Traveller Advice - Unfold Africa Safaris

We’re happy to answer all your questions about the practicalities of a safari

The summer months from November to March are when the rains arrive and it’s hot between the thunderstorms. The vegetation is a sea of green, wildflowers can be seen everywhere, and all mammals and birds have their young. The bush is alive – Africa is at its most productive!

It’s a photographer’s paradise, especially in the Kalahari, where the large herds of animals migrate.

The prime tourist months are from April through to October

Both the weather and game viewing are excellent. Animals are at their most visible around the natural waterholes, dams and rivers.

Language

Although the official language of Botswana is English, most of the population speak Tswana as their home language. Guided safaris are always conducted in English.

Currency

The national currency is Pula (P). Most credit cards are accepted by shops, restaurants and fuel stations. Credit card cash advances are available at local banks in Gaborone, Lobatse, Francistown, Kasane and Maun. Most facilities accept Rand, US Dollar and Euro.

Climate

Most of the country has a subtropical climate with little rain.

Frequently Asked Question About Safaris in Africa

Where should I go on African safari?

Africa is a huge continent. Countries that are particularly well known for good safari experiences are Botswana, South Africa, Namibia, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Uganda, Kenya, Rwanda and Tanzania. Get in touch with us so that we can work with you to get to your safari destination.

What’s the best way to get to Africa?

You can fly into Africa from any part of the world. It’s best to fly to Maun International Airport if you’re travelling to Botswana, and Victoria Falls Airport if your destination is Zimbabwe. In Kenya, Jomo Kenyatta International Airport connects you with the Maasai Mara and Amboseli National Park, and in Tanzania Kilimanjaro International Airport connects you with Serengeti Game Reserve. If your destination is Uganda, you’ll fly into Entebbe International Airport, which is the start of your journey to see the most endangered apes in Africa – gorillas. OR Tambo International Airport in South Africa connects you with the famous Kruger National Park and is an easy connecting flight to the beautiful sand dunes of Namibia.

If you have any questions about flight advice, please contact us at reservation@unfoldafricatravel.com.

What are the luggage restrictions on safari?

Depending on the type of safari and transport you take, luggage weight restrictions range between 12kg – 20kg.

This may seem dauting to first time travelers to Africa the thought the strict luggage can be quite daunting, but the restrictions are for good reason. Luggage space in 4WD land cruisers is limited, and on light aircrafts the luggage compartments are small and oddly shaped. For this reason we recommend bringing soft-sided luggage, as well as packing light.

Your luggage weight allowance will depend on the itinerary you have booked. Please check this with us when you book – we’re always happy to discuss special requirements and will try and accommodate you whenever we can.

What does the Unfold Africa safari price exclude?

– Flights to and from Africa, both international and internal
– Items of a personal nature
– Staff and guide gratuities
– Travel insurance, including emergency medical insurance, trip cancellation or interruption coverage
– Costs related to any changes made to the itinerary once in Africa
– Any costs associated with flight delays or cancellations
– Any new taxes imposed by the local government prior to you arrival date

What does the Unfold Africa safari price include?

– Accommodation in camps and lodges
– All meals camps and lodges (breakfast, lunch, high tea, sundowners, pre-dinner drinks, dinner, drinks around the fire after dinner)
– Meet and greets in all airports on arrival and departure
– Park fees
– All road transfers between the lodges/camps
– All boat transfers between lodges/camps
– All scheduled air strip transfers
– All non-alcoholic drinks, as well as beers, house wines and spirits
– Laundry in all camps and lodges
– All activities offered by camps/lodges (game drives, boat cruises, nature walking safaris, fishing, star-gazing, mokoro excursions and night game drives)

Why should I book my safari with Unfold Africa?

– We take exceptional care of our guests and welcome you with incredible hospitality.
– At all times, we consider the wildlife and environment, ensuring that our safaris are sustainable and eco-friendly.
– We love giving guests a tangible experience of Africa, creating beautiful memories that last long after the flight home. Part of this includes taking you on a walking safari to see wildlife on foot (this includes a full safety briefing before you set out).
– We track wildlife using footprints, excrement and sounds – to name a few – and explain this to guests as we do it, giving them a taste of how to uncode the mysteries of the bush.
– We love family safaris and our guides are excellent at keeping kids entertained and safe in the bush.

Can I come on safari if I require the use a wheelchair?

Yes, you are so welcome – we will take great care of you.

Many of our safari destinations are well set up for wheelchair use, with adapted vehicles, boats and mokoros available. If you do require wheelchair access, please book early so that we can arrange everything for you.

Is an African safari safe?

You will be very safe on safari. From the moment your safari begins, you will be given guidelines to follow at all the times. If you respect your safari guide and the animals, you will have nothing to worry about.

