Our expertise is in customizing unique, innovative and interactive itineraries for special interest and affinity group travel for groups of 10 or more passengers for all budgets. We are on the ‘cutting edge’ for themed travel experiences developing itineraries with exclusive ‘wow factors’ to engage all the senses for added cultural immersion.

  • We are one of East Africa’s (since 2006) experienced travel companies.
  • We have one of the most experienced and specialized selling staff.
  • You will work with one of our dedicated group experts for the duration of your group from quote to departure and even end of tour follow ups .
  • We specialize in customizing unique, innovative and interactive itineraries for special interest and affinity group travel for groups of 8 or more passengers for all budgets to suit your travel plan and interests.
  • We have the most comprehensive website providing general information, sample itineraries and price guidelines, Kenya and Tanzania Hotels and Lodges descriptions and more.
  • We offer competitive pricing and quick turnaround times for quote requests and with 15 or more paying passengers your tour director usually travels for free!
  • We provide genuine industry-recognized consumer protection (you do not want to risk the large sums of money involved in group travel.
  • We have ‘on-the-ground’ representatives in all our neighboring destinations who are there to assist all your group’s needs.
  • We want to give you more. Your group travellers can receive a comprehensive document package including a deluxe travel wallet and, baggage tags.
  • We want to exceed your expectations so that you will recommend us to your group leads and book another customized group with us to any of our exotic destinations.
  • Our Past Group Experience is unparalleled; we have handled customized special interest groups varying in size from 10 to 25 travelers. Some past examples include:
    • Sports Tours of all types
    • Faith-based groups including missionaries, youth groups and affinity church groups
    • Educational Groups for colleges and alumni associations
    • Natural tours and nature-based tours
    • Volunteer/charity
    • Walking/Hiking tours
    • Cultural/Historical Tours
    • Pre/post Cruise Groups
    • Family weddings and reunion tours
    • Various Corporate incentives & Meetings and conferences/conventions

 

As well as our experience you can also take advantage of our buying power with the local airlines, city hotels,lodges and ground transport professional services.

EARN A FREE TRIP: Have you ever thought about getting a group of your friends or your “local club” together for a trip to somewhere exotic in East Africa. We can arrange special group travel concessions where, normally, if you have a group of 15 people travelling together, you usually travel FREE!

IT’S ALL ABOUT THE EXPERIENCE: Meet the local villagers, Taste the local foods or sample the local wines, explore UNESCO World Heritage Sites of East Africa and Ethiopia, photograph the scenery, wildlife or birds,See the great wildebeest Migration in Serengeti to Masai Mara….What is your PASSION?

ALLOTMENTS: Joyland Safaris & Tours can also arrange allotments on scheduled tours that suit your travelling period. Please enquire.

 

The Joyland Safaris GROUPS Only advantage:

  •  15+ years of tour planning experience
  • Innovative customized itinerary planning
  • Speedy efficient service
  • Competitive Group pricing (usually 1 free for 15 paying pax travelling on land arrangements)
  • Group  local Airlines Quotes, we have access to rates from all major local airlines
  • Tour planning for all budgets & interests customer satisfaction(15 years without customer complains)
  • Comprehensive documentation

GROUPS Tours offered by Joyland Safaris

  • Shopping(while on safari)
  • Weddings
  • Missionary
  • Mountain Climbing
  • School Choir
  • Cultural Tours
  • Camping safaris groups
  • Photography
  • Soft Adventure/Trekking
  • Family Safaris and Tours
  • Medical Tours
  • Museum/Art & Natural History Tours
  • Various Corporate Incentives tours

Our  GroupsOnly staff are experienced group travel planners and have traveled extensively to all our destinations. We have successfully organized and planned innovative, unique and interactive group itineraries for a wide variety of interests including:

  • volunteer/charity organizations
  • educational institutions
  • sports teams & enthusiasts
  • faith-based groups
  • cultural and historical groups
  • nature-based clubs
  • pre/post cruise groups
  • and many meetings, incentives and conferences

Because of our many years of experience, we proudly boast that we can handle any group size and can cater to virtually any special interest that your group may have.

