Traveling solo is exciting, but it comes with challenges. As a black traveler, the experience can feel even more unique. I learned many lessons on the road, and I am sharing them here to help make your journey smoother.
Understanding the Challenges
Traveling means leaving your comfort zone. New places bring new surprises. Some are fun, others can be frustrating. Being prepared mentally helps you stay calm when challenges arise.
Unique experiences of black solo travelers
Black travelers often face extra hurdles. These may include:
Racial profiling
Cold treatment from strangers
Excessive staring, especially in parts of Asia
Unwanted questions about your identity
People touching you or your hair without consent
Understand that you will face unique challenges as a black traveller
A personal perspective
I quickly adopted the phrase, “Hope for the best, but prepare for the worst.” Not expecting racism made it harder when it happened. For example, some Airbnb hosts rejected my bookings or left unfair reviews. It was stressful, but I learned to report and move on. Preparation is key.
Facing Stereotypes and Bias
Negative stereotypes exist almost everywhere. Some people assume black travelers are unsafe, unclean, or even suspicious. These ideas come from racism, not truth. Remember this so you do not waste energy explaining yourself to people who do not care to learn.
Navigating bias
Bias can appear at airports, hotels, or even in daily interactions. Airlines sometimes overcheck black travelers. In these moments, stay calm but firm. Know your rights. You only need to present your travel documents, nothing more.
Safety First
Safety should always be your priority. For black solo travelers, the following travel tips can help:
Research your destination before you go
Keep documents and valuables safe, with backup copies
Share your travel plans with family or friends
Trust your instincts if something feels off
Dress respectfully for the culture you are visiting
Be polite, but set boundaries when needed
Know where to seek help in an emergency
Embracing Local Culture
One of the best parts of travel is connecting with local culture. Learn the history of the place you visit. Try new foods. Join local festivals or events. Respect traditions like dress codes, greetings, or temple rules. Support the local economy by buying from small businesses. These steps make your journey more rewarding.
Immerse yourself in the beautiful local culture of all the places you visit.
Top Destinations for Black Solo Travelers
Some destinations are known for being inclusive and welcoming. Popular choices include:
London, UK: Rich history, diverse culture, and vibrant black communities
Ghana: Deep history, warm people, and strong cultural ties for the African diaspora
Japan: A mix of tradition and modernity, with many black travelers reporting positive experiences
On the other hand, some places require extra caution, like China, Russia, or India, due to reports of racism or discrimination.
Online Communities
Do not travel alone online when you can join a black solo travellers group. Many communities exist to support black travellers. Facebook groups like Black Travel Movement or Black Girl Travel Movement are great for tips and connections. Reddit and Meetup also have active black travel spaces. These communities help you feel less isolated on the road.
Wellness on the Road
Travel can be tiring. Look after your mental and physical health. Manage stress by journaling, meditating, or talking with loved ones. Stay active with walks or simple workouts. Eat balanced meals when you can. Self-care keeps you energized for the adventure.
Remember to enjoy yourself despite all the challenges you might face
Budgeting for Solo Travel
Plan your budget carefully. Save before you go, and track your expenses daily. Look for affordable destinations and budget-friendly stays. Solo travel is possible without overspending, as long as you prepare.
Building a Solo Travel Mindset
Confidence takes time. You may make mistakes, miss buses, or get lost. Learn from these moments instead of letting them ruin your trip. Each mistake builds resilience and makes you a stronger traveler.
Packing Essentials
Pack light, but smart. Essentials include:
Travel documents and copies
A small first aid kit
Comfortable walking shoes
Modest clothing for cultural respect
A power bank and universal adapter
Hair and skincare products you may not find abroad
Traveling solo as a black traveler has its challenges, but also its joys. With preparation, confidence, and openness, you can turn obstacles into lessons and make unforgettable memories. The world is waiting for you. Pack your bags, step out, and own your journey.
Ecotourism in Africa means that your travels are leaving positive footprints as you traverse the globe. Africa is one of the best destinations for ecotourism due to the abundance of scenic landscapes, diverse wildlife, and rich cultures whose traditions are deeply rooted in sustainability. Ecotourism allows you to venture into Africa’s stunning wonderlands while at the same time protecting endangered and vulnerable wildlife, preserving natural spaces, and empowering local communities.
