Frequently Asked Questions about safaris in East Africa

Mbango Safaris

:: FAQ's

Planning an African safari is quite unlike the planning for most of your previous travels. The preparation and anticipation of the actual trip can be almost as exciting as the safari itself! Below are some questions and answers to some of the questions people ask while beginning the planning process. We suggest you take some time to read through these questions, if you do not find the answer to your question (s) please go to general information page or contact us

1. Is there an age limit for safaris in East Africa?
2. How far in advance should I book my safari?
3. How many people do you take on a safari?
4. Is it possible for people with special needs to travel on any of your safaris?
5. Is Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda or Ethiopia a good family destination?
6. When is the best time to go on a safari?
7. What money should I bring?
8. What is the tipping procedure?
9. What are the meals like?
10. Will I be able to use my electrical equipment while on safari?
11. Do I have to pay a departure tax at the airport?
12. Can I have my own custom safari itinerary?
13. What kind of accommodations can I expect?
14. What are the weight and size restrictions on luggage when traveling in Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda and Ethiopia?
15. When does the Wildebeest and Zebras migration occur in Serengeti Tanzania and Maasai Mara Kenya?
16. Any advise regarding photography?
17. Do I / We require travel insurance?
18. Do I need a Visa to visit Kenya, Tazania, Uganda, Rwanda and Ethiopia?
19. What is the climate like in Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda and Ethiopia?
20. What clothes do I need?
21. What is the security like in Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda and Ethiopia?
22. Is drinking water provided during the safari and is tap water safe for drinking?
23. How do I communicate back home?
24. What are the roads conditions like in Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda and Ethiopia?
25. What kind of vehicles will we be using on our safari?
26. How many extra beds can be provided in a room?
27. How do I pay for my bills?
28. What do I buy as souvenirs in Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda and Ethiopia?
29. Is it safe to fly on the internal flights?
30. Is it safe to eat raw fruits and vegetables?

1. What is the safari age limit? In certain camps, lodges, hotels, beach resorts and mostly the tree lodges and on specific activities, minimum age limits can apply. The minimum age limit for Gorilla Expeditions is 15 years, for Chimpanzee Expeditions is 7 years, for Balloon Safaris and Camping Tours minimum age is 12 years and maximum of 70 years and is absolutely inflexible. Please note, where there is age limit, we always try and indicate in the tour plans.

2. How far in advance should I book my safari? It is better to book as far in advance as possible to ensure availability at the time you wish to travel (4-6 months) or even one year early especially during the high and peak season (Between June and October) and during Christmas and New Year season.

3. How many people do you take on a safari? Our safaris have guaranteed departure with a minimum of two tour participants and recommended maximum of six people per every safari vehicle allowing guaranteed window seats.

4. Is it possible for people with special needs to travel on any of your safaris? Most of the locations that we feature; have facilities such as wheel chairs and easy access to your room. Our wish is to have your request placed on time so that we can easily plan an itinerary that suits your needs.

5. Is Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda and Ethiopia a good family destination? A safari is the one of the best gift you can reward a child. Our family safaris are designed especially for multi-generational travelers. As the family is the foundation of everything, our family itinerary brings the family spirit of outdoor adventure.

The family safaris will introduce your children to East Africas fantastic creatures, fragile eco-systems, conservation and let the family discover some of the oldest and bravest cultures left on earth. The savage natural beauty of East Africa can awaken a childs appreciation of nature through an unparalleled contact with animals in the wild. Our family safari gives the family from grandparents to children the opportunity to interact with each other in a superbly unique environment whilst enjoying the traditional fun and adventure of a safari.

6. When is the best time to go on a safari? Kenya is a year round destination with excellent bird watching and game viewing. One of Kenyas greatest attractions is the annual wildebeest migration between Serengeti National Park in Tanzania and Masai Mara National Reserve in Kenya. This takes place between June and October. During January to March the weather is hot and dry and most comfortable for traveling and this is the good time for bird watching and viewing on the Rift Valley lakes as game at perennial water holes is also good at this time. May is less popular time for visiting Kenya as it is the rainy season and flooding often occurs. However, it is usually possible to get around easily during these times and the rains do not hinder visibility.

Tanzania is a year round destination with excellent bird watching and game viewing. One of Tanzanias greatest attractions is the annual wildebeest migration between Serengeti National Park in Tanzania and Masai Mara National Reserve in Kenya. This takes place between May to early June and January to March. During January to March the weather is hot and dry and most comfortable for traveling and this is a good time for bird watching and wildlife viewing on the Rift Valley lakes as game at perennial water holes is also good at this time. May is less popular time for visiting Tanzania it is the rainy seasons and flooding often occurs. However, it is usually possible to get around easily during these times and the rains do not hinder visibility.

