Southern Africa Southbound: Dunes, Deltas & Falls - 21 Days

Frequently asked questions

• Are international flights included in this trip?

  No, international flights are generally not included in the price of your tour. For specific details regarding combo tours or baggage, please contact your booking agent or airline.

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

  It is recommended to contact your family physician or local travel clinic at least one month before departure for up-to-date health information. A valid Yellow Fever Certificate is compulsory for entry into several tour-visited countries, including Botswana, Namibia, South Africa, and Zimbabwe, if arriving from or transiting through a Yellow Fever endemic country. Malaria is present in some regions, so preventative medication (prophylaxis) and regular use of insect repellent are advised.

• Are there any known itinerary notes or changes?

  For departures over the next 6-8 months, travelers will not be staying at the tour operator-supported Dqae Qare San Lodge & Camp, but at different, nearby accommodations. The itinerary will resume normal operations at the lodge before the end of the year.

• Are there any exceptions to standard rooming arrangements or the 'My Own Room' option?

  Exceptions to standard rooming or the 'My Own Room' option apply on Days 13, 14, and 20.

• How large will the group be for this tour?

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

• How much emergency money should I bring?

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

• What is the minimum age to join this trip?

  The minimum age to join this trip is 18 years.

• Is there an extra cost for solo travelers?

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

• Is travel insurance compulsory for this trip?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory. You must have medical coverage with a minimum of USD $200,000 for repatriation and emergency rescue. Proof of insurance will be required by your CEO.

• What are the tipping guidelines for this trip?

  Tipping is an expected, though not compulsory, expression of appreciation. Guidelines (per person, per day): CEO: $5-8 USD; Local guides: $2-3 USD; Safari Guide/Driver: $2-3 USD. For restaurant staff, 10-15% of the bill, and for Okavango Delta polers, 50-100 BWP (Botswana Pula).

• What optional activities are available on this trip?

  Optional activities include whitewater rafting, scenic helicopter flights over Victoria Falls and the Okavango Delta, bungee jumping, Chobe River sunset cruises, Chobe National Park safari drives, sandboarding, skydiving and township tours in Swakopmund, desert walks, canoe excursions on the Orange River, and wine tasting in Cederberg and Cape Town.

• What should I know about joining the tour upon arrival?

  Refer to your tour voucher for your joining hotel details. An airport arrival transfer from Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe (VFA) can be pre-booked. Upon arrival at your joining hotel, look for a note or bulletin from your CEO regarding the Welcome Meeting, usually between 5pm and 7pm on Day 1.

• What are the main highlights of this tour?

  Highlights include tracking the Big Five, experiencing the mist of Victoria Falls, cruising the Chobe River at sunset, camping in the African wilderness, meeting the San people, enjoying adrenaline activities, and soaking up Cape Town's culture.

• What modes of transportation are used on this trip?

  Transportation is primarily by a custom-built 24-seat overland adventure vehicle (OAV) named the Lando, walking, mokoro (traditional dugout canoe), and safari vehicles. The Lando is equipped with storage, safety box, viewing windows, reclining seats, a mobile kitchen, air-conditioning, and USB charging ports.

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

  Always leave your passport (carry a photocopy), traveler's cheques, flight tickets, and unused money in the hotel safe deposit. Never leave bags unattended and avoid flaunting valuables. Do not wander alone in unknown city areas at night; use taxis. Do not take photos of police stations, borders, airports, army barracks/personnel, or government buildings. The use of drones in national parks is prohibited.

• What should I do if I encounter problems upon arrival?

  Contact your starting point hotel and ask to speak to your CEO. If you cannot reach them, use the emergency contact details provided in your dossier. If a pre-booked airport transfer does not arrive within 30 minutes, take a taxi to the hotel and apply for a refund from your travel agent upon return.

• What is the Planeterra International Foundation?

