Practical Africa travel information

Passports, timing and the essentials to arrange before you fly.

• Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your return date.
• Confirm visa requirements for each country on your route.
• Share dietary, mobility and medical notes with your specialist early.

Entry requirements vary by nationality and destination.

• Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda and Rwanda often offer e-visa portals — apply before travel where required.
• Yellow fever certificates may be required if arriving from endemic regions.
• Always verify current requirements with your embassy or consulate before booking.

USD is widely accepted for safari bookings; local currency useful for tips and small purchases.

• Major lodges and camps accept USD and card payments.
• Carry modest local currency for guides, porters and village visits.
• Notify your bank of travel dates to avoid card blocks.

East and Southern Africa offer year-round travel with distinct seasonal character.

• Dry seasons generally bring easier wildlife viewing and clearer roads.
• Green seasons offer lush landscapes, fewer crowds and excellent value.
• Coastal and island destinations have their own rainfall patterns — we route accordingly.

Neutral tones, layers and comfort for dawn game drives.

• Soft-sided luggage for light aircraft transfers where applicable.
• Neutral safari clothing, sun hat, sunglasses and reliable walking shoes.
• Binoculars, camera gear and a light fleece for early mornings.

Consult your physician before travel.

• Discuss malaria prophylaxis and any prescription medications with your doctor.
• Travel insurance with medical evacuation cover is strongly recommended.
• Many lodges can accommodate dietary requirements when advised in advance.

Requirements change — verify with a travel health clinic.

• Routine vaccinations should be up to date before international travel.
• Yellow fever may be required for certain routes — confirm before departure.
• Content under review — please confirm with a qualified travel health adviser.

Comprehensive cover protects your investment and peace of mind.

• Ensure policy covers safari activities, gorilla trekking or golf if applicable.
• Medical evacuation cover is essential for remote areas.
• Keep policy documents accessible throughout your journey.

Voltage and plug types vary — pack adapters.

• Many lodges offer limited charging in tents — bring spare batteries for cameras.
• UK-style plugs are common in Kenya and parts of East Africa; check per country.

Expect pockets of connectivity, not constant signal.

• City hotels and many lodges offer Wi-Fi; remote camps may be offline by design.
• Local SIM cards are available at major airports for extended stays.

English is widely spoken in tourism; local languages enrich the journey.

• Swahili is common across East Africa; guides translate and interpret throughout.
• Learning a few local greetings is always appreciated.

East Africa is typically UTC+3; Southern Africa varies by country.

• Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda and Rwanda: East Africa Time (EAT, UTC+3).
• South Africa, Namibia and Botswana: Central Africa Time or similar — confirm per itinerary.

Gratuities reward excellent guiding and lodge service.

• Guidelines vary by country and camp style — we provide suggested ranges with your proposal.
• Tip boxes at lodges often distribute to behind-the-scenes staff.

Follow guide instructions and lodge briefings at all times.

• Wildlife areas require staying in vehicles unless guides advise otherwise.
• Secure valuables and follow camp safety protocols after dark.

Road transfers, light aircraft and scheduled flights are woven into each route.

• Baggage limits apply on bush flights — we advise weights in advance.
• Private guides and meet-and-greet services are arranged throughout.

Quiet observation respects wildlife and fellow travellers.

• Keep voices low on game drives; avoid sudden movements near animals.
• Do not litter — leave camps and parks as you found them.

Golden hours, patience and respect for subjects.

• Flash photography is prohibited during gorilla and chimp trekking.
• Bring spare memory cards and dust protection for lenses.

Age-appropriate pacing and family-friendly lodges.

• Some camps have minimum age limits — we match properties to your family.
• Private vehicles offer flexibility for younger travellers.

Remote terrain limits universal access — we plan honestly.

• Tell us about mobility requirements early so we can recommend suitable lodges and routes.
• Gorilla trekking and some walking safaris require physical fitness.

Tee times, transfers and club logistics handled by our golf team.

• Club hire and caddies can be pre-arranged at championship courses.
• We route golf days around flight times and safari transfers.

Specialist retreats and recovery journeys by arrangement.

• Medical and wellness itineraries require advance consultation.
• Content under review — speak with our team for current options.