Questions & Advice

We were in Zanzibar last April and you will get rain but it’s not torrential 24/7 rather heavy down pours mostly in the afternoon. The sun is more often than not out during the day and as it is a humid time of the year the rain helps clear the air. We had 1 day when it rained on and off all day and some days with no rain at all but the norm was warm days with afternoon tropical showers (sometimes heavy) May is much the same. On the weather charts the average number of days with rain in April is recorded as 10 and the average temperature is 27 Centigrade. If you don’t mind some rain you’ll benefit from lower prices and no crowds some resorts close in April to do their maintenance however plenty are open. Drop us an e-mail escape@toescapeto.com to find out what’s open and who is doing the best offers. www.toescapeto.com

On: 31 January 2012

Dear Alex Zanzibar in April is usually rainy however, lately the seasons have changed dramatically hence this year the rains may delay and arrive end of April, beginning of May. Also, it depends where in Zanzibar you are - The Northern tip i.e. Nungwi peninsula usually sees rain in the early mornings and late evenings giving the guests some time to enjoy the in between. On some days, it can remain cloudy for longer, but it is never 24/7 and not gloomy-you can still find alot of things to do on such days. BUT - in the end, it is nature and you never know what happens next - I was giving you my personal insight after knowing the island so well over the years. Hope this helps, Warm regards, Vinay Sapra

On: 31 January 2012

Dear Alex, Although it is indeed the rainy season in April, the weather patterns at Zanzibar are quite unpredictable, also under influence of global warming. I would say it is not all gloomy, but more humid and rainy. Overall it is a good time to visit the island as there usually are much fewer visitors unlike other times (i.e. the dry/peek season) and gives you more a feeling of exclusivity. One important thing to note is that during this time some places (also accommodations) will be closed for renovation. However, there are others that do not close and are open all year round. Of those that are open, you might find that they are also doing some renovations. If you aware of (and don't mind) the above, it is definitely a great time to travel to Zanzibar! Warm regards, Marleen | Asilia Africa

On: 02 February 2012

In short - When it comes to weather, it is very unpredictable. However March / April / May - it's the rainy season in Zanzibar. Unpredictable yes, sometimes it rains 2 days in a row, sometimes it stays dry anywhere from 2 to 5 days. Sometimes there are showers in the morning and sunny breaks follow. Take a good umbrella, avoid the crowds in April and just take the days as they come. It's Zanzibar! All the best.

On: 02 February 2012

Hello Alex, To add to what's already been said: The stormy waters can bring in more seaweed to the beaches this time of year but the good news is that the rates can be very favourable for the hotels remaining open this time of year. Best wishes, Emily

On: 06 March 2012

Hello Katarina, if you want to see lots of animals including the migration, of course, your best bet would be Tanzania. By June, the migration should be in full swing as the herds make their way from the plains to their transitional range located in the Western Serengeti. The mass movements of the migration, combined with the wildebeest rut at the beginning of June makes this an exciting time for a safari in the Serengeti. But the river crossings aren't the only spectacle. Just witnessing hundreds of animals on the plains is a sight in itself. Particularly because they attract many of Africa's impressive predators. Lions, leopards, hyenas and wild dogs follow the herds and give safari goers excellent chances of seeing a kill in action. Being a natural event, the migration changes year to year in both timing and location. Our driver/guides who are on their trips keep us fully apprised as to the location of the migration. Please feel free to contact us for further information at info@rickshawtravels.com or visit us at www.rickshawtravels.com Best regards Naz

