Safaris by design

SOUTH AFRICA

Chris TOMSEN

DAYS BEFORE THE MAGIC STARTS!

Day(s)

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* Always refer to the most current version of this document

WHY YOU’D LOVE IT!

South Africa Cape Buffalo hunt & photo safari combo!

Explore the mountains, rivers, and grasslands of South Africa’s extraordinary Welgevonden Private Game Reserve at your leisure. A UNESCO conservation site and the location of your four-night Big-5 Safari

Hunt in the game-rich North-West province, home to the infamous Cape Buffalo and a long list of top-quality plains game species.

Next stop: Experience the dazzling wonders of Cape Town. Cape Town, nestled at the southwestern tip of Africa, beckons with its unparalleled blend of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture, making it a must-visit destination for any traveler.

A truly astonishing safari adventure, filled with magical experiences that you won’t find anywhere else in the world!

OVERVIEW

Itinerary at a glance

◽️ DAY 0    | Travel

     Departure

◽️ DAY 1-2    | South Africa

     Johannesburg arrival

◽️ DAY  3-5   | South Africa

 Welgevonden GR

◽️ DAY 5-6| South Africa

   Johannesburg

◽️ DAY 7-13 |  South Africa

     Hunting

◽️ DAY 14-17 | South Africa

    Cape Town

◽️ DAY 18-20 | South Africa

    Stellenbosch

 

◽️ DAY 21     | Return 

     Return home

 

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 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 1-2 |  Arrive South Africa

JOHANNESBURG

Overnight

📍 Witwater Guest House

WITWATER GUEST HOUSE

Guest House Overview

  Bed & Breakfast

Conveniently located 5 miles from Johannesburg International airport, Witwater Guest House & Spa offers accommodation with access to spa facilities, wellness packages and beauty services.

À la carte and continental breakfast options with warm dishes, local specialities and fresh pastries are available daily at the guest house. Guests can eat in the on-site traditional restaurant, which is open for dinner, lunch, brunch and high tea. 

B&B

GUEST HOUSE

OVERNIGHT

DAY 3-4 | Welgevonden Game Reserve

BIG-5 SAFARI

Land based Safari!

📍 Inzalo Lodge

WELGEVONDEN G/RESERVE

Area Overview

The vast 36,000 hectares of the Welgevonden Game Reserve is a treasure trove of life, boasting a remarkable 65 mammal species, 300 different bird species, and the iconic Big 5. Yet, what sets Welgevonden apart are its unique residents, including the elusive aardwolf, the enigmatic brown hyena, and the graceful cheetahs.

Embark on two daily game drives led by experienced rangers who will unveil the intimate secrets of the abundant flora and fauna, many of which are unique to the Waterberg region. As the sun dips below the horizon, savor sundowner drinks and let the enchanting embrace of the African bush envelop you during evening game safaris. It's here, under the veil of night, that the African bush comes to life, with predators stealthily stalking their prey, a truly magnificent sight to behold.

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
 

 

INZALO LODGE

Inzalo Overview

Full board, excl premium drinks | Wifi available |Laundry available at addl. cost

Experience an intimate and authentic safari adventure at Inzalo Safari Lodge in the heart of Welgevonden Game Reserve. This pristine landscape offers a dynamic mix of mountainous cliffs, serene valleys adorned with majestic baobab, Marula, and fever trees, expansive open grasslands, and crystal-clear streams.

The presence of water in the region nurtures a rich diversity of birdlife and wildlife, providing daily opportunities for nature enthusiasts to embark on guided game drives and immersive nature walks.

Unwind in the vast, open spaces that extend to our viewing deck and bar area. The lodge's décor seamlessly fuses with modern comforts, crafting an inviting ambiance where you can socialize with fellow guests, savor delectable dining experiences, and relish scenic vistas while sipping on crisp, refreshing beverages. When the time comes to retire to your room after captivating stories shared around the outdoor boma, our tent-style suites are thoughtfully equipped to meet all your needs.

FULL BOARD

TENTED CAMP

GAME VIEW

DAY 5-6 | Johannesburg 

JOHANNESBURG

Overnight

📍 Witwater Guest House

WITWATER GUEST HOUSE

Guest House Overview

  Bed & Breakfast

Conveniently located 5 miles from Johannesburg International airport, Witwater Guest House & Spa offers accommodation with access to spa facilities, wellness packages and beauty services.

À la carte and continental breakfast options with warm dishes, local specialities and fresh pastries are available daily at the guest house. Guests can eat in the on-site traditional restaurant, which is open for dinner, lunch, brunch and high tea. 

B&B

GUEST HOUSE

OVERNIGHT

DAY 7-13 |  Hunting

HUNTING

Plains Game hunt

📍 North-West Camp

NORTH-WEST CAMP

Overview

Cape Buffalo hunting take place in the  Malaria free  North West province of South Africa, between the small towns of Schweizer-Reneke and Vryburg.Driving time from Johannesburg is approximately 4 hours.

Proud home of Buffalo, Sable, Roan, Tsessebe, Eland as well as 45 other wildlife species. Also rich in birdlife and indigenous flora, making it a hunting, photography and safari paradise.

 
 
 

Hunting days

A typical day of hunting begins by waking up before sunrise and gathering for breakfast and coffee. Following this, the hunting party leaves the camp in vehicles to engage in spotting and stalking for the day. The hunting activity continues until mid-day, at which point everyone returns to the lodge for lunch and a break.

