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Kenya Family Safari Tour

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Kenya Family Safari OVERVIEW

TOUR SUMMARY

8 days

Nairobi to Nairobi

From

C$5890 (p/p)

Country(ies): Kenya

Tour type: Family

Group size: Min: 3 | Max: 16

Accommodation: 4 to 5-star hotels & lodges

Meals:

Transport: 4x4 safari vehicle & internal flights

Highlights: Stunning African landscape, big game viewing, Adventurers Childrens' Club, Samburu National Reserve, Masai Mara National Reserve

Kenyan safari parks stand as premier destinations globally, offering unparalleled experiences for families seeking adventure. With their dynamic offerings, they prove ideal for family holidays, captivating children with the thrill of exploration amidst diverse wildlife, rich cultures, and breathtaking landscapes. Our Kenya Family Safari caters specifically to families, ensuring a tailored experience that caters to the needs and interests of children.

Tailored for families with children, this safari minimizes travel times, eliminating long road journeys. Moreover, each lodge and camp on the safari boasts a dedicated full-time children's educational and entertainment program known as the "Adventurers Club," catering to youngsters aged 4-12 years. Supervised by carefully selected and trained local naturalists, these daily programs engage children in immersive experiences, fostering their curiosity and appreciation for the natural world. Additionally, children have ample opportunities to interact with local African peers of similar ages, enhancing their cultural understanding and fostering friendships.

A typical day in the Mara with a Masai guide and naturalist encompasses a myriad of enriching activities. Visiting a "manyatta" village offers a glimpse into traditional Maasai life, where children can observe captivating dances and assist local youths in shepherding tasks. Engaging in activities such as archery, fire-making using traditional methods, crafting jewelry, and playing animal hide-and-seek ignite children's imagination while imparting valuable skills and cultural insights. Guided by experienced naturalists, children learn the art of tracking and identifying various animals, birds, insects, and butterflies, fostering a deeper connection with the natural world.

The immersive nature of the Kenya Family Safari ensures that children remain captivated and engaged throughout their adventure. By combining educational experiences with thrilling encounters, the safari fosters a love for exploration and learning, enriching children's understanding of the world around them. Moreover, the emphasis on cultural immersion and interaction cultivates empathy and appreciation for diverse cultures, instilling lifelong values of respect and curiosity.

In conclusion, the Kenya Family Safari offers a unique opportunity for families to bond and create lasting memories amidst the awe-inspiring landscapes and abundant wildlife of Kenya's safari parks. With tailored experiences designed to captivate young minds and nurture their sense of wonder, this safari promises an unforgettable adventure for the whole family.

ITINERARY

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Day 1:   Arrive Nairobi, transfer to hotel

We meet you at Nairobi airport and transfer you to your hotel. The rest of the day is free for you to relax and recover from you flight.

OVERNIGHT:

Nairobi hotel

MEALS:

None

EXTRAS:

Extra day in Nairobi - pre-tour
Single room supplement (KEFAFS)


Day 2:   Drive to Samburu National Reserve

Today you drive north to the arid bush country of Samburu, north of Mount Kenya. After lunch you'll spend the afternoon game viewing in Samburu National Reserve, a seemingly inhospitable area brought to life by the Uaso Nyiro River, on which the wildlife depend. The next two nights are spent at the Samburu Intrepids club overlooking the river.

OVERNIGHT:

Samburu hotel

MEALS:

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

EXTRAS:

None


Day 3:   Full day in Samburu National Reserve

Today is taken up with a full day game viewing in the Samburu National Reserve. We'll be on the look out for lion, elephant and hippo along the river trails. Equally interestinga are the more unusual species like oryx, gerenuk, reticulated giraffe and perhaps kudu.

OVERNIGHT:

Samburu hotel

MEALS:

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

EXTRAS:

None


Day 4:   Transfer to Sweetwaters

Travel to the highlands, discovering the charm of Sweetwaters private ranch and rhino nestled between Mount Kenya and the Aberdares. An afternoon of game viewing awaits, offering encounters with rhinos and chimpanzees. As the day concludes, choose between a captivating night game drive (payable locally) or unwind at the "waterhole" bar, immersing yourself in the tranquil safari ambiance.

OVERNIGHT:

Sweetwaters camp

MEALS:

Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch

EXTRAS:

None


Day 5:   Transfer to Lake Naivasha via Nakuru

Today we descend from the Kenyan Highlands down into the Great Rift Valley and on to Lake Nakuru, famous for its wonderful bird life, including great flocks of flamingo lining the shore of the lake like a pink ribbon. Nakuru Park is also one of the best places in Kenya to see Rhino. After a lakeside lunch you'll enjoy a game drive beside the lake before continuing on to Lake Naivasha.

OVERNIGHT:

Lake Naivasha lodge

MEALS:

Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch

EXTRAS:

None


Day 6:   Fly to the Masai Mara. Afternoon game drive

This morning is free for you to enjoy any optional activities of your choice. After lunch we transfer you to the local airport for your flight to Kenya's finest wildlife reserve, the Masai Mara. Dive into an afternoon of game viewing, exploring the rich landscapes and diverse wildlife that define this extraordinary destination.

