Travel Information
Let us guide you through every stage of your journey, from the moment you start planning to the day you return home. Here, you’ll find practical advice and up-to-date details on visas and entry requirements, health and safety precautions, currency and connectivity, climate and best travel seasons, and even what to pack.
As the leading Tour Operator in Africa for wildlife safaris, Gamewatchers Safaris has been welcoming overseas visitors for many years — helping travellers explore Africa’s most remarkable landscapes and experience its incredible wildlife in comfort and safety. Our dedicated travel information for each of our featured safari destinations gives you the guidance you need to prepare for your own unforgettable African adventure.
Travel Information by Destination
General Travel Information
FAQs
With such a bewildering array of information about safaris on websites, brochures and in the media, it can be quite difficult to find answers to what you would like to know.
See our Frequently Asked Questions section for some of the more common queries we receive and our answers.
insurance
It is essential that you have a comprehensive travel insurance policy,
It is a requirement that all our clients travelling to Kenya should have travel insurance which includes cover for medical treatment and emergency air evacuation.
We are pleased to offer the JWS Travel Policy through JW Seagon with whom we now have an arrangement to book this for our clients at competitive prices.
Click Here for more information.
airlines
You can easily search for the best airfares and availability of flights to Africa using our online booking facility.
Click Here for more information.
photography
As a basic guide we suggest that each person have their own camera, a 35mm or 5+ mega pixel digital camera. Interchangeable lenses are recommended, with a normal lens and a telephoto of at least 200 mm, although a 400 mm or more is preferable for close-ups and for photographing birds. Other lenses e.g. wide angle, macro etc., may be brought.
Click Here for more information.
Plastic Bags
Plastic bags are banned in Kenya. Arriving visitors are requested to avoid bringing plastic bags into the country and in fact being in possession of a plastic bag will be an offence as it will now be against the law.
Visitors are advised to avoid packing any plastic bags in their suitcases or in carry-on hand luggage before flying to Kenya.
Items purchased at the airport before boarding the aircraft should be removed from plastic bags.
Please check hand luggage before disembarking in Nairobi and any plastic bags should be left in the plane.
Clothing
Pack lightly for your safari to include:
- Comfortable, loose fitting cotton clothing in muted and natural tones is recommended.
- Long sleeves and long trousers, shorts and t-shorts with enclosed footwear.
- Jacket or fleece for early mornings and evenings, when it can get chilly.
- Hat to keep the sun off and protect from sunburn.
- Small day pack to hold water bottle, binoculars, notebook and pen, sunglasses, face/hand wipes.
Please note that camouflage-patterned clothes are not recommended and are illegal in some countries, so avoid any item like this.
You may also be surprised at how VERY cold it can get at night and in the early morning, especially in the higher altitude.
See here for our full clothing packing guide
We also have a limited number of branded merchandise items that you can pay for and collect on arrival.
Luggage
Where possible luggage should be kept to a minimum due to the space restrictions on light aircraft, this is usually 15-20kgs per person (check with your safari airline)
If you are in Kenya, we are able to store excess baggage at our head office in Nairobi.
Click Here for more information.
drinking water
Drinking Water:
Do not drink water straight from the tap, always drink from bottled water.
Also avoid ice as this may be used from tap water,
Brush teeth with bottled drinking water.
De-Hydration
Always take a bottle of drinking water in your day bag on any activity or excursions – even if it’s a short one – and take regular, small drinks of water.
Wear a hat and sunscreen at all times and cover up/take shade from the heat of the sun, especially during the hottest times of the day.
bites & stings
Bugs and small creatures are all a part of being in the wilds of Africa. It is of course important to take precautions against any opportunity for bites or stings, so being aware is important.
When walking in the bush always wear long trousers and enclosed shoes or walking boots , with thick socks covering the ankles for protection. When walking in long grass, check your legs and clothes for grass ticks – especially in the rainy season, even when you are wearing long trousers.
Check & shake out shoes and walking boots before putting them on.
Always look first to see where you are sitting, when picking something up or when putting your hand/foot into something, like a bag or shoe – check first!
If you think you may have been bitten or stung by something, always inform the Camp Manager & Safari Guide as soon as possible.
Free resources
To support you with your safari planning and to help you understand more about what you can expect from your safari and wildlife-viewing activities, we have put together a range of useful information & guides to help you plan the best possible safari and prepare for your trip.
Click Here for more information.
Frequently Asked Questions
With such a bewildering array of information about safaris on websites, brochures and in the media, it can be quite difficult to find answers to what you would like to know. See our Frequently Asked Questions section for some of the more common queries we receive and our answers.
