Booking & Payments

How do I book a safari with Savannah Prideland Adventures?

You can book in three ways: online via our website booking form, by emailing info@savannahpridelandadventures.com, or by calling our reservations team. After you tell us your preferred dates, group size and interests, we’ll propose a tailored itinerary and quote. Once you approve, we’ll send a written confirmation and an invoice. For custom or complex trips (multi-park, special transport, private guides), we recommend contacting us directly so we can fine-tune logistics and permits.

Do I need to pay a deposit to secure my trip?

Yes — a deposit is required to secure most bookings because it covers park permits, lodge reservations, and vehicle allocations. The deposit amount and payment deadline are stated in your quote; typically it ranges from 20–30% of the trip cost. The remaining balance is due before arrival (terms in your invoice). For peak-season bookings, earlier deposits are often necessary to lock in scarce rooms and permits.

What payment methods do you accept?

We accept international bank transfers (SWIFT), credit and debit cards (Visa/Mastercard — subject to a small processing fee), and some online payment platforms depending on your country. For bank transfers we provide full bank details on the invoice. If you need an alternative method (e.g., payment in local currency), contact reservations and we’ll advise safe, documented options.

Can I make changes to my safari after booking?

Yes — we understand plans change. Minor changes (date shifts, room types, or adding a day) are usually possible subject to availability. Major changes (route, group size, or peak-season dates) may require new permits and could incur additional costs. Always contact us as soon as possible; we’ll outline availability, any rate adjustments, and whether extra deposits or cancellation fees apply.

What is your cancellation and refund policy?

Our standard policy is tiered by timing: full refund (minus a small admin fee) if canceled well in advance, partial refund for mid-range notice, and reduced or no refund for late cancellations (especially close to departure or during peak season when non-refundable bookings are common). Park and lodge rules sometimes impose non-refundable charges that we must pass on. Your exact cancellation terms will be included in your booking confirmation — we recommend travel insurance to protect against unexpected changes.

Do you offer group, family, or repeat-client discounts?

Yes. We offer group discounts for larger parties and customized family packages (child rates, family tents or connecting rooms). Repeat clients and referrals may also receive preferential rates or extras (upgrades, complimentary activities) depending on availability. Contact reservations with the group composition and travel dates so we can prepare a competitive group quote.

Safari Experience

What is the best time to visit Tanzania for a safari?

Tanzania is great year-round, but the best time depends on what you want to see. June–October (dry season) is prime for big-game viewing because animals concentrate around permanent water and vegetation is sparse. January–March is excellent in the southern parks and for calving in parts of the Serengeti. The Great Migration has different hotspots during the year: southern Serengeti in Jan–Mar, central plains mid-year, and the Mara River crossings around July–September. Shoulder months (Nov, Dec, Apr, May) can offer fewer crowds, lower prices, and lush green landscapes — note that April often has heavy rains which can affect road travel.

Which parks are best for first-time safari travelers?

For first-timers we typically recommend the Serengeti (classic big-game viewing and the Migration), Ngorongoro Conservation Area (high density of wildlife in a compact area — ideal for trophy sightings), and Tarangire (huge elephant herds and baobab scenery). Tarangire and Lake Manyara offer great birding and varied habitats. If you want fewer crowds but excellent wildlife, consider Nyerere (Selous) or Mikumi for short, accessible safaris.

How long should my safari be to get a good experience?

A meaningful safari can be as short as 3–4 days for a quick introduction, but 6–10 days is ideal to visit multiple parks without rushing and to increase wildlife-viewing opportunities. For Kilimanjaro climbs or combined beach extensions (Zanzibar), allow extra days: Kilimanjaro treks are typically 6–9 nights, and a Zanzibar post-safari stay of 3–5 days gives time to relax.

Are safaris family-friendly and suitable for older travelers?

Yes — many safaris are family-friendly and can be tailored to children or older guests. We can arrange short game drives, family tents, private vehicles, and slower schedules. For older travelers we recommend moderate itineraries with comfortable lodging, shorter drive times, and medical precautions taken into account. Always tell us about mobility or health issues so we can match the right vehicle, pace, and accommodations.

Will I see the Big Five and other wildlife?

Tanzania offers excellent chances to see the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, rhino), but wildlife sightings are naturally subject to animal movement and seasonality. Serengeti, Ngorongoro and Nyerere have the highest probabilities. We design itineraries to maximize viewing windows (early morning and late-afternoon drives) and use experienced guides who read animal behavior and habitat to improve your chances. No operator can guarantee sightings, but our expertise significantly raises the odds.

Can I combine a safari with other activities (climbing Kilimanjaro, Zanzibar, cultural visits)?

Absolutely. Many guests combine safaris with a Kilimanjaro trek, beach time in Zanzibar, or cultural visits (Maasai villages, Hadza or Datoga communities). We plan logistics (domestic flights, transfers, luggage handling, timing for acclimatization) and can craft multi-centre itineraries that balance activity and rest. Let us know how you’d like to combine experiences and we’ll build a practical, safe plan.

