F.A.Q.

General Questions

Will we be picked up from the airport?

Of course can we arrange a pickup. This will be part of your offer.

How to get to Tanzania?

By plane you can choose between the main points of entry: Kilimanjaro airport (between Moshi and Arusha), Dar Es Salaam and Zanzibar. Most frequently used airlines are KLM, Ethiopian, Emirates, Turkish, Oman, Swiss, British Airways. If you are flying into Nairobi, road and air transfers to Moshi and Arusha are also possible.

Can I do a self-drive trip and safari?

Yes, you can. We are working together with a few companies that rent out 4×4 cars with and without driver to our guests. Just let us know if you are interested in a self-drive!

Do I need any vaccinations or medications before coming to Tanzania?

When you are planning a trip to East Africa we recommend you to consult a travel medicine expert near you ideally 6 weeks prior to your trip.

Just a few infos that should not replace a consultation with your doctor:

  • It is advised to take malaria prophylaxis in certain regions of Tanzania and esp. during rain seasons.
  • If you arrive from or travel through a yellow fever endemic zone before arrival into Tanzania, then vaccination for Yellow Fever obligatory. The Yellow Fever Endemic Zone includes the following countries: Senegal, Gambia, Guinea Bissau, Sierra Leone, Liberia, Cote D’Ivore, Burkina Faso, Ghana, Nigeria, Mali, Niger, Chad, Central African Republic, Togo, Benin, Sao Tome and Principe, Cameroon, Gabon, Congo, Democratic Republic of Congo, United Republic of Tanzania, Angola, Zambia, Uganda, Kenya, Rwanda, Burundi, Ethiopia, Somali, Sudan and Equatorial Guinea, Panama, Venezuela, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Brazil, Guyana, Suriname, French Guiana and Bolivia. According to official regulations this is only needed if spending 12 hours or more in these countries (including the airports). But it has become common practice that health officers at Kilimanjaro, Dar es Salaam and Zanzibar Airport ignore this official regulation and insist on being shown a proof of Yellow Fever Vaccination on arrival on Kenya Airways, Uganda Airways and Ethiopian Airlines, even if you have only been on a short transit.

Do I need a visa for entering Tanzania?

Visitors from most countries require a visa in order to enter Tanzania. Most can purchase a visa at the point of entry. You need a passport valid at least half a year, one clear page in your passport, and (again, in most cases) USD 50 in cash. You do not need a photograph – your picture will be taken with a digital camera at the visa desk. It is usually a very quick and simple procedure, though queues can get quite long if your flight was very busy and/or there are several arrivals at the same time. Notable exceptions include but are not limited to: American and Irish citizens – need to pay USD 100, and must purchase a multiple entry visa.

Are there any tipping guidelines?

The traditional gratuity to safari guides, camp staff, mountain porters etc. is not included in the price of your tour but is completely discretionary. You should tip in accordance with the level of service you have received.
The following guidelines are generally accepted practice (per safari group, per member of staff): Safari guide(s) – USD 10-15 per day; Cook (on camping safaris) USD 7; tented camp, lodge or hotel staff – USD 3-5 per day, as a pooled tip to be shared among the housekeepers, waiters, bartenders, etc.
For porters and waiters at hotels and for taxi drivers in cities, the customary tip is approximately USD 1, and tipping in one dollar bills for porters and waiters is greatly appreciated. However, beware of unscrupulous people who try to exhort extra payment from unwary passengers just for shuffling their bags around. They are usually to be found at airport arrivals zones – anyone helping you at a safari lodge or tented camp will be a legitimate employee of that establishment.

Kilimanjaro & Mt. Meru Questions

Will I make it on Kilimanjaro after climbing Mt. Meru?

Yes, probably you will even increase the chances to reach the summit. Kilimanjaro is not a difficult climb but very very high.

The acclimatization on Mt. Meru will help you on Kili.

Which do you recommend first, Zanzibar or Kili/Safari?

This will be a personal choice.

However, it seems to be better to put the action first and let it sink in at the beach.

