Passports & Visas – We suggest your passport be valid for at least 6 months after your return date. Several countries in Africa require a visa for entry purchased and arranged in advance while others allow for purchase on arrival. We will inform you of all necessary visas according to your final itinerary.

For more information on entry/exit requirements and the most current visa information, visit the US State Department (International Travel).

Tipping – Tipping is customary, and you will receive tipping guidelines in your final documents package. We will advise the recommended amount for each provider, currency to use, and denomination.

Power Adapter – The electrical current varies throughout Africa, as do the types of plugs. We recommend purchasing a Universal Adapter/Converter.

Currency – There are many different currencies in Africa. Credit cards are widely accepted in most countries and ATMs are often available, but not in all locations. We will discuss the recommended amount of cash to carry with you, and in which currency and denomination, prior to your departure.

Africa is a huge continent with countries located in the Northern Hemisphere and the Southern Hemisphere. The weather varies greatly from region to region, however trips are offered year-round in most locations. Our Travel Designers will ensure you are traveling at the right time of the year according to your interests and activities. We can also suggest a possible beach and island visit as part of your pre or post itinerary. Packing recommendations and lists will be provided according to your trip.

Flights – the major international gateways for safaris in Africa are Johannesburg, South Africa and Nairobi, Kenya. Several airlines offer non-stop service from major US cities like New York, Washington DC and Atlanta to the continent of Africa. Regional carriers will connect you with your final destination. It is important to allow ample time (sometimes requiring an overnight stay) between your international and onward flights within Africa. We will recommend the best flights for you according to your itinerary and countries being explored.

Game Viewing – Depending on your destination, you may experience game drives, mokoro canoe rides, game viewing by boat, walking safaris, horseback or elephant-back safaris. You will be in the care and company of expert guides who will impart their knowledge of the animals and their unique behaviors. Even if you are not already a birder, you will be in awe of the colorful and unique bird species you will encounter. In addition the “Big 5” you can also learn about the “Other 5’s” which include the Small Five (Ant lion, Elephant shrew, Leopard tortoise, Rhino beetle and the Buffalo weaver); the Ugly Five (Warthog, Wildebeest, Vulture, Maribou Stork and the Hyena); and the Shy Five (Porcupine, Bat-eared fox, Aardvark, Meerkat and Aardwolf). 

Cultural Interaction- Africa’s cultural diversity is immense and expressed in the language, arts, crafts, folklore, music, dance, clothing and cuisine of each ethnic group or tribe. Common experiences include visiting a village, school or orphanage; Bushman rock art interpretation; a cultural performance; market visit; and medicinal walk, just to name a few.

The variety of accommodation available in Africa can be overwhelming, but our Travel Designers are familiar with the best of the best! In the cities, there are historic landmark luxury hotels, boutique hotels, international chains hotels, villa/apartment rentals and bed and breakfast inns.

On safari, the offerings include luxury lodges, small tented camps or mobile safari camps. A tented camp stay will be a life-changing experience, as you will truly feel one with the land and the amazing wildlife around you.

Medical Evacuation Insurance – Due to the remote nature of an African safari, medical evacuation insurance is mandatory for most safaris. Trip cancellation insurance is also highly recommended to protect your investment, should you need to cancel.

Wildlife – Upon arrival at your camp or lodge, you will meet with your safari host, who will explain the proper protocols to follow in camp and during game drives. It is imperative that you always follow your guide’s instructions and stay aware of your surroundings.

Vaccinations or anti-malarial prophylaxis are required or recommended for many destinations in Africa.  We will advise if you require a Yellow Fever Vaccination for your safari destination. We recommend that you consult your primary care physician or local travel clinic well in advance of your trip to discuss any additional health-related recommendations based on your travel itinerary and health history.

For more information on health and medical recommendations for travelers, visit the US State Department (Health Abroad) and the CDC (Travelers’ Health).