Introduction
54 days | Cape Town to NairobiTrip Style: Yolo
Popular with 18-30-somethings.
Yolo trips are built for those who want to take on the planet in a fun and affordable way with a small group of like-minded travellers. Skip the oversized tour bus and truly connect with your destination. Hit the highlights without giving up the freedom to mix it up according to your own tastes.
Trip Type: Small Group
Group trips average about 12 travellers per departure, depending on the adventure. The maximum is usually no more than 16.
Service Level: Camping
- Excellent value, amazing prices, quality experiences
- Camping most nights with some hotel stays to start and throughout
- Affordable public and private transport for maximum cultural interaction
Physical Grading: 4
You might encounter a few high-altitude hikes or other more strenuous activities. Pro tip: Put down that pastry, buster.
Itinerary
Day 1 Cape Town
Cape Town offers many different activities – something for everyone. Visit Robben Island, Table Mountain, explore Cape Point (Cape of Good Hope), embark on a wine tour in and around Stellenbosch (45min drive). Visit the old French Hugonote town of Franschoek and surroundings (1h drive). For the not so faint hearted there is numerous adrenaline activities in the surrounding areas, from skydiving to abseiling to cage diving and having a close encounter with the great white sharks. Or wonder through the city centre with some of the oldest buildings and gardens in South Africa (Botanical Gardens and Parliament Gardens). Do not miss the wonderful Cultural Historical Museum, Planetarium and numerous other small museums and theatres.
Cape Town's name originated from the term 'Cape of Good Hope' when Bartholomew Diaz and other seafarers looked forward to the sight of Table Mountain, like an inn that promised hospitality and prosperity. The city is steeped in a rich history and is a cultural melting pot with its diverse and vibrant character being derived from Khoxisan and other African tribes from the North, and Indonesian, French, Dutch, British and German settlers. Cape Town is the third most populous city in South Africa, with over 3 million inhabitants, and is the provincial capital of the Western Cape. It is also the legislative capital of South Africa, where the National Parliament and many government offices are located.
For shopping, dining and entertainment the V&A Waterfront is a hotspot for foreigners and locals alike. Still a working harbour, the Waterfront is an example of creative architecture and restoration and has become South Africa's most visited tourist attraction. The Waterfront offers over 250 shops from designer boutiques to craft stalls, a host of restaurants and coffee shops and plenty of other activities.
For cultural exchange, you shouldn’t miss out a "Local Dinner” in a private home in an informal settlement. This authentic community experience provides guests the opportunity to get deep inside the heart of Cape Town. Choose from Cape Malay, Xhosa traditional or Cape Town fusion foods, and visit families in their private homes in townships and get insight into South African realities - be part of the family for an unforgettable night. Proceeds go into the community.
Visit Red-Hill pre-school, one of our Planeterra project. Planeterra - the G Adventures Foundation is our non-profit organization that was developed to give back to the people and places we visit on our tours. Planeterra supports local community projects, non-profit organizations and international charities that focus on the areas of health, education, community development, environmental conservation and employment skills training.
Day 2-3 Cederberg/Gariep River (2B,2L,2D)
Approximate Distance: 300 km
Estimated Travel Time: 5 hrs
Head out of the city to begin your overland journey, with a stop in the Cederberg area. Check out a local vineyard, sip on some wine, kick a footy around with the local kids, or explore the area near the camp in this beautiful part of South Africa.
Day 3
Approximate Distance: 390 km
Estimated Travel Time: 6.5 hrs
Today we head north to the South Africa/Namibia border stopping on the South Africa side of the Gariep River. After setting up camp, enjoy a late afternoon swimming, relaxing, or possibly even canoeing on the river.
The Orange River, in the past also sometimes known as the Gariep or as the Grootrivier, is the major river of South Africa. The river was first discovered by indigenous people but only explored by Europeans in 1760 and named after the House of Orange, which was the Stadhouder of Holland between 1777 and 1779. Another account of its naming suggests that it may have been called after the supposedly orangey colour of its water, as opposed to the colour of the water of the Vaal River (‘vaal’ being Afrikaans for pale or grey).
Orange River, in sections, is a good diamond mining area. For thousands of years silt has washed down the river and produced diamonds on its banks. These diamonds also reach the sea and with long-shore currents (going northwards) and wind and wave action, they have been known to wash up on the shorelines.
Day 4 Fish River Canyon, Namibia (1B,1L,1D)
Estimated Travel Time: 5 hrs (with border crossing)
Today we will cross the border from South Africa to Namibia. The name of the border post is Vioolsdrift on the South African side and Noordoewer on the Namibian.
We have been experiencing a lot of problems with people that need visas for Namibia. Namibian visas is not available at the border, so please make very sure if you do need a visa before arrival. See our visa section for further information. Remember that visas are your own responsibility, so please double check with your agent if you will require a visa for Namibia.
The South African Rand (ZAR) and the Namibian Dollar (N$) has the same value, so you can use ZAR in Namibia. You will only be able to change any other foreign currency into N$ in Swakopmund. However, when you pay in ZAR your change will be in N$.
We will make our way to Fish River Canyon, the largest canyon in Africa and arguably the second largest in the world. We spend some time at the canyon, and in the early evening, watch as a spectacular sunset slips over the canyon's rim. Camp the night in the surrounding area.
At 650 kilometres in length, the Fish River is Namibia’s longest river. Its source lies in the eastern Naukluft Mountains and flows south-west of Ai-Ais into the Oranje.
The canyon itself is situated along the lower reaches of the Fish River, and is one of the most impressive natural formations of southern African. It is approx 161 km long, 27km wide at its widest point and 550m deep. It is the oldest canyon in the world, formed approximately 500 million years ago, with some rocks at the bottom dating up to 2600 million years old. The canyon was formed in part by glacial movements (upper section), movement of tectonic plates, and erosion. Four wet periods, or pluvial periods, have occurred in the south-western part of Africa during the last million years, resulting in a large run-off of water, which sped erosion.
The plateaus are 220m from the base of the canyon. Catfish can be found in the Fish River below, and they are known to survive the dry season by burrowing into the mud until the water returns. It’s a very slow moving and shallow river – more like a stream. Water levels are normally highest during February until April. The highest recorded temperature at the bottom of the canyon was 58 C.
Day 5-6 Namib Desert (2B,2L,2D)
Estimated Travel Time: 10 hrs
Continuing north along long, poor quality roads, we will pass the small and desolate towns of Bethanien and Helmeringhausen en route to the Namib Desert. Arrive in the area in the late afternoon, where the towering red sand dunes of Sossusvlei form the gateway into the Namib Desert. Here you will really feel as though you’re in the middle of nowhere.
The following day is spent exploring this the natural wonders of this bizarre environment. You will visit Sossusvlei - a clay pan, enclosed by the world’s largest sand dunes, up to 300m high. Here you can take a guided walk at the sands dunes, and enjoy some free time to enjoy them on your own. Also, make a stop at Sesriem Canyon, a small canyon typical of the area, and invisible from even a short distance away.
The name Namib is of Nama origin, with the modern spelling referring to a desert, but a particular part of the desert, specifically a large plain. The desert is classified as either extremely arid or hyper-arid, with a mean rainfall or less than 100mm of rain per year.
The dune sands are primarily derived from sediments washed down the Orange River and then moved northwards by the long shore drift plus the dominant southerly quadrant winds. The winds move the sand northwards and inland, trapping it by wave action in coastal embayment.
The types of dunes found is Star dunes, formed as a result of wind coming equally strong from all directions; Barchan dunes, crescent shaped and formed where wind is mainly from one direction and with a shortage of sand and the Linear dunes, which are long dunes with sharp crests that tend to lie in parallel rows. They are a result of two dominant winds in the central Namib- Southerly and easterly winds. Linear dunes form in a south to north direction.
The 14km long Sesriem Canyon was formed by the Tsauchab River rising in the Naukluft and Zaris Mountains to the east, and flowing through to Sossusvlei. Walking through the canyon takes you on a journey back 10-20 million years ago when sedimentary layers of gravel and sand were deposited and cemented together by lime. The ledges are now inhabited by pigeons, raucous pied crows and chattering starlings. But look a little higher and you might see a lanner falcon or the soaring spread of a lappet faced vulture with a wingspan of 2.6m. An amazing variety of wildlife has adapted to live in this inhospitable place such as lizards that only put 2 feet down at a time and the black toc tokkie beetle who leans forward to allow droplets of morning mist run down its body into its mouth.
Close inspection of the canyon brings you to the brink of a sharp drop but there is an easily accessible path which takes you down into its depths. You can even have a dip it its murky pools amongst little fish, if the water is high enough.
The Tsauchab River was an important source of water for early inhabitants and even during dry times there is water in the upper reaches, where deep clefts in the rock reduce evaporation. Explorers, transport riders, and early travellers used to lower a bucket down to collect the water and it normally took 6 lengths of thong tied together, hence the Afrikaans name “Ses” meaning six, and “Riem” meaning thong.
Day 7-8 Swakopmund (1B,1L)
Estimated Travel Time: 7 hrs
Today you will really get a feeling for the Namib Desert, as you spend hours crossing this void region, and crossing a few dry mountain passes. Before arriving to Swakopmund, you will drive past Walvis Bay, the only town on the Namibian coastline that hosts a deep-sea harbour. We will spend 2 nights in the area, here you can explore this historical town or try some of the numerous activities available, such as dune boarding and a dolphin cruise. Also, meet our local friends and explore the back streets and local culture on guided interpretive walk.
Swakopmund has mind-boggling lunar landscapes, unforgettable sunsets, and bizarre prehistoric Welwitchia plants. The Topnaar people who live in the valley of the Swakop River derived the name from the mud, flotsam, and general detritus washed down during its infrequent floods, which reminded them of very loose evacuation of the bowels.
Almost a full four centuries later, the area, then known as South West Africa, was under Germany control. In choosing a location for a port, German captain Curt von Francois chose this site, north of Walvis Bay (an already existing English-controlled port), at the mouth of the Swakop River, for creating an artificial harbour. A military fort was built here in 1892, which was the beginning of Swakopmund. The building of the railway began in 1895. After the First World War, Germany lost occupation and the port/harbour was automatically displaced by Walvis Bay.
Namibia is well known for its desolate northern coastline called the Skeleton Coast. Along the West coast of Namibia flows the Cold Benguela Current. Also along the coastline is a very hot desert. What happens is that the cold, moist air from the sea mixes with the warm air from the desert and forms a very heavy mist. This mist over hundreds of years has caused many shipwrecks along the coast and if the sailors survived they soon perished in the unforgiving desert. It is from this, and from all the wrecks and shells of stranded ships along the coast, that the region received its name. As you approach the coastline you will see the band of mist.
In 1486 Portuguese Diego Cáo landed just north of what is now Swakopmund and erected a stone cross in honour of John II of Portugal. Known nowadays, as Cape Cross, the area is commonly visited by tourists looking for the large population of Cape Fur Seals that inhabit the coast.
NOTE ON ACCOMMODATION: In Swakopmund, we stay in backpacker's (hostels) or small guest houses, which will give us a break from camping and to be better located than the campgrounds in the area. Here, the accommodation is based on several people sharing dormitory-style rooms, with possibly 6 to 8 people sharing a room. Although we will try, we cannot guarantee to be able to divide the group into different dormitories based on gender lines. As such, males and females may have to share the same sleeping quarters for these nights. The bathrooms and showers are private, but may also be shared between both males and females
Day 9 Damaraland (1B,1L,1D)
Estimated Travel Time: 7 hrs
Look out over the beautiful desert landscapes as far as the eye can see. Begin moving north into the stony desert landscapes and set up camp near Twyfelfontein. In the afternoon explore the area, which is adorned with rock engravings and petrified fossil forests.
About 100,000 Damara people live in Namibia, they share a common language with the Nama but have no kinship. The Damara have mystified anthropologists as they are a group of Bantu origin who speak a Khoisan dialect. Due to their resemblance to some Bantu groups of West Africa it is speculated that the Damara were the first people to migrate to Namibia from the north. There is evidence that the Damara have kept small herds of stock for centuries, they also grow tobacco and pumpkins, and in more recent time they have begun cultivating vegetables and corn. Prior to 1870 the Damara occupied most of central Namibia, but large numbers were displaced or killed when the Nama and Herero began to occupy this area in search of better grazing. When the first Europeans visited Namibia the Damara were a group of semi-nomadic gardeners, pastoralists and hunter-gatherers. They also had skills in mining and metal work. However in 1960 the South African government settled the Damara people in the area of Twyfelfontein and Khorixas, now known as Damaraland. The area has poor soil and irregular rain fall, and as such this has changed the way of life of the Damara and many now work in urban areas, with only about one quarter of their numbers actually residing in Damaraland.
This area is a famous for the bushmen paintings found in the region. The valley is known in the Damara language as Uis (fountain). This natural spring (when is flowed) attracted game animals and man. But the consistency of water flow has always been erratic, thus the Europeans named it Twyfelfontein (Doubtful fountain).There are numerous well-preserved rock engravings here. Their origin is uncertain, but they are probably the work of Bushmen or Nama artists and are estimated to have lived in the area 5,000 years ago.
Day 10-11 Etosha National Park (2B,2L,2D)
Estimated Travel Time: 8 hrs
Etosha in waMbo means "the great white place of dry water" or “white place of mirages” . As one of Africa’s highlights, the Etosha National Park offers a variety of wildlife and phenomenal natural beauty.
pon arrival in the area in the afternoon, we continue on a game drive around the huge dry pan to find the elephants, herds of antelope and lions around the waterholes. After sunset you can watch some animals at the watering holes near the camping area, which is safe, being well lit with flood lights. Game drives are done in our overland vehicle. Night game drives are done by Namibia Wildlife Resorts in open vehicles (optional, at extra cost). The following day, enjoy another game drive en route as we travel towards the eastern side of Etosha.
A brief animal count of Etosha National Park: 30 000 Blue Wildebeest; 25000 Springbok; 23000 Zebra; 5000 Kudu; 3000 Hartebeest; 3000 Gemsbok; 2600 Eland; 450 Giraffe; 2000 Elephant; 260 Lions; 20 Black Rhino; 325 Bird species.
Etosha National Park in Namibia was first established in 1907, when Namibia was a German colony known as South West Africa. At the time, the park’s original 100,000 sq km made it the largest game reserve in the world. Due to political changes since its original establishment, the park is somewhat less than a quarter of its original size, at 22,912 sq km, but still remains a very large and significant area in which wildlife is protected.
The Etosha Pan dominates the park. The salt pan desert is roughly 130 km long and in places as wide as 50 km. The salt pan is usually dry, but fills with water briefly in the summer months, when it attracts pelicans and flamingos in particular. Periannual springs attract a variety of game and birds throughout the year, including the endangered Black Rhinoceros and the endemic Black Face Impala.
The name Okaukuejo (our first night’s camp) is derived from oKakwiyo, meaning “place of the fertile women”. It began as a veterinary post created by the Germans during a rinderpest epidemic in 1897. In 1901 a small fort was built here as a military stronghold. Namutoni, our camp for the second night in the park, was named after a spring found in the area. The waMbo called the spring oMutjamatund (high landmark). The name got distorted through the years. In 1903 a small fort was built at Namutoni, and it was maintained as a police outpost and customs post by the Germans.
Day 12 Waterberg Plateau Game Park (1B,1L,1D)
Estimated Travel Time: 4 hrs (excluding game drive out of Etosha)
Enjoy one last morning game drive in search of the Etosha's incredible wildlife, and begin moving south to Waterberg Plateau Game Park, where in the afternoon you can take a scenic forest walk to enjoy the natural beauty of the area.
For those who are up for it, can get their hiking shoes on to do the hike up to the Waterberg plato with its magnificent view over the plains of Namibia.
Day 13 Windhoek (1B)
Estimated Travel Time: 5 hrs
Please note that as this is a combo tour some of your fellow travellers might be ending their journey in Windhoek. You might also get new travellers joining the tour.
Leave Waterberg Plateau Game Park and head south through the Namibian countryside to Windhoek. With a population of 230,000, and an altitude of 1654m, Windhoek is the capital of Namibia.
Windhoek was originally the centre of a Nama chief who defeated the Herero inhabitants of the region in the mid 19th century. Germany then occupied the region in 1885, where they renamed the original site Windhoek. They built a fort here that eventually spanned a town that grew under its protection.
Windhoek became the seat of colonial rule in 1892, as the capital of the colony of South-West Africa (Deutsch-Südwestafrika). During World War I, Windhoek was captured by South African troops and became a British dominion. Until the independence of Namibia was inaugurated in 1990, Windhoek was recognized as the capital of South West Africa as administered by the South African government.
The city of Windhoek is traditionally known by two names: Ai-Gams, from the Nama people, which literally refers to the hot springs that were once part of Windhoek, while the second name, Otjomuise, meaning a place of steam, was given by the Herero people. Both traditional names reference the hot springs.
Day 14 Kalahari, Botswana (1B,1L,1D)
Estimated Travel Time: 9 hrs
Today we will cross the border from Namibia to Botswana. The name of the border posts are Transkalahari border post on the Namibian side and Mamono post on the Botswana side.
Botswana visas is not available at the border, so please make very sure if you do need a visa before arrival. See our visa section for further information. Remember that visas are your own responsibility; please double check with your agent if you will require a visa for Botswana.
