SOUTHERN AFRICA – SPECIFIC SAFARI INFORMATION














General Booking Conditions, Travel Protection
Passport, Visa, Vaccination Requirements
Banking, Money, Currency
Tipping Guidelines/ Communications
Luggage, Clothing
Packing List, Laundry
Plug sockets, Adapters
Safari Overview
Shopping
Measurement & Temperature Conversions
Temperature & Rainfall Averages
Suggested Reading
Supporting Africa
2
Pg 4
Pg 5-6
Pg 7-9
Pg 9-12
Pg 13-14
Pg 15-16
Pg 17
Pg 18-26
Pg 27
Pg 28
Pg 29
Pg 30
Pg 31
3
(SOUTH AFRICA, BOTSWANA, NAMIBIA, ZAMBIA AND ZIMBABWE)
BOOKING CONDITIONS AND ACCEPTANCE OF TERMS FOR THIS SAFARI
Please ensure that you are aware of our booking conditions. Please complete the Terms and
Conditions/Release of Liability and the Booking forms signifying your acceptance and return it to us (unless
you have already done so). We cannot release your documentation unless we have these completed forms in
our files. You traveling on the safari implies acceptance of these conditions.
WHAT IS NOT INCLUDED
Where stated, your land arrangements on tour are inclusive (full board) as detailed in your final itinerary.
However, there are extra meals in hotels where breakfast (B) only is provided, personal expenditure,
gratuities for drivers, guides, camp staff, airport taxes and visa fees, travel protection, international air and
inter-Africa scheduled air flights that are excluded.
TRAVEL PROTECTION
The Africa Adventure Company and its associates cannot be held responsible or liable for loss, damage or
theft of personal luggage and belongings, nor can they be held liable for personal injury, accident or illness.
Please ensure that you have yourself and your belongings adequately protected before your departure.






Medical evacuation insurance, at the minimum, is compulsory for most of our trips. If you do not
possess a policy, we can sell you a policy for your trip with our insurance provider at competitive rates.
Emergency evacuation - This service is also included in our group policy travel protection. If you
become ill or have an accident on safari, this travel protection will pay (up to the stated limit) for you to
be transported out of the bush. Most camps and lodges in Africa require all guests to have this coverage.
Health Insurance - Before you travel anywhere it is advisable to have medical/accident insurance,
which covers you while you are away, as well as for emergency repatriation.
Cancellation - You might have to cancel your safari due to unforeseen circumstances. If you cancel a
trip close to departure date for any reason you could lose up to the total amount you paid for the safari.
Trip cancellation insurance covers many reasons for cancellation due to emergencies.
Baggage Insurance - Airline liability for your baggage is limited. It is advisable to take out travel
protection if you are carrying expensive and valuable camera equipment. You should always carry such
equipment as "carry-on" luggage. Do not put anything of value in your checked baggage! On some
safaris you will travel in mokoros (dugout canoes) or canoes. It is rare that these overturn, but it is
possible, so have travel protection and bring waterproof bags (not plastic) for your camera and other
equipment.
Claims - If you anticipate an insurance claim upon your return, be sure to document as accurately as
possible any accident, injury or loss. Doctor’s notes and police reports will aid any claim.
4
SECURITY AND CUSTOMS
At each border crossing, airport entry or departure point in Africa and park entry gates, there may be
redundant bureaucracy to deal with, lines to wait in, forms to be filled out, forms to be stamped, and
documents to be scrutinized. Please be patient, smile and answer all questions politely!!
LANGUAGE
South Africa – There are 11 official languages: English, Afrikaans (which is derived from Dutch), Zulu,
Xhosa, Tswana, Northern Sotho, Venda, Tsonga, Swati and Ndebele. Most South Africans are bilingual and
English is spoken and understood throughout the country.
Botswana – English is the official language and Setswana is the national language.
Namibia – English is the official language. Afrikaans and the indigenous language, Oshiwambo are also
widely spoken. English is spoken and understood throughout the country.
Zambia - The official language of Zambia is English but there are also 72 other languages/dialects spoken
throughout the country, most of which are closely related.
Zimbabwe – English, Shona and Ndebele are the official languages. English is widely spoken in the cities
and tourist areas.
RESPECT FOR CUSTOMS
We want future visitors to enjoy the wonderful countries of Southern Africa. We do not wish to change the
ways or the looks of the diverse peoples of Africa. We believe that it is best to have as little impact on the
people as possible. We ask you to travel with an open mind and be respectful of all cultures you encounter.
PASSPORT AND VISA INFORMATION
Your passport must be valid for at least six (6) months after the day you
return from your safari.
Please make sure that you have sufficient blank VISA pages for entry into
each country (*NOT the endorsement/amendment pages at the back of the
passport.).
US passport holders do not require visas for South Africa, Botswana or
Namibia. Visas are required for Zimbabwe and Zambia.
We stay current and up-to-date with all changes in visa requirements;
however visa fees and policies are subject to change at any time at the
Country’s discretion. The Africa Adventure Company can provide the
necessary visa form and cover letter which must be sent with your passport
to the embassy or consulate concerned or to a visa service.
5
VACCINATION REQUIREMENTS
The separate sheet of Visa and Vaccination Requirements contains what is
REQUIRED for travel to each country in Africa. This is subject to change
at any time at the Country’s discretion.
Please check with your local Health Department, the Centers for Disease
Control and Prevention (1-800-232-4636 or www.cdc.gov), your physician
or the Africa Adventure Company office, if you have any questions. If you
plan to visit one or more countries in endemic zones (i.e., in Africa, South
America, Central America or Asia), be sure to mention this when requesting
vaccination requirements. Many countries do not require any vaccinations if
you are only visiting the country directly from the United States, Canada or
Western Europe; but, if you are also visiting countries in endemic zones,
there may very well be additional requirements.
If required for your travels, make sure you carry with you the ‘International Certificate of Vaccination’ or
‘yellow card’ showing the vaccinations you have received.
HEALTH
a) Malaria - While most of the game viewing areas do not have many insects, anti-malaria
precautions should be started prior to departure. Please consult your doctor for advice and for
the prescription needed. Please be aware that there are a few options for malarial drugs
including Malarone and Mefloquine now available and approved by the FDA. Please check with
the CDC (contact details above) or your physician or health department if you have questions.
