Q: What can I expect on a Typical Day on Safari A: There really is no such thing as a “typical” day on safari because each day holds a different adventure. However, when you are in the national parks of Southern and Eastern Africa it is common that you will get up early in the morning at about 6:00am and head out into the bush on your game viewing activity. Depending on where you are, you may have the option to take a game viewing excursion in a powerboat or canoe on the river or lake, a walk with your professional guide, or game viewing in your four-wheel-drive safari vehicle. It is not typically necessary to book activities in advance, except for special activities like hot air ballooning, and your hosts will be happy to accommodate you and be flexible. You will typically be back in camp by 11:00am for brunch or lunch followed by an afternoon rest. Around 3:00pm you will have tea and rusks (local snack) before heading out into the African bush again in search of game. When the sun starts to get low on the horizon, you will stop briefly and enjoy sundowners (drinks) as you watch the beautiful African sunset. On arrival back at your camp, you will have time for a shower before returning to the dining room for a delicious dinner. After coffee and a nightcap, you may return to your comfortable bed for a good night’s sleep. Q: How many people are in a vehicle while game viewing? A: All vehicles can take a maximum of 7 guests (the 7th seat possibly sitting next to the driver) but you will find each camps and lodge has a slight different format. The most important thing to know is that everyone has a window seat an no one sits in the middle giving you the best possible vantage point! Q: What clothes do you need on safari? A: Bushtracks will provide you a packing list for your safari as well as seasonal temperature and rainfall chart so you are prepared. While out on the vehicle, it is recommended you dress in neutral colored clothing so that you don’t scare the animals away. Otherwise, we recommend lightweight comfortable clothing that you can layer and add and remove as the temperature changes. Being on safari is a casual affair and know that there are daily laundry services offered throughout. Unless you are dining in a fancy hotel or luxury train, the dress code is relaxed and informal.

Q: Am I too late to book? A: We would always like the opportunity to check space availability in Africa and it’s hard to know until we ask. We often are able to confirm space at short notice, so we are happy to check for you on request. Q: What is included and not in the price? A: Generally, in all of our itineraries we include accommodation, internal airfare, transfers, meals, local drinks at safari camps and game drives. What’s generally not included are gratuities, immunizations, trip cancellation insurance, international airfare, special activities like hot air ballooning, city tours, white water rafting and special educational tours. Q: What is a custom safari and aren’t they more expensive? A: Custom safaris are just that and are not more expensive than group scheduled tours that generally have included a tour guide and pre-packaged plans where the traveler may be paying for extras that they did not really want in the first place. Custom safaris allow you to select your dates of travel and camps and lodges that meet your preferred budget. We love helping our guests create an itinerary that works for their schedules and meet their interests whether that be wildlife, cultural or a mix of both. Q: When is the best time to go? A: Weather and game-viewing changes throughout the year and is quite different in East and Southern Africa. East Africa game-viewing is wonderful year-round, but perhaps staying out of the April, May and November periods would be wise since these are their peak rainfall months. Southern Africa is also a destination that is a year-round option, but the Green Season (Dec-Mar) does tend to have seasonal afternoon rain showers, yet on the flip side rates are lower, animals are having their babies, lighting is very dramatic creating incredible photographic opportunities and overall there are fewer tourists. Know that if you don’t like the heat you might want to avoid October to March where temps are likely to be in the 90’s. June and July do have pleasant daytime temperatures, but evenings are in the 40’s. Q: Why should I travel with Bushtracks? A: Bushtracks has been booking safaris since 1991 and work every day to provide seamless travel experiences for our guests. We have a wealth of experience and long-standing relationships with our vendors on the ground in Africa and if you need help on the ground we will be there to assist and available to you by way of our 24-hr emergency contacts here in the U.S. We are proud to have been trusted by National Geographic Expeditions, Lindblad Expeditions and Stanford Travel Study over the years to operate safari arrangements for their guests. We are also proudly partnered with African Wildlife Foundation to ensure that we are conservation focused and that the experience you enjoy will be preserved for generations to come. Q: How many people go on your safaris? A: For a custom safari, we ask for a minimum of two guests for 7 consecutive days travel. While on safari, camps and lodges vary in size, but know that each day game viewing activities are done in small group of no more than 7 guests. Q: When is payment due? A: Once we book your arrangements for you in Africa and send you your confirmed itinerary, we will request a 30% deposit which we then forward to the camps and lodges in Africa so that they continue to hold your space. Final payment is not due until 98 days prior to your day of departure. Q: Can Bushtracks help with international airfare? A: Yes, absolutely we can assist you with your international airfare and provide options for your consideration. Q: What kind of planes do you use? A: Popular aircraft used to transfer guests from camps and lodges include Cessna Grand Caravans and PC-12’s but there are other aircraft used too for example: Baron 55, Islander, Cessna 401/402 and King Air 90/200, Jetstream 32 and 41. We also have larger jets available for long-range programs that we operate.

