Baboons. Ethiopia, on the other hand, is a fascinating country of culture, and uncovering the history in places like Addis Ababa, Bahir Dar, Lalibela, Axum, and Gondar will leave you in wonder. The adventurous should also head into the Omo Valley to interact with a handful of  unique Ethiopian tribes .

Botswana  has long been one of the premier destinations on the continent for an African Safari because the vast national parks are teeming with wildlife. 17% of the country’s landmass is preserved or protected, offering a haven for animals.  Chobe National Park  is one of the classic safari destinations, and here you can find enormous herds of elephants all along the Chobe River. In the  Okavango Delta , you can take boat safaris in search of crocodiles and hippos living in the dense network of waterways, and forming one of the greenest parts of Africa. For first-time safari-goers, Botswana is easily one of the best destinations, as you’ll be able to spot all of the Big Five in high numbers across the country.

To the north of Tanzania,  Kenya  is another enduring Africa travel destination. Many safari-goers will visit both Tanzania and Kenya on the same trip, as the vast Serengeti plains stretch across the borders of both countries. Kenya is a great place to observe the Great Migration too, and the country’s most famous reserve is the Masai Mara National Reserve, where you will find all the classic African animals. Other popular safari parks include Tsavo East and Tsavo West, which are both close to the Indian Ocean, as well as the beautiful scenes and vast numbers of flamingoes that you can find around Lake Nakuru. It is also possible to go on safari in the Nairobi National Park where you can see safari animals with the skyline of the city in the distance. Beachgoers will waste no time heading to the white sand coastline of Mombasa where you can relax next to the teal waters of the Indian Ocean.

NORTH AFRICA

Again, not a part of the African continent you would visit for safari, but not mentioning incredible cultural and historical destinations like  Morocco  and  Egypt  would be wrong! This region of Africa is defined by the Sahara Desert and is often included as part of the  Middle East  due to the predominantly Mulsim culture across the countries here. In Egypt, you can admire the Great  Pyramids of Giza  and tour the  Valley of the Kings . In Morocco, you can head into the desert on a  Sahara desert camel safari .

AFRICA TRAVEL BUDGET

Setting a budget for Africa travel is highly dependent on your travel style. It is possible to visit just about anywhere across the continent on any budget and still have a great trip. That said, you can make your trip as basic or as luxurious as you desire.

To help you set your budget, we’ve included some base range price estimations. Of course, keep in mind that prices can fluctuate based on seasons, availability and festivals.

Travel costs also vary from country to country, and you can spend as little or as much as you desire on an African safari.

The cheapest safaris will generally cost around USD 150 per day, including your transport, basic accommodation and meals, while luxurious safaris can cost upwards of thousands of USD per day, for glamorous lodges and VIP service.

For a complete breakdown of our first trip to Africa, read  Africa Overland Trip Budget (A Complete Breakdown) . We traveled for 17 weeks overland from Cape Town to Cairo through 14 African countries.

ACCOMMODATION:  Varies by type and rating. Generally, you can expect  campgrounds  and  hostels to be between 5 to 30 USD per night,  mid-range hotels  from 50 to 100 USD per night and  higher-end hotels  to be from 150 USD per night.  Luxury safari lodges  typically start at 500 USD per night and the sky is the limit on price.

ATTRACTIONS : Costs can vary immensely depending on the country. You’ll find yourself springing for tours, park entrance fees, museums, activities and game drives.

TRANSPORTATION:  The most popular method of travel around Africa is by overland safari truck tours, flights between countries or cars. The African continent is huge and even within countries, it can be a challenge to get around.  Overland safaris  can be booked for as little as 150 USD per day and operate on a point to point basis.  Flights  will start around 200 USD and go up depending on length and route.  Car rental  is possible within a country, but if you want to have a grand African adventure and country hop, you’ll find you have to purchase a car and then plan to sell it when you’re done.

FOOD:  Food will vary widely depending on your tastes and what restaurants you choose to visit on your trip. Generally, though, you can expect to find  fast food  for around 5 to 15 USD per meal, take a meal in a  mid-range restaurant  for 10 to 25 USD per person and pay around 3 USD for a  beer .  Luxury safari lodges  are typically all-inclusive with food costs included in the total package price.

150 USD PER DAY

African safaris are never cheap, but backpackers will find cheap ways to go on safari. South Africa and Botswana tend to be the cheapest destinations, and with better infrastructure, it’s easier to get around on a budget, and you can find cheap accommodation and eats in the cities and main tourist destinations too. Camping, transport and cheap meals will be part of this budget.

350 USD PER DAY

Midrange travelers have many more options than budget travelers, and you can expect to pay anywhere from upwards of USD 150 per day, with a realistic spend for quality accommodation and several game drives a day being in the USD 350 per day region. This will also include smaller lodge packages, some of which may have all-inclusive options for you too.

1000 USD + PER DAY

Africa offers an amazing level of luxury on safari, but the best lodges and glamping sites can be booked out far in advance. Luxury travelers can expect to pay upwards of USD 1000 per day for an exceptionally glamourous lodge in the wilderness, flights into the reserve, an all-inclusive food and beverage package, and multiple private game drives per day.

HOW TO GET AROUND IN AFRICA

There are a few ways to get around Africa during a visit, including overland safaris, flights, buses, cars and cruises. Africa is huge and most of the countries lack serious infrastructure when it comes to transportation. No matter how you choose to move around, expect it to be slow.

OVERLAND SAFARI:  One of the most popular and cost-effective ways to see large areas of the African continent is by joining an overland safari. Itineraries vary depending on the length of the trip but generally are found operating the trodden trail of  Cape Town to Nairobi , including the ‘gorilla loop’ into Uganda and Rwanda. This popular route will take you through the best of southern Africa and include all the popular stops. A wide variety of companies operate these trips, including  Oasis Overland , G Adventures and Acacia Africa, to name a few. Cape Town to Nairobi is around a 56-day trip, with the gorilla loop adding an additional 10 to 14 days. Oasis Overland also offers a 17 week Nile Trans from Cape Town to Cairo ( we did this! ) and a 42 week Trans Africa that starts in the UK and ends in Cairo, navigating the entirety of both the west and east coasts of the continent!

BUS:  If you love a good adventure, then taking the local bus within each country you are visiting will give you just that. Expect to have run down, dusty, over-crowded and blistering hot rides if you choose this method of transport. The upside, however, is that the buses are cheap and available in most countries.

FLIGHTS:  African capitals are all served by international flights from across the world and depending on your destination of choice, it’s simple to fly in and fly out. Given the vastness of the continent, domestic flights, and flights between African countries are the most popular method of transport for travelers, particularly if you are on a tight schedule but want to see more than one safari destination. In many remote areas, lodges and parks can only be reached by light aircraft.

CRUISES:  Plenty of cruise companies operate itineraries that ply the waters of both the West and East coasts of the African continent. Your immersion will be limited, but you’ll be able to explore a variety of destinations with relative ease.

SELF-DRIVE:  Driving is a challenge across Africa, as roads can be in dubious states of repair, and public transport can be crowded and outdated. In the rainy season, many places become inaccessible as roads can be washed away or flooded. If you choose to self-drive, you will want a four by four, and it will need to be purchased in Africa when you arrive. Be sure to do your research and make sure your purchased vehicle comes with a clean carnet to make border crossings slightly less of a headache.

TOP AFRICA TOURS

Kenya & tanzania safari.

14 Days Nairobi to Arusha Visits: Samburu, Lake Nakuru NP, Masai Mara NP, Serengeti NP, Ngorongoro & Lake Manyara NP

CAPE TOWN TO VICTORIA FALLS

18 Days Cape Town to Victoria Falls Visits: South Africa, Namibia, Botswana & Zimbabwe

ULTIMATE AFRICA OVERLAND

55 Days Cape Town to Nairobi Visits: South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Malawi, Tanzania, Uganda & Kenya

WHEN TO VISIT AFRICA

Timing is everything when it comes to planning an African safari because the continent experiences vast seasonal differences when it comes to the weather. The wildlife moves with the changing seasons, and different times of the year can present better opportunities than others for finding the animals you are looking to see.

Broadly speaking the continent’s seasons are divided between  wet and dry periods .

The  dry season  is usually the best time to actually see the wildlife, particularly rarer animals, as when the water sources begin to dry up, animals congregate around particular watering holes and become easier to find. In the dry season, there’s much less vegetation around too, meaning that there are fewer places for the wildlife to hide.

When it is the  rainy season , it rains heavily, and roads can easily become washed away in national parks, while transport can become a logistical nightmare.

The seasons and best times to visit vary from one country to the next. The best time for  southern Africa is May to September  when it’s the dry season. For  areas further north , such as Tanzania and Uganda, the best time to visit is from  October through to April , when it’s the dry season here.

BE INSPIRED TO VISIT AFRICA!

Safety in africa.

Africa travel can pose several dangers, not least of all the wild animals. There are very few incidents involving wildlife, and as long as you join a professionally run safari and follow their rules then you’ll encounter few problems within national parks. This includes not venturing off into the wilderness on your own!

More common safety issues are likely to be found in the African cities, as many – such as Johannesburg or Nairobi – have notoriously high crime rates. Be aware of your belongings at all times, and don’t head off into un-reputable parts of cities.

Don’t carry a lot of money with you when you are out exploring and be sure to leave all valuables back in your room or hidden in your vehicle. Opportunistic theft is rife and sadly, violent robbery is not uncommon. Even in places like Cape Town in South Africa.

Be smart, know where you’re going and walk with a purpose. Don’t head out at night, in any city and certainly not alone. Tell the front desk or your traveling companions where you are going and for how long.

We traveled across the African continent for 5 straight months, through 14 countries, and while we experienced plenty of hiccups and questionable moments, we found Africans to be very friendly and curious people. Yes, crime happens across all African countries, but don’t let that scare you from interacting with its wonderful people during your trip.

As with any destination, we recommend learning and adhering to certain safety practices when you travel. Be sure to read our personal  travel safety tips , compiled from our travels across 7 continents.

AFRICA TRAVEL: BOOKING RESOURCES

Africa travel guide: related articles.

Looking for more info? Check out all the articles we’ve written on travel to Africa and start planning your dream trip.

Incredible Safaris and Luxury at the Shamwari Private Game Reserve in South Africa

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How to see africa on a budget.

Is it possible to see Africa on a budget? The answer is an easy yes. Read on to find out how. The vast continent of Africa, with its diverse cultures, abundant wildlife, dramatic landscapes, and unspoiled natural beauty, is a bucket list destination for many. But getting there is a challenge, especially with the costly flights and strict visa and vaccination requirements. Once you’re there, getting around can be an even bigger challenge. In many parts, the infrastructure is abysmal, making road trips inconvenient. There’s a lack of efficient public transport. Outside the big cities, quality accommodations are scarce and often overpriced. All these make Africa an expensive place to travel.

But don’t let this dishearten you. The continent is a diamond in the rough and full of gems waiting to be discovered. Travelling to Africa is a rich and enriching experience, so much so that many people consider it the trip of a lifetime.

Disclosure: Untold Wanderlust contains affiliate links. If you click on these links and make a purchase, we will earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. You can find our full disclosure policy and privacy policy here.

Visit out of Peak Season

It’s a no-brainer. Scheduling your trip with care will help you save money. The best time to travel to Africa is during the low season when hotels offer reduced rates and flights are much cheaper. You may even find a discounted all-inclusive tour and day trip package. Some experts claim that visitors can save around 20 to 40 per cent on safaris and other travel expenses outside the peak season. That’s a substantial amount! Best of all, the attractions aren’t as crowded.

March and June or October and December are the off-peak months. During these times, the continent experiences the rainy season, and the weather can be wet, hot and humid. The rainfalls are usually brief, and you still get plenty of sun. Be sure to bring light and loose clothing made of breathable fabric to cope with the temperature. Also, apply some sunscreen and keep hydrated by drinking lots of water.

We all know accommodations in Africa can be pricey. But there is a way around this. You can join a volunteer programme in exchange for affordable lodgings. Volunteering is not only practical but is also a meaningful way to give back to the community. Who does not like the idea of doing a good act and making a significant impact whilst enjoying the best Africa and saving money?

Volunteer programmes are not free. You will pay a modest amount to cover accommodations, meals, transportation, and travel insurance. You can use the money you saved to pay for trips or tours. Most volunteer programmes last for weeks or months. 

One of the most reputable volunteer programmes in Africa is in the volunteer field of medical and healthcare services. This project provides much-needed support and assistance to health workers at under-resourced facilities and communities. One project focuses on a 2-to-12-week rural healthcare and HIV/AIDS awareness programme in St. Lucia, South Africa.

Other programmes include community development, teaching, sports coaching, wildlife rescue, and environmental conservation. With the variety of options, you’re sure to find one that caters to your interest.

Find budget airlines

The cost of a flight to Africa will take up a bulk of your budget. To circumvent this, research for the lowest flight rates using an airline aggregator website such as Skyscanner. Fill out your point of departure, your destination in Africa and your expected travel date, and the site will pull up information from carriers to help you choose the best deals. Popular budget airlines include Fly 540, Ethiopian Airlines, Kulula, Fastjet, Mango, Dana Air, Flydubai, Skywise, Flysafair, and JamboJet. They also offer budget-friendly domestic flights.

Budget airlines may not be as comfortable as full-service airlines, but they allow you to save money. Cheaper flights most likely will also have several layovers. Regardless of which country your destination is, your international flight will stop by the transport hub in a major city. For Southern Africa, it’s Johannesburg and Cape Town; Dar Es Salaam and Nairobi for East Africa; Cairo and Casablanca for Northern Africa; and Lagos and Dakar for West Africa.

Find the right safari

From permit costs to guide fees and vehicle rentals, safaris can be the most expensive part of your holiday. But it would be a shame to visit Africa and not join a safari. Some tour operators include unnecessary extras to the package and end up charging guests more than what’s worth. Do your research and choose with care. Consider new camps, learn about self-guided safaris in national parks, and check out less-popular options. You might want to team up with other travellers and go for a group tour so you can divide the expenses. Some hostels organise group assembling for solo travellers. 

Always verify the inclusions and exclusions of your tour to avoid paying extra for services that are not part of the package. Most deals include food and drinks, water, accommodations, tips, guide fees, and entrance fees. The Serengeti is one of the most well-known safari destinations in Africa. If you want a more budget-friendly option, go for lesser-known parks. There are cheaper parks in Zambia, Zimbabwe, and Kenya with the same fascinating wildlife. If you’re travelling in a pack, look for family holiday safaris for the best value for your money, if you’re going to go all the way to Kenya for a family safari , it’s worth going the extra mile and making the most of it.

Choose cheaper places in Africa

Some places in Africa are more expensive due to high tourist demand. Other countries, such as Zambia , use a high-value, low-impact model, wherein the government imposes hefty fees, so fewer tourists visit. The purpose of this scheme is to avoid overcrowding and preserve the country’s natural environment.

Explore countries with a lower cost of living. Usually, the accommodations, food, and public transportation there are cheaper. According to a 2022 survey, the most expensive country to visit in Africa is Zambia, which has an average daily travel price of $756 per person. Seychelles follows with $156, Swaziland with $123, Senegal with $119, and Cape Verde with $111. Some of the cheaper countries to visit are Rwanda with $23.32, Egypt with $34, Morocco with $44, Ethiopia with $49 and Botswana with $54.

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• How to plan an African safari on a very tight budget: the 8-step guide to safari planning

How to budget for an African safari? More specifically, how do you plan an African safari on a tight budget? The short answer is with careful preparation and some research. Follow the planning checklist below to ensure you have the best African safari on a budget. You'll see - it can be fun and easy.

Before planning your African safari on a budget

You’ve decided your next holiday is a dream safari in Africa. So, you’ve put in a few keywords in Google to get an idea of what is out there in terms of ‘African Safaris’, and up comes a huge amount of information. Feeling overwhelmed, procrastination mode sets in - where do you start and how do you narrow down the endless options and budget for an African safari?

Planning a trip of any kind is very exciting and definitely part of the fun. There are so many amazing places to see and things to do in Africa that picking a few is hard. You will most likely go back and forth changing your mind a few times, but that is normal.

If you’ve been on an African safari before, you probably have a pretty good idea of the basics. So in a sense, this is a beginner's guide for those planning their first African safari. Let me try and make it a bit easier with a few pointers on how to plan an African safari on a budget.

1. Pick an African safari country or two

A good place to start planning your African safari on a budget is by picking a destination – or at least having some idea where in Africa you want to go.

If you are one of the lucky ones with two months to travel and a sizable budget you can certainly cover a lot of ground and get to all the spots you want to see. Most travellers only have 14 days or 3 weeks, maximum, which requires more careful planning and budgeting.

Some people already have their hearts set on a particular area or African country, but others struggle with this important (first) step. It's totally understandable considering the misconception that Africa is a country, when in fact it is a continent with 54 countries of which about 9 are known as wildlife safari destinations. 

The main African safari countries are Kenya, Tanzania, South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Uganda, and Rwanda.

Of these safari destinations, South Africa, Namibia, and Kenya are often considered the cheapest African safari countries to visit, followed by Botswana, Uganda, and Tanzania. 

2. List your must-see places in Africa

Another way to approach the all-important travel destination question is to list your ultimate ‘must-sees’ in Africa.

This could be a specific area, natural wonder or park in a country or perhaps more broadly the animals you want to see. For example; many people want to see elephants and lions, or the fascinating wild dogs, or endangered mountain gorillas. The list goes on, but having an idea of what is important to you can determine more specific areas to include on your African safari trip. To see mountain gorillas, for instance, you need to go to central East Africa - Uganda or Rwanda being the best options.

Parks and reserves differ in terms of vegetation and topography making them more suitable for certain animal species. In some areas, you will find higher concentrations of elephants than in others. Including the parks that are prime African safari destinations will greatly increase the chances of spotting the animals on your list. This is why it’s common for travellers to visit two or three parks/areas in one visit, as each wildlife area offers something unique.

For help choosing between Southern and East Africa, read our blog post:  Southern Africa vs East Africa Safaris - how to choose?  

Other helpful articles:

• 9 of The Best Places to Visit in Africa: Where to go?  
• 7 Places for the Best Big 5 Safari in Africa
• The 6 Best Places for African Safaris
• What to Expect from the Top 6 African Safari Countries

Safari Planning Tip: Be open to other experiences that are not necessarily on your must-see list. There are many incredible places and things to see in Africa - the little hidden gems along the way can be a wonderful surprise.

3. Decide on a budget for your African safari

This doesn’t need to be an exact budget, but having a ballpark figure is very useful when searching for African safari tours .

While an African safari is a dream trip, the budget needs to be realistic and ultimately these two need to align – unfortunately. Wanting a luxury trip on a shoestring budget is just not realistic. Then again, luxury has different meanings to different people. To some, luxury is a plush hotel with porters, room service, and expensive linen. To others, luxury is a remote hut in the bush. Really what one needs to establish is an expectation.

What are you comfortable with and what are you prepared to compromise on, if needs be, to stay within your travel budget? It is certainly possible to have an incredible African safari experience when staying in rustic accommodations and even rough camping. The excitement of an African safari - seeing wild animals in their natural environment - is equal, regardless of how you get there, or where you stay.

However, the details are important. Ultimately you want the best African safari experience filled with beautiful memories to look back on. And this all starts with good planning.

Things to consider when deciding on a safari and budget

• The type of safari and accommodation you prefer. For more about African safari accommodation see  African Safari Accommodation 101: what to expect?  and  How to do your Safari right - choosing your travel style
• The location of your accommodation. Do you want to stay inside a national park or in a private reserve/concession with fewer camps and people? Bear in mind that exclusivity, in most cases, equates to higher prices but not necessarily higher-end accommodation. For more about the difference between game areas read  Reserve, Park, or Conservancy. What do the names mean?
• Group size and African safari style. Do you want to join a big group on an overland tour or a small group trip? To find out more about overland Africa travel see  What are Africa Overland Tours & Adventures all about?
• Private tours. Private safaris are tailor-made to visit the places you want to see over the number of days you want. You can design the African safari experience that suits you best and travel in a private group with only your friends and family. Luckily, private safaris have become more popular and therefore more affordable than they once were. Find out more about affordable  Private Group Tours and Custom Safaris
• Mode of safari transport. Could you endure long hours travelling in a vehicle (without air-con) to get from place to place, or will shorter distances with internal flights be more your vibe? Both have their pros and cons. See  African Safari Vehicles - Every which way to explore the African bush, from biggest to smallest for more.
• Are you introverted or extroverted? This might help you choose the right trip, based on your personality type -  How to choose the best African Safari  
• Safari costs. To get you started with budgeting for a safari, here's  How Much Does an African Safari Cost?

4. Choose when to go on safari in Africa

Timing is an important factor in managing your budget for an African safari. Choosing when to go on an African safari is a balancing act between the time of year (the travel season) vs. your budget and the seasonal fluctuations at your safari destination of choice.

Time of year and safari planning 

Deciding on the best time of year for your African safari is a complicated question. While you may be flexible with when you can book your leave, many people are bound by school term times and holiday seasons. Add to this the demands of a bucket list and the window of opportunity narrows. Animal migrations are a case in point. To see the largest migration of mammals in Africa (the bats in Kasanka), or the Mara River crossing on the great migration, requires travelling at a specific time of year. Travelling to see these wildlife events, however, brings into consideration another factor, high and low tourist seasons and your budget.

Travel season vs. safari budget

The safari season at your destination and your safari budget go hand-in-hand with deciding when you plan to travel. 

During the dry season in East Africa, the weather and game viewing are at their best. The great wildebeest migration is in full swing, and safari enthusiasts flock to East Africa from July to October. This creates high demand and as a result, safari prices go up. The shoulder seasons, just before and after the peak season, can offer better travel deals, but the latter part of the dry season, September and October, is when the wildebeest migration reaches the Mara River and will be the most expensive time to travel for a safari in Kenya or Tanzania. You can visit our guide to  The Great Migration in Africa  for tips on planning a budget safari to this iconic wildlife phenomenon.

Balancing the time of year, tourist seasons, and your budget for an African safari is therefore an important consideration.

Seasonality and your African safari

It is always a good idea to check what is to be expected in terms of weather, temperatures, and wildlife viewing possibilities for the specific places in the month you want to visit. Of course, nothing is guaranteed - as we all know, nature can be very unpredictable. But, having an idea of when it’s summer/winter and dry/rainy season at your safari destination will help manage your expectations and keep you comfortable on your African safari.

For example, perhaps, elephants are high on your must-see list but you arrive in Chobe (Botswana) to be told February is not a good time for spotting elephants! As a safari-goer, the aim is to try and be in the same areas as the wildlife. But, they are free-roaming animals which means they move around according to the season, or in some cases migrate hundreds of kilometres to places where food and water are plentiful at that time.

If you really don’t deal well with extreme heat, it is best to avoid a trip in midsummer in many regions of Africa. Or, maybe you are planning on a camping safari which is best in the drier months in some areas.

Another example is the seasonal changes in the Okavango Delta. If you are dreaming of gliding through the pristine channels of the Okavango Delta in a dug-out canoe (mokoro) it is important to visit when there is enough water in the delta. The water levels fluctuate widely across the seasons so your timing makes a big difference. For more about visiting the delta, see  The Okavango Delta Explained .

Also, keep in mind that southern and eastern Africa have different seasons. Don’t assume Botswana is in its rainy season just because Kenya is at the time of your travels.

5. Pick the duration of your African safari trip

This will probably be determined by the amount of vacation leave you have, but it is still something to think about.

Now, a lot of first-time travellers want to fit in as much as possible and tick as many things as they can off their bucket lists. But in Africa, less is more. Taking it slowly will be a lot more rewarding than trying to rush from place to place.

It will also be worth your while to do some research on how long it takes to get between places. Travel distances are HUGE and often on rough, bumpy, dusty roads. Even if Google Maps say it’s 300 km, the time it takes to get there might be 5 to 6 hours, even more in the rainy season. As the old saying goes – it’s not about the destination, but the journey getting there. The magic lies in the unexpected – meeting people along the way, learning about local cultures, and taking in the incredible scenery.

6. When to book your African safari

There’s not really a right or wrong time to make your actual safari booking, but it’s important to check availability first. Before requesting leave dates from your work or making flight bookings. This is particularly important when you have your eye on specific a date, location, lodge, or group tour that is non-negotiable for you.

If your planned safari trip happens to fall in the high/busy season, booking a year in advance is a good idea. This is particularly true for popular times of the year at the top safari destinations, such as the peak of the great migration in Kenya and Tanzania. Booking about a year in advance is also recommended for gorilla trekking in Uganda and Rwanda due to the limited availability of gorilla permits.

In general though, and if your travel plans are flexible, booking an African safari 4 to 6 months in advance is the norm. 

Last-minute safari plans (within a month or less of your travel dates) can be tricky, but doable. It greatly depends on low vs high season and again flexibility with travel dates, where you stay, and what you want to see on your African safari.

Check out our Budget African Safaris and contact us to get the ball rolling.

7. Checklists for planning an African Safari on a budget

Below, I've categorised my essential checklist based on the safari planning phases. This gives you a timeline to work with when you are planning your budget African safari.

During the early-to-mid safari planning stages (before you book) check:

• Flights to Africa – this can be one of the most confusing parts of planning an African safari. Funny place names and not knowing what airport is close to the place where your safari starts and ends – which in most cases is not the same city. It can be intimidating, so ask the questions and double-check if you have to.
• Take out Comprehensive Travel Insurance
• Make sure your travel documents are in order: apply for a passport or renew yours if it is set to expire within 6 months of your travel dates. Also, check that your passport has enough blank pages. We recommend 1 page per country, except for South Africa which requires 2 blank pages facing each other.
• Check the visa requirements for each African country you plan to visit.

Once your African safari is booked (before you go):

• Consult with your doctor or Travel Clinic on necessary vaccinations and malaria prophylaxis where needed.

More about this in  The Complete African Safari Medical Guide

• Apply for any visas, if needed. For some countries, you can get this visa on arrival – make sure this is possible for your nationality.
• Start planning what you need to pack and in what bag. Check if there are any restrictions for the safari you're joining (maximum weight allowed, bag size and type). In general, the packing space in a safari vehicle and on domestic flights is limited and strict luggage restrictions apply.

