There's no single "best" time – it depends on your priorities:

Peak Season: June - October (Dry Season)

Pros:

• Easier wildlife viewing (animals gather at water sources)
• Less vegetation = better visibility
• Great weather (warm, minimal rain)
• Great Migration in Masai Mara (July-October)

Cons:

• Higher prices
• More tourists
• Dustier conditions

Green/Low Season: November - May (Wet Season)

Pros:

• Lush landscapes, stunning sunsets, moderate temperatures
• Baby animals (many species give birth November-March)
• Lower prices
• Fewer tourists
• Excellent bird watching (migratory birds)

Cons:

• Some roads impassable (especially March-April)
• Wildlife more dispersed
• Some camps closed

Shoulder Season: May, November

Sweet Spot!

• Good weather transitioning
• Moderate prices
• Fewer crowds
• Wildlife still concentrated

Country-Specific Considerations

Kenya/Tanzania:

• June-October: Prime safari season
• July-October: Great Migration (Masai Mara)
• January-February: Calving season (Serengeti)

Botswana:

• May-October: Best for Okavango Delta (peak floods June-August)
• November-March: Green season, Victoria Falls at full flow

South Africa:

• Year-round destination
• May-September: Best wildlife (winter = dry season)
• October-April: Lush, green, some camps cheaper

Uganda/Rwanda (Gorilla Trekking):

• Best: June-September, December-February
• Avoid: April-May (heavy rains make trekking difficult)

Visa requirements vary by nationality and destination. Here's guidance for U.S. citizens (non-U.S. citizens should check with their local embassy):

Tanzania

Required: Yes
Type: U.S. citizens must obtain a Multiple Entry Visa (not Ordinary Visa)
Cost: $100 USD
Validity: 1 year, multiple entries

How to Apply:

1. Online e-Visa (RECOMMENDED): Apply at visa.immigration.go.tz
   • Processing takes 10 business days
   • You'll receive a "grant notice" via email
   • Present this at immigration on arrival
2. Visa on Arrival: Available at major airports, but online application is faster

Kenya

Required: Yes
Type: Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA)
Cost: $30-35 USD per person (subject to change - verify before travel)
How to Apply: etakenya.go.ke
Processing: 3 working days (apply no more than 90 days before travel)

Zimbabwe

Required: Yes
Type: e-Visa or Visa on Arrival

Cost:

• Single Entry: $30 USD
• Double Entry: $45 USD
• Multiple Entry: $55 USD
• KAZA Univisa (Zimbabwe + Zambia): $50 USD

How to Apply:

1. Online e-Visa (RECOMMENDED): Apply at evisa.gov.zw at least 10 business days before travel
2. Visa on Arrival: Available at airports and land borders

Validity: Typically 30-90 days depending on visa type

Namibia

Required: Yes (since April 1, 2025)
Type: e-Visa or Visa on Arrival
Cost: N$1,600 (approximately $88 USD)

How to Apply:

1. Online e-Visa (STRONGLY RECOMMENDED): Apply at eservices.mhaiss.gov.na before travel
2. Visa on Arrival: Available at major airports and border posts, but may have long queues

Validity: 30 days, multiple entries

Botswana

Required for U.S. Citizens: No visa needed for tourism stays up to 90 days
Entry Requirements: Passport valid 6+ months, proof of onward travel

South Africa

Required for U.S. Citizens: No visa needed for stays under 90 days

Important Travel Documents

• Passport valid for at least 6 months beyond your return date
• At least 2-3 blank visa pages in your passport
• Proof of onward/return travel
• Proof of accommodation (first night minimum)

Most safari bush planes have strict weight limits of 15-20 kg (33-44 lbs) per person, including both checked bags and carry-on luggage. This varies by country and airline:

• East Africa (Kenya, Tanzania): Typically 15 kg (33 lbs) total
• Southern Africa (Botswana, Zambia, Zimbabwe): Usually 20 kg (44 lbs) total

Why are the limits so strict?
Bush planes operate on short, unpaved airstrips in remote areas with limited space for luggage, and strict weight restrictions ensure aircraft balance and safety.

