Gnus & Gorillas

Safari means journey in Kiswahili, the language of East Africa, and Kenya is the home of safari. Its varied ecosystems and landscapes mean that the biodiversity here is higher than any other country in Africa. It has been the natural home of celebrity safaris, big game hunters and royalty since the 18th century and remains the most spectacular safari destination with unparalleled wildlife viewing.

A complete safari includes at least three of the main ecosystems: the semiarid dramatic landscapes of the north, the tropical woodlands of the Rift Valley and the lush savannahs of the Masai Mara. We recommend booking three nights in each area in order to give your guests the best possible safari.

Kenya has a culture borne of countless sources. From the prehistoric records of early man to the present day, Kenya has been a land of unending change, contrasts, and diversity. The country has at least 40 different ethnic African groups (including the Kikuyu, Luhya, Kalenjin tribes, Luo, Kamba, Kisii, Meru and Embu, Mijikenda, Swahili, Turkana and Masai) who speak a variety of indigenous languages. Waves of migration over the centuries from the north and south of the continent have led to Kenya becoming one of the most diverse African countries culturally and linguistically.

Kenya has a well-established system of guide training and certification. It is important that a safari is guided by competent and experienced guides as it is through their eyes that guests will interpret the wilderness around them! Many of the properties, have in house guides, usually from the local area, that know their part of the wilderness and its inhabitants.

Kenya offers many superb private conservancies and unique boutique safari camps and lodges. Some areas suit low-key tented camps and others large open airy rooms with stunning views.

A passport with at least two blank pages, six months' validity, and a visa are required to enter Kenya.

All travellers of all ages (except citizens of Kenya and EAC partner countries) arriving in Kenya are required to apply for Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) online prior to departure:

• Online applications via https://www.etakenya.go.ke/en

ETA’s are valid for a single entry to Kenya for a maximum stay duration of 3 months.

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 KSh40, 20, 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, Pound 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 to Friday 09h00 to 16h00, Saturday 09h00 to 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.

Airports

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.

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.

Matatus

Matatus (shared minibus taxis) hop from town to town, starting and finishing at bus stations. Fares are paid to the conductor. 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.

Taxis

Private taxis can be hired for long-distance journeys. It is not possible to rent motorbikes or mopeds but some of the beach resorts hire out bicycles. Uber now operates in both Nairobi and Mombasa.

Children on Safari

There is no greater pleasure than watching your child discovering a different world and the joys of an old-fashioned childhood. East Africa is ideal for family holidays; we welcome children and many camps and lodges have family suites.

• Young children: attention span is short, children tire quickly. We recommend families opt for exclusive use of a vehicle.
• 6 to 12 years: a perfect age to be on safari—identifying animal tracks, fishing, walking, horse-riding, identifying “dung”, tracks and butterflies.
• 13 to 16 years: these optimistic young adults with developing opinions are interested and passionate about our planet, conservation, cultural diversity, and have their own knowledge of biodiversity facts.

Malaria

Malaria is common in Africa, however most safari areas are at altitude and in remote areas with little human population, so can be considered “malaria free”. Avoiding the mosquito bite is the cornerstone of protection including:

• mosquito bed nets when not in a tent;
• wear long clothing after dark;
• repellents/insecticides (sprays, creams & mosquito coils) again, after dark; and
• oral prophylaxis.

We team up with the foremost authority on tropical diseases in East Africa who keeps us updated with the latest prophylaxis and general inoculation advice. 

East African Flying Doctors Medical Evacuation (AMREF)

All guests are registered with AMREF Flying Doctors, who operate the most comprehensive and professional air ambulance services in East Africa. They also have international evacuation capabilities. The purpose of the membership is to ensure immediate evacuation response in case of emergency and is separate and additional to guest's own medical insurance, which is mandatory for safari participation.

Sources: Dr Mauro Saio, www.gov.uk, www.travel.state.gov

We care about your well being and peace of mind.  Here are the answers to a few questions that we have received from operators around the world.

Travel Advisories

Travel advisories have been in place for over 30 years and are usually updated annually; whether there are changes or not. The message that is communicated can cause unnecessary concern as the annual travel advisory update may lead the public to believe that the security situation has changed, when in fact it has remained the same.

Areas within Kenya that fall under a travel advisory include northeastern Kenyan counties of Mandera, Wajir and Garissa, the coastal counties of Tana River and Lamu in their entirety, all areas north of Malindi in Kilifi County, and the Nairobi neighbourhood of Eastleigh.

