PREPARE FOR YOUR SAFARI

Your guide to everything you need to know about planning your African adventure — from when to travel, to visa requirements, and what to pack in your suitcase.

When to visit

East and Southern Africa’s climates feature wet and dry seasons, with a cold snap felt more at higher altitudes. East Africa’s dry seasons (June–September, January–February) are ideal for safaris and trekking, with mild temperatures around 30°C. Southern Africa’s dry season (May–September) suits wildlife viewing and hiking, though winters can be cold. Avoid peak rainy seasons (March–May, November–April) for accessibility. Shoulder seasons (April, October) offer fewer crowds, milder weather, and affordability for diverse experiences.

What to pack

Be prepared for dusty roads, dramatic changes in temperatures in a single day and little luggage allowance when flying on bush planes. Leave your evening wear at home, dress casually in neutral colours for optimum camouflage. Don't forget those binoculars, hats, cameras and chargers. Have a look at our ultimate safari packing list to stay comfortable and safe on your African safari.

Transport

There are plenty of ways to traverse Africa. Whether by air, pre-organized transfer or private vehicle, here’s our guide to navigating the various transport systems available on your safari.

Visa

African immigration rules and regulations for tourists are straightforward and only require a minimum amount of preparation, some require a VISA before travel or can be aquired on site if needed. Please read through the additional immigration information thoroughly and make sure to read up on the additional websites mentioned as immigration rules are always subject to sudden changes.

Currency

The most useful currency to bring is US dollars. For more tips, when it comes to currency, on what to bring with on your visit to an African destination, you can find out more by clicking the link below.

Health

Many of the health problems experienced by travellers cannot be prevented by vaccinations and other measures need to be taken. These include food and water safety, accident prevention, care with sun exposure, avoiding insect bites and animal bites. Some countries do require vaccinations and please ask for further information on the country you are wanting to travel to.

Insurance

Travel Insurance covers medical expenses, financial default of travel suppliers, and other losses incurred while traveling internationally, this is a pre-requisite to travel with Wild N' Beyond Safaris as many destinations will not allow travel unless insurance documents are provided. Temporary travel insurance can usually be arranged at the time of the booking of a trip to cover exactly the duration of that trip. For peace of mind when traveling to Africa please read more.

Connectivity

Access to WiFi and the coverage of cell phone network are ever increasing on the African continent. Lodges more often than not will have WiFi and/or cellphone signal. Generally the more luxury lodges will have available either in the rooms or at least in designated areas. Bushcamps are less likely to have either or. Why not unplug and enjoy a technology detox while out on safari.

Cuisine

A safari is not only a chance to explore the flora and fauna of Africa, it is also a culinary experience of flavoursome dishes, both local and international. Made by skilled hands and served with Africa's warm hospitality. Chefs will go to the ends of the world to serve you refreshing beverages and great food.

Best Times to Visit East and Southern Africa

Dry Season (May–October): Ideal for safaris in Botswana, Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia, and Zimbabwe, as wildlife gathers near water sources. Temperatures range from 18–31°C (64–87°F), but can hit 40°C (104°F) in Botswana and Zambia (September–October). Rwanda’s high-altitude areas (e.g., Volcanoes National Park) and South Africa’s Drakensberg feel colder (6°C/42°F in June–July). Expect vibrant sunsets and peak-season crowds.

Rainy Season (November–April): Great for birdwatching and photography in lush landscapes, especially in Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda’s short rains (October–December) or Zambia’s emerald season. Young animals and migratory birds abound, with fewer tourists. South Africa’s summer rains and Rwanda’s heavy rains (March–May) may limit access. Insect activity peaks early in the rains.

Tips: Choose dry season for wildlife and trekking; rainy season for birding and fewer crowds. Pack layers for altitude-driven cold snaps and repellent for early rains.

Safari Checklist

Clothing

Avoid bright, black and white colours
Do not wear camouflage clothing as this is often associated with the military.
Avoid dark blues and black, they tend to attract insects.
Choose breathable, lightweight, quick-drying and earth-toned clothing

T-shirts
Long sleeve blouses and shirts to protect you from the sun and insects
Shorts
(Zip-off) pants
Casual dress and/or skirt (for women)
Fleece and/or warm jacket (depending on time of year and area of the country)
Pyjamas
Raincoat (November to April)
Windbreaker jacket
Swimming suit
(Wide-brimmed) hat
Undergarment and socks
Sports bra (for women)
Closed walking shoes for walking safaris otherwise light well ventilated shoes
Flip flops and/or sandals
Sunglasses

