Zimbabwe, Botswana, South Africa Overland Safari & Participation Camping - 15 Days

Frequently asked questions

• What kind of accommodation is provided on this tour?

  The tour includes 2 nights in simple hotels (single or twin-share), 11 nights of participation camping, and 1 night of basic bush camp. Camping involves good quality, durable 2-person safari canvas tents with built-in insect nets and camp mattresses. Bush camping in the Okavango Delta is more basic with no running water, showers, or toilet facilities.

• What is the typical group size for this safari?

  The tour accommodates a minimum of 1 person and a maximum of 22 people per group.

• Are there any age restrictions for participants on this tour?

  The minimum age for participants is 12 years old, and the maximum age is 100 years old.

• What level of physical fitness is required for this trip?

  The tour has a physical rating of 3. It is not considered physically demanding, but travel can be difficult at times with long drives and poor road conditions. Most clients find the experience worthwhile despite these challenges.

• What type of transportation is used during the safari?

  The primary mode of transport is a custom-built 24-seat overland adventure vehicle (Lando), which is used for travel between destinations and wildlife viewing. Other forms of transport include open safari vehicles, traditional mokoro (dugout canoes), and walking.

• What meals are included during the tour?

  The tour includes 13 breakfasts, 12 lunches, and 8 dinners. Group participation is encouraged for meal clean-up during camping segments.

• What activities are included in the tour price?

  Included activities are a G for Good Moment: Lusumpuko Women's Club Lunch, a guided rhino walk and open vehicle safari drive in Matobo National Park, Kruger National Park entrance with wildlife safari drives, a traditional dinner and local dancing, a Khama Rhino Sanctuary drive, and an Okavango Delta overnight bush camping excursion. All transport between destinations and to/from included activities is also covered.

• Are there any additional optional activities I can choose to do?

  Yes, there are several optional activities available, including but not limited to: Livingstone Island (Devil's Pool) swim or Microlight Flight in Livingstone; Canoeing the Zambezi, Victoria Falls Helicopter Ride, Zambezi Bungee Jump, or Whitewater Rafting in Victoria Falls; Hot Springs Soak in Tshipise; a full-day Open Vehicle Wildlife Safari Drive in Kruger National Park; a Cycle Tour in Soweto or visit to the Apartheid Museum in Johannesburg; a Delta Doors-off Scenic Helicopter Flight in Maun; and a Chobe River Sunset Cruise or Chobe National Park Safari Drive in Chobe National Park.

• What is the tipping policy or guideline for the tour staff?

  Tipping is an expected expression of appreciation for exceptional service, though not compulsory. Guidelines are: CEO: $5-8 USD per day, per person; Local guides and Safari Guide/Driver: $2-3 USD per day; Restaurant Staff: 10-15% of the bill; Okavango Delta polers: 50-100 BWP.

• What currencies are accepted, and how should I manage my money during the trip?

  In Zimbabwe, USD and ZAR are most accepted, with several other major currencies also legal. In South Africa, the currency is the South African Rand (ZAR). In Botswana, the Pula (BWP) is used for purchases at supermarkets/post offices, but USD can be used for activities and drinks at campsites. It's strongly advised to bring ZAR or USD from your home country or exchange money before the tour begins. Credit cards are accepted only in major cities and towns, often with a 5-10% fee. An emergency fund of at least USD $200 (or equivalent) is recommended.

• Is participation required from guests during the camping sections of the tour?

  Yes, participation is an essential part of the safari. The group is divided into small teams for daily tasks like kitchen duty (helping with meal prep and clean-up), packing (setting up tables and chairs), and cleaning the overland vehicle. CEOs handle meal preparation, but clients are asked to assist with washing up, fostering team spirit.

• Do I need a Yellow Fever vaccination for this tour?

  A valid Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is compulsory if you are traveling to Botswana from a Yellow Fever endemic country or have recently traveled to one (within 10 years). Inoculations must be administered at least 10 days prior to entry. Border officials strictly enforce these requirements, and travelers without correct documentation risk being denied entry.

• Is it permitted to use drones in the national parks visited?

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

• How are solo travelers accommodated on this tour?

  Solo travelers on group trips are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip without an additional single supplement.

• Who will be leading the tour group?

  The tour will be accompanied by two Chief Experience Officers (CEOs). They act as group managers, leaders, cooks, and drivers. They provide information, offer suggestions, and handle logistics, allowing you to enjoy the adventure.