Welcome to Intrepid real life experiences... we hope that you enjoy exploring the world as much as we do.
Take a family trip to the zoo... or better yet, see iconic animals up close and in the wild on this astounding adventure through colourful East Africa. Embark on a safari in the world famous game reserves for a chance to spot the Big Five: lions, elephants, rhinos, buffalo and leopards, and visit smaller parks and farms that shelter monkeys, deadly snakes, giraffes, flamingos and more. Meet local schoolkids and ride a camel to meet noble Masai tribespeople. This adventure will create family memories to last a lifetime.
This tour is operated by our experienced local partners Dragoman Overland. Dragoman share our ethos for adventure travel and have many years' expertise in overlanding.
Style
Trip Map
Itinerary
Culture Shock Rating
Physical Rating
Physical Preparation
Included Activities
Optional Activities
Spending Money
Tipping
Important Notes
Group Size
Accommodation
Meals
Meal Inclusions
A long way from the typical 'child friendly holiday', Family adventures give your kids a chance to discover the world as you do. And the best thing is there's just as much for parents to enjoy too. NOTE: this is not a baby sitting service; far from it, these trips are an opportunity to spend time together in a truly stimulating way. And with the security of an experienced team leader on hand, you don't need to be well travelled - just ready for adventure!
Jambo! Welcome to Tanzania.
As this trip starts early on day one, we strongly recommend spending the night pre tour in Dar es Salaam.
Please ensure you arrive on day 1 in time for the important welcome meeting at 10am. Your leader will leave a note at reception telling you where this important meeting will take place. Please ask a member of reception for this information.
Dar es Salaam, Tanzania's old capital, means Haven of Peace. Many of its buildings display Arabian influence and the port area is fascinating to visit with its ocean-going 'dhows' and inshore 'ngalawas' (out-rigger fishing canoes).
We stay at the stunning palm fringed Kipepeo Beach beside the Indian Ocean. This beautiful site is idyllic and is a perfect place to acclimatise to the humid Indian Ocean. You can take the opportunity to relax, ride horses through the bush or perhaps to visit a local village. The beach really is a beautiful spot which has not been overdeveloped by commercial tourist hotels. The small beach bar, restaurant, campsite and chalets are laid out along a white sand beach. It is an open beach and each day camels, cows and goats are herded along the sand.
We stay the night in small beachside cottages.
A discount of 10% is available for children aged 6-15. Please enquire at time of booking.
We take the hydrofoil from Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar (approx. 2 hours) and soak up the sun and the Arab culture on this legendary spice island.
On our second day we head out on a fascinating spice tour, including a local meal and a tour around the sites of the stone town and including some history on its former slave market. Next will be the drive to the spice plantations where you will receive a guided tour and the opportunity to touch, smell and taste various spices such as cinnamon, vanilla and ginger, and teas made with these spices. At the end of the day there will also be an opportunity to buy some of the locally grown spices. This really does prove a fascinating day. If you feel like more of a relaxing day however, you may choose to wander around and soak up the atmosphere of a city with an amazing past.
There are numerous other activities available including a tour around this historic island, a dhow trip, a boat trip to snorkel with dolphins, the opportunity to scuba dive.
While on Zanzibar we stay at a peaceful beach resort close to Stone Town.
We reboard the ferry and return to Dar es Salaam. This afternoon is free to relax on the beach.
We spend the night in beachside cottages near Dar es Salaam.
This morning we drive 380km to the old German colony of Lushoto, which will be our base for exploring the beautiful Usambara Mountains region.
On day 8 we take a half-day hike (easy) to Irente viewpoint for sweeping views across the Masai Steppe. On our way back we visit a local village cultural and ecological project based at Irente farm, where we can stock up on fresh farm produce and have a healthy lunch before returning for free time in and around Lushoto.
We spend these two nights at a well-equipped campsite.
This morning we board our overland vehicle and drive to Marangu. In the afternoon we meet the very special kids of the Amani Children's Home. Amani supports Street Children giving them a safe place to stay and educational and emotional support. Check out the new school which has been built with the help of donors and be inspired by this project which is changing these children's lives. For more information on this project visit www.amanikids.org.
On day 10 we rise early to view Mt Kilimanjaro before the clouds set it for the day. In the afternoon we take a short drive to the Village Education Project, where we can witness the day-to-day life of the Chagga people, long established as crop-growers on the fertile slopes of Mt Kilimanjaro. We visit their homes, walk around the shamba (farm), visit the primary school as well as the other institutions where local young people are taught various skills. We have the opportunity to sample the local Chagga food, which is very filling. We also visit nearby waterfalls and stop to admire the view of the plains below. For more information on the Village Education Project visit www.kiliproject.org.
For these two nights we camp in the grounds of a colonial hotel with views of Mt Kilimanjaro.
We head on to Arusha, Tanzania's second major city which used to be the capital of the East African community. Surrounding it are many coffee, wheat and maize estates tended by the Arusha and Meru people.
