FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What can I expect on a typical day on safari?

In a nutshell? Excitement. Seeing something you’ve never seen. Doing something you’ve never done. Each day holds a different adventure, but a lot depends on where you are and what you’ve scheduled in your safari. When you are in the national parks of Southern and Eastern Africa, you will get up early (about 6:00am) and head out into the bush on your game viewing activity. We wake you up early because that is the best time to see animal activity. Game viewing excursions can happen in a powerboat or canoe if you’re on the river or lake; a walk with your guide through the bush; or game viewing in your four-wheel-drive safari vehicle. Each day’s schedule is flexible and your camp manager will help organize your daily activities.

Typically, you’ll return to camp by 11:00am for brunch or lunch, followed by an afternoon break. Around 3:00pm you will have tea and rusks (local snack) before heading out into the African bush again, in search of game. When the sun starts to get low on the horizon, you will stop briefly and enjoy sundowners (drinks) as you watch the beautiful African sunset. On arrival back at your camp, you will have time for a shower before returning to the dining room for a delicious dinner. After coffee and a nightcap, you may return to your comfortable bed for a good night’s sleep.

How many people are in a vehicle while game viewing? 

Most vehicles typically accommodate a maximum of 6 guests (the 7th seat possibly sitting next to the driver) but you will find each camp and lodge has a slightly different format. The most important thing to know is that everyone has a window seat and no one sits in the middle, giving you the best possible vantage point! 

What clothes do you need on safari? 

Tett Safaris will provide you a packing list for your safari, as well as seasonal temperature and rainfall charts for the areas you’ll be visiting. While out on the vehicle, it is recommended you dress in neutral colored clothes: we want you to blend into the environment so the animals don’t get scared and run away. We recommend clothing is lightweight and comfortable so you can add and remove items as the temperature changes. Safari is a casual affair and there are daily laundry services offered throughout your trip. Unless you are dining in a fancy hotel or luxury train, the dress code is relaxed and informal.

Am I too late to book? 

It’s never too late to look at space availability for those who are planning short term. 

As for booking last minute optional activities when you are out on safari (beyond standard game viewing activities), we prefer to have all your favorite activities pre-booked and ready to go to avoid disappointment just in case an activity is sold out. However, if you have a change of heart and you just have to take that sunset hot air balloon ride over the plains, your on-site managers are always able to work with you to ensure you get to do the things you’d like to do. 

What is included and not in the price? 

Generally, in all of our itineraries we include accommodation, internal domestic African airfare, transfers, meals, local drinks at safari camps and game drives. What’s usually not included are gratuities, immunizations, trip cancellation insurance, international airfare, special activities like hot air ballooning, city tours, white water rafting and special educational tours.

When is the best time to go? 

Of course, weather and game sightings change throughout the year. East Africa game viewing is wonderful year-round, but we know that April, May and November are peak rainfall months. Southern Africa is also a destination that is a year-round option, but the Green Season (Dec-Mar) does tend to have seasonal afternoon rain showers. Yet rates in the rainy season (often called the Green Season) are lower, animals are having their babies, and lighting is very dramatic, creating incredible photographic opportunities with fewer tourists. If you don’t like the heat, you might want to avoid October to March, where temps are likely to be in the 90’s plus. June and July do have pleasant daytime temperatures, but evenings in Southern Africa can dip in the 40’s. This is where customizing your trip really gets into your personal taste: do you mind the outdoor mist of a morning shower? Can you tolerate the hot temperatures on a game drive or do you prefer a temperate climate? We know Africa inside and out, so we are happy to steer you into the perfect weather choice for your particular safari.

What is the perfect size group for a safari and What Is the right amount of time?

You decide! Do you want a romantic trip for two, or a family trip with three generations of travelers? While on safari, camps and lodges vary in size, but each day game viewing activities are done in small groups of no more than seven guests. At Tett Safaris we ask for a for a minimum of two guests and seven consecutive days travel in order to book a custom safari. On average we find most of our guests are happy to include two or three game viewing locations which translates to a minimum of 6-9 nights on safari. Once you add in non-game viewing destinations like cities, seaside locations etc, that will generally add up to 9-12 nights in Africa.  Door to door from the U.S.A. that’s 15 nights.

