Complete AFRICAN Safari & Travel Information

5/15/2022 - Optimized for Firefox 100.0 (Quantum)

COPYRIGHT 2009 thru 2022 - David R. Woodsmall

These are PERSONAL web pages - Information gathered to help plan our personal African trips

REALLY COMPLETE INSECT REPELLENT & KILLER INFO
Complete Sunscreen Information, Toxicity, Ingredients, Products & Resources

** CLICKING ONCE on a Desired, Listed subject will take you to that information **



These web pages are generally arranged in Alphabetic Order, by Subject, with an INDEX at the end of each web page. Find your desired subject and double click on it. TAKE SMALL USD BILLS to ZIMBABWE - NO CHANGE WILL BE GIVEN USD MONEY MUST BE PRINTED IN THE YEAR 2000, OR LATER (Counterfeiting problems) Camouflage clothing, is in some cases, ILLEGAL to wear or even possess (Click HERE & scroll).
Some small flights limited to 15 kilograms of luggage, soft-sided / duffel bag types. Other safari operators REQUIRE soft, duffel type bags. Dinner (jacket and tie required) for Mt. Kenya Safari Club KISS A GIRAFFE - at the Langata Giraffe Center, Nairobi, Kenya a Picture of Joany Being kissed by a Giraffe More Information about the Langata Giraffe Center, Nairobi, Kenya, Africa - Click HERE Elephant back Safari, Victoria Falls, Zimababwe Graphic of riding an Elephant while on a safari, in Victoria Falls, Zimababwe, Africa Elephant Back Safari - ZIMBABWE - Click HERE Joany sitting on Elephant's (Ellie) leg after an Elephant Safari, in Victoria Falls, Zimababwe, Africa Joany sitting on our Elephtant's Leg - ZIMBABWE - Click HERE Hand Feeding Vultures at Moholoholo Wildlife Rehabilation Center, South Africa a Picture of Joany hand feeding a Vulture At the Moholoholo Wildlife Rehabilation Center, Kruger, South Africa - Click HERE. These are vultures that are being rehabilitated. They either had injuries or were orphaned. Here you see them eating raw meat out of our hands. Interestingly, Four of the Five vultures would not come near a person trying to hand feed them raw meat, wearing a combination of RID, NATRAPEL and PYRETHRIN (an insecticide). PET A RHINO named Baraka Graphic of Petting a Rhinoceros named Baraka, in Kenya, Africa Near Nairobi, Kenya, Afria. Ol Pejeta Conservancy, Kenya - Pet a Black Rhino - Click HERE

PLEASE HELP STOP RHINO POACHING - THEY WILL SOON BE GONE

Stop Rhino Poaching (and Elephant Poaching) Do you know that since the rhino crisis began to escalate 5 years ago in South Africa, John Hume - a private rhino conservator with 21 years of wildlife management experience - has managed to save 911 rhinos and had 250 rhino births on the sanctuary? He has tragically lost nine rhinos to poachers. John Hume is self-funded and his income was derived from private business ventures in timeshare resorts. Currently, he does not earn an income from his rhino sanctuary. Meanwhile, hundreds of global rhino NGO's have failed to save over 2000 rhinos which South Africa has lost to poaching within this time period. These NGO's and various individuals constantly criticize private rhino conservators for advocating a legal trade in rhino horn, even though this will mean that rhinos will not have to die to provide the horn. Who is on the right track? Who should we be listening to on how to save the rhino? STOP RHINO POACHING - John Hume, Private Conservationist RHINO HORN HARVESTING The African elephant is expected to be extinct in the wild in the year 2023. WARNING - I WOULD NOT, PERSONALLY, EVER WEAR OR EVEN BUY CHEMICALLY TREATED CLOTHING THAT DOES NOT FULLY DISCLOSE WHAT INSECT REPELLENT AND/OR INSECTICIDE IS USED ON THE CLOTHES, AND ANY KNOWN TOXICITY AND POISONING SYMPTOMS - THIS IS MY PERSONAL OPINION COLORS to WEAR and to AVOID and Other Precautions - Click HERE

COUNTRIES - Lots more information about these African Countries

The real Trip Details are listed in these Country Links (below).

Although not all details are in YET in these documents.

The KENYA web page is fairly complete (99%+)

VISA REQUIREMENTS FOR USA CITIZENS (Click [below] for details about the country): BOTSWANA - NO Visa Required for short trips (< 3 months) KENYA - WE NEED: [1] TRANSIT VISA REQUIRED and a [2] regular VISA SOUTH AFRICA - NO VISA required ZAMBIA - VISA REQUIRED - we may want one to view more of Victoria Falls While we are NOT planning to go into Zambia, 1/3 of Victoria Falls is viewed from Zambia. ZIMBABWE - VISA REQUIRED - WE A MULTIPLE ENTRY VISAs A LETTER STATING WE WE NEED THESE MULTIPLE ENTRIES IS REQUIRED - seems to no longer be required??? Because we will take a day trip to Botswana from Zimbabwe, and return, we will need Two entries. COMPANIES THAT WILL GET YOUR VISA(s) FOR YOU VISA REQUIREMENTS, ADDRESSES, PHONE NUMBERS FOR OUR AFRICAN SAFARIS

ACRONYMS / TERMINOLOGY - TRAVEL

Swahili (Kiswahili) al-fresco dining = In the fresh air; outdoors: amarula - made from the exotic, usually alcoholic, Marula fruit 2000 North Tustin Street, BevMo - Orange, CA 92865 714.279.8131 "Amarula is a cream liqueur from South Africa. It is made with sugar, cream and the fruit of the African marula tree (Sclerocarya birrea) which is also locally called the Elephant tree or the Marriage Tree. It has an alcohol content of 17% by volume. It has had some success at international spirit ratings competitions, winning a gold medal at the 2006 San Francisco World Spirits Competition" - Wikipedia. Amarula & Drunk Animals - YouTube B/B = Bed and Breakfast "Big Five" - lion, leopard, elephant, water buffalo and rhino. B,L,D = (Breakfast, Lunch & Diner). Plus other variations (B,D),... INCLUDED MEALS B/O = Bed Only Bongo = antelope CBD - Central Business District (Johannesburg) AVOID IT Cherry, Stuk or Goose = All three mean girlfriend (South African slang) earthed = grounded electrical connection eGoli = Johannesburg (South Africa) Ensuite = yours alone and connected to the room. F/B = Full board. it is providing three meals/day/person But you have to watch out: 1-it does (usually)not come with alcohol. 2- it is usually a set menu, so u can not change you meal. thats the big catch!! your travel agent should state clearly what kind of full board he is offering! Is alcohol included? is it a buffet style or a set menu? Full English Breakfast - Four courses of way too much food (my opinion) H/B = Half board, it is breakfast and lunch or dinner Jbg = Johannesburg, South Africa Jo'burg = Johannesburg (South Africa) Joburg = Johannesburg (South Africa) Jozi = Johannesburg (South Africa) Kiswahili = Swahili is known as "Kiswahili", in the Swahili language. Little Five = The Buffalo Weaver, The Elephant Shrew, Leopard Tortoise, Ant Lion and the Rhino Beetle - The Little Five - south-african-lodges mossies = mosquitoes. mozzies = mosquitoes PPS = Per person Sharing room - based on a minimum of two persons together. Private = yours alone but you have to leave your room to access it. robot - South African S L A N G U A G E ... Robot = Traffic light RTW - Round The World Shared Ablutions = Shared Bathrooms - Toilets, wash basins - should have shower or tub. STS = Single Traveler Supplement - additional cost to One person in an accomodation for PPS. SRS = STS ? = Single Room Supplement Alpha Dictionary - free travel dictionary Travel Terminology Travel Dictionary Glossary of Travel Terms Abbreviations and Terms - Travel Links Dierctory Airline & Airport Terminology Glossary 102 Glossary of rail terminology - Wikipedia Germany: Train Travel Terminology - TripAdvisor Train travel in Kenya | Nairobi - Mombasa, Nairobi - Kisumu Train travel in South Africa...

