African Safaris and African Safari Tours

How much does it cost to go on an African safari?

• Most of the African safaris and vacations we arrange for our clients are customized to their individual interests, timeframe and budget. The rates for the destinations we offer cover a wide range and typically vary significantly from the “high season” (generally July through mid-November) to the “low season" (generally November through June). The cost of individual camps,lodges and safaris are indicated at the bottom of every camp of safari descriptyion - where available.... If it is not listed as such, please contact us so we can rerquest a quote, as the rates may not yet have been available when updating rates for the particular year....

We encourage you to contact us for a quotation; we are here to assist you in planning an amazing Africansafari. We really are passionate about what we do and we welcome all enquires.

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Southern Africa vs. East Africa, which safari region is better?

• In terms of wildlife safaris, Southern Africa includes South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, Zimbabwe, Malawi and Zambia while East Africa is essentially Kenya and Tanzania. Meanwhile, Uganda, Burundi, Rwanda and The Democratic Republic of the Congo (formerly Zaire), all destinations popular for Gorilla tracking safaris, are generally considered Central Africa. Malawi and Zambia are also sometimes classified as Central Africa.

  Historically and up until the 1980’s, East Africa was the preferred destination for safari-goers and wildlife enthusiasts. Kenya and Tanzania offered superb wildlife viewing with a well-developed safari infrastructure of operators with both permanent camps and mobile safari circuits. In contrast, the countries in Southern Africa, while full of wildlife and beautiful wilderness areas, were either politically unstable or mostly undeveloped for safari tourism.

  During the 1990’s things began to shift. South Africa’s apartheid came to an end and its monetary unit, the Rand, historically very strong, began to depreciate, making South Africa a very attractive travel destination. Intrepid safari guides in South Africa took advantage of the increase in tourism to open up Botswana and Zimbabwe to hunters and photographers. With the increase in tourist capital, the safari industry in Southern Africa grew and permanent camps and mobile safaris opened in its pristine wildlife areas.

  In terms of landscapes and attractions, the regions are quite different. East Africa boasts Mount Kilimanjaro, the Serengeti Plains / Maasai Mara ecosystem and the Ngorongoro Crater. Southern Africa includes Botswana’s Okavango Delta wetland, the Skeleton Coast and Namib desert of Namibia, the miles of coastline with diverse habitats and the Kruger National Park of South Africa, the semi-arid Kalahari Desert of Botswana and northern South Africa, and the lower Zambezi River basin including Victoria Falls along the borders of Zambia and Zimbabwe.

  The wildlife species found in the two areas are essentially the same; most of the predators and plains game can be seen in both regions and only some birds and a few mammals and reptiles are distinct between the regions. The major differentiation is in the numbers of certain species and the general experience a visitor will have when viewing them.

  East Africa offers herds of zebras and wildebeests in the hundreds of thousands. The annual migration between the Maasai Mara in the north and Tanzania’s Serengeti in the south is a spectacle unequaled anywhere on earth today. However, Botswana and Zimbabwe are home to 80% of Southern Africa’s 300,000 elephants and huge herds are a common sight along their northern borders.

  The weather also varies between the regions. In East Africa, October marks the beginning of the “short rains” while April brings “long rains.” Many of the safari camps close during the long rains due to difficult driving conditions. In Southern Africa, while each country varies, the rains generally fall between November and March with the rest of the year being mostly rain-free. Most of the camps stay open year-round. The rainy or “green” safari season in Southern Africa offers benefits such as herbivores having their babies, lush green landscapes and dramatic skies, all of which combine to create superb photographic opportunities. Temperatures are similar between the regions with May through August being the cooler months.

  The major differences between East Africa and Southern Africa for safaris are the density of tourists, the safari accommodations and the safari vehicles. East Africa, in general, has earned a reputation for a high density of tourists staying in hotel-styled lodges. The most common safari vehicle in East Africa is the mini-van with its pop-up roof, whereby passengers stand up to take pictures while peering out of the roof or sit in the enclosed vans. Conversely, Southern Africa is known for its luxury tented safari camps and huge tracts of wilderness areas with very low tourist densities, making for a private safari experience. The safari vehicles used here are modified, open-air Land Rovers which also add to the intimacy of the experience.

  That said, there are a growing number of luxury lodges cropping up in East Africa, particularly in Tanzania and these lodges offer a far more exclusive experience than the large safari lodges which may have typified Kenya and Tanzania.

  For the most part, Southern Africa is dominated by huge land concessions, which are owned or leased by luxury safari camp operators, and these concessions are for the sole use of the individual camp and its guests. With an average camp size of only 10-16 guests and only one or two vehicles for the entire concession, one can drive all day and not encounter anything but wilderness and wildlife.

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Is it safe to travel to Africa?

• Africa's biggest enemy is the international media who represent all 46 African countries as a single entity and not as unique and individual countries with their own characteristics. This misrepresentation is actually due to lack of education on the part of the media. What most people seem to forget is the fact that Africa is a CONTINENT, and with that being the case, nearly 5 times larger than the United States of America!

  

   

   

  It would come as a surprise to many people to find out that there are in fact areas that are worse off in more developed countries than in the "dangerous" African countries. No country can claim to be 100% safe, and so as with travel to any new or unknown destination, it is advisable to take certain standard security precautions. Visitors should take the same precautions as they would normally take in any other destination worldwide. Keep an eye on your purses, wallets, passports, money and cameras when walking in a crowd. Avoid walking in the cities at night and place valuables in your hotel safe. Choosing a knowledgeable operator such as Eyes on Africa as your specialist Southern African tour operator is the best move you could make.

  While staying at African safari lodges and tented camps you are typically far removed from human settlement and crime in the camps is virtually non existent (we have never heard of it and have been traveling to the camps for years). We advise that valuables be locked away or kept under the supervision of the camp or lodge manager, or better yet, left at home if you are at all concerned.

