Appendix 3: The Top 10 Things to do in Africa

So you’re in Africa. What next? Well, to be honest the choice is yours, but if I were to make some recommendations…

1.  GO ON SAFARI
Travelling to Africa and not going on Safari is like going to the cinemas just to watch the trailers. It’s like cueing up for a Grand Final ticket just to keep it as a souvenir. It’s like going into space and sleeping for the entire journey. You get the point.
I was fortunate enough to visit seven different game viewing areas on my travels, in addition to seeing wildlife at half a dozen other venues. It doesn’t matter how many zebra or ‘bloody impala’ you see, watching wild animals is an incredible experience, even if you’re not a nature fan. While not as authentic, many major cities offer other interactive wildlife activities such as walking with lions, kissing giraffes or trekking for monkeys, but in my opinion the real thing is a million times more rewarding. Just don’t go to the zoo and claim that you’ve seen the big 5. Not cool.

2. BARGAIN AT THE MARKET PLACES
Prior to my trip the extent of my bargaining experiences took place at Cash Converters and a variety of op-shops. Africa is much different, as you don’t bargain something a few cents down; you halve, if not quarter, the price. Perfecting one’s bargaining technique can be tricky, but once refined enough you will be able to purchase whatever you want for the price you are most comfortable with. Some of the little curios on offer are amazing, from clocks made of beer cans to rhinos made of candle wax, hence simply exploring these stores are a treat. However make sure to think up some alibis before you enter the marketplace, otherwise you will definitely leave with a thousand little knick-knacks you never wanted.

3. GO WALKABOUT
There is no denying that there is an unsafe element to some African streets, but in saying so Melbourne’s no paradise either. I explored dozens of capital cities by foot and remained scratch free, but I contribute that down to taking local advice, good luck and the occasional prayer. Disregarding the potential dangers walking is certainly the most rewarding mode of transport when it comes to exploring what the different areas have to offer. Enjoy conversations lost in translation, smile at friendly kids amazed at your skin colour, and admire the natural surroundings at your own leisurely pace. Just make sure to get home before sunset and to not be in the wrong place at the wrong time.

4. ATTEND CHURCH
Regardless of your religious affiliation – or non-affiliation for that matter – attending an African church service is priceless. Christianity, in addition to traditional beliefs, plays a huge part in the local cultures and hence it is essential to see first hand how the citizens worship and celebrate what they are passionate about. Services with music and dancing are obviously the most entertaining, while those held outside possess an atmosphere that you can bite. In saying that some churches tend to turn their music up a little too loud on occasion, but when the noise deafens you can always move next door to another church.

5. EAT AS THE AFRICANS EAT
Many African people eat at KFC. But that’s not what I mean. Pap (in South Africa) or ugali (in East Africa) is a most interesting dish and this maize meal is a staple part in almost every African diet. Eaten with the right hand and dipped into a variety of vegetables or meats this white mixture offers a unique and somewhat flavourless taste. Nevertheless, the opportunity to eat it with a local family is an essential practice that will help you appreciate the native culture. Some other delicacies include achar (imagine murdering a mango and sucking out its blood), caterpillars (rough texture, salty taste) and oily cabbage (surprisingly delicious). The more you eat, the more complete your taste of Africa will be.

6. SLEEP AS THE AFRICANS SLEEP
Again, the majority of Africans sleep in beds. There are some, though, that sleep on mats in beehive huts or on the dusty floors of mud-huts. While this idea may not tickle your fancy, living like the locals do is something you will never forget. It will also help you appreciate what you have; it’s amazing how content and happy some locals are with living in third-world conditions. If somebody invites you over for a night, don’t be scared; they won’t bite. On the contrary, they will feed you and show a keen interest in your contrasting way of life; they will treat you like a king.

7. CRAM INTO A MINIBUS TAXI
Minibuses (a.k.a. Dalal-dalas, Matatus and Death shuttles) are by far the most uncomfortable modes of transport on the planet, but don’t let that put you off hopping into one. On countless occasions I have been squeezed into awkward positions that my body is physically incapable of fitting into, however in Africa it’s all about the ‘experiences’ not the pain. Some taxis manage to fit over 30 people in them, requiring Tetris skills of a genius. From an alternative perspective, minibuses are often the cheapest and most convenient way of getting from A to B; just ensure that you get the best seat.

8. LEARN A LANGUAGE
Some, like myself, find it impossible to converse in a language other than English but, for those with a little more intellect, learning a language can be an enjoyable way of assimilating into a foreign culture. Even just learning one word a day can help you so much, and locals are always willing to assist you in broadening your vocabulary. If you’re Caucasian the handiest word to learn is the local expression for ‘white person’ as you will no doubt be followed by kids, screaming this word out at the top of their lungs. Don’t worry; they’re not intentionally trying to be racist!

9. CLIMB A MOUNTAIN
From a nature lover’s point of view the continent of Africa is nothing short of incredible. The Great Rift Valley, the Cape Peninsula and the Drakensberg Mountains all support this claim with overwhelming evidence. At the summit of a mountain one is treated to absolutely magnificent panoramas and Cape Town’s Table Mountain is a classic example; from the top, you can see the entire peninsula, the city and the faraway wine regions in all their glory. Climbing a mountain obviously requires a basic level of fitness so make sure you work out a bit before attempting anything too ridiculous. And you probably shouldn’t go alone. Do as I say, not as I do.

10. DO SOMETHING EXTREME!
Africa has long been nicknamed ‘The Dark Continent’. Its elusiveness and dangers scare people all over the world, so take advantage of it. On the mild end of the scale there’s eating caterpillars, waking around at night and jay-walking (trust me, this is scary!), but the best travel stories are those with a little more action. Bungee jump from ridiculous heights, whitewater raft through fierce floods, swim at the base of waterfalls or take a flight through the heavens on something that looks more like a bike than a plane. However, don’t be too stupid. Playing with a pussy cat is a lot different to wrestling with lions and leopards.

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