Overview

What is the time difference in East Africa?

• Kenya: GMT +3 hours
• Tanzania: GMT +3 hours
• Uganda: GMT +3 hours
• Rwanda: GMT +2 hours
• Burundi: GMT +2 hours

Visit www.africahubvacations.com and familiarize yourself with our itineraries which will give you a head start as you begin your planning. Once you've settled on a destination, make your booking early to avoid last minute rush.

NB: If our itineraries don't suit your travel need, feel free to This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it your thoughts and we will customize one for you.

Health Information? 

Health is critical as this will determine a great success of your African safari. Get vaccinated – If you are travelling to this part of the world, it is important to protect yourself against infections. Recommended vaccines for travelers heading to Kenya are tetanus, diphtheria, polio, typhoid, hepatitis A and B, yellow fever, rabies and meningitis. Check with your physician in advance of travel to arrange a vaccination schedule.

Do I need a travel visa and if so how can I get one? (www.evisa.go.ke)

Yes. All incoming visitors to Kenya (except East African Citizens and some selected nationalities) will now require a visa, irrespective of nationality. Effective from the 1st September 2015, all nationalities (with the exception of the above) will be required to apply for an e-visa prior to arrival in Kenya.

You can apply for your E-Visa via www.evisa.go.ke. The website is mobile phone-enabled which means you can complete the application from an internet-enabled mobile phone. The system also accepts photos taken and uploaded from a mobile phone. Please note, the website is currently only offered in English although other language versions are being planned.

Alternatively you may contact your nearest Kenyan High Commission/Consulate.

What is the mode of transport?

Depending on the destination's terrain, we normally use different mode of transport. These vary from the 8 seater pop-up tour vans, overland trucks, shuttle vans, land cruisers, flights, rail, ferries among others

Driving?

Driving in Kenya is on the left.

Language?

The official language is English though Swahili is commonly spoken throughout the countries. Interact as much as possible with the locals and get to learn one or two words. Locals will warm up to you if you show an interest in their language.

Donation?

Feel free to bring something to donate; Medical supplies, School supplies, Cash are all useful. If time permits, volunteer and donate your time in a hospital, engage in sports activities, visit the needy, offer your expertise in various fields tutoring etc will enhance your experience and theirs.

Are your packages per day or do they cover the entire Safari?

Our prices cover for the number of days mentioned in our itineraries. They are not daily rates unless otherwise stated

What age do you consider for children rates?

• Below age of 2yrs – Free of charge
• Between 3 and 11yrs – 80% of adult charges
• 12 and above – adult rate apply

Can I use my credit / debit card in East Africa?

• Kenya: Most major credit cards (MasterCard, Visa and American Express) are widely accepted and can be used at most major bank outlets which are widespread in most Kenyan towns. In addition to credit cards, clients should bring US dollars and traveler's cheques accepted in most towns.
• Tanzania: Most top hotels and lodges around the country accept Visa and MasterCard. In addition to credit cards, clients should bring US dollars and traveler's checks accepted in most towns.
• Uganda: Credit cards are accepted at the major hotels. However, there are few other places where international credit cards are accepted.

What is the level of security in the Game /National Parks? (http://www.kws.org)

All our national and game parks are on 24hrs surveillance by Kenya Wildlife Service rangers. All parks have a set of rules that you need to be adhered to ensure your safety. Wild animals you'll come across are considered dangerous. You are requested to stay in your car and keep a reasonable distance.

When is rainy season?

There are two rainy seasons - the "Long Rains" from mid-March to June, and the "Short Rains" from mid-November to mid-December. The Short rainy season derived its "short" synonym because of the duration not the amount of rain. Even though they are called the rainy season, there are still wonderful sunny days during that time.

Do we need travel insurance?

It is strongly recommended that all travelers are individually insured. The travel insurance should cover personal accident, medical expenses and repatriation, trip cancellation and loss of personal effects. Make sure your insurer is aware of the type of travel to be undertaken. Please ensure you have a valid travel insurance policy. Your policy will need to cover you for all the activities listed in our safari expeditions as per the contract entered into.

Why should I travel to East Africa?

