FAQs

DO I NEED TO SLEEP IN TOWN BEFORE THE SAFARI?

We usually recommend sleeping at least one night in Arusha.

This is because the safaris start early (8:30am) and if you arrive much later you will lose valuable time. Besides, even if you arrive early, a day in Arusha is good for orientation, to rest and even to prepare in case of any flight delays or luggage loss.

WHAT TIME DO THE SAFARIS FINISH? CAN I TAKE A FLIGHT ON THE SAME DAY?

Safaris usually finish around 5pm in Arusha. With private tours we can be flexible if you need to finish a bit earlier (like 3pm) but we do not recommend much earlier in order to not to compromise your last day of safari. We recommend only going to the next destination on the next day, to avoid rushing to the airport on the last day, but if you need to fly on that day it is possible.

ARE SAFARIS SUITABLE FOR CHILDREN?

We believe so, and we do all we can to make sure your itinerary is as child-friendly as possible.  

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN ACCOMMODATION LEVELS?

The budget option is based on the use of public campsites with basic facilities. It is camping in the wild. Our cook will prepare your meals and set up your tents provided by us. We also provide sleeping bags, pillows, mattresses, food and cooking equipment. Bathroom facilities are shared with fellow travelers at the camp.

Upgrading the level of accommodation means increasing the level of comfort, as you will stay in private lodges or tented camps. Any of these options have large tents/rooms, real beds, private

en-suite toilets and showers. The meals will be prepared by these lodges/tented camps (full board is always included).

The difference between further higher levels of luxury is in the quality of the tents/rooms, decoration, service, quality of the restaurant, location, among other things.

The tented camp option is what they call glamping (luxury camping).

WILL THERE BE WILDLIFE ROAMING AT THE CAMPS AND LODGES?

It is important to never assume that any of the animals encountered on your game drive is tamed. While you are staying in your safari lodges and camps, it is important to be especially cautious and aware of your surroundings as many of these areas are not fenced and contain wildlife roaming freely. If you have children with you, keep them in sight and do not let them wander alone. At smaller tented lodges, you will always be escorted to and from your tent for dinner or during the night. Should you have any concerns, please do not hesitate to raise them to the staff or your guide.

WHAT IS INCLUDED AND EXCLUDED IN THE SAFARIS?

All safaris include:

• All national park entrance and camping fees
• Accommodation as detailed – tented camps/lodges or public campsites. If doing a budget camping safari, we provide all the camping equipment as well.
• Services of a qualified driver-guide
• Services of a cook on a budget camping safari
• 4 x 4 Land Cruiser with Safari pop-up open roof
• 1 pair of binoculars.
• All food – breakfast, lunch and dinner
• Bottled water and soft drinks in the vehicle during the safari
• Airport pick up/drop off Kilimanjaro or Arusha airport

Excluded:

• Visas
• Items of Personal Interest
• Souvenirs
• Tips for the driver-guide (we suggest 10 USD per day per person)
• Tips for the cook (we suggest 5 USD per day per person. The cook will only be present on public camping safaris)

On request we can add other items to the inclusions, like domestic flights, extra tours (like balloon flight in the Serengeti or walking safari in Ngorongoro) etc.

WHAT DO YOU MEAN BY “UNLIMITED GAME DRIVES”?

All our safari packages include unlimited game drives without km or fuel limit. This gives you more freedom and flexibility. Unlimited game drives means that you are able to drive for as long as you want within the parks’ operational hours (6am to 6pm), and the designated area for game drives on the given day. For example, if the itinerary designates Central Serengeti, then you are able to stay within the Central Serengeti region as long as you want, stretching to the borders of Western Serengeti. However, we cannot, for instance, drive from Central Serengeti to the Mara River and back.

ARE DRINKS PROVIDED IN THE SAFARI VEHICLE?

Yes. We provide unlimited beverages in our safari vehicle including bottled drinking water, soft drinks and tea or coffee. All our safari vehicles are equipped with a small refrigerator to keep your drinks chilled for you to enjoy during your safari.

WHAT IF I HAVE SPECIAL DIETARY REQUIREMENTS?

If you have any allergies or special dietary requirements, please let us know beforehand at the time of booking, so we can advise the lodgings or our cook accordingly. Most places will be able to accommodate your preferred meal options.

WHAT CAN I EXPECT FROM THE SAFARI PICNIC BOXES?

Picnic boxes are prepared on a daily basis at each respective accommodation according to your itinerary. The typical lunch boxes consists of various items such as a piece of chicken, bread, sandwiches, banana, apple, juice, muffin and chocolate. If you have any special dietary requirements please let us know and we will plan accordingly.

WHAT CAN I EXPECT ON A TYPICAL SAFARI DAY?

This is your safari trip, your adventure! You decide how you want to spend your time on this vacation. If you would like to spend a full day on safari, you are definitely welcomed to do so. Swahili Journeys does not restrict your mileage, fuel or how much time you want to be on safari. Only restrictions are the park rules which allow game drive between 6 am and 6 pm. While some days you may decide set out by sunrise, other days you can have a slower paced breakfast before start your daily exploration. Simply sit down with your guide to plan your day and meals the night before. Your guide will have plenty of suggestions, but of course the decision is yours.

