FAQs | Africa Comfortable Tours – Kilimanjaro, Safaris & Zanzibar

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – Africa Comfortable Tours

Welcome to our FAQs page! Here, you’ll find answers to the most common questions about Kilimanjaro trekking, Mount Meru, wildlife safaris, Zanzibar beach holidays, Tanzania day trips, and cultural experiences. Click on a category below to jump directly to the section that interests you!

📌FAQs Categories

Mount Kilimanjaro Trekking FAQs

The best time to climb Kilimanjaro is during the dry seasons, from January to March and June to October. These months offer clearer skies, less rainfall, and better trekking conditions.

The Marangu Route is considered the easiest because it has a gradual ascent and offers hut accommodations instead of camping. However, the Rongai Route is also a good option for beginners.

The Lemosho Route and Machame Route are considered the most scenic, offering breathtaking landscapes, including rainforests, alpine deserts, and glaciers.

Kilimanjaro is a non-technical climb, meaning no special mountaineering skills are required. However, it is physically demanding due to high altitude and long trekking days.

Success rates depend on the chosen route and the number of days. Routes with longer durations (7-8 days) have a higher success rate of 85%-90%, while shorter routes (5-6 days) have lower success rates.

Treks typically take between 5 to 9 days, with longer routes providing better acclimatization and higher success rates.

The highest point is Uhuru Peak (5,895m / 19,341 ft), located on Kibo, the tallest of Kilimanjaro’s three volcanic cones.

No, prior climbing experience is not required, but you should be physically fit and prepared for high-altitude trekking.

Our packages include:
✔️ Park fees and permits
✔️ Professional guides and porters
✔️ Accommodation (huts or tents)
✔️ Meals and water
✔️ Airport transfers

Essentials include:
✔️ Warm layers and waterproof clothing
✔️ Sturdy hiking boots
✔️ Sleeping bag
✔️ Trekking poles
✔️ Headlamp
✔️ High-energy snacks

Yes, many company offer a variety of trekking gear for rent, including backpacks, sleeping bags, tents, trekking poles, jackets, and more. Please check with us in advance to ensure the gear is available for your trek dates.

Yes, we provide meals during the trek, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Our meals are designed to cater to the needs of trekkers, with options for vegetarian, vegan, and other dietary preferences. Please inform us of any specific dietary restrictions before the trek.

Mount Meru Trekking FAQs

Mount Meru stands at 4,566 meters (14,980 feet), making it the second-highest mountain in Tanzania after Kilimanjaro.

The trek typically takes 3 to 4 days, depending on the chosen itinerary and acclimatization needs.

Mount Meru is steeper than Kilimanjaro but shorter. While it requires good fitness, it is often used as an acclimatization climb before Kilimanjaro.

The best time to climb is during the dry seasons, from June to October and December to March, when the trails are less slippery and the weather is clearer.

Yes, hiring a licensed guide is mandatory, as Mount Meru is inside Arusha National Park, which requires guided trekking.

Trekkers often spot buffaloes, giraffes, colobus monkeys, antelopes, and even elephants in the lower forest zone of the mountain.

Unlike Kilimanjaro, Mount Meru has hut accommodations at Miriakamba Hut (2,514m) and Saddle Hut (3,570m), providing basic shelter and bunk beds.

The highest point is Socialist Peak (4,566m), offering stunning views of Kilimanjaro, Arusha National Park, and the surrounding landscapes.

✔️ Warm clothing (temperatures drop at night)
✔️ Hiking boots and trekking poles
✔️ Headlamp for summit night
✔️ Lightweight backpack
✔️ Camera for wildlife and scenic views

Yes, but the gradual ascent and extra acclimatization days help reduce the risk compared to Kilimanjaro. Staying hydrated and pacing yourself is key.

Wildlife Safaris FAQs

The best time for a safari is during the dry season (June to October) when animals gather around water sources, making them easier to spot. However, the green season (November to May) offers fewer crowds, lush landscapes, and great birdwatching opportunities.

The top wildlife safari destinations include:

  • Serengeti National Park – Home to the Great Migration
  • Ngorongoro Crater – A UNESCO World Heritage Site with diverse wildlife
  • Tarangire National Park – Famous for large elephant herds and baobab trees
  • Lake Manyara National Park – Known for tree-climbing lions and flamingos
  • Ruaha National Park – A remote park with high predator concentration
  • Selous Game Reserve (Nyerere National Park) – Ideal for boat safaris

Tanzania offers several types of safaris, including:

  • Game drives (4×4 safari vehicles)
  • Walking safaris (led by armed guides)
  • Balloon safaris (in Serengeti, offering aerial views)
  • Boat safaris (in Selous and Lake Manyara)
  • Night safaris (available in some parks for nocturnal wildlife viewing)

Tanzania is home to the Big Five:
🦁 Lion, 🐘 Elephant, 🐆 Leopard, 🐃 Buffalo, 🦏 Rhino
Other common sightings include cheetahs, giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, hippos, crocodiles, hyenas, and over 500 bird species.

