Sunset Africa Tours and Safaris - Safari Tips and Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Travel Tips for Visitors to Kenya
VISA AND HEALTH REGULATIONS

Visa requirements vary from time to time and between countries, and should be checked with the nearest tourist office or diplomatic mission. Health certificates are required, but these vary with country of origin and so should be checked with the relevant authorities. However, yellow fever and cholera vaccination are recommended. Malaria is endemic in Africa and so precaution should be taken. Anti-malaria medication should be started prior to arrival.

CURRENCY

It is illegal to enter or leave with any local currency. There is normally no restriction on import of foreign currency. However, receipts must be retained for currency transactions in order to re-exchange local currency on departure. Well known credit cards are widely accepted in Kenya, but to a lesser extent in Tanzania and Uganda. US$ and travelers cheques are a most widely accepted form of payment.

CLIMATE

Much of East Africa is considered to have perfect climate with generally warm sunny days, minimal humidity and cool evenings. Temperatures do vary with altitude. Coastal climate is tropical, being hot and humid most of the year round. Highlands areas can get cold at night

CLOTHING

Cotton, linen dresses, light slacks and short sleeved shirts are recommended. Bring a warm sweater as nights can be chilly at high altitudes. The emphasis is on informal wear but some restaurants and clubs require gentlemen to wear jackets and ties in the evenings with the ladies dressed accordingly. Comfortable walking shoes, swimsuit, sunglasses, suntan lotion, flashlight and an alarm clock will complement your safari gear.

HOTEL CHECK IN AND CHECK OUT

Check out time is usually 1000hrs. Hence check in cannot be guaranteed before 1100hrs unless room is reserved from night before. Day rooms up to 1800hrs are usually available.

ACCOMMODATION AND MEALS ON SAFARIS

Lodges - Rooms are singles, doubles, triples and suites. Lodge facilities include lounges & bars with log fires, dining rooms and viewing platforms. Most lodges have outdoor swimming pools. Tented camps - These range from simple to luxurious and provide spacious beds with mosquito netting, private bathrooms and verandas. Camps also include restaurants, bar and lounge facilities.Meal's - On safari, meals are provided on a full board basis. There is a full English breakfast. Lunch is often buffet style, set out with salads, cold and hot starters and hot main dishes. Dinner is 3-5 courses with a combination of dishes.

BANKS

Banking hours are from 9.00am to 2.00pm Monday to Friday. Most hotels and lodges change money outside these hours.

AGE RESTRICTIONS

Children under 8 years are not allowed at the tree hotels. Due to close contact with the animals at the water holes and salt-licks, it is important not to scare them away.

SECURITY

As in any major city, security precautions must be taken. Use safe deposit boxes, carry only small amount of cash and do not wear jewelry in town. Avoid walking at night, take taxis.

AIRPORT DEPARTURE TAX

Most airports require an airports tax of US$20, for departure on international flights. Some airports also require a departure tax for domestic flights in the local currency.

LUGGAGE

Luggage should be kept to a minimum, one main lightweight bag and an overnight bag is adequate. Most city hotels have space for storing luggage not required on safari. On flying safaris, where light aircraft are utilized, baggage is limited to 15 kilos per person.

PHOTOGRAPHY

Protect your camera and films from dust with a plastic bag. A lens hood and ultra violet filter are also available. Films and batteries are available at most lodges but in restricted stocks and sizes so it is suggested you bring your own supply. A 200 mm to 30 mm telephoto lens is recommended for game and bird photography. It is forbidden to photograph the national flag, the president, the state House, state lodges, police, soldiers, prisons or prisoners.