The key to having an amazing and unforgettable trip is to plan well. East Africa is a must-see spot for travel lovers, and to make the most out of their experience, they should carefully plan their trip well in advance. Here is a step-by-step guide to planning your trip to East Africa to ensure that you have a fun-filled vacation.
- Planning where to go
Planning your itinerary is very important so that you can plan your budget and timing accordingly. Research extensively, and find a location that suits your interests. In East Africa, you can find stunning beaches such as Zanzibar, Pemba Island, and Mafia Island, vibrant cities such as Stone Town, Nairobi, Arusha, and Dar Es Salaam, historical spots such as Kilwa Kisiwani, Ras Mkumbi, and Olduvai Gorge, vast safari parks such as the Maasai Mara, Serengeti, Volcanoes National Park, and Selous Game Reserve, and glorious mountains such as Mount Meru, Mount Kenya, and Mount Kilimanjaro, and Virunga Mountains. When making decisions regarding where to go, tourists should think of what experiences they want to have. Many locations in East Africa offer activities such as water sports, hiking, shopping, horseriding, hot air balloon rides, scuba diving, and walking tours. One should get in touch with local tour operators and create an itinerary that allows them to see as many amazing locations as possible.
- Planning when to go
Once you have decided where to go, you can select a suitable time for your visit. This depends on your availability, the length of your visit, and your budget. The best time to visit is the dry season, from July to September. This is the best time for safaris, beach vacations, and witnessing the Great Migration. As there is no rain, your trip will not get interrupted by storms and bad weather. However, this is the peak travel season, so tourist spots tend to be crowded, and facilities have higher prices. For a more secluded and private experience, you can visit during the short rainy season from October to December. The rains are not frequent, so there is a chance that the trip will not be affected too much. Moreover, prices tend to be lower, and visitors can avail discounts. Try to avoid the heavier rainy season that occurs from March to May.
- Planning a budget
It is important to set up a budget so you can ensure that the trip does not become a burden. This way, you can find budget-friendly options. This is also the time to start making bookings, and booking online beforehand allows you to avail discounts and offers and avoid any last-minute inconveniences. You can fly directly to cities such as Nairobi and Dar Es Salaam, as flights to bigger cities tend to be cheaper. Within the regions, you can use public transport, such as a Bajaj, a motorised tricycle also known as a Tuk-Tuk, a ferry, or Dalla Dallas, minibuses that travel on set routes. You can eat street food, which is cheap and delicious and provides an insight into local traditions.
- Planning where to stay
Once you have decided on your location and budget, you can choose where to stay. In East Africa, you can find top-rated hotels that provide luxury, comfort, and facilities. Even with lower budgets, tourists can find good accommodation. At safari parks, they can stay at bush camps and glamps. For adventure lovers, tented camps are a good idea as they combine luxury with fun and provide budget-friendly accommodation. It is a good idea to book in advance, so lower prices and better offers can be availed.
- Planning what to pack
Creating a packing list is a great idea, as it ensures that you are well prepared for your trip. Research the local weather and terrain so that you can pack accordingly. Some essentials that you must take on your trip to East Africa are passport, tickets, ID card, travel insurance, booking information, necessary medication, cash, cards, comfortable walking shoes, flip flops, toiletries, sunscreen, insect repellant, electronics, water bottles, camera, batteries, extra layers of clothes, sanitiser, and a flashlight.