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08 Jul 2023 → 12 Aug 2023 |
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29 Jul 2023 → 02 Sep 2023 |
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19 Aug 2023 → 23 Sep 2023 |
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09 Sep 2023 → 14 Oct 2023 |
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30 Sep 2023 → 04 Nov 2023 |
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21 Oct 2023 → 25 Nov 2023 |
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11 Nov 2023 → 16 Dec 2023 |
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Cape Town to Victoria Falls and Mozambique Beaches Tour (Comfort) (36 Days)
Tour Details
Tour Style | Comfort |
---|---|
Length | 36 days |
Countries Visited | South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Eswatini, Mozambique |
Starts | Cape Town |
Ends | Johannesburg |
Group Size | Max 20 |
Age Range | 12 – 65 Years and older |
Tour SKU | ACM0437 |
What You'll Experience
- Cape Town
- Cedarberg
- Orange River
- Namib Desert
- Fish River Canyon
- Quiver Tree Forest and Giants Playground
- Namib-Naukluft National Park
- Sossusvlei
- Swakopmund
- Spitzkoppe
- Brandberg
- Etosha National Park
- Windhoek
- Botswana - Ghanzi
- Okavango Delta
- Khwai Conservation Area
- Savuti Game Reserve
- Chobe National Park
- Victoria Falls
- Eswatini/ Swaziland
- Maputo
- Inhambane
- Vilanculos
- Bazaruto Island
- Mozambique Beaches
- Kruger National Park
- Panorama Route: God's Window, Blyde River Canyon and Bourke's Luck Potholes
- Johannesburg
Why You'll Love this Tour
This is an action-packed Cape Town to Mozambique via Victoria Falls Adventure through diverse landscapes. Experience them all by a range of exhilarating adventure activities that will pump you full of African adrenaline. Come and experience the most popular overland route which starts in Cape Town travels up through Namibia, Botswana before travelling down to Mozambique and ends in Johannesburg.
Dates Tour Length: 36 days
Included
- Meals - 35 x Breakfast, 36 Lunch, 35 x Dinner
- Accommodation
- Registered guides
- Transport
- Filtered Water
- Entrance Fees to National parks
- Traditional Dinner
- Spring Wild Flowers (Seasonal July – September)
- Ais-Ais Hot springs
- Scenic walk along the rim of Fish River Canyon / Visit to Quiver Tree Forest and Giants Playground
- Sunrise hike up Dune 45, 4×4 shuttle to Sossusvlei / Deadvle
- Tropic of Capricorn, Guided desert walk with local expert, Mirabilis trees, Lunar landscape
- Visit and explore Spitzkoppe with a local guide
- Brandberg White Lady hike
- Etosha National Park Afternoon game drive in truck & Full Day Game drive in truck
- Walk through Windhoek with your guide
- San Tribal dance in evening
- Full Day Game Drive through Savuti Game Reserve in 4×4 safari vehicles
- Okavango Delta Morning Mokoro Excursion / Khwai Conservation Afternoon Game Drive
- Chobe National Park Boat Cruise
- Eswatini Morning walk with guide, Rhino Game Drive in Hlane Game Reserve
- Maputo Walking Tour
- Day trip to Tofo
- Explore Inhambane on foot (self-guided walk)
- Bazaruto Island Day Excursion (full day)
- Kruger Park Full-Day Game Drive in 4x4 Vehicles
- Panorama Route – Bourke’s Luck Potholes, Three Rondavels and God’s Window
Excluded
- International Airfares
- Travel insurance (Get Adventure Travel Insurance)
- Personal spending money
- Visa costs
- Border taxes
- Passports
- Vaccinations
- Personal taxes (including departure and border taxes)
- All optional activities
- Unscheduled or optional national / game parks and other activities
- Gratuities
- Sleeping bag if needed
- Restaurant meals (other than those listed)
- All drinks
- Laundry
- Other items of a personal nature
Activities
Some of the activities you can take part in on this tour.
Included in the Tour Price
- Traditional Dinner
- Spring Wild Flowers (Seasonal July – September)
- Ais-Ais Hot springs
- Scenic walk along the rim of Fish River Canyon / Visit to Quiver Tree Forest and Giants Playground
- Sunrise hike up Dune 45, 4×4 shuttle to Sossusvlei / Deadvle
- Tropic of Capricorn, Guided desert walk with local expert, Mirabilis trees, Lunar landscape
- Visit and explore Spitzkoppe with a local guide
- Brandberg White Lady hike
- Etosha National Park Afternoon game drive in truck & Full Day Game drive in truck
- Walk through Windhoek with your guide
- San Tribal dance in evening
- Full Day Game Drive through Savuti Game Reserve in 4×4 safari vehicles
- Okavango Delta Morning Mokoro Excursion / Khwai Conservation Afternoon Game Drive
- Chobe National Park Boat Cruise
- Eswatini Morning walk with guide, Rhino Game Drive in Hlane Game Reserve
- Maputo Walking Tour
- Day trip to Tofo
- Explore Inhambane on foot (self-guided walk)
- Bazaruto Island Day Excursion (full day)
- Kruger Park Full-Day Game Drive in 4x4 Vehicles
- Panorama Route – Bourke’s Luck Potholes, Three Rondavels and God’s Window
Other Activities
Optional activities available on this tour at your own expense:
- Swakopmund Dolphin cruise, Skydiving, sandboarding, Quad biking
- San Guided Walk (could take place the next morning)
- Okavango Delta scenic flight
- Chobe National Park Game Drive
- Victoria Falls National Park Entry
- Visit the Vic Falls, Zambezi Sunset Cruise, Bungee Jump, Helicopter Flights, White Water Rafting
- Inhambane Ocean Safaris, Quad Biking, Scuba Diving, Snorkelling and more
- Kruger Sundowner Drive (Subject to Availability)
Itinerary
Day 1
Cape Town – Cederberg Region, South Africa
Leaving Cape Town this morning, we stop and take a look at Table Mountain from across Table Bay before making our way to the Cederberg region. On route we stop at a traditional “Padstal” that sells homemade treats and bakes. Boasting some of the most picturesque mountains and orange farms, Cederberg is also home to the Rooibos tea farm which is world renowned for it’s health benefits and unique taste. We enjoy dinner at our overnight stop where we have an opportunity to experience South African hospitality at it’s best.
The Cederberg Mountains and nature reserve are situated nearby Clanwilliam. They were named after the endangered ancient Clanwilliam Cedar trees which are indigenous to the area, growing up to heights of over 1500 metres. The mountains spread up to 50 kilometres both north and south, and up to 20 kilometres both east and west with the highest summit within the range being Sneeuberg at 2028 metres. This region comprises of intense sandstone rock formations, usually various shades of red in colour. The Cederberg Wilderness Area is renowned for containing incredible ancient San rock art. It is also well-known for the discovery of significant fossils, specifically within recent years. These fossils are of primitive fish and can be dated back almost 450 million years to the Ordovician Period.
Accommodation: Two Per Room: Marcuskraal Campsite
Facilities: En-suites Per Room Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered
Route: Cape Town to Citrusdal ±270 km
Meals: Lunch. Dinner
Included Highlight: Traditional Dinner
Day 2
Namaqualand – Gariep (Orange) River, South Africa
Today we journey through the Northern Cape and Namaqualand, making a stop off at the isolated town of Springbok to gather a few last minute supplies. Once we have crossed the Namibian border, we arrive at our charming chalets that overlook the sparkling Orange River which creates a natural divider between South Africa and Namibia. For those travelling during the spring months (July – September) you may experience the wild flowers renowned in this region.
