More Information
Dossier Disclaimer
The information in this trip details document has been compiled with care and is provided in good faith. However it is subject to change, and does not form part of the contract between the client and the operator. The itinerary featured is correct at time of printing. It may differ slightly to the one in the brochure. Occasionally our itineraries change as we make improvements that stem from past travellers, comments and our own research. Sometimes it can be a small change like adding an extra meal along the itinerary. Sometimes the change may result in us altering the tour for the coming year. Ultimately, our goal is to provide you with the most rewarding experience. Please note that our brochure is usually released in November each year. If you have booked from the previous brochure you may find there have been some changes to the itinerary.
VERY IMPORTANT: Please ensure that you print a final copy of your Trip Details to review a couple of days prior to travel, in case there have been changes that affect your plans.
Itinerary Disclaimer
While it is our intention to adhere to the route described below, there is a certain amount of flexibility built into the itinerary and on occasion it may be necessary, or desirable to make alterations. The itinerary is brief, as we never know exactly where our journey will take us. Due to our style of travel and the regions we visit, travel can be unpredictable. The Trip Details document is a general guide to the tour and region and any mention of specific destinations or wildlife is by no means a guarantee that they will be visited or encountered. Aboard expedition trips visits to research stations depend on final permission.
Additionally, any travel times listed are approximations only and subject to vary due to local circumstances.
Important Notes
1. TRAVEL DAYS
This is not a physically demanding journey; however, travelling can be difficult, with long drives and poor road conditions at times. Despite this, most clients feel that the diversity of the African landscape, countries, culture and wildlife are all well worth the experience. We use a comfortable and safe air-conditioned tour vehicle for the long drives.
2. COMBO TOUR
Please note that this tour combines with other G Adventures tours. As such, the staff and some travel companions on your tour may have previously been traveling together with G Adventures, prior to Day 1 of your tour. Likewise, some staff and travel companions may be continuing together on another G Adventures tour, after your trip concludes
3.YELLOW FEVER
South Africa is to enforce new rules requiring proof of Yellow Fever vaccination for all travelers – even in airport transit – who have been in Zambia or other countries where the disease is endemic. The stricter guidelines, effective 01 Oct 2011, will see pax without an international Yellow Fever certificate refused entry.
Group Leader Description
On this tour, you will be accompanied by a group Chief Experience Officer (CEO) on the Kruger and Namibia portion and in Victoria Falls, you will have a local G representative.
The Chief Experience Officer (CEO) will be the group manager and leader. All of our leaders in southern Africa are registered and licensed tourism guides, meaning they’ve studied to have a broad knowledge base of the region’s history, cultures, and wildlife, and are legally certified to lead/guide tours in the regions visited. Most of our leaders in the region are from South Africa, though it may be possible that you’ll have a leader from another country in the southern African region.
All safari guides are certified safari guides, and are of course very skilled and experienced drivers. With years of experience taking wildlife seekers into the game parks, our local safari guides are exactly what will make your safari a success.
We also use local guides where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places we are visiting.
Safari guides: All safari guides are certified safari guides, and are of course very skilled and experienced drivers. With years of experience taking wildlife seekers into National Parks and Reserves, our local safari guides are exactly what will make your safari a success.
Meals
Eating is a big part of travel. Travelling with G Adventures you experience the vast array of wonderful food that is available in Southern Africa.
About our Transportation
In Namibia, the vehicle used will depend on the number of passengers. This style of transportation is a comfortable way to travel through the region, allowing the group to travel through the cities and parks with ease, with more opportunities to stop and either wander around or view the sites.
In South Africa
The vehicle used will depend on the number of passengers as follows:
10-16 guests: 22 Seater Mercedes Bus (A/C)
6-9 guests: 14 Seater Toyota Quantum (A/C)
3-5 guests: Mercedes Benz Vito OR Similar (A/C)
1-2 guests: Nissan Livina X-G or Toyota Avanaza (A/C)
For the game drives on in the Kruger area we use an open safari vehicle.
For group sizes of 10 to 16, you will have a dedicated driver and CEO.
Local Flights
The flight between Johannesburg and Windhoek is included.
It is important that we have your passport information at the time of booking in order to process these tickets. Internal flight tickets are issued locally and will be given to you prior to the flight departure.
