The East African Safari Guide
Everything you need before you go: visas, vaccinations, money, packing, gratuities, and on-the-ground etiquette for Kenya, Tanzania and Rwanda.
Transfer Times
All transfer times stated in your itinerary are approximate and may vary depending on weather, road conditions, and how many stops you opt to make along the way. Stay flexible: the journey between lodges is often as spectacular as the destination itself.
Health
Please visit your local health care provider or travel clinic well before departure for vaccination requirements and to discuss health risks including malaria. Health protocols and travel regulations can change before or during your journey; you are responsible for your own compliance.
Government travel advisories
- USA: CDC Travel Advice
- Canada: Travel Canada Advisories
- UK: FCO Travel Advice
Airline Baggage
You are responsible for confirming your airline details and applicable baggage policies prior to departure. If your airline is not listed in your travel documents, contact your Orika travel consultant for clarification.
Excess baggage, where permitted, is subject to the airline's discretion and must be pre-booked in advance. Contact us as early as possible if you anticipate needing additional luggage allowance.
Commonly used East African regional airlines
Emergency Contacts
In the event of an emergency while on safari, please reach the Orika Africa team directly via the numbers below. Both lines accept WhatsApp and direct calls.
Availability
24 / 7
✓ Always on callPassports & Visas
All tourist eTAs to Kenya must be applied for electronically via the official portal. We strongly recommend applying at least 3–4 weeks before your departure date.
Cost: USD $35 per traveler
- Passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the date of entry
- Minimum two blank visa pages required
- Entry requirements can change at any time; verify with your consulate before traveling
Health & Vaccines
Consult a personal physician or travel clinic before your journey. Vaccination requirements and health risks vary by individual circumstance.
Yellow Fever
WHO-recommended vaccinations
- Hepatitis A & B
- Polio
- MMR (measles, mumps, rubella)
- TDAP (tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis)
- COVID-19
CDC-recommended for Kenya
- Rabies
- Typhoid
- Meningitis
Malaria
Malaria is present throughout Kenya. Talk to your doctor about prevention and the most appropriate anti-malarial for you. Avoid mosquito bites, especially after sunset, by wearing long-sleeved clothing and using insect repellent. Most lodges provide mosquito nets or spray rooms in the evening.
Food, Water & Hygiene
Choose food that has been freshly cooked and served hot. If purchasing produce from local markets, ensure it is thoroughly washed in clean water or easy to peel without contaminating the inside.
Only drink water you know to be safe; all hotels, lodges, and supermarkets provide sealed drinking water. Use drinking water to brush your teeth. Tap water is suitable for showering.
Cash & Cards
The official currency is the Kenyan Shilling (KSh). USD is commonly accepted in many tourist circuits, but KSh is recommended for tips, bar bills, and meals not included in your safari.
- Currency can be exchanged at the airport or foreign exchange centers
- Large notes (USD 50, USD 100, EUR) attract better exchange rates
- ATMs are available in Nairobi and dispense KSh (not reliable upcountry)
- Credit/debit cards (Visa, Mastercard) accepted at most large hotels, usually with a surcharge
- Alert your bank before traveling to avoid declined transactions
- Travellers' checks are not accepted
Electricity
220/240 V AC, 50 Hz. Socket type: British Standard (Type G). Bring your own adapter; some lodges provide them, though availability is not guaranteed.
Power cuts and voltage fluctuations occur even in Nairobi. On safari, lodges running on generators or solar may restrict socket access to the main lounge. Wi-Fi is typically available in larger city hotels and in lodge main areas; speeds at bush camps vary.
Packing List
Pack light, as you will often be transferring between multiple parks. Domestic airlines within Kenya typically limit luggage to 15 kg (33 lbs) total per person, including handbags. Hard-sided suitcases are generally not accepted; soft-sided luggage is advised.
