WHY YOU’D LOVE IT!
Discover the wonders of our “Premium Southern Africa Signature Safari”! A carefully curated selection of accommodation, attractions, experiences for your journey through this captivating region!
- Visit Kapama Game Reserve : the largest single-owner game reserve in the region and is loved for its Big 5 population, hot air balloon rides, and countless photographic opportunities.
- Indulge in the splendors of Cape Town, where you’ll have the opportunity to experience the city’s most iconic sights and participate in a delightful full-day wine tasting tour.
- Prepare to be amazed by the extraordinary sight of Zimbabwe’s majestic Victoria Falls. Your time here will be filled with an array of exciting activities, from up-close encounters with elephants to thrilling experiences like white-water rafting, helicopter tours, and even a visit to a traditional African village.
- Embark on a captivating water safari through Botswana’s enchanting Chobe National Park, where you’ll spot magnificent wildlife such as hippos, leopards, giraffes, and crocodiles. All from the comfort of the luxurious Chobe River houseboat, offering unparalleled views from its private viewing deck.
PREPARE TO BE AMAZED!
OVERVIEW
Itinerary at a glance
◽️ DAY 0 | Travel
Departure
◽️ DAY 1 | South Africa
Johannesburg arrival
◽️ DAY 2-4 | South Africa
Kapama Game Reserve
◽️ DAY 5-8 | South Africa
Cape Town & surrounds
◽️ DAY 9-10 | Zimbabwe
Victoria Falls
◽️ DAY 11-13 | Botswana
Chobe houseboat
◽️ DAY 14 | Return
Departure
MAP
MAP
Visualize your journey!
DAY 0 | Dates to be updated
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 | Dates to be updated
JOHANNESBURG (South Africa)
Overnight
📍 Africa Rock Hotel
AFRICA ROCK HOTEL
Hotel Overview
Bed & Breakfast, drinks excl. / à la Carte Dinner avialble on-site at guest expense
This exclusive boutique hotel & Spa is located 6 miles from the Johannesburg International Airport (JNB / OR Tambo) in a quiet suburb of Kempton Park, away from the flight path of arriving and departing planes.
A well-established, lush tropical garden, a swimming pool and a large patio ensures relaxing outdoor living. The interior look and feel is a successful fusion of African, Western and Oriental design trends and offers a warm, welcoming and relaxing atmosphere.
The architecture is contemporary and the establishment includes all modern amenities which makes it practical and comfortable
DINNER, B&B
GUEST HOUSE
OVERNIGHT
DAY 2-4 | Dates to be updated
KAPAMA GR
Safari days!
📍 Kapama Karula
KAPAMA GAME RESERVE
Kapama Overview
The Kapama Game Reserve is a private game reserve - a hidden gem located next to the world-famous Kruger National park.
With a total of 30,000 acres boasting all the big game of Africa with 42 mammal species and approximately 350 bird species. This equates to huge natural diversity and includes the famed Big 5 - lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo and rhino.
Kapama Game resreve occupies a vast area between the northern Drakensberg mountains and the Greater Kruger National Park. It is the largest single-owner game reserve in the region, and is perfectly situated to receive guests flying into Eastgate Airport (Hoedspruit). This airport is just minutes from the reserve.
ACTIVITY
Game drives are conducted through the rolling savannah grasslands and riverine forests that make up this appealing African reserve
Safari days
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.
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KAPAMA KARULA
Lodge Overview
Situated in the expansive Kruger region, Kapama Private Game Reserve spans 13,000 hectares of savannah and riverine forest. Renowned for its diverse wildlife encounters and housing the big five, Kapama ensures captivating experiences with twice-daily game drives, allowing guests to marvel at the abundant wildlife in the reserve.
Kapama Karula exudes tranquility and represents the epitome of luxurious five-star safari accommodations. Featuring twelve superb suites, two specifically designed for families, each suite is adorned with elegant decor and ample private space. These spacious suites, averaging 100m² each, boast opulent en-suite bathrooms complete with indoor and outdoor showers, double basins, and a sizable designer bath. Glistening glass sliding doors envelop the suites, leading to private decks equipped with full-size heated swimming pools and sun loungers that offer unobstructed views of the Klaserie River, allowing guests to observe wildlife in the Game Reserve.
Nestled within the premises is the acclaimed Kapama Karula Spa and Wellness Centre, providing a sanctuary for both body and mind. Boasting four deluxe treatment rooms and a selection of rejuvenating health and beauty treatments, the spa exclusively uses top-tier products.
