FAQ's
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East Africa offers incredible wildlife encounters year-round, with no "off-season" for game viewing. While July to September is famous for the dramatic river crossings of the Great Migration, the rest of the year brings its own magic—lush green landscapes after the short rains of April-May and November-December, abundant predator activity, and fewer crowds for a more intimate safari experience.
The region’s diverse wildlife, from big cats to elephants and rhinos, remains present regardless of the season, making any time an excellent choice for an amazing safari adventure
You can easily apply for your visa online, with a maximum validity of 90 days. The process is straightforward, and there’s no need to submit your original passport. Most applications are processed within a week. For Kenya, the single-entry visa costs USD 32 per person, while for Tanzania, the fee is USD 50 per person
Kenya is connected to the world through four major international airports: Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi, Mombasa International Airport, Kisumu International Airport, and Moi International Airport in Eldoret. Nairobi's Jomo Kenyatta International and Mombasa International handle the majority of international traffic. If you're heading to Kenya for a safari, flying into Nairobi is your best bet, offering easy access to the country's premier wildlife destinations.
Tanzania, on the other hand, has three main international airports: Julius Nyerere International Airport in Dar es Salaam, Kilimanjaro International Airport near Arusha, and Abeid Karume International Airport in Zanzibar. For those heading to Serengeti or Ngorongoro Crater, Kilimanjaro International is the most convenient entry point, as it offers the shortest transfer times to these iconic safari destinations
When planning a wildlife-focused safari, both Masai Mara and Serengeti should be at the top of your list, as they are renowned for incredible game viewing. If you have fewer than eight days for your adventure, it’s best to focus on one country to ensure a more relaxed and immersive experience. With eight days or more, you can explore the beauty of Masai Mara alongside the serene Nakuru and Naivasha lakes in Kenya, or experience the wonders of Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and Lake Manyara in Tanzania.
The length of your trip will determine how many parks you can include, as each park offers its own unique landscapes and wildlife experiences. While Masai Mara and Serengeti are the stars of the show, don’t overlook other parks, as they bring additional charm with their distinctive ecosystems. If you have more than ten days to spare, then combining both Mara and Serengeti is highly recommended, allowing you to fully appreciate everything they offer without rushing through the experience
East Africa boasts a remarkably mild and pleasant climate year-round. Temperatures usually hover between 60°F and 80°F (16°C to 27°C), ensuring the region isn't too hot or too cold. While mornings and evenings may be a bit cool, packing a light sweater or woolen layer is a good idea. Daytime temperatures are comfortable, perfect for enjoying your safari without the discomfort of extreme heat.
Thanks to these moderate conditions, even the most luxurious safari lodges don’t need air conditioning, as the natural climate provides a refreshing atmosphere. Whether you’re visiting during the dry season or the lush green period, the weather remains ideal for wildlife viewing and outdoor exploration
- Layered clothing: Early morning safaris can be chilly, so bring a light jacket, fleece, or windbreaker along with a hat to stay warm.
- Light and comfortable attire: During the day, wear breathable clothing like cotton t-shirts and trousers. Neutral or earthy colors are ideal for blending into the surroundings, though not mandatory.
- Footwear: Unless you're trekking, regular sneakers or comfortable walking shoes are enough, as safaris involve minimal walking.
- Rain protection: Even in the dry season, unexpected showers can occur, so a compact umbrella or a lightweight rain poncho is useful.
- Sun protection: The African sun can be intense, so bring sunscreen, lip balm, moisturizer, and a good pair of sunglasses.
- Essential medications: Carry any prescription medicines you may need, along with allergy medication if you are sensitive to dust. Mosquito repellent is optional but can be
useful.
- Electronics and adapters: Bring a universal travel adapter or one suited for African plug points to charge your gadgets.
- Photography gear: A camera is great for capturing wildlife moments, though a mobile phone camera can work too. Binoculars are optional, as most wildlife is easily visible. If photography is a key focus, consult us for gear recommendations.
- Money and documents: Keep some USD cash and credit cards for expenses. Also, ensure you have your passport, visa, vaccination proof, flight tickets, and hotel
confirmations.
- Personal entertainment: Pack books, headphones, or any other entertainment gadgets for leisure time.
- Toiletries: Hotels provide basic toiletries and towels, so there’s no need to bring them
- Children on Safari: There are no age restrictions for children traveling on safari. Even infants as young as one year old have successfully joined safaris. However, game drives can be dusty and occasionally bumpy, so parents should take necessary precautions to ensure their child's comfort.
- Safaris for Seniors: As long as you are in good health and comfortable with long vehicle rides (typically 4-6 hours), an African safari is a feasible and enjoyable experience. Unlike other adventure trips, safaris do not require physical exertion such as trekking or extensive walking.
Many travelers in their 70s and beyond regularly go on safaris without issues. That said, if you have any pre-existing medical conditions, it’s always best to consult your doctor before planning your trip.
US dollars are widely accepted across Kenya and Tanzania, making them the most convenient currency to carry. You can use USD for visa payments on arrival, purchasing souvenirs, and tipping. When you book with us, most of your land expenses, including accommodations and meals, are already covered, so you won’t need to worry about those costs during your trip.