  We are extremely knowledgeable about the continent (having been born and lived there) and can therefore minimize any possible risks for our guests. Most of your travel time in Southern Africa is likely to be spent away from the large cities where crime is most prevalent. You will be visiting areas and regions that are remote and where crime is almost non existent. Even if your African holiday involves spending time in the cities, having a company like ours able to choose the appropriate lodging, locations and simple security advice, you will find the cities we recommend are as safe as travel almost anywhere.

  Finally, we simply do not recommend destinations that are not completely safe. This is why you will find that we do not recommend every country in Africa. We have lived in Africa, we know its cultures, and we know what is safe and what is not. In the same way we only recommend the finest African safari camps, we also only recommend certain cities while away from "the bush".

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What about Zimbabwe?

• Zimbabwe has recently been in the news and has received a large amount of negative press surrounding President Mugabe's decision to permit "re-distribution" of privately owned farms to the "war veterans". This process has been accomplished with its share of crime and violence, especially by those who were removed from their life-long farms.  However, this violence has only occurred in and around the cities and farming areas, and then mostly in the central and southern portions of Zimbabwe. Fortunately, the northern National Parks and reserves in Zimbabwe have not been affected and these amazing wildlife areas offer the best bargain in all of Africa in our opinion. The wildlife is outstanding - on a par even with Botswana, and these areas are remote from the heavily populated cities and surrounds where the crime is centered. These northern parks - Mana Pools, Matusadona, and Hwange offer great camps, superb guides, and amazing game viewing all at bargain prices. Many people take all of the bad press and decide to leave well enough alone rather than take a perceived risk. We realize that there is now a travel advisory from the US State department and agree that this warning is possibly accurate for the farming areas and the cities. However, the northern parks are still havens of peace and tranquility, offering a superb Zimbabwe safari experience. The support by guests traveling to Zimbabwe will only help to keep the conservation efforts in this country going and to keep the poachers out. The bottom line is, Zimbabwe's northern parks and reserves are completely safe and offer fantastic African safari deals. We recommend that our guests fly into Victoria Falls from Johannesburg. After enjoying all the varied and superb experiences Victoria Falls has to offer – we FLY our guests from camp to camp, all of which are within totally safe National Park areas far removed from any urban hotspots. Our guests do not venture into the cities or farming areas at all, so are completely safe. Wilderness Safaris has continued to operate successfully in Zimbabwe since the advent of the land re-distribution crisis. We absolutely will not operate any itinerary if we have the remotest concern of potential danger to our guests.

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What are the medical health precautions and issues?

• As vaccination requirements change on occasion, we recommend that you check with your local doctor or health department for the latest health precautions. The most important health consideration in Southern Africa is Malaria and it is strongly recommended that prophylactics (i.e., oral tablets) be taken as a preventative precaution. You are not legally required to have any vaccinations unless you are traveling from a region where yellow fever is prevalent, in which case an inoculation will be required against the disease. Certainly you need not rush off and get every possible inoculation and take every pill under the sun just to travel to Africa. Do not go overboard with the information put out by the disease control centers. We return time and again to Africa and to the bush and have only ever taken Malaria prevention tablets. A course of anti-Malaria tablets is advisable and many doctors advise a dose of Hepatitis A vaccine. We recommend that you visit with a local travel health specialist for complete details and safety. Many parts of Africa do have problems with their water and foods; however, the food and water in Southern Africa is much safer than the rest of Africa, especially in the African safari camps and hotels you will be traveling to. Please do not over-react to the detriment of you own enjoyment. We have never experienced any problems with the food or water in any of the camps or hotels we have traveled to over the years. As long as we're discussing water, one thing you must be careful of, especially during the hotter summer months and in the desert areas, is dehydration. Plenty of fresh bottled water is always available at all of the camps throughout the day and should be consumed regularly and in quantity. We have seen many guests, even experienced African travelers, who forget to drink enough water and become dehydrated. A case of dehydration will usually put you out of action for up to a day and is no fun. All the camps stock re-hydrating tablets which help to set you right again, but we wanted to mention it as this is the most common ailment we have observed among guests on African safaris. Drink lots of water!

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What about Malaria?

• The most serious risk while traveling in Southern Africa on safari is malaria.  We will not "talk down" this risk as we both know people, albeit all individuals who live and spend time in the Africa bush, who have contracted malaria.  This is NOT something to take lightly and it can be a lethal and at the very least, a long and uncomfortable disease. Malaria is an infectious disease caused by the parasite called Plasmodia. There are four identified species of this parasite causing human malaria, namely, Plasmodium vivax, P. falciparum, P. ovale and P. malariae. It is transmitted by the female Anopheles Mosquito. It is a disease that can be treated in just 48 hours, yet it can cause fatal complications if the diagnosis and treatment are delayed. It is re-emerging as the # 1 Infectious Killer and it is the Number 1 Priority Tropical Disease of the World Health Organization. The CDC estimates that 300-500 million cases of malaria occur each year worldwide and 1.5 million to 3 million people die of malaria every year (85% of these occur in Africa), accounting for about 4-5% of all fatalities in the world. Humans get malaria from the bite of a female malaria-infected Anopheles mosquito. When a mosquito bites an infected person, it ingests microscopic malaria parasites found in the person’s blood. The malaria parasite must grow in the mosquito for a week or more before infection can be passed to another person. If, after a week, the mosquito then bites another person, the parasites go from the mosquito’s mouth into the person’s blood. The parasites then travel to the person’s liver, enter the liver’s cells, grow and multiply. During this time when the parasites are in the liver, the person has not yet felt sick. The parasites leave the liver and enter red blood cells; this may take as little as 8 days or as many as several months. Once inside the red blood cells, the parasites grow and multiply. The red blood cells burst, freeing the parasites to attack other red blood cells. Toxins from the parasite are also released into the blood, making the person feel sick. If a mosquito bites this person while the parasites are in his or her blood, it will ingest the tiny parasites. After a week or more, the mosquito can infect another person. The safari camps in Southern Africa are not located in densely populated areas and this greatly reduces the risk of being infected by malaria. Anopheles mosquitoes start biting by late evening and the peak of biting activity is at midnight and early hours of morning. Protect yourself against the bites in the evenings and early mornings by applying mosquito repellant, wearing garments that cover the body as much as possible, and at bedtime, by using mosquito nets without fail. All of the camps provide mosquito repellant in the tents and in the lounges and on game drives. Most also provide mosquito "coils", an incense-like slow-burning substance that produces a smoky repellent that can be lit inside the tent before heading for dinner so that the tent is cleared by bed time. Finally, the majority of the camps also provide a mosquito netting over the beds to keep the "mossies" out while you sleep. Wearing lightweight long pants instead of shorts and covering the ankles especially is also very helpful during dinner and in the evening hours. Use the bug spray after sundown on game drives as well. Remember that the best precaution against malaria is to reduce the likelihood of being bitten. The next best precaution is to begin and complete a full regimen of anti-malarial medication for your African safari.  The medication usually begins before you leave and is completed after returning home.  Check on the internet or with your physician for further information.

