Africa Travel FAQ
& Planning Guide

Frequently Asked Questions on Expert-led Sea Safaris, Land Safaris, and Conservation Experiences in the Western Indian Ocean

General Travel to Africa & East Africa

  • A Sea Safari is an immersive ocean-based experience where you explore marine ecosystems, wildlife, and coastal cultures, much like a land safari, but on the sea. Instead of spotting lions and elephants, you might encounter dolphins, humpback whales, whale sharks, manta rays, and vibrant coral reefs. Seas4Life combines land and sea safaris for a rare dual perspective of African biodiversity.

  • Seas4Life offers Sea Safaris in:

    • Magical Mafia by Sea – Tanzania
      Swim with whale sharks, dive pristine coral reefs, and witness humpback whales in Mafia Island Marine Park.

    • Sardine Run – South Africa
      Join the world’s greatest ocean migration; diving with dolphins, whales, and sharks in an epic marine spectacle.

    • Seychelles Outer Islands Dive Expedition
      Access remote, untouched reefs and rare marine life with small-group, expert-led diving.

    • Apes & Whale Sharks – Uganda, Rwanda & Mafia
      Track gorillas, then swim with whale sharks; a rare land & sea wildlife double.

    • Wonderful Watamu – Kenya Coast
      Snorkel, SUP in mangroves, and explore marine conservation in Kenya’s iconic coastal town.

    • Lovely Lamu by Sea – Kenya
      Sail dhows along the Swahili coast, snorkel vibrant reefs, and explore Lamu’s timeless charm.

    • Beautiful Bazaruto – Mozambique
      Cruise Mozambique’s stunning archipelago, spotting dugongs and diving coral gardens.

    • Stone Town to Mafia by Sea – Zanzibar & Tanzania
      Blend marine adventure with cultural depth as you sail from Zanzibar to Mafia.

    • Epic Shark Safari – South Africa & Beyond
      Dive with hammerheads, reef sharks, and more in Africa’s top shark biodiversity hotspots.

    • Spice Islands: Pemba to Zanzibar – Tanzania
      Sail through the legendary spice islands, snorkel vibrant reefs, and meet marine conservation champions.

  • Expect to see:

    • Whales (humpback, Bryde’s, sometimes orcas)

    • Dolphins (spinner, bottlenose, humpback dolphins)

    • Whale Sharks & Reef Sharks

    • Manta Rays

    • Sea Turtles (green, hawksbill, loggerhead)

    • Coral Reefs & Colourful Fish

    • Seagrass Meadows & Mangroves

    • Rare Birds & Coastal Species

    • Humpback Whales: July to October (Kenya, Tanzania)

    • Whale Sharks: October to February (Tanzania, Mozambique)

    • Sardine Run: June to July (South Africa)

    • Sea Turtle Nesting: March to August

    • Best Visibility for Diving: October to March

    • Snorkelling & Freediving

    • SCUBA diving (with expert guides)

    • Kayaking & Stand-Up Paddle Boarding (SUP)

    • Whale and dolphin watching (ethical, no-chase policy)

    • Sailing traditional dhows or catamarans

    • Sea safaris by speedboat

    • Mangrove, reef, and seagrass exploration walks

    • Marine education onboard with biologists

  • No! We welcome all levels, from beginners to expert divers. Our trips include buoyancy aids, safety briefings, and gentle introductions to the sea, including for children or those new to marine environments.

  • Absolutely. We offer tailored family trips with:

    • Calm shallow snorkelling sites

    • Child-friendly guides

    • Educational marine treasure hunts

    • Junior marine ranger sessions

  • Yes. Seas4Life offers:

    • Coral planting & reef restoration trips

    • Sea turtle conservation excursions

    • Citizen science experiences (e.g. whale or dolphin ID)

    • Partnered NGO and university-based research opportunities

  • Yes, that’s our specialty. Many of our itineraries include:

    • Wildlife safaris in Tsavo, Maasai Mara, Laikipia or Serengeti

    • Beach and bush combinations

    • Marine + terrestrial photography safaris

  • Expect a mix of:

    • Early morning dolphin search or snorkelling session

    • Ocean literacy briefings with conservation experts

    • Afternoon kayaking, SUPing, freediving or cultural village/school visits

    • Sunset sail with snacks and marine life watch

    • Optional night swim or film screening

    • Reef-safe sunscreen

    • Rash vest or long-sleeved swimwear

    • Water shoes

    • Waterproof dry bag

    • Underwater camera (optional)

    • Mask/snorkel (optional, we also provide)

  • Yes. Our sea safaris follow Leave No Trace principles, partner with local marine conservation organisations, support Blue Economy jobs, and provide ocean education to all travellers. We offset carbon, avoid single-use plastics, and support local marine guides.