  Planeterra International Foundation is a non-profit organization that turns travel into impact by helping local communities earn an income from tourism. It supports community-owned businesses that empower Indigenous people, women, youth, and protect the environment, integrating these projects into tour itineraries globally.

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

  Accommodation includes 14 nights of participation camping (with supplied tents and mattresses), 1 night in a permanent tented camp, 2 nights in guesthouses (multi-share with up to 10 people), 2 nights of basic bush camping (no running water/toilets) in the Okavango Delta, and 1 night in a hostel (multi-share with 3-4 people).

• What meals are included in this trip?

  The trip includes 18 breakfasts, 17 lunches, and 12 dinners.

• Are there any specific rules to follow during the trip?

  Illegal drugs are not tolerated and contravene local laws and risk the group. Exploitation of prostitutes is against the philosophy of respect towards local people. Violations may result in expulsion from the group.

• What should I know about currency and money on this tour?

  South African Rand (ZAR) is used in South Africa and Namibia. Namibian Dollar (NAD) is used in Namibia. Botswana uses Pula (BWP), but USD is accepted for activities/drinks. Zimbabwe uses USD and ZAR. US notes older than 2006 are not accepted. ATMs are available but may be unreliable. Credit cards are accepted in major cities only. Bring USD cash for border visas.

• 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. Useful resources, such as the Equaldex tool, are available on their LGBTQ+ page for safety and comfort considerations.

• When and where can I do laundry on this trip?

  Laundry can be done at least once a week. The lodge in Swakopmund offers laundry service. At some campsites, local women may do hand washing for a fee (approx. ZAR30-50 per load). Bringing washing powder for smaller items is recommended.

• Who will be leading the group on this tour?

  The group will be led by two CEOs (Chief Experience Officers) who serve as head guide/cook and driver, along with local guides.

• What is included in the tour price?

  The tour price includes: Your G for Good Moments at Dqae Qare San Lodge & Camp, Penduka Village Restaurant & Shop, and !Khwa ttu San Culture and Education Centre; Welcome and First Night Out Moments; Okavango Delta overnight bush camping excursion; Waterberg Plateau visit; Etosha National Park entrance with Lando wildlife safari drives; Entrance to Sossusvlei Dunes, Fish River Canyon, and Spitzkoppe; All transport between destinations and to/from included activities.

• What is the age range for this tour?

  This tour is designed for young travellers aged 18 to 39.

• How many people will be in my tour group?

  The tour has a maximum group size of 22 travellers, with an average of 18.

• What kind of accommodation is provided on this trip?

  Accommodation includes participation camping (14 nights), permanent tented camps (1 night), guesthouses (2 nights, multi-share with up to 10 people), basic bush camping (2 nights), and hostels (1 night, multi-share with 3-4 people). Bush camping in the Okavango Delta is very basic with no running water or toilet facilities.

• What meals are included in the tour price?

  The tour includes 18 breakfasts, 17 lunches, and 12 dinners.

• What type of transportation is used on the tour?

  You will travel primarily in a custom-built 24-seat overland adventure vehicle (OAV) called the 'Lando.' Other modes include walking, mokoro (dugout canoe), and safari vehicles.

• What is the physical rating of this tour?

  The tour has a physical rating of 3, indicating a moderate activity level.

• Are there any optional activities available on this tour?

  Yes, there are many optional activities such as whitewater rafting, scenic helicopter flights over Victoria Falls and the Okavango Delta, bungee jumping, wildlife safari drives in Chobe and Etosha National Parks, sandboarding, wine tasting, and more. Some activities can be pre-booked.

• Are international flights included in the tour price?

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

• Are there any health considerations or vaccinations required for this trip?

  It is compulsory to show a valid Yellow Fever Certificate if you are traveling from or transiting through a Yellow Fever endemic country for more than 12 hours (as of June 2026). Malaria is also present in some regions, so preventative medication and insect repellent are recommended. Please consult your physician or local travel clinic for the most up-to-date health information and recommended inoculations.

