Point of Entry – Kilimanjaro Airport

The most convenient and efficient point of entry into Tanzania is Kilimanjaro Airport (airport code is JRO), which is next to the small town of Arusha and the origination point for all our safaris. There are four airlines that service Kilimanjaro Airport from the U.S. and Canada including Delta/KLM Airlines, Qatar Airways, Turkish Airlines and Ethiopian Airlines. There are pros and cons with each airline (discussed in the following sections) and the best choice will certainly come down to pricing, availability of direct flight routing and European layover plans (if any). In general, Delta/KLM is the most popular choice given the large number of connections from North America while Qatar Airways offers the most comfortable experience with a relatively new fleet and excellent amenities, service, and seats.

Minimize Flight Segments

Given the frequent flight delays in the U.S. that many of our guests have experienced in recent years, we recommend, where possible, to minimize flight segments from the U.S. to Tanzania and to schedule an extra night (two nights total) in the Arusha-Kilimanjaro area before your safari begins. Our safaris always include one night in Arusha-Kilimanjaro before the safari begins, and adding an additional night (referred to as an Arusha Layover) is a simple and cost effective adjustment. The vast majority of flight delays our guests experience last no longer than 24-hours and having two nights in Arusha-Kilimanjaro would ensure that you don’t miss any time on safari.

Personal Assistance with Booking

If you’d like some additional assistance with booking your flights, feel free to call Cathy King who is an airline booking agent. Cathy has helped many of our guests with airline bookings to Tanzania in the past, and she is familiar with the appropriate routings. She is not tied to any one airline, so she really can make an unbiased decision based on your situation. She is based in North Carolina – Eastern Standard Time.

Cathy King (flight consolidator)

Phone: 828-421-5000

Email: adventuretrips@hotmail.com

*Read more details including pricing options in our International Flight Routing section.

Pick-Up in Arusha

You will be briefed upon arrival as to the exact pick-up time for your transfer to the Arusha Airstrip for your internal flight to the Serengeti, if applicable. The pick-up time from your hotel in Arusha (usually between 6.00am and 6.45am) will vary based upon the location of your hotel, current traffic conditions and your Serengeti flight departure time (usually 8.00am but it can vary by as much as 60-minutes). It is critical that you be ready and on time for this airport transfer, as the morning Serengeti flights board and depart promptly.

Multiple Stops

Please note that the flight to the Serengeti may make multiple stops before arriving at your destination airstrip, depending upon the destinations of the other passengers. This can be an inconvenience. The pilot will know each guest’s destination airstrip, and he or she will make sure you disembark at the correct airstrip. The flights can be quite loud and you may wish to bring disposable ear plugs.

Additional Flights Between Game Drives

Though we do our best to minimize driving distances by including a flight to the Serengeti, there are a few long drives in our regular safari itineraries, which can be further compounded by rough dirt treks, uneven terrain, and a bumpy ride in the land cruiser. Accordingly, you may wish to add additional flights between game drive locations. Some of the longer drives include those from the Central Serengeti lodges to the Ngorongoro Crater lodges, and also the Ngorongoro Crater lodges to the Tarangire lodges. You may also wish to add a night by Lake Manyara in the town of Karatu to break up the drive between the Ngorongoro Crater and Arusha, or the Ngorongoro Crater and Tarangire. Please talk with your safari consultant if you are interested in adding additional flights to your itinerary to alleviate one or more of the longer drives.

Last Minute Changes

If a client initiates a last minute change to the safari itinerary including accommodations, flights, services, etc., the client is responsible for any additional expenses occurring as a result of that change; the same is true for changes occurring as the result of a flight delay or airline schedule change. It is usually impossible for Africa Dream Safaris to get refunds for accommodations, flights and other services that have already been arranged and paid for, and then canceled under 90 days prior notice. These additional expenses are the responsibility of the client to pay for directly in Tanzania. We will, of course, endeavor our level best to minimize the costs of any changes by appealing to the lodges, airlines, etc. Should you fail to join a tour, or join it after departure, or leave it prior to its completion, no tour fare refund will be made. Airfare may also be non refundable. There will be no refunds from Africa Dream Safaris for any unused portions of the tour. The above policy applies to all travel arrangements made via Africa Dream Safaris.

Accountability

Furthermore, Africa Dream Safaris is not responsible for any airline changes or costs incurred as a result of those changes, including airline schedules, fares, cancellations, over-bookings or damage to or loss of baggage and property. Any and all claims for any loss or injury suffered on any airline must be made directly with the airline involved. Air schedule changes may necessitate additional nights being added to your tour. Again, these schedule changes are beyond the control of Africa Dream Safaris and any additional costs resulting from such changes are the responsibility of the client. Africa Dream Safaris shall not be held liable for any delays or additional costs incurred as a result of airlines not running to schedule.

*Please see the Travel Insurance section for more information.

We highly recommend the Arusha Layover option for all guests without any significant time constraints.

There are dozens of accommodations in Arusha with a wide range of prices including 5-star coffee plantation resorts, private multi-bedroom villas, large international resorts, and smaller boutique hotels.

Check out our Arusha Layover section to discover why adding an extra night in Arusha could enhance your itinerary, along with a variety of activities and sightseeing tours available in the Arusha-Kilimanjaro region.

Tanzania Entry Requirements

A valid passport and Tanzania Visa (purchased online in advance of travel) are required for travel to Tanzania (see the section entitled Tanzania Visas for detailed instructions on how to obtain your visa). Your passport should be valid for at least six months past your arrival date. Please make sure you have at least 2 blank pages in your passport and additional blank pages if visiting multiple countries during the course of your travels. There are no required vaccinations for entry into Tanzania except in certain situations, as described further below, when a Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate may be required. A Yellow Fever Vaccination is NOT required for all travelers flying direct to Tanzania from the U.S. or Canada. This includes flights on KLM Airlines via Amsterdam, Turkish Airlines via Istanbul, Qatar Airways via Doha.

A Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate is required for entry into Tanzania only when arriving into Tanzania from a yellow fever infected country (Kenya, Ethiopia, Uganda, Brazil, Colombia, Peru, etc.) AND where you leave the airport/clear customs in such country. For example, some of our guests arrive in Tanzania via a connecting flight in Nairobi, Kenya or Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. In such instances, a yellow fever vaccination would not be required if you do not clear customs and remain ‘in transit’ until boarding your connecting flight to Tanzania. Please visit the CDC website for a current listing of yellow fever infected countries.

Please print (one per person) your approved Tanzania Visa Grant Notification (all pages including the cover letter, visa grant notice and the entry/arrival declaration form) and bring with you to Tanzania along with your passport valid for at least 6 months past your arrival date and with at least 2 blank pages. The Entry/Arrival Declaration Form is usually included with your Tanzania Visa and is prefilled with the same information used to complete your visa application. In the case where it was not included, you can simply print it out online and fill it out manually.

Regarding your arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, please make sure to retain your boarding pass as you will need to present this to enter the customs building after you have disembarked the aircraft. As a safety precaution in case of a lost passport we recommend that all guests carry a photocopy of their passport in a separate piece of luggage or scan and email your passport to your ADS sales representative.

Tanzania Visas

The Tanzanian Government has instituted an Electronic Visa Application System. All travelers arriving into Tanzania will need to purchase their Tanzania visa directly online prior to arrival. You are required to complete the online application form and submit your credit card payment for the $100 per person visa fee. After about 1 – 2 weeks, please login to the website again to print your visa and make sure to bring with you to Tanzania. Please only apply directly through the Official Government Application System at visa.immigration.go.tz/

Please refer to our step-by-step instruction guide to assist you with completing the visa application, which includes a list of helpful tips that we frequently update as we receive guest feedback: africadreamsafaris-pdfs.s3.amazonaws.com/ADS-Visa-Instructions.pdf

Tanzania Currency

The currency in Tanzania is the Tanzania Shilling though U.S. dollars are readily acceptable and preferred on the tourist circuit. There is little reason to exchange money upon arrival if bringing U.S. dollars. Visa and MasterCard are accepted at most lodges and many shops (please see the credit card warning section). It is recommended to bring enough US dollars plus an additional cushion amount to cover all additional expenses just to be on the safe side. Please make sure to bring crisp, new vintage bills (no older than 2010) as many shops, hotels and banks in Tanzania will not accept older bills due to counterfeiting problems.

Most Costs Included

The majority of the costs on your trip are included in your package. Please refer to the specific inclusions and exclusions section on the last page of your itinerary along with the tipping guidelines below for a gauge to determine the amount of money you will need to bring. You should bring U.S. dollars in both large and small denominations to pay for any additional expenses.

Drinks & Laundry Costs

All properties in Tanzania have full bars and offer laundry services. However, only some lodges and camps offer complimentary drinks and laundry while at others these are considered chargeable extras. Please refer to the inclusions and exclusions section on the last page of your itinerary for a specific listing of the lodges that include drinks and laundry on your safari. Below is a listing of typical costs at lodges and camps in Tanzania where drinks and laundry are not included:

• Bottled water, soft drinks, and juices: $2 – $5 each
• Local Beer (Serengeti, Tusker, Kilimanjaro): $5 each
• House Wines: $10 per glass or $30 – $40 per bottle
• Premium Wines: $40 – $60 per bottle
• Mixed Drinks (Gin and Tonic, etc.): $10 per drink
• Laundry: $2 – $3 per item

Bottled water is complimentary in your room at all properties in Tanzania but bottled water ordered at breakfast, lunch or dinner is considered a chargeable bar item at properties that don’t offer complimentary drinks. It’s usually about $5 for a liter sized bottled water. Since all the various lodges and hotels specifically in the town of Arusha do not offer complimentary drinks, please expect to pay for bottled water along with other drinks consumed during your meals while staying at any of the properties in Arusha including Arusha Coffee Lodge, Lake Duluti Lodge, Kili Seasons Hotel, Kili Villas, Mount Meru Hotel and Gran Melia Resort.

Please note that all the lodges, hotels and camps in Tanzania are individually owned and operated, and we have little control over whether or not beverages are included in their rates. Nobody likes hidden costs, so we can assure you we do try hard to make it very clear up front exactly what is included and excluded in each safari itinerary.

Tipping on your Safari

Tipping is just one way for guests to “give back” to the local people of Tanzania. It’s true that tipping has become a customary and integral part of the safari industry, but it remains an excellent way to recognize one’s appreciation for excellent service. Many guests express a desire to understand ahead of time what amounts and methods are appropriate or customary, which is the reason for the suggested guidelines expressed here. Please see below for recommended tipping guidelines for your safari:

• Driver-Guide: $40 to $70 per vehicle per day
• Meet & Greet Staff tip in Arusha/Kilimanjaro: $20
• Porterage/Baggage Handling: $1 to 2 per room
• Lodge/Camp Staff Gratuity Boxes: $10 per person per night

The biggest tip on your safari will most likely be to your driver guide. It is typical to provide the tip to your driver-guide all in one lump sum amount on the last day of your safari. So, for example, if you tipped your guide $70 per day for 10 days of safari, that would equate to a total amount of $700. Large denomination bills ($100) are suitable for your driver-guide tip. Please make sure to bring crisp, new vintage bills (no older than 2010) as many shops, hotels and banks in Tanzania will not accept older bills due to counterfeiting problems.

At each lodge and camp there are gratuity boxes located in the reception area. We recommend using these gratuity boxes in lieu of providing a tip to the people that assist you directly (waiter, bartender, etc.). By using the gratuity box, your tip is divided fairly among all the staff members including the ones behind the scenes such as the cooks, room attendants, house keepers and security guards. Providing a tip in each lodge’s or camp’s gratuity box is by no means mandatory but if you feel that you have received excellent service and are inclined to provide a tip, then a $10 per person per night tip would be sufficient (i.e. if you are a couple staying 2 nights at a camp, then a $40 total tip would be appropriate).

The Meet and Greet Staff tip suggested above refers to ADS staff in Arusha, specifically the representatives picking you up at the airport and transferring you to your arrival hotel; they will also give you a “pre-safari briefing” and will ensure all your initial questions are answered. We suggest $20 for your car, and give it directly to the main meet and greet ambassador who does your safari briefing and answers your questions. If you have an Arusha Layover included in your itinerary and you conduct one of the optional tours (town tour, shopping excursion, etc.), we would also recommend tipping $20.

