Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. When is the best time of year to visit Kenya and Tanzania?
A1. Kenya and Tanzania are great year round destinations. The main tourist season is in January and February, since the hot, dry weather at this time of year is generally considered to be the most pleasant. It’s also when bird life flocks to the Rift Valley lakes in the greatest numbers. June to September could be called the ‘shoulder season’ as the weather is still dry. The rains hit from March to May (and to a lesser extent from October to December). During these months things are much quieter – places tend to have rooms available and prices may decrease. The rains generally don’t affect travelers’ ability to get around.
July/August and December are the busiest times in Kenya and Tanzania when parks and lodges get a bit crowded and reservations often must be made at least 6 to 8 months in advance. Travel during rest of the year primarily depends on the weather.
Q2. What is the weather like in Kenya and Tanzania?
A2. Tanzania and Kenya enjoy a tropical climate. It is hot and humid at the coast, temperate inland and very dry in the north and northeast parts of the country. The average annual temperature in Nairobi (altitude 4,980 feet) is 77°F maximum and 56°F minimum. The coastal town of Mombasa (altitude 50 feet) is 86°F maximum and 73°F minimum.
Frequently asked questions traveling Kenya, Faq safaris Kenya, Masai Mara Safaris
There is plenty of sunshine all the year round and summer clothes are worn throughout the year. However, it is usually cool at night and early in the morning. The long rains occur from April to June and short rains from October to December. The rainfall is sometimes heavy and when it does come it often falls in the afternoons and evenings. The hottest period is from February to March and coolest in July to August.
Q3. When does the famous animal migration take place?
A3. The annual migration of wildlife between Serengeti National Park in Tanzania and Maasai Mara National Park in Kenya takes place between June and September. The migration of almost two million wildebeest, zebras and other species is nature’s greatest spectacle on earth. During the rest of the year the herd can be seen in different parts of the massive Serengeti National Park.
Q4. Is a Visa required for entry into Kenya and Tanzania?
A4. Yes, you require a visa to enter both Tanzania and Kenya depending on your country. Please check with your embassies. Visa can be obtained upon arrival or in advance through the respective embassy offices closed to you.
Q5. Which is the mode of payment when I want to book a safari?
A5. We require 50-60% deposit to confirm a booking, sent by wire transfer to our bank account, and balance is payable at least 30 days prior to commencement of the safari or can be paid in cash US dollars on arrival.
Q6. Do I have to pay a departure tax at the airport?
A6. Like most international destinations, Tanzania and Kenya charge an airport departure tax for all international flights. The tax may be included in the airline ticket price. If it is not included, visitors must pay the tax in cash at the airport upon arrival. Departure taxes can be paid in local currency or U.S. Dollars.
Q7. Is tipping required in Tanzania and Kenya?
A7. Most major hotels and restaurants include a service charge. Tipping is not obligatory and is entirely at your discretion. Porters at airports, hotels or lodges may be tipped a $1.00 per piece of baggage. A gratuity of 10% is customary at restaurants and bars where a service charge is not included.
Note that on safaris, tips are considered almost part of the pay. A tip for your guide of $10.00 per person per day is appropriate.
Q8. Will I be able to use my electrical equipment while on Safari?
A8. 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. Major hotels usually provide hair dryers, irons and other electrical amenities upon request.
Q9. How many paxs do you take for a safari?
A9. Most of our safaris operate on private basis with a minimum of two persons booking, and we recommend not more than 7 persons per vehicle, for maximum comfort and guaranteed window seats.
Q10. What is Safari accommodation like?
A10. The type of accommodation is either basic camping, luxury tented camps or lodges depending with your budget.
Q11. What are the meals like?
A11. The meals are primarily European style buffets with African influences.
Q12. What kind of vehicle will we be traveling during the Safari?
A12. Our classic safari vehicle is either land cruiser jeep or minibus specially designed for easy photographing. It comes complete with a pop up roof for easy game viewing.
Q13.Do we require Travel Insurance?
A13.We strongly recommend that you take out all of the necessary Travel Insurance before commencing on your journey.