Southern Africa Safari: Kruger, Victoria Falls, Hwange & Chobe - 14 Days

Frequently asked questions

• What are the main highlights of this Southern Africa Safari tour?

  The main highlights include thrilling safari drives through Kruger National Park to spot wildlife, a classic bush dinner under the stars, experiencing the majesty of Victoria Falls, searching for the Big Five in Hwange National Park, and cruising the Chobe River to observe wildlife.

• What types of accommodation are provided on this tour?

  Accommodation on this tour includes 4 nights in hotels and 9 nights in lodges.

• What meals are included in the tour price?

  The tour includes 13 breakfasts, 2 lunches, and 12 dinners.

• What modes of transportation are used during the trip?

  Transportation on the trip includes planes for internal flights, private vehicles, safari vehicles, and walking.

• Are international flights included in the tour price?

  No, international flights are generally not included in the price of your tour, except on some combo tours. Please check with your booking agent for specific details.

• What is the maximum group size for this tour?

  The maximum group size for this tour is 18 travelers, with an average group size of 14.

• Is there an extra cost for solo travelers?

  No, solo travelers joining group trips are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex. If you book the 'My Own Room' option, you will receive your own single room for all night stops.

• What is the minimum age to join this trip?

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

• Who will be leading the group on this tour?

  The trip is accompanied by a Chief Experience Officer (CEO) throughout, along with local guides at specific locations.

• Is travel insurance compulsory for this trip?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory. You must have a minimum coverage of USD200,000 for medical expenses, including emergency evacuation and repatriation. Personal liability, cancellation, curtailment, and loss of luggage are also strongly recommended.

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

  All countries require a valid passport with a minimum of 6 months validity. Please contact your local embassy, consulate, or travel agent for the most up-to-date visa requirements. Botswana has a $30 USD tourism levy for visitors (except SADC member states), valid for 30 days and multiple entries.

• What optional activities are available during the tour?

  Optional activities include visiting the Apartheid Museum in Johannesburg, additional wildlife safari drives in Kruger, Victoria Falls helicopter rides, Zambezi whitewater rafting, bungee jumping, the Bamba tram, ziplining over the Zambezi, afternoon or night safari drives in Hwange, the Four Corners of Africa River cruise, and afternoon safari drives in Chobe National Park.

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

  It is recommended to check your government's travel advice, use a neck wallet or money belt, leave valuable jewelry at home, utilize hotel safety deposit boxes, and lock your luggage. The group leader can amend the itinerary for safety. For free time activities, use your own judgment. Stay in small groups and use taxis at night in cities. Water-based activities should be accompanied by guides, and swimming is at your own risk.

• What should LGBTQ+ travelers know about safety?

  The tour operator prioritizes the safety and well-being of all travelers, including those identifying as LGBTQ+. They encourage visiting their dedicated LGBTQ+ travel page for resources and information specific to destinations.

• What are the rules of conduct on this trip?

  Illegal drugs are not tolerated, and the exploitation of people in the sex trade is strictly prohibited. Group leaders have the authority to expel any member found in possession of drugs or utilizing paid sex workers.

• 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 that might require a change to the planned route.

• What is Planeterra?

  Planeterra International Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to turning travel into impact by helping local communities earn an income from tourism. They support community-owned businesses that benefit Indigenous people, empower women, provide youth employment, and protect the environment.

• What countries will this safari tour visit?

  This safari adventure will take you through three Southern African countries: South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Botswana.

• What are the main highlights of the safari experience?

  Key highlights include thrilling safari drives in Kruger National Park to spot the Big Five, a classic bush dinner under the stars, experiencing the majestic Victoria Falls, searching for wildlife in Zimbabwe's Hwange National Park, and a scenic cruise on the Chobe River.

• What types of wildlife can I expect to see?

  You can expect incredible wildlife viewing opportunities, including tracking the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, buffalo) in Kruger and Hwange National Parks, and encountering large concentrations of elephants, lions, leopards, hippos, gazelles, and buffalo in Chobe National Park.

• Which meals are included in the tour price?

  The tour includes 13 breakfasts, 2 lunches, and 12 dinners.

• What kind of accommodation will we stay in?

  Accommodation for the tour consists of 4 nights in hotels and 9 nights in lodges.

• What is the maximum number of participants in a group?

  The maximum group size for this tour is 18 travelers, with an average group size of 14.

• Are international flights part of the tour package?

  No, international flights to and from Southern Africa are not included. However, an internal flight connecting Johannesburg to Victoria Falls is included in the tour.

• Is this tour suitable for solo travelers, and what are the arrangements?

  Yes, solo travelers are welcome. Our group trips are designed for shared accommodation with no single supplement, meaning you'll be paired with another traveler of the same sex. If you prefer a private room, a "My Own Room" option is available for an additional cost for most night stops, with specific exceptions for nights 2 and 3.

• What are some of the optional activities available during the trip?

  During your free time, you can choose from optional activities such as visiting the Apartheid Museum in Johannesburg, a full-day tour along the Panorama Route near Kruger National Park, various activities in Victoria Falls like helicopter rides, whitewater rafting, or ziplining, afternoon or night safari drives in Hwange National Park, and a "Four Corners of Africa" river cruise in Kasane.

• Is travel insurance mandatory for this tour?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory for all participants. Your policy must cover a minimum of USD 200,000 for medical expenses, including emergency evacuation and repatriation. Coverage for personal liability, cancellation, curtailment, and loss of luggage is highly recommended.

• Who will lead the tour group?

  The tour will be led by a Chief Experience Officer (CEO) throughout the trip, complemented by local guides who provide specialized knowledge in specific areas.

• Does this tour support local communities or conservation efforts?

  Yes, the tour features a G for Good Moment with an included group dinner hosted by the Lusumpuko Women’s Club, a tour operator-supported initiative. You will also visit The Jane Goodall Institute Chimpanzee Eden and the Painted Dog Rehabilitation and Conservation Centre, learning about their conservation efforts. The tour operator also supports the Planeterra Foundation, which empowers local communities through tourism.

• What are the general visa and entry requirements?

  A valid passport with a minimum of 6 months validity is required for all countries visited. Botswana has a $30 USD tourism levy payable upon entry, valid for 30 days and including multiple entries. It is essential for travelers to verify the most current visa requirements for their specific nationality with their local embassy or consulate.

• What is the recommended amount for an emergency fund?

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

• What is the physical rating for this tour?

  The physical rating for this tour is 3.