5 Myths About Travel to Africa

Africa is a soul continent. One can’t quite put a finger on exactly what it is, but somehow Africa’s intoxicating kaleidoscope of dream-worthy landscapes, iconic wildlife, intriguing cultures, soulful music and starry nights grab hold of one’s soul. Once you’ve experienced the heart of this ancient land, chances are, you’re incurably hooked.

Yet many who have not yet ventured to this captivating continent still hold the misconception that ‘deep, dark Africa’ is dangerous, dirty and backward, which couldn’t be further from the truth. The Mother Continent may be mysterious, but she is widely misunderstood. It’s time to set the record straight and bust these 5 myths about travel to Africa.

Myth 1: Africa is a Country

First, some geography. Africa is not a country, it is a continent. In fact, it is the world’s second-largest and second-most populated continent and—this may come as a surprise—it is larger than China, India, the (contiguous) United States and most of Europe combined.

At roughly three times the size of the United States, the vast African continent is home to 54 countries, 9 of which are renowned for their world-class safaris. From the timeless, sand-swept dunes of Namibia’s Namib Desert and the tree-dotted plains of Kenya’s mighty Masai Mara, to the lofty peak of Mount Kilimanjaro and the meandering waterways of Botswana’s Okavango Delta, each African country boasts its own unique charms and wildlife encounters.

Myth 2: Africa is dangerous

Deep, dark Africa is a lot safer than you think. Like any destination, travellers should always have their wits about them and be vigilant, as they would anywhere else. That’s just common (travel) sense.

Whether you’re an apprehensive, first-time traveller to Africa or a seasoned Africa addict, planning your itinerary with an experienced travel specialist and travelling with a respected and well-established local operator offers peace of mind, not to mention convenience, security and seamless logistics.

With the right operator, your entire journey from arrival to departure can be organised so that you don’t have to think (or worry) about a thing. You can be warmly welcomed as you step off the plane and are escorted through the arrival procedures. You’ll be assisted with your luggage and whisked off to your private transfer. Every last detail will be looked after en route so that you can relax and simply enjoy the ride.

Do remember though, that “this is Africa”. Flights and transfers may operate on “Africa time”, there may be queues and there may be bumps in the road (literally). Arm yourself with a good book, some headphones and a positive attitude. This is Africa and you’ll look back on every part of the adventure fondly.

Myth 3: There is a ‘best’ time to go on safari

Contrary to popular belief, there is no ‘best’ time to go on safari. Mother Nature plays by her own rules, and no matter the season, there is always an element of beauty (and surprise).

Bear in mind that no two seasons, no two days and in fact no two game drives are ever the same in terms of the sights, smells, landscapes and wildlife interactions. There are pros and cons to every season, from weather and watering hole frequency to vegetation and views.

The beauty of going on safari is that Mother Nature is, and always will be, utterly unpredictable. Each season, each day, and indeed each drive has its own unique appeal. Expect the unexpected and don’t let the dates nor the seasons hinder your desire to go on safari.

Myth 4: The Great Migration can only be seen in July & August

There’s so much more to the Great Migration than just the widely documented Mara/Grumeti River crossings that typically take place from July to September. While these on-the-edge-of-your-seat sightings are as unforgettable as they are nerve-wracking, what many travellers fail to understand is that this migratory trek of hungry herbivores is a year-round occurrence.

The Great Migration never stops. It is a journey as old as time, and each season comes with its own special highlights.

Myth 5: The Animals Want to Eat You

This is perhaps one of the most commonly asked questions from first-time safari goers. No, the animals do not want to eat you. It will soon become apparent on the initial game drive that the wildlife is largely uninterested and unperturbed by the safari vehicle and its two-legged occupants.

Yes, there are insects that bite, snakes that are venomous and predators on the prowl. Africa’s wilderness areas are home to some very dangerous creatures; however, they typically keep their distance so long as humans keep theirs.

Listen to your guide at all times. The vehicle will be positioned unobtrusively to allow a respectful distance, ensuring guest safety and respect for wildlife at all times.

Africa is enchanting, spellbinding and truly unforgettable. It is a playground for all ages. The sun can be intense and the wildlife sightings unpredictable, but the adventure itself is deeply meaningful.

The animals don’t want to eat you—but the bugs might. Arm yourself with some sunscreen and a good insect repellent, but be warned that the most voracious bug of all is the African bug. Once bitten, forever addicted. You’ll fall in love with Africa’s charm and you will want to return. Often.