Blog/Travelstory

Holiday in Africa

Karibu Africa! Welcome to Africa! In this article, you’ll get to know the enchanting world of Africa, a continent renowned for its unspoiled beauty and cultural diversity. We’ll take you to some of our favourite countries in East and Southern Africa. Which country will capture your heart?

Charlie's Travels | Blog | Holiday in Africa

Holiday Africa: Responsible Travel to African Countries, Vaccinations, Safaris and More!

Karibu Africa! Welcome to Africa! In this article, you will be introduced to the enchanting world of Africa, a continent known for its untouched beauty and cultural diversity. We will take you to some of our favorite countries in East and Southern Africa. Which country will win your heart?

Your holiday to Africa: discover East and Southern Africa!

Do you want to travel through Africa? We are madly in love with this continent, and in particular with the nine countries where we organize off the beaten track trips. Away from the beaten paths and tourist hotspots to create the most valuable and authentic memories during a holiday to Africa.

Africa Holidays: Get Ready for Epic Views and Pristine Safari Parks

A trip to Africa offers a combination of rich history, landscapes like you’ve never seen before and a local population that welcomes you as a traveller with open arms. From epic views to the most pristine safari parks: join us on an unforgettable journey to Kenya, South Africa, Tanzania, Namibia, Botswana, Mozambique, Rwanda or Uganda, where history, natural beauty and unique experiences come together. Charles Steph

The 54 African countries

Forget the stereotype of Africa as one big country; this vast continent comprises 54 nations and covers an area of 30,370,000 km² – over 700 times larger than the Netherlands! Plenty of countries in Africa to explore, but we’ve focused on nine countries where we’ve developed authentic experiences and trips to give you the African adventure of a lifetime.

Which countries are there in Africa? Here’s a list!

We’d be happy to make a list of all the African countries, but a list of all 54 countries in Africa would be quite long. That’s why we’ve put together a list for you of the nine countries where we organise authentic trips:

Eastern Africa

  1. Kenya
  2. Tanzania
  3. Uganda
  4. Rwanda

Southern Africa

  1. Botswana
  2. Namibia
  3. eSwatini
  4. Mozambique
  5. South Africa

What is the best holiday destination in Africa?

Well… what is the best country in Africa? That’s, of course, highly subjective. It’s like trying to figure out which cocktail is the best – it completely depends on your taste and preferences! Africa is incredibly diverse, and every country has something that makes it unique. Some people prefer countries with a rich history, while others are drawn to fairytale-like landscapes and a cultural mix.

A list of some unique experiences in African countries

To give you some inspiration on which country to choose for which taste, here is a list of four countries, each with something truly unique:
  1. Rwanda: Truly an example of a country with a rich, yet intense history! This country is a model of progress, safety, and nature conservation. And also not to be overlooked: Rwanda is a well-organised country!
  2. Namibia: Do you belong to the group that gets excited by fairy-tale landscapes? Say no more! Namibia is truly unique in its vast deserts and coastlines like you've never seen before. As far as the eye can see, you only encounter unique landscapes: the feeling of being alone in the world is absolutely guaranteed here!
  3. Uganda: It's like Lingo with GREEN: The pearl of Africa calls! Prepare to meet the imposing mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, take a boat trip on the beautiful Lake Victoria, and enjoy thrilling safaris in the savannahs of Queen Elizabeth National Park. Uganda will surely enchant you with its green, greener, greenest pristine beauty.
  4. Kenya: Hakuna Matata! Welcome to our home base and the land of the Masai Mara, where wildlife abounds and the savannahs make your soul dance. Go on an exciting safari to spot the Big 5, stroll through the historic streets of Lamu Island, and immerse yourself in culture as you wander through the streets of Nairobi Town. Kenya is your absolute go-to if you love diversity and culture.

Africa's history

As mentioned earlier, Africa is an enormous continent. There is so much to tell about Africa's history, but each country naturally has its own story. Below is a brief overview of the history of Namibia, Botswana, South Africa, Mozambique, Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, Uganda, and eSwatini.2

The history of Kenya - UK colonisation & the Mau Mau Kenya has a fascinating history as diverse as its wildlife. After being colonised by Britain in the late 19th century, the country, under the leadership of, among others, the Mau Mau freedom fighters, fought for independence and became a sovereign nation in 1963. Kenya has known political stability but, like all other countries, is also familiar with challenges such as ethnic tensions.

