Safety & security
Africa can be as dangerous or as safe as any other destination. Wherever you are travelling, it is wise to take precautions against theft. Do not leave valuables in a vehicle or luggage visible in a car unless it is under constant supervision. It is better to leave valuables at home in the UK. Keep a close eye on your bags in airports. When possible, use the hotel safe deposit boxes for passports, money and cameras and be careful with your bags. Do not put any valuables in luggage to be checked-in on airlines.
We recommend that you do not walk or drive at night unless you know the area well. It can be dangerous to drive at night in rural areas: there may be animals and other obstructions on the road. Leave enough time to arrive at your destination before dusk. These are no more than sensible precautions for travellers anywhere in the world. In general, people are friendly and helpful in the tourist areas of Africa, sometimes shy and, perhaps, wary of strangers in places that are off the familiar tourist routes.
Safety standards and regulations in many African countries are different from the UK and may not be as rigorous. You should take extra care to familiarize yourself with such things as hotel escape routes and be especially vigilant if traveling with children.
It is not possible for us to obtain detailed, up-to-date information on sea conditions at all our destinations. If you choose to swim, snorkel or dive, you must first check locally to ensure that the currents are safe and that there are no visible or unseen hazards.
Take particular care when visiting areas where dangerous animals wander. Follow the advice of your guides; do not walk on your own; keep a safe distance; do not touch plants or animals. You should acquaint yourself with the risks involved and take responsibility for your own safety. You must be prepared to sign personal indemnity forms at safari lodges and camps. We cannot guarantee sightings of any particular wildlife species.
The Foreign and Commonwealth Travel Advice Unit issues information about your holiday destination. To check the latest information, you are advised to consult their website at www.fco.gov.uk