FAQ

There is no need to fear that Africa is not safe. From the places you visit and the locals, you will feel the warmth of the Africans. If you are prejudiced that Africa is afraid, your kindness will dispel them. However, large cities like Johannesburg and Nairobi are far from safe. Avoid going to the city center of Johannesburg and take a taxi even a short distance after sunset.

Walking, decide on a purpose as you walk at a brisk pace, while paying attention to your surroundings. It is important to avoid unpopular places and back streets, and not to talk to strangers even if you are persistent. Of course, whenever you enter an unknown land, these are the same wherever you go. Let’s enjoy looking at the articles.

At airports like Johannesburg, suitcases can be opened and stolen, so keep valuables and electronic devices in your suitcase as luggage.

The shape of electrical outlets varies by country, and you need to use a plug that matches the outlets in that country. In the African countries visited on our tours, the most common plug types are B, B3, BF, and C. Be sure to check the plug types for each country. Recently, multi-type plugs that combine all types into one are available, and we recommend using them.

The safety of drinking tap water in Africa varies by region. In many urban areas of South Africa, such as Cape Town and Johannesburg, tap water is generally safe for consumption (TapSafe).
However, in rural regions and other countries across the continent, access to clean drinking water may be limited, and tap water might not meet safety standards (Afrik21).
Therefore, it’s crucial to assess the local water quality and consider drinking bottled or purified water when traveling in these areas.

It’s common to be concerned about diseases when traveling to Africa, but with proper preparation and precautions, many health risks can be minimized. Here are some key points to consider when preparing for your trip:
1. Vaccinations

Several vaccinations are recommended, and sometimes required, depending on the country you are visiting:

Yellow Fever: Required for entry into certain countries, especially if you’re coming from a yellow fever endemic area.
Hepatitis A and B: Both vaccines are recommended as these diseases can be contracted through contaminated food, water, or blood.
Typhoid: Recommended for travelers to areas with poor sanitation and hygiene.
Rabies: If you plan on spending time outdoors or in rural areas, a rabies vaccination is a good precaution.
Meningitis: Recommended for travelers to the “meningitis belt” in sub-Saharan Africa.
Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Pertussis (Tdap): It’s advisable to be up to date on your Tdap vaccine.

2. Malaria

Malaria is a significant concern in many parts of Africa, especially in sub-Saharan Africa. To protect yourself:

Antimalarial Medications: Depending on the region, your doctor may prescribe antimalarial pills (e.g., Malarone, Doxycycline, or Lariam). These should be started before your trip and continued during and after your stay.
Insect Repellent: Use a repellent containing DEET, and wear long sleeves and pants to prevent mosquito bites.
Mosquito Nets: In areas with a high risk of malaria, sleep under an insecticide-treated mosquito net.

3. Traveler’s Diarrhea

Contaminated food and water can lead to gastrointestinal issues, including traveler’s diarrhea.
Precautionary Measures: Avoid tap water (unless it’s known to be safe), drink bottled water, and be cautious about eating raw or undercooked food, especially from street vendors.
Medication: Over-the-counter medications like Imodium can help control symptoms, and your doctor may prescribe antibiotics like Ciprofloxacin for severe cases.

4. Schistosomiasis (Bilharzia)

This parasitic disease is contracted through freshwater in lakes, rivers, and ponds. To avoid schistosomiasis, refrain from swimming or wading in freshwater bodies, particularly in areas where it is known to be present.
5. HIV/AIDS

HIV rates are high in some parts of Africa. Practicing safe sex, avoiding the sharing of needles, and being cautious with medical procedures are essential to protect yourself.
6. Tuberculosis (TB)

Tuberculosis is more common in some parts of Africa. Avoid prolonged exposure to crowded or poorly ventilated places, especially in areas where TB is prevalent.
7. Cholera

Cholera outbreaks can occur in areas with poor sanitation. A cholera vaccine is available, but it’s most important to practice good hygiene, avoid untreated water, and eat safe food.
8. Dengue Fever and Zika Virus

Both are mosquito-borne viruses, prevalent in certain regions. There is no vaccine for either, so mosquito prevention (using insect repellent, wearing long clothes) is essential.
9. COVID-19

Some countries in Africa may have specific entry requirements related to COVID-19, such as mandatory testing or vaccination certificates. Make sure you are up to date with these before traveling.
10. General Precautions

Personal Hygiene: Regular hand washing with soap and using hand sanitizer is crucial, especially before meals and after using the restroom.
Travel Insurance: Consider travel health insurance, including coverage for evacuation in case of serious illness or injury.