Uganda is a year round destination with excellent bird watching and game viewing. One of Ugandas greatest attractions is the Mountain Gorillas and Chimpanzees in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. The best time of the year to visit Uganda is just after the rains between October and November and March as the weather at this time of year is generally dry and this is a good time for bird viewing and watching Mountain Gorillas.

Travel to Ethiopia and experience '13 months of sunshine'. Although there is a rainy season from mid-June to the end of September Ethiopia is a year round destination with excellent bird watching and game viewing. One of Ethipia's greatest attractions is it's series of castles and churches. The best time of the year to visit Ethiopia is just after the rains between November and January as the weather at this time of year is generally dry and this is a good time for bird and wildlife viewing.

Rwanda can be visited any time of the year even during the rainy seasons as the scenery then is greener and the skies are clearer. The wet seasons season is the best time to trek chimpanzees in Nyungwe forest as they during dry seasons wander further away into the forest and consequently are harder to spot. There are two rainy seasons. The long rains from mid February to beginning of June and the short rains from mid September to mid December. Although it can be raining quite heavily in the mountains these periods, it is no problem to travel these periods either.

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7. What money should I bring? Travelers cheques and major credit cards are generally accepted in Ethiopia, Uganda, Rwanda, Kenya and Tanzania where travelers cheques would prove a safer bet.

We recommend that visitors carry small amount of cash as well. Only authorized dealers and banks are allowed to change currency. There is no restriction on the amount of foreign currency which can be imported but visitors are generally not permitted to depart with much local currency in their pockets so spend your local money prior to departure or convert it at a bank or bureau.

Please note that it is an offence to destroy or deface local currencies in any way. It is worth changing money at the banks on arrival at international airports, or at banks in the major towns, where the rate of exchange is more favorable than those offered at lodges, camps and hotels.

8. What is the tipping procedure? Tipping is the appreciation of services offered. It is not compulsory but highly recommended as it is a safari tradition. Most lodges, camps and hotels have a tip box located at the reception, or a central location. We recommend US $ 5 per client per day. Tips left here will be divided amongst the lodge staff that you don't get to meet during your stay. If you are particulary satisfied with assistance received from someone a personal tip is acceptable - a guideline on how tip is as follows. Porters: US $ 5 for the luggage, restaurant staff - 10% of cost consumption per meal, safari guide: US $ 20 per day. However, if services are exceptionally good, you are free to give over the guidelines.

9. What are the meals like? Most lodges, hotels, camps and restaurants serve delicious hearty Pan African meals - fresh ingredients simply prepared with an African flavour. Vegeterian and other special dietary requirements can be catered for.

10. Will I be able to use my electrical equipment while on Safari? The local electricity supply is 220 / 240 volts AC, 50HZ. Plugs are 3 point square. If you are planning to bring a video camera charger or any other electrical device, please bring voltage and plug adaptors where appropriate. Some camps, lodges and major hotels usually provide hair dryers and other electrical amenities upon request.

11. Do I have to pay a departure tax at the airport? Like most international destinations, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda, Ethiopia and Kenya charge an airport departure tax for all international flights and some domestic flights. The departure tax may be included in the airline ticket. If it is not included, visitors must pay the tax in cash at the airport upon arrival. Departure taxes can only be paid IN CASH ONLY using US dollars (please note that only new US Dollars bills are accepted - from 2004 series). Zanzibar tax of US $ 30 per person is to be paid directly at the airport as you depart Zanzibar Island.

12. Can I have my own custom safari itinerary? If you prefer to travel on your own, or with family and friends in a small private group we are happy to design a special journey that will give you the best sightseeing in the best destinations in Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda and Ethiopia, accommodations of your choice, and an itinerary that emphasizes on the most interesting and unique features that you won't want to miss.

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13. What kind of accommodations can I expect? We believe in a philosophy of adventure by day, comfort by night". We typically use only first class guest houses / homes / villas, hotels, camping facilities, lodges and luxury local communities tented camps with local decor to suit any desire and matched to any budget. All the tented camps and eco-lodges we use have private bathrooms with hot water and flush toilets ammenities. Our proffesional travel consultants will work with you every step of the way to ensure that all your requirements are catered for.

14. What are the weight and size restrictions on luggage in Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda and Ethiopia? The weight limit on all domestic flights within Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda and Ethiopia is 15 kgs. We recommend a soft bag than suitcases. In case of a suitcase bring a suitcase no larger than 24x17x7 or duffel. It is important to staying under the weight restriction. This does not include hand luggage or camera/video equipment. When traveling with your family, you are allowed to distribute the weight anyway you want, as long as the total weight is 15 kgs per person or less.

