Frequently Asked Questions

Kenya follows this timezone: East Africa UTC+03:00

No, travel insurance is not included in our packages. We recommend that travelers purchase a suitable travel insurance package from an insurance provider of their choice before embarking on their trip.

Kenyans and East African Residents can purchase travel insurance from their trusted insurance company, with ICEA Lion being recommended by Ease My Safari. The link to their website is provided for convenience.

https://travel.icealion.com

PP or per person refers to the rate for one individual.

PPS or per person sharing means the rate is for one person, or multiple people sharing the same room or package.

PN or per night refers to the rate for one night, while per room indicates the rate for one room.

The All-Inclusive (AI) meal plan covers 3 meals per night, snacks, and a selection of soft and alcoholic drinks. Typically, breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included.

The Full Board (FB) meal plan includes 3 meals per night, snacks, and a selection of soft and alcoholic drinks. Usually, breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included.

The Half Board (HB) meal plan includes 2 meals per night, mainly breakfast and dinner. Drinks are not included.

When you book a hotel room on a bed & breakfast basis, you are booking accommodation and one meal, which is breakfast only.

Yes, we accept direct bank deposit, bank transfer, Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT), as well as Visa, Master Card, American Express, and PayPal.

However, please note that for payments made through PayPal check out, a surcharge/ processing fee of 4.7% of the total invoiced amount will applies.

Alternatively, we can also send you a secure payment request link to your email, which you can use to make payment using Mpesa, and ONLY either a VISA or MASTERCARD debit/ credit card. Please note that this method will incur a surcharge of (4.5% for International Cards, 3.5% for Local Cards and 3% for Mpesa) of the total fee as a commission to the payment gateway.

For further details on payment methods, you can refer to our Modes of Payments page, accessible through the link provided.

Payment Methods

We offer two types of vehicles for safaris:

• 7-seater minibus or safari van with a pop-up roof for game viewing, with no air conditioning, and
• Jeep or safari Landcruiser with similar capacity and a pop-up roof, but with larger leg space.

All vehicles have radios, cooler boxes, first aid kits, and some reading material about fauna, and Wi-Fi is available upon request. Luxury SUVs are not recommended for safaris due to their small roof hatch, and roads to game parks are often bumpy.

Safari guides serve as drivers, game spotters, and sources of information, and they are certified and knowledgeable about the country’s flora and fauna. They speak English and carry information books, and special language guides are available upon request.

For transfers, we offer private sedan, saloon, SUV cars, and executive buses with a professional English-speaking chauffeur, depending on number of guests, guest’s request, and their preference.

We prioritize the use of sustainable tourism safari vehicles.

See Pictures of our transportation options

The right safari vehicle is influenced by several factors, including the destinations you want to visit and your budget.

The safari van is the best option if you are on a tight budget. A 4 x 4 land cruiser safari is best if you want a classic African safari experience.

Safari minibuses/ vans are major and common safari vehicles that are used on the African safari and are available in both 2WD and 4WD. They are a bit affordable with fair prices compared to the 4*4 land cruisers. They give travelers a comfortable seating arrangement as each can have a window seat.

The safari vans have features similar to the land cruisers such as pop-up roofs and transparent windows for game viewing and photography while standing or seated.

The rooftop land cruiser is built as an off-roader from the start. They are more comfort enhanced compared to the safari minivans and hence more pricy and have a better view of things happening outdoors. The land cruiser is an all-weather vehicle.

The safari van can accommodate to carry a certain number of passengers from 6 up to 9 passengers while the Landcruiser can accommodate to carry from 6 up to 8 passengers.

See the various transportation options that you can hire from us.

Ease My Safari staff have escorted over 500 visitors on safari to East Africa. Years of first-hand experience mean that your every need has been anticipated and all our tours have been thoroughly proven. Each vehicle has its own local driver/guide.

These well-trained professionals make their living by knowing every inch of ground, making sure you have a good time.

Their keen eyes and experience give them the uncanny ability to spot birds and wildlife all along the way.

In addition to their wealth of knowledge about wildlife, they are happy to tell you all about life in their native land.

One of the hardest parts of leaving Africa is saying good-bye to your driver, who will have become a wonderful friend and companion.

For most programs there is a naturalist guide in addition to your driver. These dedicated professionals are with you at all times to make sure that your every need is attended to, answer all your questions, and give informative briefings on the reserves/ places you visit, the birds and wildlife you see, and the people you meet.

They can explain animal behavior, pointing out the matriarch in a herd of elephants or the zebra’s unique way of listening for predators.

