FAQ for going on safari
Before Your Trip
1. Do I need a visa or ETA?
Yes, most East African countries – including Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda – require a visa. Please note that for Kenya, the visa must be arranged before departure; without a valid visa, you will not be allowed to board your flight. You can usually apply easily online via the official e-visa portals:
Kenya: http://www.etakenya.go.ke
Tanzania: https://eservices.immigration.go.tz/visa/
Uganda: https://www.visas.immigration.go.ug/
Rwanda: https://www.migration.gov.rw/
2. Do I need travel insurance for a safari in East Africa?
Yes. Good travel insurance is essential. You’ll often be traveling to remote areas where medical care is limited. Your insurance should cover medical expenses and evacuation (e.g., by helicopter or aircraft).
3. Is a cancellation insurance mandatory?
Not mandatory, but strongly recommended. If you need to cancel unexpectedly (due to illness or family emergencies, for example), a cancellation policy can help you avoid high costs.
4. Do I need vaccinations for a safari?
Yellow fever vaccination (mandatory if coming from a risk country), DTP (diphtheria, tetanus, polio), and hepatitis A are recommended. Please consult a travel health clinic.
5. Do I need to take malaria tablets?
Yes, malaria prophylaxis is recommended for most safari areas. Also use insect repellent and wear long sleeves in the evenings. Contact a travel health clinic for the most up-to-date advice.
Packing & Preparation
6. What should I pack for safari?
Light, neutral-colored clothing, a warm sweater/jacket for early mornings, sun hat, sunscreen, binoculars, camera, insect repellent, and a reusable water bottle.
7. What size should my luggage be?
For domestic flights, there is often a 15 kg limit in soft bags. Hard-shell suitcases are not allowed on small bush planes. If traveling by safari vehicle only, we recommend 1 suitcase per person plus hand luggage.
8. Can I do laundry during the safari?
Yes, most lodges offer a laundry service (sometimes at an extra cost). Please check at each lodge.
During the Safari
9. Is a private safari possible?
It depends on whether you choose a road safari or a fly-in safari. Our road safaris are fully private and tailor-made, with your own guide and vehicle – unless otherwise specfied. Fly-in safaris may be shared – please check during booking to see what applies to your trip.
10. Are game drives safe?
Absolutely. You’ll be traveling with experienced guides in well-maintained vehicles. Always follow the guide’s instructions.
11. How long are game drives?
This varies. Morning and afternoon game drives typically last 3–4 hours, but full-day drives with picnic lunches are also possible. Your schedule can be adjusted to your preferences.
12. Will I see animals up close?
Yes! East Africa is home to a wide range of wildlife in open ecosystems. With some patience and luck, you may see elephants, lions, giraffes, zebras – and even leopards or cheetahs.
Accommodations & Comfort
13. Is there WiFi in the lodges?
Often yes, in main areas or the lobby, but not always in the rooms. Internet speed may be limited in remote locations.
14. What are the bathrooms like in tented camps?
Most tented camps have private bathrooms with hot showers and flushing toilets. The comfort level varies from basic to luxurious.
15. Is it safe at night in a tented camp?
Yes, you’re safe inside your tent. Night guards are often on duty. Animals may pass nearby, but they will not enter the tent.
Practical info & experience
16. Can I take photos of people or villages?
Yes, but always ask permission first. In some cultures, it is inappropriate to photograph people without asking.
17. What does a typical safari day look like?
Early morning game drive → breakfast → rest or transfer → lunch → afternoon game drive → dinner & campfire.
18. Can I travel with children?
Definitely, safaris are great for children aged around 6 and up. There are special family lodges, child-friendly guides, and shorter game drives available.
Booking & Payment
19. What’s included in the safari?
Depending on your package: accommodations, meals, game drives, park entry fees, guide/driver, transfers. International flights and tips are usually not included.
20. How can I pay?
By bank transfer, credit card, or secure online payment link. A deposit is required upon booking.
21. How can I pay while traveling?
At most lodges you can pay with a credit card. In larger towns, ATMs are available. However, it’s wise to carry some cash for markets or souvenirs.
22. Should I tip?
Yes, tipping is customary.For guides/drivers: $20–30 per day per vehicle. For lodge staff: $5–10 per room per night (via a communal tip box).
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