FULL BOARD
CHALET
GAME VIEW
DAY 5-8 | Dates to be updated
CAPE TOWN
Explore
📍 Lanzerac Hotel
CAPE TOWN
Cape Town has has it all! Much more than just a stunning backdrop! It is a vibrant, fun and cultural city. Strikingly modern and contemporary, Cape Town is actually the oldest city in South Africa. The Victoria & Alfred Waterfront is a bustling modern marina full of restaurants and shops, but venture deeper into the city to explore Cape Town’s genteel, cobbled walkways and colonial buildings.
Natural Beauty: Prepare to be captivated by Cape Town's awe-inspiring natural beauty. The city is nestled between the iconic Table Mountain, with its mesmerizing flat top, and the stunning Atlantic coastline. Explore the rugged Cape Peninsula, where the crashing waves of the Cape of Good Hope meet towering cliffs. Witness the vibrant floral display of the Cape Floral Kingdom, a UNESCO World Heritage site, with its rich biodiversity and colorful landscapes.
Wine lands: Cape Town is a gateway to the renowned Cape Wine lands, an idyllic region where vineyards stretch as far as the eye can see. Discover the art of wine making through wine tastings at world-class estates. Savor the flavors of exceptional wines while enjoying breathtaking views of vine-covered hills. Indulge in gourmet cuisine paired with exquisite vintages, creating a sensory experience you won't soon forget.
Rich Culture and History: Cape Town is steeped in a vibrant cultural tapestry, shaped by its diverse heritage. Visit the historic Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned, and gain insight into South Africa's struggle for freedom. Stroll through the colorful Bo-Kaap neighborhood with its brightly painted houses and learn about its Cape Malay history. Immerse yourself in local markets, museums, and galleries, all reflecting the city's rich cultural fabric.
Adventure Awaits: If you seek adventure, Cape Town delivers! Dive into thrilling activities like shark cage diving, where you come face-to-face with these incredible predators. Take to the skies and paraglide over picturesque coastal cliffs, or brave the heights with a hike up Table Mountain. For water enthusiasts, enjoy surfing, kayaking, or simply bask in the sun on the pristine beaches.
Private tour: Cape Point & Peninsula
Cape Point & Cape Peninsula tour! Discover Cape Point, the scenic promontory at the southwestern tip of the continent. Journey past base of the towering Twelve Apostles Mountain Range, along bucolic Hout Bay with its bustling fishing harbor and over the famous Chapman’s Peak Drive. Explore the stunning Cape Peninsula and Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve, home to rare bonteboks and chacma baboons.
At Boulders Beach, visit its colony of endangered African penguins; accustomed to humans, they provide endless photo opportunities.
The Cape Peninsula boasts warm sands on Clifton’s secluded beaches and trendy cafés in Camps Bay. Explore the stunning Atlantic Seaboard feasting your eyes on rugged coastlines and other unblemished geographic landmarks such as the Twelve Apostles and the impressive slopes of Lion’s head.
Explore the village of Hout Bay wondrously framed by mountains before meandering along Chapman’s Peak, precariously aligned along the edge of the mountain. World famous this 9 km route with 114 curves, makes it one of the most magnificent marine drives in the world.
Simons Town is a must see offering gemstone hunting, jewellery sales and the wobbly penguins of Boulder’s that show-off gloriously. Boulders Beach remains the only place in the world where one can get up close to African Penguins. Penguin viewing is made easier by boardwalks that lead visitors across the beaches. Head to the Cape Point Lighthouse, an important icon of the Cape Peninsula, ascend to this rugged, craggy spot and gaze at the rocky coastline and the ocean tumbling below, and Cape of Good Hope, the most south-western point of Africa
*Please see your safari itinerary for details
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Tour: City & Cultural
This tour explores the vibrant Cape Town City Bowl and showcases its heritage landmarks. The bustling central business district of Cape Town lies in the shadow of Table Mountain.The city is rich in history and home to a multi-cultural population. This tour will give you just a glimpse of what the city of Cape Town has to offer.