We are particularly proud of the outstanding quality of our guides.

Yes. We encourage guests to carry either a a valid Passport or an original National ID for identification purposes.

Most of the hotels in East Africa do request a copy of the latter upon check in at the reception.

You are also required to present your original ID/ Passport on entry at any park in East Africa.

We also encourage guests to have a soft copy of their passport/ ID saved and easily accessible on phone.

We love visitors, you can always visit us at our offices located at: H7, Muthaiga North Drive, OFF Garden Estate Road, OFF Thika Road (Exit 7 from Nairobi )

At Ease My Safari, we highly encourage our guests to tip for exceptional service, as it is a common practice in East Africa.

However, the amount of the tip is entirely up to the discretion of the client/ guest. Safari guides typically receive tips between USD 10-30 per guest per day, while porters/ waiters at hotels/ lodges expect about USD 5-10 per guest per day.

At Ease My Safari, we are committed to promoting sustainable tourism practices that are both environmentally friendly and economically supportive to the local communities.

This means that we prioritize the use of eco-friendly hotels, work with local communities, reduce plastic waste by promoting the use of reusable water bottles, and encourage activities that support local tourism.

We also use environmentally friendly vehicles that are well-serviced and emit less to no carbon to minimize their impact on wildlife and the environment.

Additionally, we align our practices with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) set by the United Nations to promote sustainable development globally.

One of the ways in which we help to protect and support wildlife and cultural heritage is by never buying wildlife products.

We believe that the illegal wildlife trade is a major threat to many species and their habitats and we do not want to contribute to this.

Another way is by working with local guides and drivers, incorporating local communities into our tours and trips, and advocating for culture and heritage.

By supporting local businesses and encouraging activities that support local tourism, we aim to create a long-lasting, mutually-beneficial relationship between travelers and the communities they visit.

Yes, we do employ local guides on our trips.

By working with local guides and drivers, we ensure that the benefits of tourism are widely spread and that the impact on the environment is minimized.

We believe that by incorporating local communities into our tours and trips, they can directly benefit from the growth of tourism in their areas.

This not only helps to create a positive impact on local economies, but it also helps to preserve the unique cultures and traditions of the communities.

Unlimited game viewing drives refer to the number of times a safari guest can go on a game drive during their safari tour.

At Ease My Safari, guests have the option to go on unlimited game viewing drives, which means that there is no limit to the number of game drives they can take during their safari tour.

Yes, Ease My Safari offers group sharing safari tours for guests who are interested in experiencing a safari with other like-minded travelers.

This is an affordable and social way to explore Kenya’s wildlife and natural beauty.

• Group Joining Safaris
• Weekend group joining safaris to Sekenani Luxury Mara Camp

Ease My Safari provides complimentary extras to its safari guests such as bottled water, and a comprehensive first-aid kit (in all our safari vehicles).

Some of our safari packages include free activities and additional amenities such as lunch.

We strive to make our guests’ experience as comfortable and enjoyable as possible.

We also provide complimentary airport transfers ensuring a seamless transition for our guests:

• Beginning their safari immediately from the airport, and
• Concluding their safari to the airport for their return flight home on the same day.

Our airport transfer services are complemented by a meet-and-greet service provided by one of our company representatives.

Wi-Fi is not available at all safari lodges and tented camps, but some may offer Wi-Fi in common areas.

Please enquire with Ease My Safari to confirm if Wi-Fi is available at your chosen accommodation.

Yes, re-fill drinking water is provided to our safari guests throughout their trip.

We also encourage the use of reusable water bottles to minimize plastic waste.

It is possible to request an extra night or day on safari while on a group sharing tour, but availability may be subject to change.

Please contact Ease My Safari to discuss this option further.

Guests can choose a tour driver/guide from our online reviews, but final assignments are determined by Ease My Safari.

Mosquito nets are provided in the rooms/tents of most safari lodges and tented camps.

We recommend that guests bring mosquito and other insect repellents with them to use during their safari.

There is a maximum number of persons allowed to sleep in one safari room/tent, which varies depending on the accommodation. 

Please enquire with Ease My Safari for specific information.

Excess luggage can be stored while on safari, but arrangements must be made in advance.

Please contact Ease My Safari for more information.

The size/weight limit allowance for each traveler’s luggage in the safari jeep/ van is subject to change and is dependent on the vehicle and number of guests.

Please contact Ease My Safari for specific information.

Ease My Safari offers special discounts and incentives for honeymooners and families traveling with children.

Please contact us for more information.

