Signature: Southern Africa's Kruger, Chobe & Victoria Falls - 10 Days

Frequently asked questions

• What are the main highlights of this trip?

  The main highlights include meeting the cast of 'Simunye: The Spirit of Africa' for an exclusive cultural immersion, sleeping suspended over the Sabie River in a restored train carriage at Kruger Shalati, experiencing Victoria Falls on a private guided tour, and capturing wildlife on a Chobe River photo safari with expert guidance.

• Are international flights included in this trip?

  No, international flights are generally not included in the price of your tour. However, on some combo tours between different countries, international flights are included. Please confirm with your booking agent for details.

• Are local flights included in the cost of the trip?

  Yes, local flights are included in this tour. Please note there is a 20 kg weight limit for checked luggage and 7 kg for carry-on. The fee for additional weight or baggage is the traveler's responsibility.

• Are there any health considerations I should know before travelling?

  Health requirements and recommended inoculations vary by destination; consult a specialized travel physician. A valid Yellow Fever Certificate is compulsory if traveling to Botswana, South Africa, Zambia, or Zimbabwe from a Yellow Fever endemic country or after transiting through one for over 12 hours. Malaria is present in some regions; speak to your doctor about preventative medication and use insect repellent.

• How will we travel between destinations?

  Across the vast savannas, we travel in custom-engineered, private 7-seat 4x4 safari vehicles with expansive sliding windows and large pop-up roofs, strictly capped at six explorers per vehicle for optimal wildlife viewing and comfort. Our vehicles are outfitted with speed governors locked at 80 km/h for safety, and seat belts must be worn at all times.

• Is there an extra cost for travelling solo?

  Yes, for those travelling solo there is a single supplement.

• What activities are optional on this trip?

  There are no optional activities listed for this trip.

• What are the joining instructions?

  A seamless arrival transfer is included for guests landing on the first day or up to three days prior if pre-trip accommodations were arranged through the tour operator at the starting property. Upon arrival at the starting property (check-in typically by 3:00 PM), look for a notice from your National Geographic Expedition Leader at reception detailing the evening welcome reception and meeting (typically 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.). If you arrive later and miss it, a briefing note will be left for you detailing the next morning's schedule. Day 1 is an arrival day with no planned activities; the Welcome Meeting is on Day 2 morning.

• What are the mandatory travel insurance requirements for this trip?

  Comprehensive travel insurance is mandatory, including full medical protection with a strict minimum of $200,000 USD for emergency rescue and medical repatriation. Comprehensive coverage for personal liability, trip cancellation/curtailment, and loss of luggage/personal belongings is also strongly advised.

• What are the modes of transportation on my trip?

  Modes of transportation include private vehicle, 4x4 safari vehicle, boat, plane, and walking.

• What are the tipping guidelines for this trip?

  Gratuities are fully taken care of for all included meals, activities, and luggage porterage, except for the Expedition Leader. A guideline of $10-$15 per person per day is suggested for the Expedition Leader. Tipping is neither required nor expected for your National Geographic Expedition Expert. For meals and activities not included, a 10% tip is appropriate.

• What general safety tips and free-time guidelines should I follow?

  Consult your home government's travel advisories. Use a concealed neck wallet or money belt for documents and currency, leave exceptional jewelry at home, and use safety deposit boxes. Secure luggage with a lock. Your Expedition Leader can modify the itinerary for safety. For free time, explore in small groups, use local taxis at night, and avoid public demonstrations. Water-based activities should only be done with professional guides.

• What is Planeterra?

  Planeterra International Foundation is a non-profit organization that connects underserved local communities to the benefits of tourism by developing and supporting small community-owned businesses, which are integrated into the tour operator’s itineraries globally. The tour operator is Planeterra’s largest corporate donor, covering all operating costs.

• What is the maximum number of travellers on this tour?

  The maximum number of travellers on this tour is 22.

• What meals are included in this trip?

  The trip includes 9 breakfasts, 5 lunches, and 9 dinners.

• What should I know about currency, credit cards, and exchanging money while on this tour?

  The currency in South Africa is the South African Rand (ZAR). Rand can be obtained locally by changing foreign currency or using ATMs. US notes older than 2006 are not accepted. Large US notes ($50, $100) are difficult to change in some places but offer the best exchange rate. Bring USD cash for visas at borders. Travellers’ cheques are not recommended. Visa/Plus system cards are most widely accepted debit cards; carrying both Visa and Mastercard is advised. Credit cards can be used in major cities ONLY, often with a 5%-10% fee. Do not rely solely on cards due to occasional power outages or ATM issues.

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

  The safety and well-being of all travelers, including the LGBTQ+ community, is a priority. Travelers are encouraged to visit the tour operator's LGBTQ+ page for useful resources to ensure safety and comfort throughout the trip.

• What is included in this trip?

  Included are G for Good Moments (Coffee & Culture at Shabalala Interpretation of Culture Centre, Lusumpuko Women's Club Lunch), a Welcome Moment, Signature Moments (Nelson Mandela Foundation tour, Zambezi River Dinner Cruise, Chobe River Photo Safari). Also, arrival/departure transfers, internal flights (Johannesburg to Hoedspruit, Kruger to Victoria Falls, Kasane to Johannesburg), multiple safari drives with experts in Greater Kruger, Thornybush, Kruger National Park, and Chobe National Park, the Simunye Theatre Show, a private guided tour of Victoria Falls, a talk by the Victoria Falls Wildlife Trust, engaging discussions with the National Geographic Expedition Expert, porterage, and all transport between destinations and included activities. Tips are included for all activities, meals and porterage, except for your Expedition Leader.

• Where can I do my laundry on this trip?

  Laundry services are available during your journey. Please consult your Expedition Leader for assistance with making these arrangements during your stay.

• Where will we stay during the trip?

  Accommodation will be in Hotels (5 nights) and Lodges (4 nights).

• Who do I contact for arrival issues or in the event of an emergency?

  For urgent assistance, contact the local representative or regional office (South Africa: +27 713823286; North America toll-free: 1 800 394 5416; UK: 0800 041 8146; Australia: 1 800 204 905; New Zealand: 0800 424 389; International: +1 416 260 0999). For airport transfer issues within 48 hours of arrival, contact the emergency number immediately to adjust your transfer.

• Who will be leading the group?

  The group will be led by a National Geographic Expedition Leader and a National Geographic Expedition Expert throughout the tour.