Ultimate Africa
About South Africa
Spanning nine countries, this journey is full of diverse cultures, abundant wildlife, spectacular landscapes, stunning beaches, and loads of adventure. Track the Big Five across open savannah, explore the Okavango Delta in a dugout mokoro canoe, encounter gorillas deep in the Ugandan wilderness – do it all on this ultimate 52-day adventure and get a real feel for how large Africa truly is. Travel aboard our rugged overland adventure vehicle (OAV) is well-paced and wilderness camping will bring you closer to the region’s wildlife. Encounter rare wildlife and real people on this unique and cost-effective journey through the stunning scenery of Southern and East Africa.
What's Included
Your G for Good Moment: !Khwa ttu San Culture and Education Centre, Yzerfontein
Your G for Good Moment: Penduka Village Restaurant & Shop, Windhoek
Your G for Good Moment: Lusumpuko Women’s Club Lunch, Victoria Falls
Your G for Good Moment: Tribal Textiles Market & Courtyard Cafe, Mfuwe
Your G for Good Moment: AidChild Equation Cafe & Gallery, Kayabwe
Your Welcome Moment: Meet Your CEO and Group
Your Discover Moment: Swakopmund
Your Discover Moment: Victoria Falls
Your Local Living Moment: Kande Beach Local Dinner, Kande Beach
Your Discover Moment: Nungwi
Your Discover Moment: Jinja. Entrance to Fish River Canyon, Sossusvlei Dunes, and Spitzkoppe. Entrances and wildlife safari drives in Etosha, and Serengeti national parks. Damaraland Living Museum visit. Okavango Delta overnight bush camping excursion. Ngorongoro Crater visit. Zanzibar excursion (3 days). Guided tour of spice plantation (Zanzibar). Transfer from Nairobi to Kampala. Guided chimp trek (Kalinzu Forest Reserve). Guided mountain gorilla trek in Bwindi with permits. Transfer from Jinja to Nairobi. All transport between destinations and to/from included activities.
Highlights
Search for the Big Five, witness giant sand dunes and the massive Victoria Falls, ride in 4×4 safari vehicles and dugout canoes, meet mountain gorillas, discover Zanzibar’s crystal clear waters
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.
Itinerary Notes
Want less travel time and more Zanzibar? Consider booking our ‘Zanzibar Express’ upgrade which includes a flight and an extra night in Zanzibar.
Important Notes
1. Please note that this trip is a combination of multiple G Adventures tours. As such, the staff and/or particular vehicles operating your tour may change between tour segments. You may also expect some group members to join or leave the tour in Windhoek, Victoria Falls, Zanzibar,Nairobi and Kampala.
2. For most parts it 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 customized safari truck for the long drives. However, visitors to Uganda should be in excellent physical condition, without any heart problems and prepared to spend strenuous days in humid rain forests, steep terrain and high altitude trekking for chimpanzee and gorillas, as well as other primates. As it is very dark in the jungle; only high speed film (ISO 400 or higher) will give good results. Those preferring to remain at base camp in Bwindi may do so, however, there is no price reduction
3. YELLOW FEVER
It may be required to show a Yellow Fever certificate upon entering the country(s) visited. Please check in with your local health expert for advice on Yellow Fever and other inoculations required for this area.
According to the WHO and CDC, there is no risk of yellow fever in Botswana. It is compulsory to show a valid Yellow Fever vaccination certificate if you are travelling to Botswana from a Yellow Fever endemic country, or have recently travelled to a Yellow Fever endemic country (with entry stamps in your passport), including the following countries (but not limited to): Angola, Benin, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Congo, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Republic of the Cote d’Ivoire (Ivory Coast) Equatorial Guinea, Ethiopia, Gabon, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea Zambia, Guinea-Bissau, Kenya, Liberia, Mali, Mauritania, Niger, Nigeria, Rwanda, São Tomé and Príncipe, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Somalia, Sudan, Tanzania, Togo, Uganda, Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, French Guiana, Guyana, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Suriname, Trinidad and Tobago, Venezuela.
We advise all travelers to Botswana who are coming from one of the above countries, or who have visited them in the last 10 years, to be prepared with a Yellow Fever vaccination certificate or letter from your doctor with proof of vaccination. Yellow Fever inoculations need to be administered at least 10 days prior to your entry into the country. Border officials in Botswana have been strictly enforcing these requirements. Travelers without the correct documentation run the risk of being denied entry, and will not be able to continue with the tour. (Any additional travel expenses will be on your own account.) *
4. An essential part of your safari is participation. The group is usually divided into small groups and given different tasks which change on a day to day basis, from kitchen duty group (helping in prepare meals and clean up afterwards), the packing group (sets up all tables and chairs outside) and the cleaning group (which cleans the truck by emptying the rubbish bin and brooming). it is all part of your adventure and when everyone puts in a little effort the trip will run smoothly. Your CEOs will do all the meal preparation, but we do ask the clients to help with the washing up. Team spirit is part of the fun! All camping equipment (with the exception of your sleeping bag and pillow) is supplied. We supply dome tents and assembly/disassembly takes only 5 minutes. All tents have built-in insect nets. Mattresses are also available, which are approximately 4cm thick, warm and comfortable.
5. Sleeping bags cannot be rented on any of our Africa overland or safari trips
6. G Adventures can never guarantee the sighting of wildlife, especially when it comes to mountain gorillas. However, the mountain gorilla trek is organized to ensure success. Before heading into the jungle, our local guides receive coordinates from trackers on the whereabouts of the gorillas, and the trackers stay with the gorillas until the group arrives.
Please note that if you are unwell with anything contagious, even a common cold, you may be denied any of the treks to ensure the safety of the gorillas and chimps. This is a national park regulation, and trekking permits will not be refunded if you are denied entrance due to illness.
7. Water-wise tips when visiting Cape Town:
Cape Town is currently experiencing one of the worst droughts it has seen in over 100 years, and while we want you to have the best time possible while there, here are some tips to help reduce your water usage:
- Bring a reusable water bottle, that you can fill with Cape Town’s tasty tap water.
- Reuse your towels in the hotel, for at least two days, before getting new ones.
- Keep your laundry until you have a full load to do, rather than just doing a handful of items.
- Turn off the tap when brushing your teeth, or shaving.
- Keep your showers to two minutes or less, and don’t use the bath.
- Use hand sanitizer, instead of washing hands.
Group Leader Description
On this journey, you will be accompanied on your trip by 2 crew members – a Chief Experience Officer (CEO) and a driver. (Nairobi to Nairobi); or you will be accompanied by two Chief Experience Officers (Cape Town to Nairobi).
The Chief Experience Officer (CEO) will be the group manager and leader. He/she organizes the trip, and will be there to assist you when needed. He/she will take care of the small things so you can concentrate on enjoying your adventure. All of our CEOs in southern and East Africa are experienced group leaders, with a broad knowledge base of the region’s history, cultures, and wildlife. Your leader will be from either southern or East Africa depending on which part of the tour you are on. He/she will be joining you in the back of the truck for a maximum of approximately 50% during driving, to answer questions and provide more information about the areas that you visit. Your CEO will spend the remainder of the driving time in front with the driver to enable them to make bookings, do planning and to fulfil other organizational requirements of the tour. During wildlife safari drives, your CEO will ensure to accompany you in the passenger area of the truck. This is of course because they have a lot of knowledge to share with you during these exciting wildlife safari drives. Please do not hesitate to ask your CEO any questions.
