Q: I want to go on safari, but have no friends or family who want to go! Can I travel alone?

Sure! On every one of my trips, I have couples and single travelers, usually a 50/50 split or so. We can try to find a roommate for you, or you can pay the single supplement and have your own room. Sometimes I can take a single traveler as my own roommate. Some of my dearest travel buddies are people I initially met as roommates on my travels!

 

Q: A safari has been my lifetime dream, but now I’m 82! Am I too old?

Definitely not! My groups always have a wide age range, from folks in their late 30’s to seniors in their late 70’s or early 80’s. Safari trips in particular are not strenuous; there is very little walking out in the bushveldt! A trip to the Galapagos Islands can involve climbing on steep or rough terrain, but seniors did fine on that trip too. I will discuss the daily activity levels of all trips in detail with you and help you make a good decision.

 

Q: Do I need a lot of shots or medications ?

For many destinations, none are required. Anti-malarial drugs are the most common medication you might need, and for cruises, I recommend a motion sickness patch even if you don’t normally get seasick. The anti-diarrheal, prescription medication Lomotil or its generic is never out of my reach on any trip. Consider high altitude medication when traveling to Machu Picchu or Quito. Confer with your doctor, your local travel clinic, and the Center for Disease Control’s Yellowbook at www.cdc.gov.

 

Q: Is the food good, and the water safe? I’m a picky eater!

My trips stay at upscale lodges and camps. Bottled water is always available, and you will be amazed by the quality, selection and presentation of foods, almost always prepared with fresh, local ingredients. Identify your dietary needs when signing up, and the chefs will go out of their way to accommodate diabetics, vegetarians, and other special needs.

 

Q: Do I need trip insurance?

Absolutely! You should take it out as soon as you place your deposit and certainly BEFORE you make the final payment. To cover any pre-existing conditions, most insurance companies require you to buy the insurance 10-14 days after you make your initial deposit. Don't wait! Please read the cancellation and refund policies carefully in your trip documents. See the insurance link in the resources section of this site or use the insurance company your tour operator recommends.

 

Q: Will I get good photographs?

All of the photos on this site are my own, unless noted otherwise, and I am very much the amateur. You will be surprised how close we can get to many animals, and how knowledgeable the drivers and guides are in positioning the vehicle for great shots with the best lighting. Just be sure you practice the settings and features with any new camera well before your big trip, including any video functions. You can get some great video footage!

 

Q: Will I have access to the internet? How will I communicate with folks back home?

More and more, we have good internet access at most safari lodges and camps, but not at all. I will provide information for our particular destination, and the travel company will have ways to communicate in the event of emergencies. Buy a 30 day international calling or texting plan from your carrier, and check out free messaging APPS like WhatsApp in the Resources section of this website.

 

Q: Do I need to buy special clothes for a safari?

No! You will be fine with neutral colors and lightweight clothing, preferably synthetic fabrics that dry quickly. Jeans, white, black and bright colors are not particularly practical. See the packing lists in the Resources section.

 

FOR MORE QUESTIONS. FEEL FREE TO CONTACT ME at 304-238-3215 or at pmiller451@aol.com