Planning the safari
1. Which country in Africa is best for a wildlife safari?
It is easier for a parent to choose one child over another rather than attempt to answer this seemingly basic yet important question. For one, Africa is a continent with 54 countries, many of which are world renowned for its flora and fauna. Each of these countries offers a unique experience that cannot be replicated in another country. If you wish to see the annual wildebeest migration in the Serengeti Plains, big cats, and some of the largest tuskers in the backdrop of a snow-capped mountain you need to go to Kenya and Tanzania. If you wish to see the Kalahari Desert or the Okavango Delta, Botswana is your calling. To see Victoria Falls and the wildlife around it, you must visit Zambia and Zimbabwe, which are also the foremost for walking safaris. For gorillas your safari will be in Uganda, Rwanda or DRC, while for the Chimpanzee it will be in Uganda or Tanzania. Uganda is the primate capital of Africa. Ever seen wild hippos frolicking in the ocean, or lion and elephant on desert dunes? For that you will need to visit Namibia. And if you're looking for a great holiday with a wildlife safari or a shark cage dive thrown in then South Africa is just for you. There is much to see. The choice of country lies in what you wish to see foremost. It is possible to combine many of these countries i.e., Kenya-Uganda- Tanzania, Zambia-Zimbabwe-Botswana, South Africa-Namibia-Botswana, Uganda-Rwanda, etc and many others.
2. Which is the best wildlife safari park?
Just as there is no best safari country, there is no such thing as a ‘best park’. Each and every park offers a unique experience in terms of flora, fauna, topography, climate, etc, and it is best to enjoy nature for what it is whilst you are there. With the movement of the earth around the sun, a park experiences dramatic seasonal changes that impacts its flora and fauna. A game drive can be tough going one minute and utterly rewarding the next. So stick it out and keep looking and you will find there is so much to see in each park. The best park is the one you are visiting – that’s how you start to enjoy your safari.
3. Which is the best time of the year to go on a safari to Africa?
The dry months (July - October) is the peak period for wildlife viewing as the animals must move large distances in search of food and water and therefore can be easily spotted. There are two wet seasons - the long rains (March - May) and the short rains (Nov-Dec) - during which sufficient availability of food and water keeps the animals from moving large distances. The wet season decreases visibility as the flora grows quickly and provides a thick cover for animals. However, the wet season is best for birds, insects, reptiles and amphibians. The wet season is classified as Green or Low season depending on the park and one can do a safari a lot cheaper than during the peak season. Christmas and Easter are peak periods owing to the holiday season.
4. Which is the best time of the year to go on a tiger safari in India?
The best time to visit India for tigers is in the heat of summer (Apr-mid Jun). Most tiger parks are shut during the Indian monsoon months (mid June - Sep). However, tiger safaris are popular in all the non-monsoon months and must be booked well in advance.
5. How many days should a normal safari last?
The average African safari is from 7-10 days.
The average tiger safari in India is 3-4 days per park.
6. Is a wildlife safari tiring?
The average game drive is for 3 hours. A half day drive is 5-6 hours while a full day drive is 8-10 hours. Daily check-outs can make a safari hectic and tiring; spend a minimum of two nights in the larger parks.
7. Are there facilities while on a game drive inside the park?
Yes. All Parks have separate facilities for men and women, at various points.
8. Are meals included in a safari?
As far as possible all meals are included on our safaris. However, on the first / last day, this can depend on the time of arrival / departure, respectively.
9. What is the budget for a safari?
The overall budget depends on the type of safari - road or air, the destinations, the types of accommodation, the safari vehicle, the number of people travelling in a vehicle, park fees, government cess, special meals and add-ons, entrances and the number of flights on the itinerary. A 7-10 nights safari can range from a few hundred to a few thousand US dollars per person, sharing. An entry-level safari in ensuite accommodation will cost USD 180-250 per person per day, sharing, in low season. An ultra luxury safari with flights and stays in some of the world's best camps and lodges could set you back USD 2500 per person per day, sharing, in peak season. Rates vary substantially between low and peak season and therefore there is no 'one size fits all' budget. Your tour operator's experience can save you time and money by customising your safari in your budget.