  For more information, please also visit the following links:

  CDC Information on Prescription Drugs for Malaria: http://wwwn.cdc.gov/travel/contentMalariaDrugsPublic.aspx.

  CDC Health Information for Visitors to Southern Africa: http://wwwn.cdc.gov/travel/regionSouthernAfrica.aspx.

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What are the entry requirements?

• All people traveling to the Southern African region require a valid passport that is normally valid for 6 months beyond the intended length of stay. At present, holders of American passports do not require visas for South Africa, Botswana and Namibia. They do however require visas for Kenya, Tanzania, Zimbabwe and Zambia, but all but Kenya ma be purchased at the point of entry for a nominal fee. It is advisable to check with the consulate of the country that you intend to visit as requirements can change without notice.

  South Africa... IMPORTANT: Southern Africa passport control has become very strict with regards to passport control requirements. There have been instances of visitors being deported due to non-compliance. Passports MUST be valid for at least six months after your return home date. We recommend a validity of nine months to prevent any problems in this regard. The passport entry requirement for any travelers entering South Africa is a minimum of two blank pages in their passport (in addition to the two endorsement pages in US passports). If however a guest should be traveling to more than one African country via South Africa, then the traveler must ensure they allow for sufficient pages for each country visited and also have the minimum of two blank visa pages for each re-entry into South Africa.

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Is Southern Africa an expensive or difficult destination to travel to?

• It is surprisingly easy and less expensive than you might think. There are direct flights from both New York and Atlanta to Johannesburg and Cape Town with a flying time of about 11 hours. This might seem lengthy, but if you consider that it is a night flight where you can sleep and also watch plenty of movies, the time passes faster than you may have thought. The great advantage is that there are no connecting flights and therefore less stress.

  If you were to compare the cost of a trip to Hawaii, staying in decent hotels, compared to the same time on a continent that offers a unique and once in a lifetime experience, it appears that for a totally new experience, the minimal increase in cost is worth every penny. The even bigger drawing card of the region, particularly South Africa, is that the US Dollar is so strong (around 7-10 South Africa Rand's to the $US over the past several years for example) and the value of the local currencies is so low that it is extremely inexpensive once you are there. You find that you can eat like a king at a very nice restaurant for the price of a simple meal back home. Most other world wide regions are relatively cheap to get to but costly once there, so in theory there is a balancing effect when you consider it might be slightly more expensive to fly to Africa, but once there, it is extremely cost effective. An even bigger bonus of the African safari industry is that it is all inclusive in most parts (i.e., meals, drinks, game drives and guides) are included, so there is no additional need to pay for anything once you have arrived, except for perhaps the odd curio.

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How much cash should I take with me?

• Most of the African safaris camps we represent accept Master Card and Visa credit cards for purchases of curios and even accept them for guests to pay gratuities to the camp staff and guides. A note on gratuities at the African safari camps: Gratuities are not expected, but a reasonable tip would be US $10 per guest, per day for your driver/guide and perhaps $5 per day for the overall camp staff. Believe me that this amount will seem like nothing after you experience the fine service in the camps we offer! Again, these can be paid for with credit card so cash is unnecessary.

  If you are visiting Cape Town, Johannesburg, Nairobi Lusaka, etc., a highlight is one of the flea markets that offer beautiful African wood carvings, batiks and other VERY inexpensive but nice arts and crafts. For the flea markets, you will typically want some cash. These artisans as well and their artwork is typically of nice quality and they make excellent mementoes of your trip or as gifts for your friends and family. The shops and restaurants in cities as well as the hotels in Vic Falls all accept credit cards.

  When we travel for say three weeks to Africa and include two weeks on safari, we typically take around $300 in cash. This is only our guideline for ourselves; however, we feel that traveling with more cash than this is unnecessary.

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What extra costs will I have on safari?

• Very few, it all depends an what kind of a safari you are going on. One nice thing about a safari is that most everything is included in the price you pay before you leave. Please view the rates as indicated, of the individual camps and lodges. Alcoholic beverages are generally excluded. Gratuities for your professional safari guides are also excluded in the quoted rates, and in this regard we US $10 per guest, per day for your driver/guide and perhaps $5 per day for the overall camp staff. Believe me that this amount will seem like nothing after you experience the fine service in the camps we offer! Again, these can be paid for with credit card so cash is unnecessary. Extra expenses may include some side trips to areas of personal interest, boat rental, fishing trips and any extra nights you may require due to combining safaris.

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What are the requirements for self driving?

• The traffic departments of both South Africa and Namibia are now enforcing a law (which was passed in 1998) which requires that travelers applying to rent a motor vehicle be in possession of a valid "International Drivers Permit / License". Should travelers not be in possession of an International License, they will not be permitted to hire a vehicle in South Africa nor Namibia.

  Anyone using motor vehicles, other than hired ones, (i.e. making use of a company or friend's vehicle etc.), they will STILL need to be in possession of such license. Anyone driving without a valid driver's license (either domestic or International) will incur penalties should they be stopped by the police. Licenses will NOT be issued to foreign visitors upon arrival to South Africa nor Namibia. Travelers must be advised to carry their Foreign Drivers License as well as their International license.

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What is a "typical" day on an African safari?