In the afternoon we drive on to Karatu where we stay the night at a camp site. Total distance covered today is approximately 280km.
This morning we travel by Jeep into Serengeti National Park. In the afternoon we have time for our first game drive.
On day 13 we can spend all day in the Serengeti, world-renowned for the quality of its game viewing.
We spend time exploring the vast plains, rock outcrops (kopjes) and sparsely wooded river valleys. This incomparable park is home to lions, cheetahs, leopards, wildebeest, zebras, giraffes and gazelles. We venture out to search for animals early in the morning and late in the afternoon so as to increase the possibility of seeing game. In the heat of day, most of the wildlife seek shelter deep in the forest or they rest hidden in the long grasses, making it hard to find them. During this time you may take the chance to visit the excellent Serengeti Information Centre where the fun displays based make it easy to learn more about this fascinating area and its creatures.
An optional balloon ride over the Serengeti at sunrise is an unforgettable experience. If you have pre-booked this activity (please see Important Notes) you will be picked up and drive to the launch site, receive a safety briefing from your pilot and help inflate the balloon. You then glide through the dawn, sometimes at tree height providing amazing wildlife photography opportunities, sometimes ascending to get an overview of the enormity of the Serengeti and the teeming herds of early morning wild life movements. Upon landing and before being returned to your accommodation you'll be treated to a five star bush breakfast! Please note minimum age is seven years.
We bush camp in the Serengeti and there are no fences separating us from the wildlife. There are basic squat toilets but no showers. We have access to running water though so you can have a good "bush wash". This is a great adventure but your safety always comes first. Our leader will set clear boundaries for the children (and adults!) beyond which it is not safe to journey by foot and at night we all head to the toilet in groups of three or more.
After a final morning game drive in Serengeti National Park, we travel the short distance to the Ngorongoro Crater, a driving time of around 2 hours early this morning, although we will be slowly game driving for the rest of the day after our arrival.
We spend half a day in the crater in smaller 4WD vehicles accompanied by a local driver. All year round there is excellent game-viewing here, for the caldera has about 30,000 resident animals. The photographic opportunities are fantastic and if we are really lucky we might spot the critically endangered black rhino.
Later in the afternoon we leave Ngorongoro and drive the 150km back to our comfortable campsite in Karatu.
This morning we drive the short distance back to Arusha. Here we have the opportunity to take a village walk with the Masai. The guide will take you on a leisurely stroll around the farming areas, visiting a kindergarten, milling machine, church, local homes and farmlands to gain an insight into the Masai way of life.
We spend the night at a well-equipped campsite either in Mto Wa Mbu or a village close by to Arusha.
A final full day's drive of about 380km brings us to Nairobi, where we spend the night in a good quality hotel.
Nairobi's name is a Masai word for 'Place of Cool Waters' and has a cosmopolitan atmosphere. There are plenty of good bars and restaurants. Markets and shops have most things you could need or want, as well as various arts and crafts from the region.
On day 17 we begin with a visit to the Langatta Giraffe Sanctuary where you can feed, and perhaps even kiss, a giraffe. Time permitting, we may also be able to visit Sheldric Animal Orphanage, although this can't be guaranteed.
This trip finishes in Nairobi on day 17 at approximately 8pm.
The itinerary attached is correct at time of printing. Please note: occasionally our itineraries are updated during the year to incorporate improvements stemming from past travellers' comments and our own research. Our brochure is usually released in November each year. As such the information given in this itinerary may be slightly different to that in the brochure. It is VERY IMPORTANT that you print and review a final copy of your Trip Notes a couple of days prior to travel, in case there have been changes that affect your plans. For the latest updated trip notes please visit our website: www.intrepidtravel.com
You will probably have experienced food like this in restaurants back home and English is commonly spoken. Services are available most of the time but there may be some cultural differences.
Some easy physical activities included in your trip. No physical preparation is required to make the most of the journey.
This is a list of included activities on this trip. All other activities are optional and at your own expense. For a list of optional
activities and sightseeing available on this trip, see the optional activities section below. If you choose not to participate in the included
activities on this itinerary, the cost will not be refunded.
While these are all included activities, of course you have the choice to pass on any one of them if you need time with the family, or if you want to just relax. Our itinerary is flexible so you can do as much or as little as you like. Our included activities are selected because they capture the imaginations of our younger travellers and still interest the older ones.
Spice Tour and local lunch, Zanzibar
Kilimanjaro Village Educational Project
Visit to Amani Children's Home
Hike to Irente Lookout and Irente farm visit
Game drives, Serengeti National Park
Jeep Safari, Ngorongoro Crater Reserve
Mto Wa Mbu Cultural Tourism Programme, Mto Wa Mbu
Visit Langatta Giraffe Sanctuary, Nairobi
We list the following optional activities for your information. This is not an exhaustive list and should be used as a guide only.