10. How far in advance does one need to book a safari?
In many cases, safaris are booked years in advance especially for the Christmas / New Year / Migration seasons. Therefore, booking early is always recommended. Book as soon as your dates are finalised.
11. What are the terms of booking a safari?
Usually, the booking amount is 20-30% of the total invoice which is non-refundable. The balance is payable 60-90 days before travel. This varies from camp to camp.
12. How many animals and birds can one hope to see on a safari?
This depends on the season, the park and, most importantly, on you. Our safari guides will make every effort to show you as much as possible. For us, no animal, bird or tree is inconsequential. A high interest from guests results in a better overall experience.
13. Can one feed animals and birds inside the park or at the hotel?
Feeding of wildlife is strictly forbidden. Kindly refrain from doing this. Once wild animals and birds become dependent on humans their behaviour can change and this can be harmful for both species.
14. What is a bush meal?
A meal - breakfast, lunch or dinner - arranged inside the park with the necessary permissions in the open is called a bush meal. It is one of the highlights of a safari. This must be booked by the tour operator well in advance especially in the peak season, as only a single group can be accommodated at one location.
15. What kind of meals are served on safaris?
Depending on the choice of accommodation, meals can be simple or elaborate, buffet or ala-carte. The cuisine varies from local, continental, Indian and Asian. Most high end camps and popular lodges provide for vegetarian, vegan, Jain and gluten-free diets, with prior information. Meat is halal or kosher.
16. Is laundry included during a safari?
Unless specifically mentioned in the inclusions, laundry is not included in the cost of a safari. However, even the most basic camps can organise your laundry at a nominal cost.
17. How can one prepare for a safari?
It helps to know a little history and culture about the country you will be visiting. A basic knowledge of greetings in the local language, e.g. Swahili in East Africa, not only breaks the ice but also makes local people appreciate the effort you have made. There is much information and many books on Africa and its wildlife. Prior knowledge is not a pre-requisite as things do not always go as planned on a game drive. Keeping the senses alert during game drives and listening carefully to the guide is the key to a better understanding. Keep your expectations realistic. What they show on Nat Geo is probably edited over many trips and some clips are many years - even decades - old. Don't always look only for the bigger, easy to spot animals. It is a sure shot road to boredom. The elation at spotting your first zebra can quickly disappear once you have seen a few thousand of them. Observe what the animals are doing. Look for birds. Oxpeckers are the early warning system for ungulates. Different species hang out together for mutual benefit e.g. dwarf mongoose and hornbills, impala and baboon, etc. There are over 60 raptors each with a specific prey-based adaptation e.g. snake eagles, fish eagles, etc. Some birds are colourful, others dull looking. There is a specific reason for this. Find out why. There is a wealth of information out there. Keep those senses alert.
18. Do we need to carry a wildlife guide-book on safari?
No, unless you wish to tick off the animals and birds and write your own notes. The vehicle contains field guides on flora and fauna which can be referred to inside the vehicle.
Organised vs Do-It-Yourself Safaris
Both are fun and doable, but the choice must not be based on the budget. DIY costs can spiral upwards. DIY offers more freedom and is a great option in some parts of Africa. On the flipside, an organised safari allows you to relax and concentrate on the wildlife and the comforts of the lodges / camps, whereas on DIY you will be constantly 'on the job' attending to some or other burning issue. It is not recommended to embark on a DIY safari unless you are an experienced traveler and know how to conduct vehicle repairs by yourself.
Children on Safari
• Are children permitted on safari?
Camps and lodges that are fenced off are children friendly. High end lodges and camps and those with no fencing have restrictions for children below 11-16 years. Even where children are permitted to stay, there are restrictions to their participation in activities. It is best to check this before making a booking.
• Are safaris too demanding for children?
Children of all ages love wild animals. We have had children from the age of 2 years on long safaris and they were no problem to their parents or to the other guests. However, parents are advised to book private and exclusive game drives especially if they are travelling with young kids so that other guests are not inconvenienced.
The culture in Africa is welcoming for children. Staff members at lodges go out of their way to keep children happy.
