Essential Tanzania Safari

ACCOMMODATION

STANDARD
   

Day

Hotel/Lodge/Camp

1

Manyara KatiKati Camp

2

Singing Grass Serengeti

3

Singing Grass Serengeti

4

Marera View Lodge

5

Marera View Lodge

6

Depart

DELUXE
   

Day

Hotel/Lodge/Camp

1

Kilima Moja Manyara Lodge

2

Serengeti Serena Safari Lodge

3

Serengeti Serena Safari Lodge

4

The Retreat at Ngorongoro

5

The Retreat at Ngorongoro

6

Depart

QUOTATION FULL ITINERARY.

DAY 1: ARUSHA/LAKE MANYARA: L, D.

Pick-up ex Arusha after breakfast. Safari briefing and introduction to your driver guide. Depart for Lake Manyara National Park. Arrive, check-in and lunch at your camp/Lodge. Afternoon game drives. Lake Manyara National Park is unique for its diverse and distinct Ecological zones ranging from the rocky Rift wall and ground water forest to woodland, open grassland, thermal springs and swamp. This diversity of habitat allows the visitor to see a wide variety of wildlife in a relatively small area. Look out for the rare tree-climbing Lions, monkeys galore in the tropical rain forest, hippo and flamingo around the lake and plenty of plains game grazing on the savannah. Spend 1 night on full board.

DAY 2: LAKE MANYARA/SERENGETI: B, L, D

Breakfast at the lodge. Depart for Serengeti National Park via Ngorongoro. Arrive, enter through Nabi gate and game drives en-route to your lodge/camp. Arrive for check-in and lunch. Afternoon game drives. Spend the next 2 nights at the lodge on full board.

DAY 3: SERENGETI: B, L, D

Full day spent in the park with morning and afternoon game drives. The Serengeti eco-system contains the greatest concentration of wildlife in Africa. The varied topography and seasons create a hugely diverse range of landscapes and changing wildlife habitats. The wet season starts with the short rains in November and ends with the long rains in April/May. The dry season runs from June to October although this is more extreme in the south than in the north. Great herds of migratory wildebeest, zebra and antelope roam the plains together with their attendant predators such as lion, cheetah, hyena and jackal. The open short grass plains dotted with rock outcrops "kopjes" dominate the south and provide nutritious food for the Wildebeest and their new born calves during Dec to April. look out for hippo and crocodile along the river banks and leopard in the forest. Heading North to Lobo, the plains give way to wooded hills with rocky outcrops and a favourite area for elephants. Here in the north, there is enough rain throughout the year to keep the grasslands nutritious and there are plenty of resident plains game and big cats. Central Serengeti has enough grass year-round to support a large and varied selection of plains game together with the predators such as lion, cheetah, hyena and jackal. Giraffe, buffalo and elephant can also be found. Don't forget to look out for hippo and crocodile along the river banks and leopard in the forest. All meals and overnight stay will be at your lodge/camp.

DAY 4: SERENGETI/NGORONGORO: B, L, D

Breakfast at the camp. Depart for Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Arrive, check-in and lunch at your lodge/camp. Afternoon at leisure. Spend the next 2 nights at the lodge on full board.

DAY 5: NGORONGORO: B, L, D.

Breakfast at the camp. Picnic lunch boxes will be provided. Depart for Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Arrive and descend into Ngorongoro Crater floor for game drives. A first glimpse of Ngorongoro leaves one literally breathless. Once a huge volcano, probably larger than Kilimanjaro, it is now a vast circular amphitheatre, spectacularly beautiful and a garden of Eden for huge numbers of wildlife. The animals are resident throughout the year and it is not difficult to find four of the "Big Five" elephant, lion, buffalo and rhino. Spotting leopard requires sharp eyes and a bit of luck! Centrepiece of the extensive floor is Crater lake with its pink mantle of Flamingo and other birdlife.  Later exit and drive back to Karatu. Dinner and overnight stay will be at your lodge/camp.

DAY 6: DEPART: B, L,

Breakfast at the lodge. Depart for Arusha. Arrive and transferred to Arusha Coffee Lodge for lunch. Afternoon transferred to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your international flight out.

*****End of our services*****

NET COSTS VALID FOR 2024.