Travel Guide – Overview

Kenya is where the first commercial safaris were pioneered, back in the 1930s, and it remains one of the world?s top wildlife-viewing and beach destinations. Tropical beaches protected by offshore reefs, ideal for diving and snorkeling. Vast swathes of savannah, where lions and elephants roam below the snow-capped peaks of Mount Kenya and Kilimanjaro. The spectacular contours of the Great Rift Valley, its floor studded with lakes tinged pink with flamingos. Jungle-bound ruins of medieval trading outposts and lava-strewn badlands inhabited by desert nomads.

Kenya is a land of extraordinary scenic variety. Bordered by Tanzania to the south, Uganda to the west, and Sudan, Ethiopia and Somalia to the north, it owes much of this diversity to the combination of an equatorial location and latitudinal span that ranges from the sultry Indian Ocean, along its eastern border, to the glacial peaks that cap the central highlands.

Kenya’s immense scenery is matched by its rare biodiversity. This was the original home of the safari. And it remains an exceptional wildlife destination, though the modern safari industry emphasizes photography rather than hunting, and is increasingly geared towards community-based conservancies.

Travel Guide Tanzania.

Tanzania boasts some of the most impressive National Parks and game reserves in all of Africa. The plains and savannahs of the Serengeti National Park are considered the premier spot on the continent to see wildlife roam unheeded across vast plains. Nearby, within the steep walls of the Ngorongoro Crater lies one of the most densely concentrated populations of African animals on earth. These include wildebeest, gazelle, zebra, lion, leopard, cheetah, elephant and even the elusive white rhino. Not to be forgotten, the Selous Game Reserve is larger than Switzerland, and is wild, remote and virtually untouched by any human presence save for a handful of safari camps in the north. Other parks like Ruaha will appeal to those who want to experience magnificent game watching well off the popular tourist trail of the northern circuit parks and reserves, while, for those with a penchant to get off the beaten track, the parks in the extreme west of the country, Gombe Stream and Mahale, offer the unique opportunity to track chimpanzees in their natural habitat.

Before you travel to Uganda, there a few aspects that you may need to know. About travel documents what kind of documentation do you need to come to Uganda and when, accommodation, climate when is the dry season and when is the rainy season, transport is it road, rail, water or air, health and safety what vaccinations do I require to visit the Pearl of Africa, all is presented below.

Where is Uganda located?

Uganda lies astride the Equator in Eastern Africa between longitudes 29 ½° East and 35° East and between latitudes 4 ½° North and ½° South, at an average altitude of 1,100 meters above sea- level. The total area is 236,580sq.Km. The country is bordered by South Sudan in the North, Kenya in the East, Democratic Republic of Congo in the West, Tanzania in the South and Rwanda in the South West.

  1. Say Hello, to all other travelers. You never know when you need help.
  1. Theft.
  • While the privacy of a guest’s room is normally always respected, theft has been reported in some hotels. Belongings are left at your own risk unless you put them in the hotel safe box or hand them to the hotel receptions & ask for an agreed receipt.
  • Petty theft on the street is present in Addis Ababa & big towns and there are these hassles to deal with. Unlike some African countries it would be accurate to say the level of general crime is very low.
  1. Passport:
  • Store your passport, travel check information in your e-mail box or Scan it.
  • Additionally leave a copy of your passport of Operator office and/or for the guide.
  1. Tips: Drivers, guides, porters, waitress and other service providers (it is all up to your interest and satisfaction) and that is not mandatory.

* When to go       * Budget       * Number of Travelers            * Travel Times            * Accommodations
* Meals                   * Vehicles              * Custom Safaris            * Security

Below you will find a FAQ with answers to frequent safari planning questions. And if you don’t find the answer to your question there, just ask us at

When to Go and Other Important Dates

How many days would you recommend for a safari?

It largely depends on budget and available travel time. The shortest programs we arrange are three days / three nights. Anything shorter is a blur. Our most popular programs are seven or eight days. They include

When is the best time of year to go on safari?