• Are there activities for children at the hotels?
Many child friendly camps and lodges offer activities for kids e.g. nature walks, fishing, football, swimming, bird watching, etc. Kids happily participate during cultural shows which happen regularly at all camps. Major cities have all sorts of places of interest for both children and adults alike eg museums, etc.
• Can a nanny service be booked for young children at the camp / lodge while parents go on the game drive?
This is possible to arrange at an additional cost if booked well in advance. However, this service may not be possible at the last minute, especially in the peak season.
Differently Abled travelers
More and more camps and lodges across Africa are gearing up to take care of differently abled travelers. As information can change in real time, it is advisable to check with each lodge or camp for wheelchair access before making a booking. Wheelchair access must also be available inside the safari vehicle. Airline seats may also have to be booked accordingly. Differently abled travelers must inform us about their needs and preferences at the time of organizing the itinerary and before bookings have been made, to avoid disappointment, as no changes may be possible at the last minute.
Budget related questions
• Are safaris fully-inclusive?
Unless specifically mentioned under Inclusions, safaris are not fully inclusive and services not mentioned under Inclusions will be charged.
• Is alcohol included on a safari?
Unless specifically mentioned in the inclusions, alcohol is not included in the cost of a safari; except at the luxury end, where too, certain expensive wines and liquors may be excluded.
• Can one consume one's own alcohol during a safari?
Yes. However, consumption of personal alcohol must be confined to within your room / tent and not in the public areas. The hotel / camp may levy a corkage fee for breaking the rule.
• How much cash does one need to carry on a safari?
Check with your tour operator as to which services are chargeable. Usually these are mentioned under Exclusions. You need to carry cash for tipping and personal use. Purchases can be paid through credit / debit card.
• Are credit / debit cards accepted on safari?
Yes. Even curio shops outside of towns and cities accept payments through credit and debit cards.
• What is the TIPPING POLICY on safari?
Tipping is an accepted part of the safari. Normally, the guide gets the major tip as he spends the most amount of time with the guests. The norm is USD 10-20 per guest per day paid directly to the guide at the end of the safari. For hotel staff, the norm is USD 5-10 per guest per stay paid into the tip box at reception. Porters and one-off tips can be paid USD 2 or its equivalent in local currency per porter.
• Do we have to pay for social interactions with local communities?
Yes, unless it has been included in the itinerary e.g., a visit to a Masai or Batwa Pygmy village. Once the entrance has been paid, guests are free to mingle and observe life in the village, take as many pictures, get a guided tour of the village, and buy locally made jewelry and curios. This may seem a bit touristy, nevertheless, it can be a life changing experience to see how our fellow human beings can live on so little, and in perfect harmony with nature.
Park Fees
The rate for park fees depends on the country, park, season and location of the lodge ie., whether it is inside or outside the park or in a private conservancy. The rate for children is usually 50% of the adult rate. Certain countries levy a substantial Concession Fee / cess in addition to the park fee. These fees are normally included in your package price; however, they are subject to change without notice. Any last minute unforeseen increases, after the package has been booked, must be borne by the guests on the spot.
Dietary issues
Guests with special dietary requirements eg., gluten-free, Jain vegetarian, etc., must inform us at the time of booking. With advance notice, most lodges and even remote camps are able to match up to varying palates. Vegetarians need not worry as there are plenty of options. Most lodges provide buffet meals. Remote camps usually provide a set menu meal at all times.
Trekking on Mount Kilimanjaro
Although climbing 'Kili' is more of a trek than a climb, at 5895m, it is 2/3rd the height of Everest (8848m). And, while it can take three weeks to reach a similar height on Everest i.e., Base Camp, a Kili trek can be completed in 5-9 days depending on the chosen route. Despite it's popularity as one the BIG 7 - highest peaks in each continent - the success rate is only 75%. Acclimatization is a must especially if you are not a regular climber. Above 5000m, you have to manage with only 50% of your regular oxygen intake and the risk of going up too fast and getting acute mountain sickness (AMS) is always there. The success rate improves from 75% on a 6 day trek to 98% on a 9 day trek. There are various routes up to Uhuru Peak, some more scenic, whilst others more difficult. The popular routes are Marangu, Machame, Lemosho / Shira, Rongai and Umbwe. The best time to trek is during the dry season from June to October and December to February. The night temperatures on the mountain is sub zero and therefore it is recommended to be well clad. Trekking equipment can be hired locally in Moshi or Arusha. Bring your own well worn water-proof trekking shoes.
Be a responsible traveler
Whether you are on safari or on a trek, please be a responsible traveler.
-Avoid littering
-Use toilets where available or bury your waste.
-Travel light.
-Avoid using soap and detergents at water courses.
-Be as quiet as possible on safari
-Keep that mobile phone always on silent
-Do not let kids out of your sight,
-Never step outside the vehicle on a game drive without the guide’s approval
-Respect local people and their customs
-Avoid taking photos of people and places without checking first
-Keep your cash safely out of view
-Be liberal with tips as many services cannot be quantified or invoiced
-Try and leave a minimal impact on the environment
-Follow the camp rules especially after dark
The areas you are visiting are a few of the last remaining vestiges of the wild on our planet and we must do all we can to preserve that.
Safety & security
• How safe are African countries to travel in?
All major cities of the world have some or other safety concerns. The important thing is that you will be spending almost all your time away from the cities and towns and inside wildlife parks. These areas provide employment opportunities to the local communities that live on the periphery of these parks. Incidents of crime inside wildlife parks are extremely rare. Before you make your booking, check your country's travel advisory.
• How safe is a wildlife safari from animal attacks? Can animals enter the safari vehicle?
Wild animals by and large ignore safari vehicles, except in areas where they have been hunted. Elephants and rhino are the most dangerous animals where vehicles are concerned and the guide will ensure a healthy distance is maintained with them.
There have been instances of cheetahs climbing onto the bonnet and roof of safari vehicles, with a little persuasion from drivers keen to please their clients and make an extra buck. However, this practice has been stopped and drivers can lose their license if caught on camera, which is easy these days given the speed at which pictures and videos are downloaded on social media.
Please do not insist on close encounters simply for the thrill of it as it can be very dangerous and could lead to injuries to your fellow passengers.
If you see a snake, presume it is venomous - unless you are an expert - and keep a safe distance. Snakes do not attack unless they are provoked or handled. Inform the guide or camp staff immediately.
• How safe is the tent / camp? Can wild animals enter the tent / camp?
Wild animals by nature do not attack humans. While staying in tents, it is mandatory to keep the tent zipped closed at all times, especially when you are out. Animals can smell foodstuff from a distance, and will enter open tents and create a mess. Monitor lizards, frogs and other creepy crawlies can also enter, and in turn be followed by snakes.
In un-fenced properties it is mandatory for guests to be escorted to and from their tents by security, after dark.
As long as guests follow the camp safety protocol there should be no cause for concern.
• How safe is a boat ride (or a walk) at Lake Naivasha?
Naivasha is derived from 'naiposha' which means "rough water" in the Masai language. The lake can change from placid to choppy in a matter of minutes. Boat rides are conducted by a captain or coxswain who is a local with sufficient experience in such conditions. While this is not termed as a dangerous activity, it is important for guests to know the pros and cons. The positive is that the lake is teeming with over 300 different species of birds and is a refreshing break from a game drive. Swimming, bathing or even walking at the lake's edge must be avoided, especially after dark. Hippos come out to graze after sunset and mishaps do happen. Follow the safety rules at the lodge.
• Is there a person on duty at the camp through the night?
Every camp and lodge has a number of security personnel on duty, day and night.
• Are rooms safe from theft?
Most camps and lodges provide lockers in the rooms, or at reception. Guests are advised to use them. Staff is usually hired from the nearby communities and they take great pride in their work. Theft is rare. Things left in common areas are almost always recovered at the 'lost and found desk' or at the reception. It is best to not carry excess cash, jewelry, expensive watches or chains on safari as these can be an unnecessary temptation.
• Is a balloon / walking / boat / canoe / horseback / camel safari safe?
