Journeys: Kenya & Tanzania Safari
Journeys: Kenya & Tanzania Safari
Journeys: Kenya & Tanzania Safari
14 Days Starting in Nairobi and ending in Arusha
Visiting: Nairobi, Lake Nakuru National Park, Lake Naivasha, Masai Mara, Arusha, Lake Manyara National Park, Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro
Tour operator:
Tour code:
25242
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
1 - 6
Age range:
You must be 18 to travel unaccompanied on a G Adventures tour. For minors travelling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians, Vegans
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Tour Overview
On this epic journey, explore some of the finest national parks in East Africa, from Kenya’s Masai Mara to the incomparable Ngorongoro Crater in Tanzania. Keep your binoculars at hand on a trip to Lake Nakuru, a birder’s paradise; and seek out lions, leopards, and elephants in the wilds of the Serengeti. In between safaris, learn about local customs on a visit to a Maasai community and share a meal with a family in the vibrant Mto wa Mbu village.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Nairobi
Location: Nairobi
Accommodation: Sarova Panafric Hotel
Accommodation Name: Sarova Panafric Hotel
Arrive at any time. Arrival transfer is included.
Our trips throughout Kenya and Tanzania have a maximum group size of six travellers in addition to a CEO and a driver who are both trained safari guides. That means everyone gets a window seat and twice the insight about the astounding wildlife all around you.
ACTIVITY: The adventure begins tonight. Feel free to explore before your welcome meeting, but make sure you’re back in time to meet the group. Check for the meeting time on the welcome note at the hotel. After introductions, your CEO will review the details of your tour. Please note that normal check-in times apply at our start hotels, but you can usually store your luggage for the day if you arrive early.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the comfort of your private vehicle.
Day 2: Nairobi/Lake Nakuru National Park
Location: Nairobi
Accommodation: Sarova Lion Hill Game Lodge
Accommodation Name: Sarova Lion Hill Game Lodge
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Depart early for Lake Nakuru, known for harbouring flocks of pink flamingos and a rich variety of bird species. Arrive at our safari lodge inside Lake Nakuru National Park in time for lunch, and seek out the resident rhinos on a late afternoon wildlife drive.
TRANSPORT: Get a better view and take better snapshots aboard this off-road ride.
ACTIVITY: AFTERNOON Search for, buffalo, impalas, hyenas, and even lions and leopards on the wildlife safari drive in this renowned national park. Head to the shores of Lake Nakuru to see pelicans and cormorants. The park is also rich in other bird life, including grebes, white winged black terns, stilts, avocets, and ducks.
Day 3: Lake Nakuru National Park
Location: Lake Nakuru National Park
Accommodation: Sarova Lion Hill Game Lodge
Accommodation Name: Sarova Lion Hill Game Lodge
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Set out on morning and afternoon safaris through the picturesque park, searching for buffalo, impalas, lions, and more; and drive along the salty shores of Lake Nakuru to discover a mind-boggling variety of birds.
TRANSPORT: Get a better view and take better snapshots aboard this off-road ride.
ACTIVITY: MORNING Search for, buffalo, impalas, hyenas, and even lions and leopards on the wildlife safari drive in this renowned national park. Head to the shores of Lake Nakuru to see pelicans and cormorants. The park is also rich in other bird life, including grebes, white winged black terns, stilts, avocets, and ducks.
Day 4: Lake Nakuru National Park/Lake Naivasha
Location: Lake Nakuru National Park
Accommodation: Lake Naivasha Crescent Camp
Accommodation Name: Lake Naivasha Crescent Camp
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
This morning attend a talk given by a representative of the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS)—a government institution dedicated to managing the country’s wildlife—about the issues surrounding poaching and wildlife conservation. Later head south through the Great Rift Valley to Lake Naivasha, a large freshwater lake surrounded by grassy banks and olive trees. Cruise the lake on a boat, watching for hippos and buffalo; and peer through your binoculars to spot lovebirds, ibis, and the African fish eagle. Step ashore at Crescent Island—a peaceful wildlife sanctuary located in the middle of the lake— and enjoy a guided stroll in search of wildebeest, zebras, and giraffes.
The name Naivasha comes from the Maasai “Nai’posha”, which means “rough water”, though Lake Naivasha is generally calm as we watch for hippos and birdlife. Bring your binoculars and scan for lovebirds, ibis, and fish eagles, watch buffaloes wallow in the swamps and listen to colobus monkeys call from the treetops.
ACTIVITY: Gain a deeper understanding of the issues surrounding poaching and Elephant conservation during a lecture by an accredited speaker from the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS). The major topics will be Elephants, martial Eagles & Pangolins and how they conduct animal census. The KWS strives to sustainably conserve and develop Kenya’s wildlife and its habitats, as well as create programs to enable communities living in wildlife areas to benefit from wildlife revenue. National Geographic has supported many research projects working jointly with KWS researchers in the field. The chairman of the KWS is renowned conservationist Walter Raria Kaipaton.
TRANSPORT: Get a better view and take better snapshots aboard this off-road ride.
ACTIVITY: AFTERNOON Enjoy a scenic boat ride on this fresh water lake, popular with people seeking wildlife and bird watching. Once at Crescent Island walk amongst the acacia trees and come face to face with herds of wildebeest, zebra, waterbuck and giraffe. Along the shore you may see hippos and buffalo wallowing in the mud. Scan the treetops for the African fish eagle, waiting to snatch a fish from the lake.
Day 5: Lake Naivasha/Masai Mara
Location: Lake Naivasha
Accommodation: Fig Tree Camp
Accommodation Name: Fig Tree Camp
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Travel to the legendary Masai Mara National Reserve and settle into our comfortable tented camp, located in the heart of the reserve. Head out for an afternoon safari through vast, acacia-dotted plains, driving past throngs of wildebeest, zebra, and giraffes; and keep an eye out for lions, elephants, and the rest of the African “big five.” In the evening, relax at the camp and enjoy scenic views of the rolling plains.
After breakfast, we depart for the world famous Masai Mara National Reserve. No trip to Kenya would be complete without a visit here. In the afternoon, we will arrive in the area, and get settled at our safari camp, our base for our time here. Then we’ll make our way into the reserve for an afternoon wildlife safari drive, with excellent chances of seeing the "big five": buffalo, elephant, leopard, lion, and rhino.
Additional Information: The road in and back out of the park is very rough and very bumpy, but once you catch a glimpse of the stunning wildlife, it is worth a bit of discomfort.
TRANSPORT: Get a better view and take better snapshots aboard this off-road ride.
ACTIVITY: AFTERNOON Maasai Mara is one of the world’s top safari destinations, known for its abundance of big cats – cheetahs, leopards and lions – as well as the two million wildebeest, Thomson’s gazelles and zebra that migrate annually across the vast grasslands in search of water. Set off on safari with our driver/guide and keep your eyes and ears peeled for movement and memories. Watch elephants and giraffe grazing, photograph zebras and wildebeest and, with a little luck, you'll even spot animals feasting on a recent kill.
Day 6: Masai Mara
Location: Masai Mara
Accommodation: Fig Tree Camp
Accommodation Name: Fig Tree Camp
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Venture out on an early morning safari to track the animals that traversed the savanna during the night. View ungulates like Thomson’s and Grant’s gazelles, topi and eland antelopes—as well as their stealthy predators—at one of their most active times of the day. Continue your exploration on a late afternoon safari, discovering the timeless landscapes of Masai Mara.
TRANSPORT: Get a better view and take better snapshots aboard this off-road ride.
ACTIVITY: MORNING Maasai Mara is one of the world’s top safari destinations, known for its abundance of big cats – cheetahs, leopards and lions – as well as the two million wildebeest, Thomson’s gazelles and zebra that migrate annually across the vast grasslands in search of water. Set off on safari with our driver/guide and keep your eyes and ears peeled for movement and memories. Watch elephants and giraffe grazing, photograph zebras and wildebeest and, with a little luck, you'll even spot animals feasting on a recent kill.
ACTIVITY: AFTERNOON Maasai Mara is one of the world’s top safari destinations, known for its abundance of big cats – cheetahs, leopards and lions – as well as the two million wildebeest, Thomson’s gazelles and zebra that migrate annually across the vast grasslands in search of water. Set off on safari with our driver/guide and keep your eyes and ears peeled for movement and memories. Watch elephants and giraffe grazing, photograph zebras and wildebeest and, with a little luck, you'll even spot animals feasting on a recent kill.
