East Africa is one of the most breathtaking regions in the world. It is famous for its unique biodiversity and is home to stunning birds, plants, marine life, and wild animals. The region has a rich history and heritage and is home to a beautiful and vibrant culture. Travel lovers can have a range of experiences here, from hiking up Mount Kilimanjaro to boating at Lake Victoria. Planning a trip to this vast and extraordinary region might be daunting for first-time visitors. Here is a guide with important tips so first-time visitors can plan a memorable and fun-filled trip to East Africa!
- Best time to go
The best time to go to East Africa is the dry season which goes on from July till September. This is the best time for safaris, beach vacations, and witnessing the Great Migration. The weather is ideal, and trips will not get interrupted by rain. However, this is the peak season, so tourist spots tend to be crowded. For a more private experience, the short rainy season from October to December is ideal. The rains are not frequent, and prices tend to be lower so travellers can avail good offers and discounts.
- Budget-Friendly Tips
Travelling with a budget is not a big challenge in East Africa. Booking online beforehand is a good idea as visitors can find good discounts and offers. Within cities, they should try to use public transport, such as Tuk-Tuks and Dala-Dalas. Instead of getting taxis, they should download ride-sharing apps for more affordable travel. Similarly, they should try to explore the street food, which is inexpensive and delicious.
- How to dress
A trip to East Africa requires comfortable clothing, as tours often include walking and exploring. Tourists must wear comfortable walking shoes and lightweight, breathable fabrics. It is a good idea to carry an extra layer, such as a fleece or a jacket, as well as materials to protect from the sun, such as a hat, sunglasses, a scarf, and sunscreen. To respect local customs, it is advisable to dress modestly and avoid revealing clothing. Full sleeves and pants are a good idea, as they also protect from mosquitoes and insects.
- Best foods to eat
The local cuisine is unique and delicious, as it is influenced by a blend of Indian, Swahili, Arabic, Turkish, and Portuguese cuisines. The food is flavoured with aromatic spices such as pepper, vanilla, nutmeg, cinnamon, cardamom, turmeric, lemongrass, and cumin. Some popular dishes that tourists must try are Mandazi (doughnuts), Mshikaki (meat skewers), Zanzibar pizza, Nyama Choma (grilled meat), Chipsi Mayai (fries and eggs), Kuku Paka (spicy curry), Samaki (fried fish), and Biryani (spiced rice).
- Important things to remember
The people of East Africa are very friendly and welcoming. Tourists should remember the importance of respecting their customs and not offending them in any way. Do not take pictures without consent or offer food or any items to children getting permission from their parents. While most locals speak English, it is a good idea to learn a few words of Swahili, as well as commonly used greetings such as Salam. It is a good idea to carry insect repellant and sanitiser to avoid getting any illnesses or insect bites.
- Top places to see
- Beaches
For the perfect beach vacation, travellers can go to Mombasa, Watamu, or Malindi in Kenya, Spennah Beach and Monyonyo Beach in Uganda, Paje Beach, Nungwi Beach, and Kendwa Beach in Zanzibar, Bongoyo Island and Coco Beach in Tanzania, and Kigali and Kibuye in Rwanda!
- Safari Parks
The Serengeti, Tarangire National Park, Selous Game Reserve, and Arusha National Park are some of the best safari parks in Tanzania. In Kenya, tourists can go to Masai Mara, Nairobi National Park, and Amboseli NP. Top safari parks in Rwanda and Uganda include Murchison Falls National Park, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, and Volcanoes National Park!
- Lakes
In East Africa, tourists can visit breathtaking lakes such as Lake Victoria, Lake Natron, Lake Manyara, Lake Naivasha, Lake Nakuru, Lake Albert, and Lake Ruhondo, where they can enjoy boating, picnics, and birdwatching!
- Mountains
East Africa is home to spectacular mountains such as Mount Kilimanjaro, Mount Meru, Mount Kenya, Ol Doinyo Lengai, Mount Longonot, Mount Bisoke, Kigali, Muhavura Volcano, and Mount Elgon!