8 of East Africa's Most Intriguing Superstitions
East Africa is ripe with superstitions. Some of them are funny, some of them are nerve-racking, and all of them provide great insight into the local culture, customs, and history. Read on to discover some of East Africa’s most fascinating superstitions.
Bearded goats
In Rwanda, goats are plentiful. They are found not only on farms all over the country, but also on the menus of most local restaurants. However, women are encouraged not to eat goat meat, due to the belief that it could cause them to grow a beard.
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1. Guatemala
An express adventure for those with limited time off. Prepare yourself incredible experiences. You will hike a volcano, visit mayan temples and witness a ceremony and take in beautiful colonial Antigua.CentralAmerica
2. Belize
A quick trip not too far away for those seeking a relaxing mini break. You will have plenty of free time to relax but also some awesome activities to experience the rainforest and the caribbean sea.CentralAmerica
3. Mexico
An exciting mini trip exploring the lesser known colonial towns of central Mexico. This is hte perfect trip for someone with limited time off and still wants to turn on explorer mode and do something different.SouthAmerica
1. Ecuador
A remarkable 8 days adventure through the Andes and the Amazon rainforest. The best choice for adventure seekers wishing to visit the 2 most iconic areas of South America, in only 1 week and no flights.SouthAmerica
2. Peru
An alternative itinerary to classic Peru, from Cusco to Arequipa. This itinerary is great combination of highlights Cusco and Machu Picchu with the lesser known Arequipa and Colca Canyon.Europe
1. Italy
The ultimate Italian experience from the vibrant streets of Naples to the breathtaking sceneries of the Amalfi Coast followed by Matera and down to Puglia with its golden beaches, intense flavours and fascinating destinations.Europe
2. Scotland
Embark on this great adventure starting from London all the way to Scotland with a true Scottish experience made of breathtaking sceneries, whisky tasting and ..lots of fun! Ideal for train lovers and explorers.Europe
3. Portugal
A wonderful train journey around Portugal, from the romantic city of Porto to the Douro Valley, to the beautiful Aveiro all the way to Lisbon and Sintra. The perfect trip to train, culinary and culture lovers.Asia
1. South Korea
Discover incredible temples, mountains and modern cities on this 10 day adventure. This trip is perfect for those seeking immersion in the cuisine, culture and natural wonders of South Korea.Asia
2. Thailand
From Bankgok to Angkor Wat to Ho Chi Minh City and everything in between - adventure through the heart of South-East Asia. Taste the delights, see history brought to life and unwind on a Mekong River cruise.Asia
3. Sri Lanka
A fantastic adventure that showcases Sri Lanka's fantastic landscapes, wildlife and flavours. With 3 epic rail journeys, 3 UNESCO heritage sites and time to relax, this trip has loads to offer at a great priceAfrica
1. Morocco
An epic journey across Morocco: from Casablanca to Marrakech, through the blue city of Chefchaouen to the wonders of the desert and deep to the High Atlas Mountains - this trip has it all! Ideal for true explorers!Africa
2. Egypt
From Cairo to Aswan, this trip brings the land of the pharaohs to life. You'll visit the Pyramids, Valley of the Kings and Luxor Temple and cruise down the Nile in style. This is the perfect way to explore Egypt.Witches and geese
At an apartment complex in the Kenyan village of Kakamega, locals believe the resident geese only quack at witches. As a result, they are the only security required at the compound, and every time the geese quack, people are quite sure that there are some witches about.
Virginal sodas
Only virgins drinks Fanta orange in Rwanda, as it’s assumed to be the most chaste of all the Fanta flavors. If you are unmarried and order a different Fanta flavor at a bar or restaurant, you’re guaranteed to get a few judgmental looks.
Egg-eating fish
On Pemba island, just off the coast of mainland Tanzania, a small shrine on the island sits among lush mangroves. Tanzanians visit the pond next to the shrine to make wishes and offerings by throwing an egg into the water. If the egg is eaten by the fish in the pond, it is said that your wish will be granted.
Even more eggs
After returning from hospital in Uganda, ex-patients are encouraged to step on an egg in order to get rid of the illness once and for all. Ex-convicts sometimes take part in this ritual, too.
Ringing in the New Year
In Uganda, actions taken on New Year’s Day are said to set the tone for the rest of the year. Superstition states that Ugandans shouldn’t lend or receive money on January 1, or do too much work, lest they stay in debt for the year and never get to take a proper vacation.
Ominous owls
Seeing an owl in Kenya is considered to be a bad omen. It could indicate an upcoming funeral, trouble with work, or more or less anything unfortunate. It is also thought that shooing the owl away after seeing it or throwing salt in the fire will help to counteract the upcoming misery.
Itchy palms
In Kenya, if your right palm is itchy, people believe you will soon receive a windfall of money. You can’t scratch your right hand, however, as it will “scratch the money away.” Instead, you should scratch your left hand so that you don’t lose the money.
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