On: 21 March 2012

We can recommend a safari that takes in both Kenya and Tanzania at this time. If the Great Migration is the whole reason to visit East Africa you should know that the movement of this dramatic annual spectacle varies both in time and place from year to year as the movement of the Wildebeest and Zebra in particular are driven by a number of factors. In June it is common for the migration to be on the move from the drying southern Serengeti short grass plains into the central and western areas of the eco-system on their way North to the Maasai Mara in Kenya. As the available waters draining the Serengeti plains such as the Seronera river become more alkaline and unpalatable the animals move into the western corridor of the Serengeti, others move almost due North through the northern part of the Serengeti depending on water left in the rivers that drain the higher ground to the east of the park. They have to make the dangerous crossing of the Grumeti and Mara rivers where gargantuan Nile crocodiles wait in ambush. While the movement can see- saw in response to the odd late shower of rain in the eco-system the Maasai Mara in Kenya can expect an influx of migrants by early to mid July. The unpredictability of the migration at the chosen time therefore makes a safari to view the spectacle something difficult to hang ones hat on however we can offer a safari that visits both Kenya and Tanzania taking in The Maasai Mara and then The Tarangire national park in Tanzania which by the latter part of June witnesses a migration of its own when large numbers of Wildebeest and Zebra and scores of elephant migrate off the Maasai steppe after which you can visit Lake Manyara national park and with chances to see the migration in the Maasai Mara in Kenya and then seeing the Tarangire at its best. Tarangire is a beautiful park and quintessential African savannah with rolling park land, areas of swamp and a sand river that provide life giving water in the dry season and where large numbers of wildlife congregate. It would be best to plan a late June safari or even early to mid July thereby increasing your chances of seeing both the annual migration as it reaches the Maasai mara in Kenya and then the other movement into Tarangire . Peter Hoopoe Safaris

On: 24 March 2012

Hi Katrina. Much in the same line as the previous two answers, I would recommend (and can only answer on behalf of!) Kenya and especially Tanzania at this time of year to see plenty of wildlife, and depending on your choice of accomdation it shouldn't be too difficult to spot the mass migration as it makes its way north. for example Alex Walker's Serian luxury camp in Tanzania opens in July (like Peter said a safari late June into July would increase your chances of seeing more of the migration as they start to move en mass) and positions itself perfectly so as to follow the migration in particular. Serian also partake in long bush walks in their Mara camps which I believe to offer the perfect 'safari' experience... you can feel immersed right in the heart, and part of, the African bush! If I can help further please feel free to contact me at kirsty@deltadunes.co.ke Kirsty

On: 18 May 2012

Hi Katrina. Much in the same line as the previous two answers, I would recommend (and can only answer on behalf of!) Kenya and especially Tanzania at this time of year to see plenty of wildlife, and depending on your choice of accomdation it shouldn't be too difficult to spot the mass migration as it makes its way north. for example Alex Walker's Serian luxury camp in Tanzania opens in July (like Peter said a safari late June into July would increase your chances of seeing more of the migration as they start to move en mass) and positions itself perfectly so as to follow the migration in particular. Serian also partake in long bush walks in their Mara camps which I believe to offer the perfect 'safari' experience... you can feel immersed right in the heart, and part of, the African bush! If I can help further please feel free to contact me at kirsty@deltadunes.co.ke Kirsty

On: 18 May 2012

Dear Katarina Trust that you had a lovely stay in Tanzania or South Africa. With your next trip to South Africa, I would recommend our elephant-back safaris (which takes place on the Big 5 Game Reserve), especially night life elephant-back safaris which are exceptional. Kind regards Camp Jabulani

On: 17 July 2012

Hi Alex, go to the Congo Key Selling Points • Odzala had less than 50 tourists in 2011 • Part of the world's second largest expanse of tropical rainforest • Has Africa's densest population of Western lowland gorillas • 6 habituated groups of Western lowland gorilla in a 5km by 5km area • Highest number (11) of diurnal primates of any forest block in central Africa • Central Africa's highest density of chimpanzees • Significant populations of forest elephant • Altitude is low & the terrain not mountainous making for easy access. Altitude in the Ngaga area varies between 450 - 550 mts. (highest point in Congo Mt.Berongou only 903 mts) • No gorilla permits (U$750 elsewhere) needed from Illona - Steppes Travel www.steppestravel.co.uk