  • Yes. Seas4Life offers:

    • Private sailing dhows with onboard chefs

    • Luxury catamarans and yachts (crew included)

    • Floating eco-lodges and remote beach camps

  • We offer everything from day trips to 3-day mini-expeditions, and full 7–14 day itineraries that include marine and terrestrial experiences.

  • Yes, all guides are:

    • Certified marine biologists or dive instructors

    • Trained in ocean literacy and conservation

    • Skilled in guest care, marine safety and child-friendly education

    • Curated for impact; travel that gives back

    • Deep marine knowledge and storytelling

    • Access to remote, pristine marine areas

    • Family-friendly with a conservation twist

    • Blending marine and land wildlife experiences in one trip

    • Ethical, immersive and unforgettable

  • Our marine expeditions include Mafia Island (Tanzania), Pemba and Zanzibar, Seychelles Outer Islands, Kenya’s South Coast, Mozambique’s Bazaruto Archipelago, and the coral-rich reefs of Madagascar and Comoros.

  • Yes, sustainability is central. We ensure that a percentage of your travel cost directly supports conservation and community work. We avoid plastic use, partner with local initiatives, and only work with eco-certified vessels.

TRIP PLANNING, GEAR & TRAVEL TIPS

  • Essentials include: light, breathable clothing, a wide-brimmed hat, swimsuit, reef-safe sunscreen, walking shoes, a good camera, a reusable water bottle, and insect repellent. We’ll send a personalised packing list based on your itinerary.

  • Most of our accommodations offer Wi-Fi and reliable electricity (220–240V). In remote areas or at sea, connectivity may be limited; which we believe adds to the magic of disconnecting.

  • Drones are restricted in many national parks, and permits are often required. If you’re a photographer or filmmaker, let us know in advance so we can handle permissions.

  • Yes. We cater to vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, halal, kosher, and allergy-conscious travellers. Our chefs and hosts are trained to ensure everyone is well fed and safe.

  • Yes. Seas4Life runs immersive marine education experiences and field-based learning programmes focused on ocean literacy, marine ecosystems, and coastal conservation. These are ideal for students, researchers, early-career professionals, and conservation enthusiasts looking to deepen their understanding of marine environments in the Western Indian Ocean and Red Sea region.

  • Through our we channel a percentage of your trip cost funds our foundation’s initiatives like turtle monitoring, seagrass restoration, blue carbon training, and school outreach. You’re not just travelling, you’re investing in the ocean’s future.

  • Absolutely. We offer hands-on options like reef monitoring, turtle nest walks, beach cleanups, and community workshops. These are often integrated into your trip, without disrupting comfort or adventure.

  • Yes. Seas4Life offers Ocean Guardian Schools Programmes, family learning journeys, and university partnerships. We also run youth ocean camps and internships, and we’re trusted by schools across East Africa and beyond.

  • Yes, community connection is central to what we do. From village and school visits to co-managed marine conservation projects, we build lasting relationships with the places we travel.

  • Yes. Seas4Life collaborates with both local and international institutions to develop customised field trips, marine biology expeditions, conservation-based gap year programmes, and internship placements.

  • Absolutely. We create safe, expertly guided learning journeys that are both educational and transformational. From snorkelling seagrass meadows to understanding coral reef resilience, we help young minds engage with the ocean meaningfully.

CONSERVATION, EDUCATION & COMMUNITY

BOOKING, PRICING & CUSTOMISATION

  • Start by contacting us via our website, social channels or on email to info@seas4life.com. We’ll guide you through a discovery call, suggest an itinerary, and co-create your perfect adventure.

  • We offer premium experiences that support people and planet, but our pricing is tiered and flexible. From high-end sea villas to eco lodges, we’ll match your budget with impact.

  • Yes, we have select expert-led expeditions with fixed dates (e.g., Sardine Run, Seychelles Voyages). These are perfect for solo travellers or those wanting a ready-made adventure.

  • We recommend comprehensive travel insurance including medical evacuation and adventure activities. While we don’t sell insurance directly, we can advise on trusted providers.

  • Yes! Our gift journeys make amazing wedding presents, anniversary surprises, or legacy gifts for eco-conscious travellers. Ask us about personalised travel vouchers.

WHY AFRICA? WHY NOW? WHY SEAS4LIFE?

  • From coral reefs to crater lakes, Africa offers unmatched biodiversity and cultural depth.

  • Experience where tourism directly supports protection of oceans, wildlife, and traditions.

  • Every trip is a story of science, sustainability, and soul.

Still have questions? Let us be your compass.
📩 Email us or explore more at info@seas4life.com

Let’s journey beyond the shore!