WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE ARRIVAL IN EAST AFRICA

VISA – Since we major in East Africa countries which include Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda and Uganda see below guideline for other countries:

• Kenya – To travel to Kenya you must apply for a visa and is normally applied here – https://evisa.go.ke/ and is normally valid for 3 months from the date of travel. They charge $ 51 per visa application for anyone of 16yrs and above. Anyone below 16yrs does not need a visa to travel to Kenya but needs to declare by the person accompanying them during application of the adult. Visa process takes approximately 24hrs – 72hrs for processing. When travelling to Kenya make sure you only apply for a Single Entry Visa (SEV) not a multicounty visa when here on tourism purposes. Guests who don’t need a visa to travel to Kenya kindly refer to the list here to confirm if you need a visa – https://evisa.go.ke/eligibility
• Tanzania – To travel to Tanzania need a visa and can get on arrival or you can apply online prior to arrival here- https://visa.immigration.go.tz/ . Get more details of guidelines here – https://visa.immigration.go.tz/guidelines
• Uganda – To travel to Uganda need apply visa online and NOT on arrival. For more details refer here – https://www.visas.immigration.go.ug/
• Rwanda – To travel to Rwanda get visa on arrival or apply online here for more details – https://www.migration.gov.rw/

PASSPORTS – To travel to East Africa your passport needs to be valid for at least six (6) months after your journey ends, and should have a minimum of four (4) blank visa pages for entry and exit stamps.

VACCINATIONS – Kenya and Tanzania currently have no COVID-19 vaccination or testing requirements for entry so need of the COVID Vaccinations to enter either. A yellow fever vaccination is only required to enter Kenya and Tanzania if you are arriving from, or have transited through, a yellow fever-endemic area in South America or Africa–including East African countries such as Kenya and Uganda. WHO provide a current list of all affected countries here – https://www.fitfortravel.nhs.uk/advice/disease-prevention-advice/yellow-fever/yellow-fever-risk-areas . For guests visiting Kenya Only no need of yellow fever as it’s not a MUST but recommended. For guests whose itinerary includes visits to both Kenya & Tanzania safari, vaccination for yellow fever is necessary and you must carry an International Certificate of Vaccination provided by your physician; you may be denied entry without it. If your physician advises against receiving the vaccination because of your personal medical history, he or she can provide you with the necessary documentation for the country/countries you are visiting. You will be travelling to areas of malaria transmission. We strongly advise that you speak with your doctor or travel clinic regarding your itinerary, individual risk assessment and options for mosquito bite prevention and antimalarial drugs. We recommend filling any prescriptions before you depart.

PLASTIC BAGS IN KENYA AND TANZANIA

The governments of Kenya and Tanzania have implemented a ban on plastic bags. The ban applies to “carrier and flat bags,” primarily targeting bags from shops and grocery stores, but also extending to Ziploc bags, duty-free bags and bubble wrap. If tourists have those types of bags visible while in the airport, they are likely to be confiscated. Bags designed for multiple use, such as zippered cosmetic bags, are not included in the ban.

PACKING LIST & BAGGAGE RESTRICTIONS

On flights within East Africa, each passenger is limited to a maximum baggage weight of 33 pounds (15 kilograms). This includes the weight of purses and camera equipment in addition to regular luggage. Luggage restrictions are adhered to very strictly and passengers should pack their bags accordingly. Soft-sided luggage or duffels are preferable to hard luggage for storage on safari vehicles and also on aircraft used throughout East Africa. Dimensions should not exceed 23 inches (58 centimeters) long x 13 inches (33 centimeters) high x 10 inches (25 centimeters) wide. Flights aboard light aircraft within East Africa may not be direct. Multiple stops may be made to offload passengers at safari camp landing airstrips.

WHAT TO CARRY

• Bright summer clothes for safari tour (strong colors attract unwanted attention from flies found in certain areas of the park)
• Fuller clothes for evenings at the hotel and lodge such as long pants and long –sleeved shirts to protect you against mosquitoes after sunset and if necessary against the sun.
• A jacket/ sweater as it can be cool in the early morning and evening.
• Summer foot wear (e.g. sport shoes and cotton socks/). To avoid walking bare feet and or leaving your legs naked at night due to mosquitoes.
• Power adapter with 3-4 sockets. UK type of sockets are used in East Africa countries.
• Small flashlight and extra batteries
• Hat that shields against hot sun.
• Sunscreen sun glasses and lip balm.
• Extra batteries for cameras, recorder.
• A few copies of all personal documentation such as passports, flight tickets, travel insurance, visas, vaccination cards and international debit cards.

Light weighed binoculars.

 

WHAT TO KNOW AFTER ARRIVAL IN EAST AFRICA?

