© 2010 The Old Line Safari Company. All Rights Reserved
Language
The official languages of Kenya are English and Kiswahili, which a majority of the population speak and understand. Many also speak a tribal language. Because English is widely spoken and understood, virtually everyone you are likely to meet in the course of your safari will be fluent.


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LANGUAGE, PEOPLE & CULTURE

TRAVEL INFORMATION

Money
The local unit of currency is the Kenya Shilling (Ksh.) for Kenya and Tanzania Shilling (Tsh.) for Tanzania, which is freely convertible within Kenya or Tanzania for U.S. dollars and other major currencies. Towns have banks and bureaus de change, and most hotels and lodges will exchange currency or travelers' checks at reasonable rates. You will need to convert into local currency only a small amount you will need for incidentals. For up-to-date exchange rates, visit www.centralbank.go.ke/rates/exchangeindex.asp

Many establishments in Kenya and in Tanzania accept credit cards hence you, will be able to obtain cash on a credit card. However, most banks offer cash advance on credit cards up to a limit of $ 1000.00 US.
      
Banking Hours
Monday to Friday: 09.00-14.00 (16.30 in the major cities).  The airport banks are open until midnight every day. Banks typically give a better exchange rate than hotels and we recommend you change some money at the bank upon arrival. In Nairobi, the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) has a bank located in the corner of the arrivals hall. ATM cash machines are available at Nairobi airport and in most major towns allowing cash to be drawn using an international Visa card with a P.I.N.

AIRLINES AND VISAS

Airlines
Several major airlines operate daily flights to and from Nairobi. The following are Useful websites for booking flights to Nairobi online
Kenya Airways, www.kenya-airways.com
British Airways, www.britishairways.com
KLM, www.klm.com
Swissair,  www.swiss.com
SN Brussels, www.flysn.com; http://www.brusselsairlines.com/com/splash.aspx  and
Emirates, www.emirates.com

Visas
Visas are now required for all visitors to Kenya.
Most of our safaris begin in Nairobi, Kenya and tourists traveling to Kenya, Tanzania or Rwanda require a tourist visa, which costs $25 per person for each of the respective countries. You can obtain a visa on arrival at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (visa fees must be paid in cash, U.S. dollars) or from the respective embassies abroad before embarking on your trip. A transit visa is available for $25; however, if you are returning through Kenya or any one of the countries, you might as well obtain a full visa, ensuring that it is dated to include your return visit. Citizens of the following countries need to have a visa prior to arrival in Kenya: Afghanistan, Armenia, Azerbaijan Senegal, Somalia, Iran, Lebanon, Iraq, Syria, Libya, Mali, Sudan, Nigeria, Yemen, Cameroon, Pakistan, Tazikstan and North Korea.


People and Culture
East Africa is home to a profusion of fascinating and colorful tribes. Most are of Bantu origin, including the Kikuyu and Akamba in Kenya, the Baganda in Uganda, and the Sukuma, Haya, and Chagga in Tanzania. The two other tribal groups are the Nilotes (the Luo, Turkana, Kalenjins, Karamajong, Samburu, and the Maasai) and the Cushites (the Iraqw, who live around the Ngorongoro crater, El-Molo, Somali, and Rendile).

Generally, East Africans mix a conservative outlook on life with a great deal of tolerance and openness toward foreigners. Dress modestly and reasonably neatly; take time for some pleasantries, even if you are just shopping in the market or asking for directions; learn the local words for Hello (Jambo), Goodbye (Kwaheri), Thank You (Asante) and use them unsparingly before launching into English. Handshakes are also an important part of social interaction. Kindly request a "Go ahead" from your safari guide or driver before taking photographs of people.
Children and the Elderly
A safari is wonderful for children old enough to enjoy and appreciate the experience. Depending on the itinerary, many safaris (e.g., Adventure Safaris) involve a long trip on rough roads, which we cannot recommend for babies, young children, and the elderly. Our Family and Luxury Safaris, however, which blend road and air transport, are carefully planned to ensure the comfort of children and the elderly. Children under 12 years benefit from reduced fares on scheduled airlines and at all lodges. A few of the more expensive permanent tented camps do not allow children under 12. Restrictions on certain activities also apply for younger children, so kindly check before booking. Please carry enough baby food and accessories, which might be unavailable on safari. Special meals for babies cannot be guaranteed.
HEALTH, INSURANCE, AND SECURITY