Before traveling, consult a travel medicine specialist or your healthcare provider to ensure you’re properly vaccinated and informed about the health risks in the specific countries you plan to visit. This way, you can take the appropriate precautions to stay healthy during your trip.

Africa is a highly multilingual continent, with over 2,000 languages spoken. Many countries use European languages due to colonial history:

English: Common in countries like South Africa, Kenya, Nigeria, and Ghana.
French: Spoken in West and Central Africa, including Senegal, Ivory Coast, and DR Congo.
Portuguese: Used in Angola, Mozambique, and Guinea-Bissau.
Arabic: Predominantly spoken in North Africa (Egypt, Morocco, Algeria).

Major indigenous languages include:

Swahili: Widely spoken in East Africa (Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda).
Zulu, Xhosa: South Africa.
Yoruba, Hausa, Igbo: Nigeria.
Amharic: Ethiopia.

Many people speak multiple languages, mixing indigenous, colonial, and regional languages like Swahili and Hausa.

The meals provided during the tour are generally Western or international cuisine, served either buffet-style or as a set course. Many hotels and lodges offer dining with beautiful views of nature, making mealtime a memorable part of the travel experience.

Drinks are usually not included in the meal price, but for example, South Africa is famous for its wine, so we highly recommend wine lovers enjoy a glass with their meal.

In urban areas, both phone and internet services are generally accessible.

However, when you go on a safari, phone and internet connectivity may not be the same as usual. If you stay at lodges, there may be internet access in public areas, but it’s best to expect limited connectivity.

Tracing its origins, the word comes from Arabic and means ‘journey’ in Swahili, which is spoken in East Africa. For them, going to a nearby town is also called a ‘safari,’ as is going out to hunt.

Since the 19th century, the term ‘safari’ has been introduced into English by Europeans, primarily referring to the hunting of the Big Five (lion, African elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhinoceros).

Today, ‘safari’ typically refers to going on wildlife observation trips in Africa.

The Big Five refers to the lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhinoceros—five popular animals on safari. The term originated during the era when Europeans enjoyed hunting and referred to these animals as the most dangerous to hunt, which is why they are still called the Big Five today.

For capturing memories during your trip, any camera will suffice, but if you want to take larger photos of animals, it’s best to have a camera with sufficient zoom. A zoom of 20x or more is desirable.

For those serious about wildlife photography, a DSLR camera capable of high-speed continuous shooting, along with a telephoto zoom lens of 400mm or more, is recommended. This setup will allow you to capture more dynamic animal photos. A standard zoom lens is fine for landscape photography. However, keep in mind that safaris can be dusty, and changing lenses can be challenging while the vehicle is moving. If possible, using two cameras to avoid lens changes will help you enjoy smooth shooting.

The best opportunities to see animals are during the early morning and late evening when light levels are low. If you want to capture beautiful shots in the dim light, a camera with strong high sensitivity and a bright lens is recommended.

First and foremost, the dust can be intense. Having a scarf or similar item to protect against dust is very useful.

Also, if dust gets into your camera or lens, it can cause malfunctions, so be sure to protect your camera from dust as much as possible. Wrapping it in a plastic bag or cloth can help. There are also products like camera wraps designed for protection, which you might find useful.

Safari vehicles can be quite bumpy. If you place your camera on your seat, be careful to avoid it falling to the floor!

You won’t be able to charge your camera during the safari. To avoid missing those precious moments due to a dead battery, it’s recommended to bring spare batteries.

Typically, the period from January to August has the highest water flow, with peak levels occurring between April and June. During this time, you can fully experience the power of the falls while getting drenched in the mist. However, if the water volume is too high, the mist can obscure the entire view of the falls. If you want to capture the full panorama in photos, it’s best to visit between January and March or June and August.

When visiting Victoria Falls, be prepared to get quite wet, so having adequate waterproof gear like a raincoat is advisable. Additionally, protect your camera by bringing a plastic bag or similar to shield it from the spray.

In many cases, it may not be possible to exchange Japanese yen for the local currency on-site. Please bring U.S. dollars or euros. When exchanging for local currency, $50 or $100 bills tend to offer better rates than smaller denominations. For U.S. dollars, please ensure that you have new bills issued since 2006. Older bills may not be accepted for exchange or may incur a less favorable rate.