Health & Safety

Vaccination card
Passport
Visa(s)
Cash

Pharmaceuticals & Toiletries

Standard toiletries
Prescription meds
Malaria tablets (if recommended)
Small first aid kit
- Meds for: diarrhea, nausea, headaches, indigestion, heartburn, sore throat, stomach flu, allergies)
- Nasal spray
- Eye drops
- Anitseptic lotion
- Bandages
- Band-aids
- Sunburn treatment
- Thermometer
Ziplock bags
Earplugs
Hand sanitizer
Insect repellent
Wet wipes
Sunscreen SPF30 or higher

Gadgets

Binoculars
Camera and lens(es) + battery (s) + charger + memory card(s)
Headlamp or small torch
Portable power bank
Smartphone
Kindle/Ipad
Headphones
Adapters

Immigration Requirements African Destinations

Zambia:
Passport valid for 6+ months from departure from Zambia, 3 blank pages. Visa categories:

Exempt: North America, most EU countries (see victoriafalls-guide.net/zambia-visa.html).
Visa on Arrival: Single-entry ($20, 90 days, report every 30 days), multiple-entry ($40, 90 days, two entries). KAZA Univisa ($50, 30 days, for Zambia/Zimbabwe/Botswana) at Lusaka/Livingstone airports, Kazungula border. Request KAZA specifically; carry cash (card machines often fail).
Pre-Apply: Online at eservices.zambiaimmigration.gov.zm.

Botswana:
Passport valid for 6+ months, 2 blank pages. Most Western nationalities (e.g., US, UK, EU) visa-exempt for 90 days. Others apply via embassies or botswanaevisa.com.

Kenya:
Passport valid for 6+ months, 1 blank page. Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA, $30, 90 days) required for all at etakenya.go.ke.

Rwanda:
Passport valid for 6+ months, 1 blank page. Visa on arrival ($50, 30 days) for most; US, UK, EU visa-exempt for 90 days. Online applications at migration.gov.rw.

South Africa:
Passport valid for 30+ days after departure, 2 blank pages. Most Western nationalities (e.g., US, UK, EU) visa-exempt for 90 days. Others apply via embassies or VFS Global.

Tanzania:
Passport valid for 6+ months, 1 blank page. Visa on arrival ($50–$100, 90 days) or e-Visa at eservices.immigration.go.tz. US citizens need $100 multiple-entry visa.

Uganda:
Passport valid for 6+ months, 1 blank page. Visa on arrival ($50, 90 days) or e-Visa at visas.immigration.go.ug. East Africa Tourist Visa ($100, 90 days) covers Uganda, Kenya, Rwanda.

Zimbabwe:
Passport valid for 6+ months, 2 blank pages. Visa on arrival ($30 single-entry, $45 double-entry, 90 days) for most. KAZA Univisa ($50, 30 days) at Victoria Falls/Harare airports, select borders. Apply online at evisa.gov.zw.

Tips: Carry USD cash for visas on arrival. Check specific requirements before travel, as policies vary. Share your nationality or itinerary for tailored advice or updates from X/web if needed!

Transport in Africa

Zambia:

Air: Three international airports—Lusaka (LUN), Mfuwe (MFU), Livingstone (LVI)—plus bush airstrips for safari camps. International flights via South African Airways, Emirates, Turkish Airlines, Ethiopian Airways, Kenya Airways. Domestic options include Mahogany Air, Proflight, or private charters (pricier but faster for remote camps). Some camps are flight-only or closed in rainy season (November–April) due to flooding.
Road: Road transfers from Lusaka (4x4s or minibuses) are cheaper but slower, with scenic views. Roads degrade in rainy season, some impassable. Self-driving requires caution: 100km/h on open roads, 40–50km/h near towns, watch for speed bumps and police.

Botswana:

Air: Major airports include Maun (MUB), Kasane (BBK), and Gaborone (GBE). Domestic flights and charters connect remote safari camps (e.g., Okavango Delta), often the only access in rainy season (November–April).
Road: 4x4 transfers to camps are common; self-driving is popular but challenging in wet season due to flooding. Stick to paved roads (80–120km/h limits) and check conditions.

Kenya:

Air: Nairobi (NBO) and Mombasa (MBA) are key hubs, with airstrips for safari destinations (e.g., Maasai Mara). Domestic carriers like Safarilink and AirKenya serve remote areas.
Road: Minibus transfers or 4x4s for safaris; roads can be rough in rains (March–May). Self-driving requires vigilance for variable roads and 80km/h limits.

