Accommodation on Safari:
Your Safari Accommodation Experience

At Nature Trails Expeditions, we believe that where you stay during your safari is just as important as thewildlife encounters you’ll experience. That’s why we meticulously select safari accommodations that offer both comfort and a unique connection to the natural world.
Your safari accommodation is more than just a place to rest your head – it’s an integral part of your safari
experience. With Nature Trails Expeditions, you can trust that your accommodation has been carefully
selected to provide the perfect blend of comfort, luxury, and immersion in nature. Relax, unwind, and
create lasting memories amidst Kenya’s breathtaking landscapes and abundant wildlife, knowing that your
safari accommodation is tailored to exceed your expectations.

Drinking Water & Beverages:
Hydration and Refreshments: Ensuring Your Well-Being on Safari

Staying hydrated and refreshed is essential during your safari adventure in Kenya. At Nature Trails Expeditions, we prioritize your comfort and well-being, providing comprehensive guidance on drinking water and beverages to enhance your safari experience. Here’s what you need to know:

1. Bottled Drinking Water: It’s important to avoid tap water in Kenya to prevent the risk of waterborne illnesses. To ensure your safety and hydration, we provide complimentary bottled drinking water throughout your safari journey. Your safari vehicle will be equipped with a cooler box stocked with bottled water, allowing you to stay hydrated during game drives and excursions.
2. Beverage Options: In addition to bottled water, our safari lodges and camps offer a variety of beverages for purchase to suit your preferences. Whether you’re craving a refreshing soft drink, a cold beer, or other bottled beverages, you’ll find a selection available at the lodges and campsites. Relax and unwind after a thrilling day of wildlife sightings with your beverage of choice in hand.

Packing for Safari:
Essential Packing Tips

Embarking on a safari adventure in Kenya is an exhilarating experience filled with unforgettable moments and breathtaking encounters with wildlife. To ensure a seamless and enjoyable journey, it’s essential to pack wisely and thoughtfully. At Nature Trails Expeditions, we provide you with comprehensive guidance on packing for your safari, ensuring that you have everything you need for a comfortable and memorable experience.

Spread packing between suitcases and carry essentials like passport, medication, and valuables in hand luggage. Plastic bags are prohibited; use fabric alternatives. Limit baggage on light aircraft flights; excess luggage may incur fees.

Photography Equipment:
Essential Photography Equipment for Your Safari Adventure

Embarking on a safari journey through Kenya’s breathtaking landscapes and wildlife-rich reserves presents unparalleled opportunities for photography enthusiasts to capture unforgettable moments. At Nature Trails Expeditions, we understand the importance of having the right photography equipment to immortalize your safari experience.
NB:
Bring a digital camera or DSLR with interchangeable lenses for wildlife and landscape photography. Binoculars are essential for wildlife viewing. Additional batteries, memory cards, and cleaning equipment are recommended.

Weather & Safari Timing:

Safaris can be enjoyed all year-round. Talk to our experienced travel consultants for more information.

High Season (Jan-Mar) offers prime wildlife viewing.

The three months are good for safari, the period is just after the short rain season, you may catch some bird species that are winter visitors from Europe. The grass is not so high enough to hinders your view of the animals. There shall be great opportunities to encounter large elephant herds.

Low Season (Apr-Jun) offer unique experiences with fewer
crowds.

This is the long rainy season; you can still enjoy your safari during this period. Tropical rain comes in bursts and lasts a few hours, mostly in the mornings and afternoons. The rains freshen up the nature and often enhance the safari experience.

Peak Season (July-October) commonly known as the migration session.

Huge herds of wildebeest enter the Masai Mara from the Serengeti in Tanzania. Due to evolving climatic situations it may be a little difficult to give specific time for the start of migration. It is however safe to state that the great wildebeest migration is active at the Masai mara by the middle of July. Wildebeest start their return journey to Tanzania around September / October. The return process is devoid of drama.

Shoulder Season (Nov-Dec) offer unique experiences with fewer crowds.

This is the short rainy season in Kenya. The short rain freshens the pastures and grass start to grow. The national parks and game reserves regain their vegetation.