**Please note that we are not medical practitioners and therefore these recommendations
should be treated as guidelines only. If you are in any doubt at all, please consult your doctor.
b) Heart conditions - Those with heart conditions should be aware that they may be traveling
at high elevations and should discuss implications of the effect of elevations above seven
thousand feet with their doctor.
c) Bad backs - For those with bad backs, the roads are extremely rough, sometimes with huge
holes and are generally bumpy.
d) Prescription drugs - Bring a good supply of any prescription drugs that you may require
and be certain to carry it with you on board flights in your hand luggage.
e) Hospitals and health care facilities - Medical technology and facilities in Africa are not
as up to date as the USA or as readily accessible. There are good hospitals in the main cities.
f) Diarrhea - Some doctors recommend Ciprofloxicin antibiotic for adults for diarrhea.
Imodium is a good short-term treatment. Just remember to drink at least two to three quarts of
water per day to limit the effects of dehydration.
g) Sleep apnea – Please advise The Africa Adventure Company if you will be bringing a
machine that will require a battery or electricity while on safari. While this will not be a
problem, we do need to notify the camps and lodges of this requirement during your stay.
6
AIRPORT DEPARTURE TAX
Ask your Africa tour operator, go online or call an airline that serves your destination, or the tourist office,
embassy or consulate of the country(ies) in question, for current international and domestic airport taxes that
are not included in your air ticket and must be paid with cash before departure.
International airport departure taxes often must be paid in US dollars or other hard currency, such as the
Euro or British pounds. Be sure to have the exact amount required — often change will not be given.
Domestic airport departure taxes may be required to be paid in hard currency as well, or in some cases may
be payable in the local currency.
International Airport Departure Taxes
Country
Taxes due
Botswana
*
South Africa
*
Namibia
*
Zambia
* / **
Zimbabwe
* / **
* Included in price of air ticket. **Exceptions apply for charter flights.
BANKS
Banks are usually open Monday through Friday mornings and early afternoons, sometimes on Saturday
mornings and closed on Sundays and holidays. Most hotels, lodges and camps are licensed to exchange
foreign currency. Quite often, the best place to exchange money is at the airport upon arrival.
7
CREDIT CARDS/ATMS/TRAVELER'S CHECKS/CASH
Major international credit cards are accepted by most top hotels, restaurants, lodges, permanent
safari camps and shops. Visa and MasterCard are most widely accepted. American Express and
Diner’s Club are also accepted by most first-class hotels and many businesses. However,
American Express and Diner’s Club are not often taken in more remote areas and camps.
You will be able to settle all incidental charges you incur from the larger lodges (bar bill,
laundry, gift shops, etc) on a credit card at check out. The smaller camps and lodges may only
take cash. When you buy from the various roadside stands (and you definitely want to stop at
one or two to look at the items) you will want to plan on either small US$ bills of cash or local
currency (please see specific Country Information for details).
ATMs are in many locations in South Africa, but are found in few other countries (except some
major cities). Visa is the most reliable card to use at ATMs. MasterCard might not be accepted as
well as other international ATM/credit cards. Only local currency can be withdrawn at an ATM
and in limited amounts.
It is advisable to contact your bank before you travel and let them know that you will be using your
ATM card/credit card in a foreign country so your card is not blocked while attempting to
withdraw money. Confirm that the card will work in ATMs in the countries you will be visiting.
ATM fraud is a common occurrence, so keep your card and PIN safe.
American Express, Thomas Cook’s, MasterCard and Visa traveler’s checks are accepted at most
banks and currency exchanges in international airports but in few other locations and therefore are
not as useful as cash in hard currency (U.S. Dollar, British Pound, Euro, etc.).
One way to obtain additional funds is to have money sent by telegraph international money
order (Western Union), telexed through a bank or sent via international courier (i.e., DHL).
CURRENCIES
Current rates for many African countries can usually be found on the Internet.
For US Dollars, bring only the newer “big faced” bills (no worn, torn/ripped or old bills will be
accepted) as the older bills are not accepted. Traveler’s checks are not widely accepted.
The South African Rand may be accepted in Namibia, however, the Namibia Dollar is not
accepted in South Africa. The Namibia Dollar is on par with the South African Rand.
The currencies used by the countries included in this guide are as follows:
Botswana
1 Pula
=
100 thebe
Namibia
1 Namibian Dollar
=
100 cents
South Africa 1 Rand
=
100 cents
Zambia
1 Kwacha
=
100 ngwee
Zimbabwe
1 US Dollar
=
100 cents
8
CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS
A few African countries require visitors to complete currency declaration forms upon arrival; all foreign
currency, traveler's checks and other negotiable instruments must be recorded. These forms must be
surrendered on departure. When you leave the country, the amount of currency you have with you must
equal the amount with which you entered the country less the amount exchanged and recorded on your
currency declaration form.
For some countries in Africa, the maximum amount of local currency that may be imported or exported is
strictly enforced. Check for current restrictions by contacting the tourist offices, embassies or consulates of
the countries you wish to visit. In some countries, it is difficult (if not impossible) to exchange unused local
currency back to foreign exchange (i.e., US dollars). Therefore, it is best not to exchange more than you feel
you will need.
We suggest counting out all of your tips before departing the country. A great way to do this is to go through
your itinerary day by day and work out each guide/s and staff/s tips. Then label individual envelopes for the
appropriate tips. At each and every lodge and/or camp you stay at, you should have one envelope for all the
staff as a communal tip which you give the manager and another separate envelope for the guide/s. Once
you have counted out the money and put it aside, it is easier to figure how much to bring.
Safari Guides
a) Private Guiding
When traveling as an independent party with the services of your own private guide and vehicle on a portion
of your safari or your entire safari. The tip for your guide will usually depend on the number of people in
your vehicle. Of course, you may tip more if you feel that he has endeavored to do his best when game
viewing and has generally given you a great time!
c) Guide on a Group Set Departure Safari
When you are part of scheduled group departure (6-10) traveling with the same people and guide. You have
one or two guides/hostesses for the duration of the safari. Usually everyone in the group will put their tips
together as one sum for their guides and camp staff.
b) Resident Guides on a Flying or Wing Safaris
When you fly independently or as part of a small group from park to park you will be guided by resident
guides at each camp/lodge on shared safari activities. Your resident guide/driver at each camp is very
important to the quality of your game viewing. We suggest you tip the guide or guides only at the end of your
stay. Your guides may vary as you may have the same guide for all your game activities or a different guide
for each separate game activity i.e. walking guide, game drive guide or boat activity (driver or poler).