All of our overland adventure vehicle (OAV) drivers are experienced in the routes travelled, and highly skilled in dealing with different terrains. All of our cooks will organize and lead the meal preparation, and have experience in cooking a variety of local and international dishes for large groups.
In Uganda, during the actual gorilla trek we use an experienced and certified local mountain guide, expert gorilla trackers, and armed guards to accompany you for your safety.
In the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater to round out the team, along with your CEO, you will be accompanied by a local safari crew consisting of an expert driver/guide and camp cook. Your driver/guide is skilled and experienced driver and a certified safari guide, and is an integral part of the team. As well, your cook will prepare the camp meals to add some further local flavour to the trip.
We also use local guides for some included activities where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places we are visiting.
Group Size Notes
Max 22, avg 18.
Meals Included
47 breakfasts, 40 lunches, 34 dinners
Meals
As mentioned above, most of the meals on this tour are included in the tour price. When a meal is not included, this is because there are often many options available – we would like to give you the opportunity to explore a bit and test the local cuisine yourself. In these cases, your CEO will be able to suggest some good local restaurants or options for you to choose from.
All included meals will be prepared from fresh local produce. The majority of the shopping for foodstuffs will be done before the trip departs, and fresh goods, such as meats, fruits, vegetables, and dairy products, will be bought en route during the trip from supermarkets, local shops and markets. Breakfasts will generally consist of breads and cereals, if time allows a warm breakfast may be prepared. Many lunches will be provided en-route and will be light meals such as sandwiches and/or salads. All evening meals will be freshly-prepared hot meals, and will consist of a variety of continental and local dishes.
Your CEOs will do all the meal preparation and lead the way here, but will prepare a duty schedule for ensuring a fair, rotating participation from you and your group members in the meal preparation and dish washing duties.
Vegetarian meals and other dietary requirements need to be specified prior to arrival. Please note all bottled drinking water while on safari will be at your own expense.
Transport
Overland adventure vehicle (OAV), mokoro, 4×4 safari vehicles, minibuses, ferry, walking.
About our Transportation
This trip is done a combination of vehicles – a larger 24 seat overland vehicle named the Lando for most of the trip, and in private 6-7 seat safari vehicles for the safari section in Tanzania. Both styles of vehicles have their advantages – the Lando allows the entire group, including your CEO, to travel together, and sits higher, great for wildlife viewing and to enjoy the scenic landscape.
The smaller safari vehicles will be used when the group is in the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater. With sliding windows and a large pop-up roofs, an open 360-degree view of area, great for wildlife viewing. If there is a large group, 2-3 vehicles will be used, and the group will be split up. This style of travel is by no means luxurious, but the seats are comfortable and having our own private vehicles allow us the flexibility of making stops when needed, and to stay and watch that crouching lion prepare for an attack.
For your time in Zanzibar, please note that the overland adventure vehicle (OAV) will stay in Dar es Salaam, on the mainland. We use a large public ferry with in indoor seating area to cross to the island, and while there, our transportation will be in minibuses.
Here’s a quick look at the unique features of the well-equipped G Adventures overland adventure vehicle (OAV):
- Storage for your main luggage is accessible from inside the vehicle
- Day packs can be stored at your feet or on the luggage shelf above
- Onboard safety box for valuables
- Front viewing windows and large sliding windows, both great for wildlife viewing
- Reclining seats
- Fully equipped mobile kitchen
- Access to a 250L tank of drinking water
- Air-conditioning
- Charging station, when available in camp (South African plug – 220-240V)
- USB charging ports for every traveller at their seat
- Wifi in selected countries, depending on the network reception
Please note that our Landos do not have on-board bathrooms.
This is not a physically demanding journey; however, travelling can be difficult, with long drives and poor road conditions at times. Please take note of the travel times and distances in the above itinerary, and consider that this is often on poor quality, bumpy roads. Despite this, most clients feel that the diversity of the African landscape, culture and wildlife are all well worth the experience.
Solo Travellers
We believe single 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 single travellers on these itineraries must pay the single trip price.
Accommodation
Simple hotels (5 nts), participation camping (38 nts), permanent tented camp (1 nt), full-service camping (2 nts), guesthouses (2 nts, multi-share), basic bush camping (2 nts), hostel (1 nt, multi-share).
My Own Room
Please note that if you have booked the “My Own Room/Tent” option for this tour, you will receive your own single room/tent for all nights, except for the below.
My Own Room Exceptions
Day 1, 7, 8, 16
About Accommodation
Camping in Africa is truly an adventure. You will be able to get off the beaten track to get a first-hand experience of the beautiful wilderness and nature. While camping, we stay at designated campsites in national parks and outside towns. Campsite facilities in southern Africa are generally good, but can be basic in certain places. There are generally small restaurants and/or bars, flush toilets, showers (generally outdoors, some with simple reed enclosures), washing facilities and telephones available. Additionally, warm water is available at most sites, but it is not guaranteed to always be warm when you take your shower; the warm water may be used up others who also use the camp. We usually set-up camp within close proximity to the toilet facilities, though occasionally to reach them you may to walk a short distance.
They are good quality, durable, industry-standard 2-person safari canvas tents. Please note that most adults will not be able to fully stand up inside the tents, though most travellers find these more than adequate, as they have a base area of approximately 4 square meters. These tents are regularly treated with a waterproofing agent, but under certain rainy conditions, the tent fabric may become saturated to the point where seepage or leakage may occur. All tents have built-in mesh insect netting on the windows and doors.
We travel with our own portable camp chairs with a comfortable back-rest, and we utilize our own cooking equipment to provide the group good quality camp meals.
Wild or Bush Camping
Your camping experience in the Okavango Delta (2 nights) is fondly called “bush camping”, as we camp wild on remote islands, away from civilization and its comforts, and completely surrounded by nature – an unbelievable experience some in fact feel is the highlight of the trip. Wild/bush camps have no facilities – these will be the most basic two nights of our trip, as there is no running water, no showers, nor toilets facilities – we will take our own water and all equipment. Wild camping can be very enjoyable, however please remember that we leave no trace of our stay and take all rubbish away with us. Toilets will be of the “dig and bury” variety, and we will provide “bucket in a tree” style showers (with canvas screen for privacy). Wild camping is the ultimate African bush experience as we camp right in amongst the wildlife, so there is a possibility of elephant and other wildlife coming very close to camp. Your safari guides will have your safety as a priority, so please ensure that you obey all their bush camping instructions.
Guesthouse/Lodge/Bugalows
2 nights in in Swakopmund, we stay in backpacker’s (hostels) or small guest houses, which will give us a break from camping and to be better located than the campgrounds in the area. Here, the accommodation is based on several people sharing dormitory-style rooms, with possibly 6 to 8 people sharing a room. Although we will try, we cannot guarantee to be able to divide the group into different dormitories based on gender lines. As such, males and females may have to share the same sleeping quarters for these nights. The bathrooms and showers are private, but may also be shared between both males and females.
3 nights on Zanzibar Island we will stay in bungalows. Basic rooms, twin and multi sharing rooms with shared ablutions.
Simple Hotel
1 night in Cape Town and 1 night in Windhoek we will stay in twin rooms.
In camping within the national parks and conservation areas, some camp sites are enclosed for keeping the resident wildlife out. Other camps are open to the natural environment – care must be taken, especially at night, when a torch/flashlight is recommended when walking around the camp area.