More about packing for your safari in  Easy Guide to Packing for an African Safari

• Check what currency is accepted in the countries you will be travelling to.
• Also, check the guidelines for tipping and make allowances for this in your travel budget (see  Tips for Tipping on African Safaris )

The last few things (a month to a week) before travel:

• Reconfirm your flight arrival and departure times with the establishment or company that arranged your airport transfers.
• Check the weather forecast for your safari destination, but prepare for the unexpected.  
• Review all your pre-departure information and checklists received when you made your safari booking. This is essential for preparing for a safari.
• Leave a copy of your safari itinerary, flight tickets, travel insurance, passport, and visas with a close family member or friend.

8. Reach out for planning help and African travel advice

Chatting to an African safari expert with knowledge can be hugely beneficial and will make the whole process a lot less daunting. Researching on your own is certainly a good starting point. When it comes to choosing and booking a safari, however, it helps to have someone answering questions along the way. Even if you've just read this guide to planning your safari on a budget.

An African safari expert has in-depth knowledge of their portfolio and will be able to recommend budget safari options that suit your needs. This can save a lot of time, money and research on your side. 

If you are travelling with kids, a big group of family and friends or have specific dietary requirements, some special attention to the details will be needed. You need to take into account if a safari camp/lodge has a minimum age limit, do they have family rooms, how far of a walk is it from reception to the room if you have elderly people in the group, do they cater for gluten-free or vegan diets etc... 

Whatever your requirements are, it is very handy to have someone with experience guiding you in the right direction. Getting expert advice will ultimately make your safari planning and the actual holiday as stress-free as possible.

After all the research, planning, waiting and excitement, it is finally time to go on your African safari!!

“Nothing but breathing the air of Africa, and actually walking through it, can communicate the indescribable sensations.” -  William Burchell (English explorer and author)

Oh, and don't forget to talk to a seasoned safari pro to make sure you’ve selected the best African destinations for you, on the most suitable safari, and got your timing right. We are here to help you plan and experience the best African safari on your budget. So get in touch , and take a step closer to experiencing Africa for yourself! 

[Post updated on 19 January 2024 | First published on 15 October 2020]

Ingrid Van Wyk Travel Consultant

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How To Do An African Safari On A Budget

Want to do an African safari on a budget? Here are my tips for finding cheap safaris in South Africa.

Before visiting South Africa, I did extensive research on safaris .

Going on an African safari has always been a dream of mine. So when I finally booked the flight to South Africa, I felt nothing short of ecstatic.

The most important factor in my safari research was, of course, the cost.

How do I do an African safari cheaply? I wanted the real safari experience. But I didn’t want to spend a fortune.

I knew it must be possible to do an African safari on a budget without sacrificing quality.

Can you do an African safari on a budget?

I found that yes, you can definitely do an African safari on a budget. Safari day tours are the cheapest and easiest way to book a safari. And they are still amazing!

After two months in South Africa, I did two safaris and talked to many other locals and tourists. I’ve been able to gather some insight into safaris and how to make them affordable.

In this article, I’ll highlight general tips for researching and planning budget safaris .

I’ll also mention a couple of great safari companies, including the ones I used.

Keep in mind, I am focusing on South Africa because that is where I was traveling. I can’t say much for other African countries, though I’ve heard that Namibia, Zimbabwe, Botswana, Rwanda, and Kenya are great places to do safaris .

(All the prices are South African Rand converted into USD , so the exact cost may vary depending on the exchange rate).

You can do an African safari on a budget by booking the right type of safari. First, I’ll cover the details of the different types of safaris you can choose from. Then I’ll recommend some companies to use for your South African Safari.

Types of African Safaris

The main types of safaris are multi-day safaris, single-day game drives, and self-drive safaris.

Multi-Day Safaris

Multi-day safari packages usually include accommodation, food, and game drives.

These are generally really expensive, so I ruled them out straight away in my own research.

But if you are willing to dish out a bit of money on an epic adventure, a multi-day safari is the perfect opportunity.

The Cheapest Multi-Day Safaris

The absolute cheapest two-day safaris in South Africa I could find are listed on Get Your Guide .

The cheapest two-day safari experience from Cape Town is $365 at the Garden Route Game Lodge .

There are other multi-day safaris on Get Your Guide for anywhere between $300 and $500 . That’s still pretty cheap for a few days of African wilderness and outstanding customer service.

The Best African Safari On A Budget: Full-Day or Half-Day Game Drives

I recommend a one-day game drive for those who really want to save money on their African safari.

If you are renting a car in South Africa, you can drive yourself to and from the game reserve to save the cost of getting picked up and dropped off again.

If you don’t have a car, make sure transfers are available before you book your safari.

Most full-day or half-day game drives consist of a 3-4 hour drive through the area with a knowledgable guide, and either lunch or dinner.

Looking for single-day game drives can sometimes be challenging because many private game reserves require a one-night stay.

If it isn’t clear on their website, which is often the case, just call or email and ask if they offer one-day safaris without accommodation.

The Half-Day Game Drives I Booked

I found my first safari on Get Your Guide: the Aquila Game Reserve full-day safari experience for $158 .

It was only “full-day” because they drove us to and from Cape Town which was 2 hours each way, but I didn’t have a car at the time so it was perfect.

The second-day safari I did was Schotia Game Reserve near Port Elizabeth which cost roughly $100 .

It was cheaper because we drove ourselves for most of the way, and we got a discount because we paid in cash.

Self-Drive Safari : Another Great African Safari on a Budget

Another great way to save money on a safari is to drive yourself through the park.

Saving money and having flexibility is the greatest perk of driving yourself.

The biggest downside is a lack of knowledge about animals.

Some people who did self-drive safaris said they had trouble finding animals on their own. Plus it’s cool to hear all the fun facts about the animals from your local guide.

Addo Elephant Park near Port Elizabeth is home to over 600 elephants and around 20 lions. This is a very popular place to drive your own car for very cheap. The entrance fee is only about $18 per adult , and you are almost guaranteed to see lots of elephants.

Safari Info for Kruger National Park

There is also a self-drive option at Kruger National Park . This is the biggest game reserve in South Africa and one of the biggest on the whole African continent.

All you have to do is pay the $25 entrance fee , and you are free to roam around.

The park is so big that you may want more than one day to see it all. You can camp if you’re brave enough, or there are tons of accommodation options in the park.

There is a great hostel on the southern border of the park where you can rent a dorm bed for $11 per night at Kruger Inn Backpackers .

Click here to view this hostel on Hostelworld.

Located in the northeast corner of the country, Kruger National Park is over 7,000 square miles (roughly the same size as Wales ) and stretches into Mozambique.

Because of its size, this is the closest you can get to the actual wilderness in South Africa .

Does real wilderness still exist in South Africa?

I learned that it’s extremely rare, even impossible to see wild animals just roaming around in South Africa.

The country is so developed that most of the land is owned by someone, therefore most wild animals are kept in private game reserves.

This isn’t necessarily a bad thing because it means that someone is looking after the animals and protecting them from poachers.

Most game reserves are spacious and full of greenery, and none of the animals are held in captivity.

Sometimes lions are kept in a separate, fenced-off area to prevent them from eating everything else in the park. Old and sickly or injured animals are let into the lions’ domain to keep the circle of life going.

(If you thought I could write this article without a Lion King reference, think again.)

The Best Tour Companies For Doing An African Safari On A Budget

Sometimes even budget travelers like to have someone else organize tours for them.

I’ll recommend a couple of tour companies that help travelers organize safaris , for those who want extra assistance.

A few reliable tour companies in Cape Town are African Budget Safaris located in Hout Bay, and Detour Africa located on Long Street .

Lots of travelers start their trip in Cape Town so hopefully, these tour companies can help you guys out.

Are budget safaris worth it?

Budget safaris are 100% worth it if you choose a tour that has great reviews. I booked two budget safaris in South Africa and absolutely loved each one.

Sure, a day or half-day game drive isn’t as immersive as a multi-day wilderness experience. But even just a few hours in the proximity of Africa’s incredible creatures is truly magical.

Any traveler visiting Africa shouldn’t miss out on the opportunity to see the unique wildlife. Yes, even all you frugal budget travelers out there.

Some things are worth spending a little money on, and a safari is one of them. Luckily, a safari can be done on a budget, and I hope this article was helpful.

Best Travel Insurance for South Africa

Before traveling to Africa or doing a safari, make sure you have good travel insurance.

Coming in close contact with wild animals can be risky, and at least having emergency medical coverage in Africa is wise.

I used  Squaremouth Insurance  for my trip to South Africa and I highly recommend them. They have a helpful live chat to answer any questions, and they have lots of different plans at affordable costs.

Do you need a visa for South Africa?

You often don’t need a visa for a visit less than 90 days. But it does depend on your nationality and your reason for visiting. I like to use iVisa.com to check visa requirements.

To read about my other South African adventures, check out:

How To Visit The Drakensberg On A Budget

Volunteering In The Wild Coast

Learning Permaculture in the South African Forest

Is Cape Town Safe?

This post may contain affiliate links. Read more about this in my About Me page!

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3 thoughts on “ How To Do An African Safari On A Budget ”

this looks amazing!! I would love to go on an African Safari, it’s a bucket list trip!

Thanks for reading! Yes you definitely should one day!! It’s incredible and so much easier/cheaper than I had imagined 🙂

Thank you Gabby Boucher for this insightful piece on how to do an African safari on a budget. Looking forward to reading more of your travel blogs. http://www.premiumafricasafaris.com

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How to Travel Africa: Tips From an African Travel Expert

The way people choose to travel in Africa is just as diverse as the continent itself. See sample itineraries and read valuable advice from a travel expert.

The first thing to remember when you’re traveling to Africa is that it’s big, really, really big. It’s also incredibly diverse ranging from the deserts of North Africa to the savannahs of East Africa to the breathtaking beaches of South Africa and everywhere in between. 

The way people choose to travel in Africa is just as diverse as the continent itself. While some people choose to travel on luxury safaris to the Serengeti that promise the chance to see the Big 5, others overland it on a shoestring. Like most things related to travel, there is no right or wrong way to visit Africa and you need to do what works for you. 

We know that planning a trip to Africa can be pretty intimidating so to help you get started, we’ve put together this guide on how to travel through this incredible continent. This has been written with both budget and luxury, intrepid and classic travelers in mind, and includes some great travel tips. 

Full disclosure: I am a passionate explorer and have traveled extensively. I have visited over 130 countries and all seven continents, including 21 countries in Africa. I normally travel on a budget and use public transport when possible. However, I will splurge if there is something incredible to see or do. My first trip to sub-Saharan Africa was to go on safari in Kenya and Tanzania, quickly followed by another guided tour of Rwanda and Uganda. Since then, I have independently traveled through Ethiopia, Djibouti, Somaliland, South Africa, Mozambique, Lesotho, eSwatini, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Botswana, Namibia, Egypt, Tunisia, Morocco, Seychelles, Reunion, and Mauritius. 

Needless to say, this guide has been created based on many years of travel with many successful trips and quite a few catastrophes!

Scavenger Hunts in South Africa

Let’s Roam has created hundreds of scavenger hunts throughout the world, including several adventures in South Africa . Explore this magnificent country, as you make your way on foot to popular attractions, learn about landmarks, and earn points by answering trivia questions and completing photo challenges. You can even try to top the leaderboard or compete with fellow travelers to find out who can make it to the finish line first!

An Introduction to Travel in Africa

As mentioned, Africa is enormous so you really need to have an idea of what particular area you want to see or what you want to do. Egypt, Tunisia, and Morocco are famous for their incredibly long histories while you simply can’t beat the wildlife in Eastern and Southern Africa. If you adore learning about new cultures, Ethiopia and West Africa may be right up your alley and if you’re looking for something truly off the beaten track, countries like Angola, Zimbabwe, and Mozambique offer wonderful experiences. 

It’s also important to mention that traveling through many parts of Africa is not for the faint of heart. Depending on your budget, you’re likely to be very uncomfortable with parts of it. However, it’s worth it and many travelers have found their first visit to Africa to be a life-changing experience that they will never forget.

A Step-by-Step Guide to Planning Your Trip

Step 1: decide where you want to go..

The incredible diversity is what attracts many people to Africa but it also makes it hard to choose where to go, unless you have oodles of time and money to spare. When many people think of Africa, they imagine safaris where you can see lions, elephants, zebras, and giraffes. The majority of these animals can be found in the East African countries of Kenya and Tanzania as well as South Africa, Botswana, and Northern Namibia. There are also pockets of specific animals found throughout the continent such as the gorillas in Uganda and Rwanda, bonobos in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and the rhinos of Kruger National Park.

When you’re deciding on where to visit, make sure to check the security situation before you go as it can change frequently. While the state department has information regarding the safety situation in each country, this isn’t always the best reflection of what life is actually like on the ground. 

Step 2: Figure out your budget.

Once you had a shortlist of places that you want to go to, you then need to figure out if your budget allows you to travel there. Unlike what many people would believe, traveling in Africa can be incredibly expensive and there are some areas where you simply can’t cut costs at all. Accommodation and food will probably be much more expensive than you think, especially in and around the national parks, and you have to factor in relatively high costs for activities themselves. 

Step 3: Research requirements and restrictions.

Luckily, most of the frequently visited places in Africa (South Africa, Tanzania, Egypt) are either visa-free or allow you to pay for a visa on arrival. Others offer e-visa facilities. If you’re visiting a country that allows for e-visas, make sure that you go to the official government visa website of the country that you’re applying for rather than going through a third-party website. You don’t always know if those sites are legitimate and if they are, they tend to charge a very high service fee that can sometimes end up being the cost of the visa itself. To find the government websites, you can simply do a Google search and look for the website that looks the most official. Alternatively, you can go through the US State Department website. Under the country listings, there will usually be a website where you can go for visas under Entry/Exit visas. 

It’s important to remember that some countries will not issue visas unless you apply for them in your country of citizenship such as Algeria and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. This means that you won’t be able to apply for a visa if you’re already traveling outside of your own country. While there can sometimes be an alternate way to secure a visa, these are generally not guaranteed and may not always be legal. 

When looking at COVID restrictions, make sure to check what recent travelers are saying about their experience (Facebook travel groups are great for this). Much of the information that you find online is out of date and may not accurately the true reality of what you should expect. For example, I was recently denied boarding a flight from Johannesburg to Dubai via Kenya Airways. Although I met the requirements to enter Dubai, the airline wouldn’t accept my CDC vaccination form without having a QR code as it was required to enter Kenya (where I was only transitting). 

Handling the Logistics 

Once you have an idea of where you want to go and what bureaucratic hurdles you need to jump over to get there, you need to start figuring out the logistics of your trip. If you’re flying in and then back out for a safari or a Nile River cruise, this could be relatively easy but if you’re combining a few different countries, this can get complicated. 

Depending on where you’re coming from and where you’re going, the most common transit points to reach Africa include Middle Eastern cities like Doha, Abu Dhabi, as well as Dubai, Addis Ababa, and Johannesburg. From these hubs, you can travel to many places throughout the continent. When you’re doing your flight searches, it’s worth checking to compare prices for booking one single flight or for booking the trip as separate legs. While this can be risky in case there are any flight delays if you have the time to spare, make sure to give yourself some wiggle room in case any segments of the flight get delayed.

Organized Tours 

Organized tours are often one of the best (and, sometimes, the only ) way to travel around certain parts of Africa. When choosing a guided tour, you have many different options to choose from ranging from ones staying at high-end luxury lodges in Botswana down and traveling by private SUV to others staying in backpacker-style resorts in South Africa and traveling in a renovated semi-truck.

Private tours are great when you have limited time and want to visit a specific area (I.e. the Masai Mara or Ngorongoro Crater). Although they can be costly, much of this is due simply to the high cost of accommodation, fuel, food, park fees, etc. You never want to go too low-budget with these as you may end up in accommodation far from the parks which means that you’ll have to spend unnecessary hours getting an “African massage” on the bumpy roads and have less time to sot animals. 

Organized tours of Africa range from private safaris to group trips with 10 or more people. You may find yourself and a comfortable Land Cruiser driving through the bumpy African roads or you can find yourself on a bus with 20 other people. It’s very important to understand what types of transport you could be expecting when it comes to the tour that you’re taking and decide whether or not that is what you want out of your trip. 

I recently did a group tour going from Cape Town up through Namibia because I was hesitant to do the long drives by myself. The tour had 14 people on it and while it was great to not have to do the driving by myself, it ended up being very different than what I expected. 

Expert tip: If you want to have the experience of a private safari without the high price tag, try to contact tour operators directly rather than going through a European or American travel agency. You can find recommendations for tour guides or local tour operators all over the world. For instance, I did a week-long tour of Socotra. Rocky Road, Young Pioneer, and Lupine charge roughly $1,800 for group tours while I paid $1,000 for the same exact tour by going through a local agent based in Socotra. 

Self-Guided Trips

If you would prefer to forgo the guided tour and do it alone, it’s possible to rent cars and drive yourself to some of the best attractions in Africa. Although many people stick to just South Africa and Namibia, it’s possible to drive all the way from Cape Town to Cairo if you’re feeling really adventurous (and brave!). Many tour operators operate locally within particular areas running day trips or short excursions so driving yourself doesn’t mean that you’ll miss out on some of Africa’s highlights. When renting a car, it’s imperative to get a four-wheel-drive vehicle in order to combat some of the roads. These tend to get pretty expensive so keep this in mind when you’re comparing costs.

If you’re traveling alone or with one other person and would like to find other people to go with You can always reach out to different travel groups to see if anybody is wanting to go to roughly the same destinations around the same time this is a great way to save money and make new friends. It also tends to be safer when you’re traveling and larger groups than if you’re traveling with just one or two people. If you’re lucky, you may even learn about some new destinations that were on your radar before you decided to go. 

To find these travel groups search on Facebook for the destination and see what’s out there You’re likely to find the pages of many tour operators but there are also likely to be independent travel pages and forums. Even if you don’t find people to travel with you, you may still be able to find the most up-to-date information regarding a particular destination. Try to find groups that are very active and have many posts per week as they are more likely to get responses to questions. 

Another great way to meet people to travel with is by staying a few nights in a hostel when you arrive at a new destination especially if you’re staying in big cities such as Cape Town, Johannesburg, Dar es Salaam or Cairo. You can generally get information from them as to where they traveled and what they encountered or if they’re starting their trip just like you, you may even be able to find a travel companion. I have done this many times throughout my travels around the world and not only have I been able to keep some money in the bank but I’ve also made lifelong friends.

Public Transportation 

When you’re looking at the logistics of traveling independently, make sure to check the public transportation options available not only within a destination but also getting between cities and countries. Countries like South Africa, Ethiopia, Egypt, Kenya, Morocco, and Tunisia have developed transportation networks that make it easy to get between cities (although this doesn’t always translate to the top tourist destinations) and it’s possible to travel there on a shoestring. Others, like Namibia, have virtually no transport networks, meaning you either have to hire a car or join a guided tour. Before you venture out, make sure to double-check with locals whether or not the transport in a country is safe. 

Expert tip: If you know that you’ll be doing a part of your trip by public transportation, make sure to pack as lightly as possible. I can’t stress enough how important this is. Public transportation in Africa is very cramped and crowded and there will be extremely limited space for luggage. Packing light will allow you to keep your bag with you at all times and makes it much, much easier to get around.

Hybrid Tours

If you want to have a bit of a mixture you could always do it for that is self-guided with day trips in between This is often necessary to do while in Africa as many of the destinations can only be reached by a professional guide and a 4×4. This allows you to save some money as you’re not accompanied by a guide at all times and therefore don’t need to pay for their combination and food as you travel and it also gives you the flexibility to pick and choose what activities that you want to do within a destination. You can then use public transport or a rented vehicle to get from point A to point B. 

Sample Itineraries 

Planning a trip through Africa can be tricky for a number of reasons so below is a list of sample trips that you can do that allow you to see some of Africa’s top attractions with relative ease. I have done all of these trips myself except Madagascar which sadly got canceled because of COVID restrictions. 

South Africa

If it’s your first trip to Africa, a trip to South Africa is a great option as it’s relatively easy to travel around with good infrastructure and it has a myriad of attractions to visit and activities to do. If you love the idea of raining a car and going out into the open road this is THE place to do it! While the iconic image of Cable Mountain in Cape Town fills the screensavers (and imaginations of people!) all around the world, the Garden Route running across the country’s beautiful southern coastline also attracts a huge amount of visitors. This well-established stretch of highway is dotted with campgrounds, hotels, tour operators, hiking trails, attractions, and a slew of small South African towns and you can do the drive in as short as eight hours or as long as a week. 

If you want to extend your journey you can continue northwest along the coast towards Namibia or east to the Wild Coast located in South Africa’s Eastern Cape. This gorgeous region is much less developed than the Garden Route and is surrounded by endless stretches of rolling farmland. Along the way, you can stop at Addo Elephant Park, one of South Africa’s biggest game reserves and home to hundreds, if not thousands, of elephants.

As you explore the northern part of the country, you’ll encounter Johannesburg, which serves as a great jumping-off point to get to Kruger National Park where you can do a self-drive safari or hop on a guided safari tour.

If you have the time, it’s easy to turn a trip to South Africa into a southern Africa adventure by adding Namibia, Mozambique, Botswana, Zambia, or Zimbabwe to your itinerary. This allows you to visit places like Etosha National Park, the Okavango Delta, Victoria Falls, and Chobe National Park, all of which offer jaw-dropping experiences that will leave you with a feeling of euphoria and wonder.

Tanzania 

This beautiful East African country has become a bit of a poster child for the extraordinary beauty of Africa and features some of the best African safari destinations. The Serengeti and the Ngorongoro Crater are THE places to see the Big Five and the Great Migration when you’ll find yourself surrounded by hundreds of wildebeest and zebra. Beach lovers will adore the sparkling coastline of Tanzania and the adjacent island of Zanzibar, home to the ancient trading city of Stone Town, and people who like trekking will be thrilled at the sight of Mt. Kilimanjaro looming proudly overhead. This is truly a place that has something for everyone and although you need to have a safari guide to get the most out of the game drives, the developed tourism infrastructure makes it easy to create your own trip of a lifetime full of natural wonders.

The pyramids of Giza and the tombs of the Egyptian pharaohs are things that many of us spent hours staring at in classrooms around the world. However, few of us probably realized how easy it was to see them! Thanks to its relatively developed tourism infrastructure, hybrid tours of Egypt are very easy to organize. The Giza pyramids are located just a short drive from the Cairo Airport and many travelers opt to book one of the many hotels offering views of this ancient wonder. This not only gives you the chance to watch the nightly light show from the comfort of your rooftop terrace but it also gives you the opportunity to get to the pyramids early in the morning before the tour buses do. Expert tip: Try to book a hotel that isn’t right next to a mosque unless you want to be woken up in the middle of the night by the call to prayer. You get used to it after a few nights but if you have limited time, it can severely impact your quality of sleep and energy levels throughout the day. 

From Cairo, it’s easy to get a train down to Luxor where you can board a Nile River cruise that stops at most of the major historic sites as it makes its way down to Aswan. If you want to see Abu Simbel, make sure to check in advance whether or not it’s included on the cruise. Some cruises travel there as part of an additional excursion and this is generally outside of the standard four-day three-night budget cruises available. If you want to splurge, I highly recommend booking a hot air balloon tour over the Valley of the Kings which gives you the chance to get a bird’s eye view over these breathtaking ruins. 

Island Hopping in the Indian Ocean

If you love nothing more than sandy beaches, crystal clear water, and friendly locals, you’re in luck. Island hopping through the African Islands of the Indian Ocean provides you with all the Vitamin-Sea that you’ll ever need! Many visitors begin their island-hopping journey in the beautiful Seychelles which offers miles of gorgeous beaches before visiting the volcanic island of Reunion. From there, you can head to the island nation of Mauritius where you can immerse yourself in Indian culture and go snorkeling in crystal clear water. The flights between the islands are convenient and nowhere near as expensive as you may think which makes it easy to combine them all into one trip. 

Madagascar 

The island country of Madagascar was brought to the forefront of people’s minds thanks to the Disney movie that hit cinemas in the early 2000s. Mostly undeveloped and covered with unique flora and fauna, Madagascar is a nature lover’s paradise. Traveling there can be a bit costly due to the limited flight options and mostly non-existent infrastructure but it’s well worth it if you want to see some truly spectacular landscapes. Best of all, rather than spending a ton of money on a group tour, it’s possible to hire a driver and a 4×4 vehicle that will help navigate the crumbling roads and allow you to see the best of what the island has to offer. Keep in mind that it’s very, very large so you need to have at least two weeks to explore and be prepared for endless hours of being bumped around in the backseat of a car. 

From the dunes of the Sahara to the soaring High Atlas Mountains to the kasbahs of Marrakesh, you can’t get more exotic than Morocco. This beautiful country is full of exciting things to see. Luckily, this is an easy country to tour on your own thanks to a good transport network and well-connected cities. Getting here couldn’t be easier, you can either fly into one of the major cities or take a quick ferry from southern Spain. Expert tip: When booking your accommodation, try to stay at riads. These palace-like hotels evoke a long-lost era and can make any visitor feel like royalty. They are surprisingly inexpensive so you don’t even need to splurge to enjoy this experience. 

Bear in mind that Morocco, along with much of North Africa, can be a bit intimidating for solo female travelers so if you aren’t used to dealing with catcalls and aggressive men, you may want to travel with a group of people or a man.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Destinations 

If you’re looking for some more off-the-beaten-path destinations rather than the “standard” Africa safari or Nile River Cruise, you’re in luck! Africa is full of them. 

Located just south of Egypt, Sudan has its fair share of ancient pyramids and historic sites and although it’s a bit more difficult to visit than its northern cousin, you’ll encounter a mere percentage of the tourists that you’ll see in Egypt. If you love history, you may also want to look at visiting Tunisia which has spectacular ancient ruins and a lovely Mediterranean coastline.

Meanwhile, Malawi, sandwiched between southern and Eastern Africa offers the serene Lake Malawi along with the majestic Majete Wildlife Reserve. There is a decent tourist infrastructure there so it’s pretty painless to get from one place to another and you’re likely to meet other travelers on the way. 

Ready to roam?

We hope that this guide to visiting Africa has left you inspired to pack your bags and book your flights! As you can see, there is plenty to do there and you can spend years traveling and barely scratch the surface of what there is on offer. As always, we would love to hear your feedback and please let us know if we’ve missed any hidden gems!

If you love the idea of slow-traveling overland there but need some ideas on how to make life on the road a reality, check out our guide to becoming a digital nomad and our list of the 18 countries with digital nomad visas . (There are quite a few in Africa!)

