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Air Travel
If you are flying to places in Africa other than the major tourist
destinations, you may have difficulty securing and retaining reservations
and experience long waits at airports for customs and immigration
processing. If stranded, you may need proof of a confirmed reservation
in order to obtain food and lodging vouchers from some airlines.
Flights are often overbooked, delayed or canceled and, when competing
for space on a plane, you may be dealing with a surging crowd
rather than a line. Traveling with a packaged tour may insulate
you from some of these difficulties. Not all problems can be avoided,
but you can:
Photography
Africa is filled with breathtaking scenery and photography is
generally encouraged. However, most governments prohibit photography
of military installations or locations having military significance,
including airports, bridges, tunnels, port facilities and public
buildings. Visitors can seek guidance on restrictions from local
tourist offices or from the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.
Taking such photographs without prior permission can result in
arrest or the confiscation of film and/or equipment.
Shortages, High Prices, and Other Problems
Consumer goods, gas and food are in short supply in some African
countries and prices for these commodities may be high by U.S.
standards. Shortages of hotel accommodations also exist so confirm
reservations well in advance. Some countries experience disruptions
in electricity and water supply or in services such as mail and
telecommunications.
Local Transportation
Rental cars, where available, may be expensive. Hiring a taxi
which is in good condition is often the easiest way to go sightseeing.
Taxi fares should be negotiated in advance. Travel on rural roads
can be slow and difficult in the dry season and disrupted by floods
in the rainy season.
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