Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time of year to go on a safari?

It is possible to go on safari at any time of the year. However for most visitors an African safari is a once in a lifetime experience and they want to maximise their game viewing experience. African safari areas each have their own unique seasons and the benefits of travelling at different times of the year need to be weighed up according to your unique individual needs and desires. It is best to speak to a professional and experienced tour operator like Africa Exclusive – who can tailor make your itinerary.

Is Africa a good destination for families / how old must children be?

Africa offers great value for families and is one of the most exciting and rewarding holidays you will ever take. Although some of the camps and lodges do not take children under twelve years and children under five years are generally not allowed on game drives (or you may be required to reserve a private vehicle), it also depends on the maturity of the child. They need to be able to sit quietly in an open vehicle and behave when sharing a small camp with adults and not wander off on their own. They will also need to obey the instructions of your safari guide if you go into the bush on foot or by boat. Africa Exclusive will advise you on the best options for your family safari.

Is Africa safe?

Yes, Africa is as safe as any other travel destination. Safari destinations are usually a long way from human habitation. Your safety is of paramount importance. When you are with a trained guide you have absolutely nothing to worry about. Your guide is trained to understand the animal’s behaviour, and will never put his guests in any threatening situation.

Do I need a visa?

Firstly, you need to ensure that your passports are valid for at least six months AFTER you leave Africa and that you have the correct visas. It is wise to check with the relevant consulate before travel as the visa requirements are constantly changing. We will be happy to advise you on your visa requirements.

It is also advisable to take photocopies of all your important documents, e.g. passports, air tickets, visas and credit cards and keep them separate to the original documents. In the event of loss of any of the original documents whilst travelling, replacement will be much easier.

What about vaccinations and malaria?

Travellers to Africa should start with basic long term health protection and includes vaccinations against Tetanus, Typhoid, Hepatitis A and Yellow Fever. It is compulsory in Kenya and Tanzania to be vaccinated for Yellow Fever. You may be asked for an inoculation card on arrival at the airport.

Naturally malaria is also a concern however in safari areas, malaria medication has proven to be effective for adults and children with few and many times no side effects. Malarone is usually the medication of choice and is available on prescription for your GP. A paediatric formula has been developed for children weighing 33lbs and over. There are non – malarial safari destinations – South Africa being the most popular choice for younger families. We advise you to consult your GP or local travel clinic regarding malaria medication and inoculation requirements at least four weeks prior to travel.

What type of clothes should I pack for my safari?

We recommend only packing casual clothes, unless you are going on a luxury rail journey or staying at a luxury city hotel where formal attire is compulsory at dinner etc. We do not recommend taking brightly coloured clothing – traditional safari colours like khaki and beige are best. We do not recommend wearing camouflage or military style clothing. Here is a list of recommendations:

Good quality sunglasses with good UV protection – preferably polarised

Bush hat

T-shirt and long sleeve cotton shirt

Shorts

Long trousers

Underwear and socks

Walking shoes (trainers are fine)

Flip flops or light slip on shoes

Sweater/jersey

Jacket (fleece is good) – recommended for cold mornings

Swimming costume

Water proof jacket if you are travelling in the rainy season

Camera equipment

Binoculars

A good torch

Anti malarial tablets

Basic medical kit (aspirin, plasters, antiseptic cream, antihistamine, rehydration sachets, Imodium)

Soap

Sunscreen

Lip balm

Moisturising cream

Insect repellent

Personal toiletries, tissues and wet wipes ( and small amount of washing powder for underwear)

Towel (optional as towels are provided)

If you wear contact lenses we recommend taking a pair of spectacles in case of eye irritation from dust

A small rucksack or waist bag for use on walks and game drives

Are there laundry facilities available on safari?

Most camps offer laundry facilities, however this is often limited due to water restrictions. It is also worth noting that underwear is not included in the laundry service due to local traditions.

How much luggage can I take?

