Victoria Falls to Cape Town Overland Safari & Participation Camping - 21 Days

Frequently asked questions

• What type of accommodation is provided on this tour?

  The tour primarily features participation camping (14 nights), along with one night in a permanent tented camp, two nights in guesthouses (multi-share), two nights of basic bush camping, and one night in a hostel (multi-share).

• What can I expect from the camping experience?

  You'll be camping most nights, with supplied dome tents (2-person, regularly waterproofed, with insect nets), camp mattresses, and portable camp chairs. Facilities at designated campsites generally include flush toilets and showers (sometimes outdoors). Bush camping in the Okavango Delta is more basic, with no running water, showers, or toilet facilities. You will need to bring your own sleeping bag and pillow.

• Are sleeping bags provided for camping?

  No, you are required to bring your own sleeping bag, small pillow, and sleeping sheet (if desired) for the camping portions of the tour. Sleeping bags cannot be rented.

• What meals are included during the tour?

  The tour includes 18 breakfasts, 17 lunches, and 12 dinners. When meals are not included, it's to allow travelers the opportunity to explore local cuisine, and your CEO will offer suggestions.

• Can dietary requirements be accommodated?

  Yes, vegetarian meals and other dietary requirements need to be specified prior to arrival to ensure they can be accommodated.

• What is the physical rating of this tour?

  This tour has a physical rating of 3. While not physically demanding, be aware that travel can involve long drives and sometimes poor road conditions.

• What is the minimum age to join this tour?

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

• What is the typical group size for this tour?

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

• What kind of transportation is used on this tour?

  The primary mode of transport is a custom-built 24-seat overland adventure vehicle (Lando), which is great for wildlife viewing. Other modes include walking, traditional mokoro (dugout canoes), and dedicated safari vehicles.

• Are there bathrooms on the Lando (overland adventure vehicle)?

  No, the Landos do not have on-board bathrooms.

• Is travel insurance compulsory for this trip?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory. You must have coverage for medical expenses, including emergency evacuation and repatriation (minimum USD200,000), and show proof to your leader at the start of the trip.

• Are there any health considerations or vaccinations required?

  It is recommended to contact your physician or local travel clinic at least one month before departure for health information and inoculations. A valid Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is compulsory if traveling from or through a Yellow Fever endemic country to enter Botswana and other specified countries. Malaria is also present in some regions, and prophylaxis is recommended.

• What currencies are accepted and recommended for this tour?

  The South African Rand (ZAR) is accepted in South Africa and Namibia. The Namibian Dollar (NAD) is equivalent to ZAR in Namibia. Botswana uses Pula (BWP), but USD is accepted for activities and drinks at campsites. Zimbabwe uses USD and ZAR. It's strongly advised to bring ZAR or USD from your home country for Zimbabwe to avoid delays, as ATMs can be unreliable.

• What is the policy on tipping?

  Tipping is expected but not compulsory and serves as an appreciation for exceptional service. Suggested guidelines are: $5-8 USD per day for the CEO, $2-3 USD per day for local guides/safari drivers, 10-15% for restaurant staff, and 50-100 BWP for Okavango Delta polers.

• 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 outside of our control.

• 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 to avoid a single supplement.

• Who will lead the tour and what are their roles?

  The tour is led by two Chief Experience Officers (CEOs) who act as group managers, leaders, cooks, and drivers. They provide information, suggestions, and manage logistics. Local guides are also used for specific included activities.

• What optional activities are available during the tour?

  A wide range of optional activities are available, including white water rafting, helicopter rides, bungee jumping in Victoria Falls, wildlife safari drives and boat cruises in Chobe National Park, scenic helicopter flights in the Delta, bushman walks in Ghanzi, skydiving/sandboarding in Swakopmund, desert walks in Namib Desert and Sossusvlei, canoeing on the Orange River, and wine tasting in Cederberg, among others.

• What is 'participation camping'?

  Participation camping means the group is divided into small teams to help with daily tasks like kitchen duty (meal preparation and cleanup), setting up camp tables and chairs, and cleaning the overland vehicle. The CEOs manage meal preparation, but clients assist with washing up.

• Are drones allowed on this tour?

  No, the use of drones in national parks in Southern Africa is strictly prohibited.

• How might Ramadan affect the tour experience?

  Ramadan is a month of fasting observed by Muslims. While tours generally operate effectively and food is available, there might be some limitations to services and disruptions to schedules in Muslim areas. Travelers are asked to display increased cultural sensitivity, wear loose-fitting clothes covering knees and shoulders, and avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in public during fasting hours.

• Are there any water conservation tips for visiting Cape Town?

  Yes, it is recommended to bring a reusable water bottle, reuse towels for at least two days, do laundry only with full loads, turn off taps when brushing teeth or shaving, keep showers to two minutes or less, and use hand sanitizer instead of washing hands frequently.

• Are there any photography restrictions during the tour?

  Yes, it is strictly prohibited to take photos of police stations, border crossings, airports, army barracks, military personnel, or any government buildings. Doing so can result in confiscation of film and camera. In rural areas, it is generally safer, but always follow your CEO's guidance.

• When can I do laundry on this trip?

  Laundry can be done at least once a week. Swakopmund lodge offers laundry service, and at some campsites, local women may do hand washing for a negotiable fee (usually between ZAR30-ZAR50 per load). Bringing your own washing powder for small items is recommended.