AIRLINES / AIRWAYS - to/from AFRICA

Air Botswana American Airlines
British Airways British Airways - CHECKED BAGGAGE Checked baggage 50 lb (8/3/2010) 90cm x 75cm x 43cm (35.5ins x 29.5ins x 16ins), including the handle, pockets and wheels. British Airways - HAND BAGGAGE (Carry On) You are allowed one piece of hand baggage plus a laptop or handbag. Please see below for sizes. 56cm x 45cm x 25cm (22in x 18in x 10in), including the handle, pockets and wheels. # Your laptop or handbag is up to the dimensions 45cm x 36cm x 20cm (18in x 14in x 8in), including the handle and pockets. # Your laptop or handbag must fit under the seat in front of you. Carrier Flight numbers Aircraft Class of travel Hand bag allowance (max) Comair BA6200 - 6449 All All 7kg (15lbs) Sunair of Scandinavia BA8200 - 8299 All All 6kg (13lbs) The aircraft used by these airlines are smaller than those used by British Airways and so the maximum baggage weight and size allowances are smaller.
Kenya Airways - VERY WELL THOUGHT OF KENYA AIRLINES PHONE NUMBERS (from the USA) 1 866-536-9224 Reservations 011 254 020 823 000 HEADQUARTERS 011 254 327 452 3524 internet help desk << WRONG NUMBER 011 254 020 327 4747 RESERVATIONS 011 254 073 410 4747 Reservations ??? ======================================== Also try these numbers. 011 254-20-327 4100 must be "020" not "20" ? or doesn't matter? 011 254-20-327 4747 must be "020" not "20" ? or doesn't matter? 011 254-734-104100 011 254-734-104747 011 254-711-024767 ======================================== 011 254-20-327 4523 INTERNET SUPPORT <<<< USE THIS ONE or 011 254-20-327 4524 INTERNET SUPPORT <<<< OR THIS ONE Kenya Airways: Baggage Fees and Policy - SeatGuru " Each passenger is allowed to carry on one bag as long as it adheres to the following requirements: * Maximum Dimensions of Carry-on Luggage: 44 linear in/112 cm (56 cm X 36 cm X 20 cm) * Maximum Weight of Carry-on Luggage: 22 lb/10 kg In addition to the one carry on item, the following items may be carried free of charge by all passengers (except infants): * Overcoat, wrap or blanket * Umbrella or walking stick * Ladies handbag * A reasonable amount of reading material * Small camera * Small laptop * Collapsible baggage trolley * Crutches and/or braces/prosthetic devices, which the passenger is dependent on * Briefcase or laptop-sized bag Kenya Airways Carry-on baggage must be stowed underneath the seat in front of the passenger or in the overhead compartment. REMINDER: Bulkhead seats do not have underseat storage during take-off and landing. Kenya Airways Checked baggage allowance - London to Johannesburg = TWO (2) pieces, (some other routes allow only ONE 66 Pound Checked Bag) 50 lb/23 kg per piece. CARRY ON One (1) 10 kg = 22 pounds Cabin Baggage Max size of Carry-on Luggage: 44 linear inches/112 cm (56 cm X 36 cm X 20 cm) Max size: Total 112cm (56cm X 36cm X 20cm) 23 kg = 50 pounds CHECKED BAGGAGE - Maximum Dimensions: 62 linear inches/158 cm (length + width + height) 30 kg = 66 pounds South African Airways Reservations (in South Africa): 0861 359 722 US Reservations: 800-722-9675

BAGGAGE

LIBERTY TRAVEL - small flights limited to 15 kilograms of luggage, preferably soft-sided / duffel bag types. 15 kilograms = 33.0693393 pounds

BINOCULARS - Safari & Birding - COMPLETE - features you never thought of - Click HERE

BINOCULARS - SAFARI & BIRDING RECOMMENDED - Click HERE

BLOGS

Daniel Peel's excellent Blog about life as a Kruger area Park Ranger

Danielpeel's Blog - I STRONGLY RECOMMEND VIEWING DANIEL'S BLOG

CELL PHONE COST and COVERAGE for AFRICA

CITIES IN WHICH WE NEED CELL PHONE COVERAGE

Want to call in and out of: London, Kenya, South Africa and Zimbabwe. Also want to make calls to the USA.

GSM CELL PHONE BANDS FOR SOUTHERN AFRICAN COUNTRIES

For Botswana, Kenya, South Africa, Zambia and Zimbabwe. you need only TWO GSM (cell phone) BANDS - (GSM 900/1800) (this won't work in the USA, but should work in London). GSM World Coverage Map- GSM Country List by frequency bands Dual, Tri, or Quad Band GSM Phone? London, United Kingdom Johannesburg, South Africa Kroger National Park Nairobi, Kenya Amboseli National Park - Ol Tukai Lodge Aberdares National Park - The Ark Sweetwaters Wildlife Sanctuary - Sweetwaters Tented Camp Lake Nakuru National Park - Sarova Lion Hill Lodge Maasai Mara National Reserve - Keekorok Lodge Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe

CELL PHONE RENTAL/SALES FOR INTERNATIONAL CELL PHONES

We went with GoSIM for our September 2010 trip to Botswana, Kenya, Nambia, South Africa, Zambia and Zimbabwe. My experiences (yours may differ) with GoSim were: 1] GoSIM was the cheapest of all of the companies that I investigated. 2] There is no way to contact goSIM by phone, regarding desired information. 3] They did respond to emails, usually in 24 hours. 4] I was not happy with their recommendation for a phone - I stated that we needed the cheapest, no-frills, two-band GSM phone, and that people were KILLED for their (tech) cell phones in countries that we were visiting. So what did GoSIM recommend? a FOUR-band GSM phone with a built-in phone - exactly the opposite of what I requested. NOTE- a Two band GSM cell phone will NOT allow you to test it in the USA, so you might want a 3 band GSM phone. You may even prefer a four-band GSM phone, as the most practical for world-wide coverage. GoSIM - www.gosim.com Regarding the information you gave us, the World Phone Plus package is probably the one that might suit you the best. It includes a GO-SIM card, with $10 airtime and a Nokia 3G quad-band UMTS GSM handset, which works in 175 countries an territories. ORDER EARLY - I Noticed that they want a Whopping $65 for a Three Day Delivery Here is the link: World Phone package - $86.40 includes $10 air time Here is the link: World Phone Plus package Here is the link: World Phone MAX package You will be able to use it in the countries stated in your email apart from Zimbabwe, as we do not have any roaming partners there yet. In South Africa, Kenya, and the UK the incoming calls are free. While in: -South Africa calls to the USA or within the country, will be charged $0.60 per minute. -Kenya calls to the USA or the UK will be charged $0.69 per minute. Calls within the country will be charged $0.98 per minute. -The UK calls to the USA or within the country will be charged $0.39 per minute. The SIMs we provide expire only after 18 months of non activity, The number provided is an Estonian based number beginning with +372, so people calling you will have to check how much they will be charge for making an International phone call. To add airtime you will need to place the order online or contact us at 00441904 520710 or 01 866 604 6746. GoSIM RATES - 8/15/2010 - May change at any time KENYA to ENGLAND Receiving calls $0.00 per min. Calls to United Kingdom $0.69 per min. Calls within Kenya $0.98 per min. Sending SMS/Text - via GO-SIM menu $0.16 per text Sending SMS/Text - standard EU to EU $0.16 per text Sending SMS/Text - standard $0.55 per text Receiving SMS/Text $0.00 per text Calls to another GO-SIM user $0.69 per min. Helpline $0.69 per min. Voicemail retrieval $0.69 per min. Voicemail deposit $0.00 Surcharge to call a mobile $0.00 per min. Balance enquiry $0.00 Connection fee $0.00 per call Minimum handset GSM 900 GPRS Data (per 100kb) N/A Voice2Email $0.69 per min. Calls from Kenya to South Africa Receiving calls $0.00 per min. Calls to South Africa $0.69 per min. Calls within Kenya $0.98 per min. Sending SMS/Text - via GO-SIM menu $0.16 per text Sending SMS/Text - standard EU to EU $0.16 per text Sending SMS/Text - standard $0.55 per text Receiving SMS/Text $0.00 per text Calls to another GO-SIM user $0.69 per min. Helpline $0.69 per min. Voicemail retrieval $0.69 per min. Voicemail deposit $0.00 Surcharge to call a mobile $0.00 per min. Balance enquiry $0.00 Connection fee $0.00 per call Minimum handset GSM 900 GPRS Data (per 100kb) N/A Voice2Email $0.69 per min. Calls from Kenya to United States of America Receiving calls $0.00 per min. Calls to United States of America $0.69 per min. Calls within Kenya $0.98 per min. Sending SMS/Text - via GO-SIM menu $0.16 per text Sending SMS/Text - standard EU to EU $0.16 per text Sending SMS/Text - standard $0.55 per text Receiving SMS/Text $0.00 per text Calls to another GO-SIM user $0.69 per min. Helpline $0.69 per min. Voicemail retrieval $0.69 per min. Voicemail deposit $0.00 Surcharge to call a mobile $0.00 per min. Balance enquiry $0.00 Connection fee $0.00 per call Minimum handset GSM 900 GPRS Data (per 100kb) N/A Voice2Email $0.69 per min ============= Calls from South Africa to Kenya Receiving calls $0.00 per min. Calls to Kenya $0.89 per min. Calls within South Africa $0.60 per min. Sending SMS/Text - via GO-SIM menu $0.16 per text Sending SMS/Text - standard EU to EU $0.16 per text Sending SMS/Text - standard $0.55 per text Receiving SMS/Text $0.00 per text Calls to another GO-SIM user $0.60 per min. Helpline $0.60 per min. Voicemail retrieval $0.60 per min. Voicemail deposit $0.00 Surcharge to call a mobile $0.00 per min. Balance enquiry $0.00 Connection fee $0.00 per call Minimum handset GSM 900/1800 GPRS Data (per 100kb) $1.52 (CELL C)* Voice2Email $0.60 per min. ============= Calls from South Africa to United Kingdom Receiving calls $0.00 per min. Calls to United Kingdom $0.60 per min. Calls within South Africa $0.60 per min. Sending SMS/Text - via GO-SIM menu $0.16 per text Sending SMS/Text - standard EU to EU $0.16 per text Sending SMS/Text - standard $0.55 per text Receiving SMS/Text $0.00 per text Calls to another GO-SIM user $0.60 per min. Helpline $0.60 per min. Voicemail retrieval $0.60 per min. Voicemail deposit $0.00 Surcharge to call a mobile $0.00 per min. Balance enquiry $0.00 Connection fee $0.00 per call Minimum handset GSM 900/1800 GPRS Data (per 100kb) $1.52 (CELL C)* Voice2Email $0.60 per min. =========================== Calls from United Kingdom to United States of America Receiving calls $0.00 per min. Calls to United States of America $0.39 per min. Calls within United Kingdom $0.39 per min. Sending SMS/Text - via GO-SIM menu $0.16 per text Sending SMS/Text - standard EU to EU $0.16 per text Sending SMS/Text - standard $0.55 per text Receiving SMS/Text $0.00 per text Calls to another GO-SIM user $0.39 per min. Helpline $0.39 per min. Voicemail retrieval $0.39 per min. Voicemail deposit $0.00 Surcharge to call a mobile $0.00 per min. Balance enquiry $0.00 Connection fee $0.00 per call Minimum handset GSM 900/1800 GPRS Data (per 100kb) $0.57 (O2 UK, BTCELLNET)* Voice2Email $0.39 per min. ========================= Calls from United Kingdom to South Africa Receiving calls $0.00 per min. Calls to South Africa $0.39 per min. Calls within United Kingdom $0.39 per min. Sending SMS/Text - via GO-SIM menu $0.16 per text Sending SMS/Text - standard EU to EU $0.16 per text Sending SMS/Text - standard $0.55 per text Receiving SMS/Text $0.00 per text Calls to another GO-SIM user $0.39 per min. Helpline $0.39 per min. Voicemail retrieval $0.39 per min. Voicemail deposit $0.00 Surcharge to call a mobile $0.00 per min. Balance enquiry $0.00 Connection fee $0.00 per call Minimum handset GSM 900/1800 GPRS Data (per 100kb) $0.57 (O2 UK, BTCELLNET)* Voice2Email $0.39 per min. ================ Calls from United Kingdom to Kenya Receiving calls $0.00 per min. Calls to Kenya $0.68 per min. Calls within United Kingdom $0.39 per min. Sending SMS/Text - via GO-SIM menu $0.16 per text Sending SMS/Text - standard EU to EU $0.16 per text Sending SMS/Text - standard $0.55 per text Receiving SMS/Text $0.00 per text Calls to another GO-SIM user $0.39 per min. Helpline $0.39 per min. Voicemail retrieval $0.39 per min. Voicemail deposit $0.00 Surcharge to call a mobile $0.00 per min. Balance enquiry $0.00 Connection fee $0.00 per call Minimum handset GSM 900/1800 GPRS Data (per 100kb) $0.57 (O2 UK, BTCELLNET)* Voice2Email $0.39 per min.
TELESTIAL - www.telestial.com We have 3 sims we can offer you although none of those sims will have service in Zimbabwe. Here is the link: Passport - telestial.com Each card operates in the same fashion. The only differences are the prices you pay to purchase the sim and the rates for making and receiving calls. If you decide to rent a phone, the Passport Lite will be that card you receive. You can visit the above link and click on the name of each sim such as the Passport Lite, Passport US, etc. On the page you are taken to you can scroll down until you see a green button called 'Rate Finder.' Here you can select the country you will be in and the country you will be calling to/receiving calls from and the cost including any connection fees. The Passport US and the Passport Plus offer the best rates out of the three. If you will strictly be calling out, the Passport Plus will provide the best value.
AIR GORILLA Cellular Abroad 800 - 287 - 5072 8-8 EDT
CELLULAR ABROAD - Billing increments: 60 seconds RENT - 15 - 28 days = $ 89 (plus the SIM, plus any extra minutes) RENT - 29 - 42 days = $109 (plus the SIM, plus any extra minutes) (rent) FREE INCOMING FROM Botswana - who cares (for our trip) Kenya - (while in Kenya South Africa (while in South Africa) United Kingdom (while in the United Kingdom) United States Zambia - NO phone service Zimbabwe - NO phone service South Africa to KENYA Landline $ 0.90 / minute South Africa to KENYA CELL $ 1.15 / minute South Africa to USA Landline $ 0.90 / minute South Africa to USA CELL $ 1.15 / minute South Africa to UNITED KINGDOM Landline $ 0.90 / minute South Africa to UNITED KINGDOM CELL $ 1.15 / minute BUY South Africa to ZIMBABWE Landline $ 0.90 / minute South Africa to ZIMBABWE CELL $ 1.15 / minute
Mobal - 888 888 9162 - SOUNDS HORRIBLY EXPENSIVE 09:00 - 17:00 EST Monday - Thursday, 09:00 - 16:00 EST Fridays.

CLOTHES & SAFARI GEAR

WARNING - I WOULD NOT, PERSONALLY, EVER WEAR OR EVEN BUY CHEMICALLY TREATED CLOTHING THAT DOES NOT FULLY DISCLOSE WHAT INSECT REPELLENT AND/OR INSECTICIDE IS USED ON THE CLOTHES, AND ANY KNOWN TOXICITY AND POISONING SYMPTOMS - THIS IS MY PERSONAL OPINION Safari Clothing List The Safari Store - UK The Safari Store 99-109 Lavender Hill, London Tel +44 (0) 207 585 2040 DIAL: 011 44 0207 585 2040 (from the US) Hours M-F 9:30 AM until 4:30 PM Email steve@thesafaristore.co.uk STEVE HAS BEEN EXTREMELY HELPFUL IN PLANNING OUR TRIPS ORVIS ORVIS Triangle Town Commons 3701 Sumner Blvd. Ste. 100 Raleigh, NC US, 27616-2988 Phone: 919-792-9200 CABELIS - World's Formost Outfitter BASS PRO SHOP The Closest actual Store is in Concord (Charlotte), NC 8181 Concord Mills Blvd. Concord, NC 28027 Phone: 704-979-2200 REI - Gear, Equipment and Clothing for an Outdoor Life Raleigh REI Store (3.4) miles 4291 The Circle at North Hills Raleigh, NC 27609 (919) 571-5031 GOOD STORES, BUT MOSTLY FOR CAMPING GEAR: Camping World - Colfax, NC (closest store) CampMor - 1-888-226-7667 - New Jersey Dick's Sporting Goods - Sweat Bands SEARS Camping Gear Great Outdoor Provision Company Great Outdoor Provision Company Cameron Village 2017 Cameron St Raleigh, NC 27605 (919) 833-1741 Moosineer - Innovative outdoor gear & supplies Uncle Sam's Safari Outfitters - more like camping gear Vermont's Barre Army Navy Boy Scouts of America Official Catalog I DIDN'T SEE ANYTHING HERE THAT WOULD HELP ME ON SAFARIS Occoneechee Scout Shop 3231 Atlantic Avenue Raleigh, NC 27604 (919) 850-0301 Camping Gear (from Rob Lucas) - Ultrarob dot com - Campmor provides camping gear, clothing and outdoor equipment Outdoor Clothing & Gear See also Safari HATS

CONVERSIONS (NON-monetary)

METRIC CONVERSIONS ORG DISTANCE: Meters to Feet (convert). Feet to Meters conversion calculator Kilometers to Miles conversion calculator Miles to Kilometers conversion calculator WEIGHT: Kilograms to Pounds conversion calculator Pounds to Kilograms conversion calculator ELECTRICITY: ELECTRICAL UNIT CONVERSIONS

