What to Bring.

Introduction

Most African Travel Guides or Safari Operators will recommend all sorts of equipment and accessories. But, bare in mind that you are not going on a rough and ready long haul safari where you live in a truck or landrover the whole week, with makeshift camps and toilets. You will be able to relax in beautiful surroundings with en-suite accommodations.

We are situated on one of the most wonderful, scenic escarpments that Africa can offer, in the bush, but close to a small town with all ameneties. You do not need the same equipment as are necessary for those stressy, wild, down to earth safaris.

You will experience Africa every day! You will take home a sense of adventure but you will also be able to relax in comfort and security, with all meals included.

Nonetheless, think about taking these things...

Money

Even in inland Tanzania you can buy artefacts and souvenirs, and you may want to buy additional drinks or snacks etc - we feed you well but sometimes, when I relax, I get peckish!

Personally I would not bother with Travellers Cheques - if you do you may have to pay high charges, depending on where you exchange, and there are not opportunties to do that everywhere. If you exchange in a rush in town, without finding out the best deals, you may also get ripped off.

US dollars are accepted all over, although TZ shillings break down better to smaller denominations. Take large denominations as you get better exchange rates for larger bills. However be aware that the 100$ note is frequently forged and is sometimes not welcome - I always take 50's..

In cities and larger towns there is a chance of theft, so dont wear a huge money belt on your hips, use a money belt or container that is strapped or hung on your body, below your shirt - it lowers the temptation by being invisible, you don t have to carry your papers in your pocket or bag, and it prevents loss.

Books

You dont need to bring several books: one for the plane and one for rest periods at camp is more than enough. We have a lending reference library and a drop & take library where our guests leave the book they have just read and take one from the camp when they leave. We also have a lending library of card packs, chess, dominoes and African games for your relaxation.

Clothes

You will not be plagued by mosquitos, but they are there, so bring some long sleeved shirts or sweatshirts for the evening but preferably in light colours as mosquitos prefer black!

A hat is good to protect your head in the heat.

Walking Boots protect your feet on the rockier ground; you may also want to go on a guided mountain walk. (see also Health and Safety).

Jogging Shoes (or trainers) are more comfortble on the plane, on jeep and bus safaris - and you can go jogging with maasai warriors if you wish. They are armed with spears but they use routes that are frequently used by people, not animals.

Shorts or trekking trousers that can be unzipped at the knee are good for the day time. If you visit a mosque then please wear trousers (and women should be modestly clothed). The same applies if you visit a christian church.

The rest is up to you!

Equipment

Maps - not needed but recommended for your own interest - we may have some on sale at the camp or you can purchase them at the national park entrances.

Camera - up to you, but I cannot imagine a safari without one; some kind of zoom is recommended: ask an expert!

Binoculars - I am never without them, at camp, on safari at the beach! For wildlife I recommend 7 x42 or 8 x 40. 10 x 50 is ok but you need a steady hand to see distant animals or birds.

Field Guides - we have some at the camp: flora and fauna.

First Aid Kit - one for your entire party, but read about this under Health & Safety.

Medicines - get advice from your doctor but maybe some tablets for stomach complaints (our food is good but you may drink or eat elsewhere), perhaps for headaches, and maybe some wound disinfectment and plasters.