Safari FAQ

What to Bring on Safari?

It really depends on what type of safari you have chosen. In any case, the following is recommended: Flashlight; Sunscreen, Lip salve; Sunglasses, Sun hat; Insect repellent; Binoculars; Camera with zoom lenses; Spare film and batteries; Towel, Toiletries; Long sleeved shirt; Long trousers; Warm sweater; Sleeping bag; Small daypack.

Will I get a hot shower every day?

On some trips yes, but others, especially camping trips, no.

If I arrive a day early, can you help with hotel accommodation?

Yes, we can arrange additional accommodation at the joining hotel if you plan to arrive early.

Is it a guaranteed departure?

Not all departures are guaranteed. However very few trips are cancelled.

How many are booked so far?

Since travelers book from many different countries, exact numbers are not available. We know when the trip is almost full and when completely full.

How much spending money should I bring?

This will depend on the destination and your spending habits. However our trip notes / dossiers will give you an idea of how to budget for additional meals, optional excursions, and extra expenses you might incur on any specific trip.

Who travels with us on Safari?

During lodge safaris, you will be accompanied by a trained wildlife guide. Our guides have at least 8 years of experience on safari and have taken several language and wildlife courses. If you choose an adventure camping safari, you will also travel with a cook who will prepare all of your delicious meals while in the bush. As with any Bush’s -arranged trip, we will only combine tourist groups at the client’s request. You can expect a private vehicle with your very own guide.

What Drinks are Available on Safari and Do I need to bring a water Filter ?

On most safaris alcoholic drinks and non-alcoholic are not included in the all-inclusive daily rate. These are bottled water, soft drinks. On Safari we provide bottled water thoroughly.

What is a Typical Menu on a Camping Safari or Kilimanjaro Climb?

During a camping safari, Bush Explorer provides three meals a day as well as afternoon snacks. We also provide all of your bottled drinking water. After your game drive, a snack with tea or coffee will be waiting for you at the campsite. You will have a choice of fresh popcorn, peanuts, cake or sliced fruits. We can also cater for Vegetarians! Just inform your safari consultant at the time of booking!

What Type of Vehicles are Used on Safari for Wildlife Viewing?

During safaris, Bush Explorer uses 4WD Land Cruisers and occasionally and Land Rover Defenders .All vehicles are custom made for safaris with pop-up roofs for outstanding viewing. But be careful, sun can get very hot during the day and to avoid sunburn do not forget to wear sunscreen or maybe long sleeves!

Our Family Wants to Enjoy a Safari. Are children allowed on Safari?

In Tanzania, travelling with children is quite easy as many lodges and camps have no restrictions.

Do I Need to Bring a Sleeping Bag on a Camping Safari?

In the majority of cases all camping equipment will be provided for you. If you need to bring a sleeping bag your safari consultant will advise you of this.

What Type of Baggage / Luggage Should I Take?

Luggage should be kept to a minimum – 12 kg’s / 26 pounds per person packed in a soft duffel bag (15 kg’s per person on Explorer Series safaris). Hard sided suitcases and soft-sided internal frame carry-on luggage are not acceptable as they will not fit in the baggage compartment on small aircraft which are often used for transfers between lodges and camps. On safaris that have no small aircraft transfers the weight and size allowance is not as important however you should still strive to bring as little as possible. Remember – a complimentary laundry service is offered at most safari camps and lodges.

What are The Big Five?

The Big Five were originally the animals most sought after by hunters. They were the fiercest animals, the animals that hunted the hunters. They include rhino, elephant, lion, leopard and Cape buffalo and today are the animals that tourists most want to see when visiting Tanzania’s national parks. You can see all five of these animals during a visit to Northern Tanzania.

What is the Wildebeest Migration?

The wildebeest migration is the annual movement of 1.2 million wildebeest and zebra between Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park and Kenya’s Maasai Mara National Park. The migration is usually in the Serengeti from late December until late August, making these months the best for wildlife viewing in the Serengeti. The best months to view the migration are generally January through March when the migration is in larger herds. The highlight of the migration occurs during a two week period in February when the wildebeest give birth to 8,000 babies daily.