Originally called the Nu Gariep (‘Great River’) by the native Nama people, the Orange River was renamed by Colonel Robert Gordon – a Dutch explorer who once commanded the Cape garrison for several years. It is said that Gordon named the river in honour of William of Orange, but a more popular belief is that it was simply named so because of its colour. Presently, it is known by its original name (Gariep River) and it the longest river throughout South Africa, stretching to a distance of 1800 kilometres. Rising in the Drakensberg mountains in Lesotho, where it is known as Sengu, it flows west through South Africa and out into the Atlantic Ocean once it reaches Alexander Bay. On its lengthy voyage, the river boasts a wide selection of beautiful landscapes. It passes through rough mountainous terrains and never-ending dune fields. The Orange forms part of the international border that runs between South Africa and Namibia, South Africa and Lesotho, and numerous provincial borders within South Africa.
Though the river does not run through any main cities, it plays a crucial role within the economy of South Africa by providing water to be used for irrigation and hydroelectric power. The Orange River is also responsible for diamond deposits all along the coast of Namibia. For millions of years this river acted as a transportation system that took diamonds from volcanic pipes within Kimberley, South Africa out into the ocean. From here, currents would take the diamonds north where the surf would catch them and place them into the Namib dune fields.
Accommodation: Two per room: Felix Unite Cabanas
Facilities: En-suites Per Room. Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered
Route: Citrusdal to Orange River ±500 km
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlight: Spring Wild Flowers (Seasonal July – September)
Border Post South Africa: Vioolsdrift, Tel: +27 (27) 277 618 760, Open 24 hours. Namibia: Noordoewer, Tel: +264 (0) 63 297 122, Open 24 hours.
Day 3
Namibia – Gariep (Orange) River , South Africa
We have an opportunity to partake in an optional canoe trip down the Gariep River this morning, or we could choose to stay behind and devote our time to relax and unwind next to the river. Later in the day, we make our way back to Ai-Ais to check in to our lodging for the night and to delight in the marvellous hot springs offered by our resort.
Meaning ‘burning water’ in the local language of Nama, Ai-Ais refers to the sulphurous thermal hot water springs situated at the bottom of the mountains and at Fish River Canyon’s southern end. The Ai-Ais (pronounced ‘eye-ice’) springs originate from deep beneath the river bed and create a haven in this extremely dry area. The hot springs were used by the German military troops as a base camp during the Nama uprising. This area was once again used as a base in 1915 by South African troops who were healing from injuries incurred during the South-West Africa Campaign. The springs were declared national monuments in the 1960s and subsequently became a conservation area. The Ai-Ais camp was officially opened on the 16th of March, 1971. The hot water, heavy with sulphur, chloride and fluoride, has an average temperature of approximately 60 degrees Celsius and is known to be a relaxing curative.
Accommodation: Two Per Room: Ai Ais Resort
Facilities: En-suites Per Room Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered
Route: Orange/Gariep River to Ai-Ais
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlight: Ais-Ais Hot springs
Day 4
Fish River Canyon, Quiver Tree Forest and Giants Playground, Namibia
Waking early this morning, we drive to the rim of the Fish River Canyon enjoying the beautiful sunrise in this magical piece of land. We also enjoy a walk along the rim of the canyon before making our way to Keetmanshoop. The afternoon is spent exploring the magnificent Quiver Tree Forest and the Giants Playground.
Accommodation: Two Per Room: Schutzenhaus Guesthouse
Facilities: En-suites Bathroom Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered
Route : Fish River Canyon to Keetmanshoop ±260 km
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlights: Scenic walk along the rim of Fish River Canyon / Visit to Quiver Tree Forest and Giants Playground
Day 5
Namib-Naukluft National Park, Namibia
Every journey has long travelling days and today we will venture deep into the Namib Desert. We make our way from the grasslands to the red dunes that cover the western reaches of the desert. Our accommodation this evening is at the tip of the dune fields where we enjoy the unique sounds of the Barking Gecko as we fall asleep.
Accommodation: Two Per Permanent Tent: Hammerstein Lodge
Facilities: En Suite Bathroom Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered.
Route: Keetmanshoop to Namib Naukluft National Park ±470 km
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 6
Sossusvlei Dunes – Namib-Naukluft National Park, Namibia
We begin our day climbing Dune 45 enjoying the magnificent views before making our way back down for a delicious breakfast. We hop onto a 4×4 and are transferred to Sossusvlei where you will embark on a walk through the salt pans at Sossusvlei and Deadvlei. Tonight we spend some time admiring the breathtaking view of the desert stars.
Accommodation: Two Per Room Hammerstein Lodge OR Boesman’s Camp or similar (no website)
Facilities: En-suite bathroom Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlight: Sesriem Canyon / Hike up Dune 45, 4×4 shuttle to Sossusvlei / Deadvlei
Day 7 - 8
Swakopmund
Today we enjoy an educational desert excursion with our local guide before leaving the Namib and crossing the Tropic of Capricorn on the way from the Atlantic Coast. Continuing our journey in the Namib Naukluft National Park, we immerse ourselves in the natural surroundings as we stop at a desert waterhole to spot some desert game quenching their thirst. The unique Welwitshia mirabilis plants and the striking lunar landscape are both on view this afternoon. Following our time in the Namib Desert, we turn west and head into the sunset to our next destination, the bustling coastal town of Swakopmund, where adventure awaits along with a welcome taste of civilization. As soon as we arrive in Swakopmund, we will be given the opportunity to choose from a variety of thrilling adventures.
The following day is free to enjoy and participate in the multiple adventure activities available here. You can also spend your time exploring the city at leisure or simply enjoy some shopping before venturing to our next destination.
Accommodation: Two Per Room: Haus Garnison OR Amanpuri Travellers Lodge OR Stay@Swakop
Facilities: En-suite bathroom Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered.
Route: Namiba Naukluft National Park to Swakopmund
Meals: Breakfast x2, Lunch x2, Dinner x2
Included Highlight: Tropic of Capricorn, Guided desert walk with local expert, Mirabilis trees, Lunar landscape.
Optional Activity: Dolphin cruise, Skydiving, Sandboarding, Quad biking
Day 9
Spitzkoppe – Brandberg, Namibia
We start the day early and travel to the vast granite formations of Spitzkoppe. Here, we take a walk with our local guide to view the magnificent rock art of the San people, before making our way back and retiring for the night.
Accommodation: Two Per Room: Brandberg White Lady Lodge
Facilities: En-suite bathroom Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered.
Route: Swakopmund to Brandberg (via Spitzkoppe) ±320 km
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlight: Visit and explore Spitzkoppe with a local guide
Day 10
Brandberg White Lady, Namibia
Recognised as the highest mountain in Namibia, the Brandberg (Burning Mountains) has more than 45 000 rock paintings in the area. In the morning we embark on an hour long hike to pay a visit to the ancient rock paintings in the area. After exploring we make our way to the Kamanjab are where we spend our evening. An optional excursion is available in the afternoon for those wanting to visit the educational centre showcasing the lifestyle of the Himba Tribe.
Accommodation: Two Per Room: Oppi Koppi Rest Camp
Facilities: En-suites Per Room Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered
Route: Brandberg to Kamanjab
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlight: Brandberg White Lady hike
Day 11 - 12
Etosha National Park, Namibia
Today we rise early and make our way to Etosha National Park. Etosha means ‘Great White Place’ and is dominated by an enormous salt pan which makes up part of the mighty Kalahari Basin. Originally a lake nourished by the Kunene River, the Etosha pan spreads across an entire quarter of the Etosha National Park where you will have one of the most incredible game viewing experiences. We then make our way back to retire for the evening.
