What to know before you travel
Q. When is the best period to do a safari?
A. Just about any time of the year. Northern Circuit of Tanzania can be toured all year through. The best season however, is the dry months of January – March and also between June through September. October to mid December is characterised by short rains but they are periodical and mostly occur during the night thus not affecting safaris whatsoever. The dates between end December and early January are also peak safari season. Chrismas and New year dates are always a memorable dates to spend on safari. Selous Game Reserve may be inaccessible during the long rains of April – May. For Kilimanjaro trekkers, please visit our Kilimanjaro page for the best months and routes to trek.
Q. What’s the wildlife like?
A. Animal species found in Most of Tanzania and Kenyan parks include famous Big five; elephants, rhinos, leopard, Buffallos and the Lion. Others iclude; wildbeests, antelope species, giraffes and hippos. A wide range of Bird species, Monkey species and other small mammals can be seen through out the parks.
Q. Are animals dangerous?
A. All animals are in the national parks are wild animals. Meaning that they are untamed and un controlled. While viewing wildlife there is a degree of danger as the behavior of wild animals cannot be guaranteed. However most animals are frightened by the sight / smell of humans and rather than attack, will flee (unless cornered or provoked, and that includes violating the safe distance.). Attacks on humans are rare.
While on safari you will be accompanied by licensed guides who are well trained and with an amazing understanding of the wildlife with which they share their lives on a daily basis.
Q. When and where can I see the great migration?
A. Broadly speaking, the migration follows clockwise circuit: from July to October, the herds are in Maasai Mara and northern Serengeti; November to January sees them head South through eastern Serengeti; February to April they spread out to graze the short grass plains of the south; and May to July is the time when they make their way back to the north through the western corridor of Serengeti. Please contact us for the best dates and the best lodges to reserve near the migration.
Q. Which is Tanzania’s largest safari park?
A. The Serengeti, which borders the Kenya Maasai Mara.
Q. What is the accomodation like?
A. For Safari’s you can choose the standard of accomodation. From 5- star luxury accomodations to the cheapest and simplest basic camping.
Q. Will I be able to recharge my camera and video camera batteries?
A. Yes – at nearly all hotels, lodges, and permanent tented camps you will be able to recharge your camera and video batteries either in room or in the main area. Many camps and lodges have the correct adapter plugs however we recommend that you bring your own plugs. Please make sure your electronic equipment switches automatically from 110 to 220 electricity (most do). If they do not switch automatically a converter will be needed.
Q. Can I join other travelers for a safari/trek if I am alone?
A. Yes of course you can join a group safari/trek with us. Only that you should be aware that Group safaris have no flexibility in Schedule and departure dates as well as route and accommodation. We usually have departure dates on specific days and a minimum of two persons is required for a departure. We only sit a maximum of 7 persons in a safari vehicle and guarantee a window seat for all. Please Contact us for departure dates.
Q. Can I have my own itinerary?
A. If you are arranging an exclusive vehicle (custom) safari, then you are free to arrange whatever itinerary you choose, within logistical constraints. We can arrange any required itinerary subject to practical and logistical considerations and will be pleased to discuss, and quote for your special requirements. Where needed World Air Travel and Tours will advise you accordingly on your selected itinerary.
Q. Can I take a balloon safari?
A. Hot air ballooning over the Tarangire, Maasai Mara and Serengeti plains has become a safari rite of passage for travel enthusiasts. The flights depart at dawn and typically take passengers over the awakening herds of wildebeest and zebra, gazelle and giraffe. It’s also a chance to see the topography of the area.
Please note: Children under the age of 7 years are not permitted. There is no upper age limit, however, passengers must be reasonably mobile, fit to fly and prepared for an adventure. Ballooning is not suitable for pregnant ladies, people with mobility or health conditions (It is also wise to contact your physician back home before attempting this safari). Passengers must be able to bend their knees, hold on to rope handles with both hands for take-off and landing and be able to climb into and out of the basket.
Q. Can we have our clothes washed while on safari?
A. The majority of safari lodges and camps offer laundry service (some charge a small fee) weather permitting, however please note that undergarments are often excluded. If you are doing a camping safari unfortunately there is no laundry services.
Q. How can I do with my excess luggage while on safari/ at the mountain?
A. If you have excess luggage with you during the safari, you can leave it at the lodge/tented camp where you are staying if staying for more than one night. Most of the hotels also do safety deposit boxes and you can hire one for your valuables. If you are leaving for safari / the mountain and you have excess luggage; we can keep that excess luggage safely in our office.
Q. Which type of vehicles do you use for safaris? safaris?
A. We only use 4 x4 safari vehicles, either Land cruisers for safaris, as they are most suitable for terrain. All our vehicles have pop up roof for excellent sightseeing and photography. All our vehicles are also fitted with VHF radios for communication, and all have seat belts. We offer cold water in the vehicles throughout the safari.
Q. Do you handle air tickets? Where should I purchase my air tickets?
A. We are able to handle all of your Air ticket arrangements. We do Local and International Air ticketing for both IATA accredited airlines and non- IATA Airlines and have access to most flight’s specials that are offered. We are also affiliated with IATA,ASTA and other organisations/ associations that advocate excellence in travel and Tourism.