| |||
| |||
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
||||||||||
 | |||||||||||||||
|
|||||||||||||||
| |||||||||||||||
|
|||||||||||||||
| |||||||||||||||
 | |||||||||||||||
| |||||||||||||||
|
Leading Edge Safaris is committed to protecting and conserving the environment through the promotion and practicing of eco-tourism. For more information or to become an active supporter of this philosophy, 
|
|
| Frequently Asked Questions |
|
Which is the best time to take my safari? What is the weather like? What will I see on Safari? How are the people and what languages are used? Is it safe to have my children with me during the safari? What taxes and additional costs apply for my safari? When does the famous animal migration take place? How long is the flight to Kenya or Tanzania Do we need travel insurance? Are there any Visa requirements to travel to Kenya or Tanzania? When is the best time to view game? Why should I go to Kenya and/or Tanzania? What about bugs? Will I have access to the Internet while on safari? How about international phone service? Is tap water safe to drink? What safety issues should I consider while traveling? Will I be able to use my electrical equipment while on Safari? What is the risk of malaria? What shots do I need before I travel? What is the nature of accommodation during the Safari? What are the meals like? Can I customize my Safari? What customs do I need to be aware of? What do I wear? Do I need to dress up? Do I get to meet the local people? Can you make my flight arrangements? Are the roads really bumpy? How much do I pay and when is it due? |
|
Which is the best time to take my safari?
Kenya and Tanzania are great year round destinations. The main tourist season is in January and February, since the hot, dry weather at this time of year is generally considered to be the most pleasant. Its also when bird life flocks to the Rift Valley lakes in the greatest numbers. June to September could be called the shoulder season as the weather is still dry. July/August and December are the busiest times in Kenya and Tanzania when parks and lodges get a bit crowded and reservations often must be made at least 6 to 8 months in advance.
Back to top of FAQ list |
|
What is the weather like?
The weather both in Kenya and Tanzania can best be described as nice all year round. Of the two rainy seasons - the Long Rains (March to May), and the Short Rains (November to December) do not affect game drive. Even during the rainy season, it is sunny most of the day. The Short rainy season and is only called short 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. It might open up a huge downpour for an hour or so, but other than that you will be fine. Morning and afternoon game drives are usually not affected. You can usually save up to 20% on your tour by booking during these times.
Back to top of FAQ list |
|
What will I see on Safari?
We aim to please and relax you. There are the people, animals, birds, nature, towns etc. You will find a very rich culture and our guides have special talent in spotting much more than you woud otherwise see. And they are there to guide you towards full . A visit to a local village (if part of your itinerary) to see how the local people gives you more insight on the way of live of a local. Tanzania is a beautiful country and with an open mind and a sense of adventure, you spot tons of thinks different from your country that is unique to Tanzania.
Back to top of FAQ list |
|
How are the people and what languages are used?
The people are not only hospitable but you will find them to be among the most pleasant people you have encountered. While the national language is Swahili in both Kenya and Tanzania, English is well understood by many people being the official language in Kenya. Swahili is the more dominant language in Tanzania. You will also find many other dialects in use by local communities and a rich culture for the different tribes in the region. The bottom line is that language will not be a barrier during your safari.
Back to top of FAQ list |
|
Is it safe to have my children with me during the safari?
Both Kenya and Tanzania are very good destinations for families. Available facilities cater for the family setup and the family would definitely have an unforgettable experience if you share your safari with them. However, depending on the age of the children, certain precautions and care is necessary. Some trips involve some physical activities and others while thrilling requires exercising cautions for instance during game drives. Children over the age of 8 years have shown good adaptation to the safari conditions. Those of a lesser age would require extra care during the safari. It is also advisable to consult a health physician about any health-related concerns you may have
Back to top of FAQ list |
|
What taxes and additional costs apply for my safari?