OVERNIGHT:

Masai Mara lodge

MEALS:

Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch

EXTRAS:

None


Day 7:   Full day in the Masai Mara

To day you will spend the whole day game viewing in the Mara in a 4WD vehicle with open-top roof. Keep an eye out for the "Big Five" and of course huge herds of wildebeest, zebra, kongoni, topi and other antelope. If you are lucky, it may be possible to spot cheetah or perhaps a leopard hanging from a tree.

OVERNIGHT:

Masai Mara lodge

MEALS:

Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch

EXTRAS:

None


Day 8:   Fly back to Nairobi, tour ends

After a morning of game viewing and lunch at the camp, we transfer you back to the airport for your flight to Nairobi. Once in Nairobi we'll transfer you to Nairobi International airport for your flight home, or alternatively there are plenty of options available to extend your holiday.

OVERNIGHT:

N/A

MEALS:

Breakfast, Lunch

EXTRAS:

Extra day in Nairobi - post-tour


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Included:
  • All accommodation as stated in the itinerary
  • All transport and transfers
  • Internal flight from Masai Mara to Nairobi
  • 24-hour airport arrival & departure transfer service
  • English speaking professional safari guides
  • Sightseeing tours and safaris as per itinerary
  • Entrance/admission fees including safari park entrances
  • Meals as detailed in the itinerary inclusive of taxes & service

Excluded:
  • International flights (available on request)
  • Visa fees
  • Personal travel insurance (compulsory, available on request)
  • Meals not indicated in the itinerary
  • Optional excursions and activities
  • Drinks, snacks, tips and other personal expenses (e.g. laundry)
  • Any increases in Government taxes or park fees announced after booking
  • Any other items not mentioned above

Dates and Prices

We offer scheduled group departures on this tour which are planned to operate during the main school holiday periods. We can also offer this tour on a private basis at any other time of year, contact us for details.

Start Date
End Date
Price (P/P)
Offer price
Note

25th of May 2024

1st of Jun 2024

C$5890.00

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20th of Jul 2024

27th of Jul 2024

C$8035.00

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17th of Aug 2024

24th of Aug 2024

C$8035.00

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26th of Oct 2024

2nd of Nov 2024

C$8035.00

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16th of Nov 2024

23rd of Nov 2024

C$6785.00

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21st of Dec 2024

28th of Dec 2024

C$8210.00

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Accommodation

The hotels and accommodations listed below are the ones we most often use on this tour. From time to time we may exchange these for similar properties at the same level. In general, specific hotels cannot be guaranteed on our group tours, but you may select your preferred options if you are booking a tailor-made trip.

Nairobi Serena

Nairobi Serena

Nairobi

Local rating

Our rating

 Nairobi Serena Nairobi Serena

Situated in the heart of Nairobi, the extensive ground of Serena Hotel contains a fitness centre and spa. Guests can relax in a sun lounger beside the outdoor pool, which is surrounded by palm trees.

The elegant and spacious rooms and suites are decorated with warm colours and wooden furniture. They are equipped with a TV, air-conditioning and a private bathroom. Free Wi-Fi is provided.

Nairobi Serena Hotel offers a fine-dining restaurant with a seasonal menu and extensive wine cellar. Guests can enjoy a variety of snack and drinks at the poolside bar, or a cocktail at the Aksum Bar.

The 24-hour front desk can organise concierge, limousine and baby-sitting services or make an appointment for guests at the on-site hair salon. Free private parking is also available.

A shuttle is provided upon request to Jomo Kenyatta Airport, only 8.1 miles away. The Railways Golf Course is 1.9 miles away and Nairobi National Park is within a 5.6 miles drive.

Situated in the heart of Nairobi, the extensive ground of Serena Hotel contains a fitness centre and spa. Guests can relax in a sun lounger beside the outdoor pool, which is surrounded by palm trees.

The elegant and spacious rooms and suites are decorated with warm colours and wooden furniture. They are equipped with a TV, air-conditioning and a private bathroom. Free Wi-Fi is provided.

Nairobi Serena Hotel offers a fine-dining restaurant with a seasonal menu and extensive wine cellar. Guests can enjoy a variety of snack and drinks at the poolside bar, or a cocktail at the Aksum Bar.

The 24-hour front desk can organise concierge, limousine and baby-sitting services or make an appointment for guests at the on-site hair salon. Free private parking is also available.

A shuttle is provided upon request to Jomo Kenyatta Airport, only 8.1 miles away. The Railways Golf Course is 1.9 miles away and Nairobi National Park is within a 5.6 miles drive.

