Cape and Namibia Adventure - 12 Days

Frequently asked questions

• What is the Cape and Namibia Adventure tour about?

  This 12-day nature adventure explores the diverse landscapes of southwestern Africa, from the cosmopolitan streets of Cape Town to the desert and lunar scenery of Namibia. You'll witness incredible sights like some of the world's highest sand dunes, Africa’s largest canyon, and enjoy wildlife drives through Etosha National Park.

• Are there any age restrictions for this tour?

  The minimum age for unaccompanied travelers on this tour is 18. Minors aged 12 and above are welcome if accompanied by a guardian over 21 years old.

• What is the typical group size for this tour?

  The tour has a maximum group size of 18 travelers, with an average of 14 participants.

• What meals are included during the tour?

  The tour includes 9 breakfasts, 1 lunch, and 2 dinners. If you have specific dietary requirements, such as vegetarian meals, please ensure these are specified prior to your arrival for the included meals.

• What types of accommodation are used on this tour?

  Accommodation includes 5 nights in hotels, 1 night in a guesthouse, 1 night in a lodge, and 4 nights of serviced camping. For camping nights, twin tents with shared ablutions are provided, and you will need to bring your own sleeping bag and towel. Participation in setting up tents and assisting with meal cleanup is an essential part of the camping experience.

• What is the physical rating of this tour?

  This tour has a physical rating of 2 (Easy). While it is not physically demanding, travel can involve long drives and varying road conditions. Travelers should have an average level of fitness and mobility, meaning they can walk without assistance, climb 3-4 flights of stairs, and carry their own luggage.

• What travel style does this tour follow?

  This tour follows a 'Classic' travel style, which combines discovery of iconic sights with immersive cultural experiences, balancing included activities with free time.

• Are international flights included in the tour price?

  No, international flights are generally not included in the price of your tour.

• What kind of transportation is used for the tour?

  We use a private local bus for transportation, equipped with air conditioning and sliding windows for comfort. This private vehicle allows for flexibility in making stops and reaching locations not served by public transport. Please be aware that road quality can deteriorate once in Namibia, leading to some sand and bumps, which is part of the adventure.

• What health information is important before traveling?

  We recommend consulting your family physician or a local travel clinic at least one month before departure for the most up-to-date health information and recommended inoculations. A valid Yellow Fever Certificate is compulsory if traveling to South Africa or Namibia from a Yellow Fever endemic country. Malaria is present in some regions, so preventative medication (prophylaxis) and insect repellent are advised. Medical facilities can be basic, so carry a basic first-aid kit and inform your CEO of any medical conditions.

• Is there a departure tax?

  A departure tax of USD40 may apply, but it is often included in the international air ticket.

• Is there a single supplement for solo travelers?

  Our group trips are designed for shared accommodation, and there is no single supplement. Solo travelers are paired with someone of the same sex. However, on nights spent camping (Days 5-6 and 9-10), 'My Own Room' options do not apply as accommodation is in twin tents.

• Who will be leading the tour?

  The tour will be led by a Chief Experience Officer (CEO) who also acts as your driver throughout the trip, accompanied by local guides in specific areas. Our CEOs are registered and licensed tourism guides with extensive knowledge of the region's history, cultures, and wildlife, dedicated to ensuring you have the best possible trip.

• How much emergency money should I carry?

  It is recommended to have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an emergency fund for unforeseen circumstances.

• How much spending money is recommended?

  Spending money requirements will vary depending on individual habits regarding drinks, shopping, optional activities, and tipping. Please plan accordingly based on your personal preferences.

• Are there any specific rules or environmental considerations for the trip?

  The use of drones in national parks in Southern Africa is prohibited. In Cape Town, water-wise tips are encouraged, such as bringing a reusable water bottle, reusing hotel towels, limiting laundry, turning off taps, keeping showers short, and using hand sanitizer.

• Is travel insurance compulsory for this trip?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory for all participants. Your policy must include medical coverage with a minimum of USD 200,000 for repatriation and emergency rescue.

• Is a medical questionnaire required?

  Travelers with pre-existing medical conditions are required to complete a short medical questionnaire, signed by their physician, to ensure they have the necessary fitness and mobility for the trip.

• What currency should I use, and what about credit cards?

  The currency in South Africa is the Rand (ZAR), and in Namibia, it is the Namibian Dollar (NAD), which is equivalent to ZAR. US dollars, British Pounds, and Euros are generally easy to exchange. Please note that US dollar notes older than 2006 are not accepted. ATMs are available in major centers but can be unreliable; Visa/Plus system cards are more widely accepted than Mastercard. Credit cards can be used in major cities only and typically incur a 5-10% fee. A combination of foreign currency and debit/credit cards for cash advances is recommended.

• What optional activities are available?

  A variety of optional activities are available, including kayaking or wine tasting in Cape Town, visiting Bird Island in Lambert's Bay, seeing Deadvlei in Sossusvlei, engaging in activities like sandboarding, skydiving, or scenic flights in Swakopmund, and additional wildlife safari drives in Etosha National Park. Costs for these activities vary and are paid locally.

• What are the safety and security guidelines for this trip?

  General safety advice includes looking after personal items, using a money belt for valuables, and locking hotel room doors. Drone use is prohibited in national parks. In Namibia, be alert for animals on the roads, especially at dusk, and avoid night travel if possible. Always carry enough bottled water. When in cities at night, it's recommended to stay in small groups and use taxis.

• What is Planeterra and how does it relate to this tour?

  Planeterra International Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to turning travel into impact by supporting local communities through tourism. This tour includes visits to tour operator-supported initiatives such as the !Khwa ttu San Culture and Education Centre and the Penduka Village Restaurant & Shop, which directly benefit local people.

• Are laundry facilities available during the tour?

  Due to frequent travel, there may not be much time for same-day laundry service. Your CEO can provide advice on arrangements. Swakopmund is often a convenient place to get laundry done, and facilities are also available in Cape Town and Windhoek.

• What are the visa and entry requirements for Namibia and South Africa?

  All countries require a valid passport with a minimum of 6 months validity. It is your responsibility to check current visa requirements with your local embassy or consulate. As of April 1st, 2025, Namibia will introduce a new mandatory 90-day visa costing USD90 per person on arrival; pre-application is recommended to avoid delays.