Kindly remember that you are engaged in potentially dangerous activities in a wildlife area. Every activity has a reasonable risk attached to it and the indemnity that you are made to sign will address the risk. At the end of the day you are responsible for your actions on safari. Mishaps are rare but they do happen.
Covid 19 and other issues
Covid 19 has wreaked havoc on the world tourism industry. The livelihood of millions of people depends on the tourism and wildlife industry and it would be a death wish for the wildlife itself if the world were to avoid visiting these amazing countries. As countries open up gradually, hotels are offering 100% cancellation or rollovers if a safari were to be cancelled due to any of the above 'force majeure' reasons. Measures are being put in place to minimise the spread of Covid 19 while on safari. As guidelines keep changing from day to day, travelers are expected to go by their respective governments' travel advisory, before making their travel bookings.
Hotels and amenities
• What are the different types of accommodation?
You will find this information under the Types of Accommodation section. Amenities vary based on the type of accommodation chosen.
• Are hotels on our safari located inside the park?
Camps and lodges may be located inside or outside the gates of the national park or reserve. This can impact the number of times you may enter the park in 24 hours. Check this with your tour operator.
• Are electricity and hot water available 24x7 in all hotels?
While hotels in and near cities provide running hot water and electricity round the clock, electricity inside parks is usually available at certain times. Even when electricity is not available in the rooms, it is always available in the reception area. Guests can charge their phones and camera batteries there. Similarly, hot water is available early morning and late evening in most camps and lodges.
• Do rooms have electrical charging points?
Yes. Camps and lodges provide electrical charging points inside rooms and tents.
• What type of sockets / plugs should one carry?
Most countries in east and southern Africa follow Type C, D or G socket (230V/50Hz). A universal multiplug adapter is a useful item to carry.
• Do all hotels provide room service?
Room service is offered in hotels in the cities and towns, but very few camps and lodges offer room service. Meals are had in the dining area.
• Do all hotels serve alcohol?
Most camps and lodges (except campsites) have a bar with a choice of local and foreign liquor brands.
Vehicles and drives
• What type of vehicles are used on safari?
We conduct safaris in 5 / 7 seater modified safari vans / 4WD Toyota land cruisers with pop-up roofs. All guests have a window seat during game drives. Open view safari vehicles are available at select camps.
• Are the safari vehicles air conditioned?
Almost all safari vehicles are non air-conditioned. Air conditioned vehicles are more expensive and are subject to availability. Guests must be aware that during a safari game drive the vehicle roof is lifted / removed for ease of viewing animals and for taking pictures and video, so the AC is only available during the drives between camps.
• How long are the drives from one park to another?
This depends on the itinerary. The longest transfers are around 400 km in a day which usually takes 7-8 hours with a pit stop and a packed lunch. Most transfers are within 3-4 hours' duration. You normally check-out after breakfast and arrive at the new destination in time for a hot lunch.
• Can vehicles break down during a safari? How are guests compensated for this?
Safaris can be tough on vehicles. No matter how new the safari vehicle may be, breakdowns do happen. While mending punctures can take only a few minutes, getting towed out of deep mud can take a few hours, especially in the low season when there are not many vehicles in the vicinity to render assistance. For more serious breakdowns, the vehicle may have to go in for repairs, or may even need to be replaced. Unless there is a material loss of an activity in the itinerary as a result of the breakdown, there will be no monetary compensation offered. We will do everything we can to ensure the guests remain in high spirits through such moments which are part and parcel of the safari experience.
• Can one get off the safari vehicle to take pictures or to relieve oneself?
Getting off a safari vehicle is not allowed and strict fines can be levied by park rangers. In exceptional cases e.g. for an urgent need to relieve oneself, there being no facilities nearby, the guide will use his discretion and park the vehicle in a clearing so that a guest may get off and relieve him/her-self in the open, while the guide and other guests keep watch.
The onus of risk is on the guests at all times.
• Do vehicles have radio to connect with other cars in case of an emergency?
Yes. Vehicles are fitted with UHF radio.
• How old are safari vehicles?
