FAQ
FAQ
Getting ready for your East African safari is an exciting time, filled with anticipation, packing decisions, and questions! Here we’ve answered the most common inquiries about planning safaris in Uganda, Rwanda, Tanzania, and Madagascar, along with essential travel information.
If you’re looking for more detailed information about our destinations, please visit our dedicated pages for Uganda, Rwanda, Tanzania, and Madagascar.
General Questions
Do you offer custom safari tours?
When is the best time to travel to East Africa?
Uganda: Located on the equator, Uganda enjoys a pleasant climate year-round. Many travelers prefer visiting during the dry seasons from December to February and June to August when trails are less muddy and wildlife viewing is excellent. However, Uganda is truly a year-round destination.
Rwanda: Like Uganda, Rwanda has a temperate tropical highland climate. The best time to visit is during the dry seasons (December to February and June to September), especially for gorilla trekking when trails are less slippery.
Tanzania: The best wildlife viewing in Tanzania occurs during the dry season from June to October. For witnessing the wildebeest calving season, visit between January and February. If you’re interested in the Great Migration river crossings, plan your trip between July and October.
Madagascar: The best time to visit Madagascar is during the dry season from April to October November to March is the rainy season, with potential cyclones between January and March, especially on the east coast. For wildlife viewing, September to December is ideal when many animals are most active.
Do you have a safari tour packing list?
We provide a comprehensive packing list to every client before their trip begins. In general:
- Comfortable, neutral-colored clothing (avoid bright colors on game drives)
- Sturdy hiking boots with ankle support for primate treks
- Light rain jacket and a fleece or sweater for cool evenings
- Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen)
- Insect repellent
- Camera equipment with extra batteries
- Small backpack for daily excursions
For Madagascar, we also recommend:
- Quick-dry clothing for the humid rainforest regions
- Lightweight long sleeves and pants to protect against insects
- Waterproof gear during the rainy season
- Swimwear for coastal areas
If you’d like to receive our detailed packing list ahead of time, just contact our team!
What type of accommodation will I stay in?
We offer accommodations across three categories in most locations:
Budget: Simple but comfortable lodges and camps with the essential amenities. Perfect for travelers who plan to spend most of their time exploring.
Standard: Mid-range accommodations with additional comforts and amenities, often in excellent locations with good service.
Luxury: High-end lodges and camps offering premium service, exceptional comfort, and often exclusive locations or experiences.
In Madagascar, accommodations range from charming eco-lodges in the rainforest to beachfront resorts on the coast. The classification system differs somewhat from mainland Africa, and we’ll discuss specific options when planning your trip.
When personalizing your tour, we’ll discuss all options and provide links to each property’s website so you can make informed decisions.
Are children welcome on safari tours?
Yes, children are welcome on most of our safari tours. However, there are some important considerations:
- For gorilla tracking in Uganda and Rwanda, the minimum age is 15 years
- For chimpanzee tracking, the minimum age is 12 years
- In Madagascar’s rainforest treks, we recommend a minimum age of 8-10 years
Not all accommodations are equipped for children, and extra beds may not always be available. When traveling with children, please inform us during the planning stages so we can suggest family-friendly lodges and activities appropriate for their ages.
What fitness level is required for trekking and hiking activities?
The required fitness level varies significantly depending on the activity:
Nature walks: Generally easy and manageable for most people with average fitness.
Primate tracking: (gorillas and chimpanzees): Moderate to challenging, as these can last up to 6 hours over steep, sometimes muddy terrain. Good general fitness is recommended. Porters are available to assist when needed.
Mountain hiking: Treks like the Rwenzori Mountains in Uganda require above-average fitness.
Madagascar rainforest treks: Moderate fitness is required for most trails in national parks like Ranomafana and Andasibe-Mantadia, while more remote parks like Masoala may involve challenging hiking conditions.
Please discuss any concerns about physical requirements with us when planning your trip.
What insurance do I need?
- Medical emergencies and evacuation
- Trip cancellation/interruption
- Lost luggage
- Adventure activities specific to your itinerary
How far in advance do I need to book mountain gorilla tracking permits?
We recommend booking gorilla permits 6-12 months in advance, especially if you plan to travel during the peak dry seasons. Permits are strictly limited and sell out quickly, particularly in Rwanda.
How long should I book a trip to East Africa for?