On our second day in Etosha, we spend more time exploring the park and the edges of the Etosha Pan where we will have an opportunity to take some fantastic pictures.
Accommodation: Two Per Room: NWR: Halali or NWR: Okaukuejo
Facilities: En-suites Per Room Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered.
Route: Etosha National Park
Meals: Breakfast x2, Lunch x2, Dinner x2
Included Highlight: Afternoon Game Drive in the truck, Full Day Game drive in truck
Day 13
Windhoek, Namibia
With an early start to the day, we travel onto Windhoek, Namibia’s capital. Upon our arrival in Windhoek, we embark on a brief walking tour around the city and view some of the famous landmarks. Our accommodation this evening is located between the city and the airport.
Accommodation: Two Per Room: Heja Game Lodge or Klein Windhoek Guest House
Facilities: En-suites Per Room Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered
Route: Etosha National Park to Windhoek ±450 km
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlight: Walk through Windhoek with your guide
Day 14
Ghanzi, Botswana
Today we travel east to Botswana and the Kalahari Desert which covers of 900 000 square kilometres. A guided walk with the San community provides us with insight into the harsh climate and San people. In the evening we experience some traditional dance, songs and story-telling.
Accommodation: Two Per Room: Ghanzi Trail Blazers
Facilities: En-suite bathroom Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered.
Route: Windhoek to Ghanzi
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlight: San Tribal dance in evening
Optional Activities: San Guided Walk (could take place the next morning)
Border Post Namibia: Buitepos, Tel: +264 62 560401, Open: 07h00-24h00, Botswana: Mamanu, Tel: +267 (0) 659 2013/2064, Open: 07h00-24h00
Day 15 - 16
Okavango Delta and Khwai Conservation Area, Botswana
Rising early in the morning, we make our way towards Maun. Upon arrival, there is an optional scenic flight over the Delta (time and weather permitting). After your optional flight, the group is collected from a meeting point in Maun and taken on an incredible journey into the Khwai Conservation area in smaller safari vehicles. After dinner, our guide will explain what we can expect for our mokoro excursion into the Okavango Delta and our game drive in Khwai.
The next morning is early morning and for good reason, as we make our way to the poling station and meet our polers who will be guiding us through the waterways of the Delta.
Your polers are experienced and knowledgeable when it comes to exploring the narrow, reed-filled channels that eventually open into large lagoons, where you will have the opportunity of watching hippos in their natural environment and hopefully see some spectacular bird species before embarking on a walking trail on one of the many islands within the delta before heading back to the poling station and then camp.
It’s important to know that the walking trail and the mokoro trip is not primarily focused on game viewing but rather another unique experience enjoyed in the heart of Botswana.
After lunch, we return to Khwai Conservation area for a well-deserved game drive that’s conducted by professional guides in 4×4 vehicles, where you stand the chance of seeing amazing wildlife (route might change due to certain roads being flooded).
Accommodation: Camp: Two Permanent Tent Magotho / Boga Campsite (no website available)
Facilities: Ensuite Bathroom
Route: Ghanzi via Maun to Khwai Conservation Area
Meals: Breakfast x2, Lunch x2, Dinner x2
Included Highlight: Okavango Delta Morning Mokoro Excursion / Khwai Conservation Afternoon Game Drive
Optional Activity: Okavango Delta scenic flight
Day 17
Khwai – Savuti – Chobe – Kasane, Botswana
Accommodation: Two Per Room: Thebe River Safaris
Facilities: En-suites Per Room Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered
Route: Khwai Conservation Area – via Savuti Game Reserve – Kasane (long day ±6-8 hours)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Activity: Full Day Game Drive through Savuti Game Reserve in 4×4 safari vehicles
Day 18
Chobe National Park, Botswana
We make our way to Kasane where the afternoon is spent exploring the Chobe National Park. We are treated to a relaxing sunset river cruise on the Chobe River (situated within the National Park) when we will be able to spot plenty of beautiful animals on the riverbanks, such as hippo, buffalo and elephants. We end the evening with a delicious meal around a fire.
Accommodation: Two Per Room: Thebe River Lodge
Facilities: En-suites Per Room Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered
Route: Nata to Kasane ±315 km
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlight: Chobe National Park boat cruise
Optional Activity: Chobe National Park Game Drive
Day 19 - 20
Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe
Today we make our way to Zimbabwe and travel to Victoria Falls where we visit the spectacular natural wonder. At your leisure you can view the mighty Zambezi River dropping into the Batoka Gorge. There are many craft markets for the more leisurely traveller and for those who seek an adrenaline rush there are many Optional activities you can partake in. The evening can be spent enjoying an optional dinner out.
At 1700 metres wide and 108 metres high, Victoria Falls is said to be the biggest falls in the world. According to popular belief, Scottish explorer David Livingstone was the very first European to stand witness to the mighty Victoria Falls and wrote: “It has never been seen before by European eyes, but scenes so wonderful must have been gazed upon by angels in their flight.” The local name of Mosi-oa-Tunya, meaning ‘the smoke that thunders’, is used as the official name in Zimbabwe. Because of it’s enormous power and size, there are countless myths associated with the Falls. It is believed by the local Tonga people of Zambezi that a river God, Nyaminyami, lives in the water in the shape of a gigantic snake.
The Zambezi River flooded thrice when the Kariba Dam was constructed in the 1950s, causing numerous deaths and much devastation. The locals believe that Nyaminyami became angry with the building of the Dam and caused the horrendous floods. The peculiar form of Victoria Falls allows it’s entire width to be seen face-on from as near as 60 metres to the Falls due to the Zambezi River dropping into a deep and narrow slot-like fissure connected to a lengthy sequence of ravines. There are very few waterfalls in the world that permit this close of an approach on foot.
The Falls are created by the entire width of the river plummeting in a solitary vertical drop into a 120 metre wide chasm, whittled by the cascading waters along a breakage area in the basalt plateau. The chasm called the First Gorge varies from 80 metres deep at it’s west end to 108 metres in it’s centre. The only opening to the First Gorge is though a gap 110 metres wide, approximately two-thirds of the way across the width of the Falls from the western end, through which the entire volume of the river spills into the gorges of the Victoria Falls. Two islands, Boaruka and Livingstone, are situated on the peak of the Falls. They are big enough to divide the sheet of water, even at full flood. At less than full flood, other islands perform the task of dividing the curtain of water into dispersed parallel streams. The main streams are known as Leaping Water, Devil’s Cataract, Main Falls, Rainbow Falls (the tallest) and the Eastern Cataract.
Accommodation: Two Per Room: Shearwater Explorers Village
Facilities: En-suites Per Room Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered
Route: Kasane to Victoria Falls ±100 km
Meals: Breakfast x2, Lunch x2, Dinner x2
Optional Activity: Victoria Falls National Park Entry, Zambezi Sunset Cruise, Bungee Jump, Helicopter Flights, White Water Rafting
Day 21
Victoria Falls to Francistown, Botswana
An early departure from Victoria Falls, we drive south through Botswana towards Francistown. We arrive at our accommodation for the evening located just outside of the town.
Accommodation: Two Per Room: Woodlands Lodge
Facilities: Shared Ablutions Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered.
