Start with the fact that Africa is a continent
“Is Africa a good country to visit?” is a common search, but Africa is a continent of 54 recognised countries with very different climates, costs, languages and entry rules. A trip to Morocco has little in common with a safari in Tanzania or a road trip in Namibia. The most useful first step is therefore to decide what kind of trip you want, then pick the region that fits.
Choosing a region
- North Africa (Morocco, Tunisia, Egypt and neighbours): medinas, desert edges, ancient sites and Mediterranean coast, often reachable on short flights from Europe. See our guide to travelling in Northern Africa.
- East Africa (Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda and others): classic savanna safaris, the Great Migration ecosystem, gorilla trekking in some countries, and Indian Ocean beaches. If this is your plan, our Tanzania safari packing list is a good next step.
- Southern Africa (South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Zambia and others): a mix of safari, self-drive options, coastlines and wine regions. South Africa in particular is often easier to organise independently than many safari destinations.
- West and Central Africa: rewarding but generally needing more advance research on visas, health and logistics. Many first-time visitors start elsewhere.
Safari operators tend to focus on East and Southern Africa, so much online planning advice assumes a safari. If you mainly want culture, food and history, North Africa or parts of West Africa may suit you better.
When to go
Seasons differ by region, and the continent spans both hemispheres, so there is no single best month. In many safari areas the drier months make wildlife easier to spot around waterholes, while the green or wet season can mean fewer visitors and lower prices but muddier roads. North Africa is typically more comfortable outside the peak of summer heat. Check climate information for your specific destination and the months you can travel before booking anything.
How long to plan for
Long-haul flights and internal transfers eat time. Many travellers find that a week is enough for a single focused destination, while two weeks gives room to combine, for example, a safari with a coast or city stay. Avoid packing in too many locations; internal flights and long drives add up, and constant movement feeds travel fatigue.
What a trip to Africa costs
Prices vary enormously, so any single figure can mislead. The main drivers are:
- Style of travel: guided lodge safaris and private reserves cost far more than independent travel, public transport or budget camping.
- Flights: international fares vary by season, and internal flights between parks can be a significant extra.
- Park and conservation fees: these are often substantial in popular safari destinations and are usually included in operator quotes, so compare what is and is not included.
- Season: peak wildlife-viewing months generally cost more.
- Group size: private guides and vehicles are cheaper per person when shared.
To budget, get quotes from a few reputable operators for your dates and compare inclusions line by line. For a general approach to budgeting and saving for a trip, see how to save up for travel.
Documents, health and safety
- Passport: many countries require validity beyond your travel dates and blank pages. Check the rule for each country you will enter.
- Visas: requirements depend on both your nationality and your destination. Some countries offer e-visas, others need advance applications. Confirm on the official government site of each destination.
- Health: check with a doctor or travel clinic well before departure about vaccinations, malaria prevention and any required certificates, such as proof of yellow fever vaccination for some itineraries.
- Safety: conditions vary by country and change over time. Read your own government’s current travel advice for each destination, and take out travel insurance that covers medical care and evacuation.
Getting around
Options include guided safari vehicles, internal flights, domestic buses and trains, rental cars and private drivers. In some countries driving is on the left, road quality varies and night driving is often discouraged. If your route includes remote parks, small aircraft usually have strict baggage limits, which affects what bags you bring.
Where to stay
Accommodation ranges from budget campsites and guesthouses to mid-range tented camps and high-end lodges. On safari, location often matters more than room style, since it determines how much travel time you spend in a vehicle. In cities, central guesthouses and riads or hotels are usually the easiest base.
Packing basics
Pack in layers, in a soft-sided bag if you will take light aircraft, with sun protection and any prescription medicines in your hand luggage. Our detailed Tanzania safari packing guide covers clothing, gear and documents and is useful for most East and Southern African safaris.
Common questions
How do you go to the bathroom on a safari? Lodges and camps have toilets, and most game-drive routes include stops at designated facilities or at a spot your guide considers safe. If nature calls elsewhere, tell your guide, who will advise on whether and where it is safe to step out. Do not leave the vehicle without their say-so.
Can I wear red in Africa? Yes, in general. There is no rule against it. Safari guidance usually suggests neutral colours such as khaki, olive and tan, and some operators advise avoiding bright colours or very dark blue and black in certain areas. Follow the guidance from your operator and respect local dress norms in conservative areas.
A simple planning order
- Decide the type of trip: safari, culture, beach, road trip or a mix.
- Pick a region and a travel window.
- Check passport, visa and health requirements.
- Get quotes or research independent costs.
- Book flights and key lodging.
- Arrange insurance and vaccinations or medication advice.
- Pack for the climate and baggage limits.