Quintessential African Safari - 10 nights

Resting in the magnificent Great Rift Valley and presided over by the majestic Mount Kilimanjaro, Kenya is characterised by hauntingly beautiful natural landscapes of forested hills, patchwork farms, wooded savanna and vast forests brimming with an extraordinary abundance of wildlife. The nation’s diverse range of traditional African cultures is influenced by over 70 unique ethnic groups from the Maasai, Samburu, Kikuyu, and Turkana tribes to the Arabs and Indians that settled on the coast. Add to this: an exquisite tropical coastline fringed with breathtaking golden sand beaches; gorgeous coral gardens providing excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities; and a slew of lively beach resorts, and it is easy to see why so many visitors flock here from around the world to experience a truly unique African adventure in one of the world’s most pristine safari destinations.

As with all international travel, the visitor to Kenya is required to be in possession of a valid passport. United States of America passport holders require a visa for Kenya. Visas may be obtained in advance (contact the Kenya High Commission), although airport visas are available. Travelers who opt to obtain an airport visa should expect delays upon arrival. If purchasing the visa on arrival, have the exact US$ CASH available. Kindly note that travelers purchasing their visas on arrival in Kenya (airports and road border posts) must pay in US dollars using bills that have been issued after the year 2006. Older notes are not accepted and may result in travel delays or entry refusal.

Effective July 1, 2011, the fee is $50 for single-entry visas, $100 for multiple entry and $20 for transit visas for each applicant regardless of age, and whether obtained in advance or at the airport. Evidence of yellow fever immunization may be required, and some travelers have been turned around at immigration for not having sufficient proof of immunization. Travelers to Kenya and neighboring African countries should ensure that the validity of their passports is at least six months beyond the end of their intended stay. Kenyan immigration authorities require a minimum of two blank (unstamped) visa pages in the passport to enter the country; some travelers have experienced difficulties when they arrive without the requisite blank pages. Travelers should make sure there are sufficient pages for visas and immigration stamps to enter into Kenya and other countries to be visited en route to Kenya or elsewhere in the region. Nationals of other countries must check the list of visa exempt countries to see if they need to apply for visas.

As a general precaution, all travelers are advised to carry a photocopy of the photo/bio information page of their passport and keep it in a location separate from their passport

Currency

The currency in Kenya is the Kenyan Shilling (KES; symbol KSh). 1 Kenyan Shilling = 100 cents. Notes are in denominations of KSh1,000, 500, 200, 100 and 50. Coins are in denominations of KSh20, 10 and 5.

Foreign currency can be exchanged at the major banks, bureaux de change or authorised hotels. The banks at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport and Moi International Airport have 24-hour exchange services. The easiest currencies to exchange are US Dollars, Pounds Sterling and Euros.

There are no restrictions on the import or export of local or foreign currency. However, amounts exceeding US$5,000 or equivalent must be declared.

Banking

Banking hours: Monday-Friday 09h00-16h00, Saturday 09h00-12h00. Banks in Mombasa and the coastal areas typically open and close half an hour earlier.

Credits Cards are widely accepted in all major hotels and more upmarket establishments, with the most recognized being Master Card and Visa. American Express and Diners Club cards are occasionally accepted. However, you will need some cash handy because smaller shops will only accept cash.

Almost every bank now has an ATM, and they are increasingly being installed at petrol stations in cities and large towns.

Travellers cheques are no longer accepted in Kenya.

Nairobi has two airports for domestic and regional flights: Jomo Kenyatta International Airport and Wilson Airport (www.kaa.go.ke). Kenya has over 150 domestic airports and airstrips and there are daily flights to the most popular destinations. In addition to the scheduled airlines, several private charter companies operate out of Wilson Airport.

Kenya Airways (www.kenya-airways.com), Air Kenya (www.airkenya.com), Fly 540 (www.fly540.com), Mombasa Air Safari (www.mombasaairsafari.com) and Safarilink (www.flysafarilink.com) serve the most popular safari destinations, plus many others such as Lake Victoria.

On smaller, domestic planes the baggage allowance is restricted to 10-15 kg (22-33 lbs). Arrangements can be made to leave excess luggage with hotels or airlines.

Main roads between the major cities and towns are generally in good condition, and easily navigable in a normal saloon car. Most highways in the south are paved, but that’s not the case in the north.Vehicles are driven on the left side of the road.