The history of Tanzania - The merging of two countries Tanzania has a fascinating history. The country was a German colony until the end of World War I, after which it came under British mandate. In 1964, Tanganyika and Zanzibar merged to form Tanzania. Tanzania has built a reputation for political stability and promotes unity among its various ethnic groups.

The history of Uganda - A rollercoaster of political ups and downs Uganda also has a turbulent history. After gaining independence from the United Kingdom in 1962, it became a rollercoaster of political ups and downs due to political instability and military regimes, including that of Idi Amin. The country fought against rebels and armed conflicts but has managed to grow economically and achieve some stability.

The history of Rwanda: a horrific low point in history Rwanda is a country with an intense history. It was under Belgian influence until independence in 1962. However, dark times followed with political unrest and violence. The lowest point was the horrific genocide against the Tutsi in 1994, in which hundreds of thousands of people lost their lives. The memorial site for all these victims is incredibly imposing and impressive and definitely worth a visit if you're planning a trip to Rwanda – be sure to ask your Travel Consultant about it.

The history of Mozambique - A comeback after a prolonged civil war Mozambique, a story of Portuguese roots and a bumpy road to stability. The country gained its freedom in 1975, but soon after, the civil war began. Dark times of conflict and political instability followed. Fortunately, the violence stopped in 1992, and since then, Mozambique has made a comeback with economic growth and a thriving mining and gas industry.

The history of Namibia - Formerly known as South West Africa Namibia is a country with a history full of resistance. This country was colonised by South Africa until 1990 and was known as South West Africa. The country has a history of armed resistance against colonial rule, primarily led by the Namibian Liberation Struggle. After independence, Namibia developed into a stable democratic country with a strong tourism industry and natural resources to boast about.

The history of Botswana - The best student in history class This country in southern Africa is the best student in history class. After gaining independence from the United Kingdom in 1966, Botswana developed into one of the wealthiest countries in Africa. They discovered diamonds and used them well, invested in education, and are big fans of democracy. This is the reason why the country has become so prosperous!

The history of eSwatini - Formerly Swaziland & a unique royal system eSwatini has a long history dating back to the 18th century. The country was an independent kingdom, once known as Swaziland, before coming under British protection in 1906. In 1968, Swaziland became fully independent. The country has a unique royal system and is known for its rich traditional culture and colourful festivals. eSwatini continues to strive for economic development and the preservation of cultural traditions.

The history of South Africa - Dutch colonisation & Nelson Mandela South Africa has a complex history. The country was colonised by the Dutch and later taken over by the British. The era of apartheid, a system of racial segregation and discrimination, dominated the country for decades. In 1994, South Africa became a democratic nation with the abolition of apartheid and the election of Nelson Mandela as the first black president.

On holiday in Africa: how safe are the African countries?

We understand that you want to go on holiday without worry or stress about diseases and safety. Fortunately, we are on the ground in many countries across Africa and can guarantee that most stereotypes about safety in Africa are untrue. Below is an overview with more information on the safest countries in Africa where we organise trips.

An overview of safe African countries The safety of Uganda Overall, Uganda is a very safe country, and the people are helpful and friendly. However, Uganda is currently not the best destination for people from the LGBTQIA+ community who wish to express their love publicly. Showing affection is generally not very common in Uganda, regardless of your sexuality. So as long as you keep this in mind, there is nothing to worry about.

The safety of Botswana and Namibia These countries are very similar in terms of safety. Both are super safe on the go, as well as in the parks and outside the cities. The cities can be a bit less safe, but as long as you use common sense, there's no need to bring your stress out on the trip.

The safety of Rwanda Rwanda is generally a safe travel destination, but the border with Congo is less safe due to potential violent incidents. Overall, crime in Rwanda is low, but of course, be cautious with your belongings.

The safety of Mozambique In Mozambique, the cities are a bit less safe, but outside the cities, the country is really super safe and relaxed. Nothing to worry about!

The safety of South Africa Overall, South Africa is safe for tourists. Particularly the tourist areas are generally safe, but it is important to be aware of your surroundings and follow the recommendations of local authorities. Make sure to store valuables securely, avoid remote areas at night, and be cautious when displaying expensive possessions.

