Uganda to Tanzania Overland Safari with Participation Camping - 19 Days

Frequently asked questions

• What types of accommodation are provided on this tour?

  Accommodation consists of 7 nights in basic hotels (single or twin-share), 9 nights of participation camping, and 2 nights of full-service camping.

• What are the facilities like when camping?

  Campsite facilities are generally good but can be basic in certain places. They typically have small restaurants/bars, washing facilities, and sometimes telephones. Toilets are flush, and showers may be outdoors with simple reed enclosures. Warm water is often available but not guaranteed. All camping equipment, except your sleeping bag and pillow, is supplied, including 2-person dome tents and comfortable mattresses. Campsites in national parks can be open to wildlife, requiring care, especially at night.

• What is the physical rating for this tour?

  The physical rating for this tour is 4, meaning it involves a good level of activity, including strenuous trekking for gorillas.

• What types of transportation are used during the tour?

  Transportation includes a custom-built 24-seat overland adventure vehicle (Lando), private 4x4 safari vehicles for Serengeti/Ngorongoro, walking, shared shuttles, tuk-tuks, and ferries. Road conditions can range from new to very poor, leading to long and bumpy travel days.

• What are the main highlights of this trip?

  Highlights include tracking the 'big five' on wildlife safari drives in the Serengeti, camping on the edge of the Ngorongoro Crater, trekking mountain gorillas in Bwindi, optional rafting on the White Nile River in Jinja, and lounging on Zanzibar’s beaches.

• What is the typical group size for this tour?

  The maximum group size is 20, with an average of 18 travelers.

• Is there a single supplement for solo travelers?

  No, our group trips are designed for shared accommodation, and single travelers are paired with someone of the same sex. There is no single supplement on this group trip, with the exception of Night 15 (Bagamoyo Hotel). If a parent/guardian travels with a minor of a different gender, they will be accommodated in a private room.

• How many meals are included in the tour?

  17 breakfasts, 9 lunches, and 9 dinners are included.

• How are meals prepared and are dietary requirements accommodated?

  All included meals are prepared from fresh local produce by your Chief Experience Officers (CEOs) and cooks. There will be a duty schedule for group participation in meal preparation and dishwashing. Vegetarian meals and other dietary requirements need to be specified prior to arrival.

• What currencies are used in Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania, and how can I exchange money?

  The local currencies are Ugandan Shilling (UGX), Kenyan Shilling (KES), and Tanzanian Shilling (TSH). You can exchange foreign currency (US$, British Pound, Euro – US$ notes older than 2006 are not accepted) or use ATMs. Large US$ notes ($50, $100) often get better exchange rates. It's recommended to bring foreign currency as it can be expensive or unlikely to buy locally in rural areas.

• Can I use credit cards or traveler's cheques?

  Traveler's cheques are difficult to exchange and not recommended. Visa/Plus system debit cards are most widely accepted, while Mastercard/Cirrus cards are harder to find machines for. Credit cards can be used in major cities only, often with a 5-10% fee. Do not rely solely on cards due to potential power outages or out-of-order ATMs in rural areas.

• How much emergency money should I bring on this trip?

  We recommend you have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an 'emergency' fund for unforeseen circumstances.

• Who will lead the tour and what kind of support is provided?

  You will be accompanied by a Chief Experience Officer (CEO) and a driver for the Uganda-Nairobi portion, and a CEO for the Nairobi-Zanzibar portion. The CEO manages the group, assists travelers, and has broad knowledge of the region. Local safari crew (expert driver/guide and camp cook) accompany the Serengeti/Ngorongoro segment. Gorilla treks use experienced local mountain guides, trackers, and armed guards. Local guides are also used for other included activities.

• What health information should I consider before the trip?

  Contact your family physician or local travel clinic at least one month before departure for up-to-date health information and recommended inoculations. Carry a basic first-aid kit and hand sanitizers. Medical facilities are basic. Advise your tour leader of any medical conditions.

• Is a Yellow Fever Certificate required for this tour?

  A valid Yellow Fever Certificate is compulsory if traveling to Uganda, Kenya, or Tanzania from a Yellow Fever endemic country, or if transiting through an endemic country's airport for more than 12 hours. Please check country-specific regulations before your departure.

• What about Malaria risk?

  Malaria is a mosquito-borne disease present in some regions. Risk can increase during rainy seasons. We recommend speaking to your doctor about preventative medication (prophylaxis) and regular use of insect repellent.

• What are the visa requirements for Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania?

  All countries require a valid passport (minimum 6 months validity). For Kenya, an Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) is mandatory as of Jan 1, 2024. For Uganda, visas must be obtained through an online Electronic Visa application in advance, with a $50 USD cash payment at the border. For Tanzania, an online Visa application is required (host information can be provided by the tour operator). For Zanzibar, mandatory Inbound Travel Insurance from the Zanzibar Insurance Corporation (ZIC) is required as of Oct 1, 2024.

• Is travel insurance compulsory for this trip?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory. A minimum coverage of USD 200,000 for medical expenses, including emergency evacuation and repatriation, is required. Personal liability, cancellation, curtailment, and loss of luggage and personal effects are strongly recommended.

• Is tipping expected on this tour and what are the guidelines?

  Tipping is an expected, though not compulsory, component of the tour, serving as an expression of appreciation for exceptional service. Suggested guidelines (per person): CEO: $5-8 USD/day; Supply Crew (Serengeti): $2-5 USD/day; Local guides: $2-3 USD/day; Safari Guide/Driver: $2-3 USD/day; Restaurant Staff: 10-15% of bill; Gorilla trekking guides: $2-4 USD/day.

• What are the rules regarding illegal drugs or sex trade?

  Illegal drugs will not be tolerated and contravene local laws. The exploitation of people in the sex trade is completely contrary to the tour philosophy. Our CEOs have the right to expel any group member found with drugs or utilizing paid sex workers.

• What optional activities are available?

  Optional activities include swimming, canoeing, nature walks, motorboat tours, and bird watching at Lake Bunyonyi; boat cruises at Kalinzu Forest Reserve and Lake Mburo; various adventure activities like rafting, quad biking, kayaking, and bungee jumping in Jinja; mountain biking in Mabira Forest; Serengeti Balloon Safari; Zanzibar Express (flight to Zanzibar); and various cultural tours in Stone Town and Jozani Forest.

• What is the participation level expected from travelers?

  An essential part of this safari is participation, including helping with tasks like setting up/packing away tents, meal preparation, and cleaning up. Team spirit and a little effort from everyone help the trip run smoothly.

• Is it possible to track gorillas if I am unwell?

  If you are unwell with anything contagious, even a common cold, you may be denied entry to gorilla and chimp treks to ensure the safety of the animals. Trekking permits are non-refundable if entrance is denied due to illness. Visitors should be in excellent physical condition for these treks.

• Are drones allowed on this tour?

  The use of drones in national parks in Southern Africa is prohibited.