Okay, so you wanna know how I handle staying safe when I’m bouncing around different spots in Africa? It’s something I put a lot of thought into before my first big trip there, and honestly, it’s become second nature now. It’s not about being scared, it’s just about being smart, you know?
Doing the Homework Before You Go
First thing I always do, way before I even book a flight, is dig deep into where I’m actually going. I don’t just mean the country, but the specific cities, towns, even neighborhoods if possible.
- Government Advisories: Yeah, I check my home country’s travel advice. Sometimes they’re overly cautious, but they often flag the real no-go zones, like border areas or places with active conflicts. It’s a good starting point to know the big risks.
- Talking to People: This is huge for me. I try to find folks who’ve been there recently. Travel forums, friends of friends, anyone. Getting that on-the-ground info is gold. They’ll tell you stuff like “avoid this market after dark” or “that bus station is sketchy”.
- Local News (if possible): Sometimes I try to find local news sources online, using translate tools if needed. Gives you a sense of what’s actually happening day-to-day that might not make international headlines.
This research helps me map out a basic route and figure out areas I definitely want to avoid or be extra careful in.
Planning the Practical Stuff
Once I have a rough idea, I get down to logistics. Where you stay and how you move matters a lot.
Accommodation: I look for places in safer neighborhoods. Reading reviews helps, especially ones that mention location and safety. Sometimes paying a little extra for a place with good security or in a better area is totally worth it. I learned that the hard way once, staying somewhere super cheap but feeling uneasy the whole time.
Transport: How you get around is key. Flying between major cities might be safer than a long, unpredictable bus ride through remote areas. If I’m taking buses or trains, I research the companies and routes. Are they known for breakdowns? Do they travel at night through dodgy areas? I also figure out transport from airports or stations before I arrive. Nothing worse than landing late and looking lost – makes you a target.
Local Contacts: If I can, I try to have a local contact. Maybe the guesthouse owner, a guide I’ve booked, someone I met online. Having someone you can call if you’re unsure about something is really reassuring.
On the Ground: Staying Aware
This is where it really counts. All the planning is useless if you’re not paying attention.
- Blend In: I don’t walk around flashing expensive cameras, phones, or jewelry. I dress modestly, respecting local customs. Looking like an obvious tourist loaded with cash isn’t smart anywhere, especially in areas known for petty crime.
- Situational Awareness: Just pay attention to what’s going on around you. Keep valuables secure, especially in crowded places like markets or bus stations. Use a money belt or keep cash in different spots. Don’t walk around staring at your phone.
- Listen to Locals: Hotel staff, restaurant owners, trustworthy people you meet – ask them for advice. “Is it safe to walk here at night?” “What areas should I avoid?” They usually know best.
- Trust Your Gut: This is maybe the most important thing. If a street feels wrong, if a situation seems sketchy, if someone makes you uncomfortable – leave. Don’t worry about being polite. Just get out of there. I’ve walked out of places or changed my plans last minute just because something felt off, and I’ve never regretted it.
- Night Travel: I generally avoid walking around unfamiliar areas after dark. If I need to go out, I take a taxi or ride-share service recommended by my accommodation.
It’s Not Perfect, But It Works For Me
Look, no system is foolproof. Things can happen anywhere. But doing this prep work and staying alert on the ground has helped me avoid any serious trouble during my travels in Africa. It’s about minimizing risk, not eliminating it entirely. You prepare, you stay aware, you use common sense, and you listen to that little voice inside your head. That’s basically my whole strategy, built up over several trips. It’s let me have some incredible experiences without major incidents.
