FAQs
Please click on the questions below to be taken to the answers.
Do I need to purchase a visa?
How safe is East/Central Africa?
What is the weather like?
Is East/Central Africa Ebola free?
Is the food/water safe?
What types of immunizations do I need?
What is included in my payment?
What is not included in my payment?
Should I bring cash/credit card/traveler's check?
What if I need money fast while I'm there?
What should I tip?
What are the safari accommodations like?
Is there internet/cell phone accessibility?
What type of vehicle will I be riding in?
What are travel conditions like?
What is the minimum/maximum number of people allowed on your safaris?
What should I wear while on safari?
What should I wear while in the city or in villages?
Is there photography etiquette?
Is the gorilla trek safe?
Do I need to purchase a visa?
How safe is East/Central Africa?
What is the weather like?
Is East/Central Africa Ebola free?
Is the food/water safe?
What types of immunizations do I need?
What is included in my payment?
What is not included in my payment?
Should I bring cash/credit card/traveler's check?
What if I need money fast while I'm there?
What should I tip?
What are the safari accommodations like?
Is there internet/cell phone accessibility?
What type of vehicle will I be riding in?
What are travel conditions like?
What is the minimum/maximum number of people allowed on your safaris?
What should I wear while on safari?
What should I wear while in the city or in villages?
Is there photography etiquette?
Is the gorilla trek safe?
Do I need to purchase a visa?
A. You are required to purchase a tourist visa before traveling to countries in East and Central Africa. While you can buy a tourist visa in advance, most countries will allow you to purchase them at the airport upon arrival. Be sure to bring your passport as a valid photo ID and money for your visa fee. It is also advisable to let them know at the airport if you are staying longer than two-weeks, as most tourist visas only cover a two-week time period.
Additionally, if you are traveling from one East African country to another during your safari, your fee may be exempt when entering from the host country (e.g. entering Kenya from Uganda). You must also ensure that your passport is up to date (6 months to expiration is typically the limit).
Prices by country: (Please note that the prices listed in these links are in USD).
Uganda: http://www.immigration.go.ug/page/requirements-entry-uganda
Rwanda: http://www.rwandahc.org/consular-and-visa-services/visa-information-and-applications/
Democratic Republic of Congo: http://www.ambardcusa.org/fees.html
Burundi: http://www.burundiembassydc-usa.org/pages/consulate.html
Kenya: http://www.kenyaembassy.com/visa.html
Tanzania: http://www.tanzaniaconsul.com/fees.html
How safe is East/Central Africa?
A. East Africa is primarily very safe, especially at the national parks, game reserves, and conservancies. Apart from being some of the safest countries on the continent, the region is also home to some of the friendliest, most hospitable people in the world. However, that doesn't mean that it is completely crime free. There can be instances of petty theft, bribery, and the like. We therefore encourage all travelers to take precautions with their belongings, to exercise good judgment in their surroundings, and to purchase travel insurance for peace of mind. We also advise that you do not give money to beggars. Instead, offer them food if you have any to spare.
Burundi and the Democratic Republic of Congo have admittedly had their share of historical turbulence, but they are stabilizing. The tourist areas are generally safe to visit, though there are regions of both countries that should still be avoided at this time. Should you have any specific questions about safety in these two countries or any others, please do not hesitate to ask us via our contact page. You can also consult your national government's travel advisory website.
What is the weather like?
A. East and Central Africa are primarily either hot and humid, or hot and dry, depending on the time of year. There are, however, some areas with cooler than average temperatures. Below is a brief rundown by country, courtesy of Google.
Uganda: Uganda has rainy seasons during the months of March to May, and September to November. The remaining months (December to February, and June to August) are the two major dry seasons.
Rwanda: From June to mid-September is the long dry season; this is generally the best time to visit if you have the choice. October to November is a shorter rainy season and it's followed by a short dry season from December to February. During both of Rwanda's dry seasons, there is often light cloud cover.
Democratic Republic of Congo: The climate is hot and humid in the river basin and cool and dry in the southern highlands, with a cold, alpine climate in the Ruwenzori Range. South of the Equator, the rainy season lasts from October to May and north of the Equator, from April to November.
Burundi: Burundi has two rainy seasons - the major one from February to May, with a minor rainy season between September and November, and two dry seasons: the long dry season from June to August and the shorter dry season between December and January.
