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
|