As safari vehicles are modified after purchase, they are built to last many years. As far as possible we use vehicles that are 2-5 years old.
• Do vehicles have charging points?
Yes. Vehicles are fitted with charging points for mobile phones, chargers and laptops.
• Is there are a fridge in the vehicle?
Yes. The vehicle is fitted with a mini fridge that can keep water, soft drinks and even beer chilled for the long drives.
• What other amenities does the safari vehicle contain?
Guide-books on flora and fauna, sand bags to rest your cameras and lenses, top-up roof so you can stand and take pictures, one pair of binoculars (pl bring your own if you have a pair), charging points, mini fridge, bottled water for in-vehicle consumption only, cutlery and crockery for picnic meals, high-lift jack, spare tyres, two fuel tanks, toolkit, 4WD, UHF radio and storage for maximum 6 mid-sized bags and 6 hand bags.
• Are there toilet facilities inside the parks?
The rule on safari is "Use a toilet when you see one - not when you need one". All parks have designated toilets where it is possible to relieve oneself. However, as parks are very large in area it is possible there are no facilities nearby when the call of nature beckons. In such 'emergencies' the bush toilet is the only way out. The guide will park the vehicle at a safe open spot while members (of the same sex!) will keep an eye out for danger. This may sound like a very difficult thing to do but in reality it is a simple and exciting activity!
Driver guides
• How knowledgeable is the guide?
Driver guides are knowledgeable about flora, fauna, parks and general knowledge about their country of operation. Guests are encouraged to ask questions about any aspect of the safari or country being visited.
• What is the guide's role during the safari?
The driver guide is the de-facto leader of the group. He is responsible for the safety of the group. He will brief the group before a game drive, and try and follow a plan factoring in what the group members wish to see. He will be patient and stop to explain things, but may seem to be in a hurry at other times as he may have heard about a specific sighting on the radio and is trying to make it there in time. He is there to answer your questions. In case you are unable to understand the guides' accent, ask again. The guide has much information to share with all group members, not only with those seated closest to him. For the benefit of everybody, those seated closest to the guide must relay the information to the others. Most importantly, the guide will set the departure times and expect it to be followed. Guests opting out of a game drive must inform the guide so that the other guests are not delayed. If any guest is having an issue with another guest or any other matter, kindly bring it to the guide's notice. There will be moments on the game drive when you see nothing 'big' for hours and start feeling it's all because of the guide taking a wrong turn somewhere. Then all of a sudden you come across a leopard on a tree just above you. All the negative sentiments will disappear. Remember the guide is only the catalyst in the safari. Trust your guide and back him and you will see a lot more than you expected to.
• What language is the safari conducted in?
Our safaris are conducted in English. We provide guides proficient in other languages on a special request basis.
Bush Flights
• What sort of planes operate on bush flights / flying safaris?
Single engine Cessnas carry 5-13 passengers while the larger Dash 8 turboprops can carry 50 passengers.
• Why are flying safaris so expensive?
While flying reduces the time to get from one destination to another, you still need the safari vehicles for the game drives. This increases the package cost substantially.
• What is the baggage allowance on bush flights?
The baggage allowance on bush flights varies between countries and airlines. Its is usually 15kg per person.
• Can one get air-sick on a bush flight?
Though flights are generally of short duration, turbulence can cause air-sickness. While air-sick bags are provided, it is recommended to take anti-motion sickness medication before the flight.
Connectivity
• Do mobile phones work everywhere?
Mobile phone coverage is excellent in cities and towns. However, many areas inside parks do not get any signal.
• Do hotels provide internet facilities?
Most camps and lodges provide internet services. However, the speed of the connection can vary from fast (cities) to very slow (inside parks).
• Do rooms and tents have Wi-Fi?
Wi-Fi is available in most city hotels, though speeds vary enormously. Many wildlife lodges and camps have Wi-Fi access, but it tends to be unreliable.
The Wildebeest Migration
• What is the Migration? Why is it a big deal?
