Kenya Travel Information, Kenya Travel Advisories

ACCOMMODATION: In East Africa, a number of good hotels are available to choose from to fit every budget. Elsewhere across the countries and in the National Parks, hotels and inns are generally available, but quality of service and quantity of rooms vary greatly. We take care in booking the best accommodation available for your safaris. All of our prepared itineraries start from the cities. If you require pre-or post -safaris hotel bookings in any city or airport transfers to /from Entebbe, JKIA or Kilimanjaro contact us so that we can make these arrangements for you. Reservations should be made in advance.

AIRPORT: Most guests to East Africa arrive by air, landing at the Entebbe, Jomo Kenyatta or even Kilimanjaro International Airports; approximately 45 minutes drive from or to the cities. Transfers to and from the airports are available for any size group. Your Departure tax is incorporated in your tickets.

AIRLINES: Several airlines land within the three east Africa countries, they include, Uganda Airlines, Air Tanzania, British Airways, Egypt Air, Ethiopian Airlines, Gulf Air, Inter Air, Kenya Airways, Sabena and South African Airways. There are daily connections of Nairobi. There are also several reputable domestic charter companies to choose from.

ALCOHOL: Several brand of local beer are available, including Bell, Club and Nile Special. Most spirits and wines are imported and are readily available at slightly elevated prices. There are no longer limitations on the drinking of alcohol in Uganda.

BANKING: Several international banks operate in East Africa cities including Barclays, Standard Chartered and Stanbic. Many local banks and forex bureaus also operate across the countries. Generally the banking hours are 8.30A.M. To 3:00 P.M., Monday to Friday, though some institutions are open longer hours and on Saturdays. There are no longer restrictions on foreign exchange transactions and currency is easily convertible. Use only USD notes dated after 1990.

CLIMATE: East Africa enjoys ideal weather conditions ranging from the warmth of the lowlands to the coolness of the highlands. Mean temperatures are between 21C and 31 C all the year around. Wet seasons are March - May and October - November.

CLOTHING: Light summer clothing supplemented by a sweater or jacket should be sufficient all year round. Usually dressing is informal. Cotton slacks and flats-heeled comfortable walking shoes are recommended on safari. Don't forget to bring a hat for sun protection and a swimsuit. Umbrellas and windbreakers are recommended in the wet seasons. Request additional details at the time of booking.

CREDIT CARDS: AMEX, Visa and MasterCard are accepted at some establishments in East Africa cities and some lodges.

CURRENCY: The Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania Shilling are the currency used. It is issued in different denominations. The rates vary from time to time but are readily available from banks and forex bureaus. We accept US Dollars, the Euros or even the Travelers' Cheques.

DRINKING WATER: We recommend that you do not drink tap water. Most hotels and restaurants provide previously boiled drinking water. Mineral water is also available.

FOOD: Fresh tropical fruits and vegetables are plentiful throughout the country. A wide range of dishes, both traditional and international, is served in the hotels and restaurants.

HEALTH REQUIREMENTS: Certificates are required for vaccination against yellow fever. Check current medical advice on typhoid, cholera and hepatitis. Malarial risk is general and prophylactics should be taken. It is advisable to start anti-malaria medications 10 days prior to arrival and continue with the same until 14 days after leaving East Africa.

LANGUAGE: The official language is English though Kiswahili is commonly spoken throughout the countries.

PHOTOGRAPHY: Though some types of film are available in many of the lodges, it is advisable to bring films and batteries with you or to purchase them in Kampala. A pair of binoculars will prove extremely useful for the keen game viewer. There is no charge for photography cameras but there may be a charge for video cameras in some places. Clients are directly responsible for any such fees.

SECURITY: Precautions should be taken as in any major city. Unless safety deposit boxes are available in your hotel or lodge, always carry travel documents, travelers cheques, cash and other valuable with you at all times. We recommend that you do not walk late in the night but instead take a taxi.

SPORTS FACILITIES: There are a variety of sports available in the East Africa cities - squash, golf, tennis, etc. Fishing, on Lake Victoria or the Nile River, and White Water Rafting from Bujagali Falls is also popular. Arrangements can be made for these activities depending on individual's interests.

TRANSPORT: The roads are generally in good condition. Four-wheel drive vehicles may be required for up-country use, especially in the national park during the rainy seasons. We maintain a fleet of saloon cars, mini-buses and four wheels drive vehicles, available on either a self-drive or chauffeur driven basis. Please enquire for further details and tariffs.

VISAS: All PTA countries, EEC Countries, Japan and USA are exempt from visas. Visas are generally available at all entry points.

OUR FINAL WORD: Things in Africa may not work in the same way as home; some times there are inexplicable delays. We appreciate your patience. Sit back and enjoy your safari. Everything will work out in the end.