The campsite in Serengeti National Park is extremely basic, with no electricity, simple bathing faciilties (no showers), and squat toilets. While camping at the Ngorongoro Crater rim, there is very limited electricity, occasionally warm showers, and both seated and squat flushing toilets.
Despite the challenge that a few days “roughing it” may pose to some, the experience of being that close to nature, camping under the African stars, and seeing incredible wildlife at your tent door-step is not just gratifying but ultimately an experience of a lifetime.s, and seeing incredible wildlife at your tent door-step is not just gratifying but ultimately an experience of a lifetime.
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
On arrival into Cape Town an arrival transfer is not included. Please make your way to the joining hotel. A brief departure meeting will be held in the hotel reception area in evening on Day 1 of your tour. Upon arrival look for information from your CEO regarding meeting time and also the rest of the tour.
Cape Town International Airport is about 22 km from downtown. There are a variety of ways to get into the city. To take a taxi, leave the international terminal, cross the first road and you will see the taxi stand. Official taxis have the kilometre rate on the door. If you wish to take a shuttle to the city centre, when arriving at the international terminal, turn immediately left and walk straight ahead and you’ll see the shuttle services desk. Cost is approximately 80zar.
If you have a pre-arranged transfer, upon walking out of the international arrivals look for a transfer person holding a G Adventures sign and 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.
The tour departs Cape Town on Day 2 in the morning.
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, as soon as possible please contact your starting point hotel, requesting that you speak to or leave a message for your CEO. If you are unable to get in touch with your leader, please refer to our emergency contact details.
If you have pre-booked an airport transfer: After you have picked up your luggage and entered the arrival hall, you should see a G Adventures representative holding a G sign. If you do not see anyone, we ask that you please make your way to the information desk, which is located on the same level. If 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 call the local emergency contact numbers listed below for more information.
EMERGENCY CONTACT NUMBERS
G Adventures Local Representative (South Africa)
From outside South Africa: +27 713823286
From within South Africa: 071 3823286
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
Finishing Point Instructions
The tour ends upon arrival into Nairobi, in the late afternoon, at the Hotel Boulevard in central Nairobi. In order to avoid any necessary issues with timing, please book your outgoing flight from Nairobi from 21:00 hrs or later.
There is no included accommodation for this night in Nairobi. You may choose to pre-reserve post-tour accommodation at through G Adventures.
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 wildlife safari drives. A set of smart casual clothes is also advisable.
For our camping style tours you will need to provide your own sleeping bag, small pillow and sleeping sheet (if you would like). We provide the tent and the sleeping pads.
On this trip you may experience all four seasons. We suggest you take something warm eg tracksuit, fleece or pullover for the mountainous areas i.e. Bwindi or Virungas. It is at a higher altitude and will therefore be cooler in the evenings – a jersey, anorak/wind jacket and tracksuit pants would be suggested.
It will also be necessary to take some wet weather gear as it does rain in the mountainous areas of Uganda and Rwanda on a regular basis. We suggest lightweight rain gear for the walk to see the gorillas.
While gorilla trekking you will need a comfortable, hard wearing, pair of walking shoes or boots. Conditions are generally very muddy/slippery. There are uphill sections which may be quite steep and strenuous. It is also advisable to wear a long sleeve cotton shirt and lightweight long pants to protect yourself from the undergrowth, stinging nettles and biting ants. (Tracksuit pants often get caught on bushes, thorns, etc and jeans can get very heavy when wet). Gloves are also highly recommended – just cheap gardening gloves will do. Tuck your long pants into your socks/boots to avoid biting insects. Also take a water bottle, and a day pack for camera gear and to carry your jacket if it’s too warm.
Your clothes will in all likelihood get very muddy and may not recover to their original state – therefore take old clothing for the gorilla trekking. Hard wearing clothes, no bright colours, no army camouflage clothing should be worn. Greens, khaki and similar neutral clothes are recommended.
Packing List
Additional Items:
• Sleeping bag and liner (Seasonally appropriate)
Cold Weather:
• Long-sleeved shirts or sweater
• Scarf
• Warm gloves
• Warm hat
• Warm layers
Documents:
• Flight info (required) (Printouts of e-tickets may be required at the border)
• Insurance info (required) (With photocopies)
• Passport (required) (With photocopies)
• Required visas or vaccination certificates (required) (With photocopies)
• Vouchers and pre-departure information (required)
Essentials:
• Binoculars (optional)
• Camera (With extra memory cards and batteries)
• Cash, credit and debit cards
• Day pack (Used for daily excursions or short overnights)
• Ear plugs
• First-aid kit (should contain lip balm with sunscreen, sunscreen, whistle, Aspirin, Ibuprofen, bandaids/plasters, tape, anti-histamines, antibacterial gel/wipes, antiseptic cream, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, rehydration powder, water purification tablets or drops, insect repellent, sewing kit, extra prescription drugs you may be taking)
• Flashlight/torch (Headlamps are ideal)
• Fleece top/sweater
• Footwear
• Hat
• Locks for bags
• Long pants/jeans
• Moneybelt
• Outlet adapter
• Personal entertainment (Reading and writing materials, cards, music player, etc.)
• Reusable water bottle
• Shirts/t-shirts
• Sleepwear
• Small travel towel
• Sunglasses
• Toiletries (Preferably biodegradable)
• Watch and alarm clock
• Waterproof backpack cover
• Windproof rain jacket
Gorillas:
• Gardening gloves (Highly recommended for gorilla trekking)
• Neutral coloured clothing (Your clothes will likely get very muddy – therefore take old clothing for the gorilla trekking. No bright colours should be worn. Greens, khaki and similar neutral clothes are recommended)
Health & Safety:
• Face masks (required)
• Hand sanitizer (required)
• Pen (Please bring your own pen for filling out documents.)
• Rubber gloves
Trekking:
• Gloves
• Hat
• Hiking boots/sturdy walking shoes
• Hiking pants (Convertible/Zip-off and quick dry recommended)
• Snacks (Protein bars, chocolate, dried fruits, candies, energy sweets.)
• Socks (Trekking socks (woollen or synthetic, not cotton).)
• Thermal base layer (Woollen or synthetic, not cotton.)
• Walking poles (Highly recommended.)
Warm Weather:
• Sandals/flip-flops
• Shorts/skirts (Longer shorts/skirts are recommended)
• Sun hat/bandana
• Swimwear
Note: Seasons in Africa are quite extreme. Winters can be really cold and summers will be really hot. If you travel during winter months (May to October) please ensure that you bring warm clothing and a suitable sleeping bag.
Note: The climate in East Africa varies between the dry and rainy season. Please ensure you bring a windproof rain jacket if you are travelling between April & May, October & November.
Laundry
Laundry facilities are offered by some of our hotels for a charge. There will be times when you may want to or have to do your own laundry so we suggest you bring non-polluting/biodegradable soap. Aboard the expedition ships Explorer and Andrea laundry facilities are provided at a charge. Aboard the Amazon Explorer laundry facilities are provided free of charge for each passenger once a week.
Visas and Entry Requirements
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.
All travelers will be required to obtain a visa prior to entering the country, either at the border or in advance from your local embassy. Please double check with your agent and/or visa agent what the visa requirements is for each country that you will be travelling 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.