Rwanda:

Air: Kigali (KGL) is the main hub, with small airstrips near Volcanoes National Park. Helicopter or charter flights reach remote areas.
Road: Good paved roads, but transfers to parks use 4x4s. Self-driving is feasible; speed limits 60–80km/h, roads can be slick in rains (March–May).

South Africa:

Air: Johannesburg (JNB), Cape Town (CPT), Durban (DUR) connect to safari airstrips via domestic flights (e.g., Airlink).
Road: Excellent road network; self-driving is popular (120km/h highways, 60km/h urban). 4x4 transfers for parks like Kruger. Rainy season (December–March) may affect rural roads.

Tanzania:

Air: Dar es Salaam (DAR), Kilimanjaro (JRO), Zanzibar (ZNZ) serve international flights. Domestic carriers (e.g., Coastal Aviation) connect to Serengeti, other parks.
Road: 4x4 transfers to camps; self-driving possible but challenging in rains (March–May). Speed limits 80–100km/h, watch for rough roads.

Uganda:

Air: Entebbe (EBB) is the main hub, with airstrips for parks (e.g., Bwindi). Charter flights are common for remote areas.
Road: 4x4 transfers to parks; self-driving requires caution (80km/h limits). Rainy season (March–May) can make rural roads impassable.

Zimbabwe:

Air: Harare (HRE), Victoria Falls (VFA), Bulawayo (BUQ) connect to safari airstrips. Domestic and charter flights reach parks like Hwange.
Road: 4x4 transfers for camps; self-driving viable but rainy season (November–March) affects rural roads. Speed limits 80–120km/h, watch for potholes.

Tips: Book air charters for remote camps, especially in rainy seasons. For self-driving, check seasonal road conditions and carry GPS. Camp staff typically handle airport-to-camp transfers.

Currencies in Africa

Zambia:

Currency: Zambian Kwacha (ZMW); US Dollars widely accepted in lodges/tourism facilities.
Cash: Bring new USD notes (“big heads”); old, torn, or marked notes not accepted. Use for shops, restaurants, tipping.
Exchange: Use Bureaux de Change at airports or Lusaka shopping centers for best rates. Avoid border informal changers due to scams.
Cards/ATMs: Visa/Mastercard accepted in cities; American Express/Traveller’s Cheques rare. ATMs in Lusaka, Livingstone accept Visa. Card fees may apply.
Tipping: Optional; $5–$20/day/person for camp staff, $10–$25/day/person for guides. Restaurant tips: 10% max if no service charge.

Botswana:

Currency: Botswana Pula (BWP); USD accepted in some lodges.
Cash: New USD notes preferred; exchange at banks/bureaux in Gaborone, Maun. Avoid informal changers.
Cards/ATMs: Visa/Mastercard accepted in urban areas; ATMs in major towns. Remote areas cash-only.
Tipping: $5–$15/day/person for camp staff, $10–$20 for guides; 10% in restaurants if no service charge.

Kenya:

Currency: Kenyan Shilling (KES); USD accepted in tourist areas.
Cash: New USD notes recommended; exchange at banks/bureaux in Nairobi, Mombasa. Avoid street changers.
Cards/ATMs: Visa/Mastercard widely accepted; ATMs in cities. Remote areas cash-only.
Tipping: $5–$10/day/person for camp staff, $10–$20 for guides; 10% in restaurants.

Rwanda:

Currency: Rwandan Franc (RWF); USD accepted in tourist areas.
Cash: Exchange USD at banks/bureaux in Kigali; new notes preferred. Avoid informal changers.
Cards/ATMs: Visa/Mastercard accepted in Kigali; ATMs limited outside cities. Remote areas cash-only.
Tipping: $5–$15/day/person for camp staff, $10–$20 for guides; 10% in restaurants.

South Africa:

Currency: South African Rand (ZAR); USD rarely accepted.
Cash: Exchange at banks/bureaux in Johannesburg, Cape Town; new USD notes preferred. Avoid street changers.
Cards/ATMs: Visa/Mastercard widely accepted; ATMs everywhere.
Tipping: $5–$10/day/person for camp staff, $10–$15 for guides; 10–15% in restaurants.