Day 7: Masai Mara/Nairobi
Location: Masai Mara
Accommodation: Sarova Panafric Hotel
Accommodation Name: Sarova Panafric Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Witness a breathtaking sunrise over the savanna during your final safari in Masai Mara, and head back to Nairobi. Stop en route at Café Ubuntu, a G Adventures–supported Planeterra project that trains and employs local women and mothers of children with disabilities. Café Ubuntu is an oasis with delicious organic food, hospitable staff, and a relaxing atmosphere based in Maai Mahiu. It is a beacon for tourists who drive through the area each year on their way to the famous Maasai Mara conservancy. Learn about how the initiative empowers the community, visit the craft centre to meet some of the women who create the wares sold there, and then sit down for a delicious farm-to-table lunch. Options range from breakfast tacos, soups, and salads, to freshly made pizzas, curry dishes, and burritos.
Rise early for a final morning wildlife safari drive, enjoying the African sun as it rises over the savannah of the Mara plains. Return to Nairobi in the late afternoon and opt to join the CEO in a farewell dinner.
ACTIVITY: MORNING Maasai Mara is one of the world’s top safari destinations, known for its abundance of big cats – cheetahs, leopards and lions – as well as the two million wildebeest, Thomson’s gazelles and zebra that migrate annually across the vast grasslands in search of water. Set off on safari with our driver/guide and keep your eyes and ears peeled for movement and memories. Watch elephants and giraffe grazing, photograph zebras and wildebeest and, with a little luck, you'll even spot animals feasting on a recent kill.
TRANSPORT: Get a better view and take better snapshots aboard this off-road ride.
ACTIVITY: In the rural settlement of Maai Mahiu is the very special G Adventures for Good supported project, Ubuntu Café. A true social enterprise in the heart of Kenya, this initiative empowers the community, creating over 400 sustainable local jobs for mothers of children with disabilities, and supporting pediatric health and education programs in the region. Enjoy a guided tour of the centre and meet some of the mothers who work here creating handicrafts. Learn how the lives of these "mamas" have been impacted and, in turn, their communities empowered through this G Adventures-supported initiative. Then, sit down to a delicious, organic farm-to-table lunch. Enjoy the real tastes of quality coffee, breakfast tacos, soup, salad, freshly made pizzas, curry dishes,and burritos.
Day 8: Nairobi/Arusha
Location: Nairobi
Accommodation: Kibo Palace Hotel
Accommodation Name: Kibo Palace Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Fly to Arusha, gateway to the Serengeti and the northern parks of Tanzania, and settle into your lodge.
After your flight, transfer to the hotel. Take some time to explore Arusha before meeting your group back at the hotel for a second orientation meeting. Here, you will meet your Tanzanian CEO for this duration of the tour, and new travellers that may join you for the rest of your journey.
TRANSPORT: Look! Up in the sky! It's a bird! It's a plane! It's... yup, it is a plane, actually.
ACTIVITY: Ready for a little more ink in your passport? Grab your bags and get ready to check another country off your bucket list.
TRANSPORT: You will be met at the airport and transferred to the hotel to start your adventure.
Day 9: Arusha/Lake Manyara National Park
Location: Arusha
Accommodation: Rift Valley Photographic Lodge
Accommodation Name: Rift Valley Photographic Lodge
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
This morning, make your way to Mto wa Mbu village, a vibrant settlement of Tanzania’s diverse tribal groups. Take a guided walk through the village, visiting the local market and meeting artisans in their workshops; then sit down for a traditional lunch with a local family. Continue to the Rift Valley escarpment and settle into our safari camp, located at the edge of Lake Manyara National Park. Set out on our first safari drive to discover East Africa’s legendary wildlife, searching for lions, elephants, hippos, giraffes, and more.
This western wall of the Rift Valley escarpment is truly stunning. It provides a backdrop for your search of the park's bird life, tree-climbing lions, elephants, hippos, and baboons. The afternoon is spent viewing wildlife along the main road that winds through a lush, cool forest that’s dominated by large ficus trees covered in bromeliads and ferns.
TRANSPORT: Get a better view and take better snapshots aboard this off-road ride with a pop-up top.
ACTIVITY: This western wall of the Rift Valley escarpment is truly stunning. It provides a backdrop for your search for the park's phenomenal bird life (including raptors), tree-climbing lions, elephants, zebras, hippos, baboons, and buffalos. Look up and see some of the more than 400 species of birds, including pink flamingos, pelicans, cormorants, and storks.
Beyond wildlife, Lake Manyara NP is home to giant fig trees, acacia woodlands, mahogany trees, and grassy flood plains. The contrasts of this area are simply breathtaking; the open plains, huge escarpment, central alkaline lake, dense woodlands, and distant volcanic peaks coming together in an area best described by Ernest Hemingway as “the loveliest I have seen in Africa.”
ACTIVITY: Take part in a cultural walk to learn about life in this East African town. Mto wa Mbu has attracted some 18,000 residents from 120 different tribes. During the two-hour tour, visit the village's local market, go right to the farmer's fields, see how huts are constructed, and meet artisans in their shops.
Afterwards, sit down with our new friends and enjoy a traditional lunch of meat and plantains.
Day 10: Lake Manyara National Park/Serengeti National Park
Location: Lake Manyara National Park
Accommodation: Serengeti Tortilis Camps
Accommodation Name: Serengeti Tortilis Camps
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Travel through the breathtaking Rift Valley en route to our safari camp in Serengeti National Park. Enjoy a stop along the way at the Olduvai Gorge Museum and Visitor’s Centre—located near the site where National Geographic archaeologists Louis and Mary Leakey discovered early hominid fossils and stone tools in 1960. From here, continue to the world-famous Serengeti National Park and head out on a late afternoon safari drive across the Serengeti Plain, keeping an eye out for grazing giraffes, lounging lions, and herds of antelope in the golden light.
TRANSPORT: Get a better view and take better snapshots aboard this off-road ride with a pop-up top.
ACTIVITY: The Olduvai Gorge is a steep ravine in the Great Rift Valley of Tanzania. It is one of the world’s most important paleoanthropological sites. Beginning in 1931, excavations by Louis Leakey revealed evidence of early man dating back nearly 2 million years. Visit the Olduvai museum and see bone fossils and fragments of ancient stone tools. This UNESCO World Heritage site provides an intriguing glimpse into the origin and evolution of man in these Serengeti Plains of Africa.
ACTIVITY: This is the reason you came to Africa. Charge your camera, grab your binoculars, and set out on safari. Your eagle-eyed driver will keep an eye out for wildlife – buffaloes, elephants, lions, wildebeests, zebras, and more. Tanzania’s Serengeti tends to be less crowded than some of Kenya’s reserves, so enjoy the scenery, the vast expanse of the grasslands, the play of light and shadow, and the up-close look at wild Africa.
Day 11: Serengeti National Park
Location: Serengeti National Park
Accommodation: Serengeti Tortilis Camps
Accommodation Name: Serengeti Tortilis Camps
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Immerse yourself in the splendor of the Serengeti, one of Africa’s most celebrated wildlife reserves. Discover the park’s iconic creatures when you set out in a 4x4 on morning and afternoon safaris through the golden grasslands. With luck, spot all of Africa’s “big five”—lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo. Later, visit the Serengeti Wildlife Research Centre, and enjoy a talk by one of the visiting researchers.
ACTIVITY: This is the reason you came to Africa. Charge your camera, grab your binoculars, and set out on safari. Your eagle-eyed driver will keep an eye out for wildlife – buffaloes, elephants, lions, wildebeests, zebras, and more. Tanzania’s Serengeti tends to be less crowded than some of Kenya’s reserves, so enjoy the scenery, the vast expanse of the grasslands, the play of light and shadow, and the up-close look at wild Africa.
TRANSPORT: Get a better view and take better snapshots aboard this off-road ride with a pop-up top.
ACTIVITY: Visit the Serengeti Wildlife Research Centre, where most of the wildlife researchers and scientists are based for projects within Serengeti National Park and surrounding protected areas. Enjoy a lecture by one of the visiting researchers; topics will vary based on the studies being done at the time.