What happens if my bag is over the limit?
You may be charged excess baggage fees or required to purchase an additional seat. If you arrive with incorrect luggage, you may be offered a soft bag at cost, and your suitcase may be left behind or transported separately at additional expense.

Can I send extra luggage ahead or store it?
Yes, you can arrange to store excess baggage for collection on your return, or have it forwarded to other destinations at additional cost. Discuss this with us during booking.

International airline allowances are much more generous than bush planes:

• Emirates: Economy Special: 1 x 23kg (50 lbs) | Economy Flex/Premium: 2 x 23kg | Business/First: 2 x 32kg (70 lbs)
• United Airlines: Economy: 2 x 23kg (50 lbs) | Business/First: 2 x 32kg (70 lbs)
• Kenya Airways, Qatar, Ethiopian: Generally 2 x 23kg for economy

Can I combine baggage allowances with my travel partner?
This varies by airline. Contact your airline directly to confirm their policy on pooling baggage allowances.

Soft-sided duffel bags are essential if you're taking any bush flights. Hard-shell suitcases cannot be accommodated in small aircraft cargo holds.

Recommended specifications:

• Soft-sided duffel or expedition bag
• 60-70 liters capacity
• Dimensions around 24" x 12" x 10" (or smaller)
• One flat/hard base is acceptable
• Minimal or collapsible wheels
• Compression straps to reduce bulk

Should I bring a daypack?
Yes! A small daypack (20-30L) is perfect for:

• Camera gear during game drives
• Binoculars, sunscreen, water bottle
• Extra layers for early morning drives
• Personal items

Commonly Recommended Vaccines:

Routine Vaccines (ensure you're up to date):

• MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella)
• Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis (Tdap)
• Polio
• Hepatitis A & B
• COVID-19

Travel-Specific Vaccines:

• Yellow Fever (see detailed section below)
• Typhoid (food/water-borne illness)
• Rabies (if visiting remote areas or handling animals)

Disclaimer: Vaccine requirements and recommendations change frequently. Always consult with your doctor or healthcare practitioner well in advance of travel for the most current guidance specific to your destinations and health status.

This depends on three factors:

1. Your destination countries
2. Your routing/layovers (even airport transits count!)
3. Your nationality

Countries that REQUIRE Yellow Fever proof for entry: Benin, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Congo, Côte d'Ivoire, DRC, Gabon, Guinea-Bissau, Kenya, Liberia, Rwanda, Sierra Leone, Niger, and Togo.

Countries with NO Yellow Fever requirement (when arriving directly):

• South Africa
• Botswana
• Namibia
• Zimbabwe (Victoria Falls area)

Important Details:

• The yellow fever vaccine is now considered valid for life by the WHO, though some countries may still require a booster if your certificate is over 10 years old
• Vaccination must be conducted at least 10 days before entering a yellow fever zone
• You'll receive an International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis (ICVP) – bring this with you!

Medical Waivers: If you have a valid medical reason for avoiding the vaccine (severe egg allergy, age under 9 months, compromised immune status), obtain a medical waiver letter from your travel clinic, though some countries may still deny entry or impose restrictions.

Malaria is one of the most common diseases in Africa, but is easily preventable and treatable with antimalarial medication.

Malaria-Risk Safari Areas:

• Kenya: Masai Mara, coastal regions
• Tanzania: Serengeti, Tarangire, Selous
• South Africa: Parts of Limpopo, KwaZulu-Natal, and Mpumalanga provinces, including Kruger National Park
• Botswana: Okavango Delta region
• Uganda & Rwanda: Throughout

Malaria-FREE Safari Destinations:

• Namibia (including Etosha National Park)
• South Africa: Cape Town, Johannesburg, Garden Route
• Parts of South Africa's Eastern Cape

Prevention Strategies:

1. Antimalarial Medication: Visit your doctor to get advice about whether you should take antimalarial prophylactics as soon as you know when and where you'll be traveling. Common options include:

• Atovaquone-Proguanil (Malarone)
• Doxycycline
• Mefloquine

2. Mosquito Avoidance:

• Use DEET or picaridin-based repellent
• Wear long sleeves/pants at dawn and dusk
• Sleep under mosquito nets (provided at most camps)

Bring a personal medical kit containing:

• Prescription medications (in original containers)
• Antimalarial medication (if prescribed)
• Pain relievers (ibuprofen, acetaminophen)
• Anti-diarrheal medication
• Antihistamines
• Sunscreen (SPF 30+) and lip balm
• Insect repellent (DEET 30%+)
• Hand sanitizer
• Basic first aid supplies (bandages, antibiotic ointment)
• Motion sickness medication
• Rehydration salts

Pre-existing Conditions: Inform us early if you have special medical needs. Some remote camps may have limited medical facilities, so ensure you have comprehensive travel health insurance that covers medical evacuation.

For Safari Camps: Most expenses are pre-paid. You'll need cash mainly for:

• Tips (the biggest expense)
• Souvenirs
• Optional extras (spa treatments, premium drinks)

Best Currencies to Bring:

US Dollars (widely accepted everywhere)

• Bring small denominations: $1, $5, $10, $20 bills
• Avoid $100 bills or bills older than 2009
• USD should not be older than 2009 and must be clean with no tears

Local Currency (helpful for city stops, small purchases)

In Cities & Large Lodges: Yes

• Visa and Mastercard widely accepted
• Inform your bank of travel plans!

In Remote Safari Camps: Often not available

• Some camps don't have card facilities
• Satellite internet makes processing difficult

• Major Cities: Yes, widely available (airports, towns)
• Safari Areas: Very limited or non-existent

Withdraw cash before heading to remote areas.

Budget Estimate:

• Tipping: $30-50 per person per day
• Souvenirs: $50-200 per person (optional)
• Extras/Emergencies: $200-300

Currency Exchange:

• Exchange at airports or authorized bureaux (avoid hotels - poor rates)
• Keep small amounts of local currency for markets, street vendors
• Many places quote in USD but give change in local currency

In Africa, it is customary – but not obligatory or mandatory – to give tips to service staff in gratitude for good service. Gratuities can be increased or decreased depending on the level of service.

Who do I tip?

• Safari Guide/Driver: Your guide is critical to your safari experience
• Safari Tracker/Spotter: Works alongside your guide to find wildlife
• General Camp/Lodge Staff: Chefs, housekeeping, servers (communal tip box)
• Transfer Drivers: Airport/hotel transfers
• Special Activity Guides: Walking safari guides, mokoro paddlers

All amounts in USD unless otherwise noted. These are guidelines – adjust based on service quality and your budget.

Safari Lodges & Camps

Safari Guide:

• $10-20 per person per day
• For private guides: $20-30 per person per day

Safari Tracker/Spotter:

• $5-10 per person per day

General Camp Staff (Communal Tip Box):

• $10-20 per person per day
• This is distributed among all staff including chefs, housekeepers, and servers

Butlers/Personal Hosts:

• $5-10 per person per day

Other Services

Airport/Hotel Porters: $1-2 per bag

Transfer Drivers:

• $2-5 per transfer (short trips)
• $3-5 per person for airport-to-hotel transfers

City Tour Guides:

• Half-day tour: $5-10 per person
• Full-day tour: $10-20 per person

Restaurant Servers: 10-15% of bill (if service charge not included)

Special Activities:

• Walking safari guides: $5-10 per activity
• Mokoro polers (Okavango): $5 per person per day
• Hot air balloon operators: $10-20 per person
• Cultural performers/dancers: $5-10 per person

Currency:

• US dollars are commonly used throughout Africa, except in South Africa and Namibia where local currency is preferred. Local currency is Rand (ZAR) in South Africa & the Namibian Dollar in Namibia but the South African Rand is accepted. The NAD is not accepted anywhere else in the world.
• Bring small denominations: $5, $10, $20 bills
• Avoid $100 bills or notes older than 2006 as they can be problematic
• USD should not be older than 2009 and must be clean with no tears.