Solo Travellers
We believe solo travellers should not have to pay more to travel so our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. Single travellers joining group trips are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip. Some of our Independent trips are designed differently and solo travellers on these itineraries must pay the single trip price.
My Own Room
Please note that if you have booked the “My Own Room” option for this tour, you will receive your own single room for all night stops
About Accommodation
Private Reserve location changes
On some occasions, we may need to change accommodation or even use a different private reserve, if space is unavailable. In such a case, be assured we will choose other Lodges or comfort camps within the Greater Kruger area of equal quality.
Karongwe Private reserve
We use various accommodations within the reserve based on availability. During your time here, the group will either stay in lodge rooms or very comfortable permanent tents – both of equal quality and with similar amenities.
General notes
-Please note that hot water shortages, low water pressure and power outages can occur in Southern Africa. We appreciate your patience and understanding that these occurrences are outside of our control.
-Wifi is available in most places (extra charge may apply), but in remote areas there can be service interruptions
-A/C is not generally available in the accommodations we use, really it isn’t needed as evenings tend to cool down. Floor or ceiling fans are usually available
Joining Hotel
For details of your joining hotel please refer to your tour voucher, G Account, the G Adventures App or contact your travel agent.
Joining Instructions
The nearest international airport to your joining hotel is the Johannesburg International Airport (JNB).
**Please note, the arrival transfer included occurs on Day 1 of the tour. If you plan to arrive prior to Day 1, you will be required to arrange pre-tour accommodation through National Geographic Journeys to be eligible for the transport from the airport. Due to customer experience and quality considerations, all services related to the tour must be continuous.
Please note that Day 1 is an arrival day and no activities have been planned, so you may arrive at any time. Similarly the last day is a departure day in which no activities are planned.
Your Leader will organize a welcome meeting in the evening of day 1, during which you will meet other tour participants and receive information about general and specific aspects of the trip.
To receive your complimentary transfer, proceed through the international or domestic arrivals area and look for a transfer person holding a National Geographic Journeys sign with your name. Ask him/her what hotel he/she will take you to (do not volunteer this information). Then present your passport for proof of identity.
Arrival Complications
We don’t expect any problems, and nor should you, but if for any reason you are unable to commence your trip as scheduled, please refer to the emergency contact details provided in this dossier and contact us as soon as possible. If you have a pre-booked transfer, and you have not made contact with our representative within 30 minutes of clearing customs and immigration, we recommend that you make your own way to the Starting Point hotel, following the Joining Instructions. Please apply to your travel agent on your return for a refund of the transfer cost if this occurs.
Emergency Contact
Should you need to contact us during a situation of dire need, it is best to first call either the G Adventures Local Representative (if one is listed below) or our G Adventures Local Office. If for any reason you do not receive an immediate answer, please leave a detailed message and contact information, so they may return your call and assist you as soon as possible.
AIRPORT TRANSFER
If you have purchased an arrival through G Adventures or if an arrival transfer is included in the cost of your tour, please note that:
Your arrival transfer has been arranged based on flight information provided to us. If you are advised of a flight schedule change within 48 hours of your scheduled arrival time, we will do our best to rearrange your arrival transfer however we cannot guarantee this. If your arrival transfer does not arrive within 30 minutes after you have exited the arrivals area please take a taxi to your start point hotel.
EMERGENCY CONTACT NUMBERS
G Adventures Local Operator (South Africa)
From outside South Africa: +27 82 575 7434
From within South Africa: 082 5757434
If you are unable for any reason to contact our local office, please call the numbers listed below, which will connect you directly with our 24 hour Sales team, who will happily assist you.
Toll-free, North America only: 1 888 800 4100
Calls from UK: 0344 272 0000
Calls from Germany: 0800 365 1000
Calls from Australia: 1 300 796 618
Calls from New Zealand: 0800 333 307
Outside North America, Australia, New Zealand, Germany and the UK: +1 416 260 0999
What to Take
You will be on the move a lot, so our advice is to pack as lightly as possible. Your baggage should be clearly labeled and restricted to one soft compact suitcase, or sports bag, maximum 15kg, plus a daypack. Luggage limits on airlines are strictly enforced and space on vehicles is limited. Porters are not often available, so be prepared to carry your own bags. It is important to pack clothes for warm days and cool evenings, as well as a warm jacket for early morning game drives. A set of smart casual clothes is also advisable.
