ZAMBIA & ZIMBABWE: SOUTH LUANGWA & VICTORIA FALLS

____________

USD $ 9,890 / pps*

*pps=per person sharing

Min 2 pax 

8 days

WHY YOU’D LOVE IT!

Zambia today is a pristine African wilderness, making it a wild and spectacular destination! It is a landlocked country that has only recently begun to appear on the international visitor’s itinerary. With thousands of square miles of bushveld and 19 National Parks, it is a premier safari and big game viewing destination. River cruises and activities on the Lower Zambezi, walking safaris in the South Luangwa, and game drives in the Kafue all provide excellent opportunities for tracking Big Game

Highlights include:

OVERVIEW

Itinerary at a glance

◽️ DAY 0        | Travel

     Departure

 

◽️ DAY 1-3     | Zambia

     South Luangwa NP

 

◽️ DAY 4-5     | Zambia

     South Luangwa NP

 

◽️ DAY 6-7    | Zambia

     Victoria Falls

 

◽️ DAY 8       | Travel

     Return / Onward travel

 

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 witnessing 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 1-3  |  Dates to be updated

SOUTH LUANGWA NP

Safari days

📍 Mchenja Camp

SOUTH LUANGWA NP

Area Overview

Welcome to South Luangwa National Park! Considered by many as the most unspoiled and intact safari park in Africa, South Luangwa National Park is probably Zambia’s biggest hidden gem. Its inaccessibility and wild natural conditions make it a less popular choice for first-timers. At the same time, safari experts and wildlife lovers try to keep quiet to protect its beauty. game-viewing in South Luangwa is simply outstanding. Here you can see four out of the big five (white and black rhinos disappeared due to poaching in the area), and for many safari experts, South Luangwa National Park is the best place to spot the elusive leopard.

The South Luangwa National Park is famous for its guided walking safaris.

Leopard are particularly common in the South Luangwa, though not so common as to be routine encounters. With habitats varying from dense riverine forests to large open savannah woodland, the concentration and variety of wildlife is astonishing incl. 3 Luangwa Valley sub-species: Thornicroft giraffe, Crawshey's zebra and Cookson's wildebeest.

A walking safari is a unique way to experience the African bush and observe its wildlife. A typical walking safari  a duration of approximately 3 hours. A large part of a walking safari revolves around tracking animals – from big cats to a multitude of wildlife such as Kudu, Eland, Elephants, Giraffe, and the endemic Cookson’s Wildebeest. Of course walks bring you closer to the smaller things, the incredible flora, bird life, and arthropods.

You will see most of the big game, but not always necessarily as close as you will from the vehicle. The wonderful thing about being on walking safari is you get to touch, feel and smell the environment that the wildlife inhabits, including looking closely at tracks and droppings, nests, insects and particularly a good look at our native flora including the majestic old trees that are found in the riverine areas of the Luangwa.
 
Setting out from camp, a group of no more than six guests are escorted by a professional walking guide and an armed ZAWA scout. This system of two people leading the walk has proved to be very safe over the years, makes it possible to make sure our guests get the most out of the experience while maintaining the highest possible levels of safety.

.

Activities

The South Luangwa National Park is famous for its guided walking safaris

South Luangwa National Park is Zambia's biggest hidden gem and is considered by many as the most unspoiled and intact safari park in Africa. Here you can see four out of the big five (white and black rhinos disappeared due to poaching in the area), and for many safari experts, South Luangwa National Park is the best place to spot the elusive leopard.

Activities in camp consist of walking safaris and day and night game drives in a variety of environments, including riverine forests, Mopane woodland, and open floodplains. These attract a diversity of wildlife, from plains game such as Crawshay's zebra and impala, to wetland animals like puku and waterbuck, as well as the shyer species that prefer the riverine thickets, like kudu and leopard

Another highlight of South Luangwa NP is the opportunity to do night safaris, and this activity is quite popular among safari lovers and not possible to do in every national park. Here, your chances to see a leopard have increased significantly, but you can also see other nocturnal animals such as the spotted hyena, genet, bushbaby, and porcupines.

 MCHENJA CAMP

Camp Overview

A stylishly tented piece of heaven, Mchenja camp is located in the game-heavy central region of the South Luangwa National Park. Nestled under huge ebony trees on the banks of a broad section of the Luangwa River. A friendly, relaxed atmosphere with sweeping river views that will seduce even the most seasoned safari-goer.

Between the baboons chattering above you in the beautiful ebony branches, and the herds of elephants who like to pop into camp for a visit, you’ll stay entertained throughout your unforgettable time here. The beautiful central lounge, built around a fallen ebony tree, is the perfect spot to share your sunrise coffee with other guests while you enjoy birds’ songs calling across the picturesque Luangwa River. Satisfy your palate with brunch in the shade of that charming lounge. Later in the day, enjoy a delicious dinner served on crisp white linens by the scenic river bank.