Before you head to any destination, be sure to download the Let’s Roam app and search for a scavenger hunt . With more than 400 destinations around the world, there is likely to be one near you!

Frequently Asked Questions

Africa is an incredibly diverse continent from the Sahara Desert to Cape Town’s Table Mountain. It can be tricky to navigate, so it’s best to consult a guide written by an African travel expert .

The experts at Let’s Roam have provided some sample African travel itineraries for Morocco, Tanzania, Madagascar, South Africa, Egypt, and islands in the Indian Ocean.

As you make your way through some of Africa’s major cities, why not try a fun-filled, app-based scavenger hunt ? These are a great way to learn a lot about a city and have a great time doing it!

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Backpacking Africa: My Top Travel Tips (After 11 Years of Travelling the Continent)

So you’ve decided to take a trip to Africa! That’s awesome!

Africa is the most incredible place on the planet (in my opinion) and I just know that you’ll love it! But I can imagine you are now feeling very excited, as well as a little bit scared!

After 10 years of backpacking and travelling around Africa, I’ve learned a thing or two, so I wanted to share a few of my best and most useful Africa travel tips with you. And believe me, travelling Africa is not half as scary or difficult as people think!

PS. This is a monster of a post, actually, it’s an old post from 2014 that I’ve completely updated for 2020 (what can I say, I have A LOT of Africa travel tips) so make sure you have a cuppa in hand before you start reading…

Table of Contents

Why should you take my advice?

I’ve been travelling in Africa since 2009. Whilst I’ve spent most of that time in East and Southern Africa, I’ve also had lots of experience travelling in West and North Africa too and many of these tips will apply, wherever you go.

I have been an Africa travel blogger since 2013 (full-time from 2017) and for the past 5 years, I’ve been running my own small group African adventure tour company called Rock My Adventure .

I’ve also written The Independent Traveller’s Guide to Backpacking Africa , a 300-page e-book with everything you need to know about travelling Africa in an authentic, safe, fun, adventurous and ethical way.

I’ve travelled solo extensively using public transport, taken a 2.5-month overland truck tour from Nairobi to Cape Town, self-driven across South Africa and Botswana, camped in the bush, stayed in hostels and luxury safari lodges, lived like a local, hitchhiked, volunteered, and worked as a tour guide – so I’ve pretty much travelled through Africa in every way you can. 

So to help you prepare for your upcoming travels, I’ve pulled together all of my top Africa travel tips and advice for travel in Africa, based on my experiences and the things I’ve learned along the way.

Whether you’re going for a couple of weeks on an African safari holiday or backpacking through multiple countries – this guide will apply to you.

Whilst I don’t want to generalise too much, as each country and region is different, but a lot of things I’m writing about here are universal. Not everything will apply to everywhere, but you’ll get the idea and have a starting point for your planning. I go into more detail in my blog posts about each individual country .

Enjoy the planning stages and use the time to prepare yourself physically and psychologically (as my friend Moses would say) for the African adventure ahead.

So get informed, get excited and most of all don’t panic!! You’re going to love it!!!

Other Africa posts you might enjoy…

• Backpacking Africa: 39 Things You Need To Know Before You Go
• How To Plan Your Dream Trip To Africa (in 18 easy steps)
• Cultural Appropriation vs Cultural Appreciation & Africa Travel
• The Best Places in Africa to See Elephants
• My Complete Africa Packing List (Plus FREE Africa Packing Checklist)
• The 25 Best Places in Africa for Solo Travellers
• The Ethics of Visiting an African Tribe: What You Need To Know
• 16 of Africa’s Most Incredible Hiking Destinations
• Solo Travel in Africa vs. Taking a Group Tour
• Do I Need a Yellow Fever Certificate to Travel to Africa?
• The Beginner’s Guide to Backpacking East & Southern Africa

Please Note:  Some of  the  links in this post are affiliate links, which will earn me a small commission at no extra cost to you. Affiliate sales help with the running costs of this site, so thank you for your support!

My Top Africa Travel Tips (After 11 Years of Travelling the Continent)

Planning Your Trip to Africa

If you are in the early stages of planning, head over to my How To Plan Your Dream Trip To Africa (in 18 easy steps) post, as this is really useful for how to get started planning your Africa trip and can be used in conjunction with this post.

Things to Consider:

• How do long you have?
• What is your budget?
• What countries do you want to go to?
• What activities do you want to do?
• Do you want to take a tour? Or travel independently? Or do a mix of both? Have a read of this post to help you decide.
• What will the weather be like? Remember lots of activities/events in Africa are seasonal.

Blogs are a great resource for planning a trip to Africa, so read away!

Passport Prep for Africa

To visit most African countries, your passport needs to be valid for 6 months after the date you intend to leave the country (sometimes it’s on entry date, but I always go with departure date to be sure) and you will need to have at least 2 blank pages for every country you intend to travel to.

For some countries, like Togo, a year’s validity is required.

I almost didn’t get let into Morocco because I didn’t have a free page. I had lots of space, but no free pages. They let me in, but I got a telling off from border control and it was touch and go for a while there.

So make sure you have room in your passport for the countries you intend to travel to.

If you have dual nationality, it’s worth checking both of your passports to see which one will work best for you. However, if you are travelling to different countries, you can only use one passport for the duration of your trip.

You may need to send your passport off in advance (with your Yellow Fever Certificate – see below) to apply for some visas, so be aware of timelines and don’t leave it too late, otherwise you may face an emergency trip to the embassy or even worse, they may not let you on the plane… I’ve known this to happen.

Visas for Africa

You will need a visa for most African countries, especially if you do not hold an African passport and every country in Africa has a different visa policy, so do your research.

Almost all visas cost money, usually starting from around $30+.

Some nationalities are exempt from some visas. For some countries or special types of visa you will need to apply in advance. Sometimes this is online and other times from the embassy in your own country or in a neighbouring African country.

Others you’ll be able to get at the point of entry (airport/border) – this is my favourite type.

Most East, Southern and North African countries allow most people to purchase visas on arrival (not all, but in general). Whereas most Central and West African countries require you to apply in advance.

If you are working as a volunteer or travelling on business, you will often need to get a special volunteer visa.

However, there are some exceptions and it can vary depending on your passport. Always check the rules for your nationality and your passport, as it varies.

If obtaining the visa on arrival, ensure you have the correct money in the currency required – usually dollars (sometimes euros) and have that amount easily accessible, away from your hidden cash so you are not having to rifle through your bags or counting money out in the open.

Cards are accepted at some borders, but this is the exception, not the rule, so make sure you have enough cash.

African Visa Resources:

• Project Visa : A great resource to get information on your specific visa requirements.
• Wikipedia : One of my other favourite resources for checking passport requirements is Wikipedia. It lists every country by passport and tells you what your requirements are for every other country.

You will then need to cross-check on the embassy page for the country you are visiting. Some of the embassy websites are very confusing, so if you are unsure, just give your local embassy a call and speak to someone over the phone.

Budgeting for Your Africa Trip

How much to budget for a trip to Africa? This is probably one of the most common questions I get asked (and also see asked in the Backpacking Africa Facebook group), but one of the most difficult to answer.

It really depends. You could spend as little as $20 a day, if you camped, used local transport, ate local foods, drank only water and didn’t do any activities. But once you start adding in taxis, activities, meals out, hotels… your budget will start going up.

The easiest way to figure out how much it’s going to cost you is just to sit down with a pen and paper/excel spreadsheet and work it out. No one else can really tell you this, as it will greatly depend on how you travel.

• Where are you going? If you’re still unsure, go back to this post or have a look through some of my Africa itinerary posts .
• How many days you are travelling for?
• Vaccinations/Medications
• Equipment (rucksack/clothing/tent etc)
• Local Meal = $1 – $3
• Western Restaurant Meal = $10 – $20 (can be more)
• Soda = $1 – $3
• Beer = $2 – $4
• Wine = $2 – $5
• Couchsurfing = Free
• Camping spot = $6 – $10
• Dorm bed = $10 – $20
• Private room in a backpacker/flashpacker hostel = $20 – $40
• Private room in a hotel = $30+ (the sky is the limit with this one)
• What activities are you going to do? You’ll be able to find most costs of the internet. Safaris and anything ‘extreme’ (bungy jumping, white water rafting, mountaineering) are usually the biggest expenses.
• How are you going to get around? Local buses will be cheap as chips, but taxis or coaches cost more, so maybe allow a little leeway for those days when you just can’t be arsed stuffing yourself into a local bus.
• What else will you need to spend your money on when you’re there? Visas? Souvenirs? The odd bribe?

For an in-depth look at what I spent on my first Africa, have a read of My 6-Month Africa Travel Budget post.

If you are going on a tour, it will be easier to work out your budget in advance. If you’re travelling solo, it will be a bit more of a guesstimate, but you can still get a good idea using the guide above. They usually say, ‘cost it up and then double it’.

Whilst this may sound extreme, it’s good advice as there’s always more than you expect to spend your money on. If you end up with more money than you need… great! You can always keep travelling for longer (if you have the time) or put it towards another Africa trip in the future.

Preparing Your Money

You’re going to need to take some money with you to Africa. You’ll usually need money for your visas (if not obtained in advance) and then it’s good to have some cash (Dollars, Euros, or GBP – depending on the country your in) to change.

Some African currencies are closed, which means that you cannot get them outside of the country itself, so you will either need to take money to exchange or use ATMs when you are there. However, it’s always good to have some emergency cash to change, just in case the ATM’s aren’t working/empty.

I never carry travellers cheques as they are pretty much obsolete these days.

If I have cash on me when I arrive, I usually have most of it hidden in my carry on luggage (split into a few money wallets) and then a small amount in my everyday purse which I carry in my handbag.

I usually bring pounds (as I’m British, but you would bring your own currency) and dollars for visas and some activities. In some countries, you will need to take euros (especially in North or West Africa). If I can, I sometimes take some of the local currency too, if it’s available where I live.

• If you’re UK-based, have a look at Martin Lewis’s website to see who is offering the best currency exchange rates in your area.
• In Africa, Visa is much more widely accepted than Mastercard or any other card so always take a Visa card with you.
• Have at least 2 cards in case you lose one/it gets blocked/swallowed by the ATM.
• Remember to tell your bank where you are going, otherwise, they may block your cards.
• Try and get cards that don’t charge a commission when you take out money in a foreign country. Have a read of this article for more advice.
• All US Dollars you take must be undamaged and unmarked. Ideally, they should be the newest USD you can find, dated 2009 and later. There are lots of fake notes circulating in Africa so earlier dated notes are rarely accepted.
• There are ATM’s and FOREX bureaus in most major cities and towns in Africa but you may have to try a couple as they don’t always have enough money in. 
• Before you leave a major city – make sure you have enough cash for the next part of your journey (in Sierra Leone there were very few ATM’s and none outside of the cities).
• Always carry some USD, Euros or GBP as a backup – in East and Southern Africa, US dollars are the best backup currency and in North and West Africa (generally the French-speaking countries), Euros are the best (do your research on this to make sure).
• Sign up for Western Union, just in case you need money wiring to you. There are Western Union branches everywhere.
• Download a currency conversion app onto your phone (I use Units Plus ) so that you can always check how much you are paying, as it can get confusing when you are moving between countries that have similar currencies, with different values. I once confused Tanzanian Shillings with Kenyan Shillings and accidentally ordered a £50 bottle of wine at Carnivore in Nairobi. Ouch! It still makes me cringe when I think about this.

Pre-Trip Health Preparations for Africa

I’m often asked about what vaccinations, malaria and other health precautions you have to take when travelling to Africa, but I am not a doctor or medical practitioner, so I would advise you speak to one asap!

However, here’s some guidance, based on my own experiences.

The first port of call is to speak to your doctor or a specialist travel clinic – they should be able to advise you on what you need to do and your doctor may be able to give you some of your vaccinations for free, or on a cheap prescription.

For everything else go to your local travel clinic. I use Nomad Travel Clinic or Boots Travel Clinic in the UK.

Just remember that travel clinics are businesses, so they will advise you to get everything. Your doctor may be less overzealous with the injections, so you need to weigh up the risks v’s costs yourself.

The truth is there aren’t many you HAVE to take (apart from getting a Yellow Fever vaccination certificate for entry into some countries – see below), but there are a lot that you are advised to get.

Vaccinations

Aside from your routine vaccinations (MMR, Polio, Diptheria, Meningitis etc) Hepatitis A, Hepititis B (3 x vaccinations), Tetanus and Typhoid are all highly recommended.

3 x Rabies vaccinations are also recommended if you are going to be visiting any remote areas or likely to come into contact with animals.

A Yellow Fever certificate is compulsory in order to gain entry to some countries (see below).

Just remember that you need to get some over the course of a few months, so don’t leave it to the last minute.

Yellow Fever

A Yellow Fever certificate is required if you are travelling from a country where Yellow Fever is a risk (this can include transit too but only usually if you have spent more than 12 hours in a risk country).

Also have a read my Do I Need a Yellow Fever Certificate to Travel to Africa? post.

Do make sorting out your Yellow Fever certificate a priority as some countries will not let you in without it, and if you don’t have it, they’ll make you get a shot at the airport (if available) which usually costs $50.

You should also get your Yellow Fever shot at least 10 days before you enter the country.

Malaria is rife in many parts of Africa. Taking antimalarials is a personal choice and some people don’t like them as the side effects can be a bit nasty.

I have taken antimalarials in the past (I don’t always take them now as I spend too much time in Africa to take them long-term) and if you choose to take them, your doctor can advise the best ones for you.

The one to avoid is Lariam, which is known to have quite severe side effects, including depression and psychosis.

Always test out your malaria tablets a few weeks before you go. If you do get side effects, probably best to find out before you leave home.

Some people choose to get some from home and then buy the rest in Africa as they tend to be a bit cheaper over there. Just make sure you buy them from a reputable pharmacy.

See below in the ‘Staying Healthy’ section for more info on malaria prevention (just remember some malaria tablets make the contraceptive pill ineffective).

Africa Health Resources:

To research what precautions you need to take, have a read of these sites:

• World Health Organization : is the place to find out about any particular issues that are affecting the areas you might be travelling to.
• The Travel Doctor : another great resource when looking at what precautions you need to take in which countries.
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention : The CDC is another great resource to find out what is happening where.

Travel Insurance for Africa

Travel insurance is SO important when travelling in Africa (or anywhere else in my opinion). Please take my advice and make sure you have it before you travel.

Medical care is not free in Africa and even the cost of getting to the hospital can be super expensive, so you need to be covered in case of a medical emergency, including air ambulance evacuation and repatriation in the event of accident or illness.

For example, if your appendix bursts whilst we are in the Serengeti, you will need to be evacuated by helicopter to Nairobi. Without insurance, you would need to pay for that helicopter out of your own pocket. Medical bills in Africa can reach into the thousands – even more, if you need an emergency flight home!

I had to go for an MRI scan (which revealed my fibroids) and treatment for a kidney infection in Namibia and my bills were a few hundred dollars.

You should also check that your insurance fully covers you for other things, such as cancellation charges, lost luggage, theft, and damages etc. If you are bringing along any electrical equipment such as cameras and laptops, you should also ensure your insurance covers those items too. Some policies only have this as an add-on.

I usually use World Nomads , Outbacker , or InsureandGo . However their basic policies do not cover all activities, so it’s always best to double-check that they cover you for the things you want to do (things like hiking over 4000m, white water rafting, and bungy jumping aren’t covered in many basic insurance policies) and the areas you are visiting.

For some African countries with travel warnings in place (like the DRC, Mali, parts of Ethiopia etc), you may need to get specialist insurance from the likes of First Allied , Battleface , or High Risk Voyager .

Covid-19 & Travel Insurance

And… now you may want to check if your policy covers Covid-19, as many of the popular companies (including World Nomads) don’t cover you for Covid-19 related cancellations or medical bills. The companies that I know of that currently have some* Covid-19 coverage include Battleface, Nationwide, Virgin Money, Allianz Assistance, Staysure, Trailfinders and the Post Office.

* Just be aware that many of these policies don’t cover you if you travel anywhere that is against the government’s travel advice, meaning your cover won’t count if you travel against it – including Covid-19 cover.

Please always read the small print.

Packing for Africa

Africa is vast and even if you’re only visiting one country, you’ll likely have to pack for a number of different occasions, activities, temperatures, and cultural considerations.

You DON’T have to wear khaki or zip-off pants all the time and unless you are on safari, they’re rarely necessary. But there are a few general packing rules I live by that will cover you for all situations.

I would recommend that you read my Africa packing list posts  and have a read of the below guidelines.

Africa Packing Tips:

• Check the weather. If you’re going to Sierra Leone in March, you probably won’t need much in the way of warm clothes. If you’re going to East Africa in July (especially if going on safari or hiking at altitude), you’ll need thermals, a fleece, a down jacket etc.
• Even though it’s Africa and you don’t expect it to be cold, it DOES get cold at night in many places and you will likely spend a lot of time outdoors, so you may need to take some really warm clothes.
• Dress modestly if going to anywhere local (school, market, village, border crossing etc). Shoulders are usually fine, but keep your knees covered. No mini-skirts or hot pants. Knees and shoulders should be covered in predominantly Muslim areas, such as Stone Town in Zanzibar or Lamu in Kenya. If in doubt, look at what the locals are wearing. Follow suit.
• At your hotel/round the pool/on the beach, it is usually fine to wear whatever you want.
• I always carry a scarf with me in case I need to cover my shoulders or head.
• Take at least one nicer outfit if you are planning to go to any of the upmarket hotels, however they don’t usually have strict dress codes.
• Leggings are great. You can wear these under a dress that might be too short otherwise and they’re super comfy.
• Bring some neutral coloured clothes which are especially essential if you plan on going on walking safaris or are camping out in the bush.
• Take good pair of sturdy shoes for hiking and nighttime treks to the loo.
• Girls, take a sports bra for those bumpy roads.

Other Packing Considerations:

• Leave your fancy jewellery at home.
• Take a good camera, you’ll want to capture all of the amazing things you’re going to see.
• Good feminine hygiene products are hard to come by, especially out of the big towns and cities, so take a stash with you from home.
• Toiletries are available at most major supermarkets.
• Suncream is also hard to find and can be expensive, so take it with you.
• Take a kindle/good book and have music to listen to – journeys and nights are long.
• Always have a torch, headlamp preferably. Power cuts are frequent.
• Ensure you have the right travel adapters and charge whenever you can.
• I usually have a roll of gaffer tape on me to fix anything that needs fixing.
• Don’t overpack, you’ll soon regret it when you have to carry that bag.

Arriving in Africa

On my very first trip to Africa, I started off in Livingstone, Zambia, where I worked as a volunteer for The Book Bus. This was a really great introduction to Africa as I was picked up at the airport and my accommodation was taken care of.

Volunteering allowed me to get involved with the local communities, visit some places most tourists never see, immerse myself in the culture, and see ger a real feel for Zambia before venturing out on my own. By the time I left for my first completely solo adventure, taking the Tazara train from Zambia to Tanzania , I felt pretty confident.

However, if you’re going it alone, or have a few days before joining a trip or volunteer programme, arriving in Africa needn’t be a scary experience.

• Arrive in daylight: Arriving in daylight (if you can) is great as it allows you to get your bearings, but it’s easier said than done and it’s not a problem if you can’t. Cheaper flights tend to arrive at night, so unless you want to pay the big bucks, you may have to take this route. But that’s ok, don’t panic! Arriving at night is absolutely fine (I pretty much always arrive in the dark due to the flight times) and there are a few things you can do to make it easier.
• Book accommodation: My advice is to always book your first night’s accommodation before you arrive. In fact, I like to book ahead when I’m arriving in any new city or town. But at least have your first night booked when you are fresh off the plane, feeling tired and disoriented. It just makes things a lot easier and if you don’t like where you’re staying, you can always move, but get your bearings first and then move on.
• Get picked up: If you’re arriving in a new place for the first time, day or night, it’s probably a good idea to get picked up. There are always taxis at the airports, some hotels and guest houses have a free shuttle or if not, they will always be able to send a driver to pick you up. Give them your flight details and you can agree the price beforehand. If they can’t/won’t – consider staying somewhere else. The driver will usually be waiting at the gate with a piece of paper with your name on.
• Don’t panic: If for any reason they aren’t there, don’t worry. Likelihood is they are just late. You will get used to ‘African Time’. There will be a number of touts/taxi drivers waiting at the gate. They’ll ask your name, but don’t give it out as they will likely tell you they are the person picking you up, even if they aren’t. Not that they’ll necessarily try and rip you off, but they want the business. If you’re being picked up, wait for that person, they should know your name! If you’re worried, find other tourists to hang out with whilst you wait, or find a member of staff who can assist you. Have the name, address and telephone number of your accommodation written down.

Where to Find the Best Places to Stay in Africa

There are loads of great places to stay in Africa and I find that picking the right place can really enhance your Africa travel experience.

I have listed all of my favourite African hostels, guesthouses and campsites here . Traveller and local recommendations are also a great way of finding the best spots as you go! 

My favourite sites to look for and book accommodation in Africa are Booking.com and Hostelworld. I also use Google as well, as there are often cool places that aren’t listed on the booking sites, but they do have their own websites.

Just be aware that good accommodation often gets booked up in advance, especially in the peak seasons – usually July to October, Christmas to February and the South Africa school holidays. Campsites in Botswana & Namibia can book up months and months in advance!

Things To Consider:

• Is there a good common area or bar which will be good for making friends? The backpacker hostels and campsites tend to be the best places for this.
• Is it clean?
• Is it value for money?
• Does it have character?
• Do they offer activities?
• Do they have lockers/places for your valuables?
• Is it in a good location or miles away from anywhere? For me that’s near the action and/or with a great view. If you don’t have your own transport, stay somewhere that you can get to easily.
• Is there a night watchman?
• Does it get great reviews?

Staying Safe Whilst Travelling in Africa

Your biggest concern when it comes to Africa travel is likely to be safety.

In general, the same rules apply as they do at home and listening to the advice of those who know the local area. Common sense is the most important factor when it comes to staying safe in Africa.

General Africa Safety Tips:

• Keep an eye on travel advisory warnings. I always refer to the FCO website for up to date info.
• Ask advice from the people at your accommodation. They are your best resource for knowing where to go and where not to go in your local area.
• Do not walk around alone at night, especially in quiet areas. If you do need to venture out, take a licenced taxi. Your hotel will be able to call you a reliable one. Get them to pick you up afterwards also. If you have to walk, make sure it’s in a group and in a lively area. I’ve done this many times and never had a problem.
• If you are going out, let people know where you’re going.
• Don’t drink too much alcohol or leave your drinks unattended, especially if you are in a public place.
• If you are lost and need some help, ask a shopkeeper or someone official to point you in the right direction. I also prefer asking women for directions where possible.
• Don’t leave expensive items in your unlocked tent or dorm room. If your accommodation has a safe/lockers, use them.
• Have a small wallet with a little bit of day to day cash, and keep the main bulk of your money separate from that, either in a hidden money belt (I like the ones that loop onto your belt), or in a safe. If I don’t have access to a safe, I usually spread my money about my person.
• Don’t make yourself a target by flashing money about, wearing expensive stuff or leaving expensive belongings unattended.
• If you’re in a taxi, be aware that people could snatch your phone/bag through and open window or unlocked door, so keep your door locked or your phone out of sight.
• Walk with confidence.
• Try not to look lost, even if you are. I try to study the map and learn my directions before I head out. Or sometimes I just write them on a piece of paper or my hand. If you need to find your bearings, pop into a cafe/shop to ask directions or look at your map discreetly.
• Don’t give out your number or the name of your hotel to any random strangers.
• If you feel unsafe on your public transport, speak to the driver or get off (if in a safe place to do so).
• Dress appropriately for where you are.
• Listen to your guides on safari. Don’t get too close to wild animals unless your guide says it’s ok.
• Make a copy of your passport and store it separately to your actual passport.
• If you do (God forbid) get mugged. Be friendly and polite, I know that sounds weird, but just do it. Hand over what you’ve got. Everything is replaceable – except you.

Solo Females – Dealing With Male Attention in Africa

In some countries, people might say that you shouldn’t make eye contact or look at men because it’s an invitation. In my opinion, I wouldn’t say this is a massive problem in sub-Saharan Africa, but it does happen.

I have had a few ‘situations’ where men have been a bit of a problem. I’ve never felt in any danger, but these situations were more annoying than anything and to be honest, I’ve had worse bother at home in the UK. Declarations of love at first sight and marriage proposals are common.

I’ve been offered impregnation more times than I can count. Especially in Malawi and Tanzania.

Whilst travelling alone on the train from Zambia to Tanzania, I found myself eating in the dining carriage. Despite there being a number of others in the carriage, a guy came in and made a beeline for me. I was a woman alone and I stood out. He wasn’t threatening in any way but he was drunk. I was polite to him and eventually, he said it was nice to meet me and left.

Once when I was in Kenya I made friends with the guy who worked behind reception at our hotel. He was a nice guy, young (early twenties), always chatty and friendly. He even came out with our group (and a load of others from the hotel one night). I thought we were pals. When we left the hotel, he asked if he could keep in touch by WhatsApp. I said sure. To be honest I didn’t think anything of it.

I then received a barrage of messages, a poem, and even a quite serious voice message declaring his feelings for me (there was also some quite heavy, film-type music playing in the background which made it all that little weirder).

I told him I was sorry if he got the wrong impression, but I am married and definitely not interested in him that way – at all. Undeterred, he said that he was coming to see me as he wanted to talk to me… in private. WTF?

I told him that shouldn’t come, I wasn’t interested and did not want to talk to him. I went out for the evening, my phone was in my bag, on silent. When I got home, I had about 7 missed calls and a load of messages.  He had followed me to the next place I was staying (we’d told him where we were off to next before he went a bit weird), but luckily we’d moved hostels – so he wasn’t able to find me.

He was now angry that I hadn’t been there to meet him as he’d requested. I explained that what he had done was pretty much stalking and blocked him. I’m still baffled by his behaviour and doubt that he even realised how weird this all was.

But it isn’t just the fellas. Once I gave my number out to a girl I met in the street. I’d just arrived (on my first ever Africa trip), she stopped me to chat and she said she wanted to be my friend. Me being nice, I  gave her my number. She DID. NOT. STOP. CALLING. I had to block her because it became too much.