The currency in Botswana is Botswana Pula (BWP.)You will be able to change your let over ZAR and N$ or other foreign currency tomorrow in Maun. Your campsite tonight will take USD or ZAR.
Today we continue through the eastern part of Namibia, and cross into Botswana and travel into the heart of the Kalahari. Take the opportunity to walk with a local San Bushmen to learn fascinating bush skills (local guide may not be San due to nomadic lifestyle of San Bushmen).
Ghanzi, located western part of Botswana on the northern rim of the Kalahari Desert, is the administrative center of Ghanzi District, and is also known as the "Capital of the Kalahari". Ghanzi is an intriguing town, and is primarily a farming community that supplies the Botswana Meat Commission with most of the required beef produce. In fact, it is the starting point of a 800 km long cattle trek—one of the longest in the world. Cattle are driven on horseback or by truck across the Kalahari southeastward to slaughterhouses at Lobatse.
Ghanzi mostly consists of a variety of ethnic cultures for instance the Bushman, Bakgalagadi, Baherero, Batawana as well as Afrikaners. Other spellings include "Gantsi," which is more consistent with the national language of Botswana, Setswana, "Ghansi," and "Gantsi.
Day 15 Maun (1B,1L,1D)
Estimated Travel Time: 7 hrs
As you travel from the Kalahari towards Maun, you will notice the landscape change slightly, as you approach more fertile lands. After arrival, you can pick up any supplies and prepare for you 2 night/3 day excursion into the Okavango Delta.
Note: If you pre-booked the Okavango Delta Flight, you will be flying today.
Maun is the gateway to the Okavango Delta and has for a long time enjoying the reputation of being Botswana’s own frontier town. Today it is one of the fastest growing towns in Africa. It was originally established in 1915 by the Batawana, a splinter group of the Bangwato. The name Maun means “place of reeds”.
Maun, although officially still a village, is the fifth largest town in Botswana. It is an eclectic mix of modern buildings and native huts. Maun is the "tourism capital" of Botswana and the administrative centre of Ngamiland district. Maun has developed rapidly from a rural frontier town and has spread along the Thamalakane River. It now boasts good shopping centres, hotels and lodges as well as car and 4-wheel drive vehicle hire. It still retains a rural atmosphere and local tribesmen continue to bring their cattle to Maun to sell. This community is now distributed along the wide banks of the Thamalakane River where red lechwe can still be seen grazing next to local donkeys, goats and cattle.
Day 16 Okavango Delta (1B,1L,1D)
After leaving some of our luggage in Maun, we begin our exciting excursion into the delta as we drive about 1-2 hours (depending on which dock we go to) to the "dock" where we hop into a mokoro, a traditional dug-out canoe, that'll take us deep into the delta. After a couple hours in mokoro, we arrive to our basic “bush camp”.
Please note that there will be no shower tonight, as our camp is very basic in the wild - you will be compensated by the incredible landscape and wildlife!
For the full day today and the morning of day 4, we will enjoy mokoro rides, birdlife and game viewing in the pristine wilderness area of the Okavango Delta, the world's largest inland delta. Don't forget to bring a book with you as there is plenty of time in between the early morning and afternoon game drive where you relax at your camp, read a book or have a nap. In the evenings count the shooting stars, sing with the locals or just unwind and enjoy your sundowner and sit around the campfire.
"Where all this water goes is a mystery", Aurel Schultz, 1897
The area of the delta was once part of Lake Makgadikgadi, an ancient lake that dried up some 10,000 years ago. Today, the Okavango River has no outlet to the sea. Instead, it empties onto the sands of the Kalahari Desert, irrigating 15,000 km_ of the desert. Each year some 11 cubic kilometers of water reach the delta. Some of this water reaches further south to create Lake Ngami. The water entering the delta is unusually pure, due to the lack of agriculture and industry along the Okavango River. It passes through the sand aquifers of the numerous delta islands and evaporates/transpirates by leaving enormous quantities of salt behind. This precipitation processes are so strong that the vegetation disappears in the center of the islands and thick salt crusts are formed. The waters of the Okavango Delta are subject to seasonal flooding, which begins about mid-summer in the north and six months later in the south (May/June). The water from the delta is evaporated relatively rapidly by the high temperatures, resulting in a cycle of cresting and dropping water in the south. Islands can disappear completely during the peak flood, then reappear at the end of the season.
Day 17 Gweta (1B,1L,1D)
Estimated Travel Time: 5 hrs
Enjoy one last sunrise in the delta before travelling back Maun in first Mokkoro, then by vehicle. Pick up your luggage, and proceed on to Gweta to our unique experience camping under ancient Baobab trees.
The town is situated between the larger towns of Nata and Maun and is on the edge of the Makgadikgadi Pans, an immense area devoid of anything but salt and shimmering horizon. As the largest expanse of 'nothingness' on earth, the pans have area the size of Switzerland, and are clearly visible from outer-space. What is known today as the Makgadikgadi Pans is only a relic of what used to be one of the biggest inland lakes Africa has ever seen-Lake Makgadikgadi. The Makgadikgadi pan consists of two main pans, Namely Ntwetwe and Sowa pan, both of which are surrounded by myriad smaller pans. Although it is totally devoid of any water, people used to live there before it was declared state land. Villagers where allowed to graze their livestock inside the boundaries during dry season.
Day 18 Chobe National Park (1B,1L,1D)
Estimated Travel Time: 7 hrs
Proceed towards Chobe National Park in the morning and camp over just outside of the park near the town of Kasane. This afternoon, take an optional game drive in the park, or an afternoon sunset boat cruise along the Chobe River - your best opportunity to view hippo, crocodiles and watch many elephants wallow in the water.
Kasane is situated on the banks of the Chobe River, near its mouth. This is where the Chobe and Zambezi rivers meet, creating a border area of four countries – Namibia, Botswana, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.
Chobe National Park is Botswana’s first national park, and is situated along the Chobe River. It has one of the largest concentration of wildlife in all the Africa continent and one of the world's last remaining sizeable wilderness area. By size, this is the third largest park (11,000 sq km) of the country, though it is definitely the most diverse and spectacular.
The park is probably best known for its spectacular elephant population: with over 120,000 it has the highest elephant concentration of Africa. Moreover, most of them are probably part of the largest continuous surviving elephant population on Earth. The elephant population seems to have solidly built up since 1990, from the few initial thousands. By chance, they have not been affected by the massive illicit exploitation of the 1970's and 1980's. Elephants living here are Kalahari elephants, the largest in size of all known elephant species. Yet they are characterized by rather brittle ivory and short tusks. Damage caused by the high numbers of elephants is rife in some areas. In fact, concentration is so high throughout Chobe that culls have been considered, but are too controversial and have thus far been rejected. During the dry season, these elephants sojourn in Chobe River and the Linyanti River areas. During the rain season, they make a 200 km migration to the south-east region of the park. Their distribution zone however outreaches the park and spreads to north-western Zimbabwe.
Chobe National Park is also known for its lion population, who on occasion do hunt the elephants. The original inhabitants of this area were the San bushmen (also known as the Basarwa people). They were nomadic hunter-gatherers who were constantly moving from place to place to find food sources, namely fruits, water and wild animals. Nowadays one can find San paintings inside rocky hills of the park.
Day 19-22 Livingstone, Zambia (4B,1L)
Estimated Travel Time: 4 hrs (depending on ferry crossing)
Today we will cross the border from Botswana to Zambia. The name of the border posts are Kazungula border post on both sides. Some nationalities do require a visa for Zambia. See our visa section for further information. Remember that visas are your own responsibility; please double check with your agent if you will require a visa for Zambia.
The currency in Zambia is Zambian Kwacha(ZWK.)You will be able to change your left over BWP in Livingstone town. Most establishments, activities etc. do accept USD for payment.
Please note that as this is a combo tour some of your felow travellers might be ending their journey in Livingstone. You might aslo get ne travellers joining the tour.
Take an optional early morning game drive in Chobe before leaving for Zambia. Cross the Zambezi River to enter into Zambia and continue to Livingstone. We will spend the next three days of our tour here, a great base to see both some natural wonders and take part in some exciting activities. Get up close (and wet from the spray) while awing at the immense Victoria Falls, raft the whitewater of the mighty Zambezi, for the more adventurous, bungee jump with the Victoria Falls in view.
David Livingstone was born on March 19, 1813 in the village of Blantyre, South Lanarkshire, Scotland. He first studied Greek, medicine, and theology at the University of Glasgow and while working in London, joined the London Missionary Society became a minister. He originally planned to gain access to China through his medical knowledge. The Opium Wars, which were raging at this stage with no signs of peace on the horizon, forced Livingstone to consider other options. From 1840 he worked in Bechuanaland (present-day Botswana), and in the period 1852–56, he explored the African interior, and was the first European to see the Mosi-oa-Tunya waterfall (which he renamed Victoria Falls after his monarch, Queen Victoria). Livingstone was one of the first Westerners to make a transcontinental journey across Africa. The purpose of his journey was to open the routes, while accumulating useful information about the African continent. In particular, Livingstone was a proponent of trade and Christian missions to be established in central Africa. His motto, inscribed in the base of the statue to him at Victoria Falls, was “Christianity, Commerce and Civilization.”
The town of Livingstone is a regional transport center, being located near the borders of Botswana and Zimbabwe, and serves as a base for the many visitors to see this part of Africa, and the impressive Victoria Falls, a mere 12km from Livingstone.
The Victoria Falls waterfalls occur in a country that is perfectly flat. From its source on the borders of the Democratic Republic of Congo, the Zambezi River meanders for 1300 km across the wooded plateau of Zambia, eroding for itself a shallow valley on its mild descent to the site of the falls. The river eventually found a weak spot on the lower lip of the surface over which it passed, and forced a passage which was steadily deepened into an exit gorge. During the last half million years the river has scoured out eight of these cracks across its bed. The Victoria falls occurs where the river is 1688 m wide, presents the spectacle of an average maximum of 550 million liters of water a minute tumbling over the lip of the trench in five main falls, the Devil’s Cataract, Main falls, Horseshoe Falls, Rainbow falls and the Eastern Cataract. The highest of these is Rainbow falls, on an average 108 m high. A peak flood sees 750 million liters of water in one minute hurtling over the falls.
The name Zambezi comes from the Tonka tribe, also meaning Great River, but the Sotho-speaking Kololo people of the upper reaches of the river gave it the well-known name of Mosi o a Thunya (smoke that rises). The Lozi people call it by the same name but translated it into smoke that sounds. The Ndebele call it aManza Thunqayo (the water that rises like smoke). The Namibian people call it Chinotimba (a noise-making place like the distant sound of digging).
Day 23 Lusaka (1B,1L,1D)
Estimated Travel Time: 7 hrs
Today’s long journey across rough and bumpy roads takes us to a private game farm 20km's outside of Lusaka, the capital of Zambia. Here you can marvel at the Zebras, Buffalos, and the Boks that roam the property, or relax by the pool or at the rest camp’s bar.
Lusaka, like many African capitals, is a bustling metropolis developing around its colonial roots, its socialist history, and nowadays its drive for independence. It’s an example of how many African cities are trying to find their “independent” way in a world that’s surging ahead. Situated in the southern part of the country, Lusaka is considered one of the fastest growing populations in Africa, and is the governmental and administrative centre of Zambia.
Please note that as today and tomorrow is long drives we will not be able no visit the city of Lusaka.
Day 24 Chipata (1B,1L,1D)
Estimated Travel Time: 10 hrs
Travel north east up through the Zambian country-side, we head to the capital of the Eastern Province, Chipata. Previously known as Fort Jameson, Chipata is a popular refueling station for overlanders heading to South Luangwa National Park.
Please note that as today is a long drive we will not be able to visit the city of Chipata.
Day 25-28 Lake Malawi, Malawi (4B,4L,4D)
Day 27 - Approximate Distance: 235 km ; Estimated Travel Time: 5 hrs
Today(day 25) we will cross the border from Zambia to Malawi. The name of the border posts are Mwami border post on the Zambian side and /Mchinji border post on the Malawian side. We have been experiencing a lot of problems with people that need visas for Malawi. Malawian visas is not available at the border, so please make very sure if you do need a visa before arrival. See our visa section for further information. Remember that visas are your own responsibility; please double check with your agent if you will require a visa for Malawi.
The currency in Malawi is Malawian Kwacha (MWK.)You will be able to change money in Lilongwe. Most establishments, activities etc. do accept USD for payment.
Spend four nights along on the shores of “the Lake of Stars”. Beach walks, swimming in the crystal clear water and snorkelling among the tropical fish are all part and parcel of your stay. Visit various lakeside camps as we travel north along the shores of Lake Malawi.
This is Malawi’s main attraction and covers one fifth of the country. It is the third largest lake in Africa and is about 500km long. The lake has more fish species than any other lake in the world with around 600 different species. The largest family is the chichlids, which are exported all over the world to pet shops etc. The lake is also known for its good snorkelling and diving. The locals depend on the lake for fishing and survival and use dug out canoes to fish from and set out long nets. There are many different ethnic groups all speaking their own language, most are Christians and the rest have traditional beliefs as do most African countries
Up in the hills above Chitimba Beach is a mission station named after David Livingstone.
Livingstonia is a small mission town that was founded in 1894 by the missionaries from the Free Church of Scotland. At fisrt they planted the mission at Cape Mclear in 1875 but had to move it because of Malaria. They then moved it to the north of Bandawe, but this site was also unhealthy. So they had to move it to the current location between Lake Malawi and the Nyika Plateau. The mission gradually developed into a small town – now having around 6690 inhabitants.
The leading missionary Dr Robert Laws established the best school in this time for the whole region. Livingstonia graduates became influential in several neighbouring countries.
He wanted to develop Livingstonia into a university, but his successors did not pursue his vision. In 2003 though, the Livingstonia Synod of the Church of central Africa, Presbyterian started the Livingstonia University.
Day 29 Iringa, Tanzania (1B,1L,1D)
Estimated Travel Time: 9 hrs
Today we will cross the border from Malawi to Tanzania. The name of the border posts are Songwe border post on the Malawian side and Kasumulu border post on the Tanzanian side.
Some nationalities do require a visa for Tanzania. See our visa section for further information. Remember that visas are your own responsibility; please double check with your agent if you will require a visa for Tanzania.
The currency in Tanzania is Tanzanian shilling (TZS.)You will be able to change your left over MWK at the border. Most establishments, activities etc. do accept USD for payment.
Begin the day by making the border crossing out of Malawi and into Tanzania. Climbing out of the Great Rift Valley through some spectacular mountain passes, view the vast tea plantations in the highlands along the way as you make camp outside Iringa.
Historically, Iringa was a centre of colonial administration. During German occupation, the German military constructed the town as a fortified defence against marauding Hehe tribal warriors intent on driving them out of the region. Gangilonga Rock, a site just outside of the town, is a legendary spot where the Hehe chief at that time, Chief Mkwawa, met with his people and decided how to fight the Germans. Iringa was also the site of several battles during the First and Second World Wars, and Commonwealth War Graves are located just outside of town.
Day 30 Dar Es Salaam (1B,1L,1D)
Estimated Travel Time: 12 hrs
Transit to, Dar Es Salaam. The city started as a fishing village in the mid 19th century before becoming a port and trading centre.
Between independence and 1996 – Dar Es Salaam was the countries capital. Today, Dar remains the principal commercial city and the de facto seat of most government institutions in Tanzania. It is the major seaport for the country and its landlocked neighbours.
Dar Es Salaam - Arabic for “Abode of Peace” (a word closely related to the familiar “Yer u-salem” in Israel) - is the largest city in Tanzania. With a population estimated around 2,500,000, it is also the country’s richest city and an important economic centre.
Day 31-34 Zanzibar (4B)
Day 32 Estimated Travel Time: 4 hrs (including 2hr Spice Tour)
Day 34 Estimated Travel Time: 2 hrs
After arriving on Zanzibar, spend the remainder of the day exploring Stone Town, the heart of the island. It has an intriguing maze of narrow, cobbled lanes hemmed in by Arabic buildings. The best way to see the Stone Town is, literally, to get lost. You can spend hours just wandering the alleys and squares, drinking potent coffee from pavement vendors, or buying sweetmeats from scores of tiny cafes. At this point you may be joined by other G Adventures travellers who are starting their tour here on Zanzibar. A group meeting with your tour leader for this portion of your trip is scheduled for the early evening. Please look for information from your tour leader on the hotel bulletin board regarding the time of this meeting.
Zanzibar Island, 'the spice island,' has an extremely interesting history and culture as it was the centre of the slave and spice trade in the 1800s. Zanzibar is one of the most fascinating places in East Africa, despite a heavy increase in tourism since the early 1990s. Thanks to an ambitious and far-reaching preservation programme funded by UNESCO and the Aga Khan, many famous old buildings have been restored, or are in the process of being renovated.
The following morning we head north to Nungwi for two days/ two nights at one of Zanzibar's major highlights. Here you can either relax on the idyllic white-sandy beaches, take an optional diving/snorkeling excursion, or take a wander through the village of Nungwi.
No visit to Zanzibar would be complete without a visit to the spice plantations - an activity that is included on our way north to Nungwi on Day 32. Your senses will be aroused as you will receive a detailed description on the assortment of spices (black pepper, cardamom, cinnamon, nutmeg, breadfruit, jackfruit, vanilla, lemon grass) and their various uses. It was the wonderful spice plantations that brought the beginnings of Zanzibar’s infamous slave trade dating back to the 1840’s.
