Frequent Asked Questions
Find out all you need to know before you go on your East Africa Safari Holiday – from what to wear on safari to tipping locals.
How does the planning process work?
Our in-depth planning process is what sets us apart, and we take great time and care at every stage.
After you contact us, we’ll pair you with one of our Safari Specialists. You’ll be matched up based on your destination and their expertise. Because all our trips are completely bespoke, your specialist will arrange a short call to get to know you better. This is so important to our process as our itineraries are bespoken and based on your personality, travel style, and interests, the more we know about you, the better your trip will be. After the call, your specialist will distill hundreds of options into a tailor-made draft itinerary, then together, we’ll refine your trip to ensure it meets your expectations.
Once we’ve received your deposit, we’ll confirm the trip and secure accommodation, domestic flights, and entry permits. We coordinate every detail so that your trip feels seamless. By the time your trip comes around, we’ll make sure you have all your visas, travel insurance has been arranged, and all essential documents are printed. Throughout your journey, our in-destination travel concierge will reach out and check in; support is never more than a quick message away.
What is included when I book with Northland Safaris?
Beyond trip planning, accommodation, and experiences, all trips include the following:
Bespoke itineraries
Our safari specialists personally experience our activities, and accommodations, build relationships with our partners to gain first-hand knowledge to curate unique experiences for you. We are great listeners, and the result is that no two trips are alike. We welcome feedback to make sure we’re curating the adventure of a lifetime.
Dedicated travel team
Clients receive a dedicated team: our safari guide, safari expert and the operations specialist well-versed in the region, available before and after their journey.
Client liaison
Before you travel, you’ll have peace of mind knowing you’re connected with a direct point of contact on the ground to provide support and to help resolve any issues during your journey. Behind the scenes, our client liaison is seeking out upgrades and planning spoils for special occasions.
24-hour assistance line while you’re traveling
Even when you’ve planned your journey down to the finest detail, things can still go wrong. But don’t worry, we have you covered with our 24-hour helpline. So if you’ve missed your plane or lost your luggage, we’re only one call away.
Exclusive Packing List
We provide in-depth packing lists (and offer personal advice in our pre-departure calls) so that you’ll be very well-prepared with all the clothing, gadgets, and gear you’ll need for your Extraordinary Journey. The contents of your final package will depend on your trip and destination needs.
City guides
We have the insider scoop. With boots on the ground, our team provides expertly curated authentic local city and restaurant guides—an invaluable resource for our travelers.
Assistance with international flights, travel insurance and guidance on visas
While most trips happen without issue, things do occasionally go wrong. If they do, a comprehensive travel insurance policy is your best form of cover—this trip is a big investment, and like all big investments, it needs a high level of protection. If you need to file a claim, we’re here to help you through the process from start to finish. When it comes to international flights, we will advise the best flights to book, or in some instances, can put you in touch with a flight specialist to take care of them for you. We will also help with your visas, advising you based on the destination.
Printed travel documents and Pre-departure calls
Our pre-trip preparation experience is unparalleled. You’ll receive a highly customized pre-departure call, beautiful online itineraries, and printed booklets outlining trip specifics before take-off and throughout the journey. You will be well-prepared and properly informed the entire time you’re with us.
All applicable hotel and lodge taxes, game park entry fees, private transfers, and light aircraft transfers are included.
We aim to make your trip as fully inclusive as possible.
A big part of our role is being there for you from start to end. Right from the initial call, we take great time and care in getting to know you and your interests. We check in regularly and offer helpful reminders about the practical stuff, such as flights, visas, and vaccinations. Where possible, we work to get you complimentary add-ons, such as room upgrades and amenities. If you’re celebrating a special occasion during your trip, we’ll include a few nice surprises, too.
Behind the scenes, we’re in constant contact with our teams on the ground to ensure your trip is everything you dream of. Plus, our client liaison team is only a message away throughout your trip (on local time). It’s these little things that make unforgettable trips, and we’re all about the little things.