When to Tip:

• Always tip at the end of your stay at each lodge or camp, not after each activity or day
• Prepare tips in separate envelopes for each camp for convenience

How to Tip:

• Most camps have a communal tip box for general staff – tips are distributed equally
• Tip your guide directly (hand to hand or sealed envelope)
• For specific staff members, put tips in an envelope with their name and give to the camp manager

Are tips included in my package?
No. Gratuities are not included in safari package prices and are completely discretionary.

Africa uses multiple plug types depending on country:

Most Common:

• Type D & M: South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, Zimbabwe
• Type G: Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda (British standard)
• Type C & E: Parts of West/Central Africa

Best Option: Bring a universal travel adapter that covers:

• Type D/M (South African 3-round-pin)
• Type G (UK 3-rectangular-pin)
• USB charging ports (very helpful!)

Power Supply:

• Voltage: 220-240V (same as Europe, UK, Australia)
• Frequency: 50Hz
• US travelers: Your phone/laptop chargers will work, but hair dryers/straighteners may need a voltage converter (or bring a dual-voltage model)

Yes, but be considerate:

• Outlets may be limited in tents/rooms
• Bring a power strip (with surge protection)
• Charge during daylight hours in solar-powered camps
• Bring external battery packs for cameras/phones

Solar Chargers: Useful for multi-day mobile safaris or walking safaris, but most camps have adequate charging facilities.

It varies significantly:

• Luxury Lodges: Often have Wi-Fi in main areas (not always in rooms)
• Remote Camps: Wi-Fi often unavailable or very limited
• Speed: Expect slow, intermittent connections via satellite

For City Portions: Yes, useful in Nairobi, Cape Town, Johannesburg

• Safaricom (Kenya)
• Vodacom (South Africa)
• Airtel (Tanzania)

For Safari Camps: Cell service is typically non-existent in remote areas

eSIM Options: Services like Airalo offer Africa data packages if your phone supports eSIM.

• Most camps have emergency satellite phones
• Some offer WhatsApp access via camp Wi-Fi
• Consider informing family you'll have limited communication
• Download offline maps before departing

Charging Devices:

• Power is available at all camps (solar, generator, or grid)
• Charging often limited to certain hours (solar camps)
• Bring a power bank for backup
• Universal adapters required (see plug section)

5:30-6:00 AM: Wake Up Call

• Light knock on tent/room door
• Tea/coffee and light snack delivered

6:00-6:30 AM: Morning Game Drive Departs

• Dress in layers (starts cool!)
• Bring camera, binoculars, water
• Blankets provided in vehicle

6:30-10:00 AM: Morning Game Drive

• Best time for wildlife activity
• Animals most active in cool morning
• Stop for coffee/snack in the bush
• Return as it gets hot

10:00-10:30 AM: Return to Camp

• Freshen up, relax

10:30 AM-12:30 PM: Full Breakfast

• Hearty meal (eggs, cereals, pastries, fresh fruit)
• Communal or private dining
• Share morning sightings with other guests

12:30-3:30 PM: Midday Break

• Hottest part of day (animals rest, you rest!)
• Options: Relax by pool, nap in your room, spa treatment, read, journal, organize photos
• Light lunch served

3:30 PM: Afternoon Tea

• Snacks, cakes, tea/coffee
• Prepare for evening drive

4:00 PM: Evening Game Drive Departs

• Different route than morning
• Look for animals becoming active

6:30-7:00 PM: Sundowner Stop

• Pull over at scenic spot
• Drinks and snacks served
• Watch the sunset
• Magical safari tradition!

