Safaris by design

EAST AFRICA

PETERS

DAYS BEFORE THE MAGIC STARTS!

Day(s)

:

Hour(s)

:

Minute(s)

:

Second(s)

2024 / USD $8,135 / pps* 

____________

*pps=per person sharing

Minimum of 2 pax traveling

WHY YOU’D LOVE IT!

Trip of a lifetime awaits!

Enter classic safari country – the Serengeti in Tanzania! Endless, beautiful  & wild  – plains teeming with the Big-5, zebras, giraffe,  countless rare species and so much more…

Spend unforgettable days at the unforgettable Tarangire National Park where your luxury safari lodge, fantastic game safari, magnificent views and  renowned  elephants await.

UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Ngorongoro Crater – home to splendid wildlife, including rare black rhinos, hyenas and lions.

Serengeti National park, Serengeti meaning an ‘extended place’ is undoubtedly the best-known wildlife sanctuary in the world never mind Africa

A truly astonishing safari adventure  filled with magical experiences that that you won’t find anywhere else in the world!

OVERVIEW

Itinerary at a glance

◽️ DAY 1    | South Africa

    Windhoek >Johannesburg

◽️ DAY 2    | Tanzania

    Kilimanjaro

◽️ DAY  3-4    | Tanzania

   Tarangire NP

◽️ DAY  5-6       | Tanzania

   Ngorongoro Crater

◽️ DAY 7          | Tanzania

     Central Serengeti NP

◽️ DAY 8-9      | Tanzania

    Northern Serengeti

◽️ DAY 10        | Kenya

    Nairobi

 

MAP

MAP

Visualize your journey!

DAY 0  |  Travel

DEPARTURE

Travel

DEPARTURE

Your adventure starts now!

Embark on an African safari and anticipate breathtaking landscapes, encountering diverse and majestic wildlife in their natural habitats, and immersing yourself in the rich cultural experiences of the continent.

* See your safari itinerary for transfer logistics

DAY 1 | September 5, 2024

JOHANNESBURG

Overnight

📍 Witwater Guest House

WITWATER GUEST HOUSE

Guest House Overview

  Bed & Breakfast

Conveniently located 5 miles from Johannesburg International airport, Witwater Guest House & Spa offers accommodation with access to spa facilities, wellness packages and beauty services.

À la carte and continental breakfast options with warm dishes, local specialities and fresh pastries are available daily at the guest house. Guests can eat in the on-site traditional restaurant, which is open for dinner, lunch, brunch and high tea. 

B&B

GUEST HOUSE

OVERNIGHT

DAY 2 | September 6, 2024

ARUSHA

Arrival in Tanzania

📍 Kili Seasons Hotel

ARUSHA

Arrival & next day

Upon your arrival at Kilimanjaro or Arusha airport you will meet our company representative after immigration formalities and have a private transfer to Kili Seasons Hotel for dinner and an overnight stay.

-----------

The city tour is a great way to experience modern day living in the bustling city of Arusha. Your guide will drive you into Arusha city and explain all there is to know about the history of the city including the Clock Tower, the cultures and way of life.

You will walk through downtown, visit the local markets, the food market, the Masai gift market and mitumba, the clothing markets and visit the Sanaa Art. You will also visit various local shops, local bars, hairdressers and more

KILI SEASONS HOTEL

Hotel Overview

Unveil the wonders of Arusha, where breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and warm hospitality converge to create an unforgettable African adventure.

From the iconic Mount Kilimanjaro to the thrilling safaris in nearby national parks like Serengeti and Ngorongoro, Arusha offers a gateway to the heart of Tanzania's natural treasures. Embrace the vibrant local culture, savor delectable cuisine, and embark on thrilling outdoor excursions, making Arusha a destination that promises to ignite your sense of wonder.

Discover everything Tanzania has to offer from the brand-new Kili Seasons hotel. With a large swimming pool, a bar and restaurant near the pool and our own Kili Beach on the Usa River, you will certainly be able to relax. In the area you can enjoy golfing, hiking, and horse riding. Kili Seasons hotel is located near the number five most beautiful golf courses in Africa. The Golf Club offers spectacular views of Mount Meru and Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest mountain. Golfing among the zebras and antelopes can rightly be called a “once in a lifetime” experience

HALF BOARD

HOTEL

ARRIVAL

DAY 3-4 | SEPTEMBER 7-8, 2024

TARANGIRE NP

Safari days!

📍 Boabab Tented  Lodge

TARANGIRE NATIONAL PARK

Area Overview

Activity: Safari days

NDUVO CAMP

Camp Overview

BOABAB TENTED CAMP

Camp Overview

Baobab Tented Camp is located in a secluded area with a backdrop of indigenous baobab trees and wildlife species such as elephants which Tarangire NP. is most prominently known for.

