Highlights of Southern Africa
Highlights of Southern Africa map

Highlights of Southern Africa

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When you put the word “highlights” in the name of a trip, you better be confident that it lives up to the hype. This trip does. Across 30 epic days, you’ll go round-trip to Cape Town via Zimbabwe, Botswana, and Namibia — a new spin on one of our most popular routes — taking comfortable touring vehicles as well as staying in a mix of hotels and campsites for a well-rounded experience. Wildlife sightings and cultural moments come standard here — everything from searching for the "big five" in national parks to enjoying meals with local families. You’ve got memories made for a lifetime.

  • Service Level Standard
  • Travel Style Classic
  • Physical Grading 2 - Light
  • Group Size Small Group
Search for the "big five" across four countries, take a nature walk in Matobo National Park, explore giant sand dunes and Victoria Falls, meet the San Bushmen of the Kalahari Desert.
Brief Itinerary
Accommodation Hotels (13 nts), lodge/chalet (8 nts), guesthouse (1 nt), basic camping (1 nt), adventure tents (2 nts), participation camping (4 nts).

Hotel/Guesthouse
14 nights in comfortable twin rooms with en suite or shared facilities.

Lodge/Chalet
8 nights in standard rooms with en-suite or shared facilities.

Adventure Tents
2 nights are spent in simple Dorm/Adventure tents. Rooms are twin or single with shared facilities.

Basic Camping (participative, please bring your sleeping bag and towel)
1 night is spent in pitched tents in the Delta with very basic facilities (no shower, dig-out toilet). Tents are twin.

Camping (participative, please bring your sleeping bag and towel)

4 nights are spent in pitched tents in Etosha National Park and Solitaire Area. Tents are twin with shared ablutions.

Please note that due to the high demand for accommodation in the parks, sometimes we will arrange alternative accommodation outside of the park.

Whats included in this tour

Your G for Good Moment: Lusumpuko Women's Club Lunch, Victoria Falls
Your G for Good Moment: Dqae Qare San Lodge & Camp, Dekar
Your G for Good Moment: Penduka Village Restaurant & Shop, Windhoek
Your G for Good Moment: !Khwa ttu San Culture and Education Centre, Yzerfontein
Your Welcome Moment: Meet Your CEO and Group
Your Discover Moment: Victoria Falls
Your Discover Moment: Swakopmund
Your Wellness Moment: Ai-Ais Hot Springs visit, Ai-Ais Hot Springs. Cape Town orientation walk. Soweto township tour. Panorama Route drive. Kruger National Park wildlife safari drive in our vehicle (full-day). Traditional dance experience. Nature walk in Letaba Ranch. Great Zimbabwe National Monument visit. Nature walk (Matobo National Park). Victoria Falls visit. Okavango Delta excursion with entrances, wildlife walks, and traditional canoe trips. San/Bushmen walk. Traditional dinner (Kalahari). Etosha National Park entrance with wildlife safari drives in our vehicle. Sossusvlei Dunes and Sesriem Canyon entrance. Traditional meal in a local home. Fish River Canyon entrance. Internal flight. All transport between destinations and to/from included activities.

Meals Included

24 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 9 dinners

Group Leader

Chief Experience Officer (CEO) throughout, local guides

Group Leader Description

On this tour, you will be accompanied by a group Chief Experience Officer (CEO) and an expert driver. 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 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, as an integral part of the team, your driver is 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.

Transport Plane, air-conditioned touring vehicle, safari vehicles, mokoro, walking.

For all of our standard class trips in southern Africa, including this tour, we use a private local bus for the journey. We will be taking a flight for the leg between Cape Town and Johannesburg. For the buses we will be using, there will be air-conditioning, and sliding windows, allowing for comfortable travel through the region. In addition, even with a full group, there will be extra space for the benefit of the group. Having our own private vehicle through the majority of the tour allows us the flexibility of making stops when needed. In addition, we are able to travel to out-of-the-way locations where public transportation does not reach.

Road conditions in South Africa and ZImbabwe are generally good, though once into Botswana and beyond, the road quality deteriorates. As such, we slow our travelling speed and enjoy some sand and bumps en route – something which is of course part of the adventure of travelling in Africa!

In the Okavango Delta, we leave our bus behind and explore in the area in mokoros – traditional dug-out canoes. The mokoros usually seat 2 people and are handled by ‘polers’ – so named as they move the mokoro forward by using a very long pole pushed into the ground under the water. This is a relaxing and peaceful way to take in the fascinating environment and wonderful scenery of the delta.

Solo Travellers

We believe solo travellers should not have to pay more to travel so our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. Single travellers joining group trips are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip. Some of our Independent trips are designed differently and solo travellers on these itineraries must pay the single trip price.

Highlights of Southern Africa

Days:Cape Town toCape Town

What's Included

Your G for Good Moment: Lusumpuko Women's Club Lunch, Victoria Falls
Your G for Good Moment: Dqae Qare San Lodge & Camp, Dekar
Your G for Good Moment: Penduka Village Restaurant & Shop, Windhoek
Your G for Good Moment: !Khwa ttu San Culture and Education Centre, Yzerfontein
Your Welcome Moment: Meet Your CEO and Group
Your Discover Moment: Victoria Falls
Your Discover Moment: Swakopmund
Your Wellness Moment: Ai-Ais Hot Springs visit, Ai-Ais Hot Springs. Cape Town orientation walk. Soweto township tour. Panorama Route drive. Kruger National Park wildlife safari drive in our vehicle (full-day). Traditional dance experience. Nature walk in Letaba Ranch. Great Zimbabwe National Monument visit. Nature walk (Matobo National Park). Victoria Falls visit. Okavango Delta excursion with entrances, wildlife walks, and traditional canoe trips. San/Bushmen walk. Traditional dinner (Kalahari). Etosha National Park entrance with wildlife safari drives in our vehicle. Sossusvlei Dunes and Sesriem Canyon entrance. Traditional meal in a local home. Fish River Canyon entrance. Internal flight. All transport between destinations and to/from included activities.

Itinerary

Day1Cape Town

Arrive at any time.

There are no planned activities until an evening welcome meeting.

Meet Your CEO and Group
1h

Your opportunity to meet your CEO and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Opt to join the group for a local meal afterwards. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group.

Optional Activities - Day1
Table Mountain Cable Car
1h-2h
Table Mountain
300.00ZAR per person

Optional Activities - Day1
Two Oceans Aquarium
1h-2h
Cape Town
185.00ZAR per person

Stay dry while exploring the incredible diversity of marine life that dwells in and around the Indian and Atlantic Oceans.

Optional Activities - Day1
Boulders Beach Visit
Simon's Town -Cape Town
75.00ZAR per person

Visit Boulders Beach, a beautiful sandy beach dotted with massive granite boulders. Since 1982 it has been the home of over 3,000 tunnel nesting African Black footed penguins who cling to viability in a small breeding colony that is heavily protected.

Optional Activities - Day1
Table Mountain Hike
2h-4h
Table Mountain
600.00ZAR per person

Hike up one of the world's most recognizable mountains, Table Mountain. Rise early to meet your guide for a transfer to the start of the hike. Wind your way up the mountain, stopping regularly to take in the surrounding views of the city, Atlantic coast, and Table Bay. Take note of the changing vegetation on the mountain - a highlight of this trek. Once reaching the summit there are stunning panoramic views. Make your way down to the base of the mountain via the cable way. Ascent: 700m (2,297 ft)

Optional Activities - Day1
Wine Tour and Tasting
9h-10h
Cape Town
1075.00ZAR per person

ACCOMMODATION
Hotel

Inn on the Square (or similar)

 

Day2Cape Town

Enjoy a full day in Cape Town with the option to visit Table Mountain, choose to explore Cape Point, or embark on a wine tour around Stellenbosch. In the evening, opt to join your group for meal at one of Cape Town's many great restaurants.

