Question 1

How do I book a safari with C.A.T.S?

Accepted Answer

Booking is easy! You can fill out our online enquiry form, email us at info@catssafaris.com, call us at +254 723 951 388, or reach us on WhatsApp at the same number. Our travel advisors will respond with a customized quote within 24 hours, tailored to your preferences, budget, and travel dates.

Question 2

What deposit is required to confirm my booking?

Accepted Answer

A 40% deposit is required to confirm your booking. This comprises a 25% credit note portion and a 15% non-refundable booking fee. The remaining 60% balance is due at least 60 days before your departure date. For bookings made within 30 days of departure, full payment is required at the time of booking.

Question 3

What payment methods do you accept?

Accepted Answer

We accept bank transfers, PayPal, M-Pesa (popular with local clients), and credit/debit cards. Full payment details and instructions are provided upon booking confirmation.

Question 4

Can I pay in installments?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Our standard payment structure naturally allows this — pay 40% as a deposit to confirm your booking, then the remaining 60% is due 60 days before departure. This gives you time to plan your finances. For bookings made well in advance, contact us to discuss flexible payment arrangements.

Question 5

What is your cancellation and refund policy?

Accepted Answer

Our cancellation policy depends on timing and payment stage. At the deposit-only stage: cancellations 60+ days before departure result in a 15% non-refundable fee with a 25% credit note; cancellations less than 15 days before departure or no-shows forfeit the entire deposit. After full payment: 60+ days out receives a 60% refund or credit; 60–30 days receives 50%; 30–15 days receives 25%; less than 15 days or no-shows are non-refundable. Peak season bookings (July 1–October 31, December 20–January 5, and Easter) are strictly non-refundable.

Question 6

How long do refunds take to process?

Accepted Answer

Approved refunds are processed within 14–21 business days from the date of cancellation confirmation. The refund will be returned via the same payment method used for the original transaction.

Question 7

What are credit notes and how do they work?

Accepted Answer

Credit notes are issued as part of our cancellation policy and are valid for 12 months from the date of issue. They are non-transferable and can only be used for non-peak season bookings. Credit notes can be applied toward any future safari booking with C.A.T.S.

Question 8

What are the different safari seasons and how do they affect pricing?

Accepted Answer

Kenya has three safari seasons that affect pricing: Peak season (July–October, December 20–January 5, and Easter) offers the best wildlife viewing including the Great Migration, with highest demand and prices. High season (November and June) provides excellent game viewing with slightly lower rates. Low season (March, April, and May) offers the most affordable rates with fewer crowds — wildlife viewing is still good, though some areas may experience rain.

Question 9

What type of safari vehicles are used?

Accepted Answer

Our partner vehicles are custom-designed 4×4 pop-up top Land Cruiser Jeeps, purpose-built for safari. Each vehicle seats a maximum of 6 passengers, guaranteeing everyone a window seat and access to the pop-up roof for unobstructed wildlife viewing and photography. The vehicles are equipped with long-range radios, cooler boxes with complimentary bottled water, and first aid kits.

Question 10

What are the game drive hours?

Accepted Answer

Game drives in national parks and reserves operate from 6:30 AM to 6:00 PM, as per park authority rules. These hours coincide with the best wildlife activity — early mornings and late afternoons are prime viewing times when animals are most active. In conservancies, night game drives may be available up to 10 PM.

Question 11

Is drinking water provided during the safari?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Complimentary bottled drinking water is provided in the safari vehicle throughout your trip. The vehicle is fitted with a cooler box to keep water cool in the tropical heat. Supplies are replenished during stops along the safari route.

Question 12

Can you guarantee sightings of the Big 5 or specific wildlife?

Accepted Answer

We cannot guarantee sightings of specific animals, as all wildlife is in their natural habitat. However, our safari itineraries are carefully designed to maximize your chances of incredible wildlife encounters. Kenya's parks are home to abundant wildlife, and our experienced driver-guides know the best spots. Certain parks are renowned for specific species — for example, Amboseli for elephants and Lake Nakuru for rhinos.

Question 13

What is the best time to visit Kenya for a safari?