Standard Safari.

Using -7-Seater 4x4 Land Cruiser.

VALIDITY- 2024

2 Pax

3 Pax

4 Pax

5 Pax

6 Pax

7 Pax

SRS

January

$2845

$2510

$2345

$2245

$2175

$2130

$365

February

$2845

$2510

$2345

$2245

$2175

$2130

$365

March

$2525

$2190

$2025

$1925

$1855

$1810

$265

April

$2445

$2110

$1940

$1840

$1775

$1730

$245

May

$2445

$2110

$1940

$1840

$1775

$1730

$245

June

$2525

$2190

$2025

$1925

$1855

$1810

$265

July

$2845

$2510

$2345

$2245

$2175

$2130

$365

August

$2845

$2510

$2345

$2245

$2175

$2130

$365

September

$2585

$2255

$2085

$1985

$1920

$1870

$290

October

$2585

$2255

$2085

$1985

$1920

$1870

$290

November

$2460

$2125

$1960

$1860

$1790

$1745

$250

1-15 December

$2570

$2235

$2070

$1970

$1900

$1859

$280

16-30 December

$2845

$2510

$2345

$2245

$2175

$2130

$365

Deluxe Safari.

Using -7-Seater 4x4 Land Cruiser.

VALIDITY- 2024

2 Pax

3 Pax

4 Pax

5 Pax

6 Pax

7 Pax

SRS

January

$3115

$2780

$2610

$2510

$2445

$2395

$305

February

$3230

$2895

$2730

$2630

$2565

$2515

$330

March

$2640

$2310

$2140

$2040

$1975

$1925

$335

April

$2465

$2130

$1965

$1860

$1795

$1750

$185

May

$2465

$2130

$1965

$1860

$1795

$1750

$185

June

$2465

$2130

$1965

$1860

$1795

$1750

$185

July

$3265

$2930

$2769

$2665

$2595

$2550

$350

August

$3265

$2930

$2769

$2665

$2595

$2550

$350

September

$3265

$2930

$2769

$2665

$2595

$2550

$350

October

$3265

$2930

$2769

$2665

$2595

$2550

$350

November

$2640

$2310

$2140

$2040

$1975

$1925

$335

1-15 December

$2640

$2310

$2140

$2040

$1975

$1925

$335

16-30 December

$3265

$2930

$2769

$2665

$2595

$2550

$350

Notes.

  • We will revise prices where dates overlap in two different months.
  • Easter and Festive season supplements are not included and will be added if the booking falls on respective dates. Supplements will be advised upon request.
  • Children/Triple /Quad rates will be on request.
  • There has been a communication by Masai Mara Park Authorities on an increase in park entry fees for 2024. This is not official yet, but once it is effected, then we shall revise the rates accordingly.
  • Masai Mara National Reserve and Mara Triangle operates on a 12 hour park policy, and all clients must exit the park by 10am on the last day. Failure to do so, an extra park fee will be charged directly to the guest.
  • Hotels/Parks and other tour components providers reserve the right to alter the rates, hence above are subject to change. Communications will be passed accordingly.

Safari Cost includes; -

  • Meet and greet services.
  • Accommodation on safari on full board.
  • All Airport transfers in Nairobi.
  • Park fees.
  • Game drives on safari.
  • Extras as indicated on the program.
  • Transport in our customized 7-seater safari vehicle with English speaking guide.
  • Complementary ½ litre bottle of mineral water per person per day in our vehicle.
  • Services of an English-speaking driver guide.
  • WIFI onboard in all our vehicle.
  • Our assistance.

Cost excludes; -

  • Tips and porterages
  • Drinks and Laundry
  • Extra meals and visits not indicated
  • Visa fees
  • Personal medical and travel insurance
  • International flights and departure taxes

Additional remarks: -

  • We may have to reroute the itinerary or accommodate in similar lodges in case of non-availability
  • Prices for domestic flights, airport taxes or park fees may be changed without prior notice. This is beyond our control and any increase levied will be passed to you.

