Africa

What validity do I need on my passport?
All passengers are required to possess a passport valid for 6 months beyond the conclusion of their trip.

What visas do I require?
You must contact your travel agent, the country’s consulate representation in Australia, or applicable government authorities to get the necessary and current information and documentation on visa requirements for your nationality. It is the sole responsibility of each passenger to have the necessary visas and to comply with entry, health or other requirements of the countries visited. More advice can also be found at the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade’s website.

Can Scenic Tours arrange my passport and visas?
Scenic Tours and/or their employees and their agents are not responsible for passport, visa requirements, entry, health or other requirements of the countries visited or for any loss sustained by you for failing to comply with laws, regulations, orders and/or requirements of countries visited.

How much luggage can I bring with me?
The tour allowance is one suitcase with a maximum size of 76 x 53 x 28 cms (30 x 21 x 11’’) and weight of 20 kilograms. You may also carry a small backpack or the Scenic Tours issued overnight bag onboard the coach for the duration of the tour. Additional bags beyond this allowance may incur additional charges, which must be settled directly with the hotel or airline.

Are porterage fees included?
Luggage handling and porterage of your luggage (as per the luggage allowance above) is included.

Additional bags beyond the allowance may be charged or it may be the responsibility of the passenger to forward the baggage to another destination. Luggage handling is not included during any independent or non-escorted touring. In this situation, luggage handling and porterage will need to be organised directly with the hotel porters.

Should I attach the Scenic Tours luggage label provided prior to departure?
No, please wait until you have claimed your baggage at your destination airport. This will ensure airline companies will not tear off this tag, as it is required to easily identify your baggage for transfer services and hotels.

Do I need any specific luggage for Africa?
Yes. When travelling in Kenya you need to take a small soft bag to pack down into, as suitcases are unable to be taken in safari vehicles.  Suitcases will be stored in Nairobi whilst touring and returned to you at Nairobi Airport.

What type of clothing will I need?
Lightweight clothing in neutral colours is suitable, including a long-sleeved shirt for protection from the sun and long pants for protection from mosquitoes in the evenings. Casual sportswear is fine during the day. We recommend packing clothes that can be layered plus warm clothing for cooler evenings and early morning game drives. Don’t forget suitable swimwear, comfortable walking shoes with rubber soles for good grip, sunglasses and a wide brimmed sun hat.

Please note: The dress code for dinner on the Blue Train is jacket and tie for men and elegant eveningwear for ladies.

What else should I pack?
The following list may be useful when packing for your trip:
• Airline tickets and passport (plus a photocopy and extra passport photos)
• Travel and travel insurance documentation, and itinerary (make a copy for your emergency contact)
• Traveller’s cheques/cash/debit or credit card and emergency contact numbers if lost or stolen, plus local currency for first day and a money belt
• Spare memory card for your digital camera or film in clear plastic containers
• Only those keys needed on return
• Personal medication and prescriptions, extra glasses/contacts and prescriptions
• Sunscreen, lip balm and tropical strength insect repellent containing DEET
• Pocket calculator, address book, journal and pens
• Face cloth/flannel (as most hotels don’t provide), tissues and anti-bacterial hand wipes or hand sanitiser 
• Raincoat or umbrella
• Plastic bags for dirty laundry, washing powder and elastic clothesline
• Travel alarm clock, earplugs and sleep mask
• Adaptor plugs, mobile phone charger, battery charger
• Small torch and batteries (there is minimal lighting at remote locations)
• Good quality binoculars is essential for effective game viewing

What should I pack in my hand luggage?
In your hand luggage we suggest you carry a good supply of any medication, extra film or memory cards and spare batteries for your camera, sunscreen and sun hat, a pen and a spare pair of prescription glasses, plus a change of clothes and your toiletries in case of mislaid luggage.

Are there any luggage restrictions on tour? 
The Australian Government has enhanced security measures to limit the amount of liquids, aerosols, and gels that can be taken through the screening point for people who are flying to and from Australia. Details of restrictions and requirements can be found on the Australian Department of Infrastructure and Transport’s website.

Will my luggage be secure?
We strongly advise that you do not pack anything of value in your check-in luggage and that you check-in ONLY your own suitcases. Do not carry items packed by other people. Never accept packages or articles from anyone unknown to you to carry on board the aircraft.

What happens if my luggage goes missing?
It is highly unlikely for your luggage to be mislaid, however we suggest if travelling as a couple to pack each suitcase with back up clothes and toiletries for each person. We also suggest writing your personal and tour details on a label INSIDE each suitcase (including name, address, telephone number, departure and return flight details). Write only your name and destination address on outside labels.

What level of fitness do I require for your African tours?
Our African tours require clients to have a good level of health and fitness and we recommend a visit to both your doctor and dentist before your trip.

