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6 Tips for packing for a trip to Africa

Are you taking a trip to Africa any time soon? If so, we’d like to let you know that khaki shorts and safari hats are not the standard clothing pieces for an African trip – although they are welcome. There are many things that need to be considered when packing for a trip to Africa. If you aren’t sure where to start – besides the obvious, by packing a camera – here are a few tips for packing for a trip to Africa:

Sunblock

We're sure that you’ve heard of the African sun. well, the rumours are true and as the sun beats down on you during the days, weeks, or even months, of your trip you need to be protected. Make sure that the first thing you put in your suitcase is some sunblock. You’ll probably have to restock while on your trip.

Closed shoes

Whether you’re planning on going on a short hike or a trek through one of the many national parks in Africa, we recommend that you bring closed shoes. In fact, even if these activities aren’t a part of your plan, you never know if you want to change a few things on your itinerary, so bring closed shoes just in case.

Cotton shirts

Africa is known for its heat. A cotton shirt is breathable, which will allow you to stay cool during the day. Pack shirts in all colours and patterns, but be aware that only light-coloured shirts should be worn while on safari – this is where the khaki comes in.

Hats

Though you can bring wide brimmed safari hats, just know that you’ll be hanging on to it for dear life when driving around in a safari vehicle, and you’ll probably end up losing it, which won’t be ideal. Rather pack a fitted baseball cap that you can always count on to keep your face safe from the African sun.

Swimming costumes

Take a swimming costume! If you’re exploring the beaches in Africa or you have a pool where you are staying on your trip, you’re going to want to take a dip.

Jackets

Africa may be hot, but we have our cold days. Jackets are a must during the winter months, and one should be brought with even in summer months in case of rainfall or general cold days. Windbreakers and rain jackets are the most effective choice.

Contact Our Expert Tour Consultants for more info!

What to do in Ethiopia

Ethiopia is a beautiful country in the horn of Africa. This wondrous piece of land is filled with culture dating back to ancient times. There are many intriguing sites to see and experience in this country. If you’re planning a trip to Ethiopia, here are a few things that we suggest you do:

Explore the markets

You cannot take a trip to Ethiopia without delighting in the mouth-watering authentic Ethiopian cuisine. There is no better way to experience Ethiopian food than by exploring the markets and indulging in the food the way the locals would; hands-on.

Tour Addis Ababa

Addis Ababa is Ethiopia’s capital city. This city is exciting as it is filled with many things to do, from strolling through the market to marvelling at the St. George Cathedral. There is something in this city for every type of traveller to enjoy.

Visit Dallol

Dallol is located in the Afar Depression, in the northern region of Ethiopia. It is a geological location with some of the highest temperatures on Earth due to its active volcano. The alien-like landscape is made striking beautiful by green and white colour variations formed by the chemicals in the springs.

Trek the Bale Mountains

The Bale Mountains National Park is for all those travellers who want to experience Ethiopian nature at its finest. These mountains are home to many of Ethiopia’s indigenous animals, including the Simeon Wolf – a very rare species.

Experience Lalibela

Lalibela is another town in northern Ethiopia. It is known for its beautiful rock structures that were carved into churches. Another place to visit is the cliff-situated restaurant, Ben Abeba, where you can sit and enjoy fragrant coffee and delicious food while staring at the beautiful Ethiopian landscape.

Journey through the Omo Valley

Meet the local tribes while travelling through the Omo Valley and experience the traditional culture of Ethiopia. After learning about their way of life and their customs, take in the scenery of the Omo River.

Top 5 Tourist Destinations in Africa

Africa is a beautiful continent with several wonderous destinations for tourists to choose from. Whether you are an adventure seeker or just a casual holiday maker eager to take in the culture and bask in the African sun, have a look at these 5 tourist destinations in Africa:

Serengeti

The Serengeti National Park is in Tanzania. This piece of land is a popular tourist destination as it is home to several species of fauna and flora native to Africa. Take the time to go out for a game drive and experience Africa’s nature at its finest. If you time it correctly, you may be able to witness the Great Migration – the migration pattern of thousands of animals between the Serengeti and Maasai Mara, in Kenya.

Victoria Falls

The Victoria falls, one of the seven natural wonders of the world, is another African destination that tourists flock to. This magnificent waterfall can be found on the border of Zambia and Zimbabwe. Tourists can get a close look at the waterfall from viewing platforms, however, the spray from the waterfall will determine how clear that view is. Adventurers can get their adrenaline pumping with the thrilling white water rafting that takes place along the Zambezi River.