If you choose to do an optional walking safari, we recommend tipping your walking escort about $5 to $10 per person for the escorted walk. Lastly and regarding the Maasai Village visit, the ‘tip’ can vary a bit from village to village, but an appropriate amount would be $50 for your car.

Tipping may seem like an old fashioned tradition to some, but like other service oriented businesses (restaurants, etc.) it remains a cornerstone of the safari industry. Paying out tips ahead of time, even though it may be more convenient for guests who don’t want to travel with cash, really robs tipping of its original purpose.

Credit Card Warning

Due to recent occurrences of credit card fraud in Tanzania, we are advising all guests to take extra precautionary measures. If you carry a credit card with you to Tanzania, be aware that there is a higher than average risk that fraudulent charges may be made on your card. Accordingly, we believe that it is prudent to take the following precautions:

• Plan to use cash for all purchases.
• Please call your credit card company prior to departure to discuss the following:

A) authorize charges only during your travel dates and only to the countries you will be visiting, B) set up text and email alerts for transactions so you can quickly identify unauthorized charges, C) set a maximum transaction limit of $200 and D) set up two-factor authentication, such as a code sent to your phone, before a transaction can be completed.

We encourage all our guests to try and avoid using credit cards where possible. It’s not a matter of the shop or lodge’s reputation, it’s a matter of computer security in general in Africa.

Traveling Safely with Cash

Many guests express concern about carrying cash, which is understandable. On a trip like this it is somewhat necessary, but luckily it is easy to keep your cash safe by following a few tips and by practicing common sense. First of all, keep your money with you at all times. We recommend carrying your cash in a neck wallet, money belt or undercover hidden pocket, similar to those found at the following link:

eaglecreek.com/collections/money-belts-neck-wallets

Luckily, most animals aren’t big on pickpocketing, and since most of your time is going to be spent in wilderness areas without many people around, there is little occasion for concern there. But if you find yourself in a village, market, airport, or other public place, simply practice common sense and don’t flaunt your cash or valuables.

While staying at the lodges or camps, don’t leave your cash or valuables laying out in plain sight in the middle of your room while you are out on safari. Most local Tanzanians value their jobs too much to risk losing it for petty theft, but at the same time many of them are far from wealthy and are often using the money they make at their jobs to support the needs of family members back home. It’s courteous to remember this and simply wise to not put the temptation out there for them. Many lodges or camps have security safes, but better yet just keep your money and valuables with you at all times.

Comprehensive Travel Insurance Plan

Your upcoming trip is a significant investment, which involves risks. For this reason, Africa Dream Safaris urges all of its clients to purchase a comprehensive travel insurance plan valid for the entire duration of their trip. This insurance should cover you for events such as trip cancellation, delay or interruption, lost or delayed baggage, emergency/accident, illness and evacuation, 24-hour medical assistance and traveler’s assistance.

Custom Coverage by Travel Guard

For coverage, we recommend the travel insurance product developed specifically for Africa Dream Safaris by Travel Guard Insurance. Our Africa Dream Safaris Travel Protection Plan, developed in conjunction with Travel Guard, offers an affordable, broad package of benefits and services to help you enjoy your trip. You can add this valuable coverage up until your final trip payment. To review the coverage’s and pricing, please access the information via the following website, travelguard.com/africadreamsafaris. The total premium will be based on total per person trip price, including airfares. You may purchase a policy by either calling Travel Guard at 1-877-862-0394 (refer to product 008698 5/10), or from travelguard.com/africadreamsafaris.

Travel Insurance Acknowledgement

Please note that a completed “Travel Insurance Acknowledgement” form is a condition of travel, and you must return this completed form to Africa Dream Safaris before your final trip payment. Also be aware that many insurance plans provide extra coverage when the travel insurance is purchased within 15 days of making the initial trip payment. Please read the Travel Guard brochure / application, or access information via the website travelguard.com/africadreamsafaris, for a complete description of the travel insurance benefits and assistance services.

Protect Yourself From Fraud

There is an unfortunate scam that a few of our returning guests have recently reported. It involves being contacted by a person pretending to be someone you interacted with during the course of your safari (such as a worker from one of the lodges or camps, or even your guide). They inevitably ask for money due to an illness in the family, an opportunity to start a new business, etc. These emails take various forms, but they have all proven to be fake. Please forward to us any emails that you may receive, and we will continue to forward them on to the local authorities in Arusha, as well as to the Tanzania Association of Tour Operators, who are trying to get to the bottom of this scam that is impacting dozens of tour operators in Tanzania.

Many hotels, lodges and camps in Tanzania require a registration card to be filled out as part of the check-in process. Please do not provide your personal email address or phone number, and instead simply write ‘ADS’ in all communication related fields.

Ideal Safari Packing List

• Passport, plane tickets, safari itinerary and emergency contact document Tanzania Visa
• U.S. dollars in large and small denominations (no older than 2010)
• One or two credit cards (see credit card warning section)
• Small flashlight
• Sunglasses
• Sunscreen and lip balm
• Insect repellent
• Contact lens solution, spare glasses, and extra contact lenses
• Waterless antibacterial gel, hand wipes and Kleenex
• Camera, extra batteries and charger, if applicable
• UK plug adapter
• Playing cards, small games and reading material (see safari reading list)
• Journal or notebook for recording daily observations and pens
• Snacks — nutrition bars, nuts, candy, etc.
• Zip lock bags for toiletries, camera equipment, snacks, small trash bags
• All rooms at each lodge/camp have soap, shampoo, and conditioner
• Small medical kit including Tylenol/Advil, antimalarial pills, cold and allergy medicine, cream for itches and rashes (i.e. Benadryl itch relief stick), band-aids, stomach ache medicine (i.e. Pepto-Bismol), antibiotic ointment (i.e. Neosporin), multi-vitamins, diarrhea medicine (i.e. Imodium), prescription antibiotic effective against a broad range of bacteria including traveler’s diarrhea (i.e. Ciprofloxacin commonly known as Cipro), antihistamine tablets and any prescription medications.
• If you have back issues, you may wish to consider bringing along a travel pillow to pad the safari seat over the bumpy roads (it can also double as a tool to steady your camera while taking pictures)
• If you wear contact lenses, you should also bring along a pair of glasses in case your eyes get irritated from the dust
• Be sure to bring enough cash. Credit cards are not accepted everywhere, and there are no ATM machines out in the bush. See the money section for more information.
• As a safety precaution in case of a lost passport, we recommend that all guests carry a photocopy of their passport in a separate piece of luggage, or scan and email your passport to your ADS sales representative.
• Small battery operated hand-held fan
• Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate if traveling to or from a Yellow Fever infected country such as Kenya, Rwanda, or Uganda
• Packing cubes are recommended as they can help you become a more organized and efficient traveler.

Ideal Safari Clothes

• One pair of comfortable walking shoes (i.e.: sneakers, cross training, or light hiking shoes)
• Casual, comfortable, and loose fitting clothing in khaki, brown, beige, green and olive colors
• Two or three T-shirts or light tops
• Two or three long-sleeved shirts/blouses
• One or two shorts
• Two or three light long pants or convertible long-short pants
• Medium heavy fleece, sweater, or sweatshirt
• Socks and underwear
• Pajamas
• Hat and bandana
• Heavy sweater, light gloves, knit hat/beanie for the Ngorongoro Crater
• For the ladies, you may consider wearing a sports bra while out on game drives as the roads can be a bit bumpy
• Optional: lightweight jacket or windbreaker

What to Bring in Your Day Pack

{ shared by our safari specialist, Dawn Anderson }

I was answering safari prep questions for one of my clients the other day, when she asked what I thought was a very good question. “Dawn, when you are out on safari, what items do you bring in your day-pack?” Aside from my main suitcase full of clothes, I do also bring a smaller back-pack that travels out “into the bush” with me during the course of a day, while the larger suitcase stays at the lodge. I thought it was a clever question, and perhaps the answer will be helpful to others as they embark on their own safari adventure.

Here it goes, my “Master ‘Day Pack’ List”

• Sunglasses
• Lip balm (SPF 45)
• Facial cleansing clothes (“Olay Daily Facials Express” or similar)
• Mints or chewing gum
• Tylenol or Advil
• Small notebook and pen
• Sunscreen (SPF 50 or higher)
• Safari hat
• Pony-tail holder
• Kleenex
• Pet-waste bags
• Hand-sanitizer
• Insect repellent towelette
• Money/passport wallet
• Camera

Okay, so many items on the list are self-explanatory and seem to be common sense. But this list actually took me several different safaris to perfect! Sunglasses are rather obvious. But it took me at least 3 trips to Africa and several episodes of sunburned/chapped lips before I figured out to bring lip balm with sunscreen! The facial cleaning clothes, like the ones made by Olay, are a big lifesaver, especially when conditions are dusty, and the type that is especially formulated for your face will double as a skin care regimen for morning and evening. At home I use facial cleanser and moisturizer, but these bottles of liquid are cumbersome to pack and I much prefer to leave them at home.

I bring along a small pack of Kleenex for minor emergencies. They are easy to keep with you, and just in case the toilet paper runs out I have my own backup. On a similar subject, I also bring along a pack of opaque “pet waste” bags to dispose of any toilet paper from using “bush bathrooms”. An easy and low-profile way to avoid being a litter-bug! Bringing along a small bottle of hand-sanitizer is also a good idea! Nothing ruins a great trip like a headache. Sometimes the sun, dust and bumpy roads can initiate one, so I’m quick to nip it in the bud with a couple Tylenol or Advil before it becomes a bigger problem. Of course I also bring along any other medication I might need during the day.

As much as I love to pop my head out the open-topped land-cruiser and feel the wind in my hair, it also gets tangled pretty quickly unless I use a trusty pony-tail holder or safari hat. I also bring along a brush or comb. One trick I’ve found to keep long hair tame is to wear it in a braid; this will result in very few tangles at the end of the day! Instead of bringing insect repellent lotion or spray, which can be cumbersome to pack, I now use these handy pre-packaged towelettes. I like the brand “OFF” because theirs include DEET, which is extremely effective against mosquitoes, and they are easy to find and purchase, either online or through many outdoor-type stores. The best part about these is how easy they are to pack and use! I can usually get by using only one per day.

I also bring along a small notebook and pen to take journal notes, as well as mints or chewing gum. A clever product I’ve recently discovered are Brush-ups, which are a great way to quickly ‘brush your teeth’ while on the go. Sunscreen is an obvious item to pack, but I think it’s a good idea to bring the strong stuff! Think SPF 50 or greater. The climate in Northern Tanzania feels mild because of the high elevation, but here on the equator, the sun is stronger than you think! And if anything can ruin your trip faster than a headache, it would be sun-poisoning. Of course I keep my passport and money with me at all times. I use a travel wallet, similar to this one: Eagle Creek Travel Wallet.

So that’s my day pack! Obviously your contents may differ slightly from mine, but hopefully I’ve offered an idea or two that you too can use! (Of course, I also bring along a camera. For more info on that subject you can read the photography section.)

Free Luggage Allowance

Flights within Tanzania including the flight to and from the Serengeti have a free luggage allowance of 33 pounds (15 kgs) per person. The free luggage allowance pertains to the total combined weight of ALL your luggage and carry-on items including backpacks, purses, camera gear, camera bags, etc. Excess luggage is charged at $5 per each kg over and above the 15 kg free luggage allowance if it can be accommodated on the flight. For the standard Serengeti flight included in most itineraries, we’ve found that usually any excess luggage can be accommodated on the flight as long as you pay the excess baggage fee AND the excess luggage is within reason (i.e. about 5 to 10 pounds over the limit). Excess luggage that could not be accommodated on your flight would be flown out on the next available flight.

Prepay for Excess Luggage

Guests also have the option to pre-book and prepay for excess luggage ahead of time, which can be an excellent idea to help alleviate any worrying. For this option we would just need to know an estimate for the weight of your combined luggage and we can bill you accordingly (we recommend pre-booking at least 90 days ahead of time). Please note that luggage will be stored in the luggage compartment and not on a seat.

Photography Gear

If you’re a serious photographer with heavy gear, you may wish to purchase an extra ‘luggage seat’ for your internal flight(s), which would allow for a maximum of 70 kgs of excess luggage (luggage will still be stored in the luggage compartment and not in the extra seat). Please contact your safari consultant for current pricing and recommendations.

