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South West Safari 25 Day Trip Notes

Trip Overview

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A comprehensive introduction to Southern Africa! Uncover incredible gems of Africa on a 25-day adventure safari from Pretoria to Cape Town through West Africa. Experience the diverse wildlife and landscapes of Zimbabwe, Botswana, Namibia and South Africa. Embark on wonderful game drives, before witnessing the ancient desert of Namib-Naukluft. View the Big 5 and other fascinating species at Okavango Delta, meeting Kalahari Bushmen and their captivating culture.

Duration : 25 Days

Destination : Africa

Start/Ends in : Pretoria / Cape Town

Group Size : 5-15 Pax

Age Req. : 18+

Trip Theme : Adventure, Discovery

Hotels : Camping

Departs : All Year Around

Intended Itinerary


It is our intention to adhere to the route described below but a certain amount of flexibility is built into the tour and on occasion, it may be necessary or desirable to make alterations to the published itinerary. Please, therefore, treat the following as a guide only. This is a participation tour. Our accommodated tour option travels together with the camping counterpart.

Your tour starts in Pretoria, South Africa’s administrative capital. Close enough to Johannesburg to almost be considered a suburb, Pretoria is known as the Jacaranda City, with purple blossoms covering the streets in October each year. Pretoria boasts many sights of interest – such as the 10m bronze statue of Nelson Mandela standing beside the historic Union Buildings. Various cultural sites, shops, bars and restaurants are within an easy walk of our recommended hotel (and tour start point).

How do I get to Pretoria? Simple. Book a transfer before you leave home to meet you at Johannesburg’s OR Tambo International and take you direct to the hotel in Pretoria. Journey time is about 45 minutes depending on traffic. We particularly recommend a pre-booked transfer if you are arriving late. Alternatively, there is a regular low-cost train service called the Gautrain which runs from OR Tambo International to both Johannesburg and Pretoria. If the train interests you, email or ask Travel Talk for more information.

The description below assumes you have purchased the optional Adventure Pass for the tour.

Duration: 25 Days
Countries visited: Zimbabwe, Zambia, Botswana, Namibia and South Africa

Tour Preparation

BOOKING INFORMATION

When you make a confirmed booking for your tour you will be sent the booking documents and a pre-departure booklet with detailed information to help you prepare for your trip. Once you have paid in full you will receive a Travel Voucher giving details of your joining hotel. Johannesburg (JNB) nearby Pretoria and Cape Town (CPT) are well served by a number of airlines and your travel agent can advise on flights to the start of the tour.

GAME PARK VISITS

To maximise the quality of game driving and to comply with local authority rulings, some of our National Park visits and game viewing is carried out using services provided by local African ground handlers. As well as enhancing our experience using local guides and smaller vehicles it also allows us to contribute at a ‘grassroots’ level to local economies from which local people benefit.

JOINING INFORMATION

This tour starts early in Pretoria. The pre-departure meeting is held at 18:00 on the evening prior to departure. The tour ends in Cape Town on Day 25.

Meeting Point:

Meeting point in Pretoria:

Court Classique Suite Hotel

Address: 743 Francis Baard Street,Pretoria, 0007

Contact details: Tel. +27 (0) 12 344 4420

E-mail: [email protected]

Tours starts: 7:00 am on Day 1

Finishing Point:

Meeting end in Cape Town

Ashanti Lodge, Gardens

Address: 11 Hof Street, Gardens, Cape Town, 8001

Contact details:

Tel +27 21 423 8721
E-mail: [email protected]

Tour ends: Late afternoon on Day 25

Adventure Pass :

Every adventure camping tour has an Adventure Pass which is paid to your tour leader in Africa at the beginning of the tour (or pre-paid by arrangement prior to your tour). This is separate and in addition to the Tour Price, which is paid before travel, and is paid in the currency listed in the brochure or on the website (usually US dollars in clean, un-torn post 2008 edition notes). The Adventure Pass covers
selected park entries, activities and excursions along the way where payment goes directly to the supplier. The purpose of the separate payment is to ensure local suppliers benefit directly from the income.

Paid in the currency listed in the brochure or on the website (usually US dollars in clean, un-torn post 2008 edition notes) directly to your Tour Leader in Africa at the beginning of the tour, or pre-paid by arrangement, the Adventure Pass of this tour covers the following.

Matobo National Park √
Chobe NP Fish Eagle Cruise √
Chobe NP Game Drive √
Okavango Delta Excursion √
Sossusvlei 4×4 Shuttle √

Luggage

Please try to keep your luggage to a minimum, bearing in mind that most airlines impose a 20kg limit. It should be brought in a soft holdall or rucksack along with a smaller day bag. You will need to bring a mixture of lightweight clothing and warm clothing for the evenings and early morning game drives. You also need a sleeping bag (and small pillow if preferred). We recommended you pack a small torch or headlamp, mosquito spray and a money pouch/ belt that can be easily hidden. Please try to avoid bringing unnecessary valuables and use your hotel safe to store the bulk of your money, passport, and airline tickets. A powerbank is useful for recharging electronic devices.