The Southern Hemisphere essentially has the opposite weather to the Northern Hemisphere. The winter months of June, July and August, whilst clear and warm during the day (up to 25 degrees), can drop down to single figures and even below freezing at night. Between September and May it is considerably warmer with the time between October and March being the hottest, getting up to the high 30C and sometimes above. However it is always a dry heat and the temperature does drop at night. The wet season is between November and February, but this is not a bad time to go, as it generally does not rain for very long. We strongly recommend lots of layers to wear from the start of the day until the night. You might still need to wear a fleece jacket in the mornings, a t-shirt during the day and again the fleece jacket at sunset time. A woolen hat is also very much recommendable for the cold winter’s early morning game drives.
Checklist
Suggested Items:
▪ Fleece top/sweater
▪ Windproof/waterproof jacket
▪ Swimwear
▪ shirts/t-shirts
▪ Sun hat
▪ 1 pair of shorts/skirt
▪ 2 pairs of long trousers
▪ Sport sandals
*Hiking/walking shoes
▪ Sunblock
▪ Sunglasses
▪ Toiletries (biodegradable)
▪ Watch or alarm clock
▪ Water bottle
▪ Flashlight (with extra batteries and bulbs)
▪ Money belt
▪ First-aid kit (should contain lip salve, Aspirin, bandaids, anti-histamine, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, rehydration powder, insect repellent, extra prescription drugs you may be taking)
Camera with extra memory cards and batteries
Personal Entertainment
Binoculars
Documents:
▪ Passport (with photocopies)
▪ Yellow Fever Certificate (with photocopies)- if coming from a yellow fever endemic country
▪ Travel insurance (with photocopies)
▪ Airline tickets (with photocopies)
▪ Credit or debit card (see personal spending money)
▪ G Adventures vouchers, pre-departure information and dossier
▪ Any entry visas or vaccination certificates required (please inform yourself if you are able to obtain visas at the borders, visa regulations changes often, therefore we cannot hand out information).
Laundry
Laundry can be done at some lodges (at own expense).
Visas
All countries require travellers to have a valid passport (with a minimum 6 months validity), and you are required to acquire the entry visas for each of the countries visited.
Please double check with your agent and/or visa agent what the visa requirements is for each country that you will be traveling to. Some countries do require that you get your visa before arrival. If you show up at a border and should you not have the required visa you will be denied entry to the country and be send back to the closest embassy/high commission to get the visa. All arrangements and expenses for that will be at your own cost. The CEO will assist you with travel arrangements but will not be able to accompany you. You will also have to catch up with the group at their next destination at own cost.
We have been experiencing a lot of problems with people that need visas for Namibia and Malawi. Namibian and Malawian visas is not available at the border, so please make very sure if you do need a visa before arrival.
The information provided here is to be used as a guide only. Please consult with the relevant embassy or your travel agency before you travel. We cannot take any responsibility whatsoever for the use of this information.
South Africa
http://www.dha.gov.za/Counties%20Exempy%20from%20SA%20Visaa.html
http://www.home-affairs.gov.za/Applying%20for%20a%20South%20African%20visa.html
http://www.southafrica.info/travel/documents/visas.htm
Visas are not issued at South African ports of entry, and airline officials are obliged to insist on visas before allowing passengers to board. If you arrive without a visa, immigration officials are obliged to put you onto a flight back to your home country.
If you are a passport holder of the following countries/areas you do not need a visa for stays of LESS THAN 90 days:
African Union / Unity Laissez Passes, Andorra, Argentina, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Botswana, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Czech Republic, Denmark, Ecuador, Finland, Japan, Liechtenstein, Luxemburg, Malta, Monaco, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Paraguay, Portugal, San Marino, Singapore, Spain, St Vincent & the Grenadines, Sweden, Switzerland, United Kingdom, Uruguay, Venezuela, United States of America, France, Germany, Greece, Iceland, Israel, Italy, Jamaica
If you are a passport holder of the following countries/areas you do not need a visa for stays of LESS THAN 30 days:
Antigua and Barbuda,Barbados,Belize,Benin,Bolivia,Hong Kong,Hungary,Jordan,Lesotho,Malaysia Cape Verde,Costa Rica,Cyprus,Gabon,Guyana,Peru,Poland,Seychelles,Slovak Republic ,South Korea,Swaziland,Thailand,Turkey,Zambia
Visa costs
The visa fee is different for every nationality, so please check this with your agent or closest embassy.