For a comprehensive East African experience, we typically recommend:
- Uganda or Rwanda: 7-10 days minimum
- Tanzania: 7-14 days
- Madagascar: 10-14 days minimum due to its size and diverse ecosystems
- Combined destinations: 15-21 days
That said, we offer shorter experiences for travelers with limited time, including 3-4 day gorilla trekking tours and 5-day Tanzania safari options.
Do you have guides who speak languages other than English?
- German
- French
- Spanish
- Italian
Will I be able to charge my camera and electronic devices?
Most lodges and hotels provide electricity for charging devices, though some remote locations may have generator-based power available only during specific hours.
- In Uganda, Rwanda, and Tanzania, outlets generally use the British-style three-pin plugs (Type G) at 230-240V.
- Madagascar primarily uses European-style two-pin plugs (Type C and E) at 220V.
We recommend bringing:
- A universal travel adapter
- Extra batteries for cameras
- A power bank for emergency charging
- A multi-outlet extension cord, as outlets may be limited
Many of our safari vehicles also have USB charging ports available.
Is internet access available during our safari?
Most lodges and hotels offer Wi-Fi, though coverage may be limited to common areas. Connection quality varies significantly:
- In major cities and towns, good 4G service is often available
- In national parks and remote areas, connectivity can be intermittent or unavailable
- Madagascar has the most limited connectivity among our destinations, particularly in remote areas
We recommend informing family and friends that you may be unreachable at times during your safari. Consider purchasing a local SIM card upon arrival if staying connected is important to you.
Traveling To/Around East Africa
How are the roads for driving in East Africa?
Road conditions vary significantly across the region:
Uganda: Major roads are generally in reasonable condition, but minor roads near national parks can be challenging, especially during rainy seasons. Self-driving is not recommended without local experience.
Rwanda: Rwanda has excellent road infrastructure compared to neighboring countries, making it somewhat more suitable for confident self-drivers.
Tanzania: Main roads connecting major tourist sites are generally well-maintained, but remote areas may have rough conditions, particularly during rainy seasons.
Madagascar: Road conditions in Madagascar are generally poor, with limited paved highways and many rough dirt roads that can become impassable during the rainy season. Travel times are much longer than distances would suggest, and we always recommend using experienced drivers.
What is the weather like in East Africa?
Uganda: Average daytime temperatures range from 22-300C (72-860F) throughout the year. The mountain regions are cooler, especially at night. Rainy seasons typically run from March to May and October to December.
Rwanda: Daily temperatures range from 12-27 oc (54-81 OF), with cooler temperatures in mountainous regions. Rainy seasons occur from March to May and October to December.
Tanzania: Coastal areas and Zanzibar are hot and humid (around 300C/860F during the day), while inland areas including the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater are cooler and drier (15-250C/59-770F during the day, as low as 50C/410F at night). The long rains occur from March to May and short rains from October to December.
Madagascar: Weather varies significantly by region. The central highlands (including Antananarivo) are temperate (16-250C/61-770F), the east coast is humid and rainy, and the southern regions are hot and dry. The rainy season runs from November to March, with potential cyclones along the east coast from January to March.
What are the customs allowances in East Africa?
Uganda/ Rwanda
• 1 liter of spirits
• 1 liter of wine
• 250g tobacco products
• Max 0.5 liter perfume and/or eau de toilette (of which not more than 0.25 liter may be perfume)
Tanzania
• 200 cigarettes, or 250g of tobacco products
• 1 liter of spirits
• 2 liters of wine
• Perfume and toilet water not exceeding half liter (of which not more than a quarter may be perfume)
Madagascar
• Madagascar
Banned imports across all countries include narcotics, pornography, counterfeit items, cultural artifacts, explosives, and some medications. Check specific regulations before travel.
Is East Africa accessible for travelers with disabilities?
While East Africa is not yet fully equipped for travelers with disabilities, we can create accessible experiences with advance planning. Most safari experiences involve riding in vehicles, and many lodges are becoming more accessible.
Considerations to note:
- Most accommodations lack elevators
- Paths are often uneven or unpaved
- Some activities like gorilla trekking can be adapted with specialized carriers, though this requires additional planning and cost
Madagascar presents the most significant challenges due to rough terrain and limited infrastructure. Please contact us about your specific requirements, and we’ll work to accommodate your needs.
What are the main mobile providers in East Africa?
Uganda: MTN and Airtel are the main providers with good coverage in most areas.
Rwanda: MT N, Airtel, and Tigo offer reliable connectivity in most urban and populated areas.
Tanzania: Vodacom, Tigo, and Airtel provide coverage in major towns and tourist areas.