They are not necessarily endorsed or recommended by Intrepid nor included in price of this trip. If you do any of them, you do so at your own risk and it must be clearly understood that your participation is your own decision and does not form part of your contract with Intrepid.
Scuba Diving, Zanzibar- US$85
Dhow Trip and snorkelling (full day), Zanzibar - US$40
Dolphin Boat Trip, Kizimkazi (full day including snorkel equipment), Zanzibar - US$30
Balloon ride, Serengeti National Park - US$500 (must be pre-booked see Important Notes)
Got extra time before or after your Intrepid adventure? Maybe there is an URBAN ADVENTURE in one of the cities that you're visiting on your trip?
Intrepid's Urban Adventures are the city tour with a difference - there are more than 100 to choose from in over 30 cities around the world, with new trips added regularly. They are a great way to get under the skin of the city you're visiting, in just a few hours. To make a booking contact your local travel agent, Intrepid consultant or visit www.urbanadventures.com
Every traveller is different and therefore spending money requirements will vary. Some travellers may drink more than others while other travellers like to purchase more souvenirs than most. Please consider your own spending habits when it comes to allowing for drinks, shopping, participating in optional activities and tipping. Please also remember the following specific recommendations when planning your trip.
If you are happy with the services provided a tip - though not compulsory - is appropriate. While it may not be customary to you, it is of great significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels, inspires excellent service, and is an entrenched feature of the tourism industry across many Intrepid destinations. We recommend that any tips are given to the intended recipient by a member of your group, rather than collected and passed on by the group leader.
The following amounts are based on local considerations and feedback from our past travellers:
Restaurants: Please check the bill and if there’s an addition of 10% service charge, there’s no requirement for tipping. Otherwise, 5-10% of the total bill amount is appropriate.
Local markets and basic restaurants - leave the loose change.
Local guides/Porters: Throughout your trip you may at times have a local guide in addition to your leader (or instead of a leader on some independent itineraries). We suggest US$ 1 per person, per day for local guides/porters.
Your Crew: You may also consider tipping your crew for outstanding service throughout your trip. The amount is entirely a personal preference; however as a guideline US$ 2-3 per person, per day can be used. Of course you are free to tip more or less as you see fit, depending on your perception of service quality and the length of your trip. Remember, a tip is not compulsory and should only be given when you receive excellent service.
Local Partner:
Intrepid runs this trip in conjunction with Dragoman Overland. Dragoman shares our ethos for adventure travel and has many years' expertise in over landing.
Flexible Itineraries:
We must emphasize that the routes, activities and places visited or described in these Trip Notes are intentions and are meant as a rough guide only. We intend following the route detailed but exact night stops cannot be guaranteed. It sometimes happens that we decide to make a change to our basic planned itinerary. This may be for a variety of reasons - climatic, road or bureaucratic conditions may demand it. Or it may be because we find a better, more interesting route. While actually en route, unexpected hospitality, a local festival or a great place to chill out can determine our exact route and itinerary on any given trip.
Overnight stops and driving distances each day may vary to best suit the needs of the group.
An optional sunrise balloon ride in the Serengeti National Park is possible on this itinerary. Please see days 10-11 for full details of activity. As the balloon only holds 16 people, places are limited and must be booked in advance. There is a minimum age of seven years old for this activity and children must be accompanied by an adult. The cost is US$500 per person. Please enquire when booking your trip to book this optional activity.
Maximum of 21 travellers per group
Hotel (7 nts), camping (9 nts)
While travelling with us you will experience the vast array of wonderful food available in the world. Your group leader will be able to suggest favourite restaurants during your trip. On our camping trips we often cook the region's specialties so you don't miss out. To give you the maximum flexibility in deciding where, what and with whom to eat generally not all meals are included in the trip price. This also gives you more budgeting flexibility. As a rule our groups tend to eat together to enable you to taste a larger variety of dishes and enjoy each other's company. There is no obligation to do this though. Please check the 'meal inclusions' section of these notes for details of meals included.
Allow USD $100 for meals not included.
16 Breakfasts, 11 Lunches, 12 Dinners
Overland truck, safari jeeps, hydrofoil, walking
All Intrepid Family trips are accompanied by one of our group leaders. The aim of the group leader is to assist your family take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. Your leader will provide information on the places you are travelling through, offer suggestions for fun things to do and see- for both kids and parents, recommend great local eating venues that will even get the kids trying new things, and introduce you to our local friends. While not being guides in the traditional sense you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects.
Our leaders are not baby-sitters on this trip - we leave that to you (the experts), but they will make sure that group members of all ages are able to explore their destination safely and with as much fun as possible. Our group leaders are not responsible for looking after children at any time and children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian at all times throughout this itinerary.