Bwindi Impenetrable Rainforest National Park, Uganda
Mountain Gorilla, Bwindi
Bwindi hosts the rare and endangered mountain gorillas. The gorilla sanctuary is home to the largest population of mountain gorillas in the world. Join a gorilla trek to visit these stunning creatures deep in the rainforest. The trek offers tourists a chance to walk through the rich and diverse habitat in Bwindi home to 120 species of mammals, 350 bird species, 310 butterfly species, and many other endangered species. The ecosystem of Bwindi is delicate and tourists are urged to not be disruptive, particularly anyone who is looking for ecotourism in Africa.
Many strict measures are implemented to protect the gorillas, including capping the number of people per year for treks and preventing anyone sick from joining the treks. There is an increased risk of humans spreading diseases to gorillas since they are also primates. Because of this, you should wear a mask when meeting these extremely endangered gorillas. The trek is challenging and long but throughout the trek, you will experience the freshest air you ever could and be rewarded by the beautiful mountain gorillas at the end of your trek.
Okavango Delta, Botswana
There are parts of Botswana that have remained completely untouched by human civilization. The result is completely wild and stunningly unique landscapes. This is not by accident since Botswana approached tourism with a singular goal of sustainability. One such magical gem is the Okavango Delta. Here you will find a breathtaking series of inlets lined with lilies meandering through the open grass plains dense with wild sage and mopane forest home to diverse wildlife.
Okavango has a complex ecosystem and rich aquatic environment that calls for eco-conscious tourism. To ensure tourists can still enjoy this magical wonderland without disturbing the ecosystem, most lodges here are very exclusive and remote only reachable by small canoes. Leases are only given based on adherence to strict environmental standards to ensure the delta is well-preserved. Okavango Delta is the prime destination for ecotourism in Africa.
Maasai Mara National Reserve, Kenya
The embodiment of a safari destination with golden sunsets against the backdrop of a vast savannah, Maasai Mara is one of Africa’s top ecotourism destinations. Home to one of the wonders of nature, The Great Migration, the Mara is home to some of the most diverse wildlife in the world. At Maasai Mara, your day starts early in the morning before breakfast, where you witness wildlife in their natural habitat. Watch as the lions laze around after a night of hunting, elephant herd tower above you as they graze, and meet the elusive leopards in the vast plains heavy with gazelles and zebras.
In the Mara rivers, crocodiles claim their pools while hippos rule wherever they fancy. To conserve the habitat for wildlife, Kenya removed nearly all human residences in the Mara and implemented the most strict environmental conservation measures. Lodges are designated in areas that won’t interfere with wildlife and game drives are guided and only conducted by licensed professionals. At Maasai Mara, engage and support the Maasai, a centuries-old local culture with vibrant colors and beautiful people.
Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda
Lying on the misty verdant slopes of the Virunga mountain range, Volcanoes National Park is one of the best ecotourism destinations in the entire continent. Hailed one of the most biodiverse parks in Africa, Volcanoes National Park’s dense forest is home to over 180 species of birds and importantly, half of the world’s mountain gorilla population.
Rwanda leads the continent in sustainable ecotourism implementing great initiatives such as lodges built with a sustainable model, a plastic bag ban, and strict animal conservation regulations. As you hike into the rich and raw nature made of the thick foliage of the rainforest, you will be advised to be as least disruptive as possible. The goal is to enjoy the breathtaking magic of this world while only leaving behind footprints that can be washed away by rain.
Sabi Sand Game Reserve, South Africa
With a high density of ever-elusive leopards, Sabi Sand Game Reserve is a must-visit destination for any ecotourist. As a private reserve, guests can enjoy many exclusive experiences you wouldn’t find in public parks. Besides leopards, you will also find lions, elephants, rhinos, and giraffes among many other species of wildlife. The reserve offers day and night game drives so you can watch the herbivores grazing during the day and maybe catch the predators’ stealth as they go for the kill.
