FAQs

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 sufficient blank VISA pages (not endorsement pages) in your passport for the countries to be visited.  We recommend three blank pages (with at least two blank opposing pages) or even four if you are travelling through more than one country on your holiday.  Some nationalities will be required to obtain visas prior to departure.  It is wise to check with the relevant consulate or embassy 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 which as a guideline includes vaccinations against Tetanus, Polio, Measles, Typhoid, Hepatitis A/B and Meningococcal.                                                                                                                

If you are visiting any of the following countries you will be required to have a Yellow Fever vaccination. 

•             Tanzania & Zanzibar

•             Kenya

•             Uganda

•             Rwanda

•             Zambia (this is officially not regarded as a Yellow Fever region, however as of 01 October 2011, all passengers travelling from Zambia to South Africa (even if via another country such as Botswana) will be required to show proof of Yellow Fever vaccination on arrival into South Africa (unless in possession of a valid official exemption certificate).

Almost all countries will request to see proof of Yellow Fever vaccination (or ask you to show a valid official exemption certificate) at Immigration if you are travelling from, or have recently travelled to, any country with risk of Yellow Fever transmission, regardless of the amount of time spent in the country or even at the airport if just transiting.

Please note: Travellers who are unable to have the Yellow Fever vaccination for medical reasons can be exempt from this - you must however carry a valid official medical exemption certificate from your Doctor or Travel Clinic explaining why you cannot have the injection.  It is recommended that the certificate is also accompanied by a detailed letter from the Doctor specifying entry and departure dates from each country and a full medical reason for the exemption.

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 from 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.

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.

What type of food is served on safari?

The quality of food served on safari 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

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%.

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). In most areas you will not be able to use an electric shaver or hairdryer.

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. Here is a list of recommendations:

Please note that ‘military style’ clothing (such as camouflage pattern trousers) is not acceptable in many parts of Africa, (especially in airports).