Last Updated on February 21, 2024 by Talita

Africa is still one of the less explored continents by tourists. Trips to Africa are something exotic that not everyone can afford. However, those who decide to visit this part of the world never regret and get tons of great emotions from their trips. 

This adventure can certainly bring you new experiences and knowledge, but it is necessary to plan everything very carefully.

As with any international trip, there are thousands of things to think about, separate the necessary documentation, research about the local language spoken, the attractions you will visit, the currency used, among many other preparations… By the way, you can check here these 50 helpful tips for climbing the majestic Mount Kilimanjaro. 

Unfortunately, Africa is different from popular travel destinations due to its poor-developed infrastructure. Down below, you will find a detailed guide on how to get prepared for your trip to Africa.

 

 

   1. Get Proper Vaccination and Medications

Unfortunately, Africa can be dangerous for people who don’t have a strong immune system. You have to research the most widespread diseases in the region you plan to visit and make proper vaccination.

It can keep you safe from yellow fever, hepatitis, folio, etc. Note, some vaccines should be made a few months before your trip starts. 

Also, you have to bring a large number of medications. A different diet and quality of water may cause stomach upset. Also, you need to bring enough painkillers in case of toothache or headache.

 

   2. Get Ready To Wait

The attitude to time in Africa is different. Here nobody will become angry because of waiting. You should be prepared that there is nothing wrong with expecting your order for more than an hour. 

Having an appointment, you can get late for a few hours, and nobody will blame you for that. Such a rhythm of life significantly differs from the US one, where you are running on the hamster wheel trying to cope with the pile of tasks that have to be ready by the deadline. 

This is no surprise why students are constantly searching for assistance trying to check a pile of scamfighter.net reviews essaypro.com. Outside help is a must in situations when there is no time for waiting!

 

    3. Bring Cash in US Dollars

You will easily find ATMs in large Africa cities. However, if you decide to explore remote areas or small towns, you will hardly find any of them. Thereupon, you have to bring a lot of cash in American dollars. 

You will easily be able to exchange them or even trade with locals by using US dollars. However, if you bring cash in another currency, you will need to spend a lot of time looking for places to exchange them.

Anyway, don’t forget to contact your bank and inform a manager that you’re planning a trip to Africa. Otherwise, your bank may block any operations with your credit card outside the US, so you won’t be able to withdraw any dollar, even if you find an ATM.

 

   4. Prepare Backups

During your trip to Africa, a lot of unexpected things can happen. Therefore, you shouldn’t put all your eggs in one basket. Feel free to separate your cash and put the parts in different places. Also, create printed copies of all your documents and put them into a waterproof folio.

Don’t forget to delegate your responsibilities while traveling. In case you’re an undergraduate, you can reach an essay writing service to get your homework done while traveling. In search of top-quality companies, pay attention to the most reputable ones. 

A poor-quality paper may spoil your trip by the need to re-do it by yourself, so better turn to safe and reliable services.

 

   5. Get Insurance

Africa is about unexpected things that may happen to you everywhere. Therefore, it’s vital to get health insurance. Most medical institutions and doctors in Africa don’t cooperate with insurance companies. 

Therefore, you will be required to pay by cash for their services and medications. Nevertheless, having insurance, you will be able to return your money after coming back home. 

So to help you, you can check my article with the 7 best travel insurances to Africa. There, you will find some travel insurances that will reimburse your out-of-pocket health expenses in Africa. 

 

   6. Get Prepared for Wireless Days

In remote areas, you will hardly find an outlet to charge your devices. You may face electricity outages even in large cities frequently. Therefore, you have to carry extra batteries to keep your smartphone, camera, and other devices charged. Alternatively, you can bring a solar or hand generator for creating some energy upon a need. 

Anyway, being a student, you won’t be able to read honest reviews before going to bed to find out if it’s a good service. It’s quite hard to find a hotspot in Africa.

Learn to pass your time without a smartphone in your hand before your trip to Africa starts. Also, you have to bring a torch powered by alkaline batteries along with an extra pack of cells.

 

   7. Pack Toiletries

Don’t forget that most countries in Africa experience a lack of water resources. You won’t find any public restrooms far from large cities. It’s vital to bring a lot of toiletries to maintain your hygiene. 

Grab a large pack of wet tissues, paper towels, soap, shampoo, and toothpaste. Also, pack a decent number of sanitizers to keep yourself safe from viruses and bacteria.  

 

Summing up…

The 7 tips on how to prepare for your trip to Africa are:

1. Get Vaccinations and Appropriate Medicines
2. Get ready to wait
3. Bring cash in US dollars
4. Prepare backups
5. Buy insurance
6. Get ready for days without connection
7. Toiletries pack

 

Concluding

After packing your suitcase with all the essentials required for traveling in Africa, you also should be prepared for locals to stare at you. In most regions, foreigners are occasional, so locals, especially kids, will always stare at you. 

People who have a different skin color evoke a lot of curiosity in them. Despite this fact, people in Africa are cheerful and welcoming. They will be glad to meet you, talk to you, and offer their help if there is such a need.

 

Planning your next trip?

Then don’t forget travel insurance! You don’t want to get stuck paying a ton of money and ruining your trip if you get sick or have an accident without travel insurance. Our page with The 3 Best and Cheapest Travel Insurance on the Market can help you choose the right plan and will give you some discount coupons for the biggest insurance companies!

 

 Already reserved your hotel or hostel? If not, our article with The 6 Best and Cheapest Websites to Find & Reserve Accommodation can help you out. You’ll also find some promotions and discount codes.

 

 Still haven’t booked your plane ticket and want to save big? Take a look at our page with 16 Tips to Save on Flights where you’ll also find the 4 best websites to buy your plane tickets. 

 

And finally, will you need to rent a car during your trip? Then surely our page with The 5 Best and Cheapest Websites to Compare and Rent Cars Around the World will help you choose the best rental car and find a good deal.