Soft-Sided Luggage Preferred

Soft-sided luggage is preferred for the flight to the Serengeti, but hard sided luggage is allowed. The cargo pod measurements for the bush planes can be as small as 15 inches by 27 inches so please make sure your luggage is not larger than these dimensions.

If you have extra luggage that you won’t need for the safari (i.e., extra luggage for pre-safari or post-safari travel, books you read on the international flight over, etc.) you are more than welcome to leave these excess items for safekeeping with our staff in Arusha. They will store them at our secure offices in Arusha and then redeliver to you before flying home.

Carry-On Valuables

Please carry-on all valuables and do NOT check in any luggage containing items such as camera equipment, tablets, laptops, etc. to avoid theft. Please note that the flight to the Serengeti may make multiple stops before arriving at your destination airstrip depending upon the destinations of the other passengers. This can be an inconvenience. The pilot will know each guest’s destination airstrip and he or she will make sure you disembark at the correct airstrip. The flights can be quite loud and you may wish to bring disposable ear plugs.

Pack Light & Informal

We recommend packing light, as no formal clothes are needed and laundry services are available at most lodges and camps either free of charge or for a small fee ($2 – $3 per item).

Rolling Suitcases

Many people will bring a lightweight rolling soft-sided bag, since it has reasonable capacity but the bag itself doesn’t weigh much, so you can allocate your weight allowance to the actual contents of your bag rather than the bag itself. The downside with the rolling soft-sided bag is that it’s hard keeping everything organized, especially on a typical safari itinerary where you are changing accommodations frequently. Alternatively, some of our guests choose to bring a typical 21-inch rolling suitcase (normal carry-on size which fits in the typical overhead bins on international flights). If you choose to go with the 21-inch rolling suitcase route, we recommend a soft-sided version that has a hard back (opposed to a hard-sided/shell type suitcase).

Delayed Luggage

Please note that delayed luggage is relatively common on international air carriers arriving into Kilimanjaro. Accordingly, it is recommended that you carry-on all luggage including one carry-on rolling soft-sided bag or 21-inch rolling suitcase and one separate camera bag and/or shoulder bag per person. If you do choose to check in your luggage, it is essential that you carry-on ALL important items including, but not limited to, the following: prescription medicines, camera equipment, essential toiletries, and at least two separate changes of clothes. Remember, you are flying to a remote location where it may be impossible to purchase such items in the event your luggage is lost or delayed. As you pack, ask yourself “would my trip be ruined if I did not have this item?” If the answer is yes, pack it in your carry-on bag!!!

Weight & Size Limits

Recently many airlines, including KLM Airlines, have become more aggressive in enforcing weight and size limits with regards to carry-on luggage for economy class passengers. Their carry-on rule of 2 carry-on pieces totaling a maximum 26 pounds has rarely been enforced in the past. However, we have recently had a few guests forced to check in their luggage at the gate/jet way. These clients were pulled out of line and told their carry-on luggage was too big and heavy. We believe that many airlines may be tightening their rules and enforcement, especially if your luggage appears to be ‘overstuffed’, has items hanging out, or appears to be ‘unusual’ or ‘untidy’. We continue to recommend that all guests pack as lightly as possible, and do not overstuff carry-on luggage. Walk quietly to the gate and smile. This will go a long way!

Check Ahead for Restrictions

Please check your airline’s website for current carry-on/hand baggage allowances, including size and weight restrictions. Rules vary, not only from airline to airline, but also between the various classes (Economy, Premium Comfort, Business, etc.). As an extra caution, we recommend that you include a duffel bag or similar in one piece of your carry-on luggage just in case you are forced to check in that piece of luggage. You would then be able to quickly pull out some critical items (prescription medicine, change of clothes, etc.) and put those items in the bag to carry onboard the aircraft with you. Checked luggage is frequently delayed (we estimate roughly 20% of the time). If your luggage is delayed, the airlines can usually deliver it to us within 24 – 48 hours. There are daily flights into the Serengeti, so once we have your luggage in hand, getting it to you while you are on safari is not a problem.

Pack Critical Items in Carry-On

We have had clients in the past who were concerned about losing checked luggage express interest in mailing items to Arusha ahead of time. Although it is ‘possible’ to try and mail some items to Arusha ahead of time, we would not generally recommend it. It would likely be rather expensive and the mail service in Africa is extremely unreliable (much more so than the airlines!) Please keep all critical items and valuables in your carry-on shoulder bag or on you including passport, tickets, wallet, medications, toiletries, camera, glasses, etc. Never pack any camera equipment in your check in luggage. If you do decide to check your luggage, please protect yourself from the consequences of the airline losing your luggage by packing critical items as described above and also two changes of clothes in a carry-on bag.

Extra Suitcases

Please note that you may leave extra suitcases at our office in Arusha upon arrival and we can redeliver them to you after your safari. This is particularly useful for those individuals combining their safari with vacations in Europe or other destinations where the clothing requirements and climates are different (especially in the winter). We can securely store all non-safari related items at our office. Some guests prefer packing two different suitcases with one to take on the safari and a second one for Europe or other destinations.

Note: This is applicable for Zanzibar only. If you are traveling to Zanzibar after your safari, please ensure that you dress modestly when not at the beach or at the beach resorts. When away from the beach and beach resorts, women should not wear sleeveless tops and short skirts (pants or at least knee-length shorts are fine). Men should wear shirts, pants, or knee-length shorts. During Ramadan, take particular care with dress and show respect by not eating or drinking in the street or other public places.

Pack Light & Smart

Safaris are extremely informal vacations and the main goal is to pack lightly and smartly. Most lodges and camps will launder your clothes for free or a small fee ($2 – $3 per item) within 24 hours. Loose fitting, casual and comfortable clothing is recommended, as you will be spending most of your safari wildlife viewing in a vehicle. Be prepared for daily highs ranging from the mid 70’s to the mid 80’s and lows in the 50’s and 60’s except during the cold season (June, July and August) when the lows can drop into the mid 40’s. The rim of the Ngorongoro Crater can get significantly colder during the night and early mornings (low 40’s) due to the high elevation (7,500 – 8,000 feet).

Strong Equatorial Sun

There is little or no opportunity for fashion while on safari, though you may wish to bring a nice outfit for a special dinner. All the lodges allow casual clothing and traditional safari wear while dining. There is a large temperature range each day and it is recommended to wear layers enabling you to adjust to the varying temperatures. It can be quite cold on early morning game drives so long pants and a warm sweater is needed. In contrast, shorts and t-shirts can be worn on afternoon game drives as it can get warm during midday especially with the strong equatorial sun (there is no air conditioning in the open safari vehicles though the retractable roof provides plenty of shade). It is important that you wear a wide brimmed hat and apply sun block frequently to all exposed areas when outside of the vehicle.

The Tsetse Fly

Dark colors do tend to attract unwanted attention from certain insects. The tsetse fly is active only during the day and is attracted to dark colors (primarily dark blue and black) so these should be avoided when game driving during the day (it’s fine to wear dark blue or black during the nighttime). Tsetse areas include the woodlands of the West Serengeti, Tarangire and a few parts of the North Serengeti. The plains of the south and east Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater and most areas of the Central Serengeti are tsetse fly free. It is recommended to wear long pants and shirts when game driving an area known for concentrations of tsetse flies.

Low Profile Colors

Lighter and more natural colors such as khaki, brown, beige, olive and green should be worn during the day to keep a low profile and avoid spooking shy animals. We recommend avoiding bright colors that don’t appear naturally ‘in the bush’. White is fine, but by the end of the day it may look khaki colored due to dust while out on game drive. We recommend packing clothes that can dry fast and don’t wrinkle easily. During the nights, the color of your clothing is irrelevant. From dusk to dawn, it is highly recommended that you protect yourself from mosquitoes by wearing pants, long sleeved shirts, socks, and shoes plus insect repellent.

Lightweight Moisture-Wicking Clothing

We recommend lightweight clothing with moisture-wicking technology that draws moisture away from the skin to help keep you cool and dry. Many options are available from the various online outdoor outfitters such as REI that are ideally suited for warmer climates, and many feature stretchy fabrics for maximum comfort with built-in UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) sun protection and even vented side seams.

A Typical Safari Wardrobe

To give an idea of what a typical guest would bring on safari: They would bring 4 to 6 short-sleeved or long-sleeved t-shirts to wear as a base layer and a medium-heavy weight fleece jacket to wear in the chilly morning or evening. They would bring about 3 pairs of pants, a couple pairs of shorts and plenty of socks and underwear (although most lodges will offer laundry service for a nominal fee, most kindly ask guests to exclude laundering lady’s underwear due out of respect to the conservative culture, since most of the staff are men.) We recommend bringing one pair of light hiking shoes or sneakers.

Shorts or Pants?

This is simply a matter of personal preference. If you are unsure, a great compromise is to wear a pair of convertible ‘safari’ pants that easily convert to shorts by zipping off the pant legs. That way you can wear pants OR shorts, depending on how you feel at any given moment and without looking for a changing room! You can see a suitable selection of convertible pants at many outdoor stores or any number of online outfitters, such as REI.

*Please see below for more detailed links to packing lists and luggage tips:

Safari Packing List

Safari Packing List: Clothing

Luggage Limitations on Internal Flights

Luggage Recommendations & Tips

Field Guides

1. East African Wildlife (Bradt Travel Guide) by Philip Briggs

The ‘East African Wildlife’ is the most practical and useful field guide available on the flora and fauna of East Africa. It is a must for every wildlife enthusiast embarking on a safari to Tanzania! This new visitor’s guide provides a colorful overview of the region’s variety of large mammals together with an insight into their habits and habitats. The book also provides an excellent introduction to the region’s less heralded variety of ‘small stuff’ — including 1,500 bird species and butterflies. Accessible and beautifully illustrated, the guide will appeal both to the first-time visitor and to the serious naturalist seeking a compact volume to carry around. Our favorite aspect of this field guide is the fact that all photos were taken in East Africa and ‘stock’ photos or photos from other regions in Africa were not used.

2. Wildlife of East Africa by Martin B. Withers and David Hosking

This handy little field guide is the perfect match for those mainly interested in animal identification and short descriptions on each species’ behavior and ecology. This is a compact and concise field guide with beautiful color photographs and descriptions identifying each animal. The ‘Wildlife of East Africa’ includes mammals, birds, plants, and reptiles and focuses on East Africa, making it extremely useful while out on safari in Tanzania, Kenya or Uganda.

3. The Safari Companion by Richard D. Estes

The ‘Safari Companion’ is the most comprehensive field guide on African mammals. A detailed analysis is provided on each mammal (excludes birds, reptiles and plants) that you will encounter on your safari. Black and white sketches and descriptions are provided for each animal as well as information on each particular animal’s social/mating system, reproduction, communication, and ecology.

Research Books and Field Studies

1. Serengeti: Dynamics of an Ecosystem by A.R.E. Sinclair and M. Nortons-Griffiths

2. Serengeti II: Dynamics, Management and Conservation of an Ecosystem

The ‘Serengeti’ and ‘Serengeti II’ combine to form the authoritative literature on the Serengeti Ecosystem, which is the most famous, abundant, and diverse ecosystem in all of Africa.

3. The Serengeti Lion by George B. Schaller

This legendary and groundbreaking book details George Schaller’s observations and conclusions from his long-term study of the Serengeti lions from 1966 to 1969. Schaller’s work proved that predators did not limit the population sizes of their prey species, changing how conservationists approached predator management.

4. Cheetahs of the Serengeti Plains by T.M. Caro

This book documents nine years of research (1980–1989) about the cheetahs that inhabit the Serengeti National Park, describing their migratory patterns, hunting behavior, and conservation challenges.

5. The Spotted Hyena – A Study of Predation and Social Behavior by Hans Kruuk

Hans Kruuk lived in the Serengeti between 1964 and 1968 and spent four years studying spotted hyenas in the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater. This first-ever hyena study revealed that they are more hunters than scavengers — responsible for 70%–96% of their own kills. It remains the most comprehensive and authoritative study on hyenas.

Safari Memoirs & Journals

1. My Serengeti Years – Memoirs of an African Game Warden by Myles Turner

A first-hand account of life as the Serengeti’s chief game warden from 1956 to 1972. Packed with fascinating wildlife stories and insights into early conservation struggles, it’s often considered the best book ever written about the Serengeti.

