The perfect African adventure for those who want to experience all of the region’s diverse pleasures authentically and comfortably, this 12-day trip has it all – and then some. Unfolding in three flight-assisted stages, this trip will take you from urban Cape Town to the sprawling wilderness of the Greater Kruger area, home of the Big Five and countless photo ops. From there, jet off to Zimbabwe and feel the awesome roar of Victoria Falls for yourself. Throughout, experienced local guides will be on hand to draw out the best this magical land has to offer.
What's Included
Your G for Good Moment: Hope Africa Children’s Day School, Manyeleti
Your Welcome Moment: Meet Your CEO and Group. Arrival transfer. Orientation tour of Cape Town and Cape Point including the penguins at Boulders Beach. Traditional Braai (BBQ) welcome dinner. Panoramic Route scenic drive including visits to Blyde River Canyon, Bourke Luck Potholes and God’s Window. Kruger National Park entrance fee with wildlife safari drive in open vehicle. Visit a local village and G Adventures-supported school. Private Nature Reserve entrance fee with wildlife safari drives in open safari vehicles. Tour of Victoria Falls. All transport between destinations and to/from included activities.
Highlights
Visit a G Adventures-supported school project, enjoy a traditional South African barbecue, search for and snap photos of the Big Five on open vehicle wildlife safari drives in a private reserve, spot wildlife inside world-famous Kruger National Park
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 touring vehicle for the long drives.
2. COMBO TRIP
Please note that this trip is a combination of multiple G Adventures tours (Cape Town, Kruger, Livingstone). 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, between tour segments. Please note that there are no activities planned during your stay in Cape Town or Livingstone.
3. ACCOMMODATION
Please note, that you might share for your stay in Cape Town already if you have not booked MOR (my own room) for this trip. Please ask at check-in at the hotel if you will share your room in Cape Town already.
Group Leader Description
On this tour, you will be accompanied by a G Adventures Chief Experience Officer (CEO) on the Cape Town portion and a different CEO on the Kruger portion of the trip. In Livingston, 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. As the group manager and leader, the aim of the group leader is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. They will provide information on the places where we are travelling, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends. He/she will take care of the small things so you can concentrate on enjoying your adventure. In addition, your Chief Experience Officer (CEO) is a skilled and experienced driver who has intimate knowledge of the vehicle and routes travelled. We also use local guides where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places we are visiting.
Group Size Notes
Max 9, Avg 6.
Meals Included
11 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 5 dinners
Meals
Eating is a big part of travelling. Travelling with G Adventures you experience the vast array of wonderful food that is available in South Africa. On this tour, we provide only a few meals for you and your group members, so as to give you the maximum flexibility in deciding where, what and with whom to eat. It also gives you more budgeting flexibility in your choices. Our groups tend to eat together to enable you to taste a larger variety of dishes and enjoy each other’s company. There is no obligation to do this though – while in the larger centres, your CEO will be able to suggest favourite restaurants during your trip.
For the included meals, vegetarian meal requests and other dietary requirements need to be specified prior to arrival.
Transport
Air-conditioned touring vehicle, open safari vehicle, walking, plane.
About our Transportation
The vehicle used will depend on the number of passengers as follows:
6-9 guests: 14 Seater 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)
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.
For the wildlife safari drives we use an open safari vehicle.
Local Flights
If required all local flights are included in the cost of your tours unless otherwise noted. 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 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
Guest house (2 nts), hotel (5 nts), safari camp (4 nt).
My Own Room Exceptions
Nights 7-8; Private Nature Reserve.
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.
Zambezi Waterfront
Our base in Livingston is the Waterfront which accommodates all G Adventures groups. Our Comfort passengers stay in simple but comfortable ensuite Chalets with river-view and a private patio or balcony (other G travel styles use basic camping facilities). The Waterfront offers a full service restaurant and lively bar, 2 small pools, as well as the G desk, conveniently located in the lobby to assist all of our travellers with questions and optional activities. The Waterfront has one of the best locations in the area, directly on the Zambezi river with stunning views and the possibility to view wildlife right from the deck.The city of Livingston is approx. 15 minutes away by taxi and offers additional dinning options, ATMs and shopping, although not much more of interest. Wifi is available at additional cost. USD, ZAR, EUR and GBP can be used at the Waterfront and they offer FOREX should you require local currency. Local currency is required outside of the Waterfront complex.
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 Cape Town International Airport.
