African Safari Trips

What Is a safari?

A safari is often a vacation of a lifetime. Africa's game reserves, offer hundreds of rare birds and mammals. Accommodations vary from five star lodges surrounded by scenic valleys to tenting facilities. Time takes on a new meaning as you learn to sit quietly listening to the sounds of Africa.
visitors

When to travel- “The Great Migration”

The " Great Migration " is the heralded movement of millions of wildebeest and zebras across Tanzania's Serengeti plains into the Masai Mara game reserve of Kenya, from late June through early October. Tanzania's annual migration occurs March through May and October through November. Whether you catch the migration or not, there are always be plenty of animals to see. And you could take the same safari at the same time every year and always see something different. Nothing remains the same, because the animals are constantly on the move in search of fertile grasslands.

In east Africa safaris are best enjoyed during the periods mid December through the beginning of March and during the period June through mid October each year.

In southern Africa (Botswana and Zimbabwe) the best wildlife viewing is during the dry season period May through October each year with July, August, and September being the most desirable months.

Wildlife viewing is, in part, predicated on the amount of surface water available. During the rains (November through April) wildlife is scattered as there is abundant surface water (puddles, perennial rivers) to drink. Once the rains end (mid April) wildlife congregates around remaining surface water supplies (pools, lakes, and large rivers).

Travel during southern Africa's "green season", November through April, does have some advantages. The bush will be lush and green and many wildlife species will have newborn in tow. Dust, which can be a nuisance during the dry season, is greatly reduced and night time temperatures are milder than during the dry winter months. The Victoria Falls are in full spate (heaviest flow) during the period January through June. Lastly, during the "green season" many northern migratory birds call southern Africa home making the region an ornithologist's paradise!

Personal safety

Safaris are safe if you stay within the marked boundaries of your lodge or in your vehicle. Your guide and driver know what is, and is not, safe. Incidents involving animals are rare in East Africa and are, almost without fail, the result of someone doing what they have been advised not to do.

Nairobi is a big, bustling and risky city. Crime rate is high. Police corruption universal. Avoid wearing flashy jewellery, hold onto your purse and camera bag, beware of clever con men and don't walk in the city at night. Do not wear money belts, since they can easily be cut off from the rear. Keep a photocopy of your passport in your suitcase and another at home. Traveling on safari with a recognized tour operator is safer than traveling in Nairobi or in some large North American cities. The people are friendly, and the government patrols the game parks - their most treasured resource - for the safety and benefit of all.

Before you leave and once you arrive at your destination, be very aware of the security situation in the countries through which you intend to travel: Check here for travel reports.

If possible, always read the local newspapers in the countries you are visiting - there may be local conflict that nobody outside of the province has heard of, but which will make going in search of the lesser spotted LBJ ("little brown jobbies") extremely dangerous
Regularly check the travel news coverage on Go2Africa or another excellent website, africanews.org, which carries major stories from most of Africa's local newspapers, updated daily. Also check out the Department of Foreign Affairs for travel reports.
Once on the road, carry a short-wave radio and religiously tune into the BBC's "Focus on Africa" every evening.
In the cities always err on the side of caution. Don't openly carry valuables. If you must carry your passport and money on you keep it in a buttoned down pocket or well-concealed on your person. Do not walk out at night.
Solicit and adopt local's advice on unsafe areas, codes of dress and behaviour
Avoid deserted areas, particularly at night-time. If you are in a car try and park in well-lit populated areas. Keep your car locked at all times - when you are in it and when you are not. Do not leave valuables on the seat.
As far as hitchhiking is concerned, we would consider this a risky activity and would advise against it, particularly in the vicinity of major urban centres or after dark.
Do not stop your vehicle for anything or anyone. There are numerous tales that highlight the ignorance of travellers in Africa's game parks and nature reserves.
All reserves have a set of rules which visitors are expected to adhere to - those who do not do so at their peril. All large game, particularly hippos (kills the most persons) , lions elephants and buffalo, should be considered extremely dangerous. Stay in your car and keep the recommended distance from the animals in case you need to beat a hasty retreat.
Africa has its fair share of poisonous snakes. If you plan on doing any walking, take along boots, socks and long trousers. Be careful of wood piles or when turning large rocks over. Make sure your shoes are empty before putting them on.
Swimming in rivers in any wildlife area, which has hippos and crocodiles, is a deadly pastime.