**Please note for those traveling with minors: Effective June 01, 2015, anyone under the age of 18 will not be allowed entry without an unabridged birth certificate. If they are not travelling with both parents or adults who are not the child’s parents, further documentation is required. Please check with your South African embassy or consulate for the most current list of document requirements.
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Namibia
http://www.namibia.org.za/consular.htm
http://www.namibiatourism.com.na/visas/
Visas cannot be obtained on arrival.
FOREIGN NATIONALS EXEMPTED FROM VISA REQUIREMENTS WHEN TRAVELLING TO NAMIBIA
Angola, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Botswana, Brazil, Canada, Cuba, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Iceland, India (Diplomatic and Official Passport up to 3 Months), Ireland. Italy, Japan, Kenya, Lesotho, Lienchtenstein, Luxemburg, Malaysia, Macau (SAR), Malawi, Mauritius, Mozambique, New Zealand, Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Russian Federation ( Including States of the former U.S.S.R), South Africa, Singapore, Spain, Swaziland, Sweden, Switzerland, Tanzania, United Kingdom, United States of America, Zambia, Zimbabwe.
Other categories must obtain VISAs
Visa costs
Please enquire with your agent or closest embassy.
Visa costs
The visa fee is different for every nationality, so please check this with your agent or closest embassy.
This information is accurate at the time of writing, and please contact your local embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date visa requirements and costs, regarding these, and the other countries visited, or see your travel agent. It is your responsibility to have the correct travel documentation.
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Zimbabwe
***PLEASE READ THE ENTIRETY OF THE TEXT BELOW AS THIS IS IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR YOUR ENTRY INTO ZIMBABWE***
Please note that visas are the responsibility of the individual traveller. The visa requirements for your trip vary depending on where you are from and where you are going. We keep the following information up to date as much as possible, but rules do change. It is important that you check for yourself with the Embassy of Zimbabwe. Please, keep in mind that all countries require passports valid for at least 6 months from the moment of departure from the country.
***It is the responsibility of the traveller to check with their nearest Embassy and confirm the requirements for entry into Zimbabwe***
Please be sure to do your research to determine if your nationality requires a Visa, can purchase one upon arrival or must apply for one in advance.
A Visa to enter Zimbabwe is required by several nationalities, please read the full details listed below.
There are 3 categories:
CATEGORY A:
Countries whose nationals do NOT require a Zimbabwe Visa.
Antigua & Barbuda, Angola, Aruba, Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Botswana, Cayman Islands, Congo DRC, Cyprus, Fiji, Ghana, Grenada, Hong Kong, Jamaica, Kenya, Kiribati, Leeward Islands, Lesotho, Madagascar, Malaysia, Malawi, Maldives, Malta, Mauritius, Montserrat, Mozambique, Namibia, Nauru, Samoa Western, Seychelles, Singapore, South Africa, Solomon Islands, St Kitts and Nevis, St Lucia, St Vincent, Swaziland, Tanzania, Trinidad and Tobago, Turk & Caicos Islands, Tuvalu, Uganda, Vanuatu, Zambia
CATEGORY B:
Countries whose nationals are granted a Zimbabwe Visa at port of entry on payment of requisite visa fees.
