Page 159 - WINE DINE AND TRAVEL WINTER 2024 SCOTLAND

Essential African Travel Tips
Booking—The adventures are complex, so
it's advisable to book through a reputable
travel agent or tour operator who can
manage the intricate details, domestic flight
arrangements, transfers, and any schedule
changes, which can be more common with
smaller airlines and remote destinations.
Secure Your Visas – The Kenyan
government offers an easy eVisa system
[www.evisa.go.ke]. For other Tanzania,
Rwanda, or Uganda, get the multi-country
East Africa Tourist Visa for about $100,
valid for 90 days. Apply for the visa through
the country website where you enter the
region.
Vaccinations and Medical Tips—Get a
yellow fever vaccination certificate, which is
required for entry into some African
countries. Check with your doctor about
getting Hepatitis A and B, Typhoid, and
routine vaccinations such as Tetanus and
MMR. Many safari destinations are in
malaria-prone areas. Discuss antimalarial
drugs with your doctor.
Travel Documents and Money—Ensure
your passport is valid for at least six months
beyond your travel dates. Have proof of
travel insurance and copies of all flight
itineraries. Some agents and operators use
digital travel applications that provide easy
access to exquisite detail on every part of
the trip (we used axustravelapp.com). Take
credit cards and several hundred dollars in
small bills for tipping. Tips for guides and
staff can be put on a credit card at the
camps and lodges.
Luggage—Opt for duffel bags or soft-sided
luggage, which are easier to fit into small
aircraft or vehicles commonly used in safari
transfers. Check for size and weight
restrictions. For international travel, use
luggage with sturdy, lockable zippers and
TSA-approved locks. Put AirTags in each
bag to track lost luggage.
Clothing – Go for neutral-colored clothes
(beige, khaki, olive); lightweight, breathable
fabrics; long-sleeved shirts and pants for
sun/insect protection; warm layers for cool
mornings and evenings (fleece, light jacket);
rain jacket (especially during wet seasons);
comfortable walking shoes and sturdy
hiking boots for trekking; sandals for
relaxing at camp; gaiter or scarf to cover
your face from dust, especially during drives
on dirt roads. Avoid bright colors like red,
and black and blue, which attract tsetse
flies.
Sun Protection – Wide-brimmed hat with
strap; sunglasses with UV protection, strap;
high SPF sunscreen; lip balm with SPF.
Other Essentials – Binoculars, camera
gear, reusable water bottle, power adaptors
(Kenya uses the British-style three-pin
plug), headlamp or flashlight, books or an e-
reader for downtime in the camps or in
transit, Ziploc bags to protect electronics
and other gear from dust, a bottle of hand
sanitizer, and a pack of wet wipes.
Personal Journal – Keep daily notes on
your phone or in a journal. Document the
location and situation of any memorable
part of the adventure. Identify the specifics
of any scenes for reference when you
review your photos. Write your own story
when you return!
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