   

 
Security
The Kenyan tourist circuit tends to be very safe for tourists.  This has been due to concerted efforts by stakeholders to ensure that visitors enjoy their stay without any security concerns. The industry created a Safety and Communication Centre under the auspices of the Kenya Tourism Federation (KTF), which is operated 24hrs a day to monitor visitor safety. There is a 24hr TOURIST HELPLINE (020 - 604767) where one can seek assistance in case of need.  The Old Line Safari Company is connected directly to the Centre by HF radio which makes access while on safari very easy. Also the vehicles we use during the safari have HF radio s and the office is always in contact with the driver and the field staff on the safety of clients.
However, as in any other country worldwide, you should take normal precautions:

  • Keep a close watch at all times on your handbag, wallet, and camera.
  • Carry only necessary amounts of cash.
  • Place all valuables in hotel and lodge safe deposit boxes.
  • Avoid walking at night; instead take reliable taxis recommended by your hotel.
  • Wear little or no jewelry, and never leave valuables in your hotel room or in an unattended vehicle.
Insurance
The Old Line Safari Company requires that all clients arrange personal travel insurance to cover medical, property, and other personal risks throughout the safari. If you wish, we can advise you on policies or actual cover. As a standard part of all safaris, The Old Line Safari Company arranges for temporary membership with Intensive Care Air Ambulance,baesd in Nairobi for emergency medical evacuation cover in Kenya and Northern Tanzania, for all clients. In case of any emergency out in the field, Air Ambulance will airlift you to a credible hospital and cover for your medical bills for 24 hours while awaiting your Travelling & Medical Insurance to take over. On safari, please carry copies of your insurance documents and emergency contact numbers at all times.
CLIMATE, MONEY AND BANKS

Climate
Don't let the fact that Kenya and Tanzania being situated on the equator lead you astray. Although temperatures both night and day remain constant all year; much variation occurs among the coastal regions, high plains, and mountain regions. Temperatures average 80°F on the coast and 70°F to 80°F in the surrounding area, while in Nairobi and the highlands above 5,000 feet, daytime temperatures normally range between 66°F and 75°F.The game parks lie at an altitude of 5,000 to 7,000 feet, with warm days and cooler evenings.

We have two rainy seasons, the long rains occurring from April through June and the short rains in November and December. The remainder of the year is classified as the dry season. The rain, when it comes, often falls in heavy but brief tropical downpours during the evening or night with pleasant, sunny days in between. Nevertheless, in recent years, the rainfall pattern has been neither regular nor predictable. The rain can compel some animals to disperse and might cause flooding of roads and bridges. On the other hand, rain keeps the dust down, clearing the air, and fosters lush vegetation.
For up to date weather forecasts, visit www.meteo.go.ke
SHOPPING, PHOTGRAPHY AND TIPPING

Shopping
East Africa is well known for its art and handicraft markets where you can find baskets and woven bags, beadwork, carvings, local sarongs, spices, and teas and coffees. Precious stones and jewelry are also a specialty. Most hotels and lodges have gift or souvenir shops. We design our itineraries to allow time to shop, and our drivers and safari guides will offer useful information on shopping.

Photography and Other Equipment
East Africa is the photographer's dreamland since there is abounded wildlife and bird life in their natural habitat, magnificent scenery, colorful people and reliable and unlimited sunlight. While on safari one must remember that the animals are not tame and it is advisable to keep a distance or remain in the vehicle. When taking shots of local people always permission from them should be sought and the local culture respected.

For safety, some type of money pouch or small, secure bag for your passport, credit cards, and travelers' checks is a good idea. If you want to keep up with world events or listen to music, you will need a small shortwave radio or Walkman (there is no television or radio in most places outside Nairobi or Arusha). And a good camera, preferably with a 200-300 mm telephoto lens or a video camera is a must. Suggested photography equipment: small flashlight with extra batteries, flash memory card or extra film and lead bag, lens-cleaning equipment, battery charger (12v or 120a for video cameras). Other suggested equipment: small flashlight with extra batteries, binoculars (one per person).

