Simba Safari — Big Five Explorer

Visa & Entry: Most nationalities require a Kenya Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA), obtainable in advance via the official eTA portal (etakenya.go.ke) before arrival at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) in Nairobi. A passport valid for at least 6 months beyond your travel dates is required.

Travel Insurance: Comprehensive travel insurance covering medical evacuation, trip cancellation, and emergency medical care is strongly recommended and should be arranged before departure.

What to Pack: Neutral-colored, lightweight clothing (khaki, olive, beige) for game drives; a warm layer or jacket for early morning drives and higher-altitude areas like the Aberdares and the Mara escarpment, which can be cold; comfortable walking shoes; a hat, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen; insect repellent; binoculars; and a camera with extra memory/batteries. A small daypack is useful for daily essentials during game drives.

Physical Preparation: This is a vehicle-based safari with minimal walking, suitable for most fitness levels. Travelers should be prepared for long hours on unpaved roads, which can be bumpy.

Weather: Kenya's climate varies by season and altitude — expect warm days and cool mornings/evenings, especially at higher elevations. The dry season (June–October) offers the best game viewing; the wet season (November–May) is greener with fewer crowds.

Connectivity: Mobile network coverage is generally available in park lodges/camps, though it may be limited or unavailable during game drives in remote areas.

Tipping: Tipping guides and camp staff is customary in Kenya, though not included in the package price. Guidance on suggested amounts can be provided on request.

Safety: Always follow your guide's instructions during game drives and never exit the vehicle in wildlife areas except at designated points.

Health & Vaccinations: A Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is required if arriving from or transiting through a Yellow Fever-endemic country. Anti-malarial medication is recommended for the entire region. Travelers should consult a travel clinic or doctor at least 4–6 weeks before departure.

Currency & Payments: The Kenyan Shilling (KES) is the local currency, though USD is widely accepted for tourism services. It's advisable to carry small denomination USD bills (2009 or newer) for tips and incidental purchases, as change and card facilities may be limited in park areas.

Deposit & Payment: A non-refundable deposit of 30% of the total package price is required to confirm your booking. The remaining balance (70%) is due no later than 45 days before the start date. For bookings made within 45 days of departure, full payment is required at the time of booking. Payments can be made via bank transfer or other methods specified by the operator; all bank charges are the responsibility of the traveler.

More than 60 days before departure: Deposit is forfeited; remaining paid balance refunded in full.

45–60 days before departure: 50% of total package price is forfeited.

30–44 days before departure: 75% of total package price is forfeited.

Less than 30 days before departure (or no-show): 100% of total package price is forfeited, no refund.

Amendments: Date changes or itinerary amendments requested by the traveler are subject to availability and may incur additional fees, particularly if requested within 45 days of departure.

Force Majeure: Neither party is liable for delays, cancellations, or failure to perform due to circumstances beyond reasonable control, including but not limited to natural disasters, government restrictions, civil unrest, pandemics, or extreme weather. In such cases, the operator will work with travelers to reschedule or provide credit where possible, but refunds are not guaranteed.

Travel Insurance Recommendation: Given the above terms, travelers are strongly encouraged to purchase travel insurance that covers trip cancellation and interruption.