2. Serengeti Home by Kay Turner

A charming companion to ‘My Serengeti Years’, Kay Turner’s memoir captures daily life, family adventures, and the magic of living among wildlife in the Serengeti.

3. Into Africa by Craig Packer

Renowned biologist Craig Packer offers a day-by-day account of lion research in the Serengeti, challenging long-held assumptions about lion pride behavior and the evolution of their social structure.

4. Serengeti Shall Not Die by Bernhard and Michael Grzimek

This pioneering work and film (1957–1959) raised global awareness about Serengeti conservation. Tragically, Michael Grzimek died during filming; a memorial to him still stands on the Ngorongoro Crater rim.

5. The Tree Where Man Was Born by Peter Matthiessen

A poetic and thoughtful journal chronicling safaris through East Africa, including the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater, exploring both wildlife and human cultures.

6. Among the Elephants by Iain and Oria Douglas-Hamilton

A groundbreaking study of elephant behavior and biology in Lake Manyara National Park. The authors’ intimate observations provide deep insight into elephant family dynamics and conservation.

History

1. The Penguin Atlas of African History by Colin McEvedy

This accessible reference traces Africa’s history from the formation of the continent to modern independence movements. With over 50 maps, it’s an excellent visual guide to Africa’s complex past.

Other Books

1. Lions Share – The Story of a Serengeti Pride by Jeanette Hanby

A beautifully written story of the Sametu lion pride, observed over several years by field biologists Jeanette Hanby and David Bygott. The pride still exists today, and visitors can sometimes see descendants of the lions featured in the book.

2. Swahili Phrase Book by Lonely Planet

Picture Books

1. Serengeti: A Kingdom of Predators by George Schaller

2. Nomads of the Serengeti by Robyn Stewart

3. The Serengeti’s Great Migration by Carlo Mari and Harvey Croze

4. The Great Migration by Jonathan Scott

5. African Odyssey by Anup and Manoj Shah

Children’s Books

1. We All Went on Safari: A Counting Journey Through Tanzania by Laurie Krebs

2. Serengeti – Information, Puzzles & Games by Jeannette Hanby & David Bygott

Movies

Africa – The Serengeti

A stunning IMAX wildlife documentary narrated by James Earl Jones, showcasing the great migration and breathtaking Serengeti landscapes.

Superpride – A story of a large lion pride in the Central Serengeti filmed from May 2007 to July 2007.

NOTE: Most of the above books and movies are available new or used on Abebooks.com or Amazon.com.

Your safari vehicle will be stocked with enough binoculars so that everyone will have their own pair.

Nikon Action 7 x 35 Ultra Wide View Binoculars are available for each person to use while on safari in Northern Tanzania. Binoculars are essential for game viewing. You need them to see small or distant animals clearly and they greatly increase your ability to observe behavior of larger animals. In addition, binoculars enable you to see much better in dim light. Binoculars between 7 and 12-power are suitable for game viewing. The higher the number, the greater the magnification will be. However, unless you have very steady hands, you may have trouble seeing clearly with a 10 or 12-power binoculars. Accordingly, we recommend 7 power binoculars for the average person. The second number on binoculars refers to the diameter of the larger, objective lens. The larger the objective lens, the more light is transmitted and the greater the relative brightness of the image. At the same time, though, the field of view becomes much smaller and the binoculars need to be much bigger. A good compromise is somewhere in the 30’s. Putting both numbers together, we recommend a 7×35 or perhaps an 8×32.

Staying Healthy on Safari

Participation on a safari requires that you be in generally good health. All guests must understand that while a high level of fitness is not required, a measure of physical activity is involved in all African Safaris. It is essential that persons with any medical problems and/or related dietary restrictions make them known to us well before departure.

For detailed health information for travelers to Tanzania visa wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel (go to the ‘For Travelers’ section and select ‘Tanzania’ in the drop down window). It is important that you read through all the information on the specific health information page on the CDC site for travelers to Tanzania including the following sections: Vaccines and Medicines, Stay Healthy and Safe, Healthy Travel Packing List, Travel Health Notices and After Your Trip.

For a detailed discussion on Malaria including the different antimalarial drugs available and ways to prevent mosquito bites, please visit: cdc.gov/malaria

Whether or not you are taking antimalarial drugs, it is important to protect yourself from mosquito bites from dusk till dawn. This is when the type of mosquito whose bite transmits malaria is active. Precautionary measures include using DEET (concentration of 20% or more) based insect repellent and covering up before dusk and wearing long sleeved shirts, trousers, socks and shoes in the evenings. You may also wish to use permethrin treated clothing and gear such as shoes, pants, socks and shirts. You can buy pre-treated clothing and gear with permethrin or treat them at home. Treated clothing remains protective after multiple washings. Permethrin should NOT be used directly on skin. You should certainly cover up and use insect repellent before going to dinner each evening. Pay particular attention to your ankles and legs as mosquitoes, if present, seem to hover at ankle level.

Travelers should be informed that regardless of the methods employed (antimalarial pills, other protective measures, etc.), malaria still might be contracted. There is a higher risk of Malaria on Zanzibar and other low-lying regions in Tanzania. Malaria symptoms can develop as early as about a week after initial exposure in a malaria-infested area and as long as 1 year after departure from an area, after preventative medication has been completed. Travelers should understand that malaria can be treated effectively early in the course of the disease, but delay of therapy can have serious or even fatal consequences. Individuals who have symptoms of malaria should seek prompt evaluation as soon as possible.

Some vaccinations to discuss with your doctor include but are not limited to:

• Hepatitis A
• Antimalarial drugs
• Broad-spectrum antibiotic (i.e. Cipro) – be sure to know if any of your antibiotics will cause hypersensitivity to the sun
• Diarrhea medicine, both over the counter (brand name Imodium) and prescription as per your doctor’s recommendations
• Infant, children and pregnant women require special consideration. Consult your doctor.

You should be up to date on routine vaccines including measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis vaccine, varicella (chickenpox) vaccine, polio vaccine, and your yearly flu shot.

Other vaccinations that some travelers may wish to consider include Typhoid, Cholera and Yelllow Fever depending upon your itinerary, length of stay and activities.

When you pack, make certain that you have all your medications in your carry-on luggage. Below is a listing of healthy ‘To Do’s’:

• Wash hands often with soap and water
• Use hand wipes, waterless anti-bacterial gel frequently
• Drink plenty of bottled water
• Protect yourself from mosquito bites and from sun burns
• To prevent fungal and parasitic infections, keep feet clean and dry, and do not go barefoot
• Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean.

Upset Stomach

Stomach upsets are the most common traveler’s complaint. They range from mild discomfort to diarrhea. The vast majority are harmless and quickly pass. Some digestive upset is probably inevitable for most people. Simple things like a change of water, food or climate can all cause a minor bout of diarrhea. When diarrhea occurs, there are basically two things you can do, stop it with drugs or let it run its course. The most common over the counter drug is Imodium. Your doctor may prescribe another drug for bacterial diarrhea. Some doctors argue that diarrhea is nature’s way of ridding the system of harmful poisons and therefore should not be stopped prematurely. You should consult your doctor on whether, and under what conditions you should take diarrhea medicine. Dehydration is the main danger with any diarrhea, as dehydration can occur quite quickly. Under all circumstances fluid replacement (at least equal to the volume being lost) is the most important thing to remember. Urine is the best guide to the adequacy of replacement – if you have small amounts of concentrated urine, you need to drink more. Drink plenty of water if you have diarrhea and stick to a bland diet as you recover.

Diabetics on Safari

Traveling with Type 1 and Type II diabetes is a common concern with many travelers. In general there is no reason why diabetics can’t safely travel on safari! Here are a few travel tips to help ensure you have a successful safari experience.

Be sure to travel with a letter from your doctor stating which supplies you will be carrying (insulin, syringes, etc.) Having a copy of the actual prescription is a good idea too. Pack this, along with your prescription medication, in your carry-on luggage or keep it with your passport.

Bring hard candy or glucose tablets along in your carry-on luggage as well. Always carry some hard candy or glucose tablets with you on game drives, hot air ballooning, walking safaris or any other safari activities.

The meals you enjoy while on safari will probably be a lot like the food you are used to eating at home – salad, soup, chicken or beef or pork, fruit, etc. In fact, many people find it is easier to stay on a healthy diet while on safari than when they are at home! Eating in the restaurants at the lodges is fairly easy, as there are always lots of items to choose from. When you are out on safari during the day, some days you might bring a picnic lunch with you; be aware there are usually a lot of high-carb items like bread and fruit or fruit juice in the picnic boxes, but there are always other high-protein items too like hard boiled eggs and chicken. Just choose to eat the items that fit best within your diet regimen.

If you are insulin-dependent, be sure to bring along more than one bottle of insulin. If you are on a pump, bring plenty of extra pump-supplies along with you including extra reservoirs and infusion sets (you can’t buy them in Tanzania). Bring along some syringes as a back-up method to deliver your insulin in case your pump malfunctions. Always pack the insulin and back-up syringes in your carry-on. Bring along an extra battery for your pump. Don’t forget your blood sugar testing meter and plenty of testing strips. Bring along an extra battery for your testing meter.

You’ll want to protect your insulin from getting too warm in the African sun, but please be careful about the electric “cool boxes” inside some of the safari vehicles; they cannot be trusted for insulin storage because they sometimes drop below freezing. This is also true for some of the coolers and “refrigerators” (run on generator) used at the Private Luxury Camp. We recommend bringing along a Frio cooling packet to protect your insulin from getting too warm during the day. The Frio cooler is small, lightweight, and easy to use because it is activated by water and will keep your insulin cool for several hours. See the following link:

frioinsulincoolingcase.com/product/extra-small-wallet/

If you have any other questions or concerns don’t hesitate to let your ADS travel consultant know. Once on safari you can just relax without stress because of all your careful pre-planning. Good luck, don’t worry and have fun!

Water

Drink plenty of bottled water while you are on safari and on the long international flight. Dehydration is one of the biggest causes of travel fatigue and jet lag. Most major airlines allow you to carry on your own fluids. You should not drink any other water (tap, etc.) other than bottled water. You should not even brush your teeth with water from the tap. There is unlimited bottled water stocked in your private vehicle for your consumption and there are usually several free bottles of water in your room at each lodge and camp. Additionally, bottled water is available at all the lodges and camps for purchase. Please note that ice cubes and fruits and vegetables at all of our recommended lodges and camps are prepared using purified water and are safe for consumption.

Traveling with CPAP Machine

Guests bringing CPAP Breathing Machines and/or Portable Oxygen Concentrators devices on safari MUST bring a rechargeable battery pack that is universal voltage (120V – 240V). Even though just about all lodges and camps operate 24-hour electricity these days, there are frequent power outages in Tanzania and you may not be able to have power through the entire night. Accordingly, a rechargeable battery pack equipped with a minimum run time of 8-hours is required for guests bringing CPAP breathing machines. Guests can then charge the CPAP battery during the day while out on safari activities and have it ready each night in case of a power failure. Many CPAP machines recommend using distilled water instead of bottled water. Since distilled water is not readily available on safari, we recommend guests bring a miniature travel filtration system such as the mini EZ Distilled Water Filtration System that can be used to create instant distilled water for use in a CPAP machine. They are about the size of a 16 oz bottle of water, cost about $30 and have a couple of gallons capacity.

Dietary Requirements / Food Allergies

Please let us know of any dietary requirements or food allergies well in advance and, preferably, at the time of booking. We will communicate to each of the properties on your chosen itinerary your dietary preferences including any restrictions and food allergies. Please always make sure to double check upon check-in at each property to make sure your specific requirements have been noted by the kitchen.

All the properties that we regularly utilize in Tanzania can cater to many types of special dietary requirements including Vegetarian, Pescatarian, Lacto-Ovo Vegetarian and Vegan. Please note that for vegan guests, adequate protein during meals can be difficult to provide and we recommend supplementation with protein bars, which you can pack in your suitcase and take with you on safari.

Many of the properties in Tanzania do their best to accommodate gluten free diets. That being said, we cannot guarantee against cross contamination in the kitchens, as the lodging staff may cook and prep on the same surfaces as gluten ingredients. This can be an issue for some people with severe gluten intolerance or those with celiac disease.