9
Tipping Lodge and Camp Staff
a) Lodge and Camp Staff:
One tip for all your general camp staff is
sufficient. You may give the total amount to
the camp manager (or put it in the staff tip
box at the front desk) who will divide it up
among the staff at the end of your stay. In
the larger safari lodges, you may wish to
individually tip your waiter at the end of
your stay.
b) Mobile Tented Safaris – Camp Staff:
The staff in the camps have to carry, set up
and provide all services to you while in the
bush with no permanent structure, you will want their tip to be higher than that of the staff in a permanent
camp. The tip will be divided between all the mobile-tented camp staff members from the cook to your server
to the person who brings you warm water for your shower.
A party of four or more may wish to even tip a bit higher. You can give the total amount to the camp manager
who will put it into a box to be divided up among the staff at the end of your stay.
Tipping Guidelines:
Providing a gratuity for good service is always appreciated, but difficult to quantify, so to help with this we
have suggested some guidelines. Please bear in mind that these are only guidelines, and you may well find
that there will be discrepancies with our suggestions and what you are told in Africa, as there are many
opinions and desires to satisfy! However we feel that our guidelines are fair.
1) Tipping is mostly appreciated in US$ cash. IMPORTANT NOTE: In South Africa and Namibia, local
currency (South African Rand/Namibian Dollar) is preferred.
2) Please carry only currency printed from 2007 onwards that carry the large presidential picture, older
notes with smaller size pictures will NOT be accepted at local banks.
3) We suggest that you bring US$100, 50.00 and 20.00 in cash for tips and miscellaneous charges.
4) It is VERY useful to carry about $25.00-$50.00 in US1.00 bills for tipping hotel staff etc.
5) Please keep in mind that the expected tips are smaller than here in the United States.
6) Charter flight pilots do not expect to be tipped.
10
If you are happy with your guides, drivers, camp and hotel staff and they have done a good job, we
recommend the following guidelines, which are per traveler, per day based on 2 persons traveling together.
For a single traveler or parties of 3-6 together, adjust accordingly.
Safari and City Touring Guides
Per traveler / Per day
(based on 2 traveling together)
Safari Guide – Scheduled Group Driving Safari
Safari Guide – Private Driving Safari
$10 - $20
$20 - $30
(up to a total of max $80 per vehicle/per
day)
Resident Camp Guide (shared game viewing activities)
Resident Camp Guide (private game viewing activities)
Specialist Safari Guide – Canoeing/Walking safari
City Tour Guide (Private Tour)
City Tour Guide (Scheduled Group Tour)
Camp/Lodge/Hotel Staff
Camp/Lodge Staff
Seasonal Mobile Tented Camp - Staff
Private Mobile Camp - Staff
City Hotel - Staff
Porterage
Airport / Private Road transfer
Transfer (up to 45 minutes)
Transfer (over 45 minutes)
$10- $20
$25- $35
$25- $35
$10- $20
$10- $15
$5
$10
$15
$3
$1 per bag
$2 - $10
$15- $30
In SOUTHERN AFRICA your camp may also have a tracker who will work with your guide, helping to
track animal spores as well as assisting in the night game drives and handling the spotlight. We recommend
budgeting for an additional $5.00 per day per person.
We advise that you carry an EXTRA amount of $200.00 - $500.00 per person (over and above your tipping
expenses) in cash that can be used to pay for unexpected expenses such as curio purchases, additional
tipping and meals. A higher amount should be considered for trips over two weeks.
11
TIME ZONES
EST = Eastern Standard Time (east coast of the United States)
GMT = Greenwich Mean Time (Greenwich, England)
* Time difference could vary 1 hour depending on daylight savings time
EST + 7/GMT + 2
Botswana
Namibia
South Africa
Zambia
Zimbabwe
COMMUNICATIONS
While on safari it will always be possible for your family and friends to contact you via The Africa
Adventure Company in an emergency situation. We will only give out information to those people you
have listed on your Booking Form as emergency contacts but we will send a message to you for anyone
who requests an emergency message be sent. For normal communication you may want to use email or
land lines at the hotels in major cities or a cell or satellite phone that you have brought with you from
home or rent in Africa (currently only available at the Johannesburg airport).
a) Cell phones – Your cell phone provider will be able to assist you with the possibility of using your
own phone while in Africa; however obtaining international roaming service can be expensive. You will
need to have your phone unlocked by your cell phone company in order to use it abroad. In most major
cities you will be able to purchase a SIM card and air time which may be exchanged for your normal SIM
card. Remember though that reception in the bush may not be possible. Use your cell phone only in
private areas of camp for your privacy and in consideration of others.
b) Satellite phones - Satellite phones are only available to rent in the Johannesburg Airport in South
Africa, so if you feel you need one, you may want to rent one for your trip prior to leaving home. A quad
band phone that is programmed for worldwide use is considered best.
International Dialing Country Codes: (from the USA, dial 011 + code + number)
Botswana
267
Namibia
264
South Africa
27
Zambia
260
Zimbabwe
263
SCHEDULED FLIGHTS
Please check in early at all airports as the international flights are occasionally overbooked. Please insure
that all your onward flights are reconfirmed at least 72 hours prior to flying. It is best to reconfirm your
own flights when you check-in at the airport on your outbound flights to Africa.
12
LUGGAGE RESTRICTIONS
Luggage should be the soft-sided type as it is easier to stow on the small aircraft as well as in
the safari vehicles. If possible, each person should bring 1 or 2 small soft-sided bags rather
than 1 large one, and weight should be kept to a minimum. If you are on a flying safari, for
safety and space reasons, you will be strictly limited to a maximum of between 25lbs-44lbs
(12kg-20kg) of luggage including camera equipment.
Check your confirmed itinerary for limits specific to your itinerary. For those travelers
visiting larger cities and/or on an extended trip we recommend a larger suitcase for travel and
international flights and a smaller carryall bag that you can use while on safari.