If you are interested in visiting Robben Island - you must book it directly with the museum on their website prior to travel: http://www.robben-island.org.za Due to high demand, it is common that this tour can be sold out over one month in advance.
Free Time
Cape Town
full_day

There's so much to see and do in cosmopolitan Cape Town; don't waste a minute. (or similar)

Optional Activities - Day2
Table Mountain Cable Car
1h-2h
Table Mountain
300.00ZAR per person

Optional Activities - Day2
Cape Town Urban Safari
6h-7h
Cape Town
920.00ZAR per person

Optional Activities - Day2
Cape Point Tour
6h-7h
Cape Town
1200.00ZAR per person

Optional Activities - Day2
Wine Tour and Tasting
9h-10h
Cape Town
1075.00ZAR per person

ACCOMMODATION
Hotel

Inn on the Square (or similar)


Meals included:BREAKFAST

 

Day3Cape Town/Johannesburg

Take a short flight from Cape Town to Johannesburg. In the afternoon, travel to Soweto for a bicycle tour and learn more about its important history and significant role in bringing the issues of segregation to the forefront.

Plane
Cape Town -Johannesburg

Look! Up in the sky! It's a bird! It's a plane! It's... yup, it is a plane, actually.

Private Vehicle
Johannesburg -Soweto

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Soweto Bicycle Tour
1h-2h
Soweto -Johannesburg

Explore South Africa’s largest township on two wheels and under your own steam. This guided tour will take you through the vibrant streets of Soweto, giving you the opportunity to meet some of its diverse residents, see the sights, hear the music and even taste a local ‘home-brewed’ beer. Popular stops include the Hector Pieterson Memorial and Vilakazi Street, where Nelson Mandela used to live.

Private Vehicle
Soweto -Johannesburg

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

ACCOMMODATION
Hotel

Airport Game Lodge (or similar)


Meals included:BREAKFAST

 

Day4Johannesburg/Greater Kruger Area

Take the Panorama Route into the Kruger National Park area. In the evening, enjoy a traditional dinner and dance experience.

Private Vehicle
Johannesburg -Hazyview

Enjoy sights along the Panorama Route en route to the Greater Kruger Area.

Traditional Dinner and Local Dancing
Hazyview

Enjoy a cultural evening with the local community. Dive into local fare with a delicious traditional dinner, then watch a local dance performance.

ACCOMMODATION
Lodge

Aan de Vliet Lodge (or similar)


Meals included:BREAKFAST|DINNER

 

Day5Kruger National Park

Enjoy a full day wildlife safari drive in the Kruger NP (own vehicle). Keep an eye out for Africa's famed "big five".

Opt for a wildlife safari drive in an open safari vehicle.

Optional Activities - Day5
Full Day Kruger National Park Open Vehicle Wildlife Safari Drive
6h-7h
Kruger National Park
650.00ZAR per person

Hop in a 4x4 safari vehicle and get yourself one step closer to the surrounding nature. Be ready to spot elephants, giraffes, hippos, lions, zebras, and many other species in this impressive South African NP.

Private Vehicle
Hazyview

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Kruger Wildlife Safari Drive
Kruger National Park

Jump into our touring vehicle and get ready to spot elephants, hippos, giraffes, zebras, lions, and many other species in one of Africa's greatest wildlife areas.

ACCOMMODATION
Lodge

Aan de Vliet Lodge (or similar)


Meals included:BREAKFAST|DINNER

 

Day6Greater Kruger Area

Head north to the Letaba Ranch, for a guided nature walk along the Great Letaba River.

Unfenced from the Kruger National Park, Letaba Ranch is known for its large herds of giraffe, elephant and buffalo. At night, listen to the sounds of the animals as they move along the banks of the river, and through the camp.

Private Vehicle
Hazyview -Letaba Ranch

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Letaba Ranch Nature Walk
Letaba Ranch

There are many ways to experience a wildlife safari, but doing it on foot is one of the most exciting ways to immerse yourself in your surroundings. Follow an expert guide into the bush and keep your eyes peeled for giraffe, elephant, and buffalo.

ACCOMMODATION
Lodge

Mtomeni Safari Camp DBB (or similar)


Meals included:BREAKFAST|DINNER

 

Day7Greater Kruger Area/Morning Sun Nature Reserve

Opt for a morning safari drive, or soak up the atmosphere in the camp, before traveling to the next lodge, in the Morning Sun Nature Reserve. Free afternoon to relax by the pool, or opt to take one of the hikes in the surrounding Soutpansberg Mountains.

Free Time
Letaba Ranch
morning

Don't waste a minute— get exploring. (or similar)

Optional Activities - Day7
Nature Hikes
1h
Louis Trichardt
FREE

Optional Activities - Day7
Letaba Ranch Wildlife Safari Drive
Letaba Ranch
510.00ZAR per person

Set off in an open safari vehicle and be on the lookout for wildlife, particularly the African wild dog this reserve is known for.

Private Vehicle
Letaba Ranch -Morning Sun

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

ACCOMMODATION
Lodge

Mashovhela Lodge (or similar)


Meals included:BREAKFAST

 

Day8Morning Sun NR/Great Zimbabwe Monument Area

Get an earlier start and cross the border into Zimbabwe. Continue on to the Great Zimbabwe Monument.

Private Vehicle
Morning Sun -Great Zimbabwe Monument Area

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Border Crossing (South Africa - Zimbabwe)
Beitbridge

Ready for a little more ink in your passport? Grab your bags and get ready to check another country off your bucket list.

ACCOMMODATION
Guesthouse

Norma Jean's Lakeview Resort (or similar)


Meals included:BREAKFAST|DINNER

 

Day9Great Zimbabwe Monument Area/Matobo National Park

Start the day with a visit to the Great Zimbabwe National Monument, Africa's most significant ruins site south of Cairo. Learn the history of the ruins and climb to the citadel for a view over the site. Continue on to Matobo National Park.

Great Zimbabwe National Monument Visit
Great Zimbabwe Ruins -Masvingo

Visit the Great Zimbabwe National Monument, the ancient ruins site the country was named for. Hike around the site learning more about the life of the people that inhabited the area and how these structures were built.

Private Vehicle
Great Zimbabwe Monument Area -Matobo National Park

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

ACCOMMODATION
Bed & Breakfast

Farmhouse Matopos (or similar)


Meals included:BREAKFAST

 

Day10Matobo National Park

Wake up early and opt to explore ancient cave paintings, visit the grave of Rhodes, hike the unique and stunning landscape, or hang out by the pool. In the afternoon, enjoy an included nature walk, with the opportunity to get up close and personal with the resident wildlife.

Free Time
Matobo National Park
morning

With so much to see and do, don't waste a minute...or just relax by the pool. (or similar)

Optional Activities - Day10
Ancient Cave Painting Visit
Matobo National Park
10.00USD per person

There are various sites around Matobo National Park that boast cave paintings. Enjoy a guided visit to see some of the best examples and learn about the history behind them and the culture of the native people.

Optional Activities - Day10
Grave of Rhodes Visit
Matobo National Park
10.00USD per person

Guided Rhino Walk
Matobo National Park -Bulawayo

Set off on foot into the bush and enjoy a guided walk while tracking white rhinos.

ACCOMMODATION
Bed & Breakfast

Farmhouse Matopos (or similar)


Meals included:BREAKFAST

 

Day11Matobo National Park/Hwange National Park

Travel to Hwange National Park for an opportunity to spot more wildlife. Opt to enjoy an evening wildlife safari drive in a safari vehicle.

Optional Activities - Day11
Wildlife Safari in Hwange National Park
Hwange National Park -Hwange
70.00USD per person

Enjoy a wildlife safari drive in Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe's largest, and home to elephant herds, lions, and the rare African wild dog. Get your cameras ready and keep an eye out for Africa's "big five," as well as other predators, and over 300 bird species.

Private Vehicle
Matobo National Park -Hwange National Park

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

ACCOMMODATION
Lodge

Hwange Safari Lodge (or similar)


Meals included:BREAKFAST

 

Day12Hwange National Park/Victoria Falls

Continue on to Victoria Falls and enjoy lunch at the G Adventurers–supported Lusumpuko Women's Club. Marvel at the spectacular falls from the Zimbabwean side, then enjoy free time in the afternoon to explore further.

Your accommodation is in Victoria Falls (Zimbabwe) and NOT Livingstone (Zambia). Please make sure you have the necessary visa.
Private Vehicle
Hwange National Park -Victoria Falls

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Victoria Falls Visit
Victoria Falls

Take in the natural splendour of thundering Victoria Falls while viewing the massive falls from the Zimbabwean side. Entrance fee for the park - self guided.