Tanzania:

Currency: Tanzanian Shilling (TZS); USD widely accepted in tourist areas.
Cash: New USD notes (post-2006) required; exchange at banks/bureaux in Dar es Salaam, Arusha. Avoid informal changers.
Cards/ATMs: Visa/Mastercard accepted in cities; ATMs in urban areas. Remote areas cash-only.
Tipping: $5–$15/day/person for camp staff, $10–$20 for guides; 10% in restaurants.

Uganda:

Currency: Ugandan Shilling (UGX); USD accepted in tourist areas.
Cash: New USD notes preferred; exchange at banks/bureaux in Kampala, Entebbe. Avoid street changers.
Cards/ATMs: Visa/Mastercard accepted in cities; ATMs limited outside Kampala. Remote areas cash-only.
Tipping: $5–$10/day/person for camp staff, $10–$20 for guides; 10% in restaurants.

Zimbabwe:

Currency: Zimbabwean Dollar (ZWL), US Dollar (USD) widely used.
Cash: New USD notes preferred; exchange at banks/bureaux in Harare, Victoria Falls. Avoid informal changers due to scams.
Cards/ATMs: Visa/Mastercard accepted in tourist areas; ATMs unreliable, often USD-only.
Tipping: $5–$15/day/person for camp staff, $10–$20 for guides; 10% in restaurants.

Tips: Carry new USD notes for all countries; exchange at official outlets. Visa/Mastercard best for cities; cash essential for remote areas. Check exchange rates before travel.

Health service(s) in Africa

Zambia:

Medical Supplies: Camps and private guides carry First Aid Kits, but bring extra personal medications, as they’re hard to source in remote areas.
Vaccinations: Consult a physician or CDC website 6 weeks before travel for updates, as requirements may change due to outbreaks.
Malaria: Prevalent; prophylactics advised. Risk is lower in dry season (May–October) than wet season (November–April).
Medical Services: Western-standard care in Lusaka, Ndola, Livingstone private clinics; rural clinics have basic facilities.
Water: Tap water safe in major towns; boil or use filtered/bottled water in remote areas. Carry reusable bottles to reduce plastic use.

Botswana:

Medical Supplies: Safari camps have First Aid Kits; bring extra medications, as rural access is limited.
Vaccinations: Check CDC or doctor for updates on required shots (e.g., Yellow Fever for some visitors).
Malaria: Present in northern areas (e.g., Okavango, Chobe); prophylactics recommended, especially in wet season (November–April).
Medical Services: Good private clinics in Gaborone, Maun; rural areas have basic care.
Water: Safe in cities; use bottled or filtered water in remote areas. Reusable bottles encouraged.

Kenya:

Medical Supplies: Lodges/guides carry First Aid Kits; stock up on medications, as rural supply is scarce.
Vaccinations: Yellow Fever often required; check CDC for updates 6 weeks prior.
Malaria: Common in coastal and western areas; prophylactics advised, higher risk in wet season (March–May, October–December).
Medical Services: Quality private hospitals in Nairobi, Mombasa; basic rural clinics.
Water: Safe in cities; use bottled/filtered water elsewhere. Reusable bottles recommended.

Rwanda:

Medical Supplies: Camps have First Aid Kits; bring medications, as rural pharmacies are limited.
Vaccinations: Yellow Fever may be required; check CDC or doctor 6 weeks before travel.
Malaria: Present; prophylactics needed, especially in wet season (March–May, October–December).
Medical Services: Good private clinics in Kigali; basic care in rural areas.
Water: Safe in Kigali; use bottled/filtered water in rural areas. Reusable bottles advised.

South Africa:

Medical Supplies: Lodges carry First Aid Kits; medications widely available in cities, limited in rural areas.
Vaccinations: Check CDC for updates; Yellow Fever may be needed if transiting endemic areas.
Malaria: Risk in Kruger, Limpopo; prophylactics advised in wet season (November–March).
Medical Services: World-class hospitals in Johannesburg, Cape Town; basic rural facilities.
Water: Tap water safe in cities; bottled/filtered in remote areas. Reusable bottles encouraged.

Tanzania:

Medical Supplies: Camps have First Aid Kits; bring extra medications, as rural access is limited.
Vaccinations: Yellow Fever often required; check CDC 6 weeks prior.
Malaria: High risk, especially in wet season (March–May); prophylactics essential.
Medical Services: Good private clinics in Dar es Salaam, Arusha; basic rural care.
Water: Safe in cities; use bottled/filtered water elsewhere. Reusable bottles recommended.