Accepted Answer

Kenya is a year-round safari destination! July–October is peak season for the Great Wildebeest Migration in the Masai Mara and offers excellent dry-season wildlife viewing. January–March is another dry season with great game viewing and fewer crowds. November–December offers short rains with lush green landscapes and newborn animals. April–May is the rainy season with lower prices and fewer tourists — still rewarding for experienced safari-goers.

Question 14

What are the distances and driving times on safari?

Accepted Answer

Driving times in Kenya can differ from what you may be accustomed to in Europe or North America. Roads leading to national parks may be unpaved or rough in places. Driving times listed on our itineraries are estimates and may vary depending on road conditions and traffic. Rest assured, the scenic drives through the Kenyan countryside are part of the safari adventure!

Question 15

How do group safari tours work?

Accepted Answer

Our group sharing tours allow individual travelers or small parties to join other guests on scheduled safari departures. Group tours run on multiple days per week — check our website or contact us for current availability. This is a great option for solo travelers, couples, or small groups looking for a more affordable safari experience while meeting fellow adventurers.

Question 16

Where do I meet for a Nairobi National Park group tour?

Accepted Answer

For Nairobi National Park group tours, the meeting point is at KWS (Kenya Wildlife Service) Headquarters, located outside Wildly Coffee Restaurant on Langata Road. Morning tours meet at 6:30 AM, and afternoon tours meet at 1:30 PM. Please arrive on time as the group departs promptly.

Question 17

Is hotel pickup available for group tours?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Hotel pickup is available as an optional extra for group tours at $10 per person, one way. This is convenient if you're staying at a Nairobi hotel and prefer door-to-door service. Please arrange this when making your booking.

Question 18

Can I extend my stay on a group tour?

Accepted Answer

Extending a group tour is generally not possible since you share the safari vehicle with other travelers and the group must depart and return together. Extensions would also depend on accommodation availability. If you're looking for more flexibility, consider booking a private safari where the itinerary can be fully customized to your preferences.

Question 19

What accommodation options are available?

Accepted Answer

We offer three accommodation tiers: Luxury — located at the best spots inside national parks, with top-tier facilities, private en-suite rooms, and swimming pools. Comfort — inside or near park borders (less than 30 minutes from the gate), with comfortable private en-suite rooms and most have pools. Economy — located outside but near park boundaries, offering adequate and relaxing private en-suite rooms with most having pools. All tiers provide a genuine safari experience with different levels of amenity.

Question 20

What is the difference between a safari lodge and a tented camp?

Accepted Answer

Safari lodges are permanent structures made up of separate cottages clustered around a main building with a restaurant, bar, and other amenities. Tented camps feature large, en-suite canvas tents set on solid floor bases with private bathrooms and verandas — essentially rooms with canvas walls instead of brick. Both offer comfortable, private accommodation and often have swimming pools. The choice comes down to personal preference — lodges feel more traditional, while tented camps offer a more immersive bush experience.

Question 21

How many people can share a safari room or tent?

Accepted Answer

The maximum occupancy per room or tent is 3 persons, accommodated with either a double bed plus a single bed, or three single beds. For groups of 4 or more who wish to stay close together, we can arrange adjacent rooms or interconnecting units where available. Some lodges offer family units for up to 4 persons at an additional charge. All rooms and tents are private with en-suite bathrooms.

Question 22

Are meals included in the safari package?

Accepted Answer

Yes, most safari packages include full board — breakfast, lunch, and dinner while on safari. Meals are prepared at your safari lodge or tented camp and typically feature continental cuisine. Packed lunches are provided for full-day game drives. Drinks are usually not included unless specified in your package.

Question 23

Can you accommodate special dietary needs?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! Safari lodges and camps in Kenya cater to a variety of dietary preferences including vegetarian, kosher, halal, and gluten-free meals. Please specify your dietary requirements at the time of booking so we can make the necessary arrangements with your accommodations.

Question 24

What is a single room supplement?

Accepted Answer

A single room supplement is an extra fee charged when one person occupies a room designed for two. Our safari prices are based on two guests sharing a double room or tent. If you prefer your own private room, the single supplement applies. The exact charge varies by accommodation and is indicated on each tour package page.

Question 25

Is Wi-Fi available on safari?

Accepted Answer

Most safari lodges and tented camps provide free Wi-Fi in public areas such as the reception, dining areas, and lounge — across all accommodation tiers (economy, comfort, and luxury). Wi-Fi is generally not available in individual rooms or tents. Some safari vehicles may also have Wi-Fi connectivity, though signal strength depends on network coverage in remote areas.

