Stretching from Angola in the northwest to Mozambique and Madagascar on the east coast and southwards to the tip of Africa – Southern Africa is a vast multi-ethnic region comprising a kaleidoscope of landscapes as diverse as the fauna and flora which inhabit them. Little wonder the region’s popularity as a tourist destination is on the rise.
With all these attributes, would-be visitors and families travelling with minors inevitably wonder whether there is a catch: How safe is it to travel in Africa; especially considering that these are developing countries whose challenges are often misrepresented in the media? This article addresses various safety considerations and offers practical tips to ensure a hassle-free journey across Africa’s Eden.
Before we dive into the subject in greater depth, please remember that no matter where you go, unfortunate incidents can happen. As such, many of the points made below are universal truths for travel safety, regardless of your destination. As countless visitors to the region can attest, the only unfortunate part of their African journey was that it ended too soon.
Understanding the Safety Situation in Southern Africa
Each country has its own safety profile. In realising the benefits of tourism, the respective governments are proactively ensuring that popular tourist areas are safe for visitors. It is also common practice for establishments to provide employment and community upliftment measures to further enhance harmonious coexistence. Typically, crime rates in rural areas are even lower than in urban areas. Ideally, prospective visitors should be aware of any travel advisories in place for their intended destinations.
How Safe Is It to Travel in Africa?
We all know the media often exaggerates the challenges faced in Southern Africa to suit a particular narrative, even though many of these countries; like Botswana and Namibia, rank highly in terms of safety. While socio-economic factors like unemployment and poverty are above the global average, most of the region is politically stable and at peace. There’s no doubt that travel can be daunting, but a bit of research and planning can go a long way to put your mind at ease.
Preparing for Your Trip: Essential Safety Tips
Start by finding out if there are any particular safety guidelines or travel advisories related to travel in Southern Africa. Find out from your healthcare provider or travel clinic if there are any vaccination recommendations or other health precautions to consider, like malaria prophylaxis. It is the best practice for travellers worldwide to invest in comprehensive travel insurance. We’ve all heard stories of mysteriously re-routed luggage and travel bugs that derailed dream holidays. Having a plan that includes a safety net will mean that if these happen, they are just bumps in the road, allowing you to continue your journey largely unaffected. Also keep in mind, that most reputable tour operators will require proof of medical and/or evacuation insurance.
Safety Tips for Transportation in Southern Africa
When in airports, be aware of your surroundings and secure your belongings. While public transportation can be convenient, choose reputable services whenever possible. When renting a vehicle, choose known brands and familiarise yourself with local driving conditions and regulations. If transport is provided by your tour operator, ensure vehicles are in a roadworthy condition. Road quality may be poor in places and drivers should be on the lookout for pedestrians and animals nearby, especially as dusk falls, when predators such as lions and hyenas take the opportunity to soak up the warmth on the tarmac as temperatures cool. When possible, allow adequate time to reach your destination before nightfall.
Accommodations: Staying Safe in Hotels and Lodges
Select hotels, lodges, etc that are well-reviewed with an emphasis on security measures, such as an in-room safe. Most establishments will safely store valuables or travel documents on request and provide safety briefings, if necessary. Many remote lodges are unfenced, allowing the local wildlife to pass nearby. This really enhances the wilderness experience and staff are on hand to escort you to and from your room. When travelling alone, select accommodations that are centrally located with good security. If in doubt, ask a friendly local or your tour operator for advice.
Personal Safety and Awareness While Exploring
As in any new environment, it is wise to be aware of your surroundings, particularly in crowded places like markets and airports. Likewise, do not display valuables and don’t change money on the street. If you need to draw cash at an ATM, ensure it is in a well-lit and secure location and politely refuse help from strangers and, just like at home, never give your card or pin to anyone else. Search the web for common travel scams particular to the area you are visiting.
Outdoor Activities and Wildlife Encounters
If you are planning outdoor activities, ensure that you are in the care of experienced professional guides and get reviews of their services where available. Maintain a safe distance from wildlife and do not attempt to feed or encourage a reaction from even the most innocuous-looking animal. Remember, wild animals are best quietly observed in a non-threatening manner, letting you enjoy their natural behaviour. Most safari destinations have guidelines in this regard, put in place to protect both you and the wildlife. If in doubt, the staff will happily provide guidance.
When planning outdoor activities, like hiking, it’s a good idea to let people know your plans and expected return time. Wear appropriate gear, use sun protection and remember to stay hydrated. Sometimes sunscreen and other necessities taken for granted at home are not readily available outside of major centres, so it’s a good idea to bring along sufficient for the duration of your trip.
Health and Medical Safety Considerations
Medical facilities vary considerably across Southern Africa. In most major centres, there are advanced healthcare services. In rural areas, these may only be rudimentary. If you use chronic medication, carry an adequate supply for your entire trip. A basic first-aid kit and insect repellent should be on hand. Before you set off, find out if there are any prevailing health risks and take appropriate contingency measures, such as comprehensive travel and medical insurance. If your health condition requires 24/7 access to electricity, it is best to enquire beforehand as to its availability as some camps only run generators intermittently.
Cultural Awareness and Respect
For visitors to Southern Africa, the striking culture adds to the joy of travel. By nature, the people of the region are hospitable and rightfully proud of their heritage and traditions. A great way to enhance your connection is to research the local customs, greetings and traditions. You will be amazed at the response you’ll get should you greet a new acquaintance in your best version of their native tongue. Bear in mind that rural African communities can be conservative by Western standards. By embracing the norms of the places you visit, you’ll be sure to enjoy an immersive and authentic experience. It’s worthwhile and straightforward to be a more responsible traveller with a bit of forethought.
Safety Tips for Urban Areas and Nightlife
The urban areas of Southern Africa have a vibrant nightlife, and enjoying a few local beers in a village shebeen can be a fun cultural experience, yet it’s still important to stay safe – including practising safe sex. As in all crowded places, be aware of your surroundings, be discreet with your valuables, don’t change money on the street, avoid walking around alone and use reputable transport services.
Emergency Preparedness and Contacts
Did you ever lose your phone? It can be a nightmare trying to get back all of your contacts, but now imagine needing to do that after you accidentally forgot that your phone was in your pocket while bungee jumping at Victoria Falls.
As a precaution for this sort of mishap, create a list of important numbers, a copy of your itinerary and any other useful information you may need on your travels; print a hard copy for yourself, save it on your cloud storage and forward it to a trusted friend or family member. That way, you can quickly restore your connectivity.
By following these and other practical ideas in place to ensure safety, your travels in Southern Africa will likely be remembered for the wonderful people encountered, the picturesque landscapes and the diverse wildlife. If you have other questions, be sure to discuss these with your travel professional or the service providers at your intended destinations. Safe travels!