Safari Clothing:

Selecting the Perfect Safari Attire

Preparing your wardrobe for a safari adventure with Nature Trails Expeditions involves careful consideration of clothing choices to ensure comfort, practicality, and style. By carefully selecting lightweight, breathable, and versatile clothing items in neutral tones, along with appropriate footwear and sun protection accessories, you’ll be well-prepared to embrace the beauty and adventure of a Kenyan safari in comfort and style. Whether trekking through savannahs or lounging at lodge accommodations, your safari wardrobe ensures both practicality and elegance throughout your journey. (Pack lightweight, neutral-colored clothing suitable for layering. Comfortable walking shoes are essential. Swimwear is recommended for lodges with swimming pools.)

Currency:

Accepted Currencies:

While the Kenyan shilling is the primary currency, major international currencies such as the US dollar (USD), Euro (EUR), and British pound sterling (GBP) are widely accepted in many establishments, including hotels, restaurants, and souvenir shops. This provides flexibility for travelers who prefer to use their native currency or have difficulty accessing Kenyan shillings. By understanding the currency landscape in Kenya and leveraging the available exchange options, you can effectively manage your finances during your safari adventure in Kenya. Whether exchanging currency at Forex Bureaus, withdrawing cash from ATMs, or using credit cards for larger purchases, being prepared ensures a seamless and enjoyable travel experience in Kenya.

Customs Duty:
Navigating Customs Regulations in Kenya

Understanding customs duty regulations is crucial for travelers visiting Kenya, ensuring a smooth entry and compliance with local laws. By understanding  customs duty regulations and adhering to relevant guidelines, travelers can navigate customs procedures smoothly and ensure compliance with local laws when entering Kenya. Whether declaring personal items, alcohol, or tobacco products, staying informed and prepared simplifies the customs clearance process, allowing you to focus on enjoying your safari adventure with Nature Trails Expeditions.

Safari Guide/Driver:
Embark on Safari Adventures with Expert Guidance:

At Nature Trails Expeditions, we believe that your safari guide/driver is more than just a companion onyour journey – they  are your gateway to the wonders of Kenya’s landscapes, wildlife, and culture. Integral to your safari experience, our knowledgeable and experienced guides are passionate about sharing their expertise and ensuring that your safari adventure surpasses all expectations.
NB:
In Kenya, tipping your safari guide/driver is customary and reflects your appreciation for their exceptional service and dedication to making your safari unforgettable. While the amount is at your discretion, a gratuity of around $10 per guest per day is suggested, recognizing the invaluable role your guide plays in enhancing your safari experience.

Electricity: Powering Your Safari

Experience: Navigating Electricity in Kenya

When embarking on your safari adventure with Nature Trails Expeditions, it’s essential to be prepared for the electrical nuances of Kenya’s diverse landscapes. Understanding voltage requirements, plug adapters, and potential limitations ensures that you stay connected and powered up throughout your journey, even in remote areas.

Voltage and Plug Adapters:

In Kenya, the standard voltage is 220 volts, which may differ from what you’re accustomed to in your home country. To connect your electronic devices and appliances, you’ll need plug adapters designed for the three-flat-pin sockets commonly found in Kenya. Bringing a variety of international adapter plugs ensures that you’re equipped to plug in and charge your devices wherever your safari takes you.

NB:

Limited Electricity in Remote Areas: While many safari lodges and camps provide electricity for guest use, it’s essential to note that power availability may be limited, particularly in remote areas far from urban centers. Some accommodations rely on generators, which may be switched off during certain hours to conserve energy. As a result, it’s wise to conserve power and charge your devices when electricity is available to ensure you’re adequately powered throughout your safari adventure.

Charging Electrical Items:

NB:

Most of the camps and lodges in the game parks may turn off their generators during the day and late at night (11pm – 6am), this means there will be no electricity at this time. Please recharge your video camera batteries at applicable times of the day, or carry extra batteries.

