Practical Safari Information
Everything you need to know before your trip: visas, health requirements, packing essentials, and travel logistics.
Visa Requirements
Requirements vary by nationality. The information below applies to US, UK, EU, and most Commonwealth passport holders. Always verify current requirements with the relevant embassy or consulate.
| Country | Requirement | |
|---|---|---|
| Tanzania | E-visa or visa on arrival | Details |
| Kenya | E-visa required | Details |
| Botswana | Visa-free for most nationalities | Details |
| South Africa | Visa-free for most nationalities | Details |
| Rwanda | Visa on arrival or e-visa | Details |
| Uganda | E-visa required | Details |
| Namibia | Visa-free for most nationalities | Details |
| Zambia | E-visa or KAZA UniVisa | Details |
Important
Passport must be valid for at least 6 months from entry date with 2+ blank pages. Apply for visas at least 2-4 weeks before travel.
Health & Vaccinations
Consult a travel medicine specialist 6-8 weeks before your trip. Requirements depend on your destinations and personal health history.
Recommended Vaccinations
- Yellow Fever (required for some countries)
- Hepatitis A & B
- Typhoid
- Tetanus-Diphtheria
- Routine vaccinations up to date
Malaria Prevention
Most safari areas have malaria risk. Your doctor may prescribe:
- •Malarone (atovaquone-proguanil)
- •Doxycycline
- •Mefloquine (Lariam)
Also use insect repellent, sleep under mosquito nets, and wear long sleeves at dusk.
Yellow Fever Certificate: Required for entry to Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda if traveling from a yellow fever endemic country. Some camps in these areas may require proof regardless of origin.
Packing Essentials
Pack light in soft-sided bags. Most camps have laundry service. Focus on practical, neutral-colored clothing.
Clothing
- •Neutral colors (khaki, olive, beige, brown)
- •Light layers for temperature changes
- •Long sleeves and pants for sun/insect protection
- •Warm fleece or jacket for early morning drives
- •Wide-brimmed hat
- •Comfortable walking shoes
- •Sandals for camp
Gear
- •Binoculars (essential for wildlife viewing)
- •Camera with zoom lens
- •Extra memory cards and batteries
- •Headlamp or flashlight
- •Reusable water bottle
- •Power bank for charging
- •Universal adapter
Health & Safety
- •Prescription medications (in original containers)
- •Insect repellent (DEET-based)
- •Sunscreen (SPF 30+)
- •Hand sanitizer
- •Basic first aid kit
- •Malaria prophylaxis (if prescribed)
- •Personal toiletries
Documents
- •Passport (valid 6+ months)
- •Visa documents if required
- •Travel insurance details
- •Vaccination certificates
- •Copies of reservations
- •Emergency contact numbers
- •Credit cards and small amount of cash
Luggage Restrictions
Bush planes typically allow 15-20kg (33-44lbs) per person in soft-sided bags only. Hard suitcases are not permitted. Camera equipment usually counts as hand luggage.
Flights & Transfers
International Flights
Most clients book international flights independently to use miles or preferred airlines. Main gateways: Nairobi (NBO), Kilimanjaro (JRO), Johannesburg (JNB), or Addis Ababa (ADD) for connections. We advise on routing and coordinate arrival times with your safari.
Internal Flights
We arrange all internal transfers: bush planes between camps, regional flights, and road transfers. Bush planes are small (typically 6-12 seats) and fly at lower altitudes with spectacular views. Most have strict luggage limits.
Road Transfers
Some routes use 4x4 vehicles with experienced drivers. Transfer times can be long (3-6 hours) but often include wildlife viewing opportunities. All vehicles have charging ports and cold drinks.
Safety & Insurance
Safari Safety
Safari travel has an excellent safety record. Camps and lodges are secure, guides are highly trained, and wildlife encounters are managed professionally. Follow your guide's instructions at all times.
- Stay in vehicle during game drives unless instructed otherwise
- Never approach wildlife on foot without a qualified guide
- Use flashlights when walking at night in camps
- Keep tent zipped at night
Travel Insurance
Comprehensive travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage is essential. Standard policies often exclude safari activities - confirm your coverage includes:
- •Medical evacuation by air ambulance
- •Trip cancellation and interruption
- •Baggage loss and delay
- •Safari activities and wildlife encounters
Medical Evacuation
Many safari areas are remote. Medical evacuation insurance is not optional - evacuation costs can exceed $50,000. We can recommend providers if needed.
Ready to start planning?
We handle all the logistics - you just need to pack and show up.
Plan Your Safari