The safety of Kenya Kenya, like the other countries, is overall a safe destination. Do not walk the streets alone after sunset and avoid remote areas without a guide. Also, it’s not advisable to walk the streets in places like Nairobi’s CBD (Central Business District) with your phone freely in hand. Which African countries can I visit with my children? All our destinations are safe for children, but some countries are not as fun for kids. Namibia and Botswana are mainly suitable for couples, and we do not recommend Mozambique if you are travelling with younger children. The other countries are much more enjoyable for children, but do keep in mind the traffic! It can be somewhat chaotic, especially in the cities. Be careful when crossing the road and ensure that your child always wears a seatbelt or that you rent an approved car seat.

Is it safe to drive yourself in Africa? As mentioned above, traffic in African countries can be a bit chaotic, but there are plenty of countries that are ideal for a self-drive adventure. Namibia and Botswana are even perfect for self-drive! As long as you are not a nervous driver, are not afraid to get behind the wheel, and are comfortable with driving for a few hours, most African countries are safe to drive in. If you are unsure about your destination, be sure to ask your Travel Consultant for more information.

On holiday in Africa: Vaccinations and Malaria Since we are discussing safety, it's also important to cover mandatory vaccinations and malaria risks. Below is a brief overview of the required vaccinations, recommended vaccinations, and malaria risk areas. Do keep in mind that we are a travel agency that specialises in organising your trip to Africa but are not a healthcare institution. For more information on vaccinations and malaria, always consult the GGD website.

Connecting with the culture: The perfect travel destination for a homestay Kenya is perfect for an eco-friendly trip and is an ideal destination for a homestay: the experience where you make a real connection with the local culture. For example, you can spend a night at Mama Rose's house. A real Kenyan powerhouse, who opens her household exclusively for Charlie’s Travellers as a homestay. Building partnerships with locals is very important to us because it contributes to the social and economic well-being of the community. Additionally, it is a truly authentic experience: cooking together, walking on her shambas, and chatting in the kitchen with the whole family. Who would still choose to stay in a run-of-the-mill hotel when there is such a pure African experience to be had?

Did you know... ...malaria mosquitoes are mainly attracted to dark clothing? A good precaution is to leave dark clothes at home. ;)

How serious is malaria in Africa?

Malaria is something that can occur in African countries, but there is no need to be fearful if you take the proper precautions. Make sure to bring medication, pack a bottle of DEET in your suitcase, and consider bringing a mosquito net if you're travelling to areas with a higher malaria risk. However, we do advise against visiting Mozambique if you are travelling with young children. Your Travel Consultant can provide more information about high-risk malaria areas.

Where does malaria occur in Southern Africa? Malaria is found in certain parts of Botswana, Namibia, and to a lesser extent in South Africa, but the distribution and risk can vary within these countries. Here are the general guidelines:

Malaria in Botswana Malaria is mainly found in the northern part of Botswana, particularly in the Chobe, Ngamiland, and northeastern parts of the Central District, including the Moremi Game Reserve. The rest of the country, including the capital Gaborone, has a low malaria risk.

Malaria in Namibia Most tourist destinations in Namibia, such as Windhoek, Swakopmund, Sossusvlei, and Etosha National Park, are malaria-free. There are some northern regions, like the Kavango region and the Caprivi Strip, where there is a low risk.

Malaria in South Africa In South Africa, the malaria risk is limited to certain areas in the northeastern part of the country, particularly in the provinces of Mpumalanga (including Kruger National Park and surrounding areas) and Limpopo. Most other tourist destinations in South Africa, such as Cape Town, Johannesburg, and Durban, have negligible malaria risk.

Malaria in Mozambique As mentioned earlier, we recommend against visiting Mozambique if you plan to travel with young children due to the malaria-carrying mosquitoes prevalent in the country. The highest malaria risk occurs in the northern and central parts of Mozambique, particularly in the provinces of Cabo Delgado, Nampula, Niassa, Zambezia, Tete, and Sofala. These regions have a higher incidence of malaria, especially during the rainy season (around November to April).