On our fourth day on the island, we head back south to Stone Town, for our final night on this enchanting island. It's your last chance to shop and/or enjoy all that Stone Town has to offer. This maybe the last night for some of your travel companions as some will be finishing their G Adventures tour here on Zanzibar.
Remember that Zanzibar is a Muslim society, and immodestly dressed women, or men in shorts, will get harassed and cause great offence in Stone Town. In Nungwi, customs are a little more relaxed, but passengers are encouraged to be respectful of the islands culture and still cover up when walking around. Never try to take a photograph without asking permission. The polite way to ask is “Tafadhali (pronounced tougher-thaarli) naomba ruhusu kwa kupiga picha yako.” Many guidebooks say the correct phrase is “nataka kupiga picha yako”, but this is incredibly rude, the equivalent of saying “give me your picture”.
Day 35 Korogwe (1B,1L,1D)
Estimated Travel Time: 6hrs (excl. 3hr ferry ride)
Our campsite is adjaecent to the Motel White Parrot and is a perfect spot to stop after the days journey. With views of the Usambara Mountain slopes and plenty of space in the sun and/or the shade, you can grab a chair or an area of grass and just lay out and relax, reading a book, or enjoy a nice "cool" drink.
Day 36 Arusha (1B,1L,1D)
Estimated Travel Time: 7/8 hrs
Pass Mt Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest mountain and head towards Arusha.
Arusha sits at the foot of rugged Mount Meru, Africa's fifth highest mountain. Spend some time exploring the town and its bustling markets.
Arusha, also known as Tanzania’s “safari capital”, is undoubtedly the most important center in northern Tanzania. With many protected national parks, reserves, and mountains nearby (on a clear day, you can see Mt. Kilimanjaro in the distance), Arusha is a modern town, and with its markets, services, and fine location, it is a great base for your safari trip.
Arusha officially became a city on the 1st of July 2006. The primary industry of the region is agriculture with large vegetable producers sending high-quality produce to Europe. The city and its environs are also spotted with large coffee plantations, adding to the area’s charm. Though in recent years, due to the coffee crisis, many local farmers have been badly hit, and now subsistence farming is the most common source of livelihood.
Arusha, who owes its name from the local Wa-arusha people who resided here for hundreds of years, is historically and politically significant city within East Africa. In 1961 the official documents ceding independence to Tanzania were signed by the United Kingdom in Arusha. Six years later the Arusha Declaration of Self Reliance in Tanzania was signed. On the 4th of August 1993 the Arusha Accords were signed by representatives of competing factions in the civil war in neighbouring Rwanda. After the Rwandan genocide, the UN Security Council decided by its Resolution 955 of 8 November 1994 that Arusha should host the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda. The establishment of the tribunal with its employees has influenced the local economy of Arusha.
Day 37-38 Serengeti NP / Ngorongoro Conservation Area (2B,2L,2D)
Day 38 Approximate Distance 160 km; Estimated Travel Time: 5 hrs (including game drive out of Serengeti)
After breakfast, we begin our 2 night/3 day excursion to the Serengeti National Park and the Ngorongoro Crater, two of Africa’s premier wildlife areas. Changing to specialized 4WD 7-seater safari vehicles, we are met by experienced safari driver/guides, who will ensure us wonderful wildlife encounters. Our safari vehicles each have sliding windows and a large pop-up roof, perfect for game viewing. They are smaller than our overland truck, and will allow us to maneuver easily through the wildlife areas. As the vehicles are smaller than our overland truck, our group will split up among several vehicles,.
The Serengeti is to Tanzania what the Masai Mara Game Reserve is to Kenya, though with an area of 14,763 sq km, it is actually over 7 times as large! The area where you will be staying and game viewing is in the central Serengeti 'Seronera' area, which lies in the southeast of the National Park. Because of the sheer size of the National Park other areas will not be accessible during your stay.
As we drive through the Ngorongoro Conservation Area and on to the Serengeti National Park, en route you will begin to experience the sheer vastness of this territory, and you will marvel at the multitude of animal and bird life while cruising through this acacia-spotted savannah. The next day, we continue your search for the "Big 5" - lion, leopard, buffalo, elephant and rhino - while taking in the vastness of the Serengeti plains with a game drives through out the day.
Note: If you have pre-booked a Serengeti Balloon Safari Theme Pack, your flight will be early in the morning of Day 38.
Day 39 Ngorongoro Crater/Arusha (1B,1L,1D)
Estimated Travel Time: 5 hrs (including game drive in Crater)
Venture down to the crater floor, and take in your final safari experience viewing the high concentration of wildlife, including zebra, gazelle, impala, and cheetah, bound by the crater walls.
Day 40 Nairobi, Kenya (1B,1L)
Estimated Travel Time: 7 hrs (depending on border crossing)
Today we will cross the border from Tanzania to Kenya. The name of the border posts are Namanga border post on both sides. Some nationalities do require a visa for Kenya. See our visa section for further information. Remember that visas are your own responsibility; please double check with your agent if you will require a visa for Kenya.
The currency in Kenya is Kenyan shilling (KES.)You will be able to change your left over TZS at the border or in Nairobi. Most establishments, activities etc. do accept USD for payment.
The journey begins early in the morning (8am) as we travel north from Arusha through the Masai lands into Kenya, to our camp on the outskirts of Nairobi.
The name Nairobi is derived from the Masai word for cool waters, which the Masai people gave to a water hole known as Ewaso Nyirobi. In modern times, the sprawling, cosmopolitan city of Nairobi combines the first-world glamour of reflecting-glass skyscraper buildings with abject developing-world poverty. It originated in 1899 from a handful of shacks that marked the end of the railhead during the building of the Uganda railway. Due to big game hunting bringing tourists from Britain, the city expanded dramatically in the early 1900’s. A large number of British nationals settled in the area, prompting more growth and this angered both the Masai and Kikuyu people, as they were losing hunting ground due to the expansion of the city limits. The friction increased and, eventually led to the Mau Mau uprising, which saw Jomo Kenyatta, the future president jailed. Kenya was granted independence from Britain in 1963, with Nairobi as the capital.
Apart from being Kenya’s capital and the main centre of government and commerce, Nairobi is the most significant city in East Africa and an important player on the pan-African stage. It is the diplomatic base for many counties in Africa, with its broad spectrum of international embassies and headquarters for the United Nations, multi-national companies, non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and press correspondents. It’s also the center of the growing safari business of East Africa.
Day 41 Lake Nakuru National Park (1B,1L,1D)
Estimated Travel Time: 5 hrs
Descend into the Great Rift Valley stopping at Lake Nakuru National Park, home to a vast variety of birdlife, particularly hundreds of thousands of flamingoes. Search for white and black rhino, buffalo, impala, hyena, and even leopard on our afternoon game drive in this renowned game park.
Kenya's fourth largest town and the capital of the Rift Valley province, Nakuru, meaning “dusty place” in the Masai language, is a cheerful and vibrant agricultural town with a variety of coulourful local markets. We camp outside of the town itself and within the Lake Nakuru National Park, the area’s principal highlight and best natural attraction.
Lake Nakuru itself is one of the Rift Valley soda lakes. The alkaline lake's abundance of algae attracts the large quantity of flamingos, estimated into the millions, which famously line the shore. The surface of the shallow lake is often hardly recognizable due to the continually shifting mass of pink. There are two types of flamingo species: the Lesser flamingo can be distinguished by its deep red carmine bill and pink plumage unlike the greater flamigo, which has a bill with a black tip. But flamingos are not the only avian attraction, also present are two large fish-eating birds, pelicans and cormorants. The park is rich in other birdlife, including grebes, white winged black, stilts, avocets, ducks, and in the European winter, the migrant waders.
Day 42-44 Eldoret/Kampala, Uganda (3B,2L,3D)
Day 43 Approximate Distance: 359 km; Estimated Travel Time: 9 hrs
On Day 43 we cross the border to Uganda. Some nationalities do require visas for Uganda. Some nationalities do require a visa for Uganda. See our visa section for further information. Remember that visas are your own responsibility; please double check with your agent if you will require a visa for Uganda.
The currency in Uganda is Ugandan shilling (UGX).
View varied landscapes as you cross over the Mau Mau Escarpment to Eldoret. Continue into Uganda and across the northern shores of Lake Victoria to camp in Kampala, Uganda's vibrant commercial centre.
With a population nearing 1,210,000, Kampala is the largest city in Uganda. It is located in the district of Kampala at 3,900 ft (1,189 m) above sea level. Before the arrival of the British, the Buganda King, the Kabaka, had chosen the area that was to become Kampala as one of his favorite hunting grounds. The area was made up of numerous rolling hills and lush wetlands. It was an ideal breeding ground for various antelopes - particularly the Impala. When the British arrived they called the area the Hills of the Impala.
Day 45-46 Queen Elizabeth National Park (2B,2L,2D)
Estimated Travel Time: 9 hrs
Travel west towards Lake Edward to this famous park, with Uganda's largest wildlife populations. Here, enjoy a short nature hike around the area of our camp, and on day 45, embark on both morning and afternoon game drives, with hopes of catching glimpses of buffalo, hippo, elephant, lion, and the elusive leopard. Afterwards, enjoy an included boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel.
The 1,978 sq. km Queen Elizabeth National Park is characterized by open savannah, large areas of swamp around Lake George, the extensive Maramagambo Forest in the southeast, and the forested Kyambura Gorge along the border with Kyambura Game Reserve.
Day 47-49 Gorillas/Kabale(3B,3L,3D)
Estimated Travel Time: 6 hrs
We travel south through gorgeous countryside to Kabale, our base for several days in the area. Our time in this lush, magical, mountainous region of Uganda is spent between enjoying the area of Kabale and many activities that it has to offer, and an unforgettable guided trek deep into the forest-sloped volcanoes for a wild encounter of a family of mountain gorillas (Gorilla Permits Included). Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is the home to approximately half of the world’s population of mountain gorillas, the world's most endangered ape. One of Africa's major highlights, a close encounter with these amazing animals is simply breathtaking.
Ugandan authorities are fiercely protective of this natural treasure and currently permit only a maximum of 8 people per day to visit a given gorilla family. As such, the group will be split into different sub-groups for the trek, and depending on the amount of travellers there are total, different sub-groups may do their trek on different days. In the morning of your trek, you will drive in smaller vehicles to park office and meet with your local mountain guides and porters, who can carry your personal items and assist you during the trek. The guides will brief you on the etiquette of gorilla trekking, after which, you set off into the forest. The trek can take from one to six hours and can exceed altitudes of 2500m. The terrain is rough and at times muddy and slippery. It is very important to bring along plenty of water. It can rain in a few minutes notice; hence waterproof clothing is essential along with protective bags for your camera and film.
Approximately 98% of the gorilla treks are successful but there is no guarantee that you will see the gorillas as they are constantly on the move.
For the rest of your time in the area, you will have the chance to go swimming, hit up the gym or go on optional activities at Lake Bunyonyi. There are several options to choose from: fishing. canoeing on the lake, visiting the local community, renting a mountain bike to explore the area, etc. The area of Lake Bunyonyi is extremely peaceful and is a nature lover's paradise.
While at Kabale, you may be offered the chance to visit 'Little Angels Orphanage'. G Adventures does not endorse this activity as we feel this experience does more harm than good to the children. Many orphanages rely almost entirely on donations from visitors to survive, and as such, directors may purposefully maintain poor living conditions for children to secure funds from visitors. By visiting orphanages and making a donation you may be fueling this system, and G Adventures thus advises against both visiting and donating to the aforementioned orphanage.
Please note the Cephas campsite in Kabale has a swimming pool, gym, sauna and bar available for travellers.
Day 50 Mbarara (1B,1L,1D)
Estimated Travel Time: 3 hrs
Mbarara is situated in the Western region of Uganda, 295 km southwest of Kampala, Uganda’s capital city. Mbarara District is one of Uganda’s fastest growing districts something attributed to trade boom that has swept through the region over the last decades.
Here you have the opportunity to visit local markets, go to the internet café or visit Safarilanda Park, built on the side of a hill overlooking the Rwizi. It is a wooden structure with restaurants, bars and balconies all decorated in African style.
Day 51-52 Jinja (2B,2L,2D)
Estimated Travel Time: 7 hrs
Head south to the shores of Lake Victoria and renowned as the “Source of the Nile”, Jinja is fast becoming the thrill-seeker's capital of Africa. Opt to spend a full day rafting or kayaking down the Nile River, mountain biking in the Mabira Forest, volunteering with a local project, or just enjoying the relaxed vibe of Jinja.
Jinja, the second largest commercial centre in Uganda, was established in 1901. Lying in the south east of Uganda, 87 km north east of Kampala, it is located on the shores of Lake Victoria near to the source of the White Nile. The city is the chief town of Jinja District, and is considered the capital of the Kingdom of Busoga.
The resident population of Jinja is approximately 106,000 with the majority being Bantu in origin. Lusoga and Luganda are the main local languages.
North of Jinja is Bujagali Falls, which is located downriver from Owen Falls Dam. Bujagali Falls is a world-class spot for kayaking and white water rafting, and also a popular weekend picnic area for local Ugandans. However, the falls are under threat from the construction of a proposed new 250 MW hydroelectric facility.
Day 53-54 Eldoret/Nairobi, Kenya (2B,2L,1D)
Day 54 Approximate Distance: 310 km; Estimated Travel Time: 7 hrs
Cross over into Kenya and continue through the Rift Valley and on towards Nairobi.
The name Nairobi is derived from the Masai word for cool waters, which the Masai people gave to a water hole known as Ewaso Nyirobi. In modern times, the sprawling, cosmopolitan city of Nairobi combines the first-world glamour of reflecting-glass skyscraper buildings with abject developing-world poverty. It originated in 1899 from a handful of shacks that marked the end of the railhead during the building of the Uganda railway. Due to big game hunting bringing tourists from Britain, the city expanded dramatically in the early 1900’s. A large number of British nationals settled in the area, prompting more growth and this angered both the Masai and Kikuyu people, as they were losing hunting ground due to the expansion of the city limits. The friction increased and, eventually led to the Mau Mau uprising, which saw Jomo Kenyatta, the future president jailed. Kenya was granted independence from Britain in 1963, with Nairobi as the capital.
Apart from being Kenya’s capital and the main centre of government and commerce, Nairobi is the most significant city in East Africa and an important player on the pan-African stage. It is the diplomatic base for many counties in Africa, with its broad spectrum of international embassies and headquarters for the United Nations, multi-national companies, non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and press correspondents. It’s also the center of the growing safari business of East Africa.
Combination
This tour combines our Dunes, Deltas & Falls DCF, Vic Falls to Nairobi Adventure DVN, and Kenya and Uganda Gorilla Adventure DKKU.
What's Included
Fish River Canyon entrance, Sossusvlei Dunes entrance, Entrances and game drives in Etosha, Serengeti Lake Nakuru, Queen Elizabeth, and Lake Mburo National Parks, Okavango Delta visit with mokoro excursion, Ngorongoro Crater visit with game drives, Spice Plantation entrance with guided tour, 4-day Zanzibar excursion, Kazinga Channel boat cruise, Guided Mountain Gorilla Trek with permits.
Highlights
Experiencing game drives, witnessing giant sand dunes and Victoria Falls, photographing exotic wildlife, riding in 4x4 safari vehicles and dug-out canoes, inhaling the aromas of a spice plantation, meeting mountain gorillas.
Dossier Disclaimer
The information in this trip details document has been compiled with care and is provided in good faith. However it is subject to change, and does not form part of the contract between the client and the operator. The itinerary featured is correct at time of printing. It may differ slightly to the one in the brochure. Occasionally our itineraries change as we make improvements that stem from past travellers, comments and our own research. Sometimes it can be a small change like adding an extra meal along the itinerary. Sometimes the change may result in us altering the tour for the coming year. Ultimately, our goal is to provide you with the most rewarding experience. Please note that our brochure is usually released in November each year. If you have booked from the previous brochure you may find there have been some changes to the itinerary.
VERY IMPORTANT: Please ensure that you print a final copy of your Trip Details to review a couple of days prior to travel, in case there have been changes that affect your plans.
Itinerary Disclaimer
While it is our intention to adhere to the route described below, there is a certain amount of flexibility built into the itinerary and on occasion it may be necessary, or desirable to make alterations. The itinerary is brief, as we never know exactly where our journey will take us. Due to our style of travel and the regions we visit, travel can be unpredictable. The Trip Details document is a general guide to the tour and region and any mention of specific destinations or wildlife is by no means a guarantee that they will be visited or encountered. Aboard expedition trips visits to research stations depend on final permission.
Additionally, any travel times listed are approximations only and subject to vary due to local circumstances.
Important Notes
1. Please note that this trip is a combination of multiple G Adventures tours. As such, the staff and/or particular vehicles operating your tour may change between tour segments. You may also expect some group members to join or leave the tour in Windhoek, Livingstone, Zanzibar,Nairobi and Kampala.