Part of Nairobi that like any large city has “no go” areas usually because they are slums with increased crime, not a tourist area.

Any areas very close to our neighbor, Somalia.  Kenya is a massive country, and all tourism areas are very many miles from the Somali border.  No normal tourist would be travelling to this very remote location.

Book with a trusted and reputable company

We have extensive international public liability insurance, we are fully licensed, have long-standing experienced staff and the best on the ground advice and support.

Beware of “briefcase operators”.  Despite sending slick safari proposals; having a lovely website, if you look carefully there is no office, only one mobile telephone number and one email.

Safari Support

We have a duty manager available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, with additional officers on call for any emergency!

Sources: Dr Mauro Saio, www.gov.uk, www.travel.state.gov

Restaurants

Nairobi has some of the finest eating establishments in Africa. Many different cuisines and types of restaurants are available, from fast food to fancy. 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. 

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.

Water

Bottled water is advisable for the first few weeks of your stay. 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. Avoid ice and washed salads and fruit except in upmarket hotels and restaurants. 

Kenya lies on the equator and has a pleasant tropical climate, but there are large regional climatic variations influenced by several factors, including altitude. Temperatures drop by about 6°C for every 1000m you climb (or 3.5°F per 1000ft). Kenya’s daytime temperatures average between 20°C (68°F) and 28°C (82°F), but it is warmer on the coast. The coast is hot and humid all year round, but the heat is pleasant and tempered by the monsoon winds. Kenya is too close to the equator to experience a real winter and summer. There is, however, both a dry and wet season. The wet season is from November to May and the Dry season is from June to December.

Dress

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 lies on the Equator, therefore our dry and wet seasons have stable and pleasant temperatures, and allow for year round Safaris and game viewing. The perfect climate!

Many parts of the country are at altitudes of 2000m (6000 feet); these highlands e.g. Laikipia, Mathews Range, Masai Mara, experience a cool and temperate climate, with warm, dry sunny days, and chilly evenings.

Lower regions at 1200m (3800 feet), which include the semi-desert areas of Samburu/Shaba, Meru and the coastal strip, can reach a dry and comfortable 35°C (95°F) during the day, with cool and pleasant evenings.

The hottest months of the year in Kenya are from December through to March, with the coldest months being in July and August. Kenya’s long rains are during the months of April and May, however, we still experience sunny days. The short rains are in November. Some of the smaller bush camps close during the wet seasons of April, May and November.

Uganda, or the ‘Pearl of Africa’, as it was famously dubbed by Winston Churchill, is characterised by relatively dry and flat savanna in the north, with verdant mountains in the West, and vast dense and remarkably lush forests in the central region. The nation is home to an astonishingly diverse range of African wildlife including the highly endangered mountain gorilla which can be found in the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. A popular spot for wildlife watching is Queen Elizabeth National Park, which hosts four of the Big Five, a flock of flamboyant flamingos and the rare tree-climbing lions of Ishasha. Outdoor enthusiasts can get their adrenaline fix with plenty of whitewater rafting, kayaking, hiking, quad biking and horse riding facilities on offer. Add to this some friendly locals, a burgeoning cultural scene, and a capital city full of lively bars, clubs and restaurants, and it is easy to see why Uganda has gained itself a reputation as 'Africa's friendliest country'.

Currency

The local currency is the Uganda Shilling (UGX). Notes are in denominations of UGX50,000, 20,000, 10,000, 5,000, 2,000 and 1,000. Coins are in denominations of UGX500, 200, 100, 50, 10, 5, 2 and 1. However, UGX1,000 notes are soon to be replaced by coins. Try not to accept very old or damaged notes where possible, as some places may refuse to take them.

The US dollar, euro and pound sterling are all recognised currencies in Uganda, and both euros and dollars are now widely accepted for cash payments. Other international currencies may also be accepted in some places in the major cities, although visitors may struggle with other currencies in

The import and export of local currency is prohibited. Import of foreign currency is unlimited if declared upon arrival. Export of foreign currency must not exceed the amount declared upon arrival.

Foreign currency may be exchanged at the Central Bank, commercial banks and foreign exchange bureaux. Be aware that dollar notes from before 2006 will not be accepted for exchange.smaller towns.

Banking

Banking hours are generally Monday to Friday 0830 to 1400, and Saturday 0900 to 1200. Forex bureaux are open until 1700 and able to do electronic transfers to and from overseas.

American Express, Diners, MasterCard and Visa credit cards are sometimes accepted but not widely used. Some large hotels, restaurants, travel agencies and shops in urban areas accept credit cards.