Sabi Sand is hailed as the pioneer of ecotourism in South Africa. Conservation of flora and fauna is of utmost importance in the park which has created a unique wilderness sanctuary in the park. The lodges ran several programs aimed at educating on wildlife diseases, soil erosion, control of alien plants, and preventing bushveld fires. There are grassroots programs that lead in community outreach to improve the quality of life of local communities in the area.
Some of the greatest spectacles of nature are found in Africa. The local communities practiced centuries-old conservation measures that allowed them to live off the land while protecting the delicate ecosystems. These cultural practices are put into use even today allowing the continent to preserve much of its natural ecosystem while also allowing tourism. And this is what makes ecotourism in Africa so exciting. You are journeying through decades of culture and traditions in conservation.
My first visit to Lamu was in 2015 with a group of friends on road. Since the experience was amazing, I had to go a second time. I took the trip with my friend Bessy and it was quite surreal since it was only the two of us with no pre-determined places to visit and activities to do. Lamu is like no other place ever, an experience so unique from your typical visits to the coastal areas such as Mombasa, Malindi and Diani.
Shela Island – Lamu
Lamu is a combination of beautiful islands seemingly untouched by modernisation. The main ones are Lamu – the main town is here with very historic buildings and old Swahili architecture that is absolutely breathtaking- Shela Island, Manda Island.
It removes itself from the busy streets and honking cars and poises blue waters and calm residents that are extremely polite and kind. One surprising fact is that there are only two cars on the entire island!
We alighted at Manda Airport and boarded a speed boat to Shela to look for a hotel. Shela is populated with tourist hotels, therefore, it wasn’t hard to find one right next to the beach. We had access to the lounge area that overlooked the ocean.
Lounge area outside our rooms – Shela Pwani Guest House
We settled in and left our luggage in the rooms and were out by 12 pm headed to Lamu island.
Once we got to Lamu town, we decided to have lunch at the infamous Seafront Cafe. We were the only ones there, and the food was one of the most delicious dishes I have ever had. It is a low-key place with a Master chef kind of cooking and therefore always highly recommended.
From here we proceeded to explore the very narrow streets of Lamu from the museum to the hotels within the town. Lamu being a historical Swahili town has a touch of Islamic civilization mixed in with Swahili Architecture, therefore, streets were lined with two or three-storey buildings and the streets were very narrow. The main mode of transport in Lamu is donkeys and Boat ride.
The narrow streets of Lamu
We got back in the evening and spent the evening down at Peponi Hotel lounge for some cocktails enjoying the very cool sea breeze and the serene moonlit waters.
The next day we wake up to a slightly gloomy morning that quickly turns to a light drizzle, so we resolve to stay in and wait it out. It’s interesting how despite the rain and gloom, Lamu was still incredibly beautiful. Later on, at about 10 am, we venture out to the other island right opposite Shela, – Manda Island.
Manda has cleaner and more even beaches compared to Shela and is quite a tourist hit. When you plan to go to Lamu, I am sure you will encounter the name ‘The Majlis’. This is a huge resort in Manda that spans quite a few kilometres along with the beach offers, restaurant; bar; wedding venue, and accommodation. It is an imposing, intricately designed structure that had me instantly awed.
We decided to have the seafood platter for lunch at the Majlis as we enjoyed the cool breeze, and low background music gazing out at the ocean. It was quiet, calming and out of this world, unlike the hustle and bustle that is Nairobi. And you will very quickly find that to be Lamu’s charm. Despite the tourists, it manages to retain its quiet, appearing to submit all its visitors to the tranquil.
Sunset Cruise
As always, the best for last: the sunset cruise. It mainly involves hiring a dhow for about 5 pm to 7 pm to cruise in the ocean watching as the sun sets and the moon rises. We navigated the islands from Lamu to Manda through the thick vegetation in the ocean.
You get to enjoy bites and drinks drifting along with the waves and meandering the waters. It is such a sight as the sun sets slowly colouring the horizon and the water golden.
All in all, Lamu is one of the destinations one should purpose to visit at least once in a lifetime. Until next time…Kwaheri Lamu.