All of the 10 tented suites offer en-suite facilities. Hot water, spacious and mosquito nets.Relax and enjoy the surrounding views from the tented veranda.Waking up to the chirping of birds, you might come across different wildlife species such as giraffes, leopards, wild dogs. With fine interior decor and great palette of distinct dishes being served here, it makes for an unforgettable experience. An evening sun downer below a huge baobab tree on the camp's property is much loved by guests.The most interesting part would be the elephants coming near the lodge to drink from the groundwater tank up above.The sunrise and sunset views are especially magical

ACTIVITIES
Twice daily game drives

Transfer to camp via road or small aircraft - see you safari itinerary for details. Arrive at camp - check-in, settle-in and enjoy lunch and afternoon siesta. Tarangire wildlife experience awaits!

FULL BOARD

TENTED CAMP

GAME VIEW

DAY 5-6 | Septemeber 9-10 , 2024

NGORONGORO CRATER

Ngorongoro Crater experience

📍 Lion's Paw

NGORONGORO CRATER

Area Overview

The Ngorongoro Conservation Area spans 8,300 square kilometres, stretching from the Rift Valley to the Serengeti. About 2.5 million years ago the young Ngorongoro Volcano became filled with molten rock that then solidified into a crust or roof. As the lava chamber emptied, the solid dome collapsed and from this was formed the largest caldera in the world. The Ngorongoro Conservation Area (NCA) offers one of the richest wildlife viewing experiences on the African continent.

 

Approximately 25,000 large animals live in the natural enclosure formed by the 200sq miles crater, while the greater conservancy surroundings are home to wildebeest and zebra migratory movement in the wet season. It is undoubtedly the best place in Africa to see the Big Five, and photo opportunities are superb. The mineral-rich floor of the crater is covered in nutritious grasses, attracting great herds of wildebeest, zebra, buffalo and Thomson’s and Grant’s gazelle that can even be seen from the crater rim, swarming across the landscape in great columns.The rainforests of the crater walls are home to elephant, buffalo, leopard and cheetah, making for spectacular game viewing.

It was recently voted one of the new Seven Natural Wonders of Africa. The Ngorongoro Crater is one of the last remaining areas in Tanzania where you can see the endangered Black Rhino. A small population is thriving in this idyllic environment, and it remains one of the few wild places where they continue to breed.

In the conservation area lives 56,000 Masai in harmony with the East African Wildlife. Seeing the Masai let their herds share the grazing areas with thousands of Wildebeests and Zebras is unique phenomenon.

Ngorongoro Crater safari

Ngorongoro Crater! Another great day in your  safari adventure - Experience one of the world's most astonishing and renowned natural wonders, the Ngorongoro Crater!  This volcanic crater forms stunning backdrops to some of the most fertile and richest grazing grounds in Africa. Based on fossil evidence, various hominid species have occupied the area for 3 million years.

Crater decent day schedule:

Descend into Ngorongoro Crater for a full-day game drive, exploring the panoramic, short-grass prairies along the floor of this ancient volcanic caldera. Home to rare black rhinos as well as lions, hyenas and gazelles, this incredible “Lost World” is a UNESCO World Heritage Site

7:00 am: Morning breakfast at the lodge.
7:30 am: Drive to Ngorongoro conservation area and descend in the crater for a game drive for the rest of the day. Lunch will take place at the picnic site inside the park.
4:00 pm: Depart Ngorongoro highlands and be transferred to lodge

.

 

 

LION'S PAW

Guest Lodge Overview

Beautiful Lions Paw Camp Lodge is situated on the eastern edge of the Ngorongoro Crater Rim. Karibu Camps & Lodges is the owner of the lodge.

The lodge is divided into a main section that features a bar, lounge, and separate dining area where guests may enjoy nighttime campfires under the open sky of Africa. Enjoy breathtaking views of the Ngorongoro Crater, breathtaking sunsets, and numerous animal sightings from the main area's front porch.

The 15 distinct tented rooms are dispersed over Lions Paw's terrain, with plenty space between them to guarantee your group's solitude. For every kind of gathering, Lions Paw Camp offers a range of accommodations, including family rooms, honeymoon suites, and double rooms.

Every room has all the amenities one could hope for in a standard lodge, such as hot showers, flush toilets, electricity, mosquito netting, and more.

B&B

GUEST LODGE

GAME VIEW

DAY 7 | Sepytemeber 11, 2024

SERENGETI (Central)

Safari Days

📍 Nyumbani Camp

SERENGETI NATIONAL PARK

Area Overview

Experience the Serengeti wildebeest migration like never before. Get ready for an exhilarating journey through the vast plains, accompanied by herds of zebra and other majestic wildlife.

Witness this annual spectacle of nature as the wildebeest migrate in search of fresh grazing and better-quality water. With the precise timing of their movement dependent on rainfall patterns, every moment is filled with anticipation. Join us on an extraordinary adventure and discover the true essence of Africa.

Safari days!

Each day on safari in Africa is a magical experience, whether you’re exploring the savanna on foot or in a 4x4 vehicle in search of the Big 5 or taking to the sky in a hot-air balloon to witness the Great Wildebeest Migration. Every single day is steeped in the promise of a unique adventure and cherished memories.

Although each day is unpredictable to a certain extent, based on the time of year or location, there is a general format or schedule that safaris tend to follow, but, as a rule, safaris do follow a familiar rhythm that combines thrilling game viewing with ample time to relax in between—a dream vacation in anyone’s book. One rule of thumb is that there are usually two game drives a day: one in the early morning and one in the late afternoon, when animals are at their most active.