A typical safari lasts between 3 to 10 days.

  • 3-4 days – Ideal for a quick safari covering 1-2 parks
  • 5-7 days – Covers major parks like Serengeti and Ngorongoro
  • 8-10+ days – A complete Northern or Southern Circuit experience

Yes, safaris are generally safe when conducted with experienced guides. Always follow the guide’s instructions, stay inside the vehicle, and respect wildlife.

✔️ Lightweight, neutral-colored clothing
✔️ Comfortable walking shoes
✔️ Binoculars and camera
✔️ Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses
✔️ Insect repellent
✔️ A small backpack for essentials

Tanzania offers a variety of accommodation options:

  • Luxury lodges & tented camps
  • Mid-range lodges & campsites
  • Budget camping safaris

Prices vary based on location, season, and accommodation type.

  • Budget safaris: $150–$300 per day
  • Mid-range safaris: $300–$600 per day
  • Luxury safaris: $600–$1,500+ per day

Yes, most travelers need a visa. A single-entry tourist visa costs $50 ($100 for U.S. citizens) and can be obtained online or upon arrival.

It is recommended to get vaccines for yellow fever, hepatitis A & B, typhoid, and tetanus. Anti-malaria medication is also advised.

12. What vehicles are used for safaris?

Yes! Many lodges and parks offer family-friendly safaris, but some camps have age restrictions. Private safaris are best for families with young children.

The Great Migration is the world’s largest animal migration, where over 1.5 million wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles move between Serengeti (Tanzania) and Masai Mara (Kenya) in search of fresh grazing.

  • Calving season: January – March (Southern Serengeti)
  • River crossings: June – September (Grumeti & Mara Rivers)
  • Return journey: October – November (Northern Serengeti)

Yes! Many travelers combine safaris with:

  • Kilimanjaro trekking
  • Zanzibar beach holidays
  • Cultural experiences with Maasai & Hadzabe tribes

Yes! Many travelers combine safaris with:

  • Kilimanjaro trekking
  • Zanzibar beach holidays
  • Cultural experiences with Maasai & Hadzabe tribes

The official currency is Tanzanian Shilling (TZS), but USD is widely accepted in lodges, hotels, and national parks.

Yes, but only in select parks like Lake Manyara, Tarangire, and Selous. Night safaris allow you to see nocturnal animals like leopards, hyenas, and bush babies.

Yes! Domestic flights connect major parks, reducing travel time. Seronera Airstrip (Serengeti) and Manyara Airstrip serve popular safari regions.

Zanzibar Beach Holidays FAQs

Zanzibar is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit is during the dry season (June to October and December to February) when the weather is sunny and perfect for beach activities.

The most popular beaches include:

  • Nungwi Beach – White sand, vibrant nightlife
  • Kendwa Beach – Great for sunsets and water sports
  • Paje Beach – Famous for kitesurfing
  • Jambiani Beach – Quiet and authentic Swahili village experience
  • Matemwe Beach – Secluded and peaceful

Yes, most travelers need a single-entry tourist visa ($50 for most nationalities, $100 for U.S. citizens). It can be obtained online or upon arrival at Zanzibar Airport.

The Tanzanian Shilling (TZS) is the official currency, but USD is widely accepted in hotels, resorts, and tourist areas.

The main language is Swahili, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.

Yes, Zanzibar is generally safe for tourists. However, avoid walking alone at night in isolated areas, and be cautious of petty theft in crowded places.

  • Stone Town – A UNESCO World Heritage Site with rich history
  • Prison Island – Home to giant tortoises
  • Jozani Forest – See the rare red colobus monkeys
  • The Rock Restaurant – A unique dining experience on a rock in the ocean
  • Mnemba Atoll – Best for snorkeling and diving
  • Snorkeling – Mnemba Atoll, Chumbe Island
  • Scuba diving – Kizimkazi, Kendwa
  • Kitesurfing – Paje Beach
  • Dhow boat cruises – Sunset cruises available
  • Swimming with dolphins – Kizimkazi

No, it’s recommended to drink bottled or filtered water to avoid stomach issues.

Zanzibar is famous for its Swahili cuisine, including:

  • Seafood platters – Fresh lobster, prawns, octopus
  • Zanzibar pizza – A local street food favorite
  • Spice-infused dishes – Due to Zanzibar’s spice history
  • Urojo soup – A popular local dish
  • By air: Flights to Zanzibar International Airport (ZNZ) from Dar es Salaam, Nairobi, and major international cities.
  • By ferry: From Dar es Salaam (about 2 hours).

Yes! Many travelers combine Zanzibar beach holidays with safaris in Serengeti, Ngorongoro, or Tarangire for a complete Tanzania experience.