Hundreds of thousands of people travel to East Africa every year the home to some of the most stunning natural habitats on earth from the People, Mountain peaks, Rift valley, Great Lakes, Scenic Safari destinations, Pristine waters of the Indian Ocean among others. Wildlife; The BIG FIVE include; Lion, Leopard, Elephant, Cape Buffalo and Rhino. Others vary from Cheetah, Giraffe, Wildebeest, Zebra, Hippopotamus, Crocodiles, Hyena, Gazelle, Warthogs just to name a few. Chances of you getting might close to the incredible wildlife are high. This gives you the opportunity to photograph at the same time enjoy the close glimpse of observing their habits. The prolific bird life is unequaled to none other in the world. You can never go wrong with East Africa as a tourist destination.

When is the best season to go on a safari?

Generally, East Africa (Kenya / Tanzania / Uganda / Rwanda / Zanzibar) is easy to explore and get around during throughout the year. However, the dry season (from late June to October) are peak and the best. In most parks, animals are easier to find especially around water holes and rivers. Likewise, there is less vegetation and wildlife is easier to spot.

The wet season is generally quieter and lodges tend to have rooms available.

The East African "Winter" (June - August) is the time when animals are on the move looking for food and water. In Kenya this is particularly represented by the memorable opportunity of witnessing the migration of over two million wildbeest.

More specifically, it depends on which parks and reserves you want to visit and what you want to see and do. For example bird watching safaris are best in the wet season, though some parks are rewarding all year round (particularly the Serengeti - Mara ecosystem). Temperatures in winter are generally mild but can become considerably cooler in the evening, so pack multiple layers of clothing to ensure you stay comfortable on afternoon game drives and walks.

• Kenya: All year round. Great Migration: June-September. Rainy seasons - March to May and October to November.

• Tanzania: All year round. Mount Kilimanjaro best months: Aug-Oct and Jan-March. Great migration: April-June and Oct-Dec. Rainy season - March to June

• Uganda / Rwanda: All year round. Rainy seasons: March - May and October - November.

When is the best time to view game?

In general, the best times to see game are early morning and late afternoon. In the midday heat, animals frequently retreat to the cool of thick undergrowth, where they cannot be seen. Another benefit to morning and afternoon game drives is witnessing unforgettable sunrises and sunsets.

Will I have access to the Internet while on safari? How about international phone service?

While communications in remote camps may be limited, most major hotels and lodges offer Internet services as well as international telephone and fax services. Additionally, private communication centers and cyber cafes in larger towns enable tourists to stay connected. Some centers may close on Sundays and public holidays. The cellular networks within East Africa cover most large towns.

What photography advice can you give?

A good camera will make the difference between having photos of spectacular wildlife and having vague, little dots of animals to show family and friends. The more common "point-and-shoot" cameras are too small. On safari, you won't always be able to get up close to wildlife. A SLR (single lens reflex) camera with a 200-300mm lens is recommended. More serious photographers may choose telephoto lenses of 400 or 500mm. Larger lenses often require a tripod, which cannot be used on a moving vehicle. A 2x teleconverter is useful for doubling the focal length of your lens. A zoom lens, such as a 70 to 210 mm lens, is probably the best option for shooting a moving subject.

The harsh East African sun provides excellent lighting, but using larger lenses will require faster film, especially in early morning or late afternoon when the light is softer. In this case, 200-400 ASA film is recommended.

Film and batteries are usually available along major tourist routes and from lodges, but it is wise to bring your own (particularly a spare battery). A lens hood and ultra violet filter are advisable. A good bag for your equipment including a dust cover (plastic bag) is essential. Important Note: Not all East African cultures are familiar with cameras. Rural folk will often shy away from having their picture taken. Please be sensitive. Some locals may ask a fee for having their photograph taken. It is recommended you avoid photographing anything relating to government and military installations, including personnel (soldiers and police) and buildings (post offices, banks, airports, border posts, railway stations and bridges).

Is the water safe to drink?

The quality of tap water can vary by destination. It's advisable to drink bottled water.

Do you consider tour participants with special needs?

Yes. Special dietary requirements are catered for throughout East Africa. On our safaris we also cater for vegetarians, vegans & non-vegetarians. Kindly give us advance notice so that we can make arrangements with the lodges and camps you are scheduled to stay at.