IMPORTANT NOTE
It may be required to show a Yellow Fever certificate upon entering the country. Please check in with your local consulate and health expert for advice on Yellow Fever and other inoculations required for this area.
East Africa Tourist Visa
An East Africa Tourist Visa allows the holder to move freely between Kenya, Rwanda and Uganda with only one Visa, and is valid for a period of 90 days. It also acts as a multiple entry Visa, so if you leave any of the above countries, you do not need a new Visa to re-enter (provided it is within the 90 day validity period). These need to be applied for in advance, and you should contact the foreign Embassy (of the country you will be entering through) for more details. The cost is 100USD.
Please see below for more information:
https://visiteastafrica.org/travel-guide/visa-information
South Africa
https://www.dha.gov.za/index.php/immigration-services/exempt-countries
https://www.dha.gov.za/index.php/immigration-services/apply-for-a-south-african-visa
https://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, 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: The International Air Transport Association (IATA), on 29 April, 2019, updated the Travel Information Manual Automatic (TIMATIC), used by airport ground staff to determine whether a passenger can be carried, with regard to the requirements for children travelling to South Africa.
According to the updated text, IATA is advising that members’ check-in staff to no longer request birth certificates from minors who have visas, or who are exempted from visas, if travelling with their parents with the same surname.
Namibia
https://www.namibia.org.za/consular.htm
https://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.
Botswana
Please note that starting June 1, 2017, Botswana will be implementing a $30 USD entry tax for visitors entering the country, except for residents and citizens of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) member states. This entry tax is payable at all points of entry into Botswana and will be valid for 30 days and includes multiple entry. For further information please visit the BTO website www.botswanatourism.co.bw/tourismlevy
https://www.botswanaembassy.org/index.php?page=visa-consular
https://www.botswanatourism.co.bw/entryFormalities.php
Visas cannot be obtained at the border.
Countries that does not require a visa for Botswana:
Antigua & Barbuda, Argentina, Australia, Austria, Bahamas, Barbados, Belgium, Belize, Brazil,Brunei Darussalam, Bulgaria, Canada, Chile, Costa Rica, Croatia, Cyprus, Denmark, Dominica, Dominican Republic, Estonia, Fiji, Finland, France, Gambia, Germany, Greece, Grenada, Guyana, Holy See, Hong Kong, Hungary,Iceland, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Jamaica, Japan, Kenya, Kiribati, Lesotho, Liechtenstien, Latvia, Lithuania, Luzembourg, Malawi, Malaysia, Maldives, Malta, Mauritius, Mexico, Monaco, Mozambique, Namibia,Nauru, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway & Colonies*, Papua New Guinea, Paraguay, Peru, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Russia, Samoa, San Marico, Seychelles, Sierra Leone, Singapore, Slovak Republic, Solomon Islands, South Africa, South Korea (Republic Of), Spain, St. Kitts And Nevis, St. Lucia, St. Vincent & The Gurenadines, Swaziland, Sweden, Switzerland, Tanzania, Tonga, Trinidad & Tobago, Tuvalu, Uganda, United Kingdom, United States Of America, Uruguay, Vanuatu, Venezuela, Zambia, Zimbabwe.
Countries that do require a visa for Botswana:
Afghanistan, Albania, Algeria, Andorra, Angola,Armenia, Azerbaijan, Bangladesh, Burkina Faso, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Belarus, Benin, Bhutan, Bolivia, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cambodia, Cameroon, Cape Verde, Central African Republic, Chad, China, Columbia, Comoros, Congo (Republic Of), Congo (Democratic Republic Of), Cote D’ivoire (Ivory Coast), Cuba, Czech Republic, Djibouti, Ecuador, Egypt, El Salvador, Equitorial Guinea, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Gabon, Georgia, Ghana, Guatemala, Guinea, Guinea Bissau, Haiti, Honduras, India, Indonesia, Iran, Iraq, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Korea (Dem. Peoples Rep), Kuwait, Kyrgyzstan (Kirghizia), Laos (Peoples Dem. Rep), Lebanon, Liberia, Libya, Macedonia, Madagascar, Mali, Mauritania, Micronesia, Moldova, Mongolia, Montenegro, Morroco, Myanmar (Burma), Nepal, Nicaragua, Niger, Nigeria, Oman, Pakistan, Palau, Panama, Phillippines, Qatar, Rwanda, Sao Tome & Principe, Saudi Arabia, Senegal, Serbia, Somalia, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Sumatra, Suriname, Syria, Taiwan, Tajikistan, Thailand, Togo, Tunisia, Turkey, Turkmenistan, Ukraine, United Arab Emirates, Uzbekistan, Vatican City, Vietnam, Yemen
Visa costs
Please enquire from your agent and/or embassy.
Yellow Fever Certificate
According to the WHO and CDC, there is no risk of yellow fever in Botswana. It is compulsory to show a valid Yellow Fever vaccination certificate if you are travelling to Botswana from a Yellow Fever endemic country, or have recently travelled to a Yellow Fever endemic country (with entry stamps in your passport), including the following countries (but not limited to): Angola, Benin, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Congo, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Republic of the Cote d’Ivoire (Ivory Coast) Equatorial Guinea, Ethiopia, Gabon, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea Zambia, Guinea-Bissau, Kenya, Liberia, Mali, Mauritania, Niger, Nigeria, Rwanda, São Tomé and Príncipe, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Somalia, Sudan, Tanzania, Togo, Uganda, Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, French Guiana, Guyana, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Suriname, Trinidad and Tobago, Venezuela.
We advise all travelers to Botswana who are coming from one of the above countries, or who have visited them in the last 10 years, to be prepared with a Yellow Fever vaccination certificate or letter from your doctor with proof of vaccination. Yellow Fever inoculations need to be administered at least 10 days prior to your entry into the country. Border officials in Botswana have been strictly enforcing these requirements. Travelers without the correct documentation run the risk of being denied entry, and will not be able to continue with the tour. (Any additional travel expenses will be on your own account.) *
Malawi
https://www.malawiembassy-dc.org/index.php?page=visa-information
https://www.malawitourism.com/pages/content/index.asp?PageID=77
Please be aware that some travellers may require a VISA before arriving in Malawi. To determine whether you require a VISA prior to arrival check the information at the following link: https://visamalawi.com/?page_id=73. To avoid unnecessary delays, or the possibility of being denied entry, please ensure that you have a VISA prior to arrival if one is required.
Kaza Uni-Visa for Zimbabwe and Zambia
As this tour visits both Zimbabwe and Zambia, we suggest obtaining the Kavango Zambezi Trans-Frontier Conservation Area (Kaza) Uni-Visa. The Kaza Uni-Visa will be valid for 30 days and act as a multiple entry visa as long as you remain in Zimbabwe and Zambia. It will be issued at a standard fee of US$50 at the following ports of entry:
Zambia: Harry Mwaanga Airport (Livingstone), Victoria Falls Land Border, Kazungula Land Border (Botswana), Kenneth Kaunda Airport (Lusaka)
Zimbabwe: Victoria Falls Airport, Victoria Falls Land Border, Kazungula Land Border (Botswana), Harare Airport
Eligible Countries:
Citizens from 40 countries listed below shall be eligible for the Kaza Uni-Visa obtainable at the eight (8) ports of entry as stated above.