ATMs are available in the larger cities but ATM services in smaller towns and rural areas are limited. It is advisable to check with your bank to see if your card is compatible with Ugandan ATMs.

Traveller's cheques are not widely accepted outside Kampala. To avoid additional exchange rate charges, travellers are advised to take traveller's cheques in US Dollars or Pounds Sterling. It is advised that travellers bring sufficient US dollars in cash in case of emergencies. Higher denomination bills usually give a better exchange rate than smaller notes.

Domestic bus travel is cheap, but departures aren’t always on schedule. There are two classes of bus travel matatu (minibus) or kigati (van) which travel fixed routes, and larger coaches or buses.

Self-drive and hiring a private car with a driver are other options. International hire companies are based near Entebbe International Airport and in the centre of Kampala. A four-wheel drive is recommended for rural areas. The speed limit is 80kph (50mph) or 100kph (62mph) on highways. Most car hire companies include breakdown cover. The Automobile Association of Uganda (www.aau.co.ug) can provide information and assistance.mAn International Driving Permit and adequate third-party insurance is required. UK driving licences are accepted. Drivers must carry their vehicle log books and must pay for a temporary road licence.

Whist some major roads are paved, the majority of minor and side roads are unpaved and can be bumpy and pot-holed, so drive with caution, especially in the rainy season.The roads are of variable quality and radiate from Kampala, although the network is sparse in the north. Whist some major roads are paved, the majority of minor and side roads are unpaved and can be bumpy and pot-holed, so drive with caution, especially in the rainy season.  Note that there are still some army and police checkpoints on roads. Always keep vehicle doors locked and valuables out of sight.

Private taxis are identifiable by their black and white stripes. Boda-bodas (motorbike taxis) are often a cheaper option and, whilst fun, are not for the faint-hearted. Don’t be afraid to ask your driver to slow down if necessary as accidents are common.

Cycling in Uganda requires nerves of steel; many roads are dusty or under construction and motor vehicles rarely allow cyclists room. Always wear a helmet and use rear-view mirrors. Avoid cycling at night.

Uganda’s coach and bus services connect all major towns. The Post Office’s Post Bus Service (www.ugapost.co.ug) offers relatively comfortable buses and is more safety-aware than some other bus companies.

Most major routes are also covered by smaller white mini-buses. These are faster than coaches, but drivers wait until they are full before leaving and departure times are not fixed.

A passenger ferry links Nakiwogo Dock, south of Entebbe to Lutoboka on Buggala in the Ssese Islands on Lake Victoria. There is also a free vehicle ferry which runs from Bukakata, 40km (25 miles) east of Masaka, to Buggala. Lake taxis also link some of the other islands.

Passenger boats can be overloaded in Uganda and there have been several accidents, usually during the rainy season which can bring storms and high winds. Always makes sure boats have life jackets before you set off.

Children on Safari

There is no greater pleasure than watching your child discovering a different world and the joys of an old-fashioned childhood. East Africa is ideal for family holidays; we welcome children and many camps and lodges have family suites.

• Young children: attention span is short, children tire quickly. We recommend families opt for exclusive use of a vehicle.
• 6 to 12 years: a perfect age to be on safari—identifying animal tracks, fishing, walking, horse-riding, identifying “dung”, tracks and butterflies.
• 13 to 16 years: these optimistic young adults with developing opinions are interested and passionate about our planet, conservation, cultural diversity, and have their own knowledge of biodiversity facts.

Malaria

Malaria is common in Africa, however most safari areas are at altitude and in remote areas with little human population, so can be considered “malaria free”. Avoiding the mosquito bite is the cornerstone of protection including:

• mosquito bed nets when not in a tent;
• wear long clothing after dark;
• repellents/insecticides (sprays, creams & mosquito coils) again, after dark; and
• oral prophylaxis.

Cheli & Peacock Safaris teams up with the foremost authority on tropical diseases in East Africa who keeps us updated with the latest prophylaxis and general inoculation advice. 

East African Flying Doctors Medical Evacuation (AMREF)

All Cheli & Peacock Safaris guests are registered with AMREF Flying Doctors, who operate the most comprehensive and professional air ambulance services in East Africa. They also have international evacuation capabilities. The purpose of the membership is to ensure immediate evacuation response in case of emergency and is separate and additional to guest's own medical insurance, which is mandatory for safari participation.

Sources: Dr Mauro Saio, www.gov.uk, www.travel.state.gov

At Cheli & Peacock Safaris, we care about your wellbeing and peace of mind.  Here are the answers to a few questions that we have received from operators around the world.