WHAT ABOUT THE ROADS ON SAFARI?

You will experience bumpy roads when traveling throughout the region and during game drives. This may pose a problem for some individuals with back problems. Please inform us in advance and we can provide additional back pillows for extra comfort. Please also make sure that your cameras and other electronic equipment are safely stored at all times in case of any damages due to bumpy roads.

WHAT HAPPENS IF I GET SICK OR INJURED ON SAFARI?

Our safari packages include ‘Emergency Evacuation Services with AMREF’s Flying Doctors’ (http://www.flydoc.org). This will cover the guests in case they require immediate evacuation from where they are to the nearest hospital (usually in Nairobi). If you are feeling ill, but not having any serious symptoms or injuries, there are nearby hospitals and clinics (in Karatu and Serengeti) available.

We strongly recommend all our guests to bring with them a small personal medical kit including aspirin, anti-malarial pills, cold and allergy medicine, cream of itches, stomachache medicine, antibiotic ointment, prescription antibiotic effective against a broad range of bacteria including traveller’s diarrhea (e.g. Ciprofloxacin or also known as Cipro). And of course any prescription medicines you have.

WHAT ABOUT SNAKES AND INSECTS?

Snakes are common throughout Africa, but they are seldom encountered on safaris. In bushy or wooded areas, wear closed-toe shoes or boots and long trousers to avoid insect bites and minimize risk. If you are staying in a mobile or canvas camp, please make sure that the canvas flap is zipped all the way down in order to prevent insects from entering your tent. The staff at each accommodation will spray your room while you are out for dinner and it should be as “bug-free” as possible upon your return.

AM I ALLOWED TO WALK AROUND THE NATIONAL PARKS?

It is recommended to stay inside your vehicles at all times when you are on game drive, except at picnic sites or if your guide finds a safe place for you to stretch your legs. If you are keen on hiking, there are guided walks that are available in Tarangire, Lake Manyara and Ngorongoro. Within the Serengeti National Parks, long walks are not permitted for conservation reasons; however, some lodgings will offer short walks near the lodge or camp.

WHAT ABOUT BATHROOMS IN THE BUSH?

Throughout your safari, there are various areas with public bathroom facilities such as ranger stations, museums, visitor centers, camps, lodges and picnic sites. At any time, your driver-guide can find a safe and private area where you may simply exit to the rear of the vehicle. Two large spare tires at the back of the vehicle block the view from anyone else within the vehicle. Most guests are a bit reluctant at first, but gradually adapt and become comfortable with the convenient bush bathrooms. Don’t worry, our driver-guides are extremely professional and sympathetic to bathroom dilemmas and will ensure you are comfortable and accommodated to your needs.

WHAT ARE THE PAYMENT METHODS AVAILABLE?

To confirm the booking we require a down-payment which can be paid via bank transfer. The remaining payment can be paid using the same method.

WHAT ABOUT TIPPING FOR OUR SAFARI STAFF?

Our tipping guideline is 10 to 15 USD per client per day to the driver-guide, though it is ultimately up to the clients’ discretion to decide what amount is appropriate.

When you have a personal cook for budget camping, the tipping guideline is between 5 to 10 USD per person per day, which is also up to the client’s discretion.

The recommended currency for tipping is in USD cash, and it is customary for the clients to tip at the end of their safari.

 

ZANZIBAR FAQs

Zanzibar offers genuine experiences and captivating adventures which make it an exceptional island holiday destination. Outline below are the frequent questions asked by tourists including;

DO I NEED A VISA FOR ZANZIBAR ?

Notably, the citizens of the United States (US) and the United Kingdom need tourist visas. Likewise, European, Canadian, and Australian travelers will likewise require tourist visas for Tanzania

Meanwhile, the tourist visas are obtainable on getting to Tanzania, although, the American, as well as British governments, urge travelers to apply prior to traveling. The single-entry tourist visa cost is $50 for British citizens (while it cost $40 for applying ahead of time) and the single-entry tourist visa cost is $100 USD for US residents. Moreover, tourists can obtain a cost is $100 for Multiple-entry visas for $100 USD. Ensure your visa is VALID for 6 months before the time to take off. However, tourist visas are needed by South African residents to visit Zanzibar Islands.

NOTE: The costs and visa requirements are be changed anytime, do make effort to visit the Tanzania Immigration website for more details.

Zanzibar is a semi-autonomous piece of the Assembled Republic of Tanzania. Accordingly, you don't have to get independent visas for the territory Tanzania and Zanzibar Islands.

HOW LONG DO YOU NEED IN ZANZIBAR ?

To have a captivating and exceptional experience on Zanzibar Excursion/Holiday, tourists should schedule to stay a minimum of seven days. Meanwhile, you can decide to spend more days to have a fantastic and satisfying Zanzibar holiday/Excursion.

