Augustine Minja

 

 

 

Lion resting

 

 

 

Bring pens and
perhaps toys for your
visit to a Maasai

Village

 

 

 

Maasai artifacts can be

bought throughout

northern Tanzania

 

 

 

Reaching the peak of
Mt. Kilimanjaro at
19,340 feet is a
lifelong dream for
many African travelers


Ask The Expert

Augustine Minja

A native Tanzanian, Augustine is a superb ambassador for Africa. His flexibility and knowledge of wildlife and native culture combine to create the ultimate safari experience. He attended the Mweka College of Wildlife where he earned a Certificate in Wildlife Management, Tour Guiding and Visitor Services. Other interests include ornithology, botany and range ecology. Augustine speaks Kiswahili, English, French, Chagga and Iraqw. He has led numerous zoological, museum and university groups through his beloved Tanzania since 1997.

Q: Do I need a visa to travel to Tanzania?

A: Welcome, friend. Yes a valid passport for at least 6 months and visa is required. They are easy to obtain. Please contact www.tanzaniaembassy-us.org for details.

Q: What's the best time to Travel?

A: If possible, I always recommend during the annual migration. It's your chance to see one of nature's greatest spectacles as up to 1.5 million zebra and wildebeest cross the Serengeti in search of fertile grasslands and takes place every year from end of November to early July. The weather is pleasant in Tanzania throughout the year. The long rains generally fall from April through May, and the short rains from October through November usually consist of a short shower and sunshine the rest of the day.

Q: How many shots do I need?

A: Consult your doctor 4-6 weeks before departure. Yellow fever, typhoid, hepatitis A and B, tetanus and polio inoculations are recommended but not mandatory.  A malaria suppressant should be taken a week before you depart, as well as during and after trip. The best prevention is to avoid mosquito bites. Wear long slacks and long sleeved shirts in the evenings, use mosquito nets, and a repellent with 30% DEET, Skin So Soft, or oil of citronella. I also recommend checking with your physician, local health authority or the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's hotline for international travelers at 877-FYI-TRIP (877-394-8747) or via their web site at http://www.cdc.gov/travel for any additional health precautions.

Q: Is the water safe to drink?

A: The best bet is always to drink bottled water. Bottled water is readily available, so please do not allow yourself to become dehydrated. In remote areas water is usually boiled or bottled and is safe to drink but not from the tap. Food, even in remote tented camps, is carefully prepared, and the local produce is refreshing and safe.  

Q: How in shape do I need to be?

A: To enjoy your trip to the fullest, you should be in good physical and mental health. Your safari will not include strenuous activity. It is an easy climb into the safari vehicles and boats and your game drives allow you to sit back and take in the view around you. Rough roads may bounce you around a bit. Walking safaris (when available) are given at a decent pace in order to closely examine the flora and fauna of the area.

Q: I plan on enjoying the shopping, as well. Are credit cards accepted?

A: Some major credit cards are accepted such as MasterCard and Visa, but American Express, Discover and Diners Club are often not accepted. However, it is advisable to carry some cash or traveler’s checks in U.S. Dollars for purchases outside urban areas, and tipping. Exchange of U.S. Dollars can be made at lodges and banks. You should not depend on your ATM card outside of the U.S. unless your bank advises otherwise. Local banks will give you notes in local currency. Keep your traveler’s checks on you, along with other valuables, including passport, credit cards, or lock in the safety deposit boxes when provided. Cash works best in the African marketplaces and with vendors along the road, where bargaining is expected. You should carry Traveler’s checks in small denominations. When cashing them at lodges on your program, there may be a shortage of cash available. Smaller denominations will be appreciated and more appropriate.

Q: Any packing suggestions?

A: Just a few! Following is my recommended packing list:

  • A small flashlight with extra batteries
  • Malaria tablets; consult your doctor for suggestions
  • Adapter plugs & converters for electrical appliances
  • Packaged wet tissues ("Wash & Dry" "Wet Ones")
  • A tiny calculator for estimating cost while shopping
  • Plenty of film or tape for your camera + extra batteries or rechargers
  • Long-sleeved shirts, slacks and socks to protect you from insect bites and sunburn
  • Good quality sunglasses – preferably polarized. Tinted fashion glasses are not good in strong light
  • Sun hat with a brim
  • Shorts/skirts
  • Long trousers/slacks
  • Underwear and socks
  • Good walking shoes (running/tennis shoes are fine)
  • Sandals or rubber flip/flops for poolside
  • Swimsuit with light cover-up garment
  • Warm winter jersey for cooler mornings
  • Light rain gear for summer months (late November to April)
  • If you wear contact lenses, we recommend that you bring along a pair of glasses in case you get irritation from the dust
  • BINOCULARS  (ESSENTIAL)
  • Personal toiletries (basic amenities supplied by many establishments)
  • Malaria tablets (if applicable)
  • Moisturizing cream & suntan lotion
  • Insect repellent e.g. Tabard, Rid, Jungle Juice, Off, etc.
  • Basic medical kit (aspirins, plasters, Immodium, antiseptic cream and anti-histamine cream, etc.)
  • Visas, tickets, passports, money, etc.
  • Waterproof/dustproof bags/cover for your cameras.

Q: That should do it for now, Augustine. Any other suggestions?

A: Just pack a sense of wonder, adventure and humor! I look forward to sharing my beautiful country with you.

DID YOU KNOW?

Mount Kilimanjaro was created by the eruption of three separate volcanoes over 750,000 years ago. It has 5 distinct climatic zones.