Where does malaria occur in East Africa? Malaria is also present in Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, and Uganda, mainly in low-lying areas surrounded by water. Here are the general guidelines:

Malaria in Kenya Kenya's coastline is beautiful, but the mosquitoes also find it an ideal destination to spend their time. So if you are heading to a coastal area in Kenya, make sure to bring plenty of DEET and possibly take malaria tablets. In higher-altitude areas such as Nairobi and Mount Kenya, the risk is much lower.

Malaria in Tanzania Malaria is most common in Tanzania in lowland areas along the coast, most parts of Zanzibar, and in the northeastern and southeastern parts of the country. In the highlands, such as Arusha and around Mount Kilimanjaro, the malaria risk is much lower.

Malaria in Rwanda Malaria is most common in the eastern and northeastern parts of the country. The area around Kigali and the Virunga volcano region has a much lower malaria risk. The use of mosquito nets and anti-malarial medication is still highly recommended in Rwanda, even in areas with lower risk.

Malaria in Uganda Of the East African countries, malaria is most prevalent in Uganda. The risk is higher in the northern, eastern, and western regions of the country, including areas like Gulu, Kitgum, Jinja, Kabale, and around Lake Victoria. However, with the right precautions, you really don't need to be afraid. The risk is lower in higher-altitude areas, such as Kampala and the region around Lake Bunyonyi.

Which vaccinations do I need for my trip to Africa? The vaccinations you need for your African tour depend on the country you are visiting. It is advisable to carry a supply of malaria tablets just in case you are bitten by a malaria-carrying mosquito. Additionally, the following vaccinations are mandatory or highly recommended:

Mandatory vaccinations in Africa You may be surprised, but there are only two mandatory vaccinations when travelling to Africa. If you are going to Uganda, the Yellow Fever vaccination is required. For your visit to Mozambique, you must be vaccinated against DTP (Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Polio).

Recommended vaccinations in Africa For other countries, there are several recommended and individual vaccinations. These mainly include vaccinations for Yellow Fever, Hepatitis A, and DTP. Check with the GGD for the required vaccinations for your trip to South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, Mozambique, Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, and Rwanda.

Gele boekje

Review: The travel story of the Eijsvoogel family in Uganda Of course, as ambassadors of Charlie’s Travels, we are convinced that we can create an unforgettable, tailor-made trip to Africa for you. But what do previous travellers think about it? The Eijsvoogel family travelled to Africa with us for the third time, and this time, their entire journey was captured in a Travelstory. It all started with a milestone trip, followed by a motor safari, and now a family holiday. “Deeper into the south to Bwindi, the Impenetrable Forest. Off to the gorilla trekking! Of course, one of the planned highlights, and in reality, it was just as impressive as we had imagined! It was so special to be with the gorillas for an hour; they were so close, we didn't have to search for more than 15 minutes and then spent an hour walking with them in the jungle! What was great was that this was the only group going that day (apparently, only one group of a maximum of 8 people can go at a time), so we didn't encounter anyone else, making it extra special for the small group we were with. Also, the lodge we stayed at, Mount Gahinga Lodge, was fantastic! Beautiful rooms, delicious food, and a complimentary massage for everyone who wanted one – what more could you ask for?”

Honest reviews from our travellers We are incredibly proud of the travel stories written by our travellers. They share everything about their adventures during a trip to Africa. These stories give a great idea of what you can expect when travelling with us: discovering untouched nature, exploring the local culture, and gaining unique experiences that you won’t find anywhere else.

Discover the diversity of Africa with this list of most booked experiences

There’s so much to do during your African journey that you might get lost in the baobab trees! To help you get started, here’s a list of the most booked experiences in Uganda, Namibia, and Mozambique.

Gorilla Trekking in Uganda The Eijsvoogel family has already led the way with their gorilla trek, and many other travellers have followed suit. Gorilla trekking is our most booked experience in Uganda! You can see the gorillas in two places: Bwindi National Park and Mgahinga National Park. In the morning, you’ll report to the 'Uganda Wildlife Authority' gate where you’ll receive a briefing about the day. You’ll also meet your ranger who will guide the group through the dense forest. Once the trekking begins, you may find the gorillas within an hour, but sometimes it can take the whole day. Once you reach the gorillas, you’ll have an hour to admire them up close in their natural habitat. These exceptional experiences come with a slightly higher price tag, but the funds are all used for conservation, benefiting the cause. All previous bookers found this investment to be more than worth it! Be sure to discuss with your Travel Consultant exactly how the funds are used.



