Holiday in Africa: Practical tips for planning, booking and staying safe

Want a holiday that mixes wildlife, beaches and culture? Africa has thousands of options. This guide gives simple, practical steps to plan a better trip, pick the right dates, manage money, and stay safe. Use these tips whether you're heading to Cape Town, Nairobi, Accra or a quieter coastal town.

Plan smart

Start by picking the season. Rainy months can mean lower prices but limited access to parks. Peak season usually means more crowds and higher costs. Check local public holidays before booking—flight and hotel prices jump during long weekends and national celebrations. Book flights early for the best fares and use price alerts to watch trends. For domestic travel in Africa, low-cost carriers fill up fast during holiday windows.

Choose accommodation that fits your needs. Guesthouses and small hotels often offer better local insight than big chains. If you want privacy, rent a self-catering place. For safaris, book through a reputable operator and confirm park permits and transfer times. Read recent reviews; facilities can change quickly.

Money, documents and health

Carry multiple payment options: one card for payments, a backup card, and some cash in the right local currency. ATMs work in major cities but can be scarce in rural areas. Tell your bank you will travel to avoid card blocks. Check visa rules well before your trip—some countries require e-visas while others issue stamps on arrival.

Get recommended vaccines and carry a basic first-aid kit. Malaria prevention matters in many regions—ask a doctor about the right medication and use mosquitos nets and repellents. Travel insurance is non-negotiable; make sure it covers medical evacuation and activity-specific risks like safari drives or diving.

Stay safe and respect local customs. Dress appropriately in conservative areas and ask before taking photos of people or religious sites. Keep valuables out of sight and avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar neighbourhoods. Use hotel safes for passports and extra cash when possible. For road travel, hire drivers with local experience—roads can be unpredictable and road signs vary.

Plan for connectivity. Buy a local SIM or a regional data plan to use maps and call local providers. Apps for ride-hailing, translation and cashless payments can save time. Keep digital copies of your passport, insurance and bookings in the cloud and offline on your phone.

Pack smart for varied climates: include a lightweight rain jacket, sturdy walking shoes, sun protection and a reusable water bottle. Bring a power bank and a universal adapter. If you plan night drives or remote safaris, pack extra warm layers and a reliable flashlight with spare batteries.

Finally, build time into your itinerary. Travel delays happen. Allow an extra day for arrivals and for unexpected opportunities like a local festival or a day trip. Treat the trip as part adventure, part rest—so you come home with stories and fewer stress lines.

Want more holiday ideas across Africa? Check our latest guides and country pages for tailored tips and timely updates.