Lusumpuko Women's Club Lunch
Victoria Falls

Start your visit to Victoria Falls off on the right foot by sitting down to a traditional, Zimbabwean meal, cooked by the Lusumpuko Women’s Club, a group of women from a nearby township. A demonstration by the ladies will show you exactly how Zimbabweans traditionally eat their food, and you’ll be served a farm-to-table meal made with traditional, local, in-season ingredients. This meal provides much-needed income to the cooperatives’ 20 members – changing their lives and families in the process.

Free Time
Victoria Falls

Enjoy an evening by the Zambezi. (or similar)

ACCOMMODATION
Lodge

Explorers Village Lodge (or similar)


Meals included:BREAKFAST|LUNCH

 

Day13Victoria Falls

Spend the day exploring your beautiful surroundings. Opt to visit Victoria Falls, go whitewater rafting, or take a helicopter flight over the falls.

The town of Victoria Falls is a great base to see both natural wonders and take part in some exciting activities. Get up close (and wet from the spray) while awing at the immense Victoria Falls, raft the whitewater of the mighty Zambezi, and for the more adventurous, bungee jump with Victoria Falls in view. Today, new travellers may join you for the rest of your adventure. You are welcome to join them at a group meeting this evening, followed by an optional dinner.

Want to do more with your tour? Pre-book any two of the following activities: Zambezi Whitewater Rafting, Victoria Falls Helicopter Ride, or the Zambezi River Sunset Cruise. You can pre-book on the checkout page, or through your Global Connection Officer or travel agent. Any optional activities listed on this day can also be booked upon arrival in Victoria Falls.
Free Time
Victoria Falls
full_day

Get out and explore. (or similar)

Optional Activities - Day13
Victoria Falls Visit
Victoria Falls
30.00USD per person

Optional Activities - Day13
Zambezi Bungee Jump
1h
Victoria Falls
168.00USD per person

Get the adrenaline pumping with a bungee jump from the Victoria Falls Bridge over the Zambezi River. Hear the rush of Victoria Falls as you enjoy this once in a lifetime experience.

Optional Activities - Day13
Zipline over the Zambezi
1h
Victoria Falls
47.00USD per person

Glide along a zipline track for 300 metres over the rapids of the Batoka Gorge below. Take in incredible views of the Victoria Falls along the way.

Optional Activities - Day13
Bridge Swing over the Zambezi
1h
Victoria Falls
168.00USD per person

Get strapped up, step over the Victoria Falls Bridge and free fall for 80 meters into the Batoka Gorge. Enjoy the views as you swing back and forth over the roaring Zambezi river, with cascading waterfalls at your side. Don't think you can hack it alone? Swing with a partner.

Optional Activities - Day13
Zambezi River Sunset Cruise
Victoria Falls
50.00USD per person

Climb aboard and cruise along the beautiful Zambezi River. Enjoy some snacks, drinks, a festive atmosphere, and gorgeous views of the sunset. It's the ideal way to end an eventful day in Victoria Falls.

Optional Activities - Day13
Victoria Falls Helicopter Ride - 15min
0h
Victoria Falls
165.00USD per person

You don't want to miss the opportunity to see Victoria Falls from above. Watch the Zambezi River make its way toward the gorge and form the largest waterfall in the world. During your 15-minute ride, you will have time to take in the incredible views over the falls, Livingstone Island, and Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park while snapping as many pictures as you like. You may be lucky enough to see some giraffes and elephants in the surrounding landscape and even catch a rainbow over the falls. Includes pick-up and drop-off from hotel and a 12-15min flight. Please note there is a cost for an additional park fee paid for on-site at time of the activity.

Optional Activities - Day13
Victoria Falls Helicopter Ride - 25min
1h
Victoria Falls
299.00USD per person

You don't want to miss the opportunity to see Victoria Falls from above. Watch the Zambezi River make its way toward the gorge and form the largest waterfall in the world. During your 25 minute ride, you will have time to take in the incredible views over the falls, Livingstone Island, and Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park while snapping as many pictures as you like. This extended ride also includes time flying over the vast and towering walls of the Batoka Gorge. You may be lucky enough to see some giraffes and elephants in the surrounding landscape and even catch a rainbow over the falls. Includes pick-up and drop-off from hotel and a 25min flight. Please note there is a cost for an additional park fee paid for on-site at time of the activity.

Optional Activities - Day13
Victoria Falls Whitewater Rafting
4h-7h
Victoria Falls
135.00USD per person

Take the opportunity to go whitewater rafting on the Zambezi River while Victoria Falls roars above. Depart in the morning and navigate through the canyon that forms the famous falls. The dramatic rapids will fill you with excitement and complete your experience. Includes a full-day of rafting on class III-V rapids, transfers, and lunch. Please note: River conditions and activity pricing vary depending on the seasons. High water season is from about February to July. Low water season generally runs from August to January each year - this is when the Zambezi is at its very wildest. The "closed season" is dependent on the season’s rains, and usually is from March to April; during this time rafting on the river is not permitted. Additionally, this activity requires passengers to hike down and up the Batoka Gorge (approx. 45 minutes each way) to access the river; an average level of fitness is required. This activity price excludes a $10 park entrance fee.

Optional Activities - Day13
Full Day Excursion to Chobe National Park
9h-10h
Victoria Falls
170.00USD per person

Depart Victoria Falls in the morning for a full-day guided tour of Chobe National Park in Botswana - a wildlife-abundant region covering about 11,700km² of the Northern Kalahari. Begin your adventure with a cruise down the Chobe River, taking in the sweeping views and witnessing the wildlife grazing along the riverbank. Enjoy an included lunch on land before boarding 4x4 safari vehicles for an afternoon wildlife safari drive with an expert guide. Keep an eye out for lions, elephants, and buffalos. Transfer back to Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, arriving in the early evening. Please note that this activity includes two border crossings between Zimbabwe and Botswana. The ordering of activities is susceptible to change. This is a full-day excursion, so if you're booking this activity on day 1 of your tour, a pre-night in Victoria Falls is required. ** Please note that you need to get a double-entry visa or a Univisa when arriving in Zimbabwe to ensure you can return again without needing to pay an extra visa fee.

ACCOMMODATION
Lodge

Explorers Village Lodge (or similar)


Meals included:BREAKFAST

 

Day14Victoria Falls/Kasane

Cross the border into Botswana, and stay in Kasane, just outside of Chobe NP. Try to spot the elephants, crocodiles, and hippos this region is famous for during an optional sundowner cruise or photo river safari.

Drive to the border and cross from Zimbabwe into Botswana. Continue to the Kasane area, outside the gates of Chobe National Park, home to the largest elephant population in Southern Africa. Opt to check out one of Botswana's national parks and its thousands of resident elephants, crocodiles, and hippos on a sunset boat cruise on the Chobe River. There are options here for a casual cruise to enjoy the scenery with a cocktail or a photo safari by boat, with the opportunity to capture some great shots with instruction, a professional camera, and zoom lens. Evening is a great time to be on the river.

Optional Activities - Day14
Chobe River Sunset Cruise
3h
Chobe National Park -Kasane
40.00USD per person

Get a fantastic perspective of one of Botswana's national parks and its thousands of resident elephants, crocodiles, and hippos on a sunset boat cruise on the Chobe River. Bring a few drinks and a camera, sit back, and enjoy the view.

Optional Activities - Day14
Chobe Photo Wildlife Safari Drive
4h
Chobe National Park
130.00USD per person

This is not your ordinary wildlife safari drive. Experience this once in a lifetime wildlife photo safari where you're set up with a camera, a window seat, and the instruction required to take incredible safari photos! Perfect for both beginner and experienced photographers. Service includes: transfers, park fees, refreshments, camera usage (DSLR cameras with zoom lens), 8G photo memory card and an exclusive seat on the photo 4x4.

Optional Activities - Day14
Chobe National Park Safari Drive
Chobe National Park
40.00USD per person

Immerse yourself in Chobe National Park in an open-backed, open-seated safari vehicle, and experience the stunning wilderness of the game-rich park in the care of a very knowledgeable and friendly guide. Explore with your eyes as the tour drives along routes that overlook the beautiful Chobe River and keep an eye out for the remarkable variety of animals that are drawn to this permanent water source. During the safari drives it is not uncommon to spot several of Africa’s “big five” in the greater Chobe area and the early morning drive lasting 3 hours is a wonderful opportunity to have some unique sightings.

