Safari Tips
Adventure Safari Tips: Your Ultimate Guide to a Thrilling Safari Experience:
Embarking on an adventure safari is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, where you can explore stunning landscapes, encounter incredible wildlife, and create unforgettable memories. To ensure your journey is as smooth and enjoyable as possible, here are some essential tips to help you prepare for your adventure safari:
ENTRANCE AND VISA REGULATION.
For entry in Tanzania, you need a passport that is valid for at least six months after your intended leaving date. A visa can be obtained from the relevant embassy or authority in your Country of residence or upon arrival at the International Airport or Control border. For entry from a neighboring Country (Rwanda, Burundi, Uganda, Kenya) you need to show proof of Vaccination against yellow fever and you must have the appropriate papers or documents. If you’re travelling directly from (South Africa, Europe, America, Asia, and Australia) this Proof is not necessary and further vaccinations are not required. However, we do advise that you have the vaccinations recommended by your residence Country.
You must have also a valid return ticket in your possession that allows you to leave the country once your Tour or Safari is finished. If you do not have this valid ticket, you must show that you have the ability to pay for a ticket out of the country, such as a credit card. To avoid disappointment, please contact us within reasonable time before travel as the regulations for the visa may change. This is especially important if you are a non-European citizen
Company can’t be held responsible for any cost incurred by any parties where on Safari or otherwise. All cost incurred will be beard by the parties themselves.
TANZANIA SAFARI COST:
When planning a safari in Tanzania, one of the first things most travelers want to know is how much it will cost. Tanzania safari costs can vary significantly depending on the type of safari, the accommodations, and the specific parks or areas included in your itinerary. For those seeking an affordable Tanzania safari, you can expect to pay less for group tours, basic accommodations, and shared transportation. However, for those opting for a luxury safari in Tanzania oversees adventure experience, the prices may go higher to reflect premium lodgings, private tours, and specialized safari vehicles.
At Tanzania Wildhog Safaris, we believe in offering transparent pricing with a focus on value. Whether you’re booking a Tanzania classic tour or a northern Tanzania safari, we provide options to suit all budgets. The average Tanzania safari trip can range from $1,600 to $20,000 per person, depending on the duration, accommodation level, and exclusivity of the experience. We also recommend checking for seasonal discounts and special promotions. You can inquire directly with us for detailed quotes, customized itineraries, and group discounts, ensuring you get the best value for your dream safari adventure.
WHILE TAKING FLIGHT FROM HOME TO AFRICA:
Be informed that while on your flight from home to Africa there are many thing that might happen including some of your luggage being left behind at the Airport’s from your origin countries due to weight limit of the flight’s. This means you may arrive to your African destination while your luggage not, so the important thing is to pack in your back pack at least few cloth that you may use them for three days while waiting for your left luggage to arrive. When luggage are left normally they are brought till where you will be at the moment of arriving. The other thing is while on the flight connections at some Airports take couple of hours especially people that are flying from the U.S.A, some people might need to have rest in Hotels close to the airport so prepare for that if you will need to do that. NB: In a country like Kenya when need a Hotel while waiting to connect with your flight be read for a yellow fever vaccine which costs about 20 to 30 $ and this is for people under the age of 60 years old.
GUIDES SELECTION.
We select our safari guides based on their expertise in wildlife biology, conservation practices history, culture and customer service skills. Their passion for nature and dedication to providing the best experience for our guests are paramount in our selection process.
SPECILA INTRESTS THAT CAN BE ACCOMMODATED BY OUR GUIDES
Our guides are well-versed in various aspects of the safari experience, from bird watching to photography, and can tailor your tour to focus on your specific interests. If you have a particular area of interest, please let us know in advance so we can make the necessary arrangements.
SAFETY THAT IS INSURED BY OUR GUIDES ON SAFARI.
Safety is our top priority. Our guides are trained in first aid and emergency response procedures. They are also knowledgeable about the behavior of wildlife and the environment to ensure your safety while providing an exciting safari experience. Regular safety briefings are conducted to keep our guests informed.
