Visiting a Witch Doctor in Africa

African witch doctors are legendary around the world. While Westerners might find the concept a little silly, those who visit them take the craft seriously and hold witch doctors in high regard. If you’re going to visit one while in Africa, and you definitely should, it’s important to keep a few things in mind.

Be Respectful

African witch doctors are highly regarded by locals and it’s a tradition that has been around for as long as people can remember. Don’t treat it as a joke and be as respectful toward them as you would be to a doctor or priest back home.

Prepare to Pay

While some witch doctors are happy to give advice for free, many of them will charge a consultation fee. It’s rarely more than $5 and that money will go a long way toward helping their families, so don’t argue the price.

Be Wary of What You Eat

Witch doctors are known to offer herbal remedies or seeds to help ward off illness and evil spirits, but you rarely have to eat them right then and there. Take what’s offered, pay, but make sure you speak with a trusted local before putting it in your mouth.

Don’t Argue

Sometimes the witch doctor is going to get things wrong and insist you’re feeling something you’re not. It’s a lot more fun to go along with it than it is to argue and confuse them, so practice nodding your head yes before you go.