Argentina, Austria, Australia, Belgium, Brazil, Britain (UK), Brunei, Burundi, Canada, Cook Islands, Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Monaco, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Puerto Rico, Russia, Rwanda, Slovakia Republic, Slovenia Republic, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, UAE, Uruguay, USA
If your nationality is not listed above then normal specific Zambia/Zimbabwe visa entry requirements apply.
Zambia
Information below is in regards to Zambian Visas only.
https://www.zambiaimmigration.gov.zm/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=93&Itemid=118
https://www.zambiaimmigration.gov.zm/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=92&Itemid=117
Most nationals can purchase their visas upon arrival. Some nationals do have to obtain a visa before arriving in Lusaka such as Greek, Turkish, Indian, Chinese. But please double check with your agent and/or closest embassy.
Single Entry- US $50.
Double Entry- US $80
Multiple Entry- US $80
Tanzania
Border crossing from Malawi into Tanzania is via the Songwe Border Post and from Tanzania into Kenya through Namanga Border Post.
You can get a visa on arrival at the airport or at any entry point into Tanzania. But please double check your visa requirements before departure.
No Visa is required for nationals of the following countries:
Botswana, Gambia, Ghana, Hong Kong, Kenya, Leshoto, Malawi, Malaysia, Mozambique, Namibia, Swaziland, Uganda, Zambia and Zimbabwe.
Referred Visas are required for nationals of the following countries:
The referred visa is one that requires special clearance or permission from the Director of Immigration Services in Dar es Salaam or the Principal Immigration Officer in Zanzibar.
Afghanistan, Abkhazia, Azerbaijan, Bangladesh, Chad, Djibouti, Ethiopia, Equiatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Lebanon, Mali, Mauritania, Morocco, Niger, Palestine, Refugees and Stateless individuals, Senegal, Somalia, Sierra Leone, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzten, and Sri Lanka.
IT IS EMPHASIZED THAT NATIONALS AND PERSONS OF THE MENTIONED COUNTRIES AND/OR CATEGORIES ABOVE MAY NOT BE ALLOWED ENTRY INTO TANZANIA WITHOUT BEING IN POSSESSION OF REFERRED VISAS.
Visa Costs – Please use only as a guideline
US Citizens ONLY: US$100.00. This fee will apply to single and all multiple entry visas.
Non-US Citizens: Visa fees are US$50.00 for single entry, and US$100.00 for double entry
Kenya
The Kenyan Government has introduced an electronic visa process with effect from July 2nd. Travellers wishing to enter Kenya need to visit www.ecitizen.go.ke and follow instructions for processing their electronic visa in advance of their arrival into Kenya. As this measure was introduced with little advance notice, there is a grace period where travellers may continue to apply upon arrival into Kenya for their visa. You can obtain a visa for US$50. This visa is normally valid for up to 3 months with multiple entries/exits permitted to Uganda and Tanzania only. Please note that Kenya is now strictly enforcing a “blank pages, condition of entry”. All those requiring a visa on arrival must have at least two blank pages available in their passports. Failure to meet this requirement could mean that entry will be refused.
Border crossing from Kenya to Tanzania is through Tarime Border Post, and from Tanzania to Kenya at Namanga Border Post
Persons aged 16 years and below will require a visa to enter Kenya.
Uganda
Visas for Uganda for most nationalities must be obtained through an Electronic Visa application online in advance, and a payment of $50 USD cash will have to be made upon arrival to the border.
LIST OF COUNTRIES WHOSE NATIONALS DO NOT REQUIRE TO PAY FOR A VISA TO ENTER UGANDA:
Angola, Antigua, Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Burundi, Comoros, Cyprus, Eritrea, Fiji, Gambia, Grenada, Italy (Diplomatic Passport holders only), Jamaica, Ireland, Kenya, Lesotho, Malawi, Malta, Mauritius, Madagascar, Rwanda, Seychelles, Sierra Leone, Singapore, Solomon Islands, St. Vincent and Grenadines, Swaziland, Tanzania, Tonga, Vanuatu, Zambia and Zimbabwe.
Nationals of these countries are issued gratis (free of charge) visas upon their arrival.
Multiple entry visa:
A six-month multiple entry visa costs £65 (sixty five pounds). Other categories of multiple entry visas (12 months, 24 months & 36 months) can be applied for at the Ministry of Internal Affairs, Kampala. Information on these other categories can be got on the Ministry of Internal Affairs’ website: www.mia.go.ug.
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.
Detailed Trip Notes
Anyone who is generally active and in good health should enjoy this trip. 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, culture and wildlife are all well worth the experience. We use a comfortable and safe customized safari truck for the long open road drives. This is a true African experience for outdoor enthusiasts interested in culture, adventure and wildlife, who enjoy simple campsites and basic wild camps. We will get dusty on occasion; but this is Africa!
Other Trip Comments An essential part of your safari is participation – from putting up your tent (while camping) or packing away in the morning, to helping with meal preparation and cleaning up – it is all part of your adventure and when everyone puts in a little effort the trip will run smoothly. Your CEOs will do all the meal preparation, but we do ask the clients to help with the washing up. Team spirit is part of the fun! Language There are multiple official languages in Namibia, Botswana, South Africa, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Malawi and Tanzania, although English is widely spoken. There are also numerous dialects spoken throughout different parts of these lands.SOUTH AFRICA
Full country name: Republic of South Africa
Area: 1,221,037km2 (447,443mi2)
Population: 47,432,000 (July 2005 estimate), 44,819,278 (Census 2001)
Capital cities: Cape Town (Legislative), Pretoria (Admistrative) and Bloemfontein (Judicial)
People: Zulu, Afrikaners, Xhosa, Basotho (South Sotho), English South Africans, Bapedi (North Sotho), Indian/Asian, Venda, Tswana, Tsonga, Swazi, Ndebele, others
Language: Afrikaans, English, Zulu, Xhosa, Swati, Ndebele, Southern Sotho, Northern Sotho, Tsonga, Tswana, Venda
Religion: Zion Christian 11%, Pentecostal/Charismatic 8%, Catholic 7%, Methodist 7%, Dutch Reformed 7%, Anglican 4%, other Christian 36%, Islam 2%, none 15%
Government: Parliamentary democracy
Major industries: mining (world’s largest producer of platinum, gold, chromium), automobile assembly, metal working, machinery, textiles, iron and steel, chemicals, fertilizer, food stuff, commercial ship repair.
Major trading partners: U.S., UK, Japan, Germany, Netherlands, China, France, Saudi Arabia, Iran (2004).
Currency: Rand (ZAR), consisting of 100 cents
NAMIBIA
Full country name: Republic of Namibia
Area: 824,292 sq km (318,259 sq mi)
Population: 2,032,000 (July 2005 est) 1.820,916 (Census 2002)
Capital city: Windhoek (pop 161,000)
People: 86% African (50% Owambo, 9% Kavango, 7% Herero, 7% Damara, 5% Nama, 4% Caprivian, 3% San, 2% Baster, 0.5% Tswana), 7.4% mixed, 6.6% white Languages: English, Afrikaans, German, Oshivambo, Herero, Nama
Religion: Christian, Lutheran, native religions
Government: Republic
President: Sam Nujoma
Major industries: Meat packing, fish processing, dairy products, mining (diamond, lead, zinc, tin, silver, tungsten, uranium, copper), millet, sorghum, peanuts, livestock, fish, tourism.