These tours operate in uniquely designed safari trucks. You will be accompanied by 3 crew members, an experienced leader, a driver and a camp master with occasional local guides. There is limited participation with camp chores all cooking and washing up duties are taken care of by the crew but you are more than welcome and encouraged to help
Kipepeo Beach Camp
Mjimwema, Kigamboni
Dar Es Salaam
Tanzania
Phone: +255 022 2820877
The rooms at Kipepeo Beach Camp are elevated beach huts with sea views and a balcony. Each chalet has its own bathroom with hot and cold running water, and electricity.
http://www.kipepeovillage.com/
A direct taxi from Dar es Salaam Internatinal Airport to the beach camp should cost approximately USD30 via the ferry or USD45 for the longer across land route which may be necessary if the ferry is out of service. Please notes that taxis do not have meters and you will need to negotiate this rate directly with the driver. We are unable to arrange pre booked transfers in Dar es Salaam.
If you would like to use public transport the instructions are below. We do not recommend this option if you are arriving after dark.
Cross the Kivukoni/Kigamboni ferry which crosses the mouth of Dar-es-Salaam harbour. Kigamboni is a fishing village on the south side of the harbour. From there you follow the coastal road south for approx. 9km. At this point you get to a 'Y' in the roadwith an Oilcom Petrol Station right in front of you. If you reach this point you have actually gone about 20 metres too far. Reverse about 20 metres and you will see a sign on your left (seaward side) for Kipepeocamp. Follow that road down towards the sea for about 1km until you reach the campsite.
By Daladala (local Bus) or Taxi again you must cross the ferry (Ticket costs pedestrian TZshs100/=(approxUS$0.10)) then at the top of the exit ramp just ask any Daladala/Taxi to take you to Kipepeo Beach.
Costs-
Daladala 1 trip TZshs 250
Taxi from ferry to Kipepeo approx. TZshs 3000
We don't expect any problems (and nor should you!) but if for any reason you are unable to commence your
group trip as scheduled, please contact your starting point hotel, requesting that you speak to or leave a message for your trip leader.
If you have pre-booked an airport transfer (where available) and have not made contact with our representative within 30 minutes of clearing
customs and immigration, we recommend that you make your own way to the Starting Point hotel, following the Joining Instructions in the Trip
Notes. Should this occur, please apply to your travel agent for a refund of the transfer cost on your return.
No refund is available on missed transfers or portions of your trip owing to a different flight arrival or delayed flight arrival. Any
additional cost incurred in order to meet up with your group is at your own expense.
Kivi Milimani Hotel
Milimani Road
Nairobi
00100
Kenya
Phone: +254-20-2722358
Fax: +254-20-2724685
The Kivi Milimani hotel is very simple but clean, comfortable and safe. All rooms have en suite with hot water. The hotel's surroundings are lovely with a pool area perfect for relaxing and groovy retro (but original!) 70's bar and restaurant.
If you have pre booked a departure transfer please inform your leader and they will notify you of your departure transfer time.
It is possible to book taxis to the airport via our hotel- please enquire at the reception. The approximate price will be around USD 20 in Kenyan shillings.
24 HOUR EMERGENCY NUMBER Tel: +44 (0) 1728 862 222 This an answer phone. If outside UK office hours for non urgent questions, please leave a message. There is a number provided to call for a 24 hour manned mobile in case of genuine emergency.
Please also make sure you have access to an additional USD$400, to be used when unforeseen incidents or circumstances outside our control (eg. a natural disaster, civil unrest or an outbreak of bird flu) necessitate a change to our planned route.
Please note that visas are the responsibility of the individual traveller. The visa requirements for your trip vary
depending on where you are from and where you are going. We keep the following information up to date as much as possible,
but rules do change. It is important that you check for yourself.
TANZANIA
A visa is required by visitors of most nationalities including from the EU, USA and Australia. It is recommended you purchase your visa in advance. The cost is approximately US$75 depending on nationality. At the present time you do not require a multi entry visa to Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda due to an agreement between the three countries (ie if you exit Kenya to Tanzania you can re enter Kenya on the same visa). However if your trip visits Tanzania twice after a visit to a country other than those listed above, you may need to purchase two visas.
KENYA
Kenyan visas are required by most nationalities, including the EU, US and Australia. Visas can be obtained at point of entry for most nationalities, although some are required to purchase visas in advance. You MUST check before departure. If you plan to purchase your visa on arrival you will need new (post-2003), clean US dollars cash. The cost is around USD25. Currently you do not require a multi-entry visa between Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda due to an agreement between the three countries (eg if you exit Kenya to Tanzania you can re-enter Kenya on the same visa). If your trip visits Rwanda and re-enters Kenya you may require a double entry visa to Kenya, depending on the border guard on the day. This can easily be purchased at the border if required.
Laundry facilities are offered by some of our hotels for a small charge. Self-service laundries are scarce in Africa. There are few laundry facilities outside of the large cities in Africa. We recommend you bring non-polluting, biodegradable laundry soap and hand wash while travelling in this region. You may wish to bring a piece of rope to tie between trees to act as a line and maybe even a few pegs. Our trucks carry tubs which can be used for cold water hand washing.