Accommodation & Comfort

What types of accommodations do you offer and how do they differ?

We offer a spectrum: luxury lodges (permanent, high-comfort rooms, gourmet meals, pools), tented camps (spacious canvas tents with ensuite facilities, close to wildlife), mobile camps (seasonal, highly immersive, often in migration zones), and mid-range lodges/camps (clean rooms or tents with essential comforts). Luxury options include private game drives, high-end cuisine and concierge services; mid-range offers good comfort with a local feel; mobile camps prioritize location and wildlife immersion over creature comforts. We’ll recommend the right type depending on your priorities and budget.

Are the lodges and camps secure from wildlife?

Yes. Camps and lodges follow strict safety protocols: secure perimeters, raised platforms, trained staff, and nighttime guards. Rooms and tents are designed to keep wildlife at a safe distance. Transfers to and from camps are guided and vehicles are available for nighttime emergencies. Staff are trained in wildlife safety, and guides instruct guests on campsite behavior (e.g., not walking alone after dark).

Will I have hot water, electricity, and Wi-Fi on safari?

Most permanent lodges offer full amenities including hot water, reliable electricity, and Wi-Fi. Remote tented and mobile camps may use solar power or generators and offer limited or scheduled charging and Wi-Fi access — often slower than urban connections. We’ll specify amenities for each property so you can set expectations; if uninterrupted connectivity is essential, we’ll prioritize lodges with that capability.

Can you accommodate special dietary requirements?

Yes — we cater to vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, halal, kosher and other dietary needs with advance notice. Our chefs are experienced in adapting menus using local produce while maintaining nutrition for active safari days. Please list dietary restrictions at booking so we can confirm options at each property and arrange special supplies if needed.

What level of comfort should I expect on a mobile or tented camp?

Tented camps vary: many high-quality camps have comfortable beds, warm blankets, private showers and flushing toilets; mobile camps are similar but more rustic and move with the herds. Comfort levels are good but not the same as five-star hotels — the trade-off is prime location and extraordinary wildlife proximity. We’ll match you to the right camp based on whether you prefer frontline wildlife action or hotel-style comforts.

Are single travelers accommodated and do you charge single supplements?

Single travelers are warmly welcomed. Some accommodations require a single-supplement to cover a private room or tent; others offer shared options or may pair singles when appropriate. We can often negotiate better single rates or suggest rooming options to reduce supplement costs. Tell us your preference and we’ll include any single-supplement details in your quote.

Travel Preparation & Practical Info

Do I need a visa to enter Tanzania and how do I obtain one?

Many nationalities can obtain a visa on arrival at main entry points, but e-visa options are increasingly encouraged and sometimes required. Check the Tanzanian immigration website or ask us for country-specific advice. Make sure your passport has at least six months validity and blank pages for entry stamps. We can provide the latest guidance for your nationality during booking.

What vaccinations or health measures are recommended?

Yellow fever vaccination may be required if traveling from or through certain countries; proof could be requested. We strongly recommend routine vaccinations (measles, tetanus), hepatitis A/B and typhoid depending on itinerary. Malaria prophylaxis is recommended for most safari areas — consult your physician or a travel clinic for personalized advice. Bring a basic first-aid kit and any prescription medications, and inform us of medical conditions so guides can prepare.

What should I pack for a safari and for Kilimanjaro if applicable?

For safaris: neutral-colored, lightweight clothing, long sleeves for evenings, a warm layer for early mornings, a wide-brim hat, sturdy walking shoes, insect repellent, sunscreen, sunglasses, binoculars and camera gear. For Kilimanjaro: technical layering (base, insulating, waterproof shell), warm gloves, hat, hiking boots, gaiters and a good sleeping bag (we can advise rental options). We’ll send a detailed packing list tailored to your exact itinerary when you book.

Is travel insurance necessary and what should it cover?

Yes — comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended. It should cover medical evacuation (MEDEVAC), emergency medical treatment, trip cancellation/interruption, lost baggage and activity-specific coverage if you’re climbing Kilimanjaro. Verify policy limits and whether high-altitude trekking or specific activities are included. We can recommend providers experienced with African safaris and mountain rescue coverage.

How do payments and tipping work on safari?

Payments for your booking are handled in advance by card or bank transfer; once on safari, incidental expenses (beverages, spa, extra activities) are typically settled at the lodge. Tipping is customary in Tanzania: guides, drivers and camp staff rely on tips as part of their income. We can provide recommended tipping guidelines and can organize a crew gratuity collection on your behalf to distribute fairly among the team.

Are there local customs or cultural tips I should know?

Yes — Tanzania is diverse and respectful behavior goes a long way. Dress modestly when visiting local villages, ask before photographing people (some may prefer not to be photographed), and accept local hospitality with gratitude. Greetings matter; learning a few Swahili phrases (Jambo, Asante) is appreciated. Our guides will brief you on specific cultural norms for any community visits so you can engage respectfully and meaningfully.

Explore Tanzania with Savannah Pride Adventures

Need help? Talk to our Safari expert.

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