How many days should I spend on safari?

We recommend visiting for a minimum of 6 nights, 7 days. This allows you to visit at least two different locations, and truly immerse yourself in nature. The more time you spend on safari, the more time you will have to see something truly amazing. The amount of time you spend on safari will naturally have cost implications – all worth it for a once-in-a-lifetime experience, we (and our guests) say!

Can I spend all day out on safari without having to go back to camp?

Yes, absolutely. We actually recommend a full day safari as the best way to explore the area and see what nature has to offer! Not to mention, we love a good picnic.

Here’s an example of what a day like this might look like:

05:30 am – Wake up call for a light breakfast prepared by the team.

06:00 am – Our game drive beings. The early start allows your guide to look for fresh animals tracks from the night before. During the cool morning hours, animals are much more active. It’s also the best time for photography because of the soft light.

09:00 am – Time to take a short break in the bush. Your guide will stop and scout around the area to make sure it’s safe for everyone to alight from the vehicle for coffee, tea, juices, soft drinks and snacks. If you have incredible animal sightings on your drive, the morning tea break may be pushed back or enjoyed earlier. It’s up to the animals – and the guests. Once refreshed, your game drive will resume.

12:00 pm – Bush lunch time, your guide will find a beautiful location in the bush, usually a nice shady spot taking safety into account. You’ll enjoy a delicious lunch prepared by our chef, with an ice cold drink, while watching animals at a safe distance.

1:30 pm – You’ll then continue your afternoon game drive and search for animals.

6:00 pm – After a good day in the bush, you’ll stop for another short break at sundown. This is a great chance to enjoy the sunset and last minute animal sightings before it get dark.

7:00 pm – On arrival at camp, you will be escorted back to you tents for a hot shower. Your guide will come and pick you up for dinner, which is served when you’re ready.

7:30 – 800 pm – Enjoy a delicious chef-prepared meal that pays homage to both local and continental cuisine. Our chef will meet any dietary requirements you may have.

After dinner, enjoy reminiscing about your day as you sit around the fire, gazing at the star-sparkling beauty of the African night sky, before you head to bed.

What kind of animals can I see in Africa?

Africa has a so many different animals that you can see on safari. It’s the only place you can see African elephant, Cape buffalo, lion, leopard, cheetah, giraffe, zebra, impala, wildebeest, waterbuck, lechwe, warthog, hyena, hippopotamus, crocodile, monkeys, baboons, kudu, sable and steenbok – to name only a few.

What kind of birds can I see in Africa?

There are many bird species in Africa, some which are very special, like vultures, which clean carrion in nature to keep it smart. You can also see fish eagles, tawny eagles, wooded vultures, white backed vultures, plovers, doves, franklins, ostriches, kori busturds, korhans, kestrels, falcons, darters, cormorants, skimmers, finches, pelicans, go-away birds, egrets, and many more. There are over 900 different species of birds in Afrca. If you like birds, this is your place.

What photographic advice do you have for safari?

Taking photographs in nature isn’t too difficult, but requires some patience and excellent timing. The regular family camera is usually not enough for wildlife viewed at a distance. A camera with a 200-300mm lens comes handy in this case. Dedicated photographers can use a telephoto lens of 400-500mm. If you have big lens, bring a light tripod stand for stability and a teleconverter (2x) to help double the focal length. We also recommend bringing extra memory cards and spare batteries. Note that it is forbidden to photograph government institutions, military personnel (police, army, boarder police) and some cultures. Always make sure you consult your guide before taking pictures.

How do I plan my trip?

Talk to us. Together we will consider what you want to see and when you want to go, so we know how best to show you the hidden germs of African wildlife and culture. Feel free to tell us what you have read and what you have your heart set on. We will come up with a plan for you to consider, and once you’re happy with the plan we’ll take care of all the details so that you can concentrate on enjoying the magic.

Do I need any vaccinations?

You will need a vaccination before arrival in most safari destinations. Malaria is widespread and a serious risk. It’s recommended that you take anti-malarial medication, but please consult a doctor for medical advice before you travel.

What about food?

Any dietary requirement can be catered for. Please let us know in advance and we will arrange anything you need. On your Itinerary, you will see the letters B, L, D. These are abbreviations indicating breakfast, lunch and dinner. Our gourmet chefs bake fresh breads and produce entrees that could easily grace top restaurants around the world. Meals are international in flavor and include soups, salads, cold meats, pasta dishes, meat and fish.

Should I tip the staff at camps and lodges?

Tipping is not compulsory, but if you have received excellent service you are more than welcome to express your gratitude in the form of a tip, which will be much appreciated. This is entirely at your discretion and applies if you have a personal butler as part of your package, or if you receive a spa treatment from professionals during your stay. Some guests are so impressed with their knowledgeable guides that they may tip them.