There are taxes levied on the services that your are given which are covered in your safari package fees. However like many interntional airports both Kenya and Tanzania charge a departure airport tax of $40. If it is not included in your airline ticket, be ready to pay this tax in cash in denominations of $20 or less. For domestic flights within Kenya, airport departure tax is US$ 3.00. Be ready to take care of your drinks, tips, insurance and purchase of personal items. Climbers are responsible for climbing gear, personal requirements and insurance.
Back to top of FAQ list |
|
When does the famous animal migration take place?
The annual migration of wildlife between Serengeti National Park in Tanzania and Maasai Mara National Park in Kenya takes place between June and September. The migration of almost two million wildebeest, zebras and other species is natures greatest spectacle on earth. For the rest of the year the herd can be seen in different parts of the
Back to top of FAQ list |
|
How long is the flight to Kenya or Tanzania
Most flights are via London or Amsterdam. It takes about 4 hours from the U.S. to London or Amsterdam. It takes a further 8 hours to travel to Nairobi, Kenya. Connections to Daresalaam Tanzania are available from Nairobi. Total flight time may increase depending on scheduling of the connecting flights
Back to top of FAQ list |
|
Do we need travel insurance?
It is strongly recommended that all travelers are individually insured. The travel insurance should cover personal accident, health and loss of personal effects. Providing adequate information regarding your travel details is important in getting the best coverage.
Back to top of FAQ list |
|
Are there any Visa requirements to travel to Kenya or Tanzania?
Yes, a tourist visa is required for entry into both Kenya and Tanzania. This can be obtained prior to making the trip through the local Kenya and/or Tanzania embassy/consulate or during the trip at the port of entry. The advance application requires 5 to 6 weeks while the later takes approximately 30 minutes.
Back to top of FAQ list |
|
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.
Back to top of FAQ list |
|
Why should I go to Kenya and/or Tanzania?
Hundreds of thousands of people travel to Kenya and Tanzania every year just to see the animals. There are lions, leopards, elephants, cape buffalo, rhino, giraffe, gazelle and wart hogs, just to name a few, that are alive and well and walking around in the game parks. Although you can no longer kill them, you can get mighty close to them to either photograph or just enjoy watching them go about doing whatever it is they do. There is also a huge variety of bird life. To add to all that, the land itself is some of the most gorgeous on the planet and extremely varied. There are mountains, deserts, savannas, rivers, oceans and forests. The air is clean, the scenery fantastic and the joys of getting that close to nature is hard to describe. Just being there seems to do something to many a visitors soul.
Back to top of FAQ list |
|
What about bugs?
There are insects of all varieties in Kenya/Tanzania and of course there are mosquitoes, mostly on the Coast however, but nothing worse then you have seen anywhere else. If the sight of a gecko sends you flying though, maybe a trip to Kenya/Tanzania is best avoided. You will not however, walk into huge swarms of killer bees or step across acres of crunching bugs under your feet. Snakes do exist of course, but are rarely seen.
Back to top of FAQ list |
|
Will I have access to the Internet while on safari? How about international phone service?
While communications in remote camps will 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 in Kenya & Tanzania cover most large towns and tourist areas. There are post offices in many towns, and stamps are also sold in many shops in tourist lodges and hotels.
Back to top of FAQ list |
|
Is tap water safe to drink?
The quality of tap water can vary by destination. It is recommended that you drink bottled water. This is readily available and is part of the routine preparations for all aspects of the safari.
Back to top of FAQ list |
|
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, but visitors should always be aware of their surroundings, especially in any rural villages that may be wary of foreigners. In less-developed areas where many people live in poverty, crimes of opportunity can occur, such as petty theft. Visitors are advised to stay alert and use common sense. Safari guests should limit the amount of cash they carry and lock 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.
Back to top of FAQ list |
|
Will I be able to use my electrical equipment while on Safari?
The local electricity supply is 220/240 volts AC, 50HZ. Plugs are 3 point square. If you are planning to bring a video camera charger or any other electrical device, please bring voltage and plug adaptors where appropriate. Major hotels usually provide hair dryers, irons and other electrical amenities upon request.