READ MORE DETAILS!

5.30 am: Time for a Wake-Up Call
6 am– 9 am Morning Game Drive
9 am- 11 am Return to Camp for Breakfast or Brunch
11 am –1 pm Relaxation: Read, Nap, Swim, Walk or Spa
1 pm – 2 pm Lunchtime
2 pm – 3:30 pm Relaxation: Read, Nap, Swim, Walk or Spa
3.30 pm: High Tea
4 pm –7 pm Afternoon Game Drive
7: 30 pm Dinner Time
9 pm Turn in for Bedtime
 

 

NYUMBANI CAMP

Camp Overview

  Full board excl. premium drinks

Experience the world famous Serengeti National Park! The Serengeti ecosystem is a world-renowned natural landscape.With resilient populations of predators and iconic wildlife such as elephants, giraffes, and rhinos, the Serengeti National Park is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home of The Great Migration of Wildebeest, Zebra and Thompsons Gazelle.

Nyumbani Camp is nestled in the heart of the untamed Serengeti National Park, amidst its thunderous paths.  Nyumbani the Swahili word for "home," reveals a deeper meaning. It is our pleasure to welcome you to your home away from home. Enjoy the enchantment of safari life and our welcoming oasis where earth meets sky in infinite space.

This modern camp is permanently located in the  Central Serengeti.

This exclusive personal setting, with only 8 luxury tented suites, provides a memorable wilderness adventure.
Each spacious safari tent has its own indoor sitting area where you can relax during the day and gaze across the starry sky at night.

Indulge in personalized luxury while surrounded by nature's awe-inspiring beauty. Drift off to sleep to the pleasantly soothing sounds of the African night. Dine in a personalized environment surrounded by nature's limitless grandeur.

ACTIVITIES
In between exhilarating daily activities and safari game drives, indulge in the simple pleasure of observing the vast stillness of the Serengeti plains.In the evening, a campfire is lit, and stories of the day are told while a hearty meal is served under the constellations of brilliant stars.

Fly to Serengeti National Park, host to the Great Migration for a portion of each year, when a staggering number of herbivores trek across the Serengeti plains in search of water and fresh grass — hungry predators awaiting them or following in their wake. Over the next two days, your adventure may reveal giraffes, wildebeests, elephants and much more on morning and afternoon game drives through the boundless Serengeti, home of one of the largest wildlife populations in the world.

FULL BOARD

TENTED CAMP

  Full board excl. premium drinks

GAME VIEW

DAY 8-9 | Septemeber 12-13, 2024

SERENGETI (North)

Witness the Great Migration!

📍 Serengeti River Camp

SERENGETI NP (NORTH)

Area Overview

Serengeti National Park  is located in Northern Tanzania and covers an area of about 14.670 km². The park was founded in 1920 and became a National Park in 1951. The Park is especially famous for it's immense Wildebeest and Zebra herds, but it is not without reason that it is also known as the best place for observation wildlife in general.

The Serengeti is one of the 10 natural travel wonders of the world.

The Serengeti migration is as remarkable as it is impressive. This migration takes place twice a year within Kenya and Tanzania and is considered one of the greatest migrations of wildlife on the planet. Its ecosystem is spread across 60,000 square kms and is home to the largest diverse concentration of wildlife and famous for infamous for the migration of nearly two million Wildebeests, Zebras, and Antelopes. The Migration is as old as human history. Fossils that were found in the Olduvai canyon, prove that Wildebeests have already been using the planes of the Serengeti for their migration over a million years ago. Already at to those times, they were following the rains through the Serengeti.

Typical day  on Safari
  1. 5.00 to 6.00 am – Wake up with the animals. ...
  2. 6.00 to 9.00 am – Morning game activities. ...
  3. 9.00 to 10.00 am – Breakfast. ...
  4. 10.00 to 12.30 pm – Free time. ...
  5. 12.30 to 1.30 pm – Lunch. ...
  6. 1.30 to 3.30 pm – Siesta time. ...
  7. 3.30 to 4.00 pm – Afternoon tea. ...
  8. 4.00 to 7.30 pm – Game viewing.

THE GREAT MIGRATION

The great Serengeti wildebeest migration is the movement of vast numbers of the Serengeti's wildebeest, accompanied by large numbers of zebra, and smaller numbers of Grant's gazelle, Thomson's gazelle, eland and impala. These move in an annual pattern which is fairly predictable. They migrate throughout the year, constantly seeking fresh grazing land, it's now thought, better quality water.The precise timing of the Serengeti wildebeest migration is entirely dependent upon the rainfall patterns each year – here we explain how the broad pattern works.

The action takes place across 150,000 square miles of woodlands, hills and open plains, a wilderness that includes not only the Serengeti  Nattional Park  and Kenya’s Masai Mara Game Reserve but also the dispersal areas beyond.

The key players in this 1,200-mile odyssey are the wildebeest – 1.5 million of them – accompanied by 200,000 zebras, 350,000 Thompson's' impala and Grant's gazelles. For them, every year is an endless journey, chasing the rains in a race for life.