2. For most parts it is not a physically demanding journey; however, travelling can be difficult, with long drives and poor road conditions at times. Despite this, most clients feel that the diversity of the African landscape, countries, culture and wildlife are all well worth the experience. We use a comfortable and safe customized safari truck for the long drives. However,
visitors to Uganda should be in excellent physical condition, without any heart problems and prepared to spend strenuous days in humid rain forests, steep terrain and high altitude trekking for chimpanzee and gorillas, as well as other primates. As it is very dark in the jungle; only high speed film (ISO 400 or higher) will give good results. Those preferring to remain at base camp in Bwindi may do so, however, there is no price reduction
3. As of January 26th 2011 the Director General of the Zanzibar Commission for Tourism declared a valid Yellow Fever Certificate is required at all points of entry into Zanzibar. This includes the airport, seaport and other points of entry. Failure to provide the correct certification may result in an on the spot vaccination or $50 fine. Please check with your health expert for advice on Yellow Fever and other inoculations required for this area.
SOUTH Africa is to enforce new rules requiring proof of Yellow Fever vaccination for all travelers - even in airport transit - who have been in Zambia or other countries where the disease is endemic. The stricter guidelines, effective 01 Oct 2011, will see pax without an international Yellow Fever certificate refused entry.
4. An essential part of your safari is participation. The group is usually divided into small groups and given different tasks which change on a day to day basis, from kitchen duty group (helping in prepare meals and clean up afterwards), the packing group (sets up all tables and chairs outside) and the cleaning group (which cleans the truck by emptying the rubbish bin and brooming). it is all part of your adventure and when everyone puts in a little effort the trip will run smoothly. Your CEOs will do all the meal preparation, but we do ask the clients to help with the washing up. Team spirit is part of the fun! All camping equipment (with the exception of your sleeping bag and pillow) is supplied. We supply dome tents and assembly/disassembly takes only 5 minutes. All tents have built-in insect nets. Mattresses are also available, which are approximately 4cm thick, warm and comfortable.
5. Sleeping bags cannot be rented on any of our Africa overland or safari trips
6. Because of the migratory nature of the gorillas, G Adventures can not guarantee that you will be able to see the gorillas on your day trek.
7. The power supply in East Africa is nominally 240VAC, 50hz. Variable voltage, spikes and sporadic, unexpected, unscheduled power cuts of varying duration can be expected.
8.LUGGAGE COMPLICATIONS: It occasionally happens that luggage on international flights into Cape Town, Livingstone or Johannesburg does not arrive. Please be aware that this may happen, especially if you have a tight connection in either of these centres, are flying with different airlines with a connection, have a last minute flight change or re-route, or fly from or connect through another African centre. Please be prepared and keep all important documentation and valuables on your person. As well we recommend a change of clothes in your hand luggage. If unfortunately this does happen, and your luggage does not arrive, you should be entitled to a limited initial compensation from your airline. In Southern Africa, the arrival of lost luggage normally takes between 10 and 48 hours after the initial plane’s arrival. The airlines technically should be responsible to forward your luggage to you, to your hotel or elsewhere in Southern Africa. You may find that your tour will begin, and you still have not received your luggage. When reporting your missing bag at the airport please provide the airline with the emergency telephone number of our local office in South Africa (+27 71 470 6928). Please do not give out any address (starting point hotel) as on most trips we do not stay long enough for the bag to arrive, the airline should phone our local office to arrange the delivery address. It is recommended that you purchase locally a few needed items, begin your tour. Your tour leader or local representative will be able to help you organize this, and once your luggage is retrieved, it should be able to be forwarded to you – depending where you are. Please note that any costs that you may incur for luggage retrieval or sending luggage are not the responsibility of G Adventures, though we will always strive to assist you in any way possible, Please make sure to hand in the reference number of the bag and your flight details to your tour leader in order to help with the tracing of the bag. You should always keep all receipts and documentation, and contact your airline or insurance provider for reimbursement.
9. Please note that on all our Yolo overland trucks there is a maximum of 22 people per vehicle.
10. VISAS. Please read the Visa section very carefully. Visas are your own responsibility. Always double check with the embassies what each countries requirement are.
11. Looking to add to your experience? Check out our Theme Packs! Specially designed for travellers with unique interests, theme packs are optional add-ons to your G Adventures trip that make your adventure more you-centric. Theme Packs must be booked prior to departure, please see details in our optional activities field and ask your sales CEO.
Reverse Itinerary
This trip also runs in reverse, from Nairobi to Cape Town. See trip code DKUA.
Group Leader Description
On this journey, you will be accompanied on your trip by 2 crew members - a Chief Experience Officer (CEO) and a driver. (Nairobi to Nairobi); or you will be accompanied by two Chief Experience Officers (Cape Town to Nairobi).
The Chief Experience Officer (CEO) will be the group manager and leader. He/she organizes the trip, and will be there to assist you when needed. He/she will take care of the small things so you can concentrate on enjoying your adventure. All of our CEOs in southern and East Africa are experienced group leaders, with a broad knowledge base of the region’s history, cultures, and wildlife. Your leader will be from either southern or East Africa depending on which part of the tour you are on. He/she will be joining you in the back of the truck for a maximum of approximately 50% during driving, to answer questions and provide more information about the areas that you visit. Your CEO will spend the remainder of the driving time in front with the driver to enable them to make bookings, do planning and to fulfil other organizational requirements of the tour. During game drives, your CEO will ensure to accompany you in the passenger area of the truck. This is of course because they have a lot of knowledge to share with you during these exciting game drives. Please do not hesitate to ask your CEO any questions.
All of our overland truck drivers are experienced in the routes travelled, and highly skilled in dealing with different terrains. All of our cooks will organize and lead the meal preparation, and have experience in cooking a variety of local and international dishes for large groups.
In Uganda, during the actual gorilla trek we use an experienced and certified local mountain guide, expert gorilla trackers, and armed guards to accompany you for your safety.
In the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater to round out the team, along with your CEO, you will be accompanied by a local safari crew consisting of an expert driver/guide and camp cook. Your driver/guide is skilled and experienced driver and a certified safari guide, and is an integral part of the team. As well, your cook will prepare the camp meals to add some further local flavour to the trip.
We also use local guides for some included activities where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places we are visiting.
Group Size Notes
Max 22, avg 19.
Your Fellow Travellers
As you travel on a group trip you will be exposed to all the pleasures and maybe some of the frustrations of travelling in a group. Your fellow travellers will probably come from all corners of the world and are likely to be of a variety of ages too. We ask you to be understanding of the various needs and preferences of your group - patience with your fellow travellers is sometimes required for the benefit of everyone's travel experience. Remember too that you have responsibilities to the group. If you are requested to be at a place at a certain time, ensure that you don't keep the rest of the group waiting. We have found time and time again that the very best trips we operate are those where the dynamics within the group work well - this takes just a little effort on your part.
Meals Included
52 breakfasts, 43 lunches, 40 dinners.
Meals
As mentioned above, most of the meals on this tour are included in the tour price. When a meal is not included, this is because there are often many options available - we would like to give you the opportunity to explore a bit and test the local cuisine yourself. In these cases, your tour leader will be able to suggest some good local restaurants or options for you to choose from.
All included meals will be prepared from fresh local produce. The majority of the shopping for foodstuffs will be done before the trip departs, and fresh goods, such as meats, fruits, vegetables, and dairy products, will be bought en route during the trip from supermarkets, local shops and markets. Breakfasts will generally consist of breads and cereals, if time allows a warm breakfast may be prepared. Many lunches will be provided en-route and will be light meals such as sandwiches and/or salads. All evening meals will be freshly-prepared hot meals, and will consist of a variety of continental and local dishes.
Your CEOs will do all the meal preparation and lead the way here, but will prepare a duty schedule for ensuring a fair, rotating participation from you and your group members in the meal preparation and dish washing duties.
Vegetarian meals and other dietary requirements need to be specified prior to arrival. Please note all bottled drinking water while on safari will be at your own expense.
Meal Budget
Allow USD250-320 for meals not included.
Transport
Overland vehicle, 4x4 safari vehicles, minibuses, ferry, walking.
About our Transportation
We use a combination of 2 different vehicles on this tour - a larger 22 seat overland vehicle for most of the trip, and in private 6-7 seat safari vehicles for the safari section in Tanzania.
Both styles of vehicles have their advantages - the overland truck allows the entire group to travel together, and because of its height, is great for game viewing and for enjoying the scenic African landscape. The smaller safari vehicles are more maneuverable, and have pop-up roofs and sliding windows, ideal for game viewing. If there is a large group, the group will be split up while travelling in the safari vehicles.
For your time in Zanzibar, please note that the overland truck will stay in Dar es Salaam, on the mainland. We use a large public ferry with in indoor seating area to cross to the island, and while there, our transportation will be in minibuses.
Here’s a quick look at the well-equipped G Adventures overland truck:
- Storage for main luggage in a compartment under the seating area (accessed from the outside of the truck). Day packs can be stored at your feet (there is plenty of room).
- Onboard safety box(es) for valuables.
- Front view windows
- Large sliding windows, great for game viewing
- Fully equipped retractable kitchen
- Intercom between seating area and driver
- Inverter for battery charging (South African plug - 220-240V)
Please note that our trucks do not have on-board bathrooms. Nor do they have seats that recline as often reclining seats will break, and thus you will have some seats that recline and some that don't.
This is not a physically demanding journey; however, travelling can be difficult, with long drives and poor road conditions at times. Please take note of the travel times and distances in the above itinerary, and consider that this is often on poor quality, bumpy roads. Despite this, most clients feel that the diversity of the African landscape, culture and wildlife are all well worth the experience.
Single Travellers
We believe single travellers should not have to pay more to travel so our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. Single travellers joining group trips are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip. Some of our Independent trips are designed differently and single travellers on these itineraries must pay the single trip price.
Accommodation
Simple hotels (7 nts), participation camping (41 nts), full-service camping (2 nts), guesthouse (2 nts, multi-share), basic bush camp (1 nt).
My Own Room
Please note that if you have booked the "My Own Room/Tent" option for this tour, you will receive your own single tent for all night stops, with the following exceptions: Nights 7 and 8 Swakopmund (multi-share dorms).
About Accommodation
Camping in Africa is truly an adventure. You will be able to get off the beaten track to get a first-hand experience of the beautiful wilderness and nature. While camping, we stay at designated campsites in national parks and outside towns. Campsite facilities in southern Africa are generally good, but can be basic in certain places. There are generally small restaurants and/or bars, flush toilets, showers (generally outdoors, some with simple reed enclosures), washing facilities and telephones available. Additionally, warm water is available at most sites, but it is not guaranteed to always be warm when you take your shower; the warm water may be used up others who also use the camp. We usually set-up camp within close proximity to the toilet facilities, though occasionally to reach them you may to walk a short distance.
They are good quality, durable, industry-standard 2-person safari canvas tents. Please note that most adults will not be able to fully stand up inside the tents, though most travellers find these more than adequate, as they have a base area of approximately 4 square meters. These tents are regularly treated with a waterproofing agent, but under certain rainy conditions, the tent fabric may become saturated to the point where seepage or leakage may occur. All tents have built-in mesh insect netting on the windows and doors.
We travel with our own portable camp chairs with a comfortable back-rest, and we utilize our own cooking equipment to provide the group good quality camp meals.
Wild or Bush Camping
Your camping experience in the Okavango Delta (2 nights) is fondly called “bush camping”, as we camp wild on remote islands, away from civilization and its comforts, and completely surrounded by nature – an unbelievable experience some in fact feel is the highlight of the trip. Wild/bush camps have no facilities - these will be the most basic two nights of our trip, as there is no running water, no showers, nor toilets facilities - we will take our own water and all equipment. Wild camping can be very enjoyable, however please remember that we leave no trace of our stay and take all rubbish away with us. Toilets will be of the "dig and bury" variety, and we will provide "bucket in a tree" style showers (with canvas screen for privacy). Wild camping is the ultimate African bush experience as we camp right in amongst the wildlife, so there is a possibility of elephant and other game coming very close to camp. Your safari guides will have your safety as a priority, so please ensure that you obey all their bush camping instructions.
Guesthouse/Lodge/Bugalows
2 nights in in Swakopmund, we stay in backpacker's (hostels) or small guest houses, which will give us a break from camping and to be better located than the campgrounds in the area. Here, the accommodation is based on several people sharing dormitory-style rooms, with possibly 6 to 8 people sharing a room. Although we will try, we cannot guarantee to be able to divide the group into different dormitories based on gender lines. As such, males and females may have to share the same sleeping quarters for these nights. The bathrooms and showers are private, but may also be shared between both males and females.
3 nights on Zanzibar Island we will stay in bungalows. Basic rooms, twin and multi sharing rooms with shared ablutions.
Simple Hotel
1 night in Cape Town and 1 night in Windhoek we will stay in twin rooms.
In camping within the national parks and conservation areas, some camp sites are enclosed for keeping the resident wildlife out. Other camps are open to the natural environment – care must be taken, especially at night, when a torch/flashlight is recommended when walking around the camp area.
The campsite in Serengeti National Park is extremely basic, with no electricity, simple bathing faciilties (no showers), and squat toilets. While camping at the Ngorongoro Crater rim, there is very limited electricity, occasionally warm showers, and both seated and squat flushing toilets.
Despite the challenge that a few days “roughing it” may pose to some, the experience of being that close to nature, camping under the African stars, and seeing incredible wildlife at your tent door-step is not just gratifying but ultimately an experience of a lifetime.s, and seeing incredible wildlife at your tent door-step is not just gratifying but ultimately an experience of a lifetime.
Joining Hotel
Lady Hamilton
10 Union Street
Gardens
Cape Town
8001
Tel: +27 (0)21 423 3888
Fax: +27 (0)21 423 7788
Joining Instructions
On arrival into Cape Town an arrival transfer is not included. Please make your way to the joining hotel. A brief departure meeting will be held in the hotel reception area in evening on Day 1 of your tour. Upon arrival look for information from your tour leader regarding meeting time and also the rest of the tour.
Cape Town International Airport is about 22 km from downtown. There are a variety of ways to get into the city. To take a taxi, leave the international terminal, cross the first road and you will see the taxi stand. Official taxis have the kilometre rate on the door. If you wish to take a shuttle to the city centre, when arriving at the international terminal, turn immediately left and walk straight ahead and you'll see the shuttle services desk. Cost is approximately 80zar.
If you have a pre-arranged transfer, upon walking out of the international arrivals look for a transfer person holding a G Adventures sign and your name. Ask him/her what hotel he/she will take you to (do not volunteer this information). Then present your passport for proof of identity.
The tour departs Cape Town on Day 2 in the morning.
The tour ends upon arrival in Nairobi on the late afternoon of Day 54.
Arrival Complications
We don't expect any problems, and nor should you, but if for any reason you are unable to commence your trip as scheduled, as soon as possible please contact your starting point hotel, requesting that you speak to or leave a message for your trip leader (if you are not on a group tour please refer to the emergency contact details provided in this dossier). If you are unable to get in touch with your leader, please refer to our emergency contact details. If you have pre-booked an airport transfer and have not made contact with our representative within 30 minutes of clearing customs and immigration, we recommend that you make your own way to the Starting Point hotel, following the Joining Instructions. Please apply to your travel agent on your return for a refund of the transfer cost if this occurs.
Emergency Contact
Should you need to contact us during a situation of dire need, it is best to first call either the G Adventures Local Reprsentative (if one is listed below) or our G Adventures Local Office. If for any reason you do not receive an immediate answer, please leave a detailed message and contact information, so they may return your call and assist you as soon as possible.
AIRPORT TRANSFER
If you have purchased an arrival through G Adventures or if an arrival transfer is included in the cost of your tour, please note that:
Your arrival transfer has been arranged based on flight information provided to us. If you are advised of a flight schedule change within 48 hours of your scheduled arrival time, we will do our best to rearrange your arrival transfer however we cannot guarantee this. If your arrival transfer does not arrive within 30 minutes after you have exited the arrivals area please take a taxi to your start point hotel.
EMERGENCY CONTACT NUMBERS
G Adventures Local Representative (South Africa)
After Hours Emergency number
From outside South Africa: +27 82 556 4562
From within South Africa: 082 556 4562
If you are unable for any reason to contact our local office, please call the numbers listed below, which will connect you directly with our 24 hour Sales team, who will happily assist you.
Toll-free, North America only: 1 888 800 4100
Calls from UK: 0844 272 0000
Calls from Germany: 01805 70 90 30 00
Calls from Australia: 1 300 796 618
Calls from New Zealand: 0800 333 307
Outside North America, Australia, New Zealand, Germany and the UK: +1 416 260 0999
Finishing Point Instructions
The tour ends upon arrival into Nairobi, in the late afternoon, at the Hotel Boulevard in central Nairobi. In order to avoid any necessary issues with timing, please book your outgoing flight from Nairobi from 21:00 hrs or later.
There is no included accommodation for this night in Nairobi. You may choose to pre-reserve post-tour accommodation at through G Adventures.
What to Take
You will be on the move a lot, so our advice is to pack as lightly as possible. Your baggage should be clearly labeled and restricted to one soft compact suitcase, or sports bag, maximum 15kg, plus a daypack. Luggage limits on airlines are strictly enforced and space on vehicles is limited. Porters are not often available, so be prepared to carry your own bags. It is important to pack clothes for warm days and cool evenings, as well as a warm jacket for early morning game drives. A set of smart casual clothes is also advisable.
