Your Trip Safety
Nairobi, Dar es Salaam and Lusaka aren’t classed as safe cities. Some precautions you should take are:
*Always leave your passport (It’s better to carry a photocopy of it instead), traveller’s cheques, flight tickets and money that you won’t be using in the safe deposit at the hotel reception. This is free of charge to Explorers Wild Adventures clients.
*Remember that like in any other city, you should never leave your bags unattended, nor flaunt jewellery, cameras etc.
*Please don’t wander through the city to unknown areas especially at night. Stick to the main streets only during the day, and after sundown, please take a taxi. Taxis can be organised from reception. Also, take the address of the hotel with you.
*People are generally friendly, but don’t let people take advantage of you, especially the sales people!
*Beware of people approaching you on the street with an apparent interest of where you are from, and want to sit down and have a chat with you. These people are con men and will ask you for money.
*People on the street who ask you if you want a safari and have a brochure are often con men, best to avoid these folk. Besides, you’re already on safari. Zanzibar can be unsafe to single female travellers. Please always have a male companion with when walking in Stone Town.
Arusha and Lilongwe:
Many of the above precautions should be taken in these cities, however these towns generally have a more relaxed and friendly vibe, there are many beggars, street sellers and safari touts. These are best avoided by a polite but firm NO THANK YOU!
Zanzibar:
Remember that Zanzibar is overwhelmingly Muslim. Women who do not dress modestly, or men in shorts, are likely to cause offense to locals and are likely to attract unwanted attention.
In coastal areas, both male and female prostitution is widespread. Single female travellers in particular should be wary of ‘beach boys’. These male prostitutes often employ aggressive methods of socializing with female tourists with their end goal being to solicit sex, money or other benefits. The prevalence of HIV is extremely high in this region, and we urge all travellers to exercise extreme caution.
Our suggestion is to dress moderately, and drink moderately. At all times be aware of your surroundings, and your actions, and to exercise caution.
PHOTOGRAPHY:
Please do not take photo’s of Police stations or at Cross borders Airports, army barracks and personnel or any Government building. It is against the law and will result in the minimum of your film and camera being confiscated.
DRUGS:
Illegal drugs will not be tolerated on any trips. Possessing or using drugs not only contravenes the laws of the land but also puts the rest of the group at risk. Smoking marijuana and opium is a part of local culture in some parts of the world but is not acceptable for our travellers. Our philosophy of travel is one of respect towards everyone we encounter, and in particular the local people who make the world the special place it is. The exploitation of prostitutes is completely contrary to this philosophy. Our GUIDES have the right to expel any member of the group if drugs are found in their possession.
Safety And Security
Many national governments provide a regularly updated advice service on safety issues involved with international travel. We recommend that you check your government’s advice for their latest travel information before departure. We strongly recommend the use of a neck wallet or money belt while travelling, for the safe keeping of your passport, air tickets, travelers’ cheques, cash and other valuable items. Leave your valuable jewellery at home – you won’t need it while travelling. Many of the hotels we use have safety deposit boxes, which is the most secure way of storing your valuables. A lock is recommended for securing your luggage. When travelling on a group trip, please note that your guide has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the trip itinerary if it is deemed necessary due to safety concerns. Your guide will accompany you on all included activities. During your trip you will have some free time to pursue your own interests, relax and take it easy or explore at your leisure. While your guide will assist you with options available in a given location please note that any optional activities you undertake are not part of your itinerary, and we offer no representations about the safety of the activity or the standard of the operators running them. Please use your own good judgment when selecting an activity in your free time. Although the cities visited on tour are generally safe during the day, there can be risks to wandering throughout any major city at night. It is our recommendation to stay in small groups and to take taxis to and from restaurants, or during night time excursions.
Protests and Demonstrations- Protests and demonstrations, even those that are well intended, have the potential to turn violent with no warning. Counter protests can also turn violent. Action by security forces to disperse demonstrators and protesters may occur at any time. If you are in an area where demonstrators or protesters are gathering, avoid the temptation of staying for a good photo opportunity and leave the area immediately.
Water based activities have an element of danger and excitement built into them. We recommend only participating in water based activities when accompanied by a guide(s). We make every reasonable effort to ensure the fun and adventurous element of any water based activities have a balanced approach to safety. It is our policy not to allow our guides to make arrangements on your behalf for water based activities that are not accompanied by guide(s). Swimming, including snorkeling, is always at your own risk.
We take all prudent measures in relation to your safety. For ways to further enhance your personal safety while traveling.
Safari Checklist
Please note that the seasons in Africa is quite extreme. Winters (especially South Africa, Namibia and Botswana) can be really cold and summers will be really hot.