As you plan your travels, you want to be as informed as possible about your destination or traveling in general. This way you know what to expect and how to prepare for your trip. Here are some of the best tips from travelers who have spent at least a decade traveling all over the world.
Pack light
One of the best pieces of advice for travelers is to pack light. Whatever you have packed already, make it half. Resist the temptation to overpack and be open to wearing the same shirt, dress, or pants twice. You will have access to laundry wherever you are traveling and if not, you could always buy some more clothes. The secret to making your luggage small is to use a small backpack or suitcase. That way, you won’t be tempted to fill in the empty spaces that would be in a large suitcase. Pick your lightweight clothes that are easy to wash and only carry two pairs of shoes. The less luggage, the easier your travels will be.
Travel insurance
This is the most vital travel tip you should take. Always get travel insurance before you leave home. You can never expect to be sick in your travels or get injured but it is better to be prepared. The air ambulance and hospital bills can amount to $100,000 in case of an accident or illness. Good travel insurance will ensure that this is not among your worries and you get to enjoy your trip. Get insurance whether the trip is days long or even lasting more than a month.
Learn Basic phrases
You do not need to learn a second or third language but it is important to learn the basic phrases of the local language in the place you are visiting. The locals will be very appreciative that you tried and more open to interacting with you. Learn basic phrases such as “Hello”, “How are you”, “Sorry”, “Thank you”, “Where is the bathroom”, and “Goodbye”. It will earn you respect and added with a smile, will go a long way to making your visit more pleasant. It is also important to do basic research on your destination before the journey. You can get a history book, an encyclopedia, or even the most popular book in the country or region. This will not reduce any mystery or fun of your visit but it will familiarize you with the place, people, and culture.
Emergency cash and extra credit/debit card
One of the worst things that can happen while traveling is losing your bags or being robbed. Either way, you might find yourself without funds or any means to secure any. Therefore be sure to always bring an extra credit card. One bank card is too risky and might leave you stranded so carry along two or three credit or debit cards with you. Aside from this, ensure to carry emergency cash as well. You should have a stash of about $200 to $300 set aside. Cash is not always safe so be sure to minimize the amount you carry around. Split the cash in various places in your bag or pockets. The U.S. dollar is the best currency to use since it is widely accepted in many parts of the world.
Always pack a towel and a scarf/sarong
A towel will be necessary when you are either on your walks or hikes and need to dry off. You can’t carry the hotel’s towels so pack one to carry around. A sarong is used as a headscarf in some temples in Asia and the Middle East. A sarong can also serve as a towel for you so it’s more convenient. You can also use a sarong as a beach blanket or keep warm in the evening chill.
Eat Street food
Always eat street food. It is most times the most authentic and fresh food you can find. Don’t even ask what it is but just put it into your mouth. If you are worried about safety, select the ones cooked over a flame, boiled, or deep-fried. Streetfood is a sure way to learn about the culture of the people and while you are at it, you will discover some delicious meals you had never heard of. It is an adventure you truly don’t want to miss out on in your travels. Resist the temptation to go to the supermarket and eat the local cuisine. However, don’t eat out every day as it will strain your pockets. Take time to cook meals for yourself as well.
Wander
Feel free to wander and purposefully get lost. There is so much to learn about a place when you just take a stroll in a random direction and wander aimlessly. It’s the best way to get away from places full of tourists as well and you will find some hidden gems. In case you are afraid of getting lost, use Google Maps to check your location occasionally. Immerse yourself in culture and meet new people on your way. Don’t be afraid to talk to strangers or even ask for directions every once in a while. Traveling is about discovering new things, new places, new people, and new joys. Aimless strolls are a sure way to tick all of the above.
Take good photos
Photos will freeze the moments in time and later on you can reminisce about them. Selfies might be the easiest to take but they tend to look the same. So ask people to take photos of you on your travels. Ensure to save backup copies of the photos and also print out a few. Physical copies of your pictures will make for a great memento of your trip. Another tip is to put your cell phone down and just experience the place. Despite the temptation to take out your phone and snap or record something, experiencing moments and places is one of the best ways to truly enjoy your travels. Put your phone away and be in the moment.