CURRENCY Converters

BOTSWANA uses the PULA (BWP Convert USD to BWP BWP to USD KENYA uses the Kenyan SHILLINGS (KES Convert USD to KES KES to USD SOUTH AFRICA uses the RAND (ZAR) Convert USD to ZAR ZAR to USD ZAMBIA uses the Zambian KWACHA (ZMK) Convert USD to ZMK ZMK to USD ZIMBABWE has NO currency of their own, uses: South African RAND, Botswana PULA, British POUND STERLING and the United States USD. TAKE SMALL USD BILLS to ZIMBABWE - NO CHANGE WILL BE GIVEN ENGLAND uses both EUROS (EUR) and BRITISH POUND STERLING (GBP) Convert USD to EUR Convert USD to GBP Convert EUR to USD Convert GBP to USD
  • The MONEY CONVERTER
  • Once you know both currencies, you can use a URL like this:
  • http://themoneyconverter.com/ZAR/USD.aspx
Convert KENYAN SHILLINGS to US Dollars Convert US Dollars to KENYAN SHILLINGS Convert KENYAN SHILLINGS to South African RAND (ZAR) Convert South African RAND (ZAR) to KENYAN SHILLINGS Convert South African RANDs (ZAR) to US Dollars (USD) Convert US Dollars (USD) to South African RAND (ZAR) British POUND Sterling (GBP) to US Dollars (USD) Convert US Dollars (USD) to British POUND Sterling (GBP) EUROs (EUR) to US Dollars (USD) Convert US Dollars (USD) to EUROs (EUR) DISCOVER CARD charges us TWO PERCENT (2%) foreign exchange rate on the TOTAL Discover does NOT have "Banks" in Africa. Is their protection as good as that of Master card? ALL OUR CITIBANK Master Card & Visa Accounts charge 3% foreign exchange rate on the TOTAL NO banks NOR ATMs in South Africa NOR in Kenya. HSBC Master Card charge 3% foreign exchange rate on the TOTAL. HSBC does have "Banks" in South Africa, but don't know about Kenya Outside the US, dial 702 243 1575 (US country code needed ???) It is now suggested that USD not be older than FIVE YEARS. DEFINITELY do not use USD money printed before 2001 The style of the bills changed in 2001. Do not bother with Travelers Checks - not very many places will take them. Kenya Forum: US dollars printing dates _ TripAdvisor Mombasa Forum: travel money - TripAdvisor MONEY POUCHES / SAFES (to wear)