The annual movement of approximately 1.5 million wildebeest, 300,000 zebra, 400,000 Thomson's gazelle and other migrating animals in the Serengeti National Park of Tanzania is collectively known as the Annual Wildebeest Migration. This phenomenon is listed as one of the Natural Wonders of the world. The Migration moves within the Serengeti in Tanzania for most of the year and enters Kenya's Masai Mara during the dry months (July-October), before returning back to the Serengeti. The sheer scale and magnitude of this event makes it so special.
• Is the Serengeti Migration the only 'big' thing on an East African safari?
Not at all. Kenya alone has 65 wildlife areas - Masai Mara is just one of them. Serengeti is one among 40 odd wildlife areas in Tanzania. Many species of animals and birds are not found in the Serengeti - Mara ecosystem. To see them you need to visit other parks as well.
• What is a 'crossing'? Will we get to see one?
When a column of migrating animals comes across a river, it halts, sometimes for many days or even weeks, gathering in numbers until the leader shows the way by jumping into the river. Zebra usually lead the wildebeest in common herds. When the river is in full fury, many animals get swept away while fewer numbers fall prey to hungry Nile crocodiles. This spectacle is called a 'crossing' but people mistakenly interpret the migration with river crossings, and river crossings with a crocodile feast. The reality is different. River crossings are up to chance, and can happen at one of many points along the Grumeti (in Tanzania), Mara (Kenya and Tanzania) and Talek (Kenya) rivers, or their tributaries. Also, the timing of a crossing cannot be predicted as wildebeest can take more than a week to jump, while the average guest stay in the Serengeti or Mara is just 3-4 days. Furthermore, being a reptile with slow metabolism, once a hungry croc has had his fill, he does not need to hunt for another few months. Most Nile crocs are satiated within a week or two of the first few crossings. After that migrating animals can cross and re-cross the rivers without being attacked. In years of drought or low rainfall, the river level drops drastically, which turns the balance in favour of the ungulates. So a crossing may be completely devoid of crocodiles. It is important to understand this.
Emergencies
• What kind of assistance can guests expect during an emergency?
All guests booked on our safaris are covered for air evacuation in case of a medical emergency. The Flying Doctor service covers the flight and transfer of the patient to a hospital in Nairobi. However, all hospital expenses must be borne by the guest. It is recommended to take a comprehensive medical insurance before booking a safari. It is highly recommended that all medication details be carried on the person of the guest so that due protocol can be followed in a medical emergency. For more details log onto https://flydoc.org/.
• Is there a doctor on call during a safari?
Yes, the Flying Doctor service is available round the clock. More details can be had from the Flying Doctors website https://flydoc.org/.
• Is the cost of hospitalisation covered during an emergency?
No. The cost only covers the air evacuation of the patient and one family member or friend / colleague to a hospital in Nairobi. All expenses pertaining to the hospital and illness must be borne by the guest. More details can be had from the Flying Doctors website https://flydoc.org/.
Health & Insurance
• Does one need medical insurance for a safari holiday in East Africa?
Yes. It is highly recommended that guests take out a comprehensive travel insurance policy that covers theft, loss, medical and even dangerous activities (if walking / balloon safaris is part of your itinerary) prior to booking the safari. Check if the policy covers an emergency flight home as well.
• Is Trip Cancellation Insurance included in the safari cost?
No. TCI is available in certain countries but not currently in India. Therefore, guests on our safaris cannot avail of a refund by cancelling a trip for any reason. Refunds are offered only during force majeure events.
• Is there a full refund in case of a force majeure event?
In case of a force majeure event, eg., Covid 19, the amount paid towards hotels and airlines is usually refundable either by way of cash or a credit note for a future booking. In case of a cash refund, the amount paid towards transport, park fees and agent fee is usually non-refundable.
• What are the vaccinations necessary for a safari to East Africa?
It is mandatory to carry a Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate for entry into East Africa (Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi). It is also mandatory to have a Covid 19 Negative Report.
• Is there a list of medicines and medical equipment one should carry on safari to East Africa?
It is best to check with your GP which medicines you may need on the safari. The following is an indicative medical kit;
• Self-diagnostic malaria kit that can identify malaria in the blood from a finger prick.