Your safari vehicle comes equipped with a cooler full of bottled water and soft drinks. If you have any soft drink preferences (i.e. diet coke, juice, etc.), please let us know in advance so that we may stock your vehicle with your preferred drinks.

Tanzania is a very safe, secure and tourist friendly country. Tanzania has enjoyed a remarkable period of stability and growth since independence back in 1961 and is one of the safest countries in Africa.

Tanzania has more than 132 distinct tribes that have lived in harmony for centuries. Tanzania has a founding philosophy from its first President, Julius Nyerere (a man who Nelson Mandela called his mentor and inspiration), which emphasized tolerance and the idea of a nation coming before any sense of tribal loyalty. His belief that “we are Tanzanians first and foremost”, helped to create and encourage a national character of tribal, racial and religious tolerance. Tanzanians are very proud that they have never had a civil war and as they watch what happens in neighboring countries (Rwanda, Burundi, Uganda and now Kenya), they are even more committed to the ideas of tolerance and peace. Nyerere insisted on a national language (Swahili) and insisted that the ruling power never show preference for their own tribal history. Power is shared most equitably in Tanzania and no one tribe is favored or has the majority of power.

There are currently no travel warnings issued on Tanzania by the U.S. State Department. Kenya currently has a travel warning issued and those travelers seeking to add a safari extension to Kenya are advised to read the warning at travel.state.gov. Travel Warnings are issued when the State Department recommends that Americans avoid travel to a certain country.

Though the risk of crime is minimal in Tanzania, some common sense precautions are recommended:

• Leave your expensive jewelry and watches at home
• Keep all your valuables (passport, wallet, etc.) in a money belt that you can hide under your clothes
• Make copies of all documentation (passport, air itinerary, traveler checks etc.) and keep segregated from the originals
• Carry a few dollars for spending money in an accessible pocket rather than accessing your money belt when shopping
• The majority of the costs on safari are included in your package. See your inclusions and section

To be 100% safe, carry your wallet and money with you at all times. Do not leave these items in your room while out on game drives, eating at the lodge, etc. Please be aware of your surroundings at all times. When on your safari, you will be in a new, unfamiliar and exciting place. You will likely be distracted, enthusiastic or tired enough to make mistakes and forget the little hazards around you. For example, watch your step when walking and avoid brushing up against thorny bushes and trees. Additionally, watch your fingers when the vehicle doors are being closed. Please be especially cautious when standing up game viewing in the open top vehicles. It is always dangerous to stand up in the vehicle while driving – please watch out for branches and other potential hazards. And don’t assume any of the animals are tame.

Wild Animals

Please be aware that our safaris may take you into close contact with wild animals. Attacks by wild animals are rare, but no safari into the African wilderness can guarantee that this will not occur. Please note that many safari lodges and camps are not fenced and that wildlife does move freely in and around these areas. Always follow the safety instructions from the lodge or camp’s staff with regards to moving to and from your tent and while on game activities throughout your safari.

Please be especially cautious and informed when staying at a private camp or the smaller tented lodges. Please make sure that if you have small children with you, do not let them out of your sight or wander alone. There will be a security briefing at most tented lodges upon arrival but do not hesitate to voice your concerns to the staff or your guide. Many of the smaller tented lodges will escort you to and from your tent for dinner. Under no circumstances should you move to and from your tent/room during the night without being escorted. When staying at a private camp, you must not wander out of the campsite and you must always be escorted to and from your tent.

Strong Equidoral Sun & High Elevation

Tanzania resides just south of the equator. The strong equatorial sun combined with the fact that you are at elevation can lead to sunburn and sun poisoning quickly. It is important that you wear a hat and apply sun block frequently to all exposed areas.

Insects

The fear of bugs and insects is generally much greater than the reality of what you will encounter. However, tolerances differ widely from individual to individual. The temperate climate and high elevation of Tanzania’s Northern Parks mean that insect concentrations are significantly less than other areas of Africa. Please be aware though that insects can be present in significant numbers depending upon your location and current weather patterns. This could pose an annoyance for some individuals.

The African Mosquito

Mosquitoes are present but they are generally not active during the day. The African Mosquito is most active from dusk to dawn. Whether or not you are taking antimalarial drugs, it is important to protect yourself from mosquito bites from dusk till dawn. This is when the type of mosquito whose bite transmits malaria is active. Precautionary measures include using DEET (concentration of 20% or more) based insect repellent and covering up before dusk and wearing long sleeved shirts, trousers, socks and shoes in the evenings.

You may also wish to use permethrin treated clothing and gear such as shoes, pants, socks and shirts. You can buy pre-treated clothing and gear with permethrin or treat them at home. Treated clothing remains protective after multiple washings. Permethrin should NOT be used directly on skin. You should certainly cover up and use insect repellent before going to dinner each evening. Pay particular attention to your ankles and legs as mosquitoes, if present, seem to hover at ankle level.

Flies can be more of a nuisance than mosquitoes, especially when you’re near the wildebeest migration. Flies are attracted to animals and the droppings of herd animals, so you don’t get one without the other. You will undoubtedly know when you have found the larger migratory wildebeest herds (100,000 plus!).

Tsetse Flies

There is no insect repellent that is very effective against the tsetse fly. The best protection is to wear long sleeves, pants and socks and to roll the windows up when you are driving through a tsetse fly infested area. Your guide will alert you when necessary. Additionally, dark blue and black colors attract tsetse flies and it is recommended not to wear these colors when game driving. One of the methods the national parks of Tanzania controls tsetse flies is to hang up a black or dark blue sheet between trees in a thickly wooded area and spray it with insecticide. The tsetse flies are attracted to this color and quickly land on the insecticide covered sheet.

Tsetse flies require the thick bush and woodlands to breed and survive. Any of the grassy plains or more open acacia savannah areas of the Serengeti as well as the Ngorongoro Crater are generally tsetse free. The highest concentrations of tsetse flies are found in Tarangire National Park and again, a few pockets of the denser wooded areas of the Western and Northern Serengeti.

Please keep in mind that if it weren’t for the tsetse fly, many of the parks and reserves in Tanzania would simply not exist in their current capacity. The tsetse fly is commonly referred to as the ‘greatest conservationist in Africa’! The tsetse fly transmits a blood parasite that causes the ‘sleeping sickness’ in cattle (while wild animals are immune to this disease). The tsetse fly has inadvertently forced ranchers and their cattle out of areas like the Serengeti and Tarangire leaving these important refuges ecologically intact for use by their native and wild inhabitants.

It is sometimes hard to avoid being bitten by a tsetse fly. Long pants, long-sleeved shirts and socks thick enough to stop the tsetse fly from biting will help protect you. Benadryl makes a product called the “Benadryl Itch Relief Stick” and some of our guests have reported that this can relieve the itch from any bites.

Tsetse flies can transmit African sleeping sickness, a disease caused by a small parasite that is fatal if untreated. Fortunately, most tsetse flies are not infected with the parasite. Even though you might be unlikely to contract the disease while on safari, it is important to know about the remote possibility and to seek medical advice from your doctor. Per the WHO there are fewer than 100 new cases per year in the United Republic of Tanzania. For more information, please visit the WHO at: who.int/en/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/trypanosomiasis-human-african-(sleeping-sickness)

Snakes

Snakes are common throughout Africa but they are seldom encountered on safaris. There are a few python sightings reported in the trees that line Silale Swamp in Tarangire but that is the normal extent of snake sightings. The vast majority of tourists never see a snake while on safari.

Bumpy Roads

Please be aware that game driving can be very bumpy and may pose a problem for some individuals including those with back problems. Please inform us well in advance if you have any conditions that may be adversely affected by bumpy roads and we will plan accordingly. The most comfortable seat is the passenger seat at the front of the vehicle next to the driver-guide. This seat offers the smoothest ride and is highly recommended (especially on longer game drives) for those individuals experiencing discomfort due to poor road conditions.

The roads to and from Arusha/Kilimajaro leading up to Tarangire, Lake Manyara and the Ngorongoro Gate were completed in 2004 and are completely paved. However, the tracks in the national parks and conservations areas are not paved. Many game drives (especially in the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Conservation Area) will be entirely off road/cross country. Game driving off road and on poor tracks, which are found in most areas, can be aggravating and exhausting for some individuals. This is compounded on longer game drives where you may be on rough roads for several hours at a time.

No 24-Hour Electricity

Even though just about all lodges and camps operate 24-hour electricity these days (see our lodge amenity checklist for a complete listing), there are frequent power outages in Tanzania and you may not be able to have power through the entire night. The result may be that your tent or room is pitch black in the middle of the night. To avoid tripping or other accidents in the middle of the night (getting up to use the bathroom as an example), we recommend that all guests bring their own small flashlight and keep it readily accessible.

Room Phones

Please be aware that many lodges and camps in Tanzania do not have in-room phones but instead employ radios, whistles or other communication devices that should be used with regards to moving to and from your room and the main lodge area or in emergency situations. There will be a security briefing at most properties upon arrival, which will include using such communication devices. Always follow the safety instructions from the lodge or camp’s staff with regards to moving to and from your tent.

New Environmental Protection Laws

Many countries in Africa, including Tanzania, have recently passed new environmental protection laws prohibiting the production, sale, and use of certain plastic waste items including single-use plastic bags. This is a welcomed move to combat the growing problem that plastic waste poses to the environment.

Visitors to Tanzania are advised to avoid carrying plastic carrier bags or packing plastic carrier bags or items in their suitcase or hand luggage before embarking on a visit to Tanzania. A special desk will be designated at all entry points for surrender of plastic bags that visitors may be bringing into Tanzania. Plastic carrier items known as ‘Ziploc bags’ that are specifically used to carry toiletries will be permitted. Additionally, plastic for medical services, foodstuff, sanitary and waste management are permitted.

If you received a plastic shopping bag at one of the airports enroute to Tanzania, please make sure to remove any items and leave the plastic shopping bag on the plane before disembarking. Many different reusable products are available including TSA approved carry-on toiletry bags. These are clear quart sized reusable bags that are compliant with the TSA 3-1-1 rules.

There are two options for bathrooms while on game drives.

Since you will be conducting a private safari with plenty of opportunities where there will be no other vehicles in sight, the easiest, safest and most private spot is directly behind the vehicle. At any time, your driver-guide can find a safe and private area and you may simply just exit the vehicle and walk to the rear. There are large double spare tires at the back of each vehicle blocking the view from anyone else within the vehicle. Alternatively, you may also use a bush bathroom away from the vehicle that your guide checks first and deems safe. Every vehicle does come equipped with a roll of toilet paper but it’s a good idea to pack a few miniature travel type rolls. Please act in an eco-friendly manner and bring small bags with you to carry out any tissue paper. There are small scented bags you may purchase at most travel stores in the U.S.

The second option would be to plan each day with your driver-guide to make sure that you pass by a bathroom every hour or when needed. This can easily be accommodated as there are ranger stations, lodges, camps, museums, visitor centers, etc. spaced throughout the various areas of your safari and each has public bathroom facilities. You might want to bring a zip lock bag with a bar of soap as some places are sometimes missing soap.

Our driver-guides are extremely sympathetic to the bathroom dilemma and will bend over backwards to make sure you are completely comfortable and accommodated with your bathroom needs. Most folks are a bit shy at first but then quickly adapt and become comfortable with bush bathrooms. Others are more inclined towards proper facilities. Regardless of your personal preferences, please rest assured that your requirements will be completely accommodated by our courteous and professional guides.

Q: When traveling across the plains, what toilet facilities are available when you are in the bush?

“Bush Bathrooms” are a concern that almost everyone shares to some degree or another. We host an array of different guests — some are just slightly shy about the prospect of using au natural facilities, and others have physical limitations that make it next to impossible. So there are a few different strategies we can employ, which may vary depending on the guest’s specific situation.

One common way to manage this issue is to simply ask your guide to make a scheduled stop by a rest room facility every couple hours or so. There are lodges, camps and ranger stations sprinkled throughout the park, so with a little planning your guide can just plan to make a stop at one of these facilities every couple hours. Our guides are quite sensitive to the dilemma of bush bathrooms and will bend over backwards to accommodate your needs. Remember this is a concern that every single guest shares.

