Frequently Asked Questions
Best time to travel?
Kenya and Tanzania are wonderful safari destinations all year round. Straddling the Equator, and with many of the wildlife conservation areas above 1500m the weather is a very pleasant average 25 C year round. Days are warm with minimal humidity and evenings are cool.
How many parks should I put into an itinerary?
We recommend that you stay in one wildlife area for not less than three nights, giving you two full days to enjoy the area. East Africa has the most varied ecosystems and wildlife species in Africa—so each area that you visit will offer you a completely different wildlife experience, vegetation, landscape and views. You need to plan for a minimum of six nights on safari so that you can visit at least two different ecosystems, or combine safari and beach. See our sample itineraries.
Can I bring my children?
Children love safari, and even the most up-market properties in Kenya and Tanzania welcome children. The local people are very welcoming and adore having fun. Make sure you plan your safari with a good safari consultant to ensure you are visiting areas of minimal malaria risk, and consider taking exclusive use of safari vehicle. Most safari properties are in areas of no or minimal malaria risk and have special rates for families—many have family houses or suites. Read our section on family safaris, and also see our sample itineraries.
Exercise on safari?
Although safari means early mornings and being outside all day, it is not strenuous. Lots of fresh air means meal times are a major focus, and game drives are not exercise. For those of you that will miss your regular work outs, there are some forest camps in Kenya that offer only walking, and guests can chose a leisurely 40 minute walk to a 3 hour hike! Or a visit to see gorillas or chimpanzees means a good hike in the forest.
Can I go for walks while on safari?
Leaving the safari vehicle behind is a must to truly enjoy the African bush. You can walk in most safari areas. For those that really want to get out and enjoy the forest or the savannah, there are some properties that specialize in walking, Kitich Forest Camp offers only walking, visiting gorillas and chimpanzees and you can also consider a camel safari.
What to bring?
Internal flights have a luggage limit of 15kg per person. It doesn’t sound very much, but you can pack quite a few shorts and T shirts within 15kg and all lodges have laundry facilities. Don’t forget binoculars, they are an essential part of safari.
What is Nairobi like?
Nairobi is a large metropolitan modern city. We recommend getting straight out on safari—however for those who are spending a night in Nairobi to connect with flights, there are some extremely nice boutique hotels, excellent restaurants and good shopping.