Samburu Intrepids Club

Samburu Intrepids Club

Samburu National Reserve

Local rating

Our rating

 Samburu Intrepids Club Samburu Intrepids Club

With a location inside the reserve, Samburu Intrepids almost guarantees close encounters with wildlife including elephant, monkeys, crocodile and leopard as well as Samburu's own rare species, 'the special five'.  Stunning views, a main dining room opening onto a breezy terrace where buffet breakfasts, lunches and dinners are served, and a shady sunbathing area make for a great camp. The excellent Adventurers' Club offers children plenty of fun and educational activities, hosted by Samburu naturalists specialising in plants, wildlife and survival skills. Sample activities include bow and arrow lessons, beaded jewellery making, footprint tracking and obstacle courses.

Stylish tents sit on stilts with wooden decking overlooking the river, and are shielded with thatched roofs. All tents have wooden floors, a mahogany desk, four-poster bed and handcrafted furnishings with splashes of colour, reflecting Samburu's landscape. Each tent also has a minibar and modern en suite bathroom. Tented suites are ideal for families - two tents joined together with living area in between.

With a location inside the reserve, Samburu Intrepids almost guarantees close encounters with wildlife including elephant, monkeys, crocodile and leopard as well as Samburu's own rare species, 'the special five'.  Stunning views, a main dining room opening onto a breezy terrace where buffet breakfasts, lunches and dinners are served, and a shady sunbathing area make for a great camp. The excellent Adventurers' Club offers children plenty of fun and educational activities, hosted by Samburu naturalists specialising in plants, wildlife and survival skills. Sample activities include bow and arrow lessons, beaded jewellery making, footprint tracking and obstacle courses.

Stylish tents sit on stilts with wooden decking overlooking the river, and are shielded with thatched roofs. All tents have wooden floors, a mahogany desk, four-poster bed and handcrafted furnishings with splashes of colour, reflecting Samburu's landscape. Each tent also has a minibar and modern en suite bathroom. Tented suites are ideal for families - two tents joined together with living area in between.

Sweetwaters Serena Camp

Sweetwaters Serena Camp

Nanyuki

Local rating

Our rating

 Sweetwaters Serena Camp Sweetwaters Serena Camp

Located on the plains of Mount Kenya, the camp features thirty-nine luxury tents, each with its own private veranda overlooking the water hole. The central Rhino Restaurant is housed in the former manager's house of this once colonial farm, and offers both regional and international cuisine. Also within the house is the Kashoggi Bar and lounge, which centres on a blazing log fire. The Waterhole Bar, built in the style of a game-viewing hide, overlooks the waterhole and offers unrivalled wildlife-watching.

Host to all the members of the 'Big Five' (elephant, rhino, lion, buffalo and leopard), the conservancy has a higher wildlife-to-area ratio than any Kenyan national park and is one of only four private game conservancies to have been founded in Kenya. At the forefront of the Kenyan conservancy programme, the conservancy boasts the largest black rhino sanctuary in East Africa, hosts the only chimpanzee sanctuary in Kenya, and shelters large numbers of rare and endangered species.

Facilities

  • Day and night game drives daily
  • Luxury tented camp accommodation
  • Swimming pool and extensive grounds
  • Central Rhino Restaurant
  • Colonial-styled lounge and bar
  • Extensive grounds
  • Private waterhole and night viewing bar
  • Conference room
  • Wedding planning and honeymoon venue
  • Gift shop, business centre, Wi-Fi
  • Satellite TV room
  • Camel treks, guided nature walks, bird spotting
  • Cultural dance and music

Located on the plains of Mount Kenya, the camp features thirty-nine luxury tents, each with its own private veranda overlooking the water hole. The central Rhino Restaurant is housed in the former manager's house of this once colonial farm, and offers both regional and international cuisine. Also within the house is the Kashoggi Bar and lounge, which centres on a blazing log fire. The Waterhole Bar, built in the style of a game-viewing hide, overlooks the waterhole and offers unrivalled wildlife-watching.

Host to all the members of the 'Big Five' (elephant, rhino, lion, buffalo and leopard), the conservancy has a higher wildlife-to-area ratio than any Kenyan national park and is one of only four private game conservancies to have been founded in Kenya. At the forefront of the Kenyan conservancy programme, the conservancy boasts the largest black rhino sanctuary in East Africa, hosts the only chimpanzee sanctuary in Kenya, and shelters large numbers of rare and endangered species.

Facilities

  • Day and night game drives daily
  • Luxury tented camp accommodation
  • Swimming pool and extensive grounds
  • Central Rhino Restaurant
  • Colonial-styled lounge and bar
  • Extensive grounds
  • Private waterhole and night viewing bar
  • Conference room
  • Wedding planning and honeymoon venue
  • Gift shop, business centre, Wi-Fi
  • Satellite TV room
  • Camel treks, guided nature walks, bird spotting
  • Cultural dance and music

Great Rift Valley Lodge

Great Rift Valley Lodge

Lake Naivasha

Local rating

Our rating

 Great Rift Valley Lodge Great Rift Valley Lodge

The Great Rift Valley Lodge features panoramic views of Lake Naivasha and of the Rift Valley. This lodge boasts an 18-hole championship golf course, two clay tennis courts and a pool. This resort offers around-the-clock check in services.

All of the spacious rooms are garden facing and they are furnished with handmade wooden furniture. Some rooms include a dining room, kitchen and a balcony offering views of the Rift Valley.

The lodge has two restaurants, which serve homemade meals from a set menu and al fresco continental lunches. Guests can enjoy refreshments in the luxurious lounge bar, which features a terrace.

For relaxation, there is a swimming pool together with a kid's pool at The Great Rift Lodge. The Adventurer's Club and the Young Rangers Club provide activities for children.

Free Wi-Fi and private parking is available. Activities available in area include boating and bird watching on Lake Naivasha. The lodge is 28.6 miles from the Nakuru Airport

The Great Rift Valley Lodge features panoramic views of Lake Naivasha and of the Rift Valley. This lodge boasts an 18-hole championship golf course, two clay tennis courts and a pool. This resort offers around-the-clock check in services.

All of the spacious rooms are garden facing and they are furnished with handmade wooden furniture. Some rooms include a dining room, kitchen and a balcony offering views of the Rift Valley.

The lodge has two restaurants, which serve homemade meals from a set menu and al fresco continental lunches. Guests can enjoy refreshments in the luxurious lounge bar, which features a terrace.

For relaxation, there is a swimming pool together with a kid's pool at The Great Rift Lodge. The Adventurer's Club and the Young Rangers Club provide activities for children.

Free Wi-Fi and private parking is available. Activities available in area include boating and bird watching on Lake Naivasha. The lodge is 28.6 miles from the Nakuru Airport

Mara Intrepids Club

Mara Intrepids Club

Masai Mara

Local rating

Our rating

 Mara Intrepids Club Mara Intrepids Club

Facing the Talek River, Mara offers elegantly furnished tents on raised platforms, and a terrace with a bar for spotting animals. All rates include 3 game drives a day, and return airstrip transfers.

Mara's tents include a wooden, 4-poster bed surrounded by a mosquito net. All have a modern, private bathroom with a double vanity, shower, and flush toilets. Tea and coffee making facilities are in each.

Mara Intrepids Tented Camp has several small, riverfront dining areas. Guests can also enjoy breakfast, lunches and dinners in the African bush.

The camp's outdoor pool is surrounded by sun-loungers. There is a library with board games and a playground for children. Hot air balloon rides can be organised at Mara Camp.

The all-weather Ol Kiombo Airstrip is located within 2 minutes' drive and has daily flights from Nairobi.

Facing the Talek River, Mara offers elegantly furnished tents on raised platforms, and a terrace with a bar for spotting animals. All rates include 3 game drives a day, and return airstrip transfers.

Mara's tents include a wooden, 4-poster bed surrounded by a mosquito net. All have a modern, private bathroom with a double vanity, shower, and flush toilets. Tea and coffee making facilities are in each.

Mara Intrepids Tented Camp has several small, riverfront dining areas. Guests can also enjoy breakfast, lunches and dinners in the African bush.

The camp's outdoor pool is surrounded by sun-loungers. There is a library with board games and a playground for children. Hot air balloon rides can be organised at Mara Camp.

The all-weather Ol Kiombo Airstrip is located within 2 minutes' drive and has daily flights from Nairobi.

Options

Our tours are designed to include all that you need to enjoy a really special time in the destination you‘re visiting. However, we do also offer some extra options to complement the tour and add some additional sightseeing or activities, or some extra time at either end of the tour.

All accommodation based options (e.g. Single supplements, extra nights, cruise upgrades) should be booked and paid for in advance so that we can make the appropriate arrangements. Other options may either be booked and paid for in advance or while you are on the tour, though we recommend booking in advance to ensure there are no issues with availability.

Many options are priced the same throughout the year, but some may incur single or high season supplements - full details are given on the tour reservation form or on request.

Young Adult Discount (12 to 16) (KEFAFS)

From C$-850*

Young Adult Discount (12 to 16) (KEFAFS)

Min numbers: 1 *Based on 1 person/s


This option can be selected for young adults aged 12 to 16 years at the date of travel who will share a room with a minimum of two adults. 
We recommend that you contact us for a specific quote for your whole family based on the number and ages of your children, and the number of rooms you'll need.

Child Discount (3 to 11) (KEFAFS)

From C$-1360*

Child Discount (3  to 11) (KEFAFS)

Min numbers: 1 *Based on 1 person/s


This option can be selected for children aged 3 to 11 years at the date of travel who will share a room with a minimum of two adults. 
We recommend that you contact us for a specific quote for your whole family based on the number and ages of your children, and the number of rooms you'll need.

Single room supplement (KEFAFS)

From C$930*

Single room supplement (KEFAFS)

Min numbers: 1 *Based on 1 person/s


This option guarantees you a single room in all the hotels throughout the tour. Extra beds are available for single children to share their parents room if required. Please contact us if you have any questions regarding room allocations for your family.

Note: The price shown is a low season price. Slightly higher prices may apply during high and peak seasons - the exact price for your dates will be shown on the online booking form and is always available on request.

Tour Notes

The detailed Tour Notes below have been written to give you some more detailed information about how the tour runs, what to expect, and how to prepare for your holiday. We recommend downloading an up to date copy of these shortly before you travel in case of any changes.

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  1. International Flights and Airport Transfers

International Flights: We want to give you as much flexibility as possible when it comes to booking your holiday with us. So, to take account of people living in different places and with varying travel plans, except on some Escorted Tours and package promotions, we don’t include your international flights in the main tour price. We are however very happy to suggest flights to go with the tour. Please contact us with your preferred dates and departure airport and we’ll give you a selection of airlines, times and fares to choose from.

The vast majority of our tours are designed such that you can arrive and depart at any time on the first and last days of the set tour itinerary, with your arrival and departure airport transfers included in the tour price. However, on our Overland tours, you should not arrange your onward international flights or other travel for the day the tour is due to end (unless the final day does not involve any travelling and finishes after breakfast). Similarly, many of our Overland tours depart their first port of call on the first morning, and you will therefore need to plan for any flights to arrive at least one day beforehand.

Airport Transfers: Arrival and departure airport transfers are included on Small Group, Shoestring and Tailor-made tours but available as extra options on all our African Overland tours, as long as you have accommodation booked with us on that day. If you add extra accommodation before and/or after the tour that you do not book with us, then you will also need to arrange your own airport transfers.

Departure Taxes: Various countries may require that you pay an Airport Departure Tax when departing on an international flight. Please note that all departure taxes must be paid in hard cash currency and US Dollars are normally the best currency to use for this. Departure taxes can vary from US$10 - US$60 depending on the departure point. 

Flight inclusive packages: We do also sometimes advertise flight inclusive packages from selected airports. Where these are shown on our website, prices are correct at the time of quoting, but are subject to continued availability of the fare used. Prices will be reconfirmed at the time of booking, and we will also provide the flight times and airline details before tickets are issued. 
Flight inclusive prices are based on the cheapest Economy ticket class available which is generally non-refundable and non-changeable unless the flight is cancelled for reasons such as Covid-19, in which case the airlines are more flexible. More flexible ticket options, as well as Premium Economy and Business Class tickets are available on request for an additional supplement. Any changes made to flight inclusive bookings will be subject to the airline rules on your ticket. 


  2. Entrance Fees

The tour price includes entrance fees to all the tourist sites mentioned in the itinerary. You will need to cover the cost of entrance to any other extra sites that you may wish to visit.


  3. Tipping

Tipping isn't part of Kenyan culture, however there's never any harm in rounding up a bill by a few shillings if you've been particularly pleased with the services you've received. In upmarket hotels, porters will generally expect a small tip and in many restaurants a service charge of around 10% is often added.

At the end of a tour it's common to tip your tour guide/safari guide if you feel that you've received good service from them and whilst there is no set amount for this, we're often asked for recommendations. On our Kenya tours an average tip would be around $5-$10 per person per day, however you shouldn't feel oblidged to tip any specific amount.


  4. Health and Vaccinations

You should ensure you are fully insured for medical emergencies including emergency evacuation and repatriation.

Recommended vaccinations and other health protection measures vary according to the country you are visiting and where you are travelling from. We recommend you contact your GP/medical practitioner or a travel clinic for current information on vaccinations needed for your destination. You should ensure that you are up to date with vaccines and boosters recommended for your normal life at home, including for example, vaccines required for occupational risk of exposure, lifestyle risks and underlying medical conditions. In addition, additional courses or boosters normally recommended for the countries in this region are:

South Africa: Additional vaccinations: Hepatitis A. Malaria map. Yellow Fever certificate: Required if arriving from or having transitted through an infected area.
Namibia: Additional vaccinations: Hepatitis A, Tetanus, Typhoid. Malaria map. Yellow Fever certificate: Required if arriving from an infected area.
Botswana: Additional vaccinations: Hepatitis A, Tetanus, Typhoid. Malaria map. Yellow Fever certificate: Required if arriving from or having transitted or travelled through an infected area.
Zimbabwe: Additional vaccinations: Hepatitis A, Tetanus, Typhoid. Malaria map. Yellow Fever certificate: Required if arriving from or having transitted through an infected area.
Zambia: Additional vaccinations: Hepatitis A, Tetanus, Typhoid. Malaria map. Yellow Fever certificate: Required if arriving from or having transitted through an infected area.
Malawi: Additional vaccinations: Hepatitis A, Tetanus, Typhoid. Malaria map. Yellow Fever certificate: Required if arriving from or having transitted through an infected area.
Tanzania: Additional vaccinations: Diphtheria, Hepatitis A, Tetanus, Typhoid. Malaria map. Yellow Fever certificate: Required if arriving from or having transitted through an infected area.
Kenya: Additional vaccinations: Diphtheria, Hepatitis A, Poliomyelitis, Tetanus, Typhoid. Malaria map. Yellow Fever certificate: Required if arriving from an infected area.
Uganda: Additional vaccinations: Diphtheria, Hepatitis A, Tetanus, Typhoid, Yellow Fever. Malaria map. Yellow Fever certificate: Required if arriving from an infected area.
Sudan: Additional vaccinations: Diphtheria, Hepatitis A, Tetanus, Typhoid, Yellow Fever. Malaria map. Yellow Fever certificate: Required if arriving from or having transitted through an infected area. A certificate may also be required for those departing Sudan.
Morocco: Additional vaccinations: Hepatitis A, Tetanus, Typhoid. Malaria not normally present. Yellow Fever certificate not required.

The above information can change at short notice. For up to date health information & vaccination requirements we recommend that you contact your medical practitioner or a travel clinic.

Malaria: Vaccinations are not available against Malaria, which is a disease transmitted by mosquitoes that can be very serious and sometimes fatal. You should avoid mosquito bites by covering up bare skin with clothing such as long sleeves and long trousers and applying insect repellents to exposed skin. When necessary, sleep under a mosquito net. Mosquitoes are most active during and after sunset. You should consult with your GP/medical practitioner/travel clinic about the most appropriate malaria prophylactic medication to take for the regions you are visiting.

Yellow Fever: This disease is spread by infected mosquitoes that bite during the day. A Yellow Fever Certificate of vacinnation is often required as a condition of entry depending on which country you are arriving from, or that you have travelled or transitted through recently (including connecting flights with stopovers of over 12 hours). You can view this US CDC information about where the virus is present and follow the links to further information detailing which countries need you to have a Yellow Fever vaccination as part of their entry requirements. Please ensure you have this certificate organised in advance and with you and to hand during the trip.

Please inform us of any pre-existing conditions such as diabetes or asthma and any prescription medicine you may be taking. We also need to know about any food allergies or physical disabilities that you may have.
If you are travelling on an Overland tour or your trip includes wildlife safaris then please bear in mind that you may be travelling on bumpy roads and/or rough ground for several hours at a time. This can be very uncomfortable or painful if you have a bad back, and make such conditions worse. Please contact us if you have any concerns.


  5. Passports and Visas

Passports should be valid for at least six months after your departure from the country. Please do not bring an almost full or almost expired passport. Visa arrangements are the responsibility of the traveller, and requirements are subject to change by the local authorities. Encounters Travel will not be held responsible if travellers are denied entry because they are not in possession of the relevant visas. We therefore recommend you re-check requirements with the relevant embassy/consulate around 4 weeks before travel.

You should also be in possession of a valid onward or return flight ticket, or proof of other means of transport enabling you to leave the country that your tour passes through or finishes in. In addition you should carry proof of sufficient funds to cover you during your time in the country (eg. credit card).

Should your tour be re-entering a country, please ensure that you have a multiple entry visa that allows this. Some countries have a visa on arrival service which can be more convenient and cheaper. However, for peace of mind and to speed up the border crossing process, Encounters Travel advises that you to get your visas prior to your trip if possible.


  6. Time

The time in Kenya is GMT plus 3 hours. Daylight saving adjustments are not observed.


  7. Voltage

Sockets are three rectangular pronged and 220 volts (British BS-1363). Universal adaptors are available in most airport shops if you don't have one already. If you've travelled to the UK previously and have an adaptor for here or if you are travelling from the UK then the plugs in Kenya are the same. All hotel rooms have electrical sockets where you can re-charge cameras, phones etc. Hair dryers are normally available on request from the hotel reception if not in your room already.
If you have US appliances (110 volts) you will need a voltage converter as well as a plug adapter.


  8. Money

The local currency in Kenya is the Kenyan Shilling (KES). Kenya Shillings can be ordered from most major currency suppliers prior to departure or hard currency can be easily exchanged in all major cities, the currency of preference being US Dollars however Sterling and Euros are also widely accepted.

Credit cards are accepted in Kenya but aren’t widely used. ATM’s are available in larger cities but aren't generally widely available outside of cities. Travellers’ cheques can be exchanged at banks within Nairobi but aren’t generally accepted in the rest of the country (these are being slowly fazed out in many countries) so instead, travellers are advised to bring sufficient hard currency.

Bank opening hours are generally Monday – Friday 0830-1400, Saturdays 0900-1200.


  9. What to take

LUGGAGE ALLOWANCES: Most international airlines restrict you to between 20kg and 23kg per person of luggage to go in the hold of the plane. Domestic flights often have smaller allowances around 15kg. As airline rules vary we recommend that you take no more than 20kg of luggage if your tour just includes international flights, and no more than 15kg if there are any domestic flights included in your itinerary. Please ask us for details if you are unsure about luggage allowances on your tour. Any excess baggage fees will be your responsibility to cover. Most airlines allow between 5kg and 10kg for hand luggage so we suggest that you take no more than 5kg unless you have confirmed that your airline(s) will allow more than this.

