(101 things to know when you go) ON SAFARI IN AFRICA. Patrick Brakspear
read a journal years later, it’s those esoteric, private details that will transport you back to the moment." – Justin Fox, former Getaway magazine
"It doesn't matter what you write, or doodle, or draw. Take time to record your surroundings and indulge in the moment – something people are forgetting how to do. Instead of chasing the ultimate photograph, sit quietly with your notebook and create memories that way instead." – Narina Exelby, freelance travel writer
Tips for self-drivers
If you are planning to pick up a hire car and self-drive, a possibility in countries like South Africa, Namibia and Zimbabwe, be aware of the following:
All these countries drive on the left-hand side of the road and display distances and speed limits in kilometres (kms).
In South Africa there is a prevalence of four-way-stop intersections – these require you to come to a complete stop and give way to all other vehicles that have arrived at the 4-way stop before you – only then can you go proceed. Simple, but a little disconcerting initially.
Vehicles in traffic circles (often referred to as roundabouts) travel clockwise. Drivers wishing to enter traffic circles should give way to the right i.e. to those already on , or entering the roundabout from your right.
If you’re driving behind another car and that car pulls to the shoulder but continues driving, it means they are letting you pass. If it’s safe to pass you may do so (only if there is a dotted line and no cars coming from the other direction). When you pass someone, be sure to turn on your hazard lights as a way of saying “thank you” – it’s what they all do. And then, if someone is tailgating you or wants to get past you, the polite thing to do is cautiously pull into the shoulder and slow down slightly to let the driver pass (only do this if you can clearly see that the shoulder is clear) – do NOT do this when going around a bend.
Fuel – whilst fuel is generally readily available not all petrol/fuel stations are open 24 hours. You should always fill up when passing through major towns and plan your journey with fuel stops in mind (and carry extra fuel if deemed necessary in more remote areas).
Fuel stations are generally not self-help but manned by attendants who can also check oil, water and tyre pressure if required. Gratuities for this service are at your own discretion.
Be sure to have not only your driver’s license to hand but also the car’s papers – registration, car insurance and any required reflectors/chevron or triangles (in case of breakdown). Wearing seat belts when driving a car in the region is mandatory. The use of a mobile phone while driving is prohibited, with the exception of a hands-free system.
Be conscious of your own security and that of the vehicle – be sure to lock the vehicle when unattended and do not leave any valuables in plain sight.
In the cities and towns you may notice that there is a system of “unofficial” parking attendants who will tell you where to park, guide you into the appropriate bay, and will then watch your car whilst you go into the shops. Get their name, and when you return back to your car, pay the attendant a 'tip' as a thank you for watching your car. It is all about peace-of-mind.
If possible, avoid travelling at night (abandoned/unlit vehicles, pedestrians and stray animals could present a danger).
Large antelope or other wild animals (even hippo and elephant) crossing the road can also be a hazard in certain areas.
Drive safely and take heed of speed limits."To adventure is to live. To break the shackles of habit and custom, to shake free from the ordinary and the mundane is to make life a never ending journey of discovery and reward." - Clive Walker
Dangers..
Africa has a number of diseases that have been eradicated, or do not occur, in most parts of the developed world – diseases such as polio, cholera, typhoid and yellow fever are still prevalent in some African countries and you should be aware. Malaria, bilharzia, and African sleeping sickness are real. Ebola is a very serious disease but is restricted to certain West African countries - so far. The Zika virus, although originating in Uganda, is not prevalent on the continent.
Whilst the list of diseases is long, the risk to you as a safari goer should not be over-dramatized, but neither should it be underestimated. Please read the recommendations offered below, and be sure to consult your local doctor or health professional before you leave home.
If you are on specific medication do not leave it at home and be sure to CARRY IT IN YOUR HAND LUGGAGE. Certain prescriptions/drugs may not be available locally so never be separated from your supply!
The African sun
Always take precautions against the persistent overhead sun. Proximity to the equator makes the African sun particularly strong and dangerous so ensure you use the highest level of protection. Wrap-around sunglasses provide the best protection from the sun and other eye irritants (dust). Use eye drops to counter the effects of the sun, dust and dry air. A sun hat, sunblock, lip balm / chap stick, moisturising creams and insect repellents are essential when travelling in Africa. Be especially wary during water-based activities like canoeing or rafting, as the reflection off the water adds to your exposure. Walking and canoeing safaris, white water rafting and other adventure activities on safari all increase your exposure to the sun - be careful. Most open 4x4 game drive vehicle will have a protective canvas roof – but not all. Hats, sunblock and sunglasses are essential.
HIV/AIDS (and Hep B.)
The HIV virus and AIDS (and Hepatitis B to a lesser extent) are serious health issues in many African countries. However, the risk to travellers is negligible assuming proper precautions are taken. HIV (and Hep B.) are largely transmitted through exposure to bodily fluids containing the virus. Use the same precautions while in Africa as at home.
Ebola
Ebola is a highly infectious viral disease with a high fatality rate and very contagious. Symptoms initially include a sudden fever as well as joint and muscle aches and then typically progress to vomiting, diarrhoea and, in some cases, internal and external bleeding. The virus spreads through contact with the bodily fluids of someone who is infected. The World Health Organisation believes that fruit bats are probably the natural host for the virus.
Whilst research is advanced in developing a vaccine for the disease, none exists at time of writing. But if caught early, Ebola can be treated like other viruses, such as influenza, through the administration of liquids and electrolytes and maintaining the patients' oxygen status and blood pressure.
The 2014 outbreak was very bad but was concentrated in three small West African states: Sierra Leone, Liberia and Guinea. Although this outbreak claimed more than 3000 lives, it does appear to have been brought under control.
It is important to understand that the disease remains largely confined to the DRC and the West African countries mentioned, and that no cases have occurred in any of the major safari-going countries of East and Southern Africa.
Malaria
Malaria is a common and potentially deadly infection in hot, tropical areas of the world. The disease is caused by a parasite introduced into the bloodstream from the bite of the female Anopheles mosquito. When properly treated, a patient with malaria can expect a complete recovery.
Firstly, check with your travel agent whether you will be travelling through any malaria infested areas on your itinerary. Not all, but many of the safari lodges and camps are likely to be in such areas. If you are travelling with young children then you may already have discussed this with your Africa Travel Specialist and chosen areas which are malaria-free.
There are several preventative medications to combat malaria but it is important to check with your local GP or travel