How should I choose the right company to plan my trip?
Many of our clients also have an initial conversation with our industry peers but say they ultimately choose us because of our specialists’ passion, extensive knowledge, and the thoughtful questions they ask to curate the right combinations of lodging, activities, and experiences. Planning a trip with us isn’t just a transaction; it’s a relationship. We genuinely care about what we do, and our process reflects this.
Don’t just take our word for it. Here’s what our clients have to say about us.
In our experience, travelers who continue past that ‘get to know you’ call and try to plan the same trip with multiple companies ultimately end up working against themselves. With such limited room availability and several operators vying to secure space, the itineraries presented won’t be the best representation of what could have been possible. We encourage travelers to choose a company to work with based on the strength of their ideas and overall fit.
Do you plan group travel?
Whether you’re planning an extra-special family reunion, a memorable getaway with your closest friends, or a far-flung retreat to celebrate your team, we can design a luxury bespoke trip that fits your group.
However, if you’re looking to join an existing group trip, for example, you’re a solo traveler, and you want to go on a safari with other solo travelers then we’d recommend looking elsewhere as we don’t book set-departure group trips.
Is tipping included on this trip?
Although some travel companies include tipping in the cost of itineraries, we believe that tipping should always be discretionary and based on your personal experience.
We provide detailed tipping guidelines for each destination and lodge before you travel so that you will be prepared for every scenario during your trip. If tipping is part of your total trip budget, please mention this during the planning process so we can account for this, as, in some instances, tips represent a significant cost.
Does Northland Safaris charge a booking fee?
There is no booking fee to plan your trip with Northland Safaris. In some instances, we may request a small planning fee that would be fully applicable to the cost of your trip.
How far should I start planning my trip in advance?
We recommend starting to plan your trip as far in advance as possible. As a rough guide, if you want to travel during the summer or Christmas, you will need to start planning at least a year in advance. Because we work with select small camps, lodges, and hotels, our favorite accommodation options can fill up fast. Once you’ve decided on a trip, contact us, and we’ll get started.
Is a deposit required to confirm my trip?
Once you’re happy with your itinerary and ready to confirm your trip arrangements, we’ll request a deposit, plus the full payment for any services that need to be secured as soon as possible, such as internal commercial flights or special permits.
The balance payment is typically due 60 days prior to your departure. In some special cases—for example, travel during the Festive period—we may require the balance to be paid earlier than this.
For all our trips, we recommend that you take out a comprehensive travel insurance policy at the time of booking. Life circumstances can change in an instant, and in the unlikely event that something occurs to stop you from traveling, travel insurance is the best protection for your investment.
Do I need travel insurance?
Northland Safaris strongly encourages you to purchase travel insurance within two weeks of making your deposit to protect your investment. Travel Guard (https://travelguard.com) is highly recommended by our guests.
We have seen travel insurance come to the rescue on countless occasions; therefore, we strongly recommend you take out a comprehensive policy before your trip. At a minimum, we ask that all clients have medical evacuation insurance before travel. If you are a U.S. resident, we can help you arrange insurance based on your itinerary and personal requirements.
Do you book international flights?
Northland Safaris does not book long-haul international flights. However, we can happily put you in touch with our Air Desk partners, a team of specialists with decades of experience booking flights to and from the destinations we offer, who can help you choose the best carrier for you.
If your trip requires internal flights within a destination, for example, a short flight to a remote airstrip or between most cities and countries—we will include these fares and take care of the logistics for every destination in which we operate. We value clarity and simplicity and will make sure flight inclusions are always clearly communicated.
For travelers who wish to book all their flights independently, we provide itinerary-specific flight routes with your travel confirmation—this contains the precise dates and times to make booking your flights online simple.
Can I choose a pre-made itinerary?
If one of our example itineraries just happens to be your dream trip, then, of course, we’d be more than happy to arrange it for you. That said, they are meant to be more inspirational, idea-generating starting points rather than something set in stone. All our itineraries are tailor-made based on your personal interests, preferences, and dreams. We love to mix and match different styles of accommodation and experiences for the most extraordinary experience. Please bear in mind that the accommodation options in our example itineraries are always subject to availability or different rates depending on the time of travel and a handful of factors.