Credit and debit cards are accepted in many hotels, shops, and supermarkets, with Visa and Mastercard being the most commonly used. However, American Express and Discover cards may not be as widely accepted. If you have additional expenses at your hotel, such as drinks or laundry services, you can settle the bill with either USD cash or a credit card. While cards work in most places, it's always advisable to carry some cash for small purchases, remote areas, or situations where card payments may not be possible.
East Africa is a safe and welcoming destination for tourists, comparable to travel in many American or European countries, as long as you take basic precautions. These include avoiding deserted areas at night and being mindful of personal belongings like wallets and mobile phones when walking in cities. The most common petty crimes reported are occasional pickpocketing or theft from unattended vehicles in urban areas. However, our team always remains vigilant and provides thorough safety briefings to ensure your trip is worry-free.
When staying at our recommended hotels, safety is never a concern, and your guide or driver will always be with you during travel, ensuring a secure experience. To date, none of our guests have encountered any safety issues while exploring these destinations.
Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, and Rwanda follow East Africa Time (EAT), which is GMT+3. This means they are 3 hours ahead of London, 8 hours ahead of New York, and 11 hours ahead of San Francisco. If you are traveling from Asia, Singapore is 5 hours ahead, Mumbai is 2.5 hours ahead, and Dubai is just 1 hour ahead of East Africa’s time zone
Finding vegetarian, vegan, or Indian meals in East Africa is not an issue, especially at the high-end hotels and lodges we partner with. These hotels serve a variety of international cuisines, ensuring that vegetarian, vegan, and non-vegetarian options are readily available. If you follow a specific diet—whether it’s gluten-free, low-salt, diabetic-friendly, or aligned with religious practices such as Jain, Kosher, or Halal—these can be arranged in advance. To avoid any inconvenience, please inform us of any dietary restrictions or preferences before your trip
Communication is rarely an issue in East Africa, as English is widely spoken across Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, and Rwanda. Most hotels, safari guides, and tour operators are fluent in English, ensuring a smooth travel experience. For travelers who prefer assistance in other languages, we can arrange French, German, or Spanish-speaking tour coordinators upon request.
East Africa offers a variety of authentic handmade souvenirs, many crafted by the Maasai and other local artisans. Popular items include intricate beadwork, such as ethnic jewelry, handbags, belts, and decorative accessories. You’ll also find hand-carved wooden masks, paintings, traditional spears, and other cultural artifacts. For a meaningful purchase, consider buying directly from Maasai villages during your visit or from reputable hotel souvenir shops, ensuring both authenticity and fair compensation for the artisans.
The booking process is simple and hassle-free:
Step 1: Get in touch with us and share your travel ideas—whether you have a destination in mind or just a dream of an African adventure.
Step 2: Our safari expert will connect with you, understand your preferences, and help craft a tailored itinerary that fits your schedule and interests.
Step 3: Once you are happy with the plan, we provide a detailed quote. The moment you confirm, we begin securing all arrangements, from accommodation to transport.
Step 4: Sit back and relax! All you need to do is pack your bags and get excited for your adventure. We handle the rest, ensuring a seamless and stress-free safari experienc
- Fully Closed: These vehicles come with windows that can be opened and a rooftop that lifts for game viewing. They are not air-conditioned but are suitable for travel between
cities and national parks.
- Semi-Open: The most used safari vehicle, featuring large open spaces instead of windows and an adjustable rooftop. It provides immersive experience while still being
practical for both safari drives and city transfers.
-Fully Open: Typically owned by lodges and used exclusively within game reserves. These vehicles have a fixed elevated roof with roll-down covers for weather protection but are not designed for long-distance travel between parks or cities.
In parks like the Masai Mara and Serengeti, spotting multiple lion prides, cheetah families, herds of elephants, giraffes, zebras, and hippos is almost a daily experience. Black rhinos are more elusive in these areas, with sightings happening roughly once a week or fortnight. However, if rhinos are on your must-see list, parks like Ngorongoro, Lake Nakuru, and Ol Pejeta offer much better chances, with Lake Nakuru even being home to the endangered white rhino. For bird enthusiasts, each park boasts its own rich avian diversity, and expert birding guides can help you discover some truly spectacular species
When it comes to accommodation in the wild, you have choices based on the kind of experience you want. If you want to be surrounded by nature at all times, staying inside the park is ideal—these lodges and tented camps offer a front-row seat to wildlife and a truly immersive experience. They come with en-suite bathrooms, comfortable furnishings, and a full-board meal plan
If you prefer a balance between wilderness and accessibility, you can stay just outside the park, where accommodations range from boutique lodges to luxury tented camps, often with added amenities like pools and spas.
For those extending their trip to the coast, destinations like Zanzibar and Mombasa offer beachfront resorts, from simple stays to high-end retreats. Meanwhile, in cities like
Nairobi and Arusha, you’ll find a selection of business hotels and private villas catering to different preferences and budgets
Great Migration is one of nature’s most extraordinary spectacles, where over two million wildebeests, zebras, and gazelles travel across the Serengeti and Masai Mara in a continuous search for food and water. This epic journey is driven by seasonal rains and the need for fresh grazing grounds, making it a year-round event with different highlights in different regions.