Day 12: Serengeti National Park/Ngorongoro
Location: Serengeti National Park
Accommodation: Pembeni Africa
Accommodation Name: Pembeni Africa
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Depart from the Serengeti early and travel across the vast savanna to the Ngorongoro Conservation area. Spanning more than 20 kilometres in diameter, the Ngorongoro Crater is the largest non-flooded caldera in the world and is inhabited by some 25,000 animals. Set out on a full-day safari drive into the Ngorongoro Crater and observe the biodiversity and resident wild animals in this incredibly important location to the conservation and protection of global wildlife. Enjoy a picnic lunch in the heart of the world’s largest caldera surrounded by Ngorongoro’s flora and fauna. Then, travel to our accommodations in Pembeni for dinner and a relaxing overnight stay in a pristine wilderness setting.
Additional Information: Please note that due to the high-altitude location of our camp, temperatures can drop at night. We recommend bringing extra layers to wear during the evening and following morning.
TRANSPORT: Get a better view and take better snapshots aboard this off-road ride with a pop-up top.
ACTIVITY: See the wonders of the Ngorongoro Crater on a full-day safari drive down into the crater to some of the best spots to view wildlife. Watch for zebra, gazelles, buffalo, and warthogs. Keep your eyes peeled and camera ready to capture a pride of lions or a lone leopard walking along the savanna. Enjoy lunch down in the crater before driving around for more wildlife viewing opportunities.
Day 13: Ngorongoro/Arusha
Location: Ngorongoro
Accommodation: Kibo Palace Hotel
Accommodation Name: Kibo Palace Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Leave Ngorongoro behind this morning and travel from our lodge in Pembeni to a Maasai village. Here, we learn about the G Adventures–supported Clean Cookstoves Project, dedicated to providing clean-burning cookstoves to Maasai communities throughout Tanzania. Enjoy a presentation by a Maasai woman on the impact of the project, and take a guided tour of the village, visiting traditional homes or bomas and helping build a new stove. Continue to Arusha stopping en route for lunch. Spend the remainder of the day in the safari capital city of Tanzania, at your own leisure.
TRANSPORT: Get a better view and take better snapshots aboard this off-road ride with a pop-up top.
ACTIVITY: Visit a Maasai village in the Monduli District and witness the benefits of the G Adventures-supported Clean Cookstove Project. In Tanzania, 95% of people rely on cooking with wood and coal. Women and girls spend hours walking to collect wood every day (making them vulnerable to assault and unable to use their time to go to school). Indoor smoke from open-fire stoves causes cancer, emphysema, pneumonia, blindness, and burns. Take a guided tour of these villages and meet the women that have been trained as stove engineers, visit bomas (traditional homes), and observe (or get your hands dirty) by helping the Stove Team build a stove in a home. See the beneficial impact of the clean-burning stoves on the health and daily lives of the Maasai villagers, especially the women.
ACTIVITY: G Adventures has partnered with the Masai Stoves and Solar Project to install more efficient cookstoves across the Serengeti in order to cut down on smoke-related illnesses. Enjoy an exclusive talk with some of the “Masai mamas” and learn how their lives have been impacted and their community empowered.
Day 14: Arusha
Location: Arusha
Meals Included: Breakfast
Depart at any time.
ACTIVITY: Not ready to leave? Your CEO can help with travel arrangements to extend your adventure.
What's Included
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Accommodation
Hotels (4 nts), safari lodge (4 nts), comfortable tented camps (5 nts). -
Meals
13 breakfasts, 11 lunches, 9 dinners -
Your Journeys Highlight Moment: Kenya Wildlife Service Conservation Talk, Lake Nakuru National Park
Your Journeys Highlight Moment: Café Ubuntu and Ubuntu Made, Maai Mahiu
Your Journeys Highlight Moment: Serengeti Wildlife Research Centre Lecture, -
Arrival transfer
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Wildlife safari drives in Masai Mara National Reserve, Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Lake Nakuru, Lake Manyara, and the Serengeti
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Boat trip on Lake Naivasha and wildlife walk on Crescent Island
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Entrance to Olduvai Gorge Museum
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Internal flight
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All transport between destinations and to/from included activities
What's Not Included
Tipping and Gratuities
Meals Included
13 breakfasts, 11 lunches, 9 dinners
Accommodation
Hotels (4 nts), safari lodge (4 nts), comfortable tented camps (5 nts).
Transport
7-seat 4x4 safari vehicle, plane, boat, walking.
Group Size
Max 6, Avg 5.
Solo Travellers
We believe single travellers should not have to pay more to travel so our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. Single travellers joining group trips are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip. Some of our Independent trips are designed differently and single travellers on these itineraries must pay the single trip price.
Meals
These meals are provided at the hotels or lodges in which you are accommodated. When an evening meal is not included, your hotel will have a restaurant or your will be advised of a good local establishment. All meals you have during your trip will be prepared from fresh local produce. All hotels cater to vegetarians; however, any other dietary requirements need to be specified prior to arrival. Please note all bottled drinking water will be at your own expense.
Mode of Transport
7-seat 4x4 safari vehicle, plane, boat, walking.
Minimum Age
You must be 18 to travel unaccompanied on a G Adventures tour. For minors travelling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.
Important Notes
1. MIGRATION
Tanzania and Kenya
The Seronera Plains, which lie in the southeast of the National Park and extend into the western Ngorongoro Conservation Area, form the main ungulate calving grounds of the Serengeti. The wildebeest typically disperse into the Seronera plains during the short rains, which fall in late November or early December, before calving in January, and staying put until the end of the long rains from January to early May. Towards the end of April the wildebeest start to congregate on the southern plains in the preparation for the 800km northward migration. The major obstacle faced by the wildebeest on this migration is the crossing for the Grumeti River through the western corridor, which typically occurs from June into early July. From July to October, the ungulates disperse again, with about half of them crossing the Mara River into Kenya’s Masai Mara National Reserve and the remainder spreading out through the northern and western Serengeti. By late October the animals have generally started to plod back southward to the Seronera Plains, to arrive there in late November when the cycle starts all over again.
2. COMBO TRIP
This tour combines with other G Adventures tours. As such, the staff and some travel companions on your tour may have previously been traveling together with G Adventures, prior to Day 1 of your tour. Likewise, some staff and travel companions may be continuing together on another G Adventures tour, after your trip concludes.
3. TRAVEL DAYS
This is not a physically demanding journey; however, travelling can be difficult, as long drives and poor road conditions are the rule as opposed to the exception in Kenya. A safari is about travelling to see animals, so we cover long distances crossing the country to visit different wildlife parks. Once there, we spend the majority of the time viewing wildlife from the safari vehicle while driving in the parks. This translates to a lot of driving and sitting. Despite this, the diversity and scenery of the African landscape, the local culture and abundant wildlife are all well worth the experience.
4. ELECTRICITY
All lodges will have electricity although many work off generators with limited times.
The power supply in Kenya is nominally 240VAC, 50hz. Variable voltage, spikes and sporadic, unexpected, unscheduled power cuts of varying duration can be expected.
5. YELLOW FEVER
It may be required to show a Yellow Fever certificate upon entering the country(s) visited. Please check in with your local health expert for advice on Yellow Fever and other inoculations required for this area.
6. LUGGAGE COMPLICATIONS
It occasionally happens that luggage on international flights into Nairobi does not arrive, especially with, but not exclusive to, major airlines out of London-Heathrow or Schiphol (Amsterdam). Please be aware that this may happen, especially if you have a tight connection in either of these centres, are flying with different airlines with a connection, have a last minute flight change or re-route, or fly from or connect through another African centre. Please be prepared and keep all important documentation and valuables on your person. As well we recommend a change of clothes in your hand luggage. If unfortunately this does happen, and your luggage does not arrive, you should be entitled to a limited initial compensation from your airline. In Nairobi, the arrival of lost luggage normally takes between 48 and 72 hours after the initial plane’s arrival. The airlines technically should be responsible to forward your luggage to you, to your hotel or elsewhere in Kenya. You may find that your tour will begin, and you still have not received your luggage. Considering that the customer service standards in Kenya are different from home, and that we find that the airlines are not always pro-active in helping luggage in its care be reunited with its owner, it is recommended that you purchase locally a few needed items, begin your tour, and hire someone locally to persist with the your airline to retrieve your luggage. Your CEO or local representative will be able to help you organize this, and once your luggage is retrieved, it should be able to be forwarded to you – depending where you are. Please note that any costs that you may incur for luggage retrieval or sending luggage are not the responsibility of G Adventures, though we will always strive to assist you in any way possible. You should always keep all receipts and documentation, and contact your airline or insurance provider for reimbursement.