An arrival transfer is included when you arrive on Day 1, or when you arrive up to three days prior to the tour, provided that you have booked your pre-accommodation through G Adventures in our joining hotel. 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 G Adventures 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, 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
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 labelled and restricted to one soft compact suitcase (please avoid a hard-top case), 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.
Packing List
Health & Safety:
• Face masks (required)
• Hand sanitizer (required)
• Pen (Please bring your own pen for filling out documents.)
• Rubber gloves
Laundry
PLEASE ask your guide/CEO to arrange if any laundry needs to be done, so that he / she can make arrangements for you. He/She will advise guests accordingly, in advance if guests want to do laundry where it is available.
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.
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
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.
Zambia
Please be sure to visit https://www.zambiaimmigration.gov.zm to determine if your nationality requires a Visa, can purchase one upon arrival or must apply for one in advance.
Note that Zambia and Zimbabwe have come out with a UNIVISA. This visa allows holders to cross back and forth between Zambia and Zimbabwe as many times as they would like within a 30-day period (giving the traveller the ability to see Victoria Falls from both sides). These visas can be purchased at Livingstone and Lusaka airports and the border posts at Victoria Falls and Kazangula for 50USD.
We recommend G Adventures’ travellers purchase this visa rather than a single entry Zambia visa as the single entry is a minimum of 50USD. The UNIVISA will allow travel between the Zambia and Zimbabwe side of Victoria Falls with relative ease and no additional visa costs.
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.
Visas issued at ports of entry or missions abroad
Albania, Andorra, Angola, Argentina, Australia, Austria, Belarus, Belgium, Bolivia, Brazil, Britain, Brunei, Bulgaria, Burma (Myanmar), Burundi, Cambodia, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Congo Brazzaville, Cook Islands, Costarica, Cuba, Czech Republic, Democratic Republic, Denmark, Djibouti, Ecuador, Egypt, Eritrea, Estonia, Ethiopia, France, German, Ghana, Greece, Guatemala, Guyana, Haiti, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Honduras, Hungary, Iceland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Kazakhstan, Laos, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourgm, Madagascar, Macedonia, Mexico, Moldova, Monaco, Mongolia, Nauru, Nepal, Netherlands, New Caledonia, New Zealand, Nicaragua, Norway, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Philippines, Poland, Portugal, Puerto Rico, Russia, Rwanda, Saotome and Prince, Slovakia Republic, Slovenia Republic, South Korea, Spain, St Lucia, Sweden, Switzerland, Thailand, Turkey, Ukraine, United Kingdom (UK), United States of America, Uruguay, Western Sahara, Venezuela, Vietnam
Countries not requiring a visa
Anguilla, Antigua and Bermuda, Australian Antarctic Territory, Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Bermuda, Botswana, British Antarctic Territory, British Indian Ocean Territory, British Virgin Islands, Brunei, Cayman Islands, Channel Islands, Cook Island, Cyprus, Dominica, Falkland Islands, Falkland Islands Dependencies, Fiji Islands, Gilbraltar, Grenada, Ireland, Isle of Man, Jamaica, Kenya, Kiribati, Lesotho, Malawi, Malaysia, Maldives, Malta, Mauritius, Montserrat, Mozambique, Namibia, Nauru, Niue, Norfolk Island, Pitcairn Islands, Romania, Ross Dependency, St. Helena, St. Kitts and Nevis, St. Lucia, St. Vincent and Grenadines, Samoa, Serbia-Montenegro, Seychelles, Singapore, Solomon Islands, South Africa, Swaziland, Tanzania, Tokelau, Tonga, Trinidad and Tobago, Tuvalu, Turks and Caicos Island, Uganda, Vanuatu, Western Samoa, Zimbabwe
Types of VISAS and the Applicable Fees – Please use as guideline only.
Single Entry- US $50.
Double Entry- US $80
Multiple Entry- US $80
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.
Note that Zambia and Zimbabwe have come out with a UNIVISA. This visa allows holders to cross back and forth between Zambia and Zimbabwe as many times as they would like within a 30-day period (giving the traveller the ability to see Victoria Falls from both sides). These visas can be purchased at Livingstone and Lusaka airports and the border posts at Victoria Falls and Kazangula for 50USD.
We recommend G Adventures’ travellers purchase this visa rather than a single entry Zambia visa as the single entry is a minimum of 50USD. The UNIVISA will allow travel between the Zambia and Zimbabwe side of Victoria Falls with relative ease and no additional visa costs.
Information below is in regards to Zimbabwe Visas only.
https://www.victoriafalls-guide.net/zimbabwe-visa.html
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 Visa. No action required, you will be granted easy entry at any border post.