Your safari operator requires that you carry soft-sided luggage. Your bag may have two
small wheels, but NO frame. The important part of your luggage is the height (should be no
higher than 11-14 inches maximum) when packed full so that it can fit into the small plane
luggage compartments.
If you have to bring more baggage with you, we can purchase your party an extra seat on most
safaris. The cost of this extra seat varies depending on your safari destination.
You also have the option on arrival in Victoria Falls, Maun or Kasane, to send your
excess/extra baggage ahead for an additional cost. We would prefer to know in advance if this
service will be required so that arrangements can be made and the transfer can be handled
smoothly.
All weight limits are due to safety factors involved in the light aircraft transfers. A person who
weighs 200lbs or more should advise us as soon as possible. Please note that should these
limitations be exceeded without prior notification, additional costs may be incurred.
13
CLOTHING IN THE CITY
City life, while still casual is a bit dressier than while on safari. One set of “smart-casual” clothes (slacks and
shirt, cotton or knit dress or skirt) is recommended for those on trips in cities, luxury trains, if you intend
visiting a casino or for a meal at a fine-dining restaurant. These clothes can also be worn while you are on
safari.
CLOTHING ON SAFARI
a) Army camouflage uniforms or army hats are
forbidden.
b) On game drives in vehicles, any color clothing
is OK. However, if you will be doing some
walking in the bush, natural colors or khaki
clothing is the preferred color.
c) Dark clothing (black and blue) will attract tsetse
flies during day but the flies are not out at night.
d) Much of Africa gets cooler in the evenings and
early morning (especially the months of
Jun/Jul/Aug/Sep). The best advice is to dress in
layers with a sweater and light windbreaker.
Early morning/night temperature can be around
40-60F. During the day it can rise to around 7086 F. Lightweight gloves and scarves or
headbands are a good idea as they can be tucked in the pockets of your jacket when not in use. This
is especially true of southern Africa where lightweight gloves and a hat or ski headband are good to
have for early morning game drives in open vehicles!
e) Only three or four changes of clothing are necessary as daily laundry service is available in most
lodges and camps. For the daytime, shorts and T-shirts or short-sleeved shirts are most comfortable
with perhaps a light windbreaker jacket and sweater/fleece for early morning game drives that can
be quite chilly.
f) In the evenings long pants and a long
sleeve shirt or lightweight sweatshirt is
good. A jogging suit or track wear is
perfect for time around the campfire. If
you are traveling during the winter
months in Africa - June through August,
heavier items for evenings will be
needed as the temperatures may go
down to the 40's.
g) If you are planning on going on a
walking safari, comfortable running
shoes or tennis shoes are fine as long as
they have a thick sole to protect against
stepping on the sharp acacia thorns.
"Flip-flops" are handy in the camps and
around the swimming pools. Boots are
not necessary for safari unless you are doing some hiking or strenuous mountain walking.
h) Game viewing areas tend to be very sunny and bright. A good well-fitting hat (so it will not blow off in
the open vehicles), a good visor and sunglasses are essential. An eyeglass holder should be used on
your glasses as you are continuously taking them off to use your camera, video and binoculars.
14
SUGGESTED PACKING LIST
WOMEN'S CLOTHING
FIRST AID
o
Sandals or lightweight shoes
o
Anti-malaria pills (prescription)
o
Walking shoes or lightweight hiking shoes
o
Vitamins
o
Wide-brimmed hat
o
Aspirin/Tylenol/Advil
o
Windbreaker
o
Motion sickness pills
o
Sweater or fleece (plus wooly hat and scarf)
o
Decongestant
o
3 pr. pants
o
Throat lozenges
o
3 pr. shorts
o
Laxative
o
5 pr. sport socks
o
Anti-diarrhea medicine
o
3 short-sleeve shirts
o
Antacid
o
3 long-sleeve shirts
o
Antibiotic
o
Swimsuit/cover-up
o
Cortisone cream
o
1 pr. casual slacks or skirt
o
Antibiotic ointment
o
1 or 2 blouses
o
Anti-fungal cream or powder
o
6 pr. underwear
o
Soap and shampoo - only bring a small supply.
o
3 bras (1 sports bra – for rough roads)
o
Band-Aids (plasters)
o
Pajamas
o
OPTIONAL – 1 cocktail dress
o
Digital memory cards/Film
o
OPTIONAL - 1 pr. dress shoes
o
Camera bag or backpack
MENS’ CLOTHING
CAMERA EQUIPMENT
o
Lens tissue/brush
o
Sandals or lightweight shoes
o
Extra camera batteries
o
Walking shoes or lightweight hiking shoes
o
Flash
o
Wide-brimmed hat
o
Flash batteries
o
Windbreaker
o
Battery charger and adapters
o
Sweater or fleece
o
Waterproof bags for lenses and camera body
o
3 pr. pants
o
Beanbag, small tripod or monopod
o
3 short-sleeve shirts
o
Extra video camera batteries
o
3 long-sleeve shirts
o
Video charger
o
Swim trunks
o
Outlet adapters (3-prong square/round plugs)
o
1 pr. casual slacks
o
Cigarette lighter charger(optional)
o
1 sports shirt
o Binoculars
o
6 pr. underwear
o
Belts
o
T-shirts
o
Large handkerchief
o
School supplies (paper) and pens (lots)
o
Pajamas
o
Inexpensive watches
o
OPTIONAL 1 pr. Dress slacks/shoes/dress socks
o
Children’s magazines and books
o
OPTIONAL 1 dress shirt/jacket/tie
o
Balloons
GIFTS AND TRADES
15
SUNDRIES
SUNDRIES
o
Passport (with visas, if needed)
o
Q-tips/cotton balls
o
International Certificates of Vaccination
o
Nail clipper
o
Air tickets/vouchers
o
Emery boards
o
Money pouch
o
Makeup
o
Credit cards
o
Tweezers
o
Personal checks
o
Razor
o
Insurance cards
o
Sewing kit
o
Pocket calculator
o
Small scissors
o
Sunglasses/guard
o
Tissues (travel packs)
o
Spare prescription glasses/contacts
o
Handi-wipes (individual)
o
Copy of prescription(s)
o
Anti-bacterial soap
o
Eyeglass case
o
Laundry soap (for washing delicates)
o
Prescription drugs
o
Large waterproof bags for damp laundry
o
Medical summary from your doctor (if needed)
o
Copy of African Safari Journal
o
Medical alert bracelet or necklace
o
Maps
o
Thermometer
o
Business cards
o
Insect repellent (small bottle)
o
Pens
o
Sunscreen/sun block
o
Deck of cards or other board games
o
Shampoo (small container) supplied in rooms
o
Reading materials
o
Conditioner (small container) – supplied in rooms
o
Decaffeinated coffee/herbal tea
o
Deodorant
o
Toothpaste & Toothbrush
o
o
Sugar substitute
Mosquito Netting – supplied
o
Hairbrush/comb
o
Mosquito repellent – supplied by most camps
or lodges in the room
LAUNDRY
Laundry can be done daily at most camps and lodges, weather and water availability permitting. The
lodges charge a fee for this service. Laundry is free in the mobile tented camps if water is readily
available. The camp staff will not wash ladies underwear (due to local traditions and customs) but you
will have facilities in your room to do it yourself.