Travel Insurance
It is a requirement that all our clients travelling to Africa should have travel insurance which includes cover for medical treatment and emergency air evacuation.
We are pleased to offer the JWS Travel Policy through JW Seagon with whom we now have an arrangement to book this for our clients at competitive prices.
Free Safari-Planning Resources
Useful information and guides to help you plan the best possible safari and prepare for your trip by learning about the wildlife that you will see.
Security
We wish to ensure that you enjoy your stay in Kenya without any undue concerns about safety and security. The tourism industry in Kenya takes visitor safety very seriously and considers all aspects of the tourist’s stay in Kenya. For this reason, the industry created a Safety and Communication Centre under the auspices of the Kenya Tourism Federation (KTF), which is operated 24hrs a day to monitor visitor safety and to liaise closely with the security agencies in Kenya.
Animal Trophies & Souvenirs
Kenya has strict wildlife protection laws, and it is illegal to collect or possess any animal trophies, including horns, teeth, bones, skins, or any other body parts. While on safari, please do not pick up or take any wildlife remains—help us preserve Kenya’s natural heritage.
Our Difference
Gamewatchers excels in delivering unique experiences, advocating conservation, and connecting with local communities. Our adventures promise unforgettable memories and positive impact on wildlife and communities.
Safari Packing List
See our Packing List for a general guide on what to take on your safari. Where possible luggage should be kept to a minimum due to the space restrictions on light aircraft, but we are able to store excess baggage at our head office in Nairobi.
Health
There are no compulsory vaccinations required for entry to Kenya unless you are arriving from an area infected with Yellow Fever, in which case a Certificate of Inoculation against Yellow Fever is required from travellers older than one year. Visitors coming from other countries in Africa where Yellow Fever may occur, including Ethiopia, Rwanda, Tanzania, Uganda and Zanzibar, require a Yellow Fever certificate.
Visas
Visas are no longer are required for visitors to Kenya. Instead ALL visitors must apply for the Republic of Kenya Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA). This section gives further information on eTA and how to apply.
Special Offers
Our top recommended safari itineraries offering great value for an all inclusive safari experience
Airlines
You can easily search for the best airfares and availability of flights to Africa using our online booking facility.
Photography
As a basic guide we suggest that each person have their own camera, a 35mm or 5+ mega pixel digital camera. Interchangeable lenses are recommended, with a normal lens and a telephoto of at least 200 mm, although a 400 mm or more is preferable for close-ups and for photographing birds. Other lenses e.g. wide angle, macro etc., may be brought.
Recommended Reading List
To help prepare you for your safari adventure we’ve compiled a selection of our favourite books and guides.
Porini Safari Merchandise
For the first time ever, you can now own our quality merchandise worn by our guides in the field. This merchandise is inspired by the adventure-seeking style of an African Safari. Colors: distressed green with logo (name embroidery can be done upon request at extra charge.)
What Our Clients Say About Us...
In our commitment to excellence, we not only strive to exceed our clients’ expectations but also value their feedback. We are proud to present our latest clients’ feedback from Gamewatchers Safaris Clients posted on Trip Advisor.
What Our Clients Say About Us...
In our commitment to excellence, we not only strive to exceed our clients’ expectations but also value their feedback. We are proud to present our latest clients’ feedback from Gamewatchers Safaris clients posted on Trip Advisor.
Talk to a Specialist
Our experienced Safari Consultants—based in Nairobi and around the world—are here to guide you every step of the way. From expert advice to seamless planning, we’ll take care of every detail to create a safari that’s perfectly tailored to you.
Get in touch today, and a dedicated Safari Specialist in your time zone will start crafting your personalised safari to Africa.
Kenya
North America & Canada
North America & Canada
North America
UK & Europe
South America
Australia
India
Kenya
Head Office in Nairobi
We have an experienced team of Safari Consultants based in Kenya.
You can email our Nairobi team here or call at +254-722-509-200.
North America & Canada
Rick Mcintyre
Hello, I’m Rick, based in Ontario, Canada, with over 15 years in the travel industry and a passport filled with stamps from over 70 countries. My heart was captured by Africa during my first visit to Kenya, and since then, I’ve journeyed back repeatedly, exploring the diverse landscapes and wildlife of Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Botswana, Namibia, and South Africa. Whether you’re dreaming of a “once in a lifetime” vacation or you’re a seasoned safari traveler, I’m here to assist in planning your perfect African adventure.
You can contact me at rick@gamewatchers.com or give me a call at +1-877-710-3014, and together, we’ll make your African dreams a reality.