7. FLYING THROUGH LONDON-HEATHROW TO EAST AFRICA?
Please note that regardless of the rules in other centres, travellers flying from, or connecting in, London-Heathrow are currently only permitted one carry-on piece of luggage and one small personal bag (purse, laptop-size bag, briefcase) on board on flights to Nairobi. If you arrive to the security gate with 2 pieces, you will be forced to check-in one of them, which may result in complications noted above. This policy is in place as of the time of writing, though local rules and regulations may indeed change. It is thus advisable to contact your airline directly for the most up-to-date information.
8. ACCOMMODATION
Please note all accommodation is not guaranteed, and is subject to change.
Please be aware that properties we stay in with only two stories may not have elevators installed and climbing the stairs with your luggage will be necessary.
Group Leader
Throughout the entire 14-day journey in Kenya and Tanzania, you will be accompanied on your trip by a G Adventures Chief Experience Officer (CEO). The Chief Experience Officer (CEO) will be the group manager and leader. He/she organizes the trip, and will be there to assist you when needed. Your leader may be Kenyan or Tanzanian respectively on each of the sections or the same person for both sections. He/she will have a general knowledge base of the region and wildlife and will take care of the small things so you can concentrate on enjoying your adventure. To round out the team, our skilled and experienced drivers are also certified safari guides. You will have two different drivers - a Kenyan who knows the roads, conditions, and wildlife in his country, and a Tanzanian who is the expert in his.
About Accommodation
Start and end hotels on this tour offer comfortable accommodations with en-suite bathrooms, standard facilities, and wifi. Additional amenities vary from location to location. Please see the hotel listings on the Full Itinerary if you would like to learn more about the offerings of your accommodations.
The tented camp accommodations on this tour are situated centrally, with easy access to the park for wildlife safari drives. Tents are typically spacious with mosquito-proof netting, comfortable bedding, and en-suite bathroom with flushing toilets and camping showers.
Please remember that hotel/lodge/camp standards can be different from what you are used to in your home country, which is part of the appeal of adventure travel.
Note:
1) Under certain circumstances we reserve the right to change accommodation and provide something slightly different to what is described, though it will always be of similar or better standard/level.
2) Most lodges and camps do not have 24hr electricity - they usually run on generators which are routinely shut off overnight from approximately 10pm to 5am.
3) Lodges and camps are NOT equipped with fans or air conditioning due to the electricity constraints listed above.
4) Winter nights (June to September) can be cold, and most lodges and hotels do not have insulation or central heating. If you require additional blankets or a hot water bottle, these can be requested through your CEO or at the reception.
What to Take
You will be on the move a lot, so our advice is to pack as lightly as possible. Your baggage should be clearly labelled and restricted to one SOFT compact suitcase, sports bag, or backpack, no larger than 30cm(height) x 30cm(width) x 60cm(length), maximum 23kg, plus a daypack. Due to limited vehicle capacity, the cost of transporting any luggage beyond these restrictions is the responsibility of the client. Please note, if you are travelling with a large amount of luggage and will be returning to Nairobi later in your trip, you may leave a portion of it at the start hotel, this is indeed possible as storage facilities are available.
It is important to pack clothes for warm days and cool evenings, as well as a warm jacket for early morning wildlife safari drives. Light, quick-drying, practical clothes are advisable for this safari trip. A set of smart casual clothes is also advisable for your time in Nairobi and Arusha.
Spending Money
Every traveller is different and therefore spending money requirements will vary. Some travellers may drink more than others while other travellers like to purchase more souvenirs than most. Please consider your own spending habits when it comes to allowing for drinks, shopping and tipping. Please also remember the following specific recommendations when planning your trip.
Check out our Q&As
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What's Included
Your Journeys Highlight Moment: Kenya Wildlife Service Conservation Talk, Lake Nakuru National Park
Your Journeys Highlight Moment: Café Ubuntu and Ubuntu Made, Maai Mahiu
Your Journeys Highlight Moment: Serengeti Wildlife Research Centre Lecture, Serengeti National Park
Your Journeys Highlight Moment: Clean Cookstove Project Talk, Mto wa Mbu
Your G for Good Moment: Mto wa Mbu Village Visit and Lunch, Mto wa Mbu
Your G for Good Moment: Clean Cookstove Project Visit, Mto wa Mbu. Arrival transfer. Wildlife safari drives in Masai Mara National Reserve, Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Lake Nakuru, Lake Manyara, and the Serengeti. Boat trip on Lake Naivasha and wildlife walk on Crescent Island. Entrance to Olduvai Gorge Museum. Internal flight. All transport between destinations and to/from included activities. -
Highlights
Stay in a safari lodge in Lake Nakuru National Park, Learn about conservation from the Kenya Wildlife Service, Spot cheetahs and wildebeest in Masai Mara, Visit social enterprises supporting working mothers creating handicrafts, Get an up-close look at Serengeti National Park, Drive into the Ngorongoro Crater's wildlife-rich landscapes
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Dossier Disclaimer
The information in this trip details document has been compiled with care and is provided in good faith. However it is subject to change, and does not form part of the contract between the client and the operator. The itinerary featured is correct at time of printing. It may differ slightly to the one in the brochure. Occasionally our itineraries change as we make improvements that stem from past travellers, comments and our own research. Sometimes it can be a small change like adding an extra meal along the itinerary. Sometimes the change may result in us altering the tour for the coming year. Ultimately, our goal is to provide you with the most rewarding experience. Please note that our brochure is usually released in November each year. If you have booked from the previous brochure you may find there have been some changes to the itinerary.
VERY IMPORTANT: Please ensure that you print a final copy of your Trip Details to review a couple of days prior to travel, in case there have been changes that affect your plans. -
Itinerary Disclaimer
While it is our intention to adhere to the route described below, there is a certain amount of flexibility built into the itinerary and on occasion it may be necessary, or desirable to make alterations. The itinerary is brief, as we never know exactly where our journey will take us. Due to our style of travel and the regions we visit, travel can be unpredictable. The Trip Details document is a general guide to the tour and region and any mention of specific destinations or wildlife is by no means a guarantee that they will be visited or encountered. Aboard expedition trips visits to research stations depend on final permission.
Additionally, any travel times listed are approximations only and subject to vary due to local circumstances. -
Important Notes
1. MIGRATION
Tanzania and Kenya
The Seronera Plains, which lie in the southeast of the National Park and extend into the western Ngorongoro Conservation Area, form the main ungulate calving grounds of the Serengeti. The wildebeest typically disperse into the Seronera plains during the short rains, which fall in late November or early December, before calving in January, and staying put until the end of the long rains from January to early May. Towards the end of April the wildebeest start to congregate on the southern plains in the preparation for the 800km northward migration. The major obstacle faced by the wildebeest on this migration is the crossing for the Grumeti River through the western corridor, which typically occurs from June into early July. From July to October, the ungulates disperse again, with about half of them crossing the Mara River into Kenya’s Masai Mara National Reserve and the remainder spreading out through the northern and western Serengeti. By late October the animals have generally started to plod back southward to the Seronera Plains, to arrive there in late November when the cycle starts all over again.
2. COMBO TRIP
This tour combines with other G Adventures tours. As such, the staff and some travel companions on your tour may have previously been traveling together with G Adventures, prior to Day 1 of your tour. Likewise, some staff and travel companions may be continuing together on another G Adventures tour, after your trip concludes.
3. TRAVEL DAYS
This is not a physically demanding journey; however, travelling can be difficult, as long drives and poor road conditions are the rule as opposed to the exception in Kenya. A safari is about travelling to see animals, so we cover long distances crossing the country to visit different wildlife parks. Once there, we spend the majority of the time viewing wildlife from the safari vehicle while driving in the parks. This translates to a lot of driving and sitting. Despite this, the diversity and scenery of the African landscape, the local culture and abundant wildlife are all well worth the experience.
4. ELECTRICITY
All lodges will have electricity although many work off generators with limited times.
The power supply in Kenya is nominally 240VAC, 50hz. Variable voltage, spikes and sporadic, unexpected, unscheduled power cuts of varying duration can be expected.
5. YELLOW FEVER
It may be required to show a Yellow Fever certificate upon entering the country(s) visited. Please check in with your local health expert for advice on Yellow Fever and other inoculations required for this area.