On: 04 May 2012

Dear Alex, Both Uganda and Rwanda are fabulous for gorilla trekking. Rwanda is generally considered and easier trek, whilst Uganda has more to offer the visitor in terms of National Parks after or before a gorilla trek. The price for the gorilla permits in Rwanda are $750, whilst currently Uganda the gorilla permit prices are $500. That said gorilla permits are a premium and can be difficult to get hold of as they are often sold out way in advance. October is a a good time, and preferably the end of October as then the high season is coming to an end. My opinion would be that if you wish just to see gorillas then i would suggest a 3/4 day excursion to Rwanda, however if you wish for a more "complete" longer excursion I would then suggest Uganda, adding in safaris and chimpanzee trekking too. Hope this is of help Regards Jeremy Otter

On: 04 May 2012

Dear Alex, Gorillas can be tracked in both Uganda and Rwanda and chances of seeing them are equal in both countries (99%). However, keep in mind that the landscape in Rwanda is more flat and open, while in Uganda you generally have to cut your way through the impenetrable forest and the tracking might be more challenging, depending on the location of the gorillas that day. I would say that the experience in Uganda is be more authentic and rewarding though. Gorilla permits in Uganda are USD 500 per person. In Rwanda the permit fee will increase to USD 750 from 1st June, but until 31st May the permits are still sold at the original price of USD 500. You are still in time to buy gorilla permits and we would be happy to assist you with this. For any questions or enquiries feel free to contact me. Kind regards, Miranda Bekkers Marketing Consultant GREAT LAKES SAFARIS LTD. info@safari-uganda.com www.safari-uganda.com

On: 04 May 2012

Hi Alex, October 2012 is certainly not too late! October is a great season to visit either country as it's a quieter season which means much more flexibility in the availability of gorilla permits. Rwanda is generally considered to be an easier gorilla track in terms of the length of time spent hiking and the steepness of the terrain. It is also very suitable for shorter safaris as the park is only 2.5 hours drive from the airport. The draw back is that if you book after the 1st June 2012 your permit will cost US$750. You still have time to book before then though and benefit from the US$500 price, the price only goes up at 1st June 2012. Uganda is generally a more adventurous tracking experience, with steeper terrain and gorilla families sometimes living deep into the forest. The Bwindi forest can be reached in 5 hours drive from Kigali airport in Rwanda, however with new scheduled flights from Entebbe airport it can also be accessed from there. Uganda gorilla permits are remaining at US$500 regardless of when you book. If you have more time to spend then Uganda has many other higlights such as game in Queen Elizabeth and chimps in Kyambura Gorge or Kibale Forest. I hope this is helpful information. For more information, itineraries and ideas on accommodation options see www.volcanoessafaris.com.

On: 04 May 2012

Hi there. If you book and pay for your permit to see gorillas in Uganda you will pay $500.00 per person. After June 1st it goes up to $750.00. If you choose Uganda the price will be $500.00 as there is no planned increase there yet. As for being too late, if you can be flexible with your dates, we may well be able to get a permit for you to see the gorillas, depending how many permits you require. October is a lovely month to visit both countries; we can help you with both countries; in fact a number of our clients choose to visit both Rwanda and Uganda if they have the time - both countries having other fabulous things to see/do as well as gorillas. Kind regards Sandy Wood, Pulse Africa

On: 04 May 2012

Dear Alex, Good news is it is not too late to book this trip. At this point the gorilla permits for Rwanda are US$750.00 where as in Uganda they are still US$500.00. However, Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Camp, in the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, has an offer available saving you US$150 on the price of your gorilla tracking permit meaning you will only pay US$350.00 per permit when you stay a minimum of 3 nights. The offer is valid for bookings between 21 June - 31 October and 16 - 31 December 2012 and cant be combined with any other offer. You will be able to book this offer through your preferred Tour Operater. As of 15 June 2012 there will also be new scheduled flights available from Entebbe Airport to Kihihi Aitsrip which is 30km away from the camp. I hope this meets your expectations. Yolandi Scanes Sanctuary Retreats