Major trading partners: UK, South Africa, Spain, Japan, Germany, USA
Formally known as South West Africa. The whole territory became German protectorate in 1884, except for the British/Cape Colony enclave of Walvis Bay. After the First World War the territory was administered by South Africa until independence on 21 March 1990. The capital is Windhoek and the second largest town is Walvis Bay, Namibia’s only port. Swakopmund is a coastal town with a German influence and revolves mainly around tourism. Namibia’s economy relies on diamond mining in the south, cattle farming in the north, fishing along the coast and tourism. Most of the country is desert or semi desert. There is a population of around 1.8 million. This, around 1, 5 people per sq. km is one of the lowest in the world. The official language is English although there are many different cultures including Herero, San, Koikoi, Owambo, Afrikaans and German. Namibia was at one stage a German colony therefore having German-speaking people. About 75% of the locals are Christian and the others have traditional beliefs. Namibia is a land of contrasts. Being largely semi-desert and desert, midsummer temperatures may rise to 40°C, while winter night temperatures can drop to freezing. Along the coast it is cool, with regular morning fogs. Namibia’s rain falls in summer, from October to April, and the land averages 300 days of sunshine annually.
BOTSWANA
Full country name: Republic of Botswana
Area: 600,370 sq km (231,800 sq mi)
Population: 1.6 million Capital city: Gaborone (pop 192,000)
People: Botswana 60%, Bakalanga, Basarwa, Bakgalagadi
Languages: English, Setswana
Religions: indigenous beliefs 50%, Christian 50%
Government: parliamentary republic
President: Festus Mogae
Major industries: diamonds, copper, nickel, coal, salt, soda ash, potash, livestock processing, sorghum, maize, millet, pulses, groundnuts (peanuts), beans, cowpeas, sunflower seed, livestock
Major trading partners: EU, Southern African Customs Union (SACU), Zimbabwe
The first inhabitants of Botswana were the San (Bushmen). They still populate the country, but the Tswana tribe is now more prominent. Other tribes include the Kalanga, Nbukushy, Yei and the Herero. The Herero women still wear the full-length Victorian-style dresses, which were introduced to them by German missionaries in the late 1800’s, however it is now a tribal trademark. The British controlled Bechuanaland (as Botswana was then known) from 1885 until the country received their independence on September 30th 1966. Ironically diamonds were discovered in Botswana in 1967! Interesting fact – Botswana’s diamonds do very well on the International market as they are classified as “Blood free,” meaning they are not used to fund guerrilla warfare. Botswana has the strongest economy and currency in Africa, mostly due to their diamonds and livestock. The European Union put many stipulations on their imported meats and Botswana’s tight vetenary checks, aiming at controlling foot and mouth, mean that the EU are happy to buy their meat. Agricultural income will improve when they have combated the problem of widespread drought. They are currently installing irrigation systems around the country to try to feed the most water-deprived areas. Botswana handles it’s international debt much better than any other African country with the interest being paid with one months export earnings, rather than the six months earnings it takes most other African countries. With the amount of for ex the have saved up the country could survive with no income for 36 months. Botswana has the world’s highest birth rate at 3.5%, and average women have 5 children. The country has a strong currency, the Pula meaning rain and the Thebe meaning raindrop. Government policies and poaching: Their policy on tourism is “high cost and low impact” therefore rather having a few less tourists and charging more money for the privilege of a visit to a park or similar. The country has a very good army, which has an anti poaching unit. Poaching has in the past been a problem in the country but in now almost under control. The army is allowed to shoot to kill without asking questions if you are caught poaching. Rhinos are very few due to poaching and they have breeding programs in place.
ZAMBIA
Full country name: Zambia
Area: 752,615km2 (17th largest in Africa)
Population: 10.4 million
Capital city: Lusaka
Largest Towns: Lusaka, Ndola, Victoria Falls, Kabwe, Kitwe.
People: Bemba, Tonga, Nyanja, Ngoni, Lozi plus many other different groups as well as Colonial ex-pats and people of Asian descent
Official Language: English
Other Languages: Bemba, Tonga, Nyanja, Lozi
Religion: Christian, ZCC and Islam
Government: Multiparty parliamentary democracy
President: Levy Mwanawasa
Currency: Kwacha
Major industries: Agriculture (mainly subsistence farming), mining, tourism
• Formally called Northern Rhodesia, Zambia gained its independence from colonial Great Britain in 1964.
• By the end of 1970, Zambia has become one of the poorest countries in the world due to corruption, mismanagement of the economy and a fall in the world copper price.
• In the 1990s Kuanda, the president since independence, was forced to amend the constitution, legalizing opposition parties and setting full elections in 1991. They were defeated by Frederick Chiluba. However, Zambia’s situation has not improved.
• The country has three distinct seasons: cool and dry from May to August, hot and dry in September and October and rainy between November and April.
• The majority of the population are subsistence farmers and there are also some large commercial farms growing sugar cane.
INTERESTING FACTS
1. Zambia is the fourth-largest supplier of copper in the world and the leading producer of cobalt. Combined the mining of these two minerals accounts for 75% of Zambia’s foreign exchange and 5% of employment in the country.
2. There are 73 officially recognized ethnic groups living within Zambia’s borders, each with their own culture and language.
3. Unlike many African countries, Zambia’s borders do not adhere to any logical language or tribal boundaries.
4. Unlike neighbouring Botswana the Zambian government does not have a comprehensive anti-poaching policy and poaching remains a major problem facing Zambia’s wildlife.
5. Approx 750 different species of bird have been recorded in Zambia. 6. The Victoria Falls on the Zambian side is known as “Mosi oa Tunya” (the smoke that thunders)
MALAWI
Full country name: Republic of Malawi
Area: 118,500km2 (35 that)
Population: 10.4 million
Capital city: Lilongwe (pop 260,000)
People: Chewa, Nyanja, Tumbuko, Yao, Lomwe, Sena, Tonga, Ngoni, Ngonde, Asian, European
Languages: English, Chichewa, regional languages
Religion: 55% Protestant, 20% Roman Catholic, 20% Muslim, traditional indigenous beliefs
Government: Multi-party democracy
President: Bakili Muluzi
Major industries: Tea, tobacco, sugar, sawmill products, cement, consumer goods, tobacco, sugarcane, cotton, tea, corn, potatoes, cassava (tapioca), sorghum, pulses, cattle, goats
Major trading partners: US, South Africa, Germany, Japan, Zimbabwe, UK Currency: Kwacha (K)
TANZANIA – Official Statistics
Full country name: United Republic of Tanzania (Jamhuri ya Muungano wa Tanzania)
Area: 945,087 km2
Population: 38,329,000-July 2005 est (34,443,603-2002 census)
Capital city: Dodoma
People: 99% native African (over 100 tribes), 1% Asian, European and Arabic
Languages Swahili, English, indigenous.
Religion: 40% Christian, 33% Muslim, 20% indigenous beliefs
Government: Republic (multi-party state)
President: Benjamin William Mkapa
Major industries: Tobacco, sugar, sisal, diamond and gold mining, oil refining, cement, tourism
Major trading partners: India, Germany, Japan, Malaysia, Rwanda, the Netherlands, South Africa, Kenya, U.K., Saudi Arabia, China Currency: Tanzanian shilling
TANZANIA – Interesting Facts
• The name is name made up from an amalgamation of TANganyika and ZANzibar.
• Tanzania is the largest country in East Africa (although not in Africa as a whole, the Sudan is 3 times larger); it’s landmass covering an area of just over 945,087 sq. km (including Zanzibar).
