ANSWERS TO
Frequently Asked Questions
Please note the following answers are general rules for most countries in Southern Africa. If you need more details or have other questions, kindly send us an email with you enquiry here: info@kamaroutes.com.
if game drives are included in your programme, warm sweaters (e.g. fleece) and layering of clothing (e.g. vest) are recommended. Sunglasses and a hat are also a must, since game drives in some reserves will be conducted in 4x4s vehicles with an open roof.
Revealing clothing is usually not appropriate and offends local customs, and swimwear should be reserved for the beach and pool only.
Light cotton clothing and shorts are suggested in the warm lowlands. While in the highlands, medium weight clothing with a warm jacket (e.g. fleece) is appropriate. As mentioned, we recommend layering of clothing on safari as temperatures can vary through the day.
During the rainy season, a light raincoat (e.g. cagoule) and a sweater is best for the evenings. Most camps will provide an umbrella and waterproofs when required.
General
The incidence of HIV is much more common in Africa. Please be aware of this and take the necessary precautions.
Malaria
Travellers to most parts of sub-Saharan Africa are strongly advised to take anti-malarial medication according to prescription recommendations, and to use insect repellents. Malaria is a serious disease, which is transmitted by infected mosquitoes. You must take preventative medication and we strongly encourage you to seek the advice of your doctor.
In some tented camps and lodges power is only available in the early mornings and evenings, and some do not have power in the rooms/ tents. There are also a few properties that do not have electricity in either the rooms or the tents. Torches are sometimes provided, but it is highly recommended that you bring your own. As most camps run on solar or a small generator, items like hair dryers cannot be used on safari as they will overload the system. If you need use of hairdryers we can provide further information of facilities on your specific itinerary.
BASIC: This rating is for campsites and backpackers hostels. Here, only the camping spot or bed is included; clients take care of their meals and activities. A communal kitchen and ablution facilities are usually available. These properties are ideal for camping enthusiasts and travellers on a very tight budget.
STANDARD: This rating is for accommodations like restcamps in national parks, “luxury” backpackers hostels and glamping (glamorous camping) grounds. No meal or activity included, but your room, kitchen and bathroom are private. Star grading for this type of accommodation is usually 2 stars and is ideal for travellers on a tight budget but who need their privacy.
COMFORT: Here breakfast is included by default but can be removed if clients request it. You get a private and well-furnished room/apartment with amenities like air conditioner, bar fridge, coffee station and TV. This type of accommodation is usually 3 stars and is ideal for travellers on a budget but looking for above-average services.
SUPERIOR: This category is best described as “ charming with a touch of luxury”. All meals and activities included here ( city tours, game drives etc…). This type of accommodation is usually 4 stars and is ideal for travellers who want to experience luxury without breaking the bank.
LUXURY: The rate here is typically from 500 Euros per person sharing per night. These are hotels and lodges with a distinctive architecture and impeccable service. This type of accommodation is usually 5 stars and is ideal for travellers who want only the best.
HIGH END: Exclusive hotels which can only welcome a very small amount of guests at once. High end hotels in out selection are priced from 1000 Euros per person per night and must be booked at least a year in advance. This type of accommodation is ideal for special occasions and once in a lifetime experiences.
1. General Camp Staff
As a rule of thumb 10 USD per person per day to cover all camp staff is acceptable. Lodges will normally provide you with an envelope for camp staff gratuities. This should be handed in on departure. Smaller camps and lodges have a small communal tip box where you can leave your tips for the manager to sort out later. If they do not, then please give the tip to the manager, in full view of other members of staff, upon departure.
2. Your Guide
Again, 10-20 USD per day for your guide is acceptable. Lodges will normally provide you with an envelope for guide gratuities. This should be tipped at the end of the safari and is dependent on how well you think that he or she has done his or her job.
If you are a small group or family, we suggest tipping no more than a total 50 USD per day to the guide.
3.. Restaurants and the like take the usual 10%. For porters and other minor assistance, 2-3 USD would be very generous. Occasionally you might be escorted by an armed park ranger, particularly if you are walking. A one-off US$10 tip would be well received as park staff are invariably poorly paid.
NB: Please view the above guides as an acceptable minimum if you have received adequate service.