What you need to bring will vary according to the trip style you have chosen, the countries you are visiting and when you are travelling. Generally speaking you should pack as lightly as possible. On the vast majority of our trips you are expected to carry your own luggage and although you will not be required to walk long distances with your luggage (max 30 minutes) we recommend keeping the weight under 10kg/22lb.
Most travellers carry their luggage in a backpack, although an overnight bag with a shoulder strap would suffice if you travel lightly. Smaller bags or backpacks with wheels are convenient although we recommend your bag has carry straps. You will also need a day pack/bag to carry water and a camera etc for daytrips.
WATER
The sale of bottled water contributes to an enormous environmental problem around the world. In addition to the water in bottles, the production of a 1 litre plastic bottle takes 2 litres of water and 200ml of oil. A large proportion end up in limited landfill or discarded in waterways and natural environments. Please avoid the purchase of bottled water by bringing and using a water purification method. Some of the options are:
~ Water purification tablets available from camping stores or pharmacies, eg Micropur
~ 2% tincture of iodine available from pharmacies - used at 4 drops per litre of water and left for at least 20 minutes. Longer in very cold weather.
In some Southern African countries, tap water is treated and good to drink so you can avoid the purchase of bottled water by refilling from the tap.
LUGGAGE
The size of baggage that can be brought on this tour is limited by the locker space on the truck. Different trucks have different-sized lockers however to be safe we recommend that your bag be no larger than 66cm deep, 30cm wide, and 30cm high. The weight limit for luggage on all trucks is maximum 20kg. In addition to this there is also room in the overhead rack for your sleeping bag and a small daypack.
CAMPING EQUIPMENT
A sleeping bag (we recommend a 3–4 season). It can get VERY cold at night in winter months in desert and mountainous regions. If you are travelling during the hot season you may wish to also pack a sleep sheet so you will be comfortable no matter what the weather. Pillows are not provided so please bring a travel pillow along. While we provide a thermarest style mattress for each client, some travellers find they like the extra comfort of a double layer and choose to bring their own mattress. There is plenty of room to store this on the truck's overhead rack.
CLOTHING
You will need to bring a mixture of lightweight clothing, some warm items for the evenings, and long shirts and pants for protection against mosquitoes in malarial areas. Clothes should be easy to wash and dry. Some people like to take jeans for evenings out but they can be tough to dry and should not be used for trekking. Avoid nylon and other synthetics, which can be very uncomfortable in hot weather. Ex-military or military style clothing and equipment is NOT recommended.
BATTERIES/POWER
Most of our trips have access to power to recharge batteries for phones and cameras every couple of days. We always recommend that you carry an extra battery for your camera just in case.
VALUABLES
Please try to avoid bringing unnecessary valuables, and use your hotel safe to store the bulk of your money, passport, and airline tickets. It’s also a good idea to purchase a money belt or pouch that is easily hidden.
We strongly recommend that you photocopy all important documents e.g. air tickets, passport, vaccination certificate, etc. and keep the copies separate from the originals. While not valid, a photocopy makes it very much easier to obtain replacements if necessary.
MEDICATION
It is an unfortunate fact that many multinational drug companies dispose of their old or faulty stock by distributing them for sale in developing countries. We advise you not to rely on buying medication en route.
When packing, be aware that dress standards are conservative throughout Africa. To respect this, and for your own comfort, we strongly recommend modest clothing. This means covering shoulders and no short shorts. We recommend a mixture of loose, lightweight clothing and warm clothing for the evenings. Shorts should be knee-length. Singlets and tank tops are not suitable. Topless sun bathing is unacceptable.
The following checklist is to be used as a guide only and is not intended to be a complete packing list. Any other items that you wish to pack are at your own discretion however you should attempt to comply with the suggested luggage weight limit.
Travel documents: passport, visa, travel insurance, air tickets, vouchers
Any Vaccination Certificates required
Money: travellers cheques/cash/credit card
Travel plug / international adapter
Comfortable travelling clothes
Casual but smart clothes for evenings out, visiting centres of worship, etc. Women should bring a skirt that covers their knees and a scarf for visiting mosques, churches, etc.
Sun hat
Sunglasses
Warm sweater/fleece
Waterproof jacket
Comfortable walking shoes with good grip
Sandals or thongs ("flip-flops")
Swimming costume and towel
Underwear and socks
Personal washing kit/toiletries
Clothes washing kit
Alarm clock and torch/flashlight (head torches are recommended)
Refillable water bottle and water purification method
A pouch or money belt worn inside your clothing
Camera & accessories (memory cards, lenses, flash, batteries, etc.)
Tampons (can be difficult to get in Africa)
A "Day Pack" for short hikes in the countryside, wandering around cities, etc and also for keeping inside the vehicle for items used during the day (camera, towel, sweater etc.)
The following items can be useful but are not essential:
Small sewing kit
Pocket calculator (useful when exchanging money)
Writing materials & notebook/diary
Multi purpose knife (Swiss army type)
"Wet Ones" (moistened tissues)or hand sanitiser
Local people often appreciate photos of yourself and family, andpostage stamps or postcards of your own country.
