Frequent Asked Questions
1. Type of accommodation during safari
During safari, we offer a diverse range of accommodations that cater to different preferences and budgets. From traditional African dome tents with bucket showers and long-drop toilets to luxurious camps with all the amenities of a 5-star experience, as well as lodges of varying types, we have something for everyone.
For those who want a more authentic safari experience, our dome tents offer a unique and immersive way to connect with nature. These tents are typically set up in designated campsites and come equipped with basic amenities like a bed, a bucket shower, and a long-drop toilet. They’re a great option for those who want to get closer to the natural environment and experience the sounds and smells of the African bush.
For those who want a more luxurious experience, our camps and lodges offer all the amenities of a 5-star hotel, including comfortable beds, en-suite bathrooms, and gourmet dining. These accommodations are typically located in prime wildlife viewing areas and offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
No matter what type of accommodation you choose, you’ll be surrounded by the natural beauty of the African wilderness and have the opportunity to connect with nature in a unique and unforgettable way.
2. Meals during Safari
We understand that delicious and nutritious meals are an essential part of the safari experience. That’s why we provide our clients with a full meal plan during the safari.
All meals indicated into the itinerary are included in our tour package. However, there may be occasional instances where meals are on your own, especially on arrival days when we typically book bed and breakfast.
We understand that some clients may have specific dietary requirements or allergies, and we are always happy to accommodate their needs. Please communicate your dietary requirements or allergies to us during the planning stage, and we will make the necessary arrangements to ensure that your needs are met.
3. What type of food is typical?
We believe that a safari experience is not complete without delicious and nourishing meals. That’s why we offer a variety of Western-style fare daily, incorporating fresh, local fruits and vegetables into the meals.
We understand that some of our clients may have dietary preferences or allergies, and we are always happy to accommodate them. We encourage you to let us know your dietary requirements and preferences in advance so that we can make the necessary arrangements to ensure that your meals meet your needs.
Our team is committed to providing our clients with a comfortable and enjoyable safari experience, and we take pride in our attention to detail.
4. Safari vehicle during safari
We believe that the quality of your safari experience is as important as the destinations you visit. That’s why we use specially modified 4×4 Toyota Land Cruisers to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable journey.
Our Land Cruisers are equipped with large windows, pop tops, radios for easy communication, and fridges for amenities like mineral water. We understand that your comfort and safety are paramount, and our vehicles have been customized to meet these needs. With our Land Cruisers, you can enjoy uninterrupted views of the beautiful landscapes and wildlife while traversing the rugged terrain of East Africa.
5. What is the climate to Africa
Our best wish is to our clients to have the best possible safari experience, which includes enjoying the pleasant weather of East Africa.
The weather in East Africa is generally pleasant throughout the year, featuring warm to hot days and cool to warm nights. However, it’s important to note that the climate can vary depending on the region and time of year.
In general, the dry season from June to October is the best time to visit East Africa, as the weather is generally sunny and dry. The wet season from November to May can be rainy and humid, but it’s also a great time to see lush landscapes and increased wildlife activity.
6. Is there age limit to the safari?
Individuals of all ages are welcomed to experience the beauty of East Africa. Our Africa tours attract travelers from around the world, and we pride ourselves on providing a diverse and inclusive safari experience.
The minimum age for scheduled departure trips is 12, while private departures are recommended for travelers with younger children. We understand that every traveler is unique, and we want to ensure that our clients have the best possible safari experience.
However, it’s important to note that participants must be able to climb into and out of safari vehicles, making these trips unsuitable for travelers with mobility issues. In addition, our policy states that the maximum age for participation in our safaris is 65 years.
7. Are kids allowed on Safari?
We believe that a safari experience can be an enriching and memorable adventure for both adults and children. We welcome families with children of all ages to experience the beauty of East Africa.
Our safari options are suitable for children as young as 6 years old (for set departures, 12 years old). However, we understand that every child is different, and parents must assess whether this type of program is suitable for their child due to long drives and rough roads.
It’s important to note that some accommodations may not accept young children, and informing us during the planning stage can help us recommend a suitable safari for your family. Our team is always available to provide guidance and support to ensure that families have a safe and enjoyable safari experience.
8. Can single traveller join a safari
We welcome solo travelers to join any set departure date for safaris. We understand that solo travel can be a fulfilling and enriching experience, and we want to make it as easy and enjoyable as possible for our clients.
It’s important to note that safaris are confirmed with a minimum of 4 travelers. In the event that the minimum is not met, the scheduled trip may convert into a private departure with additional costs. However, we can also arrange safaris for solo travelers according to their requirements. Our team will work with you to tailor a safari that meets your needs and budget, ensuring that you have a memorable and enjoyable experience.
9. Do the rates include international flights?
Our tour rates do not include international flights. However, we can assist you in arranging domestic flights if needed. We recommend booking your international flights separately as it is usually more cost-effective and provides you with flexibility in choosing schedules and routes.
10. Is the arrival transfer included?
When you arrive at the airport, a Safari representative will be waiting for you outside the airport premises, as representatives are not allowed within the airport due to security regulations. The representative will meet you after you clear customs and baggage claim. They will provide you with a briefing on the next day’s arrangements, the full itinerary, and emergency contact numbers..
