My African Big Tour
9 months in the Middle East, Eastern Africa and Morocco
Africa is the world apart
Many people think that they know everything about Africa, but whenever I go there, I find new challenges, surprises and rewards.
After Europe, America, Australia and Asia it was logical that I would continue travelling to Africa. For some reasons, I have never found myself attracted to the Mother Continent. Stories about corruption, political instability, dangerous areas, lack of attractions, high costs, limited budget options and exposure to various tropical diseases delayed my close encounter with the last undiscovered continent.
Consistent with my usual experience, I was not pressed for time, having just turned down an appealing job offer in Switzerland from the company I had been associated with for three years in Ecuador. I decided to start my journey from Slovenia overland through the Balkans, Turkey and Iran to the Middle East. Throughout that timeframe, Syria was a remarkably secure nation, characterized by exceptionally hospitable residents who graciously welcomed me into their homes during the evenings of Ramadan.
Wildlife, indigenous groups and limited natural wonders
Due to a limited budget, I avoided Israel and traveled from Jordan by ship to Egypt, the first country in Africa. Egypt was one of the highlights not only in Africa, but on a global scale. In contrast, the remainder of the journey through East Africa proved to be quite challenging, marked by unpredictability and frequent frustrations.
The absence of established roads in the northern desert of Sudan was compensated by the unexpectedly warm hospitality of the local people, who frequently welcomed me into their modest homes. Such gestures, routine for them, were profoundly appreciated by me.
Ethiopia is arguably the most attractive country in East Africa, yet the constant requests for money from numerous beggars greatly diminished my satisfaction during the visit. My meeting with the Mursi tribe in the Omo Valley will be a treasured story to recount to my grandchildren.
Furthermore, participating in safaris in Kenya to witness the remarkable wildlife of the African savannah is indispensable, while sunbathing on the exquisite beaches of Zanzibar served as the perfect finale to my trip.
When travelling in Africa the expectations have to be adjusted to reality. Apart from wildlife, tribes and limited natural wonders, there are hardly any historical, architectural or educational landmarks that could be compared with worldwide standards. It is all about people, mingling, markets, colors, surviving and taking it easy, as it is.
Frequently, I found myself questioning why I was spending a significant amount of money on uncomfortable transport, horrible accommodation or unappetizing food hat I would typically avoid in other situations.
During my first trip I didn’t adequately understand my mission in Africa, resulting in various challenges. It wasn’t until years later, as I began to travel without specific expectations, that I learned to appreciate some of the most formidable destinations in Africa.