On: 04 May 2012

Dear Alex It's certainly not too late. Permits do book out in advance but October is a less over-subscribed month and there are still permits available for both countries. Rwanda, Uganda and DRC are the ONLY places to track Mountain Gorillas. The gorillas in Congo Brazzaville are Lowland Gorillas - still an amazing experience but a slightly different species. Rwanda increases to $750 after 1st June - but anything booked and paid before then gets the permit at the old rate of $500 as long as it's for tracking before the end of the year. You don't have to pay for the whole safari by then - just wire the money to cover the permit purchase and that can be secured at the cheaper rate - as long as all this is done with time to complete the purchase in Rwanda before 31st May. Uganda is staying at $500 for now. However, bear in mind that there are often increased transport costs to get to the Ugandan gorillas (ironically it's sometimes cheaper to fly in from Kigali and cross the border overland) and as my colleagues above have pointed out, there is a more affordable flight option starting to Bwindi in June which should help ease the pocket and the journey time. In terms of differences between tracking the gorillas in both countries - there are plenty - which is why so many clients like to track in both Uganda and Rwanda. Uganda's gorillas at at a lower altitude, but the terrain is generally steeper and sometimes thicker forest to plough through en route to your hour with the gorillas. Groups get allocated in advance - it's best to get permits with a Buhoma based group or the groups at Nkuringo and Rushaga. The groups at Ruhija, whilst providing great tracking, require a very early start if, like most people, you will be staying in Buhoma. Rwanda gorillas are at a higher altitude - but with generally gentler slopes. Plus they get groups allocated on the day - so if you're exhausted from some earlier safari exertions, or just don't fancy going 8 hrs up a mountain, you can generally make sure you end up in a closer located group. Overland journey time is about 2 and a half to 3 hrs from Kigali to Rwanda Gorillas and 10-12 hours (usually broken up with a night in Lake Mburo NP or replaced with a flight) to Bwindi from Kampala/Entebbe in Uganda. There are plenty of quality accommodation options available in every location - but the recommendation would depend on your preference and budget. Good luck with your safari planning, Anne-Marie Weeden Marketing Manager The Far Horizons

On: 04 May 2012

Hello Alex, Thank you for your question regarding a Gorilla Safari in Rwanda or Uganda. Seeing gorillas is the same experience in Rwanda and Uganda. However in Uganda compared to Rwanda it is hard, the forest is thicker, the terrain is steeper and generally takes longer but does not diminish the experience for the guests – roughly it takes 3 to 5 hours to see the Gorillas in Rwanda compared to 1 to 8 hours in Uganda – far more unpredictable I would say. Gorilla tracking groups are allocated to guests at the time of buying the permits. One has little flexibility in choosing their preferred family of course depending on availability with any prior guarantee. Because Bwindi is bigger, gorilla tracking does not all start at the same place as in Rwanda – there are different start points in the South and in the North of Bwindi and one usually tracks the gorilla families resident in the area near the lodge they are staying. For gorilla tracking from Uganda, we prefer to do the South of Bwindi as it is more accessible – the experience, North or South, is essentially the same, neither lesser nor better. If you are a USA passport holder, you do not require a Visa to enter Rwanda. They require a Visa to enter Uganda and this can be obtained the port of entry From 1st June 2012, gorilla permits in Rwanda will charged at US$750 each and non-refundable. But if we purchase before 1st June, we shall pay US$500. We are more than happy to send you a quote once you've finalised your travel arrangements. Many thanks!! Warm regards, Richard Richard Muthaka Safari Specialist P.O. Box 1460, 00502 – Karen, Nairobi, Kenya. Personal mobile: +254 (0) 733 222422 Office mobile: +254 (0) 717 296390 Office landline / fax: +254 (0) 20 3882868 US Toll free: 1-855-90k-enya Skype: the.safaris.company2 safaris2@thesafaricoltd.com www.thesafaricoltd.com PASSIONATE ABOUT AFRICA Travel Anywhere in Africa with us…

On: 07 May 2012

Hello Alex, Thank you for your question regarding a Gorilla Safari in Rwanda or Uganda. Seeing gorillas is the same experience in Rwanda and Uganda. However in Uganda compared to Rwanda it is hard, the forest is thicker, the terrain is steeper and generally takes longer but does not diminish the experience for the guests – roughly it takes 3 to 5 hours to see the Gorillas in Rwanda compared to 1 to 8 hours in Uganda – far more unpredictable I would say. Gorilla tracking groups are allocated to guests at the time of buying the permits. One has little flexibility in choosing their preferred family of course depending on availability with any prior guarantee. Because Bwindi is bigger, gorilla tracking does not all start at the same place as in Rwanda – there are different start points in the South and in the North of Bwindi and one usually tracks the gorilla families resident in the area near the lodge they are staying. For gorilla tracking from Uganda, we prefer to do the South of Bwindi as it is more accessible – the experience, North or South, is essentially the same, neither lesser nor better. If you are a USA passport holder, you do not require a Visa to enter Rwanda. They require a Visa to enter Uganda and this can be obtained the port of entry From 1st June 2012, gorilla permits in Rwanda will charged at US$750 each and non-refundable. But if we purchase before 1st June, we shall pay US$500. We are more than happy to send you a quote once you've finalised your travel arrangements. Many thanks!! Warm regards, Richard Richard Muthaka Safari Specialist P.O. Box 1460, 00502 – Karen, Nairobi, Kenya. Personal mobile: +254 (0) 733 222422 Office mobile: +254 (0) 717 296390 Office landline / fax: +254 (0) 20 3882868 US Toll free: 1-855-90k-enya Skype: the.safaris.company2 safaris2@thesafaricoltd.com www.thesafaricoltd.com PASSIONATE ABOUT AFRICA Travel Anywhere in Africa with us…

On: 07 May 2012

Hi Alex Both Rwanda and Uganda are excellent for Gorilla trekking however are usually proposed depending on travellers flexibility. Rwanda is best for short trips, 4 Days average when you spend 1 night in Kigali before / and or after your 2 night stay at the Volcanoes National Park. Uganda is more diverse in terms of wildlife and therefore you can travel for a longer period of time, for a similar price taking in a wildlife and primate experience. Rwanda is the more expensive location of the two with Gorilla Permits costing US $ 750 from 01 June onwards, whereas Uganda have not increased their permit's as yet and are currently set at US $ 500 for the year for 1 hour with the Gorillas. October is still a great time to visit and permits are available for many of the Gorilla families. I suggest you start planning your trip now in order to guarantee a permit for the time period you wish to travel. There are a number of reliable travel agents who use only tried and tested operators in both Rwanda and Uganda. Best of luck! It is an incredible experience, I was visiting Uganda in May 2011 and it is still by far one of the best places in Africa I have visited!

On: 08 May 2012

Hi Alex - as mentioned, both Rwanda and Uganda are home to Mountain Gorillas. In Rwanda the hike is easier and you are guaranteed to spot the family of Gorillas you are assigned. We at Rickshaw Travels can arrange all the details for your trek. After June 2012, the permit price at Volcanoes Park increases to US $750 per person. Won't bog you with more details as our other members have already done that.

On: 08 May 2012

Hi Laura, yes it is possible to a self drive or hire a car on a European license. Don't miss Selous Game Reserve, a UNESCO world heritage site as well as Uluguru Mountains. Let us know if we can help in any way. Contact us at your convenience. Regards Veronica

On: 13 December 2012

Dear Laura, if you are travelling to the South of Tanzania you definitely shouldn't miss the Selous Game Reserve. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this reserve is the largest protected wildlife sanctuary in Africa and is widely accredited as being the most pristine wilderness and one of the “secrets of Africa”. Elephants, lions, black rhinos, leopards, wild dogs, giraffes, hippos, crocodiles and more than 400 different birds can be seen among many other wildlife. And if you are looking for a beautiful and romantic camp "The Retreat Selous" might be your option. www.retreat-africa.com Please let us know if you need any further information. Regards Jochen

On: 19 December 2012

Dear Laura, if you are travelling to the South of Tanzania you definitely shouldn't miss the Selous Game Reserve. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this reserve is the largest protected wildlife sanctuary in Africa and is widely accredited as being the most pristine wilderness and one of the “secrets of Africa”. Elephants, lions, black rhinos, leopards, wild dogs, giraffes, hippos, crocodiles and more than 400 different birds can be seen among many other wildlife. And if you are looking for a beautiful and romantic camp "The Retreat Selous" might be your option. www.retreat-africa.com Please let us know if you need any further information. Regards Jochen

On: 19 December 2012

Dear Laura, I would agree with the other comments, you should strongly consider visiting the Selous which is spectacular. The roads in the Selous are quite challenging but that is part of the adventure of what you have come to see, real raw Africa! The Selous is very uncommercial and you will see very few vehicles in the reserve which gives you very private game viewing. For a slow classic safari we think it's the best part of Tanzania. Amara is a luxury tented lodge, all suites with stone bathrooms with outside showers and plunge pools, we have some great offers please see www.amara-tanzania.com Best wishes and good luck with your planning, Simon

On: 20 December 2012

Hi Laura, You can self-drive a Tanzanian vehicle with a European driving licence. My recommendations would vary depending on where you plan to go and how much time you have. If you are really planning on seeing a lot of southern Tanzania, remember that very few stretches have tarmac road. Basically there is the main highway to Zambia, the stretch from Makambako to Songea, and a new bit south towards Kilwa. So make sure you have a good reliable 4WD with jack, good spare tyres and tools, and that you can lock it up, as things disappear with ease in Tanzania, even in remote places. Many car hire companies will hire a vehicle with a driver. This can have the advantage, if he is also a mechanic, as he can look after the vehicle and its contents. If you decide to do this, maybe go for a test drive with him, as some drivers drive recklessly. The Selous would indeed by wonderful to visit, and so would the Udzungwas (if you like hiking, and birdlife), and above all Ruaha, which is a real gem. Do not miss Ruaha!!! When you arrive in Tanzania I recommend that you buy "A Guide to the Southern Highlands of Tanzania" by Liz de Leyser. It is excellent. If you also like scuba diving consider eco2 diving near Mtwara. If you have less than month, don't plan on doing too much. Tanzania is a big place, and the poor roads mean getting around can take time. It is a wonderful country. Have a great time!

On: 21 February 2013

Yes you can sometimes find a better deal from the country you are travelling to instead of looking only in the States. We suggest always compare and you may find that if you buy a ticket, for example, from the USA to South Africa or Kenya and then do the internal flights in Africa through an African agent like ourselves, it could work out cheaper. For more information please contact us at pooja@rickshawtz.com

On: 25 February 2013

If you know your route already and have not booked your international flight yet it may work out more affordable to book some of the internal African flights as part of your international fare. Most of the international carries from the US have the option to add on internal flight at a lower cost than booking the internal African flights individually. However looking at our destinations you will need to book some separate internal flights and these can either be done through a good agent who can book the flights for you or nearly all the airlines offer online booking options using a credit card so you can book them yourself from the US. Outside of the main airlines (British Airways, South African Airways, Kenya Airways etc.) there is a network of low cost carries (Mango Airlines, Kulula etc). There are also number of good private airlines so it’s worth getting advice from a African specialist operator or agent as the choice can be confusing and schedules change regularly depending on the time of the year. Most agents and operators will be happy to give you a quote that you can compare against what you find online. If you send me your proposed route I can send you advice on the best way to book your flights and which airlines to use with a US Dollar price. Otherwise check the ATTA directory for other African specialists. Hope this helps. Ingram ingramc@toescapeto.com

On: 25 February 2013

Hi Sabrina, If your personally handling your flight bookings then it's advisable to book them from the USA which in most cases turns out to be very affordable; however to guarantee the best value for money I would recommend using your ground handling operator to book the regional flights for you when they are quoting you for your holiday/safaris, and you can be left to take care of your return international flights. Ps. Some ground operators equally handle International, regional & local flights over and above tours and travel operations. You will need to find out which ones do.

On: 25 February 2013