Algeria, Andorra, Argentina, Austria, Australia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Belgium, Bermuda, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Burundi, Brazil, Brunei, Canada, Cape Verde Islands, China, Comoros Islands, Cook Islands, Croatia, Cuba, Czech Republic, Denmark, Dominic Republic, Egypt, Estonia, Equatorial Guinea, Finland, France, French Polynesia, French West Indies, Gibraltar, Georgia, Germany, Greece, Haiti, Hungary, Indonesia, Iceland, Iran, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Kazakhstan, Korea (South), Kyrgyzstan, Kuwait, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Macau, Marshall Island, Micronesia, Moldova, Monaco, Netherlands, New Caledonia, New Zealand, Northern Mariana, Norway, Palau Islands, Palestine, Papua New Guinea, Portugal, Puerto Rico, Russia, Rwanda, Samoa, Sao Tome, Serbia, Slovak, Slovenia, Spain, Suriname, Sweden, Switzerland, Tajikistan, Turkey, Turkmenistan, Ukraine, United Arab Emirates, Uruguay, United Kingdom, United States of America, Uzbekistan, Vatican, Virgin Islands
***Canadian Passport holders can ONLY get a Single entry Zimbabwe Visa at the port of Entry.
CATEGORY C:
Countries whose nationals are required to apply for and obtain a Zimbabwe visa prior to travelling (single entry Zimbabwe visa ONLY).
Afghanistan, Albania, Armenia, Bahrain, Bangladesh, Benin, Bhutan, Bolivia, Bulgaria, Burkina Faso, Cambodia, Cameroon, Central Africa Republic, Chad, Chile, Colombia, Congo Brazzaville, Costa Rica, Conakry, Cote de Voire, Djibouti Republic, Ecuador, El Salvador, Eritrea, Ethiopia, French Guiana, Gabon, Gambia, Guam, Guatemala, Guinea, Guinea Bissau, Guyana, Honduras, India, Iraq, Jordan, Korea (DPRK), Laos, Lebanon, Liberia, Libya, Mali, Mauritania, Mexico, Mongolia, Morocco, Myanmar, Nepal, Nicaragua, Niger, Nigeria, Norfolk Islands, Oman, Pakistan, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Philippines, Qatar, Reunion, Romania, San Marino, Saudi Arabia, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Sri Lanka, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, Taiwan, Thailand, Togo, Tunisia, Venezuela, Vietnam, Yemen Republic, Yugoslavia
IMPORTANT NOTE: If you have purchased a single entry visa upon arrival and then decide to leave Zimbabwe (even for a few hours) you will need to buy another visa to re-enter Zimbabwe. In this instance you should buy a double entry visa upon arrival as it works out cheaper. Multiple entry visas cannot be obtained at the port of entry into Zimbabwe. You may enter Zimbabwe on a single entry visa and then obtain a multiple entry visa from the town office – but this may take up to 7 working days to be issued. Alternatively, a multiple entry visa can be obtained from the Zimbabwe Embassy in your country prior to departure for Zimbabwe.
Information accurate as of July 1, 2016
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This information is accurate at the time of writing, and please contact your local embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date visa requirements and costs, regarding these, and the other countries visited, or see your travel agent. It is your responsibility to have the correct travel documentation.
Spending Money
Every traveller is different and therefore spending money requirements will vary. Some travellers may drink more than others while other travellers like to purchase more souvenirs than most. Please consider your own spending habits when it comes to allowing for drinks, shopping and tipping. Please also remember the following specific recommendations when planning your trip.
Money Exchange
The Namibian currency is the Namibian Dollar (NAD), which is equivalent to the South African Rand.
The currency in South Africa is the South African Rand (ZAR).
The easiest way is to withdraw money at the ATM airport (see below).
Rand can be obtained locally by changing foreign currency or by using ATMs (where available) which will disperse local currency. Your CEO will inform you where you can change money throughout the tour and approximately how much money you will need.
Each currency can be obtained locally by changing foreign currency or by using ATMs (where available) which will disperse local currency. Your CEO will inform you where you can change money throughout the tour and approximately how much money you will need.
The easiest foreign currency to exchange for locally for any of the local currencies is the $US; however the British Pound and Euro may also be exchanged as well. Please note that due to past problems with forgery, $US notes that are older than year 2006 are not accepted in Africa.
Large note ($US 50, $US 100 etc) can be difficult to change in some places, but will gain you the best exchange rate.
If you plan to rely on cash, please bring foreign currency (Euro, Pound, USD) with you, as it is often expensive to buy these currencies locally. And in more rural areas, it is often not likely.
If you plan to buy your visas at borders, you will need to bring $USD cash to pay for these visas. Please note you cannot use the local currency or any other currency to buy these visas- they must be purchased in USD.
