Potential Dangers of Traveling to East Africa

East Africa is a beautiful, culturally filled part of the world; however, if you are planning on traveling to this area, it is very important to take precautions to ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable trip. We will discuss Lonely Planet's Guide to East Africa's top potential dangers for traveling abroad.

Some parts of East Africa are safe where you may encounter no or few dangerous situations. However, despite how safe an area may be, we all know that there are or can be situations that arise which have the ability to take us out of our comfort zone. You must be aware that East Africa does have political turmoil and security risks in certain parts. The most dangerous areas for political turmoil are in Rwanda, Burundi and Uganada, as well as, certain parts of western Tanzania, and northern and northeastern Kenya. If you are planning on going to any of these countries or areas, it is best to contact the local U.S. embassy for information on security and potential risks or dangers.

In many capital cities, petty theft happens to be a problem. If you are walking in crowded areas it is best to not bring large sums of money with you or to bring along valuables. You may be surprised how fast a pick pocket is able to swindle you out of everything. Bus and train stations, as well as markets and public transports are the areas where you are most likely to encounter petty thieves.

Muggings are also a potential danger when traveling in the cities; however, they often occur in isolated areas. Many potential muggers will lure tourists to isolated remote areas and rob them for their possessions. It is best to avoid isolated areas, at any time, no matter if you are by yourself or if you are in a group of people. It is best to stay where there are people and not to wander off. Nairobi is known to have hustlers who try to deceive their victims into going into alleys and away from people so that they can take their possessions.

Never flaunt what you have. If you have lots of money, don't let others know about it. Believe it or not, if you are flaunting large sums of cash, you will attract thieves or other criminals. It is best not to carry external money pouches, backpacks, expensive cameras, jewelry or other valuables. You should carry your passport, money and other documents in a pouch against your skin. You should hide these things in loose-fitting clothing because it makes it harder for thieves to get to. Wearing backpacks or daypacks will automatically classify you as a tourist. It is best to try to avoid looking like a tourist.

Looking lost is another no no when it comes to traveling to East Africa. If you are lost, look confident. Don't panic or become worried. Don't pull out a map or a guidebook while you are walking on the street. Once again this will automatically mark you as a traveler. If you need to, walk into a shop or somewhere you feel safe to ask for directions or help. Avoid asking passersby for directions.

When you get off of the bus in Nairobi and Arusha you should expect to be bum rushed by several people trying to grab your luggage or sell you a safari. It is best to make sure your valuables are close to your skin and not in your luggage just in case someone decides to walk off with it. Get a cab quickly to your hotel; and do not attempt to walk alone or in a group to your hotel.

Never leave your valuables in your room when you are not there. If you have valuables, you may want to look into keeping them in the hotel's safe or on you at all times.

Watch out for people who may approach you and ask you questions like, "Remember Me?" "I know you;" things of this sort. These people may claim that they work in your hotel or they have seen you around. If you are approached by a strange and suspicious person it is best say "No" and keep going or to end the conversation briefly.

If you are in a vehicle, keep all of the windows up. This helps against car jackings or your valuables being stolen.

I hope that this article was of some benefit to you God willing.