Travel Tips and Equipment

Type of vaccines
Vaccines are recommended when travelling to Kenya and Africa in general. Only yellow fever is compulsory.

Please contact your doctor or vaccination clinic for advice and decisions on vaccines.
Normally it is advisable to take vaccines against polio, Hepatitis A and diphtheria, in addition to yellow fever.
The most discussed issue is probably malaria. There are a lot of different views on the best type of preventive medicine. Again consult your doctor. Be sure to bring you mosquito repellent as well, and use long sleeves and trousers during evenings/night times.
The existence of malaria is mainly a issue on the coastal area.

You should have a vaccination card/yellow book from WHO upon arrival.


Some practical information – equipment, visa  etc:

On safari you are at typically 1300-1500 meters above sea level, so nights can be a bit chilly!
Bring your sweater/fleece jacket and wind jacket/rain coat as well.

The savannah is dusty, so white cloth are no favourite…
Sandals are fine, but gym shoes - preferable with a solid sole or hiking boots are important for walking safaris.

At our Basecamps it is informal; no strict dress code will bother you!
Also bring your required roles of film, sunglasses, sun cream with high factor, a small torch, binoculars. And your favourite books for the hammock. If you enjoy reading in bed, bring your head light - it is a bit dark in Africa...
You can charge your camera and video recorder at Basecamp Masai Mara.

Remember to ask people before you take a photo.
Soft bags are easier to stall in safari vehicles than solid suitcases.
If your flighing to Mara, the weight limit is 15 kg per person.

Most people bring much more than they need…
Most nationalities need visa both for Kenya and Tanzania/Zanzibar.

Currency and payment
Usually most are prepaid.  If so,  a couple of thousand Kenyan Shillings (approx USD 20 pr day) pr day is enough, depending on your shopping mood… Be sure to get smaller notes
If  you apply for the visa to Kenya at the airport (most people prefer this) , you need USD 50,- in cash per person!
You can use credit cards at Basecamp Masai Mara, without surcharge – normally you pay 5% on the price for such use.. There are mini bank at the airport and also in Narok town if you are driving to Masai Mara.
Tipping is normal in Kenya – if you are satisfied, say around 10%. At Basecamp Masai Mara we kindly ask you to use the tip box and not do individual tipping of the staff members.

Souvenirs:
We try to present a decent supply of traditional souvenirs at the Camp, of good quality. We are working closely with the local “Maasai Mamas” and channel the major part of the income back to the community through a “fair trade” arrangement.

Safety:
Safety is our highest priority. Besides wandering around in Nairobi on your own at night time (and where else would you do that?), we consider a visit to be a normally safe journey.

Children:
They are more than welcome – and we  often have young visitors! A safari is an excellent experience for all generations; we have had many groups of 3 generations travelling together!
The age limit for walking safari is 15 years when accompanied with their parents, otherwise 18 years.
Masais are very fond of children and they cater for the youngsters if the parents want a safari on their own.

For more information call 0800 089 4422 or email us.