My Top Tips for Dealing with Male Attention:

• Always be polite, but firm – set boundaries.
• Be aware that friendliness can easily be misconstrued.
• If you feel the situation isn’t great, remove yourself as quickly as possible.
• Don’t give out your number unless it’s to someone you know really well (unless you want a stalker – malicious or not).
• Consider wearing a fake wedding ring.

Dealing With Touts and Sellers

Over the years, I have perfected the ‘don’t mess with me look’. I’m so good at it, I didn’t get any harassment in Morocco, which is notorious for it.

The first time I travelled alone in Africa was a bus trip from Livingstone to Lusaka, on my way to catch the Tazara Train. I was a little too prepared for the touts when I arrived at Lusaka bus station and I think I literally knocked about 6 men out of the way as a walked off the bus in my determination not to look like a scared tourist. This may have been a tad unnecessary. As soon as I said ‘No, I have a taxi thanks’, they backed off. Just act confident and take your time to assess the situation.

One of the phrases that I guarantee will grate on you when travelling in Africa is “Come into my shop, looking is free”. The first time you hear it, it’s funny, but after you’ve walked past the twentieth curio shop in a row, selling the exact same stuff, it gets a bit annoying. But there’s nothing you can do about it – they said it to the hundred people before you and they’ll say it to the hundred people after you. Smile and say no thanks if you’re not interested but don’t lose your patience, it will achieve nothing.

At the market, look nonchalant until you’re ready to commit. If someone is following me around trying to sell something I either walk away immediately, tell them I’m more likely to buy if they stop following me (nicely of course) or I sometimes just say, “I’m not a tourist, I live here”- always seems to do the trick and people back off a bit after that.

If you do want to buy, it’s fine to bargain or trade. You may get charged more because you’re a tourist so you’ll need to weigh up whether the price is fair. Don’t pay way over the odds, but at the same time, don’t barter them down too much. Start with a price about half what you’d be willing to pay, and work up from there. 

If someone offers to carry your bag at the airport/ferry/train station – they’ll want a tip. If you don’t want to pay them, say no thank you and carry your own bag.

On the beaches, you’ll be asked a million times if you want to buy bracelets, tours, hair braiding or whatever else they happen to be selling. Same rules apply.

People are just trying to make a buck to provide for their families.

Top Tips for Dealing with Touts and Sellers:

• Be confident when you say ‘no thanks’ and move on, don’t glance back.
• Always smile and be polite, but firm.
• Don’t lose your patience or get angry, it will achieve nothing.
• Pay the price you think is fair (and that you can afford) and you’ll never get ripped off.

Begging in Africa

The biggest thing that gets you is when people beg or ask for money. Many people live in poverty and begging is common in Africa.

Occasionally, you’ll also be asked by people you do know too, that’s when it gets really tough to say no. It’s hard not to want to give to people who are obviously in need, but it’s not always the best thing for anyone concerned.

I once gave some left over food to some boys in Kenya who looked really hungry. It was obvious that they were glue-sniffing, something people do to stave off their hunger. What I should have done, is divided the food up equally. What I did was just hand the food to one of the boys. So what happened? They started to fight over it. I started that fight.

Giving money to kids just encourages them to beg more. It sucks not to be able to help people. But sometimes, you can cause more harm than good.

The only thing I give now to anyone who asks for anything is water bottles. This is something they will usually share with their friends.

If you want to donate something, whether that be clothes or money, do it through a recognised programme. Do not bring sweets for the kids.

How To Make Friends When Travelling in Africa

If you are travelling alone, making friends whilst in Africa isn’t usually that difficult. It may require a little confidence and you may have to initiate the conversation, but there’s almost always someone at the hostel bar to chat to and people bond quickly in Africa because it is such an amazing and crazy place.

But there have been a few times when I haven’t met other people and have just had myself for company (like the first time I climbed Kilimanjaro), or when I’ve stayed at a fancy hotels or when we saw no other tourists in Sierra Leone (although I was travelling with on the Rock My Sierra Leone Adventure tour so I had friends).

If you are backpacking solo, you will need to be prepared for the fact that you may need to make a few journeys alone. You’ll meet awesome people in hostels and camps for sure or have a read of my 23 Places in Africa that are Perfect for Solo Travellers post to give you some ideas of where to go.

The only downside is that the likelihood of your new friends taking the exact same route as you at the same time is a lot lower than say in somewhere like Southeast Asia, where there are more tourists who are all practically following the exact same route.

I guess this is what makes solo Africa travel seem that little bit more challenging at times. But, it’s really quite fun and a lot less scary than you think!

I had no idea it was like that before I went, but it was just the challenge I needed. I learned to love my own company and it allowed me to become truly independent like I’d never been before.

For the bits you don’t want to do alone, you can always join a group for part of your trip, whether it’s for a couple of weeks, or joining a small group safari for a few days.

My Top Tips for Making Friends:

• Grab a beer (or soda if you don’t drink) and head to the bar. If there’s no-one there, chat to the barman/woman.
• Be brave. Just start the conversation.
• Make friends with local people. If you don’t do that you will really be missing out. As a Rock My Adventurer, backpacker, self-driver or volunteer, you will get to interact and make friends with local people more than if you are an overland or on a luxury safari. And if you are travelling solo, your local friends will really be a lifeline at times. 
• Join a group tour. My Rock My Adventure tours are PERFECT for solo travellers and take all the hassle out of solo travel.
• Hello, how are you?
• What is your name?
• My name is…
• You’re welcome.
• No, thank you.

Conversation Starters:

• Introduce yourself.
• What’s your name?
• Where are you from?
• How long are you here for?
• Where have you been?

Where are you going?

It’s that easy. Before you know it, you’ll be swapping safari stories and making plans.

Getting Around in Africa

There are lots of options for travelling around Africa, from public transport to driving your own car to taking tours, to mixing and matching.

Solo Travel & Public Transport

Bus : The most common form of transport is the bus. They range from big coaches, to smaller minibusses known by many different names (dala dala in Tanzania, matatu in Kenya etc). Undoubtedly the bigger buses are generally more comfortable and safe as most have seatbelts. I’d recommend them, especially for long distances.

The small buses are often packed solid, only leave when they are full (so you may be waiting a while) and they often drive too fast… but they are often the quickest way to get around. I take them frequently as they’re really cheap and sometimes the only way I can get to where I need to go. For instance when I was living in Bagamoyo in Tanzania (in 2009), the only ways to get there from Dar es Salaam were to take a dala dala that cost a couple of dollars or a taxi that cost $60.

If you do take a minibus, keep the distances short and if you feel in any way unsafe, get off at the next stop where there are plenty of people around. Another bus will be along soon.

Buses are few and far between in Namibia and some parts of Botswana and South Africa, and may not get you exactly where you want to go, so you might be best taking a tour or hiring a car in that case.

My general rules for travelling by bus in Africa are:

• Travel by daylight where possible. African roads aren’t always the best, there are few street lights, animals in the roads and in some areas bandits (although this is rare).
• Don’t use the small local minibuses for long distances.
• Oh, and wear your seat belt. If there’s one provided there is no excuse not to!

Train: Travelling by train in Africa is awesome, there just aren’t enough of them. But if you get the opportunity train is a great way to travel.

Plane: If you’re short on time, need to cross an area that’s notoriously unsafe or travelling in the rainy season when roads are bad, flying is a good option.

Motorbike: Motorbike taxis (called motos, boda-bodas or piki-pikis) are common in many places, especially East Africa. Whilst they generally don’t go too fast (the roads aren’t good enough for that), very rarely will the driver have a spare helmet so you are taking a bit of a risk if this is how you choose to travel.

Boat: Taking a boat or ferry in Africa can be a really fun experience but safety regulations are not always as hot as they are at home, so my best advice is to ask around for a recommended company. Check if they have lifeboats/lifejackets and if in doubt (looks really shabby or overloaded), don’t get on.

Hitchhiking: This isn’t something I would do from the roadside personally, but I know people who have. Hitchhiking anywhere in the world carries risks, Africa is no different. If you are really on a budget, the best thing to do would be to ask the other guests (there are often overlanders who could give you a lift) or staff at your hostel/hotel can hook you up with a ride (in my experience, Africans are very well connected – especially those that work in the tourist industry)! Rarely will you ever get a ‘free’ lift.

Small-Group Tour

Small-group tours are a great way to see Africa, especially for safaris or for the more remote places that are difficult to get to without your own transport. Plus they take a lot of the hassle out of finding accommodation and working out how to get from A to B.

I created my own small group tours in Africa because I wanted to create a kind of hybrid between a solo backpacking/flashpacking adventure and an overland tour. My aim is to give an authentic experience but with more comfort than solo backpacking or overlanding.

Overland Tour

If you want to travel Africa in a relatively cheap way, whilst ticking lots off your bucket list, then overlanding is a good option. This type of trip will be heaven for some people, hell for others.

An overland tour is basically where you travel together in a big group, with people you’ve never met before in a converted truck. You have a leader and driver, you’ll camp for the most part and either cook your own meals.

Overlanding is one of the most economical and safe ways to travel around Africa. Whilst it isn’t necessarily as cheap to get around as public transport and you’ll have less freedom, you may actually save money on other things such as accommodation and activities, plus you pay for most things upfront, so it makes it really easy to budget. You pay a basic price which includes your transport, food and some activities (but not visas), then you just add on any extras along the way.

You can read my thoughts on solo travel vs taking an overland tour or small group tour .

Self-Driving

Doing a self-drive is possible, but it will take a lot more research and prep than if you’re taking any other form of transport. There are a number of companies that offer self-drive packages, both guided or not and some offer back-up support. Or, you could drive your own car.

Top tips for self-driving in Africa:

• Get yourself a good vehicle – you may need a 4×4, depending on where you are going.
• Make sure you have insurance.
• Learn about the mechanics of your vehicle.
• Do your research and plan your routes well! Ask around as you go for advice.
• Fill up your petrol tank whenever you can, especially when travelling in remote areas.
• Don’t drive at night.
• Check sunrise and sunset times as the sun goes down early in many parts of Africa.
• Keep distances short.
• Always let someone know where you’re going.
• Keep a very close eye on travel warnings and avoid dangerous areas.
• Think about taking a GPS and satellite phone as a backup to your mobile phone.
• Know the legal requirements of the countries you are travelling through and ensure you have the correct paperwork. Don’t give officials any reason to fine you (especially in Mozambique where the police are corrupt AF).
• If you hire a car, check the costs for taking the car through different countries – this can add a lot to your budget.
• Carry spare water – for you and the car.

Border Crossings in Africa

I’ve completed tons of overland border crossings in Africa and I’ve only once had a problem (and that was because the internet was down at the Mozambican border), but problems can occur, so it’s best to be prepared!

Border Crossing Tips:

• Read up on entry requirements before you get there to make sure you can get in – being stranded at the border when your bus has to leave without you is probably not fun.
• Keep your day bag (with your valuables in) with you at all times. You can usually leave your big bag on your vehicle, but sometimes they make you take it with you too.
• Have a pen handy to fill in the departure and entry cards.
• Have your money ready with your passport and Yellow Fever certificate (if needed).
• Rock up to the counter with a smile. Say ‘Hello’ and ‘How are you?’, it goes a long way.
• Don’t give your visa money to any touts who offer to ‘help’ you. Only give your money to the person behind the counter.
• If anyone hassles you, find an official.
• Change a little money at the border with the money changers. It’s probably illegal, but travelling long distances without local money or getting to your destination and not being able to find an ATM or open FOREX bureau/bank is a pain in the ass.
• Watch out for traffic as some borders can be busy.

Most borders are nothing to worry about.

Staying Healthy in Africa

As well as getting your vaccinations and malaria tablets prior to your trip, there are plenty of other things you can do whilst in Africa to avoid getting sick.

Water: There will be some places where it is not advisable to drink the water. Ask at your accommodation and if in doubt, drink bottled water. Water is available to buy from street stalls, shops, tourist attractions and hotels or you could sterilise your own water by boiling, using a Steripen or a water filter bottle like this one .

Hygiene: One of the most common reasons for people to get sick in Africa is not washing their hands. Wash your hands before you eat and keep a bottle of hand gel with you. I like to take a nail brush to make sure my hands are extra clean.

Malaria: If you begin to feel fluey whilst your there, or even within a few months of returning home, head to the doctors as soon as possible for a malaria test. Cover up your arms/legs/feet at dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active. Use a mosquito repellent which is at least 50% DEET (it’s not always easy to buy repellent so take some with you) and use your mosquito net where available.

Heat/sun: To avoid heatstroke/sunburn, make sure you wear a high factor sunscreen and drink lots of water. If you’re going to be out in the sun a lot, cover-up!

Bilharzia (schistosomiasis): This is a parasite infection that you can get from water, either by swimming in it or drinking it. Ways to prevent it include drinking bottled or boiled water and avoid bathing/swimming in freshwater where a lot of people live along the shore i.e. some parts of Lake Malawi (however it’s ok to swim off the islands in the middle of the lake). Do your research and ask your guide or at your accommodation about whether it is safe to swim. For more info on Bilharzia click here .

Diarrhoea/vomiting : If the inevitable happens, keep yourself hydrated. Take electrolytes to help you replace lost salt and sugar in your body. If it doesn’t go after a couple of days, get yourself to a clinic for some medicine.

STIs: It’s easy to let your guard down when you travel, but this should go without saying. ALWAYS practice safe sex.

Rabies: Rabies shots aren’t compulsory before you go and the likelihood of you catching it is low. But to be on the safe side, stay away from animals you don’t know. They may look cute but it’s better to be safe than sorry! For detailed info on rabies click here .

Kit: I always carry a first aid kit with me (you can see what I take with me here ). If you need any specific medications, take them with you as they may not be widely available. Anti-biotics and other generic medications are available over the counter from lots of pharmacies or from clinics.

Food: I’ve never had a problem eating local foods in Africa. I eat chapatis, samosas, rice and beans, plantain, ugali/nshima from street stalls and container restaurants all the time and I’ve been fine. Perhaps just avoid the usual suspects… thin-skinned fruits and veg, salads, undercooked meat and unclean looking food prep areas. This really is a judgment call, and you will know the sensitivity of your stomach and sometimes it can just be the luck of the draw.

Dealing With African Squat & Bush Toilets

Anyways… oh, African toilets, you gotta love ’em.

Most of the time, you’ll be able to use a toilet, but u nless you are on a really luxurious safari, you will probably come across some squat or bush toilets.

Bush toilets are when you just go… in the bush, as nature intended. This is actually quite liberating.

Squat toilets are worse than bush toilets because they often stink and are occasionally covered in wee and/or poo. Nice.

My top tips for dealing with the loos are:

• If it stinks, cover your face with a scarf (if you have anything that smells nice to put inside the scarf, like essential oil, do that).
• Squat low and wide. It will help with your aim and you’ll hopefully get less pee on your feet.
• Don’t go wandering too far off in the bush by yourself. Especially if you’re in an area with animals.
• Check what’s around before you drop your pants!
• Wear a long skirt or keep a sarong with you, that way it’s easy to hide your modesty.
• Always carry toilet paper.
• Whatever you do, do not stop drinking water because you don’t want to pee. You’ll end up dehydrated and ill, and constipated. Now, needing to pee all the time might be a pain, but being constipated is worse. Plus, you’ll end up spending longer hovering above that horrible toilet. You want to be in an out! Drink water!!!!!!!!!!!!

A Few Last Thoughts About Africa Travel

• Embrace the expression TIA, which means ‘This Is Africa’. It basically means, expect the unexpected, this is Africa and anything can happen. Be flexible, be patient and bring your sense of humour. Africa travel is as much about the journey as it is about the destination.
• Borrowing this phrase from my friend Moses – “Prepare yourself physically & psychologically” – your trip will be amazing, exhausting, life-changing!
• Relax and enjoy. Africa is bloody wonderful, it will surprise you and you will fall in love with it.

Hope you enjoy your trip to Africa! Let me know how it goes! 

Join one of my Africa group tours or buy my Backpacking Africa e-book!

I love to travel all over the world, but it's Africa that holds a special place in my heart. My mission is to help people travel Africa in an authentic, safe, fun, adventurous and ethical way.

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169 Comments

this is such a cool guide. Your writing is always my go to for Africa inspiration 🙂

Thank you Rebecca, that’s really lovely of you! Glad you find my posts useful! That’s what every blogger hopes for! 🙂

Very interesting article and you are so brave to do that! Kisses ✿

debsbug.blogspot.com

Thanks Debbie! I love travelling alone, especially in Africa! 🙂

Africa was also my first solo trip and I didnt regret it for one moment – ive been home now 8 months now and not one day has gone passed where I dont think about the place, im off back there in November to get my next fix! 🙂 p.s. I felt at home every second of my time in Africa and didn’t once feel I was at a disadvantage as a single woman! 😀

Totally with you Lauren! I felt at home too and loved travelling there as a woman! Bet you are so excited to go back! I’m back in October and November!!! Cannot wait!!! x

can you please make a stop over to Ghana in tour next vissit.Hoping to meet someone like you. love your braveness and boldness.

I would love to go to Ghana someday!!!!!!!!!!

Thank you Philophatra. I don’t really see myself as brave or bold, I just like to travel, meet new people, to learn! I’ve found Africa a wonderful place to travel.

Great post! I spent 15 months in Africa with the military. It’s always hard to find decent information about general trip planning considerations. I think your post works for males and females both. I remember a love-hate relationship with Africa, and not that I’m gone I really miss it

I completely know what you mean! Africa travel is totally frustrating at times and a bit of an enigma, but for some reason, all the things that drive me mad, also make me love it… so hard to explain! Thank you, glad a seasoned male Africa traveller thinks it works! That’s definitely nice to hear! All the bad stuff you see on the news, is so far removed from most of Africa daily life, but that’s what a lot of what people see, so I just thought it would be good to hopefully give a bit of an insight and hopefully make people feel better about going! In most cases a bit of common sense is all you need! 🙂 Hope you are enjoying your travels!

Hi Helen My name is Carolena and i am from America. i just read all the tips you spoke of here and am so amazed of your adventures i have wanted to go to Ghana for 7 years and one thing or another stopped me i want to also do The Smiling coast of Gambia. My family tells me to not travel alone and i might not ever get back but then i hear of stories like yours ..cool are u ever considering one other person adventuring with you …I am 57 going on 30 no one believes i am the age i am i want to see it all but would at least one time feel better if i was with someone with experience and a sense of fun and adventure …let me know if u ever consider travel with another or if u know any women that do if you don’t …well Happy Holidays and peace. Carolena SEattle…..

Hey Carolena,

Ghana and The Gambia are both places that I think are great places for travellers, even solo travellers and I too wuld like to go. Your family are probably just worried, mine are the same. But if you take the necessary care, then you should be really safe!

I took a friend of mine travelling earlier this year who had never travelled alone before and she loved it. I took care of most of the arrangements. She was a little out of her comfort zone at first, but got into it! I would definitely consider travelling with others. I like to travel solo, but I get a bit bored of it after a while and love company!

I would definitely think about doing a little group tour as I think there are a few people in the same boat as you (and me) who love to travel to exciting places, but don’t always want to do it alone!!

When are you looking to go???

Love this. This makes me want to head back to Africa ASAP! Such a helpful and informative guide for when I do get back.

Thanks Jodie! Go back to AFRICA! 🙂

Hi Helen sorry it took so long for me to reply between school and taking care of my Mama with Alzheimer’s it had been a bit busy but i am back on track. As far as wanting to go to the Gambia i would like to go in July or August 2016 if you ever want a travel partner i am definitely game. Carolena B.

Hello Helen, Hello,

I am a television producer working for major independent production company Optomen Television in London. Optomen produces a wide variety of factual television programmes for broadcasters across the world, including Gordon Ramsay’s Kitchen Nightmares, Kevin McCloud’s Man Made Home and Mysteries of the Museum.

Optomen is currently producing a new primetime documentary series for Channel 4 in the UK about people who have quit the rat race and moved to live in remote places across the world. They may have purchased their own island, built a treehouse to live in in the jungle or moved to a remote village for a new way of life, away from the pressure of urban living. It will be an inspirational series following the incredible stories of ordinary people who are living a unique way of life in some of the most beautiful and breath-taking places.

Our research team in London is currently looking for suitable stories to feature in the series and we’re keen to see if we can find one in Africa. I have heard there are cases of British people marrying into African tribes, or setting up safari companies, etc. I was wondering if you knew of anyone or whether you have any contacts in Africa that may be worth approaching?

Looking forward to hearing from you.

Kind Regards,

Many thanks and Kind Regards,

Cheryl Jackson Producer

I will email you! I know a couple who have set up a safari company in the Masai Mara.

Such a helpful post, Helen! Your love for Africa is so apparent. I think I would be more likely to go on a small group tour for my first trip to Africa rather than going solo, but I definitely want to go eventually! South Africa may make it into my 2015 plans…

Hey! Aw, thanks Amanda! I do love it… a teeney bit, okay a lot!

A group tour is a great intro to Africa. Africa is a great place to travel for a woman, the most difficult things are the logistics of getting from A to B. It’s difficult to plan before you go, unless you take a tour. But on the ground it’s not so bad! People are really helpful! You’d love South Africa! 🙂

This is by far the most comprehensive, helpful guide to anyone who is thinking about traveling to Africa and doesn’t know where to start. Thank you so much for putting all of this information in one place. I will be favoriting it and coming back to it often when I start looking into going to Africa. The visa and health links are super helpful for travel in general. Thank you!

Thank you Laura!!! No worries at all, glad you enjoyed it! Was worried it might be a bit long, but wanted to get it all in one place. Please let me know when you go to Africa and if you need any help!

I guess I have to promote my country too. please make a stop over at Ghana. I bet you will just love my country.

Ha ha, go for it!!

I bet I would love your country too! I have heard many great things about Ghana!! 🙂

This guide is really comprehensive and extremely useful. I myself have not traveled to the continent of Africa yet, but it is good to know that as a solo female traveler that it is relatively as easy as traveling anywhere else.

Thanks Chanel! Africa is awesome! Everywhere has it’s challenging or difficult bits, but it’s easy to manage those.

Hi Helen! I’m so glad and thankful to have stumbled upon this article you wrote. I plan to head to Africa when my visa here in Germany expires and would like to do some volunteer work over there. I am getting a lot of the same responses you have, people being worried. I’m definitely going to bookmark this post for further research 🙂

My friends’ and families’ current biggest concern is the ebola outbreak. Can you shed some insight on this from your personal experience so far? (I would like to volunteer in Kenya and I heard that the disease is turning suspect in the East)…

Africa is a great place to travel! I’m going back in 3 weeks and can’t wait. I’ll be going to Kenya and Tanzania. I’m not a medical professional, but in my opinion, I don’t think ebola is a massive risk to East Africa currently. I don’t think there have been any cases that I know of. You see, very few people travel between East and West Africa. It’s the same distance between Sierra Leone and England, as it is Sierra Leone to Kenya. And it’s much easier to fly from West Africa to Europe than it is to fly West Africa to East Africa. So, I’d say that ebola is no reason to not go to East, Southern or Northern Africa currently. Keep an eye on the FCO and WHO websites for the most up to date info. Hope that helps!

Hello! I love your blog! Keep up the good work! I’m a solo traveller/expat in Africa as well.

I actually found your site after googling “African men too friendly.” Haha. I’ve just moved to Lome, Togo for work, and I live on a street that is populated by locals. I’ve been here two weeks now, and I’m actually beginning to get frustrated because I can’t leave my house and get to the end of the street without a man calling out, walking over to me, giving me a long handshake, speaking for a while and then wanting my phone number “so he can come visit me at my house.” Some of these people are older men who seem a little tooo flirty. I started out being really friendly, because I do want to meet people, but now it’s becoming too…much.

I have no problem saying hello and then moving on when I just meet someone in another street, but these are people I’m going to be seeing for a while (I’ll be here 10 months.) However, there’s no way I can possibly field all the calls I’m already receiving (a couple of them got my number when they ‘helped’ me top up my phone, against my will), and I’m so busy with friends I’ve met through work. Might you have any ideas of phrases to use to basically get me to “hello and goodbye…No I don’t want you to come to my house.” I’d appreciate it! Haha!

Hi Chloe, Apologies for the late reply! I’ve been in the Masai Mara for the last week!

I don’t know the local language in Togo, but my advice is to tell them you are married. Not boyfriend, that you have a husband, it’s the only thing that works sometimes! Maybe change your number if guys have it and keep calling! Or if you can, block them, or set their numbers with the name ‘don’t answer’! It’s horrible to do it, but you have to be very firm, which I too find difficult, but you have to do it! You’ll get used to it! Say hello, how are you but then move on quickly. You won’t be hurting their feelings, these guys are tough but annoyingly persistent!

I hope that helps! Give me a shout if you need any help, and let me know how it goes! X

Thank you so much for this guide Helen. I am starting a 6months adventure from Cape to Cairo tomorrow. I will travel through 11 countries. This guide has been absolutely helpful. I will share my travels on http://www.travelmzantsi.com

No worries Katchie! I hope you are having a wonderful time! 🙂

Hi there Helen Always love reading about adventure in Africa, and found your blog really interesting. My husband and I did a roadtrip from Durban in South Africa up to Cairo and across through Libya and Tunisia to Europe. Sadly the last section of the jouney would not be possible now. We have published a book on Amazon called: Africa Road Trip, 1 Landcruiser, 2 Australians 300 days, which is available both as an ebook and print copy. We have also put more photos on my website http://www.jonesroadtrips.com We just loved Africa – it is such an exciting place to travel and we found every day had a wow factor. Best of luck with your future travels. I’ll be following your blog which is fantastic.

This guide is exactly what I was looking for – you go into so much detail, which is amazing, and you’ve given me the reassurance that it’s ok to travel this vast and magnificent continent alone. I was supposed to be going with my boyfriend, but I had such a wonderful time travelling round South America alone that I decided (or rather, am still in the process of deciding) to go solo. My main concerns were not only regarding safety, but also the likelihood of meeting other travellers, as I don’t actually enjoy spending much time on my own; I just like the freedom of being able to do whatever I want. In South America, I met many other solo travellers, but I wasn’t sure whether this would be the case in Africa. I definitely want to volunteer after reading your post, in fact I may well apply for the same organisation as you! And go from Zambia to Tanzania too, like you did. The other countries I’m interested in are: Malawi, Rwanda, Uganda, Namibia, Zimbabwe aaand… think that’s it! Do you have any other tips/advice on those specific countries? Looking forward to hearing back from you soon 🙂

Aw, thank you Milly! We sound very alike! I loved travelling solo in Africa.