Kenya: The dry seasons in Kenya are generally from mid-June to October, and from late-December to mid-March, and game-viewing is best at these times. Only a limited number of camps and lodges are open in the wettest months of November, April and May.
Tanzania: The climate is tropical and coastal areas are hot and humid, while the northwestern highlands are cool and temperate. There are two rainy seasons; the short rains are generally from October to December, while the long rains last from March to June.
Is East/Central Africa ebola free?
A. We are happy to report that the countries and regions where we conduct safaris are Ebola free.
Is the food/water safe?
A. All of the food provided at our safari accommodations are very safe to eat, not to mention delicious! There may be times when you are offered local cuisine. We encourage this, but as a general rule, food should either be cooked or peeled prior to eating it. Otherwise it should be disregarded. Just remember this phrase - cook, peel, or throw away.
Regarding water, you should not drink it unless it's bottled. The same applies when brushing your teeth or taking medications. We will provide bottled water as part of your safari fee.
What types of immunizations do i need?
A. Immunizations are recommended for travel to countries in East/Central Africa. While not every country checks immunization records, we strongly urge you to get all recommended vaccinations, bring your records regardless of whether or not they are required at the airport, and take any medication prescribed by your physician. Please note that many of the immunizations/medications will cover more than one country. Please click on the below links for an overview.
Uganda: http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/traveler/none/uganda
Rwanda: http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/traveler/none/rwanda
Democratic Republic of Congo: http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/traveler/none/democratic-republic-of-congo
Burundi: http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/traveler/none/burundi
Kenya: http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/traveler/none/kenya
Tanzania: http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/traveler/none/tanzania
What is included in my payment?
A. The following is included in your safari cost:
- Airport transfers
- Government taxes, VAT, and service charges
- In country airplane transfers
- Transportation by safari vehicle to all destination
- Safari guides and any other tour specials
- Accommodations and all meals, juices, and soft drinks per your itinerary
- Gorilla permit/chimpanzee permit if you choose to trek
- Boat cruises where applicable
- All national park/game reserve entrances
- Entrance fees for the safari vehicle
- Driver allowances
- En-route lunches including juice and soda
- Bottled water
- Visit to the equator if you choose
What is not included in my payment?
A. The following is not included in your safari payment:
- International airfare
- Visa fee
- Travel immunizations
- Personal insurance
- Alcohol/Cigarettes
- Tips
- International telephone call if necessary
- Porter fee while trekking (This is only advisable if you have difficulty carrying your gear during the gorilla trek).
- Souvenirs
Should I bring cash/credit card/traveler's check?
A. Most of the countries we work in are still heavily cash based. Traveler's checks are also no longer widely accepted. We advise that travelers bring cash ready for exchange, and a credit card. Visa cards are typically the most widely recognized. Please note that paying with a credit card may incur additional charges.
We also recommend bringing enough for souvenirs, your Visa fee (should you choose to purchase it at the airport in lieu of prior to travel), tipping, and some extra in cash in case you need it.
*US bills issued before 1999 are not accepted in Uganda. Additionally, exchanging low denomination dollar bills (anything less than a USD100 bill) attracts a lower exchange rate.*
What if I need money fast while i'm there?
A. All countries have banks and ATM machines where you can obtain cash fast. Most are located in the cities, so it will be difficult while on safari. You can withdraw money directly via your checking or savings account, or as credit. Please note that there is a limit on the amount of cash you are allowed to withdraw and it will be dispensed in the form of local currency. Should you need any assistance understanding the rate of exchange, please don't hesitate to ask your guide who will be happy to explain.
Please also note that when making a withdrawal, you will need to provide your 4-digit security pin token provided by your credit card institution.
What should I tip?
A. We have a saying in this part of the world: "Tip with your heart." Simply put, the tip should be entirely dependent on your level of satisfaction. Generally speaking, while there is no set rule regarding gratuity quantity, we encourage all travelers to tip a minimum of 5-10% for services rendered. Overall, any tip is always appreciated, as we strive to make your stay as comfortable and enjoyable as possible.
What are the safari accommodations like?
A. Safari travelers come in all shapes and sizes. The same can be said of our accommodations. The type of accommodations we offer will largely depend on how rugged or how comfortable you want them to be. However, even the less expensive accommodations are quite nice for our clients.
All accommodations are typically budget, mid, or luxury.