THE ROLE PLAYDE BY OUR GUIDES IN WILDLIFE CONSERVATON.
Our guides are passionate about wildlife conservation and play an active role in educating guests about the importance of preserving natural habitats. They share insightful information about the wildlife you encounter and the conservation efforts in place to protect them. Through these efforts, we aim to foster a deeper understanding and appreciation for wildlife conservation among our guests.
ENHANCEMENT OF OUR GUIDES IN OVERALL SAFARI EXPERIENCE.
Our guides enhance the safari experience by sharing their knowledge and passion for the wilderness, offering detailed explanations of animal behavior, and providing historical context to the landscapes you explore. Their expertise allows for a deeper connection with nature, making your safari not just a trip but a truly transformative experience.
LANGUAGES OFFERD ON SAFARI TOURS.
Primarily, our safaris are conducted in English. However, we proudly offer services in German, French, Spanish, and Italian to accommodate a wider range of guests. For those requiring Mandarin-speaking services, arrangements for a Chinese-speaking tour leader can be made to ensure seamless communication throughout your adventure.
PRIVACE MAINTAINING DURING YOUR SAFARI.
While your guide will accompany you for the majority of the tour to ensure a seamless and enriching experience, we understand the importance of privacy. Our guides are encouraged to join guests during communal times, such as dinner, to share insights and stories. However, if you prefer private moments outside of the scheduled tours, please inform us in advance. We will brief your guide accordingly to respect and accommodate your privacy needs throughout your safari.
STEPS TAKEN IF YOU FIND YOUR GUIDE IS NOT RIGHT FIT FOR YOU.
We take great pride in the professionalism and training of our guides, who are dedicated to providing an optimal experience, as reflected in our stellar reviews. However, we understand the importance of personal comfort and compatibility. Should you feel uncomfortable with your guide for any reason, we urge you to contact us immediately during your safari. This allows us to address the issue promptly and discreetly, ensuring your experience remains positive and enjoyable.
WHAT TO DO IF YOU FEEL UNWELL OR SUSTAIN AN INJURY WHILE ON SAFARI.
Our guides are not only experts in leading safaris but are also trained in first aid to ensure your well-being throughout the trip. If you feel unwell or sustain a minor injury, please inform your guide immediately. They are equipped to provide first aid assistance and can make necessary adjustments to the day’s activities, such as modifying the driving speed for your comfort. Your experience and safety are our top priorities, and we are prepared to take the necessary steps to ensure your health and comfort are maintained during your adventure
WHILE ON SAFARI A TYPICAL DAY CONSIST OF
Early start to the day / light breakfast / early morning game drive (+- 2-3 hours) / beverages and snack on game viewing / late morning hot & cold full brunch / rest period / tea & savories / afternoon game drive with sundowners & snacks sometimes / generous dinner in the evening, usually in open air, enclosed dining area with large fire and fine dining under the stars.
NB: A FULL DAY GAME DRIVE
When someone goes for a full day game drive, should prepare well for the day, because most full day drives are around 8-10 hours’ drive while sitting in the car except the time of having pee stops, smoking and stretching legs and lunch time, but the rest you will spend in the car, so it’s recommended to take suntan lotion, some people will prefer long light sleeves for covering the skin from direct sun burn also wear light shoes due to your guides recommendation that is applied according to the weather like sandals or covered shoes. At some woodland area there are tsetse fly, so you need insect spray, wear neutral, earthy tones clothes like beige, khaki, olive and brown. We do not recommend white clothes and shoes like sneakers because they will be covered in brown dirt just in few times of walking. Take your cable for charging with you and all small thing that you may need for the day in your back pack.
LUNCH TIME:
In a full day drive lunch can take place at the picnic area where you may have nice toilet, water and soap for washing your hands including tables and chair for sitting OR it may happen that you are far from such facilities where our guides choose a shade of a tree somewhere along the road and let you open the doors of your car and have lunch while siting it the car except for those who will be whiling to pay for the extra bush lunch that may allow you to have lunch anywhere allocated in the bush.