LOSS OF PERSONAL ARTICLES
Please note that we cannot accept any responsibility for the misplacement of any articles while in the
camps. Naturally, we will do all possible to get your goods to you while still on safari. The logistics of
inter-camp communication and the scheduling and costs of charter flights may not be favorable for the
returning of articles left behind. Please note that costs incurred to get your lost articles back to you may be
expensive and will be charged to your account. Please make sure you keep all your personal belongings
with you.
16
LOST BAGGAGE
Luggage that is lost on scheduled flights is beyond the control of the ground operators and often the
airline concerned too. Usually it is the airport (and not the airline) that controls what happens to
passenger’s luggage when it is checked in until it is put on board the aircraft. We would like to suggest
that you take the following precautionary action: Please pack a small bag with your essentials that can be
carried with you as hand luggage and pack a second bag containing non-essentials that can be loaded in
the aircraft hold. If the second bag does not arrive, you will still have your essential items on hand to see
you through the first couple of days while we try to recover your baggage and get it to you.
POWER IN THE CAMPS
The normal voltage in Africa is 220-240AC. American appliances run on 110-120AC. Also most plug
sockets are differently shaped (either round or square). You will need to purchase a universal adapter kit
(usually obtainable through a travel catalog or an electronic store). There are generally no 220v or 110v
power points in camps.
Charging facilities for videos and cameras are available at most lodges, camps and hotels. Camps and lodges
that are located in remote areas have a generator, which runs for about 6 hours per day (3 hours in the
morning and 3 in the afternoon when you are out on activities).
ADAPTERS
South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Zambia – Type M
M&D
Zimbabwe - Type G & D
(M pins are larger than D pins)
You will need to bring your own adapters and converters
(most modern gadgets have dual voltage built in). You
may want to bring a cigarette lighter adapter/charger as
this can be plugged into the vehicle and you may be able to
charge your battery while on long drives. Bring a
minimum of two batteries and suggested three batteries. If
you need to have your video battery recharged you can do
so while you are out on an activity - the spare for use while
the other is being charged.
17
G
A safari is many things: day and night game drives in the parks, walking, hiking or a boating activity (canoe,
mokoro or motor-boat), shopping for that “must have” curio, dining in a fancy, city restaurant or under the
stars, visiting a local school or village community, chatting with your guides about all sorts of things you
never dreamed of and of course, photographing the wonderful scenery, wildlife and people.
Most game drive activities will be in open four-wheel-drive vehicles. If you choose to do a walking activity
or boating activity (canoe, mokoro or motor-boat) you will probably have a special guide from the camp to
do these activities as opposed to your game drive guide.
TYPICAL SAFARI DAY
You are usually up for coffee and cookies and/or a light breakfast as the day is breaking and head out on
your game drive shortly thereafter. Morning game drives will last from three to five hours. Depending on
the park, you may or may not come back for lunch as a picnic lunch can be taken along. This way you
may travel further afield to game view.
Afternoon activities usually begin around 3:00 - 3:30pm and last about three hours. They will last longer
if you are able to continue after sundowners on a night game drive (only allowed in private concession
areas and not in national parks).
18
You should be back at your lodge or camp around dusk. On arrival in camp or at the lodge, hot showers
will be ready after which drinks and snacks are served around the campfire or in the bar area. Dinner will
be served about an hour later. After dinner you may sit around the campfire, watching the magnificent
stars or go directly to bed. The sounds of the African night as you drift off to sleep will remain etched in
your mind for years to come.
We strongly advise that if you do not wish to relax in camp between the morning and afternoon activity
(again depending on your itinerary), that you request another game activity. The camp staff will obviously
do their best to accommodate this reasonable request or offer an alternative. Perhaps you will have the
chance to sit quietly at a waterhole or game viewing hide (if available).
Proper bathrooms are not available in most of the park and safari areas. Please be aware that ‘going’ behind
a bush or behind the vehicle is necessary while on game drives or driving from place to place.
There will not be much time for exercise. Your guide will try to provide some walking where it is safe and
legal. It is important to tell your guide at the safari briefing if you want to include some walks. Generally
there are no places to jog, so please do not expect many opportunities to do so.
It is always best to bring a healthy sense of humor, as things do not always go according to plan.
19
DRIVING CONDITIONS
Your guides always put client safety first and do their best to avoid ‘tire-swallowing’ potholes. The roads
are rough and bumpy and occasionally you will travel "off road" where it is possible that injuries may
occur if, for example, a hidden pothole is struck. No company, their staff members, associates or agents
can be held liable for any accidents or any damages.
PRIVATE VEHICLES
If you would like a private vehicle in a camp or
lodge to take you on your game drives, we can
arrange for you at an additional daily cost. You
will have a camp guide / private vehicle for your
party for the number of days you choose. The
guide will be available at all times so your
schedule becomes more flexible. A private vehicle
costs in the range of about US$450.00 per day.
If you elect not to take this option, we
automatically book you on shared game drives
with other guests from the lodge or camp.
Considerate behavior is expected of all guests to
ensure enjoyable game drives.
PARK FEES
The park fees are included in the cost of your
safari unless you request an additional
unscheduled stop.
NO SMOKING POLICY
It is our policy that you not smoke in the vehicle or
in the tents or while on game viewing activities.
