When is the best time to East Africa
the best time to visit Eest Africa is during the dry season (June-October), as it is the best time for wildlife viewing and most outdoor activities. However, if you are interested in bird watching or visiting the coast, the wet season may be a better time for you.
Here are some factors to consider:
Wildlife Viewing
The dry season (June-October) is the best time to visit Tanzania for wildlife viewing, especially in the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater. During this time, animals are concentrated around water sources, making them easier to spot. The wildebeest migration also occurs during this time, typically between June and September.
Bird Watching
The best time for bird watching is during the wet season (November-May), when migrant birds are present and the vegetation is lush.
Beach Holiday
Tanzania’s coast and islands are best visited during the dry season (June-October), when the weather is sunny and dry.
Mountaineering
The best time to climb Mount Kilimanjaro is during the dry season (June-October and December-February).
Is it safe to visit Tanzania?
Tanzania is a beautiful country with a lot to offer visitors in terms of wildlife, culture, and scenery. While it is not completely risk-free, exercising caution and following common-sense safety measures can help ensure a safe and enjoyable visit.
How much does it cost to visit Tanzania?
Excluding your international flights, the cost to visit Tanzania, depending on what you want to experience may range from Us $100 for a single-day trip activity to even more than $9000 high-end multiday Wildlife Safari experience. Please contact us to get the actual price based on your travel paln.
Can I use credit card in Tanzania?
Yes, credit cards are generally accepted in Tanzania, particularly in larger cities and tourist areas. Major international credit cards such as Visa, MasterCard, and American Express are typically accepted at hotels, restaurants, and shops that cater to tourists. However, it is advisable to carry some cash as backup, especially when traveling to remote areas or smaller towns where credit card facilities may not be available.
It’s important to note that some merchants may charge an additional fee for credit card transactions, so visitors should confirm any potential fees before using their credit cards. It’s also advisable to inform the credit card company of travel plans to avoid any issues with card usage while abroad.
Is accommodation included in the booking?
Our safaris include all the essentials such as meals, accommodation, domestic travel to the destination, park and camping fees, allowing you to enjoy your entire safari worry-free. Depending on your itinerary, accommodation may vary, but we will provide recommendations based on your preferences and budget. If you have specific accommodation preferences in mind or would like to receive alternative proposals, please let us know and we’ll work with you to create the perfect safari experience.
How many days should I stay?
We recommend a minimum stay of three days to fully experience and appreciate the beauty of one of Tanzania’s top parks, such as the Serengeti. However, we highly suggest a longer stay of 5 to 7 days, or even longer if you wish to visit multiple parks without feeling rushed and have time to enjoy the amenities of your accommodations. Please keep in mind that transfers between parks can be time-consuming, so a longer stay allows for a more relaxed and enjoyable safari experience.
Is it advisable to bring children or elderly individuals on a safari trip?
Definitely! Bringing children and elderly individuals on a safari trip can be a great idea. Children can enjoy observing the wildlife in their natural habitats, while elders can also appreciate the experience at their own pace. Safaris are conducted in vehicles, which allows for flexibility in stopping or traveling at a slower pace as needed. Additionally, many lodges offer family-friendly accommodations with easy access and less walking. Buffet-style meals are also common, providing plenty of options for all tastes and preferences.
What types of food are typically served on a safari?
Typically, accommodations provide buffet-style meals for guests. Breakfasts often include items such as eggs, potatoes, cereals, bacon/sausage, and toast. For dinner, a variety of soups, salads, local and international dishes, rice, pasta, fruits, and desserts are served. Since most guests are usually out on safari during lunchtime, boxed lunches with a sandwich, raw veggies, yogurt, juice, hard-boiled eggs, and cookies are usually provided. However, if preferred, a hot meal can also be arranged, with a selection of dishes served buffet-style in a scenic location overlooking the savannah.
Are there ways to reduce the cost of a safari?