What are some health and fitness considerations for adventurous travel?
Many of the iconic destinations that we sell are quite adventurous, requiring a good level of fitness. We require all travelers to be in good health, it’s essential for you to enjoy your adventure.
Our journeys can be tailored for most ages and fitness profiles but it’s important to communicate any limitations or hesitations you have during the planning process. If someone in your group has mobility issues or has difficulty with uneven stairs or terrain, that’s important information for choosing the correct destinations and lodges. If you have a bad back or have trouble sitting for extended periods of time, that’s something we should plan for.
Note that not all camps and lodges have 24/7 electricity—if you require a CPAP machine, please advise your Destination Specialist so we can make the appropriate recommendations while planning your trip.
What passport, visa, and vaccination requirements should I be aware of?
You will need visas before traveling to certain countries, while some countries allow you to purchase visas on arrival. If you hold a U.S. or Canadian passport, you will not need a visa for South Africa, Botswana, and most South American nations. Wherever you are going, our experts will give you all the information you need to obtain your visas well before your trip.
When arranging your trip, we will also review any health requirements with you. Some countries require specific vaccinations, such as yellow fever, for entry. If you’re traveling to a destination where malaria is prevalent, we can help you arrange that, too.
Passport requirements differ depending on the destination. For many countries, you will need a passport valid for six months beyond your return date, and between one and three blank pages for visa stamps. Once again, our travel experts will advise you based on your destination(s).
Can I make my own itinerary?
Absolutely Yes. Just contact us to start the process. We’ll listen to your needs and give expert recommendations based on your interests, timeline and budget. Leave the details to us!
Can I take my children on safari?
Of course! We think taking your whole family on safari is a wonderful way to learn and grow together; think of the lifelong memories! We recommend a minimum age of five (5) on our family safaris. There is a minimum age of 16 on our expedition safaris.
Will I stay in authentic tented camps or lodges?
At Northland Safaris, we know how important choice is when planning a trip. That’s why we offer an array of accommodation options. Do you want to stay in tented camps in the heart of the African wilds? Lodges with five-star luxuries? A combination of both? It’s completely up to you when planning a private, custom trip! Make sure to check the accommodations section of our itineraries to see what’s offered.
What size are your safari groups?
We specialize in small group travel (about 14 people or fewer), but the exact size varies from trip to trip. One thing’s for sure: you’ll have plenty of elbow room, 360-degree viewpoints and a guaranteed large window seat.
Will I have a chance to interact with the local people of Tanzania?
Many of our trips provide opportunities to visit local villages and interact with the people. However, if your itinerary does not include these visits, you’ll still gain valuable local insight from your expert guide, a native of Tanzania.
How far in advance should I book my safari?
We recommend booking as far in advance as possible to ensure availability. This is especially important for travelers booking private safaris or adding extensions to their trips.
Can I use a credit card to pay?
We accept Visa, Master Card, Maestro, Union Pay and Discover for your safari deposit. The remaining balance is due 30 days prior to departure and is payable by wire transfer or credit card.
What additional costs can I expect when traveling in Tanzania?
Your safari land packages will include all accommodation, meals, water (with meals and on wildlife-viewing drives), airport transfers, Park fees and services of guides and drivers. International airfare is not included.
Additional costs may include tips for your guides, drivers and staff, bar beverages, laundry service, phone calls, passport and visa fees, souvenirs and travel insurance (if you choose to purchase it).
Please note: Your pre-departure packet includes a visa application form and information on travel insurance and tipping.
What is the COVID-19 entry requirements for Tanzania?
Northland Safaris strongly recommends but no longer requires guests to be vaccinated against COVID-19. This decision follows the Tanzanian government’s announcement that it would no longer require vaccination for entry.