7:00-8:00 PM: Night Drive

• Spotlights used to find nocturnal animals
• Look for leopards, hyenas, civets, nightjars
• Return to camp

8:00-9:30 PM: Dinner

• Multi-course meal
• Communal or private dining
• Share day's experiences

9:30-10:00 PM: Bedtime

• Early nights are common (early wake-up!)
• Camp staff escort you to tent/room
• Animals often active around camp at night

Depending on your camp, you might also enjoy:

Walking Safaris:

• 2-4 hour guided walks
• Learn about tracks, plants, insects
• More intimate wildlife experience

Bush Breakfasts/Dinners:

• Meals served in scenic outdoor locations
• Special occasion treats

Cultural Visits:

• Local village or community visits
• Traditional dancing, crafts

Sleep-Outs:

• Sleep under stars on elevated platform
• Some camps offer as special experience

Hot Air Balloon Safaris:

• Early morning flights over plains
• Champagne breakfast after landing
• Additional cost ($450-600 per person)

Safari vehicles vary by destination:

East Africa (Kenya, Tanzania):

• Modified 4x4 Land Cruisers or Land Rovers
• Pop-up roofs for 360° viewing and photography
• Typically accommodate 6-8 guests
• Open sides with roll-down canvas covers

Southern Africa (Botswana, South Africa, Zambia, Zimbabwe):

• Custom-built open safari vehicles
• Three tiers of seating (tracker in front, guide in middle, guests in back)
• Completely open sides (no windows)
• Usually 6-10 guests per vehicle

Yes! All safari vehicles are:

• Purpose-built for wildlife viewing
• Maintained to high safety standards
• Driven by experienced, trained guides
• Equipped with first aid kits and communication equipment

Most lodges practice seat rotation to ensure everyone gets:

• Window/aisle seats
• Front/back positions
• Best photography angles

Rotation typically happens at each game drive. Private vehicles don't need rotation policies.

• Bush flights: Small aircraft (Cessnas) between remote camps
• Road transfers: 4x4 vehicles
• Boat transfers: Used in delta regions (Okavango, Zambezi)

Permanent Tented Camps:

• Fixed structures with canvas sides
• En-suite bathrooms (flush toilets, hot showers)
• Solar or generator power
• Often elevated on platforms
• Examples: Serengeti Migration Camp, Mombo Camp

Lodges:

• Permanent buildings (stone/brick/wood)
• More hotel-like amenities
• Reliable electricity and plumbing
• Swimming pools common
• Examples: Singita Lodges, andBeyond properties

Mobile/Seasonal Camps:

• Temporary camps that move with wildlife
• Smaller, more intimate (4-8 tents)
• Bucket showers or simple facilities
• More adventurous experience
• Usually operate 3-6 months per year

Most modern safari camps have:

• En-suite bathrooms (private, attached to your tent/room)
• Flush toilets
• Hot running water showers
• Some luxury camps have outdoor showers and bathtubs

Only very remote or mobile camps might have shared facilities or bucket showers.

Expect to find:

• Comfortable beds with mosquito nets (not all camps offer this)
• Safes (in most lodges) – or in the main reception area
• Charging stations (solar or generator power)
• Fans (air-con less common, often unnecessary)
• Tea/coffee making facilities (not in all camps)
• Laundry service (included at most camps!) either as part of the package or pay for this service in destination

Safari camps are casual and relaxed:

• No formal dress codes
• Communal dining and social areas
• Small group sizes (12-24 guests typical)
• Friendly, personalized service
• Early to bed, early to rise rhythm

Safari dining is surprisingly excellent! Expect:

• Fresh, high-quality ingredients (many camps grow their own herbs/vegetables)
• International cuisine with local influences
• Multi-course meals at lodges
• Bush breakfasts and sundowner cocktails in scenic locations
• Buffet or plated service depending on camp style

Typical Safari Meal Schedule:

• Pre-dawn: Coffee, tea, rusks before morning game drive
• Breakfast: Full breakfast after morning drive (7:30-9:30am)
• Lunch: Light meal midday (12:30-2pm)
• Afternoon tea: Snacks before evening drive (3:30pm)
• Sundowners: Drinks & snacks during evening drive
• Dinner: Main meal after night drive (7:30-9pm)