Route: Victoria Falls to Francistown
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Border Post: Zimbabwe: Kazangula Road, Open: 06h00-18h00, Botswana: Kazangula Road, +267 625-0320/1303, Open: 06h00-20h00
Day 22
Francistown to Johannesburg, South Africa
Another early departure, we enter into South Africa by crossing the border and enjoy a picturesque drive to Johannesburg arriving in the late afternoon.
Accommodation: Two Per Room: Garden Court OR Tambo International
Facilities: En-suite Bathroom Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered.
Route: Francistown to Johannesburg ±560 km
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Border Post: Botswana: Martinsdrift, Tel: +267 4940 254, Open: 08h00-18h00. South Africa: Groblersbrug, Tel: +27 (0) 14 767 1019, Open: 08h00-18h00
Day 23
Johannesburg – Hlane Game Reserve, Eswatini, South Africa
In the morning, we depart Johannesburg and travel through the scenic Mpumalanga region until we reach Eswatini. After crossing into the country, we enter the Hlane Royal National Park, home to a wide variety of animal species and birds. There are a variety of optional activities available in the 30,000 acre Nature Reserve.
Accommodation: Two Per Room Hlane game reserve
Facilities: En-suites per tent Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered
Route: Johannesburg to Eswatini
Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Border Post: South Africa: Oshoek, Tel: +27 (0) 17 882 0138/9, Open: 07h00-22h00 Eswatini: Ngwenya, Tel: Not Available, Open: 07h00-22h00
Day 24
Eswatini, South Africa
This morning, you will have the opportunity to explore Mlilwane’s interwoven network of 9 trails with your guide. After lunch, you will have the remainder of the afternoon at your leisure. The Ezulwini Valley offers a variety of activities and adventures in Mlilwane
Accommodation: Two Per Hut Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary
Facilities: En-Suite bathroom Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlight: Morning walk with guide
Day 25
Eswatini, South Africa
After leaving Mlilwane, we travel to Hlane Game Reserve, another excellent reserve. During our stay in Eswatini, we will have the opportunity to enjoy an excursion through the reserve on a game drive.
Accommodation: Two Per Room Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary or Hlane game reserve
Facilities: En-suite bathroom Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Route: Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary to Hlane Game Reserve
Included Highlight: Rhino Game Drive in Hlane Game Reserve
Day 26
Maputo, Mozambique
Today we make our way to Maputo, Mozambique’s capital and biggest city. Once settled, we enjoy lunch at a local restaurant and set out to explore the sights of the city on a guided walking tour. A hub to the Indian Ocean, it’s economy is focused around the harbour. There is much to do and see here. The city is surrounded by the province of Maputo, but is administrated as it’s own province. The city is located on the west side of the Maputo Bay, at the Thembe River mouth. The evening is spent enjoying a lovely dinner out and we have the opportunity to experience the night life of this fascinating city.
There are two beautiful islands, Inhaca and Portuguese Island, that are situated just off Maputo’s coast. Under the influence of the Portuguese, Maputo transformed into one of the most gorgeous and trendy cities with a remarkable skyline of high buildings and a multicultural Portuguese/African atmosphere. Areas such as the Polana Hotel bustled with the chatting of socialites and nightclubs pumping music until the early hours of the morning. However, the Civil War during the 1970s and 1980s changed all of this. When peace eventually arrived, the once proud city was in ruins. Countless immigrants filled the buildings, litter was strewn all over the streets and primary services such as electricity, water and garbage collection were out of commission. Presently, the city is slowly being restored to it’s previous state. The elite can once more be found in the five-star Polana Hotel with it’s fantastic view overlooking the harbour, tea gardens and antique Victorian elevator.
There are various historical sites and buildings to visit here. Maputo’s most significant landmark is the Fort of Nossa Senhora da Conceiao (Our Lady of Conception) which was the centre of the original settlement. Another magnificent structure is the Central Railway Station, a massive building that appears as more of a palace for kings and queens rather than a transport hub for commuters. There are also some fantastic restaurants where you can indulge in tasty local beers and sumptuous fresh prawns.
Accommodation: Two Per Room: Southern Sun Maputo
Facilities: En-suites Bathroom Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered
Route: Eswatini to Maputo
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlight: Maputo Walking Tour
Border Post: Mozambique: Lebombo, Tel: +258 2155 0010, Open: 06h00-18h00, South Africa: Komatipoort, Tel: +27 (013) 793-7201, Open: 06h00-18h00
Day 27
Inhambane – Barra Beach, Mozambique
Today we journey through the dense coconut plantations to Inhambane, an old, Portuguese settlement. This coastal area is very refreshing and contains amazing beaches. The following two nights are spent at the beach.
Accommodation: Two Per Room: Bay View Lodge
Facilities: En-suites Bathroom Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered.
Route: Maputo to Inhambane ± 469 km
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 28
Inhambane, Mozambique
The following two days can be spent unwinding on the pristine beaches or visiting some of Africa’s most incredible diving and snorkeling areas. There are various Optional Activities in which to partake in.
The following day your guide will take you on a drive to Tofo where you are free to enjoy the local market and seaside villages.Tofo is ideal for a day’s outing, as it offers safe swimming, a charming market, and several popular beach bars. It is important to note that a second day will not only allow you to enjoy the activities on offer to their full potential, but it will also enable us to adapt to the changing weather conditions In your free time make sure you join in on the optional activities available.
Accommodation: Two Per Room: Bay View Lodge
Facilities: En-suites Per Room Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered.
Meals: Breakfast x2, Lunch x2, Dinner x2
Included Highlight: Day trip to Tofo
Optional Activity: Ocean Safaris, Quad Biking, Scuba Diving, Snorkelling and more
Day 29
Vilanculos, Mozambique
En route to Vilanculos we will make a stop at a local craft market to shop for souvenirs and curios. Upon arrival you will be briefed on the following days excursion. The Bazaruto Archipelago is Mozambique’s leading tourist destination. It is a guarded area containing spectacular sea life, with snorkelling in the reefs being one of the finest ways to enjoy it.
Vilanculos is a coastal town located in Mozambique, situated in the Vilanculos District in the province of Inhambane. Vilanculos was named after Gamala Vilankulo Mukoke, a local tribal chief, and some of the suburbs (bairros) are named after his sons. The town has developed rapidly over the past decade and has received large amounts of investment into it’s tourism infrastructure. It is the gateway to the Bazaruto Archipelago and dhows (local boats) often journey between the town and the Archipelago. The town itself is only 5 kilometres in length and contains various market, shops and other conveniences.
Accommodation: Two Per Room: Sailaway Safaris
Facilities: En-suites per room Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered
Route: Inhambane to Vilanculos ±300km
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlight: Explore Inhambane on foot (self-guided walk)
Day 30 - 31
Bazaruto Excursion, Mozambique
The Bazaruto trip takes place on a traditional dhow. We glide out to the islands where we have the chance to snorkel, swim and unwind during the day. The Bazaruto is one of Southern Africa’s biggest marine parks. We will head back to the mainland in the afternoon and enjoy the evening relaxing after our excursion today.
The Archipelago was established as a National Park in the year 1971. It comprises of six islands, the four primary being Bazaruto, Benguerra, Magaruque and Santa Carolina, or ‘paradise island’. The islands were created by sand deposits from the Limpopo River which has since changed it’s route. The three bigger islands formed part of a vast sand-pit peninsula that was once joined to the mainland, but has since parted as the continent sank into the Indian Ocean over the past millennia. Only Santa Carolina is a genuine Rock Island and is therefore encircled by deeper water than the rest. Because of their protected status, the Archipelago is an untouched gem that hosts over 180 species of bird life, butterflies and even suni Antelope.