Pomene Nature Reserve: A TRUE Hidden Gem in Mozambique Here, you’ll almost have the place to yourself! Let yourself be enchanted by the peace and relaxation in a cosy camp after a day full of adventure leaves you wonderfully tired. Indulge in delicious fresh seafood, dive into crystal-clear waters for a magical snorkelling experience, and explore breathtaking beaches where you can drift off into daydreams. Exploring Sossusvlei on Foot in Namibia Sossusvlei is surrounded by dunes in every direction: these are the highest dunes in the world, and climbing them is a highlight of any trip to Namibia. Head early to Namib-Naukluft Park (entrance at Deadvlei)! When you visit Deadvlei, you’ll be transported to another world among the dunes, where the ancient, dead trees present something eerie and magical. The walk from the parking lot takes about 15 minutes, and then, over the top of a hill, you’ll catch your first glimpse of the vast bleached white clay pan with the 700-year-old, dead, black trees that reach out against the backdrop of the orange dunes and the blue sky.

Sleep Tight: A List of Our Favourite Lodges in Africa! During your holiday, you’ll want to not only enjoy breathtaking landscapes, diverse cultures, and wild animals but also have a restful night’s sleep. ;) So, we’ve asked our country experts to share their favourite places to sleep in Africa. Here’s a list of the top accommodations for each travel destination: The Culture of Africa: What to Expect Africa is a continent full of diversity, rich traditions, and an extraordinary cultural heritage. The African culture reflects the history, traditions, and daily lives of the diverse populations that inhabit the continent. Each country has its own unique culture and traditions, but we’re happy to provide more information on our specific country pages. Here’s a brief overview of what you can expect in terms of culture when travelling to Africa.

Music & Traditions: A Quick Overview of African Culture

The culture in Africa is like a vibrant mosaic of communities full of energy and deep respect for various traditions. Picture this: drums marking the rhythm of life, dancers sweeping across the floor like acrobats, and music that will resonate in your heart. That’s Africa in a nutshell! Whether you’re at a wedding, a harvest festival, or just a spontaneous gathering, you’ll find yourself immersed in an uplifting symphony of music and movement.

Which Tribes Can You Find in Africa? A List of the Most Famous Tribes:



1. The Most Famous Tribes in South Africa The most famous tribes in South Africa are the Zulu and the Xhosa. The Zulu tribe is known for its martial traditions, colourful clothing, and singing and dancing performances. The Xhosa tribe is known for its unique language, circumcision rituals, and the famous style of singing and dancing.

2. The Most Famous Tribes in Kenya The most famous tribes in Kenya are the Maasai and the Kikuyu. The Maasai tribe is known for its semi-nomadic lifestyle, colourful clothing, and traditions of livestock farming and cattle breeding. The Kikuyu tribe is the largest ethnic group in Kenya and is known for its agricultural practices and community-oriented values.

3. The Most Famous Tribes in Mozambique The most famous tribes in Mozambique are the Makonde and the Tsonga. The Makonde tribe is known for its wood carving and extensive mythology, while the Tsonga tribe is known for its musical traditions, with lively dances and rhythmic music being key elements of their culture.

4. The Most Famous Tribes in Tanzania The most famous tribes in Tanzania are the Sukuma and, like in Kenya, the Maasai. The Sukuma tribe is the largest ethnic group in Tanzania and is known for its agricultural practices, traditional dances, and colourful clothing.

5. The Most Famous Tribes in Namibia The most famous tribes in Namibia are the Himba and the San (Bushmen). The Himba tribe is known for their distinctive appearance with red ochre-covered skin and traditional lifestyle. The San tribe, one of the oldest indigenous peoples of Southern Africa, is known for its hunting and gathering traditions and unique click language.

6. The Most Famous Tribes in Uganda In Uganda, the most famous tribes are the Baganda, the Acholi, and the Karamojong. The Baganda tribe is the largest ethnic group and is known for its kingdom, cultural dances, and music. The Acholi tribe has a rich tradition of music and dance, while the Karamojong tribe is known for its cattle farming and martial traditions.

