Imagine a different place with different cultural norms and customs just over 6000 miles from home!

“The way we do things around here” is known as culture. When in Africa you must adjust, attempt to be at home in the culture and not think you will change it all in the few days or weeks you are there. Do not go with the idea that YOUR culture is superior. so….. don’t be full of yourself, treat everyone with respect and be prepared to see some things that are different from home. The African people (especially East Africans) you will see will also respect you.

GREETING: Our Kigezi tours staff will take you through orientation on how to great people locally

FOOD: While Kigezi Tours ensures that you have a variety of good food while on your visit in East Africa, You might need time to adjust to new and different types of food, but don't be afraid- the nationals eat it and don't die! Fresh tropical fruits and vegetables are plentiful throughout the country. A wide range of dishes, both traditional and international, are served in the hotels and restaurants.

ANIMALS: In the third world, people treat animals differently. Sometimes it is lack of knowledge or the ability to care for them as you do in the west. Don't play with dogs-- in most other cultures they are scavenging house guards and not playful pets.

1. For college & university students, think of yourself as a person who is there to study and learn. How does a student in school get a good mark? What behaviors contribute to their success?

2. Do not make disparaging remarks about food, lodging or customs. Remember that facial expressions as well as other body language speak louder than our words at times. A truly considerate person will be sensitive to the feelings of others at all times. That means you should be very sensitive to the feelings of those in your group, also.

3. There will be times when you are uncomfortable, hot, tired, and out of sorts. Remember that everyone else is experiencing the same. If you are used to being pampered or are a notorious complainer, try having an attitude of praise and helpfulness to others instead. You are experiencing these conditions for no more than two weeks but your national friends are there for a lifetime!

4. Listen More Than You Speak! Be a learner, rather than a teacher.
   Be careful when taking pictures. Please ask before you take a picture of someone.

5. You will be watched closely, since people are often very curious about why you are here and how you do the things you do back home. Being called “white man” should not sound derogatory anyway of course that gives a difference between you and them in terms of color

6. Try never to express anger toward the local people, even if they express it towards you. A good thing to do if someone gets mad at you or asks you for money is to laugh! If you start laughing, more likely they will start laughing, too

7. Be sensitive of your audience's feelings and ask your guide if its ok to take snapshots not to offend some people. Remember people you will meet are very friendly and welcoming people but they are extremely sensitive if people take their photograph.

8. Remember that you’re a visitor from one of the world’s wealthiest countries traveling in one of the poorest places on earth

9. Travel as lightly and as modestly as possible, without flashy expensive jewellery, gadgets and lots of luggage and bags.

10. Carry only small bags that can be stowed on your lap