Visa policies vary across African countries, and we provide a quick guide on whether you need to apply for a visa in advance, if visa-on-arrival options are available, or if you can apply for an eVisa. 

Ensure you check the specific requirements for the countries you’ll be visiting and allow enough time for processing. For more details and the latest visa regulations, we link directly to official government sites and embassies.

Your health and safety are our priority. Before embarking on your African adventure, make sure you’re up to date with necessary vaccinations. No vaccinations are required to travel to the countries we offer but Malaria prevention may be needed, especially in Mozambique.  

We also recommend travel insurance, covering health emergencies and medical evacuation (see the travel insurance section at the end of this thread). Don’t forget to bring any personal medications and copies of prescriptions where necessary.

Africa’s diverse economies mean currencies vary by country. The most widely accepted currency across the continent is the US Dollar, every country has its own local currency, in South Africa it's the Rand.  

We suggest exchanging money at local banks or trusted currency exchange services. Always inform your bank about your travel to avoid issues with credit cards. Many countries also offer ATMs,  cash is still king in remote areas. Check local exchange rates before you travel and bring a combination of cash and cards to ensure you’re well-prepared.

Africa is a continent rich in history and tradition. Each country has its own unique customs, and it’s important to respect local culture. Tipping is common in restaurants, hotels and lodges and for safari guides, but amounts vary. 

Always be polite and open to learning, as locals are often keen to share their culture with visitors. We provide helpful cultural insights to ensure your trip is not only enjoyable but respectful of the regions you're visiting.

We want you to feel confident during your travels, so we’ve compiled a list of important emergency contacts for each destination we work in. This includes local emergency numbers for police, medical facilities, and fire services. 

For more serious emergencies, we also provide the contact details of the nearest embassy or consulate. To ensure peace of mind, we recommend having a local SIM card or access to mobile internet to stay connected and reach assistance quickly if needed. We are always on hand to take your call if required.

While Africa is an exciting and safe destination for many travellers, like any continent, it’s important to take some precautions. Always be mindful of your belongings, especially in crowded tourist areas, and avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas. Do not carry large amounts of cash and use the safes in your rooms for items of value.

When on safari, follow all safety guidelines provided by your guide and remember that you are in a wilderness area and that the animals are truly wild and should be respected at all times.

While Africa is home to thousands of languages, English is the most widely spoken. Portuguese in Mozambique, and German is widely spoken in Namibia. 

Many African countries, such as South Africa and Botswana, also have thriving local languages. While learning a few key phrases in the local language can go a long way, most tourist-friendly areas will have English speakers.

African cuisine is as diverse as the continent itself, from rich stews and grilled meats to fresh tropical fruits and spicy dishes. In Southern Africa you'll become familiar with a "braai" (barbecue) where a variety of meats are cooked over an open fire. 

Many regions also offer street food, which provides a taste of authentic local flavours. We recommend trying regional specialties where you can. Please let us know of all your dietary preferences so that we can pass these on to the establishments you'll be staying in.

We recommend carrying a universal plug adaptor as this should have you covered for all of the countries we work in. If you plan on using multiple devices, a portable power bank is an excellent backup to ensure your devices stay charged during your travels. 

Most of the accommodation options offer wifi and recharging stations, but cellphone signal can sometimes be hit and miss in the African bush, especially in remote locations.

Africa’s beauty is unmatched, but it’s essential to protect it for future generations. At Travel With Marie, we encourage sustainable travel practices, including reducing waste, conserving water, and supporting eco-friendly lodges and initiatives. 

Whether on safari or visiting local communities, we advocate for responsible tourism that supports conservation and benefits local people. We guide you on how to minimise your environmental impact while enjoying Africa’s natural and cultural wonders.

Please check that you have a decent travel insurance (through your bank cards mainly). If you need extra insurance, we work with Chapka and recommend their products to our clients  Chapka offers comprehensive travel insurance designed to provide peace of mind for travellers, ensuring you're covered for a wide range of unexpected events.