Hi, I am starting this very early, as I plan on going to africa in about 5 years. I am too excited. This is my first trip anywhere. I plan on Botswana, Tanzania, Nairobi, and madagascar. I have been checking luggage posts, and you can take two bags, right? When you discuss weight, it is a combines weight of both bags, right? I am a woman, and I am going alone. Any tips? I am interested in reptiles, does anyone know of a good place to visit? Thanks in advance!
Cheri

Four locations combined in two distinct different areas in Africa. Botswana is south and landlocked; Madagascar an island off the coast of South Africa and Zimbabwe. Tanzania and Nairobi (the capitol city) of Nairobi, are East Africa.

Unless you have more than three weeks, it's difficult to visit all of these places. Also time of year can determine where best to visit.

As to luggage, that would be down on the list until you decide where you will be visiting. But, no, you cannot take two (2) bags with you everywhere on safari. While you can travel internationally with two bags, once in any of these countries and should be taking small aircraft you are limited to 1-bag. In Botswana the weight at little as 25/lbs; in East Africa a bit more at 33/lbs. Seems light, but most here will advise that it's doable, besides you can have your laundry done most everywhere and it's inexpensive, if not included in your price.

I believe, if this trip is 5-yrs down the road, you have much for research to do to determine and decide where you wish to visit and when.

Snakes - except for some snake farms as tourist sites, snakes try to avoid humans as do humans wish to avoid snakes. They can be found and visitors often come upon them, but I believe you should expand your scope of game you wish to see.... like those easily found - elephants, giraffe, lions, cheetah, monkeys, etc. etc.

Search this forum for the East African Index (there is also a smaller one for Southern African trips) - trips reports from many travelers over the years will provide you with some ideas to help in your decision.

Five years of excitement as you plan! You'll be well educated starting 5 years out, especially if you spend time on this forum. Booking over a year in advance is also a good idea for some places in Botswana.

There are many solo female travelers to Africa. I'm one of the many.

With the places you mentioned, 3 weeks would be the absolute minimum. My first tip would be to post how long you can travel and the months you are able to travel. Then advice can be tailored.

When it comes time to pack, there are many helpful threads. Put packing in the search box or post again when the time arrives. The luggage limits seem strict but you can do things like wear your binocs as an accessory.

Reptiles: Along most waterways are crocs and maybe water monitors if you're lucky. For the elusive snakes, there is a Snake Park (like a zoo) in Nairobi right next to the Boulevard Hotel and a block away from the Norfolk. Snakes are not often seen while on safari, which is a relief to many who are not as fond of these lovely creatures as you are.

Since you mentioned Nairobi, you'd probably want to spend time in Kenya's National Parks.

Please post again as you take your pre-trip planning journey.

Thanks for the replies! I am figuring on about two months. I am thinking of an overland tour for uganda all the way down to johannesburg. Then going over to madagascar. I am thinking of going around August or September. I am not sure yet. Any suggestions? I am also interested in all of the other wildlife, not only reptiles. I have been toying with the idea of volunteering at a reptile park for a couple of weeks through something called gap years- the one for adults. Then I would want to stay longer.

Now Uganda is included too! August and September is excellent for mainland Africa. Don't know about Madagascar.

Two months would be enough for the places you want to visit. The reptile volunteering would be fascinating. If you are traveling completely by vehicle on the overland trip, then the luggage isn't so restrictive. To be certain of luggage allowances, I'd check the international airlines' websites or call them keeping in mind the rules can change.

Do you have an overland carrier in mind?