When is payment due? 

Once we book your arrangements for you in Africa and send you your confirmed itinerary, we will request a 30% deposit, which we then forward to the camps and lodges in Africa so that they continue to hold your space. Final payment is not due until 98 days prior to your day of departure. 

Will Tett Safaris help with international airfare? 

Yes, absolutely we can assist you with your international airfare and provide options for your consideration. 

Will someone meet me at the airport?

From the minute you arrive in Africa, there is always someone on the ground to meet you and transfer you to your next destination. While on safari, camp managers and hosts will take care of your every need and answer questions. Each leg of your journey is detailed in your itinerary as well. Not a chance of you getting lost or taking a wrong turn!

What kind of aircraft do you use? 

Generally you will fly in Cessna Grand Caravans and PC-12’s when flying between camps and lodges, but there are other aircraft that may be used depending on the group size for example a Barron 55, Islander, King Air 90 or 200. On request we can book these aircraft privately just for your party. 

Can I expect to have WiFi connection while in Africa?

Although WiFi is commonly available at camps throughout Africa, please keep in mind that it is not likely to have the same reliability or bandwidth that you’re used to when uploading or downloading files. Emails and messaging without attachments is typically not an issue. Most camps offer WiFi.

Is there the ability to use telephone and e-mail throughout my time in Africa? 

For the most part, yes. However, services in certain destinations are often inconsistent and unreliable, therefore you can’t always expect or depend on regular communication. 

How will I be able to get in contact with Tett Safaris while I’m in Africa? 

Tett Safaris maintains a 24-hour emergency cell phone number. In the event of an emergency, our office should be able to get word to you at most locations within a reasonable space of time. You can rest assured that in the event of an emergency while on safari your camps hosts are extremely qualified to handle any situation that may arise. 

Should I be concerned about dehydration while on safari? 

Dehydration is often a problem in travel and responsible for a number of symptoms that can interfere with the enjoyment of the trip. The most common causes are from air travel, hot weather, humidity, drinking alcohol, or other exerting factors. You will find there is plenty of clean drinking water readily available throughout your trip. If you are traveling in the heat, we also recommend you bring along rehydration salts or packets of electrolyte mixtures.

Do I need to worry about becoming ill from the food or water while in Africa? 

Because of the careful selection of camps and lodges that Tett Safaris chooses to work with, the risk of exposure to food and water-borne diseases has not been an issue for our guests. We will be sure to supply you with our tips to minimize exposure and a clear list of what we suggest you pack. Rest assured that all the accommodations we book for you will have ample, safe drinking water and reliable kitchens with impeccable track records for food safety.

How can I ensure my dietary needs are addressed on safari?

Our forms have a spot for you to describe any dietary restrictions you have and as soon as we have that information, we pass that along to the camps and lodges you will stay in, so they will be ready for your visit. Camps pride themselves on their cuisine and enjoy offering a varied menu that will give you a sense of African cuisine, but there are always options that allow you to stick to more traditional European fare.

Passport & Visa Information

Do I need a travel visa for my safari? 

You may require a travel visa before departing your home country for entry into certain African countries, depending on your final itinerary. Once your safari is booked with Tett Safaris, we will clearly communicate to you and supply a list of the visa requirements specific to your trip. We also provide the visa application forms that apply to your trip, along with reminders of the required deadlines you will have to meet.

Anything important I need to know about my passport?

Your passport should be currently valid and should not have an expiration date within six months of your scheduled return date.  Additionally, some countries require four consecutive unused pages. Any other policies that are unique to a specific region or country will be clearly communicated to you by your Expert Safari Planner. We are always up-to-date with changes in all African countries, so when you book with Tett Safaris, you’ll have expert advice from start to finish.