Soon after your arrival a Tour consultant from Mufasa travels will hold an informal meeting which is intended to help you get the most out of your holiday in Kenya. Please meet your representative in the hotel or at your preferred pick-up location at the time advised on your itinerary.

Below are guidelines to help you understand more of what to expect here in East Africa:

HOTEL CHECK-IN/OUT– Upon arrival in all hotels/lodges/camps you will be required to complete a registration form. Check in time in East Africa is officially 12:00 noon. Please be patient should you arrive before this time; the room will be made available as quickly as possible.

Check out time is 10:00am. If you have a late departure, it may be possible to retain the room until departure time by paying a supplement but kindly contact the office one day before, should you wish to do so. Also, should you wish to upgrade your room please contact the office.

SAFETY & SECURITY – As you would at home, please keep your money and valuables safe. Leave your valuables in hotel safes as hotels will not accept responsibility for items left in hotel bedrooms. Cost is free of charge or minimal and/or a refundable deposit in most hotels. We recommend you leave your passport there unless needed to withdraw cash or visit a clinic. In Kenya it’s necessary to carry an Identification Card but a passport copy is also acceptable.

GENERAL SAFETY – Please be vigilant at all times while out of the hotel and preferably leave all valuables behind i.e., jewelry, flight tickets, cameras, etc. Please avoid deserted, unlit areas late at night. We do not recommend walking outside the hotel or beach. Should you need to go out use licensed hotel taxis.

WATER – We advise against drinking tap water in East Africa and instead recommend that you drink bottled water that can be purchased in hotels, shops and restaurant throughout the country. Water provided in the hotels is purified. Kindly note that water provided in the car and in dining areas in most camps. Some camps and lodges for extra bottles of water are charging extra. In our safari vehicles water is unlimited hence no need to purchase extra.

MEAL ARRANGEMENT – You will be given details of the meal times and restaurant facilities relevant to your chosen lodge/camp and meal package booked. If you have any special dietary state your requirements upon check-in at the reception or to our travel consultant to advise the hotels in advance.

ELECTRICITY – Most camps/lodges in East Africa while on safari are powered by generators which are turned off during the night to preserve electricity and to make sure you have a sound sleep. Make sure you charge your phones during the day. The time will be advised upon check in as it varies from different camps.  Hotels in the major cities like Nairobi, Arusha, Entebbe and Kigali are 24hrs available.

LAUNDRY – Should you need laundry services at your respective lodges/camps/hotels kindly contact the front desk team to advise on the extra charges you are required to make.

WIFI- Most lodges/camps offer free WIFI access in public areas such as the lobby, restaurant and the bar. Kindly note that in some of the camps there is no signal in the rooms.

SMOKING – The law prohibits smoking in public spaces, shopping malls, restaurants, theatres, airports and railway stations. Some restaurants offer designated smoking and non-smoking areas; either ventilated indoor areas or outdoor open areas.

DRESS CODE – In order to avoid offense modest dress should be worn at all times particularly when venturing outside the hotel/resort in cities and along the coastal region and most strictly when visiting any places of worship. It is against the law to sunbath topless or naked in Kenya. Most hotels also implement an evening dress code policy (smart attire) within their restaurants.

We recommend light cotton cloth (preferable earthy colors for safari) for comfort and something warmer for the evening. Long sleeve tops and long trousers are more suitable for dusk and dawn to avoid mosquito bites. Mosquito repellant and a rain coat in case of any sudden downpour especially if you are travelling in the rainy season is recommended. Comfortable footwear is advisable if you are doing a safari and flip flops especially in the hotel rooms are also recommended.

MEDICAL ASSISTANCE – In the event of needing medical assistance please contact your driver guide or office. Doctors are well trained and medical facilities near the cities are good. You will be expected to pay all charges for medication, treatment and call-outs.

EMERGENCIES – In case of an emergency, kindly contact our customer care through Tel. number +254701302035, +254768072534, +254757836023 for assistance.

COVID (PCR TEST) – Kenya and Tanzania currently have no COVID-19 vaccination or testing requirements for entry so need of the COVID Vaccinations to enter either.

THE TEMPERATURE – As the temperatures here can exceed what you experience in your home country, ensure you drink plenty of water. Dehydration is one of the major causes of illness in Kenya. Sunburn is the other most common problem. A high factor suncream/sunscreen is recommended. The sun reflects off the water so it is recommended that children and those spending long periods of time in the sea or swimming pool, should wear a t-shirt and a sun hat.

SOUVENIORS – Bartering is a way of life here and can be fun although most hotel shops have fixed prices. Strict conservation laws in Kenya make it illegal to purchase coral, shells, ivory or the skins of endangered species. The penalties for trying to smuggle these items out of the country can be severe. Your driver guide can advise you on where to buy souvenirs via card or cash as they know best. Kindly talk to him.