- Castle of Good Hope, Cape Town City Hall and Parliament Buildings
- Iziko South African Museum & Company Gardens
- Bo-Kaap
- Signal Hill
- Lions Hill
- Clifton and Camps Bay
*Weather permitting, take the cable car up Table Mountain to take in an inspiring panorama of the city. Cable car tast track tickets not included, approx. U$ 50 pp and for guest account
*See your safari itinerary for logistics
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Tour: V& A Waterfront
LANZERAC HOTEL
Wine Estate Overview
Welcome toStellenbosch! Synonymous with wine, history & culture, Stellenbosch is South Africa’s second-oldest town. Despite it's wealth of wold-class wineries, there’s so much more to the City of Oaks. Rich in history and culture, and surrounded by majestic mountains and nature reserves, it offers must-try experiences whatever your interests or age.
a Wine Estate steeped in history dating back to 1692! The 326 year old Wine Estate is synonymous with old-world charm and rich Cape heritage, boasting dramatic mountain ranges, endless rows of lush vineyards and hectares of gardens shaded by giant Oak trees. Set in the heart of a 162 hectre working wine estate, on the outskirts of picturesque Stellenbosch, the historic Hotel and Spa is the perfect base from which to explore SA’s most famous wine-lands. This Country Estate exudes an air of intimacy and provides the ultimate in personalized service.
The hotel boasts four restaurants – all day dining at the Deli, classical dishes re imagined at the Manor Kitchen, gourmet pub style plates at the "Taphuis", and tapas in the Craven Lounge. Treatments at the Spa take place against a stunning backdrop of mountains and vineyards. Come and experience true South African heritage!
Experience the finest hospitality the Cape Wine lands has to offer, indulging guests with warm and passionate service, the finest wine and cuisine and exquisitely styled rooms and suites. Complete relaxation amid welcoming interiors which blend both period grandeur and contemporary style.
Transfer to Stellenbosch. *Please see your safari itinerary for transfer logistics
B&B
HOTEL
TOURS
DAY 9-10 | Dates to be updated
VICTORIA FALLS
Explore
📍 Old Drift Lodge
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.
OLD DRIFT LODGE
Lodge Overview
Full board, excl. premium drinks.
Lying just 4 miles from the rumble of the mighty Victoria Falls, this extraordinary luxury tented lodge on the banks of the Zambezi River is a bush paradise that exudes an old world charm, admits modern luxuries
Upstream of the iconic Victoria Falls in the Zambezi National Park lies a pristine piece of land on the banks of the Zambezi River. Nestled within this wild paradise is Old Drift Lodge, a place frequented by elephant, buffalo, zebra, giraffe, Lion and many other animals. The untouched natural beauty of the park is sprawled over 56 000 breath taking hectares.
The Lodge speaks to the rich heritage of the area. A ‘drift or ‘ford’, is a shallow place in a river or stream where it is possible to cross safely without using a boat. Around 1898, the lodge location (originally known as Sekute's Drift) was used as a crossing point over the Zambezi River between what was then Southern and Northern Rhodesia (today Zimbabwe and Zambia). The drift was at a point on the river, 3 miles above the Falls, where the river is wide but runs low enough during certain periods for safe crossing.
The Lodge offers luxury accommodation, with each air-conditioned suite decorated with stylish furnishings, fitting of the bygone eras, which blend in seamlessly with the natural environment. The spacious canvas en-suite rooms all have a private lounge, indoor and outdoor showers, plunge pool and an outdoor bath overlooking the Zambezi.The main lodge area will have 360 degree views, north facing onto the Zambezi & south facing onto a water hole.
ACTIVITIES
The activities offered at the lodge emphasize the rich natural environment, focusing on the abundance of wildlife that roam through the Park and swim the Zambezi River. The Zambezi National park can be explored by road, river or on foot, satisfying guests needs to experience every aspect of this natural utopia.Due to its close proximity to Victoria Falls, you have ample opportunity to enjoy a vast array of activities – from the adrenaline fuelled bunji jumping, canyon swinging and white water rafting to the more sedate historical tours, river cruises and much 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.
This afternoon, get a view from above! Take to the sky for a thrilling 15 minute helicopter flip over the breath-taking Victoria Falls and surrounding area. Tonight , enjoy the perfect start to your visit in Zimbabwe - a sunset cruise on the mighty Zambezi River. The sunset cruise offers a unique way to explore the channels of the river and to get an up-close view of the pristine wilderness and African game along its banks. Canapés & a full bar available (drinks at own cost)
* See your safari itinerary for transfer logistics
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FULL BOARD
TENTED CAMP
TOURS
DAY 11-13 | Dates to be updated
CHOBE RIVER
Safari days!
📍 Zambezi Queen 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.
ZAMBEZI QUEEN HOUSE BOAT
House Boat Overview
Full board, excl. premium drinks / Wifi (limited) available on the boat / No laundry services available
Cruising along the edges of the magnificent Chobe River, the Zambezi Queen presents a top-tier, 5-star, 45 yard extended lavish houseboat experience, delivering unmatched elegance in the midst of one of the most isolated areas on Earth!
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.
