Frequently Asked Questions
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General FAQs
How do I book a tour with Chimera African Safaris?
You can book directly through our website by browsing our safari packages, selecting your preferred itinerary, and completing the online booking process. You can also contact our team directly via email at info@chimeraafricansafaris.com or call/WhatsApp us at +255657968828 to set up a booking.
Can I customize a tour or itinerary?
Yes, absolutely! We specialize in tailor-made safaris. Whether you want to adjust the length of your trip, add specific parks (such as Serengeti, Ngorongoro, or Tarangire), upgrade your accommodations, or combine a mainland safari with a Zanzibar beach getaway, our team will design an itinerary tailored to your preferences and budget.
What if I need to cancel or reschedule my trip?
If you need to reschedule or cancel, please notify us as early as possible. Deposit retentions and refund percentages depend on how far in advance you notify us relative to your start date, in accordance with our booking terms and conditions. We recommend purchasing travel insurance that covers trip cancellations.
Is it safe to travel with Chimera African Safaris?
Your safety and comfort are our highest priorities. All our safaris are led by experienced, licensed professional guides in well-maintained 4×4 safari vehicles equipped with emergency first-aid kits and communication tools. We strictly adhere to all national park safety guidelines and local travel regulations.
Do you offer support during the trip?
Yes, we provide 24/7 dedicated support throughout your entire journey. From the moment you arrive at the airport until your departure, our team and driver-guides are available around the clock to assist with any questions, adjustments, or emergency needs.
Are flights included in the trip packages?
You can book directly through our website by selecting your desired tour and following the checkout process. If you need a custom itinerary or personal help, our travel experts are happy to assist you via chat, email, or phone.
Booking & Cancellation FAQs
How do I modify my booking?
Log in to your account and select the booking you wish to change. You can modify dates, participants, or request custom changes.
Can I cancel my trip after booking?
Yes, you can cancel your booking by notifying us in writing via email. Cancellation fees depend on how close to your trip departure date you submit the request, as non-refundable safari lodge and park permits may already be secured. Please check our detailed Terms & Conditions for full refund tier details.
Can I transfer my booking to someone else?
Yes, in most cases you can transfer your booking to another person, provided we are notified at least 14 days before your departure date. Any fees incurred for reissuing internal flights, park permits, or lodge reservations under a new name will apply.
What if the trip is canceled by Chimera African Safaris?
If Chimera African Safaris must cancel your trip due to unforeseen circumstances or force majeure, you will receive a 100% full refund or the choice to reschedule your safari to a future date at no extra charge.
Are last-minute bookings allowed?
Yes, we accept last-minute bookings depending on safari vehicle availability and lodge/camp openings. Contact us directly via WhatsApp or phone at +255657968828 for quick arrangements.
Can I add extras after booking?
Yes! You can add extra experiences—such as a Serengeti Hot Air Balloon Safari, cultural village visits, or additional days in Zanzibar—at any time before your trip starts, subject to availability.
Policies & Safety FAQs
What safety precautions are taken during safaris?
Our safari vehicles are equipped with first-aid kits, direct communication systems, and pop-up roofs designed for secure wildlife viewing. Our professional guides are trained in wilderness first aid and follow strict national park guidelines to keep you safe at all times.
Do I need travel insurance for my trip?
Yes, comprehensive travel insurance is mandatory for all guests. Your policy should cover medical expenses, emergency air evacuation, personal travel accidents, and trip cancellations or delays.
What vaccinations or health requirements are needed for Tanzania?
A Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is required if you are traveling from or transiting through a country with a risk of Yellow Fever transmission. We also strongly recommend consulting a travel clinic regarding malaria prophylaxis and routine vaccinations prior to travel.
What is your policy regarding wildlife encounters?
For your safety, guests must follow all instructions given by our driver-guides. You must remain inside the safari vehicle unless in designated picnic or stretch areas, avoid loud noises, and never feed or disturb the wildlife.
How do you handle medical emergencies on tour?
In the event of a medical emergency, our team arranges immediate assistance through local medical services or Flying Doctors air evacuation cover (if included or selected in your package) to transfer you to the nearest top medical facility.
Are your safaris child-friendly?
Yes! We welcome families with children. We can customize itineraries with family-friendly lodges, shorter drive times between parks, and engaging activities tailored for younger travelers.
Extras FAQs
Can I add optional activities like a Hot Air Balloon Safari?
Yes! Hot air balloon safaris over the Serengeti can easily be added to your itinerary. We recommend booking this extra in advance as spaces fill up quickly. Log in to your account and select the booking you wish to change. You can modify dates, participants, or request custom changes.
Do you arrange cultural tours and community visits?
Yes, we offer authentic cultural experiences, including visits to Maasai villages, Hadzabe bushmen hunting trips, and local coffee plantation tours. These can be added as day trips or integrated into your main safari route.
Can I request airport transfers or pre/post-safari hotel bookings?
Absolutely. We can arrange all airport pickups and drop-offs (Kilimanjaro International Airport, Arusha Airport, or Zanzibar Airport) as well as accommodation before or after your safari.
Are dietary requirements accommodated during tours?
You can book directly through our website by selecting your desired tour and following the checkout process. If you need a custom itinerary or personal help, our travel experts are happy to assist you via chat, email, or phone.
Can I upgrade my accommodation standard after booking?
You can book directly through our website by selecting your desired tour and following the checkout process. If you need a custom itinerary or personal help, our travel experts are happy to assist you via chat, email, or phone.
Can I add extras after booking?
You can book directly through our website by selecting your desired tour and following the checkout process. If you need a custom itinerary or personal help, our travel experts are happy to assist you via chat, email, or phone.
On the Trip FAQs
What type of vehicles do you use during safaris?
We use custom-built 4×4 Toyota Land Cruisers equipped with pop-up roofs for optimal 360-degree game viewing, comfortable seating, charging ports for cameras and phones, a fridge/cooler for cold drinks, and a long-range radio.
What should I pack for an African safari?
We recommend lightweight, neutral-colored clothing (khaki, tan, or green), a warm jacket for chilly early morning game drives, comfortable walking shoes, sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat, high-SPF sunscreen, insect repellent, binoculars, and a camera with extra batteries.
Are meals and bottled water provided during the safari?
Yes, full-board packages include all breakfasts, lunches (either packed picnic lunches in the parks or hot meals at your lodge), and dinners. Complimentary purified drinking water is provided inside your safari vehicle throughout every game drive day.
Is tipping driver-guides and lodge staff customary?
Most safari lodges and tented camps offer free Wi-Fi in common areas. Mobile network reception is generally good across major roads and lodge areas, though signal strength may drop in remote corners of national parks like the deep Serengeti.
Are last-minute bookings allowed?
Tipping is not mandatory, but it is standard practice and deeply appreciated by safari crews. As a general guideline, $10–$15 USD per day per group for your driver-guide and $5–$10 USD per day for general lodge staff/tip boxes is customary.
What currencies are accepted for local expenses?
US Dollars (USD) printed in 2013 or newer are widely accepted for tips, souvenirs, and optional activities. Local currency (Tanzanian Shillings) is also accepted and can be exchanged at airports, banks, or hotels upon arrival.
Where Unforgettable Adventures Begin
Discover breathtaking landscapes, rare wildlife, and create stories worth sharing.
Talk To an Expert
Thomas Mosha
Safari & Guide Specialist
“Let us guide you through the wild—your safari begins with one message.”