Madagascar: Telma, Orange, and Airtel are the main providers, with coverage primarily in cities and towns.
Local SIM cards are inexpensive (typically $5-10 USD) and available at airports and shops with proper identification. Your phone must be unlocked to use local SIM cards.
Money Matters
How do I pay for my tour?
Once your itinerary is finalized, we require a 50% deposit plus the full cost of any permits. The balance is due 60 days before your trip begins.
Payment can be made by:
- Bank transfer to our US Dollar account
- Credit card (subject to a processing fee)
- PayPal (subject to a processing fee)
Detailed payment instructions will be provided with your booking confirmation.
Can I use my credit card during my tour?
Credit card acceptance varies across the region:
- Major hotels, restaurants, and shops in cities accept credit cards
- Mastercard and Visa are most widely accepted
- American Express and Discover have limited acceptance
- Additional fees of 3-10% may apply for credit card payments
- Many smaller establishments, local markets, and remote areas operate on cash only
We recommend carrying sufficient cash as your primary payment method, especially when traveling to remote areas.
How easy is it to change foreign currency?
Foreign exchange bureaus are common in major cities and tourist areas across all four countries. USD, EUR, and GBP are the most easily exchanged currencies. Notes should be:
- In good condition (no tears or excessive marks)
- Issued after 2006 for USD
- Larger denominations ($50 and $100 bills) typically receive better exchange rates
In Madagascar, currency exchange options are more limited outside the capital and major tourist towns, so plan accordingly.
Which currencies are used in East Africa?
Uganda: Uganda Shilling (UGX) Rwanda: Rwandan Franc (RWF) Tanzania: Tanzanian Shilling (TZS) Madagascar: Malagasy Ariary (MGA)
US Dollars are widely accepted at many tourist establishments across Uganda, Rwanda, and Tanzania, particularly for larger purchases. In Madagascar, euros are sometimes accepted alongside dollars in tourist areas, but local currency is needed for most transactions.
Can I get cash from ATMs in East Africa?
ATMs are available in major towns across all four countries, with most accepting Visa and some accepting Mastercard. However, you may spend several days without access to an ATM while in national parks or remote areas.
Important ATM tips:
- Notify your bank of travel plans to prevent card blocking
- Test your card upon arrival before heading to remote areas
- Daily withdrawal limits typically range from $200-500 USD
- Local ATM fees apply (typically $3-5 per transaction)
- Madagascar has the most limited ATM network among our destinations
How much should I tip?
Tipping is customary throughout East Africa. We suggest the following guidelines:
Safari guides/drivers: $10-15 per person per day
Porter for gorilla/chimp trekking: $15-20 per porter
Hotel porters: $1-2 per bag Restaurant service: 5-10% of the bill
Rangers and local guides: $5-10 per group
In Madagascar, tipping expectations are similar but generally lower, with $5-10 per day for guides and $2-5 for drivers being typical.
These are suggestions – please adjust based on the quality of service and your satisfaction.
Safety & Security
Is it safe to travel to East Africa?
Yes, Uganda, Rwanda, Tanzania, and Madagascar are generally safe for tourists, especially when traveling with experienced local guides. The vast majority of visitors experience trouble-free trips, but as with travel anywhere, common-sense precautions should be observed:
- Avoid walking alone at night
- Store valuables in hotel safes
- Remain aware of your surroundings in crowded areas
- Follow local advice from your guide
Rwanda is known for being particularly safe and orderly. Uganda and Tanzania have excellent safety records in their national parks and tourist areas. Madagascar is generally safe but requires additional awareness in urban areas.
We continuously monitor local conditions and will advise you of any areas to avoid during your trip.
What is the stance on LGBTQ+ travelers in East Africa?
East African countries have varying laws and social attitudes regarding LGBTQ+ individuals:
Uganda: Has strict anti-homosexuality laws with severe penalties. Public displays of affection between people of any gender are uncommon and generally discouraged.
Rwanda: While same-sex relationships are legal, public displays of affection are not culturally common regardless of orientation.
Tanzania: Same-sex relationships are illegal, though foreign tourists are rarely targeted.
Madagascar: Same-sex relationships are legal, but cultural acceptance is limited, and discretion is advised.
For all countries, we recommend discretion regardless of sexual orientation, as public displays of affection are generally not culturally common. Please contact us for more specific guidance based on your personal situation.
Where are embassies and consulates located?