7. The Most Famous Tribes in Botswana The most famous tribes in Botswana are the Tswana (Batswana) and, like in Namibia, the San. The Tswana tribe forms the largest ethnic group in Botswana and is known for its traditional dances, music, and crafts.

8. The Most Famous Tribes in Rwanda In Rwanda, the most famous tribes are the Hutu, Tutsi, and Twa. The Hutu tribe forms the largest ethnic group, and the Tutsi tribe is historically associated with cattle farming and leadership. The Twa tribe, also known as the "Pygmies", has a rich tradition of hunting and gathering, with a strong connection to the forest and nature.

What is typical African? Once again, diversity is the magic word here! Africa is bursting with languages, tribes, and traditions. Everywhere you look, you encounter a new world. From the elegant Maasai in their colourful robes to the Zulu warriors who amaze you with their dance, each ethnic group has its own unique style and story to share. And let’s not forget the vast landscapes; as far as the eye can see, you’ll witness sun-soaked savannahs, imposing mountains, and animals ruling the realm of the wild. In our view, Africa is like a fairytale that comes to life.

What do they eat in Africa? Now that we’ve been talking about dancing, let those taste buds dance as well! Food in Africa is not just something you need, it’s also a time for gathering. In Southern Africa and East Africa, the customs vary, so we’ll break it down for you.

Food in Southern Africa In South Africa, the "braai" is central. In South Africa, Namibia, and Botswana, this is a favourite for everyone. Braai is the local term for barbecue, but it’s much more than that. It’s a social occasion where family and friends come together to enjoy flavourful grilled meats, fresh vegetables, and savoury side dishes. Boerewors, a traditional South African spiced sausage, is a favourite at the braai. The meat is often marinated in herbs and spices and then slowly roasted over smouldering coals. Another popular choice is sosaties, marinated meat or chicken kebabs skewered with vegetables. In Mozambique, they prefer fresh lobster, prawns, and fish – but Portuguese chicken also goes down very well!

Food in East Africa In Tanzania, Uganda, Kenya, and Rwanda, the cuisine is just as diverse as the landscapes. In Tanzania and Kenya, you’ll find dishes like Ugali with Nyama Choma. The food in Uganda is known for Matoke with Groundnut sauce, often served with Luwombo, a tasty stew of meat, vegetables, and spices. They’re also not shy about eating grasshoppers – yes, locusts. In Rwanda, they eat a lot of potatoes, cassava, maize, and fish, and there’s a strong emphasis on healthy and nutritious dishes, like Isombe, Ubugali, and Brochettes. For dessert, a portion of fresh fruit such as pineapple, mango, and watermelon is highly appreciated in all countries.

Which language do they speak in Africa? Hundreds of languages are spoken in Africa, and no, not all of them are click languages. A common question I get when my Dutch friends ask how my African vocabulary has developed is: what language do they actually speak? In most countries, English is spoken, but here’s a small overview by country.

Which language do they speak in Kenya? In Kenya, several languages are spoken. The two official languages are English and Swahili. English is widely used, but Swahili is a language spoken by many people as their first language. Additionally, there are many other indigenous languages, such as Kikuyu, Luo, Luhya, and Kamba.

Which language do they speak in Uganda? In Uganda, several languages are spoken, but the most spoken language is English. Uganda is even the best English-speaking country in Africa! Additionally, Luganda is the most widely spoken language.

Which language do they speak in Rwanda? Rwanda has two official languages: Kinyarwanda and English. Kinyarwanda is the most spoken language and is used by the majority of the population as their mother tongue. English and French are also widely spoken, and a few people speak Swahili, though much less so.

Which language do they speak in Tanzania? In Tanzania, several languages are spoken, but the two official languages are Swahili and English. Swahili, also known as Kiswahili, is the national language and is spoken by a large portion of the population as their first language.

Which language do they speak in South Africa? South Africa is a multilingual country with eleven official languages! From Zulu and Xhosa to Afrikaans and English, there’s a feast of words. Each language has its own community of speakers and is used in various situations, such as education, media, and government. English is often used as the language in which different groups communicate with each other.

Which language do they speak in Botswana? In Botswana, the official language is English. It is used in education, commerce, and government matters. Additionally, Setswana is widely spoken, as it is the mother tongue of the Batswana people. Setswana is common and used in everyday life.

