Botswana and Falls Overland: Wildlife Walks & Safari Drives - 8 Days

Frequently asked questions

• What countries will this tour visit?

  This tour visits Zimbabwe, Botswana, and South Africa.

• What is the age range for participants on this tour?

  This tour is designed for travelers between 18 and 39 years old.

• What kind of accommodation is provided during the tour?

  Accommodation includes one night in a simple hotel (single or twin room), five nights of participation camping, and one night of bush camping.

• What are the camping facilities like?

  Campsite facilities in Southern Africa are generally good, but can be basic in certain places. They typically have flush toilets, and some showers are outdoors with simple reed enclosures. Warm water is usually available but not guaranteed. Dome tents with built-in insect nets and 4cm thick mattresses are supplied.

• Do I need to bring my own sleeping bag or pillow?

  Yes, you will need to provide your own sleeping bag and a small pillow. Tents and sleeping pads are supplied.

• How many meals are included in the tour?

  Six breakfasts, six lunches, and three dinners are included in the tour price.

• What type of food can I expect, and are dietary requirements accommodated?

  All included meals are prepared from fresh local produce. Breakfasts generally consist of breads and cereals. Lunches are often light meals like sandwiches or salads. Dinners are freshly-prepared hot meals with a variety of continental and local dishes. Vegetarian and other dietary requirements can be accommodated if specified prior to arrival.

• Is participation in meal preparation and camp duties required?

  Yes, participation is an essential part of the safari. The group is usually divided into small groups for tasks such as kitchen duty (helping prepare meals and clean up), packing, and cleaning the vehicle. Your Chief Experience Officers (CEOs) will organize the meal preparation but clients are asked to help with washing up.

• What is the physical rating for this tour?

  This tour has a physical rating of 3, requiring at least an average level of fitness and mobility. Travelers must be able to walk without assistance, climb 3-4 flights of stairs, step on and off small boats, and carry their own luggage.

• What type of transportation is used during the tour?

  The main mode of transport is a custom-built 24-seat overland adventure vehicle (OAV) named the Lando. Other modes include walking, mokoro (traditional dugout canoe), and safari vehicles.

• What features does the Lando (overland adventure vehicle) offer?

  The Lando offers storage for main luggage (accessible from inside), overhead shelves for day packs, an onboard safety box for valuables, front viewing windows and large sliding windows for wildlife viewing, reclining seats, a fully equipped mobile kitchen, access to a 250L drinking water tank, air-conditioning, and USB charging ports for every traveler. It does not have an onboard bathroom.

• Who will be leading the tour?

  The tour is accompanied by two Chief Experience Officers (CEOs) who serve as group managers, leaders, cooks, and drivers. Local guides are also used for some included activities where specific knowledge is beneficial.

• Is tipping customary or required?

  Tipping is an expected, though not compulsory, component of the tour program and is an expression of appreciation for exceptional service. Guidelines are provided for CEOs, local guides, safari guides/drivers, restaurant staff, and Okavango Delta polers.

• How are solo travelers accommodated?

  Single travelers joining group trips are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip, and there is no single supplement.

• What optional activities are available?

  Optional activities include visiting the Apartheid Museum or taking a Soweto Tour in Johannesburg, a Chobe River Sunset Cruise in Chobe National Park, and various activities at Victoria Falls such as a visit, whitewater rafting, canoeing the Zambezi, scenic helicopter flights, or bungee jumping.

• What currencies are accepted in the countries visited and how should I manage my money?

  South African Rand (ZAR) is used in South Africa. In Botswana, payments at supermarkets often require Pula (BWP), but activities and drinks at campsites can be paid in USD. Zimbabwe primarily uses the US Dollar and South African Rand. It is strongly advised to bring ZAR or USD from your home country for Zimbabwe, as ATMs can be unreliable. USD notes older than 2006 are not accepted in Africa. USD cash is specifically required for border visas. Visa/Plus system debit cards are most widely accepted, while Mastercard/Cirrus cards are less common. Credit cards can be used in major cities only, often with a 5-10% fee. A combination of foreign currency and debit/credit cards for cash advances is recommended, as power outages can affect ATM access.

• What health precautions should I take for this trip?

  It's recommended to contact your family physician or a local travel clinic for up-to-date health information at least one month before departure. Travelers should carry a basic first-aid kit and hand sanitizers. It is compulsory to show a valid Yellow Fever vaccination certificate if traveling from or through a Yellow Fever endemic country. Malaria is present in some regions, so it is advisable to discuss preventative medication (prophylaxis) with your doctor and use insect repellent.

• Are drones allowed on the tour or in national parks?

  No, the use of drones in national parks in Southern Africa is prohibited.

• What is the maximum group size for this tour?

  The maximum group size for this tour is 22 travelers.