  • The yearly cycle begins in the south of the park, where half a million calves are born between January and March.
  • When the rains end in May the land dries fast and the grazing animals must move on, heading for their dry season refuge in the Masai Mara. Some take Route One – north across the Seronera Valley and others swing through the Western Corridor, but for all of them the journey is beset with danger
  • With the beginning of the short rains in late October the migration makes its way back into the Serengeti, so this a good time to be anywhere in the north of the park.
  • By December, having emerged from the northern woodlands, the herds return past Seronera to mass on their calving grounds again and the circle is complete. But as soon as the rains return the wildebeest head back to the Serengeti, drawn towards their calving grounds in the park’s deep south.

The journey is riddled with danger: for a start there are the famous Serengeti lions – about 3,000 at the last count – to which can be added leopards and cheetahs, hungry hyena clans and monster crocodiles. The river crossing is most likely one on the most dramatic events in the Serengeti!

THE CENTRAL SERENGETI
This area is the vibrant, beating heart of the Serengeti. The Central Serengeti sees high volumes of visitors due to the large amounts of resident wildlife. This gives travelers a high chance of seeing wildlife in the least amount of time. The central Serengeti is the quintessential image of a Serengeti safari; stretches of savanna grassland dotted with acacia and baobab trees. The Seronera River Valley is beautiful and the year-round water supply keeps the area rich in predator and prey. The Central Serengeti is a year-round destination thanks to the resident wildlife and reaches its peak in the dry season from June to November.

WESTERN CORRIDOR and GRUMETI
The Western Corridor is a remote section of the Serengeti which stretches to Lake Victoria. This area is well known for the Grumeti River which is the scene of treacherous river crossings that form part of the Great Migration. Thousands of wildebeest, zebra and gazelle make their way across the crocodile infested waters en-route to the lush plains of the Masai Mara in Kenya. The best time to witness these crossings is from late May to mid-July.

NORTHERN SERENGETI
The Northern Serengeti is a quiet area of the Serengeti thanks to its remote and secluded location. Expect far fewer crowds here as it requires long travel times to get to the northern area. The trip is worth it as the Northern Serengeti’s landscapes are varied and beautiful and it is home to exciting wildlife. It is also where travelers can watch the dramatic Mara River crossings. Herds that are thousands strong make the dangerous crossing, attempting to avoid the crocodiles as they do so. The best time to visit with a high chance of seeing the river crossings is from July to September.

SOUTHERN SERENGETI
Serengeti translates loosely to “endless plains” in the local Masai language. It could be argued that the seemingly never ending, short grass plains of the Southern Serengeti were the inspiration for the name. This seasonal safari destination is the most accessible area of the Serengeti and stretches from the Central Serengeti and the Seronera to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. The Lake Ndutu region is dotted with alkaline lakes home to flocks of pink flamingos. This area is great for game viewing during the Great Migration from December to March. Most excitingly, the lush plains are the perfect destination and backdrop for the calving season during February when about half a million calves are born over a 2-3-week period and join the ranks of the huge herds.

EASTERN SERENGETI
The Eastern Serengeti is definitely ‘off the beaten path’ and is one of the most starkly beautiful sections of the Serengeti. Made up of grass plains, rivers and rocky outcrops, this area does not see many tourists but is an exciting safari destination. It is home to all three species of big cat (leopard, lion and cheetah) with a noticeably high concentration of cheetah. The wildlife viewing in the eastern Serengeti is at its best during the dry season and reaches its pinnacle in November when the Great Migration passes through.

 

 

Activity: Safari Days!

Each day on safari in Africa is a magical experience, whether you’re exploring the savanna on foot or in a 4x4 vehicle in search of the Big 5 or taking to the sky in a hot-air balloon to witness the Great Wildebeest Migration. Every single day is steeped in the promise of a unique adventure and cherished memories.

Although each day is unpredictable to a certain extent, based on the time of year or location, there is a general format or schedule that safaris tend to follow, but, as a rule, safaris do follow a familiar rhythm that combines thrilling game viewing with ample time to relax in between—a dream vacation in anyone’s book. One rule of thumb is that there are usually two game drives a day: one in the early morning and one in the late afternoon, when animals are at their most active.

READ MORE DETAILS!

5.30 am: Time for a Wake-Up Call
6 am– 9 am Morning Game Drive
9 am- 11 am Return to Camp for Breakfast or Brunch
11 am –1 pm Relaxation: Read, Nap, Swim, Walk or Spa
1 pm – 2 pm Lunchtime
2 pm – 3:30 pm Relaxation: Read, Nap, Swim, Walk or Spa
3.30 pm: High Tea
4 pm –7 pm Afternoon Game Drive
7: 30 pm Dinner Time
9 pm Turn in for Bedtime
 

 

 SERENGETI RIVER CAMP

Camp Overview

The Serengeti National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site as well as the oldest protected ecosystem in the world, making it an ideal safari destination for guests who seek the thrill and adventure of the African bush. The northern portion of the park is especially intriguing, as this is where the annual wildebeest migration encounters the dangerous Mara River, filled with hungry crocodiles waiting for a single misstep by the hooved beasts.

