FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What are the health risks and do I need vaccinations? Generally in the areas we travel health risks are minimal. As in most foreign countries one should drink bottled water and watch the types of foods you eat. In Africa and South America this is particularly important. A general rule on fruit and vegetables is “if you don’t peel it don’t eat it”. In any strange country there will be bacteria that are normal to the resident people but not to you as a visitor so wash your hands often and avoid touching your face with your hands. Anti-bacterial wipes and washes are great and never eat from a street vendor. As for vaccinations ( shots!!! ) if you travel much you should be sure your polio, tetanus/diphtheria are up to date. In addition we always recommend that you be vaccinated for hepatitis A and B. No sense in taking a chance. Yellow fever is required in some African countries as well as parts of South America . When traveling in jungles and the bush you should be on a program of anti-malaria. We can advise you on what you need to travel in various areas.

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Is it safe? The areas we travel to are safe or we wouldn’t take you there to start with. We monitor world situations constantly and avoid areas where there is unrest or disease outbreaks. The last thing we would want is an incident that would taint your trip. Never-the-less there are risks traveling anywhere in the world and those have to be acceptable to the adventurous.

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Can I telephone home? Yes, in most places ET can call home. When in bush and jungle camps there may not be regular outside communication but that will usually only be for a two to three days at most. In case of emergency there is always communication available.

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What do you do on safari? First and foremost have fun. In Africa we do morning and evening game drives in vehicles that easily permit us to see and photograph wildlife. Sometimes we go on walks with an armed guide to see wildlife up close and personal and at other times we may canoe or take power boats to see special habitats. Sunset in Africa is a time to pause, have a cocktail and enjoy the raw beauty of the African bush as life changes from that of daylight to that of the coming darkness. Lodges and camps are luxurious and the food is phenomenal. In South America we combine more culture and archeological activities with our wildlife experiences. We travel by small, comfortable vans or buses traveling through the villages and cities. In the jungle we go for hikes, boat rides and night walks to experience life here to its fullest.

Australia is similar but more modern. We stay in hotels and lodges and do daily activities that allow us to experience this vast country of extremes and cultures. We travel by small buses, vans, trains and boat.

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What are the camps and lodges like? They are remote but very comfortable. Attention is paid to every detail to make your stay comfortable and memorable. Even the tent camps have complete bathroom facilities even though they may be under the stars. Meals are exquisite and are often served outdoors on white linen beneath the stars. People are always surprised by the luxury and comfort that they experience in the bush or jungle.

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What kind of food can I expect? Meals in the African bush are sumptuous and prepared to an excellence that you would not expect. Cuisine may vary from British to French to East Indian to basic good ol American influence. The local fare is an added perk to the travel where you can taste Warthog, Wildebeest and other exotic delicacies. In South America , the food is hearty and full of flavor. You’ll try the protein rich grain Quinoa used in soups and as a side and the opportunity to try Alpaca and Guinea Pig and many other local favorites. The fresh fruits are incredible. Just remember with fruits and veggies away from home – if you can’t peel it, don’t eat it. Australia offers lots and lots of lamb with a British influence. Hearty teas and great beers await you.

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Can we take children? Generally we do not recommend children under the age of 12. This is primarily due to the fact it is more difficult to make young children understand the precautions that must be taken to avoid contracting infections such as intestinal upset. They are much more apt to come down with “the revenge” than adults and often do not recover as quickly. It takes all the pleasure out of your trip to have to care for and worry over a sick child.

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When is the best time to go on safari? This of course depends on where you are going. If you are going to East Africa June and July and November through March are good. In southern Africa June through October is good although you may go earlier but the grasses will be high and the game hard to see. In South America it is best to go to the Galapagos and Ecuador between January and May and in Peru May through October. The rains come to the jungle in November. Australia is good year around and an excellent place to spend new years.

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What type electricity can I expect? Current in most foreign countries is 220 volt with varying amperages. We will inform you of what is necessary for your destination so you may obtain the proper adapter. Many modern electrical appliances made for travel have built in adapters.

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What should I bring? When you are going to be in the bush or jungle you will want to bring muted colored clothing that is cotton or cotton blend. Cotton breaths the best and will tolerate more primitive washing methods that you may find there. In the cities comfortable casual wear is acceptable. Shorts are fine in camps but may not be acceptable in cities. We will certainly apprise you of this for your specific safari. Our very hard rule of thumb for packing is keep it light and to one duffle type bag and one carry on preferably a good lightweight pack. Duffle bags will store better in the vans, Landrovers and small aircraft whereas hard sided luggage will not. An old rule of thumb that we tell people is, put everything you think you will need out on the bed and then cut it in half and you will be fine. We provide packing lists for your particular safari.

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Sundown Safaris, Dale and Tammee Tuttle

PO Box 2003

Ridgway, Colorado 81423

Phone: 970.626.4360

Fax: 970.626.4471

Custom Safaris to:

East Africa, Tanzania, Southern Africa, Botswana, Namibia, Zambia, Zimbabwe, South America, Peru, Ecuador, Galapagos Islands and Australia

 

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