Small Group Trips Scheduled for 2010
Contact us to schedule a small group trip
Some of Our Favorite African Itineraires
Pick a safari, a mountain climb, some beach time, or a combination of your choice!
Mountain Trekking
Mount Kilimanjaro
Mount Kenya
Mount Meru
Click here for more information on the Eastern Africa areas of Tanzania and Kenya.
Please email us for the latest rates on any of the tours and safaris that you see promoted on this site. Alternatively simply tell us exactly what you want to see and do and we will customize a trek, climb or safari to suit you.
Climate
Tanzania lies just south of the equator and Kenya straddles the equator. Temperatures vary considerably due to the wide range of topography. Desert areas may reach temperatures near 40C and mountainous area will see temperatures at times well below freezing.
The months of March - May see the most rain, June � September are the coldest months, October � November has mild temperatures with occasional rains, December � February are the warmest months.
You should always check the weather patterns for the specific area that you plan to visit. In general, East Africa can be visited and enjoyed year-round.
Currency
The currency in Tanzania is Tanzanian Shillings and the currency in Kenya is the Kenyan Shilling. American dollars are generally readily accepted by merchants and Traveler�s Checks may be cashed at any bank or Money Exchange. Credit cards may be used to make purchases and obtain cash in most larger towns. If you are going to remote areas where you will need money you should make sure you exchange currency first.
Travel Insurance
It is advisable to acquire a medical emergency and evacuation insurance policy for the full duration of your holiday to cover against accident, sickness, loss of baggage, cancellation or curtailment of your holiday. Some health insurance will cover you while you are overseas, although a high altitude rider may be required to cover any health issues in the mountains.
Visa and Airport Tax
ASA can coordinate visas through the appropriate embassy or consulate or you may do this on your own. Although a visa may be obtained upon arrival at the Airport, we generally recommend that you obtain visas ahead of time to ensure that there are no delays upon arrival.
Vaccinations and Medication
There are no vaccination requirements for entry into Kenya and Tanzania, however you will need proof of a yellow fever inoculation if you plan to visit Zanzibar. However, we recommend vaccination against Typhoid, Tetanus, Hepatitis A & B and yellow fever If you will be traveling in lower elevations and or jungle areas, such as on a safari, then we also recommend taking antimalarial pills while you are in Africa. Check with your doctor or consult with a travel clinic at least four months before traveling to Africa. Also check with the US center for Disease Control for up-to-date recommendations. Of course, it is your responsibility to bring sufficient medicine for your personal usage. Altitude medication (acetazolamide, trade name Diamox) is used by some trekkers going to high elevations. Please advise us of any serious side effects of your medication or any dietary requirements related to taking them and be sure to let your group leader or Guide know if you are allergic to any food or medicine.
Altitude Sickness
For treks above 10,000ft (3000m) acclimation is necessary. Our trekking itineraries have been carefully designed to minimize the effects of altitude. We ascend slowly and ensure that we have an adequate number of rest days to safely acclimate while trekking. However, it is still possible for mountain sickness to occur, so our guides and group leaders keep a close watch throughout the trip. See our AMS page for more information.
Personal Medical Kit
We suggest you bring the following medical items:
Trekking Gear
On mountain climbs bring gear suitable for day hiking, such as some good boots, trekking poles, a hydration pack, a warm jacket, rain gear, and plan on putting it all in a day pack. Your porters will carry your sleeping bag, extra clothes, and such.
Contact us for a detailed gear list for your specific trip.
Water
Drink only treated water or bottled water. We recommend treating water with iodine or using a filter. It is even a good idea to be extra cautious and use a filter followed by iodine to ensure that you do not become sick from contaminated water. Your guides will typically provide you with the best available water. Have with you each day several water bottles or a hydration pack. At high altitude, it is critical to drink 4-5 liters per day!
Electricity
220/240 volt 50 hz. You will need a converter and adapter. Most outlets require a plug with 3 square pins.
Time and Communication
Time in Kenya and Tanzania is GMT +3 hours, year round
Clothing
Temperatures will vary widely depending on the season and elevation where you will be traveling. Bring adequate clothing for the expected temperature and conditions you would expect to encounter. Dressing in layers is a very effective way to be prepared. Although it is generally not appropriate to wear revealing clothing, such as shorts, the local people are very forgiving of western customs.
Etiquette
Exchange greetings with those you meet and shake their hand. Take a few minutes to talk with them. Learning the local phrases for typical greetings will go a long way to ensure a pleasant interaction, especially if you are in need of assistance.
Photography
Ask permission before taking photos � many African people do not like to have their picture taken. Respect people�s privacy when taking photographs.
Security
Security in Eastern Africa is generally as safe or safer than many cities in the West. Beware of pickpockets in crowded places. Keep your bags, backpack and camera close to you while in crowded places and inside buses. Do not walk alone at night and avoid isolated areas. Keep your valuables in a safe location.
