If you’ve travelled to Africa before, you know what an incredible experience it can be. For those who haven’t yet been, it can sometimes be hard to understand what a trip to this continent can really be like. Here is a list of common Africa travel myths, just to clear things up.
Africa is one big country.
People often refer to Africa as one single country when it is in fact made up of 54 different countries, 3,000 tribes, and more than 2,000 different languages.
Wild animals roam freely throughout the country.
The first thing many foreigners ask when setting foot on African soil is: “Where are the wild animals?”, and here they usually refer to lions and elephants. There are definitely some areas where humans have had to learn to live with baboons, monkeys, penguins, buck and even hippos on their doorsteps, but you will never find a lion roaming the city streets, or see a local riding an elephant to work. Most of the wildlife is restricted and enclosed in National Parks or private game reserves. With the exception of St Lucia of course and our hippos!
Going on safari is the one and only thing to do when visiting.
Seeing the animals in their natural habitat is an incredible experience. Do however try to do more than just spending your time on safari. Plan enough time to visit the bushveld, beaches as well as some of the larger cities and off the beaten track little towns. We have culture as well! There is so much more to South Africa than what is seen in travel brochures and adverts placed by tour companies. Dig below the surface and discover the cultures, history, food and people that make Africa such an incredible destination.
Africa is unsafe.
As with many destinations (and probably even in the countries where you come from), there are areas you don’t visit, and certainly don’t walk through displaying your cash. These occurrences should never stop you from visiting the incredible countries that Africa has to offer.
What about WiFi?
Isn’t Africa technologically backwards? Africa is going through a technological revolution. Most areas have internet connections. Remote bush camps may have limited signal. It makes it a good opportunity to listen to the bush sounds and talk to each other.
We look forward to seeing you on our shores and in the tiny enclave of St Lucia in the not too distant future when the world returns to normal.
Tourism Tails 