Victoria Falls to South Africa Overland Safari & Participation Camping - 8 Days

Frequently asked questions

• What are the main highlights of this tour?

  The main highlights include spotting the 'big five' in Kruger National Park, experiencing Victoria Falls, observing wildlife from a safari vehicle in Matobo National Park, enjoying traditional local dancing, and discovering the less-visited Zimbabwe.

• What type of accommodation is provided on this tour?

  The tour primarily offers participation camping in 2-person safari tents for six nights, with one night in a simple hotel. All necessary camping equipment, except for a sleeping bag and pillow, is supplied.

• What kind of transportation is used during the trip?

  Travel between destinations is mainly via a custom-built 24-seat overland adventure vehicle (OAV) named 'the Lando.' This vehicle is equipped with good viewing windows, reclining seats, a mobile kitchen, a 250L water tank, air-conditioning, and USB charging ports. The tour also includes walking and 4x4 open safari vehicles for wildlife safaris.

• Are international flights included in the tour price?

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

• What is the minimum age requirement 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.

• What is the maximum group size for this tour?

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

• Who will lead the group on this tour?

  The group will be led by two Chief Experience Officers (CEOs) who act as the head guide/cook and driver, supplemented by local guides at various locations.

• What meals are included during the tour?

  The tour includes 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches, and 5 dinners.

• Will I have my own room/tent if I am a solo traveler?

  Solo travelers on group trips are typically paired in shared accommodation with someone of the same sex. If you book the 'My Own Room/Tent' option, you will receive your own single room or tent for all overnight stops.

• What are the rules regarding illegal drugs and local conduct on the trip?

  Illegal drugs are strictly prohibited, and their possession or use can lead to expulsion. Exploitation of people in the sex trade is also completely contrary to the tour's philosophy and can result in expulsion from the group.

• What are the accepted currency and payment methods on this tour?

  The main currencies you'll encounter are South African Rand (ZAR), Namibian Dollar (NAD), Botswana Pula (BWP, with USD accepted for activities/drinks), and USD/ZiG in Zimbabwe (USD is most reliable). It's advised to bring small, clean USD notes, especially for visas at borders. ATMs are generally reliable in South Africa and Botswana but less so in Zimbabwe. Visa and Mastercard are accepted in major towns and tourist hubs, but credit cards are not always reliable as a sole method of payment and may incur a 5-10% fee. Traveler's cheques are not recommended, and USD notes older than 2006 are not accepted in Africa.

• How much emergency money should I carry?

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

• Is travel insurance compulsory for this trip?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory. It must cover medical expenses, including emergency evacuation and repatriation, with a minimum coverage of USD 200,000. It is strongly recommended that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment, and loss of luggage and personal effects. Be sure to check that your policy covers all included adventure activities.

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

  Travelers should always exercise common sense and caution, stick to set travel arrangements, and avoid unknown areas. It's recommended to use a neck wallet or money belt for valuables, leave valuable jewelry at home, and utilize hotel safety deposit boxes. A lock for luggage is also advisable. During free time, use your own judgment for optional activities, stay in small groups at night, and use taxis for night excursions. Water-based activities should only be undertaken with a guide, and swimming is at your own risk. The use of drones in national parks is prohibited.

• Are there any health considerations I should be aware of before traveling?

  It is recommended to consult your family physician or a local travel clinic at least one month before departure for the most up-to-date health information and recommended inoculations. Carrying a basic first-aid kit and hand sanitizers is advisable. 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 for more than 12 hours through an airport in an endemic country. Malaria is present in some regions, and speaking to your doctor about preventative medication (prophylaxis) and using insect repellent is recommended.

• Can I do laundry during the trip?

  Some hotels offer laundry facilities for a charge. There will also be times when you may need to do your own laundry, so bringing non-polluting/biodegradable soap is suggested.

• What optional activities are available on this tour?

  Optional activities include swimming in Devil's Pool, Microlight and Helicopter flights over Victoria Falls, Canoeing the Zambezi, Zambezi Bungee Jump, a full-day excursion to Chobe National Park, Victoria Falls Whitewater Rafting, Bridge Swing over the Zambezi, a Hot Springs Soak at Tshipise, and a full-day open vehicle wildlife safari drive in Kruger National Park.

• Is tipping customary or expected on this trip?

  Tipping is an expected, though not compulsory, part of the tour program and serves as an expression of appreciation for exceptional service. Recommended guidelines (per person) are: CEO $5-8 USD per day, local guides $2-3 USD per day, safari guide/driver $2-3 USD per day, and restaurant staff 10-15% of the bill. It is suggested that group members contribute anonymously to an envelope for group recipients.

• What is Planeterra?

  Planeterra International Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to turning travel into impact by helping local communities earn income from tourism. They develop and support community-owned businesses that empower Indigenous people, women, and youth, and protect the environment. A 'Dollar-a-day' donation program is available to support these projects, with 100% of donations going directly to Planeterra projects.