How to survive being hijacked

Millions of tourists visit Africa each year without incident. The unfortunate, unprepared few who are hijacked in their hired vehicles are the exception. In the unlikely event that you are hijacked, follow the tips below to ensure your safety.

Here's how:

Force yourself to remain calm.
Don't resist the hijacker(s) in any way.
Do not make any sudden movements.
Do not unbuckle your seatbelt before letting the hijacker know what you intend doing. He will see your hand moving to the side of your body and will assume you are reaching for a firearm - with possibly fatal consequences.
Do everything the hijacker tells you to do without hesitating. No questions, no arguments.
Allow the hijackers access to the vehicle, the vehicle's keys and whatever else they ask for. No possession is worth more than your life.
Slowly move away from the vehicle as soon as you are able to.
Wait for the hijackers to disappear from sight before going for help.
Always keep your hands in sight . Remember that the hijacker is just as nervous as you are.

How to self-drive safely in Africa

Do not do it. Hiring a vehicle and driving yourself is a wonderful and flexible way to experience the magic of Africa. Unfortunately, hijackings and robberies are a fact of African life. Follow the tips below to stay safe.

Here's How if you still want to do it:

Hire a vehicle with air-conditioning (so you can keep the windows closed) and central locking.
Check yourself that the vehicle's spare wheel is inflated, and that there is enough fuel before you leave.
Plan your route thoroughly, with an up-to-date map, to avoid getting lost.
Keep your doors locked at all times, even when driving.
Never stop to give a stranger a lift. Even children are often used as decoys to get the unwary traveller to stop.
Never stop and climb out the vehicle if you see a "baby" on the road. Placing a dressed doll in the middle of the road is one of the African hijacker's favourite tactics.
Always treat a tree branch or rocks in the road as a potential ambush. If you can't drive around the obstacle(s), turn around immediately and leave the area.
If you do become lost despite all your preparations, drive to a well-populated area, but not an informal settlement (squatter camp) and seek assistance.
If you are involved in a minor collision, and especially if you are rear-ended, do not stop. Drive to the nearest police station for help.

Typical Safari Schedule

Your typical day on safari begins with a game drive after breakfast. After lunch you'll have time to nap, swim or read about what you're seeing. Around 3:00 or 4:00 p.m., there is usually another game drive, until dusk. On some days, there is the possibility of an early sunrise drive, or even a night game drive or a walking safari depending on park rules . When travelling to new game parks, there are often stops to visit interesting features along the way.

Getting Around

vehicle
Most of your safari will be in minibuses or four-wheel drive vehicles. It is best to have a window seat for game viewing and photography. Ensure that every vehicle has its own professional driver/guide and one pair of binoculars and guide books for each guest. Roads outside major cities are often dirt or gravel and may be bumpy or dusty. Expect at least one flat tire which your driver will change in record time ( maybe). You may happen to get temporarily stuck in a muddy patch if there is a heavy rain. It's all part of the adventure and your driver is an expert in dealing with tough driving conditions. Some of the safaris feature short flights, thereby saving hours of surface travel. While on safari you may be transferred between lodges, camps, hotels, and different national parks by road, boat and air. Air travel is the most convenient method of moving between destinations. Depending upon your choice of safari you may travel by scheduled flights. The majority of commercial airlines use modern jet or turbo prop aircraft. Alternatively guests may fly aboard smaller single, or twin, engine charter aircraft seating 6 to 10 people. Keep the luggage down to a minimum. Space is at a premium.

Walking Safari

At tented camps in Tanzania and certain tented camps in Kenya, you have the opportunity to view wildlife on foot. During a two to three hour walk your guide will help you position yourself downwind, and surprisingly close, to such awesome animals as buffaloes and elephants. A truly thrilling experience. Your guide will help you read spoor and appreciate the fabulous wealth of small animals, from spiders to birds.

The beauty of Africa encompasses not only birds and animals of all shapes and sizes, but also the many different tribal peoples, and the exotic physical features from mountains to broad savannas, forests to rivers and deserts.