6. LUGGAGE COMPLICATIONS
It occasionally happens that luggage on international flights into Nairobi does not arrive, especially with, but not exclusive to, major airlines out of London-Heathrow or Schiphol (Amsterdam). Please be aware that this may happen, especially if you have a tight connection in either of these centres, are flying with different airlines with a connection, have a last minute flight change or re-route, or fly from or connect through another African centre. Please be prepared and keep all important documentation and valuables on your person. As well we recommend a change of clothes in your hand luggage. If unfortunately this does happen, and your luggage does not arrive, you should be entitled to a limited initial compensation from your airline. In Nairobi, the arrival of lost luggage normally takes between 48 and 72 hours after the initial plane’s arrival. The airlines technically should be responsible to forward your luggage to you, to your hotel or elsewhere in Kenya. You may find that your tour will begin, and you still have not received your luggage. Considering that the customer service standards in Kenya are different from home, and that we find that the airlines are not always pro-active in helping luggage in its care be reunited with its owner, it is recommended that you purchase locally a few needed items, begin your tour, and hire someone locally to persist with the your airline to retrieve your luggage. Your CEO or local representative will be able to help you organize this, and once your luggage is retrieved, it should be able to be forwarded to you – depending where you are. Please note that any costs that you may incur for luggage retrieval or sending luggage are not the responsibility of G Adventures, though we will always strive to assist you in any way possible. You should always keep all receipts and documentation, and contact your airline or insurance provider for reimbursement.
7. FLYING THROUGH LONDON-HEATHROW TO EAST AFRICA?
Please note that regardless of the rules in other centres, travellers flying from, or connecting in, London-Heathrow are currently only permitted one carry-on piece of luggage and one small personal bag (purse, laptop-size bag, briefcase) on board on flights to Nairobi. If you arrive to the security gate with 2 pieces, you will be forced to check-in one of them, which may result in complications noted above. This policy is in place as of the time of writing, though local rules and regulations may indeed change. It is thus advisable to contact your airline directly for the most up-to-date information.
8. ACCOMMODATION
Please note all accommodation is not guaranteed, and is subject to change.
Please be aware that properties we stay in with only two stories may not have elevators installed and climbing the stairs with your luggage will be necessary.
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Group Leader Description
Throughout the entire 14-day journey in Kenya and Tanzania, you will be accompanied on your trip by a G Adventures Chief Experience Officer (CEO). The Chief Experience Officer (CEO) will be the group manager and leader. He/she organizes the trip, and will be there to assist you when needed. Your leader may be Kenyan or Tanzanian respectively on each of the sections or the same person for both sections. He/she will have a general knowledge base of the region and wildlife and will take care of the small things so you can concentrate on enjoying your adventure. To round out the team, our skilled and experienced drivers are also certified safari guides. You will have two different drivers - a Kenyan who knows the roads, conditions, and wildlife in his country, and a Tanzanian who is the expert in his.
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Group Size Notes
Max 6, Avg 5.
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Meals Included
13 breakfasts, 11 lunches, 9 dinners
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Meals
These meals are provided at the hotels or lodges in which you are accommodated. When an evening meal is not included, your hotel will have a restaurant or your will be advised of a good local establishment. All meals you have during your trip will be prepared from fresh local produce. All hotels cater to vegetarians; however, any other dietary requirements need to be specified prior to arrival. Please note all bottled drinking water will be at your own expense.
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Transport
7-seat 4x4 safari vehicle, plane, boat, walking.
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About our Transportation
This trip is done in private 7-seat 4x4 safari vehicles, with sliding windows and a large pop-up roofs, these vehicles are designed for wildlife viewing. Road conditions can run the full range of conditions from new to very poor, and during the dry season especially, the roads can become very dusty. This style of travel is the best under the local circumstances, as the seats are comfortable and having our own private vehicle allow us the flexibility of making stops when needed, and to stay and watch that crouching lion prepare for an attack. The journey between Kenya and Tanzania on tour will be done by plane. If you are returning to Nairobi from Arusha at the end of your safari and have pre-booked your "shuttle" transfer through G Adventures, you will travel in a public shuttle; these are large mini buses with seating for 22-24 passengers.
Speed governors set to 80kph are used on all vehicles to ensure a safe driving speed. Please note for your own safety it is mandatory to wear your seat belt at all times when in a vehicle.
All G Adventure vehicles are regularly serviced and follow a strict maintenance schedule. However given the long travel days and rough conditions of many of the roads in Africa, vehicles can and do breakdown on occasion. If such situations occur all drivers are trained mechanics and any vehicle issues are rectified as quickly as possible so as to not disrupt your trip. Your patience is requested if the vehicle you are traveling in happens to encounter a mechanical fault. -
Local Flights
Please be advised that any flights noted on the G Adventures Itinerary for this tour are included in the tour services provided. Flight tickets are provided by G Adventures during the tour. The date for this service will match the day of the itinerary, for which Day 1 is equal to the start date noted on the Invoice under Land Services: Tour. If flight information is required in advance for visa purposes, please contact G Adventures.
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Solo Travellers
We believe single travellers should not have to pay more to travel so our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. Single travellers joining group trips are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip. Some of our Independent trips are designed differently and single travellers on these itineraries must pay the single trip price.
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Accommodation
Hotels (4 nts), safari lodge (4 nts), comfortable tented camps (5 nts).
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My Own Room
Please note if you have booked the My Own Room/Tent option for this tour, you will receive your own single accommodation for all night stops.
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About Accommodation
Start and end hotels on this tour offer comfortable accommodations with en-suite bathrooms, standard facilities, and wifi. Additional amenities vary from location to location. Please see the hotel listings on the Full Itinerary if you would like to learn more about the offerings of your accommodations.
The tented camp accommodations on this tour are situated centrally, with easy access to the park for wildlife safari drives. Tents are typically spacious with mosquito-proof netting, comfortable bedding, and en-suite bathroom with flushing toilets and camping showers.
Please remember that hotel/lodge/camp standards can be different from what you are used to in your home country, which is part of the appeal of adventure travel.
Note:
1) Under certain circumstances we reserve the right to change accommodation and provide something slightly different to what is described, though it will always be of similar or better standard/level.
2) Most lodges and camps do not have 24hr electricity - they usually run on generators which are routinely shut off overnight from approximately 10pm to 5am.
3) Lodges and camps are NOT equipped with fans or air conditioning due to the electricity constraints listed above.
4) Winter nights (June to September) can be cold, and most lodges and hotels do not have insulation or central heating. If you require additional blankets or a hot water bottle, these can be requested through your CEO or at the reception. -
Joining Instructions
For details of your joining hotel please refer to your tour voucher, G Account, the G Adventures App or contact your travel agent.
An arrival transfer is included when you arrive on Day 1, or if you arrive up to three days prior provided that you have booked your pre-accommodation through National Geographic Journeys in our joining hotel. Due to customer experience and quality considerations, all services related to the tour must be continuous.
Our driver will be waiting for you with a National Geographic Journeys sign, and they will be waiting for you outside the luggage hall. If for any reason you are not met at the airport, please call our local support line. If you are unable to make contact for whatever reason, please make your way to the joining point hotel via taxi.
Please note that day 1 is an arrival day and no activities have been planned on this day.
Upon arrival to your Joining Hotel (note that check-in time will be in the afternoon), look for a note or bulletin board in the reception with a note from your CEO. This note will give the details of your Welcome Meeting on day 1 (usually between 5pm and 7pm), where you will get a chance to meet your CEO and other travellers, as well as learn more about how the tour will run. If you don’t see a note, please ask reception for details!
If you are arriving later and will miss the Welcome Meeting, your CEO will leave a note at reception for you with any information you may need, and with morning instructions for the next day. -
Arrival Complications
We don't expect any problems, and nor should you, but if for any reason you are unable to commence your trip as scheduled, as soon as possible please contact your starting point hotel, requesting that you speak to or leave a message for your CEO (if you are not on a group tour please refer to the emergency contact details provided in this dossier). If you are unable to get in touch with your leader, please refer to our emergency contact details.
We strongly advise you to pre-purchase your entry visa prior to arrival as queuing for the visa at the airport can cause long delays in clearing customs. This is especially relevant if you have pre-booked an airport transfer.