Splurge
Indulge yourself in luxury or at least step out of your tight budget every once in a while. Although it would seem like being frugal with your money is wise, splurging is needed as well. Whether it’s a spa day, a bag you simply must get, some beautiful shoes, an expensive dinner, or an expensive bottle of wine, spend out of your limit at least once. This will help you recharge, have fun, and is very healthy.
Do not over-plan your day
You will be tempted to fill every hour of your day with activities to experience as much as possible. Don’t. Be flexible and plan at least two to three activities for your day. Go with the flow and allow yourself to explore rather than follow a schedule. Over-planning can also make you exhausted which will beat the purpose of your travels. Treat your traveling as leisure time and plan it as such. Allow some days to unfold and ask the residents the best places to visit. This way your stay will be more fulfilling and you can also enjoy the sights better as you won’t be on the clock.
When looking for a travel destination, you want a mix of adventure, picturesque, relaxation, and friendly locals. Tanzania is a perfect travel destination because it actually has all the above. Tanzania offers you breathtaking beaches, the splendor of nature seemingly undisturbed by people, historical towns, and geological wonders. Added to friendly and welcoming locals, Tanzania is the perfect destination for a family trip.
Among all the places Tanzania has to offer, the best and most wondrous of them all is Zanzibar. Zanzibar is also known as the “Spice Island” and is one of the top tourist destinations in the world. With its beautiful white sand beaches, Zanzibar is a place for relaxation and adventure perfect for a family trip.
Zanzibar is such a great destination many of its visitors are not first-timers but people coming back once again. There are many activities for families that kids and adults will enjoy alike. It has many historical sites and wildlife to entertain your entire family. A trip to Zanzibar is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Let’s have a look at what you need for your visit to Zanzibar and the places you and your family must visit.
What To Pack
Before you leave for your trip, you need to make sure you have everything so that you can relax and enjoy your trip without worries. Packing is always the most important thing when it comes to trips.
Here is a breakdown of your packing essentials for a trip to Zanzibar;
Sunscreen
Aloe Vera gel
Flip flops
First aid kit
Ear plugs
Lightweight fabrics
Hat
Mosquito repellent
Medication
Sneakers
Rain jacket
Sunglasses
Snorkeling mask
Universal adapter
Swim shoes
Waterproof bag
Zanzibar is a tropical destination so you can be assured of sunshine all year round. This means your packing should be light and you should carry sunscreen. Zanzibar is also pretty conservative so you might want to pack clothes that cover your knees and shoulders.
Best Time To Visit
Zanzibar is great to visit all year round. It has warm weather with temperatures between 28°C and 34°C and plenty of sunshine. If you want the optimal time to visit then it’s between July to September. This is a popular time to travel since it is the archipelago’s dry season. So you can be sure that there won’t be any rain to dampen your beach plans.
Places To Go/Activities
A family trip will inevitably need activities that will not just entertain you and the kids as well. Zanzibar is a family-friendly destination with so many places you can visit with your kids. Here are the top 10 activities when holidaying with kids in Zanzibar;
Visit and Explore Stone Town
Stone town is actually just a 90-minute drive from just about any point on the Island. It is a very easily accessible location so you don’t have to worry about how to get there. The town is filled with interesting sights and activities you can do. You can start with the home of none other than the great Freddie Mercury. He lived on the island for the first few years of his life.
One of the most interesting things about Stone town is the streets. It has a maze of narrow streets, a distinctive feature of old Swahili towns. The streets are filled with souvenir shops you can admire and shop with unique wooden doors.
Make your way up the flights of stairs to find some hidden curio shops for some rare and unique collectible items. Don’t be shy to haggle. The town is full of color and beautiful fabrics so it’s a visual fest for the kids.
Stop by the Zanzibar Coffee House for some coffee and cold drinks as you rest. They have very delicious cakes here so you and the kids will love them. Go to the rooftop to enjoy a view of Stone Town rooftops. If you haven’t booked your accommodation, you can get some cute and spacious rooms here.