Question 26

Are mosquito nets provided in rooms and tents?

Accepted Answer

Yes. All rooms and tents at our partner lodges and camps are fitted with mosquito nets or are fully insect-proofed to protect you from bites. We also recommend bringing insect repellent for additional protection, especially during outdoor activities in the evenings.

Question 27

Do I need vaccinations to visit Kenya?

Accepted Answer

Yellow fever vaccination is required if you are arriving from a yellow fever–endemic country. We strongly recommend consulting your doctor or a travel health clinic about malaria prophylaxis, hepatitis A and B, typhoid, and other travel vaccinations well before your trip. A copy of your vaccination certificate may be requested upon entry.

Question 28

Is safari travel safe?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Safaris with reputable operators like Collective African Tours & Safaris (C.A.T.S) are very safe. Our partner driver-guides are trained professionals who follow strict safety protocols. You'll receive comprehensive safety briefings before each activity. The safari vehicles are well-maintained and equipped with first aid kits and communication radios for emergencies.

Question 29

Do I need travel insurance?

Accepted Answer

We strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance that covers trip cancellation, medical emergencies, emergency evacuation, and lost luggage. Safari destinations can be remote, and while incidents are rare, having proper insurance provides essential peace of mind and financial protection.

Question 30

Can persons with special needs participate in safaris?

Accepted Answer

We do our best to accommodate guests with special needs. While we cannot guarantee that every facility along the route will be fully accessible, we will work to arrange equal-value properties and facilities that meet your requirements. Our driver-guides are experienced in assisting guests with various needs. Please specify any special requirements at the time of booking so we can plan accordingly.

Question 31

Are airport transfers included in safari packages?

Accepted Answer

Yes — airport transfers are included for all safaris of 3 days or more. We provide pickup and drop-off at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) or your Nairobi hotel. Transfers are provided even if you arrive or depart several days before or after your safari dates. Just share your flight details and we'll have a driver waiting for you with contact information provided in advance.

Question 32

Are international flights included in safari prices?

Accepted Answer

No, international flight costs are not included in our safari tour prices. C.A.T.S is a local Kenyan tour operator, and our safari packages begin and end in Nairobi (or your chosen starting location within Kenya). We recommend booking your international flights independently to find the best deals for your origin city.

Question 33

What is the luggage allowance on safari vehicles?

Accepted Answer

Each passenger can bring 25–30 kg (50–60 lbs) of luggage on the safari vehicle. We strongly recommend soft-sided bags rather than hard-shell suitcases — they're easier to store in the vehicle's luggage compartment and handle better on bumpy safari roads. You may also carry hand luggage with valuables inside the vehicle.

Question 34

What is the baggage allowance on domestic/internal flights?

Accepted Answer

For fly-in safaris or domestic flights between parks, the baggage allowance is 15 kg (33 lbs) excluding hand luggage. Excess luggage can be stored free of charge at partner offices in Nairobi or Mombasa. Additional baggage may be carried on the flight for approximately $5 per kilogram, subject to carrier capacity.

Question 35

Can I store excess luggage while on safari?

Accepted Answer

Yes! You can safely store extra luggage at partner offices in Nairobi or Mombasa at no charge. This is ideal if your holiday includes other activities before or after your safari and you don't need all your belongings on the game drives.

Question 36

Can I purchase a local SIM card in Kenya?

Accepted Answer

Yes, and we highly recommend it to avoid expensive roaming charges. Safaricom is the leading network provider in Kenya with the best nationwide coverage. SIM cards can be purchased at the airport upon arrival for approximately $1 (Ksh 100). Data is very affordable — 1 GB costs around $5. You'll need a SIM-unlocked, GSM-compatible phone.

Question 37

Can I travel from Nairobi to Mombasa by train?

Accepted Answer

Yes! The SGR (Standard Gauge Railway) Madaraka Express is a modern, air-conditioned train connecting Nairobi and Mombasa. If your safari ends near the Nairobi–Mombasa corridor, you can catch the train at stations in Emali, Mtito Andei, or Voi. Book and pay for first-class tickets in advance, and your driver-guide can assist at the station. It's a scenic journey through Tsavo National Park!

