Travel Information
Travel & Entry
- Visa: Most nationalities require visas. Apply online:
- Kenya https://evisa.go.ke/
- Uganda: evisa.go.ke/ https://visas.immigration.go.ug/
- Tanzania: https://eservices.immigration.go.tz/
- East Africa Tourist Visa: Available for combined Kenya–Uganda–Rwanda travel.
- Passport: Must be valid for at least 6 months with 2 blank pages.
- Yellow Fever Certificate: Required if coming from or transiting through a yellow fever country.
Wildlife & Safari Safety
- Stay inside the vehicle unless instructed otherwise.
- Keep voices low and do not approach or feed wildlife.
- Always follow your guide’s instructions—they are trained for safety and optimal sightings.
Money & Tipping
- Currency:
- Kenya: Kenyan Shilling (KES)
- Tanzania: Tanzanian Shilling (TZS)
- Uganda: Ugandan Shilling (UGX)
- USD is widely accepted for safaris and tipping (new bills preferred).
- Tipping Guide:
- Driver-Guide: $10–$20 per person/day
- Lodge Staff: $5–$10 per person/day (shared tip box)
Photography & Drones
- Bring extra batteries and storage for cameras.
- Drones are restricted or banned in many national parks—special permits required.
- Ask permission before photographing people, especially in rural or tribal areas.
Cultural Etiquette
- Dress modestly in towns and villages.
- Greet locals respectfully; a smile and basic phrases in Swahili or Luganda are appreciated.
- Support local communities by buying crafts or contributing to cultural programs.
Health & Safety
- Vaccinations Recommended: Yellow Fever, Hepatitis A & B, Typhoid, Tetanus, and routine vaccines.
- Malaria Risk: Take prescribed antimalarial medication and use insect repellent + nets.
- Water: Only drink bottled or filtered water. Avoid tap water.
What to Pack
- Light, breathable clothing in neutral colors (avoid bright colors or black/white)
- Warm layers for cool mornings and evenings
- Hat, sunglasses, sunscreen
- Insect repellent (with DEET or natural alternative)
- Binoculars, camera, spare batteries/memory cards
- Power bank & UK-style adapter (Type G plug used in all three countries)
Luggage (Domestic Flights)
- Soft-sided bags only, max 15–20 kg (33–44 lbs) per person depending on the airline
- Limit hand luggage and avoid hard-shell suitcases
Connectivity & Internet
- Wi-Fi is available at most lodges in safari vehicle but may be limited or slow in remote areas.
- Consider buying a local SIM card (Safaricom, Airtel, MTN) for better connectivity.
- Download offline maps and key travel apps ahead of time.
Daily Safari Routine
- Early starts for game drives (06h00–07h00) to catch wildlife at their most active.
- Midday: Return to camp/lodge for rest and lunch.
- Afternoon game drives: 15h30–17h00
- Evenings: Campfires, sundowners, dinners under the stars.
