When planning a safari, it’s important to carefully consider the time of year you want to travel to Africa. Safari seasons are determined by the weather, and the year is broken up into high/peak season and low season. Here is weather breakdown:

https://youtu.be/l9taTr6Yd4E

High or peak season coincides with winter in the southern hemisphere. If you’re up north, then just flip your seasons around – your summer is our winter. Winter is a great time for safari because:

• It’s cooler. Nights will be cold, but days are generally balmy.
• The rain dries up, making it easier to drive on dirt roads.
• The dry climate means fewer insects; the risk of malaria is lower.
• The dryness makes rivers and waterholes evaporate.
• Southern Africa’s thick vegetation dries up and thins out.

All of this adds up to making game viewing easier. The animals don’t have much option but to stay close to water during the dry winter season, which means that they’re easily spotted. Demand is very high at this time of year and there is limited safari accommodation in prime wildlife areas. Most lodges have under twenty rooms, some as few as three, so rates are higher and you need to book and plan much further in advance

Also known as the ‘Green Season’, low season coincides with Africa’s humid and lush summer – the cold, snowy and slushy winter if you’re in the northern hemisphere. Across most of Africa, summer starts with rains in November: rivers and waterholes fill up, the vegetation and grasses are transformed from thin and brown to thick and green (hence, ‘Green Season’), baby animals are born, and all sorts of amazing birds arrive from the northern hemisphere. Essentially, everything from the peak season is reversed.

Since the Green Season sees fewer visitors, you don’t have to plan so far in advance; three to six months is usually fine. If it’s a special occasion, like a honeymoon or proposal, and you have your heart set on a specific lodge, then it’s better to get it all wrapped up as soon as you can. Once again, your Africa Safari Expert will sort out the flights, transfers, lodges, activities – and perhaps even that bottle of Champagne on ice to celebrate!

If it’s your very first safari, we suggest visiting in high season, if you can, simply because you’re likely to see more animals, quicker. The animals are still about during Green Season, but in some destinations, they’re slightly more difficult to find – although it’s very rewarding when you do!

Once the safari bug has bitten, make your second trip a Green Season safari so that you can experience the difference. There will be fewer safari vehicles about, plenty of baby animals and migrant birds, plus you’ll enjoy lower accommodation rates.

Video Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l9taTr6Yd4E&t=36s

Video Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qq9VvDGozBE&t=1s

Video Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=25JCPBvh8B0

Wherever you go, we will Put you at ease. In case of an emergency during your safari, Bobu Africa is here to support you 24/7. As your trusted travel partner, we offer on-safari assistance and can be contacted for any emergency situations that may arise.

If you need immediate help, contact our dedicated emergency contact, which will be provided to you before your departure. Our experienced team is available around the clock to provide guidance, support, and assistance in case of emergencies. Whether you require medical assistance, have safety concerns, or need any other form of help during your safari, rest assured that Bobu Africa is just a phone call away. We are committed to ensuring your well-being and peace of mind throughout your African adventure. 

We always have an Evacuation Plan is designed to give you fast, quality and affordable medical care in the event of a medical emergency across the larger Eastern African region. It ensures that you have access to exceptional emergency medical services, providing peace of mind during critical moments through our partnership with AMREF Flying Doctors.

When embarking on your African safari adventure, it’s important to ensure you have the necessary documentation with you. Here’s a list of essential documentation to bring:

Passport: Your passport is your most important travel document. Ensure that it is valid for at least six months beyond your intended departure date from Africa. Check the specific entry requirements for the countries you plan to visit as some may require a visa. Remember to make copies of your passport and keep them separate from the original for backup purposes.

Visas: Depending on your nationality and the countries you plan to visit; you may need to obtain visas in advance. Research the visa requirements for each destination and allow sufficient time for the application process. Some visas can be obtained upon arrival, while others require advance application.

Travel Insurance: It’s highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses, trip cancellation, lost luggage, and other unforeseen circumstances. Ensure that your insurance policy provides adequate coverage for your entire trip duration and the activities you plan to undertake, such as wildlife viewing and adventure sports.

Health Documents: Check if any vaccinations or specific health requirements are needed for the countries you plan to visit. Some destinations may require a Yellow Fever vaccination certificate or other immunisations. Consult with your healthcare provider or a travel clinic for the most up-to-date information and recommendations.

Itinerary and Confirmation Documents: Keep copies of your itinerary, flight tickets, hotel reservations, and any tour or activity confirmations. It’s helpful to have both digital and printed copies accessible during your travels.

Remember to keep all your important documents in a secure place, such as a travel document organizer or a locked bag. It’s also a good idea to share your itinerary and contact details with a trusted family member or friend back home. If you have any specific questions regarding documentation requirements for your chosen destinations, our knowledgeable Africa Safari Experts are here to assist you and provide guidance.

With sound medical advice from your doctor or travel clinic specialist, plus up-to-date vaccinations and good old-fashioned common sense, you are very unlikely to have any serious health concerns when travelling to Africa. Ironically, the riskiest part of any journey in terms of your health is likely to be the long-haul flight.

We highly recommend that you visit your doctor well in advance of your safari adventure to discuss any health concerns you might have.

Yellow Fever Vaccine

All travelers arriving in Kenya/Tanzania from countries where yellow fever is endemic should present a valid yellow fever certificate. 

Yellow Fever Vaccination exemptions

Infants aged less than 9 months, except during an epidemic when infants aged 6-9 months, in areas where the risk of infection is high, should also receive the vaccine.

Pregnant women – except during a yellow fever outbreak when the risk of infection is high.

People with severe allergies to egg protein. 

People with severe immunodeficiency due to symptomatic HIV/AIDS or other causes, or who have a thymus disorder.

How Do I Find A Yellow Fever Vaccine Near Me?

Only CDC registered Yellow Fever Clinics can order and administer the yellow fever vaccine. Destination Health Travel Clinic offers three yellow fever certified locations in Massachusetts. 

 After vaccination, we provide you with the official CDC International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis (ICVP) also known as the “Yellow Book.”  A stamp is added to the document and serves as your proof of immunization. We suggest keeping your ICVP with your passport for safe keeping.

If your travel plans include a visit to other popular destinations in Africa like Tanzania and Zanzibar or Victoria Falls, we will assist with health advice and vaccinations during the same visit.