The tented accommodation of Serengeti River Camp is situated less than 300 meters away from this magnificent view.

Come see for yopurself!  Between July and October hundreds of thousands of zebras and gazelles mix with the more than 1.5 million wildebeests migrating through the region in search of ideal grazing, the energy levels peak.

12 traditional safari tents, including two family tents, . The sleeping space features a wrought-iron bed covered in a mosquito netting canopy, with warm wood nightstands and softly lighting bedside lamps on either side. A separate bathroom with running water, a huge mirror, a small vanity, a single basin, lighting, a flush toilet, and a shower space is located at the back of the tent. There's a wardrobe next by with plenty of room to hang personal belongings and cozy bathrobes. Vibrant rugs covering canvas floorboards beneath your feet give the room lovely textures.

FULL BOARD

TENTED CAMP

CAMEL SAFARI

Day 10 | September 14, 2024

RETURN

DEPARTURE

Unfortunately, all good things must come to an end! Goodbye to the safari life, feeling relaxed, mesmerizing scenery, great food, family time, and romantic memories.

Morning road transfer back to the airport for your outbound flight... dreaming of the trip of a lifetime!

TRAVEL INFO

◽️ Preparing for your trip

PREPARING FOR YOUR

SAFARI

Pre-Travel Information

PASSPORTS

Passports must be valid for at least six months beyond the return date of your arrangements and have a minimum of three blank visa pages excluding endorsement pages.

Travellng with minors - in addition to having a valid passport and valid visa (if applicable), children under the age of 18, traveling through Botswana’s borders, must be in possession of a certified copy of their unabridged birth certificate (one that shows the particulars of a minor and those of both parents).

A child under the age of 18 traveling to Botswana and/or South Africa with just one parent must carry an affidavit signed by the other parent consenting to such travel. Failure to produce the necessary documentation may result in travelers being turned away at port of entry.

Insider Tips

Zimbabwe and Mozambique visas each use up a full passport page. If you are visiting both countries we recommend a minimum of four blank pages.

Post Covid passport renewals are taking much longer than in the past so don’t leave applying for a new passport until the last moment as there iust a chance you won’t receive it in time to travel.

Keeping your passport safe is key as there is nothing worse than having to spend precious holiday time replacing it. Make at least two copies of the ID page of your passport, visa (if obtained in advance of travel), Covid-19 vaccine passport, travel itinerary, travel insurance, credit cards and any other travel documentation. One copy can be an image scan and the other a hard copy which you can give to a family member, business associate or close friend for safekeeping

 

HEALTH

When it comes to health risks and medical precautions, Machaba Blue is only able to offer limited advice as outlined below.

Those with underlying chronic conditions should ideally seek medical advice prior to planning their journey.

Prior to traveling to Africa, we highly recommend you visit a medical professional such as your GP or local travel clinic for advice on what health precautions need to be taken. This visit should take place at least 4-8 weeks prior to departure as it will determine the need for any vaccinations and/or antimalarial medication as well as identifying any other medical precautions.

Currently no mandatory vaccinations are required when entering Botswana, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Mozambique and South Africa. Please check if this is still the case when visiting your GP or travel clinic.

A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required by visitors coming from a country where yellow fever occurs, or if they have been in transit for more than 12 hours at an airport in a country here yellow fever occurs.

Malaria is present throughout southern Africa and in certain areas of South Africa.

Insider Tips

  • Take out comprehensive travel insurance to safeguard against the unexpected. Should you fall ill or have an accident when staying in a remote area you may have to be evacuated by air to a private medical facility which is a costly exercise.
  • Carry the name and contact details of your doctor together with information pertaining to any medical condition and its treatment.
  • If you take prescription medication ensure you carry sufficient to last the duration of your trip, plus a little extra in case of flight delays.
  • Prescription medication should be kept in its original container which should be clearly labelled.
  • More unusual drugs and ones that contain sedatives should be carried with a medical attestation signed by a physician certifying the traveler requires the medication for a specific medical condition.
  • Ask you medical practitioner to recommend items for a basic first aid kit
  • In the event your checked bag is lost or delayed we recommend you carry prescription medication including anti-malaria tablets, spare contact lens and essential toiletries in your hand luggage.
  • If you travel with a CPAP machine, please advise us well in advance so we can check your chosen safari lodges/camps are able to run a generator throughout the night. Alternatively, you may choose to carry a portable battery pack that can be re-charged daily.
  • Please advise us of any special dietary requests in advance of travel.
VISAS
Visa requirements differ from country to country and, on occasion, are subject to change with no warning.
 
The team at Machaba Blue will always do what we can to provide accurate and helpful information pertaining to visas, however we cannot be held responsible if a traveller is refused entry to any country due to not complying with its visa requirements. For peace of mind, we recommend you check visa regulations with the embassy, high commission, or consulate of the countries you are travelling to.
 