  • Taxis – Available but should be pre-arranged for fair pricing
  • Dala-dala (local buses) – Cheapest option but crowded
  • Car rental – Available, but you need a local permit
  • Bicycles/scooters – Great for exploring small villages

14. What clothes should I pack for Zanzibar?

Absolutely! Zanzibar is a top honeymoon destination with luxury resorts, private beaches, and romantic sunset cruises.

  • Sauti za Busara (February) – A major African music festival
  • Zanzibar International Film Festival (ZIFF) (July) – Showcasing African and international films
  • Mwaka Kogwa (July) – Traditional Swahili New Year celebrations

Yes, Zanzibar has a low risk of malaria, but it’s recommended to take anti-malarial medication and use mosquito repellent.

Yes, major hotels and restaurants accept credit cards, but small shops and local markets mostly take cash. It’s best to carry Tanzanian Shillings or USD.

  • Spice farm tours – Learn about Zanzibar’s spice trade
  • Cooking classes – Learn how to make Swahili dishes
  • Visit a local village – Experience traditional Swahili life

Regulations change frequently. It’s best to check Tanzania’s official government website or airline updates for the latest requirements.

Tanzania Day Trips FAQs

Some of the best day trips from Arusha include:

  • Arusha National Park – Wildlife viewing and canoeing
  • Tarangire National Park – Famous for large elephant herds
  • Lake Manyara National Park – Tree-climbing lions and flamingos
  • Ngorongoro Crater – The world’s largest intact caldera
  • Materuni Waterfalls & Coffee Tour – A cultural and nature experience

Yes, Ngorongoro Crater offers the best chance to see the Big Five (lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhino) in a single day. Tarangire and Lake Manyara also provide excellent wildlife sightings.

Most Tanzania day trips include:
✅ Transport in a 4×4 safari vehicle
✅ Professional English-speaking guide
✅ Park entry fees
✅ Lunch and bottled water
✅ Game drives or guided tours

  • Light and comfortable clothing
  • A hat and sunglasses for sun protection
  • A camera with extra batteries
  • Binoculars for wildlife spotting
  • Comfortable walking shoes
  • Sunscreen and insect repellent

Day trips usually start early in the morning (6:00-7:00 AM) and return by evening (5:00-7:00 PM), depending on the location.

Yes, many tour operators accept last-minute bookings, but it’s best to book in advance, especially during peak seasons (June–October & December–February).

Yes! Tanzania day trips are family-friendly, and parks like Arusha National Park and Lake Manyara are great for kids due to short driving distances and diverse wildlife.

Prices vary based on the destination and group size, but expect to pay:

  • $150–$250 per person for a standard safari day trip
  • $50–$100 per person for cultural and hiking tours (e.g., Materuni Waterfalls)

Yes, you need a Tanzanian visa if you are crossing from Kenya. You can apply online or get a visa on arrival at border posts.

  • Maasai village visits – Learn about Maasai traditions and way of life
  • Mto wa Mbu cultural tour – Explore local markets and farms
  • Coffee tours in Materuni – Experience traditional coffee-making
  • Stone Town & Prison Island tours in Zanzibar – Discover Zanzibar’s history

Tanzania Cultural Tours FAQs

Tanzania offers rich cultural experiences, including:

  • Maasai Village Visits – Learn about Maasai traditions and lifestyle.
  • Mto wa Mbu Cultural Tour – Explore a multi-ethnic village with over 120 tribes.
  • Chagga Cultural Tour & Coffee Experience – Discover the history of the Chagga people near Mount Kilimanjaro.
  • Hadzabe & Datoga Tribes Visit – Experience the ancient hunting lifestyle of the Hadzabe in Lake Eyasi.
  • Zanzibar Stone Town Tour – Walk through the historical streets of Zanzibar

Yes! Many cultural tours allow direct interaction with locals, including storytelling, traditional dances, craft-making, and even participating in daily activities like farming or cooking.

Wear modest and comfortable clothing out of respect for local customs. Women should consider wearing a long skirt or loose-fitting pants in traditional communities.

Cultural tours can range from a few hours to a full day depending on the experience. Some overnight stays are also possible for deeper cultural immersion.

Yes, but always ask for permission before taking photos of people, especially in Maasai and Hadzabe villages. Some communities may request a small fee for photography.

You can support communities by:
✅ Booking tours with ethical operators who give back to the community.
✅ Purchasing handmade souvenirs directly from artisans.
✅ Respecting cultural traditions and showing appreciation for their hospitality.

Yes! Children enjoy interactive experiences like storytelling, dance performances, and traditional games with local kids.

Prices vary, but a half-day cultural tour typically costs $50–$150 per person, depending on the location and activities included.

 

Yes, a local guide is highly recommended to help with translation, cultural etiquette, and providing insights into traditions and history.

Absolutely! Many travelers combine cultural experiences with wildlife safaris, such as visiting a Maasai village before or after a Serengeti safari or taking a cultural walk before heading to Ngorongoro Crater.