Baggage allowance on local domestic/internal flights in Kenya may vary depending on the airline and flight route.

It is best to check the specific baggage allowance for your flight with the airline or tour operator before traveling.

Typically, there is a weight limit for checked baggage and a smaller allowance for carry-on baggage, which may vary depending on the class of travel.

Ease My Safari handles requests for special dietary needs, but arrangements must be made in advance.

Please inform us of any specific requirements during the booking process.

Persons with special needs may be able to participate in our east African safari tours, but this will depend on the specific needs and tour itinerary.

Please contact or share your needs with Ease My Safari for more information.

Yes, Ease My Safari provides airport hotel transfers service when guests arrive and depart Nairobi.

However, this service is subject to the itinerary and quotation shared with the client.

Guests can also book the transfer service as a stand alone.

We also provide complimentary airport transfers for our guests concluding their safari, ensuring a seamless transition to the airport for their return flight home on the same day.

Our airport transfer services are complemented by a meet-and-greet service provided by one of our company representatives.

Ease My Safari offers accommodation booking service and hence we can book or recommend a Nairobi hotel for guests’ pre or post-safari stay.

A safari lodge is a permanent structure roofing and walls, usually with en-suite bathrooms that provides guests with a more traditional and luxurious safari experience.

Tented camp is a temporary structure made of canvas walls and roofing, offers a more rustic and adventurous experience with accommodation in tents.

The Maasai Mara Game Reserve is a protected area in south western Kenya, known for its high density of wildlife and its annual wildebeest migration.

Adjacent conservancies are privately owned wildlife areas adjacent to the Maasai Mara Game Reserve.

These conservancies often offer more exclusive wildlife viewing experiences and can include activities such as guided walks, night drives, and hot air balloon rides. They also often contribute to the local community through employment and conservation initiatives.

The main difference between the Maasai Mara Game Reserve and adjacent conservancies is that the latter are privately owned and managed, offering a more exclusive and immersive wildlife experience, while the former is a public protected area managed by the county government of Narok.

Yes, local sim cards are available for purchase in Kenya using your passport

Popular network providers in Kenya are Safaricom and Airtel.

You can obtain your Nairobi to Mombasa first-class train tickets through the Kenya Railways website or at their offices located in Nairobi.

Ease My Safari can also assist with booking your SGR tickets at a fee and all we need is a copy of your Passport or National ID.

The Nairobi to Mombasa SGR train is considered safe for both passengers and luggage.

Tourist travelers to Kenya require a visa. They can apply online or upon arrival at the airport.

• A valid passport is required for all foreigners entering Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. Visa requirements vary according to the country of origin.
• Most nationalities require a visa to enter Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. We advise that you check with the nearest Consulate of Kenya, Tanzania, or Uganda if traveling to the respective country.
• Visas can be processed at the airports upon arrival but this can be very slow. We, therefore, advise clients to purchase them from their countries of origin before traveling.
• Many nationalities, including the US and the UK, require a visa to enter Kenya. These cost US$50 and are obtainable through the new eCitizen website – manual applications are no longer accepted. For a list of nationalities requiring a visa, please refer here.
• Please make sure your passport is valid for a minimum of 6 months after arrival in Kenya.

Kenya uses the Kenyan Shilling (KES) as its currency.

Major credit and debit cards are accepted in larger cities and tourist areas, while cash is more commonly used in rural areas.

There is no guarantee to spot any specific wildlife during a safari as they are wild animals and move freely.

However, our safari guides are knowledgeable about the local wildlife and will make every effort to provide our guests with the best opportunities to view and experience the wildlife in their natural habitat.

Our guides will take you to areas known to have high populations of wildlife and use their experience and expertise to increase your chances of spotting the ‘big 5’ and other species.

It’s important to keep in mind that wildlife sightings are unpredictable, but we strive to provide our guests with an authentic and unforgettable safari experience.

Distances and driving times on safari vary depending on the destination and the route taken.

Luxury (High-end), Mid-range (comfort), and budget (economy) accommodation options refer to the level of amenities and services offered.

Luxury options offer high-end amenities and services, comfort options offer mid-range amenities and services, while economy options offer basic amenities and services.

A single room supplement/extra is a fee added to the cost of a safari tour for travelers who require their own private room, as opposed to sharing with someone else.

Safari booking terms & conditions at Ease My Safari can be found on our website or by contacting our customer service.

See our terms & conditions

International flight costs are typically not included in listed safari tour prices.

The Great Wildebeest Migration typically takes place between July and October in Kenya’s Masai Mara National Reserve, and between December and July in Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park.