Visit Spice Plantation
Zanzibar gets its name “Spice Island” because of these plantations. The kids will absolutely love a visit to a spice plantation. Ever wondered how the spices you use are grown? Well, these plantations will answer and quench all your curiosities about spices. The spice garden tour is a few hours so you can add it to your itinerary. The kids can learn about how clove is great for toothache and that cardamom for fresh breath. Many of the gardens are owned by locals so you can buy some spices to take home.
Snorkeling Trips
Snorkeling is a must-do in Zanzibar and you can take the kids. If they are too young to join, they can stay on the boat and watch. They will enjoy coming and chatting with others on the boat. You will find snorkeling boats on the western side of the island. Snorkeling will allow you to experience both sides of Zanzibar Island. For first-timers, the best spots are in Mnemba.
The best time to snorkel is at sunset since there are fewer people and the yellow-orange sky is so beautiful.
Mnarani Natural Aquarium, Nungwi
The center is well organized to rescue, protect and rehabilitate injured turtles. This is a top kids’ destination because they can play with the turtles. They also get to feed the turtles.
The turtles are sent back to the ocean once rehabilitated. If you are not fond of seeing animals in captivity, this is a perfect place for you to visit.
This island is a 20 minutes boat ride from Stone Town and is a sanctuary for Giant Tortoises. The trip takes half a day and is the best for an entire family visit. The tortoises are huge so the kids will have the most fun. Remember to take many photos for their memorabilia.
The most fun fact about this sanctuary is that there are four giant turtles that were gifted from Seychelles. They had been threatened but due to the care in the sanctuary, they have quickly multiplied over the years. It’s not hard to get to this island since there are many boats along the beaches of stone town you can take.
Jozani Forest Reserve and Zanzibar Butterfly Center
Did you know that Zanzibar has its own species of monkeys? The Forest Reserve is located at the southern end of the island. It’s a native forest that is home to the near-extinct species of monkeys. This is a must-visit place in Zanzibar.
There are local guides who will help you find the monkey as they are always on the move. They will also instruct you on the rules of the reserve that you must adhere to. The monkeys are very beautiful and it’s great to watch them swing from tree to tree.
There is a mangrove walkway across the road from the forest you will also visit. You can learn all about the inhabitants of the Mangroves on your tour.
You should also stop at the Zanzibar Butterfly Center that is nearby. It is perfect for a short stop as you head back. There is a dedicated team who will guide you through the community project. The kids will have fun learning about the butterfly’s life cycle from a caterpillar to a fully formed beauty. It is a lovely sight walking through the garden full of butterflies.
Reef Walk
Zanzibar proudly presents its beaches in all their splendor. Walking along the coastline of the southern beaches is an extraordinary experience. Make sure you get some reef shoes since you will be walking through sludge. There are also sea urchins to avoid and you might trip barefoot.
The kids will surely love this walk since there is so much to see. You can search for giant starfish, clownfish, eels, and soft corals among so many others. The best time to go on a walk is when the tide is low. Remember to use the well-worn tracks and also pay respect to your surroundings. Have an expert who will guide you in the walk so that you can get the most out of it.
Swimming With Dolphins
This is literally the best activity you can do in Zanzibar. It takes place in the southern part of the island. There are many people providing this service and it is very popular. The kids will have an experience of a lifetime. The dolphins like swimming back and forward past the reef. You can meet them when snorkeling with your kids. Dolphins are incredibly curious and are very interested in humans.
You can also take a dedicated dolphin-catching trip to Kazimkazi in the south. They organize great overnight guided packages. Your accommodation host will recommend the best operator for you. Don’t leave Zanzibar without swimming with dolphins.
Seaweed Farming With Local Women
In the early morning, you will see women with sticks and a basket on their heads. They are mainly planting seaweeds. The seaweeds will be due for harvesting in six weeks’ time. Seaweed is a very big business in Tanzania and is used in many things from toothpaste to ice cream. There are tour companies that organize tips to accompany these women. You can join them with the kids and learn about seaweed. You will also catch the beautiful sunrise and maybe end the trip with a morning walk along the beach.