Kenya and Tanzania are great year-round destinations. July through August and the month of December are the busiest times in Kenya and Tanzania. Lodges and parks can be crowded with tourists and reservations often must be made six, eight, even nine months in advance. July and August also happen to be the best time to catch the wildebeest in the Maasai Mara Game Reserve.

Seasonal rains hit hardest from March to May (with lighter rains falling October to December).

January and February are wonderful months to visit East Africa since the hot, dry weather is considered by many to be East Africa’s most pleasant. It’s also the time of year when birdlife flocks to the Rift Valley lakes in the greatest numbers, attracting bird-watchers from around the globe.

Why are the rates lower between April 1 and May 31?

Seasonal rains hit hardest between April and May. During these months things are much quieter, lodges and camps generally have more rooms available and therefore prices decrease. The rains generally don’t affect travelers’ ability to get around, although the tracks within the parks, particularly Amboseli, can become muddy and rutted.

What is the weather like in Kenya and Tanzania?

Kenya straddles the equator, and Tanzania is not far south, so both countries enjoy a tropical climate. The coasts are hot and humid, while the inland areas are generally temperate, due to the altitude. The northern parts of Kenya are very hot and dry. The average annual temperature in Nairobi (altitude 4,980 feet) is 77°F maximum and 56°F minimum. The coastal town of Mombasa (altitude 50 feet) is 86°F maximum and 73°F minimum.

There is plenty of sunshine throughout the year and summer clothes are appropriate year round. Nights and mornings can be quite cool. The long rains occur from March to May and short rains occur November and December. The rainfall is sometimes heavy and when it does come, it often falls in the afternoons and evenings. The hottest period is from February to March and the coolest is July to August.

When and where can I see the great migration?

Always; the annual wildebeest migration never ends. The herds roam the grasslands and rolling hills of Tanzania and Kenya in a great counter-clockwise loop. Their travels carry them from their breeding grounds in the southern reaches of Serengeti National Park in Tanzania to their summer foraging grounds in Kenya’s Maasai Mara Reserve and back again, over and over. The massive herds, nearly two million wildebeest, zebras, antelopes, and gazelles, generally begin crossing the Mara River into Kenya and the Mara Triangle in late July and begin the return March in late September. During the rest of the year, the herd can be seen in different parts of the massive Serengeti National Park

Do safaris start on specific days and dates?

Public safaris start on scheduled departure dates while private safari programs with a minimum of two travelers can start on any day you wish.

Are departure dates guaranteed?

Yes, all of our public safaris have guaranteed departure dates in kenya for camping safaris while in tanzania we have for both camping and lodge safaris.

Budget

As a rule of thumb, a good number to work with is $300 to $400 per person per night for an all inclusive safari in a party of two to four people traveling together sharing two per room. This will include your accommodation in a three or four star property; breakfast, lunch and dinner; transport in your own private vehicle with your own private guide; game park entrance fees; and up to three game drives per day.

Items not included are alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks as well as tips for your driver/guide. These typically average between $8 and $10 per person per day, paid directly to your driver/guide. Other items to consider are medical shots and entry visas.

What is included in the safari price?

1. Accommodation as detailed in the itinerary (hotel, lodge, camp).
2. All meals noted in the itinerary. Each day generally includes Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner buffets consisting of both western and local dishes.
3. Transportation in a minivan fitted with a pop-up roof for game-viewing and photography. Every passenger is guaranteed a window seat. Your driver (who is also your guide) speaks English and has in-depth knowledge of the flora, fauna, landscape, and culture of East Africa.
4. Minivans are outfitted with two-way, long range high frequency radio communications equipment.
5. Each minivan carries safari accessories including wildlife books, beanbags to support cameras on car doors and window sills, binoculars, a first-aid kit, an ice-chest, and a fire extinguisher.
6. Bottled mineral water during game drives.
7. Park entrance fees and game drives as noted in the itinerary.
8. All government taxes, levies, and fees.
9. All arrival and departure transfer fees between airports, hotels, parks, etc.
10. Twenty-four hour stand-by contact telephone number.

What is not included in the safari price?