• Every camp and safari location will differ in terms of its activities and schedules, but in general, safaris follow a general pattern which is consistent throughout southern Africa.

  Typically, a safari day includes two major activities per day - one which begins early in the morning and the second which occurs in the mid- to late-afternoon and continues until dark or sometimes up until 2 hours after sunset.

  A safari activity may include game drives in Land Rovers (or other safari vehicle), water activities like canoeing, mekoroing or motor boating, and also game walks. Most safaris are predominantly game drives as this is usually the best way to see wildlife unless your safari is on a river or in a permanent water area.

  Morning activities begin with tea or coffee and a light morning snack before sunrise with the drive or activity beginning at or just after sunrise. The mornings are really the BEST opportunities to see good wildlife and interactions as it is still cool and the nocturnal animals are still quite active. There is usually a break to get out and stretch and have another coffee and snack.

  Morning activities are usually over by late morning and guests return to camp for a full breakfast / brunch.

  The middle of the day is your own. Because southern Africa's climate is warm, midday's are typically very warm to hot and the animals are therefore quite inactive for the most part and seek shelter in the shade to wait out the heat. Guests may relax at the camp swimming pool, in a hammock, take a nap, read, etc. For the intrepid, most camps will allow a short midday activity like a game walk or a visit to a hide.

  After the siesta, guests return to the main area for tea (drinks, snacks, etc) before heading out on the afternoon safari activity. This activity typically starts at 3:30 or 4:00pm and the weather at this time is usually quite warm. The activity will carry on until sunset or afterwards for a night drive. Guests return to camp, freshen up, come down for drinks at the bar and sit for a full dinner. Drinks around the camp fire are always offered but most find that they are tired from all the fresh air and are in bed by 10pm.

  The next day begins again before sunrise and you're out in the bush exploring again. It's addicting!

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Are the animals dangerous?

• Most of the regions visited in Southern Africa are in areas where you are within the natural habitat of the wildlife and so there are no fences surrounding the camps. 

  The best advice to be given here is to listen to your guide's instruction while in camp, ensure that your tent flaps are not left open and doors are closed etc. At almost all the camps the guides walk you to and from your tents and they are trained to handle any situation, should it arise. Keep in mind that animals do wander through the camps during the day and at night, so at all times just be aware of your surroundings and you will be fine. Having wild animals in such close proximity is one of the main reasons people visit the area – enjoying them in their natural habitat is what makes the experience all the more special.

  The game drives are conducted in open-air vehicles which really allows you to get up close and to see that animals from an unimpaired viewpoint. Many people argue that animals only see the vehicle as it would a tree (albeit, a tree that moves") and not the people in it. This point is debatable but, personally, with hundreds upon hundreds of hours spent on game drives, we feel that most of the animals, and certainly the primates like Baboons and Monkeys and most likely the larger cats like Lions, are keenly aware of human presence. But they do not, for the most part except if you are in an area that has seen poaching from a vehicle, view a Land Rover with people in it as a threat. The animals actually become habituated to the vehicles and eventually ignore them for the most part - this allows guests to view animals exhibiting their natural behavior. It is truly a pleasure, I can assure you.

  Occasionally an Elephant, especially the females in the breeding herds, become annoyed and their protective, motherly instincts take hold and they chase a vehicle off, but this is rare. Also, the guides at the camps are very good with reading an Elephant's moods and will avoid situations which could be potentially dangerous. Mostly, you are in no danger whatsoever if you listen to the guides and keep aware of your surroundings - always remember that you are in a wild place, with wild animals. After all, this is Africa's allure!

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What kind of food can we expecton safari?

• Top class British and European cuisine as well as some local dishes are served in the hotels, lodges, camps and restaurants. Most foreign visitors are very impressed with the quality and quantity of food provided while on an African safari. Some of the more up-scale camps provide food, presentation and service which rivals that of a 5 star hotel in any top city. The tables are elegantly set under the stars, under thatch or even in a boma - and you will never go hungry.

  The standard 3 meals a day is done away with in the bush as the meals are geared around the game viewing times and activities. Typically one starts off with a light continental breakfast upon waking before heading out on the early morning activity. Guests usually return at about 10/11 am for a large brunch, which incorporates meals from both the breakfast and lunch menus. A light tea and snack is offered before the afternoon activity and upon returning to camp in the early evening, a hearty three-course dinner is enjoyed followed by after dinner drinks around the campfire.

  The camps are able to cater for all food types as long as they are made aware at the time of booking so as to ensure sufficient time to fly in the necessary supplies.

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Is communication with the "outside world" possible while on an African safari?

• For most people wishing to visit the remote parts of Southern Africa, getting away from civilization so to speak, is the major attraction and reason for going. As with electrical power, communication by phone, fax, etc. is out of the question given the remote locations of the camps. All camps do however have radio communications with their town/city offices in case of any emergencies. Most lodges in South Africa offer full telephone and internet services for those who do not wish to detach from the world completely.

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What laundry facilities are available on African safari?

• Most safari camps in Southern Africa offer a laundry facility, but there are a few where given water restrictions and the location this is not possible. Please check with us to make sure.

  This service is included in the accommodation cost for most African safari camps. Hotels in the cities as well as some lodges charge a nominal fee for it. Most underwear and delicates are not washed by the local people due to their traditions and so washing powder is supplied in most of the rooms/tents for this purpose.

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How do we get from camp to camp on an African safari?

• On the tailor-made fly-in African safaris, inter-camp flying is usually costed on a seat-in-plane basis where guests are flown with other guests to their destination. If you prefer to book a plane for your party's exclusive use to ensure that you are flown directly to the next camp (and possibly to allow you an increased baggage allowance), please request this when booking and we will add the extra cost to your price.

  We offer air transfers in Zimbabwe, Botswana, Malawi, Namibia and South Africa in Cessna 210s, Cessna 206s, Cessna Caravans and Islanders. Charters in larger and faster planes are possible from Johannesburg to Maun and Victoria Falls as well as on some of the other longer routes. However, most guests traveling from Johannesburg or Cape Town to Maun, Victoria Falls or Windhoek use scheduled flights on SAA, BA/Comair, Air Botswana or other reliable carriers.