Enjoy The Beautiful White Sand Beaches
There is no bigger attraction to Zanzibar than its breathtaking beaches. The white sand beaches are perfect for relaxation. They are so alluring you might have a hard time doing anything else other than lounging on the beach all day long. Go from the beach to the beach taking in the stunning views. As a tropical island, Zanzibar’s beaches are some of the best in the world. The best beaches you should make sure to visit our Matemwe and Pongwe. Kiwengwa is perfect for young children since it has shallow waters and lots of pretty shells they can collect. Get on a hammock and enjoy the cool breeze and some cold drinks as you relax on a Zanzibar beach.
There you have it, all the reasons you needed to go to Zanzibar, Tanzania. It is a place of relaxation more than anything. Since it is a popular destination, book your trip in advance. This way you can also save money. If you are looking for a budget trip, there are many accommodations that are friendly to the pocket.
Traveling is considered an expensive venture and rightfully so. The experience involves going away from home to places you might not be familiar with. That in itself means you will have to dig into your pockets to get around.
Budget traveling has been the new shiny thing everyone is talking about. There are many articles, blogs, and newspapers suggesting that you don’t need to have that much money to travel. How valid are these claims? Is budget traveling legit? How can you travel on a budget and what is a reasonable travel budget?
Budget traveling is actually a legitimate way to travel. It is possible to travel with a shoestring budget and have an amazing experience. There are several tips to travel on a budget that you need to put into practice for a satisfactory trip. Let’s examine them one by one. Let’s assume your trip is to Kenya, a place considered a very expensive destination.
Plan Ahead
Spontaneous traveling on a budget is not wise. You need to plan ahead in order to save money. One of the first must-dos of budget traveling is booking your flight months in advance. It is much cheaper and you won’t be pressed on prices and time. You can shop for the best and cheapest flights to your destination. A typical round-trip flight to Kenya costs $2416 from the U.S. However, if you book off-season and in advance, the flight can be as cheap as $600-$700.
Planning ahead will also allow you to check locations to visit. You can organize your trip to locations that are not too hard on the pocket. Discover hidden charms only known to locals and spend as little as possible.
Choose Your Destination Carefully
Depending on where you are traveling from, there are destinations that will be cheaper than others. If you are traveling on a budget, you need to find destinations that are the cheapest. This can depend on the cost of the flight and also the cost of living at the destination. The best places are the ones that have a good currency value. It should have a cost of living that is cheaper than home.
Travel Out Of Season
This is the golden advice when it comes to budget traveling. Always travel out of season. The costs of accommodation and flights will be as low as a third of the usual prices. In Kenya, holidays are in April, August, and November/December. There is also the annual wildebeest migration which runs from Mid July to October. At this time, prices have been hiked with tourists, both local and international flooding destinations.
The best time to travel then is January-March, June, September, and early November. In February for instance, you can pay as low as $40 for a double room in Lamu, a tourist hotspot. In peak tourist season, the same hotel would charge you $250 – $500. You can also find months with weather that is similar to the peak seasons. So you will find your destination just as warm but at a fraction of the cost.
Sign Up For Group Trips
One of the best ways of traveling on a budget is joining group trips. The costs are cut down compared to individual trips. The accommodation is also much lower and you get to stay in good accommodations. Safaris are the most expensive trip you can take in Kenya. The entry fees, accommodation, and safari vehicle hire can clear up your travel budget and then some. However, if you join a group, you can actually pay a tenth of the cost. Trips are usually organized between 5 to 10 individuals. The organizers will book the best hotels to stay in and organize the vehicle you will use to traverse the national park. Maasai Mara is one of the most expensive destinations in Kenya. Usually, a trip can cost up to $1750 per night. A group trip can be as low as $400. These dedicated organizers have a permit to operate in the Mara. They also book tourists from all over the world. So you can join your trip with guests from other parts of the world and Kenyans.
Eat At Local Spots & Cook
Food is a great expense when traveling. If you can figure out a way to lower your food expense, you will hack budget traveling. So how do you go about this? The first is to find local eating places that are not targeted toward tourists. Don’t be afraid to ask the locals. You can trust that they are not paying the same for food as the tourists. Those are the places you want to go.
