Travel Guide

At Reddinton Expeditions, we believe in responsible tourism that preserves the beauty of our destinations for generations to come. When traveling with us, we encourage you to:

• Embrace local culture: Learn a few phrases in Swahili, visit cultural centers, and engage respectfully with local communities
• Support local economies: Purchase authentic souvenirs from local artisans and markets rather than mass-produced items
• Minimize your footprint: Follow our “leave no trace” policy in all natural areas, especially during safaris and hikes
• Respect wildlife: Maintain safe distances from animals, never feed wildlife, and follow your guide’s instructions
• Choose less-traveled paths: Consider our off-season packages to less crowded destinations
• Travel efficiently: Opt for our group safaris when possible to reduce carbon emissions
• Conserve resources: Use water wisely and follow our accommodation partners’ sustainability initiatives

Planning Your Journey

1. Early Planning

To ensure the best experience, we recommend booking your safari or international tour at least 2-3 months in advance (6-8 months for peak season travel). Early planning allows us to:

• Secure the best accommodations suited to your preferences
• Arrange specialized guides for your interests (photography, bird watching, etc.)
• Create customized itineraries that match your vision
• Provide comprehensive pre-travel briefings
• Offer early booking discounts when available

2. Essential Travel Documents

a) Passport and Visas

Your passport must remain valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date. For Kenya travel, apply for the Electronic Travel Authorization permit at https://www.etakenya.go.ke/en ($30 fee). Our team can guide you through visa requirements for multi-country tours.

b) Flight and Transport Reservations

Ensure your flight tickets match your passport details exactly. For specialized journeys like luxury train travel or internal flights, we handle all bookings to guarantee availability and seamless connections.

c) Booking Confirmation

All Reddinton Expeditions travelers receive detailed digital itineraries including:

• Day-by-day schedule
• Accommodation details with amenities
• Meal plans and dietary accommodations
• Included activities and optional experiences
• Emergency contact information
• Transfer details

d) Travel Insurance

We partner with premium providers including AMREF Flying Doctors for comprehensive coverage. All packages include basic evacuation coverage, with options for enhanced protection. 

3. Financial Preparations

Currency Considerations

We recommend carrying a mix of:

• US dollars (newer bills, $50-$100 denominations for best exchange rates)
• Credit/debit cards (notify your bank before travel)
• Local currency for small purchases

Our guides can direct you to reputable exchange bureaus with favorable rates. Many of our partner establishments accept major credit cards, mobile payments, and USD.

Tipping Guidelines

While entirely discretionary, tipping is customary in the tourism industry. Our recommendations:

• Safari guides: $20-30 per day per vehicle
• Camp/lodge staff: $10-15 per day (placed in communal box)
• Porters: $1-2 per bag
• Restaurant service: 10-15% if not included

4. Health Preparations

Vaccinations

Consult your healthcare provider at least 6 weeks before travel. Requirements typically include:

• Yellow Fever (certificate mandatory for entry to most East African countries)
• Hepatitis A & B
• Typhoid
• Tetanus
• Antimalarial medication

Medical Kit

While our vehicles carry comprehensive first aid supplies, we recommend bringing:

• Personal medications with prescriptions
• Basic pain relievers
• Anti-diarrheal medication
• Motion sickness remedies
• Insect repellent (containing DEET)
• Hand sanitizer
• Bandages and antiseptic

5. Dining and Dietary Requirements

All Reddinton Expeditions packages include specified meals with options for:

• Vegetarian and vegan cuisine
• Halal preparations
• Kosher meals (with advance notice)
• Gluten-free and allergen-free options
• Child-friendly menus

Inform your travel consultant about dietary requirements during booking. All safari vehicles include complimentary bottled water, and most lodges offer purified water stations for refilling personal bottles.

6. Photography and Cultural Sensitivity

Photography Guidelines

• Always request permission before photographing people
• Avoid photographing military installations, airports, or government buildings
• For professional filming, permits are required (we can arrange these with advance notice)
• Consider our specialized photography safaris led by professional wildlife photographers

Cultural Respect

• Dress modestly when visiting religious sites or villages
• Ask before participating in cultural ceremonies
• Learn basic greetings in local languages
• Follow your guide’s advice regarding appropriate behavior

Preparing for Your Safari

1. Packing Essentials

Clothing

• Lightweight, neutral-colored clothing (beige, khaki, olive)
• Long-sleeved shirts and pants (for sun/insect protection)
• One warm layer for cool mornings/evenings
• Rain jacket (seasonal)
• Comfortable walking shoes/hiking boots
• Sun hat with brim
• Swimwear (if accommodations include pools)
• One smart-casual outfit for upscale lodges

Equipment

• Binoculars (or rent from our office)
• Camera with zoom lens
• Extra memory cards and batteries
• Power bank
• Universal adapter
• Headlamp or flashlight
• Reusable water bottle

Personal Items

• Sunscreen (SPF 30+)
• Insect repellent
• Lip balm with SPF
• Wet wipes/hand sanitizer
• Personal toiletries
• Reading materials

2. Luggage Recommendations

• Soft-sided duffel bags preferred (easier to pack in safari vehicles)
• 15kg (33lbs) maximum for fly-in safaris
• 20kg (44lbs) for road safaris
• Daypack for essentials during game drives

3. Safari Etiquette

• Speak quietly during wildlife viewing
• Remain seated in vehicles unless guide permits otherwise
• Never litter in parks or reserves
• Follow all safety instructions
• Keep mobile phones on silent during game drives

Arrival Procedures

Airport Welcomes

Reddinton Expeditions representatives meet all clients upon arrival, identifiable by:

• Official company uniform
• Personalized welcome sign
• Company identification
• Confirmation email sent 24 hours prior with representative’s contact details

Transfer Services

Complimentary airport transfers are included with all packages. Our fleet includes:

• Luxury 4×4 safari vehicles
• Air-conditioned vans
• Executive sedans
• Accessibility-equipped vehicles (by request)

Communication

Local SIM cards can be purchased at our airport welcome desk or major shopping centers. Most lodges offer WiFi, though connectivity may be limited in remote locations. 

Kenya’s Transportation Network

Major International Airports

• Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (Nairobi)
• Moi International Airport (Mombasa)
• Kisumu International Airport
• Eldoret International Airport

Domestic Airports and Airstrips

Reddinton Expeditions utilizes an extensive network of airstrips for our fly-in safaris, including:

• Wilson Airport, Nairobi (hub for domestic flights)
• Mara Serena, Kichwa Tembo, and Keekorok (Masai Mara)
• Amboseli Airstrip
• Samburu Airstrip
• Ukunda Airstrip (Diani Beach access)
• Lamu/Manda Airstrip

Land Transport

Our premium fleet includes:

• Custom-built 4×4 safari vehicles with pop-up roofs
• Luxury coaches for group tours
• Executive transfers
• Specialized photography vehicles

Contact Information

For assistance before or during your journey:

• 24/7 Emergency Hotline: +254 726 758 109
• Customer Service: +254 782 372 222
• Email: info@reddintonexpeditions.co.ke
• WhatsApp: +254 726 758 109
• Website: www.reddintonexpeditions.co.ke