Getting to Tanzania


Arusha is the the starting point for most safaris. Kilimanjaro International Airport is the most convenient airport, located just 35 minutes from Arusha. The airport is served by a variety of airlines, including KLM/Northwest, which flies daily from Amsterdam. We have an affiliated ticketing agent based in the United States who can be more than helpful in procuring competitive rates. We will provide her contacts upon request.

Visas

A visa is required for entry into Tanzania from most countries. The visa may be purchased at the Tanzanian port of entry; however, we recommend that the visa be obtained prior to arrival. Visas are obtainable from any Tanzanian embassy or through a visa service.

Airport Tax

Airport Departure Tax is $30.00USD per person departure from Tanzania. It is normally included in your international carrier ticket fare but it is wise to confirm this. If departing Tanzania by private charter or private aircraft, the tax will be due at the airport.

Health

Immunization against Yellow Fever may be required to enter Tanzaniam (the government periodically changes their mind). Check with your physician or Public Health Department for recommended immunizations, and additional information may be obtained from the Center for Disease Control in Atlanta, Georgia (www.cdc.gov). Protection against malaria is necessary. Consult your physician to obtain these prescription and non-prescription drugs, as your preference may not be readily available. Please advise us if you have any medical conditions or allergies.

Rates

Contact us for rates or contact your local travel agent or tour operator.

Getting to Lukuba

To reach Musoma (where our boat will pick you up), the choices are either to go overland via car or fly via small plane into Musoma which has a year round government airport with Customs and Immigration facilities. There is also an airport at Mwanza, which is a 245 kilometers drive to Musoma on a well-paved road. (Transfers can be arranged upon request.)

Guests are met in the town of Musoma by our manager and escorted to the staging point for departure on board one of our boats. The journey to the island takes approximately 45 minutes.

Climate / Clothing

Lukuba's climate is, to say the least, comfortable. With an elevation of over 3,700 feet and an average daily temperature of 74 degrees, the island is a wonderful place to visit year round. The rainy season of April / May (the "long rains") may preclude some daytime activities, but generally the days are sunny, warm with a gentle breeze arriving in the afternoon.

As with all safari travel, we recommend bringing comfortable outdoor clothing that can be worn in layers. Shorts are great during the day, but long pants or skirts might be a little warmer for cooler evenings. A lightweight, windproof jacket is also not a bad idea for boat trips or early evening walks. Sandals are great on the beach, and while a pair of hiking boots aren't necessary, running shoes or sneakers might be good for those going hiking. (Laundry is available on request.)

Luggage

Luggage should be soft-sided or duffel type, especially if flying in small aircraft. The usual weight requirement on small aircraft is 15 kilograms (33 lbs.) per person on a full aircraft.

Accessories

Some useful items:

   Sunglasses
   Sunscreen
   Spare prescription glasses
   Hat
   Binoculars 8-10x manual focus (per person)
   Camera
   Video Camera, with 2-3 spare batteries
   Digital Still Camera, with 2-3 spare batteries
   Film or Flash cards (Minimum 2-3 rolls per day)
   Dustproof camera bag
   Small flashlight
   Insect repellent
   Chap stick