What kind of conditions should I prepare for?
In Kenya, Namibia and Botswana you can expect dusty and/or unsealed road conditions and you will walk on undulating surfaces in Namibia, therefore good physical condition is necessary. Travel in Kenya is by 4WD safari vehicle and it is highly recommended clients with back conditions and/or mobility difficulties consult their doctor before participation. In the winter months, the big game areas can be dusty. Wrap-around sunglasses provide the best protection from dust and other eye irritants, and guests with contact lenses should bring glasses and eye drops.
Proximity to the equator makes the African sun particularly strong so ensure you use the proper level of sun protection. Sun protective chapstick, sunscreens, moisturising creams and insect repellents are recommended.

Can I travel with a wheelchair?
Unfortunately many destinations in Africa do not have facilities to accommodate wheelchairs and other walking aids. Please also be aware that many African tours require good mobility and fitness levels as walking and getting on/off transport is required in many areas.

What vaccinations and health precautions do I need?
You will need to make an appointment with your personal GP or travel clinic at least 6 weeks prior to departure to review pertinent and up-to-date health precautions including vaccinations and medications recommended for the area to which you are travelling.

Please note:
• A Yellow Fever Vaccination Card is required for entry into Kenya.
• Malaria tablets are advisable for all non-African visitors. We strongly advise that you cover up by wearing long sleeves and long pants and use mosquito repellent.
• Seasonal outbreaks of cholera in Zambia and Kenya are common. Please consult your GP or travel clinic on precautionary measures. Please ensure you only drink bottled water and avoid ice cubes and raw or undercooked foods.

Should I provide Scenic Tours with my health and fitness details prior to travelling?
We will supply a Health and Fitness form in your travel wallet. These forms are designed to provide us with instant information if an emergency should arise. These forms will be returned unopened at the completion of the tour. It is not compulsory to fill out these forms but strongly advisable.

Can I take prescription medication into Africa?
Yes and its advisable to pack an ample supply of any medicine you are taking, copies of prescriptions and the telephone/fax number of your doctor. Because of strict drug laws in some countries, drugs you take on doctor’s orders should be carried in their original container showing the prescription label. Always keep your medication in your hand luggage.

Can I take gifts for local children?
Many past passengers have enjoyed the experience of giving the local village children small gifts from Australia. During your tour you will have the opportunity to visit the Nakuru Baby Orphanage Centre and meet the Australian family who established the Orphanage, plus the children and volunteers. Scenic Tours makes a donation to the Orphanage with each group that visits.

What sort of gifts are appropriate to bring?
If you would like to bring gifts from Australia, we suggest anything that children would enjoy, such as pencils, pens, coloured paper, reading books or small toys. Any gift will be greatly appreciated but is of course at your discretion and not compulsory.

What books can I read in preparation for understanding Africa?
There are a lot of wonderful books that depict Africa’s history, culture and landscapes including:
• Africa's Animal Kingdom: A Visual Celebration - Kit Coppard
• African Nights: True Stories from the Author of I Dreamed of Africa - Kuki Gallmann
• Out of Africa - Isak Dinesen
• The Worlds of a Maasai Warrior: An Autobiography - Tepilit Ole Saitoti
• Facing the Lion: Growing Up Maasai on the African Savanna - Joseph Lemasolai-Lekuton
• Wildlife - Mitsuaki Iwago
• The Safari Companion: A Guide to Watching African Mammals Including Hoofed Mammals, Carnivores and Primates - Richard D. Estes
• History of Africa - Kevin Shillington

How do I receive details and tickets for my internal flights within Africa?
Flight numbers and times for your internal flights will be advised to you on tour by your Tour Director.  They will also provide you with your internal flight tickets.

What time can I check-in to my hotel?
If your flight arrives before noon at the city where your tour starts, the hotel may not have your room available until mid-afternoon. We do our best to prevent this from happening but if you have to wait you could use this time to explore the neighbourhood, shop or relax in the hotel public areas. On arrival at your hotel, please check to see if your Tour Director has already posted tour information in the foyer.

Do I have an allocated seat on the tour coaches?
To ensure all passengers have the opportunity to enjoy front and window seats, a daily seat rotation system is employed on all our coaches. It works on a scatter system, rotating everyone by numbers, which allows you to get to know other members of the group you may not have already met.

Are laundry facilities available?
Hotels in Africa do not have public laundry facilities, however the housekeeping departments of all hotels do offer a laundry service but this can be costly. The Blue Train does have a limited laundry service however is also expensive.

Do I need to bring electrical adaptor plugs?
Yes you will require an adaptor plug as Africa’s electricity current is 220 volts AC and both round and rectangular three-pronged plug sockets are in use. Appropriate adaptor plugs should be purchased before leaving home to use for items including shavers and mobile phone chargers.

