CARPENTER FAMILY

SOUTH AFRICA, ZIMBABWE, BOTSWANA & NAMIBIA

Safari extraordinaire!!

Safaris by design

SOUTHERN AFRICA SAFARI

Carpenter Family

DAYS BEFORE THE MAGIC STARTS!

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* Always refer to the most current version of this document

2025 / TBC pps*

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*pps=per person sharing

Minimum of 4 pax traveling

WHY YOU’D LOVE IT!

    The best of  Southern Africa!

    See the astonishing sight of Zimbabwe’s incredible Victoria Falls. Enjoy everything from elephant encounters to white-water rafting, helicopter tours, a visit to a traditional African village and bungee jumping!

    Take a water safari through Botswana’s stunning Chobe National Park spotting hippos, leopards, giraffes, crocodiles and more from the comfort of the exquisite Chobe River House Boat. Drink in the phenomenal views from the private viewing deck.

    Soak up the dazzling wonders of Cape Town! Cape Town is a vibrant and diverse city located in South Africa, offering a wealth of attractions. Get ready to be amazed!

    A truly astonishing safari adventure across Eastern & Southern Africa. A once in a lifetime, custom African safari adventure where you will enjoy astonishing wildlife, luxury accommodation, and extraordinary experiences!

    OVERVIEW

    Itinerary at a glance

    ◽️ DAY 0        | Travel

         Departure

    ◽️ DAY 1         | South Africa

         Johannesburg

    ◽️ DAY  2-5    | South Africa

         Timbavati Game Reserve

    ◽️ DAY 6-8     | Zimbabwe

          Victoria Falls

    ◽️ DAY 9-11    | Botswana & Namibia Border

          Chobe River

     

    ◽️ DAY 12        | Return 

         Departure

     

    MAP

    MAP

    Visualize your journey!

    DAY 0  | Travel

    DEPARTURE

    Travel

    DEPARTURE

    Your adventure starts now!

    Embark on an African safari and anticipate breathtaking landscapes, encountering diverse and majestic wildlife in their natural habitats, and immersing yourself in the rich cultural experiences of the continent.

    * See your safari itinerary for transfer logistics

    DAY 1 | Arrive in Johannesburg, South Africa

    JOHANNESBURG

    Overnight

    📍 African Sky Boutique Hotel

    AFRICAN SKY HOTEL

    Guest House Overview

    Dinner & Breakfast (drinks excl.) | Wifi available | No Laundy service

    Welcome to South Africa! Johannesburg (JNB / OR Tambo) Airport arrival with meet & greet service.

    Your arrival night overnight accommodation: AfricaSky Boutique Hotel is conveniently located only 10 minutes from  Johannesburg's  O.R. Tambo International airport. A short drive will have you arriving at an oasis, rooms beautifully appointed and nestled in a peaceful lush garden. Enjoy dinner, bed & breakfast all on-site. True African hospitality and service excellence.

    Just look out towards the information desk located in the arrivals hall for your pick-up with your name on it. 10 Minute road transfer to your overnight accommodation.

    DINNER, B&B

    GUEST HOUSE

    OVERNIGHT

    DAY 2-5 | Timbavati Game Reserve

    TIMBAVATI GAME RESERVE

    Safari days

    📍Bateleur Safari Camp

      TIMBAVATI GAME RESERVE

    Area Overview

    Positioned to the west of Kruger and north of the Sabi Sand Game Reserve.This private game reserve (adjacent to Kruger) has over 40 mammals roaming freely. Covering 75.000 hectares of bush, you will experience a more intimate and personal affair with wildlife than anywhere else.

    Timbavati Game Reserve is renowned for the presence of the rare white lion. A colored coat, ice blue eyes; their beauty is captivating. Although born with a snow-white coat, white lions are not albinos; it is the result of a rare colour mutation. White lions are indigenous to the Timbavati Game Reserve and the earliest records of sighting them in this region date from 1938. Luckily, their coloration doesn’t appear to be of disadvantage when it comes to survival. The Global White Lion Protection Trust (GWLPT) reintroduced white lions into their natural habitat in 2009, and they have been hunting and breeding successfully ever since.

     

    Safari Activities

    Each day on safari in Africa is a magical experience, whether you’re exploring the savanna on foot or in a 4x4 vehicle in search of the Big 5 or taking to the sky in a hot-air balloon to witness the Great Wildebeest Migration. Every single day is steeped in the promise of a unique adventure and cherished memories.