Assorted sized plastic bags - protects clothing and equipment fromdust and damp.
Binoculars
If you prefer another hot drink rather than instant coffee or tea bags you may wish to bring these from home.
Mobile phone- check you have international roaming access
Personal medical kit:
Band aids & sterile dressings/gauze (approx. 2" or 50mm square)
Aspirin and/or Paracetamol
Anti-diarrhoea pills - Consult your doctor for more detailed advice
Water purification tablets (for occasional use in your personal water bottle only - we supply purified water in our vehicle tanks) and taste neutraliser
Anti-Malaria pills and Insect repellent (if recommended by your doctor)
Insect bite cream
Antiseptic paint, powder or spray e.g. "Betadine"
Course of broad spectrum antibiotic tablets (e.g. Ciprofloxacin)
Rehydration powder (salts & glucose e.g. "Rehydrat")
Lip salve
High factor sun cream
Moisturising cream
Any other medicines or toiletries you regularly use e.g. birth control pills
Spare spectacles if worn (some people have trouble with contact lenses and dust)
Packing for Children:
Travel games for long transport journeys
Antiseptic wipes or gel
Disposable camera or basic camera for kids pictures
Blank book to act as a travel journal and a glue stick to stick postcards, ticket stubs, etc inside.
Currency exchange rates often fluctuate. For the most up to date rates please refer to the following website:
www.oanda.com.
The best way to manage your money in Africa is a mixture of USD cash, an ATM card (best to have both Visa and MasterCard) and some travellers' cheques.
Cash
Cash is easily changed at exchange bureaus and they generally offer the best rates. USD large bills, in good condition, 2003 series onwards only, are more widely accepted; any old or damaged notes may not be accepted.
EUR or GBP are also widely accepted. The South African Rand can also be used widely in countries of Southern Africa.
When changing money, only use reputable authorised money exchange vendors and never anyone on the street. There are many instances of travellers being given counterfeit notes or being tricked when money is being counted out.
Travellers' Cheques
You should also carry some travellers' cheques for back up emergency cash.
While travellers' cheques are undoubtedly the safest way to carry money, they are becoming harder to cash around the world and can often result in unfavourable exchange rates. It can also be tricky to reach banks during banking business hours which are often short in many African countries. Note: Receipts for travellers' cheques are required by banks and money changers.
Visa and MasterCard
With ATMs being increasingly available in the many major towns and cities, credit or debit cards are a convenient way to access money. A charge is made for each international transaction - please check with your bank how much this fee will be.
Check with your bank before leaving home that your card can be used as a debit card in Africa. You may also want to notify your bank that you are visiting Africa as it is not unknown for banks to freeze cards which show sudden transactions in other countries.
If you are on a multi-country tour, your tour leader will be able to give you an approximate idea of how much money you may need for your stay in each country. Please be aware that some currencies, specifically Tanzanian shillings and Malawian Kwacha, can be extremely difficult to change once you have left that country.
Remember when you leave to take some coins with you. Kids love to see coins from foreign countries and they make great souvenirs.
All departure taxes should be included in your international flight ticket.
If you need to be contacted while travelling we recommend email. Email cafes are generally available throughout the regions we visit, although it is possible you may be without email contact for several days on some itineraries. If someone wishes to contact you in an emergency while you are on one of our trips we recommend that they contact your local booking agent, or refer to our emergency contact details. We don't recommend that family and friends try to contact you through hotels, as they are subject to change and the reception staff may not speak English.
While we always endeavour to provide the best possible holiday experience, due to the nature of travel and the areas we visit sometimes things can and do go wrong. Should any issue occur while you are on your trip it is imperative that you discuss this with your group leader or our local partner straight away so that they can do their best to rectify the problem and save any potential negative impact on the rest of your trip.
We recognise that there may be times when your group leader/local partner may not be able to resolve a situation to your satisfaction - if this is the case please ask the leader if you may speak to their direct manager.
You may also choose to provide details in your online feedback which we ask you to complete within 30 days of the end of your trip but we do ask you to be aware that it is very difficult for us to provide any practical help after the trip is complete.
All Intrepid travellers need to be in good physical health in order to participate fully in the group travel experience. If in the opinion of our group leader or company representative any traveller is unable to complete the itinerary without undue risk to themselves and/or the rest of the group, Intrepid reserves the right to exclude them from all or part of a trip without refund. We therefore ask that you read the itinerary in these trip notes thoroughly and then realistically self-assess your physical ability to complete the trip as described. Please consult with your doctor if you have any doubts.
There are no specific health requirements for this trip. However you should consult your doctor for up-to-date medical travel information or for any necessary vaccinations and anti-malarial requirements before departure. We recommend that you carry a First Aid kit as well as any personal medical requirements (including a spare pair of glasses) as they may not easily be obtained at the locations on this trip. For legal reasons our leaders are prohibited from administering any type of drugs including headache tablets and antibiotics. Please ensure that you are adequately prepared.