Uganda:

Medical Supplies: Lodges/guides carry First Aid Kits; bring medications, as rural supply is scarce.
Vaccinations: Yellow Fever required; check CDC for updates 6 weeks before travel.
Malaria: Prevalent; prophylactics needed, higher risk in wet season (March–May).
Medical Services: Decent private clinics in Kampala, Entebbe; basic rural facilities.
Water: Safe in cities; use bottled/filtered water in rural areas. Reusable bottles advised.

Zimbabwe:

Medical Supplies: Camps have First Aid Kits; bring extra medications, as rural access is limited.
Vaccinations: Yellow Fever may be required; check CDC for updates 6 weeks prior.
Malaria: Common in Zambezi Valley, Victoria Falls; prophylactics advised, especially in wet season (November–March).
Medical Services: Private clinics in Harare, Bulawayo; basic rural care.
Water: Safe in cities; use bottled/filtered water elsewhere. Reusable bottles encouraged.

Tips: Consult a doctor/CDC for vaccinations; carry sufficient medications and a reusable water bottle. Malaria risk is higher in wet seasons.

Insurance Information

Zambia:

Requirements: Many camps require travel and health insurance, covering remote emergency evacuation, medical expenses, and repatriation.
Recommendations:
- Get cancellation insurance post-booking to cover personal emergencies.
- Ensure coverage for loss/theft/damage of luggage, belongings, money.
- Check exclusions for activities like trekking or water sports.
- Verify if insurance pays providers directly or reimburses later; keep all documentation for claims.

Botswana:

Requirements: Safari camps often mandate insurance for evacuation, medical, and repatriation costs.
Recommendations: Include cancellation coverage, loss/theft of belongings, and check for exclusions (e.g., water safaris, horse riding). Confirm direct payment or reimbursement policy; retain all receipts.

Kenya:

Requirements: Insurance often required for safaris, covering evacuation, medical, and repatriation expenses.
Recommendations: Secure cancellation insurance, coverage for lost/stolen items, and verify exclusions (e.g., hot air ballooning, trekking). Check payment/reimbursement terms; keep documentation.

Rwanda:

Requirements: Gorilla trekking and camps require insurance for evacuation, medical, and repatriation costs.
Recommendations: Include cancellation coverage, loss/theft, and check exclusions for trekking. Confirm payment/reimbursement process; retain all receipts.

South Africa:

Requirements: Some camps/parks require insurance for evacuation, medical, and repatriation.
Recommendations: Get cancellation insurance, coverage for belongings, and check exclusions (e.g., shark diving, bungee jumping). Verify payment/reimbursement; keep documentation.

Tanzania:

Requirements: Camps and Kilimanjaro treks often require insurance for evacuation, medical, and repatriation.
Recommendations: Include cancellation coverage, loss/theft, and confirm exclusions for trekking/climbing. Check payment/reimbursement terms; retain receipts.

Uganda:

Requirements: Gorilla/chimpanzee trekking requires insurance for evacuation, medical, and repatriation.
Recommendations: Secure cancellation insurance, coverage for belongings, and check trekking exclusions. Verify payment/reimbursement; keep documentation.

Zimbabwe:

Requirements: Camps require insurance for evacuation, medical, and repatriation costs.
Recommendations: Include cancellation coverage, loss/theft, and check exclusions (e.g., white-water rafting). Confirm payment/reimbursement policy; retain all receipts.

Tips: Consult a doctor/CDC 6 weeks before travel for vaccinations.

Africa is fast becoming part of the digital age and connectivity is popping up in some the strangest places but many camps may or may not offer connectivity with WiFi as well as phone signal. If this is an important need as part of the trip then please let us know and we can either tailor accordingly or let you know if it will be possible on a certain route or not. Most luxury camps will have WiFi available and if it is not in your room then it will be in the main area.

You'll be pleasantly surprised, being out in the middle of Africa, by what can be produced in a small bush kitchen. The food is exceptional and often with a mixture of local and international flair. There is no need to bring that extra bag of snacks as you will be well and truly taken care of.

The wine at most of the camps is usually South African. They will mostly have reds and white and some will also have Rosé.

The beer in most of the destinations will have local beers produced locally and many are lager beers and some craft. They also have international beers from the US and Europe as well as South Africa and Namibia.

For any questions or concerns regarding dietary requirements whether for medical or health reasons, please don't hesitate to contact us. Annekim has Coeliac Disease, during her time managing several camps she has been able to train the chefs to prepare food for several different dietary requirements.

Please inform us of any allergies, medical conditions linked to diet and dietary options and we will try our best to get the camps to accommodate you.