PEES STOPES IN THE BUSH:
In case having a pee stop while on the drive in the remote areas where there is no specific Toilet especially for lady’s please we provide a trash bin in our safari vehicles for putting tissue and bring them to specific trash bins at the camp or lodge to keep environment clean all the time.
EXTRA PERSON THINGS THAT YOU MAY BRING WITH FOR FULL DAY DRIVES:
- Battery-powered fan,
- Advil,
- Sunscreen
- Bug spray
- Snacks
- A cooling towel
- An insulated water bottle
- Portable Phone charger.
- Is good everyone to have his/her own binoculars.
NEED FOR YOUR SAFARI.
- Binocular
- Water bottle for personal use
- Shampoo
- Soap
- Toothpaste and Toothbrush
- Small Sewing Kit
- Hand Lotion
- Suntan Lotion
- Lip Salve
- Tissues
- Nail Brush
- Sunglasses
- Camera (recommend Telephoto Lens)
- Flash Light (Torch) and Batteries/Chargeable
- Pen and Paper
- Malaria Tablets
- Simple Bags for dirty clothes as plastic bags are streaky prohibited in Tanzania.
CLOTHES.
We recommend that your clothes are made of cotton or microfibers” wear neutral, earthy tones clothes like beige, khaki, olive and brown. We do not recommend white clothes and shoes like sneakers because they will be covered in brown dirt just in few times of walking” NB: Some people will prefer long light sleeves for covering the skin from direct sun burn which is really nice. Camouflage or other military clothes are not advisable as it may cause problems with the local government. A few areas such as the Ngorongoro Crater lie 2200 meters above the sea level on the crater rim and at night, it can be relatively cool with Temperature around 13 degrees. For the colder evenings, a light jacket and a jumper is recommended as well as trousers and long sleeve shirts for protection against mosquitoes at some areas at night.
LUGGAGE.
Upon booking, we will give you a list of equipment that you need to bring. Please remember that there is limited space available in the vehicle and that you should restrict yourself to one big luggage or Rucksack with no more than 15 kg in weight and one small hand luggage. If possible DO NOT TAKE SUITCASE PLEAS! Please also take not of the luggage regulations of the different airlines.
HEALTH
VACCINES
Vaccination requirements change from time to time and we suggest clients consult their local doctor or health department for the latest health precautions. In addition, certain countries require proof of Yellow Fever vaccination, so be sure to check well before your departure. We cannot be responsible for improper vaccinations, so please double-check before you book. In general, East Africa poses no significant health risks than other distant designation. Please contact your general practitioner in regards to the appropriate vaccinations before your holiday. Please note that for your own safety you should inform us about any intolerances or allergies against any medications, for example high blood pressure, epilepsy, asthma, heart conditions, etc.
MALARIA
Malaria can be found in all countries of East Africa though is not such as in high percentage as many People think that it is. This affects mostly pregnant women and children under five years old than others. Malaria is caused by a one-cell parasite and is transmitted by Anopheles Mosquito called Plasmodium Falciparum. There are prophylactic medicine that can be taken, some of them must start to be taken before you start travelling. There are many brands available and we recommend that our guests consult their doctor or health department as to which brand they should take. You should contact also your GP or an infectious tropical disease institute to get medical advice. Our experience suggests that older preparations can lead to severe side effects and therefore may compromise your holiday. Prevention is better than a cure; the best prevention is not to be bitten. By wearing long trousers, closed shoes and long-sleeved tops during the evening hours as well as using ant-mosquito sprays and crèmes can held to reduce your chances of being bitten.
REPELLANT’S:
Insect Repellant’s on drives are advised but just let your Guide know if he is not allergic to them before applying them while on the Vehicle, you can just use it before boarding. Healthier Guide the better the Safari it becomes.
BILHARZIA (Schistosomiasis).
Bilharzia occurs in some water in East Africa, for example in Lake Victoria. Your Safari guide will know where you should not go for swim – please ask before you take a refreshing dip.