North America & Canada
Rachel Chambers
Hi, I’m Rae, based on the West Coast of Canada, on beautiful Vancouver Island. I’m a passionate traveler who has explored nearly 30 countries, but it was a solo journey to Africa that truly transformed my perspective. From the moment I arrived in Botswana, I felt an undeniable connection to the continent and was inspired to spend more time experiencing its extraordinary wildlife, breathtaking landscapes, and rich cultures. My solo travels have since taken me through Zimbabwe, Zambia, Mauritius, South Africa, Uganda, Namibia, and Kenya, where I experienced Gamewatchers Safaris and Porini Camps firsthand. It was during these immersive and unforgettable journeys that my passion for Africa evolved into a clear vision: to join the Gamewatchers team and help others discover the magic of safari. I’d love to connect and plan your wildest dreams!.
You can reach me by email at rae@gamewatchers.com
North America
Julie Roggow
Greetings, I’m Julie Roggow, and I come to you with over two decades of immersion in the world of travel. My journey into the heart of safari adventures began as I traversed Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, Botswana, Zimbabwe, and South Africa, capturing the essence of these mesmerizing landscapes through my lens. Among these remarkable destinations, Kenya and the Porini safari camps hold a special place in my heart. Their unique blend of wilderness and conservation resonates deeply with me.
My passion for travel is matched only by my dedication to sharing that passion with others. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or embarking on your very first safari, I’m here to ensure that planning your safari vacation is an enjoyable and seamless experience.
Feel free to reach out to me by email at julie@gamewatchers.com or through our toll-free telephone line at +1-877-710-3014. Let’s embark on an unforgettable safari journey together, where the wild beauty of Africa awaits to enchant and inspire you.
UK & Europe
Tom Mees
Jambo, I’m Tommy Mees, most people call me Tom.
My connection with Africa began through years of travelling across the continent.
I later spent more than twelve years managing safari camps and lodges while supporting conservation initiatives including beekeeping and tree-planting projects.
Having travelled extensively throughout Eastern and Southern Africa, I developed a deep appreciation for authentic wilderness experiences and the conservation-focused approach of the Porini Camps.
I am originally from Belgium and now based in Spain, though my heart has always remained in Africa.
Alongside my safari background, I am also a professional photographer and enjoy helping travellers experience and capture the extraordinary wildlife, landscapes and cultures that make Africa so special.
If you are considering an African safari, feel free to contact me at tom@gamewatchers.com
South America
Andrea Landaeta
Hola, I’m Andrea and my love affair with the captivating world of safaris began during my teenage years when I embarked on my very first safari in Kenya. There, amidst the awe-inspiring wildlife and expansive plains, I found my true passion. Over the years, Kenya has called me back time and time again, leading me to explore its myriad camps, conservancies, and renowned parks. More recently, I’ve had the privilege of staying at all the Porini Camps, where the spotlight shines on wildlife conservation—a cause close to my heart as I traverse the globe. While Kenya holds a special place in my wanderlust-filled heart, Tanzania, Uganda, and Rwanda have also woven their magic into my soul.
If you’re eager to embark on your own safari adventure or share your passion for conservation, please feel free to contact me at andrea@saririterra.com
Australia
Kristy Thomson
Hello, I’m Kristy, your Australian-based Safari Advisor with Gamewatchers Safaris and Porini Camps. My background in ecology and conservation management, combined with a deep passion for nature and the great outdoors, led me to Kenya where I instantly fell in love with its spectacular wildlife and warm-hearted people. Having spent significant time at our Porini Camps and explored other camps we offer, I bring intricate knowledge to help craft your ultimate wildlife safari adventure. Whether you’re seeking the thrill of the savannah or the serenity of the wilderness, I’m here to make your safari dreams a reality.
Feel free to reach out to me on the Gold Coast, Australia, at kristy@gamewatchers.com or call on +61 419 175 672.
India
Pranay Chandra
Hello, I’m Pranay Chandra, a veteran of the Indian Armed Forces whose profound passion for nature and wildlife led me to the world of wildlife photography. My lens has captured the essence of the wild, earning recognition in esteemed competitions like the Sanctuary Asia annual wildlife awards and the Natural History Museum’s Wildlife Photographer of the Year awards. Beyond photography, I’ve dedicated myself to conservation efforts, collaborating with Ecological Task Forces and supporting WWF India’s training initiatives in tiger reserves. In the realm of education, I’ve partnered with CEC, New Delhi, to create informative video programs on Human-Wildlife Conflicts. I’ve ventured to Kenya, embracing the splendours of Africa while staying at Porini camps and other renowned lodges.
You can connect with me via email at pranay@gamewatchers.com or call on +91 801 788 5256.