Another great option is to cook your own meals. Cooking saves you so much money. You also get to sample the fresh ingredients in your destination. In Kenya, groceries are easily accessible as you walk the streets. You will find someone selling everything you need to cook. Don’t be afraid to walk around.
Learn a few local phrases to help you converse with the locals. The common greetings in Kenya are “Habari yako”, “Asante”, “Pole”, “how are you”, “thank you” and “sorry” respectively. You don’t need to learn the entire language. This alone will show Kenyans that you appreciate Kiswahili and improve your interactions.
Use Public Transport
Budget traveling cannot be done on expensive taxis. Your best bet is public transportation ranging between trains and buses. It is an adventure but isn’t that the whole point of traveling? Learn the name of your destination and find the public transport that serves that route. The cheapest way to travel in Kenya is by using “matatus” which basically translates to buses and minivans used for public transport. The best thing about matatus is that there is no destination in Kenya they don’t go to. Even the most remote parts will have a matatu serving them.
The fare you will pay for matatus is so much lower than for taxis. For example, a trip from Nairobi to Naivasha is $2 as compared to $200 if you were to use a taxi. The time of arrival is the same.
Even for short locations, matatus are the best way to get around. There are buses and minivans to choose from. You can cut down your travel costs and get to your destination just as safely.
Visit Local Hidden Gems
Avoiding tourist traps is a good way to travel on a budget. So where do you go if not the most recommended places? Well, worry not. Every destination has hidden gems that tourists hardly know about but are loved by locals. Ask around about great places to go and get recommendations from the locals.
In Kenya, Karura forest, Kerio valley, Lake Turkana, Naivasha, and Safari Walk in Nairobi among others are local favorites. These are not locations you will hardly find recommended to Kenyan tourists. These hidden gems are just as breathtaking as the tourist traps but with half the population.
Remember, budget traveling just doesn’t have to be restrictive. What you are looking for is alternative ways to experience a destination but at a friendlier cost. Finding and visiting hidden gems will make the highlight of your trip. There are many times in which tourist traps are hardly worth the money.
Explore Your Destination By Walking
Walking is your best mode when traveling on a budget. It also makes for great exercise and you get to truly experience a place. You can plan to visit some locations that are a walking distance of your destinations. Ask the locals for great places nearby you can walk. You can sample some restaurants or even pub crawl on your walks.
Sharing Is Caring
Be ready to share your accommodation with other people when traveling on a budget. This way you can find the best accommodation at half the price. The cheapest accommodations tend to require you to share a room with other people. It can be a dorm, hostel, or Airbnb. There are also owners who rent out their houses to tourists which when split up between 5 to 8 people, is very cheap.
Use Rail
For destinations with rail, always choose rail. Not only is it a safer mode of transport, but it is also cheaper. Get rail passes in cities that require them to further save money. Remember, your goal when on budget traveling is to find cheaper alternatives.
Use the Standard Gauge Railway when visiting Kenya. It has express trips to the coastal parts of Kenya from Nairobi. You will spend $12 on the trip compared to $120 on a flight. The route is also picturesque. Get to enjoy the landscape and maybe catch up on your reading.
Pack Well
Packing light is a rule of thumb for any traveler out there. You won’t need half of the things you are packing. However, remember to also pack well when traveling on a budget. Anything you miss packing means an extra expense at your destination. The best way to ensure you don’t forget everything is to pack early. Don’t pack the night before your trip.
Book With The Owner
Always find the contact information of the owner and book with them directly. Going through a company or middle person will be an extra cost. There are usually many vacation homes available to stay in at a fraction of the cost of hotels.
In Kenya, there are many vacation homes that are available for your stay. The best way to get them is to search through social media. Whether on Twitter or Facebook, the owners put up their houses for booking.
Traveling on a budget is as fun and adventurous as you want it to be. Don’t be afraid to plan your trip and visit your dream destinations because you are low on money. There are cheaper alternatives that will ensure you enjoy your trip to the fullest. So go ahead and prepare a travel budget and choose a location now.
Lounge area outside our rooms – Shela Pwani Guest House
