FAQs

COVID
You must wear a protective facial mask when in the presence of the Mountain Gorillas, Chimpanzees, and Golden Monkeys.

Do I need a visa?
Foreigners visiting Rwanda, Uganda and Kenya can apply for an East Africa Tourist Visa, which is a single-entry visa to each of these three countries. Price is $100 US and must be issued from the country of first port of entry. The visa is applicable for 90 days.

A single entry Rwanda visa, which can be obtained upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, is required for most international visitors. The cost is $50 US. (Certain Commonwealth countries do not require a visa). To visit Tanzania, you must obtain a separate visa. IMPORTANT: Your passport must have a minimum 6 months validity remaining upon departure.

Travel Insurance
Comprehensive travel insurance including medical evacuation is mandatory if visiting wildlife national parks. If using a credit card or health benefits insurance, please read the fine print to ensure it is sufficient including covering full medical costs and medical evacuation.

Is East Africa safe?
Rwanda is ranked one of the safest countries in the world. Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzaniz are considered safe, particularly in the national parks and travelling the country with a certified Guide. However, practice caution when visiting main cities. Travel Advisories can be in place – check with your local government.

Weather
East Africa’s climate is tropical and it includes wet and dry seasons. Rwanda and Uganda experience rain April-May and October-November. In Kenya and Tanzania, heavier rains generally occur April to mid-June and lighter rains November-December.

When is the best time of year to go on safari?
Game viewing is good all year around. Generally, the best wildlife viewing is during the dry season when the grass is low and the animals look for water. As this is considered high season, you can expect to pay premium prices for safari lodges and travel services. You can also experience a greater number of tourists and safari vehciles viewing wildlife at the same time you are. Visiting Africa in shoulder or low season will also provide for an incredible experience.

For Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda and Uganda, trekking can be more difficult and muddy during the rainy season. However, Porters are available for hire (approximately $30 US) who can assist in the ascend and descend, and carry your backpack. To some, trekking during this time is a more authentic trek.

For best game viewing;
Kenya: January-March, June-October, December
Rwanda: January-February, May-October, December
Tanzania: January-March, June-December
Uganda: January-March, June-October, December

Currency
Rwandan Franc, Kenyan Shilling, Tanzanian Shilling and Ugandan Shilling. We recommend that you pay in local currency or USD. VISA and Mastercard are widely accepted and some of the major safari lodges and hotels accept AMEX.

Gratuities
Gratuities are at your discretion, but as a guideline, we suggest the following.
Hotel Porter: $1 US per bag.
Driver: $10-$15 US per person/per day.
Guide: $15 US per person/half day / $20-$25 US per person/full day.
Restaurants/Wait staff: 10-15% of bill.
Gorilla Guide: $30-$35 US per person.
Gorilla Porter: $30 US per person