UPSET STOMACHS:
For tourists, it is common to experience diarrhea at some stage. This is often just your body reacting to different food or bacteria that your body has had no previous contact with and to which it has not developed an immune response. In most cases, it is not severe. You can help prevent this experience by the following simple guidelines.
- Don’t order ice in drinks at places that do not look hygienic.
- Don’t eat unwashed fruit and Vegetables, better peel before eating.
- Don’t drink water from the tap.
- Don’t eat raw meat, fish that has not been kept chilled or food from establishment that appear unkempt.
NB: MEDICAL PROBLEMS:
If you have any serious medical conditions or problem like big surgeries etc. of which you can’t be able to sit for a beat long on the vehicle let’s know for an advice of a better travel way for you also if you used some kind of small machines that need to be charged prior use lets also know that for a well suitable accommodation to insure power for you all the time you need it. Remember that in our vehicle there are powered inverter for any day use.
MEDICAL SUPPLIES.
It is best to bring prescription medication with you. But cities and towns all have drugstores/pharmacies equipped with everything one requires, from aspirin and aftershave to Xanax and Zambuk.
DOCTORS
There are doctors, but most safaris are far from readily accessible medical care.
HOSPITALS
Same as above.
INSURANCE.
Make sure that you are covered by your health insurance when you are away from home and travelling. If this is not the case, we can’t stress enough the importance of having the appropriate travel insurance. Please make sure that you are covered for all medical expenses including the possibility of return transport costs to your country of residence. Other insurance such as for luggage theft or loss should also be taken into consideration as well as an insurance travel cancellation. Refer to your booking terms and conditions part concerning insurance.
NB: It is important that, all travelers should be adequately insured against all eventualities and circumstances. This applies anywhere in the world. There are many companies offering travel insurance, but we offer Travel Guard Insurance. Please click on the Travel Guard link at the bottom of the page for more information and/or to purchase, or ask one of our representatives.
A KIND OF INSURANCE YOU CAN TAKE FOR YOUR SAFARI.
Comprehensive travel insurance is highly recommended for all safaris. Please ensure that your insurance covers cancellation and curtailment, personal accident, medical and baggage. The policy taken out should provide world-wide coverage. International client should purchase insurance prior to their arrival.
NB:
MEDICAL EVACUATION SERVICES
Flying doctors offers air ambulance services in medical emergencies through East Africa. They are the experts in doing that and own their doctors and pilots who operate 24 hours, 7 days a week and throughout the year. In case of emergency, they can evacuate you from the wilderness to the hospital normally in Nairobi (Kenya).
Although this insurance (membership) is not obligated, we recommend you book one for your trip to Tanzania. Then it has different costs per your duration stay as mentioned.
MEDICAL INSURANCE RATES
- 500 km span from Nairobi (which includes all Northern Tanzania National Parks, Kilimanjaro and Kenya): $29 p.p. for 14 days
- 500 km span from Nairobi (which includes all Northern Tanzania National Parks, Kilimanjaro and Kenya): $39 p.p. for 2 months
- 1000 km span from Nairobi (which includes all Tanzania incl. the islands of Zanzibar, Pemba and Mafia and Kenya): $45 p.p. for 14 days
- 1000 km span from Nairobi (which includes all Tanzania incl. the islands of Zanzibar, Pemba and Mafia and Kenya): $60 p.p. for 2 months.
All hospital costs, medical treatments and medicines are not included in this service, so in addition to the membership you should have an adequate travel health insurance.
If you are interested, you can book this insurance with us.
VARIOUS TAXES.
Many Airports in East Africa have a departure tax; this tax is usually paid on site, in cash and is in US Dollars. In addition, there are often short notice changes to East Africa’s tax law (e.g. introduction of Infrastructure tax) which is why we highly recommend that you set aside approx. 50 USD per person in small bills for such often unforeseen expenses.
MONEY.