Absolutely! Most camps easily cater to:

• Vegetarian & vegan
• Gluten-free & dairy-free
• Religious dietary requirements (kosher, halal)
• Food allergies
• Picky eaters (including children)

This varies significantly by camp:

Typically Included but dependent on camp:

• All meals
• Tea, coffee, soft drinks
• Local beer and house wine
• Local spirits

Often Excluded (or limited):

• Premium/imported wines
• Champagne
• Premium spirits
• Specialty cocktails

"All-inclusive" usually means house drinks included. "Fully inclusive" often includes premium drinks. Always confirm what's covered.

Not necessary, but some travelers like to bring:

• Energy bars for early morning drives
• Special treats not available in Africa
• Favorite tea bags or instant coffee

• Stay seated at all times (unless guide says it's safe to stand)
• Keep arms/legs inside vehicle
• No sudden movements or loud noises
• Listen to your guide – they know animal behavior
• Be patient – wildlife viewing takes time
• Share the best spots – rotate positions
• Ask questions! Guides love sharing knowledge

• Never get out of vehicle unless guide says it's safe
• Respect animal space – never crowd or chase
• Stay quiet during sightings (whispers only)
• No flash photography near animals
• Animals always have right of way

• Don't walk alone at night – always request escort
• Close tent/room zippers completely (monkeys!)
• Don't leave food out (attracts animals)
• Respect wildlife in camp – observe from distance
• Keep voices low early morning/late evening

Environmental:

• Leave no trace – take all litter with you
• Don't pick plants or disturb nature
• Stay on designated paths
• Respect park rules – no off-road driving (unless permitted)

Cultural Sensitivity:

• Ask before photographing people
• Dress modestly in villages
• Respect local customs and traditions
• Support local businesses and communities

For Serious Wildlife Photography:

• DSLR or mirrorless camera body
• Telephoto lens: 300mm-600mm (400mm+ ideal)
• Wide-angle lens: 24-70mm for landscapes
• Extra batteries (3-4 minimum)
• Memory cards (64GB+ capacity, multiple)
• Beanbag or window mount for vehicle stability
• Lens cleaning kit (dust is unavoidable!)

For Casual Photography:

• High-quality smartphone (surprisingly capable!)
• Bridge camera with good zoom (Canon SX series, Nikon Coolpix)
• Point-and-shoot with 20x+ optical zoom

Essential for safari! Recommended specs:

• 8x42 or 10x42 (magnification x objective lens diameter)
• Good quality brands: Swarovski, Zeiss, Leica, Vortex, Nikon
• One pair per person if possible

Drone use is HIGHLY RESTRICTED on safari:

• Kenya: Requires permit from Kenya Civil Aviation Authority ($150+ USD)
• Tanzania: Generally prohibited in national parks
• Botswana: Prohibited in national parks and reserves
• South Africa: Some private reserves allow with permission; national parks generally prohibit

• Charge batteries every night (power can be limited)
• Bring a headlamp for camera adjustments in dark
• Use fast shutter speeds (1/1000s+) for action
• Shoot in RAW format for better editing
• Respect guide's instructions (don't stand up or make sudden movements)
• Photograph early morning/late afternoon for best light

Yes! But age restrictions vary by camp:

Age Limits:

• Many camps: 6+ years minimum
• Luxury camps: Often 12+ years
• Family-specific camps: Welcome all ages
• Private vehicles: Often accept younger children

Why age restrictions?

• Long game drives (3-4 hours)
• Early wake-ups
• Need to stay quiet and still
• Safety around wildlife

Choose family-specific camps with:

• Kids' programs and activities
• Shorter game drives
• Swimming pools
• More flexible schedules
• Interconnecting rooms/family tents

Other tips:

• Book private vehicles for flexibility with younger children
• Consider self-drive safaris in parks like Kruger (South Africa)
• Plan shorter itineraries (3-4 nights rather than 7-10)
• Bring entertainment for downtime: books, games, tablets, binoculars, wildlife guides

Malaria & Children: Consult pediatrician about whether to visit malaria zones, appropriate antimalarial medication, and extra precautions.