Animal Kingdom

In a typical day you can expect to see 15 to 20 animal species- lions, elephants, giraffes and rhinos, to name a few. Buffalo and wildebeest may be in herds of hundreds or more. Others, like the swift cheetah, are more likely to be found alone. And then there are the birds, over 300 species! Birds in Africa are particularly colourful and easy to spot. A special thrill is the annual wildebeest migration. You'll see thunderous herds of wildebeest and zebra, totalling more than 2 million, stretching across the horizon. On their trail follow the predators the big cats, and the scavengers hyenas, jackals and vultures. Whenever you go, you'll see animals as you've never seen them before roaming free, just as they have for millions of years.

Because you are traveling in protected game reserves, many of the animals have no fear as long as you are in a vehicle. You can get surprisingly close, especially when lions are busy feeding on prey, or at rest. Elephants often walk up to and even surround a minibus. Monkeys and baboons may study you as closely as you study them. But natural behaviour will only continue if you give the animals some space and are quiet. If you go too close, or talk too loudly, the animals may just leave. Most animals will be more interesting if allowed the space to continue their natural behaviours- stalking, mating, playing with their young. Your driver will know the best viewing distance. Please do not encourage him to "stalk" or otherwise interfere with hunting or other activities crucial to the animal's survival.

Be considerate and responsible. Some in your group may want to keep moving while others want to linger to get that perfect shot. If your group is large, you can often sort yourselves out into minibuses of people with similar habits.

Don't assume that you are the only person who likes the front seat. It's always best to ask. Refrain from smoking in vehicles and during meals. Don't be a complainer. Most problems are pretty easy to rectify when the right person knows about them. If something is bothering you tell the person concerned or your guide. You're on the adventure of a lifetime. It's not supposed to be "just like home." Always treat staff with respect. You may be on holiday but the locals see you as an ambassador for your country.

Accomodations

Hotels and lodges vary according to your budget. They vary from 5 stars to a tent with a wood floor. A typical lodge has bungalows spread across the grounds, a large central reception area, dining room, shops and an outdoor swimming pool. Many have exercise room as well. Tree hotels, such as the Ark or Mountain Lodge, are more rustic, yet feature great views from their lofty perspective, and each bedroom has its own private facilities.

tent Some feature permanent tented camps, with large canvas tents erected on concrete or wood platforms. They all have sewn-in floors and net screens. Many even have swimming pools! Most permanent tented camps in Tanzania retain all the style and glamour of the famous mobile tented camps. Sensitive to this fragile environment, these camps retain an elegant simplicity, yet offer every feature to ensure a comfortable stay: excellent meals: fine wines and liquors: insect proofed tents with twin beds: private hot water bucket shower: discreet safari toilet laundry service. Private camps are set up in private game viewing areas far from other tourists. Here you'll have a chance to view game on foot, or by four-wheel drive vehicle with your highly trained naturalists guides. For most, these exclusive camps are the ultimate African experience.

Weather

africa In general east Africa (Kenya and Tanzania) experiences dry weather during the months June through October. There are two rainy seasons - the long rains which fall March through May and the short rains which arrive in mid October and continue until mid December.

Temperatures are moderate throughout the year with average daytime temperatures around 70 - 80 degrees F. June us the coolest month as it is mid winter. Evenings and mornings are often chilly, with cold night time temperatures at Ngorongoro Crater due to altitude.

In general the climate in southern Africa (Botswana and Zimbabwe) is as near perfect as you can get with dry season temperatures similar to those of the Mediterranean, but without the humidity. Daytime temperatures average 70 - 80 degrees F. During the winter period June through August night time temperatures in some areas can drop to freezing or below - don't let this dissuade you from a safari as by mid morning temperatures are warm enough for shorts and a short sleeved shirt.

The "Dry" Season

July through October, and December through March. During this time you may expect to find the greatest concentrations of animals because they will congregate around the remaining water holes. The dirt roads may be dusty, but should not prove to be a major discomfort. The relatively "rainy" season (see below) includes the month of April, May, and November. During this time the landscape is beautifully green, and there are fewer tourists. The animals are more dispersed, so will be harder to spot. Expect showers interspersed with beautiful sunny skies. Many travelers prefer to go on safari during these months. If your itinerary includes Mombasa or other coastal resort, the best times for you to visit are August through October, and December through March. The coast is warmer and more humid than the rest of Kenya, but you'll find your beach hotel cooled by the ocean breezes. In Kenya and Tanzania the higher you are , the cooler the temperatures. Nairobi, at 5500 ft and most game parks at altitudes above 3000 feet, have ideal temperatures- between 70 and 90 degrees all year round, seldom dropping below a cool 55 degrees at night. Mt. Kenya Safari Club, the tree hotels and the rim of Ngorongoro Crater are closer to 7000 feet and can be quite chilly at night, with temperatures dropping to the mid-forties. The warmest months are December and January and coolest are July and August. Inland, even at the lowest altitudes, the air is dry, thanks to cool mountain breezes.