If you travel during winter months(May to October) please ensure that you bring warm clothing and a suitable sleeping bag if you are on a camping safari.
A set of smart casual clothes is also advisable.
Additional Items:
• Sleeping bag and liner – camping safari (Seasonally appropriate)
Cold Weather:
• Long-sleeved shirts or sweater
• Scarf
• Warm gloves
• Warm hat
• Warm layers
Documents:
• Flight info (required) (Printouts of e-tickets may be required at the border)
• Insurance info (required) (With photocopies)
• Passport (required) (With photocopies)
• Required visas or vaccination certificates (required) (With photocopies)
• Vouchers and pre-departure information (required)
Essentials:
• Binoculars (optional)
• Camera (With extra memory cards and batteries)
• Cash, credit and debit cards
• Day pack (Used for daily excursions or short overnights)
• Ear plugs
• First-aid kit (should contain lip balm with sunscreen, sunscreen, whistle, Aspirin, Ibuprofen, bandaids/plasters, tape, anti-histamines, antibacterial gel/wipes, antiseptic cream, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, rehydration powder, water purification tablets or drops, insect repellent, sewing kit, extra prescription drugs you may be taking)
• Flashlight/torch (Headlamps are ideal)
• Fleece top/sweater
• Footwear
• Hat
• Locks for bags
• Long pants/jeans
• Moneybelt
• Outlet adapter
• Personal entertainment (Reading and writing materials, cards, music player, etc.)
• Reusable water bottle
• Shirts/t-shirts
• Sleepwear
• Small travel towel
• Sunglasses
• Toiletries (Preferably biodegradable)
• Watch and alarm clock
• Waterproof backpack cover
• Windproof rain jacket
Warm Weather:
• Sandals/flip-flops
• Shorts/skirts (Longer shorts/skirts are recommended)
• Sun hat/bandana
Note: Seasons in Africa are quite extreme. Winters can be really cold and summers will be really hot. If you travel during winter months (May to October) please ensure that you bring warm clothing and a suitable sleeping bag.
Is Your Money Safe With Us:
We are a fully registered company by the Registry of Companies in Kenya, and we hold a full license from the Ministry of Tourism, the regulatory authority. Our credibility and reliability are backed by tangible references in the USA and Europe, including several addresses and telephone numbers of travel agents and clients that you are welcome to contact. These references will affirm our commitment to providing secure and dependable services.
We have been in operation for over 10 years and have consistently maintained excellent personal relationships with all our suppliers, including hotels, lodges, and airlines. This longevity and our strong network ensure that we can offer our clients the best experiences and services. Our reputation for reliability and excellence is a testament to our dedication to our customers and partners alike.
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Money Exchange
Kenya and Tanzania use the Shilling, denoted by KES and TZS. The official currency of Zambia is the Zambian Kwacha, denoted by ZMK. NO payments in USD are allowed in Zambia anymore (except for activities at the Safpar Waterfront in Livingstone). All other payments need to be with ZMK. Malawi uses the Kwacha (MWK).
The currency in South Africa is the South African Rand (ZAR). The South African rand is also an accepted form of payment in Namibia. The Namibian currency is the Namibian Dollar (NAD), which is equivalent in value (in Namibia only) to the South African Rand. NAD is not accepted as payment in other countries.
In Botswana, payments at supermarkets, post offices etc are to be with Pula (BWP) but activities and drinks at campsites can be paid for in USD
USD is widely accepted in Malawi, Tanzania and Kenya but some supermarkets might only accept local currencies.
Important Notes
1. Please note that your trip can be a combination of multiple destinations selected by Explorers WIld Adventurers. As such, the staff and/or particular vehicles operating your tour may change between tour segments. You may also expect some group members to join or leave the tour, between tour segments.
2. Our tours are are not physically demanding unless or otherwise indicated, however, travelling can be difficult, with long drives and poor road conditions at times. Despite this, most travelers feel that the diversity of the African landscape, countries, culture and wildlife are all well worth the experience. We use a comfortable and safe customized safari vehicles for the long drives.
3. Yellow Fever
It may be required to show a Yellow Fever certificate upon entering the country(s) visited. Please check in with your local health expert for advice on Yellow Fever and other inoculations required for this area.
4. Your Guide aims to provide you with the best service possible during your tour. They answer questions and provide more information about the areas that you visit. During game drives, your guide will ensure to accompany you in the vehicle. This is of course they have a lot of knowledge to share with you during your exciting game drives. Please do not hesitate to ask your guide any questions.
