‘It’s a Different World’: Yaroslavl Resident Reveals What Amazed Her in Africa

Recently, Africa as a destination for rest and tourism has been gaining more popularity among Russians. This fall, a dog trainer from Yaroslavl, Elena Mikheeva, visited there. She told what surprised her in the journey.

‘A Different World’

“I’ve long dreamed of visiting Africa. It’s a completely different continent, a different life, a different world. It was interesting to get acquainted with the local way of life, traditions, culture,” Elena explained.

She specifically chose the end of September – October for the trip, as this is the most comfortable season.

“There it’s spring at that time. There’s no rain. In South Africa, where we first flew to, it was cool. Especially near the Atlantic Ocean. We even wore hats and light down jackets. But as we moved away from the ocean into the continent, it got hotter. In Botswana, Zimbabwe, the daytime temperature reached up to 38°C (100°F),” Elena said.

No additional vaccinations were needed before the trip. The Yaroslavl resident vacationed in the southern part of Africa. According to her, this area is considered quite safe: there are no malaria mosquitoes and exotic infections are not widespread.

How Much It Cost

The journey from Russia to the destination took about 15 hours. First, there was a flight from Moscow to Ethiopia, then from Ethiopia to South Africa.

Elena chose an unusual travel format. It was a group car tour where participants traveled by car. The multi-day excursion covered five countries. The cost of the tour was 240,000 rubles (approximately $2,500) per person. But Elena was thrilled with this format.

“I love driving. We drove about 5,500 kilometers. There was a feeling of independent travel when you can slow down somewhere to enjoy the views. And it’s very cool!” the tourist said.

Wild Animals a Meter Away from You

According to Elena, Africa is very diverse.

“South Africa is very civilized. There, it feels like you’re in Europe. But as you move deeper into the continent – to Namibia, Botswana – the real Africa appears. Botswana is essentially one big reserve zone where you can easily encounter an elephant, giraffe, or lion a meter away from you on the road in their natural habitat. It’s something unreal!” the traveler shared.

Walkie-Talkie Instead of a Cell Phone

Contrary to the common belief that unsanitary conditions prevail in Africa, the living conditions for tourists turned out to be quite comfortable.

“We stayed mostly in campsites, less often in hotels. Everything was clean everywhere. In the campsites, there are warm enclosed showers, comfortable toilets. There’s no talk of any holes in the floor. Also, everywhere there are kitchen areas with a grill, dining areas with a large table, benches, lighting,” Elena shared.

In South Africa, there were no problems with mobile connection and internet.

“We bought a local SIM card for about 700 rubles (approximately $7). In campsites and hotels, there was Wi-Fi. But outside South Africa – in Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe – there was no connection. In the cars, we had walkie-talkies. And we communicated using them,” the traveler said.

The Entire Store’s Stock – Two Types of Yogurt

Elena noted that people in Africa live mostly quite modestly. South Africa is richer, there are many multi-story buildings, shops, excellent roads. But in neighboring countries, small, poor houses are more common.

“There are many slums. In villages, shacks are made literally from whatever is at hand: branches, metal sheets. I can’t imagine how they live in such heat in houses made of metal sheets,” Elena shared.

One of the stores in Zimbabwe surprised the Russian travelers.

“There, two types of yogurt were displayed on all the shelves. That is, there’s no choice of products. There’s a small market where they sell clothes, souvenirs. Interestingly, one seller doesn’t have clothes in different size ranges. If you like some item, you have to search for the right size all over the market. But you can bargain and literally halve the initial price of the item,” Elena said.

‘It’s Not Customary to Show Care’

At the same time, the tourist noted that the local residents are mostly very friendly and kind.

“Of course, there’s also the issue of theft. One of the cars in our group had its window broken in an attempt to steal something. So you need to keep an eye out. But this happens in many countries,” the Yaroslavl resident added.

A visit to one of the local tribes made an impression on Elena.

“This tribe ensures its survival by receiving tourists. For them, it’s work. The first child in the family stays in the tribe to maintain traditions. The second and subsequent children can go to school. On one hand, it’s very interesting to study their life. On the other hand, you understand that it’s extreme poverty. The little ones there are constantly snotty because they’re barefoot and undressed, and the nights are quite cold. It’s not customary for them to show affection and care towards children. And when you pick up a little one, they cling tightly, hug, and then don’t want to leave your arms. This brings tears to your eyes. We brought them candy. They, like little jackdaws, surrounded us and chirped with joy. The adult women in the tribe do household chores and entertain tourists. The men mostly rest on the side,” Elena shared.

Oysters Made an Impression

Among the local dishes, the Yaroslavl resident appreciated the meat and oysters.

“In South Africa, they cook meat and fish very tasty. There’s not a huge amount of spices that would mask the taste of the product itself. I don’t drink myself, but people also praise the local wine,” the traveler said.

Also, Elena noted that the portions in Africa are simply huge.

“We always ordered one portion for two. But even half of that portion I couldn’t finish. At the same time, the prices in restaurants are quite reasonable. This huge portion for two costs about $18,” Elena said.

Among the exotic foods, the Yaroslavl resident tried crocodile meat, snails, and oysters.

“We ordered crocodile meat in a restaurant. But there were a lot of spices there. So the taste wasn’t very clear. It’s similar to chicken. Snails are tasty. And also in Africa, I dared to try oysters for the first time. First in a restaurant. Then, when we went to see whales, we were treated to freshly caught oysters – that was truly delicious! The captain opened these oysters in front of us and gave them to us. I never thought I would like it. Because before, just from looking at them, I felt sick,” Elena said.

Overall, according to the Yaroslavl resident, the vacation was very memorable.

“Africa conquered my heart,” Elena admitted.

Recall that recently, TV host from Yaroslavl Elena Letuchaya also visited Africa.