  • A note about photography-Taking photographs at airports; near military installations, the State House, and state lodges; and of soldiers, prisons, prisoners, policemen, the national flag, and the president of Kenya or Tanzania and his convoy is prohibited. When in doubt, we suggest you ask your driver or safari guide before snapping pictures.
  • A note about electricity-On safari, power for most lodges and camps is supplied by generators, which are usually turned off during parts of the day and night to manage noise and fuel consumption. If you want to use U.S. appliances, such as hairdryers, you will need a voltage converter as well as a plug adapter. Kenya standard voltage is the UK/European 220/240, and power outlets are the U.K. square-pin type.

Tipping
Tipping is completely at your discretion. Generally, we recommend that you tip moderately, using the following guidelines per person:
  • Restaurants - 10% of your bill
  • Porters - $1.00-$3.00
  • Drivers - $5.00-$10.00 per day
  • Safari guides - $10.00-$15.00 per day

PACKING LIST
Documents
  • Passports (with visa entries)
  • Health cards (vaccination certificate)
  • Airline tickets
  • Cheque book
  • Cash & Travellers' Cheques


  • Separate record of T/Cheque numbers
  • Credit Cards (VISA, Mastercard and/or American Express),
  • Photo copy of passport/visas/Insurance papers
Clothing
The list given below is a basic indication of what you should bring. We recommend that you bring khaki and green coloured clothing. Bright colours should be avoided while on safari (fine for the coast and Nairobi); camouflage clothes are illegal because they are worn by local soldiers.
  • Trainers
  • Flip flops
  • Hat
  • Windbreaker/Jacket
  • Pullover Sweater/Sweatshirt
  • Pc. safari pants (or chinos)
  • 2 pc. safari shorts
  • 4 pair sport socks
  • 1 short sleeve shirts



  • 1 long sleeve shirt
  • t-shirts
  • Pyjamas
  • Swim Trunks
  • 1pair casual slacks (men) evening outfit (women) - for evening
  • Bras (sports type) - women
  • sets underwear
  • Belt
Other Supplies
  • Sunglasses / Case
  • Prescription glasses (and a spare pair)
  • Flashlight (small with extra batteries)
  • Batteries (for electronic equipment)
  • Converter plug set if needed (the electricity supply is 240 Volt, 50 Hz). Sockets are usually 3 pin and are of the square variety.
  • Alarm clock
  • Money pouch



Toiletries & Medicine

  • Malaria prophylaxis
  • Prescription drugs (also bring the generic names for these drugs, good idea to pack 2 separate lots)
  • Motion sickness pills
  • Insect repellant (containing DEET for mosquito's)
  • Sun Screen (SPF 15 or higher)
  • Lip Balm
  • Shampoo/Conditioner


  • Deodorant
  • Toothpaste / Toothbrush
  • Dental Floss
  • Hair Brush / Comb
  • Electric / Hand Razor
  • Emery Boards
  • Tweezers
  • Hand Lotion
  • Fem. Hygiene Supplies
  • Pocket Knife (not in hand luggage)
  • Binoculars (very important, one per person)
  • Day pack
  • Favorite road snacks
  • Books / Magazines / Journal
  • Small Sewing Kit
  • Small Scissors (not in hand luggage)
  • Pen/paper
A note about luggage limits-Safari vehicles and light aircraft maintain tight limits on luggage size and weight. Because most hotels and lodges offer laundry services, you can limit your luggage to a soft, and preferably waterproof, suitcase or duffel bag of 27 pounds for safari. Depending on your itinerary, you might be able to leave some luggage in your Nairobi hotel while you are in the bush.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
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Health
Check with your primary care physician or local health department office for current advice on travel to East Africa. At The Oldline Safari Company. we strongly recommend that you:
  • Take anti-malarial drugs prior to arrival and should be continued for 4 weeks after leaving Kenya.  It is also advisable to try and avoid mosquito bites by using repellent and by wearing suitable cover-up clothes in the evening.
  • Drink only bottled mineral water in Kenya, which is readily provided during the safari.
  • There are no compulsory vaccinations required for entry to Kenya unless you are arriving from an area infected with Yellow Fever, in which case a Certificate of Inoculation against Yellow Fever is required from travellers older than one year .The other recommended vaccinations are Typhoid, Hepatitis and Polio, and anti-malarial medication is essential. .
Kenya and Tanzania imposes no restrictions on the sale or consumption of alcoholic beverages for persons age 18 and older. A good selection of local beers and soft drinks is available everywhere, and you will find a range of imported wines, beers, and spirits in many places, although they might be expensive. The quality of food in Kenya and Tanzania is generally good. However, do eat sensibly, particularly in the first few days of your visit