FAQS About Travel To East Africa

• Are children allowed on safari trips?
In Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda and most countries in the region, children are allowed on most safari tours although some do not recommend those below 5 years of age. However, there are some child-friendly resorts and properties available.

• What clothes should I carry when travelling to East Africa?
When on safari, it is recommended to wear neutral colors like gray, khaki, green or brown clothes so as not to alert wildlife of your presence. Carry casual clothing that is lightweight and cool for the warm temperatures during day. Shorts and T-shirts are good for the hotter days. Don’t forget a wide brimmed hat, raincoat, swimsuit as well as a good pair of walking shoes. Slippers can be used when inside the lodges or hotels.

• What kind of luggage should I carry?
Luggage should be kept to a minimum. In East Africa, the limit is usually 15kg/33pounds per person. The ideal would be to carry a duffel bag and a small carryon bag. When travelllng in small aircraft that are normally used for transfer between lodges and camps, hard sided suitcases are not accepted because they do not usually fit in their baggage compartments.

• Is it okay to tip? How much should we tip? Who do we tip?
Tipping in restaurants is at your discretion, normally 10%. It is also normal to tip at the lodges and camps, around US $10 for the guide and US $5 for other camp staff for each traveler per day. Most of the lodges are also able to accept credit cards for tipping (Mostly Master Card and Visa Card).

• What items can I buy during my trip to East Africa?
Most lodges usually have small gift shops where you can buy postcards and local goods like woodcarvings, paintings, books, hats and t-shirts. In the larger towns and airports, you will be able to find African craft shops and markets that sell all kinds of jewelry, masks, drums, and other souvenirs that are inexpensive (in dollar terms). It is also normal to bargain for the prices in some of the markets. There are also some up-market art galleries in the cities where you may spend hundreds or even thousands of dollars on African art. Most reputable shops offer shipping of purchase at an extra cost.

• What is the weather like in East Africa?
In general, East Africa experiences dry weather during the months of June through October. There are two rainy seasons – the long rains which fall mid March through May and the short rains which arrive in mid October and continue until mid December. Otherwise, the temperatures are moderate throughout the year with average daytime temperatures around 70 – 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Evenings and mornings are often chilly, except at the coast where it is usually warm and humid, even at night.

• Is there electricity? Internet? Phones?
Yes, electricity is available in East Africa and is 220/240 volts, especially in the cities and towns. Most big hotels are connected to a main electrical supply; however some safari lodges and camps are not and may use solar lighting, with the assistance of a generator, especially in the evenings. Please make sure your electronic equipment can switch automatically from 110 to 220volts or else, you will need a converter. Internet access is available at most large city hotels and some of the lodges and camps, usually for a small fee. Most cell phones work in major cities and towns in East Africa, however you must check to ensure that your service provider has an agreement with the local provider. Some lodges and camps may not have cell phone towers nearby, so one might have to use satellite phones, which can be rented.

• What shots or medicines do we need before travelling?
A course of anti malaria tablets is essential and many doctors advise a dose of Hepatitis A vaccine. All childhood vaccinations should be up to date. We recommend that you visit with a local travel health specialist in your hometown for further details.

• Do people speak English in East Africa?
Yes, English is spoken widely throughout East Africa and is in fact, one of the official languages, along with Kiswahili, which is also commonly used in Kenya and Tanzania.

• Do I need a passport?
Yes! Most African countries require that you are in possession of a valid passport with an expiration date no less than six months after your return to your country.

{photos courtesy of dprreview.com, tripglobal.co.uk, africa.answers.com}