If you find yourself out in the wilderness without a facility in sight, you may opt to use a more au natural setting, such as behind a tree (after your guide has checked the surrounding area for safety, of course), or simply go directly behind the vehicle. There is always going to be a few rolls of toilet paper in the vehicle in preparation for this occasion. Folks catch on to the ‘bush bathroom’ etiquette and lingo pretty quickly! The verbal code for a pit stop is to say “Hey let’s stop. I need to check the tires.” Say that to your guide and he’ll know exactly what you mean!

For folks that are genuinely concerned about their physical ability to bend, sit or lean in the ways necessary to go behind a tree or such, we can utilize a port-a-loo, or mobile toilet, that travels in the vehicle with you. We have even hosted folks in wheelchairs using a port-a-loo, and it’s been quite successful. If you need something like this, be sure to let us know ahead of time so we can make the necessary arrangements.

Fire plays a number of important roles in any savannah ecosystem.

In the Serengeti ecosystem, fire enhances the quality and productivity of the grasslands by removing mature, coarser grasses to make room for more palatable grasses that the Serengeti’s great herds of grazers prefer. However, out of control fires that burn too hot can be damaging to critical and sensitive habitats. Accordingly, the Serengeti park authorities have implemented a comprehensive fire management plan that balances these opposing forces by initiating controlled burning at the beginning of the dry season to reduce the risk of larger wildfires at the end of the dry season. Throughout the dry season (June to October), smoke filled air along with dust may pose an annoyance or health risk for guests and especially those with asthma.

Dusty Conditions

Even in the green season, dusty conditions can be aggravating while out on game drives. The Serengeti Plains are especially prone to dusty conditions due to the shallow soil base and lack of long grass roots. During the dry season, dusty conditions are significantly worse. Please be prepared for dusty conditions and let us know in advance if you’re especially sensitive to dust and we will adjust your itinerary accordingly to help minimize any negative impacts. All guests sensitive to dust are advised to bring bandanas.

Photography and video equipment may be especially prone to dusty conditions. It is a good idea to bring a bag that can be easily opened and completely sealed so you may store your equipment when not immediately needed. Bring a couple photo soft cloths to wipe dust from the lenses. Contact lens wearers may be especially sensitive. Please plan accordingly and bring an ample supply of lens lubricant.

Flexible Private Game Drives

Please be aware that the majority of time on safari is spent in a vehicle game driving and wildlife viewing. Please advise us well in advance of any potential problems with long duration game drives and we will plan your itinerary accordingly and alert your driver of the situation in order to minimize any negative impact. Our private safaris are completely flexible and if need be we can shorten game drives and transit times, add additional flights and eliminate areas of rough terrain from your itinerary.

Fly-In / Drive-Out Itineraries

Transit driving is a big turn-off for most people, and here at ADS we certainly don’t like it! Nobody likes to waste their precious moments in Africa driving from point A to point B without anything interesting in between. The whole idea behind our “fly in, drive out” program is to minimize transit. Luckily, once you get to the Serengeti, most of the lodges are going to be logistically situated within an easy 1–2 hour drive from each other (if you were to drive straight without stopping, that is). So there is some driving, but the vast majority of these drives are through the heart of the National Park so they are a “game drive,” not just a “transit drive.” (As a result, the drives themselves do take longer than they would have to, but that’s only because you are stopping to enjoy all the animal viewing opportunities along the way!)

There are two exceptions with longer drives that occur on our itineraries that need to be given careful consideration, including:

• The drive between the Central Serengeti and the Ngorongoro Crater (approximately 4 hours)
• The drive between the Ngorongoro Crater and Tarangire National Park (3 to 6 hours depending upon the lodges selected)

Most clients find these drives still quite doable, and also find the sights in between very interesting (villages, farmlands, etc.). However, past guests have expressed disappointment with regards to the length and poor road conditions on these two aforementioned longer drives. Please talk with your safari consultant if you are concerned about long drives. There are several changes we can make to your itinerary to help mitigate these two long drives including building in an additional flight between the Serengeti and the Ngorongoro Crater, adding another flight between the Ngorongoro Crater and Tarangire National Park, and also inserting lodges in between some destinations. A great spot to insert a lodge is in the town of Karatu, which is strategically located about halfway between the Ngorongoro Crater and Tarangire/Arusha. Again, please voice your concerns to your safari specialist and he or she can provide recommendations to help alleviate some of the longer drives.

Closed Research Areas: The national park authorities will from time to time and at their discretion deem certain areas as ecologically sensitive and place them off limits to tourist vehicles (only research vehicles will be allowed access). Please inquire with your driver-guide for the most current updates. He will have the latest information available and will be able to strategize with you and offer recommendations for game drives immediately around the periphery of the aforementioned areas.

Beware: Some companies that own their own lodges will propose to “fly you” between their properties, but in most cases they are only doing that because there is no other way to get you from one of their lodges to another, since you wouldn’t have your own private guide and vehicle. You’d be using different guides that are employed at the various camps on shared game drives with other guests. Be extra careful with safari companies that own their own properties, too, as often their first priority is to utilize their own properties, which aren’t always all in the best locations for the time of year that you are traveling.

Our Safari Guides from Africa Dream Safaris on Vimeo.

At the end of the day, the single most important factor in our clients having a successful safari is the quality of their GUIDE.

You will have the same driver-guide for the entire trip. Our guides are all local Tanzanians, well-educated and they all speak fluent English. We hire only the very best, and once we hire someone great we treat them like gold, not only do they deserve it but we also want to keep them! We continue to invest in them and their training. It is important to us that our guides are the most educated and passionate in the industry. Our guides are well educated and happy to be working for ADS! Here at ADS, our guides are the heart and soul of our company. They are our employees, sure, but they are also our family.

*For more detailed information about our expert drivers, visit our Driver Guides section.

Maximum Flexibility, Adventure & Wildlife Viewing

Africa Dream Safaris maintains a fleet of specially outfitted 4-wheel drive Stretched Land Cruisers providing for maximum flexibility, adventure, and wildlife viewing. Our spacious stretched Land Cruisers come equipped with a total of eight seats with six seats in the back under a retractable sunshade. Please note that there is no air conditioning due to the open nature of the vehicles. These are rugged 4WD vehicles capable of handling challenging terrain, rocks, and mud. Given the off-road capability of these vehicles, the ride quality can be very bumpy and noisy at times, which can be further compounded by rough dirt treks, uneven terrain, or long drives to remote areas.

Excellent Contingency Planning & Communication Systems

Flat tires are fairly common when game driving the rough tracks in the national parks. Tire changes are handled quickly by your driver-guide with little inconvenience. Vehicle breakdowns are extremely rare, as our vehicles are rigorously maintained. However, in the unusual event of a vehicle breakdown, a replacement vehicle would be immediately sent and would likely arrive within 4 to 6 hours, as support vehicles are always on standby. With our excellent contingency planning and communication systems, you’ll never have to worry about being stranded (or even significantly inconvenienced) while on safari.

It may be difficult to hear your guide from the 3rd row of seats in the back of your safari vehicle. This is especially true for a group of 6 people. Additional vehicles may be booked at an additional cost, which would allow for fewer guests in each vehicle.

*Please note that our vehicles are NOT equipped with air conditioning.

How We Compare to Group Tours

Africa Dream Safaris offers only “private” safaris. Most safari companies out there offer pre-packaged “group tours” which is a completely different type of product and is organized in a completely different way. To facilitate a “group tour”, typically a pre-planned itinerary is set up on specific calendar dates, and a block of rooms are booked at specific lodges on those dates. Then various people can “sign up” to join others for that tour until the designated number of spaces are filled. While out on safari with a “group tour”, strangers are shuffled together and must go along with the group’s decisions, despite whatever individual interests they may have. Unfortunately, this almost always leads to compromise and disappointment on what is already a highly emotionally charged trip for most people.

Custom Designed Itineraries

In contrast, when designing a private safari, we customize the trip based on your schedule and preferences, with our expert guidance to make sure you don’t miss anything, and while you are out on safari you have the freedom to explore your specific interests at your pace without adhering to the whims of others. Here at Africa Dream Safaris, we don’t think anyone should have to compromise on a big trip like this one, and that’s the reason we do only private safaris!

*Read more details about the Private Safari Advantage.

Northern Safari Circuit

The secret is out with Northern Tanzania and most of the general public is now aware that this area offers the very finest wildlife viewing in all of Africa. Tourists from all over the world are flocking to the famous northern safari circuit to enjoy its beautiful scenery and abundant wildlife. Please note that high vehicle concentrations in some high use areas including the Ngorongoro Crater may pose an inconvenience. To combat this potential problem, we highly recommend early morning game drives and adventure game drives to some of the more remote areas of the Serengeti, which can be even more rewarding.

Privacy of Early Morning Game Drives

Please keep in mind that by departing at 6.00am each morning, you will have most areas all to yourself until about 10.00am when the package tours begin. Our expert guides know many secret spots and strategies to get you off the beaten path and avoid vehicle concentrations. The Serengeti, in particular, is a massive park and there are plenty of areas where you will likely encounter very few other vehicles. Make sure to communicate to your driver-guide your interest in adventure and exploring the more remote areas. Additionally, by incorporating the smaller and more remotely located camps into your itinerary (as opposed to the big centrally located lodges) you will see relatively few other vehicles even in the busy summer months of July and August.

Download our checklist of 100 different species you can seek while on safari!

Animal Checklist (pdf)

Learn about monthly seasonal highlights and where different species migrate throughout the year.

View Migration Map

This is a discussion of some general wildlife viewing recommendations that we think will provide you with an overall better game viewing experience in terms of quality and quantity of wildlife seen. A good start is your detailed day-by-day safari itinerary, which includes recommendations for duration and areas of game drives based upon the month you will be traveling. Your driver-guide will also provide daily suggestions for game drives and other activities based upon current wildlife concentrations and weather. However, please keep in mind that your private safari is completely flexible and you have the freedom each day to choose your activities and game drives including number, duration and areas of exploration.

Early Morning Game Viewing

The first thing to keep in mind is that the moderate climate in Tanzania creates a comfortable environment for wildlife viewing throughout the entire day. In many parts of Africa, animals are not active during the afternoon because of the excessive heat. This is not the case in Tanzania due to its temperate climate, and some of the most amazing sightings do happen in the afternoon. However, the overall best time for wildlife viewing is certainly in the early morning from 6:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. when many animals are most active. It is a magical feeling to be game driving during the still dawn as the sun breaks the horizon while a pride of lions stirs to go hunting or a family of elephants begins their daily migration for water and forage.

We highly recommend early morning game drives each day, especially in the Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Crater. All lodges and camps can prepare breakfast boxes to go (versus breakfast at the lodge) so you can maximize wildlife viewing during these critical early morning hours. Your driver-guide will certainly recommend early morning game drives each day, but feel free to decline if you would rather have a more leisurely morning. Additionally, some of the more adventurous may wish to embark on full-day game drives to the most remote areas of the Serengeti, which will require a lunch box as well.

Be Patient

It is also important to be patient with wildlife viewing. Instead of racing off to each animal sighting, it can be more rewarding to find an animal that interests you and stay close for an hour or longer, watching different behaviors and learning about that specific animal. Something exciting will almost always happen, and ultimately, you will be pleasantly surprised. Most safaris eventually offer quality viewing opportunities of all the major large and small mammals. Lastly, please communicate with your driver-guide your specific animal interests and what level of game drives fits your needs. Your guide will bend over backwards to make sure that your expectations are met and exceeded.

View Migration Map

Don’t I need to visit Kenya to see The Great Migration?

The short answer is “No”. You can see The Great Migration by visiting Tanzania alone, but if you just go to Kenya without visiting Tanzania you may miss it! For the long answer, read more about this here: africadreamsafaris.com/faq/when-to-go

Famous Migratory Movements in the Serengeti

The Serengeti is particularly famous for the Great Migration, which describes the annual cycle of movements made by wildebeest, zebra, Thomson’s gazelle, and eland. Elands, weighing up to 2,000 pounds, are the largest of the antelope species, while Thomson’s gazelles, affectionately called Tommies, are the fastest. The movements of the dominant migrant, the wildebeest, define the borders of the Serengeti ecosystem. The migratory movements are slightly different for each animal, but the general pattern is that the migration uses the Southern Serengeti Plains in the green season and the Northern Serengeti Woodlands in the dry season. The famous migratory movements between the Plains and the Woodlands usually occur in May–June (northward migration) and October–November (southward migration).