Clothing
- Long trousers (sun protection, bush walking); culturally appropriate longer shorts or capris are also acceptable
- Long-sleeved shirts and short-sleeved t-shirts in light, neutral colours
- Dress in layers: early mornings on game drives can be surprisingly cool
- Light rain jacket
- Warmer fleece or sweatshirt layer
- Swimsuit
Footwear & accessories
- Comfortable, sturdy closed-toe walking shoes or sneakers with socks
- Sandals (closed-toe for walks; flip-flops for beach itineraries)
- Sunglasses and wide-brim hat
- Hiking boots if your itinerary includes trekking (break them in before the trip)
Gear & essentials
- Binoculars
- Camera with extra memory cards and batteries
- Dustproof camera bag recommended
- Power converter / Type G adaptor
- Flashlight or headlamp
- Sunscreen, insect repellent, lip balm with SPF
- Power bank for charging on the go
For beach itineraries along the coast, pack reef shoes and a modest cover-up for times when moving beyond the resort. For trekking, add hiking socks and an optional walking stick.
Gratuities
Tipping is never mandatory, but is a deeply appreciated part of safari culture. Tip at the end of your stay at each camp or lodge, and tip your guide separately.
| Recipient | Suggested Amount |
|---|---|
| Driver / Guide | USD $7–10 per person, per day |
| Hotel / Camp / Lodge (tip box) | USD $5–7 per couple or family, per stay |
| Porter | USD $1 per person |
At most camps, use the communal tip box in the main area; tips are divided equally among all staff.
Photography
Always ask permission before photographing people. Members of certain communities believe photography takes something from them spiritually; treat this with genuine respect. Others may request a small tip or fee.
Clearly marked areas prohibit photography; respect these rules. Bring a dustproof camera bag: East African bush tracks are notoriously dusty.
Country Etiquette
Kenya has a vibrant cultural heritage with diverse tribes and ethnic groups. A few etiquette pointers for your time here:
- Greetings are essential: a warm hello, smile, handshake, or wave goes a long way. Offer everyone in the room a greeting, particularly elders.
- When dealing with government authorities, patience and a sense of humour will serve you far better than frustration.
- Any attempt to speak a local language is met with heartfelt appreciation.
Useful Swahili phrases
Area Overviews
City & Hub
Nairobi
East Africa's most cosmopolitan city, home to 4.5 million people and uniquely bordered by Nairobi National Park, the only national park in the world bordering a capital city. The park is one of Africa's best places to see black rhino, and also harbours lion, leopard, cheetah, giraffe, and antelope. Other highlights include the Karen Blixen Museum, the Giraffe Centre, the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust elephant orphanage, and a thriving restaurant scene ranging from roadside nyama choma to five-star dining.
The park is open daily 6:30 am to 6:30 pm, a wonderful half-day before or after your safari.
Wildlife Reserve
Maasai Mara
Covering 1,510 km² of sweeping savanna, the Mara is widely considered Africa's greatest reserve. It plays host to one of nature's most spectacular phenomena, the Great Wildebeest Migration, and contains some of the highest predator densities on the continent. Setting for countless BBC and Disney wildlife documentaries, the Mara is a wildlife photographer's paradise year-round, with the Mara-Serengeti ecosystem extending seamlessly into Tanzania.
Conservation Trust
Sheldrick Wildlife Trust
Founded in 1977 by Dame Daphne Sheldrick in memory of her late husband David, a pioneering conservationist and founding Warden of Tsavo East. Today the Trust operates veterinary units, anti-poaching units, and community projects alongside its world-famous Orphans' Project for elephants. Open every day except Christmas; advance booking required.
Passports & Visas
A single-entry tourist visa is valid for up to 90 days. Cost: USD $50 for most European nationalities; USD $100 for US citizens. Visas can be obtained on arrival (cash only) or via e-visa before departure.
Guidelines: eservices.immigration.go.tz/visa/guidelines
Official processing: 2–3 weeks. Apply 3–4 weeks ahead.
- Passport valid for at least six months beyond entry date
- Minimum one blank visa page required
- An entry form must be completed on arrival (duration, destination, local contact)
- Entry requirements can change; verify with your consulate before traveling
Health & Vaccines
Consult a physician or travel clinic before your journey to Tanzania.
Yellow Fever
A yellow fever vaccination certificate is not officially required for entry to Tanzania unless you have recently traveled through a Yellow Fever-endemic area, including airport transit exceeding 12 hours through such a country.
