HOW TO PREPARE FOR YOUR SAFARI

Preparing for East Africa safari can be a daunting prospect at first glance.

Figuring out when to visit, which parks to include, where to stay, and how long to spend in each location can be a stressful task, but we’re here to help!

PASSPORTS AND VISAS

It is first aspects for Preparation of safaris. All travelers will need a current passport with an expiration date of at least six months from the time of entry into Tanzania. Tanzania tourist visas can be purchased in advance through the nearest Tanzanian embassy, or upon arrival at the airport or border crossing.

VACCINATIONS

Proper health preparations for the trip are your responsibility. You may be able to get your vaccinations from your own physician, but a travels clinic will be more familiar with the necessary vaccines and can also provide other helpful information. Be sure to also discuss malaria prevention with the travel clinic.

TRAVEL AND MEDICAL INSURANCE

East Africa Choice Safaris does not provide insurance for travelers. Speak with your travel agent or airline about options for travel insurance to cover personal accident, medical expenses and medical evacuation, repatriation, trip cancellation and loss of personal effects.

CLOTHING

The weather may vary considerably throughout your trip, or even throughout the day, so plan on clothing that can be layered if it’s cool, or removed if it’s warm. Choose separates that can be mixed and matched, and avoid fabrics that require special care. Neutral colors are good for safari; avoid black and blue clothing as tsetse flies are attracted to those colors. Accessorize with modest jewelry. To respect cultural norms, avoid sleeveless blouses and short shorts or skirts.
Depending on your itinerary, consider a pair of sturdy closed-toe shoes in case of mud or rough terrain. Sandals will be appropriate for safari. Most days will be sunny, so bring appropriate sun protection: hat (wide-brim is best to protect the neck and ears), sunscreen, sunglasses.

MONEY ON SAFARI IN EAST AFRICA.

While all of our Friends of Africa Family Safaris itineraries cover the important things such as accommodation, meals, park entry fees, and game drives – there are always additional costs that might pop up.

Things such as alcoholic beverages, souvenirs, snacks, laundry, and tips for your driver are examples of a few additional costs that might arise during your safari.

Tanzania uses the US Dollar for tourism. We recommend budgeting around $30 – $50 USD per day for incidental expenses and tips.

TIPPING IN EAST AFRICA

Tipping is customary.

We recommend tipping $20 USD per day to your safari driver (per group, not per person), $10 – $15 USD per day to your safari cook (when camping), $20 USD per day to your Kilimanjaro climbing guide, and $10 – $15 USD per day to your Kilimanjaro climbing porters.

You can pay this all at once at the conclusion of your safari or Kilimanjaro climb.

WHAT TO PACK FOR YOUR SAFARI:

Packing for your first safari can be a bit daunting. What do you bring? What don’t you need? Below you’ll find our recommended list of things to bring along with you when you’re on safari.

• A backpack;
• Comfortable clothing for daily wear;
• A warm sweater or light fleece;
• A windbreaker or waterproof jacket;
• Walking shoes or boots;
• A dress shirt and trousers or dress for wearing to dinner;
• Sunglasses;
• Hat;
• Sunscreen and lip balm;
• Insect repellent;
• Camera and charger;
• Binoculars;
• A flashlight or headlamp;
• Guide books;
• Phone and charger.

You may also wish to bring your own first aid kit. While all of our Friends of Africa Family Safaris vehicles have their own on board first aid kit, it never hurts to be prepared.

• Anti-malarial medication;
• Painkillers;
• Antihistamines for allergies and insect bites;
• Cold and flu medication;
• Anti-Diarrheal medication;
• Medicines for rehydration after diarrhea or sunstroke;
• Sunscreen and lip balm;
• Eye drops;
• Moisturiser for treating sunburn;
• Antiseptic lotion;
• Rubbing alcohol;
• Bandages and plasters;
• Scissors.

You may also wish to bring along water purification tablets and any medications you take for any existing medical conditions.

Don’t let the above list daunt you. Many of these items are only necessary in extreme cases, but it’s better to have something and not need it than it is to need something and not have it!

 Any Questions?

Have we missed anything?

Don’t hesitate to Contact Us if you have any questions or if you’re ready to make your safari dream a reality.