Volunteering is a great thing to do, and a great way to meet other travellers, and settle into African life before venturing out on your own.

I have loads of advice for specific countries, but would take me all day to write them! 🙂 Let me know any specific questions and I will try to answer! I’ve been to all those countries except Zimbabwe!

Personal safety and self defense is so important for us women travellers and we should all be prepared to fight back effectively if the need ever arises.

I have been teaching Krav Maga to women and girls for over 5 years now and we teach a very effective technique which should be in every woman and girls arsenal. We are a women only event, run by women, for women, and this is what we teach to women of all ages.

This is the “groin grab” self defense technique to be used against a male attacker which is taught in many womens self defense classes, and there is actually a little trick to it…

You’re going to take your hand and grasp between the attackers thighs underhand. Its going to feel like you’re “cradling” the testicles. Dig your fingertips into the fragile skin BEHIND the scrotum. Then, once you have a good grip, you turn your hand into a vice, with your fingers digging inwards, around the back and over the top of the testicles. If you do it right, you should feel the testes INSIDE your hand which is holding the scrotum. You want, whenever possible, to hook your fingers over and around at least one testicle. One of them is enough.

Then, with your hands in a claw and your fingertips latched around the testes, you turn your hand sharply, as though you were turning a doorknob. Simultaneously, squeeze hard and pull the testicles away from his body as fast and as hard as you can. Do not let go of them. This is important. What happens then, is that your assailant usually screams out in pain and then tries to grab the wrist of your hand holding him in a futile attempt to try to get you to release him. Don’t. He then quickly loses one of the natural advantages he usually has over us (his strength) within a matter of seconds. Vomiting, curling over, collapsing and convulsing is common. Shock and unconsciousness can set in within 8 seconds. When he collapses, which he will, you get away to safety as quickly as possible and call for help.

It’s never too late to perform this technique at any stage of an attack, and that even includes the option of reaching down if he’s on top of you, but it is easiest to do when the testicles are exposed and closest to you where you can grab hold of them. I’ve actually met several women in my life who have fought off their attackers in this way and one did it when her attacker was on top of her and raping her at the point he lost control. Don’t ever hold back. Some women scream while they are doing this, and some women think of a loved one being harmed to help overcome any bad feelings of hurting someone else even if they are being hurt themselves. Do whatever you have to do if you feel it helps.

If done properly, and done with enough force, this technique can even lead to the testicles rupturing. It’s actually easier to do than most women believe, and just about all of us have the capability to injure an attackers testicles in this way – whether we are young girls still of school age, or whether we are great grandmothers. After all, if you think about it testicles are just small objects of extreme vulnerability to pain squishiness wrapped in a delicate layer of skin which offers them no protection at all from this kind of counterattack. Most importantly, this fact holds true no matter what size your attacker is, nor how strong he is. And no matter how angry he is, and how much he’s threatened what he’s going to do to you, he’s going to drop. Don’t let anyone (usually men) try to convince you otherwise.

I know that this advice would have been a difficult read for many women, but our lives are worth far more than a rapists testicles and we should be prepapred to do whatever it takes to get away to safety. Please help to share this advice with as many other women and girls in any way you can. It could one day be a life saver.

Thanks so much for the helpful guide! I just arrived in Tanzania as a solo, 20-something in order to do research.

I have been quite nervous with venturing out on my own from my accommodation, mainly with risk of theft or unwanted attention.

Reading this has given me much more confidence. Thank you!

No worries at all Alex! Glad it helped!

Hope you have a wonderful time in Tanzania! I know you will! 🙂 Try and get to Zanzibar if you can! x

Muli bwanji? I’m so glad I found this! Thank you for all this amazing information!

I’ve been to Malawi and Zimbabwe on volunteer projects but I really want to go back to the area and do my own thing. I’m fairly independent but I’d definitely be a bit nervous travelling alone as 21 year old. I have a lot of time before I go back to university in January and not the biggest budget but I really want to go back to Malawi and Zim and possibly Zambia, Botswana, SA etc. How long would you recommend for this type of trip? Rachel 🙂

Thanks Rachel, glad you found it useful!!

For the trip you are doing, I’d say at approx 2 months minimum for all the countries you mention, but more if you can. You could spend a year doing this trip! I guess a good place to start is by looking at how long you want to go for, how much budget you have. That will determine the length of stay, and then you can base it around that!

Hope that helps!

Immense blog. It’s really pleasant, thanks for sharing this wonderful blog to help for women traveling tips in Africa.

Thank you! 🙂

Hi Helen, I really liked this post, but I have a question and maybe you can help me out. Im in Nungwi, Zanzibar at the moment. Im travelling alone at quite a young age, the locals keep asking me about my husband or they are nice but I have the feeling they always want to sell me something, its hard for me to cope with that and I would love to spend some time with other travellers for a change. So my question, did you ever stay in Nungwi and if so, where did you stay ? Do you know a hostel for young travellers on a low budget here ? Maria

Hey Maria, I did stay in Nungwi, but back in 2009! Kendwa Rocks has a dorm. It’s not listed on the website but there is one! Think it’s really chepa! Lots of backpackers there! It’s only down the road so you can still go to Nungwi for nights out!

There’ll be a big party at Kendwa Rocks tonight so go!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Let me know how you get on!!

Hi Helen, Great blog! Any recomendation of where to stay in Dar es Salaam and Zanzibar? I would like to stay somewhere safe and that’s popular with weatern travellers so I can hang aoround with them hopfully!

I wrote about where I stay in Zanzibar on this post: https://www.heleninwonderlust.co.uk/2015/05/africa-travel-budget-2/

In Zanzibar, I have stayed in Kendwa Rocks in the North, it’s a really good place for backpackers! There’s also New Teddy’s and Paje by Night over on the East coats.

In Dar es Salaam, there aren’t that many hostels etc. But one that a lot of the overlands stay in is the Mikadi Beach Lodge, so there will be loads of travellers there!

Hope that helps!!

That helps a lot, thanks a lot Helen! Excuse my paranoia but I have hardly travelled on my own just wondering if Tanzania is good place to start :/ so I’m really pushing myself! Is it possible if I could take your emails and ask you some more questions please?

Tanzania is a fine place to start! So many rumours about Africa that just aren’t true. Feel free to email me at [email protected] and I will try and help where I can!

please Hellen ask Bee to try Ghana too. it is a beautiful and a peaceful country to vissit. she will always feel at home in my country GHANA.

Hi Helen, excellent bit of writing. I’m trying plan a trip from South Africa up to Kenya, via several countries, and would like to drive. You said you would suggest a ‘group self drive’, have you participated in one and is there a company/website you could recommend to me? Thanks Shaun

Hey Shaun, yes, I’ve overlanded a couple of times. The company I went with are called Absolute Africa. I’ve written anumber of posts about them, like this one: https://www.heleninwonderlust.co.uk/2014/01/overland-journey-absolute-africa/ and this one: https://www.heleninwonderlust.co.uk/2015/06/6-months-africa-travel-budget/

Hope they help!

Thank you for this and all the other great content you have on Africa. I’m in the very early stages of planning my trip and am finding your blog one of the most useful resources for this continent that I’ve come across. Thanks for putting so much time and effort into it!

Thanks Marbree!!! That means a lot! 🙂 If there’s anything specific you need to know, give me a shout! I often turn questions into blog posts!

It suddens my heart always when Africa is branded with all sorts of crimes as if europe, Asia and America is an Angel continent. First of all Africa is not a country but a continent as rightly said by the writer. it has 54 counties with each country having diff cultures and languages. please to all those here I want you to know that Africa is a very nice place to live just like you wish to live in the europe. May God bless the writer for enlightening you all. Long live Africa

Thank you so Philophatra. I am thinking that you are from Africa yourself?

Africa is beautiful, with so many diverse countries, each with their own individual beauty!

your adventures are an inspiration! I am planning on traveling to Namibia in October, but don’t drive and the lodge where I am thinking of staying is in the middle of nowhere and do not offer shuttle services.

Any advice on personal guides/locals in Namibia who I can contact?

many thanks Lili Hollandt

Thanks Lili!!

Where’s the lodge you are staying at? Are you staying at one place or moving around? I’d say you can probably get a lift there somehow! But will depend where you are going to!

I don’t know any personal guides in Namibia, but let me kow where you’re heading and I’ll see if I can help! Feel free to email me if you don’t want to write it on here! 🙂

Hi Helen, I can’t thank you enough for this amazing blog – I’ve decided to go travelling to Africa on my own for the first time later this month and all your advice really REALLY reassure me.

May I ask you which Absolute Africa tour you would choose between: – Gorillas & Game Parks (• Queen Elizabeth National Park • Kazinga Channel game cruise • Serengeti National Park • Ngorongoro Crater • The Grumeti Reserve • Lake Victoria) – Maasai & Migration (• Zanzibar • spice tour • Serengeti National Park • Ngorongoro Crater) – Wildlife Encounter (• Gorilla permit • Ngorongoro Crater • Serengeti National Park • The Grumeti Reserve)

I have no idea where to go in Africa but those 3 options are the only ones that match the dates I’ll be travelling.

Thanks again so much! S.

Hi Susan, thanks for the lovely compliment!

Ooh, they are some tough choices, all really really good! I think if I could choose any, I would go for the Wildlife Encounter! Although I really love Zanzibar too. Yes, I think I would do Wildlife Encounter, but if you can somehow tag on Zanzibar, I would! How long do you have in Africa?

Let me know which one you choose, and give me a shout if you need more advice!

This is so helpful Helen – thank you!!!

You are very welcome Elle!

This is a fantastic guide to traveling in Africa. It’s been so hard to find good information – we’ve ended up getting most of our info and travel recommendations from fellow travelers in our hostels. We’re currently in Zambia, headed toward Malawi and Tanzania. I’m excited to check out your reading recommendations as well!

Thank you Elizabeth!!! That’s how I did it the first time too, as there was hardly anything on the internet back then – plus the internet was really difficult to get in Africa then! So jealous you’re in Zambia!!!!!!!!! I want to be there toooo!!!!!!!!! 🙂

Enjoy your trip, have the time of your life and make EVERY DAY COUNT!!!!!!!!!! x

I’m planning to visit Nairobi in Jan ’16. My travel companion pulled out frm going. I still want to go. I’m a mature, single lady traveling on a shoe string budget. Pls recommend nice places to stay on t cheap. Email me. Thanks.

Hi Barbara,

Have you had a look at my post on places to stay? If not here it is: https://www.heleninwonderlust.co.uk/2015/01/where-to-stay-in-kenya/

If you need any further help, feel free to email me. If I have a post on the subject I’ll direct you to that or if I can answer super quick I will. If you have lots of questions or you’d like me to do any research I can give you my rates for trip planning/consultancy.

hi! I’ve never been to Africa. I wish i could be there someday! it seems that you have enjoyed a lot. And Pictures are really awesome I’ve heard about the interesting food of Africa. What was it? Did you try it? how was your experience?

Hi Paul, Thanks for reading! Africa is amazing, I love it! There’s tons of great foods in Africa, some of it takes a bit of getting used to, but most is amazing! I’ve tried loads of it. I love a South Africa braai, the fish in Zanzibar, chapati, nyama choma! So much great stuff!

Hi, Helen! On December 30, I’m heading to Africa for a six week solo backpacking trip, starting with a climb up Kili the first week, then spending the next five weeks making my down to Cape Town. Your blog has been invaluable in helping me (and, more importantly, loved ones) to reduce any concerns I may have about safety. I’ve lifted a couple of your comments (with proper attribution) and posted them on my blog to help make those around me a little more comfortable with my adventure. Thank you!!!!!

Thank you so much John, this is such a lovely compliment and exactly why I do what I do. I feel very honoured!

Have a fabulous trip!! Looking forward to checking on your progress! Hakuna matata!

Hi Helen Happy new year! This is the most helpful blog I have come across. I am looking to an overland tour in 2017, any suggestions for best time of year to head off?

Hi Brittany,

How long are you going for? Are you doing a full trip eg) Nairobi to Cape Town? It will depend on where you want to go and how long for. Let me know and I’ll suggest a good time!

Am james from kenya my dream is to open a camp site i have almost 60 actear of land i work in a certain bus componey in samburu county.am driver but i see when i open a campsite how do i found tourists.when i go through internent i saw you site how do you help me to get tourist?i need to talk to you more about campsite please.my email is [email protected] thank you i will be online any time waiting for youa email thank you so much

Hi James, I will email you.

First thank you for this great site!

Im looking to apply for my East African Tourist Visa online. But i will start in Kenya. Or can I get it on arrival ? On Mombassa airport?

Also do you maybe know if i still can apply for my Uganda Visa when I cross the Border from Kenya?

I think you can get it in country still, but not 100% sure. Try these links: http://evisa.go.ke/evisa.html , http://safari-uganda.com/news/east-african-tourist-visa-2/ If you get the East Africa visa, you won’t need a separate Uganda visa. But if you do end up getting seperate visas, there should be no problem getting your visa at the border.

Leaving for southern and East Africa in march. Starting in Namibia for 3-4 weeks volunteering and then onward. I have a friend in Kenya I will be visiting. I am so happy to have found your blog because it has calmed my nerves slightly. I am, of course, a solo female traveler.

You’ll have a great time Alyson. I love travelling solo in Africa.

Enjoy your trip!

During my first trip to Nairobi, I used the matatus (public buses) but they weren’t very comfortable because I always had to hold my personal belongings very tight for fear of pickpockets. My other option was use of cabs which were quite expensive, hence only used them once in awhile. On our last trip however, I had to find better means of getting around since I was going with my family. Lucky enough, I found a company online where I could hire a car with a private driver, it was the best option. Getting around was made easier and comfortable. You may find more info about them on the following link: https://servantrip.com/personal-driver-service/

Hi Helen! I loved reading your post. I am currently looking at a trip that would include Namibia, Botswana, South Africa, Malawi, Tanzania, Zimbabwe, Ehtiopia and Kenya. Do you have any recommendations for those places? What tour company did you use, and would you recommend that over solo backpacking? And lastly, did you carry a tent, sleeping bag and sleeping pad? Thanks so much for taking the time to individually answer these questions. It’s really wonderful of you and really helpful!

Thanks for your comments! When you say do I have any recommendations for those countries, do you mean things to do, places to see? If so have a look through my country pages as I have quite a few posts that might answer your questions. 🙂

I used Absolute Africa however I don’t think they go to Ethiopia, but I do really recommend them for all the other places you mention! Both solo and overlanding tours are great. Very different. Overlanding is easier, sometimes cheaper as costs are shared, but less of a local experience I would say.

When I overlanded I had a sleeping bag and mat (I think they provide those now) and the company provided the tents. When I solo backpacked, I stayed in dorms/guesthouses so didn’t need a sleeping bag or mat.

Let me know if you have more questions!!

I am a 75 y.o. Amerucan retired nurse. Your article was informative & excitingly written. I wanted to go to Africa for several years, now I have a desire to safari then stay for 6 months. Please advise the contact information for the Safari company you went with. You may give them my contact info:

Hello Sally, I lived in the USA for 5 years and now I am back in Uganda, which is the African country I would recommend.

Hi Helen, I’ve really enjoyed reading your blog. Do you have any recommendations for budget safari companies in Kenya and/or Tanzania? Thanks

Thanks for reading!!

I really recommend Mara Explorers Camp in the Masai Mara. They are a camp but also organise safaris! That’s who I would use.

Then for Serengeti, I went with Absolute Africa. I also recommend Bee Eater Safaris! 🙂

Helen, you have written an excellent guide which many people will find helpful and dispel the negative press about Africa. At stride safaris we organize budget safaris for groups and individuals. We try to make the pricing as affordable as possible to ensure no one misses out on amazing experience. Some of the tours we provide are actually free or at very low costs (payment for gate entrances).

Africa is amazing and I think if people give it a chance they’ll fall in love with it like I did! 🙂

Such a nice post and very interesting to read. Thanks for sharing about Africa 🙂

As a fellow backpacker, I must admit this is one of the best blogs I have read. So well written and laid out. I have passed it along to others saying it’s a must read for people considering trips to Africa! Thanks for that 🙂

Thanks Erin, what a lovely comment! 🙂 Thanks so much!

Hi Helen! Thanks a lot for your blog!! helping me to discover Absolute Africa, it seems like it’s so much cheaper than the other tour company i originally was planning to go with. By the way, i’m just concerned about the vaccine..there are so many ‘recommended vaccine’, wondered how many you actually did before the trip and how long it took? I wanna book the tour for end of June and wondering if i have enough time to do all the vaccine.

Hi Esther, no worries! On my post here https://www.heleninwonderlust.co.uk/2014/08/tips-for-women-travelling-alone-in-africa/ , I go into a bit of detail on vaccinations, however I’m not medically trained, so the best thing you can do is seek advice from your doctor or a specialist travel clinic like Nomad! You should have time to get vaccinated against most things!

Esther I recommend visiting Uganda, you only need the yellow fever vaccine and you can take preventative malaria tablets. Uganda has several attractions. The gorillas are at the top of the list, they are several national game parks, bird species, spectacular falls, you can easily cross over to Kenya or Tanzania on the same visa (same as other East African countries)

Hi Cavin, you only need Yellow Fever to enter, however most doctors would advise to have certain other vaccinations.

Hi Helen 😀 thank you so much for the informative and exciting article. I am having a medical program for a month in Nairobi and it ends 31/7 and I am very interested to reach cape town overland but in a short period and with Victoria falls included within 10-15 days max . how much time do you think it takes and what about the low cost airline… do you recommend it? and if it is possible.. how should i arrange it Sorry for the too many questions. Thank you in advance

Hi Sherif, low cost airlines are usually fine. I used One Time Airways or South African also do the route. 10 – 15 days is probably a bit rushed to go Nairobi to Cape Town without travelling most days. If I were you I would focus on a smaller area. Maybe fly o Livingstone and then overland to South Africa. Or overland to Livingstone and fly to South Africa. You could do an overland tour or use public transport! Hope that helps! Sorry without knowing all the details, budgets etc, difficult to advise.

Hi Miss Hellen I Am So Sorry But I Am From Uganda, Hope U Vist My Country One Day, Would U Email Me After Reading My Post.

Hi Helen ! this was really nice to read and definitely makes me want to discover Africa 🙂 i am going solo to Zanzibar in July, which wasnt really planned but now i got my flight tickets. Do you have any tips about where to stay and what to do as a solo traveller there ? I dont really want to spend 10 days surrounded by couples in honeymoon 😀 Also it will be my very first time travelling alone, its really exciting and scary at the same time, do you have any advice for me ? thank you !!

Hi Vanessa, I have one post on Zanzibar about Stone Town for ideas – but if I were you, I would head straight to the beaches as it’s easy to meet people there, either in Kendwa or Paje. Stay at Kendwa Rocks in Kendwa or New Teddy’s in Paje. Paje can be quiet in low season, but Kendwa Rocks is generally always busy. Then you can meet some other solo travellers to explore the rest of the island with! 🙂

At the beach there’s loads of things like snorkelling trips etc or you could hire some bikes! All the activities are displayed in every hotel.

In terms of general advice, it’s all in this post, or in this post: https://www.heleninwonderlust.co.uk/2016/01/beginners-guide-backpacking-east-southern-africa/

My biggest advice – don’t worry!!! It is not as scary as it seems. When you arrive, grab a beer at the bar and start chatting to people.

Enjoy your trip and if you have any specific questions, let me know!

Would you recommend go to Tasmania and Kenia with kids (10 and 15)? Can you give tips how to organize our trip for 1-2 weeks? May be somebody from your friends there can look after us? What the best time to go there? Thank you for your help!

Hi Vladimir, I guess you mean Tanzania? Yes definitely you could!

You can visit most of the year. Really depends what you want to do there! I can recommend some companies to use. Alternatively, I can help with the planning but I do charge for that as it’s a lot of work.

Email me with your specific requirements and I will try to support.

Vladimir, being a Ugandan, am biased so I would suggest you go to Uganda, and cross to Tanzania, alternatively you can do both Tanzania and Kenya, Late June early July is a good time, you have the chance to see what is dubbed as “the greatest show on earth”, on this web page – http://stridesafaris.com/the-greatest-show-on-earth-wildebeest-migration . On that link I highlight what you can see there (Wildebeest migration). Helen is an excellent trip planner, so she can help you out. You need to help her though, by mentioning what animals you would like to see. The Mountain Gorillas are only found in Rwanda, DR Congo and Uganda. Tanzania and Kenya are good for viewing the great Wildebeest migration. Prices are high though when you take that route. Your kids are old enough and it would be a good experience for them.

East Africa Tourism is full of experience

good info but would have been nice to include some books by Africans …. not predominantly white men. E.g. Chinamanda Ngozi Adichie, Wole Soyinka, Chinua Achebe.

The list isn’t meant to be exhaustive, it’s simply a list of a small few of my favourites. 2 of the 5 books on this list are written by Africans, one from Malawi, one from Kenya and I’d like the think that the colour of their skin is irrelevant and that whatever it is they are still ‘African’ and their perspective and observations on Africa are equally as valid as the other. However, I realised this list was short and there are a lot of other books about Africa I enjoyed so I wrote another post about them which you can find here: https://www.heleninwonderlust.co.uk/2015/02/great-books-about-africa/ – Chinamanda Ngozi Adichie is featured there along with other African writers. My intention is to add to this list as and when I find the time to read some more.

Thank you for the recommendations for the other 2 authors. I will check them out.

This is amazing! Being a Kenyan, I plan to discover my country as well as Tanzania by myself, sometime in August. I am a local but this is still great for a first solo trip.

Thank you so much.

Hi Mary, that’s a great compliment coming from a Kenyan! Glad you found it useful! Have a great time! I’m be back in Kenya in September! I can’t wait!! 🙂

What an incredible amount of information on overland tours in Africa !

Thanks Derek!

I just wanted to say that this blog is awesome. Everything here is EXACTLY what I wanted to know, because as you mention at the start, I originally questioned how dangerous it would be. Thank you for spending the time to write it all up and in such a way that is so thorough and organised!

Aw, thanks Joy! You made my day! 🙂

Hello! I happen to stumble upon your blog and I wanted to humbly thank you for your soild advice, and expression of gratitude toward Africa! You are an inspiration to all female travelers =) Everything you’ve written sounds so accurate and well experienced. It’s great to also know in your personal experience that you haven’t gotten sick from the change in food 😉 I too hope to travel around Africa at some point. My partner is originally from Ghana so I’ve been immersed in African culture since we’ve been together (almost 4 years). we have yet to travel to Ghana, but have both graduated from college and hope to save for a trip in 2017. It’s costly for us because the whole family is in Ghana and will expect gifts. We are also in the middle of finishing a house for the family. It would be ideal to finish the house by the time of our trip.

I’m hoping to also visit Togo and Ivoy Coast when we go since I’ve met many people originally from those places and would love to learn more about their culture. Xoxo -Yaa

Thank you for reading and for your lovely comment! I love Africa and hope that shines through in my words. I hope you get to visit soon, but yes I can imagine it gets costly when visiting the family! 🙂

I’ve never been to West Africa but I would love to go soon!

Very comprehensive post! I’m African but haven’t traveled across the continent yet. I relate to most of what you’ve written. I hope to make it to most of these places soon. Thanks again for a great post!

Thanks! That means a lot from someone who actually lives in Africa. Do you live in Nairobi? I’ll be there next week!

Hi Helen!! You might be my virtual guide… Thank you for sharing your experiences. My hubby and I want to go in December to Zambia and Zimbabwe, and we are wondering about services shutting down during the season, such as public transportation, day tours, etc. Anything you could share? Dec 17, 2016- Jan 2, 2017… THANKS A LOT!!!

I think most things are open, as the holiday season is quite a big time for tourist companies. You may struggle Christmas Day, but would you want to be travelling on that day anyway? 🙂

All the activities will be running!

Well guys, I still remember the sight of real lion cubs in the Etosha National Park in Namibia. This park is wonderful. I guarantee you’ve never seen such an amazing place. If you ever wanna find out what I’m talking about, contact Wild Wind Safaris. They organize trips and tours in South Africa and they do it really well. You won’t regret!

Hi, Helen. Awesome post .Thank you for share this tips & hope it is helpful a new traveler and awaiting for your next post. .

Thanks Kate!!

Hi, I know a young (28 year old) anglo woman from the states who is doing research in Takoradi. She is living with co-worker from the agency who is quite nice but involved in his own life. Because she is there in a research/student capacity she is really on her own and isolated, She is not meeting peers in hostels etcetra because of her three month research commitment. any suggestions on how she could make some social connections with the local Ghanaian community? do you know of any tour guides in the Takoradi Sekondi area. ,

Hi Debbie, I’m really sorry but I don’t have any contacts in Ghana. I would maybe suggest that she could join the Facebook group ‘Backpacking Africa’ as there may be some Ghanaians in there. Or, are there any expat groups that meet? There are a few sites that help like this one http://www.expatarrivals.com/ghana/moving-to-ghana and I think there are a few forums too.

Or maybe find some bloggers living in Ghana, I found these guys https://sixdegreesnorth.me/ but there are bound to be a few!!

Are there other people they work with who she could hang out with? What has she tried already in the way of making friends/connections?

So glad I found this blog. I’d like to spend my 40th birthday in Africa. So I’m giving myself plenty of time to save up the money and do the research. South Africa, Victoria Falls, Mt. Kilimanjaro, Madagascar, to name a few places are on my list. Thanks for sharing!!

Hi Victoria, sounds like you have an amazing trip ahead of you! I think I might do the same for my 40th (in 4 years)!!! 🙂

Hi Am jb from Sierra Leone west Africa. ..any tourist that want to visit Sierra Leone. .Freetown. .on a vacations. ..i am ready to help he or she with travelling guides and visa and tour guide. .because i know every coner of the city. .i promised you will have the best vacations here because Sierra leone have many things to offere tourist…just contact me on my email …. [email protected] my #…..0023299195017 just hala at mee. ..have a good day ..peace. .

Africa really is a continent to fall in love with. The contrast with the rest of the world really is amazing. Thank you for some really nice advice, I mostly agree after two visits of Africa. We recently came back home from a trip to Namibia and South Africa and there it was possible to find everything we needed during our stay. But it was a bit harder to find the necessities in The Gambia earlier this year. So it is quite important to plan ahead. 🙂

Hi Helen, I was wondering if it is possible to travel in Tanzania during the rainy season from feb-may or is this a really stupid idea?