The Rainy Season

The rains occur each year during the period November through April with the dry season stretching from April through October ( see details below). The long rains in Africa can be very heavy as can be seen in the recent floods in Mozambique, or they can fail altogether, which appears to be the case in the Serengeti this year. And their duration varies from year to year, country to country, so the following information is a rough guideline only.

Botswana, Namibia and Zimbabwe - rainy season is late October to early April.
Lesotho - rainfall from September to April.
Kenya - long rains from March to May, short rains between November and December.
Malawi, Tanzania and Zambia - long rains from November to April.
Mozambique - high humidity and showers between September and April.
South Africa - northern parts have summer rainfall from September to April, the southern areas have winter rainfall from April to September.
Swaziland - rainfall mostly from September to April.

Travel Health Issues

Emergencies

Private hospitals are the best for emergency care while on safari in Kenya, Tanzania, or Uganda. You should have supplemental medical coverage insurance including transportation back to Canada.

AIDS

AIDS is rife throughout Africa, Travelers should be aware of the sources of transmission of AIDS (sex- exposure to body fluids, contaminated surgical instruments, injections, transfusions). There is probably no greater risk of exposure on a safari than there is at home if one avoids these exposures. If you have intimate contact with the locals always use latex condoms to reduce the risk of HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases. Similarly, don't share needles with anyone. Sex tourism is very active in Africa. Avoid excessive alcohol. It may get you into trouble. Mosquitoes do not transmit AIDS. While no one can be certain of the purity of the blood supply at home or abroad, there is blood screening facilities in Nairobi. These hospitals are staffed by American and European trained doctors, nurses, and technicians and have high standards of medical care.

NOTE: Food and waterborne diseases caused by viruses, bacteria, or parasites are the number one cause of illness in travellers. Make sure your food and drinking water are safe

A yellow fever vaccination certificate may be required for entry into certain African countries ( Tanzania), particularly if you are coming from a country in tropical South America or elsewhere in Sub-Saharan Africa.

The rainy season, and the two months following the end of the rainy season, are usually peak malaria time, as well as being the time when other nasty diseases like cholera and hepatitis A are rampant.

Besides malaria, other unpleasant diseases carried by insects also occur in this region such as dengue and trypanosomiasis (sleeping sickness). Tsetse flies are attracted by the dust cloud produced by your vehicle. Precaution against mosquito bites, namely long-sleeved clothes and trousers, Permethrin insecticide on your clothes, repellents and mosquito nets, will help to prevent these diseases.

Driving in Africa is the most dangerous of undertaking. Motor vehicle crashes are a leading cause of injury among travellers, so you are advised to both walk and drive defensively. In many countries particularly in the rural areas, where roads are not only in complete disrepair but populated by large domestic animals it is wise to avoid night-time travel if possible. Always use seat belts.

Staying Healthy Tips

Wash hands often with soap and water or with a hand sanitizer such as Isagel.
Drink only bottled or boiled water, or carbonated (bubbly) drinks in cans or bottles. Avoid tap water, fountain drinks, and ice cubes
Eat only thoroughly cooked food or fruits and vegetables you have peeled yourself. Avoid salads, which you have not been involved in the preparation of. Remember: boil it, cook it, peel it, or forget it. Don't eat food purchased from street vendors.
Ensure food is cooked thoroughly and eat it while it is still hot; prevent cooked foods from being contaminated by contact with raw foods, contaminated surfaces or flies.
Use your insect repellents (One application of Saywer will be effective for 24hours). Treat all your clothing with Permethrin insecticide before you leave.
To prevent fungal and parasitic infections, keep feet clean and dry, and do not go barefoot. Treat athlete's feet before you go on safari.
Don't eat dairy products unless you know they have been pasteurized
Don't handle animals, especially monkeys, dogs and cats
Don't swim in fresh water. All fresh water lakes should be considered as infected with schistosomiasis.

