Travel Insurance and Safari FAQ

Travel insurance for an East Africa safari is not a nice-to-have. It is essential. Here is why:

Medical evacuation costs. A medical evacuation by air from a remote safari location to a major hospital in Kampala or Nairobi can cost $15,000 to $50,000 or more. Without insurance, this cost falls entirely on you.

Trip cancellation protection. A gorilla trekking itinerary may have $3,000 to $5,000 or more in non-refundable permits and lodge deposits committed months before departure. If you become ill, a family emergency prevents travel, or an airline fails, comprehensive cancellation cover reimburses these costs.

Gorilla permit protection. Gorilla permits are non-refundable in most circumstances. Some travel insurance policies include specific cover for permit forfeiture. Check this explicitly when purchasing your policy.

• —Emergency medical evacuation: Cover of at least $500,000. Many policies offer $1 million or unlimited cover for this.
• —Medical treatment abroad: At least $100,000 in medical cover.
• —Trip cancellation: Full cover for non-refundable costs including permits and lodge deposits.
• —Trip interruption: Cover for cutting a trip short due to illness, emergency or operator failure.
• —Adventure activities: Gorilla trekking, chimpanzee trekking, walking safaris and hot air ballooning must all be explicitly covered. Some policies exclude adventure activities by default.
• —Personal liability.
• —Baggage and equipment: Including camera equipment, which can be valuable. Check the per-item limits.
• —Pre-existing conditions: Declare all pre-existing conditions accurately. Non-disclosure can invalidate a claim.

How far in advance should I book?

For peak season travel (June to September), book 6 to 9 months ahead. This applies especially to Rwanda gorilla permits, which are the most constrained booking in the region. Uganda gorilla permits and top lodges in Kenya and Tanzania during Migration season also require significant lead time. For green season or shoulder season travel, 3 to 4 months is usually sufficient, though specific lodges and families may still require more.

Is East Africa safe for tourists?

Uganda, Rwanda, Kenya and Tanzania are all welcoming and generally safe destinations for tourists. Kampala, Kigali, Nairobi and Dar es Salaam all have areas that require normal urban caution, just as any major city does. Safari areas are extremely safe. The wildlife parks and gorilla trekking areas are well-managed, professionally staffed and have excellent track records.

What is the minimum age for gorilla trekking?

The minimum age for gorilla trekking is 15 years in both Uganda and Rwanda. This is a strict rule set by the national park authorities and is not subject to exceptions.

Can I do gorilla trekking if I am not fit?

Most people can complete a gorilla trek. Porters are available at every trailhead for approximately $15 and make a significant difference to the experience. Rwanda's Volcanoes National Park tends to have shorter, less steep treks than some sectors of Uganda's Bwindi. Speak to us honestly about your fitness and we will plan accordingly. We have guided guests in their 80s and guests with knee replacements to successful gorilla encounters.

Do I need to tip my guide and driver?

Yes. Tipping is an important part of the income of safari guides and drivers across East Africa. The standard is $20 to $30 per vehicle per day (not per person). For gorilla trek rangers and trackers, $10 to $15 per person is standard. Lodge staff generally share tips through a central tip box. A high-quality guide is the most important element of your safari experience, tip generously for exceptional service.

What currency should I use?

US Dollars are widely accepted across East Africa for major payments including permits, lodge deposits and major purchases. Local currency (Ugandan Shillings, Rwandan Francs, Kenyan Shillings, Tanzanian Shillings) is needed for smaller purchases, markets and tips. USD $100 bills dated 2006 or later are accepted everywhere. Older bills or smaller denominations may be refused in some places.

What is the WiFi and connectivity like?

Kampala, Kigali, Nairobi and Dar es Salaam all have excellent 4G coverage and fast WiFi. In rural safari areas and forests, connectivity ranges from slow to non-existent. Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, for example, has very limited signal at most lodges. This is not a problem, it is one of the genuine pleasures of a safari. We send all final documents, vouchers and contact details to clients before departure so nothing depends on in-country connectivity.

Can I bring a drone?

Drones are heavily restricted across East Africa's national parks and are illegal in gorilla trekking areas in both Uganda and Rwanda. Permits are theoretically available for filming purposes but are practically very difficult to obtain. We strongly advise against bringing a drone unless you have specific prior authorisation from the park authority.

What about solo female travel?

East Africa is generally welcoming and safe for solo female travellers. Uganda and Rwanda in particular have very low levels of street harassment compared to many other destinations. The organised safari environment, private vehicles, vetted lodges, guide accompaniment, provides a structured and comfortable context. Speak to us about any specific concerns and we will address them in the itinerary design.

How do I get started?

Contact us directly. We do not use booking forms or automated responses. Every enquiry is handled personally by a specialist who will ask the right questions, listen carefully and build an itinerary that genuinely reflects your goals. The conversation costs nothing and commits you to nothing.