ZIMBABWE
Foreign nationals visiting Zimbabwe fall within one of three visa categories: -
  • Category A – countries whose nationals do not require a visa
  • Category B – countries whose nationals are granted a visa on arrival at their port of entry on payment of a visa fee of US$30 single entry / US$45 – double entry.
  • Exceptions are Britain / UK / Ireland - US$55 single entry, US$70 – double entry, Canadian – US$75 single entry, China – US$60 single entry
  • Category C – countries whose nationals are required to apply for and obtain a visa prior to travel
 
ZAMBIA
Foreign nationals visiting Zambia fall within one of three visa categories: -
  • Nationals who do not require a visa to enter Zambia
  • Nationals who are granted a visa on arrival
  • Nationals who are required to apply for a visa prior to arrival in Zambia
 
  • Visa type
  • Single Entry US$25.00 - allows a traveller to enter Zambia only once during the validity of the visa.
  • Double Entry US$40.00 - allows a traveller to enter Zambia twice during the validity of the visa.
  • Day Tripper US$10.00 - applies to visitors who are staying in Zambia for less than 24 hours. Only issued at the Victoria Falls and Kazungula borders and the visitor must enter and exit through the same port
  • Transit Visa US$25.00
 
KAZA UNIVISA
Is a special visa that allows unlimited cross-border visits between Zimbabwe and Zambia as well as a single entry into Botswana for a day trip through the Kazungula borders. Costs US$50.00, is valid for up to 30 days and is available to national of 65 countries. A KAZA UniVisa can currently only be obtained at the following ports of entry: -
 
ZIMBABWE
Harare International Airport
Victoria Falls International Airport
Victoria Falls border with Zambia
Kazungula border with Botswana
ZAMBIA
Kenneth Kaunda International Airport - Lusaka
Harry Mwanga Nkumbula International Airport - Livingstone
Victoria Falls border with Zimbabwe
Kazungula border with Botswana
 
BOTSWANA
Visitors to Botswana fall into two categories – Non-Visa Category and Visa-Category.
 
Non-Visa Category applies to citizens of Commonwealth countries, except for those from Bangladesh, Cameroon, Ghana, India, Nigeria, Pakistan and Sri Lanka. Foreign nationals whose countries have signed a Visa Abolition Agreement with Botswana are also not required to apply for a visa prior to travel. Non-Visa Category visitors receive a 30-day entrance stamp upon arrival, no fee is payable
 
Visa-Category visitors must apply for a visa prior to arrival in Botswana. For a list of the 96 countries that require a visa prior to arriving in Botswana refer to https://evisa.gov.bw/
 
MOZAMBIQUE
Except for a handful of SADC countries all visitors to Mozambique require a visa. Although visas can and are often issued on arrival, we recommend obtaining a visa prior to travel.
 
The issuing of visas on arrival is intended for visitors travelling from countries where there is no Mozambican diplomatic mission to issue a visa prior to travel. Immigration officials at Vilanculos International Airport, which is a popular tourist destination, are usually very helpful and don’t have a problem issuing visas on arrival but this may not necessarily the case at less popular or very busy ports of entry such as Nampula or Maputo airports
 
Visa issue on arrival involves filling in a visa application as well as an arrivals form, having a photo and fingerprints taken and paying US$50.00 per person in small bills. USD/ZAR/Euro are accepted. Credit cards are not accepted.
 
SOUTH AFRICA
Please contact the South African Embassy, High Commission or Consulate to check if you require a visa to travel to South Africa. If you are not a citizen of a visa-exempt country, you must apply for a visa before entering South Africa. Should you require a visa but not be in possession of one you will be denied boarding your aircraft.
 
Insider Tips
  • On arrival please ensure you request the correct visa for your needs
  • Always check your visa has been issued for the correct number of days
  • Zimbabwe, KAZA UniVisa and Mozambique visas each use a full passport visa page
  • Carry the exact amount of cash to pay for your visa as credit card machines may be offline and change is not always available
GRATUITIES
In Africa tipping is customary but not obligatory and should only be undertaken if you are satisfied with the level of service you have received. Tipping is a much-appreciated gesture that goes a long way to making many lives easier. Whatever amount you believe to be appropriate will be appreciated by not just the staff you have interacted with daily but by those who work hard behind the scenes to ensure everything runs smoothly.
 
When staying in a safari camp/lodge tip just once at the end of your stay. Guides and trackers (and should you wish mokoro polers) are tipped separately. Envelopes are provided so you can personally hand each recipient their tip when saying goodbye. Housekeeping, front of house and back of house staff share the proceeds of the communal tipping box which is distributed equally.
 
The following guidelines are purely suggestions as there is no set rule when it comes to how much to tip.
 