If you have pre-booked an airport transfer, it is necessary to make contact with our representative, who waits with a G Adventures sign outside the secure baggage-retrieval area, within 1.5 hours (90 minutes) of your flight's scheduled arrival time. No refunds will be granted if you fail to make contact with our representative within this reasonable time. After such time, we recommend that you make your own way to the Starting Point hotel, following the Joining Instructions.
Your arrival transfer has been arranged based on flight information provided to us. If you receive notification of a flight schedule change outside of 48 hours before your flight is scheduled to arrive, please contact us to advise of your new flight details.
Sales offices:
From within Australia - 1-300-796-618
From within Canada or the United States - 1-800-465-6500
From within the UK - 0870 999-0144
From anywhere else - +1-416-260-0999
*Important note* If you are advised of the flight schedule change within 48 hours of your scheduled arrival time, please contact the airport transfer operator listed as the emergency contact for your tour which can be found below. We will do our best to rearrange your arrival transfer however we cannot guarantee this. If your arrival transfer does not arrive within 30 minutes after you have exited the arrivals area please take a taxi to your start point hotel. -
Emergency Contact
Should you need to contact us during a situation of dire need, it is best to first call either the G Adventures Local Representative (if one is listed below) or our G Adventures Local Office. If for any reason you do not receive an immediate answer, please leave a detailed message and contact information, so they may return your call and assist you as soon as possible.
AIRPORT TRANSFER
If you have purchased an arrival through G Adventures or if an arrival transfer is included in the cost of your tour, please note that:
Your arrival transfer has been arranged based on flight information provided to us. Included arrival transfers are provided from the nearest airport to your starting location. If you are advised of a flight schedule change or flight cancellation within 48 hours of your scheduled arrival time, please call the emergency contact number to advise of your new arrival flight information. If you do not, we will not be able to rearrange your arrival transfer and you will need to make your own way to the starting hotel at your own expense. If your arrival transfer does not arrive within 30 minutes after you have exited the arrivals area please take a taxi to your start point hotel.
For any issues relating to pre-booked transfers for Nairobi Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, including delays or missed transfers, please contact our airport transfer operator:
Phelix: +254 729 692 653 (from outside of Kenya)
Phelix: 0729 692 653(from within Kenya)
EMERGENCY CONTACT NUMBERS
G Adventures Local Office (Nairobi, Kenya)
Emergency number
From outside Kenya: +254 727 208 832
From within Kenya: 0727 208 832
If you are unable for any reason to contact our local office, please call the numbers listed below which will connect you directly with our Sales team who will happily assist you. Hours of operation by region can be found here.
Toll-free, North America only: 1 888 800 4100
Calls from UK: 0344 272 0000
Calls from Germany: 0800 365 1000
Calls from Australia: 1 300 796 618
Calls from New Zealand: 0800 333 307
Outside North America, Australia, New Zealand, Germany and the UK: +1 416 260 0999 -
Finishing Point Instructions
This tour ends on day 13. You are free to depart any time this day.
If you are travelling onwards to Nairobi, Kenya - there is a public shuttle bus that leaves Arusha at 8:00am daily. It is a direct bus, and with border formalities, the trip usually takes 6-8 hours. These buses currently depart from the Bella Luna Hotel parking areas.
If you wish to reserve a seat, please contact the G Adventures Sales team in advance of travel. -
What to Take
You will be on the move a lot, so our advice is to pack as lightly as possible. Your baggage should be clearly labelled and restricted to one SOFT compact suitcase, sports bag, or backpack, no larger than 30cm(height) x 30cm(width) x 60cm(length), maximum 23kg, plus a daypack. Due to limited vehicle capacity, the cost of transporting any luggage beyond these restrictions is the responsibility of the client. Please note, if you are travelling with a large amount of luggage and will be returning to Nairobi later in your trip, you may leave a portion of it at the start hotel, this is indeed possible as storage facilities are available.
It is important to pack clothes for warm days and cool evenings, as well as a warm jacket for early morning wildlife safari drives. Light, quick-drying, practical clothes are advisable for this safari trip. A set of smart casual clothes is also advisable for your time in Nairobi and Arusha. -
Packing List
Cold weather:
• Long-sleeved shirts or sweater
• Scarf
• Warm gloves
• Warm hat
• Warm layers
Documents:
• Flight info (required) (Printouts of e-tickets may be required at the border)
• Insurance info (required) (With photocopies)
• Passport (required) (With photocopies)
• Vouchers and pre-departure information (required)
• Visas or vaccination certificates (With photocopies)
Essentials:
• Toiletries (required) (Shampoo, bodywash, soap, etc.)
• Binoculars (optional)
• Camera (With extra memory cards and batteries)
• Cash, credit and debit cards
• Day pack (Used for daily excursions or short overnights)
• Ear plugs
• First-aid kit (should contain lip balm with sunscreen, sunscreen, whistle, Aspirin, Ibuprofen, bandaids/plasters, tape, anti-histamines, antibacterial gel/wipes, antiseptic cream, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, rehydration powder, water purification tablets or drops, insect repellent, sewing kit, extra prescription drugs you may be taking)
• Flashlight/torch (Headlamps are ideal)
• Fleece top/sweater
• Footwear
• Hat
• Locks for bags
• Long pants/jeans
• Moneybelt
• Outlet adapter
• Personal entertainment (Reading and writing materials, cards, music player, etc.)
• Reusable water bottle
• Shirts/t-shirts
• Sleepwear
• Small travel towel
• Sunglasses
• Swimwear
• Watch and alarm clock
• Waterproof backpack cover
• Windproof rain jacket
Health & Safety:
• Hand sanitizer (required)
• Face masks (Clients will be only be required to wear a face mask where it is mandated by local regulations.)
• Pen (Please bring your own pen for filling out documents.)
Smart Dress:
• Smart outfit (For evenings out)
Warm Weather:
• Sandals/flip-flops
• Shorts/skirts (Longer shorts/skirts are recommended)
• Sturdy water shoes/sandals
• Sun hat/bandana
• Swimwear
Note: The climate in East Africa varies between the dry and rainy season. Please ensure you bring a windproof rain jacket if you are travelling between April & May, October & November. -
Laundry
Laundry facilities are offered by some of our hotels and lodges for a charge. You should write a list of items that you send for washing. It will be difficult for hotels to have your laundry ready if you arrive in the late afternoon and leave the next morning, so the lodges in the Masai Mara and the Serengeti would be best, since you are in each of those locations for at least 2 days.
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Visas and Entry Requirements
All countries require a valid passport (with a minimum 6 months validity). Contact your local embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date visa requirements, or see your travel agent. It is your own responsibility to have the correct travel documentation. Visa requirements for your trip will vary depending on where you are from and where you are going. We keep the following information up to date as far as possible, but rules do change and sometimes without warning. While we provide the following information in good faith, it is vital that you check the information yourself and understand that you are fully responsible for your own visa requirements.
Visa information specific to your destination and nationality can be found in our Important Pre-Departure Information page here
Kenya:
As of January 1st 2024, the Kenyan government announced the introduction of a new Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) scheme, eliminating the requirement for all nationalities to obtain a visitor visa for Kenya. ALL travellers must apply for the eTA, including those that were previously exempt.
For more information, please refer to the eTA site here
IMPORTANT NOTE:
It may be required to show a Yellow Fever certificate upon entering the country. Please check in with your local consulate and health expert for advice on Yellow Fever and other inoculations required for this area.
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Tanzania:
Border crossing from Kenya into Tanzania through Kilimanjaro International Airport.
Tanzania Host information for the online Visa application for travellers:
1) Host – G Adventures
2) Full Name - G Adventures
3) Email – experience@gadventures.com
4) Relationship – Tour Operator
5) Mobile No - +255 754 400 141
6) Company Name / Organisation registration No - G Adventures
7) Physical Address: P.O.Box 1912, Boma Road, Arusha
Information is accurate as of March 1st, 2024. -
Detailed Trip Notes
American Dollars that are series 1999 or earlier are not accepted and very difficult to change in Southern and Eastern Africa, because of past forgeries.
REGIONAL INFORMATION
Climate
There are generally two rainy seasons - the short and the long rains. The short rains normally occur from late October through November, and the long rains from late March through to early June. A good time to visit is between late June and October when the rains have finished and the air is coolest. Alternatively, from late December to early March is another good time to visit, just after the short rains, but before the long rains; this is the warmest time of the year. The highest season for travellers into the region is in January and February, when the hot, dry weather is generally considered to be the most pleasant. During the rainy season it can be deceptively cold at times and evenings can be cool year round, so ensure you have adequate warm clothing such a a fleece or warm sweater.
