We all dream of coming to Kenya to visit the bushland regions and get a feel of the area.
the problem is perhaps what preparations one needs to do beforehand or during the trip
so as to make it as memorable as possible. These are some of the tips for you dear traveler:
We have all heard of the mosquito problem in Africa, the deaths caused by
malaria are many and as a traveler of the African Bush, take anti-malaria drugs
or carry mosquito repellent creams to apply on the body. it is better to be safe than sorry.
know the climatic conditions of the place in mind. In some places for example, in the South of Africa near the Chalbi desert, the days are extremely hot while the nights are extremely cold. On the other hand, the Western region of Kenya is cool and wet most of the time; more of equatorial climate.
Get a local guide who will run you through the codes of dressing and taboos of the people
so as to be able to fit into the community as easily as possible. As a traveler you could
try to learn the language beforehand through the internet at least for some basic
salutations and requests.
Ensure that you plan the days with few activities spread out through the entire journey so
as to fully savor the entire scenery. Avoid rushing as if the animals are going to get
extinct today or the parks are going to shut down in a few hours. It is better to say
that you spent a whole day in the area and saw everything than roam all over and
see nothing and at the end of the day you are exhausted beyond repair.
If as a traveler you have decided to go camping at night, ensure that a fire remains lit
the entire night as it tends to chase away wild animals which have broken through the
parks fences.
The African Sun is on good servant but a very bad master. It sometimes gets so hot to the point you imagine that the sun is just ten feet away. For this reason, wear protective clothing such as hats and sun glasses to protect the face and eyes. Sun-screen is also a good solution for preventing sun burns on the skin.
As a traveler perhaps you encounter a river whose still waters mesmerize you and with the hot sun you are tempted to swim. Do not swim no mater how still and shallow the water is. Beneath most African rivers are crocodiles, Rhinos and fish that are only laying bait waiting for some fresh meat
Ensure that You carry enough water for the entire journey. Perhaps you could make preparations on accommodation spots that will provide water during the trip. Do not allow yourself to get de-hydrated from the sun.
Wear comfortable shoes such as boots and sneakers that way you can walk for long distances across the grassland savanna. It also protects the feet from crawling animals like snakes.
As a traveler, keep it as light as possible and as simple as possible. Avoid jewelery and accessories that are loosely attached to the body. These necklaces easily get caught in the bush causing injury to the skin and also one may accidentally get strangled.
Make arrangements for the bush safari with a couple of friends or join a group that is already prepared. This has two advantages; first, it cuts cost of hiring traveling vans as the group members all chip into the expenses. Secondly it is company traveling with others and meeting new people. Groups are also a source of security as members may protect one another from hostile communities.
Last but not least, do not hitch hike. Though the majority of Africans are hospitable and friendly people, do not ask for a lift from strangers. That may be a dangerous poacher or thief who will rob you of all your possessions.
Lastly, carry a camera, video camera and tape recorders for those Kodak Moments while there. They will provide good memories for those sunset years when the brain has deleted some sweet memories of the holiday.
Relax and enjoy the African Sun, people and wildlife.
Karibu Sana Africa!
Africa Travels
1 comment:
I would just like to comment on the seasons and what to expect.
The main tourist season is in January and February, since the hot, dry weather at this time of year is generally considered to be the most pleasant. It's also when Kenya's birdlife flocks to the Rift Valley lakes in the greatest numbers. June to September could be called the 'shoulder season' as the weather is still dry. The rains hit from March to May (and to a lesser extent from October to December). During these months things are much quieter - places tend to have rooms available and prices drop. The rains generally don't affect travellers' ability to get around.
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