What should I wear?
You will require comfortable, casual and semi-casual clothes for your safari to Africa. Please note that bright colours are not suitable for game-viewing and that game-drives are conducted in the early morning and late afternoon which can be cold, especially in winter.
What should I pack?
Here are some packing suggestions:
• Light cotton trousers *
• Cotton shorts *
• Light cotton shirts (long and short sleeved) *
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Sandals *
• Shower-proof rain jacket/windbreaker
• Sunhat *
• Fleece
• Insect repellent *
• Small torch *
• Bathing suit *
• Suntan lotion *
• Sunglasses*
• Camera (telephoto lens recommended)
• Binoculars
• For winter, pack an extra:
• Warm jacket
• Woollen hat
• Scarf and gloves
What kind of medical precautions do I need to take?
Please consult your physician or health department for the latest health and anti-malaria precautions. Some countries require advance inoculations (and certificates thereof) – we will advise you of these.
How is emergency medical cover and travel insurance arranged?
Please ensure that you arrange your own insurance for personal effects, personal accident, medical travel expenses, baggage, cancellation and curtailment prior to your arrival. Trained first-aiders are on standby at most lodges at all times, and emergency evacuation by air is available.
Where can I change currency?
A: As certain African currencies are difficult to change outside the country of origin it is advisable to only change money as required. Most international airports have banks where money can be changed, and facilities are usually available at hotels and lodges. Most major credit cards are accepted at lodges/hotels, shops and restaurants. As exchange rates fluctuate, please check with your local bank or business media prior to departure.
Will I be safe?
Guest safety is of paramount importance and even though Africa is a safe destination, it is wise to take certain standard security precautions. Please carry a record of your passport number, airline tickets and travellers cheques, and ensure that these items are kept in a safe place. Make use of your hotel safety deposit box for expensive items and never leave baggage or personal items unattended, especially at airports. Fully trained uniformed security guards monitor animal activity within lodge areas and escort guests to/from their suite
What is the weather like?
Each region usually experiences lovely hot summers and mild winters and offers exceptional game viewing opportunities throughout the year. The annual Great Migration in the Serengeti and Masai Mara is a 12-month cycle. Our consultants will advise when and where are the best times.
Warm climate with maximum temperatures of 32°C/90°F. Early mornings and evenings can be cold with minimum temperatures of 12°C/90°F. Winter is from May to September, and summer from October to April. Rainfall is seasonal with the so-called ‘short rains’ in November and December and the ‘long rains’ from March to May.
Is Africa a good family destination?
We prove that it is both safe and fun to travel with children in Africa. At many of our lodges we have a host of fascinating and entertaining activities for children between the ages of three and 12 years old. Please note that travel to Tanzania is not recommended for children younger than eight years old. For safety reasons, children five years and younger are generally not allowed on game-drives.
Do you cater for specific diets?
Yes, all dietary requirements will be catered for in East Africa. When making your reservation, please advise us of any specific dietary requirements that you may have, and these will be communicated immediately to the Lodge. Should specific items such as kosher meals need to be flown in, there will be an additional charge, which will be quoted separately. Two weeks’ notice is required for kosher meals.
What should I tip?
Tips are not included in the cost of your safari. We recommend you tender small amounts to your lodge/hotel staff. Your lodge manager will provide you with guidelines for tipping if required. Where restaurant meals are involved, the tipping standard is usually 10% of the bill.