    Although each day is unpredictable to a certain extent, based on the time of year or location, there is a general format or schedule that safaris tend to follow, but, as a rule, safaris do follow a familiar rhythm that combines thrilling game viewing with ample time to relax in between—a dream vacation in anyone’s book. One rule of thumb is that there are usually two game drives a day: one in the early morning and one in the late afternoon, when animals are at their most active.

    READ MORE DETAILS!

    5.30 am: Time for a Wake-Up Call
    6 am– 9 am Morning Game Drive
    9 am- 11 am Return to Camp for Breakfast or Brunch
    11 am –1 pm Relaxation: Read, Nap, Swim, Walk or Spa
    1 pm – 2 pm Lunchtime
    2 pm – 3:30 pm Relaxation: Read, Nap, Swim, Walk or Spa
    3.30 pm: High Tea
    4 pm –7 pm Afternoon Game Drive
    7: 30 pm Dinner Time
    9 pm Turn in for Bedtime
     

     

    BATELEUR SAFARI CAMP

    Lodge  Overview

    Bateleur spans across 10,000 hectares within the Timbavati Reserve, with all man-made barriers removed between Timbavati and Kruger National Park. The Bateleur Safari Camp, situated on an exclusive 3,500-hectare property at the heart of the renowned Timbavati Private Nature Reserve, offers a luxurious 16-bed safari experience. Its strategic location and unfenced borders with Kruger ensure unparalleled wildlife and bird sightings in the Greater Kruger Park. The camp goes beyond expectations with top-notch accommodation, guided activities, bushcraft, and a variety of included and optional extras.

    In this pristine wilderness, you'll encounter the Big Five, a rich variety of antelope, a full spectrum of smaller predators, over 500 bird species, and an extensive array of reptiles, amphibians, and invertebrates.

    FULL BOARD

    TENTED CAMP

    GAME VIEW

    DAY 6-8 | Victoria Falls

    VICTORIA FALLS

    Experience

    📍 528 Vic Falls Guest House

    VICTORIA FALLS

    Area Overview

    Victoria Falls is the 7th wonder of the world! Located in Zimbabwe, situated in the heart of Southern Africa and entirely landlocked. 12% of its land is allocated to National Parks and Game Reserves.

    Undoubtedly, the country's most iconic attraction is the awe-inspiring Victoria Falls, the largest waterfall in the world, locally known as Mosi-oa-Tunya, or the "Smoke That Thunders" because of the spray made by the mass of water dropping 100 meters below in the gorges. Victoria Falls is twice the size of Niagara Falls and stretches across a significantly longer distance. Visitors can get up close to the falls, but be prepared to experience some splashing.

    The Victoria Falls, now in it's 150 millionth fantastic year, - its zenith in about May each year. It’s a truly awe-inspiring experience—the sight, the sound, the smell—and the humbling feeling that this is indeed nature's supreme masterpiece. No photograph can begin to depict reality. And nothing prepares you for your first sight. .

    The Victoria Falls present a spectacular sight of awe-inspiring beauty and grandeur on the Zambezi River, forming the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe—the largest sheet of falling water in the world and significant worldwide for its exceptional geological and geomorphological features and active land formation processes with outstanding beauty attributed to the falls, i.e., the spray, mist, and rainbows.

    David Livingstone was the first European to see the Victoria Falls in 1855. The Scottish explorer is believed to have been the first European to view the falls, and he named them Victoria Falls in honor of Queen Victoria.

    While in Victoria Falls, don't miss the opportunity to enjoy a delightful cruise on the Zambezi River for a different perspective of the falls, especially during sunset. You can also opt for a thrilling helicopter ride over the falls. For a unique experience, consider having afternoon tea at the classic Victoria Falls Hotel. Additionally, if you're interested in shopping, Victoria Falls is an excellent place to purchase local souvenirs, artwork, and handcrafted carvings.

    528 VIC FALLS

    Bed & Breakfast | Wifi available | Laundry available at addl.cost

    The ideal destination from which our guests can explore the mighty Victoria Falls! and surrounds!Neutral and earthy-tones are blended with splashes of bright colors throughout the lodge. As you enter the house, after passing the lovely pond, a warm foyer greets you with a mixture of wall art and a curious wallpaper.