15. When does the migration occur in Serengeti, Tanzania and Masai Mara, Kenya? Mbango Safaris offer a tour designed specifically around the great wildebeest migration. However, the migration occurs as below: Masai Mara July to October and in Serengeti - January to March.

16. Any advise regarding photography? For wildlife photography, a 200 mm zoom lens is the smallest that you should use, A 300-400 zoom is preferable. For bird watchers, a 500mm or larger is necessary, and a wide-angle lens would be ideal for scenic shots.

Bring extra camera and flash batteries and plenty of film / memory cards - you may find the memory cards quite expensive and difficult to obtain locally.

While taking pictures be sensitive to local conditions, laws and customs, asking your local guide if in doubt. Seek advice and their permission before photographing local people, thus showing respect and awareness of another's culture and beliefs. At all times avoid the obvious display of cameras and other expensive items; you'll find more in common with the locals, and avoid becoming the victim of theft.

17. Do I / We require Travel Insurance? All travellers to East Africa are advised to consult their physician or health department for the latest health and anti-malaria precautions. We strongly recommend that you take out all of the necessary travel insurance before commencing on your journey and you are supposed to send us details about your insurance cover before you leave home. However, we offer evacuation cover with Emergency Rescue Safari (ER safari) to all our clients while on safari with us in Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda and Ethiopia and all applicable charges will be included in the cost of the tour arrangements. This will offer you and your safari guide the security in the knowledge that should a medical emergency arise, the air rescue service and evacuation to a reputable hospital is just a call away. Please note that this service covers ONLY rescue and evacuation.

18. Do I need a Visa to visit either Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Ethiopia and Rwanda? Please ensure you are holding a valid passport with sufficient blank pages for entry stamps in each country visited, and that any visas are applied for prior to departure although visas can be obtained at the points of entry. Nationals of certain countries do not require visas depending on the country to be visited. At the moment a single entry visa into Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Ethiopia and Tanzania is required. Most of the countries it is payable between US $ 25 and US $ 65 per person. However, this is just a guideline, it is advisable to check with the consulate of the country you intend visiting for the latest visa and entry requirements beforehand, or contact us and we will be gladly advise with regard to documentation.

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19. What is the climate like in Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwand and Ethiopia? Temperatures rarely fall below 24 degrees centigrade during the day and around 10 degrees centigrade at night. Please note that temperatures vary from place to place. Warm clothing is a MUST and recommended for evenings and mornings both in Addis Ababa, Entebbe, Arusha, Nairobi and while on safari.

20. What clothes do I need? The kind of clothes to be worn depends on the seasons, you will require comfortable, casual and semi-casual clothes for a trip to Africa. During rainy seasons and cold seasons, clients will need to put on heavy or warm clothes and during dry and warm seasons, light clothing is recommended. Hot season range at highs of 28-30 degrees centigrade with lows of 18-20 while cold seasons range at highs of 15-18 degrees centigrade with lows of 12-14. The coast region can be humid. Bright colours are not suitable for game viewing- we recommend safari colours clothes (Green, Brown, Khaki.....) for game drives. Game drives are conducted in the early morning and late afternoon wich can be cold. Light cotton trousers / shorts and shirts (both short and long sleeved clothes as evening wear because of mosquitos), comfortable walking shoes, windbreaker, sunhat, fleece, camera (telephoto lens recommended) and binoculars are all useful. For cold seasons pack a warm jacket. Don't forget batteries, Camera film / cards, sunscreen and an extensive range of suitable clothing. While in an area infested by Tse Tse flies (in Serengeti, Tsavo, Meru) we recommend not to wear dark colours (blue... clothes) as Tse Tse flies are easily attracted to dark colours.

21. What is the security like? Guest safety is of paramount importance and even though East Africa is generally a safe destination, it is wise to take certain standard security precautions. Please do not drive or walk in dark alleys or unlit streets. If one has to leave the hotel at night, the hotel reception staff will be of great help to obtain a taxi for you. Do not carry a lot of money with you. Just have enough money for what you wish to buy. Ensure you carry a record of your passport number, airline tickets and travellers cheques, and to ensure that these items are kept in hotel safe - a receipt will be obtained for the same. Make use of safety deposit box for expensive items, and never leave baggage or personal items unattended, especially at airports.

22. Is drinking water provided for during the safari and is tap water safe to drink? It is advisable to use bottled water for drinking and brushing your teeth. Water from taps in the rooms can be used for washing and bathing. Bottled drinking water is available while camping, in all lodges and camps during safari. Bottled drinking water is provided for all Mbango Safaris tours and holidays.

