East Africa
This is one of the last places on Earth where wild animals are still free to roam across great unfenced plains and graze the seemingly neverending savannah, where lush highlands and snow capped mountains give way to vast alkaline lakes. A safari here is the genuine article, a journey of discovery and a taste of the Africa of long ago.
Going on safari in East Africa?
time zone
GMT + 3 hours.
language
Swahili and English are both widely spoken across East Africa.
currency
The Kenyan shilling is divided into 100 cents. Notes are issued in denominations of 50, 100, 200, 500 and 1000 shillings. Coins are issued in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 20 and 40 shillings. 50 cent coins are available, but not commonly used.
The Tanzanian shilling is issued in denominations of 500, 1000, 2000, 5000 and 10,000 shillings. Coins are used in denominations of 10, 20, 50, 100 and 200 shillings.
money matters
In general, we suggest that you limit the amount of money you convert into local currencies and exchange only what you think you will spend before leaving the country. Be aware that only paper currency will normally be accepted for exchange. Many establishments will only change USD issued after the year 2000.
Major credit cards are accepted at most outlets in Kenya and Tanzania. At our lodges and camps we accept Visa, MasterCard or Amex, as well as cash and travellers cheques.
tipping
Tipping is not compulsory and the following suggestions are only guidelines:
- US $1 per bag for a porter
- US $5-7 per traveller per day for a driver-guide - this is normally paid on the last day and is based on 4-6 travellers in the vehicle. If there are only 2 or 3 travellers you may consider increasing this amount to US $6-8 per traveller per day
- US $10-14 per traveller per day for Private Luxury Camping - this should be given to your guide on the last day for distribution among all camp staff. Again, smaller groups (in this case 5 or less) might consider tipping in the slightly higher range of US $12-14 per traveller per day
arrival & departure formalities
Travellers should check for visa requirements pertaining to their citizenship, as entry requirements vary between countries. All travellers, however, must be in possession of a passport with at least six months of validity left beyond the intended departure date from Kenya.
weather
The climate in Kenya and Tanzania is characterised mainly by warm days and cool evenings. December to March are usually the warmest months of the year, while June to August are the coolest. April and May often see intermittent rains, and from September to November the days are warm with short scattered rains falling in November.
Click here for Temperature & Rainfall Charts.
health
For up to date information on the latest health and vaccination recommendations, please consult with a qualified health professional at least 6 weeks before your intended departure.
Anti-malarial medication is strongly recommended for all visitors to East Africa. No vaccinations are currently required for entry if arriving directly from North America or Europe. If you are arriving (or planning to re-enter) from a country where yellow fever is endemic, then you are required to have a yellow fever vaccination. This vaccination is also recommended if you are travelling outside of urban areas.
Do not drink or brush your teeth with tap water. Mineral water is available in camp.
electricity
In East Africa, electricity runs at 220/240 volts. You may want to bring an international converter kit complete with a set of adapter plugs as lodges are unable to provide adapters. We do suggest that you consider battery-operated appliances wherever possible - and bring a supply of extra batteries. However, be aware that overnight recharging may not be possible where generator use restricts the availability of electricity.
photography
Many travellers, viewing this as their “trip of a lifetime” for animal photography, bring more than one camera in case of a malfunction. Sun filters will help block glare and heat haze. A dustproof camera bag and an air brush will help protect your equipment from heavy dust. If you plan to travel with digital photographic and/or video equipment, make certain to pack the specific charging apparatus for each piece of equipment (as well as the appropriate socket plug adaptor and voltage converter if required).
When photographing people, especially members of the Maasai tribe, always ask permission first. Because so many local people are asked for permission to be photographed, many will expect a tip or an outright fee for this. There are some places where photography is prohibited, and these areas are usually clearly marked.
clothing
Dress on safari is entirely casual. Because it can be dusty, neutral colours are most practical for game viewing. Remember to include one or two smart casual outfits for dining.
Temperatures tend to be cooler in the early morning and after sunset - but warm up considerably by midday. To be prepared for such temperature variations and to maximise the versatility of your travel wardrobe, we recommend packing lightweight clothing that can be layered. Casual clothing of "breathable" fabric (such as cotton) is the most comfortable. In the cooler months you should pack a heavier jacket, sweater, and pair of trousers made of warm, lightweight material (such as wool).