Private Vehicle
Victoria Falls -Kazungula

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Border Crossing (Zimbabwe - Botswana)

Cross the border from Zimbabwe into Botswana.

Private Vehicle
Kazungula -Kasane

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

ACCOMMODATION
Lodge

Thebe River Safaris Lodge (or similar)


Meals included:BREAKFAST

 

Day15Kasane/Nata

Opt to rise early for a sunrise safari on the Chobe River. Travel to Nata. Opt for a bush walk or sunset wildlife safari drive in the area. Watch elephants drink from the camp's watering hole at night.

Optional Activities - Day15
Nata Area Bushwalk
Nata
205.00BWP per person

Head out into the bush to learn more about the area. Keep your eyes open and your binoculars ready to spot eagles, bustards, flamingoes, and blue-cheeked bee-eaters.

Optional Activities - Day15
Nata Area Wildlife Safari Drive
Nata
310.00BWP per person

Head out for a wildlife safari drive to see the flora of the Nata region up close and personal.

Optional Activities - Day15
Chobe National Park Safari Drive
Chobe National Park
40.00USD per person

Immerse yourself in Chobe National Park in an open-backed, open-seated safari vehicle, and experience the stunning wilderness of the game-rich park in the care of a very knowledgeable and friendly guide. Explore with your eyes as the tour drives along routes that overlook the beautiful Chobe River and keep an eye out for the remarkable variety of animals that are drawn to this permanent water source. During the safari drives it is not uncommon to spot several of Africa’s “big five” in the greater Chobe area and the early morning drive lasting 3 hours is a wonderful opportunity to have some unique sightings.

Private Vehicle
Kasane -Nata

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

ACCOMMODATION
Lodge

Elephant Sands (or similar)


Meals included:BREAKFAST|DINNER

 

Day16Nata/Maun

Prepare for a 1-night/2-day journey into the delta. Opt to take a scenic flight over the delta.

Travel to Maun, the biggest town in the Okavango Delta area, pick up any supplies needed, and prepare for the journey into the Okavango Delta. You can pre-book the Okavango Delta Flight extra on the checkout page, or through your Global Connection Officer or travel agent. In the evening, watch a traditional dance group performance on the poolside terrace.

If you pre-booked the Okavango Delta Flight, you will be flying today.
Optional Activities - Day16
Okavango Delta Flight
1h
Maun
120.00USD per person

Get a fresh perspective on the vast wilderness of Africa with a once-in-a-lifetime view only a select few will ever see. Enjoy the hippos in the waterways and elephants and buffalo in the tree line. Gaze at the winding water channels as they make their way through the Delta.

Private Vehicle
Nata -Maun

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Dikgantshwane Performance
Maun

Sit back and enjoy as a group performs traditional welcome dances on the poolside terrace. The performance will include an introduction and explanation of the meaning of the songs performed.

ACCOMMODATION
Hotel

Sedia Riverside Hotel (or similar)


Meals included:BREAKFAST

 

Day17Okavango Delta

Enjoy wildlife walks, traditional mokoro excursions, and birding. Learn the ways of the bush from the local polers.

The excursion begins with a drive in customized safari vehicles for about 1-2 hrs to the "dock" to board a mokoro (canoe) that takes us deep into the delta. After a 1-2 hrs in the mokoro, arrive to the basic bush camp.

Camping equipment, a mattress and bedding are provided, but if you would like to bring your own sleeping bag, you can.
4x4
Maun -Okavango Delta

Roads? Where this rough-and-ready vehicle's going, we don't need roads.

Mokoro
Okavango Delta

Climb into a traditional canoe for a closer view of the shoreline.

Okavango Delta Excursion
Okavango Delta

Enjoy wildlife walks and viewing, mokoro trips (occasionally unavailable due to seasonality), and birdwatching in the pristine wilderness area of the Okavango Delta, the world's largest inland delta. In the evening, count the shooting stars, sing with the locals, or simply unwind with a sundowner (cheers!) around the campfire.

ACCOMMODATION
Campground

Okavango Delta Camping (or similar)


Meals included:BREAKFAST|LUNCH|DINNER

 

Day18Maun/D'kar

Traverse the Kalahari Desert. Spend the night at the G Adventures supported Dqae Qare San Lodge, and meet the local San Bushmen on a walk to learn their desert survival skills.

Enjoy the sunrise in the delta before travelling back to Maun by mokoro. Travel along the northern portions of the Kalahari Desert throughout the day – this is a severely arid and barren landscape, though very beautiful. Arrive in the late afternoon and camp close to D'kar. Enjoy a traditional local meal before settling in for the night.

Optional Activities - Day18
Traditional San/Bushmen Dancing
1h-2h
Ghanzi

Around the campfire at night, you can experience the ancient dance rituals of the San/Bushmen. On special occasions this could be a healing or trance dance, which can continue all night, and is an intense spiritual experience for both participants and visitors alike. The dances have changed minimally in the last 20 000 years of San/Bushmen culture. These dances are not only a celebration of life but are also a means of passing on historic folklore from generation to generation.

Mokoro
Okavango Delta

Climb into a traditional canoe for a closer view of the shoreline.

4x4
Okavango Delta -Maun

Roads? Where this rough-and-ready vehicle's going, we don't need roads.

Private Vehicle
Maun -Dekar

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Dqae Qare San Walk
1h-2h
Dekar

Get a glimpse of how the San tribe adapted to the Kalahari Desert and learn about their fascinating wilderness survival skills. The gatherer life of the San/Bushmen has all but disappeared; there are few remaining who retain the survival skills of their ancient way of life. During the walk, San/Bushmen guides will share their knowledge on mastering this harsh environment, helping us learn about the botany of our surroundings.

Dqae Qare San Lodge & Camp
Dekar

Immerse yourself in the culture and history of the San when you stay at Dqae Qare San Lodge & Camp tonight. This campsite and wildlife area is the only land owned freehold by an Indigenous community in all of Southern Africa. The San are known throughout the continent for their warm hospitality, and tonight you have the opportunity to be immersed in their history and culture with a dance and storytelling around the campfire. Dqae Qare San Lodge provides much-needed employment for the nearby village of D'kar, and revenue from the lodge is invested in the nearby preschool, art program and museum, and community upliftment projects that bring clean water and other resources to the village.

ACCOMMODATION
Lodge

Dqae Qare San Lodge & Camp (or similar)


Meals included:BREAKFAST|DINNER

 

Day19Dekar/Windhoek

Travel to Windhoek, the German-influenced capital city of Namibia.

Today, new travellers may join you for the rest of your adventure. You are welcome to join them at a group meeting this evening, followed by an optional dinner.

Private Vehicle
Dekar -Windhoek

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Border Crossing (Botswana - Namibia)
Mamuno -Buitepos

Ready for a little more ink in your passport? Grab your bags and get ready to check another country off your bucket list.

Optional Welcome Meeting for Travellers on Combos

You may be a seasoned pro at group travel by now, but there will likely be some new travellers joining the group. Sit in on the welcome meeting to meet the newest members of your group and learn about the next leg of your tour.

ACCOMMODATION
Hotel

Auas City Hotel (or similar)


Meals included:BREAKFAST

 

Day20Windhoek/Etosha National Park

Visit the G Adventures supported Penduka Village Restaurant & Shop, just outside of Windhoek, to pick up a tasty packed lunch, then continue up to Etosha National Park. Enjoy an afternoon wildlife safari drive in our touring vehicle, then opt to explore more on an open vehicle night drive.

Leave Windhoek and head north through the Namibian countryside to Etosha National Park and enjoy a wildlife safari drive in our touring vehicle. Keep an eye out for lions, giraffes, elephants, and antelopes. After sunset, some animals may head to the watering holes near the campground. Opt to head out for more wildlife safari drives in an open safari vehicle to make the most of your time here.

Optional Activities - Day20
Etosha Open Vehicle Wildlife Safari Drive
Etosha National Park
660.00NAD per person

Set off in an open 4x4 safari vehicle with a naturalist guide in search of the stunning wildlife in the park. Wildlife often come to the many watering holes to drink, so keep your eyes peeled for many animals on the move.

Private Vehicle
Windhoek -Etosha National Park

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Penduka Village Restaurant & Shop
Windhoek

Penduka works with women from the Katutura township, and surrounding rural communities, by helping them develop livelihoods through working in their handicraft workshops and cafe. Penduka trains and employs women disadvantaged through poverty, disability, ill-health, or lack of education, empowering them to develop skills in textiles, beading and pottery. Pick up a fresh-packed lunch at the cafe to help support the centre before touring the facilities and purchasing some of these crafts.