Please do not bring Travellers’ cheques toAfrica. They are difficult if not impossible to exchange in many places.
Visa/Plus system cards are the most widely accepted debit cards. it is harder to find machines Mastercard/Cirrus cards. We highly recommend that if you hold a Mastercard, you obtain a Visa card prior to departure and travel with both. This is also useful should somethingunforeseen happen to one of your cards during your travels.
While there are many ATMs in the major centres, there are no guarantees that your credit or debit cards will actually work in Africa. Check with your bank.
Credit cards can be used in major cities and towns ONLY but please do not rely on them as a method of payment because they are generally not widely accepted. You should be aware that to purchase products or services on a credit card a fee of 5%-10% usually applies. The majority of our optional activities can also be paid by credit card. Your CEO will advise on these.
Please note that in many areas there may be occasional power-outages, where there will be no electricity for hours at a time. In addition, ATMs outside of larger centers often run out of cash or can be out of order unexpectedly. These factors could affect your ability to access money from ATMs. As such, please do not rely on credit or debit cards as your only source of money.
A combination of foreign currency and debit/credit cards for cash advances is best. Always take more rather than less, as you don’t want to spoil the trip by constantly feeling short of funds.
As currency exchange rates can fluctuate often we ask that you refer to the following website for daily exchange rates: www.xe.com.
Emergency Fund
Please also make sure you have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an ’emergency’ fund, to be used when circumstances outside our control (ex. a natural disaster) require a change to our planned route. This is a rare occurrence!
Tipping
Tipping is an expected – though not compulsory (up to the discretion of the group/guest) – component of your tour program and an expression of satisfaction with the persons who have assisted you on your tour. It is one of the most direct ways that you can have a positive economic impact within the African community. Although it may not be customary for you, it is of considerable significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels, as an important source of income for those in the tourism industry. Giving a tip should be a seen as a formal ‘thank you’, and the action should in no way be awkward.
The best method of tipping someone that has served the whole group is to plan in advance, and not rush when it comes to saying goodbye. A suggestion would be for each group member to contribute anonymously by putting their tip into an envelope. This often works the best and the group as a whole should gather to present the gift to the recipient(s), offering their thanks and showing their appreciation. This method brings the action out into the open, allowing for a friendly and appreciative interaction between the group and the recipient(s).
PORTERS: R7.00 per bag ;
WAITERS (Restaurants): 10% of the total bill as a general guideline;
CHAMBER MAIDS: R10.00 per day as a guideline;
BARMEN/LADIES: 10% of the total bill as a general guideline;
GAME RANGERS: R50.00 per activity / TRACKER: R20.00 per activity;
CEO & DRIVER: This is up to the discretion of the group/guests – CEO/guide = R50.00 per day and driver = R30.00 per day (or 2-5USD per day).
Health
Please note inoculations may be required for the country visited. It is your responsibility to consult with your travel doctor for up to date medical travel information well before departure.
We recommend you contact your family physician, or your local travel clinic for the most up-to-date health information at least one month before departure. Travelers should also carry a basic first-aid kit and hand sanitizers / antibacterial wipes. Travellers to Namibia should observe similar precautions to those taken elsewhere in Africa. Medical facilities are basic throughout these countries. For your own safety, we strongly recommend that you advise your tour leader of any medical condition that may affect you while travelling with the group. Be aware that all safaris enter malaria areas. Your doctor should be able to recommend the necessary prophylactics. Please ensure you have all the inoculations recommended by your doctor.
Yellow Fever Certificate Note:
It is compulsory to show a valid Yellow Fever Certificate if you are travelling to South Africa from a Yellow Fever endemic country. Entry into South Africa when travelling from the following countries (but not limited to) will require a Yellow Fever Certificate: Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, Malawi. This rule is also applicable to airport transit. If other countries not endemic to Yellow Fever have been visited (such as Botswana and Namibia), after visiting an endemic country, then a Yellow Fever certificate will still be required on entry into South Africa.
A valid Yellow Fever Certificate is also needed for entry into the following countries when coming from a Yellow Fever endemic country:
Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania (including Zanzibar), and Malawi.