Wildebeest

The wildebeest, in particular, follow a fairly predictable clockwise route around the Serengeti ecosystem on a never-ending quest for fresh green grass and water. At roughly 1.7 million strong, this giant lawnmower quickly exhausts pastures. During the green season (December to May), the wildebeest are located on the Southern and Eastern Plains. Typically, in early May (the beginning of the dry season), the great herds are forced to depart the plains due to lack of water and immediately shift west to the Western Serengeti and greener pastures. The wildebeest herds remain in the West until July, when the dry season completely takes hold, forcing them to venture further north toward the permanent sources of water in the Mara River and Lamai Triangle watershed areas of the North Serengeti. During the heart of the dry season from July to November, the wildebeest occupy the North Serengeti, spilling over into Kenya’s Masai Mara reserve (in recent years, as much as 80% of the migration remains on the Tanzania side due to controlled burning strategies implemented by the Serengeti park authorities). Scattered showers typically begin in November, heralding the end of the dry season, and trigger the migration southward to their ancestral calving grounds on the Southern Plains where the eternal cycle repeats once more.

Zebra

Zebra follow a similar migration route except for a few differences. During the green season, zebra occur further north of the wildebeest. They are more concentrated in the central plains around Naabi Hill, while the wildebeest concentrate to the south and east in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Toward the end of the green season, zebra move more directly north through the Central Serengeti and reach the Northern Serengeti much earlier than the wildebeest.

Thomson’s Gazelles

Thomson’s gazelles show a somewhat different migratory movement in that they range more on the Eastern Plains rather than the Southern Plains. Their main movements are between the Eastern Plains and the Central Serengeti. They typically do not occupy the northern areas of the Serengeti in large numbers.

Carnivores

Several species of carnivores have adapted to a nomadic lifestyle to exploit this great moveable feast, including cheetahs and “nomadic” lions, while “resident” lions and leopards occupy territories. Most of the Serengeti cheetahs follow the Thomson’s gazelle migration from the Central Woodlands in the dry season to the Eastern and Southern Plains during the green season. Only a small percentage of males set up resident territories. Cheetahs are diurnal predators with some males forming coalitions composed of siblings, while females lead solitary existences except when rearing cubs.

While cheetahs have evolved a nomadic existence in sync with Tommies, hyenas have adopted a “commuting” system to exploit the migratory wildebeest. Hyenas live in large communities called “clans” of up to 80 individuals, with females being the larger and dominant gender. Hyena clans defend exclusive group territories like lion prides but combine this with long-distance (up to 50 miles) foraging trips, termed “commuting,” where they are given safe passage from other hyena clans. Hyenas are capable nocturnal hunters and, in fact, a study showed that they killed 70% of their food in the Serengeti and an astonishing 96% of their food in the Ngorongoro Crater. Hyenas are renowned for several unique characteristics, perhaps the most notorious being their distinctive whoop or “laughing” call.

Learn More About the Great Migration: View Migration Map

View our interactive migration map to follow the migration of 9 African species!

View Migration Map

Other than just a few exceptions, most safari lodges and camps do not have air conditioning.

The climate in Northern Tanzania is usually pleasant enough that folks don’t miss air conditioning (this is especially true in the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater, due to the high elevations). But if you want to have air conditioning for part (or most) of the time, we suggest considering the Four Seasons Serengeti Lodge, which is recommended year-round and can be utilized as a base to game drive both the North and Central Serengeti. January and February are the warmest months of the year in Northern Tanzania. So it might be best to avoid those months if you are particularly susceptible to warmer temperatures, though even in those two months it rarely gets above 85 degrees in the Serengeti. The slightly cooler months in Northern Tanzania are from April to September.

*NOTE: There is no air conditioning in our vehicles due to their open nature.

*Please see Seasonal Highlights section for more info

Recommended Properties with Family Suites

There are several lodges and camps in Tanzania that offer two-bedroom/two-bathroom family suites that are ideal for parents traveling with children. We recommend booking these family suites well in advance, as most properties only have one or two available and they fill up quickly, especially during peak summer, spring, and holiday periods.

Hemingway Camps

All the Hemingway Camps—including Mara River Camp in the North Serengeti, Seronera Sametu Camp in the Central Serengeti, Woodlands Camp in the South Serengeti, Ngorongoro Lion’s Paw Camp at the Ngorongoro Crater, and Elephant Springs Camp in Tarangire National Park—feature two-bedroom/two-bathroom family suites that are perfectly designed for families. Each family tent includes two bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a shared lounge area between them. The master bedroom has a king-size bed, while the second bedroom includes two twin beds (and an additional bed can be added if needed). Each Hemingway property has two such family suites. These spacious suites are ideal for families wanting an authentic “under canvas” safari experience with the added comfort and safety of being under one roof. Kids staying at Hemingway Camps can also enjoy S’mores kits and various Junior Game Ranger activities.

Four Seasons Serengeti Lodge

The luxurious Four Seasons Serengeti Lodge—a base for exploring both the Central and North Serengeti—offers one-bedroom/two-bathroom Terrace Suites. Each Terrace Suite has a large master bedroom with a king-size bed, a separate living area with a double trundle bed, and two full bathrooms. With a maximum occupancy of two adults and two children, these suites also include a private outdoor terrace with a plunge pool overlooking a waterhole. The Four Seasons also offers larger two- and three-bedroom villas with private pools, living rooms, and dining areas.

Tented Lodge Options for Families

Families seeking a luxurious tented lodge experience with a two-bedroom layout should consider Nimali Serengeti or Nanyukie Tented Lodge in the Central Serengeti, Nimali Mara Camp in the North Serengeti, or Crater’s Edge Lodge on the rim of the Ngorongoro Crater. Each of these properties features two-bedroom/two-bathroom family suites ideal for groups traveling together.

Family Options in the Arusha–Kilimanjaro Region

The Arusha–Kilimanjaro region offers many family suite options and makes for an ideal two-night stopover after your international flight and before heading to the Serengeti. We highly recommend adding an Arusha Layover—especially for families with children. One of our top choices is Kili Villa, which offers several multi-bedroom villas, including two beautiful five-bedroom options with private pools and plenty of activities like hiking, golfing, and horseback riding.

Other excellent family-friendly options in Arusha include:

• Lake Duluti Lodge – A peaceful estate on a working coffee plantation featuring two interconnected chalets, nature walks, and canoeing.
• African Tulip Hotel – A charming in-town hotel with a spacious two-bedroom/two-bathroom family suite close to shopping and cultural attractions.
• Gran Meliá Hotel – A 5-star resort on 18 acres offering interconnecting rooms, an infinity pool, spa, fitness center, golf course, and six restaurants and lounges.

Dinners

A typical dinner at many lodges and camps will consist of approximately 3-4 courses. You’ll be able to order a la carte off of a menu most of the time, and have a choice of an appetizer, soup or salad, main course (consisting of baked or grilled chicken, beef, or fish) often served with delicate sauces, vegetables, and a starch (baked potatoes or cooked rice, etc.), followed by a dessert, such as a fruit torte or tiramisu, and tea or coffee.

Buffets

The buffets are also quite good. For example, the international dinner buffet at the larger lodges usually consists of many (many) items from which to choose; a salad bar with salads and vegetables, such as fresh avocados; a selection of fresh fruits, such as mango, watermelon, pineapple and passion fruit; fresh breads and cheeses; sliced meats or baked or grilled entrees (such as those listed in the first paragraph above), and a dessert bar with an assortment of fresh fruits, pastries, cakes, tortes, pies, etc.

Hot Lunches

Hot lunches may be lighter than dinners, but you’ll still have a variety of many of the items listed above from which to choose. Hot breakfasts usually consist of eggs cooked to order along with a breakfast meat, such as sausage or bacon, as well as a cold buffet of cereals, yogurts, breads, fruits, and sliced meats.

Picnic ‘In the Bush’

One of the key privileges you gain by choosing a private safari is flexibility in how you spend your time. Every day brings choices and one of the most important decisions you can make is whether to have breakfast and lunch at the lodge or rather a picnic box in the bush.

Early morning game drives at the first light of dawn are pure magic, and we strongly encourage you to partake in them! And there will likely be times you want to stay out on safari all day, either for an adventure game drive to a remote area of the park or to simply maximize each golden moment you are in “the bush”. But even the most die-hard safari enthusiast still needs to eat! One way to get it all in without starving is to bring along a picnic *to go*. A picnic allows you to maximize your time wildlife viewing rather than delay your departure from the lodge or be forced to return to the lodge for a meal.

“Picnic boxes” (both breakfast and lunch boxes) are prepared on a daily basis by the kitchens at each respective lodge or camp on your itinerary. A typical breakfast box consists of a hard boiled egg, bacon or sausage, bread or pastries, juice and a banana or apple. A typical lunch box consists of a piece of chicken, bread, hard boiled egg, banana or apple, muffin, juice and bottle of water. These picnic boxes can be picked up from the kitchen before sunrise by your driver-guide.

Feedback from our returning clients suggests the quality of these picnic boxes is falling short of client expectations. Recent complaints include a lack of variety in the food choices, redundancy and over-cooked meats. Although we have committed substantial resources to lobby the various lodges and camps to improve the quality of their picnics, in the end we have little control over what food they prepare for the to-go boxes on a daily basis. We believe our efforts have been successful in working with some of smaller proprietors, though the larger lodges have proved more difficult to influence.

Although you can always choose a hot breakfast or hot lunch at the lodge, we still feel picnics are critical for maximizing the quality and quantity of your wildlife viewing experiences. Let’s face it – a hot meal at the lodge will almost certainly result in a better culinary experience, but you can miss a lot with regards to wildlife viewing! So please keep that in mind when choosing breakfast or lunch (or both) at the lodge versus a picnic box to go.

With that being said, there are some days when it will be easier than others to return to the lodge for a hot meal should you desire to do so, and there is no reason you can’t vary your decisions from day to day. Discuss the plan for each day’s activities with your driver guide the night before so he can make appropriate arrangements. Your guide will certainly have suggestions, but the final decision about how to spend your time is ultimately up to you!

For those individuals who anticipate utilizing more picnic boxes, you may wish to consider bringing snacks (nutritional bars, turkey or beef jerky, dried fruit, granola, nuts, trail mix, etc.) to supplement your picnic boxes.

Language

The official language in Tanzania is Swahili, but there are hundreds of other local dialects. English is the second official language and serves as the country’s commercial language. It is also the main language used in higher education institutions. Most people you’ll encounter on safari or in towns speak fluent English and often have an excellent command of the language. Still, learning a few words of Swahili can be fun and appreciated by locals.

Useful Swahili Words & Phrases

Culture

Tanzania’s culture is a rich blend of African, European, Arabic, and Indian influences. The mainland population is made up of more than 100 tribal groups, each with its own traditions, music, and cuisine. Tanzanians are known for their warmth and friendliness, particularly toward visitors. Politeness, respect, and modesty are highly valued social traits. Handshakes are an important part of greetings, and learning a few Swahili phrases before you arrive is seen as a kind gesture. Immodest attire, tattered clothing, or open displays of anger are considered disrespectful in Tanzanian society.

Cultural Trip Enhancement

The “Maasai Village Visit” is an optional activity we offer to enhance the cultural aspect of a client’s safari. It is fairly easy to incorporate a visit to a Maasai village on a traditional wildlife safari, as there are several villages dotting the NCA landscape on the drive between the Serengeti National Park and the Ngorongoro Crater. However, based on recent feedback from returning clients, the Maasai village seems to be falling short of most visitors’ expectations.

Although the villages we take our clients to are authentic, residents are beginning to get used to tourists stopping by. Tourists are often willing to pay money in exchange for Maasai jewelry and other wares. As a result, many of the Maasai residents have started soliciting our guests for such transactions. Although completely harmless and without foul intent, such solicitations can still make many guests feel uncomfortable. In an effort to mitigate our clients’ exposure to such behavior, we have strived to take our clients further and further off the beaten path to more remote villages, where the residents are less likely to solicit our guests. It was only a matter of time, however, before residents of the more remote villages started soliciting behaviors as well.

