Classic Serengeti & Zanzibar - 13 Days

Frequently asked questions

• What are the main highlights of this tour?

  The main highlights include wildlife drives in the Serengeti, savoring traditional cuisine in a local village, taking in the views at Ngorongoro Crater, meeting local artisans on a village walk, exploring the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Stone Town, taking in the aromas of a spice plantation tour, and relaxing on a tropical beach.

• What kind of accommodation can I expect on this trip?

  Accommodation consists of simple hotels for 8 nights and full-service camping for 4 nights. Camping in Tanzania is an adventure where you'll be close to nature, staying in designated campsites that are generally basic. Tents are pitched for you, meals prepared, and washing up handled by staff. In Zanzibar, you'll stay in standard, twin-share hotel accommodation in Stone Town and on the beach. Camps are open to the natural environment, so care must be taken at night.

• What meals are included in this trip?

  The tour includes 12 breakfasts, 5 lunches, and 4 dinners. Camp meals are prepared from fresh local produce. Breakfasts are generally cereals, lunches are light meals like sandwiches or salads, and evening meals are hot continental and local dishes. Vegetarian and other dietary requirements need to be specified prior to arrival. Bottled drinking water is at your own expense.

• What is the maximum group size for this tour?

  The maximum group size is 14 travelers, with an average group size of 10.

• Are local flights included in the cost of the trip?

  Yes, all local flights, such as the scenic flight from Arusha to Zanzibar, are included in the cost of your tour unless otherwise noted. Internal flight tickets are issued locally and provided before departure.

• Are international flights included in this trip?

  No, international flights are generally not included in the price of your tour, unless it's a combo tour traveling between two different countries where they might be included. It is recommended to contact your airline for baggage allowances and check-in online in advance.

• Who will be leading the group?

  Throughout the safari portion of the trip, you will be accompanied by a Chief Experience Officer (CEO), a certified safari driver/guide, and a camp cook. The CEO manages the trip and assists you. On Zanzibar, you will have a separate CEO who provides local information, activity suggestions, and recommendations.

• What are the modes of transportation on this trip?

  Transportation includes public shuttles, 7-seat 4x4 safari vehicles (designed for wildlife viewing), planes for transfers like Arusha to Zanzibar, minibuses on Zanzibar, and walking. Speed governors are used on vehicles for safety, and seat belts are mandatory. Road conditions can be challenging with long drives.

• Is there an extra cost for traveling solo, or can I get my own room?

  Solo travelers are generally paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex at no extra cost. However, if you book the 'My Own Room/Tent' option, you will receive your own single room/tent for all night stops for an additional fee.

• How old must I be to join this trip?

  You must be 18 to travel unaccompanied. For minors traveling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.

• Should I be tipping on my trip?

  Tipping is expected, though not compulsory, and serves as an appreciation for exceptional service. Guidelines suggest: CEO: $5 USD (per day), Driver: $5 USD (per day), Supply crew: $2-5 USD (per day), Local guides: $1 USD (per couple of hours), Restaurant/café servers: 10% of the bill. It is recommended to pool tips anonymously within the group and present them together.

• What is the local currency and how should I handle money?

  The local currency is Kenyan Shilling (KES) in Kenya and Tanzanian Shilling (TSH) in Tanzania. US Dollars are the easiest foreign currency to exchange, but British Pounds and Euros are also accepted. Note that US dollar notes older than 2006 are not accepted. ATMs are available in major centers but can be unreliable. Credit cards are accepted in major cities but not widely. A combination of foreign currency and debit/credit cards for cash advances is best. An emergency fund of at least USD $200 is recommended.

• What activities are optional on this trip?

  Optional activities include: Nairobi (Bomas of Kenya Tour, The Carnivore Restaurant, National Museum, Karen Blixen Museum), Serengeti National Park (Serengeti Balloon Safari), Stone Town (Stone Town Walking Tour, Christ Church Cathedral & Old Slave Market, Sultan's Palace Museum), Jambiani (Swimming, Swahili Cultural Tour, Snorkelling), and Jozani Forest (Jozani Forest Tour), Nungwi (Scuba Diving). Costs vary per activity.

• Are there any health considerations I should know before traveling?

  You should contact your family physician or local travel clinic for up-to-date health information at least one month before departure. A basic first-aid kit and hand sanitizers are recommended. Medical facilities are basic. Advise your tour leader of any medical conditions. A Yellow Fever certificate may be required for entry into certain countries on the tour.

• What should I know about safety and security on my trip?

  Carry a neck wallet or money belt for valuables. Leave expensive jewelry at home. Use hotel safety deposit boxes. A lock for luggage is recommended. Your group leader may adjust the itinerary for safety reasons. While cities are generally safe during the day, travel in small groups and use taxis at night. Water-based activities should only be done with a guide. Swimming/snorkeling is at your own risk. In Nairobi and Arusha, avoid flaunting valuables, don't wander alone at night, and be wary of con artists or unofficial safari touts. Do not photograph police stations, airports, military, or government buildings.

• What are the visa and entry requirements?

  All countries require a valid passport with a minimum of 6 months validity. Contact your local embassy for up-to-date visa requirements. For Kenya, an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) is mandatory as of January 1st, 2024. For Tanzania, visa applications can be done online. As of October 1st, 2024, Zanzibar will introduce mandatory Inbound Travel Insurance. A Yellow Fever certificate may also be required.

• What should I know about electricity on the trip?

  The power supply in Tanzania is nominally 240VAC, 50hz, but variable voltage, spikes, and sporadic power cuts are common. There are no charging facilities at the Serengeti and Ngorongoro campsites; travelers can charge portable power banks in the vehicle when it's in motion.

• When can I do my laundry on this trip?

  Hand washing facilities are available at most campsites, and biodegradable soap is recommended. Your start/end hotels also offer laundry services for a fee.

• What is Planeterra?

  Planeterra International Foundation is a non-profit organization that helps local communities benefit from tourism by developing and supporting community-owned businesses, empowering women, providing youth employment, and protecting the environment. As the largest corporate donor, G Adventures covers all operating costs, ensuring 100% of donations go directly to Planeterra projects.

• What happens if I experience problems when arriving, specifically regarding transfers?

  If you have a pre-booked airport transfer and don't make contact with the representative within 30 minutes of clearing customs, it's recommended to make your own way to the starting hotel via taxi and seek a refund for the transfer cost upon your return. Emergency contact numbers are provided for assistance.