While major roads are generally in a good condition, most minor gravel roads have deep potholes which deteriorate further in the rainy season. Dirt roads, including those in the parks and reserves, are extremely rough, and some are only passable with a 4-wheel drive.

You can hire self-drive and chauffeur-driven cars from travel agents and international hire companies. Drivers must be at least 23 years of age. Budget (www.budget.com) and Europcar (www.europcar.com) have outlets at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi. Budget also has a desk at Moi International Airport in Mombasa, while Europcar has an office in town. Car hire can be expensive and rates vary significantly.
A driving licence from a home country (and a translation if this is not in English) or an International Driving Permit is required. Third-party insurance is mandatory when hiring a car and it’s recommended to take out the additional collision damage waiver. A valid credit card is also needed.

Matatus (shared minibus taxis) hop from town to town, starting and finishing at bus stations. Fares are paid to the conductor. Private taxis can also be hired for long-distance journeys.

It is not possible to rent motorbikes or mopeds but some of the beach resorts hire out bicycles.

Numerous private bus companies operate in Kenya. Most vehicles are old and tend to depart when full, which means there are no set timetables. Petty theft on the vehicles and at bus stations can be a problem. Nevertheless, buses are cheap and link all long-distance destinations. Plus, seatbelts are now mandatory, so buses are relatively safe.

Nairobi and Mombasa have efficient local bus systems and there are also frequent matatus, but reckless driving and petty theft makes them a dodgy option for tourists. Three-wheeled auto rickshaws are popular in town centres and carry up to three passengers.

The newer fleets of taxis (usually painted white with a yellow band) are reliable and have meters. The older yellow taxis do not have meters, so fares should be agreed in advance. In Nairobi, there is a fleet of London-style black cabs. A 10% tip is expected. Cabs cannot be hailed in the street, but can be found parked in taxi ranks.

ALL travelers from or through Kenya will be required to show proof of Yellow Fever vaccination (unless in possession of a valid waiver certificate) or they will be denied entry into South Africa. South Africa requires a valid Yellow Fever certificate from all citizens and non-citizens over one year of age “traveling from a yellow fever risk country or having been in transit through a yellow fever risk country”

Definition of a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate – “vaccination should be approved by the World Health Organization (WHO), and administered at a Yellow Fever-approved vaccination center at least 10 days before departure to South Africa.

Vaccinations for cholera, hepatitis A, meningitis and tetanus are recommended, but not required.

Many local people and some travelers do not take ant-malaria prophylaxis, but it is strongly recommended that you obtain anti-malaria medication before entering East Africa. All guests must consult their own medical doctor or health authorities regarding the use of anti-malarial tablets prior to departure.

Whether you take oral prophylaxis or not, always use mosquito repellent, wear long pants, closed shoes, light long-sleeved shirts at night, and sleep under a mosquito net in endemic areas (the anopheles mosquito, which carries malaria, operates almost exclusively after dark). Mosquito repellent containing “deet” is best. It is advisable to avoid malarial areas if you are pregnant.

Bottled water is advisable for the first few weeks of your stay. When buying bottled water, check the seal of the bottle is intact. Never drink tap water unless it has been boiled, filtered or chemically disinfected (such as with iodine tablets). Never drink from streams, rivers and lakes. It’s also best to avoid drinking from pumps and wells – some do bring pure water to the surface, but the presence of animals can still contaminate supplies. Avoid ice and washed salads and fruit except in upmarket hotels and restaurants. Milk is pasteurised and dairy products are safe for consumption. Food prepared by unlicensed vendors should be avoided at all times.

Nairobi has some of the finest eating establishments in Africa. Many different cuisines and types of restaurants are available, from fast food to fancy. Many five-star hotels have excellent restaurants. Restaurants are called "hotels" and there are many in Nairobi. The local cuisine is also worth trying out, particullarly Pilau-a chicken and rice dish, cabbage and rice; and the staple food in Kenya-Ugali, made from maze flour.

Many restaurants can be found downtown and in the areas of Westlands and Hurlingham but these areas are filled with tourists and places like Ayani, Olympic, Kibera, and other places have more authentic food. Among the many cuisines available are Indian, Brazilian, Chinese, Thai, Japanese, German and French restaurants. Fast food restaurants, mostly by South African chains (Steers, Nandos), are common in the larger urban areas.

Kenya has three types of climate: temperate subtropical climate in the west and southwest highlands (where Nairobi is located), hot and humid along the coast, and hot and dry in the north and east.