VEHICLES – Our safari vehicles are typically safari mini-vans or Landcruiser with a pop-top roof ideal for game viewing and photography. There is also a fitted fridge that provides room for cold drinks or medication that require cold temperature. Road terrain in Kenya is bumpy so come prepared for a great and natural massage. In case of emergency breakdown contact the office via Tel. number +254701302035.

Kindly note the vehicles do not have A.C. In case unauthorized person is carried along the way contact our customer care through Tel. number +254701302035.

TOURIST ROUTES – The driver guide is to follow specific tourist circuit routes. Google maps is not reliable due to change in nature.

LOCAL SAFARIS/ PRE-BOOKED TOURS AND EXCURSIONS – Whilst here in Kenya we encourage our guests to get out and about, however, you will be subjected to a lot of pressure, and sales techniques from local vendors around hotels, beach and also from sales representative within your hotel. We recommend you book excursions through your Tour consultant from Mufasa Travel or through the email info@mufasatoursandtravels.com. The tours can be paid either through cash or credit cards. All credit card transactions will be made in US DOLLARS and any tours paid in Kenya shillings or any other currency will be converted using our company’s exchange rates.

Details of the wide range of excursions will be briefed to you on the day of arrival by your tour consultant. For those of you who have pre-booked an excursion package, it is very important that you check personally with your Tour consultant/ driver guide to reconfirm the date and the pick-up time.

LOCAL CURRENCY – In Kenya we use the Kenyan shilling. Tanzania use T Shillings, Uganda use Uganda Shillings and Rwanda use Rwanda Francs. We recommend you have the local currency in case you need to purchase something from the locals. There are forex exchange bureaus at the airport, some hotels and shopping malls. Should you need the services kindly seek advice from your driver guide.

PLASTIC BAGS IN KENYA – Plastic bags are no longer allowed into Kenya and anyone found with them risk imprisonment or a fine. Luggage is not allowed to be wrapped in the protective plastic layers some airports offer.

Duty free plastic bags would need to be removed and the contents and receipts placed in your hand luggage. Plastic bags are not allowed in Luggage.

EXTRAS ACTIVITIES – Optional activities at the hotels/lodges/camps are available at an extra cost. Kindly note that we only visit original cultural villages in Kenya and Tanzania. A visit to the Masai cultural village is $20 per adult and $10 per child which is paid via cash in Kenya shillings, Euros or Dollars.

Hot air Balloon is $450 per person only payable by card in the office or at Masai mara, Kenya and $ 600 per person in Serengeti, Tanzania.

Optional activities at the hotels/lodges/camps like Quad bikes, horse riding, Nature walks and Bush dinners is at an extra cost advised by your hotel.

TIPPING – Gratuities are an important contribution to people’s livelihood in Africa. In the tourist resorts and areas tipping is customary in Kenya and whilst it is not obligatory, it is expected and highly recommended. As a guideline below:

• Lodge/ Hotel Staff: $1 – $5 (Usually there’s a gratuity box for staff at the reception)
• Safari guide: $5 – $20 per person per day.
• Porter: $1 – $5 per bag

The tip amount is of course based on your satisfaction. When out and about, it is best to carry loose change of small denominations of hundreds and fifties.

WHAT TO KNOW DURING BOOKING A SAFARI HOLIDAY?

HOTEL CATEGORIES OF ACCOMMODATIONS IN EAST AFRICA.

• BUDGET

Safari using affordable hotels, lodges or camps, comparable to a 1-2-star hotel. Accommodation is usually located outside the parks. Most of Budget properties we make use are properties with great food, normal beds, en-suite washroom inside each room, private veranda and sufficient staff to take care of the camp chores comfortably. Wi-Fi is available at the properties as well. Being located outside the parks is not more than 20 minutes driving to the entrances but all along the fence of the parks.

• MID RANGE 1

Safari using medium to large-scale lodges, tented camps or cottage camps, comparable to a 3-star hotels. Comfortable camping safari with large and spacious tents, a normal bed, en-suite bathroom, private veranda and sufficient staff to take care of the camp chores. Most Mid-range 1 hotels are outside the park along the fence of the park. Wi-Fi is available at the properties as well.

• MID RANGE 2

Safari using medium to large-scale lodges, tented camps or cottage camps, comparable to a 3.5-star hotel. Comfortable camping safari with large and spacious tents, a normal bed, en-suite bathroom, private veranda and sufficient staff to take care of the camp chores. Better furnishing and abit pricey compared to Mid-range 1 hotels. Some are inside the parks and some are outside, hence a mixture of both locations in different parks as listed on the quotation. Wi-Fi is available at the properties as well.

