Tips for first time travellers for a holiday to East Africa
We all have that excitement when it comes to traveling most especially if it’s our first time and we end up forgetting some important things.
Here are some of the questions you might ask and the answers before you choose your safari destination in East Africa.
- How to best access East Africa?
East Africa is made of Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, and Rwanda. Each country has various airports and with various airline companies that offer direct flights to your ideal destination. Please check Uganda’s Entebbe International Airport for available airlines, Jomo Kenyatta International Airport for Kenya, and Julius Nyerere International Airport for Tanzania and Kigali International Airport for Rwanda.
- Are internal flights available?
Yes they are, for particular destinations. You will be letting us know so that we connect you timely.
- What is the nature of the country’s roads?
Conserved areas are located far from the city so expect the roads not to be in the best shape, bumpy, and dusty.
- Do I need to get my travel insurance?
Yes you do need to get one. You never know when it can help you. This is not provided by Kori Safaris.
- Can I carry medication?
You can bring along a first aid kit with the basics and any other painkillers or medications you’re familiar with.
- What crutial vaccines do I need to take?
Some vaccinations are necessary to be made for example: Yellow Fever, Hepatitis B, Typhoid, among others
- Do I carry my drinking water?
Carry bottled water, although you will be also served water during your safari.
- How about visas to East African countries?
You will need to have Visas to access East African countries, or any you wish to visit, and this is exclusive on charges for your safari. It’s totally on you.
- Will I be able to use my ATM and credit card?
You will be able to use your ATM cards, Visa credit cards, in all countries, although there’s a limit amount of money you can withdraw in a day. You will access banks in cities and major towns. More in terms of your way about, you will engage your guide.
- Can I use my master card?
Yes we accept master cards and
- What currency is used in East African countries?
However much these countries are in one umbrella, they use different currencies. Uganda uses Uganda Shilling. Tanzania’s currency is Tanzanian Shilling. Kenya uses Kenyan Shilling. Rwanda’s currency is Rwandan Francs, and has small and large denominations.
- How will I handle tipping?
Tipping is relative and totally depends on you and the level of service you want to appreciate. In case you are to go for it, we can’t stop you, besides, it encourages one for in most cases salaries are very low.
- How safe is East Africa?
The countries are generally safe. This doesn’t mean that you should be less cautious about your valuables. Our major objective is to protect our guests and their property throughout their safari. And that travelers have a wonderful time from start to the end.
- Are all main cities safe?
All cities are safe, but still you can’t leave your properties unattended to while on a safari.
- Are homosexuals safe to visit East Africa?
We do assure you that you will not be made uncomfortable on your trip, however since the region is still conservation, we advise our travelers to have discretion.
- Where is gorilla trekking enjoyed best?
Gorilla trekking can be enjoyed in Uganda and Rwanda. It I fun in all countries. The only challenge is securing a permits for they are on a high demand. You will need to book with us early enough to get your permit so as to avoid disappointments.
- What is the cost of gorilla permits?
In Uganda gorilla permits are USD600 per individual and USD1500 for a gorilla habituation experience. However from 1st July 2020, individual permits will USD 700.
- What clothing should I carry for a gorilla trekking
Hiking boots/ shoes, drinking water, hat, sun glasses, insect repellent (to keep those persistent insects away), light rain jacket in case it rains, water proof backpack for you small required items, gloves, as you move through the vegetation, light pants and shirts (most times the sun is bright), sunscreen, camera with spare batteries.
- Generally what should I carry on my safari
Hiking boots/ shoes, drinking water, hat, sun glasses, insect repellent (to keep those persistent insects away), light rain jacket in case it rains, water proof backpack for you small required items, gloves, as you move through the vegetation, light pants and shirts (most times the sun is bright), sunscreen, camera with spare batteries, binoculars, water proof back bag, swimsuits, warm clothing, sandals, among other things.
- Is photography allowed?
Photographs can be taken, but with a no flash camera. In case you want to take photographs of people, you can always ask for their permission.
- When do I need to book my safari?
Bookings need to be made 6-3 months before the due date. However for clients who intend to go for gorilla trekking, we encourage them to pay full payment. In case of any more clarifications, please contact us.
- What is the mode of payment for a safari?
Most payments are done by wire transfers inclusive of bank charges. After we confirm the safari, we then proceed with other booking like permits, accommodation, among others.
- How about accommodation?
Accommodation is available in categories of luxury, midrange and budget in all countries. No matter which category you use, you will be comfortable. Most places have sports, grounds, serve 3 meals a day, and have constant water and power supply, Wi-Fi, self- contained, among other facilities. We will be in contact with to get the best place of accommodations that within your means.
- During the safari which vehicles will be used?
We use 4WD vehicles for our safaris. In particular we use minibuses, land cruisers, jeeps and minibuses, and all these go for different rates.
- What if I have my car? Can I still book a safari?
This is also okay, but we would advise you to join a group so that the cost of your safari can be lowered. Do reach out to us for more details about this.
- What number of people do you take for group safaris?
We use 3 types of cars on our safaris and they all go for different rates. We have minibus, which accommodate 7-9 people, land cruisers or jeeps, three to seven people. In case we have a big group, we use coasters. We always want every traveler to have a window for visibility.
- Do I expect any other expenses after your quotation?
Our quoted prices always include: transfer charges from the airport or from the hotel, transport throughout the journey with a guide, park entry fees, accommodation, and any other fees that will be mentioned.
Other expenses could be: tips, international calls, beverages and other refreshments, in case you go for other activities that aren’t mentioned on the itinerary, your visa fees, and airfares, souvenirs, among others.
- I would like a scheduled safari.
These are arranged at particular times, normally during holidays, for example Christmas day, New Year’s Day, among others. We normally post on our website and Facebook and twitter pages in case there’s one. Please follow us.
- Are people with special needs catered for?
Yes we do take care of people with special needs, like people on special diets, we liaise with their places of accommodation. However we always encourage our clients to inform us of any issues or cases so that we plan accordingly.
- When is the perfect time to visit?
Anytime is good throughout the year. The peak season is known to be the dry season. The wet season or the low season is also enjoyable. Yes it rains but later on it stops and get on with the fun of the day. All you have to do is plan for something that’s comfortable for you.
- What is the means of communication?
All our guides are fluent in English, however you will have to inform us prior in case you need a guide who speaks other international languages. We always want out clients to understand everything and also be comfortable.
- How long will I travel in the car?
This will depend on which country and park you will visiting. For example, the longest safari in Uganda is going gorilla trekking and it takes 8 hours, inclusive of the stopovers you will be making for lunch, visiting remarkable places like the Equator, among other remarkable places. In Kenya and Tanzania, the longest is four to six hours, and the longest in Rwanda is 6 hours.
- Will I be able to communicate to my family?
There is good network in most towns of East African countries. You will be able to buy a SIM card for international calls, or you may go for international roaming. Internet is everywhere. At your place of accommodation there high chances you will be having Wi-Fi. Guides can also be reached anytime in case you need them.
Now that you are familiar with where you’re going, go ahead and make that decision for a safari to remember in any of the countries in East Africa. Contact us so we can customize your trip.