  For the inter-camp air transfers, space and safety concerns don't allow for lots of baggage on these planes - so there is a strict 12kgs (26lbs) baggage limit on all flights (unless you have booked a private flight). All bags must be soft to allow us to squeeze your bags into tight corners. 12kgs doesn't sound like much, but as the dress code in the camps is casual and as most camps and some African safaris offer a laundry service (and most often this is a free service), the 12kgs is ample. If you have to have more baggage, then we can often sell you an extra seat on each flight, which will allow you and your party up to an extra 70kgs (also in soft bags). If you have lots of bags, but don't need the bags in the camps, we can often send your bags ahead to your next city as unaccompanied baggage. There is an additional charge for this service.

  Most of our safari flights in Botswana now permit 20kg (44 lbs) per person (as opposed to the 12kg previously allowed) - check with us for details. Scheduled airlines in South Africa have a luggage restriction of 20kg (44 lbs) maximum per person.

  We cannot afford to take a chance on safety. If you come with more than your 12kgs baggage allowance and you have not made arrangements with us for your extra baggage, you will be forced to leave some of your baggage behind and arrange a private charter at considerable extra cost and inconvenience to yourself.

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Are children welcome on a safari?

• Most African safari camps welcome children over the age of eight. There are few exceptions, so please check with us when making an enquiry. These rules can be waived by booking out smaller camps for exclusive use by parties with young children. Families with children between the ages of 8 and 12 will have to book private activities so as not to disturb other guests. Depending on the size of the family, this may necessitate additional costs at certain camps or at certain times of the year.

  Some camps have family tents where families are able to have their children in the adjoining tent (sometimes sharing the same bathroom). Children staying in the family tents get a discount for this type of accommodation.

  To elaborate further on age issues, there is no upper age limit at most African safari camps. On some cross country and camping safaris, suppliers set an upper age limit due to the active nature of some of the African safaris. Please advise ages if in doubt and check with us for any possible restrictions.

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What about traveling single?

• Sure! A safari is the ideal trip for the independent traveler. Go new places - meet new people! Just be aware that many of the lodges and camps apply a single supplement. If you prefer to travel with a group, please review some of the safaris we offer which have set departure dates. If you are unsure about this, please feel free to contact us and we will gladly assist with the information you may require.

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Can I take electrical appliances?

• Camps and safaris in the remote wildlife regions of Southern Africa have no access to electrical power due to the remote nature of their locations. Most camps have generators on site with 220v electricity or they make use of solar panels. The generators are not normally heard by guests as they are run for a couple of hours at a time in the morning and afternoon while guests are enjoying their activities.

  The electricity is used to power ice machines, fridges and freezers that keep the food and drinks cool and fresh. The generator charges batteries that provide the power for the bedroom lights and overhead fans in the rooms. There is plenty of power available to charge batteries for cameras and video cameras, but not for hairdryers and the likes.

  For most mobile tented camps there is no electricity; lighting is by paraffin lamp and campfires in the true traditional style of Africa. For any lodges in South Africa there is ample electrical power.

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Are there facilities to recharge batteries for cameras?

• If you bring along video camera, electric iron, razor or hair dryer, make sure they are adaptable to 220 AC and 50 cycle current and that you have adapter plugs for English outlets. Game lodges use generators which shut down at bedtime. Most camps only run generators for a few hours per day, however this usually is enough to recharge video batteries. On mobile camping safaris one can re-charge camera batteries from the cigarette lighter plug in the vehicles.

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What animals will we see on an safari?

• The variety of animals found in the Southern African Sub region is incredible. For example, there are 337 different species of mammal and 480 different reptile species currently known to occur here. As for bird species, the number is difficult to give with certainty because the known total is constantly changing as new species (usually visitors) are often recorded. However, a recently compiled list of birds in Southern Africa gives a total of over 900, with all doubtful species not included.

  Of course, most visitors want to see "The Big Five". The big five is a term originally used by the "Great White Hunters" in Africa to refer to the five most dangerous prey animals to hunt: Lion, Leopard, Elephant, Buffalo, and Rhinoceros. Today, these animals are thankfully more often hunted by those with a camera than by those with a rifle (although legal and illegal hunting is still possible for all of these animals). It is possible to see all five of the Big Five in certain areas in South Africa, Zimbabwe and Botswana still today. If this is your goal, we can direct you to camps where it will be possible, and in some cases, even probable that you will see all five.

  But for us, African safaris are about more than checking off the Big Five. They are a magical experience with nature and wildlife that is virtually impossible almost anywhere else on earth. Yes, we go to look for the big cats, Lion, Leopard, Cheetah and we love seeing the rare and endangered Wild Dog (or Africa Painted Dog), but there are so many other incredible animals in Africa, each with interesting behaviors of their own. Still, if you are interested in specific animals, like birding or predators or Rhinos, let us know and we can arrange an African safari with this as the goal.

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When is the wildebeest migration?

• Every year the wildebeest migrate from the Serengeti National Park into the Masai Mara National Park in Kenya. From the vast Serengeti plains to the champagne colored hills of Kenya's Masai Mara over 1.4 million wildebeest and 200,000 zebra and gazelle, relentlessly tracked by Africa's great predators, migrate in a clockwise fashion over 1,800 miles each year in search of rain ripened grass.

  There is no real beginning or end to a wildebeest's journey. Its life is an endless pilgrimage, a constant search for food and water. The only beginning is at the moment of birth. An estimated 400,000 wildebeest calves are born during a six week period early each year - usually between late January and mid-March.

  DECEMBER, JANUARY, FEBRUARY, MARCH

  The Serengeti National Park / Ngorongoro Conservation Area is arguably the most impressive wildlife sanctuary in the world. During the months December through March the seemingly unending plains of the southern Serengeti and the Conservation Area are inhabited by enormous herds of wildebeest and zebra. The great herds graze on rain ripened grass.