• 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.

• What are the guidelines for tipping on this tour?

  Tipping is an expected, though not compulsory, expression of appreciation. Guidelines are: $5-8 USD per day for the CEO, $2-3 USD per day for local guides and safari guide/driver, 10-15% of the bill for restaurant staff, and 50-100 BWP (Botswana Pula) for Okavango Delta polers.

• What currencies are accepted on this trip?

  The currency in South Africa is the South African Rand (ZAR), also accepted in Namibia. The Namibian Dollar (NAD) is equivalent to ZAR in Namibia only. In Botswana, Pula (BWP) is used, but USD is accepted for activities and drinks at campsites. Zimbabwe uses US Dollar and South African Rand. For border visas, USD cash is required. Traveller’s cheques are not recommended. Visa/Plus system cards are most widely accepted debit cards; carrying both Visa and Mastercard is highly recommended.

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

  It is recommended to use a neck wallet or money belt for valuables, leave important documents in hotel safes, and avoid flaunting expensive items. Do not wander alone at night in cities and use taxis for night excursions. Do not take photos of police stations, borders, airports, army barracks, or government buildings. The use of drones in national parks is prohibited. Always check your government's travel advice before departure.

• Are there laundry facilities available during the trip?

  Laundry can typically be done at least once a week. Swakopmund lodges offer laundry service, and at some campsites, local women may provide hand washing for a negotiated fee (usually ZAR30-ZAR50 per load). Bringing some washing powder for smaller items is recommended.

• How does this tour support local communities?

  This tour supports local communities through initiatives like the Dqae Qare San Lodge & Camp, Penduka Village Restaurant & Shop, and !Khwa ttu San Culture and Education Centre. These are tour operator-supported projects designed to help local communities earn income from tourism, empower women, provide youth employment, and preserve heritage.

• Is there an extra cost for solo travelers?

  No, single travellers are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip, so there is no single supplement on group trips.

• Is travel insurance required for my trip?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory to participate in this trip. You must have medical coverage with a minimum of USD 200,000 for repatriation and emergency rescue. It is strongly recommended that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment, and loss of luggage and personal effects.

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

  The main highlights include tracking the Big Five, experiencing the mist of Victoria Falls, cruising the Chobe River at sunset, camping in the African wilderness, meeting the San people, enjoying adrenaline activities, and soaking up Cape Town's culture.

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

  Accommodation includes participation camping (14 nights), a permanent tented camp (1 night), guesthouse (2 nights, multi-share with up to 10 people), basic bush camping (2 nights), and a hostel (1 night, multi-share with 3-4 people). Camping facilities generally offer flush toilets and often outdoor showers. Bush camping in the Okavango Delta is very basic with no running water, showers, or toilet facilities. Tents and camp mattresses are supplied. Hostels in Swakopmund are dormitory-style, potentially mixed-gender.

• What meals are included in this trip?

  The tour includes 18 breakfasts, 17 lunches, and 12 dinners.

• 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, single travelers are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip, so there is no single supplement on group trips of this style.

• What is the minimum age to join this trip?

  The minimum age for this trip is 18 years.

• What modes of transportation are used on this tour?

  The main mode of transport is a custom-built 24-seat overland adventure vehicle (OAV) called the Lando, which is equipped with storage, a safety box, viewing windows, reclining seats, a mobile kitchen, drinking water, air-conditioning, and USB charging ports. Other modes include walking, mokoro (dugout canoe), and safari vehicles.

• Is travel insurance required for this trip?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory. It must include medical coverage with a minimum of USD 200,000 for repatriation and emergency rescue. Coverage for personal liability, cancellation, curtailment, and lost luggage/personal effects is strongly recommended.

• What health considerations should I be aware of before traveling?