1. Domestic and international airfares and departures taxes.
2. Personal communications charges for telephone calls, faxes, email, etc.
3. Tips and gratuities for hotel, lodge and camp staff and for your driver/guide.
4. Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. (Bottled mineral water is provided in the minivan while on game drives.)
5. Laundry services.
6. Holiday supplemental fee over the Christmas/New Year Holiday.
7. Between meal snacks, additional entrance fees to reserves, parks, attractions, and events not included in your itinerary.

Are airport transfers included in the price?

All safaris including an overnight stay in Nairobi or Arusha at the beginning of your safari include your arrival and departure transfers.

For all other safaris, arrival and departure transfers are not included.

How much do airport transfers cost if not included in my program?

Airport transfers cost $50 per person each way.

Number of People Traveling

Does the cost per person in a group decrease as the number of participants increases?

Yes, the cost per person in a group decreases up to a maximum of six people traveling together. Although our vehicles are designed to comfortably carry eight passengers, we never seat more than six in a vehicle. When the number is larger than six we try to work out a special price. For groups larger than 15 a free trip is provided for the group leader (land only ? sharing).

Can I go on Safari alone?

We have special rates for people traveling solo. See the specific safari for details and contact us at info@joylandsafaris.com for more information or call +254 723 433 138 to speak to our safari professional and consultant.

Will there be other travelers in the vehicle?

Private programs only include members of your party – in your own private vehicle with your own private guide. Public programs are open to other travelers, to a maximum of six.

Are children allowed on safari?

Tanzania and Kenya are terrific destinations for families and a safari is an amazing experience to share with children, particularly those who are already enchanted by Africa and its wildlife. If you are considering taking a young child, however, you should ask yourself if both you and your child can deal with the complications of travel. For children, especially young children, Kenya and Tanzania can be a mixture of fun (the pool, the beach, playing with other kids) and tedium (the 17+ hour flight, the sometimes long game drives, the need to be well-behaved while dining in restaurants). Also, be sure to speak with your doctor about any health-related concerns related to bringing your child to Africa.

Finally, please note that some properties, such as Treetops and Shimba Hills Hotel, do not allow children under age five at their lodges. We will be sure to inform you if your safari plans include such properties.

Traveling from Park to Park

Travel from one park to next is in your designated safari vehicle. This is usually our purpose built safari minivan or 4×4 land cruiser, but we also offer the option of flying from park to park. On average we budget about $250 per person per flight segment.

What are the travel times between the places on the safari programs?

Sample distances:
Nairobi > Maasai Mara 4 1/2 hrs
Nairobi > Samburu 4 1/2 hrs
Nairobi > Lake Nakuru 2 1/2 hrs
Nairobi > Amboseli 3 hrs

Accommodations on Safari

What are the accommodations like?

The best way to learn more about our camps and lodges is to review the detailed day-to-day itineraries. Each day on the itinerary includes a the lodge or camp – just click on the top menu of our site is a link for Hotels , Lodges and camps and they range from simple and clean to elegant and refined.

How many people can share a room?

Most rooms can comfortably accommodate up to three (3) people each.

How does staying in a tented camp compare to a lodge?

Tented camps are usually small and often privately owned, so the attention to detail and level of service is generally exceptionally good.

In a tented camp, the landscape and wildlife feel very close, because they are. Unlike in a large lodge, travelers are not sealed off from the African soundscape ? the hooting of owls at night, or the roaring of lions. However, camps do tend to be more expensive than lodges and fill up quicker since they are smaller.

Can I select a different hotel or lodge from the one suggested on your program?

Yes..!! All private programs can be customized to suit your preferences.

Do people speak English in Tanzania and Kenya?

English is the “language of communication” in Tanzania and Kenya. It is widely spoken in hotels, restaurants, and visitor establishments.

Swahili is the national language in both Tanzania and Kenya, and a little Swahili goes a long way. Try to learn a little before your trip, and try top pick up a little more while on safari. Don’t worry about your accent; the locals are thrilled to hear visitors attempt to use any Swahili at all. To get you started, “jambo” means hello. You’ll be hearing it often.