It is recommended that you bring some money with you on your Safari. NB: Pleas use only US Dollars notes that printed after 2009. . . ) as the US dollars notes printed back from 2009 are not taken/accepted by Bank of Tanzania. On Safari there is a chance to visit other Places of Interest like Cultural Project areas, Museum and Zoo. It is nice to budget for these visits. Euro, Pound and $ Dollars can be used for these activities in Tanzania and can also be changed in the Numerous Bureau de change without problem.
There are also Cash points where by one can withdraw local currency with your Visa Card. At the Barclay’s Bank you can use an EC-Card; and other bank you can use Visa/Master Card. Traveler’s Cheques are generally not accepted, as the fees are too dear. It is also recommended that you bring a credit Card in case of an emergency.
NB: TIPS/GRATUITIES ARE RECOMMENDED INFORM OF CASH.
Tanzania Wildhog Safaris works with safari guide with 5+ years of experience, many of them are among the elite safari guides in East Africa. They are experts in guiding around East Africa in all forms of activities involved, well understanding and explaining various disciplines including natural eco-culture systems, history, biodiversity and wildlife within their habitats, kind and helpful. They are knowledgeable about historical and geological conditions that formed the unique eco-environment and landscapes seen while you’re in East Africa, the predator-prey wildlife habits of the immense variety of species in the region, general knowledge about the African bush and Rift Valley. They are also fluent in various languages including English, German, French, Spanish, and Italian also for Mandarin Chinese translators are available. Trained in many safety procedures and can quickly fix many issue at a moment’s notice that can occur in the rough bush terrain most of which are in their ability.
As such, the tour guide group leader plays a significant role in you having a great, safe and well-informed, enjoyable safari experience and it is the cultural and professional tradition in East African that safari guides receive part of their compensation through the tips and gratitude from the guests.
These compensations through gratuity are completely voluntary and are at your discretion which depend upon your level of satisfaction with your experience and your own cultural guidelines with regards to tipping. As a general guideline however, safari guide are usually presented with a gift which is not less than $20 per person for 2-3 people in one car per day and $ 50 in a group of 4-6 people per one car per day is recommended and it applies for one vehicle per guide leading the tour and $30 per group for any guide that take you on our cultural experiences in their own communities. Gratuities you may want to consider planning for include lodge staff (a fare amounts is appreciated), Porters, Pick nick site and bathrooms cleaner with our guest experience do give $ 1 to $ 2. Base it on your satisfaction, and what you feel is fair they are appreciated.
Regardless of the level of tipping you wish to give our guides, their satisfaction is your enjoyment and to enrich you with a wonderful experience in our region. Please know though that any gratuity should be presented in form of cash at the last day of the Tour/Safari.
MOBILE TELEPHONES.
There is extensive coverage throughout Eastern Africa. In some countries, this may be primarily in and around major urban areas. Before traveling, ask your cell phone service provider to open your phone to allow international roaming. In Tanzania there is well-developed mobile telephone network. Reception is generally first class except in some regions. For further information, we advise you to contact your service provider. Calling codes from East Africa are: to America 0001, to Australia 00061, to New Zealand 00064, to Switzerland 0041, to Germany 0049, to Austria 0043, to UK 0044, to Spain 0034.
ABOUT SAFETY IN AFRICA & PRECAUTIONS TO TAKE.
While on safari in the bush, the only dangerous creatures are wild animals. The people are gracious and hospitable. But as in many cities around the world, there is a need to be careful and vigilant. Never walk in deserted areas at night, try not to look too much like a rich tourist with six cameras hanging around your neck, pockets bulging with dollars and gold chains, rings and diamonds dripping from your person. Be sensible. As in most cities, there are areas which are safe and areas where gangsters and criminals lurk. So choose the safe spots. Ask at your hotel, or ask some locals.
YOU’RE VALUABLES
Like any travel it is best to travel with as little as possible that you cannot replace or do not want to lose. While many precautions are taken with security at each lodge, and while enroot, there can be no guarantee you won’t suffer a loss. It is very rare, but do plan accordingly. Some of the lodges can provide safe deposit boxes, but it is not usual to stay in one lodge for more than a few nights.