Travel Advisories

Travel advisories have been in place for over 30 years and are usually updated annually; whether there are changes or not. The message that is communicated can cause unnecessary concern as the annual travel advisory update may lead the public to believe that the security situation has changed, when in fact it has remained the same.

Areas within Kenya that fall under a travel advisory include northeastern Kenyan counties of Mandera, Wajir and Garissa, the coastal counties of Tana River and Lamu in their entirety, all areas north of Malindi in Kilifi County, and the Nairobi neighbourhood of Eastleigh.

Part of Nairobi that like any large city has “no go” areas usually because they are slums with increased crime, not a tourist area.

Any areas very close to our neighbor, Somalia.  Kenya is a massive country, and all tourism areas are very many miles from the Somali border.  No normal tourist would be travelling to this very remote location.

Book with a trusted and reputable company

Make sure you book with a well established, professional DMC. We at Cheli & Peacock Safaris, have extensive international public liability insurance, we are fully licensed, long-standing experienced staff and the best on the ground advice and support.

Beware of “briefcase operators”.  Despite sending slick safari proposals; having a lovely website, if you look carefully there is no office, only one mobile telephone number and one email.

Cheli & Peacock Safaris Support

We have a duty manager available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, with additional officers on call for any emergency!

Sources: Dr Mauro Saio, www.gov.uk, www.travel.state.gov

All water should be regarded as being a potential health risk. Water used for drinking, brushing teeth or making ice should be boiled or otherwise sterilised. Milk is unpasteurised and should be boiled. Powdered or tinned milk is available and is advised. Avoid dairy products which are likely to have been made from unboiled milk. Only eat well-cooked meat and fish, preferably served hot. Vegetables should be cooked and fruit should be peeled.

Ugandan cuisine draws on English, Arab and Asian – especially Indian – influences and uses home-grown local produce including plantains, sweet potatoes, corn, beans and cassava. It’s easy to eat cheaply almost anywhere in the country. International restaurants can be found in larger towns, with Indian, Chinese and Italian being the most popular.

Traditional foods include ugali (solidified maize meal porridge) served with a stew of groundnuts (peanuts), beans, chicken or meat such as beef, goat or mutton. Game can be found on menus in some restaurants and at safari lodges. Fish including the tiger fish, mukini, mputa and tilapia are popular.

Vegetarians may struggle outside of major towns, but Uganda’s Indian and Chinese restaurants generally offer a selection of vegetarian dishes. Traditional desserts include mandazi, a doughnut often served with cinnamon or sugar.

Although always appreciated, tipping is not standard practice. It is normal to tip 5 to 10% at tourist-orientated restaurants.

Uganda has a tropical climate, with temperatures ranging from 21-25°C (70- 77°F), apart from in the mountainous areas, which are much cooler; the top of Mount Elgon is often covered with snow. The hottest months are December to February. Evenings can feel chilly after the heat of the day with temperatures around 12- 16ºC (54-61°F).

Most regions of Uganda, apart from the dry area in the north, have an annual rainfall of between 1,000mm and 2,000mm. There is heavy rain between March and May and between October and November, when road travel can become difficult in parts of the country. The best time for trekking is during the dry seasons, between January and February and June to September. Wildlife viewing is best at the end of the dry seasons, when game is more concentrated around water sources.

Lightweight clothes with a warm cover-up for the evenings are advised. Take a pair of good walking shoes or boots for forest trekking, and long-sleeved tops to protect against mosquitoes. If you’re planning to go to mountainous areas, be sure to take warm clothing, as temperatures drop substantially. White clothes won’t stay white for long with Uganda’s red dust roads, so go for darker colours. 

Electrical sockets (outlets) in Uganda are the "Type G " British BS-1363 type. If your appliance's plug doesn't match the shape of these sockets, you will need a travel plug adapter in order to plug in. Travel plug adapters simply change the shape of your appliance's plug to match whatever type of socket you need to plug into.

Electrical sockets (outlets) in Uganda usually supply electricity at between 220 and 240 volts AC. If you're plugging in an appliance that was built for 220-240 volt electrical input, or an appliance that is compatible with multiple voltages, then an adapter is all you need.

But travel plug adapters do not change the voltage, so the electricity coming through the adapter will still be the same 220-240 volts the socket is supplying. North American sockets supply electricity at between 110 and 120 volts, far lower than in most of the rest of the world. Consequently, North American appliances are generally built for 110-120 volts.