Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. When is the best time of year to visit Kenya and Tanzania?
A1. Kenya and Tanzania are great year round destinations. The main tourist season is in January and February, since the hot, dry weather at this time of year is generally considered to be the most pleasant. It's also when bird life flocks to the Rift Valley lakes in the greatest numbers. June to September could be called the 'shoulder season' as the weather is still dry. The rains hit from March to May (and to a lesser extent from October to December). During these months things are much quieter - places tend to have rooms available and prices may decrease. The rains generally don't affect travelers' ability to get around. When is the best time to go on safari?

July/August and December are the busiest times in Kenya and Tanzania when parks and lodges get a bit crowded and reservations often must be made at least 6 to 8 months in advance. Travel during rest of the year primarily depends on the weather. For more details see the climate guide

Q2. What is the weather like in Kenya and Tanzania?
A2. Tanzania and Kenya enjoy a tropical climate. It is hot and humid at the coast, temperate inland and very dry in the north and northeast parts of the country. 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 all the year round and summer clothes are worn throughout the year. However, it is usually cool at night and early in the morning. The long rains occur from April to June and short rains from October to 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 coolest in July to August.

Q3. When does the famous animal migration take place?
A3. The annual migration of wildlife between Serengeti National Park in Tanzania and Maasai Mara National Park in Kenya takes place between June and September. The migration of almost two million wildebeest, zebras and other species is nature's greatest spectacle on earth. During the rest of the year the herd can be seen in different parts of the massive Serengeti National Park.

Q4. I'm a single traveler can I go on safari with Scops Safaris?
A4. Scops Tours and Safaris requires a minimum of two travelers, although you may join any one of our scheduled tours when they are available on offer.

Q5. What shots do I need before I travel?
A5. The Kenya and Tanzania governments require only immunization for yellow fever. We strongly recommend immunization against malaria. Please consult your family doctor to determine the additional shots he would recommend.

Q6. How many hours does the flight to Kenya/Tanzania take from the United States?
A6. Most flights from the United States stop in London or Amsterdam on their way to Nairobi, Kenya. Here is an example of a typical flight from New York to Nairobi/Kilimanjaro with a connection in Amsterdam:

New York to Amsterdam/London: 7 Hours
Flight from Amsterdam/London to Nairobi/Kilimanjaro: 8.5 Hours
Total Flight Time: 15.5 Hours

Q7. Is a Visa required for entry into Kenya and Tanzania?
A7. Yes, U.S. citizens require a visa to enter both Tanzania and Kenya both can be obtained upon arrival or in advance through the respective embassy offices closest to you.

Q8. Should I bring my children to Kenya? Is it safe for them?
A8. Tanzania and Kenya are terrific destinations for families and it is an amazing experience to share with children who are already enchanted with the idea of Africa and its wildlife. If you're considering taking young children, however, you should ask yourself if both you and your child can deal with the obstacles. For children under 5, Kenya and Tanzania are a mixture of fun - in the pool, on the beach, with other kids - and tedium - the 17+ hour flight, on a game drive, in a restaurant. Speak with your doctor about your health-related concerns related to bringing your child to Africa.

Q9. Do I have to pay a departure tax at the airport?
A9. Like most international destinations, Tanzania and Kenya charge an airport departure tax for all international flights. The tax of $40 may be included in the airline ticket price. 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 U.S. Dollars.

Q10. Is tipping required in Tanzania and Kenya?
Q10. Most major hotels and restaurants include a service charge. Tipping is not obligatory and is entirely at your discretion. Safari Guides, may be tipped a $10.00 per day, although this is a matter of personal choice and is not compulsory.

Note that on safaris, tips are considered almost part of the pay. A tip for your guide of $2.00 to $5.00 per person per day is appropriate.

Q11. Will I be able to use my electrical equipment while on Safari?
A11. The local electricity supply is 220/240 volts AC, 50HZ. Plugs are 3 point square. If you are planning to bring a video camera charger or any other electrical device, please bring voltage and plug adaptors where appropriate. Major hotels usually provide hair dryers, irons and other electrical amenities upon request.

Q12. Do people speak English in Tanzania and Kenya?
A12. 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's. A little Swahili goes a long way in here. It is worth learning a little, and locals are thrilled to hear visitors attempt to use any Swahili at all. For example, "Jambo" means hello and is often the first word learned by visitors.

Q13. What is Safari accommodation like?
A13. The detailed day by day description of activities as well as links to the properties you'll be staying and parks you'll be visiting in provided for each safari. Simply click on the safari lodge listed for each day of your safari to read more about the property.

Q14. What are the meals like?
A14. The meals are primarily European style buffets with a touch African taste.

Q15. What kind of vehicle will we be traveling during the Safari?
A15. Our classic safari vehicle is an all-purpose built 6 seater safari bus specially designed for the terrain. It comes complete with a pop up roof for easy game viewing.