Practical Questions, Tips & Advice that will make your African safari enjoyable:
Would you like your African travel questions answered by an African expert who has been to each place and can recommend special experiences for just you? We would love to help! Call or email today for your free personal safari consultation. We often hear “I have learned more in 5 minutes on phone with you than I did doing weeks of research on the internet”.
After booking your safari, you’ll receive a pre-departure packet in the mail, which includes trip details and tips. Until then, here are some common questions from our travelers.
Frequently Asked Questions
1How do I pay, when and how much deposit?
We require 40% deposit to confirm a booking, sent by wire transfer to our bank account, and balance is payable at least 45 days prior to commencement of the safari. See our term & conditions for further information.
2How far in advance should I book my safari?
It is better to book as far in advance as possible to ensure availability at the time you wish to travel, especially during the high/peak seasons – June to Oct and Christmas/New Year season.
3Do I/We require a visa?
Visas are required to enter all 3 East African Countries – Tanzania, Tanzania and Uganda. They can either be obtained in advance through the various Embassies/High Commissions abroad, or at the airports or other ports/borders of entry. The process is fast and easy and all one requires to have is a valid passport (at least six months) and the fee is US$50, payable in cash US dollar.
Citizens of some listed countries cannot get visas on arrival, so it is advisable to enquire with us on booking your safari. Pls note: Tanzania Visa is now US$100 for US citizens.
Citizens of some listed countries cannot get visas on arrival, so it is advisable to enquire with us on booking your safari. Pls note: Tanzania Visa is now US$100 for US citizens.
4Does your price include all International Flights?
No. International transportation to and from East Africa is not included.
5What type of vehicles do you use on safari?
We use 7-seater custom safari minibuses with pop-up roof ideal for game viewing and sight seeing. The buses are fitted with HF long range radios for easy communication and are well maintained to provide maximum level of comfort and safety. In addition to the above, all our vehicles are fully equipped with cool-boxes and first aid kits.
All our safari drivers are trained tour guides, friendly, experienced, knowledgeable and are committed to ensuring clients’ satisfaction. Past clients testimonials confirm this.
All our safari drivers are trained tour guides, friendly, experienced, knowledgeable and are committed to ensuring clients’ satisfaction. Past clients testimonials confirm this.
6How many people do you take on a safari?
Most of our safaris operate on private basis with a minimum of two persons booking, and we recommend not more than 6 persons for maximum comfort and guaranteed window seats.
7What are the terms when booking a safari with your company?
Please see our Terms & Conditions page.
8Are we guaranteed to see the ‘Big Five’ as well as other wildlife whilst on safri you’re your company?
We cannot guarantee this, as all of the animals are in their natural environment. However, with our well though-out itineraries and chosen locations you will not be disappointed.
9What is a single supplement?
This is a fee imposed on single travelers by the hotels, lodges and camps. Our safari prices are quoted based on two people sharing accommodation. If someone takes a room by themselves they have to pay the per-person price plus the single supplement fee.
10Is it possible for people with special needs to travel on any of your Safaris?
We cannot guarantee that facilities will be available for such as wheelchair passengers, but some of the properties that we use have these facilities. Please contact us with your specific requirements.
11Can you cater for people with special Dietary requirements?
Yes we do! Please make sure to give us advanced notice so that we can make arrangements with the lodges and camps concerned.
12Do I/We require Travel Insurance?
We strongly recommend that you take out all of the necessary Travel Insurance before commencing on your journey. However, we offer free membership with Flying Doctors’ Society of Africa to all our clients while on safari with us. This will offer you, the traveller security in the knowledge that should a medical emergency arise, the Flying Doctors Service and evacuation to a reputable hospital are just a call away. This service covers only rescue.
13Are the destinations and Safaris that you offer safe and secure?
All of the destinations that we offer are considered to be safe and secure, and are all well-established destinations and locations.
14What are the time differences in East Africa?
Tanzania: GMT +3 hours
Tanzania: GMT +3 hours Uganda: GMT +3 hours
Tanzania: GMT +3 hours Uganda: GMT +3 hours
15Should I/We expect a language problem?
English is spoken throughout East Africa. We have driver/guides that also speak French and spanish and can be provided on request, ans sometimes at a fee.
16Is the water safe to drink?
While water in major towns is chlorinated and relatively safe to drink, it is safer to drink sealed bottled water and we do provide you with a little each day on safari. Incase you need more, this is readily available in stores and supermarkets.
17What medical precautions should we take?
Vaccination requirements change from time to time. We suggest you consult your local doctor or health department for information on the latest health precautions. Currently, shots against Yellow fever and cholera are recommended but not mandatory. As a precaution we usually advise anti-malarial drugs to be taken before, during and after your visit to East Africa.
Also, if you are on prescription medication, please ensure you have an adequate supply to last the duration of your stay and a copy of your prescription(s).
Also, if you are on prescription medication, please ensure you have an adequate supply to last the duration of your stay and a copy of your prescription(s).
18Any advise regarding photography?
For wildlife photography, a 200 mm zoom lens is the smallest that you should use, A 300-400 zoom is preferable. For bird-watchers, a 500mm or larger is necessary, and a wide-angle lens would be ideal for scenic shots.
Bring extra camera and flash batteries and plenty of film – you may find these quite expensive and difficult to obtain locally.
Bring extra camera and flash batteries and plenty of film – you may find these quite expensive and difficult to obtain locally.
19Why should I book my Safari with you?
Because we have the knowledge, experience & commitment to make your safari a lifetime experience! Comments from our past clients bear us witness. Incase you would like to communicate with some of these past clients, please request for e-mail/telephone contacts, and we shall be happy to provide.