Electric Plugs, Shapes, Sockets, Voltages and Frequencies

Most of the World, including Africa, uses 220 to 240 VAC, 50 Hz. NOTE that many of our USA appliances are NOT dual voltage (120 VAC & 240 VAC), so your adapter must both: 1] Convert from 240 VAC to 120 VAC and 2] To the appropriate electrical socket SHAPE. Modern Battery Chargers and Computer power supplies are usually dual-voltage (run on either 110-120 VAC or 220-250 VAC). READ THE LABEL ON THE POWER SUPPLY. I always travel with a Twenty-five foot (3-wire, Type B, American extension cord), several power strips (NOT FUSED, as they may not handle 240 VAC, unless they state they can), and about TEN different electrical socket (shape) adapters. Also an 3-wire Type B to 2-wire Type A Adapter for the extension cord. I also carry a step-down transformer for some of my wife's 120 VAC ONLY stuff. Any US motors (60 Hz) used will run more slowly (on 50 Hz than on 60 Hz) - for example, your electric razor or clock. ELECTRICAL UNIT CONVERSIONS - AMPS (A), WATTs, Volt-Amps (VA),,, Schuko - Wikipedia MOST COMMON PLUG TYPES for SOUTHERN AFRICA (better do your own checking): I HAD TO CONSULT ABOUT EIGHT DIFFERENT SITES, AS NONE OF THEM LISTED ALL THE OUTLET SHAPES USED IN A PARTICULAR COUNTRY, and most omitted crucial adapters for areas in Southern Africa (Botswana, Kenya, Namibia, South Africa, Zambia, Zimbabwe,...). Many of the Bigger Hotels do have a European outlet in the bathroom, but it is rated for only about 5O WATTS (no heavy-duty hair dryers). Many of the more luxerious Lodges do have a built-in hair-dryer, BUT YOU NEED TO INQUIRE BEFORE YOU TRAVEL. ELECTRICAL OUTLET SHAPES: NOTE - Since I had a lot of Batteries to recharge, I TOOK ABOUT 12 OUTLET SHAPE ADAPTERS, NOT that I would expect anyone else to do that - I was good anywhere but China. I really only needed four types of adapters: 'M', 'G', 'C' and 'D'. But in all of the locations that I was in, the 'C' and 'D' outlets did not work, although they did have working 'M' and in a few cases, 'G' outlets. "New" kenya outlets are probably type 'D' and 'G' - but most lodges are older BE VERY CAREFUL THAT YOUR ADAPTERS DO NOT CONVERT TO A NON-USA STYLE PLUG. I HAVE SEEN MANY ADAPTERS FOR SALE, EVEN IN THE USA, THAT CONVERT "COUNTRY A" TO A EUROPEAN PLUG - NOT MUCH USE FOR YOUR USA APPLIANCE (assuming you usa USA appliances). I LIST ALL OF THE OUTLET TYPE THAT COULD BE FOUND IN THE COUNTRY - DO YOU WANT YOUR BATTERIES TO DIE BECAUSE YOU DID NOT HAVE THAT ADAPTER? You can always try calling or emailing the lodge/safari camp and asking what type outlets they have. Typically, you may find a different outlet type in the bathroom, rated at only 60 watts (not good for a hair dryer). I also take a 25 foot extension cord, so I can run from the far bedroom outlet to the bathroom, for wife's hairdryer. I LOVE THE adaptelec.com ADAPTERS, EVERY (normal) PLUG USED IN THE WORLD, EXCEPT THE LARGE TYPE "M" WILL PLUG INTO EVERY ONE OF THEIR ADAPTERS. BOTSWANA - 220 VAC - 3 Adapters covers whole country M = 3 LARGE, ROUND blades in a Triangle The Type M, or South African, electrical plug is essentially a larger version of the Type D and is rated at 15 AMPS at 250 VOLTS. I FOUND TYPE M TO BE THE MOST COMMON PLUG IN SOUTHERN AFRICA, YOU MUST HAVE ADAPTER TYPE "M" FOR ALMOST ANY SOUTHERN AFRICAN COUNTRY G = 3 large FLAT Pins - RARELY SEEN HERE Type G plug is commonly known as the 13-amp plug, and technically known as the BS 1363 (British 13 A/230-240 V 50 Hz earthed and fused). I FOUND TYPE "G" TO BE THE SECOND MOST COMMON PLUG IN SOUTHERN AFRICA. BUT LESS THAN One FIFTEENTH as COMMON AS TYPE "M". Type G is rare in Botswana D = NWG-14C - smaller, round legs, in a triangular shape Type D plug and receptacle is the BS 546 (5 Amp/250 V earthed) I ONLY SAW ONE OF THESE TYPE "D" OUTLETS IN A MONTH OF AFRICAN TRAVEL. KENYA (same outlet shapes as ZIMBABWE) - 220 VAC - 3 Adapters covers whole country M = 3 LARGE, ROUND blades in a Triangle The Type M, or South African, electrical plug is essentially a larger version of the Type D and is rated at 15 AMPS at 250 VOLTS. I FOUND TYPE M TO BE THE MOST COMMON PLUG IN SOUTHERN AFRICA, YOU MUST HAVE ADAPTER TYPE "M" FOR ALMOST ANY SOUTHERN AFRICAN COUNTRY G = 3 large FLAT Pins Type G plug is commonly known as the 13-amp plug, and technically known as the BS 1363 (British 13 A/230-240 V 50 Hz earthed and fused) I FOUND TYPE "G" TO BE THE SECOND MOST COMMON PLUG IN SOUTHERN AFRICA. BUT LESS THAN One FIFTEENTH as COMMON AS TYPE "M". Countrary to what some sites say, on safari, I saw ONLY ONE type G outlet. But a Richard, guy that writes a Kenya travel book states that most all places use the Type G. D = NWG-14C - smaller, round legs, in a triangular shape Type D plug and receptacle is the BS 546 (5 Amp/250 V earthed) I ONLY SAW ONE OF THESE TYPE "D" OUTLETS IN A MONTH OF AFRICAN TRAVEL. NAMIBIA - 220VAC - 3 Adapters covers whole country M = 3 LARGE, ROUND blades in a Triangle The Type M, or South African, electrical plug is essentially a larger version of the Type D and is rated at 15 AMPS at 250 VOLTS. I FOUND TYPE M TO BE THE MOST COMMON PLUG IN SOUTHERN AFRICA, YOU MUST HAVE ADAPTER TYPE "M" FOR ALMOST ANY SOUTHERN AFRICAN COUNTRY D = NWG-14C - smaller, round legs, in a triangular shape Type D plug and receptacle is the BS 546 (5 Amp/250 V earthed) I ONLY SAW ONE OF THESE TYPE "D" OUTLETS IN A MONTH OF AFRICAN TRAVEL. G = 3 large FLAT Pins Type G plug is commonly known as the 13-amp plug, and technically known as the BS 1363 (British 13 A/230-240 V 50 Hz earthed and fused) I FOUND TYPE "G" TO BE THE SECOND MOST COMMON PLUG IN SOUTHERN AFRICA. BUT LESS THAN One FIFTEENTH as COMMON AS TYPE "M". SOUTH AFRICA - 220 to 230 - rarely 250 VAC - 4 Adapters covers whole country M = 3 LARGE, ROUND blades in a Triangle The Type M, or South African, electrical plug is essentially a larger version of the Type D and is rated at 15 AMPS at 250 VOLTS. Known as the BS 546 (South African 15 A/250 V). It has been adopted as the standard plug in SA. I FOUND TYPE M TO BE THE MOST COMMON PLUG IN SOUTHERN AFRICA, YOU MUST HAVE ADAPTER TYPE "M" FOR ALMOST ANY SOUTHERN AFRICAN COUNTRY G = 3 large FLAT Pins Type G plug is commonly known as the 13-amp plug, and technically known as the BS 1363 (British 13 A/230-240 V 50 Hz earthed and fused) I FOUND TYPE "G" TO BE THE SECOND MOST COMMON PLUG IN SOUTHERN AFRICA. BUT LESS THAN One FIFTEENTH as COMMON AS TYPE "M". C = NWG-14C - smaller, round legs, in a triangular shape Popularly known as the Europlug, the Type C electrical plug is a two-pin unearthed plug Also known as the CEE 7/16 (Europlug 2.5 A/250 V unearthed [not grounded]) "The 19 mm separation of the pins and the pins' 4 mm length allow for its safe insertion in most Type C, Type E, Type F, Type H, and some Type L outlets" - electricaloutlet.org RARE - I ONLY SAW A FEW OF THESE "C" OUTLETS IN BATHROOMS - LABELLED 50 WATTS ONLY. SOMETIMES THESE TYPE "C" BATHROOM OUTLETS WERE BROKEN (Non-functioning) D = NWG-14C - smaller, round legs, in a triangular shape Type D plug and receptacle is the BS 546 (5 Amp/250 V earthed) I ONLY SAW ONE OF THESE TYPE "D" OUTLETS IN A MONTH OF AFRICAN TRAVEL. ZAMBIA - 220 VAC - 4 Adapters covers whole country M = 3 LARGE, ROUND blades in a Triangle The Type M, or South African, electrical plug is essentially a larger version of the Type D and is rated at 15 AMPS at 250 VOLTS. I FOUND TYPE M TO BE THE MOST COMMON PLUG IN SOUTHERN AFRICA, YOU MUST HAVE ADAPTER TYPE "M" FOR ALMOST ANY SOUTHERN AFRICAN COUNTRY G = 3 large FLAT Pins Type G plug is commonly known as the 13-amp plug, and technically known as the BS 1363 (British 13 A/230-240 V 50 Hz earthed and fused) I FOUND TYPE "G" TO BE THE SECOND MOST COMMON PLUG IN SOUTHERN AFRICA. BUT LESS THAN One FIFTEENTH as COMMON AS TYPE "M". C = NWG-14C - smaller, round legs, in a triangular shape Popularly known as the Europlug, the Type C electrical plug is a two-pin unearthed plug Also known as the CEE 7/16 (Europlug 2.5 A/250 V unearthed [not grounded]) "The 19 mm separation of the pins and the pins' 4 mm length allow for its safe insertion in most Type C, Type E, Type F, Type H, and some Type L outlets" - electricaloutlet.org I ONLY SAW A FEW OF THESE "C" OUTLETS IN BATHROOMS - LABELLED 50 WATTS ONLY. SOMETIMES THESE TYPE "C" BATHROOM OUTLETS WERE BROKEN (Non-functioning) D = NWG-14C - smaller, round legs, in a triangular shape Type D plug and receptacle is the BS 546 (5 A/250 V earthed) ZIMBABWE (same outlet shapes as KENYA) - 220 VAC - 4 Adapters covers whole country M = 3 LARGE, ROUND blades in a Triangle The Type M, or South African, electrical plug is essentially a larger version of the Type D and is rated at 15 AMPS at 250 VOLTS. I FOUND TYPE M TO BE THE MOST COMMON PLUG IN SOUTHERN AFRICA, YOU MUST HAVE ADAPTER TYPE "M" FOR ANY SOUTHERN AFRICAN COUNTRY The Type M was also the main type used at Victoria Falls, Zimababwe, as far as we could see. G = 3 large FLAT Pins Type G plug is commonly known as the 13-amp plug, and technically known as the BS 1363 (British 13 A/230-240 V 50 Hz earthed and fused) I FOUND TYPE "G" TO BE THE SECOND MOST COMMON PLUG IN SOUTHERN AFRICA. BUT LESS THAN One FIFTEENTH as COMMON AS TYPE "M". C = NWG-14C - smaller, round legs, in a triangular shape Popularly known as the Europlug, the Type C electrical plug is a two-pin unearthed plug Also known as the CEE 7/16 (Europlug 2.5 A/250 V unearthed [not grounded]) "The 19 mm separation of the pins and the pins' 4 mm length allow for its safe insertion in most Type C, Type E, Type F, Type H, and some Type L outlets" - electricaloutlet.org I ONLY SAW A FEW OF THESE "C" OUTLETS IN BATHROOMS - LABELLED 50 WATTS ONLY. SOMETIMES THESE TYPE "C" BATHROOM OUTLETS WERE BROKEN (Non-functioning) D = NWG-14C - smaller, round legs, in a triangular shape Type D plug and receptacle is the BS 546 (5 Amp/250 V earthed) I ONLY SAW ONE OF THESE TYPE "D" OUTLETS IN A MONTH OF AFRICAN TRAVEL. USA - 120 VAC, 60 Hertz A = - two flat, ungrounded blades NEMA 1-15 (North American 15 A/125 V ungrounded) B = - two flat blades, plus a round Ground NEMA 5-15 (North American 15 A/125 V ground ed) I PREFER THE ADAPTERS FROM ADAPTELEC.COM ALL The receptacle end of the adaptelec.com adapters can accept ANY STANDARD HOUSEHOLD plug type from any country, except the "Type M" South African SABS1661 (Old British BS-546 "Large")." TRAVEL PLUG ADAPTERS - ALL - adaptelec.com "Travel plug adapters are simple, passive devices that change the shape of a plug so that it can fit into a different kind of outlet. Plug adapters are sometimes referred to as "travel adapters" and "adapter plugs"... it's all the same. Plug adapters do not change the electrical voltage being supplied by the outlet, so whatever you're plugging in must already be compatible with the outlet's voltage." Electrical Receptacles, Electrical Outlets, Electrical Plugs, Adapter Plugs WA-10L Travel Plug Adapter for South Africa ("Type M" Large 15 amp BS 546) Power Plug Adapter, U.S. to Europe, the Middle East, Africa, Asia, & South America

Electrical STEP-DOWN Transformers and Converters

VOLTAGE CONVERTERS (convert 240-250 VAC to 120 VAC or vice-versa

If you have the correct electric outlet socket shape converter

you can use a Voltage Converter to convert 240 VAC to 120 VAC

So that you can run many of your USA appliances while in other Countries.

