I'd fly if you can. Especially since you don't have experience with long rides on African "roads." With tse tses, some people like the Bug Off stuff, but I don't as it is a possible carcinogen. Do a little digging and make your choice. Go with light weight cottons, preferably with a wicking finish. I'm testing X-socks Air Force socks on my next trip to Africa in a week. Will report back on these. Tried their desert storm socks, but didn't much like them.