Please be aware that ATMs may run out of cash or malfunction, causing them to swallow your card and not return it. It might be best to avoid using ATMs whenever possible. Consider them a last resort if there are no other options.

If you’re joining a tour, the amount you’ll need for local expenses primarily includes personal meals, tips, and souvenirs or other personal purchases. This can vary depending on individual circumstances, but for a typical stay, $300 to $500 per person for 10 days should be sufficient.
At currency exchange offices in Africa, the exchange rate may vary between new and old U.S. dollar bills, and old bills may even be refused for exchange. Therefore, it is advisable to prepare new U.S. dollar bills.

In urban areas, major souvenir shops, jewelry stores, large supermarkets, and upscale lodges typically accept credit cards, but there are times when the card readers may be out of order.

Outside of major cities and tourist areas, it’s best to assume that credit cards will not be widely accepted. VISA and MasterCard are the most commonly used, while American Express may not be accepted frequently.

In safaris with wet and dry seasons, animals migrate significantly to find water and food throughout the year. The best season for a safari is said to be at the transition between the wet and dry seasons, but the specific area where you can see your desired animals may vary depending on the season.

Dry Season

During the dry season, the grasses turn yellow, and some trees lose their leaves. With fewer hiding spots, it’s easier to observe birds and small animals. Additionally, as water sources diminish, animals tend to congregate in specific areas, making them easier to find.

This season coincides with the Great Migration of wildebeests (Kenya: July to September / Tanzania: December to February), offering unique sights specific to the dry season.

Wet Season

In the wet season, new shoots emerge, and greenery flourishes. The presence of herbivores seeking food increases, along with predators targeting these herbivores. Depending on the timing, this season may also coincide with the birthing period for many animals, allowing for emotional scenes to be witnessed. Seeing newborns is a unique experience of the wet season.

Common vaccinations include Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Typhoid, and in some areas, Yellow Fever. Check the CDC or WHO for country-specific vaccination recommendations and consult with your doctor before traveling.

Many parts of Central and South America are safe for travelers, but it’s important to be cautious. Research the safety conditions in the specific countries or cities you plan to visit, avoid carrying large amounts of cash, and be mindful of your surroundings, especially in large cities.

Each country has its own currency (e.g., Mexican Peso, Brazilian Real, Argentine Peso). However, U.S. dollars are widely accepted in some countries, especially in tourist areas (e.g., Panama, Ecuador). It’s advisable to carry local currency for smaller transactions.

Credit cards are widely accepted in major cities and tourist destinations. However, in rural areas or small towns, cash is more commonly used. Visa and MasterCard are the most widely accepted cards; American Express may not always be accepted.

ATMs are widely available in major cities but may be less common in rural or remote areas. It’s best to withdraw cash in larger towns and cities and carry some local currency, especially when traveling to more remote regions.

Tap water is not safe to drink in many parts of Central and South America. Stick to bottled or filtered water, especially in rural areas. In countries like Chile and Argentina, the tap water is generally considered safe in major cities.

Most major cities have reliable hospitals and medical facilities, but in rural areas, medical services may be limited. It’s recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Knowing the local emergency numbers and keeping a basic first aid kit can also be helpful.

Spanish and Portuguese (in Brazil) are the primary languages spoken in Central and South America. English is widely spoken in major tourist areas, especially in hotels and tours. Learning basic phrases in Spanish or Portuguese will enhance your experience and help with communication.

International roaming is available in most countries, but charges can be expensive. Consider getting a local SIM card or an international plan from your mobile provider. Free Wi-Fi is available in many hotels, cafes, and public spaces.

In restaurants, a 10% tip is generally expected. Some restaurants automatically include a service charge, so check the bill. Tipping hotel staff, guides, and drivers is also common, though amounts may vary.

Power voltages and plug types vary across the region. Most countries use 220V (Argentina, Brazil), while others like Mexico use 110V. Pack a universal adapter to ensure your devices can charge properly.

Many popular tourist destinations in Peru and Bolivia are located at altitudes of around 3,000 meters or higher. Upon arrival, you may experience symptoms of altitude sickness due to your body’s inability to adapt to the change in atmospheric pressure. Symptoms can include headaches, digestive issues (loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting), fatigue, lethargy, sleep disturbances, dizziness, and lightheadedness.