  In the calving season (late January through mid March) the herds concentrate at the Ndutu and Salei plains (Southern Serengeti / Ngorongoro Conservation Area) attracting the attention of predators like lion, cheetah and hyena.

  During this period the migration is best observed from Ndutu Safari Lodge, Kusini Camp or any of several private tented camps used by mobile safaris such as our "Wildlife Adventure by 4x4 Safari". These include campsites in the Ndutu / Naabi area.

  APRIL, MAY

  During the months April and May the depleted plains are unable to sustain the endless herds. The migration, sweeping west and north, moves from the short grass plains of the southern Serengeti / Ngorongoro Conservation Area to the long grass plains and woodland of the Serengeti's western Corridor, almost to Lake Victoria.

  This period is during the long rains and is considered off season for wildlife viewing in East Africa as roads are often impassable. Ndutu Safari Lodge, Kusini Camp and the Serengeti Serena Lodge are fine for wildlife viewing during this time. So are campsites in the Ndutu / Naabi area.

  JUNE

  By the end of May the wildebeest have exhausted the Western Corridor's best pastures and the herds must move further north. Entering the Lamai Wedge and the Mara Triangle, breeding occurs May through June.

  This is a transitional period between the rains and the dry season. The Serengeti Serena is a central, easily accessible lodge for viewing the migration at this time. Grumeti River Camp, Migration Camp and Kirawira Camp are also options. Seronera and Moru area campsites are best.

  JULY, AUGUST, SEPTEMBER, OCTOBER

   By July the countless herds have amassed along the swollen Mara River - a final barrier from the short sweet grasses of the Masai Mara. Sometimes the crossing place they have chosen is shallow allowing the majority of animals to pass safely. In other areas the waters boil with drowning wildebeest and slashing crocodiles.

  Between July and October the wildebeest reside in the Mara.

  We recommend Governor's Il Moran Tented Camp as the leading safari camp in the Masai Mara. Other tented camps include Governor's Main Camp, Little Governor's Camp and Bateleur Camp. Tanzanian lodges recommended during this time include Kirawira Tented, Migration Camp, and Grumeti River Camp. Kirawira and Moru area campsites are best.

  NOVEMBER

  The arrival of the short rains call the migration southward. During the short rains of November the wildebeest migration is best viewed from either Lobo Wildlife Lodge or Klein's Camp. Campsites in the Lobo area are best.

  As November ends the migration is making its way back to the southern Serengeti and early in the year they once again give birth. The circle of life is complete.

  * Note - the migration is a natural event and the timing varies month by month; year by year, further determined by rainfall patterns…. All this will contribute to probably the most enjoyable vacation you will ever have...

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What about snakes and bugs?

• This aspect is very exaggerated. You will rarely see a snake, but if you do, it will most likely be from the safety of your safari vehicle. Tents and lodges all have bug screens fitted to windows. In most areas where bugs or mosquitoes are prevalent, rooms and tents are also equipped with mosquito nets, adding to the romantic ambience... Bear in mind that malaria is a threat in most wildlife areas, and it is essential to consult your physician for advice before embarking on your safari.

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What is the weather like?

• In general the climate in southern Africa 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 Fahrenheit but can get much hotter, especially in the months of October and November, just before the rains arrive.

  During the winter period June through August nighttime temperatures in some areas can drop to freezing or below. Early morning game drives during these winter months can start out very chilly and you should bring a warm sweater, gloves and even a hat to cover your ears. However, by mid morning (9 am or so) the layers will start coming off as the days will heat up dramatically. The rains occur each year during the period November through March with the dry season stretching from April through October.

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When is the best time to go on safari?

• This is a question for which there is no exact answer. For most visitors, an African safari is a once in a lifetime experience and they want to of course maximize their game viewing experience in the time they have allotted. However, Africa and the African safari areas have their own true seasons and the benefits of traveling during one time of year versus another must be weighed by the individual guest. We will not try to sway someone into booking in a specific time of year; rather, we offer some of the characteristics of the different seasons on an African safari.

  Generally speaking, the Southern Africa game viewing safari areas (Botswana, Zimbabwe, Zambia and South Africa) have a rainy season (which falls during the southern hemisphere's summer months of November - March) and a dry season (during the winter months of May-September).

  Most visitors who research this aspect of African safari travel by reading up in books or website's are steered to the dry, winter months for the best game viewing. The reason for this is that the water holes are smaller, fewer and farther between and the little remaining green vegetation is widely spread out. The result is that all animals have to come to these watering holes to drink daily and so the wildlife is generally easier to find. Makes sense! The other side of the coin is that the landscape during this dry season is less colorful and there is a great deal more dust. Photographically, the greens of the summer months are mostly absent and your photos will bear a more brownish color. Still, with less vegetation and cover for the animals, it is generally easier to spot them. You could drive past a thick, heavily vegetated area in the rainy season and drive right past a sleeping pride of seven Lions and not see them; however, driving the same route in the dry months, without the thick green cover, practically everyone on the vehicle would likely spot the big cats.

  Some repeat visitors to Africa have found that they prefer the greener, summer months for several reasons. As mentioned, the green colors make the scenery breathtaking. Additionally, as the summer is also the rainy season, one finds dramatically beautiful skies to compliment the lush greens of the landscapes. However, there is always a risk of a missed game drive here or there (We have only been rained out of one game drive in many, many rainy season visits). However, we have been rained upon. Generally though, Southern Africa's rainy season only brings brief, but powerful bursts of precipitation and not long days of rain. Storms usually blow through with a vengeance but pass after a few hours.

  Another aspect of the summer months is that many of the antelope species like Impala, Tsessebe and Wildebeest give birth to their young during this time to take advantage of the plentiful, sweet and nutritious green grass which covers the ground during the rains. Believe us, the baby animals are everywhere and, in our opinion, the scene of young animals against the verdant green backgrounds with big, beautiful fluffy-white clouds in the sky is unbeatable. Most of the predators also switch to hunting the young animals at this time to try for easier meals and, while this sounds unfortunate for the youngsters, it is part of nature's way and many more survive than are taken. For those who want to see the predator-prey interactions, the summer months provide some of your best opportunities to see hunting behavior and predator interactions.