One of the most dramatic moments occurs between July and October, when the herds must cross the Mara River, facing powerful currents and hungry crocodiles. Lions, cheetahs, and other predators take full advantage of this chaos, making it a thrilling, once-in-a-lifetime
experience for safari-goers.
While river crossings don’t happen daily, spending at least four days in the right location, such as near the Mara River, significantly improves your chances of witnessing this raw display of survival. For those who want a different experience, the reverse migration in North Serengeti during June, July, and November offers equally stunning wildlife encounters
Safaris generally run from sunrise to sunset, offering the best chances to witness wildlife when they are most active. You can opt for a full-day safari, where you stay out in the wilderness with a packed lunch, maximizing your game-viewing experience. Alternatively, you can split your adventure into two half-day safaris—one in the morning and another in the late afternoon—allowing time to relax at your lodge or camp in between. The choice depends on your preference for pace and comfort!
- Wildlife Safari Drives: The most popular way to discover wildlife is through game drives, typically conducted in rugged 4x4 Land cruisers. Led by expert safari guides, these
drives allow you to encounter the diverse animals of the park up close.
- Bush Breakfasts: Start your day in an extraordinary way with a bush breakfast during morning game drives. Dine amidst the African savannah with lions and hyenas nearby,
yet safe within the watchful care of your knowledgeable guide.
- Bush Dinner: We organize memorable bush dinners in a peaceful, remote area of the park or campgrounds. Enjoy Maasai performances, including traditional singing, dancing, and storytelling around a roaring bonfire.
- Sundowners: Experience a magical sunset in the wild with our exclusive sundowner sessions. Enjoy refreshing cocktails and delicious snacks while watching the sun dip
below the horizon, offering a perfect view of the African landscape.
- Bush walks: Take a guided walking safari through the wilderness to explore Africa’s natural wonders up close. This immersive experience lets you appreciate the incredible
plant life and wildlife in a whole new way.
- Balloon safari adventure: Enjoy a thrilling hot air balloon ride at dawn, lasting between 45 minutes to an hour. Glide above the park’s stunning scenery, with chances to spot
wildlife below. After landing, enjoy a celebratory champagne breakfast in the heart of the park.
- Masai village visit: Connect with the Maasai people by visiting their villages. Learn about their rich culture and history, participate in traditional dances, and experience their way of life first-hand.
- Hiking expeditions: For the more adventurous, we offer short treks and hikes to explore the natural beauty and heritage of the area. Reach out to our safari advisor for
recommendations on trails that best suit your interests
Mobile coverage in cities and by the beaches is generally reliable, with 4G service being common. At the airport, you’ll find local SIM cards available for easy purchase. Kenya’s major parks, including Maasai Mara and Nakuru, have solid 3G/4G networks, while in Tanzania, such as at Serengeti and Ngorongoro, the connection is slower, often limited to 2G. Wi-Fi is available in most hotels but is typically restricted to communal areas rather than guest rooms.
While traveling in cities like Nairobi, Mombasa, and Arusha, you’ll have access to modern hospitals with a wide range of healthcare services. Smaller towns have basic medical centers that can handle everyday health concerns. However, because national parks are remote, we recommend bringing all your necessary prescription medications with you, as they may not be easily found in these areas. Any urgent medical supplies should be purchased before heading into the parks, as once you're inside, access to pharmacies and medical care will be limited.
Yes, all our suggested accommodations will have electricity, but it’s essential to bring either an African adapter or a universal one. In more remote areas, such as some tented camps within wildlife parks, power might be available only at certain times of the day. The camp staff will give you details on when and how you can charge your devices during check-in, and they’ll help make arrangements if needed. Additionally, many safari vehicles are equipped with 3-pin charging ports, so you can keep your phone, camera, or other electronics charged while you're out on the move.
Yes, traveling solo in East Africa is a rewarding experience, especially when you stay at smaller safari camps and lodges. These places often have a close-knit, communal vibe where you'll share meals and safari outings with other guests, which makes it easy to connect with fellow travelers. If you're seeking more solitude, a private guide and vehicle can be arranged. Small, tented camps are a great choice for solo adventurers, offering a more personalized experience that you might not find at larger lodges
In many parts of Africa, tipping is more than just a gesture of gratitude; it’s a way of directly supporting the local community, particularly those working in tourism. While tipping may not be something you’re accustomed to, it can make a significant difference for the staff you interact with. Consider it a way to show appreciation for their hard work. It's important to remember that tipping is entirely voluntary – there are no set amounts, and what you give is entirely your choice. Think of it as a way to say “thank you” for the excellent service you receive.
Here are some general tipping suggestions to guide you during your trip:
- Safari Driver & Guide: $5 - $10 per day, per person
- Hotel Staff: $5 - $10 per day, per person
- Restaurant & Café Servers: Around 10% of the total bill, especially for larger groups
These amounts are entirely optional and can be adjusted based on the level of service you receive