WHO-recommended vaccinations
- Hepatitis A & B
- Polio
- MMR (measles, mumps, rubella)
- TDAP (tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis)
- COVID-19
CDC-recommended for Tanzania
- Rabies
- Typhoid
- Meningitis
Malaria
Malaria is present throughout Tanzania. Consult your doctor on the best prevention strategy for your itinerary. Avoid mosquito bites, especially after sunset, by wearing long-sleeved clothing and using insect repellent. Lodges provide nets or spray rooms in the evening.
Food, Water & Hygiene
Always choose food that has been freshly cooked and is served hot. Wash or peel fruit and vegetables purchased from local markets. Only drink sealed water provided by your hotel, lodge, or supermarket; use it for brushing your teeth too. Tap water is fine for showering.
Cash & Cards
The official currency is the Tanzanian Shilling (TSh). The tourism sector primarily operates in USD, covering accommodation, park fees, and transport.
- Currency exchange at banks only; large denominations get better rates
- ATMs accept MasterCard and Visa, available in larger cities; maximum withdrawal TSh 400,000 per transaction
- Credit/debit cards accepted at most hotels and lodges (5–10% surcharge typical)
- Alert your bank before traveling to avoid blocked transactions
- Carry sufficient cash when heading to remote bush areas
Electricity
220/240 V AC, 50 Hz. Socket type: British Standard. Bring your own adapter. Power cuts and voltage fluctuations occur even in cities. Safari lodges running on generators or solar may limit socket access to common areas.
Packing List
Pack light. Domestic airlines typically limit luggage to 15 kg (33 lbs) total per person, including all handbags. Soft-sided bags only; hard-sided suitcases are generally not accepted.
Clothing
- Long trousers in neutral colours; culturally appropriate longer shorts or capris acceptable
- Long-sleeved shirts and t-shirts; dress in layers for cool mornings and evenings
- Light rain jacket
- Warmer fleece or sweatshirt
- Swimsuit (and reef shoes if visiting Zanzibar)
Footwear & accessories
- Sturdy closed-toe walking shoes or sneakers with socks
- Sandals; hiking boots if trekking (break them in beforehand)
- Sunglasses and hat
Gear & essentials
- Binoculars
- Camera with extra memory cards, batteries, and a dustproof bag
- British Standard adaptor
- Flashlight or headlamp
- Sunscreen, insect repellent, lip balm with SPF
- Power bank
Zanzibar: Dress modestly when moving beyond beach resort areas, out of respect for local Muslim culture.
Gratuities
Tipping is a normal and appreciated part of the safari experience in Tanzania. Tip at the end of each lodge stay, and tip your guide separately.
| Recipient | Suggested Amount |
|---|---|
| Driver / Guide | USD $10–20 per person, per day |
| Hotel / Camp / Lodge (tip box) | USD $3–5 per person, per day |
| Activity Guides | USD $5–10 per person, per activity |
| Luggage Porter (hotel) | USD $1 per bag |
| Climbing Guide | USD $10–20 per person, per day |
| Safari Chef (camping / climbing) | USD $10 per person, per day |
Photography
Always ask permission before photographing people. Some communities believe photography is spiritually intrusive; always be respectful. Others may request a tip or fee. Clearly marked areas prohibit photography; respect these restrictions. A dustproof camera bag is strongly recommended.
Country Etiquette
Tanzania's people represent a rich tapestry of ethnic groups, tribes, and religions. A few pointers:
- Greetings matter: a warm hello, smile, or handshake is expected. Always greet elders.
- Patience and a sense of humour are invaluable when dealing with government authorities.
- Any attempt at local language is genuinely appreciated.
Useful Swahili phrases
Area Overviews
UNESCO World Heritage Site
Northern Serengeti
Perhaps Africa's most iconic wilderness, the Serengeti covers 14,750 km² of acacia woodlands, open grasslands, and undulating savanna. The northern section borders the Maasai Mara and is one of the finest places in East Africa to see leopard; the kopje-strewn hillsides are home to these elusive cats and are strikingly beautiful in their own right. Expect excellent big-cat sightings and the possibility of black rhino in certain areas.