We will continue to offer a visit to a Maasai Village to all interested clients. However, it is important that all guests’ expectations are in line with reality before making the choice about how to best spend their time on safari. If you choose to incorporate a village visit, you can expect to see real Maasai residents in an authentic setting. You can expect to see how these unique people live, where they sleep, and maybe even see a school in session. However, you should also expect to be approached by at least some residents selling their wares. If this type of solicitation makes you uncomfortable, we recommend skipping the optional visit to a Maasai village. Please don’t hesitate to discuss with your driver-guide if you have additional questions or concerns about the option of incorporating a Maasai Village visit into your safari.

*Learn more about our Cultural Tour options.

A sunrise hot air balloon ride is a highly popular optional activity in Serengeti National Park.

The cost for the balloon ride is currently $595 per person (if booked in advance through ADS). You can expect to pay about $100 more per person if you book directly through the lodge or camp you will be staying at in the Serengeti.

The balloon ride is a lot of fun, and most participants do enjoy it very much, but we always like to set guest’s expectations up fairly before they book the balloon ride to avoid potential disappointment later.

*Visit our Balloon Safari section for full details on what to expect.

Safari Photography Guide

We’re very excited to tell you all about a new section of our website called

Our Photographic Ambassador
.
In this super comprehensive guide to safari photography, our expert wildlife cinematographer/photographer
Jeff Smith shares 20+ tips to ensure you capture the most awe-inspiring and unforgettable moments from your trip.
From suggestions on cameras and lenses to details about shooting from a safari vehicle and packing your gear,
he thoroughly answers all of the photo questions we’ve been gathering from our guests for years.
Jeff should know a thing or two about how to show up prepared to shoot wildlife — he’s been on safari with us 5 times!

In this section of our site, you will find a series of articles that answer many of your photographic questions —
questions every photographer and every tourist has, regardless of their skill level.
So, do you want to know just how close you will get? Wondering what camera you should buy?
Curious about weight restrictions and how to pack your gear?
Want to know how to best work with the strong (and magical) African sun or what it’s like to shoot while standing
in a safari vehicle? The list of great expert photo tips goes on and on.
What are you waiting for? DIG IN!

Camera & Lens Rentals

There are quite a few retailers offering cameras and lenses for rent,
but one of our favorites is an online site called
Lensrentals.
They will FedEx the camera and/or lenses to you almost anywhere in the United States,
and they provide prepaid shipping labels and packaging so you can easily send the gear back when you’re done.

Packages are available that include everything you would need — camera, lenses, memory cards, extra batteries, charger, etc.
They even have wildlife kit packages by popular brands including Canon and Nikon.
Costs for the popular wildlife kit packages start at about $500 for a 2-week rental.
The Wildlife Kit for Canon is especially enticing as it includes the trusty
Canon 100–400mm f/4.5–5.6L IS II lens, which has produced tremendous results over the years from hundreds of guests.

Here are direct links:
Canon Wildlife Kit and
Nikon Wildlife Kit.

Bean Bags

The best way to stabilize a camera with a large lens while shooting from the vehicle is with a bean bag.
This allows you to quickly reposition your setup depending on the action.
While shooting from a standing position, you can lay the bean bag on the roof rail and stabilize your camera,
or rest it over the window frame for a lower angle.

Our vehicles always come equipped with one large bean bag,
but let us know in advance if you need any additional ones.
If you’re bringing your own empty bean bags, just let us know how many pounds of filler (i.e., beans) you’ll need
and we’ll ensure your guide has that amount ready for you in the vehicle.

Some of our guests also bring tripods that mount to the roof rails of the vehicles — see this helpful article:

Client Photography Tip: A Tripod To Go

School Supplies

School supplies are in great need in Tanzania. You may wish to bring school supplies with you and present to a local school while on your safari. There are schools between the Ngorongoro Crater and Lake Manyara as well as in Arusha. Some items you may wish to consider bringing include pens, crayons, exercise books, composition/spiral books, small backpacks, coloring books, colored markers, chalk, chalk board and world maps (inflatable globes are always a big hit). Please note that our guests are increasingly being hassled to pay duty upon arrival at Kilimanjaro on donated school supplies. Accordingly, we recommend distributing school supplies among your regular clothes and luggage to reduce the chance of being asked to pay duty. A better alternative to bringing school supplies to Tanzania would be to bring a little extra cash and we can take you to a school supply shop in Arusha to purchase supplies and then assist you with delivering them.

Contributions

Rather than giving out school supplies on an impromptu basis along the way, you might consider making a more organized contribution to one of the schools we work with on a regular basis. One worthy school we are working with at the moment is School of St. Jude’s. If you want to stop by the school and visit them in person to see the kids or deliver supplies, please let us know and we can set up a tour for you with one of the school administrators, as long as school is in session during that time.

Sponsor Opportunities

If you want to lighten your load completely, one alternative option would be to sponsor a child at St. Jude’s or make a financial donation towards school supplies, which can help the school make curriculum specific purchases that you know will be used to their full potential. You can make a donation before your safari, while you are there, or after you get home as the school makes it very easy to do online: schoolofstjude.org/product/donate/

Gifts for Driver Guides

Some individuals like to bring a small gift for their driver-guide. A good option for this would be a t-shirt or hat with a logo of your local sports team or any other item identifying with your hometown. If bringing a t-shirt, a large size is usually appropriate. However, we do believe the best gift you can give is simply bringing your excitement about your safari. Also, we suggest bringing three questions that you think will ‘stump’ your guide.

Popular Souvenirs

There are plenty of opportunities for shopping during the course of your safari. Some popular souvenir items in Tanzania include wooden animal carvings, African masks and picture frames, hand woven baskets, dining sets, local paintings, jewelry, safari books, and Maasai arts and crafts (beadwork, shields, spears, jewelry, etc.). Tsavorite and Tanzanite are two popular gemstones in East Africa. Tanzanite, a bluish gemstone, is mined only in Tanzania (next to Kilimanjaro Airport).

Gift Shops

Most lodges and camps have gift shops, and there are a myriad of shops and markets in and around Arusha. One shop that we recommend in Arusha is called ‘Cultural Heritage’. You can negotiate at most shops and roadside stands, except Cultural Heritage and many lodge gift shops, which have fixed prices. If you like shopping, you could spend several hours at the Cultural Heritage center in Arusha — there seems to be an infinite supply of woodcarvings, tribal masks, artifacts, paintings, and Tanzanite jewelry to look through (they also sell loose stones). Cultural Heritage has a particularly good restaurant on the premises, and many of our guests have us book lunch for them there on their layover day.

Shopping Options at Airports

Some of the best deals and selections can actually be found at the airports including Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO). There are several shops at JRO that you can peruse while waiting for your flight. Zanzibar also has great shopping opportunities and some great bargains. For unique items like tribal jewelry, small authentic carvings, etc., you can purchase from one of the Maasai Villages in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, or at the Esalali Women’s Project in Karatu (between Lake Manyara and the Crater).

You’ll have various shopping opportunities during your safari, such as local crafts and jewelry from the Maasai Village or the various lodge gift shops that often contain hand selected local items. You’ll see some roadside shops along the main road as you are driving from the Ngorongoro Crater to Arusha, near the town of Karatu; just ask your guide to help you find a reputable shop. But by far, the most popular place to buy local crafts (wood carvings, masks, artifacts, jewelry, etc.) is at the Cultural Heritage Center in Arusha.

Cultural Heritage Center in Arusha

The prices at Cultural Heritage are reasonable, although probably not as cheap as the items you could find if you spent the day stopping at roadside shops, but the selection is out of this world. It makes for a great ‘one stop shop’ for purchasing authentic souvenirs and has a HUGE selection from which to choose! Sometimes they have local artists doing demonstrations, too. You’ll have the opportunity to stop by Cultural Heritage Center on your last day, but please let your guide know early in the day that stopping there is a priority for you!

Costs

The costs of souvenirs span a considerable range; you can buy a nice Maasai bracelet for $10–$20, or you may spend $50 or more for a more elaborate one. You can buy small and simple wood carvings for a few dollars each, or you can spend hundreds of dollars on more elaborate wood carvings made of ebony wood. Usually the more detail, time, and skill involved, the higher the price tag. Then of course there is Tanzanite, an incredibly beautiful gemstone that can only be found in Tanzania; the cost is a function of size, color and clarity, and prices can range anywhere from hundreds to thousands of dollars.

How to Bring Souvenirs Back Home

When souvenir shopping in Tanzania, the best way to get any item home is to bring it back with you on the plane. Shipping large or fragile items home is not generally advised and will be at your own expense and risk. If you do decide to order items for shipping, the costs you pay are only for freight to the closest major international airport nearest to your residence. Also, please note that we have had several complaints of carvings and other souvenir items being badly damaged during the shipping process (either through a carrier such as DHL or in checked luggage). This is obviously very disappointing, waiting weeks for an item to be delivered only to discover that the carving is broken beyond repair. We advise guests to pack any expensive or fragile souvenirs (such as wooden animal carvings) in your carry-on luggage, or simply refrain from making expensive souvenir purchases.

Please note that the beautiful Maasai Clubs / Talking Sticks (a popular souvenir item in Tanzania) cannot be placed in your carry-on luggage on your international flight home. They are considered a weapon and will be confiscated at the Kilimanjaro Airport if you try to carry them onboard the aircraft. They must be transported in your checked luggage.

Tanzanite Experience

If you are really interested in Tanzanite, we might suggest visiting a place downtown Arusha called Tanzanite Experience. You can stop by and view Tanzanite in their show room on an impromptu basis, but if you want a tour (they have a small museum) and cutting demonstration, we’ll need to make arrangements for you ahead of time.

A Child-Friendly Destination

Tanzania is a very child friendly and makes a great safari destination for families. A safari to the African wilderness of Tanzania can be the single most rewarding family vacation experience. The educational opportunities and enriching activities are endless. The guides and lodge staff love children and they will receive lots of extra attention and careful looking after. However, special consideration must be given to safety when traveling with young children. Please note that many safari lodges and camps are not fenced and that wildlife does move freely in and around these areas. Under no circumstances should you let your child wander alone or out of your sight. When traveling with children it is important to follow the safety instructions of your guide and from the lodge and camp staff with regard to moving to and from your tent and while on wildlife game drives. You should not move to and from your tent/room during the night without being escorted. Some specific recommendations to make your family safari more rewarding are noted below:

• Diversify your safari experience with cultural and educational activities including visiting a Maasai Boma (i.e. village) and the museum at Olduvai Gorge, conducting the Hadzabe cultural excursion, learning about ecology at the Seronera Visitors Center or rhino conservation at the Moru Kopjes museum and touring a local Tanzanian school or orphanage. It’s an enlightening experience for children to see how other children live in Tanzania (both in Arusha town and also the rural areas).
• Incorporate educational nature walks guided by traditional Maasai warriors where kids can learn to shoot a bow and arrow, track footprints, or learn about insects and various medicinal plants.
• Plan a diverse itinerary including lodges with swimming pools and try to group accommodations in two-night bundles where feasible.
• Include at least a couple nights in one of the Hemingway camps (Sametu Camp, Mara River Camp or Woodlands Camp). These bush camps make for wonderful family experiences with roasting S’mores around campfires, bush dinners, game viewing from Camp and thrilling nocturnal sounds.
• Zanzibar makes a great post safari extension including some time on the beach for various water sports and historical walking tours of ancient Stone Town.
• Have your driver-guide teach you a few Swahili words each day. Please let us know any special dietary requirements in advance. We recommend to pack snacks and other comfort foods to supplement meals and they also come in handy on longer game drives. Some suggestions include granola bars, trail mix, crackers, candy, nuts and fruit rolls. Additionally, you can purchase chips, candy bars and crackers at the various ranger stations and visitors centers throughout the national park system.
• Dehydration and sunburns can be a problem so make sure they drink lots of water and use ample amounts of sun block
• Walkie-talkies (two-way radios) are a good idea to keep in contact between rooms and tents.
• Request adjoining rooms or family suites where available (some properties have 2-bedroom family suites).
• It’s a good idea for each child to have their own digital camera as this makes things more interesting and interactive (even a simple and inexpensive bridge camera would suffice).
• Provide each child with an animal checklist (see the ADS animal check-list) to record their sightings including the animal names in Swahili.
• Buy field guides and other safari related books (see ADS reading list)

Please see the section entitled Visas & Entries Requirement and paragraph on ‘Traveling with Minors’ for important documentation requirements if you’ll be traveling with children under the age of 18