Comfortable, casual clothing that is lightweight is the best bet while on safari. It can be quite cool in the early mornings, so you'll want to dress warmly in layers, until the sun has a chance to warm up the air. "Kenya Convertibles", khaki pants with zip-off legs, are perfect for cool early morning game drives that turn warm before you're back in camp. Walking shorts, long pants, cotton shirts and tees are just right. A cotton bush jacket or wind-breaker will be useful along with a warm sweater or fleece jacket for the cool nights. And, a hat that ties on is a must. There is not a good deal of long walking or hiking on most safaris, so a comfortable pair of walking shoes or tennis shoes and a pair of sandals should be adequate. You will need thorn-proof soles.

In Kenya's major cities the dress code is conservative but not overly formal – jeans and decent tops for women are fine. Swimsuits are acceptable on the beach but you’ll need to cover up in public places.

Electric Power is 220V - 240V running at 50Hz. The Plug type used in Kenya is the 3 large flat prong (UK). If your appliances are compatible with 220V-240V electrical output, an adapter is all that you will need, if not a voltage converter will be necessary.

Kenya is Africa's most popular safari destination and it's capital Nairobi is East Africa's economic hub. Kenya has a decent tourist infrastructure and lots of resorts along its coastline. It's a testament to the country's many natural attractions that tourists continue to visit despite being under the official Travel Warning list in several countries including the US.

One of the most culturally and geographically diverse places on earth, South Africa, fondly known by locals as the 'Rainbow Nation', boasts 11 official languages, and its inhabitants are influenced by a fascinating mix of cultures. Discover the gourmet restaurants, impressive art scene, vibrant nightlife, and beautiful beaches of Cape Town. Enjoy a local braai (barbecue) in the Soweto township, browse the bustling Indian markets in Durban, or sample some of the world's finest wines at the myriad wine estates dotting the Cape Winelands. Some historical attractions to explore include the Zululand battlefields of KwaZulu-Natal, the Apartheid Museum in Johannesburg, and Robben Island, just off the coast of Cape Town. Above all else, its untamed wilderness is astonishing: wildlife roams freely across massive unfenced game reserves such as the world-famous Kruger National Park.

Visas are not required to enter South Africa for travellers from MOST countries if their intended stay is for 90 days or less.

Visitors to South Africa must have a passport that is valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended departure date, together with onward travel documents, proof of accommodation and sufficient funds for the duration of your stay. In addition, each country you may be visiting generally requires at least 2 consecutive/side by side blank pages on entry for both visas and stamps. Should your itinerary include more than one country, excluding the country of departure and return, please ensure that you have a sufficient number of blank visa pages (not endorsement pages) in your passport. Should there be insufficient blank pages in your passport then entry into or exit from a country could be denied.

NB: As of 01 June 2015, all passengers under 18 years of age will need to present an unabridged birth certificate as well as a valid passport when entering, departing or transiting South Africa. Abbreviated versions or baptismal certificates are not accepted. This requirement applies to minors of all nationalities – whether traveling unaccompanied, with both parents, with one parent or with a guardian/s or another adult/s. A sworn translation (certified/authenticated) in English should accompany all documentation that is in a language other than English.

Any applicable visas and/or relevant documentation are your responsibility. You must also be in possession of outward travel documents and have sufficient funds for the duration of your stay. Further visa information is available on the following website www.home-affairs.gov.za (small word of caution that we are not responsible for the content)

Currency

The currency is the Rand, which is divided into 100 cents. There are R200, R100, R50, R20 and R10 notes. Coins come in R5, R2, R1, 50c, 20c, 10c and 5c.

Banking

Banks are found in most towns, and are generally open from 09h00 to 15h30 on weekdays and 08h30 to 11h00 on Saturdays (Closed Sundays and Public Holidays). Most of them offer foreign exchange services - with cash, bank & credit cards as well as travellers cheques. You can also obtain cash from automatic teller machines (ATMs). Several international banks have branches in the main city centres. Always advise your bank that you are travelling outside of the country as they might block your purchases if they are not informed.

Travelling around South Africa is relatively easy by air, road and rail.

Principal air routes are serviced by SAA and British Airways, operated by Comair. There are 2 low-cost carriers on main routes, namely Kulula.com and Mango.

Facilitating travel around South Africa are 10 airports managed by the Airports Company South Africa (Acsa). In addition, there are some 90 regional airports, including the Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport in Nelspruit and the Skukuza Airport, offering access to the Kruger National Park.