Etosha National Park Wildlife Safari Drive
Etosha National Park

Set off into the wilds of Etosha National Park in the touring vehicle for a wildlife safari drive. Over 100 species of mammals call Etosha home, including elephants, giraffes, lions, rhinos, and hyenas.

ACCOMMODATION
Campground

Etosha NP Okaukuejo Restcamp (or similar)


Meals included:BREAKFAST|LUNCH

 

Day21Etosha National Park

Enjoy another wildlife safari drive in our touring vehicle and keep your eyes peeled for some of the famous wildlife.

Etosha National Park Wildlife Safari Drive
Etosha National Park

Set off into the wilds of Etosha National Park in the touring vehicle for a wildlife safari drive. Over 100 species of mammals call Etosha home, including elephants, giraffes, lions, rhinos, and hyenas.

Optional Activities - Day21
Etosha Open Vehicle Wildlife Safari Drive
Etosha National Park
660.00NAD per person

Set off in an open 4x4 safari vehicle with a naturalist guide in search of the stunning wildlife in the park. Wildlife often come to the many watering holes to drink, so keep your eyes peeled for many animals on the move.

ACCOMMODATION
Campground

Etosha NP Okaukuejo Restcamp (or similar)

 

Day22Etosha National Park/Swakopmund

Sit back and watch the stunning desert landscape go by enroute to western Namibia.

Watch the beautiful desert landscape go by en route to western Namibia. Spend two nights in the area exploring this historical town or trying some of the numerous activities available, such as sandboarding or a skydiving. Swakopmund has bizarre lunar landscapes, unforgettable sunsets, and prehistoric Welwitchia plants.

Optional Activities - Day22
Living Desert Tour
2h-2h
Swakopmund
800.00NAD per person

Hop into a 4x4 vehicle and set out into the desert. An expert guide will point out signs of animal life and emphasize survival in the harsh desert landscape for both humans and animals.

Private Vehicle
Etosha National Park -Swakopmund

On this route, we pass through a moon landscape and see the imposing Spitzkoppe, also known as the “Matterhorn” of Namibia in the distance.

ACCOMMODATION
Hotel

Europa Hof (or similar)

 

Day23Swakopmund

Spend a day exploring all the area has to offer. Optional activities include sandboarding, skydiving, and a township tour.

Free Time
Swakopmund
full_day

Don't waste a minute—get exploring in this desert city. (or similar)

Optional Activities - Day23
Sandboarding in the Namib Desert
Swakopmund
700.00NAD per person

Head out into the desert, grab a board, and surf the sand dunes. Choose to lie down headfirst, or stand up, surfer-style.

Optional Activities - Day23
Swakopmund Skydiving
3h-4h
Swakopmund
3000.00NAD per person

Buckle up your harness, practice your exit, then take a plane up and over the dunes of the Namib Desert. Take a deep breath, leap out and freefall with an instructor before he opens the parachute. Admire the view over the dunes as you descend and land safely back on the ground. Wow!

Optional Activities - Day23
Swakopmund Guided Cultural Tour
2h
Swakopmund
550.00NAD per person

Explore the back streets and local culture on a guided interpretive walk. 


Learn about the history of Swakopmund, its housing and other various topics to get a better understanding of local life. Visit a woman from the Herero ethnic group and also a Nama Medicine Woman, who will host a 'click' lesson in the local Daman language. Finish at a local pub called a 'shebeen' with the opportunity to try the local bush delicacy of Mopani worms and a drink.

Optional Activities - Day23
Skeleton Coast Scenic Flight
3h
Swakopmund
4800.00NAD per person

Take in amazing views of bird life, shipwrecks, and one of the largest seal colonies in the world over the northern coastline. On the way back, see the Namibia's highest mountain, Damaraland, and the picturesque Spitzkoppe rock formations from above.

ACCOMMODATION
Hotel

Europa Hof (or similar)

 

Day24Swakopmund/Namib Desert

Travel into the beautiful Namib Desert, stopping at Walvis Bay on the way.

Get a real feel for the Namib Desert as we spend hours crossing this empty region. En route, take a coffee break in Solitaire, a mystical village consisting of a filling station, a general dealer/coffee shop, and a small mechanical workshop. Drive through Walvis Bay, the only town on the Namibian coastline that boasts a deep sea harbor. Arrive in the area in the late afternoon, where the towering red sand dunes of Sossusvlei form the gateway into the Namib Desert.

Private Vehicle
Swakopmund -Namib Desert

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

ACCOMMODATION
Campground

Sossus Oasis Campsite (or similar)


Meals included:DINNER

 

Day25Namib Desert

Visit Sossusvlei Dunes and Sesriem Canyon. Opt to climb up breathtaking Dune 45.

Enjoy a visit to Sossusvlei, a clay pan enclosed by the world’s largest sand dunes, up to 300m (984 ft) high. Here, use some free time to enjoy the sand dunes on your own. Visit the Sesriem Canyon, a small canyon typical of the area.

Free Time
Namib Desert
full_day

Head out and start exploring this unusual environment. (or similar)

Optional Activities - Day25
Deadvlei Visit
2h
Sossusvlei
120.00NAD per person

Venture out into Deadvlei. These drylands boast incredible contrasts of black dead trees amidst the white clay soil, surrounded by red sand dunes reaching up to 300 meters high. We don't want to spoil too much; go and see this unique site for yourselves - it's a must for any traveller to Namibia.

Sossusvlei Dunes Visit
Namib Desert

This area is famous for its high, red sand dunes. This clay and salt pan is surrounded by the dunes, making it a spectacularly beautiful sight with a remote and isolated feel.

Sesriem Canyon Visit
Namib Desert

Enjoy a short stop at Sesriem Canyon, a small canyon typical of the area. The Tsauchab River flows through the canyon every five to ten years, and this creates the nearby salt and clay pan of Sossusvlei.

ACCOMMODATION
Campground

Sossus Oasis Campsite (or similar)


Meals included:BREAKFAST|DINNER

 

Day26Namib Desert/Fish River Canyon

Continue south through the Namib Desert to the Fish River Canyon. Enjoy the beautiful view from the canyon lookout point, before finishing the day at the Ai-Ais.

Spend the evening relaxing in the healing waters.

Private Vehicle
Namib Desert -Ai-Ais

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Fish River Canyon Visit
Fish River Canyon

Visit Fish River Canyon, the largest canyon in Africa and, arguably, the second largest in the world. We will only have access to the rim, but the views are spectacular.

Ai-Ais Hot Springs visit
Ai-Ais Hot Springs

Ai-Ais, which means 'scalding hot' or 'burning water' in one of the local Nama dialects, is a sulphur rich mineral spring at the southern end of the Fish River Canyon. Ai-Ais is also a part of the Ai-Ais/Richtersveld Transfrontier Park, covering a large piece of land in northern South Africa, and southern Namibia. The hot springs resort is a popular gateway to Namibia from the south, and the end point of the gruelling five-day Fish River Canyon hike. The spring water is piped to a number of indoor and outdoor pools and jacuzzis.

ACCOMMODATION
Lodge

Ai Ais Resort NWR (or similar)


Meals included:BREAKFAST

 

Day27Ai-Ais/Orange River

After a relaxing morning in the hot springs, continue on to the banks of the Orange River with time to swim or just relax. Enjoy the beautiful scenery in this part of the country.

Free Time
Orange River
afternoon

Relax on the river bank or go for a swim in one of the longest river in southern Africa. (or similar)

Private Vehicle
Ai-Ais -Orange River

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

ACCOMMODATION
Resort

Norotshama River Resort (or similar)


Meals included:BREAKFAST

 

Day28Orange River/Lambert's Bay

Cross the border into South Africa and continue down the coast to Lambert's Bay, stopping along the way. Opt to visit Bird Island or stroll through this charming town.

We head towards the coast again and on to Lambert’s Bay, a picturesque town on the west coast of South Africa. In the afternoon, opt to visit the well known Bird Island where you can find more than 25,000 blue-eyed gannets at certain times of the year. Penguins also gather on this island for breeding between August and October. Opt to stroll through this lovely town, visiting unique artisan shops and boutiques.

