Cape Town to Namibia Overland Safari & Participation Camping - 13 Days

Frequently asked questions

• What type of accommodation is provided during this safari?

  The tour includes 3 nights in a multi-share hostel and 9 nights of participation camping under African skies. All essential camping equipment, except your sleeping bag and pillow, is supplied, including comfortable mattresses and 2-person safari tents. Campsite facilities generally include flush toilets and showers, though they can be basic in certain places.

• What meals are included in the tour price?

  The tour includes 11 breakfasts, 11 lunches, and 9 dinners. Meals are generally not included during your stay in Swakopmund to allow for independent dining experiences.

• What kind of vehicle is used for transportation on this tour?

  We travel in a custom-built 24-seat overland adventure vehicle (OAV) known as the 'Lando'. It is designed for scenic viewing and comfort, featuring internal luggage storage, day pack space, an onboard safety box, reclining seats, air-conditioning, a mobile kitchen, drinking water, and USB charging ports. Please note, Landos do not have on-board bathrooms.

• Who will be my guides during the trip?

  You will be accompanied by two Chief Experience Officers (CEOs) throughout the trip, who serve as the head guide/cook and driver, along with local guides in specific areas.

• Is there an additional cost for solo travelers?

  No, solo travelers are paired with someone of the same sex in twin or multi-share accommodation, so there is no single supplement charge on this group trip.

• What are the age restrictions for participating in this tour?

  Travelers must be at least 18 years old to travel unaccompanied. Minors aged 12 and above are permitted when accompanied by a guardian who is 21 years or older.

• What are the main highlights or experiences included in this tour?

  The tour highlights include exploring cosmopolitan Cape Town, visiting the !Khwa ttu San Culture and Education Centre, witnessing the immense Fish River Canyon, tackling the world's largest sand dunes, engaging in adventurous activities in Swakopmund, and going on wildlife safaris to spot the "big five" in Etosha National Park, along with a visit to Waterberg Plateau.

• What currency should I use, and are credit cards accepted?

  The local currencies are South African Rand (ZAR) and Namibian Dollar (NAD). US Dollars are the easiest foreign currency to exchange, especially for purchasing border visas (must be USD cash). Travelers' cheques are not recommended. Visa/Plus debit cards are most widely accepted at ATMs in major centers, but Mastercard/Cirrus are less common. Credit cards can be used in major cities but are not universally accepted and may incur a 5-10% fee. It's best to carry a combination of foreign currency and debit/credit cards, as power outages and empty ATMs can occur.

• Is travel insurance required for this trip?

  Yes, comprehensive travel insurance is compulsory to participate in this tour. It must cover medical expenses, emergency evacuation, and repatriation, with a minimum coverage of USD200,000. Coverage for personal liability, cancellation, curtailment, and loss of luggage is strongly recommended.

• Are there any health precautions or vaccinations recommended?

  We advise consulting your family physician or a local travel clinic for the most up-to-date health information and recommended inoculations at least one month before departure. A valid Yellow Fever Certificate is mandatory if you are traveling from or transiting through a Yellow Fever endemic country for over 12 hours. Malaria is present in some regions, and preventative medication combined with regular use of insect repellent is recommended.

• Can I do laundry during the tour?

  Laundry facilities are available at least once a week. The lodge in Swakopmund offers laundry services. At some campsites, local women may provide handwashing services for a negotiable fee (typically ZAr30-ZAr50 per load), so bringing some washing powder for personal use is suggested.

• What kind of optional activities are available?

  Optional activities include a South African Wine Tour and Tasting in Cape Town, paddling on the Orange River, a Namib Desert Walk, a Deadvlei visit, skydiving, sandboarding, or a scenic flight over the Skeleton Coast in Swakopmund, and night safari drives in Etosha National Park. These are at an additional cost.