• SEMI LUXURY

Safari using deluxe tented camps or lodges, usually located inside the parks and comparable to a 4-star hotel. Accommodation is usually located inside the park. Classic bush camps / lodges and semi-permanent tented camps which are valued more for being in a prime wildlife-viewing area than mid-range properties, but they’ll always be comfortable. Wi-Fi is available at the properties as well.

• LUXURY

Safari using extremely luxurious tented camps or lodges, usually located in a prime wildlife-viewing area and comparable to a 5-star hotel. Expect great food, excellent service, top-quality furnishing and gorgeous tents or rooms. Most luxury properties charge around above $ 500 per person per day to a maximum of $ 1500 per person per day. Wi-Fi is available at the properties as well.

• SUPER LUXURY

Safari using top notch safari camps or lodges, usually located in a prime wildlife-viewing area and comparable to a 5+ star hotels. Expect great food, excellent service, top-quality guiding and gorgeous tents or rooms. Most luxury properties charge around above $ 1000 per person per day to a maximum of $ 2000 per person per day. Wi-Fi is available at the properties as well.

 

N/B: Tanzania – Serengeti camps and lodges are all located in Serengeti National park from Budget to Super Luxury Properties. Hence the difference is amenities offered at different properties.

 

DISCLAIMER: Different countries have different cultures and way of operations. Kindly, adhere to the cultures here in East Africa to enjoy your time here. Do not litter. Adhere to park’s rules and regulations.

DIFFERENCES BETWEEN OPEN ROOF TOUR VAN AND LANDCRUISER:

East Africa is a hub for most travellers looking for an african safari adventure. In Kenya we have three types of vehicles that are used for safari based on client’s choice. We have the Open Roof Tour van or also called open roof minibus and open roof landcuisers or open roof 4*4 vehicles and the open sided four by four land cruiser. Below are the differences for each so when planning your safari, you know what suites you best.

1. Open roof Tour Van – These vehicles are most common in a safari here in Kenya BUT NOT Tanzania. They are best preferred by guests that on a low budget since are lower priced as compared to all others. They have a seating capacity of 7 passengers comfortably seated. One at the front and 6 at the back on window seat guaranteed. The 6 at the back have the advantage of the open hatch also called the open roof access as compared to the front seating which has no open roof. They are featured with an open roof hatch, UHF radio call, individual seats, in some cases with limited recline and cooler boxes to store bottled water cold temperatures in hot areas. These vans are two-wheel drive hence in muddy and rocky terrain they tend to struggle to maneuver around during the wet seasons, but during the dry season they travel comfortably. Not being four wheel means in case they get stuck in muddy areas they need assistance from other cars. So incase guests are looking much into an off-road safari this car may not be suitable such as photography. Also some camps or lodges due to location we advise guests not to use this type of vehicle due to terrains in those regions. But a majority are fine to use the vehicle. The vehicle is generally a good vehicle to use on safari and clients using this vehicle should be aware of above details. Here are photos of the vehicle – https://mufasatoursandtravels.com/mufasa-fleet/open-roof-tour-vans/
2. Open roof Land cruiser – The other dominant type of Safari vehicle in Kenya and Tanzania is the 4×4 Land Cruiser Safari land cruiser. These are often Toyota Land cruisers converted into Safari vehicles with the addition of pop up game viewing roofs [ front and main], safari customization, and addition of UHF radio calls and suitable seating of 7 people comfortably window seat guaranteed. Guests seating in front also has an open roof hatch same for guests seating at the back. A bigger percentage of the vehicles also come with an electric fridge instead of cooler boxes at the back seat to store water or other items at cold temperatures due to high temperatures in some places. Safari land cruisers are more capable for off road since they are four wheel drive full time and elevated and more comfortable as well over rocky and rough sections of roads, but will cost significantly more to use than safari tour vans. Here are photos of the vehicle – https://mufasatoursandtravels.com/mufasa-fleet/open-roof-land-cruisers/

Open sided land cruisers – These are another type of land cruiser same brand of Toyota and are not commonly used for guests travelling by road to many parks for safaris since they are not allowed by the authorities to travel on highways from one park to the other due to safety reasons. These type of vehicles are commonly used by guests flying into parks from Nairobi and are commonly owned by camps and lodges located inside the reserves and parks not by the tour operators. Also since not all parks have airstrips if doing many parks can be a challenge to make use of this type of vehicle. Highly recommended to be used under our flying safaris subject to availability since camps have very limited vehicles, hence need book prior. If fully booked, we are recommended to send our normal open roof land cruisers at an extra cost since need travel one day prior to collect you from the airstrip on day of arrival since all cars are stationed in Nairobi office headquarter. Clients travelling by road incase want to use this vehicle need to book at an extra cost at the camp directly if the camp has such vehicles. In case of harsh weather can’t make use of it such as rains as compared to the open roof land cruiser or tour van which you just shut down the hatch and proceed with game drives. Here are photos of the vehicle –