Electricity
The electric current in Kenya operates on 220 volts. Electric plugs types come in at least four sizes and vary throughout the country, however, the two rounded pin standard plug is acceptable in most parts of the country. 3 pin square plugs are most common. The electric current in Tanzania operates on 230V, 50Hz.
Language
The official languages are Swahili and English. There are also numerous dialects spoken throughout.
KENYA - Official Statistics
Full country name: Republic of Kenya (Jamhuri Ya Kenya)
Area: 580,367 km2
Population: 34,256,000-July 2005 est. (31,138,735- 2002 Census)
Capital city: Nairobi
People: 22% Kikuyu, 14% Luhya, 13% Luo, 12% Kalenjin, 11% Kamba, 6% Kisii, 6% Meru, 16% other
Languages: English, Swahili, indigenous.
Religion: 35% Protestant, 30% Roman Catholic, 30% Muslim, 5% Animist
Government: Republic (multiparty state)
President: Uhuru Kenyatta
Major industries: small-scale consumer goods (plastic, furniture, beer, batteries, textiles, flour), agricultural processing, oil refining, chemicals, cement, tourism.
Major trading partners: Uganda, Tanzania, UK, Germany, UAE, South Africa
INTERESTING FACTS
• At 580,367 km2 the country is two and a half times the size of Britain.
• The population is over 30 million and has one of the world’s fastest growth rates.
• Kenya gained independence in 1963 after 80 years of British rule. • Most Kenyans are subsistence farmers.
• Coffee and tea are grown commercially and tourism is also a huge income for the country. The country is still in huge debt though and has few mineral resources and corruption is again a problem.
• The country lies on the equator and has good national parks and Mount Kenya the second highest peak in Africa. It also has good beaches and colourful people. Nairobi is the capital and Mombassa the countries port city.
TANZANIA - Official Statistics
Full country name: United Republic of Tanzania (Jamhuri ya Muungano wa Tanzania)
Area: 945,087 km2
Population: 38,329,000-July 2005 est (34,443,603-2002 census)
Capital city: Dodoma
People: 99% native African (over 100 tribes), 1% Asian, European and Arabic
Languages Swahili, English, indigenous.
Religion: 40% Christian, 33% Muslim, 20% indigenous beliefs
Government: Republic (multi-party state)
President: Benjamin William Mkapa
Major industries: Tobacco, sugar, sisal, diamond and gold mining, oil refining, cement, tourism
Major trading partners: India, Germany, Japan, Malaysia, Rwanda, the Netherlands, South Africa, Kenya, U.K., Saudi Arabia, China Currency: Tanzanian shilling
INTERESTING FACTS
• The name is name made up from an amalgamation of TANganyika and ZANzibar.
• Tanzania is the largest country in East Africa (although not in Africa as a whole, the Sudan is 3 times larger); it’s landmass covering an area of just over 945,087 sq. km (including Zanzibar).
- This makes Tanzania about the size of France, Germany and Switzerland combined; 3 times the size of the entire British Isles or one-tenth the size of the whole of the USA.
- Tanzania’s population at the last official census was 31.3 million, with approximately one third being classified as “urban”.
- Agriculture forms roughly half of GDP and agriproducts (e.g.: coffee, tea, tobacco, cashew nut, sisal, cotton) some 75% of export earnings. • Dodoma, in central Tanzania, is the political capital of the country although Dar es Salaam is the effective trading and business capital, with its safe harbour ("Dar es Salaam” means “Haven of Peace”), international airport and population of some 1.75million. -
Spending Money
Every traveller is different and therefore spending money requirements will vary. Some travellers may drink more than others while other travellers like to purchase more souvenirs than most. Please consider your own spending habits when it comes to allowing for drinks, shopping and tipping. Please also remember the following specific recommendations when planning your trip.
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Money Exchange
The local currency in Kenya is the Kenyan Shilling (KES, or KSH)., and in Tanzania is the Tanzanian Shilling (TSH).
Each of the countries visited on this tour has their own currency, and all can be obtained locally by changing foreign currency or by using ATMs (where available) which will disperse local currency. Your CEO will inform you where you can change money throughout the tour and approximately how much money you will need for each country.
The easiest foreign currency to exchange for locally for any of the local currencies is the $US; however the British Pound and Euro may also be exchanged as well. Please note that due to past problems with forgery, $US notes that are older than year 2006 are not accepted in Africa.
Large note ($US 50, $US 100 etc) can be difficult to change in some places, but will gain you the best exchange rate.
If you plan to rely on cash, please bring foreign currency (Euro, Pound, USD) with you, as it is often expensive to buy these currencies locally. And in more rural areas, it is often not likely.
If you plan to buy your visas at borders, you will need to bring $USD cash to pay for these visas. Please note you cannot use the local currency or any other currency to buy these visas- they must be purchased in USD.
Please do not bring Travellers’ cheques toAfrica. They are difficult if not impossible to exchange in many places.
Visa/Plus system cards are the most widely accepted debit cards. it is harder to find machines Mastercard/Cirrus cards. We highly recommend that if you hold a Mastercard, you obtain a Visa card prior to departure and travel with both. This is also useful should somethingunforeseen happen to one of your cards during your travels.
While there are many ATMs in the major centres, there are no guarantees that your credit or debit cards will actually work in Africa. Check with your bank.
Credit cards can be used in major cities and towns ONLY but please do not rely on them as a method of payment because they are generally not widely accepted. You should be aware that to purchase products or services on a credit card a fee of 5%-10% usually applies. The majority of our optional activities can also be paid by credit card. Your CEO will advise on these.
Please note that in many areas there may be occasional power-outages, where there will be no electricity for hours at a time. In addition, ATMs outside of larger centers often run out of cash or can be out of order unexpectedly. These factors could affect your ability to access money from ATMs. As such, please do not rely on credit or debit cards as your only source of money.
A combination of foreign currency and debit/credit cards for cash advances is best. Always take more rather than less, as you don't want to spoil the trip by constantly feeling short of funds.
As currency exchange rates can fluctuate often we ask that you refer to the following website for daily exchange rates: www.xe.com. -
Emergency Fund
Please also make sure you have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an 'emergency' fund, to be used when circumstances outside our control (ex. a natural disaster) require a change to our planned route. This is a rare occurrence!
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Departure Tax
USD30, usually included in most international air tickets.
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Tipping
Tipping is an expected, though not compulsory, component of your tour program. The gesture serves as an expression of appreciation for exceptional service, and amounts given are up to your discretion.
Tipping is one of the most direct ways that you can have a positive economic impact within the African community. Although it may not be customary for you, it is an important source of income for those in the tourism industry. Giving a tip should be a seen as a formal 'thank you', and the action should in no way be awkward.
The best method of tipping someone that has served the whole group is to plan in advance, and not rush when it comes to saying goodbye. A suggestion would be for each group member to contribute anonymously by putting their tip into an envelope. This often works the best and the group should gather to present the gift to the recipient(s), offering their thanks and showing their appreciation. This method brings the action out into the open, allowing for a friendly and appreciative interaction between the group and the recipient(s).
You may use the following as a guideline, all given in a per person format:
CEO: $5-10 USD (per day)
Driver: $5-10 USD (per day)
Local guides: $1 USD (per couple of hours)
Safari Supply Driver: $3-5 USD (per full day)
Restaurant/café servers: 10% of the cost of the bill -
Optional Activities
No optional activities
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Health
We recommend you contact your family physician, or your local travel clinic for the most up-to-date health information at least one month before departure. Travellers should also carry a basic first-aid kit and hand sanitizers/antibacterial wipes on their travels. Medical facilities are basic throughout these countries. For your own safety, we strongly recommend that you advise your tour leader of any medical condition that may affect you while travelling with the group. Your tour leader will be able to inform you of local health advisories (e.g. drinking water quality). Please ensure you have all the inoculations recommended by your doctor.
