East Africa to South Africa Overland Safari & Participation Camping - 27 Days

Frequently asked questions

• Are international flights included in this trip?

  No, international flights are generally not included in the price of your tour. Some combo tours may include them; please check with your booking agent.

• What are the health considerations for this trip, including Yellow Fever and Malaria?

  It's recommended to contact your physician or local travel clinic at least one month before departure. A valid Yellow Fever Certificate is compulsory if arriving from or transiting through a Yellow Fever-risk country for more than 12 hours. Malaria is present in some regions, and preventative medication and insect repellent are recommended.

• What are the main highlights of this trip?

  Highlights include snorkeling in Zanzibar, admiring Victoria Falls, searching for wildlife in Kruger National Park, savoring local flavors over a traditional dinner, and discovering Zimbabwe.

• What kind of accommodation can I expect on this trip?

  Accommodation includes 19 nights of participation camping, 2 nights of full-service camping, and 5 nights in simple hotels (some multi-share with 3 people). Camping involves 2-person safari canvas tents with insect nets and mattresses. Campsite facilities can be basic, especially in Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Crater.

• What meals are included in this trip?

  The tour includes 25 breakfasts, 21 lunches, and 19 dinners. Included meals are prepared from fresh local produce, with a mix of continental and local dishes. Dietary requirements should be specified prior to arrival.

• What transportation will be used on this trip?

  Transportation primarily involves a larger 24-seat overland adventure vehicle (Lando) for most of the trip. Specialized 4x4 safari vehicles (6-7 seaters) are used in Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater. Minibuses and public ferries are used for the Zanzibar leg, and walking is also involved. The Lando features onboard storage, reclining seats, mobile kitchen, drinking water, A/C, and charging stations.

• Who will be leading the group on this tour?

  The group will be led by two Chief Experience Officers (CEOs) who serve as head guide/cook and driver. Additionally, certified safari guides/drivers and local guides will join for specific activities.

• How large will the group be?

  The maximum group size is 22 travelers, with an average of 18.

• Is there an extra cost for solo travelers?

  No, solo travelers are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip, without an additional single supplement. A 'My Own Room/Tent' option is available if booked.

• What optional activities are available?

  Optional activities include Serengeti Balloon Safari, Safari Blue - Sailing Day Trip, Swahili Cultural Tour, Snorkelling, Jozani Forest Tour, Scuba Diving, Stone Town Walking Tour, South Luangwa Wildlife Safari Drive, South Luangwa Walking Safari, Victoria Falls visit, Helicopter rides over Victoria Falls, Whitewater Rafting, Bungee Jumping, Bridge Swing, Zipline, Hot Springs Soak, and Kruger National Park Open Vehicle Wildlife Safari Drive.

• Is travel insurance required for this trip?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory. It must cover medical expenses, including emergency evacuation and repatriation, with a minimum coverage of USD200,000. Coverage for personal liability, cancellation, curtailment, and lost luggage is also strongly recommended.

• What are the visa and entry requirements for my trip?

  All countries require a valid passport (minimum 6 months validity). Visa requirements vary by nationality. Kenya requires an Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA). For Tanzania, an online visa application is available. A Kaza Uni-Visa (US$50) is suggested for Zimbabwe and Zambia, valid for 30 days and multiple entries within these two countries. Malawi may require an e-Visa. Zanzibar requires mandatory Inbound Travel Insurance from October 1st, 2024.

• What should I know about currency, credit cards, and exchanging money?

  Local currencies include South African Rand (ZAR), Botswana Pula (BWP), Zambian Kwacha (ZMK), Malawian Kwacha (MWK), Tanzanian Shilling (TZS), and US Dollar (USD) in Zimbabwe. USD is widely accepted in Malawi, Tanzania, Kenya, and Zimbabwe. It is strongly advised to bring ZAR or USD from your home country, especially for Zimbabwe where ATMs can be unreliable. Older US notes (pre-2006) are not accepted. Visa/Mastercard are accepted in major towns but not always reliable elsewhere, and a 5-10% fee may apply.

• How much emergency money should I bring?

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

• Should I be tipping on my trip?

  Tipping is expected and appreciated, serving as an important source of income. Suggested guidelines per person: CEO: $5-8 USD/day; Local guides: $2-3 USD/day; Safari Guide/Driver: $2-3 USD/day; Restaurant Staff: 10-15% of the bill.

• What are the trip-specific safety considerations for cities and cultural interactions?

  In cities like Nairobi, Dar es Salaam, and Lusaka, it's advised to use hotel safes for valuables, avoid flaunting items, not wander into unknown areas at night, and take taxis. Beware of con men. In Zanzibar, which is overwhelmingly Muslim, dress modestly (knees and shoulders covered) to avoid offense, especially in Stone Town. Single female travelers should be cautious of 'beach boys'. Photography of government, military, and border facilities may be restricted.

• What general safety and security measures should I be aware of?

  Always check government travel advice. Use a neck wallet or money belt for valuables. Leave valuable jewelry at home. Utilize hotel safety deposit boxes and use locks for luggage. The group leader can amend the itinerary for safety concerns. Use good judgment for optional activities. In cities at night, stay in groups and use taxis. For water-based activities, participate only when accompanied by a guide. Swimming/snorkeling is at your own risk.

• What rules should I know before joining this trip (e.g., regarding illegal drugs)?

  Illegal drugs will not be tolerated, and possessing or using them puts the group at risk. The exploitation of people in the sex trade is also strictly against the tour philosophy. CEOs have the right to expel individuals violating these rules.

• What should LGBTQ+ travelers know about safety and travel considerations on this trip?

  The tour operator prioritizes the safety and well-being of all travelers, including the LGBTQ+ community. Travelers are encouraged to visit the tour operator's LGBTQ+ page for useful resources and to use tools like Equaldex for destination-specific information.

• When can I do my laundry on this trip?

  Laundry can be done at most campsites. In Victoria Falls, there's an opportunity to use the tour operator-supported Princess Laundry and Sewing Co-op.

• What special "G for Good," "Welcome," and "Local Living" Moments are included in the tour?

  The tour includes a "G for Good Moment" at Tribal Textiles Market & Courtyard Cafe in Mfuwe, a "Welcome Moment" to meet your CEO and group, and a "Local Living Moment" with a Kande Beach Local Dinner.

• What is Planeterra?

  Planeterra International Foundation is a non-profit organization that helps local communities earn income from tourism by developing and supporting small community-owned businesses, empowering women, granting youth employment, and protecting the environment. The tour operator is Planeterra’s largest corporate donor.

• What specific notes should I be aware of for this camping trip?

  This is a combination tour where staff/vehicles may change and group members may join/leave between segments. Travel can involve long drives and poor road conditions. The safari requires participation in duties like meal preparation and cleaning. You must bring your own sleeping bag and pillow. There's a risk of luggage complications (lost luggage upon arrival), so keep essentials in hand luggage and carry emergency contact details for assistance. Drones are prohibited in national parks.

• Is there a departure tax?

  A departure tax of USD20 may apply, which might be included in the international air ticket.

• What is the minimum age to join this trip?

  You must be 18 to travel unaccompanied. For minors traveling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.