An extensive tarred road system makes travelling in South Africa by vehicle convenient and easy. You will find gravel roads in rural areas though. Note:

A valid international driver's licence is required.

We drive on the left hand side of the road.

Wearing seat belts is compulsory and cellphones can only be used ‘hands free'.

Speed limits are generally set at 120km on freeways, 100km on secondary roads and 60km in urban areas.

Toll fees apply on certain national roads.

Petrol stations are widespread.

Most global car hire firms have branches in South Africa

Another means of getting around South Africa are luxury inter-city bus services such as Greyhound and Trans-Lux. Metrobus buses are available for in-city transport. Metered taxis must be ordered by telephone. There is a hop-on-hop-off bus in Cape Town and Johannesburg.

Our rail system includes the long-haul, inexpensive Shosholoza Meyl Metrorail trains. More luxurious options are the Blue Train, Premier Classe and the steam train Rovos Rail. There is also the new Gautrain rapid transit railway system in Gauteng Province which links Johannesburg, Pretoria, Ekhuruleni and OR Tambo International Airport.

South Africa is a wonderful vacation destination, but a happy holiday is a healthy holiday so take note of the following South Africa health information before you set off on your adventures.

Bilharzia in South Africa: This treatable but unpleasant disease (also known as schistosomiasis) is caused by parasites that can be found in fresh waterways in Southern Africa (although not in mountainous regions). Always check with your guide or local tourism information bureau you are staying in a bilharzia risk area before swimming, boating or wading in fresh water. An interesting aside: in certain African and East Asian communities, overcoming schistosomiasis is an important rite of passage. Not something we recommend for today’s holiday maker however.

Drinking Water and Cholera in South Africa: Cholera has been detected in some water in the Limpopo province. Unless there is a sign with information to the contrary, tap water in South Africa is safe for drinking. Drinking from streams and rivers is not recommended unless you are with a registered tour guide who knows the source of the water and can advise you that it is safe for consumption.

The recent cholera outbreaks in parts of South Africa have caused concern for many visitors to the country. Please refer to our Cholera Prevention Tips article on the Portfolio Travel Blog for advice.

H1N1 Virus (Swine flu): The World Health Organisation (WHO) has confirmed cases of H1N1 Influenza (09) in a number of countries throughout the world, including South Africa. For a list of these countries, visit the WHO website. Please take basic precautions of hand washing, sneezing into the crook of your elbow and refraining from touching any parts of your face with un-cleaned hands to help prevent spread any flu virus.

HIV and AIDS: Please be aware that there is, sadly, a high prevalence of HIV in South Africa. Abstinence or safe sex is strongly advised.

Hospitals, Medical Aid and Travel Insurance: While there are state hospitals throughout South Africa, they usually involve a long wait for patients needing medical care. Private hospitals are in line with Western standards in terms of both care and personal attention but the costs can be high. We advise you to take out comprehensive travel and medical insurance before embarking on your trip.

Malaria in South Africa: Malaria is prevalent in some remote areas in the far north and east of South Africa, including the Kruger National Park. A 90 kilometre strip running along the border with Mozambique and Zimbabwe has been designated as a malaria risk zone, with some adjoining areas experiencing malaria risk at various times in the year.

If you are not sure whether your travels take you into a malaria-area or not, do contact us with your proposed itinerary and we will let you know. You may also refer to an up to date malaria map. You may then need to take medication to protect you, prior to arriving in these areas.

It is always wise to take precautions in such regions, so in addition to your anti-malaria medication of choice we highly recommend the use of insect repellent creams and lotions, including the more holistic citronella option.

For extensive information about malaria please refer to the WHO's website.

Snakes and snakebites in South Africa: South Africa is home to several species of venomous snakes, although they tend to stay away from people and attack only if startled or provoked. Always keep a lookout on the path ahead and on overhanging branches when out and about in nature. Should you get bitten by any snake, get medical assistance as soon as you are able, and if possible give a good description of the snake to assist the practitioner treating you.

Please refer to the article on snakes and snakebites on the Portfolio Travel Blog for more information.

Sun Protection in South Africa: The African sun can be very harsh, especially for children, the elderly and those with fair skin. Sunscreen, sunblock, sun hats and sunglasses are essential. Be sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day to prevent dehydration. When possible avoid being outdoors for extended periods of time between 11h00 and 14h00.