Question 38

What currency is used in Kenya and how should I handle money?

Accepted Answer

Kenya's currency is the Kenya Shilling (KSH). US Dollars and Euros are widely accepted at hotels, lodges, and tourist establishments. ATMs (accepting Visa and MasterCard) are available in major towns. We recommend exchanging money at Forex Bureaus at the airport for the best rates. Carry small denominations for tips and minor purchases. Credit cards are accepted at most lodges and hotels.

Question 39

Do I need a visa to visit Kenya?

Accepted Answer

Most nationalities require a visa to enter Kenya. The easiest way to obtain one is through the eVisa system at evisa.go.ke. The visa processing fee is $50, payable by credit card. Apply up to 3 months before your travel date — processing takes approximately 5 days. The Kenya tourist visa is valid for 3 months with multiple entries, making it convenient if you're combining Kenya with Tanzania, Rwanda, or Uganda. Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months after your date of arrival.

Question 40

Do I need a separate visa for Tanzania?

Accepted Answer

If your safari includes Tanzania, you will need a separate Tanzania visa. Tanzania also offers an eVisa system. Visa requirements and fees vary by nationality. We recommend applying online before your trip. Contact us and we can provide guidance on the specific requirements for your nationality.

Question 41

What are the tipping guidelines on safari?

Accepted Answer

Tipping in Kenya is not mandatory but is customary and greatly appreciated for good service. We suggest approximately $10 per person per day for your driver-guide, given at the end of the safari (an envelope is a nice touch). For hotel and lodge staff such as waiters and porters, $1–$5 per service is appropriate. You can tip in Kenya Shillings, US Dollars, or Euros.

Question 42

Are park fees included in safari packages?

Accepted Answer

Yes! All national park and game reserve entry fees are included in our safari package prices. You don't need to worry about carrying extra cash for park admissions — it's all taken care of as part of your booking.

Question 43

What should I pack for a safari?

Accepted Answer

We recommend neutral-colored clothing (khaki, olive, beige — avoid bright colors and white), comfortable walking shoes, a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, sunscreen (SPF 30+), binoculars, a camera with a zoom lens, insect repellent, and any personal medications. Layered clothing works best as mornings can be cool and afternoons warm. A detailed packing list will be provided upon booking confirmation.

Question 44

What is the difference between the Masai Mara and the conservancies?

Accepted Answer

The Masai Mara National Reserve is where the Great Wildebeest Migration and dramatic river crossings take place (July–October). It's larger, with more lodges and visitors, and is the best place to spot all the big cats and the endangered rhino. The adjacent conservancies offer a more exclusive experience with fewer crowds, off-road driving, night game drives (until 10 PM), and guided walking safaris — activities not permitted in the main reserve. Conservancy stays are limited in guest numbers, creating a more intimate experience. Many travelers combine both for the ultimate Mara experience.

Question 45

Are safaris suitable for children and families?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! Kenya is a wonderful family safari destination. Children of all ages can participate, and the experience is educational and thrilling. We offer family-friendly itineraries with appropriate accommodations, some lodges have family units, and we can arrange activities suitable for younger travelers. Family discounts and special extras may be available — just let us know when booking.

Question 46

Do you offer honeymoon safari packages?

Accepted Answer

Yes! We love helping couples celebrate their special moments. Honeymoon safaris can include romantic touches such as upgraded accommodations, bush dinners, sundowner drinks, and other special extras. Honeymoon discounts may also be available. Please mention your honeymoon (or anniversary, birthday, or other celebration) when making your booking so we can make it extra special.

Question 47

Can you recommend a Nairobi hotel for pre or post-safari stays?

Accepted Answer

Our safari prices do not include Nairobi hotel stays, but we're happy to recommend hotels across all budget categories — from economy to luxury. Nairobi has a wide range of excellent options. We can offer suggestions based on your budget, preferred area of the city, and proximity to attractions. As part of your safari package (3+ days), we'll pick you up from your chosen Nairobi hotel.

Frequently Asked Questions

1Booking & Payment

2Safari Experience

3Group Tours

4Accommodation & Meals

5Health & Safety

6Travel Logistics

7Visas & Documents

8Tipping & Extras

9Destinations & Special Interests

Still Have Questions?