Luggage on safari should be kept to a minimum. Space on vehicles and on light aircraft services is limited. Luggage should preferable be in soft canvas bags. Nairobi hotels have storage facilities for baggage.

CLIMATE:

East Africa:

Temperatures in the highlands are very pleasant, and reach a maximum of 29-30 C (daytime) during the hottest months of DEC to APR period. Nights can be cold in the higher altitudes particularly during our winter of June-October.

The rainy season begins late March to end May. Some light rains can be expected in October - November, mainly during the night.

Seychelles: 

The rainy season runs from mid December to February. Seychelles is outside the cyclone belt.

CLOTHING:

The emphasis is on informality, and comfort. Cotton slacks, jeans, and shirts are ideal. Most lodges/hotels have a swimming pool, so bring your swimwear, sunglasses and a hat. Pack a warm pullover of chilly nights up-country.

Malaria is endemic in certain areas of East Africa, particularly at low altitudes, such as the coast. To avoid being bitten, we suggest using insect repellant spray on arms and legs. Sleep under a mosquito net.

If you wish to take prophylactics, we suggest Proguanil (Paludrine), as it is safe for children and expectant mothers. Avoid Mefloquine (Lariam) as it can cause disturbed sleep. Kenya's strain of Malaria is resistant to Chloroquin.

It is customary to give a tip of about 1 USD for 2 cases to your porter in the hotel. Waiters in restaurants can be tipped about 10% of the meal cost, if service has been good. Safari driver guides should be tipped at the end of the safari, at about USD 3 - 5 per day.

Before taking pictures of local people, please ask permission and agree on a price. The driver-guide will assist you.

Common sense should prevail and precautions should be taken as in any major city. Take care of your valuables by locking them up in the hotel safe. Carry only small amounts of cash. Avoid wearing expensive jewellery when walking in towns, villages.

US Dollars (in cash and travellers cheques) are widely accepted in Eastern Africa. Tourist Hotels, restaurants and supermarkets also accept major credit cards such as Visa and American Express.