Be sure to alert the staff if your trip includes a birthday or anniversary celebration, and let them pamper you with a special treat, like one of Chef’s delightful soufflés! The attentive and pleasant staff is dedicated to accommodating your needs and ensuring your satisfaction, whether you’d like a romantic candlelit dinner set for two under a bright blanket of stars, or just need a cool towel to refresh you after a game drive.

With only 4 uniquely spacious octagonal chalets, and one two-bedroom family unit, canvas and thatched chalets are as intimate as they are luxurious.

Recharge after the excitement of your afternoon drive in your uncluttered and meticulously maintained chalet, with its large honeymoon size bed gently draped in mosquito netting and private open-air outdoor facilities featuring flush WC, basin and shower. And when you’re not using those open-air facilities, the local monkeys will jump in and give you a show! If you’re in the mood for something more indulgent, have a soak and a sundowner in the Victorian-style bathtub with a charming view of the river through your own private screened window.

ACTIVITIES
Guides at the camp are known for their dedication to both the guest experience and the well-being of the local wildlife. Whether you come across a herd of elephants or a pride of lions, their expert skill and calm response will ensure your safety and enhance your fun, while leaving the animals undisturbed. If you prefer to watch wildlife from the comfort of a hardtop Land Rover, you’ll enjoy it even more when you pause your adventure for a bit of tea and scrumptious cakes served on the hood of the vehicle. Evening drives are as exciting as those in the day, so you night owls will have plenty to keep you entertained.

If you wish to view wildlife on foot, you won’t be disappointed by the educational experience, which might include a chat with your guide about the intricacies of the park’s ecosystem, learning to read animal tracks in the sand, or stepping within a few yards of raucous hippos.

*Please see your safari itinerary for transfer logistics.

 

.

FULL BOARD

TENTED CAMP

GAME VIEW

DAY 4-5 | Date to be updated

SOUTH LUANGWA NP

Safari days

📍 Chamilandu camp

SOUTH LUANGWA NP

Area Overview

Welcome to South Luangwa National Park! Considered by many as the most unspoiled and intact safari park in Africa, South Luangwa National Park is probably Zambia’s biggest hidden gem. Its inaccessibility and wild natural conditions make it a less popular choice for first-timers. At the same time, safari experts and wildlife lovers try to keep quiet to protect its beauty. game-viewing in South Luangwa is simply outstanding. Here you can see four out of the big five (white and black rhinos disappeared due to poaching in the area), and for many safari experts, South Luangwa National Park is the best place to spot the elusive leopard.

The South Luangwa National Park is famous for its guided walking safaris.

Leopard are particularly common in the South Luangwa, though not so common as to be routine encounters. With habitats varying from dense riverine forests to large open savannah woodland, the concentration and variety of wildlife is astonishing incl. 3 Luangwa Valley sub-species: Thornicroft giraffe, Crawshey's zebra and Cookson's wildebeest.

A walking safari is a unique way to experience the African bush and observe its wildlife. A typical walking safari  a duration of approximately 3 hours. A large part of a walking safari revolves around tracking animals – from big cats to a multitude of wildlife such as Kudu, Eland, Elephants, Giraffe, and the endemic Cookson’s Wildebeest. Of course walks bring you closer to the smaller things, the incredible flora, bird life, and arthropods.

You will see most of the big game, but not always necessarily as close as you will from the vehicle. The wonderful thing about being on walking safari is you get to touch, feel and smell the environment that the wildlife inhabits, including looking closely at tracks and droppings, nests, insects and particularly a good look at our native flora including the majestic old trees that are found in the riverine areas of the Luangwa.
 
Setting out from camp, a group of no more than six guests are escorted by a professional walking guide and an armed ZAWA scout. This system of two people leading the walk has proved to be very safe over the years, makes it possible to make sure our guests get the most out of the experience while maintaining the highest possible levels of safety.

.

Activities

The South Luangwa National Park is famous for its guided walking safaris

South Luangwa National Park is Zambia's biggest hidden gem and is considered by many as the most unspoiled and intact safari park in Africa. Here you can see four out of the big five (white and black rhinos disappeared due to poaching in the area), and for many safari experts, South Luangwa National Park is the best place to spot the elusive leopard.

Activities in camp consist of walking safaris and day and night game drives in a variety of environments, including riverine forests, Mopane woodland, and open floodplains. These attract a diversity of wildlife, from plains game such as Crawshay's zebra and impala, to wetland animals like puku and waterbuck, as well as the shyer species that prefer the riverine thickets, like kudu and leopard

Another highlight of South Luangwa NP is the opportunity to do night safaris, and this activity is quite popular among safari lovers and not possible to do in every national park. Here, your chances to see a leopard have increased significantly, but you can also see other nocturnal animals such as the spotted hyena, genet, bushbaby, and porcupines.