Budget accommodations usually consist of basic rooms, banda lodgings, or tent structures. All rooms are equipped with mosquito nets, and double or twin beds. Depending on the lodge, some offer private bathrooms and showers, while others have centrally located restrooms and showers.
Mid and luxury accommodations are complete with spacious rooms, a private bathroom with shower, mosquito nets, and single or double beds.
Please visit our safari package section to get a look at some of the lodgings we offer.
Is there internet/cell phone accessibility?
A. Cell phone coverage and internet access is typically available wherever you find yourself in this part of the world!
What type of vehicle will I be riding in?
A. Our vehicles are all terrain, with plenty of room for an individual or group of travelers. You will have the option of choosing either a 4x4 Nissan Patrol (see white vehicle, below left) or a 4x4 Land Cruiser (see tan vehicle, below right). Both have detachable tops for game drives and ample space for your suitcases. Your total safari cost will include the vehicle you choose to travel in. For groups larger than five people, we also offer extended land cruisers (see below).
What are travel conditions like?
A. Depending on the country you're in, the roads can either be very good, or you might get what we like to call an African massage. In the latter case, the trick is to enjoy yourself, taking in the smells, sights, and sounds as you travel to your next stopping point. Remember, the journey can teach you a lot about your destination!
It should be noted that some roads are inaccessible during certain times of the year. If that is the case, we usually take alternate routes.
What is the minimum/maximum number of people allowed on your safaris?
A. You're more than welcome to book a solo safari. We also cater to families and groups of friends. While most group safaris are between 3 to 7 people, we can also cater to larger ones if necessary. Please let us know how many you plan on traveling with and we will be happy to assist.
What should I wear while on safari?
A. Please visit our safari gear page for more information.
What should I wear while in the city or in villages?
A. Dress codes in East and Central Africa are informal. You will notice that men in this particular part of the world do not wear shorts, while many girls and women wear long skirts instead of pants. That is a cultural norm, but there's no need to feel awkward or embarrassed if you're a man wearing shorts or a girl/woman wearing pants. We do encourage clients, however, not to wear anything on their shirt or other articles of clothing that might be considered offensive (examples are curse words, race, gender, or religious defamation, political statements, etc). It's important to be respectful of the country and people you are visiting.
Is there photography etiquette?
A. We always encourage our clients to ask permission before taking pictures of local people. Most people in this part of the world love having their photo taken and will happily accommodate, but it's still polite to ask first.
When out on safari, we hope you'll take as many pictures of the wildlife as you possibly can. However, you are not allowed to step out of the vehicle at any time to get a better picture. This is for your safety, the safety of the wildlife, and the safety of your guide. Failure to adhere to this rule could result in a fine by the State Department of Wildlife, not to mention putting yourself and others at high risk of physical injury. Guided walks are provided, but these will be clearly identified depending on where you are.
*Please note that mountain gorilla trekking and chimpanzee encounters require your camera flash being turned off.*
Is the gorilla trek safe?
A. Mountain gorillas are very peaceful animals. All gorilla families that our clients visit have been habituated to human presence by the game rangers who track their movements and provide them with necessary protection as they are an endangered species.
Visitors may experience a mock charge, but that is simply the mountain gorilla way of explaining that they prefer a little space. It's also a silverback's way of communicating to outsiders that he's the boss, and you're on his turf. If you do experience a mock charge, you will be told not to run, to keep your eyes down, and your hands at your sides. But should you feel inclined to make a getaway, there will be a game ranger at your side to help keep your feet firmly rooted to the ground. Plus you'll have a great story to tell friends and family when you get home!
As a rule, your flash must be turned off when taking pictures. There is also a one hour time limit to spend with the gorillas, and a 7 meter (22 foot) distance guideline that is strictly enforced by the game rangers. This is done for safety and for health reasons as gorillas are susceptible to catching human illnesses. However, sometimes the gorillas will approach you out of curiosity. They may touch you, sniff your shirt, or even sit beside you for a brief duration. Should this happen, you will be instructed to keep still with your head and arms down. This is a submissive position, letting the gorilla know that you are peaceful, and that you mean it no harm. There are many YouTube videos detailing these wonderful encounters. We highly suggest you check them out!
*If you have any questions that were not adequately answered on this page, please don't hesitate to contact us directly. Visit our contact page for additional information. *