Meals on Safari

The food served on safari is of the highest quality. Gourmet cooks bake fresh breads, and produce soups, salads, and entrees that could easily grace tables at top restaurants around the world.

The day begins with tea and biscuits before a morning activity, such as a game drive. Late breakfast or brunch is served upon return to the camp or lodge ? cereals, fruit, bacon, eggs, sausage, and toast. Buffet lunches are typical with a warm dish such as stew served with salads, quiches and cold meats. Dinner consists of an appetizer followed by meat, fish and pasta dishes served with assorted vegetables and sauces.

Dinner is followed by coffee (or tea), cheeses, and gorgeous desserts.

What types of meals are included on safari?

Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are provided each day on safari. Meals are primarily European style buffets with African influences.

Do you cater to special meal requests such as vegetarian, diabetic, low sodium?

Special diets are not a problem as long we know your needs in advance.

Safari Vehicles


What kind of vehicle will we be traveling in?

Our classic safari vehicle is a purpose built Eight-seat minivan specially designed for the terrain. It comes complete with a pop-up roof for easy game viewing and plenty of windows for unobstructed views of the landscape.

Four-wheel drive vehicles are also available at an additional cost.

Customizing a Tour,Excursions, Hotels, Extensions


Can I customize a safari to Kenya/Tanzania?

Of course you can! Our safari itineraries are suggestions; if you would like to visit different parks or stay at different lodges or camps, we would be happy to make those changes for you. We will also make sure your choices do not result in over long drives between destinations and complicated logistics.

Can we go out on night game drives?

Night game drives are only available in private parks and reserves such as the Sweetwaters Sanctuary and the Lewa Wildlife Conservancy and at special areas of mara west.

How close will I get to the wildlife?

Pretty close, but you will be perfectly safe in your minivan or 4×4 vehicle. Some animals are acclimated to minivans and won’t think twice about coming near the vehicle for a closer look at you.

A few destinations offer hikes and walking safaris. These require the services of an armed guide, just in case.

What activities are available in Nairobi at the beginning or end of our trip?

There is plenty to do in Nairobi including visits to the Giraffe Center, Karen Blixen Museum, Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage, Bomas of Kenya Cultural Center, The Nairobi Museum and Snake Park, a city tour, Mrs. Mitchells Tea Farm, among others. Each excursion averages about $80 per person.

Could you assist with finding accommodation in Nairobi or Arusha?

We are a full service safari and Travel agency. In addition to safari planning services, we can also book your hotel, book international air travel and domestic air travel within Kenya and Tanzania, and arrange airport transfers.

Where can I go on a hot air balloon ride and how much is it?

A hot air balloon ride can be arranged for you at the Maasai Mara Game Reserve or Serengeti National Park. The cost averages about $450 per person.

Do we have to book our hot air balloon ride in advance?

During the high season, we recommend that you book hot air balloon rides in advance to guarantee availability. In the low season, you can make arrangements on the ground.

Are there activities that can allow us to experience some of the local culture?

Yes. Visits to Maasai or Samburu villages are quite popular and can be included in your program on request. You will also have some opportunities to meet locals on the road between parks and reserves. Ask
your driver!

We are going to celebrate a special occasion ? honeymoon, birthday, anniversary. Do you make any special arrangements in such cases?

Our safari experts would be happy to discuss any special requests that you may have to make this occasion memorable for you.

What other activities are available other than game drives?

You can take nature walks, relax by the pool, visit local villages and meet local people, arrange for balloon rides. Some private reserves, such as those operated by the Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, will allow you to observe (and sometimes participate in!) their preservation activities.

Security in Kenya

What is the security situation in Kenya?

Kenya has long been one of the world’s most popular tourist destinations. It is the safari capital of the world in large part due to extraordinary care the Kenyan government takes to ensure the safety of tourists and visitors. There is no record in recent history of any safety related issue involving a tourist in Kenya. Kenya hosts over a million visitors each year in safety and comfort.

