Consisting of Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Tanzania and Ethiopia, Eastern Africa is a premier tourist destination for people interested in lush animal and plant life, as well as exciting formations and natural phenomenon.
The area is ideal for all types of vacation activities and offers excitement via land,air and sea. In Eastern Africa, you can go hiking on Africa’s two tallest peaks, explore the source of the Nile,enjoy green cities and observe a range of unique and endangered animal and plant life.
What do you need to know before your visit?
There are a number of regular discounted flights to Nairobi, Kenya’s capital. The city has a number of transit services that will connect you to other countries and cities within the region for a reasonable cost. It also has various attractions and will possibly be the first stop in your enjoyable vacation.
You are required to have a yellow fever vaccination certificate upon entry into the region. While other vaccinations are not required, you should get shots for rabies, meningitis, typhoid, hepatitis A and polio before you travel to be on the safe side. The region has a high prevalence for malaria and bilharzia. You can find out how to protect yourself by visiting a travel clinic before your vacation. It may be as easy as carrying emergency medication in your health kit, as well as making attempts to secure your sleeping area through the use of treated nets. The region does have some prevalence for HIV/AIDS, particularly in Uganda. You should take measures to stay safe such as avoiding sharing needles, combs and other artefacts, as well as having protected sex.
There is little concern over crime in the region, and only a few places offer any threat. The only concern could be the possibility of casual theft at transit areas and markets, which could be countered by having secure bag. You could also reduce the risk by keeping most of your money in liquid form as opposed to packing paper currency.
The area is generally politically stable. The only areas of concern lie in the northern part of Kenya which borders Somalia. You will probably not visit this region. However, it is advisable to follow up on any travel advisories that may have been issued within a span of six months.
In terms of accommodation, all the countries in the region have great hotels that will host you at your preference. Whether you want to stay within the city, by the beach or at the game lodge, you will find affordable and clean facilities for your stay.
What places should you make a point to see?
You know what to do before you visit Eastern Africa. You know how to get there. Do you know what you need to see? Here is a short overview.
Rwanda
This small eastern African country has vast wildlife attractions. You could visit its famed gorilla sanctuaries and other parks that are home to gazelles, lions, leopards and other wild animals. It features serenity and appreciation for the natural environment, which has been blended into its cities too. For instance, Kigali, the capital, is the cleanest and greenest city on the continent. You could also explore the country’s lakes and fishing towns.
Rwanda also has a number of memorials that will offer you insight into the genocide. You can observe and learn about Rwanda’s history, as well as interact with the nation’s welcoming people.
You should keep in mind that you will only be eligible for a Rwanda visa if your current passport is not due to expire within the next six months.
Kenya
Kenya is the culturally diverse capital of Eastern Africa. It is home to a large number of communities, and will offer you a rich cultural experience. It is subject to a number of weather patters, which you may need to research before travelling to maximize on your experience.
Kenya features a number of reserves, starting off from the capital, the only one of its kind in the world. You could also visit Samburu, Maasai Mara, Tsavo and Amboseli national parks and reserves for a view of the country’s wildlife. You could also stay at the Aberdares, Shimba Hills and Mount Kenya national park hotels that offer a close up view of the wildlife.
Kenya also has the great rift valley and an exciting view of the ocean. Any of these options are ideal for a great vacation.
Uganda
Uganda offers hiking and bird watching at Nkuringo Gorilla lodge at Bwindi National Park. You could explore the mountains on offer by hiking to Buhoma and Nkuringo from Kisoro.
Uganda offers a pristine savanna environment, which you can access at the Queen Elizabeth National Park and the Viwa rhino sanctuary.
To appreciate the country’s rich cultural heritage, you can visit Ndere and Kampala, which host dances and other cultural events.
You may visit Lakes Victoria, Mutanda, Mbuuro ans Bunyonyi for boating, fishing and other water-related activities. The lakes host islands that have rich natural environments and unique weather experiences.
You can also explore the country’s markets for a selection of fruits, vegetables and souvenirs that will crown your vacation.
Tanzania
Tanzania has the region’s most friendly people. It is culturally rich, and has over 120 ethnic groups. In Tanzania, you could go hiking on the continent’s tallest mountain, mount Kilimanjaro. You could also explore the mountain’s park instead. If you plan your visit well, you could catch the biggest wildebeest migration on the planet as they move from Kenya’s Maasai Mara to Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park and vice versa.
You might also explore the country’s conservation areas such as the Olduvai Gorge and the Ngorongoro crater.
If you are interested in aquatic life or an exploration of the ocean, a visit to Zanzibar, Pemba and Mafia islands will offer you snorkeling, surfing and deep sea diving.
Final thought
Eastern Africa can be an ideal tour location for you. Every country in the region has a variety of attractions that promise to make your visit an exciting experience.
The region also has plenty of cultures and friendly people who will make your visit hospitable and welcoming.