Ticks and tick bite fever in South Africa: Wear long trousers, socks and shoes when hiking or walking through long grass, and apply insect repellent to your arms, legs and neck as an extra precaution against ticks. Tick bite fever presents with a headache and swollen glands about a week after being bitten. See a doctor who will help you with treatment. Not all tick bites will result in tick bite fever.

Yellow Fever Certificate Requirements: As of 1 October 2011, South Africa requires all travellers journeying from yellow fever risk countries (listed here) to show proof of yellow fever vaccination by means of a valid yellow fever certificate.

South Africa has a very high level of crime, including rape and murder. The risk of violent crime to visitors travelling to the main tourist destinations is generally low. The South African authorities give high priority to protecting tourists and tourism police are deployed in several large towns. Most cases of violent crime and murder tend to occur in townships remote and isolated areas. Consult a reliable tour guide if you visit a township.

Crime increases in areas where large crowds gather, so be particularly vigilant if you’re attending sporting or other events that attract large numbers.

Incidents of vehicle hi-jacking and robbery are common, particularly after dark. Keep to main roads and park in well lit areas. Vulnerable areas include, but are not limited to: traffic lights, junctions, and when approaching or pulling out from driveways. Take care at all times and be vigilant of your surroundings when in a stationary vehicle.

There are frequent incidents of car windows being broken and valuables taken while cars are waiting at junctions. Keep valuables out of sight.

Due to thefts at OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg, you should vacuum-wrap luggage where local regulations permit. Keep all valuables in your carry-on luggage.

Keep large amounts of money, expensive jewellery, cameras and phones out of sight. Don’t change or withdraw large sums of money in busy public areas including foreign exchange facilities or ATMs. Thieves operate at international airports, and bus and railway stations. Keep your valuables safe and baggage with you at all times.

Don’t give personal or financial account information details to anyone. There are international fraud rings operating in South Africa, who may target visitors and charities.

Standards of hygiene in relation to food health and safety in South Africa, are generally high in hotels, restaurants, pubs and nightspots. Tap water in South Africa is safe to drink and cook with when taken from taps in urban areas. Not all tap water in rural areas is safe for consumption, so take precautions if necessary.

It is safe to eat fresh fruit, vegetables and salads, and put ice in your drinks. South Africa's fish, meat and chicken are of excellent quality, so there is no need to limit yourself when enjoying the local cuisine.

Restaurants are subject to South Africa's food safety control legislation, which is implemented by local government. Regulations include certification and regular inspections by health inspectors to ensure hygienic standards are maintained.

Street food is not as common in South Africa as it is in other countries, although vendors selling traditional snacks and meals can be found in city centres and townships. Food safety in such instances cannot always be guaranteed.

South African temperatures, which are measured in centigrade, average at highs of 28°C to average lows of 8°C in the summer months while winter temperatures range from 1°C at night to around 18°C in the day. Average annual rainfall is on the low side at under 500mm a year, making the country somewhat dry. Much of the rain falls in the Western Cape in the winter, differing from the rest of the country, which experiences summer rainfall. On the plus side, the South African climate boasts more than its fair share of sunshine, recording an average of 8.5 hours a day.

Summer

Bring clothes that are cool, light and comfortable because summer temperatures can get well into the 30 - 40 degree Celsius range in some areas.Also bring an umbrella or raincoat during summer as this is when most of the country gets its rain, but don't forget a swimming costume (bathing suit).

Winter

The winters are generally mild, comparing favourably with European summers. But there are days when temperatures dive, especially in high-lying areas such as the Drakensberg, so be prepared with jerseys and jackets. Cape Town gets its rain during the winter season so it’s advisable to bring rain gear along.

General

Always bring a hat, sunglasses and sunblock as the sun can be strong even in the winter months.

Walking shoes are a good idea all year-round, with warm socks in the winter.

If you are doing business in the country, business attire (suit and tie) is generally called for in the corporate sector, but media for example generally dress more casually.

For game viewing, a couple of neutral-toned items will be useful, but there's no need to go overboard. A good pair of walking shoes is also advisable.

For the evening, if you are dining at an upmarket restaurant or seeing a show, smart-casual attire is recommended.

Most accommodation offer Wifi in their business centres, rooms or restaurants. Internet cafes are found in most business areas and shopping malls. In addition, some South African restaurants offer WiFi access.

There are also outlets such as PostNet that offer internet, fax and postage facilities.