Travel Chaos in Africa: What’s Happening and How to Stay Ahead

Every time you plan a trip, something pops up that throws your schedule off. In the last few months, Africa has seen a wave of travel disruptions that range from new parking fees in Lagos to massive power cuts across Europe that affect flights. If you’re trying to move around the continent, you need to know what’s going on and how to adapt.

New Fees, New Headaches

One of the most talked‑about changes is Lagos’s new annual parking fee. The city announced a flat N80,000 charge per slot with an extra N50,000 processing cost. For locals and visitors alike, that means budgeting more cash just to find a place to park. The fee varies by neighbourhood and can climb to N100,000 in high‑traffic zones. If you’re driving into Lagos, consider using public transport or ride‑hailing services that absorb the fee for you.

Another surprise hit travelers in Kenya when the Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) rolled out a new Sh5 billion loan programme. While the extra funding helps students, it also shifts demand for student housing and commuter routes. Expect higher occupancy in university hostels and bus routes around campuses during the enrollment period.

Power Outages and Flight Delays

Across the Atlantic, a massive power outage swept through Spain, Portugal, France, and Belgium in April. The blackout knocked out airport lighting, ground‑crew systems, and even some air‑traffic control towers. Flights were grounded for hours, and many passengers ended up stranded for a day or more. Airlines are now adding extra buffer time to schedules, so when you book a flight that connects through these hubs, give yourself an extra 12‑hour layover.

Back on the continent, the 2025 Safari Rally in Kenya is drawing rally fans from around the world. While the event promises excitement, the rough Kenyan terrain can also cause road closures for regular traffic. If you’re heading to the rally, plan an alternate route or book a stay in a nearby town that isn’t on the rally’s path.

In South Africa, the recent rise in parking fees isn’t limited to Lagos. Several major cities are considering similar schemes to curb traffic congestion. The lesson here is simple: always check local transport policies before you hit the road.

Practical Tips to Beat the Chaos

1. Check real‑time updates. Use apps that pull in live traffic, weather, and power‑outage alerts. A quick glance can save you hours.

2. Book flexible tickets. When airlines and hotels offer free cancellations or date changes, choose them. Flexibility is cheaper than a missed connection.

3. Know your alternatives. If a city’s parking fees are sky‑high, look for public‑transport passes. In Lagos, the BRT system runs a reliable route that avoids the most congested streets.

4. Pack essentials. Power outages can leave you without charging stations. A power bank, a printed copy of your itinerary, and some snacks can make a blackout far less stressful.

5. Stay connected. Follow local news outlets and social‑media channels that report travel disruptions. Communities often share workarounds that official sources miss.

Travel chaos isn’t going away any time soon. New fees, unexpected power cuts, and big events will keep shaking up plans. But with a bit of foresight and the right tools, you can turn those obstacles into manageable bumps on the road. So next time you book a trip across Africa, remember: a little extra prep makes the journey smoother for everyone.