When the word safari clicks to your mind, you think of Africa as the destination to enjoy the trip. Taking a safari tour as a vacation expedition is a vision of ecstasy for many of us. It may look easy as many think as it is just booking for a trip then have a blast.
However, we tend to forget Africa is the second largest continent in the world and it has more than 50 countries. These countries vary in the nature experience that is the animals, vegetation, people, climate, scenery and landscape. The places or destination that can give the traveller the best experience in Africa is affected by the time of the year he/she is willing to travel.
Nonetheless, Africa’s safaris basing on nature, it appeals to all sorts of tourists that is those who want to travel with families, those that want spend time on an exquisite resort, tourists that want adventure and camping in the national parks and also those who want to enjoy romantic moment with their lovers.
You may not how to go about a safari in Africa but all you have is idea of places you would love to go to, the nature of the safari tour and the wildlife you would love to see. Here we render you the services of explaining to you the different countries or place to visit so that you choose the best for you:
What to Take
Don’t forget the camera, camcorder and binoculars and take a torch for finding your way around your camp at night. Stock up with replacement films and batteries for all these goods. Take sun-glasses, hat, sun lotion, lip balm – and some insect repellent, it is better not to get stung even if you are taking anti-malaria tablets. It’s best to take any medicines required for the duration of the visit. A spare pair of glasses or contact lenses is also a good idea. Take plenty of film it is difficult to obtain outside the main centres. While traveller’s cheques can be exchanged in cities and towns, banking facilities in remote areas are restricted, so take plenty of cash.
CURRENCY
The unit of currency depends on every country in Africa. Visitors can take in any amount of foreign currency, no currency declaration is required, but import and export of Tanzanian currency is illegal. Most major currencies particularly US dollars – and travellers’ cheques are accepted and are convertible at banks and bureaux de change in the main towns and tourist areas. Credit cards are not widely accepted and carry poor exchange rates. Visitors will probably be expected to pay park entrances fees in foreign currency US$. Do NOT change money in the street however favourable the rate appears.
ON SAFARI
Distances in Africa are vast, and travel by road can some times be tiring. It is wise to spend more time in fewer parks. You will see more and won’t return home exhausted. Keep your distance from animals and be quiet to avoid distressing them. Always follow the instructions of your driver guide. Don’t leave your vehicle in the parks expect in designated places. Keep to recognised tracks to avoid damaging vegetation..
WHAT TO WEAR
It never gets really cold in most parts of Africa except in South Africa so lightweight clothing is the norm. On safari avoid brightly coloured cloths, they may alarm the animals. Browns, beiges and khaki are preferred. Short-sleeve shirts/blouses and shorts are ideal, but pack a sweater it can be chilly in the early morning and in the evening. Wear a hat to avoid sun-stroke and don’t forget a swimsuit. Shoes should be sensible walking through the bush is not like strolling through Hyde Park – and for climbing Kilimanjaro or Mount Meru take thermal underwear, a rain jacket, good socks and sturdy boots. Shorts for women are acceptable – but not too short. Women should carry a wrap to cover their legs in towns or villages as revealing cloths can cause offence, especially in Zanzibar and other Muslim areas. On the beach, and within the confines of beach hotels, normal swimwear is acceptable but nudity certainly is not.
TIPPING
Not normally obligatory but a tip for exceptional service – a maximum of 10% – will be appreciated. Tip $15-$20 per day for drivers or tour guides or mountain guide and US$10 to US$15 per day for cook and porters.
TRAVEL INSURANCE
It is advisable that comprehensive travel insurance is taken out at the time of booking to cover against medical, personnel belongings and other risks on the trip cancellation charges and any kind of loss etc..
IMMIGRATION AND VISA
Visitors are required to have at least 6 month valid passport and visa.
SAFETY + HEALTH
Please check with your doctor to ensure you are fully aware of the dangers of climbing mountain at higher altitude and also taking advice about the Malaria. Please consult your doctor or Travel clinic before you plan your journey.
Visa Information
Visas are acquired online or going to the country’s consulate in your home country or they might be acquired at the international terminal entries like the airports and country borders.
Note that visa requirements can be changed anytime and we advise you to contact your consulate for help and advice.
Visa requirements are subject to change, and we recommend you contact your relevant consulate for up to date visa advice.