Safari Planning

  • We can help you craft an itinerary based on your interests and budget!

    Check out our Experiences page for descriptions of Tanzania’s national parks and other activities.

  • We will work with you to book accommodations according to your budget and preferences. The options range from camping to luxury lodges and everything in between.

    If you are planning to visit the Serengeti, we will advise you on which area to stay in depending on the season when you visit.

  • Most guests fly into Kilimanjaro International Airport (airport code JRO).

  • That depends on which country you’re visiting from. You can check Tanzania’s visa requirements and apply if needed here.

  • Cost varies depending on the length of your trip, which parks you visit, and what type of accommodation you prefer. We will do our best to fit your budget! After an initial conversation, we’ll provide you with a transparent quote.

  • Getting started is simple. Reach out through our contact form and we’ll walk you through the next steps and answer any questions along the way.

Health & Safety

  • Yes! Tanzania’s government is stable and people are very friendly. You will be in trustworthy hands with Rapha throughout your stay.

    We recommend following the same common sense rules as you would when traveling anywhere else (don’t walk alone at night, don’t leave valuables in an open pocket in a crowded area, etc.).

  • Clean water will be provided for you throughout your trip. Do not drink or brush your teeth with tap water in Tanzania. Remember to keep some clean water next to your sink for tooth brushing.

    The lodges we work with have chefs who cater to tourists, so you are safe to eat anything they serve. If you have any allergies or dietary restrictions, please let us know so that we can accommodate you.

  • In general, the yellow fever vaccine is not required to enter Tanzania unless you are traveling from another country where yellow fever is present. If you are planning to visit Kenya, they do require this vaccine.

    We recommend consulting a travel clinic several weeks before your trip for personalized medical advice.

  • Taking pills to prevent malaria (prophylaxis) is recommended but not required. It is best to visit a travel clinic before your trip for personalized medical advice.

    If you do not take malaria prophylaxis, be sure to use insect repellent and cover up particularly at dawn and dusk, when mosquitoes are most active.

Tips for Packing

  • Layers are key. It is often cold when safari drives start early in the morning, and hot by midday.

    For safari, we recommend wearing comfortable clothes that you can move in. Clothing in any color is fine except for:

    • Pack a set of light-colored clothes if you plan to go on a walking safari (so you don’t startle wildlife) or visiting Tarangire National Park (tsetse flies are present there and they are attracted to dark colors).

    Laundry can be done at your lodge upon request.

  • Tanzania uses plug Type G. You may need to pack an adapter.

  • If you are a photographer, this is the place to bring your best camera gear! Make sure to pack backup batteries and memory cards.

    If you’re taking photos with your phone, not to worry! Rapha will make sure you get great shots.

Terms & Conditions

  • To confirm a safari with Rapha Expeditions, a 40% non‑refundable deposit is required. Your booking is confirmed once we receive the deposit and send you written confirmation by email.

  • The remaining balance must be paid 30 days before the safari start date, unless otherwise agreed in writing.

  • Payment is accepted via international bank transfer in USD to our designated bank account. Full bank details are provided on your invoice.

    Please note that all bank charges, intermediary fees, and currency conversion costs are the responsibility of the client, and payment must be received net of charges.

  • Unless stated otherwise in your official quote, safari prices generally include:

    • Accommodation as specified in the itinerary

    • Meals as listed in the itinerary

    • Private safari vehicle with a professional driver‑guide

    • National park and conservation area entry fees

    • Bottled drinking water during game drives

    Only services clearly listed as included in your quote are covered.

  • Safari prices generally do not include:

    • International flights

    • Visa fees

    • Travel insurance

    • Tips and gratuities

    • Alcoholic beverages

    • Personal expenses such as souvenirs or laundry

  • All cancellations must be submitted in writing by email. Cancellation fees depend on how far in advance the cancellation is made:

    • 60 days or more before safari start date: Deposit forfeited

    • 45 to 59 days before safari start date: 50% of total safari cost

    • 30 to 44 days before safari start date: 75% of total safari cost

    • Less than 30 days before safari start date: 100% of total safari cost

    Once a safari has started, no refunds are available for unused services.

  • No. National park and conservation fees, Ngorongoro fees, lodge payments, permits, and flight deposits are non‑refundable. These fees are set by third‑party suppliers and Tanzanian government authorities and are outside our control.

    All national park and conservation fees are governed by Tanzanian authorities and are subject to change without notice.

  • Changes to dates, accommodations, routing, or services are subject to availability and may involve additional costs.

    Requests made within 30 days of the safari start date may be treated as a cancellation.

  • In rare cases, we may need to adjust or cancel a safari due to safety concerns, weather conditions, park closures, government regulations, or other circumstances beyond our control.

    If this happens, we will make reasonable efforts to offer suitable alternatives or reschedule services. Refunds, if any, are limited to amounts recoverable from suppliers.

  • Yes. Travel insurance is strongly recommended. Insurance should cover trip cancellation, medical expenses, emergency evacuation, and loss of personal belongings.

  • Safari activities are generally safe when instructions from guides and lodge staff are followed. However, wildlife and remote travel involve inherent risks.

    Clients are expected to follow all safety guidance provided during the safari.

  • If you have any questions before or after booking, please contact us directly. We are happy to help you plan a smooth and memorable safari experience.