What is climate like across Africa?

Southern Africa
The rainy season runs mainly from late November through mid-April in the safari regions, however in South Africa, the southern Cape is experiencing summer at this time. The Cape area can be cooler and wetter during the southern hemisphere winter months from June through August.

East and Central Africa
The long rains are from early April through to early June, and the short rains are from late November through December. Dry seasons offer excellent visibility and more reliable road conditions, and game tend to congregate around the limited water sources, making the animals easier to find. July and August are generally extremely busy in East Africa, offering comfortable temperatures.

What are the average temperatures in Africa?

How should I photograph wildlife?
When taking close-up pictures of Africa’s wildlife, focus on the animal's eyes. This guarantees that most of the animal's face will be in focus. Be prepared and ready with your camera at all times, as animals may suddenly appear and disappear just as quickly. Never interfere with the natural behaviour of the animals in order to take a better photo. For keen photographers it is recommended that a polarising lens and a UV filter be taken for your lenses as the intense bright sunlight can wash out photos.

Can I photograph people?
Out of respect for the local cultures, seek the advice of your driver before photographing people.

Can I easily obtain batteries and memory cards?
Batteries and memory cards are expensive and difficult to obtain in much of Africa so it’s best to bring extras with you.

What sort of binoculars should I bring?
Binoculars are strongly recommended. They are invaluable for observing larger animals as well as birds. A 7 or 8 power binocular works well for most people.

Can I photograph or film in museums?
Museums and attractions have differing rules regarding cameras and videos. While some do not allow cameras to be taken in at all, at others a fee or a permit may be required. Your guide will advise of the rules at each particular site and what is required. Please tell your guide if you will require a permit at the time and he/she will purchase a special ticket and advise you accordingly. In many museums, tombs and temples the use of a flash is strictly prohibited.

Is photography prohibited in any parts of Africa?
Photography is prohibited in 'restricted' areas such as bridges, dams, ports and airports.

How can I make telephone calls back to Australia?
International telephone services are generally of excellent standard in Africa but please note that telephone calls from hotels are surcharged. Public telephones are available throughout Africa and 'International Call Cards' may be purchased at newsstands or tobacco shops.
Remember to dial the international access code 00 followed by the country code 61 (Australia), the area code (without the 0) and your phone number. International calls are cheaper after 20.00 and before 8.00 from Monday to Friday, and between 20.00 on Friday and 8.00 on Monday.

Please Note: the majority of your East African hotels will not have telephone services.

What is the time zone difference for Africa?
South Africa is 8 hours behind Australian Eastern Standard time (this is a guide only as daylight saving changes will alter respective time variances).

Can I speak English in Africa?
Yes, English is widely spoken in Africa. South Africa is a multi-lingual country with 11 officially-recognised languages. There are over 73 dialects spoken in Zambia, but the official language is English. All media and business is in English and most Zambians speak it fairly well. English is also the official language of Kenya, but Swahili is the national language, with 42 ethnic languages spoken.

What monetary currency is in use in Africa?
There are different monetary currencies in use across Africa as follows:

South Africa
The official currency is the 'Rand', which is divided into bank notes of 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 and coins of 1, 2, 5, 10, 50c 20c, 10c, 5c, 2c, 1c.

Please note: The Reserve Bank of South Africa has recalled all R200 notes that were printed prior to 2006. We recommend that you do not accept any R200 when exchanging funds prior to departure, as we cannot guarantee that they will be accepted.

Zambia
The official currency is the Zambian Kwacha (ZMK), which is divided into 20, 50, 100, 500, 1000, 5000 and 10,000 notes.

Please note: Higher denominations are often referred to as 'pin' where 1 pin generally equals ZMK 1000.

Kenya
The official currency is the Kenya Shilling (KSh) divided into 100 cents.

Please note: We recommend taking US dollars in small notes with you to be used in Kenya. In Kenya they will only accept brand new notes, so you need to ensure that the notes you receive are in mint condition, and recently issued, as often older notes will be refused also.

How much foreign money should I bring with me?
Before you leave home it is important to obtain a small amount of cash in South African Rand for your use on day one of your tour and at the airports during transit. Foreign currency can be purchased before you leave at major banks, foreign currency exchange offices and at international airports.

Are all credit cards accepted in Africa?
Most international credit cards are accepted in Africa. Some shops and restaurants require a minimum purchase amount when using them. Due to increasing credit card fraud worldwide, be prepared to show identification (i.e. your passport) when making a transaction with your credit card. We recommend that you have a pin number for your credit cards, as some businesses only accept payment with a pin.