Can I plan and manage a safari for myself?

We don’t recommend it. In many place you definitely need an agent’s specialised knowledge of light aircraft schedules, transfer companies and ground handlers for your itinerary. To avoid any complications, talk to us. We are happy to help you create a great road map for your safari in Africa.

What’s the accommodation like on safari?

Very comfortable! Luxury tented camps are spacious and are built on designated permanent sites. All of them are fitted with private bathroom facilities with hot showers and flushing toilets. Standards of hygiene and comfort are extremely high. At some of the camps, each tent even has its own swimming pool.

Accommodation usually makes up the bulk of your safari’s cost, so where you stay has the biggest impact on your budget. Options range widely from a few hundred dollars to over $1500 per night per person. Unfold Africa will always recommend accommodation that matches your needs and wishes while balancing value for money. When looking at accommodation options, pay attention to what is included and excluded to avoid any surprises.

Will I need to book accommodation in transit?

Check your flight schedule. If you arrive in the afternoon, your tour may start the next day, so you might need accommodation before your safari starts. The same applies at the end of your safari if you have an early morning flight.

What kind of people book tours with Unfold Africa?

People from all walks of life and a wide range of countries across the globe! Whether you’re a young solo traveller or a large family, we’d love to show you the magic of Africa. Our safaris have no age restrictions.

Is it possible for a group of friends or a family to travel together?

Definitely! In order for us to propose the most suitable itinerary for your requirements, just let us know the number of people in your group, your intended travel dates, your specific interests and special requests for the trip. Once we have this information we can prepare your itinerary. Contact us at reservations@unfoldafricatravel.com.

Is there electricity at safari lodges and camps? What kind of plug adapters do I need?

Electricity is available in all the camps: 220-240 volts and plugs are 3 square or round (UK model). Most of the safari lodges and camps are not connected to an electrical supply. Solar lighting backed up by batteries is common. Many lodges and camps have a generator which runs in the morning and late evenings. Lanterns also provide light at night. In most areas, you would not be able to use a hair dryer or electric shaver.

What is there to buy on safari?

Shopping while on safari is limited. Often lodges and camp have small curio shops where you can buy postcards, local goods such as carvings or books, and clothing (hats, shirts, etc.). At airports and larger towns you will find African curio markets where you can buy all sorts of carvings, masks, drums, and jewelry.

What should I pack for safari?

Your safari experience will be so much better if you pack comfortable rather than fashionable clothing. You will spend a lot of your time outdoors, so pack sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat as the African sun can be harsh, even when there is cloud cover. Sturdy and comfortable shoes are a must. Don’t wear bright colours like red, blue, white or yellow. Rather wear colours like brown, khaki, or black. Bright colours attract insects, and animals can see bright colours from a distance. This is especially important when doing a nature walk or mokoro polling.

How much money should I bring? Should I bring cash or travellers cheques? Are credit cards accepted?

You will need little spending money on most safaris as the most of the meals and activities are included in your package. You will pay for lunch, dinner, and drinks when you are staying at a hotels or a bed and breakfast. Bills may be settled in USD cash, travellers cheque or by credit card (accepted at most lodges, camps and hotels). Ensure all your US dollars are of the year 2000 and above series, not of 1990s, as these are often rejected by the banks and bureaus.

How do I get to the Okavango Delta?

Via Air Botswana and South African Air Link from Johannesburg to Maun International Airport or Kasane International Airport, which are the starting points for most safaris in Botswana. Unfold Africa can arrange scheduled flights for guests with Air Botswana.

Daily scheduled flights operate between Johannesburg and Maun and on certain days there are flights between Johannesburg and Kasane. Air Botswana also flies between Windhoek (Namibia) and Maun. Unfold Africa Travel Safaris can also arrange private charters. Safari locations in Botswana are remote and travelling to various areas requires light air transfer and road transfer, which will be arranged by Unfold Africa. Given the wild environment that makes up the vast majority of the country, road transfers between camps can often be as enjoyable as a safari game drive!

Where can I do a mobile camping safari in Botswana?

Moremi Game Reserve is arguably one of the best areas in the Okavango Delta. We have two ways going into Moremi Game reserve:

1) Drive in. As soon as you land in Maun International Airport, you will be taken on safari vehicle to your camping site. This won’t incur any extra cost and will last about 3 and a half hours, depending on what you see along the way.

2) Fly in. After you land in Maun International Airport and clear customs, a porter will be waiting for you holding your booking name. You will be taken to a light aircraft at Xakanaxa Airstrip. The flight is short and you will fly at a low attitude for 30 minutes. Upon landing at the bush airstrip, you will be met by your Unfold Africa guide and your safari will begin. Most of the camping sites are one hour away from the runway – again depending on what you see along the way.