Child Discounts: Many camps offer 25-50% discount for children. "Child" definition varies (under 12, under 16, etc.). Some camps allow kids to share parents' tent.

• South Africa: Malaria-free areas available, excellent infrastructure
• Kenya: Many family camps in Masai Mara
• Tanzania: Serengeti has family-friendly options
• Botswana: Limited family camps (check minimum ages)

Absolutely! Safari is excellent for solo travelers:

• Very safe – you're with guides and groups throughout
• Easy to meet people – communal dining, shared vehicles
• Welcoming environment – safari culture is friendly and social

Single Supplements:

Most camps charge a single supplement (25-100% extra) when one person occupies a double room. This varies by camp and season.

Ways to Avoid Single Supplements:

• Share with another traveler – some operators match solo travelers
• Book "solo-friendly" camps – some waive or reduce supplements
• Join small group safaris – designed for solo travelers
• Travel during low season – better negotiation opportunity

Africa is generally safe for women traveling alone, especially on organized safaris:

• You're never actually alone (guide, camp staff, other guests)
• Camps and lodges are very secure
• Follow standard travel safety precautions

Safari is incredibly romantic:

Perfect Honeymoon Features:

• Private plunge pools in many luxury tents
• Private game drives for just the two of you
• Bush dinners under the stars
• Couples' spa treatments
• Romantic sunsets with champagne
• Stargazing from your deck

Honeymoon Perks:

• Some camps offer special amenities (champagne, decorations)
• Inform us you're honeymooning for possible upgrades/treats
• Many camps can arrange private dining experiences

Yes! Many camps are making safari accessible to all abilities, though options vary.

Wheelchair-Accessible Options:

South Africa:

• Several camps in Kruger region offer accessible facilities
• Wheelchair-adapted vehicles available
• Paved pathways, ramps, accessible rooms

Kenya & Tanzania:

• Fewer fully-accessible camps, but some accommodations available
• Lodges (vs. tented camps) generally more accessible

Accessible accommodations:

• Ground-level rooms (no steps)
• Wide doorways
• Roll-in showers
• Grab bars, accessible toilets

Accessible vehicles:

• Modified safari vehicles with lifts or ramps
• Seating arrangements for wheelchairs

Level pathways:

• Paved or firm paths between facilities
• Minimal stairs or barriers

• Tented camps are often on elevated platforms (many steps)
• Lodges generally more accessible than camps
• Bush flights can be challenging (small aircraft, uneven terrain)
• Road access may be better option than flying

What to Tell Us:

Please inform us early if you have:

• Mobility limitations (wheelchair, walker, limited walking distance)
• Vision or hearing impairments
• Dietary restrictions or allergies
• Medical conditions requiring special attention
• Specific equipment needs

We'll help you find:

• Appropriate camps and lodges
• Suitable transportation options
• Activities you can fully enjoy
• Any special arrangements needed

Yes! Safari is one of the safest types of travel in Africa:

Why Safari is Safe:

• You're with professional, trained guides at all times
• Camps are secure and well-managed
• Wildlife viewing happens from vehicles (safe distance)
• Camps have strict safety protocols
• You're in protected areas (national parks, private reserves)
• Crimes against tourists are very rare in safari areas

In Vehicles:

• Animals see the vehicle as a single large object (not individual humans)
• Stay seated and quiet
• Never lean out or extend arms/legs
• Follow guide's instructions immediately

In Camp:

• Most dangerous animals won't enter camp (rare exceptions)
• Staff escort you at night between tent and common areas
• If you see animals in camp, alert staff and observe from safe distance
• Keep tent/room zipped closed
• Don't walk alone at night

Most Dangerous Animals? (Surprisingly!)