Most restaurants offer selections for vegetarians, depending on their forte. Local specialties can be surprisingly good! With the exception of a few lodges, kosher food & halaal is not available at most camps/lodges.

What safety issues should I consider while traveling?

Basic precautions should be taken in all countries. Tour guides are highly experienced in navigating each destination. Visitors should always be aware of their surroundings especially in any rural villages that may be wary of foreigners. Guests should limit the amount of cash they carry around and lock their valuables in a hotel safe or other secure place. Lock hotel rooms when you leave. Do not walk alone in deserted areas at night. Take extra care of purses, bags and wallets in crowded places. Do not display your valuables (money, jewelry etc) to the world; this will keep you from being the target of theft. When changing currency, do so in a reputable hotel, foreign exchange bureau or bank.

What is the currency?

• The currency in Kenya is the shilling. One American dollar equals approximately 83 shillings. However this is subject to the daily exchange rate.
• ATMs: ATMs are everywhere in most cities.

NB: PLEASE ENSURE THAT ALL THE US DOLLAR NOTES YOU BRING ARE NEWER THAN THE YEAR 2000: THE BANKS & FOREX BUREAUS DO NOT ACCEPT OLDER NOTES & NEITHER DO WE.

Tipping?

Tipping is discretionary in East Africa but we highly recommend you reward and appreciate good service by way of tipping and gratuity.

What are the voltage requirements in Kenya?

Voltage: 220/240 V 50hz; Plugs are 3 point square. You will need a voltage converter, and plug adapter in order to use U.S. appliances. We recommend getting a universal adapter and converter kit.

What are the best items to shop for in Kenya?

Shop for wood carvings of animals and people, sisal baskets, Maasai and Kikuyu beadwork, hand-woven sarong fabric, soapstone, gourds, ebony carvings, batik wall hangings, tanzanite gemstones, and malachite. Some of the best handcrafts of Kenya and other countries in Africa are sent to Nairobi. Visit artist cooperatives to buy directly from artists. Note: There have been problems with not receiving souvenirs shipped home, so we advise you carry them home in your luggage.

Planning & packing guide

What should I pack?

1. It is often said that Kenya is a cold country with a hot sun, as the blend of high altitudes and tropical sun make for a unique and variable climate. This should be kept in mind when packing for a visit. Both temperatures and climate vary drastically from region to region and even throughout a single day. Basically the traveler should come prepared for hot, cold, wet and dusty conditions.
2. Packing for a trip to Kenya and the other East Africa countries requires some careful thought and consideration. Ultimately your packing should be dictated by the activities you are planning to undertake. A medium sized suitcase and an overnight bag is the usual baggage allowance on most safaris. Departing Kenya, please ensure that the baggage total weight does not exceed 23 kilos per person. On the local charter flights only 15 kilos baggage is allowed. We suggest that you limit the baggage weight as much as possible to avoid payment of excess weight.
3. If you are traveling extensively throughout the country make sure that you bring suitable luggage. Suitcases and bags should be able to withstand plenty of handling and dusty conditions. Hard suitcases are ideal but can take up a lot of space.
4. If you are traveling by domestic/chartered flights within Kenya, remember that there are luggage restrictions, particularly on smaller aircraft. Check in advance with your Charter airline or Safari/Tour operator.
5. For those planning a lot of travel by public transport or trekkers, a backpack is advisable. Bring a sturdy, well constructed pack with orthopedic support and lockable zips and catches.
6. A small daypack is ideal for carrying cameras, travel documents and basic everyday items.
7. Equal consideration should be paid to what you bring with you.
8. Casual, lightweight, and comfortable clothing is usually the best. For walking safaris or game viewing on foot clothing should be of neutral or earth colors. White, bright or vividly patterned clothing should be avoided while in the parks. Studies have proven that most African game animals are able to see bright blue over any other color.
9. Strong footwear is advisable if you are planning to do any walking. For serious climbers and trekkers a good pair of hiking boots should be brought with you.
10. Remember that the tropical/Equatorial sun is strong and burns quickly. Wide brimmed hats are preferable to baseball caps for sun protection. Both sunglasses and a good quality sunscreen (rated SPF15 or higher) should be used.
11. A good quality insect repellent is worth bringing.
12. In some areas, mostly coastal, it is considered inappropriate for women (and in some cases men) to wear shorts or short sleeved shirts. It is always best to seek local advice.
13. For some up-market lodges and nights out in Nairobi you may wish to bring some more formal evening wear.
14. You should bring your own Toiletries with you. Basic toiletry items are widely available.
15. Any personal Prescription drugs should be brought if necessary. Also bring the generic names for these drugs in case they need to be replaced locally. If you have prescription glasses it is wise to bring a spare pair.
16. For those planning lengthy treks or camping expeditions, a basic medical kit is also a good idea. A small Flashlight/Torch and a Swiss Army knife are good accessories to carry.
17. If you have a video camera battery charger or any other electrical items, bring your own converter plug set if needed (the electricity supply is 220 Volt, 50 Hz with a square pin 13 amp plug).
18. With the latest trends in technology, please consider carrying a power bank with its charger.
19. A good quality pair of Binoculars is essential for effective game viewing.
20. Climbers can hire equipment, ropes and gear in Kenya, but may wish to bring their own personal kit and equipment.
21. Divers will find excellent dive gear for hire in Kenya, but may also wish to bring their own regulators or dive computers. Those with prescription masks should definitely bring them along. Dive Certification Cards and log documents should be brought along.
22. All travel documentation should be kept together securely. This should include tickets, Passports (with appropriate visa entries), Vaccination Certificates, and Travel Insurance documents.
23. Additional photocopies of Passport, Air ticket and Traveler's Cheque numbers should be brought and packed separately. Use our personalized Kenya Travel kit to print records of all this information. Take several copies with you and leave some at home.
24. Carry your credit cards together with Traveler's Cheques and some U.S. Dollars cash.

