Many of us want to go to Africa, but are too nervous. We shouldn’t be

Africa is such an astonishing continent, so full of spectacular landscapes, beautiful people and incredible wildlife, it always amazes me how so many travellers say they’d love to go … but just haven’t.

For with a little preparation, many destinations in Africa can be as safe and as easy as our favourite holiday spots and, dare I say, even more rewarding.

First up, check Australia’s Smartraveller site for any issues in any country, or region, before you book. Some countries, like Sudan, currently engulfed in violent power struggles, are pretty chaotic and can be no-go, but often troubles in others, such as Mozambique, are confined to distinct areas, leaving great swathes of the country perfectly safe.

Check newspapers and news sites for the latest political situation in countries you’re planning to visit, and the websites of companies running regular trips there. The nervous can even talk on Facebook to travellers in situ, or who’ve just visited, for additional reassurance.

It’s as vital, too, to have any necessary vaccinations or plan to start taking malaria medication – if malaria is present in a region – well in advance of actual travel.

Like with other sunny parts of the world, strong sunblock is always advisable, as is a wide-brimmed hat and sunnies. Also, make sure to take a good insect repellent, preferably one containing DEET for the best protection, and some antihistamine if you’re sensitive to bites.

Pack a long-sleeved shirt and long pants to give you coverage for evenings when mozzies might be around, or if you’re particularly susceptible to the sun. If you’re on safari, it’s easy to forget to renew your sunblock when you’re busy in Kenya gazing into the eyes of a lion, or in a vehicle in Tanzania hurriedly reversing away from an irritable elephant.

In such situations, you never want your mobile to run out of juice for photos, so take along a back-up battery or power pack to make sure. And on that subject, if any of your equipment requires triple-A batteries, bring spares – they can be hard to find.

Most businesses in Africa now take credit cards, but it is wise to take along some US dollars in small denominations for any who don’t. Then change some into local currency for tips.

Ask your tour company or a hotel in advance, too, if any gifts to local schools or children might be appropriate, like pens, pencils and books.

Try to learn a few phrases in the local language/s as well. That’s always hugely appreciated and a quick way to endear yourself to your hosts.

If you have space in your luggage, a pair of binoculars will also come in handy – although most safari guides have a few spare pairs for you to use – as well as a book about the region’s birds and animals.

It’s reassuring, for instance, to know that when you hear “Go away! Go away!” in the southern African bush, it isn’t the alarming start of hostilities, but merely the call of the exceptionally irritating Crinifer concolor bird.