• Hippos (territorial, fast, unpredictable – keep distance near water)
• Elephants (protective of young – give space)
• Buffalo (aggressive when threatened – observe from vehicle)

• All camps have first aid kits and staff training
• Many have emergency communications (satellite phone/radio)
• Medical evacuation insurance strongly recommended
• Nearest hospital may be hours away

• Very rare in safari camps and parks
• Use room safes for valuables
• Don't flash expensive jewelry or electronics
• Be more cautious in cities than safari areas

If emergency occurs:

• Camp staff trained in first response
• Radio/satellite communication to get help
• Medical evacuation if needed (helicopter or plane)
• Comprehensive travel insurance covers evacuation costs

MUST include:

• Medical coverage (minimum $100,000)
• Emergency medical evacuation (minimum $250,000)
• Trip cancellation/interruption
• Baggage loss/delay
• 24/7 emergency assistance

• Passport (valid 6+ months, blank pages)
• Visa confirmations/documents
• Yellow Fever certificate (if required)
• Travel insurance documents
• Flight tickets/e-tickets
• Safari itinerary and vouchers
• Credit/debit cards (notify bank!)
• Cash (USD, small bills)
• Photocopies of important documents
• Emergency contact list

• Neutral-colored clothing (khaki, olive, beige, brown)
• Long-sleeved shirts (sun/mosquito protection)
• Long pants/trousers
• Shorts (not too short)
• Warm fleece or jacket (early mornings!)
• Light rain jacket
• Comfortable walking shoes/boots
• Sandals or slip-on shoes for camp
• Swimsuit
• Underwear & socks
• Sleepwear
• Wide-brimmed hat or cap
• Buff or scarf (dust protection)
• Sunglasses (polarized recommended)

• Prescription medications (original containers)
• Antimalarial medication (if prescribed)
• Pain relievers (ibuprofen, acetaminophen)
• Anti-diarrheal medication
• Antihistamines
• Motion sickness medication
• Sunscreen SPF 30+ (reef-safe)
• Lip balm with SPF
• Insect repellent (DEET 30%+)
• After-bite cream
• Hand sanitizer
• Wet wipes/baby wipes
• Tissues/toilet paper (for bush stops)
• First aid kit (bandages, antibiotic ointment)
• Rehydration salts
• Personal toiletries (camp provides basics)
• Menstrual products
• Contact lenses/glasses (bring spares!)
• Prescription glasses/sunglasses
• Small towel (camps provide, but useful to have)

• Camera + lenses
• Extra camera batteries (3-4)
• Memory cards (multiple, high capacity)
• Battery charger
• Binoculars (8x42 or 10x42)
• Smartphone
• Phone charger
• Power bank (10,000+ mAh)
• Universal plug adapter (Type D/M & G)
• Headlamp or flashlight (essential!)
• Extra batteries for flashlight
• E-reader or tablet
• Charging cables
• Waterproof bag/case for electronics

Useful Extras:

• Daypack (20-30L)
• Reusable water bottle
• Ziplock bags (protect electronics from dust)
• Lens cleaning kit
• Notebook & pen
• Field guide books (birds, mammals)
• Playing cards/travel games
• Snacks (energy bars, trail mix)
• Dry bag (for water-based activities)
• Bandana or buff
• Small umbrella (rainy season)
• Earplugs (if light sleeper)
• Eye mask
• Travel pillow (for flights)
• Safari-themed clothing (for fun photos!)

Optional/Luxury Items:

• Laptop (if needed)
• Portable speaker (small, camp use)
• Travel journal
• Sketching supplies
• Star map/astronomy app
• GoPro or action camera
• Gimbal/stabilizer

• Excessive clothing (laundry included at camps!)
• Hard-shell suitcases (bush flights!)
• Camouflage clothing (illegal in some countries)
• Bright white clothing (shows dust immediately)
• Expensive jewelry
• Hair dryers (most camps provide, or use dual-voltage)
• Full-size toiletries (transfers make them heavy)
• Too many books (bring e-reader)