5. While on safari you will spend a lot of time in the sun – on morning walks, while canoeing, or simply relaxing by the pool with a cool drink! Sunburns and heat exhaustion can occur however by following a few simple “rules of thumb” you can help to ensure that your safari memories are filled with nothing but sunshine! Most people look forward to getting “some color” but remember – tanning is a gradual process. A good sun hat is a MUST on safari as is plenty of high SPF sun block. If you forget to pack your own, most safari lodges and camps have a supply for sale.
6. Always stay in your car when driving in a game park. Only get out at designated “hides” and follow the rules that will be posted. I have personally known of several fatalities that have occurred because a hapless tourist has wandered out of his vehicle, camera in hand, to get a closer shot of an elephant or lion. It may sound silly, but it happens.
7. If you are on a walking safari you will no doubt be briefed on safety by your guides. But, there are times when you’ll be walking in Africa and encounter wildlife without a guide. Baboons are also a menace in many places and a lot larger than you think. If an animal you approach looks hostile make sure you are not in the way of its escape route. Give the animal a clear bath and don’t make any noise to further aggravate the situation.
8. Avoid swimming in rivers or lakes unless you are absolutely sure there are no hippos or crocodiles. Hippos are actually the most dangerous of all the big animals. They feed on the banks of the river and if they sense danger will charge and attack whatever lies in their path in order to get back to the safety of the water.
9. Don’t walk around at night in areas where you know there is wildlife present that can be potentially harmful to you. That includes the beaches around lakes where hippo graze, between tents on a camping safari and in even in towns. Hyenas wander around freely in the capital city of Lilongwe in Malawi, so always be cautious.
10. The food served at most safari lodges and tented camps is of the highest quality. Gourmet cooks bake fresh breads, and produce soups, salads, and entrees that could easily grace tables at top restaurants around the world. Meals are international in flavor with soups, salads, cold meats, pasta dishes, meat and fish dishes, and breads.
11. Health Precautions – Malaria. The best prevention is personal protection against the mosquito. Malaria mosquitoes generally bite after dark. Wear long sleeves and trousers in the afternoon and evening. Use insect repellent on exposed skin. Sleep under a bed net or in a netted tent or hut or in a house or caravan with screens. Close windows and doors at night. Spray insecticide aerosol and/or burn mosquito coil at night.
12. Flying Doctor Services. When you travel with Explorers Wild Adventures, you are assured of the services of the Flying Doctors, a group of well qualified physicians who travel by aircraft throughout the East African bush providing treatment and emergency transportation. Similar evacuation services are also available to Travelers in South Africa and selected lodges in Botswana, assuring Explorers Wild Adventures travelers in remote destinations of prompt medical attention and air transportation to the nearest medical facility in the unlikely event of an emergency. Please note that the comprehensive Emergency Evacuation Insurance is also available through our travel insurance provider – a policy we highly recommend to all.
13. VISAS. Please read the Visa section very carefully. Visas are your own responsibility. Always double check with the embassies what each countries requirement are. We strongly advise you to pre-purchase your entry visa prior to arrival as queuing for the visa at the airport can cause long delays in clearing customs.
Airport Transfers
We facilitate your airport transfers. Your arrival transfer will be arranged based on flight information provided to us. If you have pre-booked an airport transfer, it is necessary to make contact with our representative, who waits with a Explorers Wild Adventures sign outside the arrival area, within 1.5 hours (90 minutes) of your flight’s scheduled arrival time.
If you are advised of the flight schedule change within 48 hours of your scheduled arrival time, please contact the airport transfer operator listed as the emergency contact for your tour which can be found below. We will do our best to rearrange your arrival transfer. We don’t expect any problems, and nor should you, but if for any reason you are unable to commence your trip as scheduled, as soon as possible please contact us. If you are unable to get in touch with your leader, please refer to our emergency contact details or call +254 771 225 007.
Your Safari Guide
During your tour, you will be accompanied by an experienced Safari Guide /Driver. Your Safari Guide will be the group manager and leader and driver. He will provide information on the places where you will be visiting, offer suggestions for things to do and see, and introduce you to the local friends. He will take care of the small things so you can concentrate on enjoying your adventure. All our Safari Guide Officers/Drivers in are experienced group leaders, with a broad knowledge base of the region’s history, cultures, and wildlife.
All our Safari Guides /Drivers are experienced in the routes traveled, and highly skilled in dealing with different terrains. Your Safari Guide is skilled and experienced driver and a certified safari guide, and is an integral part of the team. We also use local guides for some extra activities where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places we are visiting.
Visa Requirements.