Passenger Information: -

  • Passengers should bring only soft sided bags on safaris
  • All the passengers must have Identification Card/Passport with them for internal flights.
  • Baggage on internal flights is strictly limited to 15kgs per person (including hand luggage).
  • Any excess baggage will be charged by the airline at check-in.
  • Passengers arriving in Kenya and Tanzania may be asked to present a valid Yellow
  • Fever Vaccination Certificate.

The price quoted and services will be subject change depending on availability at the time of booking.

SAFARI TIPS.

While planning an East African Safari can seem like a daunting task, it doesn’t have to be! Take the stress out of the experience with this helpful summary of the key things you need to think about before you jet off. Once you have all of them covered, you can sit back, relax, and look forward to your safari adventure.

Note: 

While this is a general guide to vaccinations required for your East African safari, you should always visit your doctor before your departure to obtain the best advice. A pre-trip health check and discussion of what vaccines are necessary for you, as well as how to deal with any unique health concerns, is imperative for a safe and enjoyable safari.

4. Clothing

On an East African safari, you should go for comfort and convenience when it comes to your clothing. Some of the things you should remember, include:

  • Bring lightweight layers in both long and short lengths, plus socks, sleepwear, and swim wear.
  • Always take a sweater or fleece jacket, as it can get quite chilly at night and during early mornings.
  • Unless you’re planning to trek, bulky hiking boots are rarely necessary. However, a comfortable pair of lightweight trainers are a must and if you’re planning on going to the beach after your safari, don’t forget your flip-flops.
  • Don’t forget a hat, as you’ll want to protect your face and scalp from the equatorial sun.
  • It’s not recommended to wear bright colors on safari, so consider buying some khaki, dark green, or darker colored clothes before your trip.

Passports & Visas

  • A full passport with at least six-month validity from the date of departure is generally required for travel.
  • It is recommended that travelers contact the relevant Consulate/Embassy prior to travel for current visa requirements. 

Applying for a Kenyan Visa

  • NEW VISA REQUIREMENT: From 01 January 2021 all visitors requiring a visa to enter Kenya will need to apply for an e-visa online, 
  • in advance before leaving their country or boarding the aircraft.
  • No Visas will be issued on arrival in Kenya. Click this link for more information about how to apply. http://evisa.go.ke/evisa.html $50 USD application fee

Applying for an East African Visa

One of the greatest things to happen to East African tourism over the past few years is the introduction of the East African visa. This visa allows you access to Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda, and it’s not only a time saver, but it also works out considerably cheaper than purchasing individual visas.

To apply for the East African Visa, you’ll need the following:

  • A passport with at least six months validity
  • One standard sized passport photograph
  • A completed application form

Tip: It’s important that you apply for the East African visa with the country from which you will begin your travels. The visa will be valid for 90 days from the date marked in your passport.

Currency

  • Credit & debit cards (MasterCard, American Express, Diners Club and Visa) are widely accepted in the cities.
    ATMs banks and Bureau de Changes are found throughout major towns. Cash is king, although it is advised that you limit the amount of money you carry on your person.
  • Some African countries will accept USD, GBP or EUROs, but Kenya requires Rand (KES).
  • Most safaris are all-inclusive when it comes to food and drink, but you still need money for certain activities, local purchases, and tipping. That’s why it’s a good idea to carry some local currency with you.

Carrying US Dollars

The US dollar is widely accepted by international hotels and safari camps in East Africa and travellers cheques are also an option. Visa cards are usually a safe bet, no matter where you go.

Tip: You may want to consider changing money at the airports, as banks there usually give better exchange rates than hotels.

Health & Medical Facilities

*** All of the countries we represent are Ebola free ***

  • Ensure that you have adequate travel & health insurance cover. 
  • South Africa has excellent medical care and facilities compare favorably with international standards.  
    Malaria Vaccinations & Yellow Fever Certificates may be required for certain countries.
  • Please consult your local doctor or travel clinic for advice prior to departure for appropriate medication.

Vaccinations and Health Requirements

When travelling to East Africa, there is only one shot that is compulsory, and that is the yellow fever vaccine, but there are other health precautions and vaccinations recommended by the WHO and CDC, which include:

  • Typhoid
  • Hepatitis A and B
  • Meningitis
  • Polio
  • Influenza
  • Measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR)

Tipping

Tipping is optional and dependent on the level of service. Although it is customary and considered an insult if you do not.