As with all international travel, visitors should remain aware of their surroundings. This is true of East Africa, particularly outside the parks and away from the safari minivan. Kenya and Tanzania are developing countries, each with pockets of poverty and desperation, and western tourists can be attractive targets. Travelers are advised to follow common sense security practices while in the cities and on the roads (do not carry lots of cash; refrain from ostentation in dress; leave jewelry and valuables at home or in the hotel safe; do not roam city streets alone at night).

The US State Department offers travelers extensive personal security advice while abroad, including tips on what to pack, what to leave behind, what to do in case of an emergency, and how to contact the local embassy or consular office. Visit the State Department’s website: http://www.state.gov/travel/ to learn more.

You have booked your safari, made airline arrangements, and your departure date is fast approaching. There are just a few more things to take care of.

Packing Lists and Visas and Departure Taxes


What should I pack?

When you book with Joyland Safaris, we will provide a detailed list of what to bring and what to leave behind. Briefly, do bring comfortable, mild temperature clothing (it is not as hot in East Africa as many people imagine) and comfortable shoes. Do not bring jewelry or anything else you would really miss if lost.

Will Joyland Safaris provide information about the people, places, and wildlife I’m likely to meet?

We certainly will. After your trip is confirmed, we will forward information on local customs, safari etiquette, the local flora and fauna, and more.

Do I require a passport to enter Kenya or Tanzania?

Yes, all travelers to Kenya or Tanzania must be in possession of a passport valid for at least 6 months beyond the re-entry date into the USA.

Do I need a visa to enter Kenya or Tanzania?

Yes, US citizens require a visa to enter both Kenya and Tanzania.

Citizens of other nations may have different requirements.

Please visit the Kenya Embassy website or the Tanzania Embassy website for more details.

How much does the visa cost and how long does it take to get a visa?

A single entry visa to Kenya costs $50 per person for US passport holders and can be obtained in advance at the Kenya Embassy Kenya or Just simply apply online here. The latter process takes between 24 and 48 hours to be processed.

Single or multiple entry visas to Tanzania cost $100 per person for US passport holders and can be obtained in advance at the Tanzania Embassy Tanzania or upon arrival in Arusha or Kilimanjaro Airport or at the Namanga or Isebania border gates.

Is the visa for Tanzania also good for Zanzibar?

Yes. Tanzania and Zanzibar are one country ? only one visa is required.

Do I have to pay a departure tax at the airport?

Like many international destinations, Tanzania and Kenya charge an airport departure tax for all international flights. The tax of $20 may or may not be included in the airline ticket price; confirm with your airline. If it is not included, visitors must pay the tax in cash at the airport upon arrival. Departure taxes can be paid in local currency or US dollars.

Do you assist with reconfirmation of airline reservations?

We would be delighted to assist you. Please let your guide know in good time.

Luggage

How much luggage can I carry on safari?

Luggage limits will depend on the airline you choose. Most airlines allow two 50 pound bags per person and one carry-on each. Please confirm
with your airline prior to departure.

What is the luggage allowance for flights between parks in Kenya and Tanzania?

The maximum luggage allowance is 33 pounds in soft bags. This includes your hand baggage.

Can we leave some of our luggage at a hotel in the city, and just take what we would need for our safari? Is there a charge for this service?

Each hotel has its own luggage storage policy. Generally speaking, if you will be returning to the hotel, you will not be charged for the service. Confirm with your hotel.

Weather

What is the weather like in Kenya / Tanzania?

Kenya straddles the equator, and Tanzania is not far south, so both countries enjoy a tropical climate. The coasts are hot and humid, while the inland areas are generally temperate, due to the altitude. The northern parts of Kenya are very hot and dry. The average annual temperature in Nairobi (altitude 4,980 feet) is 77°F maximum and 56°F minimum. The coastal town of Mombasa (altitude 50 feet) is 86°F maximum and 73°F minimum.

There is plenty of sunshine throughout the year and summer clothes are appropriate year round. Nights and mornings can be quite cool. The long rains occur from March to May and short rains occur November and December. The rainfall is sometimes heavy and when it does come it often falls in the afternoons and evenings. The hottest period is from February to March and the coolest is July to August.

