 |
|
|
 |
When
is the best time to visit Africa?
While Africa is a year-round destination, here are a few
guidelines:
December through February is a great time to view the
migration in Tanzania.
June through October is when you will find especially
large herds in Kenya.
Kenya and Tanzania experience short rains in March and
long rains during April and May.
Egypt experiences temperatures in the 100’s in July
and August.
« Top of page |
|
|
|
|
|
What is the annual
migration?Each year around half a million wildebeest, accompanied
by zebras and lions, migrate from Tanzania to Kenya’s
Maasai Mara in search of green pastures to graze. Although
the exact paths and dates vary, dramatic crossings of
the Mara River and animals moving en masse provide spectacular
game viewing.
« Top of page |
|
|
|
|
What is the food like
on safari?Wonderful! Your food is expertly prepared by professional
chefs at all lodgings. You will find a large selection
of familiar menu items, as well as some traditional African
fare, and always the freshest, locally grown fruits and
vegetables.
Let us know ahead of time, and any special dietary requirements
can easily be arranged.
« Top of page
|
|
|
|
|
How far in advance
should I book a trip?
If you are planning to visit during peak season (June,
July, and August), book six months to one year in advance
to avoid disappointment.
« Top of page |
|
|
|
|
How large are tour
groups?
Groups are limited to eighteen to ensure minimal environmental
impact. However, there is never more that six per van.
Passengers are grouped two to six in a comfortable van
with their own knowledgeable driver/guide.
« Top of page |
|
|
|
|
What
immunizations will I need to travel to Africa?
You will need contact your doctor or a travel clinic at
least six weeks in advance to obtain the proper inoculations.
You may contact the Center for Disease Control in Atlanta,
GA at 877-394-8747 for international-travelers recommendations,
or log onto to www.cdc.gov/travel.
« Top of page |
|
|
|
|
Is
the water safe to drink?
Bottled water is provided by Shades of Africa during game
drives, and available for purchase at lodges and restaurants.
« Top of page |
|
|
|
|
Is it safe to travel
on safari?
Your safety is our first priority. Our well-maintained
vehicles and certified driver/guides ensure the safest
animal viewing. Tour groups are only led into the most
welcoming areas.
« Top of page |
|
|
|
|
Can I customize my
travel package?
Yes, we at Shades of Africa can help you create a “vacation of a lifetime”. We will work within your budget to provide to most memorable experience possible.
« Top of page |
|
|
|
|
Can children travel
on safari?
A safari is an excellent family vacation. Our “Maasai
Family Safari” is especially suited for families
with children, including hands-on learning activities.
With very few exceptions, children are welcomed in most
safari lodgings, and often receive discounts on land tour
costs. Large, buffet style eating arrangements satisfy
the most discriminating appetites.
« Top of page |
|
|
|
|
How should I dress
on safari?
Some clothing items you will want on safari are comfortable
walking shoes, a hat and sun glasses for sun protection,
long pants and a sweater for evening and early morning
game drives, a rain jacket, and jeans or khakis. Shorts
are fine for safaris or the beach, but are not considered
appropriate in town. You may feel like dressing up just
a bit for the evening meal.
« Top of page |
|
|
|
|
What
expenses are not included in the tour price?
Fees for obtaining passports, visas, inoculations; airfare not specifically mentioned as included; excess baggage fees, trip protection coverage, international airport departure taxes (except for port of entry Nairobi) are not included, optional tours, any items of a personal nature such as beverages, laundry, phone calls, cables, or room service, driver, guide or porter tips, excess mileage carried out at the request of the passenger or any other item not specifically listed. Optional day rooms in London at Le Meridien Gatwick (or similar) are also not included in the package price.
« Top of page |
|
|
|
|
May I pay for my trip
with a credit card?
Yes, Shades of Africa accepts Visa, Master Card, Discover,
and American Express.
« Top of page |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Booking
a Trip
Please call or e-mail us to book your trip.
We accept all major credit cards.
Advance fees of $500.00 per person are due on or before the 7th day after confirmation of your reservation. For custom-designed trips, a down payment of $750 is required on or before the 7th day after confirmation of your reservation. Tour extensions require a $250 down payment. The balance of package fees is due 90 days before departure; the entire cost of your tour is due on confirmation of your reservation. Final documents are usually sent between 14-21 days before departure, once full fee payments have been made.
« Top of page
|
|
|
|