UNESCO World Heritage Site
Ngorongoro Crater
At just 260 km², the three-million-year-old Ngorongoro Crater, the world's largest intact caldera, contains some of the highest densities of lion and spotted hyena anywhere on earth. The view from the rim at 600 m is breathtaking. Its soda lake attracts lesser flamingos, and the area is famous for large-tusked elephants, black rhino, and exceptional predator activity. Game viewing on the crater floor is strictly by vehicle on designated routes.
Passports & Visas
Visas can be obtained on arrival, or applied for in advance online via the official Irembo portal.
- Single-entry tourist visa: USD $50, valid up to 30 days (exclusions apply for select nationalities)
- East African Tourist Visa (covers Rwanda + Uganda): USD $100, valid up to 90 days
- Passport valid for at least six months on the day of entry
- Entry requirements can change; verify with your consulate before traveling
Health & Vaccines
Consult a physician or travel clinic before your journey to Rwanda.
Yellow Fever
WHO-recommended vaccinations
- Hepatitis A & B
- Polio
- MMR (measles, mumps, rubella)
- TDAP (tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis)
- COVID-19
CDC-recommended for Rwanda
- Rabies
- Typhoid
- Meningitis
Malaria
Malaria is present throughout Rwanda. Consult your doctor about the most appropriate anti-malarial for your itinerary. Wear long-sleeved clothing after sunset and use insect repellent. Lodges provide mosquito nets or spray rooms in the evening.
Food, Water & Hygiene
Choose freshly cooked food served hot. Wash or peel market produce thoroughly. Only drink sealed bottled water; use it for brushing teeth too. Tap water is fine for showering.
Cash & Cards
The official currency is the Rwandan Franc (RWF / RF). USD and RWF are both commonly accepted at larger hotels; upmarket properties often prefer USD. For tipping in remote locations, RWF is especially appreciated.
- Currency exchange in Kigali: large denominations get better rates
- ATMs available in and around Kigali; not reliable upcountry
- Credit/debit cards (Visa, Mastercard) accepted at many upmarket hotels (3–10% surcharge typical)
- Alert your bank before traveling to avoid blocked transactions
Electricity
230 V AC, 50 Hz. Socket types: C and J. Bring your own adapter. Power cuts and voltage fluctuations can occur even in Kigali. Safari lodges on generator or solar power may limit socket access to the main lounge areas.
Packing List
Pack light. Laundry is regularly available at most safari lodges and hotels, though turnaround time depends on weather (items are often sun-dried). For domestic and regional flights, contact us about luggage limitations in advance.
General safari clothing
- Long trousers in neutral colours; culturally appropriate longer shorts or capris
- Long-sleeved shirts and t-shirts; dress in layers (early mornings and evenings can be cool)
- Light rain jacket
- Warmer fleece or sweatshirt, especially for gorilla trekking in Volcanoes NP
- Warm sleepwear if gorilla trekking (temperatures at altitude drop at night)
- Swimsuit
Footwear & accessories
- Comfortable, sturdy closed-toe walking shoes with socks
- Sandals for lodge downtime
- Sunglasses and hat
Gear & essentials
- Binoculars
- Camera with extra memory cards and batteries; dustproof bag recommended
- Types C and/or J adaptor
- Flashlight or headlamp
- Sunscreen, insect repellent, lip balm with SPF
- Power bank
Additional gear for gorilla & chimpanzee trekking
- Sturdy hiking boots (break these in well before the trip)
- Thick hiking socks
- Light daypack (for camera, water bottle, picnic lunch)
- Comfortable hiking trousers
- Rain jacket (for layering and unpredictable mountain weather)
- Hiking gloves (optional)
- Walking stick (optional; locally carved sticks are often available free at the trailhead)
Gorilla Trekking
The Virunga Mountains straddle Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, and are home to around 480 mountain gorillas, over half the world's entire population. Twelve gorilla groups in Rwanda's Volcanoes National Park are habituated for tourism, offering one of the most awe-inspiring wildlife encounters on earth.
The day of your trek
You'll depart early for park headquarters at Kinigi, where rangers assign you to a gorilla family and brief you on protocols. Groups are limited to eight guests. The initial trek passes through rural fields of potatoes and pyrethrum before entering the forest. Porters are available for hire at the trailhead; highly recommended for both practical assistance and for supporting the local economy.
