Africa boasts scenery so spectacular that it will capture your imagination and your heart. No other continent comes close in scale, variety and pure, raw impact or offers a travel experience that is so unique and makes a dozen visits worthwhile.

Where else on earth can you fall asleep to the sound of lions roaring, or watch a million flamingos take off from the waters of a remote soda lake, or come face to face with a silverback gorilla. The essence of this incredible continent isn’t in any desert, mountain or lake, it’s the spirit of the people that infects so many visitors with a travel bug so powerful they’ll never stop coming back.

The East Africa region is made up of Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Burundi and Rwanda. It is a land of diversity with spectacular landscapes, exotic wildlife and fascinating people. Each country has exciting attractions and something different to offer the traveller.  

Below is general information that will be useful when planning your trip to East Africa. If you would like specific information on the East African countries select from:

Kenya         Tanzania    Uganda    Rwanda

General Information

Is East Africa a safe place?


The world in general has become more aware of the threat of terror attacks recently and East Africa has not been immune to this. Governments may issue travel warnings to their citizens, which cover a wide range of countries and regions, without specifically stating what the risk is.

In East Africa, like everywhere in the world, there are certain areas you should avoid. East Africa Safari Ventures will make sure you steer well clear of any problematic areas. We would never recommend a safari that we feel might be dangerous to our guests. Ultimately, the choice to travel is yours. We can keep you up to date with the latest updates on travel advisories for East Africa, so you can make an informed decision.

Most of your safari will be focused around finding and viewing wild animals, often at very close quarters. The animals are by nature wild and unpredictable. Your guide will be experienced at reading each situation and will always keep you safe, as you get as close to the action as possible.

Is age or fitness an issue?


Your safari can be as energetic or relaxing as you like, although healthy people of all ages can enjoy game viewing throughout the region. If you have an ailment, disability or are concerned about your level of fitness, please let us know in advance so we can tailor your itinerary to avoid strenuous, energetic activities.

Can children go 'on safari'?


Children have as much right as adults to enjoy Africa and a safari can be one of the most informative, exciting and rewarding holidays that parents can take their children on. Most camps and lodges welcome children, although some do have a minimum age and can be a little dangerous for those under twelve years old due to the proximity of wild animals. If you have children within your group please let us know in advance.

Immunisation

Vaccines commonly recommended for travellers to Africa include those against;

• Tetanus
• Diphtheria
• Polio
• Typhoid
• Hepatitis A
• Hepatitis B
• Yellow fever - Certificate required for entry into, or travel between, some African countries.
• Rabies
• Meningitis 

Several of these vaccines require more than one dose, or take time to become effective. It is always best to seek advice on immunisation well in advance, if possible around 6 weeks before departure.

Medical

It is advisable to travel with a small medical kit that includes any basic remedies you may need, such as antacids, painkillers, anti-histamines and cold remedies. You will also need anti-diarrhoeal medication such as Imodium (adults only); and oral rehydration sachets such as Electrolade, especially if travelling with children. 



Also include first aid items such as Band-Aids, antiseptic and dressings. It may be worth asking your doctor to prescribe a broad spectrum antibiotic, suitable for treating dysentery or severe infections. Take along scissors, tweezers, and thermometer, lip salve, sun block, water purification tablets or drops. Any personal Prescription drugs should be brought if necessary. Also bring the generic names for these drugs in case they need to be replaced locally.

Malaria


Malaria is a disease spread by mosquitoes that bite mainly at dusk and at night. Every traveller to Africa needs reliable, up to date advice on the risks at his or her own destination. Prevention consists of using effective protection against bites, plus taking anti-malarial medication. The most suitable choice of medication depends on many individual factors, and travellers need careful, professional advice about the advantages and disadvantages of each option.



Whatever your choice, you must take an anti malarial drug if you are visiting a malarial region, and you must continue taking the drug for the necessary period after your return; you must also take precautions to reduce the number of insect bites. Visitors to malarial areas are at much greater risk than local people and long term expatriates - from malaria as from several other diseases: do not change or discontinue your malaria medication other than on skilled professional advice. Travellers to very remote places should also consider taking stand-by malaria treatment, for use in an emergency. 


The Flying Doctor Service

In many parts of Africa access to adequate health care can mean long, tortuous journeys by road. The Flying Doctor Service operated by AMREF not only provides outreach and emergency care to local communities in remote regions, it also provides a medical air evacuation service to tourists.

All of our safaris include the Flying Doctor Service to ensure a free emergency evacuation flight for yourself should the worst happen on your travels.

Tipping


In tourist-oriented businesses a service charge of 10% is often added to the bill along with the 16% VAT and 2% catering levy. At tourist facilities there is usually a tip box where gratuities are shared between all staff – this is preferable to tipping individuals as it ensure all staff benefit. Most safari guides, and spotters in vehicles, will expect some kind of gratuity at the end of your tour or trip. Our recommendations are:
-

• for staff at a camp or lodge US$ 5-10 per guests per night

• for drivers and guides (and their spotters if applicable) US$ 15-30 per group per night


As fares are negotiated in advance, taxi drivers do not need to be tipped unless they provide you with exceptional service.

Planning and Packing

Both temperatures and climate vary drastically from region to region and even throughout a single day. Basically the traveller should come prepared for hot, cold, wet and dusty conditions. 