  It is recommended to contact your physician or local travel clinic at least one month before departure for up-to-date health information. A basic first-aid kit and hand sanitizers are advisable. Medical facilities are basic. A valid Yellow Fever Certificate is compulsory for entry into some countries on the tour (Botswana, Namibia, South Africa, Zimbabwe) if traveling from or transiting through a Yellow Fever endemic country. Malaria is present in some regions, so preventative medication and insect repellent are recommended.

• What are the general safety and security considerations for this trip?

  In major cities, keep valuables in hotel safes (photocopies of passport, tickets are recommended). Avoid leaving bags unattended and do not flaunt valuables. Do not wander into unknown areas at night; use taxis. Be wary of con artists on the street. Do not photograph police stations, cross-border airports, army barracks, personnel, or government buildings. In rural areas, follow your CEO's advice. The use of drones in national parks is prohibited.

• What rules should I know before joining this trip?

  Illegal drugs will not be tolerated. Possessing or using drugs contravenes local laws and risks the group. Exploitation of prostitutes is against the tour philosophy. CEOs have the right to expel individuals violating these rules.

• Should I be tipping on my trip, and if so, what are the guidelines?

  Tipping is an expected, though not compulsory, expression of appreciation and an important source of income for those in the tourism industry. Recommended guidelines per person per day are: CEO: $5-8 USD; Local guides: $2-3 USD; Safari Guide/Driver: $2-3 USD. For restaurant staff, 10-15% of the bill is suggested. For Okavango Delta polers, 50-100 BWP is suggested.

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

  The tour uses South African Rand (ZAR) and Namibian Dollar (NAD, equivalent to ZAR in Namibia only). Botswana uses Pula (BWP), but USD is accepted at campsites and for activities. Zimbabwe uses USD and ZAR. It's strongly advised to bring ZAR or USD from home for Zimbabwe. USD notes older than 2006 are not accepted. Large notes may be difficult to change. USD cash is required for visas at borders. Traveler's cheques are not recommended. Visa/Plus system cards are most widely accepted, consider having both Visa and Mastercard. ATMs are available in major centers but can run out of cash or be out of order. Credit cards are accepted in major cities but not widely, and a 5-10% fee may apply. A combination of foreign currency and debit/credit cards for cash advances is best.

• What optional activities are available on this trip?

  Optional activities include: Victoria Falls (Luxury Sunset Riversong Cruise, Helicopter Ride, Whitewater Rafting, Bungee Jump); Chobe National Park (River Sunset Cruise, Safari Drive); Maun (Delta Doors-off Scenic Helicopter Flight); Etosha National Park (Open Vehicle Wildlife Safari Night Drive, Open Vehicle Wildlife Safari Drive); Swakopmund (Sandboarding, Skeleton Coast Scenic Flight, Skydiving, Mondesa Township Tour); Namib Desert (Desert Walk); Sossusvlei (Desert Walk); Orange River (Paddling); Cederberg (Wine Tasting); Cape Town (Wine Tour and Tasting, Cape Point Explorer Day Tour, Urban Explorer Day Tour, Two Oceans Aquarium, West Coast Explorer Day Tour, Sandboarding and San Cultural Explorer Day Tour, Overberg Explorer Day Tour, Sandboarding Half Day Tour, Hout Bay Kayaking Half Day Tour); and Table Mountain (Cable Car, Hike).

• When can I do my laundry on this trip?

  Laundry can be done at least once a week. In Swakopmund, the lodge offers laundry service. At some campsites, local women may handwash clothes for a negotiated fee (approximately ZAR30-ZAR50 per load). Bringing some washing powder or liquid for smaller items is recommended.

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

  The tour operator prioritizes the safety and well-being of all travelers, including the LGBTQ+ community. They encourage visiting their LGBTQ+ page for useful resources and recommend the Equaldex tool for specific country information on safety and travel considerations.

• How much emergency money should I bring?

  You should have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an emergency fund, to be used for unforeseen circumstances outside the tour operator's control, such as a natural disaster requiring a change to the planned route.