Phyiscal fitness level

If you are in good health, you should have no problems at all. Your trip may involve hiking, stair climbing, or long periods on your feet. Ask ahead of time. Those going on a Gorilla Trek extension in Uganda MUST be in good physical condition.

Those hiking to the top of 19,400' Mt. Kilimanjaro need to be in Very Very good physical condition and must be aware and prepared for the risks of mountain sickness.

Packing and luggage

Travel lightly. On international flights, each person is allowed a maximum of two pieces of luggage. We recommend two smaller bags rather than one large suitcase. "Squashable" ( combination backpack suitcase are now available) suitcases, Overnight bags, duffel bags, etc. are ideal. While you're on safari, additional baggage can be safely stored at your hotel. The baggage allowance on local planes within East Africa is 33 pounds. Even more important than weight is the size of the bags. Large suitcases cannot be stowed on light aircraft. Again, soft luggage is recommended. A few changes of clothes, your camera equipment, and toiletries are really all you should need. Include a small backpack or daypack.

Essential Items

Insect repellent (Sawyer DEET) and, unless you can be sure that you will be staying in air-conditioned or well-screened housing, a mosquito bed net. Ideally one which is impregnated with the insecticide permethrin (available at the clinic)
Imodium anti-diarrhoeal medicine
Pristine, or water purifier to purify water if bottled water is not available
Sun block with Titanium dioxide, good sunglasses, wide brim hat
Prescription medications in their original bottles: make sure you have enough to last during your trip, as well as a copy of the prescription(s) Spare prescription spectacles or contact lenses, and a copy of your prescription.

Clothing Suggestions

Long-sleeved shirt and trousers to wear whenever possible to prevent illnesses carried by insects. Synthetic slacks and shirts are ideal, with a sweater or other layers to shed as the day heats up. A hat with a brim is essential, and a cotton bandanna useful, especially in Amboseli, Kenya, which can be dusty. Khaki and cotton travel well, and pale earth colours such as tan or olive are best for viewing wildlife and birds. Camouflage clothes are illegal in many African countries. Avoid them. Solid-colour safari clothes in pastel, brown, kaki colours, are practical and widely available. Avoid bright colour shirts. Check out the adventure clothing lines ( Royal Robins, Ex Officio, etc…)

shirts Comfortable walking shoes, such as topsiders are recommended over sandals; thorns are everywhere, and socks with your shoes deter mosquito bites. Include a lightweight raincoat or jacket, and a swimsuit (many lodges have pools.) You may want to take flannel pyjamas/a robe or a sweat suit for Kenya's Ark, where you can chose to have a wake up call if a rhino comes to the water hole in the wee hours.

A nice dress is useful for clubs, casinos and restaurants in cities such as Nairobi, Cape Town, Johannesburg and Harare, where men need to wear a jacket and tie. The Mt. Kenya Safari Club will not seat dinner guests wearing T-shirts, jeans, or running shoes, (or what they call "sports shoes"*). While the Safari Club no longer insists upon a jacket and tie for men, they do enforce a dress code of "Smart Casual."

pants Chinos, combination pants and khakis work better than jeans, which take forever to dry. Newer synthetic materials dry faster than cotton. Safari/Bermuda shorts are unwelcome at mosques; visitors should dress conservatively in Islamic communities (Lamu, Mombassa, Zanzibar;) long sleeves and long pants also deter mosquitoes and sunburn.

Laundry service is available at most lodges and even tented camps, but be very clear about when you need your clothes returned. Take at least three changes of clothes for a week on safari, plus your own detergent to wash a few things. The best advice is to travel light.

Photography

vehicle2 Africa is a paradise for photography, but do not wait until you arrive to become familiar with new gear. Take equipment that you have used before. While film is for sale in Africa, it is expensive and limited. Be sure to take along plenty and buy it before you leave home. Take a waterproof pouch to protect your camera from moisture and dust. Take extra batteries and plug-in adapters if you plan to use a video camera. At some remote lodges and tented camps, power is produced by generators that are often turned off at night, and the current may not be powerful enough to recharge your batteries. It is smart to take a recharger that works off a vehicle battery. Larger lithium batteries that you can wear on your belt will last longer.

