AFRICA
Africa General
There is no singularly best country to go on safari. Each African country offers a unique experience. Generally the safari hotspots are southern (Botswana, Namibia, Zimbabwe, Zambia & South Africa) and eastern Africa (Kenya and Tanzania).
Yet the wildlife varies significantly within these regions. The open savannahs of Kenya and Tanzania boast huge herds of zebra, wildebeest and predators including lion and cheetah, whilst Southern Africa has more diverse scenery. Botswana’s Okavango Delta for example, a myriad of islands and waterways, is home to an incredible variety of birdlife, countless species of impala and unique desert adapted species.
Africa is a huge continent with many countries and some are considered dangerous. Generally the Southern and East African countries are safe and peaceful such as Botswana, Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda, Namibia, Zambia, Zimbabwe and South Africa. These are also the best countries to visit for seeing incredible wildlife and scenery. For more information, please contact one of our specialists.
African safaris can be exhilarating. Getting up close to animals in the wild is and experience like no other. Most African safaris are conducted in 4WD Land Rovers or Land Cruisers and therefore generally very safe. Some safaris can be done on foot or by Mokoro (traditional canoe) and this can create a higher level of risk however these tours are still considered safe as most animals keep there distant from humans. Guides can also carry rifles to be used as a last resort.
You will almost certainly need multiple vaccinations when travelling to Africa however each country may differ. Hepatitis A, Yellow Fever, Typhoid and Meningitis are the most common deceases and should be vaccinated against. A Yellow Fever Vaccination is mandatory when travelling to certain African countries. For the most up to date information on vaccinations, either contact us or your local travel doctor before going to Africa.
A concession is a designated privately owned and managed area. Often these concessions are unfenced, and share boundaries with other concessions or government run national parks. The benefit of staying within a concession is that lodges do not compete with other vehicles for prime game-viewing sightings. There are also no self-drive vehicles permitted in these areas, creating a more exclusive experience. Another benefit is that in many of these concessions permit both off-road and night time game-viewing. In a national park, this is not allowed.
The cost varies substantially depending on a number of factors including: the time of year you visit, the standard of accommodation you wish to stay in, how long you intend to travel for and how often you are traveling from place to place.
There are a number of different options to consider when flying to Africa. But in particular there are two hubs: Johannesburg is the central hub when flying into southern Africa. Qantas operate a service daily from Sydney, roughly a 14 hour flight. South African Airways also fly into Johannesburg from Perth. Connections are available from all major Australian cities.
There are a number of airlines that fly unto East Africa. Emirates and Etihad Airways are the two major Middle-Eastern airlines that fly into the Kenyan capital of Nairobi. Qatar Airways also fly directly to Tanzania and Kilimanjaro International Airport.
When staying at a lodge in the bush, the first thing to remember is that many of these are very remote and therefore Wi-Fi access will be either non-existent or very limited. However times are changing, and Wi-Fi is becoming more available.
This will highly depend on the time of year you travel. When on safari it is always important to where lighter colours in layers. Evenings can sometimes get very chilly whilst in summer, the temperate an rise above 40 degrees in a number of countries. Long sleeve, light khaki is the ideal safari clothing, for maximum protection from both the sun and bugs. For more information check out our weather chart here.
Our philosophy has always been moving less is to see more. The benefit to flying is that you spend less time traveling and more time out on safari. However, driving also has its benefits, as you can see more of the local way of life, the infrastructure within the country and the changing landscapes. Though generally road conditions are quite good within many African countries, they can from time to time be quite bumpy, certainly within national parks.
East Africa
Generally the best time to Travel to Africa is during the dry season (May-Oct), but game can be seen year-round in many parts.
The beauty of the famous east-African wildebeest and zebra migration is that it’s year round. The herds migrate across the plains of Tanzania’s famous Serengeti National Park following the rains in search of fresh grass before crossing into Kenya’s Masai Mara. The map below shows historically where the wildebeest and zebra are at certain times of the year.
The Tanzanian island of Zanzibar is a popular destination to visit after an east African safari. Its beautiful beaches are the perfect way to finish a trip whilst historic Stone Town offers a fascinating insight into the islands history. There are regular flights from multiple major and minor cities within Kenya and Tanzania making it easy to get to.
Australian Nationals require a visa to enter Kenya. A single entry visa is US$51, an East African Tourist Visa (multiple entry visa) is US$101 and a Transit Visa is US$21 per person. Visas can be applied for online prior to travel.
Yes, you do need a Yellow Fever vaccine when visiting Kenya. You do not require a vaccine for Tanzania although we do recommend it. When traveling into any African country from a region known for yellow fever you are required to show proof of vaccination.
There isn’t necessarily a ‘best’ route to climb the famous mountain. Each route is unique, differing in terrain and have their own benefits. The Machame Route (6 days) is considering to be the most popular, which means more climbers. The Lemosho Route (7 days) is incredibly scenic and the route leads to the western side of the Shira Plateau. Crossing the plateau is said to be one of the most stunning walks in Africa. It comes down to what you feel comfortable doing, whether that’s a more challenging, shorter route, a beautiful scenic hike, or a route that will have fewer trekkers. With our expertise, we can assist you to make the decision that best suits you.
Gorillas
In Uganda the best place to see the Gorillas is in The Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or at the Virunga Volcanoes.
In Rwanda the famous Parc National des Volcans is one of the best places to see these gentle, highly endangered primates.
Gorilla trekking can take place at any time of year with April/May and November being wetter. However, be aware that rain occurs all year round. For general game viewing safaris, the best time to go is during the dry season (between June and September).
A gorilla trek which may take as little as half an hour or up to 6 hours depending on where the gorilla family might be located. Once found, a maximum of one hour can be spent with them
Egypt
Tipping is customary for pretty much all services in Egypt. A tip of 10-15% is expected at cafes and restaurants and smaller change is acceptable for food purchases from street vendors and markets. It is also a good idea to tip local guides and drivers USD 2-4 per day.
Drinking tap water isn’t recommended in Egypt. Avoid drinks with ice and to peel fruit before eating it as these are often rinsed with tap water. To avoid buying bottled water bring a reusable water bottle and refill it with filtered water.
Egypt is considered a safe country in Africa to travel to. The northern Sinai Peninsula should be avoided however the main tourist sights such as the Pyramids, Abu Simbel, Luxor, Philae are still all considered safe.