Currency, ATMs, Traveler’s Checks and Cash

What currency is used in Kenya? Tanzania?

Kenyan Shilling (KSH) and Tanzanian Shilling (TSH). US dollars are widely accepted. In fact, guides and service staff prefer to receive gratuities in US dollars.

What’s the exchange rate?

Currency exchange calculators are widely available online. In fact, when you book with Kenya.com, a converter is included on your “My Booking” page which updates you on the status of your safari.

How much money will we need?

Depends on the gifts and African Art you might buy or drinks you might consume. These are not included in the program. On arrival you will each be required to purchase entry visas unless you have already obtained them advance ($50 for Kenya; $100 for Tanzania). There may also be a $20 airport departure tax, depending on whether or not your airline includes this fee in the price of the ticket.

Drinks and other extras at the lodges can be paid using your credit card. The suggested gratuity for drivers is between $10-15 per person per day paid at the end of each driver’s trip. They happily accept US dollars.

Are ATMs available?

Yes, you will find ATMs in the major cities such as Nairobi and Arusha, but ATMs may not be available in all game lodges.

What currency should we take with us?

Keep your money in US dollars/Euros as they are widely accepted. Each property in your program has an exchange bureau where you can convert US dollars to the local currency as needed.

Should we take traveler’s checks?

We recommend a 50/50 combination of cash and traveler’s checks.

Where can I change my money or cash my traveler’s checks?

Currency can be exchanged and traveler’s checks cashed at major banks, bureaus de change or authorized hotels. The banks at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport and Kilimanjaro International Airport have 24-hour exchange services.

Power Supply and Cell Phones

Will I be able to use and charge my electrical equipment while on safari?

Yes you will. The local electricity supply is 220/240 volts AC, 50HZ. Plugs are 3 point square. North American travelers planning to bring their 110/120 volt video camera chargers or other electrical devices should also bring voltage and socket adapters. Major hotels usually provide hair dryers, irons and other small electric appliances upon request.

Will my cell phone work in East Africa?

If your cell phone is GSM compatible, your phone will connect to the local cellular system. Service in the cities and near major roads is generally reliable. Service is spotty elsewhere.

Travelers with GSM compatible phones that employ “swappable” SIM cards should consider purchasing a pre-paid SIM card that converts the phone to a local service account. This is a much more affordable option than paying roaming charges and international rates on your home cellular account.

Health Recommendations


What vaccinations do you need to go to Kenya?

There are no mandatory immunizations required for US residents wishing
to visit Kenya.

However, immunization against typhoid, yellow fever and cholera are recommended.

Anti-malaria medication is strongly recommended, particularly if you will be traveling to the Western and Coastal regions of Kenya. Be sure to consult your family doctor and ask if he or she recommends any additional immunizations or shots for you or your family. For detailed, up-to-the-minute information on immunizations, shots, and health and safety advisories for travelers, visit the Centers for Disease Control Traveler’s Health website.<http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/kenya.aspx#vaccines>

What vaccinations do you need to travel to Tanzania?

Yellow fever vaccination is mandatory for persons from, or those who have visited yellow fever endemic countries. Please see the CDC’s yellow fever page < http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/yellowbook/2010/chapter-2/yellow-fever.aspx> for details.Anti-malaria medication is also strongly recommended.

Gratuities

Do I tip the driver? How much?

Yes. Drivers and guides rely on gratuities to supplement their income. Gratuities generally fall into a range between $10-$15 per day per person.

When we tip the driver-guide and guide on safari, do we tip in US dollars or in local currency?

US dollars and EUROS.

Laundry

Are laundry services available on safari?

Laundry services are available throughout your safari. However, lodges in the parks usually require a day to do your laundry (next day service), therefore plan to use the service when you have at least two nights in one location.

How much does it cost to do laundry while on safari?

Expect to pay between $1 and $3 depending on the item. As a general rule, do not launder expensive and/or delicate articles of clothing while on safari.


Gifts

Are there any small gifts we might bring to give children when we are visiting villages?