Back to top of FAQ list |
|
What is the risk of malaria?
Malaria is spread by mosquitoes, which bite mainly at dusk and at night. You can only contract malaria if you are bitten by an infected anopheles mosquito. It is best to use insect repellent containing DEET (sprayed on clothing and any exposed skin), to keep arms and legs covered as much as possible, and to avoid the use of perfume, hairspray and other scented products that might attract mosquitoes. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) strongly recommends that visitors to Kenya & Tanzania take anti-malarial medication. Consult a physician or travel clinic before your trip so that he or she can prescribe the appropriate drugs. Anti-malarial medications are generally taken prior to your departure, during your trip, and after you return home for periods determined by your doctor. Symptoms of malaria include aches, chills, headaches and fever, and may not appear until after your trip. Treatment is widely available, recovery times are fast, and with basic precautions, the risk of infection is minimal.
Back to top of FAQ list |
|
What shots do I need before I travel?
The Kenya and Tanzania governments require only immunization for yellow fever. We strongly recommend immunization against malaria. Please consult your family doctor to determine the additional shots he would recommend. Good additional resources include: The Center for Disease
Back to top of FAQ list |
|
What is the nature of accommodation during the Safari?
Your travel itinerary provides a day by day description of activities as well as lodges or camps youll be staying and parks youll be visiting. Depending on your itinerary, you will either be camping or staying in lodges, luxury tents or both.
Back to top of FAQ list |
|
What are the meals like?
While the meals of choice are primarily European style buffets, many options of African dishes are available. This will become more apparent as one sample and enjoys the different cultures of the African people
Back to top of FAQ list |
|
Can I customize my Safari?
Yes. We do present packaged safaris as a starting point and as a way of making safari suggestions to our clients. However, these safaris can be modified or remade to fit the
Back to top of FAQ list |
|
What customs do I need to be aware of?
The customs vary depending on the region. Generally, we advise clients to dress presentable so not to offend the local people. We ask our clients to be a little more conservative in Zanzibar Island, as the Island has a majority of Muslims and hence more conservative. Short shorts or tanks tops may not be appropriate.
Back to top of FAQ list |
|
What do I wear? Do I need to dress up?
Wear clothes that are comfortable, as you will be seated for long periods. Wear light airy materials such as cotton or linen especially during hot times. Even during cold season, the day time can become hot so we recommend layers - bring a jacket. It is advisable to wear clothes that are more natural colored so that if they get dirty, they do not show. Bring clothes that can be hand washed incase you would like laundry to be done. There is not much of dressing up required even if in staying in lodges in the parks.
Back to top of FAQ list |
|
Do I get to meet the local people?
Yes, you will meet with local people in the town and in the parks. When stopping at villages on the way, you may encounter children running up to you and trying the chat with you, as they are just as intrigued with you as you are with them. Just have a good time with them. If you choose to visit local villages and spend more time learning, we arrange special trips for that purpose.
Back to top of FAQ list |
|
Can you make my flight arrangements?
Yes, we make arrangements for International Airfare. Please let your consultant know when you would like to travel and from what city in the US.
Back to top of FAQ list |
|
Are the roads really bumpy?
Driving through nature may feel a little bit different from riding out in a highway or express way. Park roads are usually unpaved. You will be riding in high clearance
Back to top of FAQ list |
|
How much do I pay and when is it due?
We require a deposit of $500 per person while making the reservation. The balance can be paid in two installments, 60% 90 days before travel and the remainder (40%) 45 days before travel. These payments can be made by U.S Dollar Check, Wire Transfer or by Credit Card
Back to top of FAQ list |
| Leading Edge Safaris all rights reserved © 2009 Home | Organization Profile | Privacy Policy | Terms of Use | Subscribe | FAQ's Careers at Leading Edge Safaris | Key Contacts | Feedback - Contact Us |