Visit the mainland first and then relax in Zanzibar.

Are there any tipping guidelines?

The traditional gratuity to safari guides, camp staff, mountain porters etc. is not included in the price of your tour but is completely discretionary. You should tip in accordance with the level of service you have received.
The following guidelines are generally accepted practice (per safari group, per member of staff): Safari guide(s) – USD 10-15 per day; Cook (on camping safaris) USD 7; tented camp, lodge or hotel staff – USD 3-5 per day, as a pooled tip to be shared among the housekeepers, waiters, bartenders, etc.
For porters and waiters at hotels and for taxi drivers in cities, the customary tip is approximately USD 1, and tipping in one dollar bills for porters and waiters is greatly appreciated. However, beware of unscrupulous people who try to exhort extra payment from unwary passengers just for shuffling their bags around. They are usually to be found at airport arrivals zones – anyone helping you at a safari lodge or tented camp will be a legitimate employee of that establishment.

What gear do I need to climb Kili?

If you climb Meru or Kili with us you will get a comprehensive equipment list.

You can rent most of the clothing and equipment you need in Tanzania, but bringing your own clothes, well worn-in boots and a good sleeping bag is best. You will need a small day pack with enough space for wind and rain clothes, some first aid, 3 litres of water and snacks. Warm clothes (fleece, wind and waterproof layers), good polarised sunglasses, sunscreen and a head lamp should be included in your packing list.

How old should I be to climb Mount Kilimanjaro?

No person younger than 10 years is allowed according to Kilimanjaro National Park authorities’ rules. If the kid is between 10 and 14 yrs old, they may only proceed as high as Horombo Huts (3700m) or Shira Camp (3900m) if they are accompanied by one of their parents. Preferably the climbers are 14 years and older to attempt the summit.

The oldest person on the mountain was Richard Byerley (84) of Washington State. He trained by climbing mountains, running and cycling. His tip? ‘Just go.’ Kilimanjaro Experience’s oldest guest was 79 years and 9 months and was from the Czech Republic.

Where does the water during our hike come from?

From the mountain. Porters collect water from the streams and it is boiled before use. This water will be used to fill your water canisters. You don’t need to use purification tablets, but it is recommended. Some operators offer bottled water – at extra cost as porters have to carry this up the mountain.

What will we eat during our hike?

You will eat normal food: potatoes, rice, pasta, vegetables, eggs, sandwiches, cheese and fruit. When you book a trek, let your tour operator know about food allergies or medical conditions that require special diets. Non-vegetarians will be served sausages, chicken and meat. Tea, coffee and hot chocolate will be available as well.

Which clothes shall take to Kilimanjaro?

 

  We advice you to carry winter clothes,like jackets, thicker socks,long sleeve,winter hat,some scarf,at least 3 breathable top heavy jackets,stretching hiking tights or trousers, hiking poles/ sticks ,some snacks,water bottles of 3 litre a day. Day park bag,some pads for women,wipes

Which route is easy to climb kili?

  Every route is easy to climb Kilimanjaro. Depend on how you are prepared and what is your wish during climbing. Example if you want to go for short time /few days,then you take the short route, if you have enough time for you holiday  then you can take the longest route to experience more

Which equipment shall I take from home?

   You can hire all hiking equipment in Kilimanjaro or Arusha. But if you don’t  like to hired stuff you can bring your own from home , and here i will mention all equipment you will need during hiking so you will choose what to bring and what you will to hire from here still:

Day park bag, at least 5pairs of thick socks, 3Tshirt,2 long sleeves, 2winter jackets, 3 stretching trousers,2lt water bottle or camel bag, winter hat, scarf, hiking poles/ sticks, sleeping bag,soft towels,rain coat, water proof hiking boots.

How high is Kilimanjaro?

The height of Mount Kilimanjaro is 5895m high . Or 19,341ft

Which equipment is there?

Mostly we offer our guests some equipment like, hiking sticks, water bottle, sleeping bag, winter hats,scarf,and rain bag, rain coat.