For our camping style tours you will need to provide your own sleeping bag, small pillow and sleeping sheet (if you would like). We provide the tent and the sleeping pads.
On this trip you may experience all four seasons. We suggest you take something warm eg tracksuit, fleece or pullover for the mountainous areas i.e. Bwindi or Virungas. It is at a higher altitude and will therefore be cooler in the evenings - a jersey, anorak/wind jacket and tracksuit pants would be suggested.
It will also be necessary to take some wet weather gear as it does rain in the mountainous areas of Uganda and Rwanda on a regular basis. We suggest lightweight rain gear for the walk to see the gorillas.
While gorilla trekking you will need a comfortable, hard wearing, pair of walking shoes or boots. Conditions are generally very muddy/slippery. There are uphill sections which may be quite steep and strenuous. It is also advisable to wear a long sleeve cotton shirt and lightweight long pants to protect yourself from the undergrowth, stinging nettles and biting ants. (Tracksuit pants often get caught on bushes, thorns, etc and jeans can get very heavy when wet). Gloves are also highly recommended – just cheap gardening gloves will do. Tuck your long pants into your socks/boots to avoid biting insects. Also take a water bottle, and a day pack for camera gear and to carry your jacket if it’s too warm.
Your clothes will in all likelihood get very muddy and may not recover to their original state - therefore take old clothing for the gorilla trekking. Hard wearing clothes, no bright colours, no army camouflage clothing should be worn. Greens, khaki and similar neutral clothes are recommended.
Checklist
•Fleece top
•Windproof/waterproof jacket and pants
-Gardening gloves
-Waterproof hiking boots
•Small towel and swimwear
•4 shirts/t-shirts
•Sun hat
•Warm sleeping bag
•1 pair of shorts
•2 pairs of long trousers
•1 pair hiking pants/track pants
•Hiking boots/sturdy walking shoes
•Sport sandals
•Sunblock
•Sunglasses
•Toiletries (biodegradable)
•Watch or alarm clock
•Water bottle
•Purification tablets or filter
•Pocketknife
•Flashlight (with extra batteries and bulbs)
•Money belt
•First-aid kit (should contain lip salve, Aspirin, bandaids, anti-histamine, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, rehydration powder, insect repellent, extra prescription drugs you may be taking)
NOTE: Insect netting covering windows and door of tent is provided. We also recommend to bring individual mosquito nets for better protection.
Optional Items:
Camera and film, reading/writing material, binoculars, cover for backpacks, bag or pouch for camera equipment while hiking/walking
Documents:
•Passport (with photocopies)
•Travel insurance (with photocopies)
•Yellow Fever Certificate (with photocopies)(If traveling from an endemic country).
•Airline tickets (with photocopies)
•USD cash and traveller's cheques
•Credit or debit card (see personal spending money)
•G Adventures vouchers, pre-departure information and dossier
•Any entry visas or vaccination certificates required
Laundry
Laundry facilities are offered by some of our hotels for a charge. There will be times when you may want to or have to do your own laundry so we suggest you bring non-polluting/biodegradable soap. Aboard the expedition ships Explorer and Andrea laundry facilities are provided at a charge. Aboard the Amazon Explorer laundry facilities are provided free of charge for each passenger once a week.
Visas
All countries require travellers to have a valid passport (with a minimum 6 months validity), and you are required to acquire the entry visas for each of the countries visited.
Please double check with your agent and/or visa agent what the visa requirements is for each country that you will be traveling to. Some countries do require that you get your visa before arrival. If you show up at a border and should you not have the required visa you will be denied entry to the country and be send back to the closest embassy/high commission to get the visa. All arrangements and expenses for that will be at your own cost. The CEO will assist you with travel arrangements but will not be able to accompany you. You will also have to catch up with the group at their next destination at own cost.
We have been experiencing a lot of problems with people that need visas for Namibia. Namibian visas are not always available at the border, so please make very sure if you do need a visa before arrival.
The information provided here is to be used as a guide only. Please consult with the relevant embassy or your travel agency before you travel. We cannot take any responsibility whatsoever for the use of this information.
South Africa
http://www.dha.gov.za/Counties%20Exempy%20from%20SA%20Visaa.html
http://www.home-affairs.gov.za/Applying%20for%20a%20South%20African%20visa.html
http://www.southafrica.info/travel/documents/visas.htm
Visas are not issued at South African ports of entry, and airline officials are obliged to insist on visas before allowing passengers to board. If you arrive without a visa, immigration officials are obliged to put you onto a flight back to your home country.
If you are a passport holder of the following countries/areas you do not need a visa for stays of LESS THAN 90 days:
African Union / Unity Laissez Passes, Andorra, Argentina, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Botswana, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Czech Republic, Denmark, Ecuador, Finland, Japan, Liechtenstein, Luxemburg, Malta, Monaco, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Paraguay, Portugal, San Marino, Singapore, Spain, St Vincent & the Grenadines, Sweden, Switzerland, United Kingdom, Uruguay, Venezuela, United States of America, France, Germany, Greece, Iceland, Israel, Italy, Jamaica
If you are a passport holder of the following countries/areas you do not need a visa for stays of LESS THAN 30 days:
Antigua and Barbuda,Barbados,Belize,Benin,Bolivia,Hong Kong,Hungary,Jordan,Lesotho,Malaysia Cape Verde,Costa Rica,Cyprus,Gabon,Guyana,Peru,Poland,Seychelles,Slovak Republic ,South Korea,Swaziland,Thailand,Turkey,Zambia
Visa costs
The visa fee is different for every nationality, so please check this with your agent or closest embassy.
Namibia
http://www.namibia.org.za/consular.htm
http://www.namibiatourism.com.na/visas/
Visas cannot be obtained on arrival.
FOREIGN NATIONALS EXEMPTED FROM VISA REQUIREMENTS WHEN TRAVELLING TO NAMIBIA
Angola, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Botswana, Brazil, Canada, Cuba, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Iceland, India (Diplomatic and Official Passport up to 3 Months), Ireland. Italy, Japan, Kenya, Lesotho, Lienchtenstein, Luxemburg, Malaysia, Macau (SAR), Malawi, Mauritius, Mozambique, New Zealand, Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Russian Federation ( Including States of the former U.S.S.R), South Africa, Singapore, Spain, Swaziland, Sweden, Switzerland, Tanzania, United Kingdom, United States of America, Zambia, Zimbabwe.
Other categories must obtain VISAs
Visa costs
Please enquire with your agent or closest embassy.
Botswana
http://www.botswanaembassy.org/index.php?page=visa-consular
http://www.botswanatourism.co.bw/entryFormalities.php
Visas cannot be obtained at the border.
Countries that does not require a visa for Botswana
Antigua & Barbuda, Argentina, Australia, Austria, Bahamas, Barbados, Belgium, Belize, Brazil,Brunei Darussalam, Bulgaria, Canada, Chile, Costa Rica, Croatia, Cyprus, Denmark, Dominica, Dominican Republic, Estonia, Fiji, Finland, France, Gambia, Germany, Greece, Grenada, Guyana, Holy See, Hong Kong, Hungary,Iceland, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Jamaica, Japan, Kenya, Kiribati, Lesotho, Liechtenstien, Latvia, Lithuania, Luzembourg, Malawi, Malaysia, Maldives, Malta, Mauritius, Mexico, Monaco, Mozambique, Namibia,Nauru, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway & Colonies*, Papua New Guinea, Paraguay, Peru, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Russia, Samoa, San Marico, Seychelles, Sierra Leone, Singapore, Slovak Republic, Solomon Islands, South Africa, South Korea (Republic Of), Spain, St. Kitts And Nevis, St. Lucia, St. Vincent & The Gurenadines, Swaziland, Sweden, Switzerland, Tanzania, Tonga, Trinidad & Tobago, Tuvalu, Uganda, United Kingdom, United States Of America, Uruguay, Vanuatu, Venezuela, Zambia, Zimbabwe.
Countries that do require a visa for Botswana
Afghanistan, Albania, Algeria, Andorra, Angola,Armenia, Azerbaijan, Bangladesh, Burkina Faso, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Belarus, Benin, Bhutan, Bolivia, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cambodia, Cameroon, Cape Verde, Central African Republic, Chad, China, Columbia, Comoros, Congo (Republic Of), Congo (Democratic Republic Of), Cote D’ivoire (Ivory Coast), Cuba, Czech Republic, Djibouti, Ecuador, Egypt, El Salvador, Equitorial Guinea, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Gabon, Georgia, Ghana, Guatemala, Guinea, Guinea Bissau, Haiti, Honduras, India, Indonesia, Iran, Iraq, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Korea (Dem. Peoples Rep), Kuwait, Kyrgyzstan (Kirghizia), Laos (Peoples Dem. Rep), Lebanon, Liberia, Libya, Macedonia, Madagascar, Mali, Mauritania, Micronesia, Moldova, Mongolia, Montenegro, Morroco, Myanmar (Burma), Nepal, Nicaragua, Niger, Nigeria, Oman, Pakistan, Palau, Panama, Phillippines, Qatar, Rwanda, Sao Tome & Principe, Saudi Arabia, Senegal, Serbia, Somalia, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Sumatra, Suriname, Syria, Taiwan, Tajikistan, Thailand, Togo, Tunisia, Turkey, Turkmenistan, Ukraine, United Arab Emirates, Uzbekistan, Vatican City, Vietnam, Yemen
Visa costs
Please enquire from your agent and/or embassy
Zambia
http://www.zambiaimmigration.gov.zm/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=93&Itemid=118
http://www.zambiaimmigration.gov.zm/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=92&Itemid=117
Most nationals can purchase their visas upon arrival. Some nationals do have to obtain a visa before arriving in Lusaka such as Greek, Turkish, Indian, Chinese. But please double check with your agent and/or closest embassy.
Visas issued at ports of entry or missions abroad
Albania, Andorra, Angola, Argentina, Australia, Austria, Belarus, Belgium, Bolivia, Brazil, Britain, Brunei, Bulgaria, Burma (Myanmar), Burundi, Cambodia, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Congo Brazzaville, Cook Islands, Costarica, Cuba, Czech Republic, Democratic Republic, Denmark, Djibouti, Ecuador, Egypt, Eritrea, Estonia, Ethiopia, France, German, Ghana, Greece, Guatemala, Guyana, Haiti, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Honduras, Hungary, Iceland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Kazakhstan, Laos, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourgm, Madagascar, Macedonia, Mexico, Moldova, Monaco, Mongolia, Nauru, Nepal, Netherlands, New Caledonia, New Zealand, Nicaragua, Norway, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Philippines, Poland, Portugal, Puerto Rico, Russia, Rwanda, Saotome and Prince, Slovakia Republic, Slovenia Republic, South Korea, Spain, St Lucia, Sweden, Switzerland, Thailand, Turkey, Ukraine, United Kingdom (UK), United States of America, Uruguay, Western Sahara, Venezuela, Vietnam
Countries not requiring a visa
Anguilla, Antigua and Bermuda, Australian Antarctic Territory, Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Bermuda, Botswana, British Antarctic Territory, British Indian Ocean Territory, British Virgin Islands, Brunei, Cayman Islands, Channel Islands, Cook Island, Cyprus, Dominica, Falkland Islands, Falkland Islands Dependencies, Fiji Islands, Gilbraltar, Grenada, Ireland, Isle of Man, Jamaica, Kenya, Kiribati, Lesotho, Malawi, Malaysia, Maldives, Malta, Mauritius, Montserrat, Mozambique, Namibia, Nauru, Niue, Norfolk Island, Pitcairn Islands, Romania, Ross Dependency, St. Helena, St. Kitts and Nevis, St. Lucia, St. Vincent and Grenadines, Samoa, Serbia-Montenegro, Seychelles, Singapore, Solomon Islands, South Africa, Swaziland, Tanzania, Tokelau, Tonga, Trinidad and Tobago, Tuvalu, Turks and Caicos Island, Uganda, Vanuatu, Western Samoa, Zimbabwe
Types of VISAS and the Applicable Fees – Please use as guideline only.
Single Entry- US $50.
Double Entry- US $80
Multiple Entry- US $80
Malawi
http://www.malawiembassy-dc.org/index.php?page=visa-information
http://www.malawitourism.com/pages/content/index.asp?PageID=77
Please be aware that some travellers may require a VISA before arriving in Malawi. To determine whether you require a VISA prior to arrival check the information at the following link: http://malawi.com.au/?page_id=73. To avoid unnecessary delays, or the possibility of being denied entry, please ensure that you have a VISA prior to arrival if one is required."
Like many countries, visitors to Malawi who are traveling on a Category A passport do not require a VISA prior to arrival in Malawi provided they are staying for less than 30 days and are bona fide tourists. Category A passport holders are listed on most Malawian Embassy and Consular websites.
To apply for a Visa, the Passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the date of intended departure.
Visas are not available upon entry and must be obtained in advance.
All countries listed in below, do not require a visa if they are intending to stay in the country for a maximum of 30 days after which they will require a visa
Antigua, Barbuda, Australia, Bahamas, Barbados, Belgium, Belize, Brunei, Canada, Cyprus, Denmark, Dominica Republic, Fiji, France, Gambia, Germany, Ghana, Grenada, Guyana, Iceland, Israel, Ireland, Italy, Jamaica, Japan, Kenya, Kiribati, Lesotho, Luxembourg, Madagascar, Malaysia, Maldives, Malta, Mauritius, Maldives, Mozambique, Namibia, Nauru, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Papua New Guinea, Portugal, Samoa (Western), San Marino, Seychelles, Sierra Leone, Singapore, Solomon Island, South Africa, Sri-Lanka, St. Kitts- Nevis, St. Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines.
Nationals of all countries listed in below, require a visa if they are intending to visit Malawi
Afghanistan, Albania, Algeria, American Samoa, Andorra, Angola, Anguilla, Antarctica, Argentina, Armenia, Aruba, Ascension Island, Austria, Azerbaijan, Barrain, Bangladesh, Belarus, Benin, Bermuda, Bhutan, Bolivia, Bosnia And Herzegovina, Bouvet Island, Brazilbritish Indian Ocean Territory, Bulgaria, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cambodia, Cameroon, Cape Verde, Cayman Island, Central African Republic, Chad, Chile, Christmas Island, Cocos (Keeling) Islands, Colombia, Comoros, Democratic Republic Of Congo (Kinshasa), Congo, Republic Of Brazaville, Cook Islands, Costa Rica, Ivory Coast, Croatia, Cuba, Czech Republic, People's Republic Of China, Djibouti, Dominican Republic, East Timor Timor-Leste, Ecuador, Egypt, El Salvador, Equatorial Guine, Eritrea, Estonia , Ethiopia, Falkland Islands, Faroe Islands, French Guiana, French Metropolitan, French Polynesia, French Southern Territories, Gabon, Georgia, Ghana, Gibraltar, Greece, Greenland, Guadeloupe, Guam, Guatemala, Guernsey , Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Haiti, Heard And Mc Donald Islands, Holy See, Honduras, Hong Kong, Hungary, India, Indonesia, Iran (Islamic Republic Of), Iraq, Isle Of Man, Jersey, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Korea, Democratic People's Rep.(North Korea), Korea, Republic Of (South Korea), Kuwait, Kyrgyzstan, Lao, People's Democratic Republic, Latvia , Lebanon, Liberia, Libya, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Macau, Macedonia, Republic Of, Mali, Marshall Islands Martinique, Mauritania, Mayotte, Mexico, Micronesia, Federal States Of Moldova, Republic Of Monaco, Mongolia, Montenergo, Montserrat, Morocco, Myanmar, Burma, Nepal, Netherlands, Antilles, New Caledonia, Nicaragua, Niger, Nigeria, Niue , Norfolk Island, Northern Mariana Islands, Oman, Pakistan, Palau, Palestinian National Authority, Panama, Paraguay, Peru Philippines, Pitcairn Island, Poland, Puerto Rico, Qatar, Reunion Island, Romania, Russian Federation, Rwanda, Sao Tome And Principe, Saudi Arabia, Senegal, Serbia, Singapore, Slovakia (Slavak Republic), Slovenia, Somalia, South Georgia And South Sandwich Islands, Saint Helena, St. Pierre And Miquelon, Sudan, Suriname, Svalbard And Jan Mayen Islands, Switzerland, Syria, Syrian Arab Republic, Tajikistan, Thailand, Tibet, Timor-Leste (East Timor), Togo, Tokelau, Tunisia, Turkey, Turkmenistan, Turks And Caicos Islands, Ukraine, United Arab Emirates, U.S. Minor Outlying Islands, Uruguay, Uzbekistan
Other
Nationals of Iceland, Israel, Madagascar, Norway and San Marino do not require a visa if they are intending to stay in the country for a maximum of 30 days after which they will require a visa.
NOTE: Visitors on a visitors’ permit, can extend their stay to a maximum of 90 days upon payment of a prescribed fee for every 30days extension.
Visa cost.
Please use as a guideline only. Contact visa agent and/or embassy for up to date prices.
Single-entry: USD150 (three months)
Tanzania
http://www.tanzaniaembassy-us.org/tzevisa.html
http://www.tanzaniatouristboard.com/plan-your-trip/visa-information/
All countries not mentioned below will need a visa. You can get a visa on arrival at the airport or at any entry point into Tanzania. But please double check your visa requirements before departure.