    Each of the 7 rooms have their own view over the gardens. All rooms have en-suite, stylish bathrooms with bronze washbasins, and showers with hand-carved screens.

    The main dining area, where breakfasts are served is bright and colorful thanks to more art and the large glass windows that stretch to the high double volume ceiling. From this room, the doors open onto the patio, the garden and the swimming pool.

    Lounges and patios are the perfect spot for reading, relaxing and chatting. One of the highlights is the "Treetop Bar" on the third floor, which has wonderful views above the tree canopy and beyond to the Zambezi River and Zambia in the distance.It's an ideal place for sun-downers and as evening settles in, to gaze up at the endless African night sky.

    ACTIVITIES
    Explore everything the Victoria Falls Rain forest are has to offer!  Crafts, curios and more!

    *A warm welcome awaits on arrival at the airport! Please be on the lookout for your driver with your name sign. Baggage assistance followed by a  20 mins. road transfer to your accommodation.

    *See your safari itinerary for transfer logistics

    Transfer to Victoria Falls  via commercial flight. Flight time from  Cape Town to Victoria Falls is 3 hrs, and 1.5 hr from Johannesburg. Flights are booked  and details provided by AfricaPhotoSafaris.

    B&B

    GUEST HOUSE

    TOURS

    DAY 9-11 | Chobe River

    CHOBE RIVER

    Water based safari!

    📍 Chobe Princess​ House Boat

     CHOBE RIVER

    Area Overview

    Chobe National Park includes two incredible wildlife areas: Chobe Riverfront and Savute. The Chobe River is one of Africa’s magical rivers, attracting animal of all sizes. Chobe also offers the  highest density of elephants to be found anywhere in Africa, Chobe National Park is the ultimate safari destination for wildlife enthusiasts.

    Immerse yourself in nature's grandeur and witness the breathtaking spectacle of Chobe River's prolific wildlife, where majestic elephants roam freely, diverse bird species take flight, and unforgettable safari adventures await, making it a must-visit destination for every intrepid traveler.

    The Chobe River forms its northern boundary and in the extreme south-west it borders the Moremi Game Reserve. The riverfront is a markable wildlife area due to the permanent water source of the Chobe River. Most wildlife activity occurs along the banks of the river - especially during the drier winter months (May – October) when animals congregate at the river to quench their thirst. The spectacle of all the animals coming to drink and frolic at the water's edge is a sight to behold! Birding enthusiasts will find the riverfront a fantastic destination at this time with more than 400 species of birds, including migratory species and numerous birds of prey.

    All that said, Chobe National Park is most famous for its elephant and buffalo populations, both of which can herd in mammoth proportions. With an estimated 40,000 to 60,000 elephants, these gentle giants constantly surround you.

    The park's picturesque wetlands also attract a wide variety of bird life, with the chance to see numerous species among the 460 that call this place home or pass through, including raptors, vultures, and waterfowl.Head out on a sunrise game drive to observe the animals at the beginning of their day, when they are most active. You might even spot a leopard returning from a hunt.When you return to your luxury accommodations at the lodge in the evening, take pleasure in the comforts it offers, gather for dinner, and share stories about your day.

     

    CHOBE PRINCESS

    House Boat Overview

    Full board, excl. premium drinks | Wifi (limited) available on the boat | No laundry  services available

    The fascinating game-rich Savuti area is located within the Chobe National Park. The Lodge is perfectly situated on the outskirts of the Ghoha Hills, overlooking the Savuti Plains. The elevated position ensures spectacular unparalleled 180-degree views and was designed and built to blend into the natural surrounding environment.

    Set in Botswana's "predator capital," the lodge allows guests to sit in comfort and watch animals come to the camp's waterhole to drink - photographers may want to visit the hide for a better view!

    During the summer green season, Savuti is known for its large elephant population, especially during the dry season, and it serves as an important migratory corridor for thousands of zebras. It's no surprise that Savuti has a reputation for high-impact drama: all the big cats are present, as are large packs of spotted hyena, and wild dogs are frequently seen.

    Look out for herds of elephants, buffalo, impala, kudu, giraffe, zebra, roan antelope, hyena, lions and leopard are some of the possible sightings around in the area. Not to mention the numerous different bird species!

