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For visitors coming to Africa for the first time, there are many unanswered questions — what do we pack, what are the entry requirements and so on. To make your visit a truly relaxing and well-prepared one, here are the answers to all those questions. All the information contained herein is given in good faith and has been carefully compiled. It must be accepted that details will change from time to time! Please read this information thoroughly now, as there are certain things which must be checked and attended to in advance of departure. And of course, please feel free to call us with any questions you may still have.
You must have a valid passport that does not expire for at least six months after your return home. Please ensure your passport has sufficient blank pages for any visas required and for entry/departure stamps. You will also require a return air ticket, your own car, or sufficient traveler's checks or foreign currency to finance your travel in and exit from these African countries. It is essential that you check the applicable requirements with your travel agent, airline, the nearest tourist office, or diplomatic mission. A valid passport is the only documentation required by Americans for entry into Botswana, Kenya, Malawi, Mauritius, Namibia, Seychelles, and South Africa. The following countries require a visa, which must be obtained from the consulate prior to travel: Egypt, Madagascar, Mozambique, and Tanzania. Visas for the following countries can be obtained upon arrival and are payable in US dollars: Uganda, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.
In most African countries there are stringent exchange
control regulations and it is illegal to enter or leave the country with
anything other than nominal amounts of local currency. We recommend taking
sufficient travelers checks in small denominations to cover incidental
expenses. Many establishments accept international credit cards and we
recommend using credit cards as a method of payment wherever possible as
the exchange rate is often favorable; however, do not rely on this method
of payment outside of the cities. Please be advised that there may be a
surcharge for credit card use. In addition, keep in mind that when using a
credit card, the charge appearing on your monthly statement is not
necessarily calculated at the exchange rate that was in effect on the day
that you actually made the purchase. Only authorized dealers are allowed
to exchange currency but most city hotels have foreign exchange desks or
banks where money can be changed. Some banks have ATM machines where
visitors can use their International Credit Cards to obtain local
currency. There is normally no restriction on the amount of foreign
currency that may be imported. Please retain about USD 150.00 (cash) per
person for visas and airport departure taxes. US$10 and US$20 bills are
recommended for this purpose. Changing bills of higher denominations may
not be possible. Tips may be paid in US dollars or local currency
The most important thing is to dress comfortably on your safari. Lightweight clothing in neutral colors is suitable for the bush (including a long-sleeved shirt for protection from the sun and long pants for protection from mosquitoes in the evenings). The occasional city restaurant may require smart-casual dress and even a tie. If you are joining an organized safari of any kind, the amount of luggage you are permitted to take with you is restricted, particularly in a small aircraft or canoe. Limit yourself to a soft, preferably waterproof, duffel bag of 12kg (26 pounds). Since laundry is done daily in almost every camp, lodge or hotel you will visit, it is not necessary to bring more than 3 sets of clothing. Please avoid clothing resembling army uniforms e.g., army jackets, caps, trousers.
Suggested Packing List
Photography Film is sometimes available at safari camps and game lodges even in remote areas, but stocks are usually small and of a common type only. We suggest you buy plenty of film and bring spare batteries with you before leaving home. Film is expensive and, in addition, may not be very fresh; batteries are expensive and difficult to obtain. For game and bird photography, a telephoto lens of between 200 and 300 mm is strongly recommended. Larger lenses, which require a tripod, are generally impractical for photography from vehicles, as are double lens reflex cameras. Binoculars are invaluable for game and bird viewing, and each traveler should have their own pair. Out of respect for the local cultures, seek the advice of your driver before photographing people. Note that certain Government, military and police buildings may not be photographed. Video cameras can be recharged at many safari camps via the camp generator at the discretion of the camp management. The following guidelines on quantities to bring may be helpful:
Security Safety and security is a matter of common sense. Therefore, take the same precautions while traveling, that you would in any major city at home. Do not carry large sums of cash with you, keep a close watch on handbags, purses, wallets etc. when walking in crowded areas, avoid walking alone at night, lock up valuables in hotel safe deposit boxes and never leave valuables in view in an unattended car or tour bus. In safari camps that do not have safes or locked doors, please keep tempting valuables out of sight. Word of advice: make copies of passports, credit cards and other pertinent identification and documents. Keep one copy with you, and leave one copy with your emergency contact at home.
Health Issues You will need to make an appointment with your personal physician or travel clinic at least one month prior to departure to review pertinent health precautions including necessary vaccinations and medications. Please discuss any other health-related questions with your health practitioner at this time.
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