Kids bellies are delicate and standards of hygiene you may experience while travelling in this region can be less than what you are accustomed to at home. There are a few simple precautions you can take that will keep the family travelling in good health.
Food:
With all the exotic tastes available it would be a shame to avoid this great experience of trying new foods for the first time- both kids and parents! In most cases food is fresh and tasty and perfectly fine to eat, however it can contain ingredients that you are not used to. Any change in diet (no matter where in the world you travel) can result in an upset stomach. Usually this is the only side-effect and it can last a few days. We don’t want you to miss out savouring new flavours, but be wary of what you choose to eat - especially what your kids eat.
Hygiene:
Keep your hands clean- and the kids'. It is important to remember to do this before eating especially if you will be eating with your hands as may be the custom. Antiseptic wipes or antiseptic hand gel (which you can use without water) are fabulous inventions - made with travelling families in mind.
Contact with Animals:
In new and exciting destinations we often come across different animals such as camels, donkeys and elephants. There are also a lot of stray cats and dogs in some destinations. Keep an eye on children in these situations as aggravated animals can bite and may transmit diseases including rabies.
Yellow Fever:
A valid international certificate of vaccination against Yellow Fever is required in many countries in Africa. You may be needed to present this on arrival at the airport or border crossing. Some countries will refuse entry if you are unable to present your certificate.
It is also quite common for your home country to request a Yellow Fever certificate on your arrival back home.
Please check with your doctor before leaving home about the Yellow Fever requirements for the countries you will be visiting.
Drinking water:
As a rule we recommend you do not drink tap water, even in hotels, as it contains much higher levels of different minerals than the water you may have at home. For local people this is not a problem as their bodies are used to this and can cope, but for travellers from other continents, drinking the tap water can result in illness. Generally this is not serious, an upset stomach being the only symptom, but it is enough to spoil a day or two of your holiday. Bottled water is widely available but we recommend that you fill up from your vehicle (we treat our water) if you are on a camping trip. Water consumption should be about 3 litres a day (this should be easy for most!)
First Aid:
The leader will be carrying a basic 1st Aid kit, but can not administer any drugs.
Re-hydration salts, motion sickness tablets, and diarrhea blockers are available from many pharmacies.
Please inform the leader of any specific medical requirements on day 1 at your group meting.
Many national governments provide a regularly updated advice service on safety issues involved with international travel. We recommend that you check your government's advice for their latest travel information before departure. Please refer to our website's Safety page for links to major travel advisories and updates on safety issues affecting our trips: www.intrepidtravel.com/safety.
We strongly recommend the use of a neck wallet or money belt while travelling, for the safe-keeping of your passport, air tickets, cash and other valuable items. Leave your valuable jewellery at home - you won't need it while travelling. Many of our hotels have safety deposit boxes, which is the most secure way of storing your valuables. A lock is recommended for securing your luggage.
Your leader will accompany you on all included activities however during your trip you will have some free time to pursue your own interests, relax and take it easy or explore at your leisure. While your group leader will assist you with the available options in a given location, please note that any optional activities you undertake are not part of your Intrepid itinerary, and Intrepid makes no representations about the safety of the activity or the standard of the operators running them. Please use your own good judgment when selecting an activity in your free time. Please also note that your group leader has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the trip itinerary if it is deemed necessary due to safety concerns.
For more details on the type of conditions and safety standards you can expect on your trip, please refer to Intrepid's operational safety policy at www.intrepidtravel.com/safety.
We recommend that you take a moment to read through this information before travelling, and would appreciate any feedback on how well it is being implemented in the field.
Please be aware that local laws governing tourism facilities in Africa differ from those in the western world and not all hotels have a fire exit or smoke detectors. You may stay at hotels with unfenced pools and no life guard on duty. Some hotel balconies do not meet UK standards in terms of the width of the balcony fence being narrower than 10cm. Parents are responsible for ensuring that their children are under proper supervision.
Pick-pocketing is very common, especially in larger cities. We strongly recommend that you do not carry large amounts of cash and use a secure neck wallet or a money belt.
Travellers must exercise common sense and caution at all times. You should stick to set travel arrangements and avoid unknown areas. Always keep a photocopy of your passport, airline tickets and a record of your travellers' cheques and credit card numbers separate from where you keep the originals. You should avoid carrying large amounts of cash, or walking by yourself at night.
While staying in National Parks it is important that you listen to any advice given by your tour leader and the park rangers regarding responsible and safe behaviour.
Travel insurance is compulsory for all our trips. We require that, at a minimum, you are covered for medical expenses including emergency repatriation. We strongly recommend that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects.
When travelling on a group trip, you will not be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance and the insurance company's 24 hour emergency contact number has been seen by your leader.