Of course, staying safe requires everyone to do their part for the good of their health, their communities and the people they visit when they travel. That’s why Northland Safaris encourages everyone to stay up to date on their vaccinations.
What are Northland Safaris doing to help me stay safe during safari?
Because most of your trips will be outdoors, safaris are particularly well suited to our new era of travel. Northland Safari’s common-sense approach to safety is designed to help you feel at ease without impacting on your enjoyment of your once-in-a-lifetime trip.
What do I need to do to protect my health on safari?
Northland Safaris strongly advises making an appointment with your travel doctor before your safari. They have specific knowledge about your destination and can recommend vaccines and preventative care that your physician may not. Masks are not required on safari, but we recommend packing a few anyway, just in case.
Are Safaris in Kenya & Tanzania safe?
Kenya and Tanzania are one of Africa’s most stable countries. Some even refer to it as “the Switzerland of Africa!” You’ll be welcomed by friendly people and always taken care of by attentive staff. After full days of wildlife viewing, rest up at handpicked camps and lodges, which offer authentic African charm and modern-day conveniences.
Is it okay to drink the water?
There is free bottled water at some camps/lodges and during all wildlife-viewing drives. You can also purchase bottled water at all lodges when necessary.
Are there a lot of bugs in Tanzania?
There are more bugs in many places in the United States than you will encounter on safari! As in North America, DEET-based repellents and citronella-based products work well if you encounter mosquitoes or other small insects.
What shots should I get?
For medical advice, it’s always best to consult your doctor. Most travelers get antimalarial pills. Keep in mind that you’ll be staying in camps and lodges designed to accommodate American and European guests.
Where is the best place to go for wildlife viewing in Africa?
Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, have one of the greatest concentrations of wildlife in the world. The vast plains of Serengeti National Park also host a myriad of wildlife and the legendary Great Migration, where the thrill of the African wilderness awaits!
Serengeti Tanzania is known for its massive annual migration of wildebeest and zebra. Seeking new pasture, the herds move north from their breeding grounds in the grassy southern plains. Many cross the marshy western corridor’s crocodile infested Grumeti River. Others veer northeast to the Lobo Hills, home to black eagles. Black rhinos inhabit the granite outcrops of the Moru Kopjes.
What kinds of animals will I see on safari in Tanzania?
All kinds! You will see the animals you’ve always dreamed of encountering on safari—zebra, elephant, hippo, giraffe, lion, warthog, wildebeest, rhino and so much more.
When is the best time of year to go on safari in Tanzania?
Kenya and Tanzania have the best year-round wildlife viewing, and we adjust our itineraries, departure dates, and accommodations based on wildlife migration patterns. In Tanzania, any time is a wonderful time to go on a safari. Of course, there are seasonal variations, but you’ll always see a lot of animals.
What is Great Migration?
The Great Migration is a year-round phenomenon where millions of mammals, mainly wildebeest, gazelle and zebra, move around the Serengeti in a clockwise pattern in search of food and water. The driving force of migration is rain, making it difficult to predict.
What if I don’t see the Great Migration during my safari?
Hakuna matata! No worries! Plenty of awe-inspiring moments present themselves whenever you travel in Kenya and Tanzania. Even if you don’t happen to see the Great Migration, you’ll still see an abundance of wildlife.
What’s food like on safari?
In most camps/lodges we select for you, chefs prepare fresh soups, breads, entrees and desserts daily, and we get incredible reviews! In most lodges, meals are served buffet-style. The food is often prepared with Western palates in mind (some local dishes are included).
Can special diets be accommodated?
With advanced notice, vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free and diabetic-friendly meals can easily be arranged. Make sure to inform us when booking your trip.
What’s the weather like in Tanzania?
Tanzania’s climate is typically sunny, dry and warm, though there are variations:
April, like in North America, usually brings more rain so we do not operate scheduled trips during that time.
December through March is warmer (70ºF–80ºF) with a higher chance of occasional rain.
May through November is cooler and drier (60ºF–80ºF).
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