Pyramids of Giza

The Pyramids of Giza are three historically renowned pyramids found in Egypt. These three Egyptian wonders have been around for thousands of years, making them a popular tourist destination. Tourists from all over the world come to this destination to marvel at the pyramids (and share conspiracy theories as to how they were built).

Marrakech

Marrakech is a very small town found in Morocco. This old imperial city is perfect for tourists looking for an exciting and interesting African space to explore. Tourists can soak up the African culture while walking through the streets and alleyways of Marrakech. They can also indulge in delicious food at the markets.

Cape Town

Cape Town is a coastal city right at the bottom of Africa. There are many attractions for tourists at this destination. The most visited is the famous Table Mountain with views of the entire city. Boulder bay is another popular place to visit in Cape Town for the penguins and seals. Other interesting places in the city include the V&A Waterfront, Robben Island and much more.

The wonders of Victoria Falls

Victoria Falls is one of the seven natural wonders of the world. This beautiful attraction holds other wonders that can be experienced through various activities. Read below to find out more about the wonders of Victoria Falls.

Victoria Falls National Park

The Victoria Falls National Park, linked to the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, is home to a large rainforest and an abundance of animals. Tourists often go on bush drives or guided walks through the reserves to experience the beauty of the nature that surrounds the Falls.

The rapids

The grade 5 rapids found below Victoria Falls are a huge attraction for adrenaline junkies. These trips run from either side of the river so visitors of both Zimbabwe and Zambia can enjoy the thrill of white water rafting down the Zambezi river.

The Devil’s Pool

The devils pool is a naturally created pool found at the top of Victoria Falls. this wonder is another attraction for adrenaline junkies as, when the river is flowing at low levels, they can experience the excitement of swimming in a pool on the edge of the largest waterfall.

The rainbow

Victoria Falls is filled with beautiful sights, including the waterfall itself. However, none are as beautiful as the lunar rainbow. This rainbow is unlike any other as it can only be seen in the evenings when there is a full moon. The light from the full moon hits the spray from the waterfall to create a spectacular sight.

Why use Boutique Africa for African Itineraries

If you are thinking about taking a trip to Africa but aren’t quite sure where to go or what to do, look no further than Boutique Africa! Our professional planners will customise your itinerary accordingly. Read more about why you should use Boutique Africa for your African Itinerary.

Professional planners

Boutique Africa specialises in boutique travel which means that we make you our number one priority. That’s why when you plan a trip to Africa with us, you get a professional planner at your beck and call. Contact your professional planner for any travel related enquires.

Custom made

Boutique Africa understands that individuals have their own preferences. We won’t offer you an ordinary travel scheme with a pre-planned itinerary. We want our clients to have itineraries suited to their needs which is why we offer itinerary customisation. Pick and choose between boutique hotels, guided tours and much more, to make this experience your own.

Various locations

We give you a list of hotels, tours and packages to choose from in wide variety of African countries; from South Africa all the way up to Ethiopia. Depending on where in Africa you choose to go, there are many different activities that you can take part in. Whether you want to go on a guided tour through the Serengeti or visit the natural wonders of Africa such as the Victoria Falls or the Namibian salt pans, Boutique Africa has you covered.

4 places to visit in Namibia

Namibia is a country with so much to offer and is home to many beautiful natural attractions. If you find yourself in Namibia, whether it be for holiday or work, we recommend taking some time to visit these 4 places:

Fish River Canyon

The Fish River Canyon is a huge canyon in Namibia created by the fish river. This location offers fantastic views that can be experienced by hiking along the canyon or taking a flight in a helicopter. Fish river is one of the longest rivers in Africa, and there’s no better way to experience the river than by taking a dip into it.

Kolmanskop Ghost Town

Do you have an interest in horror and mystery? If your answer is yes, then this is the place for you! Kolmanskop Ghost Town is a small town in Namibia that has lost its residents. This eery town has plenty of empty homes for you to explore, but you better hurry before the sand dunes take over.

Walvis Bay

Walvis bay is a beautiful place in Namibia where you can view a sea of pink. Curious as to what this might mean? Visit the wetlands of Walvis Bay to find a large colony of wild flamingos. Among the flamingos you may spot some pelicans and other beautiful bird species.

Cape Cross

Cape Cross is home to one of the largest colonies of Cape Fur seals in the world. Add this little detour to your list of activities in Namibia and walk along a pathway with a close view of over 200,000 seals - you may even see a Jackal or two along the way.