    ACTIVITIES
    Bird watching
    Guide walks
    Game drives
    Star gazing

    Transfer to the Houseboat details

    Morning pick up followed by 1.5hr road transfer to Kasane Immigration point in Botswana - Arrive at Kasane Immigration Point  between 1pm-2pm  foe meet & greet by houseboat representative. Next, transfers by small tender boat from Kasane immigration via Impalila Island immigration or customs clearance. The boat transfer is about 20 minutes. Please take note of Passpoert requitement &  of  empty Visa page requirement as well as unabridges birth certificate requirements for minors

    FULL BOARD

    HOUSE BOAT

    GAME VIEW

    DAY 23 | Return

    RETURN

    DEPARTURE

    Unfortunately, all good things must come to an end! Goodbye to the safari life, feeling relaxed, mesmerizing scenery, great food, family time, and romantic memories.

    Morning road transfer back to the airport for your outbound flight... dreaming of the trip of a lifetime!

    ◽️ Preparing for your trip

    PREPARING FOR YOUR

    SAFARI

    Pre-Travel Information

    PASSPORTS

    Passports must be valid for at least six months beyond the return date of your arrangements and have a minimum of three blank visa pages excluding endorsement pages.

    Travellng with minors - in addition to having a valid passport and valid visa (if applicable), children under the age of 18, traveling through Botswana’s borders, must be in possession of a certified copy of their unabridged birth certificate (one that shows the particulars of a minor and those of both parents).

    A child under the age of 18 traveling to Botswana and/or South Africa with just one parent must carry an affidavit signed by the other parent consenting to such travel. Failure to produce the necessary documentation may result in travelers being turned away at port of entry.

    Insider Tips

    Zimbabwe and Mozambique visas each use up a full passport page. If you are visiting both countries we recommend a minimum of four blank pages.

    Post Covid passport renewals are taking much longer than in the past so don’t leave applying for a new passport until the last moment as there iust a chance you won’t receive it in time to travel.

    Keeping your passport safe is key as there is nothing worse than having to spend precious holiday time replacing it. Make at least two copies of the ID page of your passport, visa (if obtained in advance of travel), Covid-19 vaccine passport, travel itinerary, travel insurance, credit cards and any other travel documentation. One copy can be an image scan and the other a hard copy which you can give to a family member, business associate or close friend for safekeeping

     

    HEALTH

    When it comes to health risks and medical precautions, Machaba Blue is only able to offer limited advice as outlined below.

    Those with underlying chronic conditions should ideally seek medical advice prior to planning their journey.

    Prior to traveling to Africa, we highly recommend you visit a medical professional such as your GP or local travel clinic for advice on what health precautions need to be taken. This visit should take place at least 4-8 weeks prior to departure as it will determine the need for any vaccinations and/or antimalarial medication as well as identifying any other medical precautions.

    Currently no mandatory vaccinations are required when entering Botswana, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Mozambique and South Africa. Please check if this is still the case when visiting your GP or travel clinic.

    A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required by visitors coming from a country where yellow fever occurs, or if they have been in transit for more than 12 hours at an airport in a country here yellow fever occurs.

    Malaria is present throughout southern Africa and in certain areas of South Africa.

    Insider Tips

    • Take out comprehensive travel insurance to safeguard against the unexpected. Should you fall ill or have an accident when staying in a remote area you may have to be evacuated by air to a private medical facility which is a costly exercise.
    • Carry the name and contact details of your doctor together with information pertaining to any medical condition and its treatment.
    • If you take prescription medication ensure you carry sufficient to last the duration of your trip, plus a little extra in case of flight delays.
    • Prescription medication should be kept in its original container which should be clearly labelled.
    • More unusual drugs and ones that contain sedatives should be carried with a medical attestation signed by a physician certifying the traveler requires the medication for a specific medical condition.
    • Ask you medical practitioner to recommend items for a basic first aid kit
    • In the event your checked bag is lost or delayed we recommend you carry prescription medication including anti-malaria tablets, spare contact lens and essential toiletries in your hand luggage.
    • If you travel with a CPAP machine, please advise us well in advance so we can check your chosen safari lodges/camps are able to run a generator throughout the night. Alternatively, you may choose to carry a portable battery pack that can be re-charged daily.
    • Please advise us of any special dietary requests in advance of travel.
    VISAS
    Visa requirements differ from country to country and, on occasion, are subject to change with no warning.
     