ELECTRIC POWER SUPPLY.
Mostly Lodges, Luxury / Tented Camps in and out of the National Parks have got Power supply in form of Solar and Generator. At these Accommodations you can charge the Camera battery, Phone, I Pad or I Pod, Power Banks if any and Mobile phones. The power supply is rated by 230 Volt and 50 Hz. In Tanzania, the British 3 prong plug (G type) is mostly used so we recommend you to have an Adapter. Adapter can be bought in all goods electrical stores. The electricity supply in East Africa is also susceptible to power surges and power cuts at some point’s though is not every day but for some time, pleas be aware that this may damage sensitive equipment such as Notebooks.
SMOKING.
Generally we don’t allow smoking in our vehicles. On all Safari are plenty of stops for Cigarette breaks. Just let your Guide know this from the beginning of your trip and he will be offer you that chance of smoking as their well experienced in the game.
BEHAVIOUR DURING THE SAFARI.
For your safety (and also for the animals), pleas follow the advice and instructions given by your guide. Pleas also don’t feed the animals, pick the plants and Flowers. During the game drives, keep noise to a minimum as the animals react immediately to noise and you might miss the perfect picture, experience of some animal behavior that for sure are not written even in books. Please stay in the Vehicle all the time unless instructed by your guide. We want you to return and leave from the Park in Safety. On night drives and dawn tours, it is advisable to have something warm to wear as the night breeze on the Vehicle can be Chilly. During the day, glasses is an essential as well as drinking water regularly. Other objects such as a binoculars, cameras and hat are items that you should not forget. NB: Your curiosity is your deliverance of the nature feeling to you, passion here must be applied.
FEEDING WILD ANIMALS
Feeding wild animals is not a desirable way to conserve wildlife, nor is such a practice allowed in any game reserve. If you try to feed the wild animals, you place your own life and other people’s lives at risk. Remember that wild animals are Wild Animals.
ESSENTIAL CAMERA EQUIPMENT ON SAFARI.
Binoculars are vital, preferably wide angle from 10×42 are recommended with the nice brand of your own choice. A good 35mm camera with a powerful zoom or telephoto lens will reward you with superb shots. Not that if you wish to come with a camera comprises a bigger lens we are ready to offer Bean Bags for you so as to get a comfortable position of your lens and Camera.
SOUVENIRS & JEWELS
Pleas always pay attention to the import regulations of your respective home country when buying souvenirs or other goods abroad. If you are carrying government trophies, please make sure to be in possession of an import license and receipt from the relevant authorities (this applies to transit clients as well).
TANZANITE A precious stone named in honor of Tanzania for its uniqueness found in just one place on earth and that is Mirerani, a village on the foothills of majestic Mount Kilimanjaro where it was first unearthed in 24 Dec 1961. Poised between lush blue, vibrant violet, and rich purple, exotic tanzanite is the gemstone of its own. It takes a number of procedures to alter the color, apparent clarity, or improve the durability of gems as we turn them into jewelry or beautiful faceted pieces. These are categorized in three qualities named single A, double AA and triple AAA of which double and triple A and the best. While on your safari preparation you may spare some cash for this remarkable stone. Having it will increase the value and memory for your trip to Tanzania.
PROBLEMS WHILE TRAVELLING.
If you have any problem on the tour – usually there are none and we are certain that it will remain so – these can only be solved if your guide knows about them. Please be so kind to tell the guide about your problems. A problem aired is a problem solved and is much better than a letter of complaint after the holiday is over. If you experience no immediate results to your problem, please contact our office in Arusha directly. We will do everything to solve it immediately.
We hope that the Information and detailed explanation given above answers many of your questions. If not, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
We wishes you a marvelous and exhilarating trip, many unforgettable experiences and pleasant memories.
This Family has no more to say rather than saying SEE YOU SOON IN EAST AFRICA.





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