Can I bring my drone on safari to Botswana?

Each country has their own rules and regulations regarding drone usage in game reserves and national parks. You will need to request permission from the Civil Aviation Authority of Botswana (CAAB) in writing at least a week prior to your departure. Please note that some international airlines have regulations regarding LiPo batteries used in drones, so check with them prior to your departure. For any questions or concerns, please contact us directly at reservations@unfoldafricatravel.com or drop us a message on our Facebook page or WhatsApp us on +26776747386. We will get back to you in less than 24 hours.

Do you offer Zambia and Zimbabwe safaris, including the Victoria Falls?

Zambia is known by many as the place where the walking safari began. Zambia may not offer the best view of the Victoria Falls, but there is a wealth of activities available, from gentle canoe trips, to raging white-water rafting.

South Luangwa National Park is easily reached by air on Zambian Airways which has regular flights to South Luangwa Airport. The park covers an area over 9050km2 and is is home to an abundance of game and birdlife.

Where can I go to see gorillas in the wild?

Gorilla trekking takes you into the pristine and unbelievable heart of Africa, to the green hills and rainforests of Congo, Uganda and Rwanda. Tourism is a non-negotiable part of the gorilla conservation and some porters and guides are even reformed poachers who now derive an income from protecting Africa’s great apes.

Uganda is well known for its endangered apes, the gorillas.

One of the most amazing safari destinations in Uganda is the famous Queen Elizabeth National Park. 1,978 km2 in size, it spans the equator: monuments on either side of the road mark the exact spot where it crosses latitude 00. River banks are lined with hippos, buffalo, and elephants, and on the endless Ishaha plains you’ll see fig trees that hide lions ready to pounce on herds of unsuspecting Uganda kob. The park is home to over 95 mammals species and over 600 bird species. There are many opportunities for visitors to meet the local communities and enjoy storytelling, dance and music. The formation of the park has ensured the conservation of the ecosystems, which turn benefits the surrounding communities.

What is Namibia famous for?

Namibia is known for its pristine deserts, sand dunes and unique wildlife.

What is South Africa famous for?

South Africa is well known for the Kruger National Park, the most well-known safari destination in the world.

What are Tanzania and Kenya famous for?

Tanzania and Kenya are known for the wildebeest migration in Africa between the Serengeti and Maasai Mara.

What are the international flight options to Kenya?

KD, BA, SN, Brussels, SAA, Qatar, Emirates, Etihad, Egypt Air, Swiss Air, Turkish Airlines, KLM, Gulf Air, Air Madagascar, Royal Jordanian Air, Korea Air.

Can my children come with me on safari?

Botswana, Kenya and Tanzania are great destinations for families, Some of the camps and lodges have arrangements to cater for the young ones through children’s clubs that engage them a lot with games and nature activities.

What is the cost of a safari?

The cost of the safari can vary greatly depending on the location. A low-end African safari starts at $300 a night per person. A mid-range safari will cost from $600 to $800 a night per person. A high-end safari will cost $1000 t0 $1500 a night per person. A super luxury safari starts a cost of $2000+ per person per night.

Below is an indication of costs of safari types in each country.

Botswana	Private	Group
Budget	$350	$275
Mid-range	$525	$400
South Africa	Private	Group
Budget	$225	$200
Mid-range	$225	$500+
Luxury	$550+	$500+
Namibia	Private	Group
Budget	$225	$175
Mid-range	$225	$175
Luxury	$575+	$525+
Zambia	Private	Group
Budget	$250	$200
Mid-range	$250	$200
Luxury	$550+	$500+
Zimbabwe	Private	Group
Budget	$225	$200
Mid-range	$375	$275
Luxury	$550+	$525
Kenya	Private	Group
Budget	$200	$175
Mid-range	$300	$300
Luxury	$550+	$475
Uganda	Private	Group
Budget	$300	$250
Mid-range	$425	$275
Luxury	$600	$550+
Tanzania	Private	Group
Budget	$300	$250
Mid-range	$400	$350
Luxury	$600+	$550+

How does planning a safari work with Unfold Africa?

First, we suggest that you browse our recommended safaris for some inspiration, and then chat to us about your dream safari. Our experts will work with you to create the perfect safari for you to enjoy the wonders of Africa.

How far in advance should I book my safari?

It is highly recommended to book your safari in advance as far as possible. Four to six months is a good minimum lead time, and assures you availability, especially during the high season of April to September, Christmas and New Year. This saves last minute searches, which often find you compromising on standards and with no guarantee of availability.