Some camps will have a place for smoking in the
common lounge/bar area.
20
CHILDREN
Children over 12 years are welcome at most lodges and camps. For families traveling on safari with younger
children there are several lodges and camps who take children 12 years and under.
AIR CHARTER FLIGHT TRANSFERS and TIMES
We offer two types of air transfers between camps: (a) either a scheduled air charter flight transfer based
on a "seat-in-plane" basis where you share the aircraft with other guests (and thereby benefit from the
lower cost). Unless specifically requested to do otherwise, we will automatically book you onto the
scheduled air charter flight transfer as this is the more cost-effective option. (b) Or a private charter where
you have sole use of the aircraft.
All the flight times between lodges are arranged the day before the flight takes place so that there are not
endless schedule changes. Therefore your itinerary will not have exact times for these scheduled charter
flights.
The lodge or camp where you are staying will be advised of your departure time the day before and they
will have you at the airstrip on time. The flight transfer company will strive to move you only after your
morning game drive and before your afternoon game drive at the new camp. While this is not always
possible due to the number of people to move and their old and new locations, it is their goal. A private
charter flight may be an option but the cost will be higher.
PERSONAL WEIGHTS ON CHARTER FLIGHTS
For flight safety reasons, your personal weight in addition to the weight of your luggage is vital
information. Please advise if anyone in your party weighs more than 220lbs so that we can inform the
charter flight carrier prior to departure.
21
There is a great variety and levels of comfort in accommodation available while on safari. Options include
hotels, lodges, small camps with chalets or bungalows, permanent tented camps and mobile tented safaris.
a) MOBILE TENTING
Botswana offers mobile camps where unspoiled Africa exists, where the special privilege of absorbing the
awesome, majestic grandeur of the African landscapes and its wildlife is still possible. From the moment
you are met by your host/guide he will make you feel that you are on a real wildlife experience. The
philosophy is to help you experience the bush in addition to viewing wildlife in one of Africa's top wildlife
reserves. Tents are set up for the night and then taken down after guests leave.
You will have full camp service with your home comforts. The tents are large, with insect proof windows,
comfortable single beds with fresh linens and duvets, private verandas and en suite hot water bush shower
tent and bush toilet tent to each sleeping tent. You will be brought your morning coffee before your morning
game drives. Washbasins are placed outside the tents and filled with hot water to freshen up before you
begin another day of adventure.
22
b) PERMANENT TENTED CAMPS, LODGES & HOTELS
Permanent Tented Camps are camps that are not moved. Tents are normally very large, with lovely en suite
bathrooms and set on raised decks.
Lodges are simply “hotels in the bush”. Electric lights, in most lodges run on generators and usually go out
at 11pm. Hot water, water in general or electricity can be spotty but things have improved dramatically in
recent years as tourism has increased.
Many Africa cities have 4- and 5-star hotels that are comparable to lodging anywhere in the world, with airconditioning, swimming pools, one or more excellent restaurants and bars and superb service.
23
FOOD/DINING ON SAFARI
Breakfast is fairly standard; coffee, tea, fruit juice, eggs cooked to order toast, bacon or sausage, cereals and
fresh fruit. Picnic lunches are simple and may include bread, meats, or tuna fish, hard-boiled eggs, a sweet
and fruit. Dinner usually starts with soup, followed by a main course consisting of fish, chicken, pork, beef
or lamb and fresh potatoes, rice and vegetables. Vegetarians are usually served steamed vegetables and rice
or pasta. Please inform us of any dietary restrictions before your trip departure.
Dining on safari is a wonderful experience. You should know that the foods on safari, even fresh salads, are
completely safe to eat. The fresh air will give you a healthy appetite for meals that on a typical day include:
Breakfast:
Lunch:
Dinner:
Fruit and cereal: eggs and bacon: toast and preserves: tea and coffee.
Assorted cold meats: meat or vegetable pies: salads: cheeses and bread: desserts.
Usually 3 courses: an appetizer or soup: main entree (meat or fish) with vegetables: a
dessert.
WATER AND OTHER DRINKS
Dehydration is possibly the single biggest cause of ill health on safari. It is generally recommended that you
drink at least two to three quarts of water per day to limit the effects of dehydration; this excludes tea, coffee
and alcoholic beverages, which act as a diuretic and may actually contribute to dehydration. Bottled water is
available for purchase and potable drinking water is provided everywhere.
Diet sodas are now available in some camps and lodges. Wine, beer, bottled water, sodas and alcoholic
beverages are included in some camps (please check your itinerary). Most camps include mineral water,
sodas, beer and a couple of glasses of table wine at dinner. While in a mobile tented camp there is usually
is limited supply of sodas (Fanta orange, sprite and coke), beer and South African wine.
If drinks are not included, you will settle your drink tab at the end of your stay in a camp or lodge. Please
feel free to check with the camp or lodge staff if you are in any doubt about which drinks are included and
which are not as well as the cost of those not included.
You may want to brush your teeth with your bottled water. Have the waiter open a new bottle of water for
you at the table. It is safest if you break the seal. Drinking water is safe in some areas, although bottled
water is available for purchase in major hotels and some lodges if you prefer. Beer and soft drinks are readily
available and may or may not be included in your safari costs. Forthcoming documents for your specific
safari will include more information.
On most game drives light refreshments (water and sodas) are provided in a cooler. We advise that you ask
first “am I paying for drinks on the drives and in the camp?” as there are exceptions to a) no charge of soft
drinks on game activities b) bottled water on game drives are free if not wasted.
24
Imported liquors are by far more expensive than domestic. American or European wines and spirits are
sometimes scarce and can be expensive. Please check the cost of any beverage you purchase while in a
camp or lodge. If you have a favorite drink, you may wish to bring it along with you. Each person is allowed
one bottle (one liter) of duty free liquor that may be brought into Africa.
RESPECTING WILDLIFE
 Your guide is the single most important element of your safari. Your guide will spot animals that you
will have trouble spotting using binoculars. You should see a large amount and great variety of
wildlife. Do not be in a rush to check off your animal list just to say that you have seen it. Please do
not ask your guides to bend or ignore any park or concession rules. By asking them to bend the rules,
you put their jobs at risk.
 Please be patient and observe the interaction of the animals. Leopards, for instance, are not seen on
every safari so if you catch a glimpse of one, please consider yourself lucky.
