FAQ

Here are a few frequently asked questions about our trips.  We’ll send you more specific information—just give us a call.

Why Tanzania?

More than a third of Tanzania is dedicated to national parks and reserves, making it a great safari destination. Parks are relatively close to each other, so you can experience several of them without spending a lot of your vacation time getting to your safari destination.

The Serengeti, the scene of the great migration in Tanzania, is eight times larger than the Maasai Mara in Kenya, so you see lots of animals and fewer tourists. We always see diverse and plentiful wildlife in the Tanzanian parks, the drama of predators and prey, and even endangered species like the black rhinoceros.

It’s a place where you can get away from “civilization” and experience the timelessness and wildness of the circle of life. Tanzania is also a safe country with a stable government, and exceptionally friendly people.

Why Botswana?

Botswana offers very high-end and exclusive safaris. There are fewer guests and very few vehicles.

Botswana has recently banned all hunting in the entire country.

Botswana, one of the top two safari destinations along with Tanzania, has numerous wildlife parks and reserves, including one of Africa's "wonders" — the huge Okavango Delta, often referred to as the ‘jewel’ of the Kalahari. 

Botswana is also a safe country with a stable government.

What’s included?

On Safari

All lodging, meals, transportation and local airfare. For example:  flights from Serengeti to Arusha, Arusha to Zanzibar and Zanzibar to Dar es Salaam are included.

Tours, park fees, minimal driver/guide tips, unlimited fuel, coffee and tea throughout the day, bottled water on game drives, and bottled water in most lodge rooms are included as well.

On Extensions, such as zanzibar

Meals may be on a B&B basis; please inquire.

What’s Not Included?

International round trip airfare to destination, visas, vaccinations, driver/guide, lodge/hotel staff tips, drinks (including water) ordered with meals, laundry, travel insurance, and personal purchases.

What time of year is best to take a safari?

This will depend on your destination. Please contact me.​

What is the weather like?

Average High and Low Temperatures (January/February):                   

What books do you recommend about Africa?

Do I have to worry about catching exotic diseases?

You will receive information about recommended immunizations and precautions for illnesses such as malaria, yellow fever, stomach upsets, and sunburn.  Our lodges prepare food carefully and safe water is always available.

Can I exercise?

Travelers find that the game drives are all encompassing (both mentally and physically) and very little additional activity is desired. Evenings are spent cleaning up for dinner, watching the stars, dipping in the pool, talking about the incredible sights of the day or reading.

Since most of the lodges are in the parks, the lions are more than happy to play with anyone running around without a guard and away from the proximity of the rooms. As one of our rangers said, “Only prey animals run.”

Are the Wild Animals Dangerous?

Please note that all wild animals can be dangerous and you should not wander off on your own while on safari. No animal is tame and must at all times be treated with respect and not approached unless with an authorized professional guide.

Is There a Dress Code?

There is no set dress code on safari in Tanzania; however most lodges and hotels will expect their male guests to at least wear long trousers to dinner and women to wear a dress, skirt or long pants. It is a fairly conservative country so very revealing clothing is not recommended. While in coastal or rural areas, please keep shoulders and knees covered (and everything in between) as the residents are conservative and this shows respect for the local people. Dresses, sarongs, are fabulous and cool too!

On Safari—informal and casual dress is appropriate. Comfortable, lightweight cotton clothing in subdued safari colors is practical (bright colors can scare the animals away). During the day, shorts, trousers or skirts are ideal, and the evenings may be chilly so light cardigans or sweaters are appropriate. While visiting the Ngorongoro Crater, please note that because of the altitude nights can be very cool, so a sweater or light weight fleece is advisable. Long sleeved shirts and trousers are good in the evenings to lessen the chance of being bitten by mosquitoes. Many safari lodges have swimming pools, so pack a bathing suit.

At Coastal Resorts—One piece or bikini swimsuits are fine on the beach or around your hotel pool, but not appropriate in town. Topless sunbathing is prohibited. Neither jackets nor ties are required when dining in hotels or out at restaurants.

What are the people like?

They are a gracious people. “Rafiki” is Swahili for “Friend”.

The indigenous people of these countries are very friendly and hospitable. They are rightly proud of their countries, so be sensitive as you would be anywhere in your travels. In Swahili speaking countries, the traditional greeting is "Jambo" and the response "Mzuri" (good) - even if you are not!

Patience:  Africa is generally very relaxed and laid back, and you may find that the service and pace of activities in some places may be slower than you are used to. Slow down and enjoy!

What languages are spoken?

Kiswahili otherwise known as Swahili is the “lingua franca”‟ of Kenya and Tanzania. English is very widely spoken in Tanzania, particularly in tourist centers, hotels, lodges and the main cities. Tanzanians regard themselves as countrymen first, and then tribal members, which has resulted in peaceful coexistence of diverse people.  The tribal wars and conflicts that you hear about in other African countries don’t happen in Tanzania.

Here are a few Swahili phrases: