Travel Tips & Safari

1. Security & Safety.

Is Kenya safe? can I travel to Kenya? is a question considered by every traveler planning or intend to travel to Kenya, especially first-timers wanting travel tips for this wildlife-rich East African country that is home to one of the Great Wildebeest Migration over the plains of the Masai Mara national park and more touristic destinations.

Although the country has been known as a victim of tragic terrorist attacks from Al-shabaab from a neighboring country “Somalia”, it is important to know that these are not located in tourism destinations and they are actually very far from them. Security has been implemented in most touristic places and all airports especially Jomo Kenyatta and Wilson airport and at hotels across Nairobi. In addition, it’s our role to know where each and every one of our clients has reached and during their travel. We also have exclusive access to a 24/7 line controlled by senior experts in the event of an any emergency, no matter how small it is.

2. Spending Money in Kenya.

Kenya's national currency is the Kenyan Shilling (KES) although foreign currencies such as US Dollars are widely accepted in most places. But planning to have an activity like hot-air balloon safari, bar bills, souvenirs and meals not included in your itinerary we'd recommend using local currency to pay for such bills.

Kindly note that due to the high rate of fake notes in circulation, US Dollar bills printed before 2003 are not accepted in Kenya and, in fact, much better you carry notes printed after 2006.

Banking facilities and ATMs are found throughout Kenya's major travel destinations and all major credit cards are widely accepted, in particular MasterCard, Visa and American Express. Banking hours are 9am to 3pm (900hrs to 1500hrs) from Monday to Friday, and 9am to 11am (900hrs to 1100am) on the first and last Saturday of the month for most banks.

Mobile baking is also accepted in you have money to transact through mobile while buying some products or paying for bills.

3. Tipping through your Safari

Tipping has been in existence for most travelers that want to appreciate for the good service delivered to you although it is of course at your discretion. Most case have it in mind that some of the larger hotels in Kenya will add a service charge onto your bill, a 10% tip is customary in most city restaurants and bars when a service charge is not included on your bills.

For more information on tipping guidelines, enquire with one of our Safari Experts as they would happily share their knowledge with you on how to handle it.

4. Climate.

Kenya lies on the equator and has a pleasant, tropical climate, but there are large regional climatic variations influenced by several factors, including altitude. Kenya’s daytime temperatures average between 20°C/68°F and 28°C/82°F, but it is warmer on the coast. Kenya is too close to the equator to experience a real winter and summer. There is, however, both a Dry and Wet season

Dry season--June to October

During the Dry season daytime temperatures are usually around 23°C/73°F at higher altitudes, such as the Masai Mara, and 28°C/82°F at lower altitudes, such as the coastal areas. The sky is clear and days are sunny.

• June, July, August, September & October- These are the coldest months. Early morning temperatures at higher altitude are typically 10°C/50°F. It is advisable to pack warm clothing, as morning game drives in open vehicles will be cold. There is very little rain in most of the country.

Wet season--November to May

During the Wet season daytime temperatures are between 24°C/75°F and 27°C/81°F at higher altitudes. At lower altitudes daytime temperatures are more consistent and hover around 30°C/86°F. Mornings stay cool at higher altitudes, and it is advisable to pack warm clothes for early morning game drives.

• November & December - 'Short rains': A period of unpredictable, short rains between November and December that lasts about a month. The rain is sometimes heavy, but mostly falls in the late afternoon or evening, and will seldom have a negative impact on your safari.
• January & February - During these months, a dry spell in the rainy season occurs with less rainfall. How long the spell lasts and when it takes place exactly is unpredictable.
• March, April & May- 'Long rains': These months get the most rain. It’s very cloudy, especially in the highlands, including Aberdare NP and Laikipia Plateau. Humidity is higher and will be particularly noticeable in the coastal regions.

5. What to Pack on a safari?

Kenyan safaris are so magical in real right from the sophisticated culture to wildlife to ocean safaris where one should pack light casual wear in neutral colours though you should try to avoid some colours like white, black and blue, remember to have a warm jacket for evening game drives. For more on what to pack for a safari, refer to our East Africa travel & Safari tip(link) section.

Major cities in Kenya dress traditionally though not overly formal dress code, jeans and modest tops for women are fine. Swimsuits are acceptable on the beach though advised to cover up in public places.

6. Etiquette.

Kenya is a fairly traditional society, most especially to Islamic places that holds influence in traditional communities, much emphasis is always placed on courtesy and manners for such sights. We advise to always mind while taking photographs in local communities or with local people. Take a minute to ask permission and prepare to be asked for reward in most cases-especially most popular destinations though most are easy-going, cordial, comic and helpful, making travelling and interacting with them a real pleasure.

7. International and Domestic Flights to Kenya.

Did you know you that we can book your flights through Route wild safari right from your origin to your destination? For more information and frequently asked questions, please see our flight (link)section or contact us for more details.

8. Flights and road means.

Jomo Kenyatta International Airport: East Africa's major flight hub is located 13km / 8mi outside Nairobi and is the gateway to the Masai Mara, Amboseli and Lake Nakuru. There are also good connections from here to Uganda, Rwanda and the Seychelles.

Wilson Airport: This is most referred regional airport that is about 90 minutes by road from Jomo Kenyatta, Wilson is the hub for almost all of Kenya's domestic flights and serves its fly-in and out safari locations. Remember to consider enough time between your international flight and domestic flight for better transfers between the two airports to your destination.

Moi Mombasa International Airport: located about 10km / 6.2mi northwest of the town itself, Mombasa's airport is the gateway to the Kenya’s coast, Mombasa beach and as well as Zanzibar and Tanzania

9. Chartered flights.

There are a number if charter flights that a great way to get around Kenya’s destinations in order avoid the country's often dirt roads, traffic and more but most transfers from airstrips to lodges are conducted in 4X4 safari vehicles.

10. Road transfers.

Road transfers from airports between major destinations, hotel, or safari lodge and campsites are common. There are a number of mini buses scheduled for safaris to popular destinations such as the Masai Mara, Amboseli Nairobi and lake Nakuru. Sliding windows and a pop-up roof provide passengers on mini buses with ample viewing opportunities on game drives whereas safaris to more remote destinations and private conservancies use open-sided 4X4s.

11. Visa & Passport Requirements.

Visas are required by most visitors to Kenya including British, American, Canadian, European, Australian and New Zealand passport holders. Citizens from some smaller Commonwealth countries are exempt.

Visas are valid for three months from the date of entry and can be purchased upon arrival at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport. Visitors can still pay for their visas in local currency (Kenyan shillings) and they must possess a passport that is valid until six months from the entry date of travel.

12. East African countries.

If you plan travelling onwards from Kenya to other East African countries (Rwanda, Uganda, Tanzania), visa can generally be obtained in Nairobi for around US$50 each.

13. East Africa Tourist Visa.

This is a Joint Tourist Visa issued to persons traveling to and within Kenya, Rwanda and Uganda for tourism. Present EVisa Printout to immigration control at the point of entry. East Africa Visa Sticker will be issues at the point of Entry in Kenya.

14. Basic Requirements.

Valid travel document not less than six months. Return tickets

15. Validity.

An East Africa Visa is valid for 3 months from the date of issue.

16. Fees

All evisa applications attract a 1 USD service charge and a card handling fee will be surcharged. Card handling fee will be surcharged for Debit cards, Credit cards, VISA Card, Mastercard $101

17. Attachments.

During the application process, you will be required to attach the following documents. The file formats that may be attached are PDF, JPG, or Microsoft word.

18. For Business Visits.

Invitation Letters from company / Invitation letter for business visits Copies of registration of the company.

19. For Family visits.

Invitation Letters from family. Identity card / Passport / Alien card / Entry permit of the host.

20. For Tourists.

Travel itinerary (Details about places to visit if going as a tourist).

• Hotel bookings
• Identity Documents.
• Clear Passport biodata page.
• A clear photograph.

For more information click

With the compliments of Route Wild Safaris Uganda, we hope you enjoy your safari with us.

1. Tips for Planning Your Tanzania Safari.

Book early for high season: Tanzania is well vast with spellbinding attractions safari after safari and well-located destinations like the camps at Wildebeest Migration hotspots that hosts a number of travelers during their migration from Masai Mara to Serengeti and back. So, booking early would be a great deal for one not to miss out fascinating experience.

Choose your activities: In Tanzania, morning and afternoon game drives are standard safari activities in most national park, but exclusive safaris like night game drives, guided bush walks and hot-air balloon safaris are only allowed in certain areas or camps.

Expect crowds in high season: Tanzania’s heavy-duty national parks like the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Manyara and Tarangire can attract a lot of visitors from about June to October. Consider visiting during low or Green Season (about November to March) if you want to escape the crowds and still enjoy great game viewing. But if you don’t mind about crowds then we are good to take you discover wonders.

Plan your timing carefully: Planning to travel Tanzania and you wish or want to see the Wildebeest Migration on your safari or enjoy the best beach weather in Zanzibar, make sure your itinerary matches your travel wishes in order to experience remarkably.

2. Spending Money in Tanzania.

Tanzania's main currency is Tanzanian Shilling (TZS), but our advice is to use US Dollars only – and in cash: credit cards and traveller's cheques (although accepted in most establishments) incur transaction fees. ATMs are found throughout the major towns and cities in Tanzania, but not in the national parks and game reserves.

Note: US Dollar bills printed before 2006 are not accepted in Tanzania.

3. Climate.

Tanzania has a pleasant, tropical climate but has large regional climatic variations influenced by several factors, including altitude. The hottest and most humid part of the country is the coast. Other low-lying areas, such as the western and southern parks, are also hot but less humid. The rest of the interior is much milder and cools down significantly at night. Tanzania has a distinct Dry and Wet season.

Dry season--June to October

There is very little rainfall during this period and humidity is very low. It cools off at night; be sure to pack warm clothing because morning game drives in open vehicles will be cold, especially in the northern parks.

• June, July, August, September & October - JAfternoon temperatures are usually between 20°C/68°F and 30°C/86°F and vary greatly according to altitude and location. Most days have a fine, clear sky and sunny weather.

Wet season--November to May

During most of the Wet season, afternoon temperatures are consistently hot (a bit above or below 30°C/86°F) but it is colder above 1,300m/4,265ft. Mornings are cold in most northern parks due to the high altitude.

• November & December - 'Short rains' – A period of about a month of short rains which occurs sometime between November and December. Its timing is unpredictable and, in Northern Tanzania, it can even happen in October. The rains will rarely interfere with your safari.
• January & February - The northern parks and coastal areas tend to have a break in the rainy season. The other parks don't really experience a dry spell.
• March, April & May - 'Long rains' – These are the wettest months. It tends to rain heavily almost every day, although not often for the whole day. Humidity tends to be high, especially in the hotter southern and western parks.

4. What to Pack on a safari?

Visiting Tanzania for a safari one should pack light casual clothing in practical, neutral colours and a warm jacket for evening and night game drives are a safe bet throughout the year. For more on what to pack for a safari, refer to our safari packing guide (link)

Visiting Zanzibar, it’s important for women to dress modestly in main towns out of respect for Muslim cultural beliefs. T-shirts that cover the shoulders, long skirts and capri pants are generally better options than tank tops and shorts. Beach wear and bathing costumes are acceptable on the beaches and in resorts.

5. Tipping through your safari

Tipping lodge staff and drivers/guides is customary for good service on a safari in a Tanzania, but check first to see whether a service charge has been added to your bill. Tipping is always in addition to the price quoted by your operator and the amount varies depending on the size of your group, the level of luxury of the safari and whether you thought an exceptionally good job was done. When travelling in the major Tanzania cities, a 10% tip is customary in restaurants and bars when a service charge is not included.

6. Flights and road means.

Entebbe International Airport: located about 40km from Kampala to Entebbe is Uganda's international gateway. Visitors usually arrive via Jomo Kenyatta International Airport Nairobi in Kenya or Kigali international airport in Rwanda if you happen to use KLM connecting on Kenya Airways, Qatar airways or Turkish airlines respectively.

7. Etiquette.

In Tanzania, Religious belief are so strong with Christianity and Islam dominating. Most Muslims live on the coast and in Zanzibar, so visitors are strongly advised to be aware of the conservative nature of these destinations especially Stone Town. Dress and behave accordingly to be able have sublime experience through travels.

Tanzanians are renowned for being friendly and harmonious people, however, it is courteous to ask permission before photographing people or religious places.

8. International and Domestic Flights to Tanzania.

Did you know you that we can book your flights through Route wild safari right from your origin to your destination? For more information and frequently asked questions, please see our flight (link)section or contact us for more details.

9. Main International Airports in Tanzania.

Kilimanjaro International Airport:Tanzania's second international airport. This airport serves most prominent destinations like Ngorongoro Crater Serengeti and Tarangire national park. However, you need to transfer to nearby Arusha Airport for charter flights to these safari destinations. International flights often arrive at Kilimanjaro Airport late in the day, so an overnight stay in Arusha is usually necessary.

Dar-es-Salaam International Airport: Tanzania's main airport, a gateway to the Indian Ocean coast and Zanzibar and nearby national parks.

Arusha Airport: the gateway to northern Tanzania's safari airstrips - is located about 30 kilometres (19 miles) from Kilimanjaro International Airport.

10. Road Means.

Most transfers are conducted by road, game drives in Tanzania’s destinations are always done in closed 4x4s safari vehicle with pop-up, although visitors to destinations like Mahale will enjoy a boat transfer to Lake Tanganyika. Most safari destinations in Tanzania have extensive road networks and closed vehicles are therefore the norm when doing long-distance road transfers between airstrips, hotels, campsites and lodges.

11. Visa and Passport.

Almost all travelers to Tanzania require a visa. You need to contact relevant issuing authorities as early as possible (takes several months in advance) to ascertainTanzania’s entry requirements to, and to exhibit the necessary permits and visas. We strongly encourage all visitors arriving Tanzania via Kilimanjaro International Airport to obtain their visas online at Visa and Passport Tanzania’s E-visas can take 2 to 3 weeks to be issued.

12. Passport.

Traveling to Tanzania one must hold a passport that is valid for six months after the initial date of travel.

With the compliments of Route Wild Safaris Uganda, we hope you enjoy your safari with us.

1. Money & and Transactions.

Rwanda’s main currency, is the Rwandan franc (RWF) though we'd recommend US dollars. Transacting with US dollars notes must be above 2003 bills only or euros in cash. Traveller's cheques usually attract poor exchange rates in Rwanda. All necessary banking transactions should be done in Kigali city as we have limited opportunities that exist outside the capital. Credit cards - notably MasterCard - are accepted in some of the upmarket hotels and restaurants in Kigali but not in many other places.

2. Tipping through your safari.

Rwanda is not customary for tipping, an exception of some higher-end restaurants in town where 10% of the final bill is standard. But if you are doing a gorilla trek, tipping is not compulsory but it will be greatly appreciated if do so. These amounts vary depending on the size of your group and the level of assistance required while journeying around. If you choose to have a porter then he or she should usually receive the highest tip than the second tip should always be shared between your guides, trackers and security personnel.

Be reminded that some guides, porters and trackers are former poachers who now rely on tourists and travelers to make a living. Your generosity helps them see the value of protecting gorillas and chimps alive.

We usually advise to have a porter to help you during the trek. They can assist you over tricky parts of the hike, offer support and carry your daypack if you find yourself fatigued on the hike back. Tip your porter well for excellent service.

For more information on tipping guidelines, enquire with one of our Safari Experts as they would happily share their knowledge with you on how to handle it.

3. Climate.

Span at the equator, there is little year-round fluctuation in temperature and no real winter or summer. There is a defined Dry season from June to September, but in Volcanoes NP and Nyungwe Forest that only means that it will rain less as these parks are wet throughout the year.

Dry season--June to September

There is little rainfall during these months in most parts of the country though rain drops could fall at any time in most forest.

• June, July & August- In the east of the country, afternoon temperatures are usually around 27°C/81°F. In the mountain parks it is a lot colder. Nyungwe has daytime temperatures of around 21°C/70°F, and Volcanoes NP is even colder with temperatures around 16°C/61°F.
• September – Early September- is still dry, but sometime this month the rains may begin. Temperatures remain the same. The mountain parks will receive quite a bit of rain in September.

Wet season--October to May

The Wet season is characterized by two periods of rain, the short rains and the long rains, interrupted by a drier spell.

• October, November & December - 'Short rains' - Nyungwe and Volcanoes NP tend to be very wet throughout the rainy season. Daytime temperatures in Nyungwe are about 20°C/68°F and in Volcanoes NP it drops to 16°C/61°F. The rains won’t likely interfere with your safari in Akagera NP.
• January & February - There tends to be a drier spell between the short and long rains. The exact timing is unpredictable. In Nyungwe and Volcanoes NP it will still be very wet and it can rain anytime.
• March, April & May - 'Long rains': these are the wettest months. It tends to rain most days, although seldom for the whole day in the drier east part of the country. In Nyungwe and Volcanoes NP, it can rain for days.

4. What to Pack on a safari?

You’ll need to be suitably equipped for gorilla trekking in Rwanda – preparation is key. When packing for your Rwanda safari, be sure to include long, thick trousers and long-sleeved tops, long socks or gaiters to wear over your trousers as protection against ants, a pair of light gloves to protect against nettles, a hat, a raincoat and of course a pair of sturdy, comfortable hiking boots (break them in before your trip).

It can get cold and damp on the mountains at altitude so pack a change of clothes and a warm fleece in your day pack, along with sunscreen and insect repellent.

Stinging nettles are one of the gorillas' main food sources so there are bound to be thick patches of nettles when you encounter a gorilla family. We recommend wearing the thickest trousers possible to protect your legs against scratches and gardening or other gloves to protect your hands (you may have to grasp vegetation from time to time to steady yourself on the trek).

More useful tips:

• We strongly advise you not to wear strong fragrances as animals have an astute sense of smell and may retreat from unfamiliar scents in the jungle.
• Gorilla-trekking Permits. A gorilla-trekking permit is essential. It is important to note that children under 15 are not permitted on gorilla treks.
• Be advised to dress colours of nature i.e., browns and greens. Animals are aware of contrast, shouting and bright colours, white and strong patterns create the highest contrast against the forest background. Also remember not to wear black or blue as these colours seem to attract tsetse flies and other bugs. Also Keep a distance while are making game.
• Carried bug spray must be environmentally friendly.
• We advise to consult your doctor or travel clinic about vaccinations and medication to help you cope with the altitude, if necessary.
• Be advised to have anti-motion sickness medication as many of the country's roads are very 'twisty' or windy.

5. International and Domestic Flights to Kenya.

Did you know you that we can book your flights through Route wild safari right from your origin to your destination? For more information and frequently asked questions, please see our flight (link)section or contact us for more details.

6. Flights and road means.

Gregoire Kayibanda International Airport: is the main hub of Rwanda and a getaway. A short drive from Kigali airport to Kigali city. Rwanda's point of entry is served by a direct flight from Brussels on RwandAir otherwise you'll be flying in from Entebbe, Nairobi, Lusaka or Johannesburg.

It's about a 2.5-hour drive from Kigali to the gorilla trekking destination of the Volcanoes National park. Most transfers in Rwanda are conducted 4X4 safari vehicles. Helicopters are also used to fly from Kigali to Nyungwe Forest National Park.

The maximum driving distance between major points of interest in Rwanda is about four to five hours long. Scooters are mostly used in Kigali if one wants to have efficient and fun ways of getting around in away of getting an authentic taste of the city.

7. Visa & Passport Requirements.

PassportTraveling to RwandAir, one must hold a passport valid for at least six months prior to departure.

VisaTraveling to Rwanda, Visas are required by traveler except citizens of the USA, UK, Canada, Germany, Sweden, Hong Kong, Kenya and South Africa.

Multiple-entry tourist visas can be purchased from your nearest Rwandan embassy or consulate in one’s country of origin. All visas to Rwanda are valid for three months and be extended in Kigali on a month-by-month payment basis.

8. International and Domestic Flights to Tanzania.

Did you know you that we can book your flights through Route wild safari right from your origin to your destination? For more information and frequently asked questions, please see our flight (link)section or contact us for more details.

9. Main International Airports in Tanzania.

Kilimanjaro International Airport: Tanzania's second international airport. This airport serves most prominent destinations like Ngorongoro Crater Serengeti and Tarangire national park. However, you need to transfer to nearby Arusha Airport for charter flights to these safari destinations. International flights often arrive at Kilimanjaro Airport late in the day, so an overnight stay in Arusha is usually necessary.

Dar-es-Salaam International Airport: Tanzania's main airport, a gateway to the Indian Ocean coast and Zanzibar and nearby national parks.

Arusha Airport: the gateway to northern Tanzania's safari airstrips - is located about 30 kilometres (19 miles) from Kilimanjaro International Airport.

10. Road Means.

Most transfers are conducted by road, game drives in Tanzania’s destinations are always done in closed 4x4s safari vehicle with pop-up, although visitors to destinations like Mahale will enjoy a boat transfer to Lake Tanganyika. Most safari destinations in Tanzania have extensive road networks and closed vehicles are therefore the norm when doing long-distance road transfers between airstrips, hotels, campsites and lodges.

11. Visa and Passport.

Almost all travelers to Tanzania require a visa. You need to contact relevant issuing authorities as early as possible (takes several months in advance) to ascertainTanzania’s entry requirements to, and to exhibit the necessary permits and visas. We strongly encourage all visitors arriving Tanzania via Kilimanjaro International Airport to obtain their visas online at Visa and Passport Tanzania’s E-visas can take 2 to 3 weeks to be issued.

10. Passport.

Traveling to Tanzania one must hold a passport that is valid for six months after the initial date of travel.

With the compliments of Route Wild Safaris Uganda, we hope you enjoy your safari with us.