Travel Health & Safety
Travel Health
For up to date advice we recommend that you consult your doctor or local vaccination centre. The following are tips to staying healthy on the road.
Drink plenty of water
If you are not used to a hot environment it is easy to become dehydrated so always carry a bottle of water with you.
In desert environments your perspiration evaporates so you may not feel like you're losing water.
Keep your hands clean
Carry some soap gel, available from most pharmacies. This is great for keeping clean hands when you don't have running water nearby.
Use a good mosquito spray
Make sure the mosquito spray you have with you is high in DEET. It is important to cover up and to apply the spray regularly in the evenings every 1-2 hours for full protection, even if it says 'lasts up to 4 hours' on the bottle.
Wrist and ankle bands soaked in DEET may provide additional protection if you are susceptible to bites. See malaria information below.
Carry a small first aid pack
Plasters, bandages and antiseptic spray and wipes are great for any bumps and bruises you may pick up along the way.
Don't drink too much alcohol
Excess alcohol speeds up the dehydration process. But Africans always make time for a traditional African sundowners though!
Get the right vaccinations
Make sure you consult your doctor or travel clinic at least 6 weeks before you travel to check which vaccinations you might need.
Nomad has clinics that give advice and vaccinations if required.
Below is a vaccination chart to be used as a guide, but please consult a medical professional for up-to-date information.
Malaria
Malaria is the most common serious ailment affecting both residents and visitors to many parts of Africa.
Seek professional medical advice as to if you need them and which tablets are most suitable for you.
The tablets will probably offer good protection but you must also remember to use a good mosquito spray to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes.
Your tents have mosquito nets in the vents and it is not generally necessary to bring a separate mosquito net unless you plan to sleep outside 'under the stars' (in which case you are recommended to bring one).
Safety
Know before you go
Most governments offer travel advisory services.
U.K. citizens see www.fco.gov.uk
Australia citizens see www.smartraveller.gov.au
N.Z. citizens see www.safetravel.govt.nz
U.S. citizens see www.travel.state.gov
Insurance
It is vital that you are insured for your travels so as to cover should you become ill, injured or lose belongings while you are away.
All our tours legally require you to show proof of insurance (namely medical cover and repatriation) before we can take you on the tour. It is vital you bring your
insurance certificate and policy booklet on tour so your guide can check this cover. Please ensure you have cover for the full period of travel and that this
is shown on the certificate. Acacia have negotiated special cover tailor made to your overland journey. To view the details of this cover and arrange
coverage online please click here