The islands are covered by massive sand dunes and freshwater lakes which are home to crocodiles and are the nesting ground for stunning black-winged flamingos. The beautiful coral reefs that encircle the islands contain more than 2,000 fish species as well as whales and dolphins. A wide range of coral forms ideal diving spots, regarded as some of the finest locations in the world. The five types of turtle living in the Indian Ocean can all be found here, using the pristine beaches as their breeding ground. Dugong (sea cows), game fish and giant lobster can also be spotted in these guarded reefs. The entire island sustains many traditional fishermen and their families, majority of whom are not permanent residents and may drift between the Archipelago and the mainland in search of abundant fishing waters.
For over two thousand years, lateen rigged dhows have sailed the Indian Ocean, joining economies and people and forming a cosmopolitan maritime Indian Ocean culture. For ages, Arab shipwrights fashioned boats using sewn construction – sewing the boards together using coconut fibre cord. However, this skill has pretty much disappeared and been replaced by modern nail construction.
Dugongs are the only members of the order Sirenia, from the family Dugongidae. Dugongs are one of the most threatened mammals in Africa and are among the most endangered mammalian species in the Western Indian Ocean. They are located in the Western Indian Ocean with a minimal occurrence on Southern Africa’s east coast. The Bazaruto Archipelago and coast of Mozambique are one of the most crucial environments for dugongs in the Western Indian Ocean. They are only found in certain areas due to their specific living requirements – sea grass meadows growing in shallow, covered lagoons guarded by reefs and islands, in particular. Your best chance at seeing one of these magnificent creatures is in the Archipelago’s sea grass meadows. The primary reason for their disappearance is hunting and unintentional entanglement in fishing nets, specifically gill nets. Extrapolation of a recent survey showed an estimated total population of a mere 104 animals still living in the region surrounding the Bazaruto Archipelago.
Accommodation: Two Per Room: Sailaway Safaris
Facilities: En-suites bathroom Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Highlight: Bazaruto Island Day Excursion (full day)
Day 32
Xai Xai District, Mozambique
We make our way into Mozambique today and journey through the picturesque coastal views before reaching the busy town of Xai Xai. Upon arrival in the late afternoon we enjoy a walk on the beach or sip on a sundowner bidding farewell to the Indian Ocean and the immaculate beaches of Mozambique. Our accommodation this evening will be at a truly unique Mozambique lodge.
Accommodation: Two Per Room: Sunset Beach Lodge
Facilities: En-suite bathroom Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered
Route: Bazaruto to Xai Xai District
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 33 - 35
Mozambique – Kruger National Park – Panorama Route, South Africa
We pack up our belongings and leave Mozambique for Kruger National Park today. After shaking off the sand from our shoes, we depart Mozambique for the sounds of the bush.
The following day, in the early hours of this morning, we will enter the Kruger National Park for a full day of game viewing. Wildlife sightings are excellent in the Kruger National Park, which is also home to the famed Big-5. The open-sided 4×4 vehicles offer the thrill of experiencing the park from a different perspective. On returning to camp this afternoon, you will have the option of participating in an optional sundowner drive after a short break. Booking is essential and your guide can help you with your departure this morning.
We will be setting out for the Panorama Route a little later today. The Panorama Route is situated along the escarpment which separates the central plateau and low-lying bushveld of the Kruger National Park. It provides us with a day of scenic pleasures. Before returning to camp in the late afternoon, we will visit Bourke’s Luck Potholes, the Three Rondavels, and God’s Window. You have the option of taking the Sundowner Drive this evening.
Accommodation: Permanent Tent: Nkambeni Reserve
Facilities: En Suite Bathroom Please visit the website of the accommodation provider for a full list of the facilities offered
Route: Xai Xai to Kruger National Park
Meals: Breakfast x3, Lunch x3, Dinner x3
Included Highlights: Kruger Park Full-Day Game Drive in 4×4 Vehicles, Panorama Route – Bourke’s Luck Potholes, Three Rondavels and God’s Window
Optional Activities: Sundowner Drive (Subject to Availability)
Border Post Mozambique: Mozambique: Lebombo, Tel: +258 2155 0010, Open: 06h00-18h00 South Africa: Komatipoort, Tel: +27 (013) 793-7201, Open: 06h00-18h00
Day 36
Johannesburg, South Africa
After spending our days exploring wildlife and beaches, we are heading back to Johannesburg. As soon as we arrive in Johannesburg, your tour comes to an end. Johannesburg has a great nightlife and many excellent restaurants and the group often spends the evening together.
Accommodation: Own Arrangements / Post tour accommodation can be booked
Route: Greater Kruger National Park to Johannesburg
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Onward Travel Plans
Due to circumstances beyond our control while on tour (such as border crossings, traffic, breakdowns and delays, etc), the end time on the last day cannot be guaranteed. Therefore we strongly recommend you stay the night and fly out the next day. Please consult with your booking consultant.
Pre Departure
Important Touring Tips:
- The itinerary is a guide ONLY and is subject to change
- There is a mix of different nationalities, ages and cultures on every tour
- Space in the truck is limited – PLEASE DON’T BRING TOO MUCH LUGGAGE!
- The tours are high adventure tours, so don’t expect European Coach tours or lodge safaris
- The tours are often created in a circular route i.e. where one tour ends, another begins
- The rate is the same throughout the year
- Should you be travelling to Kenya. The Kenya government has instituted a Zero Tolerance on usage of All Plastic Bags. On the spot fines (400 USD) are being issued.
What are adventure tours?
These are adventure tours perfect for people who enjoy camping and the outdoors. You get to experience the “real Africa” by camping out at night, sitting around the campfire, taking in beautiful scenery, visiting local shops and getting to know the locals.v
What is a typical day?
A typical day on either your camping or accommodated Africa overland tour starts with an early morning wake-up call and a cup of tea or coffee followed by breakfast. Campers pack-up their campsite while comfort travellers check-out of their accommodation and hit the road.
We set off to our next destination travelling through a vast variety of landscapes, making our own new memories with new friends. Each day in Africa offers a new experience from an early morning sunrise hike, quad biking, sky dive or guided nature walk. The options are endless!
We have shorter travel days arriving at our campsite by midday or early afternoon, to enjoy lunch before joining our afternoon activity or simply enjoying a relaxed afternoon at your own pace.
On our longer travel days an early start ensures an earlier arrival at our campsite. We stop off at scenic spots to stretch our legs and take in the scenery, before lunch is enjoyed at a shady spot en-route. A mid- to-late afternoon arrival at our campsite allows us to set up camp, enjoy a beautiful sunset and end the day sitting around the campfire, under the stars.
Our best advice: expect the unexpected as this is Africa! We travel mainly on gravel roads and poorly kept tarmac roads – both setting the pace at which we travel. We do our best to arrive at our next destination, safety is our number one priority and while our overland vehicles are comfortable and spacious, they are not sports cars!
What type of vehicles do we use?
- A custom-built, comfortable, safe and self-sufficient Africa overland truck to withstand the rugged African terrain.
- Various vehicles are used on varying tours, with each offering comfortable seats with ample leg room.
- Each vehicle has large glass windows for uninterrupted views and perfect for game drives.
- Smaller 4×4 land cruiser type vehicles are used for game viewing in the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater, due to the roads being tougher and too narrow for the overland trucks.
- Each overland vehicle includes a passenger safe to safely keep money + passports + flight tickets + credit cards. The keys are kept with your Tour Leader who will advise of safety requirements in place concerning the safe.Who is suited to go on an adventure tour?