    The team at Machaba Blue will always do what we can to provide accurate and helpful information pertaining to visas, however we cannot be held responsible if a traveller is refused entry to any country due to not complying with its visa requirements. For peace of mind, we recommend you check visa regulations with the embassy, high commission, or consulate of the countries you are travelling to.
     
    ZIMBABWE
    Foreign nationals visiting Zimbabwe fall within one of three visa categories: -
    • Category A – countries whose nationals do not require a visa
    • Category B – countries whose nationals are granted a visa on arrival at their port of entry on payment of a visa fee of US$30 single entry / US$45 – double entry.
    • Exceptions are Britain / UK / Ireland - US$55 single entry, US$70 – double entry, Canadian – US$75 single entry, China – US$60 single entry
    • Category C – countries whose nationals are required to apply for and obtain a visa prior to travel
     
    ZAMBIA
    Foreign nationals visiting Zambia fall within one of three visa categories: -
    • Nationals who do not require a visa to enter Zambia
    • Nationals who are granted a visa on arrival
    • Nationals who are required to apply for a visa prior to arrival in Zambia
     
    • Visa type
    • Single Entry US$25.00 - allows a traveller to enter Zambia only once during the validity of the visa.
    • Double Entry US$40.00 - allows a traveller to enter Zambia twice during the validity of the visa.
    • Day Tripper US$10.00 - applies to visitors who are staying in Zambia for less than 24 hours. Only issued at the Victoria Falls and Kazungula borders and the visitor must enter and exit through the same port
    • Transit Visa US$25.00
     
    KAZA UNIVISA
    Is a special visa that allows unlimited cross-border visits between Zimbabwe and Zambia as well as a single entry into Botswana for a day trip through the Kazungula borders. Costs US$50.00, is valid for up to 30 days and is available to national of 65 countries. A KAZA UniVisa can currently only be obtained at the following ports of entry: -
     
    ZIMBABWE
    Harare International Airport
    Victoria Falls International Airport
    Victoria Falls border with Zambia
    Kazungula border with Botswana
    ZAMBIA
    Kenneth Kaunda International Airport - Lusaka
    Harry Mwanga Nkumbula International Airport - Livingstone
    Victoria Falls border with Zimbabwe
    Kazungula border with Botswana
     
    BOTSWANA
    Visitors to Botswana fall into two categories – Non-Visa Category and Visa-Category.
     
    Non-Visa Category applies to citizens of Commonwealth countries, except for those from Bangladesh, Cameroon, Ghana, India, Nigeria, Pakistan and Sri Lanka. Foreign nationals whose countries have signed a Visa Abolition Agreement with Botswana are also not required to apply for a visa prior to travel. Non-Visa Category visitors receive a 30-day entrance stamp upon arrival, no fee is payable
     
    Visa-Category visitors must apply for a visa prior to arrival in Botswana. For a list of the 96 countries that require a visa prior to arriving in Botswana refer to https://evisa.gov.bw/
     
    MOZAMBIQUE
    Except for a handful of SADC countries all visitors to Mozambique require a visa. Although visas can and are often issued on arrival, we recommend obtaining a visa prior to travel.
     
    The issuing of visas on arrival is intended for visitors travelling from countries where there is no Mozambican diplomatic mission to issue a visa prior to travel. Immigration officials at Vilanculos International Airport, which is a popular tourist destination, are usually very helpful and don’t have a problem issuing visas on arrival but this may not necessarily the case at less popular or very busy ports of entry such as Nampula or Maputo airports
     
    Visa issue on arrival involves filling in a visa application as well as an arrivals form, having a photo and fingerprints taken and paying US$50.00 per person in small bills. USD/ZAR/Euro are accepted. Credit cards are not accepted.
     
    SOUTH AFRICA
    Please contact the South African Embassy, High Commission or Consulate to check if you require a visa to travel to South Africa. If you are not a citizen of a visa-exempt country, you must apply for a visa before entering South Africa. Should you require a visa but not be in possession of one you will be denied boarding your aircraft.
     
    Insider Tips
    • On arrival please ensure you request the correct visa for your needs
    • Always check your visa has been issued for the correct number of days
    • Zimbabwe, KAZA UniVisa and Mozambique visas each use a full passport visa page
    • Carry the exact amount of cash to pay for your visa as credit card machines may be offline and change is not always available
    GRATUITIES
    In Africa tipping is customary but not obligatory and should only be undertaken if you are satisfied with the level of service you have received. Tipping is a much-appreciated gesture that goes a long way to making many lives easier. Whatever amount you believe to be appropriate will be appreciated by not just the staff you have interacted with daily but by those who work hard behind the scenes to ensure everything runs smoothly.
     