Your permit allows one hour with the gorilla family. You then trek back to your vehicle. A typical trek takes 2–6 hours depending on the gorillas' location.
What to wear trekking
- Light to mid-weight long trousers; tuck pants into your socks while trekking
- A t-shirt plus a lightweight long-sleeved shirt or rain jacket for layering
- Sturdy hiking boots and socks
- Apply insect repellent before setting out
Porters
Porters can be hired at the trailhead (typically USD $20 paid directly after the trek, plus a gratuity). They carry your daypack and assist on steep sections. Hiring a porter directly supports local communities and gorilla conservation.
Golden Monkey Trekking
Golden monkey trekking in Volcanoes National Park offers an intimate encounter with one of the world's most critically endangered primates, found in the bamboo forests of the Virunga Mountains. Treks begin in the early morning with experienced park rangers guiding you through lush, verdant terrain.
The duration and intensity of the trek varies depending on where the troops are located; it is generally a moderate hike suitable for a wide range of fitness levels. Once found, the monkeys, playful, curious, and brilliantly coloured, leap between bamboo shoots and interact naturally around you, offering exceptional photography opportunities. The panoramic views of the Virunga volcanic peaks surrounding the park add further spectacle to the experience.
Gratuities
Tipping is never mandatory but is always appreciated. Tip your guide separately, at the end of your time together. Tips in USD or Euros are accepted, but local currency is especially helpful for recipients in remote areas who struggle to exchange foreign notes.
| Recipient | Suggested Amount |
|---|---|
| Driver / Guide | USD $15–20 per couple, per day |
| Hotel / Camp / Lodge (tip box) | USD $5–7 per couple, per day |
| Luggage Porter | USD $1–2 per bag |
Gorilla & chimpanzee trekking tips
| Recipient | Suggested Amount |
|---|---|
| Trackers (as you exit the forest) | USD $10–15 |
| Chief Ranger (in view of the group) | USD $15–20, or USD $5–7 per ranger individually |
| Porters (in addition to porter hire fee) | USD $10–15 |
Photography
Always ask permission before photographing people. Some communities see photography as spiritually intrusive; others may request a tip or fee. Marked areas prohibit photography; respect these restrictions.
A dustproof camera bag is strongly recommended for bush travel. Many experienced travelers bring a backup camera.
Country Etiquette
Rwandans are renowned for their warmth and respectfulness. A few important points:
- Handshakes are the standard greeting. To show deep respect, touch your forearm with your other hand while shaking.
- Do not ask Rwandans to identify themselves by ethnic group. Rwanda has worked hard to move beyond the divisions that led to the 1994 genocide; people identify as Rwandans, not Hutu or Tutsi.
- Cleanliness is a point of national pride. Plastic bags are banned and must not be brought into the country.
- Patience and good humour are invaluable when dealing with authorities.
Useful Kinyarwanda phrases
Kigali
City & Hub
Area Overview
Rwanda is often called the "Land of a Thousand Hills", and its capital lives up to that name, set across rolling hills, valleys, and ridges at an elevation of 1,540 m (5,140 ft). Temperatures average 15–27°C year-round. Farmland covers over 60% of the city's boundaries.
On the last Saturday of each month, Kigali observes umuganda, a morning of mandatory community service. Most normal services close and public transport is limited during this time. It's a powerful expression of Rwandan civic pride.
The city has a flourishing art scene, excellent dining, and a deeply moving genocide memorial worth visiting for those who wish to understand the country's history and its remarkable path to reconciliation.
Memorial Site
Kigali Genocide Memorial
The final resting place of more than 250,000 victims of the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi, the Kigali Genocide Memorial includes three permanent exhibitions: the largest documenting the 1994 genocide, a children's memorial, and an exhibition on the global history of genocidal violence. Visitors can walk the mass grave gardens, visit the wall of names, and find moments of quiet reflection. The memorial is a guided experience; choose between a staff witness guide or the KGM digital audio-visual tour. A complete tour takes approximately 90 minutes.