Category B: Countries whose nationals are granted a Zimbabwe visa at port of entry on payment of requisite visa fees. These visas are easiest obtained on your arrival at the Airport or border post.
Category C: Countries whose nationals are required to apply for and obtain a Zimbabwe visa prior to travelling. You have to apply through an agency or the Zimbabwe High Commission in your home country.
Find out the Category of your country in the tables below.
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, it works out cheaper.
NB – 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
CATEGORY A:
Countries whose nationals do NOT require a Zimbabwe Visa.
Antigua & Barbuda, Aruba, Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Botswana, Cayman Islands, Cyprus,
Fiji, Grenada, Hong Kong, Jamaica, Kenya, Kiribati, Leeward Islands, Lesotho, Malaysia, Malawi, Maldives, Malta, Mauritius, Montserrat, Mozambique, Namibia, Nauru, Samoa Western, Singapore, South Africa , Solomon Islands, St Kitts, St Lucia, St Vincent, Swaziland, Tanzania, Togo, Trinidad and Tobago, Turk & Caicoa Islands, Tuvalu, Uganda
Vanuatu, Zambia
*South Africa – gratis (FREE) visas issued at point of entry
CATEGORY B:
Countries whose nationals are granted a Zimbabwe Visa at port of entry on payment of requisite visa fees. See costs below
Argentina, Austria, Australia, Belgium, Bermuda, Brazil, Brunei, *Canada, Cook Island, Denmark, Dominic Rep, Egypt, Finland, France, Germany, *Ghana, Greece, Indonesia, Iceland, *Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Korea (South), Kuwait, Liechtenstein, Luxemburg, Monaco, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Palau Islands, Palestine, Papua New Guinea, Poland, Portugal, Puerto Rico, Russia, Seychelles, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, United Arab Emirates, Uruguay, *United Kingdom, United States of America, Vatican, Virgin Islands
- See CATEGORY B: Exceptions Table
CATEGORY B: ZIMBABWE VISA FEES
Single Entry US$ 30
Double Entry US$ 45
Multiple Entry US$ 55
CATEGORY B: EXCEPTIONS
British and Irish
Single Entry US$ 55
Double Entry US$ 70
Canada
Single Entry US$ 75
Ghana Free
Canadian Passport holders can ONLY get a Single entry Zimbabwe Visa at the port of Entry. Cost is US$75
Category C nationals can only get a single entry Zimbabwe visa
CATEGORY C:
Countries whose nationals are required to apply for and obtain a Zimbabwe visa prior to travelling.
Afghanistan, Albania, Algeria, Andorra, Angola, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Bahrain, Bangladesh, Belarus, Benin, Bhutan, Bolivia, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cambodia, Cameroon, Cape Verde Island, Central Africa Republic, Chad, Chile, China, Colombia, Comoros Islands, Congo (Brazzaville), Congo (DRC), Costa Rica, Cote d’Voire, Croatia, Cuba , Czech Rep, Djibouti Rep, El Salvador, Equator, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Estonia, Ethiopia, Eyrom, French Guiana, French Polynesia, French West Indies, Gabon, Gambia, Georgia, Gibraltar, Guam, Guatemala, Guinea,Guinea Bissau, Haiti, Honduras, Hungary, India, Iran, Iraq, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Korea (DPRK), Kyrgyzstan, Laos, Latvia, Lebanon, Liberia, Libya, Lithuania, Macau, Madagascar, Mali, Marshall Islands, Mauritania, Mexico, Micronesia, Moldova, Mongolia, Morocco, Mozambique, Myanmar, Nepal, New Caledonia, Nicaragua, Nieu, Niger, Nigeria, Norfolk Islands, Northern Mariana, Oman, Pakistan, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Philippines, Principe, Qatar , Reunion, Romania, Rwanda, Samoa (America), San Marino, Sao Tome, Saudi Arabia, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Slovak Rep, Slovenia, Sri Lanka, Somalia, Sudan, Suriname, Syria, Taiwan, Tajikistan, Thailand, Togo, Tunisia, Turkey, Turkmenistan, Ukraine, Uzbekistan, Venezuela, Vietnam, Yemen Rep, Yugoslavia
CATEGORY C: ZIMBABWE VISA FEES
Single Entry US$65 to US$100
This information is accurate at the time of writing, and please contact your local embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date visa requirements and costs, regarding these, and the other countries visited, or see your travel agent. It is your responsibility to have the correct travel documentation.
