FAQs

Why Tanzania?
Tanzania is the premier location for viewing a diversity of African wildlife. Additionally, Dr. McMurphy has travelled here dozens of times and is very familiar with where to go in order to maximize our experience.

How will we be travelling?
This trip is unique in that you will be with your private guides the entire safari, traveling in custom designed Landcruisers that provide each client a window seat. Additionally, the roof pops up to allow positioning for photography, while still being shielded from the sun. On the final day, you will return to Arusha in a small ‘bush plane’ while overlooking the beautiful Serengeti.

If I have to cancel my trip, will I receive a refund?
We do our best to refund any money possible in the event of a cancellation. We require a deposit of 60% of the total cost by Dec. 1, 2025. This deposit secures air tickets, in-country transportation and hotel rooms. Some of that may not be refundable. The remaining 40% of the cost is due April 1, 2026 and is refundable up to 1 week prior to departure. After that point, we would make every effort to refund unspent funds but the full amount may not be able to be returned.

Will there be opportunities for us to explore on our own apart from the group?
While we have attempted to build in a few optional opportunities, bear in mind that we will largely staying in game reserves surrounded by wildlife. It is not safe to wander away from the camp, so when we are not in the trucks, we will stay in the camps. While there, of course, your time is your own.

How many people are going on this trip?
Smaller groups lend themselves to more effective professional discussion and to the ability to better appreciate culture beyond standard tourist experiences. We will limit the trip to a maximum of 12 participants (veterinarians and partners) in order to maintain small-group dynamics.

Are my meals covered?
The price of the trip includes breakfast, lunch and dinner every day. We promise you will be well-fed, but you are welcome to bring any snacks you feel you may need. Be sure to bring water bottles, which we will help you refill with safe water. Beverages, including house alcoholic beverages, are included except for the first night; however some premium wines, spirits or champagne would be an additional charge.

Is the CE approved for my annual requirements?
This continuing education event is organized by the Kansas State University College of Veterinary Medicine. The majority of state boards recognize university-provided CE, but we cannot guarantee the response of every state board in the event of an audit. A certificate of attendance will be provided.

Are partners welcome?
You are welcome to bring your spouse or partner. We have activities specifically for them if desired. Please see the cost page to see the pricing information when accompanied by a partner whether or not they are a veterinarian.

What will my partner to while I am in the CE meetings?
We have separate game drives scheduled for partners during the CE meetings. Of course, they are welcome to sleep in or relax around camp. We can provide advice if they have specific objectives.

Are all the game drives mandatory?
Nothing is mandatory while we are in camp. We will change camps a couple times to optimize our opportunities, but the days in camp are your own.

Are children welcome?
Unfortunately, this trip is not designed to cater to children.

Is this a safe trip?
We have made every effort to assure a safe and stress-free itinerary. Tanzania is a safe destination. Of course, accidents, natural events and other random difficulties can occur to any of us in any location and traveling abroad is no exception. Being around wild animals always carries some risks, but nothing we do is overtly dangerous. We have led multiple tours and have never had an untoward event. We are happy to discuss specific concerns.

Do I need a visa or vaccinations?
As an American citizen, you will need a visa to travel to Tanzania. This visa can be obtained in the airport upon arrival. We will provide you with detailed information on that process. If you extend your stay and journey to another country you will need to determine entry requirements on your own. You will need a U.S. passport valid for six months past the conclusion of the trip.

No specific vaccinations are required to travel to Tanzania. We urge you to consult your health care provider about routine vaccine recommendations and any medications they may recommend you keep with you. Vaccination for MMR, Polio, Hepatitis and cholera are wise for any traveler to developing countries. Malaria prophylaxis is recommended for travel to Tanzania and you should discuss the options with your health care provider.

I have never traveled abroad. Is this a good trip for first-time travelers?
This trip is designed for first-time travelers as well as those with more experience. We have arranged a schedule that has all the details taken care of. Please see our helpful travelers’ tips.

Can I extend my stay?
Participants are welcome to extend their time abroad on their own. The cost of the trip includes a return flight from Tanzania. If you choose to return from a different airport or at a different time, you will be responsible for any increase in the cost of your ticket beyond what the original itinerary would have been.

What are the topics of the CE sessions?
For 2026, the topics will be small-animal focused, with a mix of disciplines including anesthesia, internal medicine, and surgery.

Do I have to participate in the CE?
No. If you choose to only participate in the tourist activity you would be grouped with the spouses and partners. A certificate of attendance will reflect only CE sessions you attended.

Do I need additional insurance?
We encourage you to check with your health-care provider as many do not cover medical expenses in other countries. Health insurance for traveling is easy to obtain and relatively inexpensive if you opt to purchase it.

How much physical activity is involved with this trip?
Overall physical activity is minimal, but some walking is involved with the outings. In Africa, some buildings are not accessible according to ADA standards.

Do you have any advice for participants as we prepare:
Please see our Advice for African Travelers.