    When staying in a safari camp/lodge tip just once at the end of your stay. Guides and trackers (and should you wish mokoro polers) are tipped separately. Envelopes are provided so you can personally hand each recipient their tip when saying goodbye. Housekeeping, front of house and back of house staff share the proceeds of the communal tipping box which is distributed equally.
     
    The following guidelines are purely suggestions as there is no set rule when it comes to how much to tip.
     
    BOTSWANA, ZIMBABWE AND ZAMBIA
    US$10-20.00 per guest per day for a safari guide when game viewing in a shared vehicle
    US$20-30.00 per guest per day for a safari guide when game viewing in a private vehicle
    US$ 5-10.00 per guest per day for trackers and mokoro polers
    US$10-15.00 per guest per day for general staff
     
    MOZAMBIQUE
    US$10-20.00 per day for a host/butler
    US$10-20 per activity
    US$20-30.00 per day for general staff
     
    SOUTH AFRICA – Safaris
    In South Africa tips are normally given in South African Rand
    ZAR100-200.00 per guest per day for rangers when game viewing in a shared vehicle
    ZAR200-400.00 per guest in a private vehicle
    ZAR1000.00 per guest when staying in a luxury lodge
    ZAR 50-100.00 per guest per day for a tracker (may be more at a luxury lodge)
    ZAR100-200.00 per guest per day for general staff
     
    SOUTH AFRICA – City stays
    ZAR25.00 per guest for an airport to city hotel transfer and double for longer out of town transfers
    ZAR20-25.00 per bag hotel porterage
    ZAR100.00 per guest for a half day sightseeing tour
    ZAR200.00 per guest for a full day sightseeing tour
    ZAR250-500.00 per guest for a half day sightseeing tour with a specialist guide
    ZAR500-1000.00 per guest for a full day sightseeing tour with a specialist guide
    ZAR100.00 per guest per day for general staff
    10% is the minimum tip on meal accounts in restaurants and hotels, with 15-20% the accepted norm for attentive service, especially in Cape Town and the winelands
    PACKING LIST
     
    Suggested packing list
    2 pairs of shorts
    2 pairs of safari trousers (those that zip off at the knees are very handy)
    2 short sleeve shirts
    2 long sleeved shirts with collar to protect the back of your neck
    3 T-shirts
    Fleece and jumper/sweater
    Light weight warm jacket
    Light rain jacket
    1 pair of sandals/flip-flops
    1 pair of comfortable walking shoes or sneakers
    Undergarments
    Socks
    Swimming costume
    Sun hat or cotton scarf
    Beanie/warm hat, scarf/pashmina, gloves (winter)
    Sunglasses
    Contact lenses and/or prescription glasses (take a spare if you have one)
    High factor sunblock and lip balm
    Personal toiletries and wet wipes (body wash, shampoo and conditioner is usually provided)
    Basic medical kit with aspirin, band-aid, Imodium, eye drops, antihistamine cream, headache tablets and motion sickness pills if needed.
    Flashlight (most camps provide a torch)
    Camera, spare camera batteries, dust proof case, cleaning equipment, and memory cards
    Universal worldwide travel adapter
    Binoculars in the range 8x40 or 10x40 are most useful
     
     
    Insider Tips
    • In the event your checked bag is lost or delayed we recommend you carry prescription medication including anti-malaria tablets, spare contact lenses, essential toiletries, and a change of underwear in your hand luggage.
    • If you take prescription medication ensure you carry sufficient to last your whole trip, plus a little extra in case of delays. Prescription medications should be in their original containers with the doctor’s prescription printed on the container.
    • Leave expensive and sentimental pieces of jewellery at home and never carry jewellery in your checked baggage.
    BAGGAGE
    To comply with limited weight restrictions of between 12-20kgs/26-44lbs including hand baggage and camera equipment on light aircraft inter-camp flights means you need to pack smart.
     