BOTSWANA, ZIMBABWE AND ZAMBIA
US$10-20.00 per guest per day for a safari guide when game viewing in a shared vehicle
US$20-30.00 per guest per day for a safari guide when game viewing in a private vehicle
US$ 5-10.00 per guest per day for trackers and mokoro polers
US$10-15.00 per guest per day for general staff
 
MOZAMBIQUE
US$10-20.00 per day for a host/butler
US$10-20 per activity
US$20-30.00 per day for general staff
 
SOUTH AFRICA – Safaris
In South Africa tips are normally given in South African Rand
ZAR100-200.00 per guest per day for rangers when game viewing in a shared vehicle
ZAR200-400.00 per guest in a private vehicle
ZAR1000.00 per guest when staying in a luxury lodge
ZAR 50-100.00 per guest per day for a tracker (may be more at a luxury lodge)
ZAR100-200.00 per guest per day for general staff
 
SOUTH AFRICA – City stays
ZAR25.00 per guest for an airport to city hotel transfer and double for longer out of town transfers
ZAR20-25.00 per bag hotel porterage
ZAR100.00 per guest for a half day sightseeing tour
ZAR200.00 per guest for a full day sightseeing tour
ZAR250-500.00 per guest for a half day sightseeing tour with a specialist guide
ZAR500-1000.00 per guest for a full day sightseeing tour with a specialist guide
ZAR100.00 per guest per day for general staff
10% is the minimum tip on meal accounts in restaurants and hotels, with 15-20% the accepted norm for attentive service, especially in Cape Town and the winelands
PACKING LIST
 
Suggested packing list
2 pairs of shorts
2 pairs of safari trousers (those that zip off at the knees are very handy)
2 short sleeve shirts
2 long sleeved shirts with collar to protect the back of your neck
3 T-shirts
Fleece and jumper/sweater
Light weight warm jacket
Light rain jacket
1 pair of sandals/flip-flops
1 pair of comfortable walking shoes or sneakers
Undergarments
Socks
Swimming costume
Sun hat or cotton scarf
Beanie/warm hat, scarf/pashmina, gloves (winter)
Sunglasses
Contact lenses and/or prescription glasses (take a spare if you have one)
High factor sunblock and lip balm
Personal toiletries and wet wipes (body wash, shampoo and conditioner is usually provided)
Basic medical kit with aspirin, band-aid, Imodium, eye drops, antihistamine cream, headache tablets and motion sickness pills if needed.
Flashlight (most camps provide a torch)
Camera, spare camera batteries, dust proof case, cleaning equipment, and memory cards
Universal worldwide travel adapter
Binoculars in the range 8x40 or 10x40 are most useful
 
 
Insider Tips
  • In the event your checked bag is lost or delayed we recommend you carry prescription medication including anti-malaria tablets, spare contact lenses, essential toiletries, and a change of underwear in your hand luggage.
  • If you take prescription medication ensure you carry sufficient to last your whole trip, plus a little extra in case of delays. Prescription medications should be in their original containers with the doctor’s prescription printed on the container.
  • Leave expensive and sentimental pieces of jewellery at home and never carry jewellery in your checked baggage.
BAGGAGE
To comply with limited weight restrictions of between 12-20kgs/26-44lbs including hand baggage and camera equipment on light aircraft inter-camp flights means you need to pack smart.
 
Limiting what you take on safari is not as difficult as it sounds as nearly all safari camps and lodges offer a daily laundry service (weather dependent). Clothing should be light weight cotton fabric, casual and comfortable. Dressing in layers is the most practical way to adjust to changing temperatures, especially in winter when early morning and late afternoon game drives can be frosty and cold.
 
 
Please refer to AIRLINE BAGGAGE RESTRICTIONS document for airline spesific information
TRAVEL INSURANCE
Comprehensive travel insurance to safeguard against the unexpected, such as a medical emergency, is a necessity when traveling to Africa. This is especially important when visiting off the beaten track areas on safari and for this reason most safari lodges/camps make travel insurance a condition of booking.
 
It is the responsibility of each traveller to take out comprehensive travel and medical insurance at the time of confirming their booking. Cover should include cancellation and curtailment, medical emergencies, evacuation and repatriation expenses, disability and death, lost luggage, and personal effects. Certain activities are classified as high-risk or dangerous and may require extra cover to be taken out, please ensure you consult with your insurance company to ensure you are adequately covered. It is important to check if there is a travel age limit and should you be suffering from a pre-existing condition please check if there is a cap on medical emergency cover.
 
Certain banks and credit cards include or offer travel insurance as part of their service. Please always check exactly what is offered in the way of cover and if it is adequate for your needs. Although more expensive it may well be better to purchase a standalone policy that provides comprehensive cover.
 
By ensuring you are covered for the unexpected, travel insurance will provide you with peace of mind allowing you to relax and enjoy your holiday.
 
Insiders Tip
  • Don’t tempt fate by travelling with expensive jewelery, only bring what you need. If its irreplaceable or has sentimental value, then leave it at home. Never carry jewelery in your checked baggage.
  • In the unfortunate event your checked baggage is lost or delay we recommend you carry prescription medication, including anti-malaria tablets, essential toiletries, and a change of underwear in your hand luggage.
  • Misplacing or losing original travel documents is frustrating and time consuming as it takes time to have them replaced. Always carry a copy of the ID page of your passport, travel itinerary, travel insurance and Covid passport with you. The best method is to scan these documents and store them electronically. Packing a copy separately from the original documents and leave a copy with a family member or trusted contact are other options.
SAFETY GUIDELINES
It is sensible to take basic precautions whilst traveling anywhere in the world. Below are recommendations that we feel hold for travel in general and which we thus suggest are followed if traveling to Africa.
 