Q: Can I expect to have ample WIFI connection while in Africa? A: Although WIFI is commonly available at camps throughout Africa, please keep in mind that it is not likely to have the same reliability or bandwidth that you’re used to when uploading or downloading files. Emails and messaging without attachments is typically not an issue. Q: Is there the ability to use telephone, fax and e-mail throughout my time in Africa? A: For the most part, yes. However, services in certain destinations are often inconsistent and unreliable, thus you can’t always expect or depend on regular communication. Some safari camps are more likely to have cell reception and stronger WIFI. Q: How will I be able to get in contact with Bushtracks while I’m in Africa? A: Bushtracks maintains a 24-hour emergency cell phone. This emergency contact number will be mailed with your final pack. In the event of an emergency, our office should be able to get word to you at most locations within a reasonable space of time.

Q: Should I be concerned about dehydration while on Safari? A: Dehydration is often a problem in travel and responsible for a number of symptoms that can interfere with the enjoyment of the trip. The most common causes are from air travel, hot weather, humidity, drinking alcohol, or other exerting factors. At Bushtracks, we make sure that there is ample bottled drinking water readily available throughout your trip. If you are traveling when temperatures are high, we also recommend you bring along re-hydration salts or packets of electrolyte mixtures. Q: Do I need to worry about becoming ill from the food or water while in Africa? A: Because of the careful selection of camps and lodges that Bushtracks chooses to work with over the past 30+ years, the risk of exposure to food- and water-borne diseases has not been an issue for our guests. We will be sure to supply you with our tips to minimize exposure and a clear list of what we suggest you pack. Rest assured that all the accommodations we book for you will have ample safe drinking water and reliable kitchens with impeccable track records for food safety. Q: I have dietary needs and would like to know about the food? A: Whatever your dietary restrictions, as soon as you provide this in your personal information form, we will be passing this onto the camps and lodges so they will be ready for your visit. Camps pride themselves on their cuisine and enjoy offering a varied menu that will give you a sense of African cuisine and well as stick to more traditional European fare.

Q: Do I need a Travel Visa for my safari trip? A: Whether or not you need a travel visa all depends on your final itinerary. You may require a travel visa before departing your home country for entry into certain African countries. Once you book with Bushtracks, we will clearly communicate to you and list the visa requirements specific to your trip. We can also help make the process easier on you and your group by providing you with visa application forms that apply to your trip and reminders of when to have them completed by. Q: What do I need to know in regards to my passport? A: Most importantly, you’ll need to make sure your passport is currently valid and does not expire within six months of your scheduled return date. Any other policies that are unique to a specific region or country will be clearly communicated by your Expert Safari Planner (some countries require a specific number or sequence of at least four unused pages). We always keep up-to-date with all changes in all countries, so when you book with Bushtracks, you’ll have expert advice from start to finish.