Money, Cards & Currencies While On Your Trip

How much currency will I need to carry with me? 

You will only need money for personal expenses that are not included in the cost of your safari such as laundry, phone calls, faxes, souvenirs, gratuities and some special meals and beverages. In many cases you’ll be able to use your credit card, but it’s always smart to have cash on hand in small denominations. 

What currencies will I need to have throughout the trip? 

American dollars are welcomed almost everywhere in Africa. Local currencies can be exchanged at various ATM and bank locations along your itinerary. Traveler’s checks are not recommended and are not widely accepted in most of the places you will visit.

What credit cards are accepted? 

Visa and MasterCard are accepted in most places, however there are regions in Africa where main credit card companies are not currently operational. Your Safari Planner will make sure you’re aware if that applies to any stops on your itinerary. Let your credit card companies know you’re heading overseas: it is very common practice to block transactions in foreign countries unless credit companies have been forewarned.

Do I need to be concerned about currency value shifts after I book? 

Normally you would, but not with Tett Safaris! As a U.S. registered company, your travel investment is protected in a U.S. Traveler’s Trust account with FDIC insurance. This eliminates concerns of currency fluctuations affecting your time on safari.

Do I need travel insurance? 

Tett Safaris automatically covers you for International Medical Evacuation Insurance ($100,000) and Accident/Sickness Medical incidents ($25,000 per incident). This policy covers you only during travel arranged by Tett Safaris; air, hotels, and other arrangements not booked and paid for through Tett Safaris are not covered under this insurance policy. We do recommend you purchase Trip Cancellation Insurance and we will provide a Travel Guard brochure for additional travel insurance coverages. The Travel Guard travel insurance plan provides valuable coverage at an affordable price and includes a waiver of Pre-existing Medical Condition Exclusion if insurance is purchased within 21 days of the initial trip payment.

Is there a minimum age for travel in Africa? 

Over the years we have had families with very young children travel to Africa and enjoy their safari. While some properties do have a minimum age limit, we will make sure that the properties we propose are appropriate for the youngest of travelers in your party.

Are there issues when you travel with small children? 

Our experience with planning safaris for families is part of the benefit we offer when you book with Tett Safaris. Your Safari Planner will make sure you know which countries require additional documentation for minors in your group. Sometimes immigration questions arise when a minor is not traveling with both parents; we make sure all goes smoothly for you and your family.

Where are the best destinations for safari adventures for children? 

Some destinations are more equipped to entertain young safari-goers than others, largely because of the activities they offer and facilities at the camps. When you work with our expert safari planners, you can be confident that your young travelers will have a memorable experience; from learning how to track animals, make a bush breakfast, drive a Land Rover and even visit a local African school.

What type of medical insurance or coverage do I need for my safari adventure? 

When you book with Tett Safaris, we automatically include coverage for Emergency Medical Evacuation Insurance and Accident/Sickness Medical Incidents. Information will be included in the final packet with your other travel documents. We will also provide options for purchasing Trip Cancellation Insurance, which we highly recommend, since your safari investment becomes less refundable as you approach your departure date.

Am I healthy enough to go on safari? 

In general, you should be in good health and prepared for travel in places without immediately accessible medical facilities. Depending on your itinerary, you may need to climb in and out of small aircraft, safari vehicles and boats; climb stairs without a railing and walk moderate distances unassisted. The safari vehicles will travel over bumpy, rocky dirt tracks and the going can be a little bit rough at times. It’s always a good idea to ask your doctor about any specific concerns. If you need a little less adventure and prefer a softer experience, please just let us know and we can design an itinerary that will accommodate you!

What medical requirements and information do I need to go on safari? 

Tett Safaris has curated safari experiences for all ranges of physical capability and desired levels of activity. Initially, we will give you access to our compiled and constantly updated health information resources for travel to Africa. You are encouraged to consult your doctor for specific medical advice about any activities or destinations on your trip. Your doctor is most familiar with your personal medical history and is best qualified to determine your particular needs. Be sure to bring a copy of your itinerary when you do visit your doctor.

