Where we’re going, you definitely need a guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
We understand that bucket list adventures mean buckets of questions! With over 40 years of combined experience between our Kenya-based and US-based partners, we’re confident we can answer all your African safari questions.
And if you ask a question we haven’t heard before, we might just name the FAQ after you!
Are African safari tours safe?
Complete Safaris takes great care of its customers, and ensures the safety of its adventurers with experienced and dedicated guides to accompany you from the moment you land to the moment you leave, and every stop in between. Our guides are certified by the Kenya Professional Guide Association with the required 13 hours of first aid training to maintain certification. Complete Safaris is also a fully insured travel provider, and we recommend that adventurers also purchase travel insurance to cover the things we can’t control (like transportation delays, weather interference, etc.). Of course, there is always some risk when embarking on an adventure. But no risk means no adventure, right? It’s also healthy to try new things, like traveling to unfamiliar places and experiencing uncomfortable situations! African safaris typically involve close interactions with nature and wildlife. Animals may approach your vehicle, land weather conditions may mean adjusting plans. Rest assured that our guides have seen it all, and will make your safety their top priority. And finally, considering whether Kenya safari experiences are safe, poor customer experiences threaten the Kenyan economy—tourism accounts for 10% of Kenya’s GDP! The country's infrastructure is heavily invested in safe and successful tourism experiences.
How much does an African safari cost?
Excellent question! It depends. So many factors impact the price—time of year, in-country travel via plane or Land Cruiser, lodging preferences, add-ons and excursions, etc. As a rough estimate, before even starting a conversation, imagine that a custom crafted experience with Complete Safaris could run between $800-1200 per person per day. Our typical practice is to hear your dream/expectations, and propose at least 2 itineraries - in other words, two different possibilities of delivering on your dreams. At that point you can look at the price of each, determine how well it meets your initial expectations and whether you want to cut or add, or accept as is. Once you’re completely satisfied with your itinerary, we move to contract stage with 40% deposit required. This price ensures that Complete Safaris can fulfill your expectations of enjoying a 100% personalized Kenya safari trip, without the stress of self-planning a bucket-list worthy adventure, and with expert guidance through every destination and experience.
What should I wear on an African safari?
Embarking on an African safari means preparing for changing weather conditions and climates. Some travel blogs recommend wearing light-colored clothing to help keep your body cool on a long safari day in the sun, but you don’t have to stick with beige. And of course, light-weight clothes means lighter luggage! Many lodges offer laundry services for a nominal fee, and animals don’t really care what you wear. Above all, pack an attitude of fun and spirit of adventure—everything else will be taken care of (and discussed in detail once you settle on your personalized itinerary)!
Which African safari tours are the best?
Of course, “best” is subjective. In our opinion, the best African safari tour is the one that makes you feel safe, comfortable, and fulfilled from start to finish. But there’s more … The best safari is the one that leaves you dreaming of coming back for more. The best safari is the one that makes you feel confident you made the right investment in your experience. The best safari is the one where you have to stop to buy more camera cards, because yours are full! The best safari is the one that makes you rethink whether an African safari tour is a “one and done” experience or an adventure to treasure for a lifetime. Schedule a chat to discover what “best” means to you.
When is the best time to go on an African safari?
There are good reasons to consider any time of year. Your work schedule may impact your ability to travel. Your wallet might favor a less-expensive season! Maybe you’re celebrating a milestone and want to pair it with an unforgettable adventure. Or you’ve always wanted to experience the Great Migration. Truly, the best time to go on an African safari is now—so let’s start talking about it!
How do I plan an African safari?
Planning an African safari can be overwhelming for some people. There are so many details you could choose to stress about: finding safe transportation, locating experienced and knowledgeable guides, booking quality hotels, securing valuables during excursions, when and how to tip, managing translation apps, timing the safari so you actually see wildlife and not a bunch of grass … that sounds like a lot of stress. Why not let Complete Safaris take on the stress and help make your bucket-list adventure a stress-free reality? You worry about booking the plane—we’ll worry about everything else.
Why go on an African safari?
There is an indescribable feeling that comes from experiencing animals in the wild, and not just for one or two days, but for 8, 9, or 10 days. Add to that the opportunity to absorb local culture every single day, and you’ve got a recipe for an unforgettable adventure. We book exclusively with all-inclusive lodging, which means food is abundant and delicious. Kenya itself is rich in history, culture, and landscape—8 UNESCO heritage sites, 40+ languages, views of white sand beaches and coral reefs at the Indian Ocean, panoramic views of Mount Kilimanjaro, alkaline lakes, and opportunities to spot the “Big 5,” the “Samburu 5,” and the “Ugly 5.” The Kenyan landscape is full of mountains, forests, lakes, deserts, rivers, and cities. And to top it off, having the same guide accompany you from the moment you land till the moment you leave creates a culturally immersive experience throughout your entire itinerary. You’ll be dreaming of your next trip before you’re done with your first!
Will Complete Safaris handle 100% of the planning for my trip?
Customers are responsible for booking their flights to and from Nairobi—we can help research the best international flight options with your perferred airline(s). Complete Safaris is responsible for planning and booking all travel, lodging, and experiences that happen between your flights in and out of Kenya.
Do we have to drive everywhere on a Kenya safari trip?
If your budget allows, we can arrange air travel via small plane for portions of the trip. There are some definite benefits to choosing air travel vs. land travel: 1. Small planes fly at low altitude—the scenery is fantastic! 2. Less travel time means more time spent enjoying on-the-ground experiences. NOTE: Many small planes have weight restrictions for luggage (~30lbs).
What vaccinations do I need before traveling to Africa?
While Lutricia has traveled to Kenya multiple times, her lawyers remind her that she is not a doctor and she must advise Complete Safaris clients to consult a medical professional. Please consult your doctor before embarking on any international travel.
What kinds of food are available on a Kenya safari trip?
Meals are often a selection of American, Indian and Kenyan food. Fish and vegetarian options are typically available, and additional dietary concerns can be accommodated with advance notice.