Yellow Fever Certificate Note: (Updated: May 2023)
It is compulsory to show a valid Yellow Fever Certificate if you are travelling to the following G Adventures-visited countries from a Yellow Fever endemic country:
- Botswana
- Ethiopia
- Kenya
- Madagascar
- Malawi
- Mozambique
- Rwanda
- South Africa
- Swaziland
- Uganda
- Zambia
- Zimbabwe
For some of these countries, proof of Yellow Fever vaccination is also required for passengers who have travelled more than 12 hours through the airport of an endemic country. If other countries not endemic to Yellow Fever have been visited after visiting an endemic country, then a Yellow Fever certificate may still be required on entry. Please check country-specific regulations before your departure.
Malaria
Malaria is a mosquito-borne disease that is present in some regions in Africa. Risk of malaria can increase during periods of heavy rain, during the rainy seasons, and in densely populated areas of Southern & East Africa. To prevent malaria, we recommend speaking to your doctor about taking preventative medication (prophylaxis), combined with regular use of insect repellent spray/cream. Please check updated travel health advisories specific to malaria before your departure. -
Safety and Security
Many national governments provide a regularly updated advice service on safety issues involved with international travel. We recommend that you check your government's advice for their latest travel information before departure. We strongly recommend the use of a neck wallet or money belt while travelling, for the safe keeping of your passport, air tickets, travellers' cheques, cash and other valuable items. Leave your valuable jewellery at home - you won't need it while travelling. Many of the hotels we use have safety deposit boxes, which is the most secure way of storing your valuables. A lock is recommended for securing your luggage. When travelling on a group trip, please note that your CEO has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the trip itinerary if it is deemed necessary due to safety concerns. Your CEO will accompany you on all included activities. During your trip you will have some free time to pursue your own interests, relax and take it easy or explore at your leisure. While your CEO will assist you with options available in a given location please note that any optional activities you undertake are not part of your itinerary, and we offer no representations about the safety of the activity or the standard of the operators running them. Please use your own good judgment when selecting an activity in your free time. Although the cities visited on tour are generally safe during the day, there can be risks to wandering throughout any major city at night. It is our recommendation to stay in small groups and to take taxis to and from restaurants, or during night time excursions.
Protests and Demonstrations- Protests and demonstrations, even those that are well intended, have the potential to turn violent with no warning. Counter protests can also turn violent. Action by security forces to disperse demonstrators and protesters may occur at any time. If you are in an area where demonstrators or protesters are gathering, avoid the temptation of staying for a good photo opportunity and leave the area immediately.
Water based activities have an element of danger and excitement built into them. We recommend only participating in water based activities when accompanied by a guide(s). We make every reasonable effort to ensure the fun and adventurous element of any water based activities (in countries with varying degrees of operating standards) have a balanced approach to safety. It is our policy not to allow our CEOs to make arrangements on your behalf for water based activities that are not accompanied by guide(s).
Swimming, including snorkeling, is always at your own risk.
We take all prudent measures in relation to your safety. For ways to further enhance your personal safety while traveling, please visit:
www.gadventures.com/travel-resources/safety/ -
Trip Specific Safety
Nairobi
-Always leave your passport (It’s better to carry a photocopy of it instead), traveller’s cheques, flight tickets and money that you won’t be using in the safe deposit in your hotel room
eception. This is free of charge to G Adventures Adventure clients.
-Remember that like in any other city, you should never leave your bags unattended, nor flaunt jewellery, cameras etc
-Please don’t wander through the city at night. Stick to the main streets only during the day, and after sundown, please take a taxi. Taxis can be organised from reception of your hotel. Also, take the address of the hotel with you.
-People are generally friendly, but don’t let people take advantage of you, especially the sales people!
-Beware of people approaching you on the street with an apparent interest of where you are from, and want to sit down and have a chat with you. These people are most likely con men and try to get money from you in one way or another
-People on the street who ask you if you want a safari and have a brochure are often con men, best to avoid these folk. Besides, you’re already on safari!
Arusha
Many of the above precautions should also be taken in Arusha, however this town generally has a more relaxed and friendly vibe. But due to carrying 70% of the tourism in Tanzania, there are many beggars, street sellers and safari touts. These are best avoided by a polite but firm NO THANK YOU!
Photography
Please refrain from taking photos of police stations, airports, bus stations, immigration are border crossings, army barracks and personnel, or any government building. It is against the law and will result in the minimum of your film and camera being confiscated. -
A Couple of Rules
Illegal drugs will not be tolerated on any trips. Possessing or using drugs not only contravenes the laws of the land but also puts the rest of the group at risk. Smoking marijuana and opium is a part of local culture in some parts of the world but is not acceptable for our travellers. Our philosophy of travel is one of respect towards everyone we encounter, and in particular the local people who make the world the special place it is. The exploitation of prostitutes is completely contrary to this philosophy. Our CEOs have the right to expel any member of the group if drugs are found in their possession or if they use prostitutes.
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Travel Insurance
Travel Insurance: Travel insurance is compulsory in order to participate on any of our trips. When travelling on a group trip, you will not be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance has been sighted by your CEO, who will take note of your insurance details. When selecting a travel insurance policy please bear in mind that all clients must have medical coverage and that we require a minimum coverage of USD 200,000 for repatriation and emergency rescue. We strongly recommend that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects. If you have credit card insurance we require proof of purchase of the trip (a receipt of credit card statement) with a credit card in your name. Contact your bank for details of their participating insurer, the level of coverage and emergency contact telephone number.
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Planeterra Foundation - the non-profit partner of G Adventures
Planeterra International Foundation is a non-profit organization committed to turning travel into impact by helping local communities earn an income from tourism. Planeterra connects underserved local communities to the benefits of tourism by developing and supporting small community-owned businesses. These businesses support Indigenous people, empower women, grant youth access to employment opportunities, and protect the environment. Planeterra also works to ensure these businesses have a thriving customer base by integrating their projects into G Adventures’ itineraries globally.
G Adventures is Planeterra’s largest corporate donor, covering all operating costs, so 100% of your donation will bring opportunity to people in need.
G Adventures Dollar-a-day Program - Make Every Day Count - Turn your travel into impact with Planeterra Foundation.
Did you know? Most communities around the world do not benefit from tourism. Give back to the places you visit on your travels by creating opportunities for local people to earn an income, and protect the environment.
Make every day count by donating $1/day for the length of your trip, and join us in empowering the communities you will visit when you travel. 100% of your donation goes directly to Planeterra projects. -
Feedback
After your travels, we want to hear from you! Your feedback information is so important to us that we'll give you 5% off the price of your next G Adventures trip if your feedback is completed on-line within 30 days of finishing your trip. Your tour evaluation will be e-mailed to you 24 hours after the conclusion of your trip. If you do not receive the tour evaluation link in the days after your tour has finished, please drop us a line at customersolutions@gadventures.com and we will send it on to you.
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Newsletter
Our adventure travel e-newsletter is full of travel news, trip information, interesting stories and contests. To avoid missing out on special offers and updates from G Adventures, subscribe at www.gadventures.com
ewsletters/
Stay current on how our company invests in our global community through our foundation – Planeterra. Sign up for Planeterra's monthly news to learn more about how to give back and support the people and places we love to visit. -
Minimum Age
You must be 18 to travel unaccompanied on a G Adventures tour. For minors travelling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.
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International Flights
Check-in times and baggage allowances
estrictions vary by airline and can change at any time. For the most up-to-date information for your flight, please contact your airline. We recommend checking in online in advance to avoid potential delays at the airport. -
Group Leader
CEO (Chief Experience Officer) throughout, certified driver/guide.
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Max Pax
6
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How long has the tour company been trading?
G Adventures was established in 1990
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
Most of our trips do not have a single supplement. This means that the accommodation is on a twin share basis and, if travelling on your own, you will be sharing a room with another G Adventures traveller of the same sex. Some tours have an optional single supplement. An optional service that may be available is called "My Own Room". This service allows solo travellers to request their own room.
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Can I join the tour once it has departed?
It's extremely difficult if not impossible to join a tour after it has begun. It is possible to leave a tour early however you will be responsible for your own arrangements from the moment you decide to leave the tour. You would also be responsible for all costs associated with joining a tour late or leaving one early. If you feel this may be necessary, please consult us before you book.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
https://www.gadventures.com/travel-with-confidence/
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
https://www.gadventures.com/about-us/core-values/
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Free Date Changes
G Adventures allows you to make 10 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 0 days before the start of the tour.
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Low Deposit
G Adventures requires a minimum deposit of 350 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of g adventures charges.
Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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