What if I need medical attention? 

We provide emergency medical evacuation on all of our safaris. Depending on the nature of the injury, you may be treated locally or if more severe, flown by air ambulance to the most appropriate facility. Camps are equipped with basic medical kits, but if you have a specific medical condition, you should plan to bring your own medicine to have on hand in the event of an emergency.

What immunizations do I need for my adventures in Africa? 

We will provide you links to the Center for Disease Control, which will list current requirements for each country in Africa that you will be visiting. Immunization requirements can and do change, but we will ensure that you know the latest before you go. Ultimately you should talk to your doctor or local health immunization center to decide which immunizations you need.

What prescription and over-the-counter medications should I be concerned about bringing with me to Africa?
Each of Africa’s countries has different policies. Our team of Africa experts is here to help make things easy and seamless. We’ll bring to your attention the restrictions for each country on your itinerary – such as in Zambia, where the active ingredient found in Benadryl and many other allergy meds is illegal to possess. We keep apprised of all of these restrictions and will ensure you a seamless, safe trip. 

Electrical Current

What type of plug-in will I need, and do I need a converter? 

Electrical current throughout Africa is 220 volts. A current converter will be necessary to run small, U.S.-style, 110-volt appliances unless they have a dual-voltage switch. We recommend you bring a universal plug adaptor with you since you will see a variety of plugs at different camps.

Plastic Bag Bans

Can I bring plastic bags for my toiletries, or anything else? 

The laws and regulations regarding plastic bans varies from country to country. Our safari experts will make sure you’re informed if any of the countries in your itinerary ban plastic. FYI, some countries impose large fines (and possible jail terms) for possession of plastic bags.

Weather Conditions

What type of weather conditions should I expect while on my trip? 

Africa is large enough to encompass both the northern and southern hemisphere, giving it different seasonal months depending on the latitude of any given region. In other words,  Africa is a large continent and weather varies heavily from region to region and month to month. You can count on Tett Safaris and our African experts to ensure you pack appropriately. We’ll provide you with the average monthly temperatures and rainfalls for the regions you’ll visit so that you can be fully prepared.

When is the best time to go? 

Weather and game viewing changes throughout the year and is quite different between East and Southern Africa. East Africa game viewing is wonderful year-round, but April, May and November are their peak rainfall months. Southern Africa is also a year-round option, but the Green Season (Dec-Mar) does tend to have seasonal afternoon rain showers. Yet, that means rates are lower, animals are having their babies, lighting is very dramatic creating incredible photographic opportunities and overall there are fewer tourists. If you don’t like the heat you might want to avoid October to March, where temps are likely to be in the 90’s plus. June and July do have pleasant daytime temperatures, but evenings are in the 40’s. Tett Safaris will help you work out the best time of year for you to visit, taking into consideration your likes and dislikes!

Wildlife Viewing & Photography

Do I need to bring my own binoculars? 

Binoculars are essential for wildlife viewing. We recommend that travelers bring a pair for each person. Although some camps will provide them, it is not common and you are likely to want a set that you’re comfortable with and always have available to you, whether you’re on a game drive or just sitting on your deck bird watching.

What’s should I know about cameras? 

Be sure that you are familiar with your camera, including accessories such as flashes and lenses before leaving home. Bring extra batteries and storage and your manual in case issues arise. If you are a photographer, be sure to ask your expert safari planner about photography-focused camps and activities, as there are many available to you. All camps will have areas to charge your batteries daily.

Shopping

What can I bring back with me from Africa, and how do I avoid issues in customs? 

Returning US citizens are allowed to bring into the country $800 worth of goods purchased abroad, duty free. Of course, there are numerous variables, depending on the country the items were purchased in and what the items are made from. 

Should I fly home with my gifts and souvenirs, or ship them home?

When shipping larger items home, we recommend you use air freight, as surface freight out of Africa can be slow and often unreliable. Please be aware of your air freight cost before you purchase any item, since it can sometimes be prohibitively expensive.