Safari

Required Documents
A valid passport and visa are required for all U.S. citizens traveling to Kenya/ Africa. Visa fees vary according to the each country.

Medical and Vaccinations
Many African countries do require and or suggest that travelers receive vaccinations. Anti-malaria medication is strongly recommended when traveling within the African continent. We advise you to consult your physician or the Center for Disease Control in Atlanta, Georgia at (404) 639-3311.

Clothing
Clothing should be light weight, loose-fitting and of "breathable" fabrics, such as cotton. While on safari, only four to five changes of clothes are necessary. For the daytime, shorts and T-shirts are most comfortable. While out in the bush you will find that neutral colors are best as they blend in with the natural surroundings and show the dust least. The nights at the higher elevations can be cool, so you should bring a sweater or jacket. Boots are not necessary.

Food and Water
Generally tap water is safe to drink in most major African cities. We recommend though that you drink bottled water which is available for purchase in most places.
Cuisine throughout Africa is outstanding. Meals include full American buffet breakfast with fresh local fruits; safari lunches usually consist of hot and cold buffets and dinners are sit down with an excellent choice of menu items.

Photography
Bring plenty of film and extra batteries as both items are very expensive in Africa. While on safari, make sure you have some way of protecting your camera from dust. As most of the safari game viewing takes place in the early morning and late afternoon, 100 or 200 ASA film is probably best to use. A telephoto or zoom lens is recommended. Do not take pictures of military installations, police stations, government facilities, airports, border post soldiers or police. Always ask before
taking photographs of people.

Baggage
Baggage should be kept to a minimum, one main lightweight bag and one overnight bag are adequate. On flying safaris, baggage is limited to 33 pounds.

Banking
Travelers checks and most major credit cards are widely accepted. Banking hours are generally from 9:00 am - 3:00 pm, Monday through Friday and some on Saturday mornings. Banks at some airports open for longer hours.

Security
As in most major international cities, sensible security precautions should be taken. Keep a close watch on purses, handbags, wallets and cameras. Avoid wearing expensive or flashy jewelry. It is advisable to hire a taxi if you wish to move around at night and for your personal safety, avoid deserted lanes and streets.

Airport Departure Tax
Most African countries charge an airport departure tax on international and domestic flights. In some cases this is included in your ticket price and in other cases the airport will charge a fee upon departure.

Suggested Packing List while on Safari

Three to five changes of casual clothing (shorts, T-shirts, long sleeve shirts, a sweater or jacket, slacks, sports shirts, blouses and a dress.)
Two pair of comfortable shoes and a pair of sandals
Swim suit and cover-up
Hat with a visor
Sunglasses (neck string comes in quite handy)
Binoculars
Small flashlight
Sun screen
Insect repellent
Eye drops
Skin and hair moisturizers
Personal medications
A photo copy of your passport, credit cards, and airline tickets (to be kept separately form the originals)
An extra pair of glasses/contact lenses
Pre-moistened small towelettes