Q: How much currency will I need to carry with me? A: You will need money only for personal expenses, such as laundry where it is not included in the camp rate, phone calls, faxes, souvenirs, gratuities and some meals and beverages. In many cases you’ll be able to use your credit card, but it will be smart to have cash on hand in small denominations. Q: What currencies will I need to have throughout the trip? A: U.S. dollars are generally accepted, and local currencies can be exchanged at various locations along your itinerary. Traveler’s checks are not widely accepted in most of the places you will visit and we do not recommend them. Q: What credit cards are accepted? A: Visa and MasterCard are accepted in most of the places you will visit, however there are regions in Africa where main credit card companies are not currently operational. Your expert safari planner will make sure you’re aware if that applies to your itinerary. Definitely forewarn your credit card company either way – it is very common practice to block transactions in foreign countries unless they’ve been forewarned. Q: Do I need to be concerned about currency value shifts after I book? A: Normally you would, but not with Bushtracks! As a US registered company, your travel investment is protected in a U.S. Traveler’s Trust account with FDIC insurance, eliminating concerns of currency fluctuations affecting your time on safari. Q: Do I need travel insurance? A: Bushtracks Expeditions automatically covers you for International Medical Evacuation Insurance ($100,000) and Accident/Sickness Medical incidents ($25,000 per incident). This policy covers you only during travel arranged by Bushtracks; air, hotels, and other arrangements not booked and paid for through Bushtracks are not covered under this insurance policy. We do recommend you purchase Trip Cancellation Insurance and we will provide a Travel Guard brochure for additional travel insurance coverages. The Travel Guard travel insurance plan provides valuable coverage at an affordable price and includes a waiver of Pre-existing Medical Condition Exclusion if insurance is purchased within 21 days of the initial trip payment.

Q: Is there a minimum age for travel in Africa? A: There is no minimum age for travel, however, we will be sure to book appropriate accommodation for young children. Q: Where can I travel with children – both to ensure their safety as well as to make sure they have the best possible experience? A: When you book with Bushtracks, our vast experience of planning safaris for families is part of the package. Your expert safari planner will make sure you know which countries require additional documentation for minors in your group and what that documentation is. Especially when a minor is not traveling with both parents, you’ll want to make sure to harness our experience to make your trip that much more seamless. Q: Where are the best destinations for safari adventures for children? A: Some destinations are more equipped to entertain young safari-goers than others, largely because of the activities they offer and facilities at camp. When you work with our expert safari planners, you can be confident that your young travelers can have a memorable experience filled with everything from learning how to track animals, to making crafts with local community members their age.

Q: Am I healthy enough to go on safari? A: In general, you should be in general good health and prepared for travel in places without immediately accessible medical facilities. Depending on your itinerary, you may need to climb in and out of small aircraft, safari vehicles and boats and to climb stairs without a railing and walk moderate distances unassisted. The safari vehicles will travel over bumpy, rocky dirt tracks and the going can be rough at times. It’s always a good idea to ask your doctor about any specific concerns. Q: What medical requirements and information are needed to be able to go on safari? A: Throughout the 30+ years at Bushtracks, we’ve curated safari experiences for all ranges of physical capability and desired levels of activity. Initially, we will give you access to our compiled and constantly updated health information resources for travel to Africa. You are encouraged to consult your doctor for specific medical advice about any activities or destinations on your trip. Your doctor is most familiar with your personal medical history and is best qualified to determine your particular needs. Be sure to bring a copy of your itinerary when you do visit your doctor. Q: What if I need medical attention? A: We provide emergency medical evacuation in all of our safaris. Depending on the nature of the injury you may be treated locally or if more severe, flown by air ambulance to the most appropriate facility. Camps are equipped with basic medical kits, but if you have a specific medical condition, you should plan to bring your own medicine to have on hand in the event of an emergency. Q: What immunizations do I need for my adventures in Africa? A: We will provide you links to the Center for Disease Control which will list current requirements for each country in Africa that you will be visiting. Immunization requirements can and do change and we will ensure that you know the latest before you go. Ultimately you should talk to your doctor or local health immunization center to decide which immunizations you need. Q: What prescription and over-the-counter medications should I be concerned about bringing with me to Africa? A: Africa is a huge continent and each country has different policies. Luckily our team of Africa experts is here to help make things easy and seamless. We’ll bring to your attention the restrictions for each country on your itinerary – such as in Zambia, where the active ingredient found in Benadryl and many other allergy meds is illegal to possess and sure to give you troubles if you travel there unaware and without the expert advice you’ll get from the Bushtracks team Q: Do I need to worry about becoming ill from the Food or Water while in Africa? A: Because of the careful selection of camps and lodges that Bushtracks chooses to work with over the past 30+ years, the risk of exposure to food- and water-borne diseases is very low. We will be sure to supply you with our tips to minimize exposure. Rest assured that all the accommodations we book for you will have ample safe drinking water and reliable kitchens with impeccable track records for food safety. Q: What if I need a machine for sleep apnea and need to have electricity. Is this an issue? A: If you can let us know any medical concerns from the start, we will ensure that we are using properties that will have electricity and so this will not be an issue for you while on safari. Medical Coverage During Your Travel Q: What type of Medical Insurance or Coverage do I need for my safari adventure? A: When you book with Bushtracks, we automatically include coverage for Emergency Medical Evacuation Insurance and Accident/Sickness Medical Incidents. Information will be included in the final packet with your other travel documents. We will also provide options for purchasing Trip Cancellation insurance which we highly recommend since your safari investment becomes less refundable as you approach your departure date.