A major attraction of the area is the elephants, whose resident population is estimated to be over 120,000. You’ll also be able to see large herds of buffalo, and if you’re lucky, rare sightings like herds of Roan Antelope and Sable. Besides the land and water-based mammals, this is also a birdwatcher’s paradise and you can expect to encounter over 450 species.
The houseboat has smaller “tender” boats for use on daily excursions. Try your hand at landing a tiger fish, or capture Africa’s unique beauty on a photographic safari. Whatever you choose to do, your day trips will be personal and flexible because you’ll be sharing the tender boats with a small number of guests. Alternatively, simply laze on a deck chair with an ice-cold drink in hand as you soak up the tranquillity that surrounds you.
Each of the 14 suites on the vessel features air-conditioning and your own private balcony, where you can enjoy unobstructed views of the Chobe River and African landscape beyond. Wake up to the sight of an elephant drinking from the river, or watch a fish eagle take flight – all from the comfort of your own luxurious bed. All suites within the Zambezi Queen come with en-suite bathrooms (shower only) and full length sliding shutters for both privacy and protection from the sun. Hairdryers, toiletries, gowns and slippers are provided for your comfort, while electronic safes in each room are ideal for storing your valuables. All suites accommodate two adults, and two of the larger standard suites can take a maximum of three adults. Suites can be configured with either one double or two single beds
The crew will pamper you with unaffected warmth and generosity, doing whatever they can to make this trip memorable. And as if their hospitality alone isn’t something to remember, the wildlife viewing will definitely remain in your memories for a lifetime. As you drift down the Chobe River, you will be exposed to incredible game viewing from several mooring points along the Chobe and Zambezi Rivers.
* Kasane Airport or Kasane Immigration point pick up is followed by motorized boat transfer to the Namibian Immigration Office to get your passport stamped; proceed to the boat. Get ready to be amazed!
* See your safari itinerary for transfer logistics
B&B
HOUSE BOAT
GAME VIEW
DAY 15 | Dates to be updated
RETURN
RETURN
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!
SAFARI COST
Click button below to DOWNLOAD the PDF
2023: USD $ 13,350 / pps*
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*pps=per person sharing
Minimum of 2 pax traveling
SAFARI DATES & DETAILS
Click button below to DOWNLOAD the PDF
* Always check the document date and refer to the latest version
◽️ Preparing for your trip
PREPARING FOR YOUR SAFARI
Pre-Travel Information
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 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 INCLUDED ____________ * As indicated on your detailed safari itinerary EXCLUDED ____________ * Unless otherwise indicated on your itineraryPASSPORTS
HEALTH
VISAS
GRATUITIES
PACKING LIST
BAGGAGE
TRAVEL INSURANCE
SAFETY GUIDELINES
INCLUDED & EXCLUDED
GORILLA TREK PACKING LIST SUGGESTION
Kindly note that the packing list below is just a mere guideline as you may have your own preferences
- 1-2 long sleeved shirts
- 3 short sleeved t-shirts
- 2 –3 pairs of light weight slacks/trousers – that can dry quickly (if wearing on treks)
- 1 pair of shorts
- 1 sweater or sweatshirt
- A waterproof and windproof jacket
- 1 skirt ( for women)
- Gloves – gardening or similar (for gorilla trekking)
- Strong waterproof walking boots – pants should be tucked into socks and boots while trekking
- (heavy soled rain boots also work well)
- Pair of sports sandals like Tevas
- Hat-wide brim or with a visor for sun protection
- Sleepwear
- Underwear
- Lightweight wool socks
- Swimsuit (and a plastic bag)
Miscellaneous
- Sunscreen
- Sunglasses with neck strap
- Insect repellent with DEET
- Small day pack
- Flashlight
- Binoculars
- Extra batteries
- Camera and extra lenses
- Film particularly fast film for the gorillas.
- Personal toiletries
- Prescription medicines and possibly prescription itself
First Aid Kit including rehydration sachets, anti-diarrhea medicine, aspirin, cold medication, antiseptic cream, band-aids, motion sickness pills, lip balm, eye drops and personal medication.
PAPERWORK
PASSPORTS
- Email or Whatsapp a clear color copy of your passport
- Expiration date valid at least 6 months past return dates
- Please check the number of blank Visa pages required by each country
CONTRACT
- Download the Safari Contract
- Take a picture with your phone of the first & last page and email back
- A signed APPENDIX C / Indemnity is required for each person going on the safari. Click here to print more copies if needed)
GUEST INFORMATION
- Download the Safari Guest Information sheet
- Fill out for each person going on the safari
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