No Visa is required for nationals of the following countries:
Botswana, Gambia, Ghana, Hong Kong, Kenya, Leshoto, Malawi, Malaysia, Mozambique, Namibia, Swaziland, Uganda, Zambia and Zimbabwe.
Referred Visas are required for nationals of the following countries:
The referred visa is one that requires special clearance or permission from the Director of Immigration Services in Dar es Salaam or the Principal Immigration Officer in Zanzibar.
Afghanistan, Abkhazia, Azerbaijan, Bangladesh, Chad, Djibouti, Ethiopia, Equiatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Lebanon, Mali, Mauritania, Morocco, Niger, Palestine, Refugees and Stateless individuals, Senegal, Somalia, Sierra Leone, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzten, and Sri Lanka.
IT IS EMPHASIZED THAT NATIONALS AND PERSONS OF THE MENTIONED COUNTRIES AND/OR CATEGORIES ABOVE MAY NOT BE ALLOWED ENTRY INTO TANZANIA WITHOUT BEING IN POSSESSION OF REFERRED VISAS.
Visa Costs – Please use only as a guideline
US Citizens ONLY: US$100.00. This fee will apply to single and all multiple entry visas.
Non-US Citizens: Visa fees are US$50.00 for single entry, and US$100.00 for double entry
Kenya
http://www.kenyaembassy.com/visa.html
http://www.magicalkenya.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=79&Itemid=344
Please note that upon arrival by air to Nairobi, Kenya, you can obtain a visa for US$50. This visa is normally valid for up to 3 months with multiple entries/exits permitted to Uganda and Tanzania only. Please note that Kenya is now strictly enforcing a "blank pages, condition of entry". All those requiring a visa on arrival must have at least two blank pages available in their passports. Failure to meet this requirement could mean that entry will be refused.
Border crossing from Kenya to Tanzania is through Tarime Border Post, and from Tanzania to Kenya at Namanga Border Post
Persons aged 16 years and below will require a visa to enter Kenya.
Nationals(Passport Holders)of the following countries do not require visas to enter Kenya:
Barbados, Belize, Botswana, Brunei Darussalam, Burundi, Cyprus, Dominica, Fiji Island, Ghana, Grenada, Jamaica, Kiribati, Lesotho, Malawi, Malaysia (For less than 30 days stay), Maldives, Malta, Mauritius, Namibia, Nauru, Papua New Guinea, Rwanda, Samoa, St. Kitts and Navis, Sierra Leona, Singapore, Solomon Islands, South Africa (For less than 30 days stay), St. Lucia, Swaziland, Seychelles, The Gambia, Tanzania, The Bahamas, Tonga, Trinidad and Tobago, Tuvalu, Uganda, Vanuatu, Zambia, Zimbabwe, St. Vincent and the Grenadines
Nationals of the following countries require a visa
Albania, Algeria, Andorra, Angola, Argentina, Australia, Austria, Bahrain, Bangladesh, Belarus, Belgium, Benin, Bhutan, Bolivia, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Brazil, Bulgaria, Burkina Faso, Cambodia, Canada, Cape Verde, Central African Rep., Chad, Chile (Nationalist), China (China Peoples Republic), Columbia, Comoros, Congo Brazzaville, Costa Rica, Cote d’ Ivoire/ Ivory Coast, Croatia, Cuba, Czech Republic, Denmark, `Djibouti, Dominican Rep, DRC, East Timor, Egypt, El Salvador, Ecuador, Equatorial Guinea, Estonia, Finland, France, French Guyana, Gabon, Georgia, Germany, Greece, Greenland, Guatemala, Guinea, Guinea Bissau, Haiti, Holders of Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR), Honduras, Hungary, Iceland, Indonesia, Iran, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Kampuchea, Kazakhstan, Kirghistan, Korea (South), Kuwait, Laos, Lativia, Liberia, Libya, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Macedonia, Madagascar, Malagasy, Malta, Mauritania, Mexico, Moldavia, Monaco, Mongolia, Morocco, Mozambique, Myanmar (formally Burma), Nepal, Netherlands, Nicaragua, Niger, Nigeria, Norway, Oman, Pakistan, Palau Pacific Isles, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Philippines, Poland, Portugal, Qatar, Reunion, Romania, Russia, Salvador, Sao Tome and Principe, Saudi Arabia, Serbia and Montenegro, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sri Lanka, St.Christopher Cape, Sudan, Surinam, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan (Endorsement made on a paper visitor’s pass), Thailand, Togo, Tunisia, Turkey, Turkmenistan, U.S.A., Ukraine, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, Uruguay, Uzbekistan, Vatican City, Venezuela, Vietnam, Yemen, Yugoslavia-and also Former, States of Yugoslavia.
Visa costs
a)Single entry Visa Most nationalities $50.00
Uganda
http://www.ugandahighcommission.co.uk/ConsularInformation/VisaInfo.aspx
Visa Fees:
Single entry visa:
A Single entry visa is valid for three months from the date of issue and costs £25 (in the UK) or $50 (at entry point in Uganda).
Multiple entry visa:
A six-month multiple entry visa costs £65 (sixty five pounds). Other categories of multiple entry visas (12 months, 24 months & 36 months) can be applied for at the Ministry of Internal Affairs, Kampala. Information on these other categories can be got on the Ministry of Internal Affairs’ website: www.mia.go.ug.
Uganda visas may be obtained at Uganda missions abroad or on arrival at the country’s exit /entry stations
LIST OF COUNTRIES WHOSE NATIONALS DO NOT REQUIRE TO PAY FOR A VISA TO ENTER UGANDA:
Angola, Antigua, Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Burundi, Comoros, Cyprus, Eritrea, Fiji, Gambia, Grenada, Italy (Diplomatic Passport holders only), Jamaica, Ireland, Kenya, Lesotho, Malawi, Malta, Mauritius, Madagascar, Rwanda, Seychelles, Sierra Leone, Singapore, Solomon Islands, St. Vincent and Grenadines, Swaziland, Tanzania, Tonga, Vanuatu, Zambia and Zimbabwe.
Nationals of these countries are issued gratis (free of charge) visas upon their arrival.
This information is accurate at the time of writing, and please contact your local embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date visa requirements and costs, regarding these, and the other countries visited, or see your travel agent. It is your responsibility to have the correct travel documentation.
Destination Guide
For practical information on weather, typical costs, visa information, special events and much more, our Destination Travel Guide is the place to visit! This handy guide will tell you everything you need to know about everywhere we go! Head to http://www.gadventures.com/travel-guide for detailed information on the countries and cities we visit.
Detailed Trip Notes
Anyone who is generally active and in good health should enjoy this trip. This is not a physically demanding journey; however, travelling can be difficult, with long drives and poor road conditions at times. Despite this, most clients feel that the diversity of the African landscape, culture and wildlife are all well worth the experience. We use a comfortable and safe customized safari truck for the long open road drives. This is a true African experience for outdoor enthusiasts interested in culture, adventure and wildlife, who enjoy simple campsites and basic wild camps. We will get dusty on occasion; but this is Africa!
Other Trip Comments
An essential part of your safari is participation - from putting up your tent (while camping) or packing away in the morning, to helping with meal preparation and cleaning up - it is all part of your adventure and when everyone puts in a little effort the trip will run smoothly. Your tour leaders will do all the meal preparation, but we do ask the clients to help with the washing up. Team spirit is part of the fun!
Language
There are multiple official languages in Namibia, Botswana, South Africa, Zambia, , Zimbabwe, Malawi and Tanzania, although English is widely spoken. There are also numerous dialects spoken throughout different parts of these lands.
SOUTH AFRICA
Full country name: Republic of South Africa
Area: 1,221,037km2 (447,443mi2)
Population: 47,432,000 (July 2005 estimate), 44,819,278 (Census 2001)
Capital cities: Cape Town (Legislative), Pretoria (Admistrative) and Bloemfontein (Judicial)
People: Zulu, Afrikaners, Xhosa, Basotho (South Sotho), English South Africans, Bapedi (North Sotho), Indian/Asian, Venda, Tswana, Tsonga, Swazi, Ndebele, others
Language: Afrikaans, English, Zulu, Xhosa, Swati, Ndebele, Southern Sotho, Northern Sotho, Tsonga, Tswana, Venda
Religion: Zion Christian 11%, Pentecostal/Charismatic 8%, Catholic 7%, Methodist 7%, Dutch Reformed 7%, Anglican 4%, other Christian 36%, Islam 2%, none 15%
Government: Parliamentary democracy
Major industries: mining (world's largest producer of platinum, gold, chromium), automobile assembly, metal working, machinery, textiles, iron and steel, chemicals, fertilizer, food stuff, commercial ship repair.
Major trading partners: U.S., UK, Japan, Germany, Netherlands, China, France, Saudi Arabia, Iran (2004).
Currency: Rand (ZAR), consisting of 100 cents
NAMIBIA
Full country name: Republic of Namibia
Area: 824,292 sq km (318,259 sq mi)
Population: 2,032,000 (July 2005 est) 1.820,916 (Census 2002)
Capital city: Windhoek (pop 161,000)
People: 86% African (50% Owambo, 9% Kavango, 7% Herero, 7% Damara, 5% Nama, 4% Caprivian, 3% San, 2% Baster, 0.5% Tswana), 7.4% mixed, 6.6% white Languages: English, Afrikaans, German, Oshivambo, Herero, Nama
Religion: Christian, Lutheran, native religions
Government: Republic
President: Sam Nujoma
Major industries: Meat packing, fish processing, dairy products, mining (diamond, lead, zinc, tin, silver, tungsten, uranium, copper), millet, sorghum, peanuts, livestock, fish, tourism.
Major trading partners: UK, South Africa, Spain, Japan, Germany, USA
Formally known as South West Africa. The whole territory became German protectorate in 1884, except for the British/Cape Colony enclave of Walvis Bay. After the First World War the territory was administered by South Africa until independence on 21 March 1990. The capital is Windhoek and the second largest town is Walvis Bay, Namibia’s only port. Swakopmund is a coastal town with a German influence and revolves mainly around tourism. Namibia’s economy relies on diamond mining in the south, cattle farming in the north, fishing along the coast and tourism. Most of the country is desert or semi desert. There is a population of around 1.8 million. This, around 1, 5 people per sq. km is one of the lowest in the world. The official language is English although there are many different cultures including Herero, San, Koikoi, Owambo, Afrikaans and German. Namibia was at one stage a German colony therefore having German-speaking people. About 75% of the locals are Christian and the others have traditional beliefs. Namibia is a land of contrasts. Being largely semi-desert and desert, midsummer temperatures may rise to 40°C, while winter night temperatures can drop to freezing. Along the coast it is cool, with regular morning fogs. Namibia’s rain falls in summer, from October to April, and the land averages 300 days of sunshine annually.
BOTSWANA
Full country name: Republic of Botswana
Area: 600,370 sq km (231,800 sq mi)
Population: 1.6 million Capital city: Gaborone (pop 192,000)
People: Botswana 60%, Bakalanga, Basarwa, Bakgalagadi
Languages: English, Setswana
Religions: indigenous beliefs 50%, Christian 50%
Government: parliamentary republic
President: Festus Mogae
Major industries: diamonds, copper, nickel, coal, salt, soda ash, potash, livestock processing, sorghum, maize, millet, pulses, groundnuts (peanuts), beans, cowpeas, sunflower seed, livestock
Major trading partners: EU, Southern African Customs Union (SACU), Zimbabwe
The first inhabitants of Botswana were the San (Bushmen). They still populate the country, but the Tswana tribe is now more prominent. Other tribes include the Kalanga, Nbukushy, Yei and the Herero. The Herero women still wear the full-length Victorian-style dresses, which were introduced to them by German missionaries in the late 1800’s, however it is now a tribal trademark. The British controlled Bechuanaland (as Botswana was then known) from 1885 until the country received their independence on September 30th 1966. Ironically diamonds were discovered in Botswana in 1967! Interesting fact – Botswana’s diamonds do very well on the International market as they are classified as “Blood free,” meaning they are not used to fund guerrilla warfare. Botswana has the strongest economy and currency in Africa, mostly due to their diamonds and livestock. The European Union put many stipulations on their imported meats and Botswana’s tight vetenary checks, aiming at controlling foot and mouth, mean that the EU are happy to buy their meat. Agricultural income will improve when they have combated the problem of widespread drought. They are currently installing irrigation systems around the country to try to feed the most water-deprived areas. Botswana handles it’s international debt much better than any other African country with the interest being paid with one months export earnings, rather than the six months earnings it takes most other African countries. With the amount of for ex the have saved up the country could survive with no income for 36 months. Botswana has the world’s highest birth rate at 3.5%, and average women have 5 children. The country has a strong currency, the Pula meaning rain and the Thebe meaning raindrop. Government policies and poaching: Their policy on tourism is “high cost and low impact” therefore rather having a few less tourists and charging more money for the privilege of a visit to a park or similar. The country has a very good army, which has an anti poaching unit. Poaching has in the past been a problem in the country but in now almost under control. The army is allowed to shoot to kill without asking questions if you are caught poaching. Rhinos are very few due to poaching and they have breeding programs in place.
ZAMBIA
Full country name: Zambia
Area: 752,615km2 (17th largest in Africa)
Population: 10.4 million
Capital city: Lusaka
Largest Towns: Lusaka, Ndola, Livingstone, Kabwe, Kitwe.
People: Bemba, Tonga, Nyanja, Ngoni, Lozi plus many other different groups as well as Colonial ex-pats and people of Asian descent
Official Language: English
Other Languages: Bemba, Tonga, Nyanja, Lozi
Religion: Christian, ZCC and Islam
Government: Multiparty parliamentary democracy
President: Levy Mwanawasa
Currency: Kwacha
Major industries: Agriculture (mainly subsistence farming), mining, tourism
• Formally called Northern Rhodesia, Zambia gained its independence from colonial Great Britain in 1964.
• By the end of 1970, Zambia has become one of the poorest countries in the world due to corruption, mismanagement of the economy and a fall in the world copper price.
• In the 1990s Kuanda, the president since independence, was forced to amend the constitution, legalizing opposition parties and setting full elections in 1991. They were defeated by Frederick Chiluba. However, Zambia’s situation has not improved.
• The country has three distinct seasons: cool and dry from May to August, hot and dry in September and October and rainy between November and April.
• The majority of the population are subsistence farmers and there are also some large commercial farms growing sugar cane.
INTERESTING FACTS
1. Zambia is the fourth-largest supplier of copper in the world and the leading producer of cobalt. Combined the mining of these two minerals accounts for 75% of Zambia’s foreign exchange and 5% of employment in the country.
2. There are 73 officially recognized ethnic groups living within Zambia’s borders, each with their own culture and language.
3. Unlike many African countries, Zambia’s borders do not adhere to any logical language or tribal boundaries.
4. Unlike neighbouring Botswana the Zambian government does not have a comprehensive anti-poaching policy and poaching remains a major problem facing Zambia’s wildlife.
5. Approx 750 different species of bird have been recorded in Zambia. 6. The Victoria Falls on the Zambian side is known as “Mosi oa Tunya” (the smoke that thunders)
MALAWI
Full country name: Republic of Malawi
Area: 118,500km2 (35 that)
Population: 10.4 million
Capital city: Lilongwe (pop 260,000)
People: Chewa, Nyanja, Tumbuko, Yao, Lomwe, Sena, Tonga, Ngoni, Ngonde, Asian, European
Languages: English, Chichewa, regional languages
Religion: 55% Protestant, 20% Roman Catholic, 20% Muslim, traditional indigenous beliefs
Government: Multi-party democracy
President: Bakili Muluzi
Major industries: Tea, tobacco, sugar, sawmill products, cement, consumer goods, tobacco, sugarcane, cotton, tea, corn, potatoes, cassava (tapioca), sorghum, pulses, cattle, goats
Major trading partners: US, South Africa, Germany, Japan, Zimbabwe, UK Currency: Kwacha (K)
TANZANIA - Official Statistics
Full country name: United Republic of Tanzania (Jamhuri ya Muungano wa Tanzania)
Area: 945,087 km2
Population: 38,329,000-July 2005 est (34,443,603-2002 census)
Capital city: Dodoma
People: 99% native African (over 100 tribes), 1% Asian, European and Arabic
Languages Swahili, English, indigenous.
Religion: 40% Christian, 33% Muslim, 20% indigenous beliefs
Government: Republic (multi-party state)
President: Benjamin William Mkapa
Major industries: Tobacco, sugar, sisal, diamond and gold mining, oil refining, cement, tourism
Major trading partners: India, Germany, Japan, Malaysia, Rwanda, the Netherlands, South Africa, Kenya, U.K., Saudi Arabia, China Currency: Tanzanian shilling
TANZANIA - Interesting Facts
• The name is name made up from an amalgamation of TANganyika and ZANzibar.
• Tanzania is the largest country in East Africa (although not in Africa as a whole, the Sudan is 3 times larger); it’s landmass covering an area of just over 945,087 sq. km (including Zanzibar).
- This makes Tanzania about the size of France, Germany and Switzerland combined; 3 times the size of the entire British Isles or one-tenth the size of the whole of the USA.
- Tanzania’s population at the last official census was 31.3 million, with approximately one third being classified as “urban”.