Hey Helen, All the tips you have shared can make anyone travel solo even a women too. It’s really appreciable that it’s a really amazing way to help other people to travel some new destination by just writing a post and giving all the relevant information. Hats off to you girl….

Thank you Mehak!

I really enjoyed reading your blog, thank you!

I’m hoping to visit either Tanzania or Kenya this summer but with my family. Myself and my husband, both 50 and 2 kids 14 & 17. Do you know of a anyone who has written blogs/guides for families wanting to travel Africa on a budget?

Many thanks, Roz

Hi Roz, I can’t think of any of the top of my head but I will have a look for you.

Is there anything specific you want to know? I may be able to help. A lot of the info on my blog can apply to families and I used to be a tour guide looking after Girl Guides aged 14 – 26, so have some knowledge of that age group!

Fire away and I can see where I can help.

Will come back to you asap.

Hi Helen, My name is Michelle. I am planning a trip with my Daughter who is 8 this summer. We want to Safari and sightsee but I don’t want to pay 8,000 to 10,000 dollars to for 2 weeks in June. We don’t care where we go as long ass there’s lots of wildlife and it’s safe. I was thinking of self driving as I have done 4000klm in 11 days before. Was thinking the same as you Niarobie to Cape Town. What is your advice we would be coming from Canada.

Hi Michelle,

I’d strongly advise against doing Nairobi to Cape Town in 2 weeks. If you did that you’d be driving pretty much all day every day and you wouldn’t see anything. Driving in Africa is a lot different to elsewhere. The roads can be horrendous and much slower than they look on Google Maps. Plus there’s borders to cross etc.

I suggest that you stick to 2 countries max.

There are plenty of safari companies that charge much less. I would suggest maybe you contact my friends at Mara Explorers Camp, they should be able to do you a reasonably priced safari. And there are also a few other companies that do reasonably priced ones. If you go on Safaribookings.com you will be able to find some companies. You could also try Shemaji Safaris in Tanzania.

Some comnpanies do a safari with a beach trip, which are quite nice. Or you could just do the safari bit with a company and easily do the rest yourself, after your safari, you canthen fly or get a bus to the beaches?

Maybe have a think about what you want to see and do and start from there.

Hi Helen! We loved your article on africa, we live in Maputo, Mozambique and it is an experience every day! Africa brings you many good things and there are still many people who do not know and blogs like yours make people want to open up more.

Great blog post! We spent 17 weeks overlanding from Cape Town to Cario and your photos are pretty much our photos…. Funny. Love Africa and can’t wait to be back. Did you hike in the Simien Mountains in Ethiopia?

Hello Helen,

Excellent post and thank you for writing this. I’m from Vancouver, Canada and am starting an epic journey next week in Madagascar. I’m going to go there without any money (only money for VISAs) and want to see if I can make it back home. Do you have any advice for me?

Thanks! Nima

Thanks Nima!

I’ve never been to Madagascar so I don’t really know what to suggest to be honest.

How are you going to pay for accommodation, food, transport?

Are you going to see if you can hitch rides and stay with people? What will you give them in return for their hospitality?

Do you have some kind of plan? Where will you stay when you get there? How will you even get from the airport into town?

I’m full of questions and concern! 🙂

Hi Helen! I’ve only briefly read though some of your topics and suggestions. I travel as much and as often as I can to those “less alluring to the normal person” kind of places. I saw your travel plans for the DRC. Is that still happening. The country is beautiful, and on my list, but admittedly I’m a little nervous about this one. I’ll do Jo’burg to Cairo towards the end of the year and I feel comfortable with all of the countries I’ll go to. I’ve done Morocco to Gambia and have also never felt more comfortable traveling through that area. But the DRC?! When you have time I’d love to hear about our plan because I might just add it to my trip.

Hi Shelby, thanks for your comment!

The DRC trip is still happening currently, obviously if there’s any concerns from my side I will re-route the trip!

Here are the details: https://www.heleninwonderlust.co.uk/uganda-rwanda-drc-adventure-2017/

I currently have one place left if you are interested.

This post is too perfect, Helen! You even have book recommendations! Thank you for putting this amazing tips together! x

Glad you like them and thanks for reading!!! 🙂

What a great blog! Being in the travel industry, I can relate to a lot of your content – Well done, this is awesome!

Thanks for a wonderful post Helen. This guide will help me. Because I’m planning to start a 8 Month tour in Africa.

Great! You will love it!!!!

thanks for sharing the tips and are very informative. I really liked the tips as i am a solo traveler.

Great!! Thanks for reading!

thanks for sharing your amazing trip of Africa. it seems very beautiful. love to travel there.

So informative and extremely valuable advise for anyone wishing to travel to Africa. Thanks for sharing your knowledge with future Africa travelers.

While I’m not a solo female traveling to Africa, I am traveling to Africa!

I’m so inspired by your experience spending time over there. I’ll be heading to South Africa from Chicago this November (November 24 – December 5th) and I’m super excited. Thanks for helping amp me up even more.

I found your tips to be really informational, especially making friends with the locals. While I’m not a totally experienced traveler, I do tend to keep to myself while traveling. Hoping to make some friends on this trip!

Hope all is well – keep writing!

I am traveling to Africa! Thanks for sharing the tips and are very informative. I found your tips to be really informational, especially making friends with the locals. I suggest this extremely valuable advise for anyone wishing to travel to Africa.

Great article, wonderful pictures too. I wish I would get my hands on those books now… on a side note, welcome to Kenya in East Africa too. It is awesome, the weather is great and you also get to see the big five as well as a diverse collection of flora and fauna.

Great post..! Thanks for sharing…really interesting to read…really important tips and guides.. This post gives me positive vibes about Africa, and the people. Eagerly waiting to go there to mingle with them. The pictures are so lively and stunning.

Your blog is really interesting, i read your related post too!! it really love it.. you look like you really had fun in africa!

Great Post!

I came here looking for advice on travelling betwee countries by land. You touched on it but I still don’t think I know everything.

Is it possible to travel the majority of african countries by land? Even across boarders?

You can travel through most places overland. You can figure out most of this as you go and asking at the places you stay will get you a heap of info.

You can usually travel across borders by bus too, but it depends on the bus. Some will include the border crossing and some won’t and you’ll get dropped off at the border and then take another. I would make sure your journeys are just by day and factor in the time it might take to cross the border.

Hi, I’m really wanting to travel to South Africa alone so I’m glad I came across your site because it’s given some great advice that I’ve needed and haven’t been able to find else where :), I just wondered about the tip of wearing a fake wedding ring I can see how it would work but would it be risky in the fact that it could inflict a mugging maybe? And also I don’t drive and other websites maybe talk about renting cars to get around, is this going to be a major disadvantage to me? Thanks

Hi Bethany!

I wear a few rings when I travel, just cheap silver ones. As long as it’s not too flashy, I think you’ll be fine. Or even a wooden one would work! You can buy things like that there!

You can get around South Africa on tourist buses, train etc. I think having a car does really help, but you could always try and find a buddy in Backpacking Africa Facebook group! 🙂

I love your traveling blog. I just want to stop searching on the internet ‘what to see’ and totally follow your advice and routes. I just had a couple of questions and you seem like the perfect person to answer these :D, if you don’t mind.

My boyfriend and I are traveling to Tanzania in June 2018. Unfortunately your tour only leaves at the end of June. So we were thinking of just traveling on our own without a guide or group. Is this something doable in Tanzania?

We arrive in Dar Es Salaam, but also go back to Europe from the same airport. We were thinking of booking a flight from Dar Es Salaam to Kilimanjaro Airport. We can book it fairly cheap with our student discount card. Or do you advise us to travel via a big loop and see more of Tanzania that way?

Last question….Do you advice us to book small tours, like the safari’s, in advance? Or can we book it as we arrive at the different locations? We want to try to travel with a low budget…

Many thanks! And keep on going with this blog ;-)!

Sara & Guy

Hi Sara & Guy,

Thanks for your comment!

Yes, you can travel on your own, or join a group tour. Travelling on your own is just a bit more fiddly but totally doable! You just have to book everything separately, but that’s ok! Public transport is pretty straightforward in Tanzania. Maybe just book a tour for safari, I don’t advise hiring a car for the Serengeti/Ngorongoro Crater! You can book in advance or when you get there. You can either contact safari companies and get quotes for a private tour, or ask if they have groups you can share with. It might be easier to join a group when there as you’ll get volunteers booking last minute safaris, or you may meet people to join with, especially if you stay in hostels! 🙂

I would probs fly/bus it up to Kili and work back from there. Hope that helps!!! 🙂

Have a great trip!

ps. My first Tanzania tour starts in August! 🙂

Ahh, this was really helpful, thanks! I am will be travelling solo, but I am a little unsure of tours. Can I easily find these at hostels as I go? In your experience, is it cheaper to find 2-3 day tours along the way or book overland tours? I want to travel and do it all myself however I realize to see more nature and animals I need to be on tours. Thanks for a great blog!

That’s really amazing post. Preparing for and enjoying your tour is important. Your Africa travel tips will surely gonna helps lot of people, who want to explore Africa. Thanks for the post. https://www.welgevondenreserve.org/

Amazing post! I’ve been to Kenya and Tanzania in 2011, with my mum and her well-traveled in Africa friend, but we were mostly using a local travel agency – moving everywhere with our driver-guide and staying in quite luxury hotels, so we didn’t get much of the tase of local life. Despite that, towns like Nairobi, Arusha, or even the Nungwi beach on Zanzibar seemed to me, as then 18 yo blond girl, quite frightening. Despite that, I fell in love in Africa and decided to try it again someday – this year in July I’m going to Rwanda, this time for a scientific conference, so with high insight in the Kigali city and contact with locals. Still a bit afraid of that plan, but reading posts like that and information about how safe and traveler-friendly Rwanda is, I’m getting much more courage and certainty that I won’t regret this decision. Thanks for that post!

~ http://travelingarrows.com/

I think it’s best if you keep yourself from swimming in lakes or any freshwater to fully avoid being infected with schistosomiasis. In addition, make sure to only drink filtered water.

wow, i cant imagine what it took you to put together that information about Africa as a travel destination. i find the information so resourceful as it expounds on each details entailing the different destination.

Wow, this is such a great, informative post and I love your pictures too. I want to go to Africa but I was worried about it because I am alone. This helps me a lot. Thanks for sharing these tips about how women travelling alone in Africa.

Oh wow, this post is quit an eye-opener as I have never been to Africa. i have been to Mexico so I am familiar with being around people who are poor and negotiating trinket costs with local shops. But I have never seen a squat toilet before! let alone heard of one! But if I had a choice I think I’d rather do my duty behind a bush and cover it up with a little dirt. Thank you for this post.

WOW! wonderful tips to travel to Africa, I never thought it would be something like this. Thanks to showing us real Africa here, Glad to see your post.

I have never been to Africa! I would love to visit it!

This looks, it probably took alot to have it publushed

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Backpacking Africa on a Budget – Tips, Routes, & Itinerary

Last Updated on 17 September 2024 by Cycloscope

Africa Backpacking Guide: Destinations, Highlights, & Tips! Budget overlanding travel itineraries and routes in Southern, West, and East Africa

Welcome to this epic blog article about backpacking Africa! We’ve been living on the continent for 4+ years and have explored quite a lot.

Here you will find all the information you might need about backpacking in Africa and links to more in-depth articles about each African country.

Find out about the best destinations in Africa for safari lovers, beach addicts, or adventure seekers as well as lots of useful travel tips to help you prepare for your Africa backpacking trip.

Where are the best safari destinations?

Disclosure: Some of our articles contain affiliate links. This comes at no additional cost for you and helps us keep this website up and running. (as Amazon Associates we earn commission from qualifying purchases)

If wildlife is one of the main reasons you’re planning your backpacking trip in Africa, here are the best countries for safari experiences and their best parks:

• Tanzania : Ruaha, Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Tarangire – Price tag: Expensive
• Kenya : Amboseli, Tsavo – Price tag: moderately expensive
• Uganda : Queen Elizabeth, Semuliki – Price tag: Expensive
• Zambia : South Luangwa, Kafue, Lower Zambesi – Price tag: affordable
• Namibia : Etosha – Price tag: cheap
• Botswana : Okavango Delta, Chobe – Price tag: very expensive
• South Africa : Kruger, Addo – Price tag: affordable

Transportations

Getting around the African continent is not a piece of cake, forget about the railway networks of Europe , or the cheap international flights of South East Asia . Hopping from one destination to another may require multiple combinations of mixed means of transportation, get ready for wild rides and stressful bargains… but that’s part of the adventure.

Domestic and Continental Flights

Flights are more expensive in Africa when compared to the rest of the world, even domestic flights can go above a couple of hundred dollars. International flights are also not easy, most of the time you can expect layovers in South Africa, Kenya, or Ethiopia (where the biggest airlines are from), which makes flight connections slow and not really convenient.

Our favorite platform to look for flights is Kiwi.com, which gives you great flexibility in research through multiple location and date options.

Trains in Africa

There are very few operational passenger railways in Southern Africa, the most notable and only international one being the TaZaRa , connecting Zambia and Tanzania. It’s quite a slow trip but a very interesting one for those backpacking Africa. The train indeed goes through several wildlife reserves and it’s possible to spot animals from your train sit, quite unique.

In North Africa, the situation is different, with Morocco, Algeria, and Egypt having quite decent and nationwide train connections.

Coaches and Minibuses

The most common means of transport for passengers in most of Africa are long-distance coaches and mini-buses.

Long-distance coaches are often the best means of transportation available when going from one major city or town to another, sometimes even across borders. There are a plethora of companies in every country, but very few of them have proper websites.

Often the best way to figure out coaches’ schedules is to get phone numbers through your accommodation and call, or directly go to the coach station if there’s one. Coaches are better booked in advance as they fill up quickly.

Don’t expect luxury standards, seats are often worn out and narrow and buses can get noisy with crying babies and preachers. They often break the speed limits and are not the safest way to get around, but still better than minibusses.

Tip: don’t put anything too valuable in the luggage compartment. Although not common, baggage theft can occur.

Mini-buses are called different names in each country , but they look, feel, and behave exactly in the same way… a wild way.

Mini-buses are privately owned, don’t run by a schedule, and don’t have fixed stops. In major centers, you’ll find sorts of “depots” where they usually wait to fill up before starting off. If there’s no depot, you’ll have to stand by the road and waive them as they pass, hoping they’ll have a free seat. But don’t worry, there’s always a free seat, even if it’s on the lap of someone else… mini-buses are indeed always overloaded with too many people and too many goods.

In most cases, mini-buses run relatively short distances, so if your destination is far or off the route you’ll probably have to change a few to get there. They also stop all the time and a journey of less than a hundred kilometers can easily take hours.

Tip: to avoid getting overcharged, ask a fellow passenger what is the real fee to your destination.

A very popular option is joining overlanding track tours such as Dragoman , these are organized group trips on specially adapted trucks.

Renting (or buying) a car (or a motorbike)

Renting a car can be a game changer for those backpacking in Africa if you have a budget for it. In countries like Namibia or South Africa, you can rent a fully equipped 4×4 with a rooftop tent for around 70/80$ a day, not bad if you can share the costs with some fellow travelers.

A local car can also give you discounts when accessing national parks, and you won’t have to spend on a Safari (although self-driving in wildlife parks can be dangerous, and you’ll never see the same level of wildlife without a guide)

Smaller 2-wheel-drive cars can be rented for something between 25/50$ per day, depending on the country. Don’t tackle challenging dirt roads with this kind of vehicle.

Tip: check the conditions of the car prior to renting to avoid being charged for damage you haven’t caused. Renting from reputable companies like Discover Cars is more expensive but can be safer.

If you’re in for a long trip, buying a vehicle (and then selling it) can also be an option, although certainly not an easy one. It’s not difficult to find a decent second-hand 4×4 for something between 4,000$ and 12,000$, especially in South Africa, Tanzania, Namibia, and Kenya. These 90s vehicles have a stable reselling value on the African market.

The problem here is the paperwork required for crossing borders, which can be quite a headache… so complicated that we’ll promise to write a separate article about it (we bought a vehicle in Tanzania thus we have first-hand experience), in the meanwhile, feel free to get in touch through our contact page.

A great idea, if your journey doesn’t cover extreme distances, is to buy a local motorbike. These Chinese/Indian heavy-duty 150cc light motorcycles are quite the beasts of burden around here.

You can get a brand new one for around 1,000/1,500$ and resell it for a few hundred less, an optimal solution when traveling around one country only.

Hitchhiking Africa

Hitchhiking is not as popular as it used to be, but I still think it’s a great way to travel, get to know people, and have interesting experiences. We did it pretty often on our trips and still do it nowadays.

Hitchhiking is actually quite easy in most of Africa, but many will expect at least a contribution for gasoline and agree in advance before getting in the vehicle. Truck drivers are the best for hitchhikers, they often are looking for company and are up for good chats, but they are also less interested in money. Solo women travelers should be more careful when hitchhiking.

If you know this site you probably know that cycling is our favorite way of traveling. Cycling in Africa might be not for everyone but it’s also not as challenging as you might think at first.

read our dedicated article > Cycling Africa: Bicycle Touring & Bikepacking

Ferries and boats

With the dismissal of the MV Liemba of Lake Tanganyika, the last legendary ferry in Africa remains the Ilala Ferry , sailing Lake Malawi . Local boats navigate most of the African lakes but are difficult to catch and quite unsafe.

Check Also: > 8 of the Most Dangerous Countries in Africa Where You Could Travel Safely

Duration of a backpacking trip in Africa

Travel distances and especially times are quite long in Africa. Even when two destinations are only a few hundred kilometers apart, it might take the whole day to travel from one to the other with public transport.

If you only have one week or 10 days, we recommend planning your bikepacking trip within a single country, or even in a small area of one country if that is a big one with many attractions (like Tanzania or Mozambique i.e.). Of course, you can take domestic flights to move speedily from one place to another, but listen to this advice: don’t pack too many things in a short time, Africa has a other rhythm than what you’re used to.

Unless you want a beach holiday, we advise taking at least 3 weeks/1 month off for a backpacking trip to any Southern African country.

Of course, the longer the time at your disposal, the more things you can experience, we planned for a 9-month trip and ended up staying 4+ years…

Vaccines, prophylaxis, and medicaments: how to avoid Malaria and other diseases

Of course, you should consult your tropical disease physician before undergoing any sort of vaccines or prophylactic treatments, they will know what’s best for you.

We’ll just give our two cents here, as people who have lived around the continent for 4+ years.

Yellow Fever

Yellow fever has become rarer and rarer throughout the African continent, recently though, there have been epidemics in areas of DRC and Angola. Even if you’re traveling through areas not affected by yellow fever disease, the vaccination is still mandatory in many countries, which won’t allow you across their border if not in possession of the “yellow card”. If you’re backpacking Africa, you should get your yellow fever vaccine before the start of the trip.

malaria prophylaxis is devastating to the body and doesn’t prevent 100% from getting malaria. We absolutely recommend not taking any for an extended period of time. Bring instead malaria treatment meds, get tested immediately at the very first symptoms, and don’t trust self-tests but go to a proper clinic.

Is it good to be covered against tetanus and hepatitis, while cholera and meningitis depend more on the areas you’re going to.

What medicines should you bring with you when backpacking Africa?

When we packed our stuff and came cycling in Africa we packed a ton of medicines. That was quite stupid. Unless you have a condition that requires specific meds, you’ll find most of the medicines needed to treat common African diseases everywhere in Africa.

The only medications I recommend bringing are:

• strong painkillers
• malaria treatment
• antidiahorrohic
• nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory gel (NSAID)

From our direct experience, we also recommend taking deworming pills every 3/4 months to get rid of unwanted parasites, which unfortunately are pretty common

Connectivity: WiFi and Internet in Africa

As with many other topics in this article, it’s difficult to give generic info, as every country has its own peculiarities.

Generally speaking, WiFi is mostly available at lodges and hostels catering to Western tourists. Don’t count too much on that though, as bandwidth is often narrow, and with a lot of people connected, you might struggle even to update your social media.

We recommend getting a local SIM card for every country where you’re going to spend some time. Buying a SIM card is usually quite easy and data bundles work always better than WiFI connections.

Some countries though don’t have great coverage outside the main towns or cities so it’s not uncommon to find yourself off-line during long transfers.

Pro Tip: download offline maps, articles, and books to be sure to have something to do while sitting on local transport for several hours.

Best time for a backpacking trip in Africa

Of course, it depends. Africa is crossed by the Equator line, meaning that seasons are inverted in the South compared to the North. When it’s summer in North Africa it’s winter in Southern Africa, and vice versa.

North African countries should avoid the peak of Boreal summer, the heat can be unbearable and sunstrokes are a common occurrence among inexperienced tourists.

The rainy season in Northern Africa occurs between September and May, rainfall is usually heavy and brief and not always a disturbance. Water makes everything greener and the skies can be epic, casting photogenic colour tones.

The best seasons to visit North Africa are spring (March to May) and fall (September and October).

In Southern and Central Africa, rainy seasons can be extremely wet at their peaks, with several days of uninterrupted downpours being not uncommon.

If you’re planning to stick to coasts and lowlands, Austral Winter (June to August) is a great time to visit, as temperatures are milder but still warm enough to enjoy the beach.

Remember anyway that many African top attractions are located at relatively high altitudes. Temperatures can get quite low above 1,500 msl so pack some warm clothes if you’re traveling in winter.

Rainy seasons vary throughout Southern Africa, even within the same nation. Check the climate historicals for the specific areas you intend to travel to determine the best time to visit.

Pro Tip: check the altitude and weather forecast of your next destination to ensure you’re well-equipped for the local weather.

Packing List

• Mosquito repellent (buy it in Africa)
• Travel towel
• Generic toiletries

Accessories

• Pocket knife
• Camera (+ extra batteries and SD cards)
• Power bank or solar panel charger
• Insulated water bottle
• First aid kit & regular medication
• optional: binoculars, zoom lens, travel guide
• Sturdy shoes
• Beach shoes
• T-shirts (avoid black, blue, and white for safari)
• Shorts (not too short, especially for ladies)
• Long trousers
• Loose-fitting clothes for Muslim countries
• Rain jacket or backpacking poncho
• Down jacket
• Thermal layers
• Warm jumpers
• Woolen socks

Getting Cash or Bringing Cash

ATMs are present in all the major towns and most of the time will work with all Visa and Mastercard cards. The fees are often quite high, and maximum withdrawal amounts are quite small, another thing that adds up to the overall cost of backpacking Africa.

Wise (former Transferwise)  is our go-to solution. It allows you to instantly open virtual bank accounts in almost any currency, when you do that you’ll be charged local fees instead of international, quite a bargain.

Carrying some US Dollars is a good idea, some visas can only be paid in USD and sometimes you might find yourself stranded if ATMs are not working or there’s a lack of cash in the country (see Zimbabwe). Keep your backup cash hidden but always on you, never leave it in any kind of luggage going into a vehicle trunk or such.

Backpacking Accommodation in Africa

Lodges and budget backpacking accommodations can be found everywhere near tourist areas, one night in an upscale lodge costs between 50$ and 100$, while in backpacking accommodations it’s easy to find rooms from 15 to 40$. Dorms are not as common as in Europe but are usually available near the main attractions (8/15$ per bed).

Besides that, any small town will have at least one local guesthouse, these can be either dirty and rundown or clean, decent, and great value for money. Expect to pay anything between 2$ and 30$ for a local guesthouse.

Campsites are common but they are often located outside the central areas of towns and cities, catering more to overlanders than backpackers. The average price for campsites goes from 5$ to 10$ per person.

Airbnb is also getting more and more widespread, optimal to find great deals when traveling in small groups.

The budget. How much does backpacking in Africa cost?

Africa is seen as the poorest continent in the world, and that is true when it comes to the living conditions of the general population.

That doesn’t mean though that the whole of Africa is cheap. Some countries have rampant inflation that makes prices of basic goods extremely high, even by Western standards.

Accommodation is often catered towards wealthy tourists, not much backpacker culture here, which is reflected in luxury-grade prices.

Attractions are also often overpriced, climbing Kilimanjaro starts at 1600$ per person, and when it comes to Safari prices can really get crazy, especially in some countries (Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda, Botswana).

Add to this the price of the visa, often around 50$ per country and you’ll see why backpacking in Africa is much more expensive than in Asia.

Food instead is relatively cheap, if you can get used to local restaurants you can eat 3 meals for around 10$ in most of Southern Africa. International food is, of course, more expensive, between 5$ and 15$ for a meal.

In my opinion, the minimum budget for a comfortable backpacking trip in Africa is 30/60$ per day, including emergencies.

Backpacking Itineraries in Africa

In a continent as big as Africa there are infinite possible travel itineraries. When planning your backpacking itinerary in Africa the first question you should ask yourself is: how much time do I have? Of course, a 10-day itinerary will look very different from a 3-month one.

If the duration of your backpacking trip in Africa is inferior to two weeks, we advise sticking to a single country of destination. For a single-country itinerary, we refer you to our country-specific articles down here:

South Africa

For longer trips, we propose here 3 multi-country itineraries. We also invite you to do your own research and modify them according to your preference and available time.

Malaysia Island of Penang: Indian Food, Chinese Temples, and Japanese Cosplay

3-week: south africa + namibia itinerary.

• 4 days – Cape Town and Table Mountain
• 2 days – Hermanus and Cape L’Agulhas
• 1 day – Transfer to Langebaan
• 2 days – Langebaan and Paternoster
• 1 day – Transfer to Namibia
• 1 day – Fish River Canyon
• 1 day – Aus
• 2 days – Sossusvlei
• 2 days – Swakopmund and Moon Landscape
• 1 day – Spitzkoppe
• 1 day – Cape Cross seal colony
• 2 days – Etosha National Park
• 2 days – Windhoek and fly out

3-week: Mozambique + Zimbabwe itinerary

• 3 days – arrive in Maputo and explore the city
• 2 days – Praia do Bilene
• 1 day – Xai Xai
• 4 days – Tofo and Inhambane
• 2 days – Vilanculos and Bazaruto Archipelago
• 1 day – transport to Espungabera
• 1 day – cross into Zimbabwe, Chirinda Forest, and sleep in Chipinge
• 3 days – Chimanimani NP
• 1 day – Mutare
• 2 days – Nyanga NP
• 2 days – arrive in Harare and fly out

4-week: Zambia + Malawi backpacking itinerary

• 2 days – arrive in Livingston and visit Victoria Falls
• 2 days – arrive in Lusaka & visit Lower Zambezi NP
• 3 days – South Luangwa National Park
• 2 days – cross into Malawi and visit Dezda rock art
• 3 days – hike Mulanjie mountain in the south
• 4 days – reach Cape Maclear and rest by the shores of Lake Malawi
• 5 days – take the Ilala Ferry and spend some days on Likoma Island
• 2 days – Nkhata Bay
• 2 days – Livingstonia or Nyika National Park
• 2 days – travel to Lilongwe and fly out

Visas for East African Countries

Visas in East Africa used to be quite straightforward, most nationalities could obtain visas on arrival almost everywhere, pay at the border, and off you go.