Which language do they speak in Namibia? In Namibia, various languages are spoken due to the diversity of ethnic groups. The official language is English, but the most spoken language is Oshiwambo, which is used by a large portion of the population.

Which language do they speak in Mozambique? In Mozambique, several languages are spoken due to the diverse ethnic groups in the country. The official language is Portuguese, inherited from the colonial period. Additionally, indigenous languages such as Makhuwa, Tsonga, Sena, and many others are spoken. These languages are used in everyday life, although the extent of their use varies depending on the region and ethnic groups. But don’t worry, you’ll get by just fine with English too!

What does a trip to Africa cost? The cost of a trip to Africa can vary significantly. It depends on several factors, such as when you go, who you're travelling with, and which country you're visiting. To get a clear indication of the costs for a trip to Africa, you can request a price estimate for each country and travel group. This will give you more information on the costs that match your wishes and needs. Let us help you plan an unforgettable trip to Africa without breaking the bank!

What does a flight ticket to Africa cost?

The price of a flight ticket to Africa also varies depending on the travel period and destination. If you're travelling to East Africa, you can expect a ticket starting from around €600 if you fly with a layover. For a direct flight, the price is around €900. Flying from Brussels can save you a lot of money. Tickets to South Africa are typically a bit more expensive. A ticket to Botswana and Namibia costs around €1000 because of the layover, and tickets to Mozambique range from €600 to €1200. For the exact prices, check websites like Skyscanner and Kayak.

Visa costs for Africa

Another important aspect of travelling to Africa is applying for a tourist visa. Some countries require a visa, which is easy to arrange, and we’re happy to help you with that. The costs for a visa are as follows:
  • Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, and Rwanda: $51
  • Mozambique: $10 on arrival
  • Other countries don’t charge for a visa.
Asia or Africa: What’s the difference? Asia or Africa as your next travel destination? It’s an ongoing debate. Both continents are huge, and while tuk-tuks are a popular means of transport in both, there’s a vast amount of diversity on offer. It’s like a game of Yin and Yang, a battle between flavours and colours.

Asia as a travel destination

In Asia, you’ll immerse yourself in a kaleidoscope of cultures. From the serene temples of Thailand to the futuristic skyline of Tokyo, it’s a journey through ancient traditions and modern wonders. And the food? Oh, the food! Your taste buds will be enchanted by the explosion of flavours in every bite. But... as Africa lovers, we have to nudge you in another direction. Africa offers this too!

Africa as a travel destination

In Africa, the adventure really begins. You wake up to the roar of lions and stand face to face with elephants enjoying their morning snack of tree leaves. In the vast savannas of Kenya and Tanzania, you can experience the Great Migration, and a deep dive into local culture with the friendly Maasai tribe is unforgettable. But Africa offers more than just wildlife. Take on a challenging hike up Mount Kilimanjaro or Mount Meru, and visit the temples of Kampala. We could go on about what’s possible in Africa, but ask your Travel Consultant for more information. The choice is yours: Africa or Asia? Asia and Africa are two completely different worlds, each with its own unique charm. It’s up to you to decide: will you go for the colours and scents of Asia, or be captivated by the untouched beauty of Africa? We know where we’d go... Maasai Culture-Man A trip to Africa is, of course, synonymous with a safari. But which countries should you visit to spot the Big 5, which parks are our favourites, and how much does a safari in Africa cost? Here's a breakdown for you.

The Best Safari Parks in East Africa

East Africa is brimming with beautiful safari parks, so picking the best is... difficult. Kenya's Masai Mara offers expansive savannahs and a diverse range of wildlife. Tanzania’s Serengeti is famous for the impressive Great Migration. Uganda’s Bwindi Forest is home to rare mountain gorillas, and Rwanda’s Akagera National Park boasts an abundance of wildlife. But there are many more parks, so don’t hesitate to ask your Travel Consultant for advice.

Can You Spot the Big 5 in East Africa?