- Agriculture forms roughly half of GDP and agriproducts (e.g.: coffee, tea, tobacco, cashew nut, sisal, cotton) some 75% of export earnings. • Dodoma, in central Tanzania, is the political capital of the country although Dar es Salaam is the effective trading and business capital, with its safe harbour (""Dar es Salaam” means “Haven of Peace”), international airport and population of some 1.75million.
KENYA - Official Statistics
Full country name: Republic of Kenya (Jamhuri Ya Kenya)
Area: 580,367 km2
Population: 34,256,000-July 2005 est. (31,138,735- 2002 Census)
Capital city: Nairobi
People: 22% Kikuyu, 14% Luhya, 13% Luo, 12% Kalenjin, 11% Kamba, 6% Kisii, 6% Meru, 16% other
Languages: English, Swahili, indigenous.
Religion: 35% Protestant, 30% Roman Catholic, 30% Muslim, 5% Animist
Government: Republic (multiparty state)
President: Mwai Kibaki
Major industries: small-scale consumer goods (plastic, furniture, beer, batteries, textiles, flour), agricultural processing, oil refining, chemicals, cement, tourism.
Major trading partners: Uganda, Tanzania, UK, Germany, UAE, South Africa
KENYA - Interesting Facts
• At 580,367 km2 the country is two and a half times the size of Britain.
• The population is over 30 million and has one of the world’s fastest growth rates.
• Kenya gained independence in 1963 after 80 years of British rule. • Most Kenyans are subsistence farmers.
• Coffee and tea are grown commercially and tourism is also a huge income for the country. The country is still in huge debt though and has few mineral resources and corruption is again a problem.
• The country lies on the equator and has good national parks and Mount Kenya the second highest peak in Africa. It also has good beaches and colourful people. Nairobi is the capital and Mombassa the countries port city.
UGANDA - Official Statistics
Area: 235,796sq km (32nd in Africa)
Population: 26,219,000
Capital City: Kampala
Official language: English
Other languages: KiSwahili (widely spoken, but not indigenous), Luganda, Runyoro
Head of state: President Yoweri Museveni
Life expectancy: 52 years
Literacy: 70%
Per Capita Income: US$220
Main industry: Tourism
Major Cultures: Bantu, Batembuzi, Baganda, Asian (Indian)
Relgion: Christian, ZCC and Muslim.
Uganda enjoys ideal equatorial weather conditions, ranging from the warmth of the lowland areas and lakeshores to the coolness of the highlands. The altitude on a Uganda safari varies from 1,000 metres to 2,400 metres above sea level. The days are a pleasant 75 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit and nights are a moderate 50 to 60 degrees Fahrenheit with January being the warmest month. At higher altitudes it can be cooler, especially at Bwindi. The long rainy season is between March and May and the short rains are from October to November, but it can rain at any time of the year. The rainy season can sometimes make travel difficult but the views are clearer. It can be cool in the evenings, especially in the hilly and mountainous areas. Despite the high temperatures and rainfall, due to altitude, the humidity is low, making for one of the most pleasant and comfortable climates in the world.
Spending Money
Every traveller is different and therefore spending money requirements will vary. Some travellers may drink more than others while other travellers like to purchase more souvenirs than most. Please consider your own spending habits when it comes to allowing for drinks, shopping and tipping. Please also remember the following specific recommendations when planning your trip.
Money Exchange
The currency in South Africa is the South African Rand (ZAR). The South African rand is also an accepted form of payment in Namibia.
The Namibian currency is the Namibian Dollar (NAD), which is equivalent to the South African Rand.
In Botswana, you pay with Pula (BWP) and the official currency of Zambia is the Zambian Kwacha, denoted by ZMK.
It is advisable to pay in US$ in Zambia, as it is not that easy to get a good exchange rate, however, change will then be in Kwacha.
Malawi uses the Kwacha (MWK) and Tanzania, Kenya and Uganda use the Shilling, denoted by TZS, KES and UGX respectively.
Each of the countries visited on this tour has their own currency, and all can be obtained locally by changing foreign currency or by using ATMs (where available) which will disperse local currency. Your CEO will inform you where you can change money throughout the tour and approximately how much money you will need for each country.
The easiest foreign currency to exchange for locally for any of the local currencies is the $US; however the British Pound and Euro may also be exchanged as well. Please note that due to past problems with forgery, $US notes that are older than year 2002 are not accepted in Africa.
Large note ($US 50, $US 100 etc) can be difficult to change in some places, but will gain you the best exchange rate.
If you plan to rely on cash, please bring foreign currency (Euro, Pound, USD) with you, as it is often expensive to buy these currencies locally. And in more rural areas, it is often not likely.
If you plan to buy your visas at borders, you will need to bring $USD cash to pay for these visas. Please note you cannot use the local currency or any other currency to buy these visas- they must be purchased in USD.
Please do not bring Travellers’ cheques to Africa. They are difficult if not impossible to exchange in many places.
Visa/Plus system cards are the most widely accepted debit cards. it is harder to find machines Mastercard/Cirrus cards. We highly recommend that if you hold a Mastercard, you obtain a Visa card prior to departure and travel with both. This is also useful should somethingunforeseen happen to one of your cards during your travels.
While there are many ATMs in the major centres, there are no guarantees that your credit or debit cards will actually work in Africa. Check with your bank.
Credit cards can be used in major cities and towns ONLY but please do not rely on them as a method of payment because they are generally not widely accepted. You should be aware that to purchase products or services on a credit card a fee of 5%-10% usually applies. The majority of our optional activities can also be paid by credit card. Your CEO will advise on these.
Please note that in many areas there may be occasional power-outages, where there will be no electricity for hours at a time. In addition, ATMs outside of larger centers often run out of cash or can be out of order unexpectedly. These factors could affect your ability to access money from ATMs. As such, please do not rely on credit or debit cards as your only source of money.
A combination of foreign currency and debit/credit cards for cash advances is best. Always take more rather than less, as you don't want to spoil the trip by constantly feeling short of funds.
As currency exchange rates can fluctuate often we ask that you refer to the following website for daily exchange rates: www.xe.com.
Emergency Fund
Please also make sure you have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an 'emergency' fund, to be used when circumstances outside our control (ex. a natural disaster) require a change to our planned route. This is a rare occurrence!
Departure Tax
USD40, may be included in the international air ticket
Tipping
Tipping is an expected - though not compulsory and optional (up to the discretion of the group/guest) - component of your tour program and an expression of satisfaction with the persons who have assisted you on your tour. It is one of the most direct ways that you can have a positive economic impact within the African community. Although it may not be customary for you, it is of considerable significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels, as an important source of income for those in the tourism industry. Giving a tip should be a seen as a formal 'thank you', and the action should in no way be awkward. The best method of tipping someone that has served the whole group is to plan in advance, and not rush when it comes to saying goodbye. A suggestion would be for each group member to contribute anonymously by putting their tip into an envelope. This often works the best and the group as a whole should gather to present the gift to the recipient(s), offering their thanks and showing their appreciation. This method brings the action out into the open, allowing for a friendly and appreciative interaction between the group and the recipient(s). You may use the following as a guideline, all given in a per client format: Restaurant/Café servers: 10% of cost of bill, especially when in a large group (no envelope required); Driver / Camp Cook / Tour Leader US$3/4 each, per day worked, per traveller. While on safari in Tanzania: Certified Safari Guide/Driver: US$3-5 (full day); Camp Cook, Supply Driver US$2-3 (full day).
Optional Activities
CUSTOMIZE YOUR ADVENTURE
Our trip designers work very hard to assemble the life-altering experiences that fill this adventure. That said, our travellers are a diverse group driven by all sorts of different tastes, motivations and interests. What’s a trip designer to do? The solution? Theme Packs! Specially designed for travellers with unique interests, theme packs are optional add-ons to your G adventures trip that make your adventure more you-centric. Theme Packs must be booked prior to departure.
Theme Packs available on this trip:
SERENGETI BALLOON SAFARI
Serengeti, 1-hour
Spirited aloft in a hot air balloon, you’ll get a view of the wildlife and terrain of the Serengeti that only the birds see. Enjoy a champagne breakfast and keep that shutter-finger good and limber—you’ll be using it plenty over the course of your hour in the air.
OKAVANGO DELTA FLIGHT
Okavango Delta, 45 minutes
Get a fresh perspective on the vast wilderness of africa with a once-in-a-lifetime view only a select few will ever see.
Optional activity prices are subject to change and can fluctuate in relation to the high/low season and the number of people on a specific excursion. Not all excursions listed here may be available, due to season, or weather conditions. As generally not a lot of time is spent in start/end cities, you may want to arrange to arrive early, or stay longer after the trip in order to allow sufficient time to participate in optional activities there.
All prices are in US dollar amounts, per person but will generally be paid in local currency.
SOUTH AFRICA
Cape Town
Home Dinner- $50 p/p (Incl. Transfer&Guide)
Table Mountain Cableway- one way ticket- $12 p/p
Table Mountain Cableway- return ticket- $23 p/p
Township tour $77
Robben Island (Tour times are: 9:00, 11:00, 13:00 and 15:00) $30 p/p (3 hrs)
For bookings: +27 21 413 4263/4 (Credit card details required). In peak season it is recommendable to book 3 days in advance.
Boulders Beach (where the Jackass Penguins can be seen)
Entrance- $5 p/p
Cape of Good Hope (Cape Point)
Entrance- $10 p/p
Shark viewing and cage diving (including transport): $175 p/p
Two Oceans Aquarium
Adults- $13 p/p
Children (14-17 yrs)- $8 p/p
Table mountain hike to Platteklip (3 hrs) $60
City sightseeing bus tour (hop on hop off bus) One day pass- $20 p/p
Winetasting Stellenbosch (8hrs, min3 pax)
$85
Lambert's Bay Area
Visit to the Bird Island $5
NAMIBIA
Sossusvlei
Desert Walk- $30 p/p (3-4 hrs)
Swakopmund
Quad biking (2-3hrs)- $73 p/p
Horse riding (1–2 hrs)- $53 p/p
Sand boarding – (half day)
Standing up- $45 p/p
Lie down- $35 p/p
Dolphin cruise (half day)- $60 p/p
Fishing boat trip (full day incl, transfers, lunch, drinks & equipment)- $125 p/p
Kayaking (5 hrs)- $70 p/p
Pleasure Flights – Sossusvlei/Forbidden Coast/Skeleton Coast - (half day to ¾ day) $275
Paragliding- $100 p/p
Hot air Ballooning (1hr) - $340 p/p
Township tour- $45 pp
Twyfelfontein
Guided Engravings Walk- $7 p/p
Etosha
Game drives (in open-air park vehicles)
Evening Drive- $80 p/p
Morning & day drives- Prices on request
BOTSWANA
Ghanzi
Guided walks - Hunting and Gathering- $10 p/p
Traditional dancing- $10 p/p
Kasane (Chobe NP)
Boat cruise (Incl. park fees)- $40 p/p
Game drive (Incl. park fees)- $40 p/p
Maun
Okavango Delta Scenic flight- $110 p/p
ZAMBIA
Optional activity prices are subject to change and can fluctuate in relation to the high/low season and the number of people on a specific excursion. Not all excursions listed here may be available, due to season, or weather conditions.
All prices are per person and are listed in Zambian Kwacha with an approximate exchange in USD amounts. These prices are subject to change and the activities are subject to availability.
Livingstone:
Breakfast Cruise ZMW 240 (47 USD)
Lunch or Sunset Cruise ZMW 290 (56 USD)
Lady Livingstone Sunset Cruise ZMW 415 (80 USD)
ZMW 415 (80 USD)
White Water Rafting:
River conditions are vary depending on the seasons. Low water season generally runs from August to January each year - this is when the Zambezi is at its very wildest. High water season is from about February to July with a "closed season" for a few months, usually in March, and April, depending on the season's rains. During this time rafting on the river is not permitted.
Full Day (Low Water) - inc lift ZMW 800 (154 USD)
Half Day AM (Low Water) - no lift ZMW 700 (135 USD)
Half Day PM (Low Water) or High Water - inc lift ZMW 700 (135 USD)
White Water Rafting / River Boarding Combo
Full Day (Low Water) - inc lift ZMW 960 (185 USD)
Half Day AM (Low Water) - no lift ZMW 850 (164 USD)
Half Day PM (Low Water) or High Water - inc lift ZMW 850 (164 USD)
Overnight White Water Rafting
2 Days, 1 Night Rapid 1 - 25 ZMW 1,590 (307 USD)
3.5 Days, 3 Night Rapid 1 to Moemba Falls ZMW 5,225 (1006 USD)
Raft Float on Upper Zambezi ZMW 470 (90 USD)
Upper Zambezi Canoe:
Half Day ZMW 520 (100 USD)
Full Day ZMW 675 (130 USD)
Overnight Canoeing ZMW 1,350 (260 USD)
Abseiling:
Full Day ZMK 700 (135 USD)
Half Day ZMK 600 (116 USD)
Gorge Swing - (single / tandem) ZMW 400/ZMW 500 (77/97 USD)
Flying Fox or Cable Slide (excl transfer) ZMW 250 (48 USD)
Abseil or Rap jump (excl transfer) ZMW 250 (48 USD)
Vic Falls Bungee:
Big Air Experience (Combo) ZMW 890 (172 USD)
Bungee jump ZMW 705 (136 USD)
Bridge Swing (single / tandem) ZMW 705/ZMW 1080 (136/208 USD)
Bridge Slide (single / tandem) ZMW 190/ZMW 270 (37/52 USD)
Bridge Tour (no lunch / with lunch) ZMW 300/ZMW 380 (58/74 USD)
*Excludes transfers
River Safaris
Morning / Lunch / Sunset *$10 Park fee to be paid direct ZMW 480 (93 USD)
Jet Boating * includes cable car ZMW 520 (100 USD)
Fishing Safaris
Half Day AM/PM ZMW 675 (130 USD)
Full Day ZMW 1,375 (265 USD)
Game Drive ZMW 305 (60 USD)
Zambezi Elephant Trail (AM/PM Ride) ZMW 850 (164 USD)
Lion Encounter (AM/PM Walk): ZMW 750 (145 USD)
Game Walk ZMW 375 (72 USD)
2 hr Horse Ride ZMW 450 (87 USD)
Half Day Horse Ride with lunch ZMW 645 (125 USD) * $10 pp Park Fee to be paid direct
Chobe Game Park (Botswana) Day Trip (Excludes Visa Fees) ZMW 990 (191 USD)
Guided tour of Croc Farm ZMW 200 (39 USD)
VICTORIA FALLS:
Falls Tour (Zambia) ZMW 275 (53 USD)
Falls Tour (Zimbabwe) ZMW 385 (75 USD)
Flights over the Falls
Helicopter Short flight (approx 15mins) ZMW 870 (168 USD)
Helicopter Long flight (approx 30mins) ZMW 1,740 (335 USD)
Microlight Short flight (approx 15mins) ZMW 840 (162 USD)
Microlight Long flight (approx 30mins) ZMW 1,680 (324 USD)
Livingstone Island (Devil's Pool)
Morning Breezer ZMW 415 (80 USD)
Lunch ZMW 715 (138 USD)
High Tea ZMK 580 (112 USD)
*Excludes transfers
Livingstone Royal Golf Club:
9 holes ZMW 80 (16 USD)
18 holes ZMW 165 (32 USD)
Club hire (pay direct) ZMW 55 (11 USD)
*Excludes transfers
Quad Biking:
Eco Trail - 1 hr ZMW 450 (87 USD)
Eco Trail - 2 1/2 hrs ZMW 785 (152 USD)
Zambezi Paintball (AM/PM) ZMW 275 (53 USD)
Livingstone Tour ZMW 250 (48 USD)
Mukuni Village ZMW 250 (48 USD) Visit a typical African village, purchase food from the local market, enjoy a cooking lesson, interact with the Tokayela people and learn their rich culture while having lunch with them. In your tour prize a donation to the village community project is included.
African Culture tour (markets, cooking lunch, languages) ZMW 310 (60 USD) Learn about the African culture on food and the basic languages used in the Livingstone area. It also offers clients an experience of shopping at an African market the way the Africans do it plus an overview on the history of Zambia and Livingstone town.
Musokotwane African Village Day Trip ZMW 620 (120 USD)
Jewish Historical Tour ZMW 260 (50 USD)
African Impact -
Volunteer with local schools / hospitals / sports & games
Half Day ZMW 275 (53 USD)
Full Day ZMW 550 (106 USD)
MALAWI
Kande Beach
Village Tour- $10 p/p
Snorkeling- $15 p/p
Diving- $50 p/p
Horse riding- $90 p/p
Chitimba Beach
Village Tour (2-3hrs)- $10 p/p
Guided tour to Livingstonia- $5 p/p
TANZANIA
Zanzibar
Prison Island Tour- $55 p/p
Dolphin Tour- $40 p/p
Scuba Diving- $70 p/p
Serengeti
Masaai Village-
All prices are per person (unless stated otherwise), and are subject to change as services are provided by third party operators.
KENYA
Nairobi
Bomas of Kenya- $9 p/p
Giraffe Centre- $9 p/p
Karen Blixen Museum- $12 p/p
Nairobi National Park- $40 p/p
Nairobi Safari Walk, Animal Orphanage and Impala Sanctuary- $20 p/p
National Museum- $12 p/p
Railway Museum- $3 p/p
The Carnivore Restaurant- $35 p/p (set meal)
Hells Gate Bike hire- $10 p/p
Hells Gate Entrance- $25 p/p
Elsamer Conservation Centre- $8 p/p
UGANDA
Please note that the price of this tour includes all national park and permit fees for the gorilla tracking experience in Uganda. As such, you will not be expected to pay any other fees in order to take part in this amazing experience on this tour—we include all fees of this activity within the selling price.