- Almost anyone can go on an adventure.
Some level of fitness is required due to accessing the vehicle and spending long days on bumpy roads (can take it out of you).EAST AFRICA TOURS require a more adventurous, fearless attitude and are suited to a younger traveller.
If you are planning to trek with the Mountain Gorillas or climbing Mount Killi you will need to have a higher fitness level.
WHAT TO EXPECT ON A CAMPING OR ACCOMMODATED TOUR
Camping Tours:
A camping safari is for travellers who want a hands-on experience of Mother Nature. The guide(s) will do most of the work, but you will be required to assist with various tasks such as preparing the food, washing up, cleaning out the truck and setting up the campsite and your tent. If you dream of a lifetime African adventure, embark on a journey with us sleeping under the stars while listening to the sounds of wildlife in the distance.
We offer camping safaris suited to travellers who may prefer to travel in a younger group (aged 18 to 39). Or, you can choose a mixed age group (18 to 60). A camping safari must not be underestimated and will require active participation which means good health and a fair degree of fitness. We have a tour to suit what you have in mind, so please do not hesitate to enquire with us.
During an African camping safari you will stay in large two-man dome canvas tents which are spacious enough for two adults and your luggage. Or, you can opt to have your own tent by including the single supplement (valid on select camping tours).
Your tents are put up and taken down easily – your Tour Leader will show you exactly how to do this and help out when you are unsure. All tents are well-ventilated by means of a tent-door and window, covered with mosquito net. They also include a fly-sheet for the rain.
Most camping safaris include a sleeping mat (please do check with us upon enquiry). You need to bring your own sleeping bag, pillow and towel. All meals are prepared at the truck and you will be required to assist with the preparation.
The African campsites are basic and comfortable and you will be able to upgrade your accommodation at most of the places, but this is subject to availability. Most have warm showers and flushing ablutions, while others may have natural ablutions. Some places visited are bush camps where there are no facilities.
Accommodated Tours:
Accommodated safaris are ideal for travellers who prefer to experience African wildlife and adventure with extra comforts. You are surrounded by vast landscapes and wildlife, curiously roaming at your door-step. It is comfort, without the price tag!
Our accommodated safaris make use of a combination of lodges, hostels, bungalows, chalets, permanent safari camps, hotels and traditional huts. Our properties are ideally located at each destination for an authentic experience with incredible views.
We book Twin rooms if you are travelling with a partner or friend and Single rooms for single travellers (including single supplement). Most of the time we stay in 1-3 star properties with en-suite bathrooms in Southern Africa. In Eastern Africa we offer a combination of en-suite and shared bathrooms. In the case of shared bathrooms, you will be sharing with friends on your tour. Please bring your own towels as these are not always provided.
Select accommodated safaris include a camp assistant to help out with the smaller aspects of your vacation.
The standard of the properties varies along the trip. The Southern Africa properties are much more established than the East Africa accommodation. They vary from basic (but comfortable) to lovely properties. Due to the remote nature of the trips, accommodation choices are limited.
Distances and Road Conditions:
Our tours cover long distances so you can see significant amounts of Africa this means that there will be long days spent on the road often with nothing to look at except vast open plains. You can spend between 350km and 650km a day in the truck so it is important to be prepared.
What will you eat on safari?
Our Africa overland vehicles are fully stocked with dry goods at the start of each tour. We buy fresh produce (fruit and vegetables) almost daily to ensure fresh, good quality and tasty meals. Over the summer months fresh produce is not always available due to the heat and humidity, especially in East Africa and Mozambique – so we may have to skip tomatoes from lunch or opt for rice instead of potatoes at dinner.
Each Africa overland camping and accommodated tour include meals as per the itinerary. Often, we may only include breakfast and lunch, allowing you to enjoy dinner at a local market or restaurant. Drinks such as tea, coffee and fruit juice is included with every meal, but exclude bottle water, beer, soft drinks, alcohol etc. – these can be bought en-route or at your campsite bar.
We do cater for most dietary requirements (allergies, vegetarian, lactose-intolerant). Other requirements (gluten-free) may be more challenging on remote routes (i.e. East Africa) where starch is a stable-food in Africa. Please do speak to us about your dietary requirements and we will advise according to your trip. You will be amazed by the variety of tasty meals prepared on an open-fire!
Almost all your meals are pre-prepared over an open campfire or on the gas stove in your overland vehicle. All cooking equipment such as pots, pans, cutlery and crockery is included for you. Excellent hygiene standards are maintained at all times preparing food and washing up of kitchen equipment. Your guides will provide you with a separate washing up basin to wash hands in warm soapy water before and after each meal.
Our camping tours are limited participation tours, whereby we ask you to help out with daily chores (putting up / taking down tents) and help out your guides at meal times (rinsing, chopping vegetables).
So what are the meals like on tour? We have included a few meal options as a guideline:
Breakfast:
Tea/coffee and juice + cereals + bread/toast + fruit. Take 2 fruits and keep one for a mid-morning snack. An occasional cooked breakfast (bacon, pancakes, eggs) is made when you have more time to allow for this (normally when you spend 2 nights at the same destination).
Lunch:
Juice + bread + cheese + cold meats + salads + fruit (make a sandwich for a mid-afternoon snack)
Juice + fresh rolls + green salad (or rice salad or pasta salad) + fruit.
Dinner:
Tea/coffee and juice + chicken curry + rice, grilled or roast chicken + salad + garlic roll, grilled chicken + vegetables + salad, fish braai + salad, steak + veggies, pasta, stir-fry + rice, casserole, braai (barbeque) + salads + jacket potatoes, soup + fresh rolls.
Drinks:
Tea, coffee and cordial drinks are supplied with meals but other cooldrinks and alcohol can be purchased along the way.
What about children on tour?
- Due to the nature of overland tours the minimum age limit is 18. Younger travellers (10 to 17) travelling with a parent(s) will be considered on a case-by-case basis depending on the tour, time of travel and tour availability. We do have select tours offering Family Departures, suited for children aged 10 to 17.
- Privately arranged charter tours’ age limits will be assessed based on the route and type of tour you choose.
- Please bear in mind that the Gorilla Trekking tours have a minimum age limit of 16 years.
Packing for your tour:
Packing sensibly is essential for your Africa Overland trip. One backpack and one daypack are needed and these can weigh no more than 25kg. A duffel bag is preferable as it will fit into the lockers on the truck, but you can also take a backpack with a compact, flexible, soft shell (without a hard frame). Please do not take suitcases. The airlines implement a 20kg per person limit on international flights for your luggage (your main bag) and a further 5 kg for carry-on luggage (your day bag). A good idea is to include a spare bag for curios that you may purchase, but don’t forget to include this in your weight for your trip home. A moneybelt is a useful item for keeping your money safe and hidden.
Take along comfortable, casual and semi-casual “wash & wear” clothes. Cotton is a good material for when it is hot, and fleece for when it gets cold. Pack clothes that don’t crease easily as the laundry facilities are limited. Find clothes that can be mixed and matched easily and are colour co-ordinated. A great item of clothing is zip-off pants. These double-up as shorts or trousers and are useful for when the weather changes. Reversible clothes are also very convenient and will help to reduce space in your bag.