Here are some preventive measures to consider:

Walk slower than usual (and never run).
Stay hydrated and consume sugars (orange juice and Coca-Cola are great options since they provide both).
Avoid taking hot baths, and opt for a lukewarm shower. Hot baths can increase your heart rate and may pose a danger.
Take deep breaths periodically—get oxygen to your brain!
Be mindful not to overeat. Digesting food uses oxygen in the stomach, which can lead to headaches. Stay cautious!

Bringing plant seeds or fruits into the Galapagos Islands is strictly prohibited. While inspections at airports and ports aren’t particularly rigorous and tend to rely on self-declaration, it’s crucial that you do not bring any seeds or plants. Even a single seed can significantly disrupt the island’s ecosystem, and the responsibility for preventing this lies with individual awareness.

For domestic flights to the Galapagos, checked luggage is limited to 23kg and carry-on luggage to 7kg. Exceeding these limits will result in additional charges, so it’s advisable to pack lightly. For those participating in diving cruises, there are no weight restrictions on luggage.

Many countries in the Middle East are safe for tourists, particularly destinations like the UAE, Jordan, Israel, and Oman. However, some areas may experience political instability, so it’s essential to check travel advisories and do thorough research on the specific country or region you’re visiting.

Routine vaccines like Hepatitis A and B, Typhoid, and Tetanus are recommended. Depending on the region, you may also need vaccines for Rabies or Meningitis. It’s best to consult your healthcare provider before your trip.

Each country has its own currency (e.g., Emirati Dirham, Saudi Riyal, Jordanian Dinar). U.S. dollars are accepted in some tourist areas, but it’s best to carry local currency for small purchases.

Credit cards, especially Visa and MasterCard, are widely accepted in urban areas, hotels, restaurants, and shops. However, in rural areas and smaller towns, cash is more commonly used. American Express may not always be accepted, so it’s advisable to carry a backup card.

ATMs are widely available in cities and tourist areas. However, in more remote regions, ATMs may be scarce. It’s a good idea to withdraw enough cash before traveling to rural areas.

The Middle East has a desert climate, meaning hot summers and mild winters. Daytime temperatures in summer can exceed 40°C (104°F), while winter is cooler, especially in desert and mountain regions. Some areas, like Lebanon or parts of Iran, may experience snowfall in winter.

Packing depends on the season and region:

Light, breathable clothing for hot climates
A jacket or sweater for cooler desert evenings or winter months
Comfortable shoes for walking and exploring
Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for sun protection
A scarf or shawl for women to cover their heads or shoulders when visiting religious sites

In most Middle Eastern countries, modest dress is appreciated, especially in religious or rural areas. For women, covering shoulders and knees is recommended. In more conservative countries like Saudi Arabia or Iran, women may need to wear a headscarf and loose clothing in public. Men should avoid wearing shorts in conservative areas or religious sites.

Arabic is the most widely spoken language in the Middle East, but other languages like Persian (Farsi), Turkish, and Hebrew are also common. In tourist areas, English is widely spoken, particularly in countries like the UAE, Jordan, and Israel.

In many Middle Eastern countries, tap water is not considered safe to drink. It’s best to stick to bottled water, especially in rural areas. In some urban areas, like Dubai and Abu Dhabi, the tap water is safe to drink but may taste different due to desalination.

Major cities in the Middle East generally have good medical facilities. It’s advisable to carry travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Knowing the local emergency number (e.g., 999 in the UAE, 101 in Israel) can also be helpful.

It’s important to be respectful of local customs. Public displays of affection are generally frowned upon in most Middle Eastern countries. During Ramadan, avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours out of respect for those observing the fast. Always ask for permission before taking photos of people, especially women.

Tipping is appreciated in many Middle Eastern countries. In restaurants, a 10% tip is common if service is not included. Tipping hotel staff, guides, and drivers is also customary.

Many Middle Eastern countries have beautiful mosques, churches, and temples that are open to tourists. However, dress modestly when visiting religious sites, and women may need to cover their heads in mosques. Some sites may have specific visiting hours or restrictions for non-Muslims, so check ahead.

In formal settings, it’s polite to greet with a handshake, though men should wait for women to offer their hand first in more conservative areas. In some regions, greetings may involve a kiss on the cheek. A simple “As-salamu alaykum” (Peace be upon you) is a common and respectful greeting in many Arabic-speaking countries.

Japan is considered one of the safest countries in the world. Crime rates are low, and it’s generally safe to walk around even at night. However, always take common-sense precautions and keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas.