11. How far in advance should I book?
You can book your East Africa tour at any time, but we recommend booking earlier (10-12 months or more in advance) to ensure accommodation availability, especially for last-minute bookings. We advise waiting to book your international flights until your tour is confirmed, so you can take advantage of available flight deals.
12. Are tour dates flexible?
Private/tailor-made safaris offer greater flexibility in terms of travel dates, as they are customized to suit your preferences and requirements. Our team will work with you to create an itinerary that fits your schedule. On the other hand, scheduled tours have fixed departure dates that are pre-planned to ensure that all aspects of the trip run smoothly. These tours are designed to accommodate a group of travelers who share similar interests, and they follow a set itinerary.
13. Can I extend or change my stay?
Yes, you can extend or change your stay. We understand that your travel plans may change, and we are happy to accommodate your requests. Simply let us know your customization preferences, and we will do our best to work with you and make the necessary arrangements for your extended or modified stay.
14. How safe is Africa?
East Africa is generally a peaceful region, and we strive to ensure that our clients have a safe and enjoyable experience. However, as with any travel destination, it’s important to take standard precautions to ensure your safety. We recommend being mindful of your personal belongings and avoiding wearing expensive accessories. It’s also important to follow the advice of your tour leaders and hotel staff, who are knowledgeable about the local area and can provide guidance on how to stay safe. Our guides are trained to monitor safety and provide assistance when needed. We also periodically issue travel statements to keep our clients informed on safety matters.
15. Do I need a converter/adapter for electricity?
Yes, East African countries use 220 volts electricity, so you will need a converter/adapter if your appliances are not compatible with this voltage. Please note that in many tented camps, the use of appliances such as hairdryers or electric shavers may not be possible due to solar power usage. However, charging stations will be available in the main area where you can charge your electronic devices. It’s always a good idea to check with your accommodation provider ahead of time to confirm whether they provide charging facilities or if you need to bring your own adapter.
16. Is the water safe to drink?
Tap water in East Africa is generally not safe to drink. However, bottled and filtered water is readily available and provided in safari vehicles and accommodations for brushing and other daily needs. It’s important to note that drinking water during meals may incur an additional charge, so it’s advisable to check with your accommodation provider or tour operator ahead of time to confirm whether drinking water during meals is included in your package or if you need to bring your own supply.
17. Is travel insurance recommended?
Yes, travel insurance is highly recommended for all clients. It is a booking condition that all clients must have adequate insurance that covers personal injury, medical expenses, repatriation, cancellation, or curtailment of the tour. This ensures that you are protected in case of any unexpected events that may occur during your trip. We also advise clients to report any theft, personal injury, or disruptions to the company and local authorities immediately. This will enable us to provide the necessary support and assistance to ensure your safety and well-being.
18. How much should I budget for tips?
While tipping is not mandatory, it is customary to tip for exceptional service. We provide tipping guidelines as a reference for our clients to use. For example, for safari guides, a suggested amount is $10 per person per day, for camping cooks, a suggested amount is $7 per person per day, and for lodge staff or butlers, a suggested amount is $10 per person per day. However, the amount you choose to tip ultimately depends on the level of service you receive, and it is at the discretion of the client. We recommend preparing your tipping budget ahead of time to ensure you have enough cash on hand to tip service providers during your trip.
19. What are the luggage limitations during the safari?
Domestic flights in East Africa have luggage allowances of 15kg per person for checked baggage. Please note that excess baggage charges may apply if you exceed this limit. To avoid any inconvenience, we recommend packing sensibly in rucksacks or soft-sided suitcases. These types of bags are easier to handle and will fit more easily into the luggage compartments of safari vehicles and small aircraft. If you have excess luggage that you don’t need during your safari, you can leave it with the company for later pickup. This will help you avoid carrying extra weight on your trip and make your safari experience more comfortable.
20. What immunizations are recommended/required?
We highly recommend consulting with a physician or a travel health clinic for the most up-to-date information on immunizations required for travel to East Africa. Malaria prophylaxis is advised for all travelers, and vaccinations for diseases like hepatitis and tetanus are recommended. Yellow fever vaccination is obligatory for visitors from specific countries and those transiting through endemic zones. It’s essential to ensure that you have all the necessary vaccinations at least six weeks before your departure date. This will give your body enough time to develop immunity and provide optimal protection against these diseases.
21. Do I need visas for Tanzania and Kenya?
Visas are required for most visitors to Tanzania and Kenya. We advise purchasing visas online for convenience. Please note that specific requirements and exceptions exist for certain nationalities, so it’s important to check with the relevant embassy or consulate to confirm visa requirements for your country of origin. Transit visas may be needed for travel between Nairobi and Tanzania, so it’s advisable to check with your tour operator or travel agent ahead of time to confirm whether you need a transit visa for your trip.
22. What kind of vehicle do we use during safari?
23. What is the difference between basic camping, wilderness camping, tented camps, and luxury mobile camping?
We offer a range of accommodation options to suit different preferences and budgets. Our options include basic camping on public campsites, wilderness camping on private campsites with more comfort, tented camps with varying levels of luxury, and luxury mobile tented camping offering the ultimate in luxurious wild Africa experiences. The details of each type of accommodation are provided in the proposed itineraries. We take pride in ensuring that our clients have a comfortable and enjoyable stay, and we work with reputable accommodation providers that meet our high standards of quality and service.