One effective way to manage your safari expenses is by shortening the duration of your trip. This reduces the number of days you’ll need to pay for accommodation, food, and park fees. Another consideration is the type of accommodation you choose. Opting for midrange lodges or camps can be a great option for budget-conscious travelers. These accommodations offer decent amenities and delicious buffet meals, without the hefty price tag that comes with luxury lodges. While luxury lodges are prevalent in Tanzania and offer additional amenities like bathtubs and pools, they can be more expensive. Therefore, consider carefully which amenities are necessary for your trip and which ones you can do without to keep costs down. Finally, consider traveling during the low season, typically from March to May, as rates are often more affordable during this time.
Is electricity available 24 hours in the lodges and camps?
Most lodges and camps use generators for electricity, and many do not operate their generators 24 hours a day; the power may be turned off during the day when most clients are out game driving and again late at night. Please inquire at check-in as policies vary with each lodge or camp. Electrical sockets in Tanzania are a three-square pin, same as in the United Kingdom and the electrical voltage is 220V.
Will my mobile/cellular phone work on safari?
There is mobile or cellular coverage in many areas of the national parks and conservation areas, but reception may be inconsistent, and network signals are weak. In the remote areas of the Northern and Western Serengeti, there are no signals. However, many of the lodges and camps will have a telephone or email access on the premises (for a fee) to communicate with friends and family back at home.
What is the Great Migration?
The Great Migration is the annual cycle of movement made by over 2 million wildebeest, 250,000 zebras, and 400,000 Thomson gazelles in their continuous search for water and green pasture throughout the Serengeti ecosystem. Every year, the ungulates follow a fairly predictable migration route however the timing of the movement varies from year to year depending on rain patterns, from the vast Serengeti plains to the hills of Kenya’s Masai Mara.
How do I pay for my safari?
We request that you deposit 30% to secure a reservation either by bank transfer or credit card. The balance can be made by bank transfer or credit card or on arrival in cash. Our Sales team can advise you how to do this.
What is your cancellation policy?
Below are our cancellation policy
- More than 120 days before the safari or tour starts, 25% off the payment.
- 119 to 90 days before the safari or tour starts, 50 % off the payment.
- 89 to 31 days before the safari or tour starts, 75 % off the payment.
- 30 days and below or No Show, 100% off total costs.
Do I need Travel Insurance?
Safaris are a considerable investment, and we strongly urge you to purchase comprehensive travel insurance. Coverage should include trip cancellation, delay or interruption, lost or delayed baggage, emergency accident, illness and evacuation, 24-hour medical assistance and traveler’s assistance.
What vaccinations and medications do I need for travel to Tanzania?
We highly recommend that you consult with your physician or a travel medical doctor for advice several months in advance of your trip as you may need a series of vaccinations. Please ensure that you indicate that you will be traveling to Tanzania on safari. Your doctor will be able to suggest which vaccinations and medications are advisable. Anti-malarial medication is strongly recommended and should be discussed during your doctor’s visit. All vaccinations are voluntary for entry into Tanzania except for Yellow Fever vaccination. If you are entering Tanzania from Yellow Fever infected country such as Kenya, Uganda, Ethiopia, Rwanda, you will be required to show a Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate upon arrival in Tanzania. Please ensure you carry this Certificate with your passport. If you are entering Tanzania from Europe, you will not be required to show a Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate.
Can you use US dollars in Tanzania?
Although the currency in Tanzania is the Tanzania Shilling (Tsh), the U.S. dollar is widely accepted. However please note that for larger U.S. dollar denominations ($20, $50 and $100), only bills issued after 2006 will be accepted in Tanzania due to counterfeiting and fraud. Major credit cards are accepted at larger safari lodges, and major souvenir shops and larger tourist towns offer ATM bank machines where you can withdraw cash using your bank card or credit card. Please note that ATM bank machines only dispense Tanzanian shillings. Please note that some lodges may not have visa facilities for payment. Traveler’s cheques are hard to cash and not recommended.
