Frequently Asked Questions
This page covers the questions we hear most often from travellers planning safaris in Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. If your question is not here, send us a message or reach us on WhatsApp and one of our team will answer you personally.
Safari Planning
When is the best time to go on safari in East Africa?
East Africa delivers incredible wildlife sightings year-round, but the dry seasons (January–March and June–October) offer easier game viewing as animals gather near water. July–October is the classic period to witness the Great Migration river crossings. The green seasons (November–December and April–May) reward you with lush landscapes, fewer visitors, and excellent birding, often at lower rates. We’ll help you match the timing to the exact experience you want.
How far in advance should I book my safari?
We recommend booking at least 6–12 months ahead for peak season travel (especially July–October and December–January), as the best eco-lodges and camps fill up early. For travel in quieter months, 3–6 months is usually sufficient. Last-minute requests are always welcome, and we’ll do our best to craft something extraordinary with what remains available.
Can I combine multiple countries in a single trip?
Absolutely. Many of our safaris seamlessly connect Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda, and we often add Zanzibar for a beach finale. Combining the Masai Mara with the Serengeti or following big game with gorilla trekking in Bwindi is straightforward and deeply rewarding. We’ll design a logical route that makes smooth logistical sense and never feels rushed.
Do you handle international flights?
Our expertise lies in on-the-ground safari design in East Africa, so we focus on everything from your arrival airport onwards. We’re happy to advise on the best gateways and can recommend trusted flight specialists to arrange your international airfare.
Private vs. Group Joining Safaris
What’s the difference between a private and a group joining safari?
A private safari gives you a dedicated vehicle and guide for just your party, with complete control over the daily schedule and pace. A group joining safari brings together a small number of like-minded travelers on a set departure date, following a fixed itinerary at a more accessible per-person rate. Both are guided by our expert team and stay in our handpicked eco-lodges
Can I book a group safari and then add private extensions?
Yes, that’s a popular choice. Many guests join a scheduled small-group departure for the core safari, then extend privately for a few extra days — perhaps a walking safari in a private conservancy, extra gorilla permits, or a private beach stay in Zanzibar. We’ll design the full journey so it flows naturally.
Are the lodges the same for private and group safaris?
Yes. We never compromise on accommodation quality. Whether you travel privately or on a group departure, you’ll stay in the same collection of luxury eco-lodges and intimate tented camps that we know, trust, and personally visit.
How large are the groups on your joining safaris?
We intentionally keep group sizes intimate, typically no more than six or eight guests per vehicle to preserve a high-quality wildlife experience and minimize the safari footprint. Everyone enjoys a window seat, and the small group dynamic often leads to rich, shared moments.
Destinations & Wildlife Experiences
What are the must-visit parks in Kenya?
Kenya’s essential safari circuit includes the Masai Mara for big cats and the Great Migration, Amboseli for iconic elephant views beneath Mount Kilimanjaro, and Samburu for unique arid-land species. We also love the private conservancies of Laikipia for walking safaris and Tsavo for vast, wild landscapes with fewer vehicles.
How does a Tanzania safari differ from a Kenya safari?
Tanzania’s Serengeti is vast and offers exceptional year-round game viewing, particularly the calving season. The Ngorongoro Crater delivers extraordinary animal density in a single dramatic setting. Tanzania also grants access to remote parks like Ruaha and Selous. Many guests combine both countries to experience the full breadth of East Africa.
What does gorilla trekking in Uganda involve?
Gorilla trekking takes place in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, where you’ll hike with expert rangers to spend one unforgettable hour with a habituated mountain gorilla family. The trek can be moderately demanding, but we match you to a group based on your fitness. You’ll need a gorilla permit, which we secure on your behalf — often months in advance due to high demand.
Can I see the Great Migration without the crowds?
Yes, with careful planning. We favor private conservancies adjoining the Masai Mara and Serengeti, where you can witness the migration with far fewer vehicles and enjoy off-road and night drives. Timing and camp location make all the difference, and we know where to place you to escape the busiest zones.
Safety, Health & Travel Logistics
Is East Africa safe for tourists?
Absolutely! The safari regions of Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda are well-established tourism zones with professional guiding and lodge security. You’ll be accompanied by an expert guide throughout your journey. As with any international travel, we advise standard precautions, and we monitor local conditions consistently.
What vaccinations do I need?
Routine vaccines are expected, and a yellow fever vaccination is often required, particularly if traveling between Kenya and Uganda. Typhoid and hepatitis A are commonly recommended. We’ll share current, country-specific health advice, but you should always consult a travel health specialist for your personal medical profile.
What are the visa requirements?
Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda each have their own visa policies, though Kenya is largely handled via the straightforward eVisa system. The East African Tourist Visa covers Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda in a single document for eligible nationalities. We’ll provide clear, up-to-date visa guidance for your specific itinerary and passport.
What happens if I need medical attention during a safari?
Our camps and eco-lodges are in contact with medical services such as flying doctor services that provide emergency evacuation to Nairobi or other major hospitals. We recommend comprehensive travel insurance that includes medical evacuation. Our guides also carry first-aid kits and know the nearest clinic locations along each route.