What will I see on safari?

1. The greatest profusion of animal, bird and plant life on earth. You roam across the countryside in search of Elephant, Lion, Rhino, Buffalo and Leopard (the so-called "Big Five"). On any given day, you will encounter Blue Wildebeest, Zebra, large variety of antelope species, Gazelle, Giraffe, Baboon and Hippo. The bird life is fantastic - in some areas up to 400 bird species have been identified! Think of the majestic Baobab tree (some tribes believe that the tree was indeed planted upside-down!) and the hundreds of varieties of thorn trees! The acacia-dotted landscape, endless plains, majestic mountains and the most beautiful sunsets and sunrises' one could ever imagine. Think of a late afternoon thunderstorm, short but violent then the beautiful rainbow when the clouds clear.
2. And oh!... The romantic evenings around a camp fire, with a star-filled sky like you have never seen before!

What is the level of comfort like?

We use a combination of luxury safari lodges and wilderness camps for accommodation purposes. The average Africa Hub Safari expedition will spend 3-5 nights at various luxury lodges / hotels and 3 - 7 at wilderness camps.

All of the safari lodges offer haute cuisine, fine wines and five-star service. The wilderness camps are of a traditional outdoor camping style rather than offering the glitzy trappings of some safari lodges. The emphasis is on exclusive locations, stunning wildlife, your own all-terrain vehicle and a first-class guide who provides you with the freedom to go wherever you could possibly fancy.

How many hours will we be driving per day and do we drive at night?

We aim to leave by 8am each morning. The early morning is the best time to view wildlife in Africa and the African climate warrants early morning departures.Our guides always aim to avoid travelling in peak heat. We intend to arrive at your final destination early afternoon so as to allow plenty of time to set-up camp. If we are staying at a safari lodge, this allows you to check into the lodge and be able to relax and enjoy your dinner at sunset.

Do I need special skills and/or fitness?

Other than enjoying spending time in the outdoors, our safari expeditions are suitable for all reasonably fit people. You can pick and mix whichever activities are realistically achievable for you.  The upper age limit for our safari expeditions is 70 years, however clients between the age of 70 and 75 years may be accepted provided they produce a medical certificate stating that they are fit enough to travel.

If you are disabled please contact us to find out if the particular safari expedition will be comfortable for you. We will do our very best to fulfill your requirements.

Is an Africa Hub safari expedition for me?

Of course yes. We believe we have the Key to unlock your dream of an African vacation!

So why not take a break from the rat-race, reconnect with nature and try looking at life from a different perspective for a while? We guarantee to put a big smile on your face as you hangout with us!