Detailed Trip Notes
Climate
South Africa is renowned for its excellent outdoor living climate. The winter months are from May to September and are characterized by cold nights and pleasant days. Summer is from October to April and starts off with increasing dry heat and dust. Rains generally only start from mid to late December and last until March; this period is hot and humid.
Electricity
220-240V, 50 HZ, Most electrical plugs are 15 amp 3-prong with round pins. International adaptor are called for, they can be purchased locally (approx 2 U$).
Language
English is one of the 11 official languages of South Africa. There are also numerous dialects spoken throughout different parts of the country. In Mozambique the official language is Portuguese.
ITINERARY
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 (Administrative) 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
HISTORY
Recommended reading: Long Walk to Freedom (Nelson Mandela), A History of South Africa (Leonard Thompson), Cry the Beloved Country (Alan Paton), No Future Without Forgiveness (Desmond Tutu)
KRUGER NATIONAL PARK
The world-renowned Kruger National Park offers a wildlife experience that ranks with the best in Africa.
Established in 1898 to protect the wildlife of the South African Lowveld, this national park of nearly 2 million hectares, SANParks – Kruger National Park is unrivalled in the diversity of its life forms and a world leader in advanced environmental management techniques and policies.
FAUNA AND FLORA
Approximately 145 mammal species occur in the park. It is possible to see all the classical African wildlife, including elephant, black and white rhino, hippopotamus, giraffe, zebra, buffalo, warthog and many antelope species.
Large carnivores include lion, leopard, cheetah, wild dog and spotted hyena.
There are also many smaller mammals.
Kruger has a list of almost 500 species of birds, some of which are not to be found elsewhere in South Africa.
Hornbills, Starlings, Vultures, Rollers, Bee-eaters and Shrikes are found here birdwatchers can look forward to pursuing the big 6 (Saddle-billed Stork, Kori Bustard, Martial Eagle, Lappet-faced Vulture, Pel’s Fishing Owl and Ground Hornbill).
The far north of the park (Pafuri and Punda Maria regions) is regarded as one of the birding Mecca’s of the country (with many regional rarities to be found), yet birding throughout the entire park is excellent.
Eagles are common: Bateleur, Martial, Black-breasted Snake, Brown Snake, African Hawk, African Fish and Tawny are all regularly seen, and in summer: Wahlberg’s, Steppe, Lesser Spotted.
The Park’s numerous water points make for excellent bird watching, while the rest camps and picnic sites are exceptionally rewarding for birders.
VEGETATION
With Kruger being so vast it naturally has a tremendous botanic diversity. Simplistically the park can be divided into 16 macro ecozones.
The northern half of the park, north of the Olifants River is predominantly mopane veld, while south of the Olifants the ecozones are thornveld.
There are 336 tree species in the park.
ZAMBIA
Full country name: Zambia
Area: 752,615km2 (17th largest in Africa)
Population: 10.4 million
Capital city: Lusaka
Largest Towns: Lusaka, Ndola, Livingstone, 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: Rupiah Banda
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
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).
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.
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.
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)
Local guides: $2-3 USD (per day)
Safari Guide/Driver: $2-3 USD (per day)
Restaurant Staff: 10-15% of cost of bill
Optional Activities
Table Mountain
- Table Mountain Cable Car (300-360ZAR per person)
- Table Mountain Hike (600-1500ZAR per person)
Cape Town
- Stellenbosch Wine Tour and Tasting (800ZAR per person)
- Two Oceans Aquarium (185ZAR per person)
Robben Island
- Robben Island Visit (550ZAR per person)
Kruger National Park
- Kruger National Park Open Vehicle Wildlife Safari Drive – Full day (800ZAR per person)
- Kruger Area Wildlife Walk (1220ZAR per person)
Livingstone
- Zambezi Sunset Cruise
- Zambezi Bungee Jump
- Victoria Falls Helicopter Ride (Zambia)
Victoria Falls
- Victoria Falls Whitewater Rafting (135USD per person)
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.
Current Yellow Fever endemic countries:
- Ethiopia
- Kenya
- Rwanda
- Tanzania (including Zanzibar)
- Uganda
- Zambia
Refer to this link for up to date Yellow Fever Certification regulations:
https://www.who.int/emergencies/yellow-fever/maps/en/
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
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. 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!
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
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.
Minimum Age
You must be 18 to travel unaccompanied on a G Adventures tour. For minors travelling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.
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
9
Group Leader
Local G representative in Cape Town and Victoria Falls, Chief Experience Officer (CEO)/driver for Kruger portion, local guides/rangers.
PRODUCT_LINE: DAKL, ID: 24365