After a brief rest or siesta, the afternoon hunt commences. For those exploring remote areas, packing a lunch is likely. At the end of a successful day of hunting, participants convene at the campfire to share their experiences. A delightful dinner is served once all hunters have returned, and many choose to unwind by the fireplace with post-dinner drinks before retiring for the night in preparation for the next day's hunt.

Accommodation

Luxury accommodation, 5 star catering and epic Africa sunsets! Welcome!

The bushveld with its scattered thorn trees and shrubs will make your African safari dreams come true…bring your family and friends and let's give them a hunt of a lifetime. Whether you choose to lounge by the pool area with a drink in hand after a successful hunting day or sit by the fire at the boma and exchange stories with fellow hunters, is totally up to you. The exclusive luxury safari lodge will serve as an awesome African destination with a homely atmosphere. Two chefs that prepare and serve world class cuisine of your choice. Furthermore, the lodge feature 8 air-conditioned rooms, Wi-Fi, satellite TV, a lookout Lapa with boma and a large fire pit, a beautiful swimming pool with sundeck, indoor fireplaces and lounging areas as well as a Gym, Spa and an indoor man-cave with bar and snooker (pool) table. A place where we aim to amaze! Africa awaits you!

FULL BOARD

LODGE

HUNT

DAY 14-17 | Cape Town

CAPE TOWN

Explore

📍 Zest Boutique Hotel

CAPE TOWN

Area Overview

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.

ZEST BOUTIQUE HOTEL

 Guest House Overview

Indulge in the allure of Villa Zest Boutique Hotel, conveniently nestled within strolling distance of both the vibrant Green Point Stadium and the bustling V&A Waterfront. Be captivated by our thoughtfully curated Bauhaus-inspired rooms, adorned with sleek flat-screen TVs and iPod docking stations, seamlessly blending modern sophistication with retro charm.

Each uniquely designed room at Villa Zest Boutique Hotel exudes a fusion of contemporary elegance and vintage allure, promising a stay that's as stylish as it is comfortable.

Nestled in the heart of Green Point, Villa Zest Boutique Hotel offers unrivaled access to the Cape Town International Convention Centre, while the sun-kissed beaches of Camps Bay and Clifton beckon just a stone's throw away.

Discover a sanctuary of relaxation amidst the vibrant cityscape with our enchanting Bedouin garden, a resplendent 10-meter pool, and a secluded sunken lounge area. Unwind under the stars by our inviting outdoor fireplace or ascend to our rooftop terrace for panoramic views of the city skyline.

Immerse yourself in a journey through time with our captivating 1970s electronic objects art gallery, a testament to our commitment to offering a truly immersive cultural experience.

As a token of our warm hospitality, guests are welcomed with a complimentary drink upon arrival, setting the tone for an unforgettable stay at Villa Zest Boutique Hotel.

B&B

HOTEL

TOURS

DAY 18-20 | Stellenbosch

STELLENBOSCH

Explore the wine lands!

📍 Stellenbosch Hotel

STELLENBOSCH

Tour: Winelands

Explore the captivating allure of Stellenbosch in the Cape Winelands, where rolling vineyard-covered hills intersect with historic charm, inviting you to embark on a sensory journey of wine tasting at world-renowned estates, indulge in gourmet dining that harmonizes with the local flavors.  Stroll through oak-lined streets adorned with Cape Dutch architecture.

Surrounded yourself with  a serene and breathtaking landscape, that seamlessly marries the old-world elegance with the vibrancy of South African wine culture.

Visit various wineries in and around the stunning Stellenbosch area. Enjoy wine tasting and lunch on the way. This is the Cape wine lands!

*Please see your safari itinerary for transfer logistics

Tour: Hermanus

Best whale watching location in the world!

Wedged between the mountain and the sea, the quaint hamlet of Hermanus has been rated by the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) as one of the twelve best whale watching locations in the world, and it is often regarded as the heart of the whale route.

Hermanus is a mere 50 miles from Cape Town - the ideal base from which to explore the Western Cape and the Cape Overberg. Here is something for everyone. Contributory factors to the success are the mild climate, natural scenic beauty and the range of outdoor activities available. Pristine stretches of beach offer solitude to the walker and boating activities abound in the Kleinriver Lagoon, renowned for its birdlife. The Old Harbour complex in Hermanus offers the visitor an insight into Hermanus' past as a Fisherman's village and marine life.

Hermanus is firmly established on the Epicurean map with its myriad of restaurants, fine wine, fresh vegetables cheese and fish.

STELLENBOSCH HOTLE

  Bed & Breakfast, drinks excl.

The Stellenbosch Hotel, located in the historic heart of Stellenbosch, is a charming boutique-style establishment offering a variety of rooms suitable for both leisure and business travelers.

Positioned ideally for exploring the attractions of the Cape Winelands and other Western Cape highlights.

Guests can indulge in local specialties and South African wines at our on-site restaurant, and parking is available at no charge.

Just three miles away lies the Stellenbosch Golf Club, while each room in the hotel features amenities such as a TV, minibar, and safe, along with a spacious private bathroom. Start your day with breakfast at Stellenbosch Kitchen and enjoy a diverse menu of local and international dishes for lunch and dinner. With Stellenbosch University less than half a mile away and easy access to walking tours of the wine route, museums, art galleries, and gift shops are all within a safe and convenient walking distance.

 
 
 
 
 

B&B

HOTEL

WINE

DAY 21  |  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!

TRAVEL INFO

◽️ 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*

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* 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

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* Unless otherwise indicated on your itinerary

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