Luggage

Ultimately your packing should be dictated by the activities you are planning to undertake. Suitcases and bags should be able to withstand plenty of handling and dusty conditions. 



If you are travelling by domestic/chartered flights within Kenya, remember that there are luggage restrictions of 15kg (33 pounds) per person. For mountain climbers, bring a sturdy, well constructed pack with orthopaedic support and lockable zips and catches. A small daypack is ideal for carrying cameras, travel documents and basic everyday items.


Clothing

• Casual, lightweight, and comfortable clothing is usually the best. Clothing should be of neutral colour, and white, bright or vividly patterned clothing avoided. In some areas, mostly coastal, it is considered inappropriate for women (and in some cases men) to wear shorts or short sleeved shirts. It is always best to seek local advice. For some up-market lodges and nights out in Nairobi you may wish to bring some more formal evening wear.
• Strong footwear is advisable if you are planning to do any walking. For serious climbers and trekkers a good pair of hiking boots should be brought with you.
• Remember that the tropical/Equatorial sun is strong and burns quickly. Wide brimmed hats are preferable to baseball caps for sun protection.
• Sunglasses
• A good quality sunscreen (rated SPF15 or higher) should be used.
• A good quality insect repellent.
• Bring your own Toiletries with you. Basic toiletry items are widely available.
• If you have prescription glasses it is wise to bring a spare pair.
• A small Flashlight/Torch
• A pocket knife is a good accessory to carry.
• A good quality pair of Binoculars is essential for effective game viewing.
• Climbers can hire equipment, ropes and gear in Kenya, but may wish to bring their own personal kit and equipment.
• Divers will find excellent dive gear for hire in Kenya, but may also wish to bring their own regulators or dive computers. Those with prescription masks should definitely bring them along. Dive Certification Cards and log documents should be brought along.
• All travel documentation should be kept together securely. This should include tickets, Passports (with appropriate visa entries), Vaccination Certificates, and Travel Insurance documents. Additional photocopies of Passport, Air ticket and Traveller’s Cheque numbers should be brought and packed separately. Take several copies with you and leave some at home. 

Photographic Guide

Kenya is one of the great photographer’s destinations. The great diversity of landscapes, people, wildlife and history make for unparalleled photo opportunities. For the dedicated photographer, a trip to Kenya is the chance of a lifetime. Come fully prepared and equipped to take full advantage of the ideal photographic environment. 



As these are not readily available at all hotels and lodges, always carry extra rolls of film, memory cards and batteries. The electricity supply in Kenya is 220/240 v 50hz. Plugs are 3 point square.  For all electric devices, remember to bring voltage and plug adaptors where appropriate. Most hotels and lodges have charging facilities but please check with us in advance if you would like clarification.



A good 35mm SLR Camera with interchangeable lenses is highly recommended. Bring a long lens (an 80mm-200mm zoom lens is best) for wildlife photography, while a 35mm-70mm lens is a good general lens for landscapes. For bright conditions a UV filter may be helpful. Those with an interest in flowers or insect life may wish to pack a macro.



Some safari companies provide rooftop camera mounts or bean bag camera rests. Bring a good solid camera and kit bag to cope with travel and handling. A lens cleaning cloth and a blower brush will be necessary to cope with dust.

A good pair of binoculars are very important both for everyday game viewing and for scoping good photo opportunities. Birders may wish to bring a spotter scope and tripod.

KENYA


For many, the name “Kenya” has always been synonymous with wildlife. The vast wilderness and big game of this spectacular country has long attracted explorers, adventurers and travellers for centuries. A safari to Kenya is the trip of a lifetime.

No other African country can boast such an incredible range of landscapes, unique geographical features, a wide range of species and the opportunity to immerse yourself in local culture and communities. The Kenyan wilderness is home to an endless array of ecosystems: from sweeping savannahs rich with wildlife, to an incredible abundance of birdlife, from the depths of a tropical rainforest to the depths of the Indian Ocean teeming with fish, to mighty snow capped mountains, searing deserts and cool highland retreats.

Kenya offers the visitor a chance to experience a world of natural wonders unchanged by the passage of time.

Regions:

• Amboseli, Chyulu Hills & Tsavo
• Northern Frontier district & Laikipia
• Maasai Mara
• Great Rift Valley & Lake Victoria
• Coast & Lamu
• Nairobi

 

Quick Facts

• Time - GMT/UTC +3
• Population – estimated 34 million
• Area - 583, 000 sq km
• Borders - Ethiopia, Tanzania, Uganda
• Capital - Nairobi
• Languages - Kiswahili, English, tribal languages
• Currency - Kenya Shilling (KSh)
• Seasons - Rainy (short rains March to May, long rains October to December), dry (January to February, June to September)
• Telephone - Country code 254; international code 00
• International airports: Jomo Kenyatta International Airport - Nairobi (JKIA), Moi International Airport - Mombasa and Moi International Airport - Eldoret.
• Visa – Visas are required for most visitors and should be obtained prior to arrival. Cost of Single Entry Visa (valid for 3 months):  US$50 / €40 / £30
• Passport – there are no restrictions on which nationalities can enter Kenya
• Immunisation - The best choice of vaccines for your trip depends on many individual factors, including your precise travel plans.  It is always best to seek advice on immunisation well in advance, if possible around 6 weeks before departure.