Yes, in Kenya and Tanzania, you'll have great chances to spot the Big 5: lions, elephants, buffaloes, rhinos, and leopards. In Uganda and Rwanda, the focus is more on observing primates like mountain gorillas and chimpanzees, but you can still encounter other animals such as buffaloes, elephants, and leopards. Uganda has rhinos in a rhino sanctuary. In all these countries, you'll also see other amazing wildlife, including giraffes, zebras, warthogs, impalas, and gazelles.

The Best Safari Parks in Southern Africa

Southern Africa is home to numerous safari parks as well. Botswana offers the impressive Chobe National Park, known for its large elephant population, and the Moremi Game Reserve, which is rich in flora and fauna. Namibia’s Etosha National Park is a paradise for animal lovers, with lions, rhinos, and zebras frequently spotted, while Damaraland offers unique desert landscapes and rare desert elephants. In South Africa, the Greater Kruger Park is a top destination for safari enthusiasts, teeming with wildlife, including the iconic Big Five.

Can You Spot the Big 5 in South Africa?

Yes, South Africa’s Kruger Park and other safari areas are great places to see the Big 5.

How Much Does a Safari Cost?

The prices of safari parks vary significantly, depending on whether you want to do a multi-day safari, stay overnight, have a guide, and so on. The average entrance fee for a safari park in Southern Africa is around 30 euros, but that’s just the entry fee. In East Africa, prices are generally higher, ranging between 50 and 100 euros. For a clear cost breakdown, we recommend requesting an indicative price from your Travel Consultant.

Why Travel to Africa with Charlie's Travels?

Great to hear that you're considering a trip to Africa and curious about what a journey with Charlie’s Travels looks like. We are passionate about responsible travel. Not only do we aim to keep our planet as clean as possible, but we also believe that everyone on this Earth deserves to be treated fairly, including those in the tourism industry.

Responsible Travel: Fair Distribution of the Tourism Pie

Long-distance travel naturally comes with a price, and unfortunately, a lot of this money goes to the travel agencies, and it's not always fairly distributed among the people they work with. We advocate for a fair distribution of this money – a tourism pie that’s shared justly. A good start is with yourself. That's why we ensure our partners are compensated fairly so they can thrive and, in turn, provide you with the trip of a lifetime. We give our partners a platform through our travels, ensuring they can make a living, while you enjoy a unique, responsible trip to Africa, away from the beaten paths and hotspots filled with mass tourism. Additionally, for every traveller, 10 euros go towards a project supporting our climate, like JustDiggit. How about that?

Tailored Travel: It's Really Made to Measure at Charlie's Travels

When we say a tailor-made trip, we mean it! Together with your Travel Consultant, you’ll craft the journey of your dreams. Before the proposal lands in your inbox, you’ll have a relaxed chat with your Travel Consultant, who will carefully listen to all your needs and desires. During this call, they'll also get a feel for what you enjoy and what you definitely don’t want. After this conversation, your Travel Consultant will create a beautiful proposal that can be adjusted until you're completely happy and excited to embark on your African adventure. Our trips are true co-creations, in collaboration with you.

On the Ground and Full of Passion for Africa: We’re Always Close By!

The people behind Charlie’s Travels are so passionate about the continent that nearly everyone has settled in one of the African countries. A large part of our team lives in Kenya, with colleagues in Tanzania, Uganda, and South Africa. This means we are always close by and know exactly what’s happening in these countries when you travel to one of them. We also have an Operations team made up of colleagues who were born and raised in Africa, so they can easily and quickly connect with the locals of your travel destination. They are always available to answer your questions – whether they’re simple or complex – before, during, and after your trip.

Endless travel inspiration

Travel Story Geraldine Kemper discovered beautiful Kenya with her boyfriend
Geraldine Kemper discovered beautiful Kenya with her boyfriend
"From vast hilly landscapes in Masaai land to the dry desert and hot springs at Magadi, staying with a Masaai family and sleeping in a tent among the wildlife, having breakfast with fresh pancakes in the morning sun and going to bed after a beer by the campfire, it was an unforgettable holiday within a holiday. " - Geraldine & Freek
Blog Hiking In Uganda
Hiking In Uganda
Travel Story Susan & Wietze: exploring in Tanzania
Susan & Wietze: exploring in Tanzania
Blog Discover Kenya: our top 3 off the beaten track adventures
Discover Kenya: our top 3 off the beaten track adventures
Travel Story Margot in Kenya
Margot in Kenya