You can lose yourself amidst the lively music culture in Bamako and Dakar, unequaled anywhere in the continent. Join an incredible camel safari in the Sahara Desert of Mauritania, Niger and Mali where you can ride to the captivating region of Dogon and the enchanting city of Timbuktu. Enjoy the clear waters and learn to play some traditional instruments on the beaches along the Gulf of Guinea. If you are into shopping, then find your way around the huge and colorful outdoor markets of West Africa.

Here are some guidelines to help you have a more pleasant and safe visit in West Africa.

Clothes to bring

Comfortable and casual wash-and-wear attires are the most practical in West Africa travel. Many hotels have fast laundry turnaround so there is no need to bring a separate change of clothing everyday. For your own comfort and convenience of transport, light luggage is recommended especially if light plane transfers are employed.

Take useful items like sunblocks, lipsalve, scissors, and tweezers. Also pack some cosmetics an toiletries as supplies are very limited locally. Eyeglass users should bring an extra pair.

Passports

Passports must be active up to at least six months beyond the last day of your West Africa travel. All children are now required to have their own passports.

Money and credit cards

Credit cards are widely accepted in most major hotels and urban centers. Cash, however, is preferred in many rural regions as well as wildlife camps and safari lodges. Travelers Checks are discouraged as they are often used for fraudulent purposes.

Health

Persons going on a West Africa travel should be inoculated against yellow fever, typhoid, tetanus, hepatitis A and rabies. Malaria is a deadly disease prevalent in Africa and its prevention consists of taking anti-malarial medication. Visit your doctor or health worker before traveling.

Local Food

Be cautious when eating food in a local food stall. Wash fruits and vegetables well before preparation. Drink only water that has been declared safe. If possible, use water purification tablets when drinking ordinary tap water. Brush your teeth using bottled water.

Courtesy

Show courtesy for the local people and respect the environment during your West Africa travel. Do not degrade, patronize or insult and always ask for permission before taking pictures of persons or properties.

Giving gifts

Visitors can bring happiness to the less fortunate folks living in extreme poverty by collecting used clothing and footwear before traveling and donating them to local African charities.