OVERLAND AND SAFARI TOURS: Please keep in mind that these are adventure tours in an adventure vehicle (truck or 4x4) and luggage should not include any solid Samsonite style suitcases. On our accommodated overland tours most of our trucks have lockers for the luggage (locker sizes: 37,5 cm high, 32 cm wide, 80 cm deep). Only a soft bag will fit in these lockers. A suitcase is far more difficult to store and make secure in our vehicle and this is part of the reason we ask for a backpack or tote bag to be used as your luggage. The other reason is that you need to walk from the truck to the accommodation and often over sand or uneven terrain.  Your luggage on our Overland tours is limited to ONE backpack and ONE daypack weighing no more than 20kg. As a general rule, if you cannot lift your own luggage - you’ve got too much stuff! Most people make the mistake of bringing too many clothes. A quick reminder - suitcases are not suitable on our overland tours – especially huge Samsonite-style cases! Small wheeled cases are OK for safari tours.

SUGGESTED PACKING LIST: Kit for all weather conditions including: • 2/3 shorts/skirts • 1 jacket/anorak • Tracksuit/pullover • 2 pairs of long pants/jeans • 2 pairs of walking shoes/boots/trainers • 1 pair of sandals • 3 or 4 T-shirts/short sleeve shirts or sundresses • 2/3 Long Sleeve Shirts • Smart casual change of clothes • Swimwear • Underwear & socks • Sun Hat – preferably that covers the back of your neck. • Raincoat • Kikoi/sarong

Your clothing should be easy to wash and dry and should preferably not need ironing. Avoid synthetics, which can be very uncomfortable in hot weather. Many people underestimate how cold Africa can be – remember that jersey/jacket! There are also nights that are warm but you must still wear clothes that cover arms and legs from mosquitoes. Take a set of casual but smart clothes for the occasional evening out in a restaurant or club. If you wear glasses (or contacts) it is also advisable to bring a spare pair.

While on wildlife safaris it is important to wear dull coloured clothing - olive, mushroom, brown, khaki, stone are ideal.
You should avoid white (stands out too much), black or blue (attracts tsetse flies), and camouflage (illegal in many countries for civilians)

Additional Items: • Towel & facecloth • Baby wipes/ Wet Wipes • Personal toiletries • Sleeping bag • Torch & enough spare batteries • Camera & spare batteries and memory cards • Water bottle. (A 2-litre Coke bottle works well...) • Penknife • Insect and Mosquito repellent • Suntan lotion, sun block & after sun lotion • Sunglasses • Watch • Biodegradable laundry detergent • Passport (plus a copy of your passport & visas) • Extra passport photos • Vaccination certificate • Money • Travel plug • Neck pillow • Small sewing kit • Plastic bags • Clothes line and pegs • Small scrubbing brush • a small padlock for your luggage locker in the truck • Small basic First Aid kit (painkillers, band aids, after-sun lotion, eye drops, anti-diarrhoea tablets etc.)

DAY PACKS: Please check the itinerary for your specific tour if you will need a little daypack. For example on our Cape Town to Vic Falls overland tour you will need a smaller bag, big enough to bring basic equipment (toiletries and clothes) for 2 nights. The daypack is for your Okavango Delta Excursion, where you cannot bring your entire luggage.


  10. Booking & Payment

If you would like to book a place on this tour, please complete the online reservation form on our website (via the Dates & Prices tab on the tour page). You may make a deposit or full payment online, or just hold a reservation if you prefer (full payments are due 8 weeks before departure). We will then contact you with more details about how to complete your booking. Payments may be made by debit or credit card (subject to a card processing fee), or by making a bank transfer, or posting us a cheque/bank draft. Full details will be provided in your booking confirmation email. Please contact us if you would like any more information or have any questions before making a booking.


  11. Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is compulsory on all of our tours and needs to cover personal accident & liability, medical expenses and repatriation, travel delay & abandonment. We also strongly recommend that you take out cover against cancellation and lost/stolen baggage. Personal medical insurance does not normally provide sufficient cover and is generally not suitable for travel on our tours. You will not be able to join your tour if you have not provided us with details of your insurance or if you arrive without cover in place (no refunds will be due in this event). More information...

You may arrange your own insurance, or you can take advantage of a comprehensive policy that we can arrange for you through Endsleigh Insurance which has been designed to be suitable for our tours. The policy is available to travellers of all nationalities and you do not need to live in the UK  to take out the policy. For full details of cover provided, prices and to apply for one of our policies, please complete travel insurance application form.
Note: Any country that borders the Mediterranean is considered as 'Europe' for the purposes of travel insurance (including Turkey, Israel, Egypt and Morocco). If you are doing a tour that visits one country in 'Europe' and one that is 'Worldwide' (for example, an Egypt and Jordan tour), then you need a 'Worldwide' policy. When completing the form you should enter your travel dates including any extra days involved in overnight flights or connecting travel between your home and the tour. Our policies are not able to cover any extra time or activities other than your tour and options booked with us and your travel to & from home.