NOTE that Motors and electric Clocks will run more slowly in countries that use 50 Hertz, rather than the 60 Hertz that we use in the USA. For 120 VAC appliances to be run on 240-250 VAC, you will need a Step Down Transformer OR a Voltage Converter. For 220 VAC appliances to be run on 120 VAC, you will need a Step UP Transformer OR a step-up Voltage Converter. Voltage Converters convert one voltage to another voltage, for example, 240 VAC to 120 VAC or 120 VAC to 240 VAC, electronically (they use electronic parts to accomplish the voltage change). Voltage Converters can handle small current loads (usually 50 WATTs or less), while for over 50 WATTS, appliances that need high current (heavy-duty hair dryers), or that require a more stable voltage (doesn't fluctate as much), you should use a step-down transformer (they are heavy, and contain magnets, just do you know). Voltage converts convert one voltage to another voltage, for example, 240 VAC to 120 VAC. 300 Watt step down transformer - adaptelec WA-10L Travel Plug Adapter for South Africa ("Type M" Large 15 amp BS 546) Electrical Receptacles, Electrical Outlets, Electrical Plugs, Adapter Plugs Amazon.com: Seven Star Step Up and Down Transformer TC500 Voltage Converters - 110220volts.com Adapter Plugs and Converters Amazon Marketplace Franzus Voltage Converter / Transformers World-Import.com Plugs Adapters - World-Import.com Lencore - Step-Down Transformers

HATS - Safari

What Safari Hats Must Do Well Tilley Hats - The LTM6 and T3 models are particularly Useful. Henschel Hats Henschel BreezerHats

HEALTH - Vaccinations

COLORS to WEAR and to AVOID and Other Precautions Possible Side-effects from Vaccines Health & safety - lonelyplanet International Help for BLUE CROSS - BLUE SHIELD Members KENYAN HEALTH TIPS & VACCINATION INFORMATION SOUTH AFRICA HEALTH TIPS & VACCINATION INFORMATION NOT yet

PASSPORT HEALTH (passports & Vaccinations)

PASSPORT HEALTH Website

Raleigh (one of many offices)

3100 Duraleigh Road - Vaccinations from 10 AM until 4 PM, Weekdays only Suite 107 (Ral. Medical Center) Raleigh, NC 27612 Phone: 919-781-0053 Fax: 919-481-0455 Website WAKE COUNTY HEALTH - IMMUNIZATIONS FOREIGN TRAVEL IMMUNIZATIONS - Wake County Health (Vaccines and counseling as recommended for people traveling abroad) Public Health Center (Clinic E) 10 Sunnybrook Road, Raleigh Call 919-250-3900 to make an appointment. Monday–Friday by appointment only from 8:30–11:30 a.m. and 1–4 p.m. For recorded travel information call the Travel Information Line: 919-250-3885 ADULT ROUTINE IMMUNIZATIONS TRY TO FIND A PLACE THAT IS IN YOUR INSURANCE NETWORK U.S. Adult Immunization Schedules - even for those who stay AT HOME Note that several US government sites recommend taking an injection of: subcutaneous gamma globulin, to boost one's immune system, before going to Africa. This is expensive, and you want the subcutaneous type. For two persons, total, combined body weight of about 315 pounds, our cost wast estimated to be about $300 USD. Some studies show recognizable benefits, and some do not (show recognizable benefits). CHECK WITH YOUR DOCTOR - I MAY BE MISTAKEN ABOUT THE LENGTH OF TIME: You should wait at least THREE MONTHS AFTER getting a vaccine that contains a live virus (for example, a Yellow Fever or MMR vaccine) BEFORE getting a shot of gamma globulin, otherwise, the gamma globulin may prevent the live vaccine from giving you immunity. You should take gamma globulin a week before you expect to "need" it. You should wait at least three months months?? after getting gamma globulin, before you get a vaccine containing a live virus. Gamma globulin injections Public Health Center (Clinic E) 10 Sunnybrook Road, Raleigh Call 919-250-3900 to make appointments. Adults Tuesdays and Fridays, 8:30–11 a.m. and 1–4 p.m., by appointment, with limited walk-ins accepted. ADVANCE CARE - Travel Immunizations AdvanceCare 6402 McCrimmon Parkway Suite 100 Morrisville, NC 27560 Phone: (919) 655-1000 Billing: (877) 239-3429 Available vaccines include: * Hepatitis A & B * Tetanus * Yellow fever = $125 * Typhoid = $ 75 * Meningococcal = $125 If you have questions about whether these vaccines are right for you, please consult the Center for Disease Control Website at http://www.cdc.gov, or ask your physician. We recommend that you make an appointment for travel consultation as soon as possible as some vaccines series require 2 or more vaccinations and can take up to 6 months to complete. We carry the above vaccines in stock but other travel vaccines may need to be ordered individually for specific patient needs. Travel Immunization is not normally covered by Insurance Plans. Please click here to review our charges. Concentra Medical Center I HAVE HEARD (8/2010) THAT CONCENTRA HAS STOPPED SELLING TRAVEL IMMUNIZATIONS Concentra Medical Center Concentra was in my Blue Cross-Bl;ue Shield Network - saved $500 a person 4909 Green RD Raleigh, NC 27616 Telephone: 919-790-0288 Maxim Healthcare Services 5510 Six Forks Rd. Suite 125 Raleigh, NC 27609 Telephone: 866-844-9257 Fax: (919)676-2332

MALARIA

It is our understanding, that mosquitoes in South Africa can carry a form of malaria that is resistant to the preferred anti-malaria drug (although there are alternative drugs). Check with some place like: PASSPORT HEALTH. We (the five of us) all took Malarone to prevent malaria - we had NO problems. MALARIA Information KENYA - MALARIA VACCINATION INFORMATION SOUTH AFRICA - MALARIA VACCINATION INFORMATION MOSQUITO Information, Repellents & Insecticides METOFLUTHRIN - Used in OFF's Clip-On Mosquito Repellent Health Information for Travelers to Kenya Currently, 5/11/2010, If you get all of the recommended inocculations for Keny, you are also covered for Botswana, South Africa, Zambia and Zimbabwe (THIS MAY CHANGE AT ANY TIME) - EXCEPT FOP MALARIA - the Malaria in South Africa is resistant to more treatments than is that of Kenya. Discuss Malaria, and all of the countries to which you are going, with both your doctor and your travel doctor. Health Information for Travelers to Botswana Health Information for Travelers to South Africa Health Information for Travelers to Zambia Health Information for Travelers to Zimbabwe

MAPS - Relevant parts of AFRICA

South African National & Regional Parks - MAPS - places.co.za MAP of South Africa - Lonely Planet South Africa Map - c2a.co.za South Africa Maps - sa-venues.com Sandton, South Africa - MAP

MONEY

CURRENCY CONVERSIONS MONEY POUCHES / SAFES (to wear) Room SAFES are NOT very Secure SAFETY while Traveling

PHONE CALLS - COST PER MINUTE using VONAGE World calling plan

Calls to Land Lines are FREE to these Countries PHONE CALL COST PER MINUTE - with VONAGE WORLD CALLING PLAN KENYA - FREE (calls to Cell phones do cost) GSM 900 Frequency (Band) for Cell Phones Has Two Cell phone carriers on this frequency. LONDON, United Kingdom - GSM 900 Frequency (Band) for Cell Phones Has TWO Cell phone carriers on this frequency. GSM 1800 Frequency (Band) for Cell Phones Has ONE Cell phone carriers on this frequency. IDT, Nomi Mobile and Talk Mobile - Cell Carriers. SOUTH AFRICA - FREE (calls to Cell phones do cost) GSM 900 Frequency (Band) for Cell Phones Has TWO Cell phone carriers on this frequency. GSM 1800 Frequency (Band) for Cell Phones Has ONE Cell phone carriers on this frequency. MTM, and other cell phone companies Zambia - FREE (calls to Cell phones do cost) GSM 900 Frequency (Band) for Cell Phones Has THREE Cell phone carriers on this frequency. ZAIN and two other cell phone companies. ZIMBABWE - 11 cents/minute to landlines 36 cents / minute to cell phones GSM 900 Frequency (Band) for Cell Phones Has THREE Cell phone carriers on this frequency. CITIES IN WHICH WE NEED CELL PHONE COVERAGE: London, United Kingdom Nairobi, Kenya Amboseli National Park - Ol Tukai Lodge Aberdares National Park - The Ark Sweetwaters Wildlife Sanctuary - Sweetwaters Tented Camp Lake Nakuru National Park - Sarova Lion Hill Lodge Maasai Mara National Reserve - Keekorok Lodge Johannesburg, South Africa Kroger National Park Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe Country Calling Codes List of GSM cell phone frequencies in use by country

PHOTOGRAPHY on SAFARI

BE VERY CAREFUL WHEN DRIVING THROUGH CROWDS - YOUR CAMERA MAY BE RIPPED FROM YOUR HANDS. If you can not afford a good camera (DSLR) to take on your safari, consider RENTING a camera. If you rent a camera, ensure that you have Insurance to cover the loss or damage to the camera. Here in the USA, a lot of home owner's insurance policies will pay for your personal camera, if lost or stolen - CHECK to see if they will either cover the rental camera or if you can add an insurance rider to you policy to cover the cost of the rental camera. A regular on TripAdvisor, Kenya Forums, Steveb108 had very good luck renting a Canon 70-300 mm IS zoom lens from: "http://www.lensprotogo.com. They did an excellent job of packaging it well and getting it to me with return postage as well". http://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowTopic-g294206-i9216-k4484150-Camera_Lenses-Kenya.html#33310674 I suspect that you could also buy insurance from the place that rents the camera to you. See also: GPS for your Nikon camera - www.foolography.com Other GPS information for use on Safaris If you are getting a new Digital camera for the trip, I (and some safari Pros) highly recommend the Canon EOS Rebel T2i (called the 550D in Europe) with the Canon EF-S 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6 IS telephoto Lens - it was fantastic and only this one $700 (now $600) lens is (almost all that is) ever needed (11x stabilized, optical zoom). Note that this lens is effectively a 320 mm zoom (for Canon, multiply by 1.6, so we have 200 x 1.6 = 320 mm). Newer versions are the Canon EOS Rebel T5i, T4i and T3i. If you don't want to pay for a DSLR, You might consider the Canon SX50 50x Zoom - it has superb zoom and stabilization capabiLities.