 If traveling on a scheduled departure, please be considerate of other participants and be on time.
 Do NOT photograph people without first asking permission.
 Observe the animals quietly and with a minimum of disturbance to their natural activities. Loud
talking on game drives can frighten the animals away. Do not stand up in the vehicle when close to
dangerous animals.
 Never attempt to attract the attention of an animal. Do not imitate animal sounds, clap your hands,
pound the vehicle or throw objects.
 Please respect the judgment of your driver or guide about your proximity to lions, cheetahs and
leopards. Do not insist that he drive the vehicle closer so you can get a better photograph - bring a
telephoto lens! A vehicle driven too close can hinder a hunt or cause animals to abandon a hardearned meal.
 Litter tossed on the ground can choke or poison animals and birds. It is also unsightly.
 Never attempt to feed or approach any wild animal on foot. This is especially important near lodges
or in campsites where animals may have become accustomed to human visitors.
 Refrain from smoking on game drives. The dry African bush ignites easily and a flash fire can kill
animals and people.
 Never walk on your own. Always have a guide with you.
 As the grounds of most lodges/camps are unfenced, it is important that you have a small flashlight as
you may encounter wild animals in camp at night. You should also bring spare batteries, as they may
be very expensive, if even available while on safari. Most camps will have flashlights in each tent but
you may want to bring your own.
25
WILD ANIMALS
Most camps are unfenced and dangerous animals can and
do wander through the camps. Attacks by wild animals
are rare but no safari in Africa can guarantee that such
incidents will not occur. The Africa Adventure Company,
your travel agent, or local ground operator, their agents,
employees, staff members, associates, nor their suppliers
can be held liable for any injuries caused during an
incident involving the behavior of wild animals. Most
camps/lodges supply a night escort to your tent or room.
Please take advantage of this service.
Please make sure that you listen to and abide by the safety
talks given by your guides or camp staff. Do not go
wandering off on your own without a guide – even to your
room. After retiring to your room at night, do not leave
your room. If you are sensible, you should be safe.
DRONES
There has been a rise in the number of guests wishing to use
pilotless drone type equipment. It is important to note than
apart from the obvious disturbance to other guests and
wildlife (in some cases considerable) these types of
machines are in fact illegal. Without the relevant license
visitors are not permitted, under national security laws, to
own or operate such things and the authorities have been
known to take a very firm approach to their existence. For
the above reasons, drones will not be permitted during your
safari.
PROBLEM SOLVING
The Africa Adventure Company offers quality experiences,
offering the best there is for the remote locations. We have
been in the safari business for more than 28 years and have
great relationships with our ground operators in Africa.
Many visit us in our offices once a year and our staff
regularly visit them in Africa. While you are in Africa, if
there is anything you feel can be done to enhance your
experience, please do not hesitate to contact the camp
manager or your guide. After your safari it will be too late
for us, even with our years of experience and contacts, to
rectify a problem or concern.
26
SHOPPING
1. All major cities have good shopping opportunities and will arrange to ship large items back to the US
though the shipping costs may exceed the cost of the item. Though the vendors may quote one price, the
actual shipping price may be very much higher. You must get a written estimate or quote of shipping
charges on the bill of sale.
2. If you can, we suggest you carry all articles with you as excess baggage.
3. Some lodges and camps have small curio shops, as do certain villages that you may visit. Please be sure
to buy an item that you must have when you see it as you may not see it in any other location.
4. In your final departure kit you will receive information on suggested shopping facilities.
SHOPPING HOURS
Shops are usually open Monday through Friday from 8:00 or 9:00am until 5:00 to 6:00pm and from 9:00am
until 1:00pm on Saturdays. Use the shopping hours given as a general guideline; exact times can vary within
the respective country.
SHOPPING IDEAS
Botswana: Baskets, wood carvings, pottery, tapestries and rugs. There are curio shops in many safari camps,
hotels and lodges.
Namibia: Semiprecious stones and jewelry, karakul wool products, wood carvings, ostrich eggshell
necklaces and beadwork.
South Africa: Diamonds, gold, wood carvings, dried flowers, wire art, wildlife paintings and sculpture, and
wine.
Zambia: Wood carvings, statuettes, semiprecious stones and copper souvenirs.
Zimbabwe: Carvings in wood, stone and Zimbabwe’s unique verdite, intricate baskets, wildlife paintings and
sculpture, ceramic ware, and crocheted garments.
TRY NOT TO SHIP GOODS HOME. It is best to pay the surcharge for excess luggage to the airline. None
of the ground operators can be responsible for any goods purchased and/or shipped.
27
CONVERSIONS FROM METRIC (for approximate amounts)
The metric system is used in Africa. The U.S. equivalents are listed in the following conversion chart.
Measurement Conversions
1 inch
=
2.54 centimeters (cm)
1 foot
=
0.305 meter (m)
1 mile
=
1.60 kilometers (km)
1 square mile =
2.59 square kilometers (km2)
1 quart liquid =
0.946 liter (l)
1 ounce
=
28 grams (g)
1 pound
=
0.454 kilogram (kg)
1 cm
=
0.39 inch (in.)
1m
=
3.28 feet (ft.)
1 km
=
0.62 mile (mi.)
1 acre
=
0.4 hectares
1 km2
=
0.3861 square mile (sq. mi.)
1l
=
1.057 quarts (qt.)
1g
=
0.035 ounce (oz.)
1 kg
=
2.2 pounds (lb.)
TEMPERATURE CONVERSIONS
28
Average monthly temperatures min/max in Fahrenheit (white) and Celsius (fawn) for some main cities and
wildlife reserves. Actual temperatures may vary more than 10˚F from the averages below.