• Acetaminophen (paracetamol) or aspirin,
• Acetazolamide (Diamox) for altitude sickness (prescription only)
• Adhesive or paper tape
• Antibacterial ointment (e.g. Bactroban) for cuts and abrasions (prescription only)
• Antibiotics (prescription only), e.g. ciprofloxacin (Ciproxin) or norfloxacin (Utinor)
• Antidiarrhoeal drugs (e.g. loperamide)
• Antihistamines (for hay fever and allergic reactions)
• Anti-inflammatory drugs (e.g. ibuprofen)
• Antimalaria pills
• Bandages, gauze, gauze rolls
• Insect repellent containing DEET, for the skin
• Iodine tablets (for water purification)
• Oral rehydration salts
• Permethrin-containing insect spray for clothing, tents and bed nets
• Steroid cream or hydrocortisone cream (for allergic rashes)
• Sunscreen
• Syringes, sterile needles and fluids if travelling to remote areas
• Thermometer
• Is malaria a problem on a safari to East Africa?
Malaria is a major health scourge in East Africa. Infection rates vary with the season (higher in the rainy season) and climate, so check the situation before departure. However, the incidence of malarial transmission at 2000 metres above sea level is rare. Falciparum malaria is the predominant form in East Africa. There being no vaccination against malaria, it is best to check with your GP as to which medication to take.
It is advisable to sleep under a mosquito net at night and use an anti mosquito spray as often as possible. A few drops of citronella oil applied around the hands and face keeps mosquitoes and other insects away during game drives.
• Is tap water safe to drink?
Water must not be had directly from the tap. Bottled water will be provided during the day. At night it is advisable to buy bottled water from the hotel. Hotels also provide filtered water free of cost.
Accreditation
• Does the tour operator book the safaris direct or through agents?
International airline tickets are issued under IATA and therefore fully protected, in case of a cancellation. Our strong partnership with hotels and other service providers ensures that our clients can avail of competitive rates when they book their safaris through us. In specific cases we have obtained refunds / credit note where guests were unable to travel for medical reasons after paying in full.
• Are the promoters hands-on and knowledgeable about the services they provide?
The promoters of IAS have over 30 years' experience of wildlife safaris in Africa. All the guides as well as the promoters of IAS have a proficiency equivalent of the Kenya Professional Safari Guides Association (KPSGA https://safariguides.org/guides/ ) Bronze or Silver level. The KPSGA is Kenya's premier guiding authority affiliated to the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS).
LGBTQ Travellers
• Is travel safe for LGBTQ travellers?
There is an overall negative attitude towards LGBT+ travelers in many countries. Although things are improving, it is advisable for LGBT+ guests to keep a low profile as blackmailing by con-men has become a common practice to extract money from them.
Do's & Dont's
• Cash: Do not carry excess cash, jewelry and expensive watches on safari. You don't need it and you only attract unwanted attention.
• Tap water is unsafe for drinking, unless boiled or filtered. Bottled water is usually provided in vehicles and in rooms; if not it is advisable to purchase a few bottles immediately on arrival.
• First aid kit is normally available with the guide in the vehicle or at the lodges, but it is advisable to carry some iodine solution in case of bleeding injuries.
• Please do not carry food items that can spoil easily as the same cannot be discarded at will. Please do not litter esp in the reserves as stiff penalties may be levied. Kindly dispose waste at the hotel / lodge.
• During game drives, it is forbidden to step outside the vehicles except at designated areas under supervision, due to the presence of wild animals. At all such times the onus of responsibility is on the individual, and neither the agent, park, guide or tour leaders will be responsible for any eventuality. Similarly, feeding of animals and birds is strictly prohibited. Pl do not try and touch the animals as they are wild and can cause serious injury.
• Packed lunch will be provided to those wishing to opt for a full day game drive – however this must be communicated to the lodge within the cut-off time the previous evening. Pl check with reception on this.
• To combat the effects of a tsetse fly bite, it is recommended to carry an antihistamine and an anti-itch lotion / moisturizer for immediate relief. A list of medicines are provided in the Health & Insurance section above.
• Carry a book in case you like reading or pick up a book on African bestsellers from our list in the section below.