The best times to visit Japan are during spring (March to May) for cherry blossoms and fall (September to November) for the vibrant autumn foliage. Summer can be hot and humid, while winter is perfect for skiing and seeing snow-covered landscapes in areas like Hokkaido.

Japan has an extensive and efficient public transportation system, including trains, buses, and subways. For long-distance travel, the Shinkansen (bullet train) is fast and convenient. Consider purchasing a Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass) for unlimited travel on JR trains if you plan to explore multiple cities. In cities, prepaid IC cards like Suica or Pasmo are convenient for trains, buses, and even some shops.

Yes, most taxis in Japan accept credit cards, though it’s always a good idea to confirm with the driver before the ride. Note that taxis can be expensive compared to public transportation, especially for longer distances.

Japan is still quite cash-reliant, although credit cards and mobile payments are increasingly accepted in major cities. It’s recommended to carry cash, especially in rural areas, smaller shops, or restaurants that may not accept cards. ATMs in convenience stores like 7-Eleven and Lawson accept foreign cards.

Tipping is not customary in Japan and may even be considered rude. Exceptional service is expected as part of the culture. Instead of tipping, express your gratitude with a simple “thank you” or by saying “Arigatou gozaimasu.”

This depends on the season of your visit:

Spring/Autumn: Light layers, a jacket for cooler evenings.
Summer: Light, breathable clothing, as it can be hot and humid. An umbrella is useful for sudden rain showers.
Winter: Warm clothing, especially if visiting northern regions or mountainous areas where it can snow. Comfortable shoes are essential for exploring cities and temples. You may also want to pack small gifts or “omiyage” if you are visiting friends or staying with a local family.

English is not widely spoken in Japan, particularly in rural areas, but many people in tourist areas (hotels, restaurants, train stations) can communicate in basic English. Learning a few simple Japanese phrases or having a translation app on your phone can be helpful. Common phrases include:

Konnichiwa (Hello)
Arigatou (Thank you)
Sumimasen (Excuse me/Sorry)

Public Wi-Fi is available in many places like airports, hotels, and coffee shops. However, it’s not as widespread in some areas. You might want to rent a portable Wi-Fi router or buy a SIM card at the airport to ensure constant internet access during your trip.

Yes, Japan has many customs that visitors should respect:

Shoes: Always remove your shoes when entering someone’s home, traditional ryokan, and some temples. In some restaurants, you’ll also need to remove shoes.
Queueing: Japanese people are very orderly. Always stand in line, whether it’s for a train or at a store.
Respect for others: Avoid talking loudly in public places, especially on public transportation.
Onsen (hot springs): If you plan to visit an onsen, be aware that you must wash and rinse your body thoroughly before entering the communal bath. Tattoos may not be allowed in some onsens due to cultural stigma.

When visiting a temple or shrine, be respectful by speaking quietly and following the proper etiquette:

Bow once at the torii gate (entrance to a shrine).
Cleanse your hands and mouth at the purification fountain.
When praying, bow twice, clap twice, pray, and then bow once more.

Vegetarian and vegan options are becoming more available, especially in major cities, but it can still be challenging in traditional restaurants. Some dishes may contain fish stock or dashi even if they seem vegetarian. Look for restaurants specifically labeled as “vegetarian” or “vegan”, and you may want to learn or carry a card with Japanese phrases explaining your dietary restrictions.

In many restaurants, especially casual ones, you may need to order via vending machines or fill out order forms. In higher-end restaurants or izakayas, menus often come with pictures, and some even have English menus available. It’s polite to say “Itadakimasu” (I humbly receive) before eating and “Gochisousama deshita” (Thank you for the meal) when finished.

While Japan is not a predominantly Muslim country, halal food is available in major cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka, as well as at some hotels and restaurants. Be sure to research halal-certified restaurants before your trip, or look for eateries that cater to Muslim travelers.

The emergency numbers in Japan are:

110 for police
119 for fire and ambulance services It’s a good idea to know your hotel’s address in Japanese, as it may be useful if you need help from locals or taxi drivers.

Japan is known for its high-quality products, including electronics, fashion, and traditional crafts. Tax-free shopping is available for tourists at participating stores when you spend over a certain amount. Always carry your passport to take advantage of tax-free purchases.

Omiyage are traditional Japanese souvenirs, often food items, that are given to friends, family, or colleagues after a trip. It’s customary to bring back omiyage when you travel, and you’ll find them beautifully packaged in department stores and tourist spots.