Pre-Departure Information

We hope that the information below is both concise but helpful. Should you have any specific questions that are not addressed in the details below, simply email us at SkySafari and we will endeavour to answer your question.

Luggage

Scheduled small aircraft flights have a baggage limit of 15 kgs per person- including hand luggage. These regulations are usually rigorously enforced so please limit your luggage to the appropriate weight. Please would you also take your luggage in soft bags rather than rigid suitcases (i.e. a kit bag rather than a suitcase, and one without wheels or handles). Please note that the international airlines do loose or mislay hold luggage depressingly frequently, and we strongly suggest that you take any essential items (such as a change of clothes / malaria tablets / medicines / etc with you in hand luggage)

Reconfirmation of flights

Please ask your hotel / lodge to reconfirm your return international flights at least 72 hours prior to departure.

Currency

Tanzania’s currency is Tanzanian shillings and cents. You will be able to change foreign exchange at the bank at the airport and also at any other banks in the major towns. US dollars are often favoured, and most excursions, tips, drinks and curios can be paid for in dollars. We advise clients to take spending money in the form of US dollars cash (especially in small denominations, recommended denomination is $20, $10, $5 and $1 for tipping purpose. Credit cards are also widely accepted (however there is 5% transaction service charge every time you use the card).

Airport departure tax

Internal flights in Tanzania are subject to a departure tax of around $6 per person, safety charge $5 per person and fuel surcharge $1 per person. The flights from Nairobi to Kilimanjaro are subject to a departure tax of $30 per person. These amounts must be paid locally, please ensure you carry enough currency on you for these payments

Health

Yellow Fever
All travellers coming into Tanzania from any Yellow Fever infected country (such as neighbouring countries like Kenya – even if you are only transiting through Nairobi) must carry a valid Yellow Fever certificate. You will be asked to show it on arrival. Failure to do so may result in a fine being levied.

Malaria
Malaria is endemic throughout these areas. There are a number of prophylactics available and be sure to obtain one from your physician and follow his directions. If, despite taking recommended drugs, you feel unwell and feverish, seek medical advice as soon as possible. If you are already in the UK, please do not forget to mention that you have been in a Malaria Zone.

Stomach Upsets
It is advisable to carry medication supplied by your physician for simple stomach upsets. In the first few days of your trip you may suffer from mild upsets attributable to a change in food and water.

Other
We do recommend that you consult your doctor about other recommended injections; normally the advice is that Typhoid and Hepatitis injections should be taken. The BA travel clinic (0207 4399584) can provide advice about these requirements. We suggest bringing first aid box which contains simple medical items wherever necessary can be easily used. (Your Doctor shall be able to advise you).

Sun

At the higher altitudes and nearer to the Equator, the sun can be dangerous. You will be wise to wear hats in the heat of the day and make use of a good sun block and reputable sun tan lotion or cream, especially if you are visiting Zanzibar and the beach.

Patience

Africa is generally very relaxed and laid back and you may find that the service in some places is slower than you are used to.

Wild animals

Please note that all wild animals can be dangerous and you should not wander off on your own whilst on safari. Always listen to your guides and follow instructions carefully. No animal is tame and must at all times be treated with respect and not approached unless with an authorised professional guide.

Insurance

It is a condition of booking that all clients are adequately insured for their trip. We do not sell insurance.

Language

Kiswahili otherwise known as Swahili is the ‘lingua franca’ of Kenya, Tanzania, Zanzibar and Uganda. English is very widely spoken in Tanzania, particularly in tourist centres, hotels, lodges and main cities.

The People

The indigenous people of the country are friendly and hospitable. They are rightly proud of their country, so be sensitive as you would be anywhere in your travels. In Swahili speaking countries, the traditional greeting is “Jambo” and the response “Mzuri”

Clothing

On Safari - informal and casual dress is appropriate. Comfortable lightweight cotton clothing in subdued safari colours is practical. During the day, shorts or trousers are ideal, and the evenings may be chilly so light cardigans or sweaters are appropriate. For clients visiting the Ngorongoro Crater, please note that because of the altitude nights are very cold and so a thick sweater or fleece is advisable. Long sleeved shirts and trousers are also advisable in the evenings to lessen the chance of being bitten by mosquitoes. Many safari lodges have swimming pools, so bathing costumes should be taken. It is advisable to have a good pair of closed walking shoes / boots.

In the Cities - We suggest that ladies do not wear shorts in the cities, particularly in the Muslim areas.

At Coastal Resorts - One piece or bikini swimsuits are fine on the beach or around your hotel pool, but not appropriate in town. Topless sunbathing is prohibited. Neither jackets nor ties are required when dining in hotels or out at restaurants.

Photographic / Binoculars

Our knowledge on digital cameras is getting better so, if you would like some advice then please write us an email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. . With the advance of cameras there is quite a range to choose from, but a minimum of 300mm zoom is essential! It is also recommended to invest in some good binoculars!!

Electricity

The mains electricity supply is 240 volts, 50 cycles – UK style plugs. On safari, many lodges and tented camps operate their own generators which offer intermittent electricity. We recommend taking a small flashlight.

Tipping

We often get asked ‘what should we tip?’ The simple answer is that you should tip as you wish, with no obligation whatsoever. What we do say is that tipping is very much welcomed and is normal here in Africa, and our staff very much appreciate any extra contributions. Once again we say that you should only tip as a reward for excellent service.

Each property has a ‘tipping box’ for a discrete contribution to your camp, lodge or hotel staff. As for tipping your driver guide, we suggest that this is done separately.

Should you wish to receive guidance as to the amounts for tipping simply ask the Manager at any of the Elewana camps, Lodges and Hotels or alternatively speak to your Elewana representative who will also be happy to give you guidance.

Laundry

Most of the lodges offer a free laundry service which can help with the limited luggage allowances.

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