  Finally, because most visitors tend to focus on the dry months for their African safari, the winter in Africa is considered the "high season" and the operator rates reflect this higher demand with higher prices. Occupancies are higher, safaris must be booked a bit further in advance and your costs are greater. Still, many visitors swear by the winter months as THE time to go - it is really a personal preference.

  The bottom line and our final comments on this subject are thus...if you spend several nights in one of these game-rich areas, there are no guarantees, but you will almost certainly see excellent game. Africa is not a zoo; it is wild and unpredictable and the animals roam freely, and for the most part, wherever they wish. Finding them in the huge African safari areas is part of the thrill of the African safari. But you WILL certainly see animals and birds and beautiful scenery. Can we guarantee Lions every day?...NO; Can we guarantee Wild Dogs if you stay for 2 weeks?...NO; Can we guarantee you will see a kill?...Nope. Can we guarantee animals?...YES, Predators?...almost certainly; Lions?...probably. Of course, the longer your stay, the better your chances. It's why those of us who are totally passionate about African safaris keep going back. Every day is full of exciting surprises - and finding those Lions or Wild Dogs or witnessing a hunt is always the greatest of pleasures!

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What kind of accommodation can I expect?

• In the major cities of the African safari destinations, you will stay at Hotels or Country Lodges as you would anywhere else in the world. In the wilderness areas or National Parks, you will stay at Safari Lodges and Camps.

  We represent strictly selected types of accommodation in Africa’s safari destinations. The lodges and luxury tented camps we use in Africa meet the standards of the most discriminating traveler. All camps and lodges are very carefully selected, and all maintain the highest standards, which will ensure your ultimate comfort during your stay. Universally accepted hotel and lodge ratings are not applied to the different types of accommodation, but they generally fall within first-class to luxury range.

  Lodges are permanent structures (mostly under thatch) which have been aesthetically designed to blend into the landscape and retain a rustic ambiance, providing luxurious and modern facilities. Most lodges also have swimming pools.

  Camps are relatively small and may be permanent, semi-permanent or mobile camps. Whatever the nature and structure, the camps are fully catered (you do not have to participate in any chores) and generally apply a staff ratio of 3 to 1. Camps are either thatched chalets or permanent and luxuriously furnished walk-in tents.

  Tented camps are luxurious, most have en-suite bathrooms, beds with fine inner-spring mattresses and conform to all the modern conveniences which will ensure that your stay will be very comfortable and enjoyable. As each property is indeed quite unique, we invite you browse our Camps and Lodges pages, and discover their individual features and find the ones best suit your needs.

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What is the difference between a mobile and a permanent tented camp?

• Around the turn of the century (until the 30's and 40's), mobile tenting was the only option, and "camp as you go" was the standard practice. Over the years the luxury connected with the traditional mobile tenting safari has increased. By the same token, one can understand that the cost to have a "luxury hotel" following one around in Africa is expensive. However, most people settle for tented camps which are permanent. Because they are "permanent" they can be equipped with flush toilets and traditional bathroom fixtures and conveniences. Don't be misled by terminology - a permanent tented camp offers the comfort of a 5-star hotel but with the romance and adventure of being surrounded by the sights and sounds of Africa.

  A "Mobile Camping Safari" offers a taste of Africa in the old tradition You will travel off the beaten track away from the main stream tourist flow, enjoying more privacy and the thrill of open air life in the African bush. Some would say that this is the only way to see the African Savannah!

  Traditional East Africa style tents are used, giving you plenty of space. Each tent has its own shower and you can order hot water at will. Toilets are portable Elsan chemical type and they do flush! By the way, you will not sleep on the floor - proper camp beds are made up with mattress - sheets - blankets and pillows! Authentic canvas chairs, wash basin and towels are provided.

  Mobile tented safaris are, generally speaking, more expensive than the equivalent itineraries staying in lodges. However, it is really a special experience, and many would consider it the only authentic way to safari and well worth the extra cost.

  A full crew will accompany your expedition to take care of all the work and details involved in setting up and moving the mobile camps. They will also provide the transport for game drives during the days and catering at nights where appropriate. Each camp has its own dining tent and a bar is set up every evening for sundowners, and laundry is done on a daily basis. When moving the camp from one location to another, lodge accommodation may be used to give your crew a chance to be ready for you at the new site. You will travel in specially adapted 4x4 vehicles with maximum comfort and roof hatches for excellent game viewing, - maximum number of 5-7 passengers per vehicle. However, many clients on mobile tented safaris wish to have their own private vehicle and can then decide exactly on their own itinerary, subject to logistical considerations.

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What pre-African safari reading do you recommend?

• Over the years, we have compiled a substantial collection of books on all aspects of Africa and we read everything new that becomes available. There are some truly excellent works available - most of them available here in the USA. We recommend that our guests, especially first-timers, do some advanced reading as it certainly will enhance the experience once you are there. Depending upon which region(s) you will be visiting, we can recommend any number of our favorites to give you some up front knowledge of its animals, flora, cultures and history.

  Whether it's bird identification guides, beautiful coffee-table photographic volumes, non-fictional history, or general travel guides, we have probably read them and can help you select what is appropriate.

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What clothing should I pack and how much luggage can I bring?

• One of the most common questions we receive from our clients is what size and type of luggage is best for an African Safari.

  

   

   

  The best choice for luggage on a safari to Africa is the SOFT DUFFEL BAG.

  While weight limits and size restrictions vary for airlines and charter flights between safari camps, the following generally apply to air transfers in safari areas:

  1. Only soft bags will be accepted - no hard suitcases or bags with wheels can be transported, as they physically cannot fit into the aircraft.
  2. Maximum dimensions are generally 30 inches maximum in length.
  3. Weight is almost always 20kg at most, sometimes only 12kg or 15kg.

There are strict weight restrictions in place on any itinerary including light aircraft transfers for the following reasons:

• The aircraft are designed with a maximum bodyweight and luggage weight allowance.

