It’s important to remember that bugs and insects are a natural part of the African wilderness. While they may be present, they typically do not pose a significant threat. I personally find the bugs here in Ontario, Canada more challenging than any of those I’ve come across in Africa! Wearing appropriate clothing, such as long sleeves and pants, can help protect you from insect bites and reduce direct contact with bugs. Additionally, using insect repellent is highly recommended. Apply a reliable and effective insect repellent to exposed skin to keep bugs at bay. Most safari lodges and camps
provide mosquito nets over beds to create a barrier between you and any insects during
the night.  Remember any bugs you come across will be far more frightened of you than you are of them.

Your passport is your most important travel document. Ensure that it is valid for at least six months beyond your intended departure date from Africa. Check the specific entry requirements for the countries you plan to visit as some may require a visa. Remember to make copies of your passport and keep them separate from the original for backup purposes.

Depending on your nationality and the countries you plan to visit, some visas can be obtained upon arrival, while others require you to apply in advance of travel. I will provide you with the information you need when applying online for a visa.  If you are travelling on a Canadian passport, your visa for South Africa and Botswana will be issued on arrival at the port of entry. Where you are applying for a visa online, please allow for adequate processing time so you are not disappointed. 

Links to additional visa/entry information for a specific country:

Zimbabwe
Whilst these can be issued on arrival, it’s best to apply in advance online otherwise you have to pay the fee in cash. (USD $75 as of 2026). Apply online here.

 Kenya
You need to apply for an ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation). The ETA is valid for travel within 90 days from the date of issuance. Once you arrive, the duration of your stay is determined at the point of entry.

Website and Apply Here for an ETA.

Uganda
Visa Approval Authorisation validity is 90 days (three months) from the day of Approval. After that, the Approval Authorisation is automatically cancelled and invalidated and the applicant needs to make a new application. Applicants should always travel within three months of visa approval to avoid this inconvenience. You may be asked to produce proof of health insurance at the border checkpoint.

Website and Apply for a single-entry tourist visa.

Check if any vaccinations or specific health requirements are needed for the countries you plan to visit. Some destinations may require a Yellow Fever vaccination certificate or other immunisations. Consult with your healthcare provider or a travel clinic for the most up-to-date information and recommendations.

Yes, it is true that South Africa has power outages (as of 2026). However, the accommodations I work with, including safari lodges and camps, have backup generators or alternative power sources in place to ensure a seamless experience for their guests. The power outages, known as ‘load shedding’, are implemented by the national power utility company, Eskom, to manage electricity supply during times of high demand. The power outages are necessary to balance the electricity supply and demand in the country. While the frequency and duration of load shedding can vary, the South African government and Eskom are continuously working to stabilise the power supply and minimize impact.

Yes, they absolutely do.

Africa isn’t nearly as “off-the-grid” as people sometimes imagine. In fact, banking infrastructure is well established across much of the continent, especially in major cities, airports, and popular travel regions.  In those places you’ll find ATMs and banks widely available, though not every machine accepts international cards. However, most of the time you’re on safari, you are in remote regions.

Visa is the most widely accepted card. Mastercard is also commonly used, though slightly less so. American Express can be more difficult to use as it’s not widely accepted due to the high transaction fees. Most safari lodges, hotels and restaurants can all be paid by credit card. Note: 6-pin number cards are often not accepted. Stick with a 4-pin or bring an alternative card. Be sure to let your bank know before departure where you are going so your card does not get blocked.

A quick note on cash: when you withdraw money from an ATM, don’t be surprised if you’re handed a thick stack of notes. In many countries, the highest denomination bills are relatively small in value, so even a modest withdrawal can make your wallet feel very full, very quickly.

It’s wise to carry more than one credit card (in case of issues) and some local currency for smaller purchases or more remote areas.

You don’t need to spend a fortune, but quality does matter. As a general guide, expect to spend around $140 CAD for a decent starter pair, and $275–$400 CAD for something more durable that will last through many adventures. Brands like Nikon and Pentax are reliable entry points, and second-hand options can be a smart find too.

Eye relief
If you wear glasses, this one matters. Eye relief is simply the distance your eyes can comfortably sit from the eyepiece while still seeing the full image. Look for at least 15 mm to avoid that frustrating “tunnel vision” effect.

Field of view (FOV)
This is how wide a scene you can see through your binoculars. Higher magnification usually means a narrower view. For safari, aim for a field of view of about 100 metres at 1,000 metres so you can easily follow movement across the landscape.

Magnification
You’ll see numbers like 8×42 or 10×50. The first number is the magnification.

• 8× is ideal for tracking moving animals and birds (less shake, wider view).
• 10× gives you more reach for spotting wildlife in the distance.

Lens size (aperture)
The second number refers to the lens diameter. Larger lenses let in more light, which means brighter, clearer images, especially at dawn and dusk when wildlife is most active. Look for fully multi-coated lenses for the best clarity.

Durability
Safari roads can be… character-building. A rubber-armoured or reinforced body will help protect your binoculars from bumps and scratches along the way.

Waterproofing
Not just for dramatic mishaps. Waterproof binoculars also resist dust, humidity, and condensation, all of which are part of the safari experience.

Size and weight
There’s always a balance. Compact binoculars are lighter and easy to carry, while larger ones offer better brightness and detail. If you’re travelling light, go compact. If you want the best viewing experience, a slightly larger pair is worth it.

Safari isn’t a fashion show. It’s dusty, sometimes hot, occasionally chilly, and wonderfully wild.

So think comfort over couture. You’ll be bouncing along rugged roads, heading out early in the morning, and spending long stretches outdoors. Breathable fabrics, neutral colours, and easy layers will serve you far better than anything designer. (Ladies: a sports bra will be your best friend!)

Bring clothes you don’t mind getting a little dusty and well-loved along the way. The giraffes won’t notice your outfit, and the hippos are famously indifferent to swimwear choices.

In short, pack practical, pack comfortable and save your “best dressed” moment for somewhere with fewer thorns and more champagne.  I’ll guide you with a comprehensive packing list including examples that will be provided to you well in advance of your departure date. 

How do I get a permit to visit the gorillas in Uganda?

Gorilla trekking permits in Uganda are issued exclusively by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) and are required to visit the mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable and Mgahinga Gorilla National Parks. These permits grant you a once-in-a-lifetime hour with a habituated gorilla family, and they are in high demand. While permits are technically allocated through licensed tour operators, we take care of the entire process for you at no extra cost. For non-residents, permits are approximately USD $800, and availability is limited, with only small groups of up to eight visitors allowed per gorilla family each day. This USD $800 cost is included in the tour price and because they do sell out well in advance, securing your permit early with a confirmed deposit is essential to avoid missing out.

How much is the deposit on a tour to secure my seat?
My safaris are priced in USD because the majority of my suppliers require payment in USD. However, if the safari you book DOES NOT INCLUDE Uganda, Kenya or Tanzania, your deposit can be paid in Canadian dollars. (CAD $2500 per person). If your safari includes one of the above countries mentioned, the deposit is USD2800 per person.