Clothing
On safari, the clothing should be casual and comfortable. Sunglasses and hats are highly recommended. The temperature in the mountainous regions drops at night and warm clothing is recommended. Kindly respect the local traditions. It is illegal to sunbathe topless and any violation could involve prosecution.

Communication
While most hotels in Nairobi and Mombasa have modern telecommunication facilities, it is advisable to enquire about charges before making international calls.

Currency
Kenya and Tanzania have separate currencies, though each is called the Shilling. The Kenya Shilling and the Tanzania Shilling are readily exchanged for most major currencies. Exchange rates are clearly posted at all Bureau de Change and Serena cashiers are updated daily.

Driver's Licence
Driving is on the left-hand side of the road. An International Driving Permit is recommended. National licences are valid for 90 days but must be endorsed at a local police station.

Emergency Contact Numbers
For emergency calls dial 999 for police, ambulance and fire.

Electricity
The voltage countrywide is 220-240 AC. This voltage is not suitable for hardware manufactured in Canada and U.S.A. In hotels and lodges outside Nairobi, Mombasa and Arusha generators are the source of electricity and have varying running periods. You will be advised of the timings at the respective lodge/camp.

Geography and Climate
The topography of East Africa ranges from sea-level coastal lowlands to mountain peaks of almost 6,000 metres. Climate is largely dictated by altitude and latitude, as well as alternating wet and dry seasons. Except in coastal areas, which are warm at all times, the climate in East Africa is characterized by hot, sunny days and comfortably cool nights.
> See average climate & rainfall charts

Getting There
An increasingly popular destination for business people and vacationers, the countries of Kenya and Tanzania in East Africa are serviced by most of Europe and Asia's major airlines, and of course by several African carriers, including the national airlines of Kenya and Tanzania. Long-haul flights frequently require connections.

Approximate flying times are:
From Europe 6-10 hrs
From Asia 14-16 hrs
From Australia 24 hrs
From USA 23 hrs (east coast);
32 hrs (west coast)
From South America 15 hrs

Health Requirements
Precaution should be taken against Malaria. Insect repellents are available at all local pharmacies. Pharmacies and hospitals can be found in most towns and are equipped with qualified physicians and medical personnel. Hotels in Kenya and Tanzania have house doctors who are on call 24 hours a day. All lodges have a qualified nurse on call. It is advisable to drink bottled water at all times.

Hours of Work
Business: 08h00 to 13h00, 14h00 to 17h00 (Monday to Friday)
Banking: 09h00 to 15h00 (Monday to Friday) - 09h00 to 11h00 (Saturday)
Shopping: 08h30 to 12h30, 14h00 to 17h30 (Mondays to Saturdays)

International Dialing Codes
Kenya 254  |  Nairobi (0) 2
Mombasa (0) 11
Tanzania 255  |  Arusha (0) 57

Language and Culture
Swahili is the lingua franca of Kenya and Tanzania, but English is also widely spoken and is the predominant official language. There are, however, more than 50 separate tribal languages, and just as many local cultures. A sense of humor and a love of life are common denominators.

Law and Administration
As independent and sovereign nations, Kenya and Tanzania have their own national laws and administrative structures. Visitors will find these closely parallel British systems. Although both countries are large, and much of their territory wild and remote, some larger cities are cosmopolitan and sophisticated and offer international-caliber facilities.

Luggage
We strongly recommend that you travel as light as possible. At tree hotels only a small overnight bag is permitted per person. Secure storage facilities are available at their respective base hotels. On the domestic flights within the parks you are restricted to a maximum of 15 kgs per person.

Prohibited
Visitors to Kenya and Tanzania are expected to show due respect to the State and its Officials. This includes not defacing pictures of the President or any Kenyan or Tanzanian currency, not photographing the State House, airports, military installations, government facilities and officials.

Also strictly prohibited is the trade in any wildlife skins and products. Whenever in doubt, please do not hesitate to ask your driver/guide, who, being well versed with the Kenyan and Tanzanian customs and traditions, will be able to advise you accordingly.

Public Transport
Trains, ferries, buses and taxis.

Security
As in other metropolitan cities, keep a close watch on handbags, wallets and cameras and avoid wearing expensive jewellery. It is advisable to hire a taxi if you wish to move around at night and your personal safety is ensured if you avoid deserted lanes and streets. Deposit boxes are at your disposal in Kenyan and Tanzanian hotels. In lodges the reception will place your valuables in safe custody.

Shopping
Khanga, kitenge and kikoi cloth (locally woven fabric) may be bought in various curio shops in Nairobi, Mombasa and Arusha. Mokonde carvings (wooden statuettes) are sold throughout the country and young Masai men sell carvings and necklaces on Mombasa’s beaches.

Sports
Tennis, squash, golf, horse riding, sailing, swimming, fishing, surfing, scuba diving and bowling.

Time Zone
GMT + 3 hours.

Tipping
Most major hotels and restaurants include a service charge. Tipping is not obligatory and is entirely at your discretion.

Visas & Documents
A valid passport is necessary for travel to East Africa. Visas are required for most foreign passport holders wishing to visit Kenya and Tanzania. Notable exceptions include citizens of some, but not all, Commonwealth countries, and citizens of certain countries that have established reciprocal visa waiver arrangements.

Visitors to Kenya and Tanzania are required to be vaccinated against certain diseases. Proof is required in the form of an International Vaccination Certificate, generally available at the medical facility where the vaccinations are given. IVCs should be kept with passports and presented to immigration officials upon entry to the country.