IS FOOD COSTLY IN ZANZIBAR ?

No, nutritious foods are available at an affordable price during your Zanzibar excursion. Base on your financial plan, you can spend as low as $5 every day on meals. While another individual can decide to order food that costs is $15. However, bottled water and drinks are accessible at affordable prices.

DOES THE EXCURSION TO ZANZIBAR REALLY WORTH IT ?

Absolutely, YES! Zanzibar is a can list African destination for fantastic reasons and experience.

IS ZANZIBAR AN EXCELLENT HOLIDAY DESTINATION.

Indeed, Zanzibar is a phenomenal beach holiday destination. It is additionally an incredible worth for-cash destination that is loaded with character, rich history, and unforgettable experience. Ultimately, Zanzibar culture is vivid and intriguing. Admittedly, the old architecture is precious as well as the seashores are beautiful.

HOW COSTLY IS ZANZIBAR ?

Individuals frequently ask us if Zanzibar holidays excursion/Trips are costly. The basic answer is NO. You can visit Zanzibar on a tight spending plan that suits you.

The worldwide flights to Tanzania are probably going to be the single greatest cost of a trip to the Zanzibar Islands. The most ideal approach to get a save money on your Zanzibar Island holiday is thus to watch out for flight specials to Tanzania and even flight arrangements directly to Zanzibar.

From Dar es Salaam on the terrain of Tanzania, you would then be able to take the reasonable ship or fly to Stone Town on Zanzibar's fundamental island, Unguja.

WHAT AMOUNT DO ZANZIBAR HOLIDAYS COST ?

On a strict financial plan, you can spend as low as $50 to $55 USD every day on a Zanzibar holiday/Trip. That is a quote dependent on basic, nitty-gritty convenience in lodgings and essential beach huts, and dinners at local cafés and food slow down.

IS ZANZIBAR SAFE FOR EXCURSION / HOLIDAY?

Certainly YES.  Zanzibar Islands is safe for tourists to travel for Excursions/Trips or holidays. Zanzibar is one of the safest African destinations.

Indeed, the Zanzibar Archipelago is essential to consider for experience in Tanzania, which is quite possibly the most steady African nations. Tanzania is positioned as the most tranquil country in East Africa, indeed.

DO ZANZIBAR CITIZENS ALWAYS WELCOME TOURISTS ?

The local individuals are for the most part inviting and excited when they get to see tourists. On account of the truly flawless beaches, bright climate and rich culture Zanzibar is a well-known tourist destination. Thus, it includes all the fundamental tourism foundation for an agreeable and safe holiday. Numerous worldwide travelers make the most of their experience on the islands such a lot that they return consistently.

IS IT SAFE TO SWIM IN ZANZIBAR SEA ?

Indeed, the sea in Zanzibar is safe for swimming. The Indian Ocean is warm while the waves will in general be little. Zanzibar is a well-known destination for swimming as well as scuba diving.

ARE THERE SHARKS IN ZANZIBAR ?

The sharks that are found in Zanzibar are known as REEF SHARKS, which are typical HARMLESS. Meanwhile, tourists can swim with whale sharks when considering Mafia Island.

These sharks are imperiled and safe to swim as well as ideal for diving. Finally, incredible white sharks are every so often seen in the profound waters yet there have been no shark assaults in past. 

WHEN IS THE APPROPRIATE TIME TO TOUR IN ZANZIBAR ?

The best appropriate to visit Zanzibar can be from mid-winter to spring or in mid-summer. These are considered to be dry seasons in Zanzibar. Moreover, the long dry season is over winter as well as spring while the short dry season occurs in mid-summer.

WHICH MONTH OF THE YEAR IS SUITABLE TO VISIT ZANZIBAR ISLAND ?

The month of September/October is considered the best month to tour Zanzibar Islands. This is the period when you're to get to have clear blue skies and pleasant temperatures. If you battle with warmth and humidity, then the bright winter-to-spring dry season is the best and ideal opportunity to visit Zanzibar.

Likewise, other best months to consider visitation to Zanzibar are Mid-December, January, and February. This month's fall features a short dry season where tourists get to have the best climate for sun-admirers who like sunny atmosphere. During these months you're probably going to experience clear skies, nearly nothing if any downpour, and high temperatures.

If you schedule your visit to the Zanzibar holiday for November to February, at that point stay on the southwest coastlines, because winning storms come from the northeast. For Zanzibar holidays during the southwest storm season (June to October) head toward the upper east coastline.

WHEN IS THE BEST IDEAL OPPORTUNITY FOR SCUBA DIVING IN ZANZIBAR ?

From July to August and February to April are the best occasions to go scuba diving while on Zanzibar Islands. However, the month of April is loaded with rain.

Zanzibar offers genuine experiences and captivating adventures which make it an exceptional island holiday destination. Outline below are the frequent questions asked by tourists including;

For any other question , don't hesitate to contact us at contact@swahilijourneys.com