23. How do I communicate back home? Telephone calls can be made directly from hotel rooms. Telephone rates can be found in the hotel or lodge reception and should be referred to before making calls. However, note that the rates can be pretty high. It is advisable to communicate by e-mail and most city hotels have business centers. Internet services in Nairobi, Addis Ababa, Dar es salaam and major towns are relatively cheap as compared to remote areas and in national parks, reserves. Postage stamps are available at the hotels, camps and lodges shops. It is advisable to post from Addis Ababa, Nairobi, Entebbe or from Arusha as it is faster and more convenient.

24. What are the roads conditions like? All main roads connecting the cities and major towns in Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda and Ethiopia are well on tarmac. However, there could be bumpy and dusty road diversions if there are road repairs or if the road is under construction. The roads to the national parks and game reserves can be bumpy, fairly rough and dusty.

25. What kind of vehicles will we be using? We use modern custom-built fleet of 4WD land cruisers or land rover specially designed for comfort and to ensure easy observation birds, wildlife and photography in all our safaris. Each vehicle is customized to give extra leg room and plenty of headroom. Extra large windows and windscreeens improve all round game viewing and room for those with cameras with big lenses, tripods etc. Three generous roof hatches in the rear offer plenty of room for overhead game and birds viewing. All vehicles are fitted with communication radios with our own dedicated private frequency for inter-vehicle communication. The standard versions can carry up to maximum capacity of 06 people, but recommended 04 pax per safari vehicle to allow comfortable sitting and guarantee window seats. The extended versions carry a maximum of 09 pax, but recommend a maximum of 06 pax per safari vehicle to allow comfortable sitting and guarantee window seats.

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26. How many extra beds can be provided in a room? Traditionally, all rooms in Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda and Ethiopia setup are double rooms and only in a few cases some lodges, camps and hotels could have some rooms that fit three beds and very few hotels, camps and lodges can take four beds.

27. How do I pay for my bills? Shopping payments can be made by either credit card or cash either in local currency or in US $, UK Pounds or in Euro's. Most international currencies are widely accepted and can be changed either in banks or forex bureaus. The following cards are widely accepted: Visa, Amex and Master Card. Please note: payments using credit cards in most cases attract a 5% surcharge, it is important to double check this before making payments.

28. What do I buy as souvenirs in Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda and Ethiopia? Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Ethiopia and Rwanda has a variety of souvenirs to offer, on a willing buyer, willing seller basis. There are however major disparities in prices and quality. In some places outside the cities you can negotiate whilst in cities the prices are fixed. The decision to buy or not to is entirely yours. Ensure a fair price when bargaining, taking advice from your guide. Bargain hard by all means, but above all retain a measure of common sense and fairness; remember that, ultimately, it is your salesman's family that is going to be very much more disadvantaged by a low price than you (or yours). Souvenirs and other items are cheaper while on safari as compared in Nairobi, Addis Ababa, Arusha, Entebbe or in Mombasa. The following are some of the items you can purchase a your souvenirs; carvings of animals and local people, kiondos(traditional baskets), Batiks, jewelry and many others. The Utamanduni craft shops, Cultural heritage and African heritage are one stop souvenir shopping complexes in Nairobi and Arusha that we recommend and has a wide range of souvenirs.

29. Is it safe to fly on the internal flights? The airlines used for our clients have a reputable track record both locally and internationally. They have employed professional staff work for them and are covered.

30. Is it safe to eat raw fruits and vegetables? The hotels and lodges take great care in preparation of food. Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Ethiopia and Rwanda is famous for wonderful fresh fruits and vegetables.

Mbango Safaris have experience of operating tours in East Africa & Beyond. Contact us for friendly travel advice.

Mbango Safaris East Africa Ltd, Lang'ata Shopping Mall, Lang'ata Court Road, P.O. Box 8914 - 00100, Nairobi, Kenya.
Tel: 00 254 20 - 600 14 54, 221 23 54, 211 24 33 / 4. Cellphone: 00 254 - 722 524 987, 733 681 240.
Fax: 00 254 - 20 600 14 53, 222 93 54. Facebook, Skype, MSN, Yahoo messenger ID: mbangosafaris.
E-mail: info@mbangosafaris.com, safaris@mbangosafaris.com

Member of: East Africa Natural History Society, East Africa Wildlife Society, Kenya Professional Safari Guides Association,
Kenya Association of Tour Operators, Kenya Tourism Federation, Kenya Museum Society and Eco-tourism Society of Kenya.

Љ 2004 - 2011 Mbango Safaris East Africa Ltd.