Locker Sizes:
Clothes:
- 3-4 short sleeved shirts or T-shirts
- 2 pairs of trousers or 1 pair and 1 skirt – try not to pack jeans as they take a long time to dry
- ¾ pants
- Warm sweater or fleece top
- 1-2 pairs of shorts
- Tracksuit pants
- Light sweater or sweatshirt (can also be used as an additional pillow)
- Warm fleece top
- Underwear and socks
- Hat/peak cap/bandana
- Gloves
- Scarves
- Water/wind-proof jacket
- Boots or sturdy trainers
Beachwear:
- Swimsuit
- Sunglasses
- Beach towel and/or sarong
- Sandals or thongs (need to be waterproof if you want to go white-water rafting)
Toiletries:
- Personal toiletries
- No electric shavers
- Hand sanitiser/wipes (waterless sanitisers are convenient)
- Baby wipes/wet wipes
- Tissues
- Moisturiser
- Face wash
- Facecloth
Sleepwear:
- Pyjamas
- Travel pillow
- Spare pillowcase
- Sleeping Bag
- Fleece blanket
Medication/first aid kit:
- Prescription medication
- Anti-histamine cream or tablets
- Antiseptic cream
- Sunscreen (high factor) and lip balm
- Water purifying tablets
- Pain killers
- Eye drops
- Diarrhoea medication
- Moisturiser
- Dehydration salts
- Elastoplasts/band aids
- Insect repellent (Malaria is a big problem in Africa, so the more protection the better)
- Sterile dressings
Extras:
- Water bottle
- Book (you can swap with the rest of the group)
- Extra memory/film for your camera (remember to set at the highest resolution as you might want to enlarge the pictures)
- Head torch
- Pens
- Zip-lock bags (medium sized for cameras, snacks, trash etc.)
- Extra batteries
- Travel power strip ( a compact three-plug unit that includes two USB connections. With just one wall plug you can charge five gadgets) Buy on Amazon and will help to reduce space in your bag.
- Penknife
- Watch
- Biodegradable laundry detergent
- Vaccination certificates for some areas
- Cash
- Small scrubbing brush
- A padlock for your luggage locker in the truck
- The power plugs in SA have 3 round pins. East Africa has British power plugs.
Laundry:
- There will be washing facilities at most campsites which you can make use of.
- Please remember to bring some environmentally friendly washing
- We suggest you take along crease-free clothing as the facilities available for ironing are limited
Safety on Game Drives:
- When on safari be as quiet as possible at all times and don’t make any sudden movements, this will ensure you don’t disturb the animals and get the most out of your game drive.
- Do not jump off the truck at any time.
Accommodation (Pre Tour):
- It is highly recommended to arrive a day before your tour starts so that you do not miss out on the pre departure meetings as it covers important information you need to know for your trip.
- It is strongly advised that you arrive a day before the tour starts.
- We do advise letting us know as soon as possible in order for us to make the best hotel reservation for you.
- Post accommodation can be very easily arranged.
Personal Health:
- Ensure that the guides know of your medical conditions!!!
- Let them know how you are feeling.
- AIDS is an enormous problem in Africa so please be careful and practical, condoms are cheap and freely available.
- A First Aid Kit is available on the truck for any emergencies.
Vaccinations:
- Please ensure you seek medical advice from your travel doctor before visiting Africa.
- You should consult your travel doctor or travel clinic for the latest requirements for Hepatitis A (Havrax), Yellow Fever, Tetanus Booster Shot, Rabies
- If you are entering a Yellow Fever infected area, you will be required to have a vaccination which can be done at Travel Clinics.
- Obtain an international Certificate of Vaccination with a valid stamp.
- Yellow Fever – Valid for 10 years and mandatory for most African countries. It is compulsory to produce a yellow fever certificate when entering Kenya, Zanzibar and Malawi and for taking part in the Gorilla Trek. Failure to present this may result in entry being refused.
- We also recommend that you ask your doctor about: Typhoid, Tetanus, Hepatitis, Meningitis, Polio, Hepatitis A&B, Cholera
- Tents have mosquito nets in the vents and it is not generally necessary to bring a separate mosquito net unless you plan to sleep outside, under the stars(in which case you are recommended to bring one)
Malaria:
- Malaria is transmitted by mosquitoes and is more prevalent in areas where there are high concentrations.
- Malaria is a serious problem in Africa, but if you are cautious and use mosquito repellent and take your malaria tablets you will be safe.
Main points to keep in mind about malaria:
o Cover your skin with long shirts, pants and socks as most mosquito bites occur below the knee.
o Make sure your mosquito net is tightly closed and doesn’t have any holes in it.
o Use an effective prophylactic and speak to your doctor about options for anti-malarial tablets
o Always cover yourself with mosquito repellent, especially at sunset.
o Please know that malaria cannot be cured!
Water:
- Dehydration is a common ailment on tour.
- You should be drinking a minimum of 2 litres of water per day
- It is preferable to drinking bottled water to avoid diarrhoea, but your guide will advise you as to whether you can drink the water or not.
How others can reach you:
- The easiest option to keep in touch with your loved ones at home is to buy a SIM card of the respective country you are travelling in.
Photography:
- You are not permitted to take photographs at the border crossing, government buildings and military institutions.
- No photographs of the army, police are allowed.
- Some tribes do not allow their pictures to be taken so please ask your guides before photographing whether it is permissible or not.
- A fee may have to be paid for photographing the local people.
Crew and Guides
Tour Crew:
Your tour crew are people with a heart of gold and love living in Africa! With an in-depth knowledge of the local culture, history and wildlife, your crew are committed to ensuring a memorable African overland tour, 24/7.
- Most overland tours include two crew members (Driver and Tour Leader) working as a team managing tour finances, planning activities, preparing meals and ensure you safely experience Africa.
- Our larger group overland tours (maximum 26 to 30) include a third crew member (Camp Assistant or Cook or Translator – tour depending).
- A pre-departure meeting is held the day before your tour, where tour crew will brief you on the nature of your tour and what to expect. At this point they would also collect any local payments needed for your tour.
- We have select shorter small group tours including one crew member, responsible for driving and tour management. It is perfect for an exclusive, personalised African experience.
The Guides:
- All overland guides and crew undergo extensive training courses, lectures and field instruction on an on-going basis. Specialised guides are contracted for special interest tours (including school and University group tours) or language tours (Spanish and German) or private overland tours (on request).
- Although overland guides are trained and qualified, remember they are still human. The nature of their work and duration of overland tours, places an enormous demand on them and can be taxing at times. Please treat them with respect and enjoy getting to know them. They are great people!
Climate and Weather Conditions:
- The weather in Africa can be unpredictable and extreme so be prepared for this.
- You can find out the type of weather to expect on your tour from your consultant.
- Always wear sunscreen from October to April.
- Temperatures can drop to below zero from June to September.
- It does rain in Africa!
Street Vendors:
- Like with any 3rd world country you will encounter informal vendors offering you better rates than the banks. We suggest you don’t work with them for security reasons.
- Please do not display your foreign currency in public.
Passport:
- A valid passport is required for all international travel.
- Having all the necessary documentation for your trip is your own responsibility therefore you need to find out by your travel agent what the essential documents for the trip are in order to avoid any complications on tour.
- Passports must be valid for at least 6 months after returning from your trip.
- In certain cases foreign passport holders require entry, re-entry or departure permits and/or visas to enter a country.
- Have enough pages for all visas, at least 2 pages free for every country visiting – the Border Security is strict with this rule
- A copy of your passport should be given to your guides for safety reasons.
- Must be valid for 6 months after the date of departure from Africa.
- Avoid using more than one passport to avoid visa payments when travelling
Visa:
- Please note that visas are the responsibility of the traveller and African Overland Tours will not be held responsible for the traveller being denied entry should they not be in the possession of the relevant visas.
