Frequently Asked Questions

The best time varies by region. Some argue the best time is typically throughout the dry season (June to October), however this simply is not true. This time of the year may offer excellent game viewing given the dry, less dense vegetation. However, you have peak calving season in the Serengeti South throughout January to March which delivers some of the best predator action, including witnessing the incredible rejuvenation of life with new calves born and the land transforming into a lush green landscape. Botswana presents contrasting landscapes as rains move from Chobe North down into flooded landscapes across the Okavango Delta, with migratory birds moving in across November and December, including breeding, birthing, and predator action. These times present excellent photographic opportunities with exceptional green light, color, and subject matter. We can continue on and on. The short story, every time of the year presents an exceptional experience in some place or another throughout Central, Eastern or Southern Africa – and do not forget about the Indian ocean islands and beaches! Depending on the experience you are after and what your schedule allows, the team at NOMARA will make sure we get you to the best spots for any given time of the year. It also means you get to keep coming back to experience something different every time you journey to Africa. For many of our guests, it becomes a bit of an addition 😉  

Depends on your schedule. Booking 6-12 months in advance for peak season is recommended. For most of our guests, this is never true, and people come to us anywhere from 6 weeks to 12 months in advance. Booking closer to the time often presents opportunities for combination discounts as we are constantly negotiating with our 270+ partner locations depending on availability and the time of the year. It is not unusual for some of our repeat clients to come to us and simple say, ‘I need to separate myself ASAP’ and they are taking in the African bush within 3 or 4 weeks. There really is no other experience that is so fully immersive as an African Bush experience, the energy your journey gives you is impossible to describe.  

Visa requirements vary by country. The NOMARA team can help you out here first to give you guidance to save you some time, depending on your nationality. We do always advise our clients to check with the embassy of the destination country well in advance. For most nationalities, and depending on the destination countries, visa requirements and administration are minimal.  

You need at least two blank passport pages for entry stamps per destination country. Your passport should be valid for at least six months beyond your intended departure date from the country. 

All NOMARA safari itineraries include all accommodation, exceptional meals (and we mean exceptional, every one of our locations has top notch culinary experiences) drinks, game drives, walking safaris, transfers, and park fees. Additional activities not included are typically things like helicopter excursions, hot air balloon safaris, overnight treehouse stays, fly camping, or under the star sleepouts. Some of our locations include private guides and vehicles, for those shared, game vehicles have a maximum of 6 guests. We cover all your internal flights and transfers. These are not always included in the starting price references on our website as they vary based on the time of the year and many other circumstances given the remote locations. Therefore, we include these items in all final pricing in your customized itinerary buildout. You just get yourself onto the African continent, we take care of everything in Africa.  

Yes, all our itineraries are tailored and customized to your preferences, including activities, accommodation, and special requests. Sometimes we can surprise our guests with special experiences during their stays, we keep the surprises as a surprise 😉  

Yes, comprehensive travelinsurance, including medical evacuation, is a requirement and is essential for covering medical emergencies, cancellations, and other unforeseen events. We require confirmation of travel insurance with medical evacuation for all NOMARA guests prior to travelling.