Fees & Taxes:

Navigating Fees and Taxes on Your Kenyan Safari Adventure

When embarking on a safari expedition with Nature Trails Expeditions, it’s essential to understand the breakdown of fees and taxes associated with your journey. From government taxes to park fees and ranger services, knowing what is included in your safari tour price ensures transparency and allows you to budget effectively for your adventure in the wild.

Transparent Pricing:

At Nature Trails Expeditions, we believe in providing transparent pricing for our safari tours, ensuring that you know exactly what to expect in terms of fees and taxes. Our tour prices are comprehensive, encompassing government taxes, accommodation charges, park fees, and ranger services, so you can rest assured that there are no hidden costs or surprises along the way.

Game Trophies:

Protecting Kenya’s Wildlife Heritage Legal Restrictions:

It is essential for our clients to understand that the sale of products made from wild animals, including ivory, hides, and other prohibited items, is strictly illegal in Kenya. These regulations are in place to protect endangered species and combat illegal wildlife trafficking, which poses a significant threat to the survival of Kenya’s iconic wildlife populations.

At Nature Trails Expeditions, we are committed to promoting responsible tourism practices that prioritize the conservation of Kenya’s rich wildlife heritage.

Travel Insurance:

The Importance of Travel Insurance

While Nature Trails Expeditions takes every precaution to prioritize the safety and well-being of our clients, it’s essential to recognize that each traveler bears personal responsibility for their health and safety during their safari journey. By securing travel insurance that includes coverage for medical expenses and evacuation services, you assume proactive measures to protect yourself and your fellow travelers in the event of unforeseen emergencies or accidents. By ensuring coverage for medical expenses and evacuation services, you safeguard your well-being and empower yourself to embark on your safari journey with confidence and peace of mind.

Languages:

Embrace Swahili for Authentic Safari Interactions

English is the official language, with Swahili as the national language. Learn basic Swahili phrases for local interactions. At Nature Trails Expeditions, we encourage travelers to embrace Swahili as a pathway to deeper cultural immersion and authentic interactions during their Kenyan safari. Whether you’re greeting locals with a cheerful “Habari!” or expressing gratitude with a heartfelt “Asante sana,” learning basic Swahili phrases enriches your safari journey and creates meaningful connections that transcend language barriers, allowing you to truly experience the heart and soul of Kenya’s vibrant communities. Karibuni Kenya! (Welcome to Kenya!)

Laundry Services on Safari:

Refresh, Renew, Relax

Convenience and Comfort:

Embarking on a multi-night safari expedition means embracing the rugged beauty of nature, but it doesn’t mean sacrificing your comfort. Our partner lodges and camps are equipped with modern amenities, including laundry facilities, to ensure that you can maintain a clean and refreshed wardrobe throughout your stay. Whether you’re exploring the vast plains of the Masai Mara or unwinding in the serene ambiance of Amboseli National Park, our partners offer laundry services which provide the convenience you need to focus on enjoying your safari experience to the fullest.

NB: With our partner lodges and camps offering efficient and reliable laundry services, you can travel light, stay fresh, and focus on making memories that will last a lifetime, knowing that we’ve got you covered every step of the way.

Meals On Safari:

A Taste of Kenya’s Bounty:

Kenya’s rich culinary heritage is as diverse as its wildlife and landscapes. During your safari, you’ll have the opportunity to sample a wide array of traditional Kenyan dishes, from hearty stews and grilled meats to fresh fruits and vegetables bursting with flavor. Indulge in the authentic tastes of Kenya as you dine under the African sky, surrounded by the sights and sounds of the wilderness.

NB: We understand that every traveler has unique dietary preferences and restrictions. That’s why our safari accommodations partners are committed to accommodating various dietary needs, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and other special requests. The chefs are skilled at crafting flavorful dishes that cater to specific dietary requirements, ensuring that every guest can enjoy a memorable dining experience without compromise.

Medical Facilities:

Nairobi offers excellent medical facilities, with doctors available at most lodges and camps for minor ailments.

Safety:

Exercise caution and avoid leaving valuables unattended. Visitors should exercise caution as in any other part of the world. Normal care and sensible precautions should be taken. Please do not leave cash, jewelry or valuables unattended in hotel rooms. Every lodge or hotel has a safe deposit facility for your valuables safe keeping. Do not wear flashy jewelry, or leave handbags and photographic equipment unattended in public places.