If you have credit card insurance your tour leader will require details of the participating insurer/underwriter, the level of coverage, policy number and emergency contact telephone number rather than the Bank's name and credit card details. Please contact your bank for these details prior to arriving in-country.
Please go to www.intrepidtravel.com/insurance.php for links to various travel insurance providers.
As you travel on a group trip you will be exposed to all the pleasures and maybe some of the
frustrations of travelling in a group. Your fellow travellers will probably come from all corners of the world and
likely a range of age groups too. We ask you to be understanding of the various needs and preferences of your group
- patience with your fellow travellers is sometimes required for the benefit of everyone's travel experience.
Remember too that you have responsibilities to the group. If you are requested to be at a place at a certain time,
ensure that you don't keep the rest of the group waiting. We have found time and time again that the very best
trips we operate are those where the dynamics within the group work well - this takes just a little effort on
your part.
Please note that due to privacy reasons we are unable to provide you with contact details and any personal information
about your fellow travellers booked on your trip prior to departure.
Our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a compulsory single supplement. Single travellers share with people of the same gender for the duration of the trip, in accommodation ranging from twin to multi-share. Please note some of our itineraries have accommodation booked on a mixed gender share basis - where applicable this will be specified in our Trip Notes. On a selection of our Comfort and Original style trips you have the option to pay a single supplement to ensure that you will have your own room (where available). Please refer to the important notes if this trip has a single supplement and any accommodation on the trip that the single supplement will not apply to. Please note that this only applies to accommodation during the tour, pre- and post-trip accommodation will be booked on a single room basis.
We believe strongly in low impact or rather positive impact tourism. Broadly speaking this means that we try to minimise the negative aspects of tourism on the local cultures and environments that we visit and highlight the positive aspects. Please refer to our website at www.intrepidtravel.com/responsibletravel for further details and suggestions on how you can be a responsible traveller.
Illegal drugs will not be tolerated on our trips. Possessing or using drugs not only contravenes the laws of the land but also puts the rest of the group at risk. Smoking marijuana and opium is a part of local culture in some parts of the world but is not acceptable for Intrepid travellers. Intrepid's philosophy of travel is one of respect towards everyone we encounter, and in particular the local people who make our destinations such special places. The exploitation of prostitutes is completely contrary to this philosophy. Our group leader has the right to expel any member of the group if drugs are found in their possession or if they use prostitutes.
Since Intrepid Travel commenced operating in 1989 we have been committed to giving something back to the communities we visit. One way has been through our support for local humanitarian, development and conservation projects. Many of our travellers want to contribute something too. To make things easier we established The Intrepid Foundation. All donations to The Intrepid Foundation will be matched by Intrepid Travel dollar for dollar, up to AU$5,000 per donor and a total of AU$300,000 for all donors in each financial year. And every cent gets there as Intrepid Travel pays for all the administration costs. Donating is simple and secure. Please ask your group leader for information on the projects we support in the region, through The Intrepid Foundation; or go to our website: www.theintrepidfoundation.org
We currently have 4 projects in East Africa which you can support through the Intrepid Foundation and have your donation matched by Intrepid Travel:
1. Amani Children’s Home - provides a loving home, education and medical care for street children and orphans in and around Moshi, Tanzania.
2. Village Education Project - provide improved primary and vocational education to Tanzanian children in the Marangu region in the foothills of Kilimanjaro.
3. New Hope Children’s Home - providing a home, care and education for disadvantaged children in the Limuru region, north of Nairobi.
4. Kariandusi School Trust - advancing the education of Kenyan children in the rural Rift Valley region by working with the community to construct, equip and staff schools where they are much needed.
More information can be found at: www.theintrepidfoundation.org
Orphanage Tourism:
In recent times orphanage tourism has become popular in Africa. Intrepid Travel does not support unscheduled or random visits to orphanages and children's institutions, as these are a child's home - a place that should be safe and respect their right to privacy and dignity. Undoubtedly the majority of travellers have best interests at heart, but the reality is orphanage visits can negatively impact the children. For more information on how you can help protect children during your travels, see:
www.intrepidtravel.com/pdf/rt/ChildSafe_Traveller_Tips.pdf
www.childsafe-international.org
This trip may include some pre-arranged visits to organisations that have been vetted by Intrepid Travel, and these will be facilitated by your group leader.
After your travels, we want to hear from you! This is so important to us that we'll give you 5% off the price of your next trip if your feedback is completed on-line within 4 weeks of finishing your trip. Go to: www.intrepidtravel.com/feedback
Thanks!
Do you want to see your travel photos published? To celebrate all that is travel photography, Intrepid hold an annual Intrepid Photography Competition.
There are five categories - real life experiences, travelling families, local friends, landscapes, icons - each with a fabulous prizes.For more information,
entry form and competition conditions, please visit www.intrepidtravel.com/photocomp. Send entries to
The Editor,
Intrepid Travel,
PO Box 2781,
Fitzroy DC 3065,
Victoria, Australia.
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