• What are the main highlights of this trip?

  The main highlights include safari drives to track the 'big five', cruising the Chobe River at sunset, camping in the African bush, meeting the Naro San people and observing their daily tasks, immersing yourself in Cape Town's vibrant culture, and experiencing the power of Victoria Falls.

• What countries will this tour visit?

  This tour traverses through Zimbabwe, Botswana, Namibia, and South Africa.

• What is the minimum age to participate in this tour?

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

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

  Accommodation includes 14 nights of participation camping, 1 night in a permanent tented camp, 2 nights in a guesthouse (multi-share with up to 10 people), 2 nights of basic bush camping, and 1 night in a hostel (multi-share with 3-4 people). Basic bush camping in the Okavango Delta has no running water or toilet facilities.

• What meals are included in the tour?

  The tour includes 18 breakfasts, 17 lunches, and 12 dinners. Meals are prepared from fresh local produce by a cook, and guests are expected to participate in meal preparation and dishwashing duties.

• What transportation methods are used during the safari?

  The primary mode of transport is a custom-built 24-seat overland adventure vehicle (OAV) named the 'Lando', which is equipped for wildlife viewing. Other methods include walking, traditional mokoro (dugout canoe), and open 4x4 safari vehicles.

• What is the typical group size for this tour?

  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, so there is no single supplement.

• What optional activities are available?

  A wide range of optional activities are available, including white water rafting, scenic helicopter flights, bungee jumping in Victoria Falls, Chobe River sunset cruises and safari drives, bushman walks, Etosha National Park safari drives, skydiving, sandboarding, desert walks, paddling on the Orange River, and wine tasting.

• Is travel insurance mandatory for this trip?

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

• What currency should I bring, and what payment methods are accepted?

  The South African Rand (ZAR) is accepted in South Africa and Namibia. The Namibian Dollar (NAD) is equivalent to ZAR only in Namibia. Botswana uses Pula (BWP), but USD is accepted for activities and at campsites. Zimbabwe uses USD and ZAR. It's advisable to bring ZAR or USD from home, and USD cash is required for border visas. Visa/Plus system debit cards are widely accepted, but credit cards may incur fees and are not always accepted outside major cities.

• What are the health recommendations and requirements for this tour?

  It is recommended to contact your physician or travel clinic for health information and inoculations. A valid Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is compulsory if traveling to Botswana from an endemic country. Malaria is present in some regions, so prophylaxis and insect repellent are recommended.

• Are there any rules regarding conduct or photography?

  Illegal drugs and exploitation in the sex trade are prohibited. Photography of police stations, border crossings, airports, army personnel, or government buildings is against the law. In cities, be vigilant, avoid wandering alone at night, and be wary of con artists.

• Who will lead the tour and what is their role?

  You will be accompanied by two Chief Experience Officers (CEOs) who serve as head guide/cook and driver. They manage the group, provide information, suggest activities, and handle logistics. Local guides are also used for specific included activities.

• Is traveler participation required during the safari?

  Yes, participation is an essential part of the safari. The group is typically divided into smaller teams for daily tasks such as kitchen duty (meal preparation and cleanup), packing, and cleaning the overland adventure vehicle. Client assistance with washing up is expected.

• What are the visa requirements for this trip?

  All countries require a valid passport (minimum 6 months validity). Visa requirements vary by nationality, and travelers are responsible for obtaining the correct documentation. Botswana has a $30 USD tourism levy. As of April 1, 2025, Namibia is introducing a mandatory 90-day visa costing USD90 on arrival, and pre-application is recommended.

• What are the general safety and security recommendations?

  It is recommended to check government travel advisories. Use a neck wallet or money belt for valuables and leave expensive jewelry at home. Many hotels have safety deposit boxes. Lock your luggage. During free time, use good judgment for optional activities and travel in small groups or take taxis at night in cities.

• Are laundry facilities available during the trip?

  Laundry can be done at least once a week. In Swakopmund, the lodge offers laundry services. At some campsites, local women may provide hand-washing services for a negotiated fee.

• What are the main highlights of this tour?

  Key highlights include wildlife safari drives to track the “big five,” a sunset cruise on the Chobe River, camping in the African bush, meeting the Naro San people, experiencing Cape Town's vibrant culture, and witnessing the impressive Victoria Falls.

• How much emergency money should I have access to?

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

• Are there any specific notes about the camping experience or tour logistics?

  This is a camping-level trip with most nights spent camping and some basic hotel/hostel stays. While campsite facilities are generally good, they can be basic in certain places, especially during 'bush camping' in the Okavango Delta where there's no running water or toilets. On some departures, travelers might stay at alternative nearby accommodations instead of the Dqae Qare San Lodge & Camp.

• 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 those identifying as part of the LGBTQ+ community. Resources are available on their LGBTQ+ page to help ensure a safe and comfortable trip, including tools like Equaldex for destination-specific information.

• What items are included in the tour price?

  The tour price includes the G for Good Moments at Dqae Qare San Lodge & Camp, Penduka Village Restaurant & Shop, and !Khwa ttu San Culture and Education Centre, a welcome meeting, an Okavango Delta overnight bush camping excursion, a Waterberg Plateau visit, Etosha National Park entrance with wildlife safari drives, entrance to Sossusvlei Dunes, Fish River Canyon, and Spitzkoppe, and all transport between destinations and to/from included activities.