Backpacking 54 Countries In Africa: A Journey of a Lifetime

Are you a passionate traveler looking to embark on an extraordinary adventure? Look no further than backpacking through 54 countries in Africa. This awe-inspiring journey will take you through diverse landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and breathtaking natural wonders. Get ready to explore Africa like never before!

Why Backpacking?

Backpacking is not just another form of tourism; it is a way of immersing yourself in the heart and soul of a continent. Unlike a typical guided tour, backpacking allows you to experience Africa in its rawest form. From the bustling markets of Morocco to the vast deserts of Namibia, backpacking enables you to connect with locals, discover hidden gems, and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Preparing for the Adventure

Before setting off on your epic journey, thorough preparation is key. Start by researching the visa requirements and necessary vaccinations for each country you plan to visit. Create a detailed itinerary, but be flexible enough to seize unexpected opportunities along the way. Pack lightweight, durable gear, including a comfortable backpack, sturdy shoes, and essential camping equipment. Remember to carry a sufficient amount of water, as well as basic medical supplies.

A safari back to self: Backpacking 54 countries in Africa

by Mary Jane Walker(Kindle Edition)

4.4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	15003 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	534 pages
Paperback	:	250 pages
Item Weight	:	12 ounces
Dimensions	:	6 x 0.57 x 9 inches

FREE

The Must-See Destinations

The vastness of Africa offers an endless array of captivating destinations. Here are some must-see highlights:

• 1. South Africa: Start your journey in Cape Town, where you can hike up Table Mountain for panoramic views of the city. Explore the vibrant streets of Johannesburg and embark on a thrilling safari in Kruger National Park.
• 2. Tanzania: Pay a visit to Serengeti National Park, home to the largest migration of wildebeest and zebra on the planet. Climb Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest peak in Africa, for a surreal sunrise experience.
• 3. Egypt: Marvel at the pyramids of Giza, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Cruise along the Nile River and discover the ancient temples of Luxor and Karnak.
• 4. Kenya: Embark on a thrilling safari in the Maasai Mara, known for its abundant wildlife. Immerse yourself in Maasai culture and witness their traditional dances and ceremonies.
• 5. Morocco: Get lost in the labyrinthine streets of Marrakech's ancient medina. Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Djemaa el-Fna square and indulge in delicious Moroccan cuisine.

Exploring Off the Beaten Path

While the well-known destinations are undeniably captivating, do not overlook the hidden gems that lie off the beaten path. Take a detour to Swaziland, a small landlocked country known for its stunning landscapes and vibrant cultural festivals. Discover the pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters of Zanzibar, off the coast of Tanzania. And don't miss the chance to marvel at the breathtaking Victoria Falls on the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe.

Interacting with Locals

One of the most enriching aspects of backpacking is connecting with locals. Africans are known for their warmth and hospitality, and their stories will add a deeper layer to your travel experience. Engage in conversations, participate in community activities, and embrace the local customs and traditions wherever you go. You may find yourself invited to a traditional ceremony or sharing a meal with a local family, creating lifelong bonds along the way.

Safety Considerations

While backpacking through Africa is an incredibly rewarding experience, it's important to prioritize safety. Research the current political and social situation of each country you plan to visit. Stay informed about any potential health risks and take necessary precautions. Stay vigilant, especially in crowded areas, and be cautious of your belongings. Trust your instincts and avoid traveling alone in remote areas during the night.

Backpacking through 54 countries in Africa is an adventure of a lifetime that will leave you with remarkable stories and memories to cherish forever. From the iconic landmarks to the hidden treasures, the diversity and beauty of Africa will captivate your heart. So, pack your bags, embrace the unknown, and get ready for an unforgettable journey through this breathtaking continent!

A safari back to self: Backpacking 54 countries in Africa

by Mary Jane Walker(Kindle Edition)

4.4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	15003 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	534 pages
Paperback	:	250 pages
Item Weight	:	12 ounces
Dimensions	:	6 x 0.57 x 9 inches

FREE

Right from the Monday morning of 11 January 2016 as she embarks on her sojourn from the furthest south point, Cape Agulhas to the furthest north of the continent, Cap Angela, and through departing Algeria on 25 April 2019, Thursday, her 54th African country, you're drawn into a minute by minute detail, of her three year journey through airports, roughing it on the road in Tuk Tuks, Taxis, trains, buses and on foot across the length, breadth and depths of the continent. You are delighted by her riveting details of her experiences as she breaks bread and shares beds with strangers, stunned by how she stood her ground when accosted for favours, the cold baths - and sometimes none, the diarrhea as her body tried to adapt to the different diets - having joloff and fried chicken for breakfast in one moment or nothing the other. You're in awe of her resilience and patience as she refuses to 'show the money' in Cape Verde and other places to buy her way through rogue officials, and delight in listening to the birds as they hum in the morning after seeing off the night on a rooftop in Mauritania.
By going through the continent with the many locals we get to meet through her along the journey, rather than the conveniences of a tourist, hers is an insider's account of the grit and glory of Africa as she draws contrasts and parallels between countries - and her South African way of life, navigating between cultures, religions, languages, currencies, issues and delights across the rest of Africa. It's a fireside chat from Cape to Cairo with vivid in the moment details of what makes Africa such an engaging and enchanting continent.

This is a complete personal journey that starts before Boipelo got married to her 'husbest' Zipho, which she did in-between stopovers in her journey, and through divine intervention, concludes with her in Algeria buying an infant dress and few things, at the airport, with the money she had left. She would discover months later that she was pregnant with their child.
Throughout the journey, you're thrilled by experiences woven through the simplicity, generosity, humanity, enterprise and resilience that binds the continent - and in many ways defines her and what her journey is.

Whether you've been to one, many, all or none of the rest of Africa, this is a prime front seat to an authentic journey across the continent. Not a perspective or interpretation. It's a moment by moment breathless and deep journey across the diversity of Africa as lived through one of its own.

This is a vivid, authentic story and an invitation to take that journey across Africa. There's no better companion than Boipelo's story of her journey across the continent.