  • It is advisable to secure your luggage with a suitable lock when flying both locally (within South Africa), regionally (to neighboring countries), and internationally. As an additional precaution, we suggest that check-in baggage is protected and secured with a Luggage Glove.
  • Please do not check in any valuables or chronic medication as these should be kept in your carry-on luggage.
  • Never leave luggage unattended.
  • Always drive with your doors locked and your windows closed, with handbags/backpacks/parcels, and valuables stored out of sight in the boot/trunk of the car.
  • Keep mobile phones, wallets, and cameras well hidden, and avoid wearing expensive jewelry.
  • Never leave your luggage unattended (e.g. do not leave handbags under tables, on the backs of chairs, or restroom hooks).
  • Please report any stolen property and/or any incident involving your safety and security to the establishment where you are staying.
  • Separate your cash and credit cards and do not carry all your cash with you.
  • Avoid counting cash in the open.
  • Be vigilant whenever approaching an automated bank teller machine (ATM). If you feel unsafe, rather return at another time or use an alternate machine.
  • Please store any valuables, travel documents (passports/airline tickets/vaccination cards), and additional cash in your camp/lodge/hotel room safe or the property's main safe. Keep your room locked at all times and hand in room keys or cards whenever you leave your hotel.
INCLUDED & EXCLUDED

INCLUDED

  • Experience of a lifetime
  • 24/7  support before & during your safari
  • Accommodation*
  • Road transfers*
  • Tours & Activities*
  • Meals & Drinks*
  • Tour Guide (where applicable)
  • Airport & airstrip transfers*
  • Park fees, levies & taxes (unless otherwise indicated)
  • Inter-Africa commercial & light aircraft flights*

____________

* As indicated on your detailed safari itinerary

EXCLUDED

  • International airfare
  • Personal gifts & purchases
  • Incidental charges
  • Travel insurance
  • Conservation fees*
  • Visa fees
  • Balloon safari* (if applicable)
  • Laundry*
  • Tips

____________

* Unless otherwise indicated on your itinerary

KENYA VISAS

Please refer to your safari itinerary to determine if you need to apply for a single or MULTIPLE ENTRY visa,  most recently refered to as a Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA).

The cost for USA citizens is USD $32 (subject to change without notice).

Please refer to FAQ's on the eTA official website 

I will transit through Kenya to catch another flight, do I need to apply for an eTA?

Passengers arriving by air who are transiting in Kenya are not required to do an eTA, provided they are not leaving airport.

Does the eTA allow for multiple entries to Kenya?

Your eTA is valid for a single entry into Kenya. However, there are some exceptions to this.Your eTA remains valid for more than one entry if:

You visit one of the following EAC Partner States: Burundi, Democratic Republic of Congo, Rwanda, South Sudan, Tanzania and Uganda, AND; • You don't visit any other country, AND; • Your eTA has not expired (90 days from issuance)

You can also apply for a multiple entry eTA if you are a citizen of the United States of America. Currently, the multiple entry eTA is valid for 5 years.

Those connecting flights directly without leaving the airport don't need to apply for visas (eTA)

Single-entry visa

This is the typical visa to go to Kenya punctually for a tourist, professional or family visit. It allows to enter once in the country for a maximum duration of 90 days. The date of your trip must start no more than 3 months after the issuance of your visa. This visa will allow you re-entry into Kenya using the same visa, provided you only transit through Nairobi airport.Issued to persons whose nationalities require visa to enter Kenya and are connecting through Kenya to other destinations for a period not exceeding 72 hours.

The fee for a single entry visa isUS$ 32


Multiple entry visa:

This type of visa is granted for several trips to Kenya. It is especially suitable for those who wish to travel several times in the country over a short period of time or for tourists who wish to make excursions to neighboring countries before returning to Kenya. The fee is US$ 101.

NOTE: Should you be arriving into Kenya, proceeding into Tanzania, Uganda or Rwanda, then back to Kenya, you should still apply for the Single Entry Visa - this will allow you re-entry into Kenya using the same visa, provided you only transit through Nairobi airport.Issued to persons whose nationalities require visa to enter Kenya and are connecting through Kenya to other destinations for a period not exceeding 72 hours.

 

Read more eTA related information

LOCAL HOST:

Duma Explorer

Physical address: Ngaramtoni Ya Chini, Olmoti, Arusha, Tanzania, 23125
Phone: +255 627 335 544
Email: adele@dumaexplorer.com

TANZANIA VISAS

U.S. citizens visiting Tanzania for tourism are required to apply for a multiple-entry visa, which is valid for one year.

The cost for USA citizens is USD $100 (subject to change without notice).

Citizens of Canada may obtain a single-entry e-Visa (ordinary visa), valid for three months. The cost is $USD 50 (subject to change).

We recommend that you apply  60 days prior to your arrival date. Average time to receive an eVisa is approximately 10 days.

LOCAL HOST:

Duma Explorer

Physical address: Ngaramtoni Ya Chini, Olmoti, Arusha, Tanzania, 23125
Phone: +255 627 335 544
Email: adele@dumaexplorer.com

UGANDA VISAS

Apply for a SINGLE ENTRY visa for Uganda

    error: .