ELECTRICAL CURRENT Q: What type of plug-in will I need, and do I need a converter? A: Electrical current throughout Africa is 220 volts. A current converter will be necessary to run small, U.S.-style, 110-volt appliances unless they have a dual-voltage switch. We recommend you bring a universal plug adaptor with you since you will see a variety of plugs at different camps PLASTIC BAG BANS Q: Can I bring plastic bags for my toiletries, or anything else? A: The laws and regulations regarding plastic bans varies from country-to-country as much as the wildlife. Our safari experts will make sure you’re informed if any of the countries in your itinerary ban plastic. An important resource to have, as some countries impose large fines (and possible jail terms) for possession of plastic bags. WEATHER CONDITIONS Q: What type of weather conditions should I expect while on my trip? A: Africa is home to numerous eco-systems and large enough to encompass both the northern and southern hemisphere, giving it different seasonal months depending on the latitude of the region in question. Long story short – Africa is big and varies heavily from region to region and month to month. You’ll want to experience of our Africa experts to make sure you pack appropriately. We’ll also provide you with the average monthly temperatures and rainfalls for the regions you’ll visit so that you can be fully prepared for a memorable adventure. Q: When is the best time to go? A: Weather and game-viewing changes throughout the year and is quite different in East and Southern Africa. East Africa game-viewing is wonderful year-round, but perhaps staying out of the April, May and November periods would be wise since these are their peak rainfall months. Southern Africa is also a destination that is a year round option, but the Green Season (Dec-Mar) does tend to have seasonal afternoon rain showers, but on the flip side rates are lower, animals are having their babies, lighting is very dramatic creating incredible photographic opportunities and overall there are fewer tourists. Know that if you don’t like the heat you might want to avoid October to March where temps are likely to be in the 90’s. June and July do have pleasant daytime temperatures, but evenings are in the 40’s. WILDLIFE VIEWING AND PHOTOGRAPHY Q: Do I need to bring my own Binoculars? A: Binoculars are essential for wildlife viewing. We recommend that couples traveling together bring a pair for each person. Although some camps will provide them, it is not universal and you are likely to want a set that you’re comfortable with and always have available to you – including when you’re not on a game drive but still surrounded by beautiful wildlife around your lodging. Q: What should I be aware of regarding the camera I’ll bring? A: Be sure that you are familiar with your camera -- including accessories such as flashes and lenses -- before leaving home. Bring extra batteries and extra storage. Bring your manual in case issues arise. And be sure to ask your expert safari planner about photography focused camps and activities, as there are many available to you. All camps will have areas to charge your batteries daily. SHOPPING Q: What can I bring back with me from Africa and how do I avoid issues in Customs? A: Returning US citizens are allowed to bring into the country $800 worth of goods purchased abroad, duty free. Of course, there are numerous variables depending on the country the items were purchased in and what the items are made from. Q: Should I fly home with my gifts and souvenirs, or ship them home? A: When shipping larger items home, we recommend you use air freight, as surface freight out of Africa can be slow and often unreliable. Please be aware, however, of your air freight cost before you purchase any item since it can sometimes be prohibitively expensive

An FAQ section can be used to quickly answer common questions about you or your business, such as “Where do you ship to?”, “What are your opening hours?” or “How can I book a service?” It’s a great way to help people navigate your site and can even boost your site’s SEO.