YOU HAVE QUESTIONS?
WE HAVE ANSWERS.
Below you’ll find answers to the most common questions you may have about Penwell Safaris as well as some general questions about what to expect. Also, if you have any specific question or are interested in learning more, just contact us.
What do you do exactly?
We design complete safari vacations, made just for you. We work with the best folks in the business—people we’re also proud to call our friends. Meet your safari planners.
How much does all of this cost?
Custom trips are, by their very nature, hard to pin down cost-wise—there’s a whirlwind of variables to consider, from time of year to types of lodges/camps. But as a ballpark figure to toss around and consider, expect between $800 and $1200 per person, per day excluding international air.
How do I decide where to go and what to do? Where do we start?
You can start by filling out our form under the “GET STARTED” page, or perhaps the easiest just give us a ring and we’ll chat all about it. We also hope you’ll find our website helpful for jogging the brain and drumming up some inspiration.
Do you arrange for flights or other transportation to and from my destination(s)?
We can offer some casual advice on getting to and from Africa—we’ve done more than our fair share of flying there and back again—but the particulars of your arrival and departure are up to you. Once you’ve touched down, though, we’ll take you under our wing right away. Everything during your time with us will be arranged for you.
When does the service start and end?
Maybe it’s already begun! Hope you’re enjoying the site. We suppose it officially starts with a phone call or an email, to get to know each other, and ends with you gushing about what a wonderful time you had and dreaming of your next safari with us.
How far in advance should I contact you to plan a trip?
Speaking a little in generalities here, the sooner the better. Safari can be tricky as pertains to time of year and availability. A lot comes down to what you want to see and do, and we’ll sort all that out once we talk.
What’s the process for obtaining visas?
It’s all rather straightforward. We’ll help you sort this out as soon as you book with us. You can start here.
I want to go to a certain location or camp not mentioned on your site. Can I do that?
It’s certainly a possibility worth exploring and discussing, and of course highly dependent upon where this mystery locale might be.
Do I have one guide with me all the way?
We make sure that you’re always with the best guide for the area and activities you’re involved in. This could work out to be one all-star, but often your trip will call for a team effort between specialists in different environs. Whoever the hand-off is to, they’ll already know the ins-and-outs of your game plan.
Will weather have an impact on my safari?
We’ll make certain that you’re prepared for whatever comes your way, and we will talk you through the seasonalities to see what's right for you.
Is tipping practiced or expected?
Gratuities are the norm in many places. We’ll help you figure out the where-when-and-how of what’s appropriate in any situation.
Do the guides and staff speak English?
All your guides are English speaking, but color us surprised if we don’t have you speaking at least a little Swahili by the time you’re leaving camp!
Is safari family friendly?
Safari is an exciting venture for people of all ages, and there isn’t too much in the way of restriction or complication outside your personal preferences and comforts. As always, we’ll be tailoring things to your group especially, so everything will suit your needs. Some limitations may exist for children under five years of age.
What does a typical day look like?
Since these are all custom-made trips detailed to the whims of individual people, that’s a tough question to answer well enough to paint a good overall picture for you. There could be a day jammed full of wildlife encounters on the savannah, hot-air ballooning, meals in the bush and sundowner parties—or a blissfully quiet day at camp, interrupted only by a morning massage and a late dinner under the stars.
What kind of physical fitness would be needed to enjoy my trip?
Just about any kind of shape you’re in will do, honestly, and we can plan enriching engagements for any level of, or interest in, physical activity.
What kind of food and meals should I expect?
Everything from delicious hyper-local fare to back-home comforts like steak and pizza—your plate will runneth over. And we’re always stuffing our pockets and sacks with bevvies and snacks, so something’s on-hand no matter where you go.
Is there access to electricity?
There’s electricity at each and every camp—you’ll be able to charge up wherever you go.
Is Wi-Fi available?
Lite- wi-fi is available in many camps, however when on Safari wi-fi may not be available.
Is there a preferred currency?
U.S. dollars are accepted everywhere, so long as the cash is fresh—only bills printed after 2016 are widely reliable. Many camps also accept major credit cards.
I have specific medical concerns or medications that I need. Will I be ok?
We’ll be happy to consult with you to ensure that everything can be handled properly. We also highly recommend all clients purchase trip insurance.
Are there certain immunizations or vaccinations I need to be current on?
For Africa at large and certain countries within, yes. It’s best to consult with your primary care doctor or travel doctor about your travel plans regarding vaccinations.
Am I able to enjoy a safari vacation from a wheelchair?
Absolutely. While many safari activities are naturally outdoors in ungroomed environments, options do exist for folks of differing mobility needs.
Where does the name Penwell come from?
From the singular Mr. Penuel Tango—a dear friend and safari guide extraordinaire. We hope to introduce you!
What’s the bird in your logo?
That right there is a guineafowl. Isn’t she a beaut? They’re crazy little birds, and they’re all over the place on safari. Strutting their stuff rain or shine, flocking to their friends and scattering to chase some shiny thing, scratching to uncover the tastiest bits, hollering and squawking all the way—they remind us of us.