Nowadays, after the pandemic, many nations have resorted to online visa applications. This has complicated things a bit, as these websites are often glitchy and might require quite some time to get the application through. Response times also vary a lot from case to case, and it’s not rare to be stuck at a border while waiting for your online visa.

West Africa though is much more complicated, crossing all of these tiny countries often means being stuck in capitals for days waiting for a visa, and some borders are still closed to foreigners due to the aftermath of the pandemic. Visas also contribute quite a bit to raising the overall cost of the trip.

Africa is home to thousands of languages, dozens and sometimes hundreds can be found within a single country.

As a rule of thumb though, former colonial languages are quite widespread. That means English is common in former British colonies, French in former French colonies, and Portuguese in former Portuguese colonies (namely Mozambique and Angola). German is not really used anymore while Dutch will help you with Afrikaaner people in Namibia and South Africa.

So if you plan on cycling in West Africa, definitely up your French game a bit, otherwise you’ll find yourself lost in translation.

In the Swahili-speaking countries of Kenya and Tanzania, despite the colonial past, English is less common, as the role of “lingua franca” has been assumed by indeed Swahili.

Backpacking Travel Insurance for Africa

Do you need travel insurance when on a backpacking trip in Africa? Well, it’s of course a good idea to be covered when traveling, our choice always goes to World Nomads as one of the most versatile travel insurances on the market.

That said, to find a recognized partner for your travel insurance you’ll most likely have to travel to a major city, don’t expect to be covered when you’re in remote areas.

Private clinics in Africa range from cheap to pricey and from poor quality to Western standards. For minor accidents or problems, you’ll probably spend less money by just paying the fees than what your insurance will cost you.

Get your personalized quote from World Nomads!

What are the highlights of Africa?

It’s a hard endeavor to pack all the best attractions of the African continent in just one paragraph. We’ll give it a try, knowing that a lot of incredible highlights will be left out (material for other posts). Another thing to keep in mind is that “beauty is in the eye of the beholder”, some places may be more or less special for different people.

We’ll order this list from south to north and then east to west

• Cape Town and Table Mountain
• Garden Route
• Kruger National Park

we wrote a lot about South Africa, get more points of interest by reading > All of our articles about South Africa

• Maletsunyane Falls
• The whole of the country
• Fish River Canyon
• Namib Naukluft NP
• Twyfelfountain
• Upupa Falls
• Almost all of the roads in the West of the country
• Makgadikgadi Pans
• Okavango Delta
• Chobe National Park
• Victoria Falls
• Mana Pools NP
• Eastern Highlands
• South Luangwa NP
• Lower Zambesi NP
• Praia do Bilene
• Vilanculos and Bazaruto Archipelago
• Ilha de Mozambique
• Qurimbas Archipelago.
• Lake Malawi (Cape Maclear, Nkhata Bay, Chinteche)
• Likoma Island
• Mulanje Massif

We wrote a lot about Malawi, we live here! > Check all our articles about Malawi

• Serengeti NP
• Ngorongoro Crater
• Kilimanjaro
• Isimila Stone Age Site
• Kondoa Rock Art

So much to see in Tanzania! Check our: > Backpacking Tanzania: 1, 2, or 3 Weeks Itinerary On a Budget

• Gorilla trekking
• Volcanoes NP
• Nyungwe Forest NP
• Gorilla Trekking (Bwindi National Park)
• Chimpanzees Trekking (Kibale Forest NP or Queen Elizabeth NP)
• Lake Victoria (Entebbe, Ngamba Island)
• Nile Sources
• Rwenzori Mountains
• Masai Mara NP
• Mount Kenya
• Amboseli NP
• the coast (Kilifi, Malindi, Lamu)
• Hells Gate NP

Democratic Republic of Congo

• Virunga National Park
• Nyiragongo Lava Lake

note: exert maximum caution when traveling DRC. Collect up-to-date information and consider the dangers of the trip. Oftentimes some of the main attractions might be closed to the public because of guerrilla warfare.

• Simien Mountains NP
• Erta Ale, Dallol
• Sof Omar Cave

note: exert maximum caution when traveling to Ethiopia. Collect up-to-date information and consider the dangers of the trip. Some areas might be restricted to tourists because of civil unrest.

• Meroe Pyramids
• Old Dongola
• Sahara landscapes

West Africa

• Ivory Coast

We promise to expand the West African section as soon as possible.

Frequently Asked Questions about Backpacking Africa

Is africa suitable for a backpacking trip.

Although not as backpacking-friendly as Asia, Africa is definitely suitable for a backpacking trip. Moving from destination to destination can take a long time with public transport but it’s totally worth exploring Africa with a backpack.

Is it possible to travel to Africa on a low budget?

Well, it depends on what you want to do. Many attractions in Africa are quite costly, especially wildlife reserves. If you stick to one or two safaris and avoid the most expensive attractions, hotels, and restaurants, then it’s possible to travel around Africa on a budget.

Are flights in Africa cheap?

Not so cheap as in Europe or Asia. Domestic flights rarely cost less than 100$ one-way.

Is Africa safe for white tourists?

Some African countries are safer than others, and some are dangerous. Most touristic countries are quite safe but you should always exert caution: do not flash money or expensive goods, avoid sketchy areas, and don’t travel in war zones.

What African countries are the best for backpacking?

Tanzania, Malawi, Kenya, Uganda, and South Africa are among the easiest countries for backpackers in the African continent.

Is Africa good for solo travelers?

If you travel solo in the hope of meeting other travelers on the way, be aware that this is not so common in most of Africa. The African continent is much less traveled compared to all the others, so the chance of meeting people is limited to the main tourist spots (Zanzibar, Kilifi… for example). Metting locals anyway, is very easy. People are friendly in most African countries and are always curious to know about foreigners.

Can I take photos of people in Africa?

You should always ask permission when taking photos of people, especially kids. Don’t walk around and snap pictures like it’s your right, it’s not. Politely ask and you’ll rarely be denied. Actually, it often happens to us that people come and ask for a picture when seeing us walking with a camera.

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How Much Does a Trip to Africa Cost? Budgeting Tips for Your Safari Adventure

A trip to Africa from the US usually costs between $2,500 and $10,000 for a two-week stay. The cost varies based on travel type, such as budget or luxury, and essential expenses like flights, hotels, and activities. Customize your trip within your travel budget for the best experience tailored to your preferences.

Additionally, travel during the off-peak season can yield considerable savings. Booking flights well in advance often results in cheaper rates. Choosing a package deal can also provide better pricing on guided tours and meals.

When budgeting for your trip to Africa, consider all potential costs, including travel insurance, visa fees, and vaccinations. Setting a realistic budget will help you enjoy your safari without financial stress.

As you plan your safari adventure, understanding the best time to visit is essential. The right season will enhance your experience and impact your overall costs. Next, we will explore the ideal times to visit Africa and how wildlife viewing opportunities shape those experiences.

Table of Contents

What Factors Most Influence the Overall Cost of a Trip to Africa?

The overall cost of a trip to Africa is influenced by multiple factors. Understanding these aspects can help travelers better plan their budget.

• Destination country
• Duration of stay
• Type of accommodation
• Transportation options
• Activities and excursions
• Travel season
• Visa and vaccination requirements

Considering these points helps travelers make informed decisions. Each element can significantly impact the total expenses incurred during a trip to Africa.

Destination Country : The destination country plays a vital role in shaping trip expenses. Countries like South Africa, Kenya, or Morocco have different living costs, tourism infrastructure, and pricing for services. For example, tourist-friendly areas may offer competitive prices, while remote regions may be more expensive. According to a 2019 report from the World Economic Forum, travel costs in Africa vary significantly, with some countries like Namibia being notably pricier due to their lower tourism density.

Duration of Stay : The duration of stay directly influences overall costs. Longer trips generally result in increased accommodation, food, and activity expenses. For instance, a two-week trip will naturally cost more than a one-week trip. Many travelers find that shorter stays require a higher daily budget to cover intensive activities, while longer stays may allow for cheaper overall costs through package deals.

Type of Accommodation : Accommodation choices can drastically affect spending. Budget travelers may opt for hostels or camping, while luxury travelers could choose high-end hotels or lodges. According to a survey by Booking.com in 2020, travelers lead their preferences toward comfortable yet affordable accommodations, which can affect their financial planning.

Transportation Options : Transportation costs can also accumulate quickly. Travelers can choose from various options, such as domestic flights, rental cars, or public transportation. While flights offer speed, they can be costly. For example, a domestic flight in South Africa can range widely in price, while bus services offer more economical options but involve longer travel times.

Activities and Excursions : The choice of activities and excursions can significantly influence costs. Safaris in wildlife-rich regions tend to be expensive due to guided services and park entry fees. For instance, a guided safari in the Serengeti can cost several hundred dollars per day. Conversely, travelers who prefer self-guided excursions may save money but miss out on curated experiences.

Travel Season : Traveling during peak seasons often leads to higher expenses due to increased demand for flights, accommodations, and tours. For example, the dry season in East Africa, which attracts numerous visitors, sees inflated prices. The tourism peak during the Great Migration in Tanzania can double some costs compared to off-peak times. A 2021 travel report from the African Travel and Tourism Association highlighted this trend across various regions.

Visa and Vaccination Requirements : Visa and vaccination requirements can add to overall trip costs. Depending on nationality, travelers might need a visa that involves fees and processing times. Additionally, vaccinations, like for yellow fever, may be required or recommended, which incur further costs. Travelers should research requirements to factor these expenses into their overall budget effectively.

By understanding these factors, travelers can create a more accurate budget for their trip to Africa. Each element plays a unique role in influencing the total experience and expenditure.

How Do Different African Destinations Impact Travel Expenses?

Different African destinations significantly influence travel expenses due to variations in accommodation costs, transportation options, activity pricing, and overall accessibility.

Accommodation costs vary by destination. For example, luxury lodges in safari hotspots like Maasai Mara, Kenya charge higher rates, often from $200 to $1,500 per night (African Travel, 2022). In contrast, budget options in cities like Marrakech, Morocco can range from $20 to $50 per night (Tourism Statistics, 2023). This gap can greatly affect the travel budget depending on the chosen location.

Transportation prices also differ. Some countries, like South Africa, have well-developed public transport systems, which can lower travel expenses. For instance, a train ticket can cost around $10 (Railway Services Report, 2023). Alternatively, in less developed regions such as rural Zimbabwe, hiring a private driver may be necessary, with costs ranging from $50 to $100 per day (Local Transport Survey, 2022).

Activity pricing further influences costs. Popular attractions, like Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe, charge entry fees of approximately $30 per person (Zambezi National Park, 2021). Activities such as gorilla trekking in Uganda can demand fees upwards of $600, making it one of the pricier options (Uganda Wildlife Authority, 2023).

Accessibility can also impact expenses. Destinations with international airports, such as Cape Town, typically have more flight options, leading to competitive pricing. Conversely, remote areas may require expensive internal flights or long road trips, increasing travel costs significantly (Air Travel Reports, 2023).

Considering these factors will help travelers effectively budget for their trip, as expenses can vary greatly depending on the chosen destination in Africa.

What Are the Price Ranges for Accommodations Across Africa?

The price ranges for accommodations across Africa can vary widely, depending on the location, type, and amenities offered.

• Luxury Hotels: $200 – $1,500+ per night
• Mid-range Hotels: $50 – $200 per night
• Budget Hotels: $10 – $50 per night
• Guesthouses and Hostels: $15 – $80 per night
• Safari Lodges: $150 – $3,000+ per night
• Airbnb and Short-term Rentals: $30 – $500 per night

These categories highlight the diverse options available in African accommodations. It’s important to understand the factors influencing these price ranges for better budgeting.

1. Luxury Hotels: Luxury hotels in Africa provide high-end services and facilities. They often feature premium amenities like fine dining, spas, and exclusive locations. For example, in high-demand areas such as Cape Town or Nairobi, prices can exceed $1,500 per night for lavish hotels offering ocean views or serene wildlife experiences. The World Travel and Tourism Council reports growth in luxury travel, indicating increased demand in regions like Southern Africa.

2. Mid-range Hotels: Mid-range hotels provide essential comforts at reasonable rates. Prices typically range from $50 to $200 per night. They may include various amenities like Wi-Fi and breakfast. Popular tourist cities often feature numerous mid-range options. According to a 2020 survey by Statista, travelers favor this category for its balance of comfort and affordability.

3. Budget Hotels: Budget hotels cater to cost-conscious travelers, offering basic accommodation for $10 to $50 per night. These establishments provide fundamental services, such as shared bathrooms and limited amenities. The rise of backpacker culture in Africa has fueled the demand for budget hotels, especially in regions like East Africa, where market research suggests a significant increase in occupancy rates.

4. Guesthouses and Hostels: Guesthouses and hostels serve as affordable lodging options, with prices ranging from $15 to $80 per night. They often provide a more communal experience, encouraging interaction among guests. The hostel market in regions like Johannesburg has seen continuous growth, according to a 2019 report by Hostelworld, which highlights both affordability and social engagement.

5. Safari Lodges: Safari lodges can be among the most expensive accommodations, costing $150 to $3,000+ per night. Factors influencing this pricing include exclusivity, location near wildlife parks, and luxurious amenities. The African Safari Market report states that eco-luxury lodges are gaining popularity, catering to affluent travelers seeking unique experiences in nature.

6. Airbnb and Short-term Rentals: Airbnb and similar platforms typically offer a range from $30 to $500 per night. These options can vary significantly in terms of space, location, and amenities. They appeal to travelers seeking local experiences, and research by AirDNA shows that the short-term rental market in cities like Marrakech and Zanzibar has grown considerably in the past few years.

Understanding these accommodation categories helps travelers choose based on their preferences and budget. A comprehensive approach can lead to a more fulfilling travel experience in Africa.

How Can Seasonal Variations Affect Your Trip Budget?

Seasonal variations can significantly impact your trip budget by influencing travel prices, accommodation costs, and activities available during different seasons.

Travel prices fluctuate throughout the year based on demand. For instance, airfare tends to be more expensive during peak travel seasons, which often coincide with school holidays or popular events. According to a study by the Airlines Reporting Corporation (2020), average ticket prices can increase by up to 30% during peak periods.

Accommodation costs vary with the season as well. During high-demand seasons, hotels often raise their rates. The American Hotel and Lodging Association (2021) reported that average hotel rates can be 20% higher in peak season compared to off-peak times. In contrast, traveling during off-peak seasons may provide discounts or incentives, such as reduced rates or free nights.

Activity availability can also change with the season. Certain attractions may only operate during specific months. For example, outdoor activities like hiking or water sports are often best during warmer months. The Adventure Travel Trade Association (2022) highlighted that 60% of adventure travel is planned around favorable weather conditions.

Weather conditions can affect both travel experiences and associated costs. Poor weather may lead to last-minute cancellations or rescheduling, leading to extra expenses. Travelers may need to purchase gear or find alternative activities, which can strain the budget.

Lastly, seasonal promotions can offer opportunities for savings. Many destinations provide special rates during shoulder seasons, which are periods just before or after peak season. For example, tourism boards may promote travel deals to attract visitors during slower months, as noted in a report by the National Council of Tourism (2023).

In summary, understanding seasonal variations is essential for effective trip budgeting, as they affect travel prices, accommodation, activity availability, and overall expenses. It is wise to consider these factors when planning a trip to maximize enjoyment while minimizing costs.

What Activities and Excursions Are Most Costly on an African Safari?

Several activities and excursions on an African safari can be costly. These typically include guided safaris, hot air balloon rides, luxury accommodations, and exclusive wildlife experiences.

• Guided safaris
• Hot air balloon rides
• Luxury accommodations
• Exclusive wildlife experiences

Understanding the cost of various activities can enhance your safari experience. Each activity has unique attributes that may influence its pricing and value.

Guided Safaris: Guided safaris are organized excursions led by experienced guides who provide insights into wildlife and geography. These safaris can range from half-day to multi-day trips. The costs can vary widely based on the level of luxury and the park’s location. According to a report by SafariBookings, guided safaris typically range from $150 to $1,000 per day. High-end safaris often include gourmet meals, private vehicles, and personalized experiences. This premium service can lead to higher expenses.

Hot Air Balloon Rides: Hot air balloon rides offer a unique aerial view of the savannah and wildlife. These rides usually take place at sunrise for the best experience. Prices for hot air balloon excursions can range from $300 to $500 per person, which often includes a post-flight champagne breakfast. This experience is highly sought after, hence the notable cost.

Luxury Accommodations: Luxury accommodations include high-end lodges and tented camps with premium services and amenities. Staying in such facilities can significantly elevate your safari experience but at a cost. Prices for luxury accommodations can reach upwards of $1,000 per night, especially in prime locations, such as Maasai Mara or Kruger National Park. These establishments offer personalized services, fine dining, and exclusive access to activities and views.

Exclusive Wildlife Experiences: Exclusive wildlife experiences can include private game drives, walking safaris with trained guides, or special permits to see rare animals. These experiences often demand a higher fee, which can exceed $200 per person for specialized tours. Such experiences can enhance one’s wildlife viewing but may not always be accessible within a standard safari package. These tours are particularly valuable for wildlife enthusiasts or photographers seeking unique shots.

Understanding these costly activities helps travelers budget effectively. A well-planned safari can offer memorable experiences while managing expenditures.

What Are the Average Costs Associated with Flights to Africa?

The average costs associated with flights to Africa vary significantly based on several factors. The range can be from approximately $600 to over $2,000, depending on the departure location, destination within Africa, time of booking, and seasonality.

• Departure Location
• Destination in Africa
• Time of Booking
• Seasonality
• Airline Choice

The cost of flights can fluctuate widely based on various factors. Understanding these factors can help travelers better plan their budgets for a trip to Africa.

Departure Location: The average costs associated with flights to Africa vary based on the departure location. Flights originating from major cities like New York or London often have competitive pricing due to higher demand. For example, round-trip flights from New York to Johannesburg can range from $800 to $1,200. Conversely, flights from smaller cities or less frequently serviced areas may incur additional costs, sometimes exceeding $2,000.

Destination in Africa: The destination within Africa significantly affects flight costs. Popular travel hubs, such as Cape Town or Nairobi, often have more flight options which can reduce prices. In contrast, remote destinations may only be accessible through a limited number of airlines, potentially increasing costs. According to Skyscanner, flights to Cape Town can be as low as $600 during promotional periods, while less popular destinations may cost over $1,500.

Time of Booking: The timing of booking a flight greatly influences average prices. Booking several months in advance typically offers better fares. For instance, flights booked three months before departure could save travelers up to 40% compared to last-minute bookings. A study by FareCompare in 2022 noted travelers who booked early saved an average of $150 on round-trip flights.

Seasonality: Seasonality plays a vital role in flight pricing. Peak travel seasons, such as summer and holiday periods, increase flight costs due to higher demand. According to Travel Weekly, flight prices can spike by 20% or more during these times. Conversely, traveling during off-peak seasons often yields significant savings, as discounts may reach 50%.

Airline Choice: The choice of airline affects flight costs as well. Full-service airlines typically charge higher fares but include amenities like checked baggage and meals. Budget airlines often offer lower prices, but additional fees for services can increase the total cost. A report by The Points Guy in 2023 indicated that budget airlines like Air Asia could provide flights as low as $400, but hidden fees can make the final price comparable to traditional carriers.

How Can You Secure Affordable International Flights to Africa?

To secure affordable international flights to Africa, utilize flexible travel dates, compare various airlines, consider budget carriers, book in advance, and subscribe to fare alerts.

Flexible travel dates: Being flexible with travel dates can lead to better deals. Flight prices fluctuate based on demand. Tools like Google Flights allow you to compare rates across a range of dates, helping you identify the cheapest options.

Compare various airlines: Use flight comparison websites, such as Skyscanner or Kayak, to explore multiple airlines. These platforms aggregate prices and help you find competitive fares. An analysis by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) in 2021 found that travelers could save an average of 20% by comparing fares across different airlines.

Consider budget carriers: Look into budget airlines that operate routes to Africa. Airlines like AirAsia or Ryanair often offer lower prices. However, be aware of additional fees for baggage and services. While these airlines save money on ticket prices, travelers might end up paying more overall if they are not cautious about additional costs.

Book in advance: Research shows that booking flights 2-3 months in advance results in better pricing. A study by CheapAir in 2022 indicated that booking at this time can save travelers an average of 15%. Planning ahead also gives you access to a wider selection of flights.

Subscribe to fare alerts: Signing up for fare alerts on websites like Hopper or Airfarewatchdog can notify you of price drops. These services track flight prices and send updates when fares decrease, allowing you to purchase tickets at the most opportune moments.

By following these strategies, travelers can increase their chances of finding affordable international flights to Africa.

What Should You Expect to Spend on Domestic Flights Within Africa?

You can expect to spend anywhere from $50 to $400 on domestic flights within Africa, depending on various factors such as distance, airline, and time of booking.

• Factors Influencing Flight Costs: – Distance of travel – Airline choice – Time of booking – Seasonality – Availability of discount fares

Different perspectives regarding these factors exist. Some travelers may prioritize low-cost airlines over full-service carriers to save money. Conversely, some prefer full-service airlines for more comfort, even if they come at a higher price.

As we explore the details further, understanding these factors can help you budget effectively for your travel across the continent.

Distance of Travel : Distance of travel significantly impacts flight costs. Generally, shorter flights are cheaper. For instance, a flight from Johannesburg to Cape Town may cost around $50, while a flight from Johannesburg to Nairobi can exceed $300. The African continent is vast, and longer distances generally lead to higher costs, as shown in comparative studies by the African Development Bank.

Airline Choice : Airline choice influences the quality and price of flights. Budget airlines like FastJet or Mango often provide lower fares but fewer amenities. Full-service airlines like Ethiopian Airlines may offer better service, meals, and luggage allowances at higher prices. According to a survey by AirlineRatings.com, budget-conscious travelers often opt for low-cost carriers to minimize expenses, but they may sacrifice comfort and convenience.

Time of Booking : Time of booking greatly affects fares. Early bookings, usually three months in advance, can save travelers significant amounts, sometimes over 30%. Last-minute bookings, in contrast, particularly during peak seasons, can inflate prices dramatically. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) suggests monitoring average flight prices in advance to secure lower rates.

Seasonality : Seasonality changes pricing dynamics. Flights tend to be more expensive during holiday periods, such as Christmas and Easter. During off-peak times, such as the rainy season in certain regions, travelers may find significantly lower fares. The World Tourism Organization highlights this trend, indicating that travelers can benefit from price reductions by visiting during shoulder or low seasons.

Availability of Discount Fares : Availability of discount fares can lower travel costs. Many airlines offer promotions or discounts for early bookings or certain routes. Platforms like Skyscanner or Kayak often alert travelers to price drops. This means that being flexible with travel dates can result in substantial savings. Additionally, some airlines have loyalty programs that provide frequent flyers with opportunities to reduce costs.

By considering these factors, travelers can better manage their budgets and optimize their domestic flight experiences within Africa.

What Should Be Your Estimated Daily Budget for Traveling in Africa?

The estimated daily budget for traveling in Africa can range from $50 to $300 or more, depending on various factors like location, accommodations, and activities.

Main points to consider for budgeting in Africa include:

• Accommodation costs
• Food and dining expenses
• Transportation
• Travel insurance
• Miscellaneous expenses

Navigating these aspects can significantly influence your overall travel expenses in Africa.

Accommodation Costs : Accommodation costs vary widely across Africa. Budget travelers might find dormitory hostels for as low as $10 per night, while luxury hotel rates can exceed $500 nightly. A mid-range hotel typically costs around $50 to $150 per night. According to a 2022 report by Booking.com, locations like Cape Town and Nairobi present the widest range of accommodations, catering to different budgets.

Food and Dining Expenses : Food expenses also fluctuate. Street food can cost around $2 to $5 per meal, while restaurant dining could range from $10 to $30. In upscale restaurants, the costs may reach $50 or higher. A survey by Numbeo in 2023 indicated that eating out in cities like Marrakech can be quite affordable, with meals averaging $7, while in cities like Johannesburg, costs can be around $20 for a similar meal.

Transportation : Transportation choices affect your budget significantly. Public transportation is wallet-friendly, often costing less than $1 for a bus ride. Taxis may cost $5 to $15 for short distances, while domestic flights can range from $50 to $200. A study by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) indicated that intra-African flight costs are steadily decreasing, making them more accessible.

Activities and Excursions : Costs for activities and excursions can vary greatly. Safari experiences may range from $100 to $500 per day, depending on the package and location. Hiking and cultural tours may cost $20 to $100. According to Africa Travel Resource (2021), budget travelers can find some cultural experiences for free or at minimal cost, while luxury tours might include all expenses in package deals.

Travel Insurance : Travel insurance is essential for safety and can cost about $5 to $15 per day. Trips that involve adventure activities may necessitate higher coverage, impacting the overall cost. The decision to invest in travel insurance often depends on personal risk tolerance and travel activities.

Miscellaneous Expenses : This category includes tips, souvenirs, and unexpected costs. Budgeting around $10 to $50 daily for miscellaneous expenses is advisable. A study from the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO, 2022) suggests that travelers often underestimate these costs, making it wise to set aside extra funds.

By considering these key budgeting factors, travelers can better prepare for their adventures in Africa. Each component contributes to the total estimated daily budget, allowing for flexibility and customization of the travel experience.

How Much Should You Allocate for Food Choices on Your Trip?

You should allocate about 20-35% of your total trip budget for food choices. This percentage can vary based on factors such as destination, dining preferences, and meal frequency. In more expensive countries like Switzerland or Norway, this percentage may lean toward the higher end. Conversely, in destinations such as Thailand or Mexico, food costs can be lower, allowing for a lower allocation.