    Limiting what you take on safari is not as difficult as it sounds as nearly all safari camps and lodges offer a daily laundry service (weather dependent). Clothing should be light weight cotton fabric, casual and comfortable. Dressing in layers is the most practical way to adjust to changing temperatures, especially in winter when early morning and late afternoon game drives can be frosty and cold.
     
     
    Please refer to AIRLINE BAGGAGE RESTRICTIONS document for airline spesific information
    TRAVEL INSURANCE
    Comprehensive travel insurance to safeguard against the unexpected, such as a medical emergency, is a necessity when traveling to Africa. This is especially important when visiting off the beaten track areas on safari and for this reason most safari lodges/camps make travel insurance a condition of booking.
     
    It is the responsibility of each traveller to take out comprehensive travel and medical insurance at the time of confirming their booking. Cover should include cancellation and curtailment, medical emergencies, evacuation and repatriation expenses, disability and death, lost luggage, and personal effects. Certain activities are classified as high-risk or dangerous and may require extra cover to be taken out, please ensure you consult with your insurance company to ensure you are adequately covered. It is important to check if there is a travel age limit and should you be suffering from a pre-existing condition please check if there is a cap on medical emergency cover.
     
    Certain banks and credit cards include or offer travel insurance as part of their service. Please always check exactly what is offered in the way of cover and if it is adequate for your needs. Although more expensive it may well be better to purchase a standalone policy that provides comprehensive cover.
     
    By ensuring you are covered for the unexpected, travel insurance will provide you with peace of mind allowing you to relax and enjoy your holiday.
     
    Insiders Tip
    • Don’t tempt fate by travelling with expensive jewelery, only bring what you need. If its irreplaceable or has sentimental value, then leave it at home. Never carry jewelery in your checked baggage.
    • In the unfortunate event your checked baggage is lost or delay we recommend you carry prescription medication, including anti-malaria tablets, essential toiletries, and a change of underwear in your hand luggage.
    • Misplacing or losing original travel documents is frustrating and time consuming as it takes time to have them replaced. Always carry a copy of the ID page of your passport, travel itinerary, travel insurance and Covid passport with you. The best method is to scan these documents and store them electronically. Packing a copy separately from the original documents and leave a copy with a family member or trusted contact are other options.
    SAFETY GUIDELINES
    It is sensible to take basic precautions whilst traveling anywhere in the world. Below are recommendations that we feel hold for travel in general and which we thus suggest are followed if traveling to Africa.
     
    • It is advisable to secure your luggage with a suitable lock when flying both locally (within South Africa), regionally (to neighboring countries), and internationally. As an additional precaution, we suggest that check-in baggage is protected and secured with a Luggage Glove.
    • Please do not check in any valuables or chronic medication as these should be kept in your carry-on luggage.
    • Never leave luggage unattended.
    • Always drive with your doors locked and your windows closed, with handbags/backpacks/parcels, and valuables stored out of sight in the boot/trunk of the car.
    • Keep mobile phones, wallets, and cameras well hidden, and avoid wearing expensive jewelry.
    • Never leave your luggage unattended (e.g. do not leave handbags under tables, on the backs of chairs, or restroom hooks).
    • Please report any stolen property and/or any incident involving your safety and security to the establishment where you are staying.
    • Separate your cash and credit cards and do not carry all your cash with you.
    • Avoid counting cash in the open.
    • Be vigilant whenever approaching an automated bank teller machine (ATM). If you feel unsafe, rather return at another time or use an alternate machine.
    • Please store any valuables, travel documents (passports/airline tickets/vaccination cards), and additional cash in your camp/lodge/hotel room safe or the property's main safe. Keep your room locked at all times and hand in room keys or cards whenever you leave your hotel.
    INCLUDED & EXCLUDED

    INCLUDED

    • Experience of a lifetime
    • 24/7  support before & during your safari
    • Accommodation*
    • Road transfers*
    • Tours & Activities*
    • Meals & Drinks*
    • Tour Guide (where applicable)
    • Airport & airstrip transfers*
    • Park fees, levies & taxes (unless otherwise indicated)
    • Inter-Africa commercial & light aircraft flights*

    ____________

    * As indicated on your detailed safari itinerary

    EXCLUDED

    • International airfare
    • Personal gifts & purchases
    • Incidental charges
    • Travel insurance
    • Conservation fees*
    • Visa fees
    • Balloon safari* (if applicable)
    • Laundry*
    • Tips

    ____________

    * Unless otherwise indicated on your itinerary

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