Optional Activities - Day28
Bird Island Visit
Lambert's Bay
50.00ZAR per person

Enjoy a visit to aptly-named Bird Island; you can find more than 25,000 blue-eyed gannets at certain times of the year here. Penguins also gather on this island for breeding between August and October.

Private Vehicle
Orange River -Lambert's Bay

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Border Crossing (Namibia - South Africa)
Noordoewer -Vioolsdrift

Ready for a little more ink in your passport? Grab your bags and get ready to check another country off your bucket list.

ACCOMMODATION
Guesthouse

Sir Lambert's Guest House (or similar)


Meals included:BREAKFAST

 

Day29Lambert's Bay/Cape Town

Continue on the last stretch of the trip to lovely Cape Town. Stop at the G Adventures supported !Khwa ttu San Culture and Education Centre along the way, then get ready to explore the vibrant streets of this scenic coastal city.

While travelling towards Cape Town, through Namaqualand, keep an eye out for fields of Namaqualand daisies (in season August and September). Cape Town has many different options should you book extra time to explore after the tour. Visit Table Mountain, explore Cape Point (Cape of Good Hope), or join a wine tour in and around Stellenbosch (45 min drive). Visit the old French Huguenot town of Franschoek and surroundings (1 hr drive). For the truly adventurous, try skydiving, abseiling, or even cage diving, for a close encounter with the great white sharks. Opt to wander through the city centre, which has some of the oldest buildings and gardens in South Africa (Botanical Gardens and Parliament Gardens), or visit the Cultural Historical Museum, Planetarium, and numerous other small museums and theaters.

Please note that we arrive in Cape Town in the early afternoon, you might not have time to participate in lengthy activities or see many sights. If you would like to see or do anything, we recommend booking an extra night or two before your return flight home.
!Khwa ttu San Culture and Education Centre
Yzerfontein

The San people of Southern Africa have historically faced centuries of political and cultural oppression. The !Khwa ttu San Culture and Education Centre provides tailor-made training for young San women and men of Southern Africa. Travellers learn about San culture and history at the interpretive museum. Visits help trainees gain experience with international clients while garnering support for the centre's efforts to preserve San culture and history.

Private Vehicle
Lambert's Bay -Cape Town

Travelling from Lambert's Bay to Cape Town, with a stop along the way at !Khwa ttu San Culture and Education Centre.

ACCOMMODATION
Hotel

Inn on the Square (or similar)


Meals included:BREAKFAST

 

Day30Cape Town

Depart at any time.

We highly recommend booking post-accommodation to fully enjoy this city.

If you book any optional activities on the final day of your itinerary please contact your sales agent to see if booking a post-night is necessary to participate in the activity.

 

Highlights

Search for the "big five" across four countries, take a nature walk in Matobo National Park, explore giant sand dunes and Victoria Falls, meet the San Bushmen of the Kalahari Desert.

Dossier Disclaimer

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. TRANSPORTATION
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. YELLOW FEVER
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.) **

3. COMBO TRIP
Please note that this tour is a combination of several Travel There Co tours. As such, your group CEO, fellow passengers, or vehicle may change between the individual tour sections.

4. EXTRAS
Looking to add to your experience? Check out our Extras! Specially designed for travellers with unique interests, Extras are optional add-ons to your G adventures trip that make your adventure more you-centric. Extras must be booked prior to departure, please see details in our optional activities field and ask your sales GCO or travel agent about booking.

5. 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.

6. MONEY EXCHANGE
We strongly advise that you bring ZAR or USD from your home country or exchange money before the start of the tour, to avoid delays on tour. Please see the Money Exchange section for more details.

7. DRONES
The use of drones in national parks in Southern Africa is prohibited.

Group Leader Description

On this tour, you will be accompanied by a group Chief Experience Officer (CEO) and an expert driver. 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 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, as an integral part of the team, your driver is 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 18, avg 14

Meals Included

24 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 9 dinners

Meals

Eating is a big part of travelling. Travelling with Travel There Co you experience the vast array of wonderful food that is available in southern 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 you 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 group leader will be able to suggest favourite restaurants during your trip.

Your tour leader prepare the meals included in the Okavango Delta, arranging to purchase the foodstuffs before our bush camping excursion begins. Breakfasts will generally be cereals, if time allows a warm breakfast may be prepared. Lunches 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.

For the included meals, vegetarian meal requests and other dietary requirements need to be specified prior to arrival.

Transport

Plane, air-conditioned touring vehicle, safari vehicles, mokoro, walking.

About our Transportation

For all of our standard class trips in southern Africa, including this tour, we use a private local bus for the journey. We will be taking a flight for the leg between Cape Town and Johannesburg. For the buses we will be using, there will be air-conditioning, and sliding windows, allowing for comfortable travel through the region. In addition, even with a full group, there will be extra space for the benefit of the group. Having our own private vehicle through the majority of the tour allows us the flexibility of making stops when needed. In addition, we are able to travel to out-of-the-way locations where public transportation does not reach.

Road conditions in South Africa and ZImbabwe are generally good, though once into Botswana and beyond, the road quality deteriorates. As such, we slow our travelling speed and enjoy some sand and bumps en route – something which is of course part of the adventure of travelling in Africa!

In the Okavango Delta, we leave our bus behind and explore in the area in mokoros – traditional dug-out canoes. The mokoros usually seat 2 people and are handled by ‘polers’ – so named as they move the mokoro forward by using a very long pole pushed into the ground under the water. This is a relaxing and peaceful way to take in the fascinating environment and wonderful scenery of the delta.

Local Flights

Solo Travellers

We believe solo travellers should not have to pay more to travel so our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. Single travellers joining group trips are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip. Some of our Independent trips are designed differently and solo travellers on these itineraries must pay the single trip price.

Accommodation

Hotels (13 nts), lodge/chalet (8 nts), guesthouse (1 nt), basic camping (1 nt), adventure tents (2 nts), participation camping (4 nts).

About Accommodation

Hotel/Guesthouse
14 nights in comfortable twin rooms with en suite or shared facilities.

Lodge/Chalet
8 nights in standard rooms with en-suite or shared facilities.

Adventure Tents
2 nights are spent in simple Dorm/Adventure tents. Rooms are twin or single with shared facilities.

Basic Camping (participative, please bring your sleeping bag and towel)
1 night is spent in pitched tents in the Delta with very basic facilities (no shower, dig-out toilet). Tents are twin.

Camping (participative, please bring your sleeping bag and towel)

4 nights are spent in pitched tents in Etosha National Park and Solitaire Area. Tents are twin with shared ablutions.

Please note that due to the high demand for accommodation in the parks, sometimes we will arrange alternative accommodation outside of the park.

Joining Hotel

For details of your joining hotel please refer to your tour voucher, G Account, the Travel There Co App or contact your travel agent.

Joining Instructions

Cape Town International Airport is about 22 km from downtown. We recommend two ways to get into the city.

1) Taxi: 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.

2) Shuttle: 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 paid in advance for an arrival transfer, a Travel There Co representative will be at the airport to meet you. If for any reason you are not met at the airport, please call our local support line. If you are unable to make contact for whatever reason, please make your way to the joining point hotel via taxi.

Please note that Day 1 is an arrival day and no activities have been planned for that day other then your welcome meeting in the evening, so you can arrive at any time. Similarly the last day is a departure day during which no activities have been planned.

A Travel There Co Representative will organize a short meeting soon after arrival, during which you will meet other tour participants and receive information about general and specific aspects of the trip. A welcome note will be left for you in the hotel so you have all the necessary information regarding the meeting time. If you arrive late, s/he will leave you a message detailing what time and where you should meet the next 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, please refer to the emergency contact details provided in this dossier and contact us as soon as possible. If you have a pre-booked transfer, and you have not made contact with our representative within 30 minutes of clearing customs and immigration, we recommend that you make your own way to the Starting Point hotel, following the Joining Instructions. Please apply to your travel agent on your return for a refund of the transfer cost if this occurs.

Emergency Contact

Should you need to contact us during a situation of dire need, it is best to first call either the Travel There Co Local Representative (if one is listed below) or our Travel There Co 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 Travel There Co 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
Travel There Co 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. During the winter months (May to October), the temperatures can get quite cold in Namibia and Botswana. It is wise to bring plenty of layers for cool mornings and evenings. A set of smart casual clothes is also advisable.