We strongly advise you to pre-purchase your entry visa prior to arrival as queuing for the visa at the airport can cause long delays in clearing customs.
Beginning 1st September 2015, all visitors to Kenya (from countries that are visa eligible) must apply and pay for their Kenyan visas online (http://evisa.go.ke/evisa.html) at least three before travel.
The Department of Immigration Services has launched evisa.go.ke, the Official Government of Kenya visa application payments portal enabling visitors to Kenya apply and pay for visas online. It will allow visitors to apply for the Republic of Kenya evisa online without having to visit a Kenyan diplomatic mission, or obtain the visa on arrival.
Using a single account, a registered user can access all visitor services offered by different Republic of Kenya Agencies conveniently.
To apply for a Kenyan Visa, follow these three easy steps:
1. Create an Account (https://account.ecitizen.go.ke/visitor-registration)
- Create an evisa account one time for all your evisa applications
2. Apply and pay
- Fill the application form and pay using visa and mastercard
3. Download
- Download the evisa from your evisa account.
What is an eVisa?
An eVisa is an authorization document issued in PDF format which allows visitors to travel to a Kenyan entry point. The eVisa should be presented to an immigration officer at any point of entry who then grants the right to enter The Republic of Kenya by stamping the holders passport.
Validity of an eVisa
An evisa to Kenya once issued is valid for 3 months before you travel. Once you present yourself to immigration control at the port of entry, you may be issued with a stay period not exceeding 90 days, which may be renewed for a further 90 days at the immigration headquarters. The maximum number of days a visitor may stay in Kenya is 6 months.
How to verify an eVisa
The visa is accessible for viewing by your airline, or at port, through an electronic system managed by the Kenyan Government. Once the e visa is issued, the holder can travel to an entry point where their passport will be stamped then they are allowed entry.
How to apply
As 1st September 2015 all applications for VISA to The Republic of Kenya will be done electronically on www.evisa.go.ke.
Application steps
In order to apply for an eVisa, visitors should:
- Click on Create an account.
- Select Register as a Visitor.
- Once Logged in, Select Department of Immigration services.
- Select Submit Application.
- Select Kenyan Visa.
- Select the type of Visa and read the Instructions Carefully.
- Fill in the application form.
- Pay Using visa card, MasterCard and other debit cards.
- Await approval via email, then download and print the eVisa from your eCitizen account.
- Present your printed eVisa to the immigration officer at the port of entry.
Points to note:
In order to apply for an eVisa, visitors should:
- Visa processing fee is non refundable.
- Incomplete applications will be rejected.
- The possession of an eVisa is not the final Authority to enter The Republic of Kenya.
- Engaging in any form of business or employment without a requisite permit or pass is an offense.
- A visa is required prior to entry into The Republic of Kenya.
- The e-Visa printout must be presented at the port of entry.
- It should take atleast 2 working days to get your eVisa.
- Each adult visitor to the Republic of Kenya is required to submit evisa applications in their personal ecitizen account. Parents can apply for their children in the parents account.
Types of Visa
The type of visa you must have is defined by the Kenyan and Visa Regulations, and relates to the purpose of your travel.
Single Entry
A SINGLE ENTRY VISA Issued for single entry to persons whose nationalities require visa to enter kenya either for business,tourism or medical.
Requirements During application
- Valid travel document not less than six months.
- At least One Blank page in the holders passport.
- A Return ticket.
- Travel itinerary
- Supporting letter e.g. letter from company or Invitation letter for business visits/family visits.
- Hotel bookings/details about places to visit if going as tourist.
Transit Visa
A TRANSIT VISA Visa is issued to persons connecting through Kenya to other destinations for a period not exceeding 72 hours.those connecting flights directly without leaving the airport dont need to apply for Transit visas.
Requirements During application
- An onward ticket for transit visa.
Visa Fees
All evisa applications attract a 1 USD service charge and card handling fee will be surcharged.
Tourists to Kenya Require The Single Entry Visa
Issued for single entry to persons whose nationalities require visa to enter kenya either for business,tourism or medical reasons.
Validity
Single entry visa once issued is valid for 3 months before you travel. Once you present yourself to immigration control at the port of entry, you may be issued with a stay period not exceeding 90 days, which may be renewed for a further 90 days at the immigration headquarters. The maximum number of days a visitor may stay in Kenya is 6 months.
Requirements
- Valid travel document valid for not less than six months.
- At least One Blank page in the holders passport.
- Passport biodata page.
- A Return ticket.
- Travel itinerary
- Supporting letter e.g. letter from company or Invitation letter for business visits/family visits.
- Hotel bookings/details about places to visit if going as tourist.
