OSC

Is it typical for operators to charge a 10% surcharge for "camping safaris" of less than 10 days? We were planning to stay at a seasonal camp in Kenya for 6 days and have just been advised of the surcharge.

sandi

"camping for less than 10/days" is strange. Even 6/days can be more than usual. There must be some other reason. Where is this camp? Is this camp set-up just for you or by seasonal do they mean it's a permanent camp only open certain months during the year.

Reasons for increases if you've already booked can be "statutory" - by law - for which outfitter has no choice (i.e., vehicle fuel, aviation gas, etc.) Also, if booked in '08 for '09, park fees have increased.

Can you provide more info - is this group or independent travel, which parks, which camps, by road or air - anything else. Just for 6/days or less than 10/days doesn't make sense.

Patty

Never heard of such a surcharge, but could you provide more details? As Sandi said, perhaps there's some different reason. Which camp is it?

OSC

The camp is Rekero. But I don't think this is a surcharge by them, I think it's a surcharge by the tour operator who normally does mobile safaris. Perhaps it's normal to have a surcharge if you do less than 10 days on a private mobile safari (?), but in the context of staying 6 nights at a seasonal camp such as Rekero, the surcharge makes no sense to me. I thought maybe I was missing something.

Patty

I still don't quite understand. What are you comparing it to that has a difference of 10%? An earlier quote from the same operator?

sandi

If Rekero has a minimum, it's probably 2/nts. which is quite usual. If staying 6/nts, then doesn't sound like surcharge from them. Rekero is seasonal, as it's closed during the "wet" months.

As Patty mentions, what were you initially quoted? Did you book? Send deposit? When? Like how much time since your deposit and this recent advice? Where else will you be visting? And, when are you traveling?

Something doesn't sound right! If you wish to share, who is the tour operator? From your home country? In-country outfitter?

OSC

The tour operator has confirmed that this was a mistake. Apparently they add a 10% surcharge on private mobile safaris that are less than 10 days. The surcharge is not applicable on lodges and established camps. Thanks for your input though.