In many tombs, temples or 'closed' museums, you may be asked to pay a fee of $3 for taking photographs, or $30 for use of a video camera. As a protective measure to protect the colour of ancient art, some tombs and temples do not allow the use of a flash, or strobe.

Africa is the photographer's dream! A camera will record all those, unbelievable and spectacular sights you'll want to share with friends. We suggest a good 35 mm camera with a 35-70 mm zoom lens, and a longer lens, such as a 80-200 mm to capture the multitude of rare birds you see. More and more travelers are capturing all the thrills of safari on video cameras. Most lodges and camps have facilities for recharging your batteries. You may have to pay a nominal fee in some game parks for non-commercial use of video cameras. Unobstructed pictures can be taken through the roof hatch of your minibus. Remember that any vibration in the camera is magnified, so be sure to rest your arms on the body of the vehicle and request that the engine be turned off, if that's possible.

Note: Taking photographs at AIRPORTS, HARBORS, and MILITARY INSTALLATIONS is prohibited. Your entire roll of film may be confiscated. In many tombs, temples or 'closed' museums, you may be asked to pay a fee of $3 for taking photographs, or $30 for use of a video camera. As a protective measure to protect the color of ancient art, some tombs and temples do not allow the use of a flash, or strobe

Type of film: The first rule is to bring plenty along 15-25 rolls. Although film is available in Nairobi and at some lodges, it can be expensive. For color slides, we recommend Kodacrome 64 and high-speed ektachrome 400, the latter for low-light conditions. For more natural colors you may prefer Fuji 400 HR. For color prints, Kodacolor or Kodak Gold 100 and 400 give excellent results. If you want to take pictures at night you'll need Kodak Ektar 1000.

The electric current in Africa is 220 AC. Dual voltage appliances may still need adapter for the plug, usually British-style flat three-prong.
See plug in adaptors for the various formats. Some hardware stores sell a multi-functional adaptor that has all the basic plug in prongs.

Binoculars

Even though Tours supplies one pair of binoculars per minibus, your own light weight binoculars will greatly enhance your viewing pleasure. If you're a "birder", binoculars are essential. The best range of magnification for safari is from 6X to 8X with a lens size of 35mm,
Check it out before you go

In addition to your valid passport, visas may be required.

Check out http://voyage.dfait-maeci.gc.ca/destinations/menu_e.htm This DFAIT website will give you current information on entry requirements, local currencies, health concerns.

Approaching locals

Many young people will be anxious to practice their English with you, or help you with your Swahili. At some roadside stops, locals can be competitive in attempts to sell you jewelry or baskets. Bargain if you like what you see. Otherwise, firmly say "No, thank you," or "Sitaki, Asante Sana," and move on. Never photograph locals without asking their permission first. This may require a fee, which your guide can help you negotiate. Giving away Polaroid photos will help you get pictures that would not otherwise be possible. Please DO NOT hand out candy, ball point pens, or trinkets to children. It encourages them to wait for handouts from well meaning visitors rather than going to school. It's okay to barter with tee shirts and caps in the rural shops or to thank someone who's been especially helpful with a tee shirt, news magazine or paperback book, but please don't encourage these beautiful children to beg! Most Africans are extremely polite by North American standards. By keeping an open mind and going out of your way to be courteous and respectful, you'll win friends and much more likely to get your way. Always be a responsible traveler.

Languages

English is spoken widely throughout east and southern Africa (with the exception of Mozambique). In Zimbabwe, English is the national language.

Meals

The food served at most upmarket safari lodges and tented camps is of the highest quality. Gourmet cooks bake fresh breads, and produce soups, salads, and entrees that could easily grace tables at top restaurants around the world.

Meals are international in flavour with soups, salads, cold meats, pasta dishes, meat and fish dishes, and breads. Special diets are not a problem as long we no your needs in advance.

Travel with children

Our family wants to enjoy a safari. Are children allowed on safari?

The majority of safari lodges and camps in southern Africa have a minimum age limit of 12 years of age. There are however a few great lodges and camps that allow children under the age of 12. Please contact our office for further details.

In east Africa traveling with children is quite easy as many lodges and camps have few restrictions.

Navigation