- Ensure you have a valid onward/return ticket to leave the country when the tour ends, otherwise you need sufficient funds in your bank account.
- Visiting the Okavango Delta, you may need a double entry visa for Namibia and or Botswana
- Botswana Tourism Levy: As of 1 June 2017, Botswana has implemented a tourism levy of US$ 30 per person to be paid in US Dollars cash once you enter.
Insurance
Medical Insurance:
- Compulsory! No one will be allowed on a trip if you don’t have this. It is for your safety should anything happen while on tour (especially when in a remote location).
Travel Insurance:
- It is compulsory to have comprehensive adventure travel insurance, on all overland tours. We require your travel insurance details upon booking your vacation, to include on the passenger list.
- Most travel insurance policies do not include cover for adrenaline sports and adventure activities. These include white-water rafting, sky diving and bungee jumping. So double check your policy inclusions.
- WorldNomads Insurance offer adventure travel insurance and, most importantly, cancellation insurance. We strongly recommend your travel insurance includes cancellation and curtailment insurance. The majority of tour departures are guaranteed (confirmed to depart) but in the unlikely event of a tour departure being cancelled, you would be protected.
- In the case of credit card insurance, we recommend you check the fine print to ensure you have adequate cover as credit card companies offer a standard option. Sometimes, just for a simple problem, you may have to be airlifted to South Africa as many public hospitals in Africa are below western standards.
- If you choose to use your credit card insurance, you will need to call your bank to obtain your policy details. This is how:
• Phone your bank
• Give them your Bank Card Number
• They will ask you to verify your account
• Then you need to ask for the insurance company name
• Then you need to ask for the policy number
• Remember to keep the telephone number you dialled
Single Supplements:
A single supplement is an additional charge you will pay for your own room. Single supplements are optional on camping tours, but compulsory on accommodated tours if you are a single traveller. Single supplements do not cover Activity Packages.
Optional Activities:
Optional activities are not included in the tour price because not everybody wishes to do them. Sometimes the activities are not available due to time, season or weather conditions
What is a Local Payment?
- A number of adventure overland tours are made up of a Tour Price + Local Payment.
- The Tour Price is pre-paid to secure your tour seat and include operational costs associated with each tour, such as; guide salaries, fuel, vehicle servicing, maintenance, road tolls and taxes.
- The Local Payment is a portion of your overall tour cost paid on the morning of tour departure, in either US Dollars cash or ZA Rand cash (tour depending). It includes “on tour” expenses which cannot ordinarily be pre-paid such as: food, camping, national park entry, included activities.
Activity Package:
- A selection of tours are made up of a Tour Price + Optional Activity Package.
- The Tour Price is pre-paid to secure your tour seat and include operational costs associated with each tour, such as; food, camping (or accommodation), national park fees, guide salaries, fuel, vehicle servicing, maintenance, road tolls and taxes.
- The Optional Activity Package combine the popular activities available on the tour, giving you the option to pre-pay this package (and so carry less cash while travelling) or; you can pay it on the morning of departure to your Tour Guide in ZA Rand cash.
- Activity packages are optional 98% of the time and covers what we consider to be ‘essential activities’ on the tours.
- It is more convenient to pay these upon your arrival or on the first day of the tour.
- If you do not pre-book a particular activity it may not be available and you may be disappointed.
Money Matters:
- Your spending money, visas and optional activities needs to consist of a combination of Cash and Traveller Cheques in the currency quoted (tour specific). Credit cards are only accepted at some places (mostly larger cities) and throughout South Africa.
- Visas are not accepted in East Africa.
- In Southern and East Africa, additional credit card surcharges from 5% to 8% may be charged when using your card. It is best to use it only in case of emergency.
- US Dollars, GB Sterling, Euro and select international currencies are used within Africa, with US Dollar being the most popular. You will find food, taxi, accommodation and optional activity prices are all quoted in US Dollars.
- US Dollars cash notes must be issued POST 2005. No notes pre-dated are accepted due to fraudulent notes rife in East Africa. You can pre-order US Cash notes from your local bank or foreign exchange office prior to arriving in Africa.
- It is best to bring a combination of larger denominations (USD100 and USD50) to pay for your Local Payment and smaller denominations (USD50, UDS20, USD 10 and USD5) for spending money, visas and optional activities.
- ATMs are found throughout South Africa and other major towns and cities through Africa. However, you may not have access to an ATM for a few days, or they may be out of order. Please note that when drawing money from a local ATM, you will receive local currency. In Zimbabwe the ATM’s limit the amount of USD that can be withdrawn (it ranges from 50 USD – 200 USD a day).
- ZAR is mostly used in South Africa and Namibia. We recommend USD for Botswana, Mozambique, Livingstone and Victoria Falls area.
Credit Cards:
- Most of the major Southern and East African cities do have credit card facilities available however they may charge you a surcharge to use the facility.
- Visa and Mastercard are the two most widely used accepted credit cards in Africa, while diners or American Express may not always be accepted
Banking facilities:
- There are full banking facilities in the major towns based on weekly business hours. Here you can change money and withdraw cash from a credit card. Visa and Master Card are preferential, as other cards may not be widely accepted.
Tipping:
- It is recommended to tip for various activities on tour – we suggest a tip of 1-3 euro (or whichever local currency is acceptable) per client, per half day activity.
- Tipping your tour leader is also highly recommended as he / she works really hard to ensure you have the best experience on your tour. A tip of 2 – 5 Euros per client per day is a reasonable fair.
- The amounts quoted above are only guidelines for the clients.
Departure Tax:
- Various countries require you to pay an Airport Departure Tax (Zimbabwe is one) when departing on an international flight.
- Varies from US$10 – US$60 depending on the departure time
Security:
- The truck has a safe for passports, money, credit cards and flight tickets only!
- Keep your cameras, cell phones, iPad’s and other digital equipment close to you at all times (preferably in your day pack) as the operator will not be held responsible for anything that goes missing.
- Leave your valuables at home!
- Be vigilant and cautious at all times.
- Always walk in a group, especially at night.
- It is advisable to have travel insurance for your personal items.
Quality and Protection:
- We are proudly bonded SATSA members. Our membership number is 1712.
- We are also insured by SATIB.
- SATSA is the Southern Africa Tourism Services Association and offers protection to international travellers against the possible loss of deposits (or monies paid) to a SATSA member (tour operator, car rental company, accommodation provider etc.), in case of liquidation. It is underwritten by Lombard Insurance and Lloyds of London.
- SATSA is the driving force behind improving standards of tourism in South Africa, as offered by its various members (tour operators, car rental companies, accommodation provider etc.).
- “Should a SATSA member who is a South African tourism business operation, run into financial problems, the bonding scheme allows the client to claim back their deposit without having to prove in a court or to the liquidator whom or what was paid, but simply to produce the relevant documentation to SATSA.” – Michael Tatalias, CEO SATSA.
- Satsa Bonding Offers financial protection on all monies paid.
Quick Checklist
- Make sure your vaccination requirements have been done at least 4 weeks prior to your tour
- Remember to make sure your VISA is valid for you to go on tour
- Remember to reconfirm your flights. Airlines vary in their requirements but we suggest you reconfirm 48 – 72 hours before your departure homebound
- Remember to take your passport, vaccination certificate and flight tickets with you ( a photocopy of these is a good idea)
- Remember to take a copy of your insurance policy with you
- Remember to take your travel voucher to give to your crew at your pre-departure meeting
- Remember to take your Adventure Pass in US $ cash (unless pre-paid)
FROM
R115,700