Note - to comply with insurance sales regulations, our travel insurance policies are only available to customers booking directly with us. If you have booked through a travel agent you will need to arrange your own insurance.

If your tour includes car hire, ior if you plan to arrange a hot air balloon flight locally or do some scuba diving during your tour, you should check the small print in your policy to make sure these are covered (these are covered in our policy). Please also check the maximum altitude that you will be reaching and that full cover including emergency evacuation is provided up to this altitude.

If you are taking expensive camera gear or other electronic equipment with you then please check the coverage and the fine print of your policy to ensure that you have sufficient cover.

IMPORTANT:  We must have your travel insurance details (policy number and type of insurance) before you depart or you may not be allowed to join the tour.  If you haven't told us already, please let us know the details when you can. You should take a paper copy of your insurance policy with you as you may be asked to show this at the start of the tour.

Covid-19
Before purchasing any travel insurance, please check the coverage provided for situations related to Covid-19, and for the rules about government travel advice. Your normal policy may not be suitable. Details about our own policies cover levels are given on our website


  12. Financial Security

We are a UK registered company and are committed to providing our customers with financial protection to provide peace of mind and to allow you to book with confidence.
We have therefore partnered with Trust My Travel Ltd., which provides financial protection services to over 2000 partners around the world. Funds paid to us by our customers are protected via an Insurance policy held by Trust My Travel. Each traveller and the description of services sold is declared against Trust My Travel’s insurance policy directly against our financial failure. In the event of our insolvency, you will be refunded for any unfulfilled products and/or repatriation to the UK (where applicable). Please see our website or booking conditions for more information.


  13. Responsible Tourism

It is impossible not to have an impact on the local environment, cultures and eco-systems when you travel. However, it is very possible to try and ensure that these impacts are as limited, or positive as possible. We are committed to ensuring that we try to leave our host countries in a better state than we found them and encourage and assist our travellers to help us with this.
The following are a few simple tips that require very little effort on your part but which will help ensure that any effect you have on the locations you visit is positive rather than negative.

  • Don't prejudge: Things in different countries will almost certainly be different. That doesn't make them worse or inferior, just different.
  • Communicate: Don't expect locals to speak your language. Take the trouble to learn a few words or phrases of the local language. Don't worry about sounding silly. Most locals are patient and accommodating and appreciate you making the effort to communicate in their language.
  • Conserve energy: Be careful not to waste valuable resources. Use local resources sparingly. Switch off lights, air-conditioning and fans when you leave the hotel room and don't waste water. Remove superfluous packaging. Many countries have far less efficient waste disposal systems than ours. Remove packaging from newly acquired items before leaving home.
  • Don't litter: No matter how untidy or dirty the country you're travelling in may look to you, avoid littering, as there is no need to add to the environment's stress. Many of the countries we visit have a tough challenge dealing with rubbish and waste. Please consider taking home as much plastic waste as you can (e.g. water bottles).
  • Choose environmentally friendly products: By using environmentally friendly (bio degradable) sun creams, shampoos and detergents you can help reduce pollution.
  • Respect local customs and traditions: As you are a guest in these countries, you should also comply with the local customs. If you are friendly and well mannered, the locals will reciprocate and it will only enhance your experience. It's important to follow dress and behaviour guidelines especially when visiting religious or sacred sites (your tour leader will advise you how best to do this).
  • If a client commits an illegal act the client may be excluded from the tour and Encounters Travel shall cease to have responsibility to/for them. No refund will be given for any unused services.

All porters are employed and equipped following guidelines set by the International Porter Protection Group (IPPG).


  14. Follow Us Online

You can stay in touch with us online by following us on Facebook and Twitter. We post updates on relevant travel news in our destination countries, special offers and discounts and other interesting travel related news and information.
www.facebook.com/encounterstravel
www.twitter.com/encounterstravl (yes, without the 'e')


  15. Before you travel

It is important when considering and preparing to travel anywhere in the world that you have a good understanding of the country you are visiting, its laws and customs, and the possible risks and situations that may occur. This includes specific risks related to your itinerary (eg. does it involve water & can you swim, are you fit enough for the activities included), as well as more general risks such as terrorism and natural disasters.

General details and links to more information about health risks, visa requirements, money, and travel insurance are given in these tour notes. We recommend that you re-read all these before your departure as well as the small print of your travel insurance policy so you know exactly what is covered and what is not.

You should take copies of your important travel documents with you and ideally also store them online securely as a backup. Make sure that you have given us your emergency contact details and told that person where and when you are travelling. Ensure you take enough money with you and that you have access to emergency funds.

Finally, you should read through and stay updated with the current official government travel advice for your destination. We are registered partners with the UK Foreign Office's 'Travel Aware' campaign which provides further useful and invaluable information.

'Travel Aware' campaign

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