Frequently Asked Questions Before Booking an African Safari in Kenya & Tanzania
By Polmans Holiday
Planning a safari across Kenya and Tanzania is exciting—but naturally, guests have many questions before confirming their trip. Below is a comprehensive FAQ guide to help you make informed decisions and prepare with confidence.
1. When is the best time to go on safari in Kenya & Tanzania?
The best time is during the dry season (June to October) when wildlife is easier to spot around water sources.
If you want to witness the Great Migration:
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Maasai Mara National Reserve: July – October
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Serengeti National Park: December – July
January–March is also excellent for fewer crowds and predator action.
2. How many days are ideal for a safari?
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5–7 days: Great for a single country (Kenya or Tanzania)
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7–10 days: Ideal for a more relaxed pace or multiple parks
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10+ days: Perfect for combining Kenya & Tanzania
Shorter trips are possible, but longer safaris provide a richer experience.
3. Is it safe to travel on safari?
Yes—safaris in Kenya and Tanzania are generally very safe when organized by professional operators like Polmans Holiday.
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Experienced guides ensure safety during game drives
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Lodges and camps follow strict safety standards
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Basic precautions (following guide instructions) are essential
4. What wildlife can I expect to see?
Both countries are home to the Big Five:
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Lion
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Leopard
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Elephant
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Buffalo
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Rhino
You’ll also see:
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Wildebeest (especially during migration)
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Giraffes, zebras, cheetahs, hyenas, and more
5. Do I need a visa for Kenya and Tanzania?
Yes, most travelers require visas:
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Kenya: eVisa required prior to arrival
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Tanzania: Visa on arrival or eVisa (depending on nationality)
Always check the latest immigration requirements before travel.
6. What vaccinations are required?
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Yellow fever vaccination may be required (especially when traveling between countries)
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Recommended: Hepatitis A, Typhoid, routine vaccines
Consult your doctor 4–6 weeks before travel.
7. What type of accommodation can I expect?
Safari accommodations range from:
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Luxury lodges: Premium comfort and exclusivity
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Tented camps: Authentic safari feel with modern amenities
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Mid-range lodges: Comfortable and affordable
Location is more important than luxury for the best wildlife experience.
8. Will I have internet and phone connectivity?
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Most lodges offer Wi-Fi in common areas
- All our safari vehicles have internet on board
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Network coverage is limited in remote parks
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A safari is the perfect opportunity to disconnect and enjoy nature.
9. What should I pack for a safari?
Key essentials include:
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Neutral-colored clothing
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Comfortable shoes
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Sunscreen, hat, sunglasses
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Camera and binoculars
Keep luggage light, especially for domestic flights.
10. How much does a safari cost?
Approximate cost per person per day:
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Budget: $200–$350
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Mid-range: $350–$700
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Luxury: $700–$1500+
Costs vary based on:
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Season
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Accommodation level
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Transport (road vs fly-in)
11. Can I combine Kenya and Tanzania in one trip?
Yes—and it’s highly recommended for a complete safari experience.
Popular combination:
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Maasai Mara (Kenya)
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Serengeti & Ngorongoro Crater
This allows you to experience diverse landscapes and wildlife.
12. Are safaris suitable for families?
Absolutely. Many lodges are family-friendly and offer:
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Child-friendly activities
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Flexible game drives
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Private safari options
Some camps have age restrictions, so it’s best to check in advance.
13. What is a typical safari day like?
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Early morning game drive (best wildlife activity)
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Breakfast at lodge or bush breakfast
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Midday rest
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Afternoon/evening game drive
Days are structured around animal activity patterns.
14. Do I need travel insurance?
Yes—travel insurance is highly recommended and should cover:
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Medical emergencies
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Trip cancellations
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Evacuations
15. Why book with Polmans Holiday?
With Polmans Holiday, you benefit from:
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Tailor-made safari itineraries
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Expert local guides
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Carefully selected lodges
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Seamless logistics across Kenya & Tanzania
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Competitive pricing and personalized service
Final Thoughts
Booking an African safari is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Asking the right questions ensures you choose the perfect itinerary, avoid surprises, and fully enjoy your journey.
With expert guidance from Polmans Holiday, your safari will be smooth, safe, and unforgettable.