NB:

• Safes are always provided for secure storage

Safari Souvenir Shopping:

When embarking on a safari adventure in Kenya, the experience isn’t complete without indulging in the vibrant and diverse world of souvenir shopping. From bustling markets to boutique stores, Nairobi offers a treasure trove of unique and authentic items that capture the essence of Kenyan culture and craftsmanship.

NB:

• Avoid purchasing items made from prohibited wildlife products.

Airport Transfers:

Seamless Arrivals and Departures

Experience the convenience and comfort of complimentary airport transfers as you begin and end your Kenyan adventure. At Nature Trails Expeditions, we understand the importance of seamless travel logistics, which is why we provide hassle-free airport transfers for all our guests.

Complimentary Transfers:

Your journey with us starts the moment you touch down at the airport. To ensure a stress-free arrival experience, we offer complimentary transfers from the airport to your hotel or accommodation in Nairobi. Our professional and friendly drivers will be waiting to greet you upon arrival, ready to whisk you away to your destination in comfort and style.

NB:

Simply provide us with your flight details when booking your safari adventure with our team. Whether you’re arriving on an international or domestic flight, our dedicated team will coordinate all the logistics to ensure that a driver is ready and waiting to greet you at the airport terminal. From there, you can sit back, relax, and enjoy a smooth journey to your accommodation.

Safari Transportation:

Your Gateway to Adventure

Embark on a journey of discovery and exploration with safari transportation that ensures comfort, safety, and unforgettable experiences. In Kenya, the gateway to Africa’s most iconic landscapes and wildlife, comfortable safari vehicles and experienced driver guides await to transport you to your safari destinations. As you embark on your safari adventure in Kenya, let our comfortable safari vehicles and experienced driver guides be your companions on this thrilling journey. From the moment you set foot in our vehicles to the final awe-inspiring wildlife sighting, trust in our transportation services to provide you with the ultimate safari experience, filled with excitement, wonder, and unforgettable memories.

NB:

It’s essential to note that baggage restrictions may apply, especially for internal flights and remote safari destinations. We recommend packing light and adhering to any weight limitations to ensure a smooth and hassle-free safari experience. Rest assured that any excess luggage can be securely stored at your accommodation in Nairobi until the end of your safari.

Masai Village Visit:

Immerse Yourself in Kenyan Culture

During your safari adventure in Kenya, one of the most enriching experiences you can have is a visit to a Masai village. The Masai people are a prominent ethnic group in Kenya, known for their rich cultural heritage, traditional way of life, and vibrant customs. Arranging a visit to a Masai village offers travelers a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in Kenyan culture and gain insight into the daily lives of the Masai people. Arrange visits to Masai villages with your guide; donations may be suggested.

Lunch and Drinks on Safari:

A Culinary Adventure in the Wilderness

Embarking on a safari in Kenya isn’t just about wildlife sightings; it’s also an opportunity to indulge in delightful culinary experiences amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Africa. As part of your safari package, meals are meticulously planned and provided, ensuring that you’re well-nourished throughout your journey. Meals are included, with packed lunches provided for full-day game drives. “Enjoy a picnic amidst nature, surrounded by awe-inspiring landscapes and the sounds of the African wilderness.” Beverages are settled directly.

Time Difference:

Kenya is 2 hours ahead of GMT. Mosquito Net: Mosquito nets are provided in accommodations; insect repellent is recommended. Mosquitoes appear when the sunsets, temperatures drop and the evening night sets in. This is when most bites happen. We advise that you wear long pants and a long-sleeved shirt. It is also important to make sure any exposed parts of the body are protected with insects’ repellent.

Check-in/Out:

Fill out registration cards at check-in. Check-in after 11am and check-out before 10am.

Important Items in Hand Luggage:

Carry passports, medications, camera equipment, and photocopies of important documents in hand luggage.

This compiled travel information provides comprehensive guidance for travelers planning a safari in Kenya, covering essential aspects such as accommodation, transportation, safety, and cultural considerations.