Farren Safaris

The Details

Destinations

South Africa

Mozambique

Special

Interests

Photographic

Golfing

Scuba Diving

Wine Route Tours

Bird Watching

Below are answers to some of the most commonly asked questions regarding travelling in Africa and safari life

What is the weather like in the African Safari areas

The summer months are from October to April with day-time temperatures ranging from 85 - 105F throughout most of the areas. We typically do not conduct safaris during this time. The winter months (safari season), are from May to September with day time temperatures ranging from 65 - 85F. Nights can be cool during this period with temperatures sometimes dropping as low as 35F. The rainy season normally starts in the middle of November and ends in March. Farren Safaris prime safari season is from May to September for the most southern African countries and October to November for Tanzania.

What do you recommend for clothing while on safari

We recommend four sets of brown, green or dark khaki lightweight safari outfits, a soft comfortable brimmed hat or cap, sturdy walking boots that are quiet and worn in. It is also advisable to bring a fleece pullover and/or windproof jacket for the cooler early mornings and evenings. All travelers should bring a pair of long trousers (not blue jeans) as it is a restaurant requirement in several of the finer hotels we may visit during your itinerary. Multiple sets of clothing are not normally necessary as laundry services are provided daily at most of our accommodations.

What are the accommodations like on Safari

Most of the lodges we utilize feature teak furniture, tile bathrooms en suite, and in-ground pools. In short, it is hard to overstate the luxury of the typical safari lodge located throughout southern Africa. These lodges are truly one of the best kept secrets in resort travel. All of the lodges we frequent offer safe drinking water from deep wells and private bathrooms with hot and cold running water. Some offer private chalets with all the amenities of a fine hotel. All have electricity, usually generated by a stand-alone aggregate and/or solar panels.

What is the food like while on safari

All of our camps offer a full daily menu of three meals. You will be provided with outstanding full course meals prepared by professional chefs. All meals include fresh vegetables and meats, and wine and excellent local beers are served. The safari vehicles generally come equipped with coolers so you can pause for a cold drink and especially for witnessing Africa’s magnificent sunsets. If you have any special dietary needs or wishes we ask that you make us aware of them so we can arrange for a special menu to accommodate your preferences.

Will my electrical appliances work in Africa

Most of southern Africa's electricity supply is 220 volts AC 50 Hz. Appliances of a lesser voltage require transformers and adaptors. Adaptor kits can be purchased at several locations in the US prior to your departure. Kits are recommended as the requirements and plugs can differ from country to country. Farren Safaris has used digital cameras, video cameras, hair dryers and other electrical equipment without problems in all of its accommodations with use of the proper adapters. Electric razors and cell phone chargers may automatically adjust for different voltages.

Can I call home while on safari

You guide will always have a cell phone as well as a satellite phone with him. Most camps are equipped with satellite phones as well. We will provide you with the satellite phones number prior to your departure. This will allow you to provide it to anyone that may need to contact you while on safari. In addition to satellite phones cell phones work in many of the remote locations throughout southern Africa. Several cell phone carriers and cell phones offer international service. We recommend you call your cell phone provider to enquire about this service.

What type of camera gear should I take

A good quality digital camera is a must. On average, we see clients taking between three to six hundred pictures while on a typical safari. We recommend taking sufficient memory sticks to accommodate these numbers. We also recommend an extra battery as well. There is electricity via a generator in every camp but we recommend being cautious in regards to recharging electronic equipment. It is important to have a good quality camera case as the dust in Africa is very fine and has tendency to find it's way into every nook and cranny. If you would like to take a camcorder the same rules apply. Compact and good quality are the name of the game. We also recommend taking a large enough zip lock bag to accommodate your camera. This will help keep any dust and debris out of your equipment. Remember to take a camera with a high pixel count. This will allow you to enlarge some of your photos to 8X10 or larger and maintain their quality.

What is your cancellation policy

In case of cancellation the cancellation policy of the particular outfitter you are scheduled to go on safari with will apply. Farren Safaris charges a 15% service fee with a maximum $500.00 on all cancellations. This fee is waived if the safari is simply rescheduled and not cancelled entirely. Most tour companies have a fairly liberal cancellation policy. This information is available by simply contacting our office. We recommend that all clients purchase medical evacuation insurance and trip cancellation insurance.

Farren Safaris

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