Africa Safari FAQs: Booking & Tips

The cost of a safari with Jossec Safaris is highly variable, generally ranging from $300 to over $1,000 per person per night, and is determined by five primary factors: your travel dates (High Season, June-December, costs more than Low Season, January-May); your chosen accommodation level (budget, mid-range, or luxury); the type of safari (private, flexible tours cost more than shared, fixed-schedule group joining safaris); the duration of your trip and the fixed daily park fees for the national parks you visit; and finally, your group size, as larger groups can divide the fixed costs for better value.

Basically, your standard Jossec Safaris package is the all-inclusive experience of the bush! We cover the big stuff so you don't have to worry: your expert driver-guide, all your game drives in our comfy 4x4 vehicle, all your park entry fees, and full board (all meals) at your accommodation. Plus, we throw in airport transfers and unlimited bottled water while you're out exploring!

Honestly, you'll need cash mainly for tipping and maybe a few little souvenirs! For your incredible safari guide, the usual guideline is about $15 to $25 USD per person, per day (you give this at the very end). For the lodge staff (waiters, housekeepers, etc.), about $5 to $10 USD per person, per day is usually left in a communal tip box. Aside from that, bring enough cash (US Dollars are best) to cover things not included in your package, like a cold beer at dinner or a small handmade gift from a local village, because card machines are practically non-existent once you're deep in the parks!

Yes, almost everyone needs a visa! The easiest way is to apply online before you travel using the official government e-Visa or Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) websites for both Kenya and Tanzania. If your safari covers Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda, you can save money with the special East Africa Tourist Visa (but remember, Tanzania requires its own separate visa!). Don't worry about the details—our Jossec Safaris team can happily guide you through the latest requirements and application links to make sure you're ready to go.

Since we use small aircraft for flights between the parks, luggage rules are non-negotiable: you must use soft-sided bags (like a duffel bag) as hard suitcases simply won't fit in the tiny cargo hold! The strict weight limit is usually 15 kg (33 lbs) per person, which includes all your hand luggage. Packing light and soft is the golden rule here—it makes check-in seamless and avoids frustrating fees or delays, but don't worry, Jossec Safaris will remind you of the exact requirements before your trip!

Absolutely, yes—safaris are very safe! When you book with an experienced, reputable operator like Jossec Safaris, your safety is the absolute top priority. Our guides are highly trained, the National Parks are well-managed, and the animals respect the vehicles. The main rule of the bush is simple: always follow your guide's instructions! In cities like Nairobi or Arusha, just use common sense, like you would in any big city: don't walk alone late at night, and keep your valuables secure and out of sight. By taking these simple precautions, you're set for a secure and unforgettable African adventure!

The most critical items are the Yellow Fever vaccination and Malaria prevention. You must get the Yellow Fever vaccine if you are arriving from, or transferring through, a country with a Yellow Fever risk, and you'll definitely need the certificate if traveling between Kenya and Tanzania (even if you fly). Additionally, Malaria prophylaxis (preventative pills) is highly recommended for all safari areas, alongside using repellent and wearing long sleeves at dawn/dusk. We strongly advise checking with your home country's travel health service a few months before your trip to ensure all routine boosters are also up to date!

The Great Migration is a year-round cycle between the Serengeti and Maasai Mara, so you can always see the herds, but the best time depends on the action you want to witness! For the famous, dramatic Mara River crossings into Kenya's Maasai Mara, the prime viewing time is typically Late July through October. Alternatively, if you want to see pure predator-prey drama and thousands of newborn calves, the best time is the Calving Season in the Southern Serengeti (Tanzania), which runs from January to March. No matter when you book, Jossec Safaris uses daily intelligence to ensure we guide you to the heart of the action!

To be honest, don't rely on it! While most lodges and camps offer Wi-Fi in the main common areas, it’s usually slow and unreliable—perfect for sending a quick "I'm safe!" message, but not for streaming. Once you're out on game drives deep in the Maasai Mara or Serengeti, cell service drops off completely. We highly encourage you to embrace the "digital detox"—unplugging is truly one of the most refreshing and authentic parts of the Jossec Safaris experience!