Recommended that guests take MALARIA tablets as they are going to KNP Area. (Speak to your doctor regarding malaria). Guests can bring insect repellent spray/cream or buy when they arrive in South Africa for example: Peaceful Sleep / Tabard.
Note: Passengers should use bottled water.
Safety and Security
Many national governments provide a regularly updated advice service on safety issues involved with international travel. We recommend that you check your government’s advice for their latest travel information before departure. We strongly recommend the use of a neck wallet or money belt while travelling, for the safe keeping of your passport, air tickets, travellers’ cheques, cash and other valuable items. Leave your valuable jewelery at home – you won’t need it while travelling. Many of the hotels we use have safety deposit boxes, which is the most secure way of storing your valuables. A lock is recommended for securing your luggage. When travelling on a group trip, please note that your group leader has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the trip itinerary if it deemed necessary, due to safety concerns. Your Chief Experience Officer (CEO) will accompany you on all included activities. During your trip you will have some free time to pursue your own interests, relax and take it easy and explore at your leisure. While your CEO will assist you with options available in a given location, please note that any optional activities you undertake are not part of your itinerary, and we offer no representations about the safety of the activity or the standard of the operators running them. Please use your own good judgement when selecting an activity in your free time. Although the cities visited on tour are generally safe during the day, there can be risks to wandering throughout any major city at night. It is our recommendation to stay in small groups and to take taxis to and from restaurants, or during night time excursions.
Water based activities have an element of danger and excitement built into them. We recommend only participating in water based activities when accompanied by a guide(s). We make every reasonable effort to ensure the fun and adventurous element of any water based activities (in countries with varying degrees of operating standards), have a balanced approach to safety. It is our policy not to allow our CEOs to make arrangements on your behalf for water based activities that are not accompanied by guide(s).
Swimming, including snorkeling, is always at your own risk. Read more about travel safety for ways to further enhance your personal safety while traveling.
Trip Specific Safety
GENERAL: Look after your personal items. Do not leave your valuables visible in a car or hotel room. Lock your hotel room door when you enter and when you leave. Do not carry large amount of cash on you. Avoid displaying flashy jewellery and carry your camera in its pack on your shoulder rather than around your neck. Keep your passport, airline tickets, money, important documents locked up in your room/safe – do not carry it with you.
NAMIBIA: Always be alert of animals that are wandering too close to the road. Both domestic and wild animals frighten easily and can jump directly in front of the moving vehicle. If possible, avoid travelling at night. Some wildlife tends to be more active at dusk. Always be on the look-out for sandy patches, potholes and sharp bends in the road. In rainy or wet conditions beware of slippery roads, washaways, running and or stagnant water. Always have enough water (bottled) for the journey. NO matter how beautiful or gentle an animal may appear, the only safe way to look at it is from the safety of your vehicle.
Vital Information when you are staying the KNP or any Reserve: Please ensure that your stay is happy and safe by taking note of a few simple warnings. You will be sharing your stay with many exciting and unusal creatures but without knowledge some of them could be dangerous: Example: Bats, Spiders, Snakes, Scorpions, Malaria Zone. If you must walk around at night please DO NOT DO SO WITHOUT A TORCH. Remember: by feeding any wildlife, you are signing their death warrant as they become aggressive!
Medical Form
Our small group adventures bring together people of all ages. It is very important you are aware that an average level of fitness and mobility is required to undertake our easiest programs. Travellers must be able to walk without the aid of another person, climb 3-4 flights of stairs, step on and off small boats, and carry their own luggage at a minimum. Travellers with a pre-existing medical condition are required to complete a short medical questionnaire, which must be signed by their physician. This is to ensure that travellers have the necessary fitness and mobility to comfortably complete their chosen trip. While our leaders work hard to ensure that all our travellers are catered for equally, it is not their responsibility to help individuals who cannot complete the day’s activities unaided. Please refer to the physical ratings in this Trip Details document for more information.
Please note that all passengers traveling to Antarctica are required to fill out this questionnaire.
The medical questionnaire can be found online at www.gadventures.com/medical-form.
