Frequently Asked Questions
Hopefully the below FAQs will answer any immediate queries you may have - if you have any further questions please let me know. Once you have booked your safari, I will provide further guidance regarding what to pack and visas etc.
How do I book?
Anna will be your main point of contact and will support you during your trip planning. Each tour needs a minimum of four guests (the maximum is six travellers). Once you confirm your participation, your place will be 'held' without payment until at least four guests have been confirmed. At this point, each guest will need to pay a 25% deposit to secure their place.
Your safari booking, invoicing and payment will be made directly with my ground agents in Kenya (Maniago Safaris). The costs for my tours exclude international flights, as most travellers prefer to book their own flights. I can provide guidance regarding the best flight times and airline for your particular trip.
What is the accommodation like?
In Nairobi we stay in hotels that are at least four star. Outside of the capital we will stay in lodges and/or camps. These vary in size and structure, made from local materials often with thatched roofs. Some lodges have been built near waterholes, providing a unique opportunity to watch wildlife whilst you eat breakfast or have a sun downer drink. Others have impressive views of the open plains and/or Mount Kilimanjaro. Most of the lodges in my tours have swimming pools, bar and restaurant. Lodge bedrooms are usually cottage style, like having your own private house.
For me, no safari is complete without staying at a tented camp. These tents take glamping to another level and the experience can cost more than a traditional lodge room. Staying at a tented camp brings you one step closer to nature - waking up at dawn to the sounds of the bush is such a wonderful way to start the day.
What travel vaccinations
do I need?
Please visit your doctor at least six to eight weeks before travelling to Kenya to ensure you have all the necessary vaccinations. Malaria is prevalant across most of Kenya, so it is essential to take anti-malarial tablets. An insect repellent containing (DEET) should be used. Some specialist travelling clothing feature insect repellent materials. You may find the National Travel Health Network and Centre (NaTHNaC) pages on malaria and vaccinations but please do check with your doctor in the first instance.
Like any holiday, travel insurance is essential for Kenyan safaris. Insurance cover varies by provider and country of origin. For UK based travellers, please check that your policy covers includes 'non-UK organised safaris', if not you should be able to purchase additional cover for this.
Flying Doctors temporary membership for evacuation only to a hospital in Nairobi is included within your safari.
What about meals
& drinks?
Outside of Nairobi, accommodation is booked on a full board basis, covering soft drinks, gin & tonic, local Tusker beer and house wines but excluding branded spirits such as Jack Daniels, prosecco and non-house wines etc.
Lodge and camp meals are primarily European style, often with African influences. I have always found the food in Kenya plentiful and delicious. Many lodges pride themselves in growing their own produce.
Special dietary requirements can certainly be catered for, if advance notice is given.
What should I pack?
On safari bright colours should be avoided as they make you more visible to wildlife and can attract insects. It is best to try to blend into the environment by wearing khakis, greens and browns.
To help reduce insect bites, wear long sleeved tops and long trousers (especially during sunset and sunrise), ideally in lightweight cotton. Hats are essential, as is closed footwear with strong soles - lightweight walking shoes/boots are ideal. Morning and evenings can be quite chilly, so a warm light fleece is a must have.
Going on safari usually involves travelling between locations by road or air. As such it is best to keep luggage light - soft duffel bags are recommended. Most camps and lodges offer laundry services. Please do bear in mind that internal flights often have a limit of 15 kgs per person.
Can I add extra days to visit the Kenyan coast?
My guided safaris focus on National Parks and Conservancies.
My ground agent in Kenya (Maniago) can arrange a coastal extension to your safari for additional travel and accommodation costs.
Kenya has some stunning beaches and amazing resorts on either side of Mombasa - if you wish I can suggest potential hotel options for your consideration.
I will personally guide your safari in Kenya but will not accompany coastal extensions as my services are not required in these locations.
Visa & passport requirements
Your passport must be valid for a minimum period of six months from the date of entry into Kenya. In addition, please ensure you have two blank pages in your passport on arrival.
You will need a single entry 3-month Tourist Visa (c. 50 US dollars) and lasts for three months from purchase. Please note it is not possible to purchase a visa on arrival in Kenya. You will need to obtain this prior to travelling via www.evisa.go.ke
Miscellaneous
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Tap water: it is best to avoid drinking tap water and ice in drinks. Complimentary bottled water will be available within your vehicles during wildlife drives and road transfers. Most lodges and camps provide filtered/mineral water in rooms and many provide reusable water pouches for you to use and keep to reduce plastic waste. (You may also wish to bring your own water bottle/pouch).
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Tipping: this is not compulsory but somewhat expected in Kenya. Where possible, I place my tips in the lodge/camp tipping box so it can be shared out amongst the wonderful cooks, gardeners and house staff.
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Currency: American dollars are preferred to the local Kenyan Shilling. Smaller denominations are best and should be dated post the year 2000. Most camps and lodges accept credit cards such as Visa and Mastercard but this could incur a surcharge. You will need some cash for local souvenir shopping and tips.