African pictures w/ Canon T2i & EF-S 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6 IS

I have about 160 pictures that I took, with the Canon EOS REBEL T2i DSLR and the Highly acclaimed Canon EF-S 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6 IS telephoto Lens, while spending 30 days in 6 African countries (Botswana, Kenya, Namibia, South Africa, Zambia and Zimbabwe). The Canon EF-S 18-200mm (effective 28.8 to 320 mm) f/3.5-5.6 IS Lens has been highly praised by ALL professional photographers that have reviewed it. These are un-retouched pictures, saved as low resolution. Click on one of the four Album links, below then click on the first picture then click on the forward arrow, on the right-hand side of the picture, to see the next picture in the "Album". African Safaris - Volume One - the most interesting African Safari Pictures - Volume TWO African Safari Pictures - Volume THREE African Safari Pictures - Volume FOUR You do NOT have to be a member of Face Book, nor do you have to sign in, to view these pictures. HOW I RESCUE ENDANGERED WILD ANIMALS - YOU CAN DO IT TOO With Canon's multiplier of 1.6, the 18-200 mm lens becomes an effective 28.8mm-320mm. Some serious amateurs believe that the effective 320mm may not be enough (for distant animals or birds on safari). There was only once that I wanted more zoom, but you certainly don't want to miss a good picture, so perhaps more is better, if the lens quality is as good as the Canon EF-S 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6 IS Lens. Oh FOO! the T2i was just superceded with the T3i - never fails to happen. Essentially, the Canon EOS Rebel T3i DSLR is identical to the T2i. I have read that there are really only three differences between the new Canon EOS Rebel T3i and the T2i: 1] An articulated LCD display is now used in the T3i 2] A wireless remote trigger capability (instead of Infared) 3] An change in how digital noise is handled for fast ISO speeds. The T2i has a better noise control at at an ISO of 800 The T3i has better noise control at an ISO of 1600 The cameras are pretty much even at all other ISO settings. The Canon T5i is now rated the best entry level Prosumer DLSR (by many Pros). The Canon EOS T2i also won the 2010 Light-weight DSLR Safari Camera and Lens Award. Besides shooting full HD, it can shoot either 6x9 or 3x4 inch formats. It (the Canon T2i and Canon EF-S 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6 IS telephoto Lens) will set you back about $ 1,800 USD, plus any Chips and extra batteries. Extremely good battery life (your milage may vary). Very bright 3 inch LCD display, although I usually did not use it. I used High Speed Class 10 Flash Cards for this camera, so that it could handle HD video (1080P at 30 frames per second). It uses SDHC, SD and SDXC and Wireless SD cards. For a good quality Video / Still camera with 20x optical, I chose the Canon HF-R100 - about $500, less Chips and spare batteries / battery chargers. This camera did an excellent job, and has a low light capability for video. It uses SD/SDHC flash memory cards. It comes in three models, depending on built-in storage. I thought that built-in storage was silly, harder to backup, what if it fails? How fast is the internal storage? All three models allow the use of Flash cards. I used Class 6 Flash Cards for this camera. Neeeding a backup camera in London, I bought a Nikon Coolpix L22 (3.7x optical) - it did a very good job for a pocket camera. There are better ones out there now. Paid about $120 USD in London. Excellent battery life on standard 'AA' alkaline cells. "In general a good focal length to take on safari would be 300mm. Bear in mind that compact digital cameras with 20x magnification would only offer optical magnification of the subject up until about 10x (if that), and from there on in the image is zoomed in on digitally (which causes terrible pixilation). (New Digicam models can do 25x OPTICALLY - DRW). I have two cameras - a Canon Digital SLR with a 300mm lens, and a Panasonic Lumix. The new Lumix cameras offer an incredible optical zoom of 12x: Panasonic Lumix DMC-TZ10. While this is not 12x what you see as the human eye is approximately the equivalent of a 50mm lens with peripheral vision, it would still be 12 x the minimum focal length of the camera which is 25mm. This equates to a 250mm which should be adequate. The big bonus is that the camera is very compact, allows you to take video and is packed with features. To give you an idea of the photos possible, our entire Okavango Product Test in April was shot on our Lumix (which is older and only has a 10x optical zoom): Safari Clothing Product Test, Botswana If you require any further advice please do let me know." Steve@thesafaristore.co.uk The Safari Store (UK) Best Digital Camera for Safari = Travel Digital Camera Reviews Photo Advice for Travelers on Safari in Africa by Jon Hill 10 Tips to Photograph An African Safari But which camera or camcorder is best for an African safari? - eyesonafrica.net African Safari Photography & Safari Photography Tips - eyesonafrica.net Safari Camera - PhotographyBLOG Forums "Try the Canon Powershot SX210 IS and the Panasonic LUMIX DMC-TZ10". Camcorders vs cameras for safari memories - fodors Safari Photography Equipment & Binoculars - porini The Best Digital Video Camera For Safari Shooting - Jun 30, 2010 - brighthub Wildlife Camera - The Best For Safari Photography What's the Best Digital Camera for Wildlife Photos?: Photography - eHow YouTube - Battle at Kruger Planet's Best: Night Safari : Video : Animal Planet Safaritalk: The African Safari Forum. Wildlife - Environment ... Panasonic FZ38 Review, the Best Digital Camera for Safari?

SAFARIs - Our African Photo Safari Itineraries

KENYA Photo Safaris - Ours - Itineraries Kenya Safari for the Woodsmall Group SOUTH AFRICA (Mostly Kruger) Photo Safaris - OUR Itineray ZIMBABWE / Victoria Falls / Botswana Photo Safaris - Ours We added lots of short tours wherever we went. OUR PHOTOS OF AFRICA

SUNGLASSES - Complete Sunglasses Information - Click HERE

SUNSCREEN - Complete Information, Ingredients, Products & Resources - Click Here

TIME - What time is it currently, THERE

Botswana current local time KENYA current local time from WorldTimeServer.com LONDON (Add SIX HOURS TO EDT) current local time from WorldTimeServer.com SOUTH AFRICA current local time from WorldTimeServer.com Tanzania, United Republic of - current local time from WorldTimeServer.com United Kingdom - London - current local time Zambia - current local time from WorldTimeServer.com ZIMBABWE current local time from WorldTimeServer.com

TRAVEL INSURANCE

I don't know who owns travelinsurancereview.net

Articles, Reviews & Links to Help You Buy Travel Insurance - travelinsurancereview Insure My Trip - recommended by Clark Howard Comparison web sites - Travel Insurance - squaremouth.com Comparison web sites - Travel Insurance - SquareMouth.com - UK

TRAVEL INSURANCE COMPANIES

We checked out all of these companies

Access America CSA Travel Protection Direct Travel Insurance - UK Elvia Travel Insurance Global Alert Global Underwriters HTH Worldwide Medex M.H.Ross Ins. Services Seven Corners Travel Guard Travel Insurance Services Travel Insured International Travelex Travelsafe After a lot of research, we chose "Travel Guard" for both coverage and cost. Since we had no problems, I can not tell you how well they handle problems. You may prefer some other company. I should have added READ THE EXCLUSIONS - there are usually a lot of those. The cost also depends on the cost of your trip (as the insurance may have to reimburse you for the cost), so be accurate when giving your cost and the trip length (you will probably have to provide proof of the length of the trip - as I remember, I had to send copies of flight tickets [I believe]). Note that for a lot of my safaris and more adventurous excursions, I had to present proof of my insurance before they would take us (at other places, they did not ask).