A Couple of Rules
Illegal drugs will not be tolerated on any trips. Possessing or using drugs not only contravenes the laws of the land but also puts the rest of the group at risk. Smoking marijuana and opium is a part of local culture in some parts of the world but is not acceptable for our travellers. Our philosophy of travel is one of respect towards everyone we encounter, and in particular the local people who make the world the special place it is. The exploitation of prostitutes is completely contrary to this philosophy. Our group leader has the right to expel any member of the group if drugs are found in their possession or if they use prostitutes.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is compulsory in order to participate on any of our trips. When travelling on a group trip, you will not be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance has been sighted by your leader, who will take note of your insurance details. When selecting a travel insurance policy we require that at a minimum you are covered for medical expenses including emergency evacuation and repatriation. A minimum coverage of USD200,000 is required. G Adventures can provide you with the appropriate coverage. We strongly recommend that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects. If you have credit card insurance we require proof of purchase of the trip (a receipt of credit card statement) with a credit card in your name. Contact your bank for details of their participating insurer, the level of coverage and emergency contact telephone number.
Planeterra-The G Adventures Foundation
Planeterra is G Adventures’ non-profit foundation created to make a positive difference in the communities where G Adventures takes travellers. Planeterra supports sustainable social and environmental solutions in destinations travellers love to visit.
As travellers, it’s natural to want to give back to the places we’ve come to love. But to truly impact poverty, we work to build self-sufficiency, not dependency.
Planeterra partners with grassroots organizations with firsthand knowledge of local culture and true community needs. This ensures that solutions come from the people we support. Then G Adventures brings travellers to visit, fuelling sustainable local income in these communities. This model is helping many rural and marginalized communities on their way to self-sufficiency because they are harnessing the power of the tourism industry as a force for good. G Adventures matches all individual donations and pays all administration costs, which means that 100% of each donation is doubled and goes directly to support our projects. For more information about Planeterra and the projects we support, or to make a donation, please visit planeterra.org.
MAKE EVERY DAY COUNT
Fifty percent of our planet lives on less than $2/day. For the price of a coffee, you can make every day of your trip count by giving back to the communities you visit through Planeterra.
To participate in this program please indicate at the time of booking that you would like to participate in G Adventures’ Dollar-A-Day program, either by clicking the check box online, or by advising your G Adventures specialist or travel agent. (Note: Donation will be charged in the currency of your booking).
Feedback
After your travels, we want to hear from you! Your feedback information is so important to us that we’ll give you 5% off the price of your next G Adventures trip if your feedback is completed on-line within 30 days of finishing your trip. Your tour evaluation will be e-mailed to you 24 hours after the conclusion of your trip. If you do not receive the tour evaluation link in the days after your tour has finished, please drop us a line at customerservice@gadventures.com and we will send it on to you.
Newsletter
Our adventure travel e-newsletter is full of travel news, trip information, interesting stories and contests. To avoid missing out on special offers and updates from G Adventures, subscribe at www.gadventures.com/newsletters/
Stay current on how our company invests in our global community through our foundation – Planeterra. Sign up for Planeterra’s monthly news to learn more about how to give back and support the people and places we love to visit.
Meal Budget
Allow USD365-475 for meals not included.
Meals Included
17 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 10 dinners
What’s Included
Arrival transfer. Panorama Route scenic drive. Kruger National Park and private nature reserve wildlife safari drives in open vehicles. Lecture and wildlife safari drive with a researcher. Sossusvlei 4×4 desert excursion. Desert excursion with a local. Township cultural walk and dinner. View the Twyfelfontein ancient petroglyphs. Visit the petrified forest. Two open-vehicle wildlife safari drives in Etosha. Visit the Cheetah Conservation Fund. Tour of Victoria Falls. Traditional dinner at a family home. All transport between destinations and to/from included activities
Day 3 Optional Activities
- Kruger Area Wildlife Walk -
- Kruger National Park Open Vehicle Wildlife Safari Drive -
Day 7 Optional Activities
- Optional Welcome Meeting for Travellers on Combos -
Day 11 Optional Activities
- Quad Biking -
- Sandboarding in the Namib Desert -
- Skydiving -
Day 14 Optional Activities
- Etosha Open Vehicle Wildlife Safari Drive -
Day 17 Optional Activities
- Victoria Falls River Rafting -
- Zambezi Sunset Cruise -
- Zambezi Bungee Jump -
- Victoria Falls Helicopter Ride -