For example, if you budget $1,500 for a trip, you may set aside $300 to $525 for food. Dining at fast-casual restaurants can cost around $10-15 per meal, while fine dining can range from $40 to over $100 per person. These variations demonstrate how meal choices impact the overall food budget.

Additional factors that influence your food budget include local culture and seasonal availability of ingredients. In areas with a strong street food culture, like Vietnam, you can enjoy delicious meals at lower prices. If you do extensive research and choose local cuisine, you may save money while experiencing authentic flavors.

Lastly, consider limitations such as dietary restrictions or specific dietary preferences. Vegetarian or vegan diets may lead to slightly higher costs in some regions if plant-based options are limited. In summary, allocate 20-35% of your trip budget for food, consider the local cost of living, and adjust based on your personal dining choices and food preferences. Further exploration of local food blogs can provide additional insights into meal costs at your destination.

What Are Typical Transportation Costs while Traveling in Africa?

Typical transportation costs while traveling in Africa vary significantly based on factors such as choice of transport, distance traveled, and regions visited.

• Common Transportation Methods: – Buses and Minibuses – Domestic Flights – Car Rentals – Taxis and Ride-Sharing – Rail Services – Motorbike Taxis (Boda Bodas) – Shared Shuttle Services

There are diverse perspectives on transportation costs in Africa, which can provide travelers with varied experiences and options. Each method has its pros and cons depending on specific needs and circumstances.

Buses and Minibuses : Buses and minibuses represent a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers in Africa. They are commonly used for intercity travel and local transport. Prices vary but often range from $5 to $30, depending on distance and service quality. For example, traveling from Nairobi to Kampala can cost about $25. However, they may be less comfortable and slower than other options.

Domestic Flights : Domestic flights offer a faster means of travel across larger distances. Airlines like Ethiopian Airlines and Kenya Airways serve many major routes. Ticket costs typically start around $100 but can rise depending on the season and availability. Flying can be advantageous for accessing remote destinations quickly, although it tends to be a pricier option.

Car Rentals : Renting a car provides flexibility; prices generally range from $30 to $100 per day, excluding fuel and insurance. Travelers can explore at their own pace, which is particularly advantageous in scenic regions like South Africa’s Garden Route. However, driving conditions may be challenging in some areas.

Taxis and Ride-Sharing : Taxis and ride-sharing services such as Uber operate in many cities. Fares can vary widely but often start at around $2 to $10 for local trips. While they offer convenience, ensuring fare transparency and safety is crucial, especially in less regulated areas.

Rail Services : Rail services exist in countries like South Africa and Kenya but are not widespread. Prices depend on the class of service, with budget tickets starting around $5 to $15. The comfort and scenic views can be appealing, although schedules may not always be reliable.

Motorbike Taxis (Boda Bodas) : Motorbike taxis, or boda bodas, are extremely inexpensive ways to travel short distances. Fares typically range from $1 to $3. They provide quick access through congested city areas. However, safety concerns can arise, and helmets should always be worn.

Shared Shuttle Services : Shared shuttle services operate in many urban areas and between popular tourist destinations. Costs range from $10 to $50, depending on the distance. They are often more comfortable than buses and provide a social atmosphere, yet schedules can be less predictable.

In summary, transportation costs in Africa encompass a wide range of options. Each method presents unique benefits and drawbacks, catering to varying traveler preferences and budgets while considering safety, comfort, and convenience.

What Budgeting Tips Should You Consider for a Memorable Safari Experience?

To have a memorable safari experience, careful budgeting is essential. Consideration of various factors will help ensure the trip fits your financial plan while maximizing enjoyment.

• Set a Realistic Budget
• Choose the Right Time to Visit
• Select Accommodation Wisely
• Plan for Park Fees and Costs
• Consider Transport Options
• Include Meals and Extras
• Research and Compare Tour Operators
• Save Money on Activities
• Be Open to Group Travel

Careful consideration of these aspects will enhance your safari experience and help to manage costs effectively.

Set a Realistic Budget : Setting a realistic budget involves assessing your finances and determining how much you can allocate to the safari without jeopardizing your financial security. Consider all expenses, including flights, accommodation, food, and activities. A well-planned budget creates boundaries and expectations, ensuring a stress-free experience. Experts suggest allocating at least $200 to $500 per day for a moderate safari trip, depending on the destination and activities (Jones, 2021).

Choose the Right Time to Visit : Choosing the right time to visit can significantly influence both cost and experience. The high season often brings higher prices due to increased demand. Conversely, visiting during the low season can save money but may limit wildlife viewing opportunities. According to the African Travel and Tourism Association, the best time for migrations in East Africa is from July to October, but this is also peak pricing. Travelers should weigh their desire for cost savings against the likelihood of seeing wildlife.

Select Accommodation Wisely : Selecting accommodation wisely involves balancing comfort and cost. Options range from luxury lodges to budget hostels and tented camps. Each option offers different experiences and amenities. A study by the World Travel and Tourism Council shows that spending on mid-range options can provide a high-quality experience without excessive expense. Booking well in advance may lead to discounts or special deals.

Plan for Park Fees and Costs : Planning for park fees and costs is crucial, as many parks charge entrance fees, which can vary significantly. For example, Serengeti National Park fees are approximately $60 per person per day. Understanding these fees in advance helps in budgeting effectively. Additionally, tourists should check if their accommodation includes these fees to avoid unexpected expenses.

Consider Transport Options : Considering transport options can greatly impact the budget. Choices include self-drive, guided tours, or domestic flights. While self-driving can be more cost-effective, it may not always provide the depth of experience that guided tours offer. Additionally, flights can save time but often add to expenses. Researching transport methods and their relative costs can help find the best option for your budget.

Include Meals and Extras : Including meals and extras will provide a more accurate total budget. Dining options may range from included meals in luxury lodges to local eateries. A rough estimate for meals could be about $25 to $50 daily, depending on the restaurant choice. Also, consider extras like tips for guides, souvenirs, or activities not included in the base cost.

Research and Compare Tour Operators : Researching and comparing tour operators ensures the best experience for your investment. Operators differ in pricing, services, and inclusions. Look for reviews from past travelers, and choose one that offers the best value for money. Organizations like the African Travel and Tourism Association compile reviews and ratings to help travelers make informed decisions.

Save Money on Activities : Saving money on activities can enhance the overall budget for your safari. Some parks offer self-guided hikes and drives at a lower cost than guided tours. Taking advantage of free activities, like cultural experiences with local communities, can provide enriching experiences without high expenses. Travelers should look at local resources for budget-friendly options.

Be Open to Group Travel : Being open to group travel potentially reduces costs while enhancing the experience. Many operators offer group safaris, which can provide a more economical option. Group travel also fosters camaraderie and may introduce you to new friends. Furthermore, group tours may include amenities that individual tours do not, such as a wider range of activities at a lower combined cost.

By following these budgeting tips, travelers can create a memorable safari experience without overspending.

What Strategies Can Help You Save on Safari Package Prices?

To save on safari package prices, consider planning during the off-peak season, comparing different tour operators, opting for group tours, utilizing discounts, and booking in advance.

• Plan During Off-Peak Season
• Compare Different Tour Operators
• Opt for Group Tours
• Utilize Discounts and Promotions
• Book in Advance

Using these strategies can help travelers find the best deals while maximizing their safari experience.

Plan During Off-Peak Season : Planning your safari during the off-peak season can lead to significant savings. The off-peak season usually falls outside of school holidays and major holidays. Prices for accommodation and tours can drop by 30% or more during these times. For instance, visiting Tanzania in April or November can reduce costs significantly compared to December through March. The Wildlife Conservation Society (2022) emphasizes that off-peak travel allows for a less crowded experience as well, enhancing the enjoyment of wildlife sightings.

Compare Different Tour Operators : Comparing various tour operators allows travelers to find diverse pricing and package options. Some operators may offer additional services or lower prices while maintaining quality. Online platforms such as TripAdvisor or SafariBookings.com provide user reviews, helping to assess the value for money. For example, a budget-oriented operator might offer group tours, while a luxury operator could provide private experiences but at a higher cost.

Opt for Group Tours : Choosing to go on a group safari can significantly reduce individual costs. Group tours often have shared transportation and accommodations which lowers the overall package price. According to a 2022 study by Adventure Travel Trade Association, travelers save an average of 40% on safari costs by joining group tours compared to private arrangements. This option also provides the opportunity to meet new people and share experiences.

Utilize Discounts and Promotions : Many safari companies offer discounts during specific times or for certain demographics, such as students or families. Subscribing to newsletters or following operators on social media can keep travelers informed about flash sales and promotions. For example, some companies may offer special rates during World Wildlife Day or provide last-minute discounts.

Book in Advance : Booking a safari several months in advance can secure lower prices as operators often offer early bird rates. Statistics from the Safari Planning Association (2021) indicate that travelers who book 6-12 months ahead can save up to 20%. Planning early also ensures better availability of preferred accommodations and tour types, which is critical for popular safari destinations.

What Alternative Safari Experiences Can Be More Budget-Friendly?

Alternative safari experiences can be budget-friendly by opting for different approaches or settings that provide similar wildlife encounters without the high costs associated with traditional safari tours.

• Self-Driving Safaris
• Camping Safaris
• Volunteer Opportunities
• Alternative National Parks
• Community-Based Tourism
• Off-Peak Travel

Exploring these budget-friendly alternatives provides diverse options for experiencing the beauty of wildlife and nature while keeping expenses manageable.

Self-Driving Safaris : Self-driving safaris allow travelers to rent a vehicle and explore national parks at their own pace. This option can be significantly cheaper than booking guided tours. Visitors can choose their routes and schedule while still witnessing the wildlife up close.

Camping Safaris : Camping safaris often cost less than luxury accommodations. Travelers can set up tents in designated camping areas within national parks. This option increases immersion in nature, providing an authentic safari experience and opportunities for stargazing.

Volunteer Opportunities : Wildlife conservation programs offer volunteering chances that often cover food and lodging. By participating in these programs, travelers support local conservation efforts while enjoying unique experiences, such as working closely with animals and researchers.

Alternative National Parks : Lesser-known parks often feature lower entrance fees and fewer tourists. Places like Tarangire National Park or Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park can provide rich wildlife experiences without the hefty costs associated with more popular parks like Serengeti or Kruger.

Community-Based Tourism : Engaging with local communities provides authentic experiences and relatively low-cost options. Community initiatives often offer guided tours, cultural experiences, and accommodations that directly benefit local populations.

Off-Peak Travel : Travelling during the off-peak season can reduce costs significantly. Lodging and tour prices typically drop during these times, making budget-friendly safaris more accessible while still allowing for wildlife viewing opportunities.

Utilizing these alternative experiences can make safari adventures more economical while still offering memorable wildlife encounters. Travelers can balance cost with adventure by selecting the options that best fit their interests and budgets.

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“An amazing African trip one to Remember for a lifetime must must must Book!!!” kraig krushelnyski, traveled in April 2024

• Overland Truck
• Christmas & New Year
• Go on a full-day Kruger safari drive
• Explore the Okavango Delta by mokoro
• Meet your group in Johannesburg

“The historical locations we visited were outstanding, showing local culture and explaining the history of Egypt in depth.” Louis Alexander Clay, traveled in August 2024

• Join our intimate small group tour, designed to offer exceptional value. Enjoy a seamless travel experience with numerous inclusions, all at an accessible price point.
• Our guides will provide fascinating insights, enhancing your experience and deepening your understanding of these ancient wonders.
• Embark on a captivating journey through Egypt’s rich history as you explore renowned sites.

“Gadventures is fantastic!! It's a great place for solo travellers to meet other solo travellers and indulge in their love of travelling.” Christopher Zinner, traveled in September 2022

• In-depth Cultural
• Experience a camel ride in the desert
• Tour the iconic Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah
• Explore Casablanca's vibrant nightlife

“Absolutely amazing. It is a must do and see in our opinion.” Gemma Rowland, traveled in April 2024

• Private Egyptologist guides.
• Cairo round trip, airport transfers included.
• Domestic flights: Cairo/Luxor/Aswan/Cairo.

“We loved exploring Egypt through this tour! The cruise ship was amazing.” Scott Fulks, traveled in February 2024

• Discover the Valley of the Kings
• Visit Karnak and Luxor Temples
• Explore the Great Pyramids and Sphinx

“The trip was planned in such a way that the travelers won't face any kinds of troubles at all. Highly recommend, we can't wait to book our next trip!” Geoffrey Fry, traveled in January 2024

• Discover Cairo's vibrant nightlife
• Camp under the stars in the White Desert

“I appreciate the detailed itinerary. Every step of the way was thoroughly explained.” Ernest Lewis, traveled in February 2024

• Climb Mount Sinai for a sunrise view
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“Good balance! Also very good selection of destinations, hotels and activities in the itinerary.” Stefan Scherer, traveled in December 2023

• Spend the night at a Berber camp in the Sahara desert
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• Explore Marrakesh and its vibrant Djemaa el-Fnaa square

“The tour was well organized offering a wealth of historical insights.” Johnson, traveled in April 2024

• Tour the iconic temples of Edfu and Kom Ombo
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“Was super knowledgeable and professional but ensured we had a fun and memorable experience!” Jamie Kavanagh, traveled in September 2021

• Stay with a local family in beautiful Moulay Idriss
• Visit Ait Benhaddou, a traditional mud brick city
• Experience the tastes, sights, and sounds of Fes

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The Cost of Travel in South Africa: Budget Breakdown

Ashton 29 September 2024 10min

Arcadia Finance » Finance » The Cost of Travel in South Africa: Budget Breakdown

South Africa is a top choice for adventurous travellers, with Cape Town being a major attraction thanks to its vibrant sunsets, beautiful white beaches, renowned food scene, and accessible mountains for exploration. In contrast, Johannesburg, the country’s largest city, has a distinctly African vibe and is just a short drive from Pretoria, one of South Africa’s three capital cities. The capitals are Cape Town, which is known for its legislative and tourism roles; Pretoria, the executive capital; and Bloemfontein, the judicial centre. The country offers a rich mix of natural beauty and diverse experiences.

Key Takeaways

• Affordable Travel Options: South Africa offers a range of budget-friendly accommodation choices, such as hostels, Airbnbs, and housesitting. Travellers can save money by opting for self-catering, exploring lesser-known parks, and taking advantage of discounts during the off-peak season.
• Diverse Attractions: The country boasts a wealth of natural beauty and cultural experiences, from wildlife safaris and the Garden Route to low-cost activities like hiking Table Mountain, seal-watching, and visiting museums in major cities.
• Flexible Transportation: Public transport in South Africa can be inconsistent, especially in urban areas. Renting a car is often a more convenient and economical way to explore the country’s extensive landscapes, particularly for road trips along well-maintained routes such as those in the Western Cape.

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Where to Go When Travelling in South Africa

South Africa spans approximately 1.22 million square kilometres and shares borders with Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, and Mozambique, with coastlines along both the Atlantic and Indian Oceans. The country features a diverse landscape that includes subtropical forests, deserts, bushveld, and wetlands, resulting in a variety of climates.

Given its vast and varied terrain, choosing a destination can be overwhelming. For those with limited time, exploring some of South Africa’s most enchanting towns and cities might be the best way to experience its rich offerings.

One of the most popular driving routes is the Garden Route. Starting in Cape Town, this scenic drive extends from Mossel Bay to Storms River, showcasing the dramatic beauty of the Eastern Cape’s Wild Coast.

Typical Daily Expenses in South Africa

• Hostel bed: ZAR 200–300 per dormitory bed
• Basic double room: Starting from ZAR 600
• Self-catering flat (including Airbnb): From ZAR 550
• Bus fare (Johannesburg to Cape Town, 1,400 km): From ZAR 650 one way
• Flight (Johannesburg to Cape Town): Starting at ZAR 1 200 one way
• Coffee: ZAR 30
• Bunny chow (street food): ZAR 70
• Dinner for two: Starting at ZAR 450 (excluding drinks)
• Bottle of local wine: From ZAR 90
• Daily entry for Kruger National Park: ZAR 460 per adult / ZAR 230 per child
• Daily entry for Mountain Zebra National Park: ZAR 252 per adult / ZAR 126 per child
• Beer (per pint) at a pub: ZAR 30–60

Average Daily Budget 

You can expect to spend from ZAR 800 per day on basic meals, accommodation, and activities. For more luxurious travel experiences, costs could exceed ZAR 3 500 per day.

Accommodations in South Africa

Accommodation in South Africa is generally affordable, though prices in Cape Town can be high. On average, a double room in a central three- or four-star hotel in Cape Town costs around ZAR 3 000 per night. As a popular tourist destination, hotels and game reserves often adjust their rates, with international visitors usually paying more, while locals may benefit from lower prices.

Prices vary significantly by location. For example, a beach house in Clifton, Cape Town, is much more expensive than a similar property a few miles away in Kommetjie. It’s important to consider what matters most to you and choose destinations that fit your budget.

To save on accommodation, avoid peak travel periods when demand is high. Cape Town’s busiest time is mid-summer, with peak rates from Christmas to New Year in December. The entire summer season, from November to March, tends to be the most expensive time to visit.

Housesitting

Housesitting is a great way to secure free accommodation by taking care of someone’s home and often their pets while they are away. It’s ideal for long-term travellers or retirees, as the dates and locations for housesitting arrangements are usually set by the homeowner and can’t be easily adjusted. For those with flexible travel plans, housesitting offers a chance to lower travel costs, enjoy the comforts of a home, and experience life from a local’s perspective.

Couchsurfing

Couchsurfing, while involving some risks, offers a unique way to stay with locals. In South Africa, there are more than 46,000 hosts who welcome visitors into their homes at no cost. The Couchsurfing platform allows you to stay in spare rooms or on sofas, providing a chance to immerse yourself in South African culture and everyday life.

Workaway is a global network that connects young travellers with opportunities to exchange work or voluntary services for free or low-cost accommodation. In South Africa, over 130 hosts and organisations participate, offering various volunteering roles in exchange for a place to stay.

Hostels offer an affordable accommodation option, with shared dormitories being much cheaper than private hotel rooms. Many stylish hostels provide budget-friendly beds and often offer great discounts during off-peak seasons.

For travellers seeking privacy and personal space, Airbnbs are a cost-effective choice for short stays. Depending on the season, it’s possible to find reasonably priced rentals, such as a two-bedroom beach house in Cape Town.

Transport in South Africa 

The best mode of transport in South Africa depends largely on your destination. A key consideration for visitors is that public transport in many areas is neither efficient, reliable, nor particularly safe, even in major cities like Cape Town and Johannesburg.

MyCiti Buses

Launched in 2010 as part of the preparations for the FIFA World Cup, the MyCiti bus system serves parts of Cape Town. Its routes cover the Atlantic Seaboard, city centre, Hout Bay, and extend up the west coast to Big Bay. However, it does not currently operate in the southern or northern suburbs.

The Gautrain, introduced to accommodate World Cup visitors, is Johannesburg’s most reliable transport option. This high-speed rail service connects OR Tambo International Airport with central Johannesburg and Pretoria. Note that it is relatively expensive for getting around the Johannesburg area.

Renting a car is often the most convenient, cost-effective, and safest way to explore South Africa, particularly for road trips. The road conditions are generally best within the Western Cape, especially on routes from Cape Town to Plettenberg Bay, although road quality may decrease outside this region. Signage is clear, and the roads are relatively secure, though caution is advised around taxi and bus drivers.

Parking is abundant and very affordable, with congestion typically only an issue during peak hours on weekdays—usually from 7 am to 9 am and 3 pm to 6 pm. In cities, you may need to pay local car guards (around R10 to R20) to watch over your vehicle while it is parked.

Food in South Africa 

South Africa’s culinary scene is a major draw for visitors, showcasing an abundance of fresh, high-quality ingredients and skilled chefs who create both unique and traditional dishes. In larger cities and popular tourist areas, you’ll find a diverse range of dining options, from charming, hidden gems to elegant five-star restaurants.

Traditional South African cuisine places a strong emphasis on meat, but finding truly authentic African dishes in urban areas can be challenging. The local palate leans more towards international flavours, with a wide selection of Mexican, Asian-fusion, and Italian restaurants, many of which are run by individuals from those respective cultural backgrounds.

Activities in South Africa 

South Africa offers a wide range of tours and activities for both visitors and locals. Many well-known tourist spots are also popular with residents. In Cape Town, for example, locals frequently visit the Kirstenbosch National Gardens for a relaxing read, shop at the V&A Waterfront, or hike the trails of Table Mountain and Lion’s Head. Among the top attractions is the opportunity to go on a game drive at a nearby reserve. Many parks include morning and evening game drives in their per-person accommodation fees.

Organise Your Own Park Visit Instead of a Guided Safari

South Africa provides excellent wildlife-watching opportunities, often at great value for money. Most major parks are well-suited to independent travellers, making self-drive trips straightforward. If you prefer a wildlife guide on certain days, this can usually be arranged at the park’s reception. You can further reduce costs by opting to camp or stay in park-run accommodations, which often offer discounts during off-peak seasons. Self-catering is another way to keep expenses down.

For families or those planning an extended stay of over a week in major parks, investing in a SANParks Wild Card can lead to substantial savings. To stretch your budget even further, consider visiting smaller or lesser-known parks, which typically have lower entry fees than the more popular ones.

Explore South Africa’s Free and Low-Cost Attractions

Even in large cities, there are ways to cut costs. In Cape Town, for example, hiking up and down Table Mountain is more budget-friendly than taking the cable car. After the hike, you can cool off with a swim in the Camp’s Bay tidal pool or watch seals from the Sea Point promenade. In Durban, you can soak in the local vibe with a relaxed stroll along the boardwalk. Johannesburg has several free museums, and a visit to the Apartheid Museum is reasonably priced at R150.

Conclusion 

South Africa is a diverse travel destination that accommodates a range of budgets and interests. Whether you’re exploring the lively streets of Cape Town and Johannesburg or enjoying the peace of its national parks and coastal routes, you can experience the country’s natural beauty and cultural heritage without overspending. Opting for budget-friendly accommodations, self-drive safaris, and travelling during off-peak times can help balance cost with memorable experiences. From wildlife encounters to vibrant city life and tranquil beaches, South Africa offers an enriching journey for every type of traveller.

Frequently Asked Questions

The average daily cost for budget travellers is around ZAR 800, while more luxurious experiences can exceed ZAR 3 500. This range includes basic meals, accommodation, and activities. To keep costs lower, consider staying in hostels, self-catering flats, or using public transportation.

Affordable accommodation options include hostels, self-catering flats, and Airbnbs. For further savings, look into housesitting, Workaway exchanges, or Couchsurfing. Additionally, many parks offer budget-friendly camping options and seasonal discounts.

Yes, renting a car is often the most convenient and cost-effective way to explore South Africa, especially for road trips. Public transportation can be unreliable, so having a car offers flexibility to visit remote areas, including national parks and scenic routes like the Garden Route.

Affordable activities include hiking Table Mountain, swimming at the Camps Bay tidal pool, exploring free museums in Johannesburg, and walking along Durban’s boardwalk. Visiting smaller national parks can also provide lower entry fees and rewarding wildlife-watching experiences.

The best time to visit for savings is during the off-peak seasons, which are typically outside the summer months of November to March. Cape Town, in particular, experiences high accommodation rates during the festive period from Christmas to New Year. Visiting during low-season months can help you find discounts on both accommodation and activities.

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The ultimate guide to tipping in Africa

Sep 27, 2024 • 3 min read

Tipping is big in Africa – here's what you need to know, whether you're going to a restaurant or spotting elephants with a guide. Ger Metselaar / Shutterstock

So, you’re wrapping up your African safari trip and there’s one thing left to do: tip. But what’s the appropriate amount?

While you’re not obligated to tip, tipping is customary in most African countries. Amounts vary depending on where you are and what service you're tipping for, from safari guides to hotel staff. Most tips should be in local currency, though USD, EUR and GBP are also okay. Due to always-changing conversion rates, the below dollar amounts are in USD, unless otherwise specified.

Restaurants and bars

Popular restaurants and bars in holiday hotspots like Egypt , Morocco and South Africa will add a 10% service charge to the bill. If there isn’t one, it’s common to leave a tip of around 10 to 15% if you were happy with your meal.

Throughout the rest of Africa , for the most part, leaving 10 to 15% is a normal tip for good service in restaurants, as is rounding up the bill in bars. Waitstaff and bar staff across much of Africa often earn a very basic living wage, therefore tips are a hugely welcome supplement.

Hotel staff

In certain northern African destinations like Egypt and Morocco, hotel concierges are powerful forces. Tip them ($0.50 in Egypt and $1.50 in Morocco) at the start of your stay to ensure good service for the duration. Housekeeping staff should be tipped in local currency (the equivalent of $0.50 in Egypt and $1 in Morocco), and porters should be tipped $0.20 in Egypt and $0.10 in Morocco per bag.

Throughout Africa’s popular tourist destinations, including South Africa, Kenya and Tanzania , hotels will expect small tips in local currency (1 ZAR in South Africa and 1 KSh in Kenya) to the porter for each bag, and to housekeeping staff each day. Concierges can be useful for pulling strings in these countries, so feel free to tip them in local currency ($1 in South Africa and $0.10 in Kenya) for any favors they do for you. Luxury safari camps will often provide a general tipping box at the front desk, and anything placed into this box should be spread evenly among the camp’s staff. If you wish to tip a certain member of staff specifically, make sure you hand it to them in person.

Tour guides

When taking tours in North African countries, 10% in Morocco and $5 in Egypt is a good amount to tip guides and driver guides, while drivers can be tipped a bit less. In Morocco particularly, tipping of this nature is best done discreetly.

In other African countries where you might embark on an excursion, tipping about 10% of the overall cost to tour guides and drivers is appreciated. On safari drives, the general idea is to tip your guide the local currency equivalent of $10 per person per day, and your tracker $5-10 per person per day, but give these as cumulative tips at the end of the safari.

Taxi drivers

Throughout most of the African continent, the norm when it comes to tipping taxi drivers is to round up the final fare, or tell the driver to keep the change. In countries more accustomed to mass tourism, like South Africa, drivers will usually expect a 10% tip at the end of a journey. In Egypt, top up the fare by 5%.

How much should you leave when visiting a mosque or a temple?

There isn’t really a hard-and-fast rule here, but try leaving the local currency equivalent of $1 to the person handing out robes and scarves to women, and 50 cents to the person who minds the shoes if there is one.

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