Questions About Power, Charging & Connectivity While on Safari

Absolutely! Many safari lodges and camps provide charging facilities for your electronic devices, including phones, cameras, and other essential gadgets.

Most accommodations have charging points available in the communal areas, such as the main lounge or dining area. You can easily plug in your devices to charge while you relax and enjoy the camp’s amenities. Some lodges even have charging stations within the guest rooms or tents – convenient access to power right at your fingertips.

It’s important to note that due to the remote locations of some safari camps, the availability of charging facilities may be limited. We recommend bringing extra fully charged batteries or portable power banks to ensure you have sufficient power for your devices during game drives and other activities in the wilderness.

Of course. Many safari destinations in Africa have mobile network coverage, allowing you to make calls, send messages, and access the internet, depending on the strength of the signal. However, it’s essential to note that the signal strength may vary depending on your location within the wilderness. In more remote areas, the signal may be weaker or intermittent. You may find better network coverage near camp or in certain designated areas.

Using your cellphone for photography and capturing those incredible wildlife moments is also a great idea. Just make sure to bring spare batteries or portable chargers to keep your device powered up, especially during longer game drives or when charging options are limited.

Yes, it is true that South Africa has power outages. The power outages, known as ‘load shedding’, are implemented by the national power utility company, Eskom, to manage electricity supply during times of high demand. The power outages are necessary to balance the electricity supply and demand in the country. While the frequency and duration of load shedding can vary, the South African government and Eskom are continuously working to stabilise the power supply and minimise impact. However, many accommodations in South Africa, including safari lodges and camps, have backup generators or alternative power sources in place to ensure a seamless experience for their guests.

When travelling to Africa, you may need a plug adaptor to ensure compatibility with the local power outlets. The type of plug adaptor you will need depends on the country you are visiting within Africa, as different countries may have different plug configurations.

Most countries in Southern Africa, such as South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, and Zimbabwe, use a three-pronged plug with round pins. This type of plug is known as the Type M plug. It’s important to note that these countries often have 220-240V electrical systems.

In East Africa, including Kenya and Tanzania, the common plug type is the three-pronged plug with rectangular pins. This plug type is known as the Type G plug, which is also used in the United Kingdom.

To be fully prepared for your African safari, we recommend checking the specific plug type used in the country you plan to visit and obtaining the necessary adaptors accordingly. It’s always a good idea to bring a universal travel adaptor, which can accommodate different plug types, ensuring you can charge your devices throughout your safari adventure.