What else should I be aware of when using credit cards in Africa?
Most credit cards charge a fee (about 3%) for currency exchange. It may be worthwhile to take more than one type of credit card as not all types of credit cards are accepted.  Before travelling ensure your credit cards are valid for at least 30 days after the completion of the tour. Also ask your credit card company for the international emergency number and contact your bank before leaving Australia to advise that you will be using your credit card overseas and to check that you can withdraw cash on your card abroad.

Are there ATMs available in Africa?
Automatic Teller Machines (ATMs) are found in the large cities and operate in the same manner as Australia with an English language option. Ensure your card is activated and don’t forget your pin number.

Can I use travellers cheques?
Yes, you can use travellers cheques in Africa and we recommend that you take US travellers cheques for all tours as if they are lost or stolen they can be replaced quickly.

Can I obtain US dollars in African banks?
Generally speaking, banks in Africa are open Monday through Friday from about 9.00 to 15.30. US dollars are widely accepted in banks throughout Africa, but hard to obtain once there. We highly recommend carrying smaller denominations of US dollars, but ensure that notes are no older than three years.

What is the tipping protocol in Africa?
Tipping in Africa is a customary practice to show appreciation for the service received, and many employees rely on tipping for their income. Tipping is voluntary and made on an individual basis.

Are tips covered in my tour price?
Your tour price includes tipping porters (for 1 piece of luggage) and to drivers and local guides. Tips are NOT included for meals, drinks, taxis, transfers or items of a personal nature and are at your discretion. Tipping and porterage is not included on the BLUE TRAIN EXTENSION.

Please note: In Zambia tipping is discouraged, as it is included as a service charge on your bill.

Can I claim a VAT refund on shopping in Africa?
Foreign tourists visiting Africa can have their value-added tax (VAT) refunded provided the value of the items purchased exceeds 250 Rand. VAT is refunded on departure at the point of departure. Original tax invoices, foreign passport, plus all the items on which a refund is claimed, must be presented at the VAT refund administration office or an appointed Republic of South Africa customs and excise official on departure, and the total VAT on these items will be refunded. Visitors will be requested to fill out a VAT Refund Control Sheet (VAT 255). Where a visitor does not export all the goods specified on a particular tax invoice, only the value of the goods and the tax paid on such goods exported must be declared on this form.

What is the customs allowance on return to Australia?
Apart from personal effects, returning travellers over 18 years of age are allowed to bring into Australia the following goods duty free. Alcohol – 2.25 litres, cigarettes/tobacco – 250 grams or 50 cigars, other articles up to a total combined value of AU$900 are free of duty and tax, but goods in excess of this may attract both.

Are there restrictions on what purchases I can bring back into Australia from Africa?
Africa is a mecca for handicrafts, wooden carvings and diamonds, and they can all be brought back into Australia, but must be declared through customs. Animal skins are prohibited to be brought into Australia. Please refer to the Australian Customs and Border Protection website for more detail.

Is bargaining acceptable practice?
Yes, the art of bargaining is commonly practiced, especially in markets. This is very much Africa's culture, as developing a good rapport between shopkeeper and customer takes precedence over the actual sale.

What times are the shops open?
Shops are generally open from 8.00 to 17.00, Monday to Friday although some stay open until 19.00, and on Saturdays from 8.00 to 13. 00, although some stay open till 17.00.

Is the water safe to drink?
Due to the heat in Africa, it is essential to drink plenty of fluids, however it is not safe to drink tap water or brush your teeth with it. We recommend drinking bottled or canned drinks and ideally those of well-known brands. Do not consume ice and have bottled mineral waters opened in your presence.

Can you accommodate special dietary requirements?
Yes. If you have not already advised your travel agent at the time of booking please let your Tour Director know at the start of the tour any special needs or dietary requirements so they can be best accommodated. Remember your favourite food items will not always be available.

What precautions should I take for safe travel in Africa?
Your safety is very important to us at Scenic Tours, since we make it our business to know the areas we travel in, you are never at any undue risk. Safety and security however is a matter of common sense: do not carry large sums of cash with you, keep a close watch on handbags, purses, and wallets when walking in crowded areas, avoid walking alone at night, lock up valuables in hotel safe deposit boxes and never leave valuables in view in an unattended coach or safari vehicle.  We also advise you take copies of passports, credit cards and other pertinent identification and documents. Keep one copy with you, and leave one copy with your emergency contact at home.

Are the game drives safe?
All game drives are hosted by a professional ranger and guide who will answer any of your questions. Please respect your guide's judgement about your proximity to certain wild animals and never insist that the vehicle be taken closer so you can get a better photograph.

Can I feed the animals?
Never attempt to feed or approach any wild animal on foot. This is especially important near lodges where animals may have become accustomed to human visitors.