You can never go wrong with school supplies for children such as pencils, crayons, workbooks and so on.

Other


Do I need to bring my own binoculars, or will they be furnished?

Each van has a pair of binoculars but it is recommended to bring a pair for your exclusive use.

Will I be sleeping under mosquito nets every night?

All the properties in the program provide mosquito nets.

Is bottled water available at all of the lodges that I will be visiting, or do I need to make arrangements to bring my own?

Bottled drinking water is provided for free during your game drives and is readily available at all the hotels and lodges you will be visiting.

*How to Book     * Deposits, Due Dates, Special Rates       *Cancellations         *Air Travel          *Travel Insurance

So, you have settled on a few destinations, and you have decided on a safari to take you there Now what?

How to Book your safari

After we have made a decision, what are the next steps in formalizing our booking or confirming our trip?

Deposits, Balance Due Dates, Special Rates

How much is required to reserve my safari?
Upon confirmation, a deposit of 40% of the total is required. However, full payment is required if your safari is less than 90 days away.

PAYMENT FOR KENYA SAFARIS
Your contract for arrangements for services will become binding on receiving 40% deposit after which we shall issue a confirmation invoice. The balance must be received 30 days before the commencement of the safari. Payment in full is required where bookings are made less than 15 days before the safari begins.

PAYMENT FOR KENYA/TANZANIA COMBINED SAFARIS
A deposit of 45% is required at the time of confirming your booking. The balance is due 45 days before commencement of the tour program. If the reservation is made within 45 days of departure the whole amount must be paid at the time of confirmation to enable us clear the Tanzania part in good time as per their contract terms and condition .

Once we make a deposit, is the price locked in?
Yes.

When is the final payment due?
The final payment is due 60-45 days prior to departure if using a credit card.

Is there a discount for early payment in full?

This depends on several factors including length of safari, properties visited, size of group, and how early the payment is made. Ask us!

Are there special rates for children?
Children above the age of 12 years travel at 75% of the adult rate when sharing a room with two full paying adults. If a child shares a room with one adult or with another child the full adult rate applies.

What does “Single Room Supplement” (SRS) mean?
This is a surcharge applied when a traveler chooses to have a room to themselves, or “solo rooming.” All of our listed prices are based on two people sharing a room.in case of SRS we will provide the cost acordingly.

Can I pay with my credit card online?
Yes, We issue an invoice where you can pay online entering all the details by yourself.

Cancellation Policy

What is your cancellation policy?
While any cancellation is regrettable, significant planning and administrative resources are committed long before departure and as a result, a cancellation charge is applicable for each cancellation.Upon receipt of written notice of cancellation, we will refund any fees you have paid for your safari, less administrative expenses as per our terms of contract agreement.

Air Travel

Are international airfares from the USA included in the price?
The safari prices provided on our website, www.joylandsafaris.com, are for ground arrangements only. Round trip local airfare from city to Nairobi, Kenya (NBO), Kilimanjaro (JRO) or Arusha (ARK) is charged separately.International flights from your home country you book on your own.

Do you assist with airline bookings?
No we don’t,We only assist in local flight bookings within east Africa.But in case of change of flights departure times while on safari we always help this on your behalf

How many hours is the flight to Kenya/Tanzania from the United States?
Most flights from the United States stop in London or Amsterdam on their way to Nairobi, Kenya or Arusha,Tanzania. A flight from New York to Amsterdam/London is seven hours or so. Amsterdam/London to Nairobi/Arusha is eight-and-a-half hours. Total flight time with no layovers is fifteen to sixteen hours.

Are airport transfers included if we make our own flight arrangements to Africa?
We dont charge for airport transfers at all.we give it as as free service courtesy of having chosen us as your host.
Our airport meet and greet service is part of your safari. The airfare is completely separate. Many of our clients purchase airline tickets using frequent flyer miles they have accumulated.

Travel Insurance

Do I need travel insurance?
We highly recommend travel insurance.Between missed connections, lost or delayed luggage, or medical emergencies, insurance offers you the peace of mind that your vacation investment is well protected.