Please be advised that if you plan to bring a drone with you, the use of drones in national parks in Southern Africa is prohibited.

Checklist

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

Health & Safety:
• Face masks (required)
• Hand sanitizer (required)
• Pen (Please bring your own pen for filling out documents.)
• Rubber gloves

Warm Weather:
• Sandals/flip-flops
• Shorts/skirts (Longer shorts/skirts are recommended)
• Sun hat/bandana
• Swimwear

Note: Seasons in Southern 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.

Laundry

Please note that you will be on the move a lot, and as such there will not be a lot of time for same-day laundry service. Please ask your guide/CEO to arrange if any laundry needs to be done, so that he / she can advise or make arrangements for you. Most travellers on this trip find that Swakopmund and Windhoek are convenient places to get their washing done, though facilities are available as well in Cape Town, and Victoria Falls.

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 are 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 sent 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 your own cost.
 
-----------------
 
Zimbabwe
 
***PLEASE READ THE ENTIRETY OF THE TEXT BELOW AS THIS IS IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR YOUR ENTRY INTO ZIMBABWE***

Please note that visas are the responsibility of the individual traveller. The visa requirements for your trip vary depending on where you are from and where you are going. We keep the following information up to date as much as possible, but rules do change. It is important that you check for yourself with the Embassy of Zimbabwe. Please, keep in mind that all countries require passports valid for at least 6 months from the moment of departure from the country.

***It is the responsibility of the traveller to check with their nearest Embassy and confirm the requirements for entry into Zimbabwe***

Please be sure to do your research to determine if your nationality requires a Visa, can purchase one upon arrival or must apply for one in advance.
 
A Visa to enter Zimbabwe is required by several nationalities, please read the full details listed below.
 
There are 3 categories:
 
CATEGORY A:
Countries whose nationals do NOT require a Zimbabwe Visa.
 
Antigua & Barbuda, Angola, Aruba, Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Botswana, Cayman Islands, Congo DRC, Cyprus, Fiji, Ghana, Grenada, Hong Kong, Jamaica, Kenya, Kiribati, Leeward Islands, Lesotho, Madagascar, Malaysia, Malawi, Maldives, Malta, Mauritius, Montserrat, Mozambique, Namibia, Nauru, Samoa Western, Seychelles, Singapore, South Africa, Solomon Islands, St Kitts and Nevis, St Lucia, St Vincent, Swaziland, Tanzania, Trinidad and Tobago, Turk & Caicos Islands, Tuvalu, Uganda, Vanuatu, Zambia
 
CATEGORY B:        
Countries whose nationals are granted a Zimbabwe Visa at port of entry on payment of requisite visa fees.          
           
Algeria, Andorra, Argentina, Austria, Australia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Belgium, Bermuda, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Burundi, Brazil, Brunei, Canada, Cape Verde Islands, China, Comoros Islands, Cook Islands, Croatia, Cuba, Czech Republic, Denmark, Dominic Republic, Egypt, Estonia, Equatorial Guinea, Finland, France, French Polynesia, French West Indies, Gibraltar, Georgia, Germany, Greece, Haiti, Hungary, Indonesia, Iceland, Iran, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Kazakhstan, Korea (South), Kyrgyzstan, Kuwait, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Macau, Marshall Island, Micronesia, Moldova, Monaco, Netherlands, New Caledonia, New Zealand, Northern Mariana, Norway, Palau Islands, Palestine, Papua New Guinea, Portugal, Puerto Rico, Russia, Rwanda, Samoa, Sao Tome, Serbia, Slovak, Slovenia, Spain, Suriname, Sweden, Switzerland, Tajikistan, Turkey, Turkmenistan, Ukraine, United Arab Emirates, Uruguay, United Kingdom, United States of America, Uzbekistan, Vatican, Virgin Islands           
           
***Canadian Passport holders can ONLY get a Single entry Zimbabwe Visa at the port of Entry.
 
CATEGORY C:        
Countries whose nationals are required to apply for and obtain a Zimbabwe visa prior to travelling (single entry Zimbabwe visa ONLY).
           
Afghanistan, Albania, Armenia, Bahrain, Bangladesh, Benin, Bhutan, Bolivia, Bulgaria, Burkina Faso, Cambodia, Cameroon, Central Africa Republic, Chad, Chile, Colombia, Congo Brazzaville, Costa Rica, Conakry, Cote de Voire, Djibouti Republic, Ecuador, El Salvador, Eritrea, Ethiopia, French Guiana, Gabon, Gambia, Guam, Guatemala, Guinea, Guinea Bissau, Guyana, Honduras, India, Iraq, Jordan, Korea (DPRK), Laos, Lebanon, Liberia, Libya, Mali, Mauritania, Mexico, Mongolia, Morocco, Myanmar, Nepal, Nicaragua, Niger, Nigeria, Norfolk Islands, Oman, Pakistan, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Philippines, Qatar, Reunion, Romania, San Marino, Saudi Arabia, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Sri Lanka, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, Taiwan, Thailand, Togo, Tunisia, Venezuela, Vietnam, Yemen Republic, Yugoslavia          
 
IMPORTANT NOTE: If you have purchased a single entry visa upon arrival and then decide to leave Zimbabwe (even for a few hours) you will need to buy another visa to re-enter Zimbabwe. In this instance you should buy a double entry visa upon arrival as it works out cheaper. Multiple entry visas cannot be obtained at the port of entry into Zimbabwe. You may enter Zimbabwe on a single entry visa and then obtain a multiple entry visa from the town office - but this may take up to 7 working days to be issued. Alternatively, a multiple entry visa can be obtained from the Zimbabwe Embassy in your country prior to departure for Zimbabwe.
 
Information accurate as of July 1, 2016

-----------------

South Africa
http://www.dha.gov.za/index.php/immigration-services/exempt-countries
http://www.dha.gov.za/index.php/immigration-services/apply-for-a-south-african-visa
http://www.southafrica.info/travel/documents/visas.htm

Visas are not issued at South African ports of entry, and airline officials are obliged to insist on visas before allowing passengers to board. If you arrive without a visa, immigration officials are obliged to put you onto a flight back to your home country.
If you are a passport holder of the following countries/areas you do not need a visa for stays of LESS THAN 90 days:
African Union / Unity Laissez Passes, Andorra, Argentina, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Botswana, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Czech Republic, Denmark, Ecuador, Finland, Japan, Liechtenstein, Luxemburg, Malta, Monaco, Netherlands, 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.

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

http://www.botswanaembassy.org/index.php?page=visa-consular

Countries that do 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

Visas cannot be obtained at the border.

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.) **

Namibia
http://www.namibia.org.za/consular.htm
http://www.namibiatourism.com.na/visas/

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. Visas cannot be obtained on arrival.
Visa costs
Please enquire with your agent or closest embassy.

This information is accurate at the time of writing, and please contact your local embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date visa requirements and costs, regarding these, and the other countries visited, or see your travel agent. It is your responsibility to have the correct travel documentation.

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.

Zimbabwe uses the US Dollar and South African Rand.

The Namibian currency is the Namibian Dollar (NAD), which is equivalent to the South African Rand.

In Botswana, you pay with Pula (BWP).

Each currency can be obtained locally by changing foreign currency or by using ATMs (where available) which will disperse local currency. Your CEO will inform you where you can change money throughout the tour and approximately how much money you will need.

For Zimbabwe, we strongly advise that you bring ZAR or USD from your home country or exchange money before the start of the tour, to avoid delays on tour, as it can be difficult to obtain cash at ATMs.

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 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 to Africa. 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 something unforeseen happen to one of your cards during your travels.
While there are many ATMs in the major centres, there are no guarantees that your credit or debit cards will actually work in Africa. Check with your bank.

Credit cards can be used in major cities and towns ONLY but please do not rely on them as a method of payment because they are generally not widely accepted. You should be aware that to purchase products or services on a credit card a fee of 5%-10% usually applies. The majority of our optional activities can also be paid by credit card. Your CEO will advise on these.

Please note that in many areas there may be occasional power-outages, where there will be no electricity for hours at a time. In addition, ATMs outside of larger centers often run out of cash or can be out of order unexpectedly. These factors could affect your ability to access money from ATMs. As such, please do not rely on credit or debit cards as your only source of money.
A combination of foreign currency and debit/credit cards for cash advances is best. Always take more rather than less, as you don't want to spoil the trip by constantly feeling short of funds.

