Frequently Asked Questions
1. If I book a set itinerary, such as Taste of Tanzania or Serengeti Shall Not Die, how many people will be in the group?
There are a maximum of eight people in each of Hoopoe's set departures, and a minimum of two.
2. What sort of vehicles are used on safari and how many people per safari vehicle?
Hoopoe uses Land Rovers and Land Cruisers, fitted with either pop-up roofs or roof hatches. Depending on the vehicle there may be five or six persons per safari vehicle, with each person guaranteed a window seat.
3. Do we get the same driver/guide for the duration of the safari?
In most instances, yes. This will vary only if you fly into and out of a particular remote camp, in which case the camp vehicles and guides may be used.
4. What are the luggage weight limits for internal flights?
You can assume a maximum weight of 15 kg or 33 lbs for your luggage. Clients are advised to bring soft-sided luggage only, even for just transporting luggage in their safari vehicle as it makes for easier and more efficient loading.
5. I want to enjoy a camping experience while on safari, but I don't want to rough it too much? What can I expect in a tented camp?
There are varying degrees of luxury tented camps, but virtually all the ones Hoopoe recommends or operates (through its Kirurumu Under Canvas company) offer en suite toilet and washing facilities, proper beds and bedding and furniture.
6. What sort of toilet facilities can we expect when camping during a climb of Mount Kilimanjaro or Mount Meru?
A private toilet tent is provided on Hoopoe's VIP and Luxury specification climbs.
7. What is included and not included in the cost of my safari or climb?
Generally what is included, excluded is as follows:
INCLUDED:
- All current government Taxes relevant to the itinerary (Kenya / Tanzania /Uganda / Rwanda / other)
- AMREF flying doctors insurance
- All accommodation and meals as described in your itinerary/quote
- All entry fees for national parks, conservation fees, reserve fees relevant to this itinerary
- Specially adapted 4x4 game drive vehicle with window seats for all passengers, reference books (flora / fauna / avifauna), mobile communication, bottled water and soft drinks
- Trained English speaking driver guide & mountain guide + crew
- Backup and logistical support from Hoopoe Safaris Team
- Internal flights as indicated in the itinerary
EXCLUDED:
- International air flights (unless otherwise stated)
- Alterations to this itinerary (i.e. if different accommodations and services are provided then the price will most likely vary up or down)
- Entry visas
- Airport departure taxes (unless stated)
- Tips
- Laundry
- Beverages (except those in your personal safari vehicle)
- Hospital bills and international evacuation in the event of an emergency
8. Do I need a visa to go to Tanzania and Kenya?
Americans and Canadians are required to have a visa to enter both these countries. These can be purchased at the airport or border post upon arrival, payable in U.S. dollars. Travellers are advised to have two blank facing pages in their passports, and that the passports should be valid six months after departure from East Africa.
9. What about vaccinations and malaria protection?
It is advisable for clients to visit their nearest travel medical clinic for advice in respect of their own particular requirements and medical circumstances. Currently, Tanzania requires travelers coming from endemic African countries to have a Yellow Fever vaccination certificate.
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