01.
What is 'safari'?
The word safari means "journey" in Swahili. Originally
from the Arabic (safara) meaning travel. The verb for "to
travel" in Swahili is "safiri", the noun
for the journey is "safari". These words are used
for any type of journey, e.g. by bus from Nairobi to Mombasa.
A safari therefore is an overland journey. It usually refers
to a trip by tourists to Africa, traditionally for a big-game
hunt and in more modern times to watch and photograph big
game and other wildlife as a safari holiday. There is a
certain theme or style associated with the word, which includes
khaki clothing, belted bush jackets, pith helmets or slouch
hats, to animal skins. They travel in custom-built safari
vehicles. Although the word safari came to popular usage
in reference to hunting and touring expeditions in East
Africa, it is now used generally to mean any long or adventurous
journey or expedition, e.g. wildlife watching safaris, photography
safaris, eco-safari etc.
Safari has now become a more eco-friendly form of adventure
for people of all ages and walks of life. Travelling to
Africa, Safari has become the most popular form of holiday
to Africa, combining adventure with total comfort to ever-increasing
travellers. On a standard safari, one can visit Africa's
beautiful game reserves, seeing hundreds of rare birds and
mammals from your chauffeured safari vehicle. Relax in comfortable
world-class hotels and lodges surrounded by scenic valleys
and plains. Time takes on a new meaning as you learn to
sit quietly listening to the sounds of Africa. The balance
of nature will no longer be empty words you will see it
daily in the drama of animals fighting for their survival
and coexistence. See also: Authentic
African Safaris...
02. When
is the best time to go on a safari?
All Year Round! But it also really depends on the type
of animal you wish to see. Certain reserves have good
game viewing all year round but others will have particularly
good elephant sightings or other migratory animals at
different times of the year. It is generally felt that
the African winter (June - August) is the best time to
go on safari, as the grass is dry and vegetation sparse
making game viewing easier. It is also the time when animals
are on the move looking for food and water. In Kenya and
Tanzania, you have the memorable opportunity of witnessing
the migration of over two million animals.
03. Can
I visit Africa from any Country?
Yes, we have an international clientele. We receive visitors
from all-over the world! We can make all arrangements
in Africa including transportation, accommodation and
activities for anybody from any part of the world without
any discrimination. However, we can only arrange international
flights originating from selected countries where we have
a representative office. Visitors from other areas not
represented are requested to make own flight arrangements
to Africa. Please Contact us for more!
04. How
do I get to Africa?
Africa can be reached by regular international flights
to its major cites. AfriChoice! will ONLY arrange your
international flights to Africa that originate from selected
countries where it has arepresentative office. Visitors
from other areas not represented are requested to make
own flight arrangements to Africa. There are many airlines
operating direct flights to Africa from Europe, United
States and Asia. You can also get easy connections where
there are no direct flights. You might choose to approach
your local travel agent for assistance regarding the flight
connections. Please Contact us for more! We however arrange
flights within Africa. Trains and self-drive are convenient
options for travel within Southern Africa.
05. What are the entry requirements?
All visitors are required to carry a passport that is
valid for six months beyond the intended length of stay.
Nationals of certain countries do not require visas -
this depends on the country you are visiting. It is advisable
to check with the Consulate of the country that you intend
visiting for the latest visa and entry requirements. The
list below contains the current visa requirements applicable
to most North American and European countries.
06. What
should I pack?
Temperatures in winter are generally mild but can become
considerably cooler in the evening, so pack multiple layers
of clothing to ensure you stay comfortable on afternoon
game drives and walks. It goes without saying that the
standard safari gear must include a broad brim hat, sunscreen
and mosquito repellent. In areas where malaria is prevalent,
summer is generally a more risky time to travel. So, before
you go on safari, consult your doctor for the necessary
anti-malaria medication.
07. Do
I need to know the local languages?
No. English is spoken throughout East and Southern Africa,
especially by those involved in the tourist trade. European
and Middle Eastern languages spoken in Africa include
German (Namibia) and Arabic (Tanzania). At a reasonable
fee, you can get a driver / guide who speaks your local
language. Our drivers speak various languages and we have
specialists for French, Spanish, Italian, Swahili, Japanese,
Indian, Chinese and Russian.
08. How
is the local food?
Great! International cuisine is available at all the hotels
you will be staying. Special dietary requirements are
catered for throughout Africa if you need. Please give
us advanced notice so that we can make arrangements with
the lodges and camps you are scheduled to stay at. Most
restaurants offer selections for vegetarians, depending
on their forte. Local specialties can be surprisingly
good! With the exception of a few lodges, halaal and kosher
food is not available at most camps/lodges.
09. Are
there any medical precautions?
Vaccination requirements change from time to time. Some
countries require advance inoculations for yellow fever
(and certificates thereof) that are good for 10 years
- AfriChoice! will advise you of these. Malaria is present
in many parts of Africa - we will advise you if you will
be visiting a malaria area. We suggest you consult your
local doctor or health department for information on malaria
prophylactics and the latest health precautions. If you
are on prescription medication, please ensure you have
an adequate supply to last the duration of your stay and
a copy of your prescription(s).
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