- This makes Tanzania about the size of France, Germany and Switzerland combined; 3 times the size of the entire British Isles or one-tenth the size of the whole of the USA.
- Tanzania’s population at the last official census was 31.3 million, with approximately one third being classified as “urban”.
- Agriculture forms roughly half of GDP and agriproducts (e.g.: coffee, tea, tobacco, cashew nut, sisal, cotton) some 75% of export earnings. • Dodoma, in central Tanzania, is the political capital of the country although Dar es Salaam is the effective trading and business capital, with its safe harbour (""Dar es Salaam” means “Haven of Peace”), international airport and population of some 1.75million.
KENYA – Official Statistics
Full country name: Republic of Kenya (Jamhuri Ya Kenya)
Area: 580,367 km2
Population: 34,256,000-July 2005 est. (31,138,735- 2002 Census)
Capital city: Nairobi
People: 22% Kikuyu, 14% Luhya, 13% Luo, 12% Kalenjin, 11% Kamba, 6% Kisii, 6% Meru, 16% other
Languages: English, Swahili, indigenous.
Religion: 35% Protestant, 30% Roman Catholic, 30% Muslim, 5% Animist
Government: Republic (multiparty state)
President: Uhuru Kenyatta
Major industries: small-scale consumer goods (plastic, furniture, beer, batteries, textiles, flour), agricultural processing, oil refining, chemicals, cement, tourism.
Major trading partners: Uganda, Tanzania, UK, Germany, UAE, South Africa
KENYA – Interesting Facts
• At 580,367 km2 the country is two and a half times the size of Britain.
• The population is over 30 million and has one of the world’s fastest growth rates.
• Kenya gained independence in 1963 after 80 years of British rule. • Most Kenyans are subsistence farmers.
• Coffee and tea are grown commercially and tourism is also a huge income for the country. The country is still in huge debt though and has few mineral resources and corruption is again a problem.
• The country lies on the equator and has good national parks and Mount Kenya the second highest peak in Africa. It also has good beaches and colourful people. Nairobi is the capital and Mombassa the countries port city.
UGANDA – Official Statistics
Area: 235,796sq km (32nd in Africa)
Population: 26,219,000
Capital City: Kampala
Official language: English
Other languages: KiSwahili (widely spoken, but not indigenous), Luganda, Runyoro
Head of state: President Yoweri Museveni
Life expectancy: 52 years
Literacy: 70%
Per Capita Income: US$220
Main industry: Tourism
Major Cultures: Bantu, Batembuzi, Baganda, Asian (Indian)
Relgion: Christian, ZCC and Muslim.
Uganda enjoys ideal equatorial weather conditions, ranging from the warmth of the lowland areas and lakeshores to the coolness of the highlands. The altitude on a Uganda safari varies from 1,000 metres to 2,400 metres above sea level. The days are a pleasant 75 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit and nights are a moderate 50 to 60 degrees Fahrenheit with January being the warmest month. At higher altitudes it can be cooler, especially at Bwindi. The long rainy season is between March and May and the short rains are from October to November, but it can rain at any time of the year. The rainy season can sometimes make travel difficult but the views are clearer. It can be cool in the evenings, especially in the hilly and mountainous areas. Despite the high temperatures and rainfall, due to altitude, the humidity is low, making for one of the most pleasant and comfortable climates in the world.
ZIMBABWE
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 currency in South Africa is the South African Rand (ZAR). The South African rand is also an accepted form of payment in
Namibia.
The Namibian currency is the Namibian Dollar (NAD), which is equivalent in value (in Namibia only) to the South African Rand. NAD is not accepted as payment in other countries.
In Botswana, payments at supermarkets, post offices etc are to be with Pula (BWP) but activities and drinks at campsites can be paid for in USD
The official currency of Zambia is the Zambian Kwacha, denoted by ZMK. NO payments in USD are allowed in Zambia anymore (except for activities at the Safpar Waterfront in Livingstone). All other payments need to be with ZMK. Malawi uses the Kwacha (MWK) and Tanzania and Kenya use the Shilling, denoted by TZS and KES.
The official currency of Zimbabwe is the Zimbabwean Dollar (ZWD). It is advisable to pay in US$ in Zimbabwe, as it is not that easy to get a good exchange rate. However, change you receive will then be in ZWD.
USD is widely accepted in Malawi, Tanzania and Kenya but some supermarkets might only accept local currencies.
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!
Departure Tax
USD40, may be included in the international air ticket
Tipping
Tipping is an expected, though not compulsory, component of your tour program. The gesture serves as an expression of appreciation for exceptional service, and amounts given are up to your discretion.
Tipping 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 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 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).
You may use the following as a guideline, all given in a per person format:
CEO: $5-8 USD (per day, per person)
Supply Crew (Serengeti): $2-5 USD (per day)
Local guides: $2-3 USD (per day)
Safari Guide/Driver: $2-3 USD (per day)
Restaurant Staff: 10-15% of cost of bill
Okavango Delta polers: 50-100 BWP (Botswana Pula)
Gorilla trekking guides: $2-4 (per day)
Optional Activities
Table Mountain
- Table Mountain Cable Car (300-360ZAR per person)
- Table Mountain Hike (600-1500ZAR per person)
Simon’s Town
- Boulders Beach Visit (75ZAR per person)
Cape Town
- South African Wine Tour and Tasting (1075ZAR per person)
- Two Oceans Aquarium (185ZAR per person)
Cederberg
- Wine Tasting (120ZAR per person)
Orange River
- Canoeing on Orange River (300ZAR per person)
Namib Desert
- Namib Desert Walk (300NAD per person)
Sossusvlei
- Sossusvlei Desert Walk (180NAD per person)
Swakopmund
- Swakopmund Skydiving (3000NAD per person)
- Sandboarding in the Namib Desert (700NAD per person)
- Swakopmund Guided Cultural Tour (550NAD per person)
- Skeleton Coast Scenic Flight (4800NAD per person)
Twyfelfontein
- Prehistoric Rock Engravings Guided Tour (100NAD per person)
Etosha National Park
- Etosha Open Vehicle Wildlife Safari Drive (660NAD per person)
- Optional Welcome Meeting for Travellers on Combos
Ghanzi
- San/Bushmen Walk (80BWP per person)
Maun
- Okavango Delta Flight (120USD per person)
Chobe National Park
- Chobe National Park Safari Drive (40USD per person)
- Chobe River Sunset Cruise (40USD per person)
Victoria Falls
- Zambezi River Sunset Cruise (50USD per person)
- Victoria Falls Visit (30USD per person)
- Victoria Falls Helicopter Ride – 15min (165USD per person)
- Victoria Falls Whitewater Rafting (135USD per person)
- Zambezi Bungee Jump (168USD per person)
- Full Day Excursion to Chobe National Park (170USD per person)
- Princess Laundry Service (10USD per person)
- Victoria Falls Helicopter Ride – 25min (299USD per person)
Victoria Falls
- Bridge Swing over the Zambezi (168USD per person)
- Zipline over the Zambezi (47USD per person)
Mfuwe
- South Luangwa Walking Safari
- South Luangwa Wildlife Safari Drive
Kande Beach
- Snorkelling
- Swimming
- Village Walk
Chitimba
- Hike to Livingstonia (5USD per person)
- Village Walk (10USD per person)
Kendwa
- Safari Blue – Sailing Day Trip (60-100USD per person)
Nungwi
- Nungwi Village Tour (48-170USD per person)
- Scuba Diving (65USD per person)
Jambiani
- Swahili Cultural Tour (70-200USD per person)
- Snorkelling (35-60USD per person)
Stone Town
- Stone Town Walking Tour (20-40USD per person)
- Zanzibar Express Northbound
Serengeti National Park
- Serengeti Balloon Safari (599USD per person)
Lake Bunyonyi
- Swimming
- Canoe Rental (10USD per person)
- Rwanda Day Tour (60-280USD per person)
- Nature Walk (5USD per person)
- Motorboat Tour of Lake Bunyonyi (25-80USD per person)
- Bird Watching Walk (5USD per person)
Jinja
- Quad Biking (99USD per person)
- Nile River Sunset Cruise (45USD per person)
- Bungee Jumping (115USD per person)
- Nile River Kayaking (140-160USD per person)
- Jinja River Rafting
Mabira Forest
- Mabira Forest Mountain Biking (45USD per person, 180USD per group)
Health
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. Travellers should also carry a basic first-aid kit and hand sanitizers/antibacterial wipes on their travels. 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. Your tour leader will be able to inform you of local health advisories (e.g. drinking water quality). Please ensure you have all the inoculations recommended by your doctor.