VIDEO CAMERAS - SAFARI

But which camera or camcorder is best for an African safari? African Safari Photography & Safari Photography Tips Camcorders vs cameras for safari memories - Africa & the Middle ... Safari Photography Equipment & Binoculars The Best Digital Video Camera For Safari Shooting - Jun 30, 2010 Planet's Best: Night Safari : Video : Animal Planet Safaritalk: The African Safari Forum. Wildlife - Environment ... A floating camera faces off with a territorial hippo See also: VIDEO CAMERA INFORMATION and REVIEWS

VIDEO CAMs - AFRICA

Pete's Pond - Bostswana YouTube - Battle at Kruger - VIOLENT

VIDEOS of AFRICAN ANIMALS

CHEETAH on your OPEN safari vehicle - TOO Close for even my taste If this happens to you, KEEP YOUR MOUTH SHUT DURING THE EVENT. DO NOT TAKE PICTURES - They have very acute hearing. Cheetah and Photographer

VISAS - Requirements and gettting them

VISAS - What countries require a Visa (for US citizens) COMPANIES THAT WILL GET YOUR VISA(s) FOR YOU KENYA VISA REQUIREMENTS FOR USA CITIZENS: BOTSWANA - NO Visa Required for short trips (< 3 months) KENYA - WE NEED: [1] TRANSIT VISA REQUIRED and a [2] regular VISA Thus we need TWO KENYA VISAS: A DOUBLE ENTRY VISA Embassy of Kenya in Washington, DC VISA APPLICATION WASHINGTON, DC Kenya ONLINE VISA APPLICATION ***** KENYA Visas are usually valid for six months from the issuance date Commerce/Tourism - commerce@kenyaembassy.com Embassy of the Republic of Kenya 2249 R Street, N.W. Washington, D.C. 20008 U.S.A. Telephone: (202) 387-6101 Office Hours Mon-Fri 9:oo am-5:00 pm Fax: (202) 462-3829 KENYA VISA REQUIREMENTS (as a courtesy ONLY) - CHECK THE OFFICIAL SITE FOR REQUIREMENTS 6/13/2010: 1. Valid Passport ( Not photocopy ) –– To Be Submitted Along With The Application Form. Passport will be mailed back once your Visa has been processed. 2. Completed (Filled in) Application Form duly signed. ONE VISA APPLICATION with TWO PICTURES 3. Copy of flight Itinerary/Letter from travel agent on company letterhead confirming booking. 4. Two Passport size photos (NB: Computer generated pictures are not acceptable). PHOTOGRAPHS MUST BE SIGNED ON THE BACK. 5. Visa Fees: (Money order/Cashier's Cheque Only Payable to Embassy of The Republic of Kenya) * US$25.00 For Single Entry (Tourist/Visitor/Business), * US$50.00 For Multiple Entries (Tourist/Visitor/Business), * US$10.00 For Single Transit, * Expedited Service available at an extra $20.00 PLEASE NOTE: ALL CLIENTS ARE ADVISED TO SUBMIT ONLY THE EXACT AMOUNT OF THE OFFICIAL FEE FOR THE SERVICE REQUIRED IN THE FORM OF MONEY ORDER OR CASHIERS CHEQUE. NO CASH OR PERSONAL CHEQUES ARE ACCEPTED. NO REFUNDS WILL BE MADE TO APPLICATIONS MAILED TO THIS EMBASSY WITH AN AMOUNT WHICH IS OVER AND ABOVE THE INDICATED AMOUNT. VISA DESCRIPTIONS: (i)Single Entry................... Allows you to enter into Kenya once (ii)Transit....................... Allows a short stop over (up to 24 hours) in Kenya (iii)Multiple Entry............... Allows multiple times entry into Kenya (IV)No Visa required for direct Transit (not leaving the airport) SOUTH AFRICA - NO VISA required ZAMBIA - VISA REQUIRED - we may want a Visa to view more of Victoria Falls TWO VISA APPLICATIONS REQUIRED PER PERSON, w/PICTURES Embassy of Zambia, Washington D.C. ZAMBIA VISA REQUIREMENTS Visa Application Form (.DOC) VISA REQUIREMENTS - as a courtesy ONLY - CHECK THE OFFICIAL Zambia SITE - 6/13/2010 1] Passport 2] Payment 3] Photocopy of passport 4] TWO (2) Visa Applications with TWO (2) Photos stapled on upper right corner (total of TWO PICTURES) 5] Flight Itinerary or copy of ticket. 6] If available, a copy of the Tour Itinerary. The Embassy of the Republic of Zambia 2419 Massachusetts Avenue, NW Washington DC 20008 Telephone: (202) 265-9717 Fax: (202) 332- 0826 Email: embzambia@aol.com ZIMBABWE - VISA REQUIRED - WE NEED A DOUBLE ENTRY VISA Embassy of the Republic of Zimbabwe in Washington, DC Embassy of Zimbabwe 1608 New Hampshire Ave Washington, DC 20009 Phone: 202-332-7100 Fax: 202-483-9326 E-Mail: info33@zimbabwe-embassy.us ZIMBABWE EMBASSY 2010 HOLIDAY SCHEDULE - a .DOC download Visas are valid for 6 months and are effective from date of issue (6/19/2010) Zimbabwe Visa Requirments (download) Zimbabwe Visa Application Form - Download REQUIREMENTS FOR A VISA TO ENTER ZIMBABWE (as a courtesy, only) - 6/19/2010 1. Completed Zimbabwean visa application - TWO (2) FORMS – you You may photocopy visa application form (to get the 2nd one) (form is available online at: http://zimbabwe-embassy.us/consular.html ) 2. Passport photos (2) – staple one photo to each form 3. Valid passport 4. Cover letter on company letterhead (2) if traveling on business – staple one letter to each form 5. Fees: Single Entry Visa per person $60.00 Double Entry Visa per person $75.00 <<< Multiple Entry Visa per person $95.00 Exceptions – For citizens of the following countries, visa fees are as follows: Canada Single Entry Visa per person $65.00 Multiple Entry Visa per person $130.00 Ireland Single Entry Visa per person $75.00 Multiple Entry Visa per person $125.00 United Kingdom Double Entry Visa per person $95.00 Fees are payable in US$ by MONEY ORDER or BANK DRAFT to Embassy of Zimbabwe – personal checks are not accepted Note that money orders and bank drafts from international banks, even if issued in US$, need a minimum of 4 weeks to clear – allow ample time for clearance 6. For return of passport, select one: a) Self-addressed, stamped USPS Express Mail envelope b) Self-addressed air bill, prepaid or with account number for DHL, Federal Express or UPS - we do not accept credit card numbers (also for return of documents outside US) If using one return envelope for multiple applications, indicate names of all applicants on the OUTSIDE of the envelope. Do not use certified/registered mail – documents will be held until proper postage is received ??? 7. Processing time is 7-10 business days from receipt of application 8. Visas are valid for 6 months and are effective from date of issue 9. Incomplete applications will be returned unprocessed 10. Send all requirements to: Embassy of Zimbabwe 1608 New Hampshire Ave., NW Washington, DC 20009 Phone: 202-332-7100 Fax: 202-483-9326 E-Mail: info33@zimbabwe-embassy.us COMPANIES THAT WILL GET YOUR VISA(s) FOR YOU VISA APPLICATIONS GENERALLY REQUIRE TWO "PASSPORT TYPE" PICTURES (Not computer generated pictures, so Kenya says Automobile Association of America, North Carolina AAA Charges $6 per a set of Two pictures for a "regular" (cheapest) AAA Members. WE NEED 3 SETS plus a SPARE SET = 4 SETS = 8 PICTURES (cost $24) NC AAA Office Locations AAA of the Carolinas - Raleigh 2301 Blue Ridge Road Raleigh, NC 27607 919-832-0543 1-800-933-2621 HOURS 8:30 - 6 PM M-F 10 to 4 PM on SATURDAYs

WARNINGS US Government Travel Warnings

BOTSWANA KENYA SOUTH AFRICA ZAMBIA ZIMBABWE

WEATHER - AFRICAN

AFRICA - CURRENT WEATHER (Farheinheit) for major cities Weather History - what is the expected weather - any location - wunderground Weather History anywhere in the World - weather.org

WHAT TO PACK / TAKE ON AN AFRICAN SAFARI

ALWAYS TRY TO TAKE SOME TOILET PAPER WITH YOU, PLUS SANITIZING WIPES. Kenya Safari Packing List - porini.com AfricaAway • What items to take on Safari? - africaaway What to Take on Safari - naturalhighsafaris Digital Safari Equipment Tips - luminous-landscape Complete Safari Packing List - african-safari-journals African Safari Gear Packing List - What To Take Along - buzzle What to take on a Safari Holiday in Africa - squidoo.com HowStuffWorks "How Safaris Work" - howstuffworks Safari Packing List & Equipment Guide - safari-guide.co.uk Getting Ready To Go! - Kenya.com FAQs - AfricaTours Kenya: What to Pack for Safari - tripadvisor Complete MOSQUITO Repellent & Insecticide Information SUNGLASSES - What they SHOULD do for you SUNSCREEN - Complete Warnings, Ingredients, Products & Recommendations

INDEX and LINKS TO OTHER RELEATED INFORMATION