  • As a guideline, a minimum of 10% should be added to restaurant bills.
  • For guides and/or drivers please calculate USD 5 - 9 per person per day (or equivalent).
  • For rangers and trackers when on safari please calculate USD 5 - 9 per person per day (or equivalent).
  • Porterage ranges between USD 1 - 2 per person per service (or equivalent).
  • For helpful petrol attendants, USD 1 (or equivalent) is perfectly acceptable.
  • When assisted by a car guard, it is a custom to tip USD 1 

Tax

Value-added-tax (VAT) of 14% / 16% is charged on most items.

When visiting South Africa & Namibia, be sure to request a tax invoice for larger purchases as foreign visitors may claim back VAT paid on items taken out of the country when the total valued exceeds USD 18.93. It is advisable to keep these purchases in your hand luggage as you will need to present the items at the VAT Refund Administration for inspection and endorsement of the tax invoices when departing the country.
A Tax Invoice must include the following:

  • The words "Tax Invoice"
  • A Tax Invoice number
  • The seller's VAT Registration number
  • Date of Issue of the Tax Invoice
  • The seller's name and address
  • The buyer's name and address
  • A full description of the goods purchased
  • The cost of the goods in Rands
  • The amount of VAT charged or a statement that VAT is included in the total cost

Wildlife Photography

Animals don't stop for selfies, so be quick on the finger!

  • Avoid getting too close, some animals are dangerous and in the wild - uncontrollable. 
    Experiment at home in the garden and with the cat or dog to learn how your camera works and perfect your technique. For instance, which is the anti-motion, or motion button? Does it have a landscape function? What sort of zoom range does it have? How do you set it to manual and change the aperture and shutter speed?
  • Observe the animals silently and with a minimum of disturbance - loud talking on game drives can frighten the wildlife away. Early morning and evening game drives offer exceptional lighting opportunities.
  • Don’t be in a hurry to cover the most distance, stay in a well set up position for a while – you’ll be amazed by what may enter your frame.

most importantly, be sure to enjoy the whole view – not just the one from behind your lens. Stop and look around every once in a while!

Safety

Most areas are as safe as any other destination in the world, however, basic common-sense precautions should be used:

  • Ask the concierge at your hotel which areas are safe to walk around in and when
    Travel in groups or pairs and always choose well-lit areas
  • Order taxis or transport ahead of time
  • Carry only as much cash as necessary
  • Don't leave your property unattended
  • Be aware of pickpockets and petty criminals
  • Don’t draw attention to yourself by flaunting valuables around openly or counting your cash at the ATM
    Carry a copy of your passport in a separate section of your luggage

What to Bring on Safari

Clothing
Most lodges and safari camps offer laundry as part of their service, so you can afford to pack lightly.

  • 2x khaki/brown cotton trousers
  • 2x pairs khaki/brown shorts
  • 3x long sleeved shirts/blouses
  • 1x fleece/jersey
  • 1x lightweight, waterproof jacket
  • 1x Swimming costume
  • 1x Walking or hiking boots
  • 1x Sandals
  • 4x short-sleeved shirts or T-shirts
  • 5x underwear 5x socks
  • 1x Hat with a brim
  • 1x Gloves (if you really feel the cold)
  • 1x Sarong or kikoi type garment

The Must-Haves For Your East African Safari

Before you leave for your East African Safari, make sure to have these items packed and ready to go:

  • Mosquito repellant
  • Sunblock/Body lotion
  • Any prescription drugs (keep these in your hand luggage)
  • A camera
  • Electrical adaptors
  • Sunglasses
  • Binoculars (a pair per person)
  • A small bag or day pack

The Basics

  • Sunscreen
  • Toiletries
  • Insect repellent
  • Sunglasses
  • Camera (with extra memory card and batteries)
  • Binoculars 
  • Lip balm
  • Hand wipes
  • Wildlife checklist (or just paper) & a pen

Cancellation Policy.

In the event of written cancellation, the following forfeiture of the programme cost will be assessed based on the number of days prior to programme departure that the cancellation was received:

  • 90-60 days prior 20% of the programme cost
  • 59-30 days prior to 50% of the programme cost
  • 29 days or less 100% of the programme cost