Strict weight restrictions apply on light aircraft flights because most airfields are 3000 ft above sea level and located in the tropics – therefore the permissible aircraft carrying capacity is reduced. The aircraft also have physical space restrictions so only soft holdalls are accepted (no hard rigid suitcases) with maximum dimensions of 25cm wide x 30cm high x 62cm in length. As with any worldwide travel there is a risk of theft from checked in baggage. We recommend that you do not travel with items of high value and to purchase suitable locks for your luggage to deter opportunistic theft.

Generally the following weight restrictions apply (these weights may vary – your safari co-ordinator will be able to confirm :

12kg on Zimbabwe safari

15kg on Malawi safari

20kg on Botswana safari, Namibia safari, South Africa safaris and Zambia safari

20kg on Kenya safari

Do I need travel insurance?

There are no health schemes in Africa and visitors are responsible for their own medical expenses. Comprehensive travel insurance is compulsory and it is advisable to check that your insurance covers you for medical costs in the unlikely event that you incur them, and repatriation is necessary. Remember to take the details with you.

What type of food is served on safari?

The quality of food served on is excellent and most visitors are very impressed with the quality and quantity. Some of the camps provide the same quality and presentation of food as you would get in a five star hotel in any top city. Camps will also cater for special dietary requirements as long as they are informed of your needs in advance.

Is the water in Africa safe to drink?

Tap water is safe to drink in Botswana, Namibia, South Africa and Zimbabwe but bottled water is available if you prefer. It is best to drink bottled water in the rest of Africa.

Are the animals dangerous?

Wild animals are naturally unpredictable and their behaviour is never guaranteed. However most of them are scared at the sight and smell of humans and will flee rather than attack. Unprovoked attacks on humans are therefore very rare. You should never venture out alone, especially at night – always consult with your guide. Your armed guides have an amazing amount of knowledge about the local wildlife and will accompany you on activities – you should always pay attention to your guide and adhere to any instructions he may give you whilst on your activities.

What happens if we need urgent medical attention whilst on safari in Africa?

All camps have medical emergency kits and even the remotest of camps have communications to summons a doctor or if necessary medical evacuation.

Is there mobile coverage in Africa?

Mobile phone coverage is not guaranteed, especially in the remote areas. If you must take your mobile phone with you, please have respect for other guests. In most hotels, camps and lodges, mobile phones are banned in public areas. They may be used in the privacy of your room or tent, but only to retrieve messages or to dial out. Phones should be switched off at all other times. If you are going to an area where there is no mobile coverage and you need to access to a communication you can hire a satellite phone at most airports.

Is tipping compulsory?

Although tipping on safaris, at lodges and camps is always welcomed, it is not compulsory and should be given at your discretion. It is often best to tip the drivers, guides and lodge manager who will distribute the gratuities amongst the lodge or camp staff. As a rough estimate you can tip US$5 to $10 for each traveller per day at each camp or lodge. Tipping at restaurants is usually 10%.

How much money should I take with me on safari? Can I use my credit card and what currency should I use?

You will need very little spending money on most safaris as the majority of meals, drinks and activities are included in your itinerary. You will usually have to pay for lunch, dinner and rinks when you are staying at hotels in cities. Bills can be settled in US dollars, by traveller’s cheque or credit card – however use may be restricted in small towns and rural areas. In South Africa the local currency (the Rand) is he preferred currency. Automatic teller machines are situated outside most banks in towns and cities but because Africa can be unpredictable we do not recommend that you rely on ATM for your currency needs. All major currencies and travellers cheques can be changed into local currency at airports and banks (small bills are best). Always keep your receipt so that when you depart you can change your money back to your preferred currency.

Is there electricity at the camps?

Remote camps and lodges do not have access to electricity and rely on generators and solar power. The generators usually run in the morning and afternoons when guests are on activities. This ensures minimum disturbance. There is enough power to charge batteries for cameras and video cameras (we advise taking a spare battery, plug and converter). I most areas you will not be able to use an electric shaver or hairdryer.