How long the trip will be to climb to the top?

  Here will depend on which route you are taking .each route has different time to reach the top.

  Machame route 6 -7 days

  Marangu route 6 -days

Lemosho route 7-8days

Rongai route 6-7 days

Shira plateau route 7-8 days

Umbwe route 5-6 days

Northern circuit route 8-9 days

Is there house or camping on tents?

   Only marangu route has the huts to sleep in.so here consider  about which route are  you taking , example machame route is camping route, here we will be carrying our tent by our potters, so we camp and remove the next day as we proceed up.

Is it dangerous to climb Kilimanjaro?

No !it is not dangerous to climb Kilimanjaro , it make a lot of experiences and enjoying moment when you walk and cross through different vegetation ,weather like sun, cold, wind ,sand ,rocks,etc… …………..

What kind of challenges to climb Kilimanjaro?

   The challenge to climbing is pretty basic ,eg cold,  slippery rocks, rain on the way,sun ,having some mount sickness like headaches, that is it

If I get injured how is going to be?

  There are rescues cars coming every morning to some centre which you will always find a way to rich there , so one of our guide will take car of you and make sure you are in a safe side by coming with you to this cars and take you down / town already for hospital .

When is the best time to climb Kilimanjaro?

  The best time to hike Kilimanjaro is January to march , because this time is not raining season,so you will definitely enjoy because most of hikers doesn’t like to hike with rain.especially when you take the camping route.

Is going to be a lot of people?

    They will be many people in the trail especially during high season.But in Kilimanjaro it never get to a point that you need to wait on the way because other need to go first or after. You will always have enough space to walk, and during camping ,our team will make sure you are away from other people to avoid noise and make you have better sleep.

How is the time schedule to wake up?

Normally the guide will wake you up around 6am and give you hot water for coffee and tea to get up .then you will go for breakfast then get ready your self for the day .here they advise to leave the camp around 7:30am .when you are full of energy ,you can walk long distance.

Safari Questions

How can it be that Safari prices vary so much?

Das haben wir uns zunächst auch gewundert. Es gibt jedoch mehrere Optionen, die den Preis massgeblich beeinflussen.

Buchst du zum Beispiel eine Tagessafari, nur mit Lunchpaket in einem günstigen Nationalpark könnte es sogar nur 100$ kosten.

Sobald es weiter geht, kommen Übernachtung im Hotel plus Übernachtungsgebühr im Nationalpark plus Verpflegung hinzu. Auch Autokosten und Kosten für den Fahrer steigen rapide an.

Es gibt tolle Hotels mitten im Nationalpark die bis zu 2.000$ die Nacht kosten.

Dies ist nich jedermanns Sache, manch ein Gast wünscht sich jedoch genau das. Deshalb möchten wir vorab mit dir sprechen um zu wissen, was du dir wünscht.

Which do you recommend first, Zanzibar or Kili/Safari?

This will be a personal choice.

However, it seems to be better to put the action first and let it sink in at the beach.

Visit the mainland first and then relax in Zanzibar.

What is the best time of the year to visit Tanzania for a safari?

You can have a fantastic Tanzania safari at any time of year!
During the “long rains” of April and May, and the “short rains” of November accommodations are cheaper, lodges are less full, and there are less other cars in the national parks. It can get a little difficult if you want to travel to really remote areas during rainy season, however the roads between Arusha, Lake Manyara, Ngorongoro and Serengeti are good and well maintained, and still very much passable even during the rains.
The rest of the year is generally dry, after the rain season you have high and green grass, lush landscapes.

The mass migration of wildebeest moves from Kenya into the Serengeti in December, January, February and March. This is a very popular time to travel to Tanzania, and can be a spectacular time to visit, with the herds generally attracting a lot of predators and some real wildlife drama!
Note that the river crossings of the wildebeest take place around July or August, however, this is notoriously difficult to predict. It is really just a matter of taking your chances, booking in advance and seeing if you get lucky enough to witness this sight in person!
July, August, September and October are usually very busy (particularly July and August due to school holidays). These months are all dry, mild and, as always, great for wildlife viewing!

