You can bring personal drinks on some journeys, but vehicle and accommodation policies vary. Keep glass and excessive alcohol out of wildlife activities.

Can I bring my own drinks during the tour?

Personal drinks may be acceptable on some journeys, but vehicle, lodge and border rules vary. Alcohol should be consumed responsibly and not during activities where it creates a safety issue.

Glass containers are impractical in many safari settings. Keep water accessible and avoid bringing items that create unnecessary waste.

If you have a specific beverage requirement, ask before the trip so storage and local availability can be discussed.

Can I spend the entire day at the lodge if I want?

Yes. A safari itinerary does not require you to join every planned activity. If you want to spend a day at the lodge, rest by the pool or simply read on your veranda, that can often be accommodated.

Tell the guide or camp team in good time, especially if meals, transfers or shared activities are involved. On a private itinerary, the schedule is generally easier to adjust than on a fixed group departure.

Use the confirmed property for the final answer

Meal plans and dining facilities vary between lodges, camps and resorts. A full-board safari stay may operate differently from a beach hotel or city property.

If a particular food, late meal or dining style matters, ask ESA Safaris to confirm it with the booked property rather than assuming every hotel offers the same service.

What this means for your itinerary

You can also choose to spend a day at the lodge if the itinerary is private and no fixed transfer or permit is missed. Sometimes the best decision after several early starts is to rest.

Tell your guide so meals, housekeeping and the next day's plan can be coordinated.

Food safety is mostly about sensible choices

Choose reputable places, drink water supplied or recommended by the property and be cautious with food that has been stored poorly in hot conditions.

Tell staff about allergies and dietary needs directly. On a long journey, carrying a small supply of suitable snacks can also be useful.

Before you book or travel

  • State allergies and strict dietary requirements during booking, not only after arrival.
  • Confirm the meal plan shown for each property.
  • Carry suitable snacks if you have a very restrictive diet or long transfer days.
  • Use the drinking water supplied or recommended by the lodge and guide.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I carry my own snacks?

It can be useful on long transfer days or when you have a very restrictive diet. Check border and park rules before carrying fresh food.

How early should I report an allergy?

At the booking stage. A severe allergy needs clearer planning than an ordinary preference and should be communicated to each relevant property.

Can dietary requirements be arranged?

Often yes, especially with advance notice. Remote camps have more limited supply chains, so send clear requirements before accommodation is confirmed.

Is bottled or filtered water available?

Most safari itineraries provide or recommend safe drinking water, but the exact system varies by property. Follow the guidance of the lodge and guide.

Plan the details around your trip

Share dietary requirements with ESA Safaris before accommodation is confirmed. The team can pass the details to the booked properties and help you understand what is realistically available along the route.