However, the exact timing can vary based on rainfall patterns and other factors, so it is always best to consult with a local safari expert for the latest information on when and where the migration can be seen.

Kenya is generally a safe country to travel to, and most visitors have trouble-free visits.

However, as with any destination, it is important to take certain precautions to ensure your safety. It is recommended that visitors take care when travelling at night, avoid carrying large sums of cash or wearing expensive jewelry, and be aware of their surroundings at all times.

It is also advisable to avoid walking alone in isolated areas or on the beach at night. When travelling by road, it is important to use a reputable tour company and to avoid travelling after dark, as there have been incidents of carjacking and robbery on some routes.

Visitors should also be aware that there is a risk of terrorism in Kenya, particularly in the northeast region, and should follow the advice of local authorities and stay up to date with travel advisories.

However, despite these risks, millions of tourists visit Kenya every year without incident, and by taking reasonable precautions, visitors can enjoy a safe and memorable trip.

What to wear and bring on a safari in Kenya depends on the time of year you plan to travel, as the weather can vary significantly. 

However, in general, we recommend comfortable, lightweight clothing that is suitable for warm weather and easy to move around in, such as cotton shirts and pants, shorts, and comfortable closed-toe shoes. It’s also important to bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun.

For game drives, we recommend neutral-colored clothing such as khaki, beige, or olive green, as bright colors can be distracting to wildlife. Insect repellent is also a must, as well as a light jacket or sweater for early morning and evening game drives, as temperatures can be cooler.

Other important items to bring include a camera, binoculars, and any necessary medication or personal hygiene items. We also provide refill mineral water for guests for drinking during the safari, but we recommend bringing a refillable water bottle for travel days.

Overall, we recommend packing light and bringing only essential items, as luggage restrictions may apply for internal flights and game drives.

It is recommended to carry enough cash to cover any personal expenses and incidentals during your Kenyan safari.

Most of the expenses on safari will be covered in the package rate, but it is always good to have some extra cash on hand for tipping or other unexpected expenses.

The amount of money you bring is ultimately up to your personal preference, but it is important to keep in mind that carrying large amounts of cash can be risky.

We recommend carrying a mix of cash and credit cards for flexibility and security. It is also a good idea to check with your bank about any international transaction fees or foreign currency exchange rates.

In case of an emergency in Kenya, you can call 112 for ambulance services, 113 for police services, or 114 for fire services.

Please feel free to contact your trusted safari operator, Joel Muiruri at + 254 (0) 712 17 30 98 or + 254 (0) 732 52 22 22. You can also reach him through e-mail at travel@easemysafari.com/ joel@easemysafari.com.

In case you want to contact the Kenyan Tourist Board (KTB): +254 (0)20 271 1262.

Do note that the Kenya emergency no. is 999.

You are advised to get a travel insurance before embarking on safari to cover for lost property and medical and emergency.

The insurance is available locally at an added cost.

Please enquire for more details on how you can get the cover. If you have purchased your cover and in the event of an emergency or sudden sickness while you’re on safari in East Africa, we guarantee medical evacuation to a hospital.

The medical facilities in Nairobi offer a full staff of professionals along with state-of-the-art testing equipment. Your cover will pay for the Flying Doctors Service to come to your side.

Most hotels and safari lodges you will visit has in-house doctor who will attend to you in case of a need.

Yes, Ease My Safari does arrange group/jeep sharing safari tours.

During your safari in Kenya, you can participate in a variety of activities, including:

• Game drives in national parks and reserves to see a wide range of wildlife, including the Big Five (lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhino).
• Balloon rides for a unique and scenic perspective of the savannahs and wildlife below.
• Cultural encounters with Maasai and other indigenous communities to learn about their traditional customs and way of life.
• Birdwatching to spot various species of colorful and exotic birds.
• Hiking and trekking to explore the stunning landscapes and natural beauty of Kenya’s parks and reserves.
• Water activities such as water rafting, boating, fishing, and snorkeling to experience the breathtaking beauty of Kenya’s lakes, rivers, and coastline.
• Wildlife photography to capture memories of your unforgettable experience in Kenya.
  
• Ziplining provides a unique and thrilling way to experience the natural beauty of Kenya, as visitors soar above forests, rivers, and other landscapes.

These are just a few examples of the activities available in Kenya.

For more information on the activities, you can participate in during your safari in Kenya, visit Ease My Safari’s website at https://easemysafari.com/destinations. We provide recommendations based on your travel destinations, interests, and schedule.