Yellow Fever Certificate Note: (Updated: May 2017)
It is compulsory to show a valid Yellow Fever Certificate if you are travelling to the following G Adventures-visited countries from a Yellow Fever endemic country:
- Botswana
- Ethiopia
- Kenya
- Madagascar
- Malawi
- Mozambique
- Namibia
- Rwanda
- South Africa
- Swaziland
- Uganda
- Zambia
- Zimbabwe
For some of these countries, proof of Yellow Fever vaccination is also required for passengers who have travelled more than 12 hours through the airport of an endemic country. If other countries not endemic to Yellow Fever have been visited after visiting an endemic country, then a Yellow Fever certificate may still be required on entry. Please check country-specific regulations before your departure.
Malaria
Malaria is a mosquito-borne disease that is present in some regions in Africa. Risk of malaria can increase during periods of heavy rain, during the rainy seasons, and in densely populated areas of Southern & East Africa. To prevent malaria, we recommend speaking to your doctor about taking preventative medication (prophylaxis), combined with regular use of insect repellent spray/cream. Please check updated travel health advisories specific to malaria before your departure.
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 jewellery 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 CEO has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the trip itinerary if it is deemed necessary due to safety concerns. Your 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 or 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 judgment 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.
Protests and Demonstrations- Protests and demonstrations, even those that are well intended, have the potential to turn violent with no warning. Counter protests can also turn violent. Action by security forces to disperse demonstrators and protesters may occur at any time. If you are in an area where demonstrators or protesters are gathering, avoid the temptation of staying for a good photo opportunity and leave the area immediately.
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.
We take all prudent measures in relation to your safety. For ways to further enhance your personal safety while traveling, please visit:
www.gadventures.com/travel-resources/safety/
Trip Specific Safety
Travelers must exercise common sense and caution at all times. Tourists should stick to set travel arrangements and avoid unknown areas. Always keep a photocopy of your passport, airline tickets and a record of your travelers’ checks and credit card numbers separate from where you keep the originals. The route we follow is relatively safe and your guide knows the countries intimately and will endeavor to show you the best parts while looking after you. In the cities keep a careful eye on your belongings. In the wild areas, your guide will brief you on the necessary precautions, follow this advice and you will be fine. Be aware, but not paranoid, and you will have a great trip. We also recommend that you wear minimal jewellery and that you keep valuable items safely stored.
NAIROBI and Dar es Salaam and Lusaka
…aren’t classed as safe cities. Some precautions you should take are:
*Always leave your passport (It’s better to carry a photocopy of it instead), traveller’s cheques, flight tickets and money that you won’t be using in the safe deposit at the hotel reception. This is free of charge to G Adventures clients.
*Remember that like in any other city, you should never leave your bags unattended, nor flaunt jewellery, cameras etc.
*Please don’t wander through the city to unknown areas especially at night. Stick to the main streets only during the day, and after sundown, please take a taxi. Taxis can be organised from reception. Also, take the address of the hotel with you.
*People are generally friendly, but don’t let people take advantage of you, especially the sales people!
- Beware of people approaching you on the street with an apparent interest of where you are from, and want to sit down and have a chat with you. These people are con men and will ask you for money.
- People on the street who ask you if you want a safari and have a brochure are often con men, best to avoid these folk. Besides, you’re already on safari. Zanzibar can be unsafe to single female travellers. Please always have a male companion with when walking in Stone Town.
ARUSHA and Lilongwe:
many of the above precautions should be taken in these cities, however these towns generally have a more relaxed and friendly vibe, there are many beggars, street sellers and safari touts. These are best avoided by a polite but firm NO THANK YOU!
ZANZIBAR
Remember that Zanzibar is overwhelmingly Muslim. Women who do not dress modestly, or men in shorts, are likely to cause offense to locals and are likely to attract unwanted attention. In coastal areas, both male and female prostitution is widespread. Single female travellers in particular should be wary of ‘beach boys’. These male prostitutes often employ aggressive methods of socializing with female tourists with their end goal being to solicit sex, money or other benefits. The prevalence of HIV is extremely high in this region, and we urge all travellers to exercise extreme caution. Our suggestion is to dress moderately, and drink moderately. At all times be aware of your surroundings, and your actions, and to exercise caution.
PHOTOGRAPHY:
Please do not take photo’s of Police stations or at Cross borders Airports, army barracks and personnel or any Government building. It is against the law and will result in the minimum of your film and camera being confiscated.
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 CEOs have 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: 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 CEO, who will take note of your insurance details. When selecting a travel insurance policy please bear in mind that all clients must have medical coverage and that we require a minimum coverage of USD 200,000 for repatriation and emergency rescue. 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 Foundation - the non-profit partner of G Adventures
Planeterra International Foundation is a non-profit organization committed to turning travel into impact by helping local communities earn an income from tourism. Planeterra connects underserved local communities to the benefits of tourism by developing and supporting small community-owned businesses. These businesses support Indigenous people, empower women, grant youth access to employment opportunities, and protect the environment. Planeterra also works to ensure these businesses have a thriving customer base by integrating their projects into G Adventures’ itineraries globally.
G Adventures is Planeterra’s largest corporate donor, covering all operating costs, so 100% of your donation will bring opportunity to people in need.
G Adventures Dollar-a-day Program – Make Every Day Count – Turn your travel into impact with Planeterra Foundation.
Did you know? Most communities around the world do not benefit from tourism. Give back to the places you visit on your travels by creating opportunities for local people to earn an income, and protect the environment.
Make every day count by donating $1/day for the length of your trip, and join us in empowering the communities you will visit when you travel. 100% of your donation goes directly to Planeterra projects.
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
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Minimum Age
Minimum age of 18 years for this trip.
International Flights
Check-in times and baggage allowances/restrictions vary by airline and can change at any time. For the most up-to-date information for your flight, please contact your airline. We recommend checking in online in advance to avoid potential delays at the airport.
Max Pax
22
Group Leader
2 Chief Experience Officers (CEOs) throughout as head guide/cook and driver, certified safari guides/drivers, certified mountain gorilla trackers.
PRODUCT_LINE: DAUA, ID: 23676