• Most of our airfields are over 3000 feet above sea level and are located in the tropics, and therefore the permissible aircraft carrying capacity is reduced.

• The aircraft have physical space restrictions.

1) Luggage, including camera equipment and hand luggage, is restricted per person traveling on seat rates, as follows:

· 12kg in Zimbabwe. · 15kg in Malawi · 20kg in Botswana, Namibia (including the Skeleton Coast safari but excluding the Best of Namibia Wing Safaris and Namibia Explorations) and Zambia · 12kg for Best of Namibia Wing Safaris and Namibia Explorations · 20kg in South Africa.

2) Only soft bags will be accepted - no hard suitcases or bags with wheels can be transported as they physically cannot fit into the aircraft.

3) The maximum dimensions of the soft bags which can be accommodated are as follows: 25cm wide x 30cm high and 62cm long.

Please keep in mind that the baggage compartments on the light aircraft are only 25cm high, so the pilots must have the ability to manipulate the bag into the compartment.

• Passengers weighing more than 100kg (220 lbs) must please advise us in advance as an extra seat may have to be costed in to the package for safety purposes.
• For those who absolutely must bring more than the maximum allowance of luggage, an extra seat may be purchased in advance but the bags must still be soft bags only. Be sure to pre-arrange any extra seats with us at the time of booking.

These luggage restrictions for luggage sound like very little but bear in mind the following:

• Most African safari camps / lodges and hotels provide basic toilet amenities.
• Laundry can be done on a daily basis (and many camps provide this service free of charge but hotels do charge a nominal fee).
• Mainly casual clothing is required.

As no formal clothes are needed throughout most of southern Africa, we recommend that you limit your luggage to the basics. More formal attire is usually required only when staying in the more prestigious city hotel establishments or on any of the luxury trains. On an African safari, casual clothing is the order of the day.

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Suggested packing list

• Remember the weight restrictions covered above!

  1. Good quality sunglasses - preferably polarized. Tinted fashion glasses are not good in strong light.
  2. Sun hat.
  3. Golf-shirts, T-shirts and long-sleeved cotton shirts.
  4. Shorts/skirts.
  5. Long trousers / slacks.
  6. Sweat pants / sweat shirt.
  7. More formal attire for your stay at prestigious city hotels or on one of the luxury trains.
  8. Underwear and socks.
  9. Good walking shoes (running/tennis shoes are fine).
  10. Sandals.
  11. Swimsuit.
  12. Warm winter sweater.
  13. Warm Anorak or Parka and scarf / gloves for the cold winter months (May to September).
  14. Light rain gear for summer months (late November to April).
  15. Camera equipment and plenty of film (or digital storage).
  16. If you wear contact lenses, we recommend that you bring along a pair of glasses in case you get irritation from the dust or pollen.
  17. BINOCULARS - ESSENTIAL (and Newman's bird book if you are keen).
  18. Personal toiletries (basic amenities supplied by most establishments).
  19. Malaria tablets
  20. Moisturizing cream & suntan lotion.
  21. Insect repellent e.g. Deet, etc.
  22. Basic medical kit (aspirins, band aids, Imodium, antiseptic cream and Anti-histamine cream etc).
  23. Tissues / "Wet Ones".
  24. Visas, tickets, passports, money, etc.
  25. Waterproof / dust-proof Ziploc bags / cover for your cameras.

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Luggage safety and security

• There has been an increase in the incidence of theft of personal belongings from checked-in luggage at airports in southern Africa. Authorities are addressing this problem, but the level of occurrence remains high. As such, it is imperative that you do not put anything of high value (personal or financial) in your checked-in baggage, as luggage can be tampered with and valuables removed. This includes, but is not limited to jewelry, cameras, video equipment, reading /sunglasses, laptops or other computer/electronic equipment, medication (especially chronic medication) etc. We also suggest you lock all your luggage with a suitable TSA approved lock to deter opportunistic theft.

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How do I book my African safari and how early should I make reservations?

• We encourage you to plan your African safari as far in advance as possible; 12 to 18 months at a minimum, to ensure a better selection of camp availability. This is especially important if you are planning to travel during the Southern Africa safari "high season" months of July through October.

  Link to our Booking Terms & Conditions

  The best way to start is to have a good look through our website. It's packed with information on the countries and all the camps we sell and there are a lot! When you're ready, you can "start the ball rolling" in several ways. One, go to our  "Contact Us"  link (in the main navigation menu), and fill out the questionnaire and we will contact you immediately. Alternatively, you can email us or call us directly and we will be happy to answer any and all of your questions and tell you more about the whole process.

  Once we have determined what you would like to do - and there are MANY different options, which you already know if you've peeked around our website - we can begin picking out some itinerary options. Once we have an idea of the general areas and activities, your available amount of time, and the general time you wish to travel, we will typically put together several options. The alternative itineraries may include specific African safari camps, possibly a low versus high season pricing option, different add-ons to contemplate after your wildlife portion - perhaps a beach or island visit, Victoria Falls, or Cape Town; it all depends on your intent.

  What you should focus on telling us is the amount of time you have and whether you want a general all-round African experience or want to focus on some specific theme(s). It's not easy to know what you want with so many options, we know! That's why so many guests keep returning to see more of this beautiful destination. If you're not sure, just give us a call and we will help you make some choices. We look forward to helping you plan an amazing African safari vacation.

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Which forms of payment may I use to pay?

• Payments to may be made by personal, business or certified check, or by credit card. We accept American Express, MasterCard and Visa.

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What about travel insurance? 

• It is a condition of booking that the sole responsibility lies with the guest to ensure that they carry the correct comprehensive travel and medical insurance to cover themselves, as well as any dependants / traveling companions for the duration of their trip to Southern Africa.

  We have a courtesy link on our website where one can get quotes from various insurance companies - Link to Travel Insurance

  This insurance should include coverage in respect of, but not limited to, the following eventualities: cancellation or curtailment of the trip to Africa, emergency evacuation expenses, medical expenses, repatriation expenses, and damage/theft/loss of personal baggage, money and goods.

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