batteries for africa
 

hoping someone can post how to recharge batteries--if a special plug or adapter or converter is needed and about how much memory to take along. 14 days in kenya and tanzania --first trip and lots of questions--thanks justluv2

What type of batteries do you have?

Check first to see if your charger is dual voltage (will say something like 110~240V). If it is, then all you need is an adaptor plug, the 3 prong UK type for Kenya and I believe most of Tanzania uses the same type.

To add to Patty's comments. Depending on the type of accommodations - if lodges, you'll probably be able to recharge your batteries in your room. If staying at permanent tent camps that have 24/7 electric, likewise you will be able to recharge in your tent; even if electric only till 11pm, you'll have time to recharge. If, however, you're staying at semi-permanent and/or mobile camps, it will be a bit more difficult. Though semi-permanent camps can probably recharge your batteries in their offices.

My camera used AA batteries and with each charge, 1-set was good for a full day. I did, however, have two extra sets of batteries... one which I had with me on game drives as back-up, while the third was recharging. So seriously consider back-up batteries.

There are a number of threads here on Fodor's about digital cameras and the amount of memory to have available. Some people choose to go with 1GB chip; others have portable devices to download in the evening. I, personally, prefer not to keep all my eggs in one basket and opt for smaller memory chips - a 512MB and a few 256Mb chips - just in case one of the chips are/become damaged. Do a search on this board for the digital camera threads or those re memory chips for more details.

The charger I have is an energizer, but not for 220-so I think I will need a converter of some sort. 4 Double AA batteries can be charged at a time.I bought two 512 cards. I bet there is a converter plug and adapter set available at a travel store-- if anyone knows--- please post. thanks justluv2

justluv2,
I don't know how much converters run, but it may be just as cost effective (and perhaps easier, less items to take) to purchase a new AA battery charger such as this one which is dual voltage and also comes with a car adaptor (unless you also have other items you need the converter for) -

http://www.buy.com/retail/product.as...c=111&sp=1

Converters (aka transformers) run about $20-30. So, you can go either way. A converter does give you the flexibility to take other devices that are 110.

Magellans has a good article on plug adapters and converters:
http://www.magellans.com/store/article/358?Args=

You can also pick up a travel set that includes both the adapter plugs and the converter:
http://www.rei.com/online/store/Sear...ry=transformer

just purchased a converter
and the adaptor plug set.2 sets of rechargable AAs so should be ok now. thanks to all for advice and can't wait to get to kenya in nov.