Can I do a self-drive trip and safari?

Yes, you can. We are working together with a few companies that rent out 4×4 cars with and without driver to our guests. Just let us know if you are interested in a self-drive!

Is a safari possible with young children?

Yes of course! Once we see that there are children present on your trip, we will do all we can to make your program as child-friendly as possible.
We can select child-friendly accommodations – this could mean anything from having a great pool, to huge rooms sleeping up to 4 persons, to plenty of space for running round after a long day of game driving. We will plan a program which keeps transfer times to a minimum. We can recommend special activities such as boat trips, hiking and following hunting tracks with bushmen – all great ways to spend some time outside of the safari vehicle.
If travelling with very young kids, we can also provide car-seats for use inside the safari vehicle, and baby carriers.

What kind of clothing do I need for safari?

We recommend that you bring light casual clothes in neutral or muted colours (brighter colours can attract insects, and we urge you not to wear blue clothing as this is particularly attractive to certain insects!). We also urge you to bring sunglasses, sunscreen, hat with ties so it doesn’t blow off in the wind, and insect repellent if you go on safari. In the evenings it can get rather chilly, especially in the desert areas and in the months of May-August, so bring a warm sweater and a scarf.

Are there any tipping guidelines?

The traditional gratuity to safari guides, camp staff, mountain porters etc. is not included in the price of your tour but is completely discretionary. You should tip in accordance with the level of service you have received.
The following guidelines are generally accepted practice (per safari group, per member of staff): Safari guide(s) – USD 10-15 per day; Cook (on camping safaris) USD 7; tented camp, lodge or hotel staff – USD 3-5 per day, as a pooled tip to be shared among the housekeepers, waiters, bartenders, etc.
For porters and waiters at hotels and for taxi drivers in cities, the customary tip is approximately USD 1, and tipping in one dollar bills for porters and waiters is greatly appreciated. However, beware of unscrupulous people who try to exhort extra payment from unwary passengers just for shuffling their bags around. They are usually to be found at airport arrivals zones – anyone helping you at a safari lodge or tented camp will be a legitimate employee of that establishment.

Zanzibar Questions

Which do you recommend first, Zanzibar or Kili/Safari?

This will be a personal choice.

However, it seems to be better to put the action first and let it sink in at the beach.

Visit the mainland first and then relax in Zanzibar.

How do I get Zanzibar from mainland?

You can get Zanzibar by airplane which is about 15 minutes  from Dar es Salaam Mwl J.K.NYERERE international airport.And also you can take ferry boat from Dar es salaam which takes 2 hours to arrive, Ferry goes 4 times  a  day between 7am to 16hrs  in both directions ( Dar – Zanzibar, and Zanzibar -Zanzibar).

Is Zanzibar safe for tourists?

Yes Zanzibar is one among safest places to visit in Tanzania/Africa,is Muslim country .people are nice with full of smile and happy face with hakuna Matata slogan ( no worries) or pole pole (no hurry).

Is Zanzibar and Tanzania one nation?

Yes Zanzibar and Tanzania is one nation, even the name of the country “TANZANIA “ is formed by combination of TANGANYIKA AND ZANZIBAR.

Which tour is the best tour in Zanzibar?

There different kind of tours which Is nice,and also will depend on what you are interested with.this tours like,snorkelling tour combine with uzi island, dolphin tours, jozani forest , spice farm tour etc.

Where can I stay in Zanzibar?

There nice hotels and bungalows.both Zanzibar town and country side ,(shambas) .so let us know what is your budget, and where you want to stay,town or Shamba?we will make possible for you.

What will I do when I visit Zanzibar?

There are several activities you can do when you visit Zanzibar,some of these  like, fishing,dolphin tours,island tour,kite surfing, spices farm tours.tec

Sahara Questions

In which region of Sahara do you offer your tours?

We are offering Sahara Tours in Morocco, near a place called M‘Hamid El Rhizlane.