LOCALITY
Cape Town
JAN
61/79
16/26
Hwange
64/85
18/29
Johannesburg 57/79
14/26
Kruger
67/89
20/32
Livingstone 65/85
18/29
Mana Pools 71/89
22/32
Okavango
66/90
19/32
FEB
59/79
15/26
64/85
18/29
57/79
14/26
67/87
20/30
64/85
17/29
71/89
21/32
66/ 88
19/31
MAR
57/77
14/25
62/85
17/29
55/77
13/25
63/85
18/29
62/85
17/29
70/89
21/32
64/ 88
18/31
APR MAY
54/73 50 /68
12/23 10/20
56/83 47/80
14/29
9/27
49/73 43/68
10/23
6/20
62/85 54/81
16/29 12/27
57/82 49/75
14/27 10/24
67/88 62/85
20/31 17/29
57/ 88 48 / 82
14/31
9/28
JUN
46/64
8/18
42/76
5/24
38/64
3/18
48/77
9/25
42/76
8/22
57/81
14/27
43/77
6/25
AUG
45/64
7/18
45/81
7/27
42/69
5/21
52/78
11/26
47/82
10/24
59 /86
15/30
48/82
9/28
SEP
46/66
8/19
54/88
12/31
48/76
9/25
55/84
14/28
55/89
12/28
66/92
19/34
55/91
13/33
OCT
50/70
10/21
61/90
16/32
52/78
11/26
62/85
16/29
62/91
15/30
73/97
23/36
64/95
18/35
NOV
55/75
13/24
64/89
18/32
54/78
12/26
63/87
18/30
64/90
16/31
74/95
23/35
66/93
19/34
DEC
59/77
15/25
64/85
18/30
56/79
14/26
67/88
20/31
64/86
16/29
72/91
22/33
66/93
19/34
S. Luangwa
68/88
20/31
54/73
12/23
64/85
17/29
63/84
17/29
66/90
19/32
54/73
12/23
62/85
17/29
59 /81
15/27
64/90
18/32
59 /77
15/25
57/82
14/27
55/77
13/25
54/86 52/84 54/86
12/30 11/29 12/30
64/ 82 59 / 82 59 / 82
15/28 15/28 15/28
42/76 42/76 47/82
8/22
8/22
10/24
45/68 45/68 46/73
7/20
7/20
8/23
59/95
15/35
54/77
12/25
55/89
12/28
54/79
12/26
68/104
20/40
54/77
12/25
62/91
15/30
57/84
14/29
72/99
22/37
54/77
12/25
64/90
16/31
61/84
16/29
72/91
22/33
54/77
12/25
64/86
16/29
63/88
17/31
68/90
20/32
Swakopmund 54/77
12/25
Victoria Falls 65/85
18/29
Windhoek
63/86
17/30
66/88
19/31
59 /77
15/25
49/75
10/24
48 /72
9/22
JUL
45/63
7/17
40 /76
5/25
37/64
3/18
48/77
9/25
42/76
8/22
56/81
13/27
43/77
6/25
Rainfall is seasonal over most of Africa, even at the equator where there are two dry and two wet seasons
each year. In much of southern Africa, there is virtually no rain between May and September, with a
monthly average of around 3.5 inches/90 mm in the wet summer (November to March); the southwestern
Cape experiences a reverse pattern with an average of 3.3 inches/85 mm per month between May and
August.. Namibia’s desert coast receives so little rain in any month, making it difficult to measure!
29
FIELD GUIDES
To enhance your safari experience we recommend the following field guide books:
a) The Kingdon Guide to African Animals – Jonathon Kingdon
b) Newman's Birds of Southern Africa - Kenneth Newman, 1983, (Southern Book Publishers).
SUGGESTED READING LIST
For a list of our books, field guides and maps, please visit our website:
http://www.africa-adventure.com/safari-products.html
Please also visit Longitude Books: www.longitudebooks.com
Longitude is an online bookstore organized geographically. Enter your country of interest in the search
field and a list of recommended books (history, guidebooks, biographies, literature, etc) and maps available
will be listed. The site includes new and noteworthy, classic and hard-to-find items.
Books about Africa
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
Cocktail Hour Under the Tree of Forgetfulness - Alexander Fuller
A Good Man in Africa - William Boyd
Long Walk to Freedom - Nelson Mandela
No. 1 Ladies Dectective Agency - Alexander McCall Smith
Circles in a Forest - Dalene Matthee
Cry, The Beloved Country - Alan Paton
Dark Star Safari: Overland from Cairo to Cape Town - Paul Theroux
Green Hills of Africa - Ernest Hemingway
Out of Africa - Isak Dinesen (pseudonym of author Karen Blixen)
A Far Off Place - Laurens van der Post
Gorillas in the Mist - Dian Fossey
Born Free - Joy Adamson
I Dreamed of Africa - Kuki Gallmann
Things Fall Apart - Chinua Achebe
Power of One - Bryce Courtenay
When a Crocodile Eats the Sun - Peter Godwin
Rainmaker - Don Pinnock
Dark Continent, My Black Arse - Sihle Khumalo
In a Different Time - Peter Harris
A Grain of Wheat - Ngugi wa Thiong'o
Half of a Yellow Sun - Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie
West with the Night - Beryl Markham
Seretse and Ruth - Wilf and Trish Mbanga
Unbowed, A Memoir - Wangari Maathai
30
In conserving Africa’s ecosystems there are many projects helping protect species through research and this
has often increased the amount of land under conservation protection. Also in supporting Africa, community
projects are strong conservation partners in sustainable tourism. The following are a small selection of
projects websites that are making a difference in conservation and community.
Botswana
Wilderness Safaris Rhino Reintroduction Project
Wilderness Safaris Wild Dog Research Project
Wilderness Safaris lion monitoring in Okavango Delta Lion Monitoring
The Kalahari Lion Research project also in Botswana by Kevin MacFarlane http://www.kalaharilionresearch.org/
Elephant without Borders http://www.elephantswithoutborders.org/ (Dr Mike Chase)
Namibia
Wilderness Safaris Desert Lion monitoring of the Terrace male in Skeleton Coast by Dr Flip Sanders
http:www.wildernesstrust.com/projects/current-projects/namibia-desert-lion-conservation/
Wilderness Safaris Doro !Nawas Conservancy
Wilderness Safaris Save the Rhino Trust
South Africa
Wilderness Safaris Makuleke Community and Mammal Reintroduction
Zambia
Zambia Carnivore Program www.zambiacarnivores.org
COMACO http://www.itswild.org/
Zimbabwe
Bushlife Conservancy in Mana Pools sign up for Membership through Vundu Camp
Children in the Wilderness is supporting communities near Hwange http://www.childreninthewilderness.com/ (attention Sue Goatley)
Friends of Hwange Trust - http://friendsofhwange.com/
09/16
31