CHAMILANDU CAMP

Camp Overview

A small and intimate camp set in the shade of some tall African ebony trees, perched on the bank of a winding section of the Luangwa River!

Only 3 spacious chalets, each set well apart, with uninterrupted views of the river and to the Nchindeni Hills beyond. Each is thatched, and raised about 2 yards off the ground on a timber platform. There are reed walls on three sides but the front of the bedroom is completely open, leading to a private viewing deck where comfortable chairs face the river. Although still very African in style the interiors are both contemporary and chic. Black mosquito netting works well with the neutral color scheme and high-quality but simple furniture. Each room has a king-size bed, or two small double four-posters A curtained doorway leads through to an open-air, en-suite bathroom.

At the centre of camp, just yards away from the riverbank and enclosed on three sides by a waist-high reed wall, is the main area. Here you will find contemporary furniture, such as hanging wicker chairs, molded wooden stools and low-slung sofas, is set on sandy floors, reinforcing the camp's rustic feel.

A dining table is surrounded by directors' chairs, and there's a well-stocked bar and small library, too. The high thatched ceiling provides a convenient roosting place for epauleted fruit bats, which you'll often spot hanging from the rafters.

Overlooking the river, the campfire is lit in the mornings to cook porridge and toast at breakfast, and in the evening as a gathering place for pre-dinner drinks. Away from the river, a thatched building on stilts serves both as a hide, with a vantage point overlooking a small lagoon where animals often come to drink in the heat of the day, and as a shady lunch spot.

B&B

TENTED CAMP

GAME VIEW

DAY 6-7 | Date to be updated

VICTORIA FALLS

Explore

📍 Tongabezi

 VICTORIA FALLS

Area Overview

VICTORIA FALLS ACTIVITIES 〉

Victoria Falls visit, Elephant encounter & more!

Experience the awe-inspiring majesty of Victoria Falls, a natural wonder where the mighty Zambezi River plunges dramatically, creating a mesmerizing spectacle of roaring waters and ethereal mist that embodies the sheer power and beauty of nature.

Take a guided walking tour of breathtaking Victoria Falls, one of the world’s greatest natural wonders, and explore the surrounding rainforest. See rainbows and clouds of spray as the mile-wide Upper Zambezi plummets into the Lower Zambezi.

Named after Scottish explorer Dr David Livingstone, Livingstone’s culture and history is intriguing – as is evidenced by the arts and craft producers, museums, colonial architecture, traditional village life, local food and the general African lifestyle.

 TONGABEZI LODGE

 Lodge Overview

Welcome at Victoria Falls- Livingstone, Zambia side!  The Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, offers breath-taking views that are almost too spectacular and majestic to describe. Unique attractions on the Zambian side include the Boiling Pot and The Devil’s Pool.

Set under shady trees, the secluded camp mixes romance and exclusivity and makes for an excellent honeymoon or romantic holiday retreat. Sit back and soak up the magnificent views of the Zambezi River gliding by.

The ultimate destination for romance and bespoke travel, the real beauty of the Tongabezi experience lies in its ability to set a scene and inspire a truly magical adventure.

The lodge has an extensive variety of cottages and houses catering to all guests and groups. The River Cottages feature high ceilings, giant bespoke wood and glass windows, and doors leading onto expansive sustainable pine decks. The signature African fusion Tongabezi style has been distilled to the best of 'Made in Zambia' in both the interior and outdoor spaces.

Sindabezi Island is a castaway dream on a white sand beach surrounded by the Zambezi, just a short boat ride from the main jetty. Tongabezi also offers thrilling boat trips to the incredible Livingstone Island in the middle of Victoria Falls.

Enjoy doing as much or as little as you want, although there are plenty of activities on offer. This secluded camp combines exclusivity with the genuine warmth and hospitality of Zambia and its people.

ACTIVITIES
A wide range of activities are on offer during your stay, for example: an early morning game drive, drifting down the Zambezi River on a Sunset Cruise, or a romantic Sampan dinner floating out on the river. Enjoy a private Sand Bar lunch. Community minded?

Did someone say fishing? The Zambezi make a serene and angling destination
The lavish accommodation caters for guests of all persuasions, with en-suite river cottages and open-plan stone and thatch houses suited for families, couples, and friends. Several houses include infinity plunge pools and open-air sunken baths on terraces with mesmerizing river views, perfect for dining and unwinding

*See your safari itinerary for transfer logistics and details.

B&B

LODGE

TOURS

DAY 8 | Date to be updated

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

👉 READ MORE: Health, Visas, Passports etc.

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 as indicated on your itinerary
  • 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

TERMS & CONDITIONS

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