Safaris are very popular vacations and are an excellent way to see some of the wildlife that Africa has to offer. Suppose you are planning to go on safari in any part of Africa. In that case, it’s essential to be prepared and aware of the guidelines that govern these trips so that you can have the best experience possible while traveling. There are still some COVID-19 restrictions in place across Africa, meaning you might need to take a pre-departure test with Express Test.
Below are some general rules and regulations when you plan to take a safari in Africa. There are different rules in different countries, but there are certain things that are common in every destination and might affect your experience on safari in general.
Required Medication and Vaccinations for Safaris
Some parts of Africa require that all visitors have documented proof of yellow fever vaccination. Travelers may also like to be vaccinated against typhoid, TB, and hepatitis before visiting Africa. Depending on your specific itinerary and destination, other shots and medications may be required, too. Consult your safari guide or tour operator for recommendations tailored to your trip.
Plan ahead and consult with your physician; remember that vaccinations may take time – if possible, get any necessary vaccines at least two weeks before leaving for your safari trip.
In terms of medication, you should take an ample supply of any you use regularly and some extras for emergencies. It’s also worth stocking up on malaria treatments, as this is still a considerable problem across much of Africa. A powerful mosquito repellent is also highly recommended.
COVID-19 Guidelines for Safari Holidays
COVID-19 rules and restrictions are changing all the time, so it’s vital you check for the latest details well in advance of your trip.
However, you may be expected to show proof of a negative COVID test, taken within 48-72 hours of departure or arrival. Those who are fully vaccinated against COVID-19 might find they no longer have to take a test before arriving in Africa or upon landing back home. Children under the age of 11 are generally exempt from testing and vaccination requirements.
Few African destinations currently require visitors to have a period of mandatory quarantine upon arrival. However, some still have a red and green list of countries – if you are arriving from a red list country, you could be denied entry.
The Best Time to go on a Safari
The best time of year for safaris depends on the country you are visiting and what you want to see. In general, you’ll have the best chances of spotting more species between July and October.
If you want to catch sight of incredible migration activity from animals like zebras and wildebeest, summer to early fall is a good bet. Large groups of these animals tend to congregate at river crossings and other key spots along their migration routes at that time of year.
If spotting young animals is your dream, it’s best to visit earlier in the year, around February. Tanzania is the perfect place to see hundreds of newborn wildebeests in their natural environment. Kenya and Uganda are also excellent for spotting young at this time of year, particularly zebras.
The Best Places for a Safari Holiday
If you’re planning on taking your safari in Africa, then it’s important that you choose your location carefully. The best places for a safari in Africa are Botswana, Kenya, and Tanzania. These countries all offer stunning scenery and varied wildlife – it is easy to see both large animals like elephants as well as smaller species like gazelles.
Uganda is also home to some incredible National Parks and is one of the best destinations if you are hoping to spot mountain gorillas. It’s one of the more rainy countries in Africa, though, so make sure to pack your waterproofs!
What Should I Pack for My Safari Holiday?
You shouldn’t pack your entire wardrobe for a safari! Think about what type of climate you’ll be visiting and choose clothes accordingly. For instance, if you’re planning to visit an area in Africa with extreme heat, think about packing lightweight, loose-fitting clothing. If it looks like rain, bring waterproof gear as well – you never know when it might start pouring all of a sudden, and downpours can be heavy!
As mentioned, don’t forget insect repellent – the mosquitos could ruin your trip otherwise! You also won’t want to forget your camera to capture those unforgettable moments, but use it with courtesy to those on safari with you.