Major countries maintain diplomatic missions in the capital cities:
Uganda (Kampala): US, UK, Canada, Germany, France, Netherlands
Rwanda (Kigali): US, UK, Germany, Netherlands, Belgium
Tanzania (Dar es Salaam): US, UK, Canada, Germany, France, Netherlands
Madagascar (Antananarivo): US, France, Germany, UK (Honorary Consulate)
We provide a comprehensive list of embassy contacts to all our guests before departure. In case of emergency, our 24/7 support line can help you connect with your country’s representatives.
Visas & Entry Requirements
Do I need a tourist visa to enter East African countries?
Uganda: Yes, most nationalities require a visa. Online application is recommended before arrival through the official portal: https://visas.immigration.go.ug/
Rwanda: Yes, most nationalities require a visa, which can be obtained online or on arrival for many countries. Apply online at: https://www.migration.gov.rw/
Tanzania: Yes, most nationalities require a visa, which can be obtained online through: https://eservices.immigration.go.tz/
Madagascar: Yes, most nationalities require a visa. Short-stay visas (up to 30 days) can be obtained on arrival at international airports. Longer stays require advance application.
How does the East African Tourist Visa work?
The East African Tourist Visa allows multiple entries into Uganda, Rwanda, and Kenya for up to 90 days. It costs $100 and is ideal for travelers visiting multiple countries in the region. Note that Tanzania and Madagascar are not part of this arrangement.
To apply, use the visa application portal of the first country you plan to enter:
- Uganda: https://visas.immigration.go.ug/
- Rwanda: https://irembo.gov.rw/
What are the requirements for tourist visas?
Standard requirements across all countries include:
- Valid passport with at least 6 months validity beyond your travel dates
- Sufficient blank pages in your passport
- Return ticket or onward travel documentation
- Proof of accommodation bookings
- Application fee payment
Uganda, Rwanda, and Tanzania: Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is required. Madagascar: Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is required only if arriving from a country with Yellow Fever risk.
Health & Vaccinations
What travel vaccinations and precautions do I need to take?
We recommend consulting with a travel medicine specialist at least 8 weeks before your trip. Common vaccinations recommended for East Africa include:
Required:
- Yellow Fever (required for entry to Uganda, Rwanda, and Tanzania)
Highly Recommended:
- Routine vaccines (MMR, DPT, etc.)
- Hepatitis A & B
- Typhoid
- Tetanus
- COVID-19 vaccination (check current entry requirements)
Consider Based on Activities:
- Rabies (especially for longer stays or wildlife work)
- Cholera
- Meningitis
- Malaria prevention medication
For Madagascar, additional considerations include:
- Plague (for certain rural areas)
- Polio booster
- Different malaria prophylaxis due to regional resistance patterns
Can I drink tap water?
No, tap water is not safe to drink in any of our destinations.
We recommend:
- Drinking only bottled or filtered water
- Avoiding ice in drinks unless you’re certain it’s made from purified water
- Using bottled water for brushing teeth
- Being cautious with raw foods that may have been washed in tap water
Most lodges and hotels provide complimentary bottled water, and our guides ensure safe drinking water is available during activities.
What is the current situation regarding health concerns like COVID-19?
Health situations can change rapidly. We continuously monitor conditions in all our destinations and will provide up-to-date information prior to your departure. Currently, most
COVID-19 restrictions have been lifted, but we recommend checking the latest requirements before travel.
Is malaria prevalent in East Africa?
Yes, malaria is present throughout Uganda, Rwanda, Tanzania, and Madagascar, though risk varies by region and season.
Prevention measures include:
- Taking appropriate antimalarial medication (consult your doctor for the best option)
- Using insect repellent containing DEET
- Wearing long sleeves and pants, especially during evening hours
- Sleeping under mosquito nets
Different regions may require different antimalarial medications. For example, certain areas of Madagascar have chloroquine-resistant malaria, requiring alternatives like Malarone or doxycycline.
Is schistosomiasis (bilharzia) a concern?
Schistosomiasis is present in many freshwater lakes and rivers across East Africa.
To minimize risk:
- Avoid swimming in freshwater lakes and rivers unless specifically advised they are safe
- If exposure occurs, consult a doctor about testing and treatment upon returning home
Lake Bunyonyi in Uganda is one of the few lakes confirmed to be free of schistosomiasis.
AMREF Flying Doctors
- 24/7 access to medical advice via the AMREF helpline
- Emergency air evacuation to Nairobi in case of a critical medical situation
- Coverage across all our destinations