As currency exchange rates can fluctuate often we ask that you refer to the following website for daily exchange rates: www.xe.com.

Emergency Fund

Please also make sure you have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an 'emergency' fund, to be used when circumstances outside our control (ex. a natural disaster) require a change to our planned route. This is a rare occurrence!

Departure Tax

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

Okavango Delta polers: 50-100 BWP (Botswana Pula)l

Optional Activities

Table Mountain
- Table Mountain Cable Car (300-360ZAR per person)
- Table Mountain Hike (600-1500ZAR per person)

Cape Town
- Two Oceans Aquarium (185ZAR per person)
- Wine Tour and Tasting (1075ZAR per person)
- Cape Town Urban Safari (920ZAR per person)
- Cape Point Tour (1200ZAR per person)

Simon's Town
- Boulders Beach Visit (75ZAR per person)

Kruger National Park
- Full Day Kruger National Park Open Vehicle Wildlife Safari Drive (650ZAR per person)

Louis Trichardt
- Nature Hikes (Free)

Letaba Ranch
- Letaba Ranch Wildlife Safari Drive (510ZAR per person)

Matobo National Park
- Ancient Cave Painting Visit (10USD per person)
- Grave of Rhodes Visit (10USD per person)

Hwange National Park
- Wildlife Safari in Hwange National Park (70USD per person)

Victoria Falls
- Bridge Swing over the Zambezi (168USD per person)
- Zipline over the Zambezi (47USD per person)

Victoria Falls
- Full Day Excursion to Chobe National Park (170USD per person)
- Zambezi River Sunset Cruise (50USD per person)
- Victoria Falls Visit (30USD per person)
- Victoria Falls Whitewater Rafting (135USD per person)
- Zambezi Bungee Jump (168USD per person)
- Victoria Falls Helicopter Ride - 25min (299USD per person)
- Victoria Falls Helicopter Ride - 15min (165USD per person)

Chobe National Park
- Chobe National Park Safari Drive (40USD per person)
- Chobe Photo Wildlife Safari Drive (130USD per person)
- Chobe River Sunset Cruise (40USD per person)

Nata
- Nata Area Bushwalk (205BWP per person)
- Nata Area Wildlife Safari Drive (310BWP per person)

Maun
- Okavango Delta Flight (120USD per person)

Ghanzi
- Traditional San/Bushmen Dancing (100-600BWP per group)

Etosha National Park
- Etosha Open Vehicle Wildlife Safari Drive (660NAD per person)

Swakopmund
- Living Desert Tour (800NAD per person)
- 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)

Sossusvlei
- Deadvlei Visit (120NAD per person)

Lambert's Bay
- Bird Island Visit (50ZAR 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 Travel There Co-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 jewelery at home - you won't need it while travelling. Many of the hotels we use have safety deposit boxes, which is the most secure way of storing your valuables. A lock is recommended for securing your luggage. When travelling on a group trip, please note that your group leader has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the trip itinerary if it deemed necessary, due to safety concerns. Your Chief Experience Officer (CEO) will accompany you on all included activities. During your trip you will have some free time to pursue your own interests, relax and take it easy and explore at your leisure. While your CEO will assist you with options available in a given location, please note that any optional activities you undertake are not part of your itinerary, and we offer no representations about the safety of the activity or the standard of the operators running them. Please use your own good judgement when selecting an activity in your free time. Although the cities visited on tour are generally safe during the day, there can be risks to wandering throughout any major city at night. It is our recommendation to stay in small groups and to take taxis to and from restaurants, or during night time excursions.

Water based activities have an element of danger and excitement built into them. We recommend only participating in water based activities when accompanied by a guide(s). We make every reasonable effort to ensure the fun and adventurous element of any water based activities (in countries with varying degrees of operating standards), have a balanced approach to safety. It is our policy not to allow our CEOs to make arrangements on your behalf for water based activities that are not accompanied by guide(s).

Swimming, including snorkeling, is always at your own risk. <a href="/travel-resources/safety/">Read more about travel safety</a> for ways to further enhance your personal safety while traveling.

Trip Specific Safety

GENERAL: Look after your personal items. Do not leave your valuables visible in a car or hotel room. Lock your hotel room door when you enter and when you leave. Do not carry large amount of cash on you. Avoid displaying flashy jewellery and carry your camera in its pack on your shoulder rather than around your neck. Keep your passport, airline tickets, money, important documents locked up in your room/safe - do not carry it with you.

Please note that the use of drones in national parks in Southern Africa is prohibited.

Vital Information for staying Kruger NP 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 unusual creatures but without a little knowledge, some of them could be dangerous. Example: Bats, spiders, snakes, scorpions and mosquitos in a malarial 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.

NAMIBIA: Always be alert of animals that are wandering too close to the road. Both domestic and wild animals frighten easily and can jump directly in front of the moving vehicle. If possible, avoid travelling at night. Some wildlife tends to be more active at dusk. Always be on the look-out for sandy patches, potholes and sharp bends in the road. In rainy or wet conditions beware of slippery roads, washaways, running and or stagnant water. Always have enough water (bottled) for the journey. No matter how beautiful or gentle an animal may appear, the only safe way to look at it is from the safety of your vehicle.

Medical Form

A Couple of Rules

Illegal drugs will not be tolerated on any trips. Possessing or using drugs not only contravenes the laws of the land but also puts the rest of the group at risk. Smoking marijuana and opium is a part of local culture in some parts of the world but is not acceptable for our travellers. Our philosophy of travel is one of respect towards everyone we encounter and in particular the local people who make the world the special place it is. The exploitation of people in the sex trade 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 utilize the services of paid sex workers, in any capacity.

A Word of Warning

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is compulsory in order to participate on any of our trips. When travelling on a group trip, you will not be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance has been sighted by your leader, who will take note of your insurance details. When selecting a travel insurance policy we require that at a minimum you are covered for medical expenses including emergency evacuation and repatriation. A minimum coverage of USD200,000 is required. Travel There Co can provide you with the appropriate coverage. We strongly recommend that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects. Some tours include adventure activities that require extra coverage (e.g. crampon use); please review your itinerary and make sure that you are covered for all included activities. If you have credit card insurance we require proof of purchase of the trip (a receipt of credit card statement) with a credit card in your name. Contact your bank for details of their participating insurer, the level of coverage and emergency contact telephone number.

Planeterra-The G Adventures Foundation

Planeterra 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 Travel There Co’ itineraries globally.
Travel There Co is Planeterra’s largest corporate donor, covering all operating costs, so 100% of your donation will bring opportunity to people in need.

Travel There Co Dollar-a-day Program - Make Every Day Count - Turn your travel into impact with <a href="https://www.planeterra.org">Planeterra Foundation</a>.

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.

Local Dress

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 Travel There Co 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@travelthereco.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 Travel There Co, subscribe at <a href="https://www.travelthereco.com/newsletters/">www.travelthereco.com/newsletters/</a>

Stay current on how our company invests in our global community through our foundation – Planeterra. Sign up for <a href="http://letsgo.travelthereco.com/Planeterra-Consumers_Planeterra-Newsletter-Signup-Page.html">Planeterra's monthly news</a> 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 Travel There Co 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.

Hotels (13 nts), lodge/chalet (8 nts), guesthouse (1 nt), basic camping (1 nt), adventure tents (2 nts), participation camping (4 nts).

Hotel/Guesthouse
14 nights in comfortable twin rooms with en suite or shared facilities.

Lodge/Chalet
8 nights in standard rooms with en-suite or shared facilities.

Adventure Tents
2 nights are spent in simple Dorm/Adventure tents. Rooms are twin or single with shared facilities.

Basic Camping (participative, please bring your sleeping bag and towel)
1 night is spent in pitched tents in the Delta with very basic facilities (no shower, dig-out toilet). Tents are twin.

Camping (participative, please bring your sleeping bag and towel)

4 nights are spent in pitched tents in Etosha National Park and Solitaire Area. Tents are twin with shared ablutions.

Please note that due to the high demand for accommodation in the parks, sometimes we will arrange alternative accommodation outside of the park.

Departure Dates Confirmed Dates Trip Status Trip Status Seats Available Seats Available Price Per Traveller