Jinja
Rafting Half/Full day $115/$125
Tandem Kayak Half/Full day $85/$125
Quad Biking Half/Full day $70/$110
Bunyonyi
Bird Watching $5
Nature Walk $5
Canoeing $5 per canoe
Traditional Dance Show $20
Fishing $5
Boat Tour of Lake $20/15 mins, $25/1 hr.
While at Lake Bunyonyi, you may be offered the chance to visit 'Little Angels Orphanage'. G Adventures does not endorse this activity as we feel this experience does more harm than good to the children.
Many orphanages rely almost entirely on donations from visitors to survive, and as such, directors may purposefully maintain poor living conditions for children to secure funds from visitors. By visiting orphanages and making a donation you may be fueling this system, and G Adventures thus advises against both visiting and donating to the aforementioned orphanage.
All prices are per person, are in US dollar amounts, are subject to availability and are only an indication due to currency fluctuations.
Health
Please note inoculations may be required for the country visited. It is your responsibility to consult with your travel doctor for up to date medical travel information well before departure.
Yellow Fever Certificate Note:
It is compulsory to show a valid Yellow Fever Certificate if you are travelling to South Africa from a Yellow Fever endemic country. Entry into South Africa when travelling from the following countries (but not limited to) will require a Yellow Fever Certificate: Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, Malawi, Zambia and Zimbabwe. This rule is also applicable to airport transit. If other countries not endemic to Yellow Fever have been visited (such as Botswana and Namibia), after visiting an endemic country such as Zambia, then a Yellow Fever certificate will still be required on entry into South Africa.
According to guidelines effective from October 2011, entry into Zambia, from South Africa also requires a yellow fever certificate although South Africa is a not endemic to Yellow Fever.
A valid Yellow Fever Certificate is also needed for entry into the following countries when coming from a Yellow Fever endemic country:
Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania (including Zanzibar), Malawi and Zambia.
IMPORTANT ADVISORY
There is currently an outbreak of wild poliovirus 1 in Namibia. As such we would like to provide the following information and advice:
Travellers to Namibia
1) All travellers to Namibia (including returning residents) are advised to obtain a booster dose of polio vaccine at least 10-14 days before travelling. If travel will commence in ≤10-14 days individuals should still be immunized.
2) Travellers should always practice strict hand hygiene and use safe water sources.
3) Choice of vaccine: the trivalent oral polio vaccine (TOPV) is the most accessible polio vaccine in SA and will be provided free of charge at government clinics. The vaccine is safe. Vaccine associated paralytic polio is a very rare complication and occurs in 1 in 2-3 million doses in susceptible individuals only. The only absolute contraindication to vaccination with TOPV is in persons with severe humoral immunodeficiencies. These individuals can be vaccinated with the inactivated polio vaccine alone (available only on section 21 through the MCC) or using the combination Td and inactivated polio vaccine (tetanus, diphtheria and inactivated polio). Pregnant individuals who have essential travel to Namibia should receive an inactivated polio vaccine.
Individuals entering SA from Namibia (includes returning SA citizens and visitors to SA)
1) These individuals should be advised to report to the nearest health care facility if they develop acute onset of paralysis (weakness or an inability to move any of the limbs) and to inform the health care worker of their visit to Namibia.
2) There is no role for vaccination of individuals from Namibia at border entry into South Africa. The vaccine will not prevent paralytic disease if individuals are already infected. Spread of infection can be prevented through scrupulous hand hygiene (washing hands with soap and water after using the toilet and before handling or preparing food) and always using a toilet or designated ablution facility to prevent faecal contamination of the environment. If these individuals are returning to Namibia they should be immunized before they return (see travellers above).
Issued by Epidemiology Unit NICD June 15th 2006
We recommend you contact your family physician, or your local travel clinic for the most up-to-date health information at least one month before departure. Travelers should also carry a basic first-aid kit, hand sanitizers / antibacterial wipes. Travellers to South Africa, Namibia, Botswana and Zambia should observe similar precautions to those taken elsewhere in Africa. Medical facilities are basic throughout these countries. For your own safety, we strongly recommend that you advise your tour leader of any medical condition that may affect you while travelling with the group. Be aware that all safaris enter malaria areas. Your doctor should be able to recommend the necessary prophylactics. Please ensure you have all the inoculations recommended by your doctor.
Safety and Security
Many national governments provide a regularly updated advice service on safety issues involved with international travel. We recommend that you check your government's advice for their latest travel information before departure. We strongly recommend the use of a neck wallet or money belt while travelling, for the safe keeping of your passport, air tickets, travellers' cheques, cash and other valuable items. Leave your valuable jewellery at home - you won't need it while travelling. Many of the hotels we use have safety deposit boxes, which is the most secure way of storing your valuables. A lock is recommended for securing your luggage. When travelling on a group trip, please note that your CEO has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the trip itinerary if it is deemed necessary due to safety concerns. Your CEO will accompany you on all included activities. During your trip you will have some free time to pursue your own interests, relax and take it easy or explore at your leisure. While your CEO will assist you with options available in a given location please note that any optional activities you undertake are not part of your itinerary, and we offer no representations about the safety of the activity or the standard of the operators running them. Please use your own good judgment when selecting an activity in your free time. Although the cities visited on tour are generally safe during the day, there can be risks to wandering throughout any major city at night. It is our recommendation to stay in small groups and to take taxis to and from restaurants, or during night time excursions.
Protests and Demonstrations- Protests and demonstrations, even those that are well intended, have the potential to turn violent with no warning. Counter protests can also turn violent. Action by security forces to disperse demonstrators and protesters may occur at any time. If you are in an area where demonstrators or protesters are gathering, avoid the temptation of staying for a good photo opportunity and leave the area immediately.
Water based activities have an element of danger and excitement built into them. We recommend only participating in water based activities when accompanied by a guide(s). We make every reasonable effort to ensure the fun and adventurous element of any water based activities (in countries with varying degrees of operating standards) have a balanced approach to safety. It is our policy not to allow our CEOs to make arrangements on your behalf for water based activities that are not accompanied by guide(s).
Swimming, including snorkeling, is always at your own risk.
We take all prudent measures in relation to your safety. For ways to further enhance your personal safety while traveling, please visit:
www.gadventures.com/travel-resources/safety/
Trip Specific Safety
Travelers must exercise common sense and caution at all times. Tourists should stick to set travel arrangements and avoid unknown areas. Always keep a photocopy of your passport, airline tickets and a record of your travelers' checks and credit card numbers separate from where you keep the originals. The route we follow is relatively safe and your guide knows the countries intimately and will endeavor to show you the best parts while looking after you. We do not enter Zimbabwe on this trip. In the cities keep a careful eye on your belongings. In the wild areas, your guide will brief you on the necessary precautions, follow this advice and you will be fine. Be aware, but not paranoid, and you will have a great trip. We also recommend that you wear minimal jewellery and that you keep valuable items safely stored.
NAIROBI and Dar es Salaam and Lusaka
…aren’t classed as safe cities. Some precautions you should take are:
*Always leave your passport (It’s better to carry a photocopy of it instead), traveller’s cheques, flight tickets and money that you won’t be using in the safe deposit at the hotel reception. This is free of charge to G Adventures clients.
*Remember that like in any other city, you should never leave your bags unattended, nor flaunt jewellery, cameras etc.
*Please don’t wander through the city to unknown areas especially at night. Stick to the main streets only during the day, and after sundown, please take a taxi. Taxis can be organised from reception. Also, take the address of the hotel with you.
*People are generally friendly, but don’t let people take advantage of you, especially the sales people!
* Beware of people approaching you on the street with an apparent interest of where you are from, and want to sit down and have a chat with you. These people are con men and will ask you for money.
* People on the street who ask you if you want a safari and have a brochure are often con men, best to avoid these folk. Besides, you’re already on safari. Zanzibar can be unsafe to single female travellers. Please always have a male companion with when walking in Stone Town.
ARUSHA and Lilongwe:
many of the above precautions should be taken in these cities, however these towns generally have a more relaxed and friendly vibe, there are many beggars, street sellers and safari touts. These are best avoided by a polite but firm NO THANK YOU!
ZANZIBAR
Remember that Zanzibar is overwhelmingly Muslim. Women who do not dress modestly, or men in shorts, are likely to cause offense to locals and are likely to attract unwanted attention. In coastal areas, both male and female prostitution is widespread. Single female travellers in particular should be wary of ‘beach boys’. These male prostitutes often employ aggressive methods of socializing with female tourists with their end goal being to solicit sex, money or other benefits. The prevalence of HIV is extremely high in this region, and we urge all travellers to exercise extreme caution. Our suggestion is to dress moderately, and drink moderately. At all times be aware of your surroundings, and your actions, and to exercise caution.
PHOTOGRAPHY:
Please do not take photo’s of Police stations or at Cross borders Airports, army barracks and personnel or any Government building. It is against the law and will result in the minimum of your film and camera being confiscated.
Medical Form
Our small group adventures bring together people of all ages. It is very important you are aware that, as a minimum, an average level of fitness and mobility' is required to undertake our easiest programs. Travellers must be able to walk without the aid of another person, climb 3-4 flights of stairs, step on and off small boats, and carry their own luggage at a minimum. Travellers with a pre-existing medical condition are required to complete a short medical questionnaire, which must be signed by their physician. This is to ensure that travellers have the necessary fitness and mobility to comfortably complete their chosen trip. While our CEOs work hard to ensure that all our travellers are catered for equally, it is not their responsibility to help individuals who cannot complete the day's activities unaided. Please refer to the physical ratings in this Trip Details document for more information.
Please note that all passengers traveling to Antarctica are required to fill out this questionnaire.
The medical questionnaire can be found online at:
www.gadventures.com/medical-form.
A Couple of Rules
Illegal drugs will not be tolerated on any trips. Possessing or using drugs not only contravenes the laws of the land but also puts the rest of the group at risk. Smoking marijuana and opium is a part of local culture in some parts of the world but is not acceptable for our travellers. Our philosophy of travel is one of respect towards everyone we encounter, and in particular the local people who make the world the special place it is. The exploitation of prostitutes is completely contrary to this philosophy. Our CEOs have the right to expel any member of the group if drugs are found in their possession or if they use prostitutes.
Travel Insurance
Travel Insurance: Travel insurance is compulsory in order to participate on any of our trips. When travelling on a group trip, you will not be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance has been sighted by your CEO, who will take note of your insurance details. When selecting a travel insurance policy please bear in mind that all clients must have medical coverage and that we require a minimum coverage of USD 200,000 for repatriation and emergency rescue. We strongly recommend that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects. If you have credit card insurance we require proof of purchase of the trip (a receipt of credit card statement) with a credit card in your name. Contact your bank for details of their participating insurer, the level of coverage and emergency contact telephone number.
Responsible Travel
Being a responsible tour operator is at the heart of what G Adventures is all about. From the start, G Adventures has been committed to offering low-impact tours that benefit traveler and host alike. While our sustainable tourism policies are constantly evolving, our commitment to socially conscious, grassroots style travel has never changed. We work with local communities, businesses and individuals to develop sustainable tourism opportunities that help local economies while minimizing negative environmental and cultural impacts.
We would like to give you a couple of tips to start you thinking about traveling sustainably.
-Please bring rechargeable batteries, a battery charger (and plug adapter if necessary). Batteries are incredibly toxic and many places that we travel do not have proper disposal facilities. Rechargeables are best but if this is not possible we recommend that you bring any used batteries back home with you for proper disposal.
-Please ask before taking pictures. Just as you would not like to have a stranger come up to you and take a picture of you while sitting on your front porch either do the locals of the places that we visit. As you can imagine pictures of their children are also not appreciated.
For more information about our commitment to responsible travel, please visit the Sustainable Tourism section of the G Adventures website: www.gadventures.com
Planeterra-The G Adventures Foundation
Through our commitment to responsible tourism we have developed the Planeterra Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to making a positive difference in the lives of people and communities around the world through support of international charities, local organizations and community projects in the places that we visit on our tours. G Adventures matches all individual donations and pays all administration costs, which means that 100% of each donation is doubled and goes directly to support our projects. For more information about Planeterra and the projects we support, or to make a donation, please visit www.planeterra.org
Planeterra Dollar-A-Day Program
Our Dollar-A-Day Program provides travellers with the opportunity to help us give back to the people and places visited on our tours by donating one dollar per day for the duration of their tour. 100% of these proceeds will go directly to support our Planeterra projects.
To participate in this program please indicate at the time of booking that you would like to participate in G Adventures’ Dollar-A-Day program, either by clicking the check box online, or by advising your G Adventures specialist or travel agent. (Note: Donation will be charged in the currency of your booking)
Associated Planeterra Project
Planeterra – The G Adventures Foundation supports the work of Youth Challenge International in Africa.
Youth Challenge International (YCI) is a non-profit, charitable organization that combines community development, health promotion and conservation in projects conducted by international teams of volunteers. By involving youth in the solutions to the issues they face, YCI aspires to a world where young men and women aged 10 to 25 have access to education, healthcare and meaningful employment. Youth in Africa, South America and Asia face huge challenges and YCI is working right now to provide them with education on HIV/AIDS and basic employment skills training.
To achieve these aims YCI works within an international network and global constituency for youth. International volunteers aged 18 to 30 play a key role in the planning and implementation of development projects. Since 1989 YCI has successfully involved over 2000 Canadian youth volunteers in the implementation of our programs in developing countries such as Tanzania, Guyana, Costa Rica, and Vanuatu.
Each year we work with the staff at YCI to determine which African programs are in need of support. Through fundraising efforts and matched donations from travellers we have provided financial assistance to the following YCI programs:
The Planeterra Foundation has supported YCI's work in improving young men and women's lives in Tanzania. The ravages of HIV/AIDS combined with poor employment skills training for youth have lead to a loss of hope and reduced opportunities for young people. YCI addresses these problems by implementing three-day employment skills training seminars and HIV/AIDS education workshops for young men and women across Tanzania. These seminars and workshops have reached over 1,000 rural Tanzanian youth during the coming year - youth who typically receive little in the way of HIV/AIDS education or employment skills training.
Planeterra has also supported the research of a pilot project so that YCI may develop new partnerships in Kenya and Ghana and continue to develop their valuable programs within Africa.
Your donation is critical to YCI and your support will help them to continue their effective and valuable work within Africa.
In South Africa, Planeterra supports the following community project:
Shalati Community Project
The HIV/AIDS epidemic is having a devastating effect on the lives of millions of children worldwide especially in Africa. South Africa has one of Africa's strongest economies, but the HIV pandemic has weakened the nation and has taken a severe toll on its adult population. South Africa has the sixth highest prevalence of HIV in the world, with 18.8% of the population estimated to be infected. As children lose one or both parents to the epidemic, they are often either taken into care by other family members or find themselves suddenly responsible for the care of their younger siblings. As a result, the fabric of society has begun to shift and change in unprecedented ways.
In the South African community of Shalati there are many single parent families and a vast number of orphaned children, often cared for by their grandparents. This is due in part to the prevalence of HIV/AIDS. Many children do not begin school until the age of eight, and receive no formal education and limited support during their early formative years. Based on the needs of these families and children, we aim to assist the local community with their goal of building and developing a pre-school so that children are provided with a secure and nurturing environment to learn and grow.
How you can help
Donations raised through the Planeterra Foundation will provide funding for the construction and development of the preschool.
For more information about this project and/or to make a donation please visit our website at www.planeterra.org or contact us at info@planeterra.org
Feedback
After your travels, we want to hear from you! Your feedback information is so important to us that you'll receive a special discount code for free online prints and we'll give you 5% off the price of your next G Adventures trip if your feedback is completed on-line within 30 days of finishing your trip. Please visit http://www.gadventures.com/evaluations
Newsletter
Our adventure travel e-newsletter is full of travel news, trip information, interesting stories and contests. To avoid missing out on special offers and updates from G Adventures, subscribe at www.gadventures.com/newsletter_signup
Stay current on how our company invests in our global community through our foundation – Planeterra. Sign up for Planeterra's monthly news to learn more about how to give back and support the people and places we love to visit.
Travel Forum - The Watering Hole
Be sure to stop by The Watering Hole, our adventure travel forum. If you're interested in meeting others booked on your upcoming trip, check out the Departure Lounge section of our forum and introduce yourself. Otherwise, just drop in at anytime to share some travel tips, ask questions, meet other travellers and quench your thirst for travel. Our forum is located at wateringhole.gadventures.com.
Keeping in Touch
If you need to be contacted while travelling we recommend that you set up an email address that can be accessed on the road, rather than relying on postal mail. Email cafes are becoming increasingly commonplace and cheap throughout the regions we visit, and have quickly become the preferred way for our CEOs and travellers to stay in touch. If someone wishes to contact you in an emergency while you are on one of our trips we recommend that they contact your local booking agent, or refer to our Emergency Contact. We recommend that family and friends don't try to contact you through phoning hotels en route, as our hotels are subject to change, and our hotel receptions often don't have English speaking staff.
Departs
Typically departs Sunday 1-3 times per month