N.B: Travel Talk has teamed up with SAVE (South Africa Volunteer Experience) which is a non-profit organization (NPO #088 104) that assists, develops and uplifts the local disadvantaged communities in and around the Dunoon Township of the Western Cape, South Africa. If you have any unwanted blankets, sleeping bags, clothing and shoes that you do not wish to carry after your travel, pop it into a bag and give it to our crew to donate to SAVE. Read more about SAVE
[Link to: http://www.southafricavolunteerexperiences.org.za/]

Itinerary

Please note that the itinerary may be subject to small changes depending on the conditions during the tour. Alternative accommodation of similar standards may be used depending on the group size and hotel availability.

From Pretoria – South Africa’s administrative city – we travel via the panoramic region of Mpumalanga with its beautiful scenery and dramatic escarpment views, to South Africa’s famed national park – Kruger. Fences between the National Park and surrounding private reserves were removed several years ago to form the Greater Kruger, an area of some 24000 sq km. Wildlife is free to roam the whole enormous area and it has become incredibly diverse in both fauna and flora. From the dwarf mongoose to the famed ‘Big Five’, almost every major African mammal (over 148 species) is present. There is also prolific birdlife (over 505 species) and over 330 varieties of trees. This evening we enjoy Shangaan tribal dancing and singing around an open fire.

Accommodation : Hotel Numbi – Camping in twin share tents with shared facilities

Meals Included : Dinner

WIFI: No

Optional Activities : No

Waking early, we board our 4×4 game viewing vehicles with a resident guide for an intense but rewarding day in Kruger National Park. The impressive atmosphere of the park enables you to see why it is held in such high esteem amongst visitors from all over the world. We game drive in the morning and afternoon in search for the abundance of wildlife including the ‘Big 5’ – Rhino, elephant, buffalo, leopard and lion together with a high density of other mammals and diverse bird species such as eagles, hornbills, vultures and bee eaters. We break during the middle of the day to enjoy the peace of the rest camp and wait out the hottest part of the day (when wildlife is usually less active). We then continue our game drive through the park exiting in the late afternoon and continue to our accommodation for the night.

Accommodation : Hotel Numbi – Camping in twin share tents with shared facilities

Meals Included : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

WIFI : No

Optional Activities: Kruger Night Game Drive US$75

Leaving the Greater Kruger, we travel north through South Africa’s lush countryside to Tshipise, a town situated in the northern Limpopo province. Our campsite is located at Forever Resorts at the foot of one of Limpopo’s rolling koppies set adjacent the Honnet Nature Reserve. There are hot springs in the resort offering a variety of swimming pools to enjoy. The area is surrounded by dense woodland comprising of Mopani, Red Bushwillow, Jakkalsbessie trees – and the third largest Baobab tree in South Africa

  • Accommodation: Forever Resorts – Camping in twin share tents with shared facilities

Meals Included : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

WIFI : No

Optional Activities: No

After a refreshing night’s sleep, we make our way across the border to Zimbabwe and on to Bulawayo, a pleasant city with broad tree lined avenues and wide-open spaces. On arrival we stop for supplies before heading to our campsite.  The rest of the afternoon is yours to explore the surrounds at leisure.

Accommodation : Burke’s Paradise – Camping in twin share tents with shared facilities

Meals Included : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

WIFI : Yes

Optional Activities: No

Matobo National Park is located a short distance outside Bulawayo and knowledgeable guides will take us to this very impressive park. The wind-sculptured Matobo Hills are the site of numerous Bushman paintings and the area holds a special cultural and spiritual importance to the indigenous people here. The reserve has the largest concentration of Black and White Rhino in Africa and, provided conditions are right, our guides will lead us on foot to some of the more concealed places in search of these magnificent animals. The park also has the densest population of leopard and black eagle in the world and we keep our eyes peeled high and low for these creatures. The hills are also home to the grave site of Cecil John Rhodes who chose this as his burial place owing to the intense natural beauty and startling views from the hills. His grave can be visited at World’s View – a place of continual debate owing to his involvement in claiming the land and its people for Queen & Country in colonial times.

Accommodation : Burke’s Paradise – Camping in twin share tents with shared facilities

Meals Included : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

WIFI : Yes

Optional Activities : Upgrade to full day tour including historical tour and village tour US$45

Moving on from Bulawayo we continue north, and pass through the town of Victoria Falls, before crossing the border into Zambia, we travel the short distance to the Waterfront Resort campsite a few kilometres from Livingstone. Situated on the banks of the Zambezi River, the Waterfront has a restaurant and small deck/terrace overlooking the river and is a base and booking point for the numerous optional activities available in the area. Staff will give a full briefing on what can be booked (typically including rafting, canoeing, bungee, abseiling, gorge swinging, horse riding, scenic flights and river cruises). Choose your activity at leisure, if time allows or else simply relax and enjoy the mighty Zambezi as it flows past your vantage point. A visit to the Mosi Oa Tunya National Park is included in your tour – be sure not to miss it – at over a mile wide and some 100 metres deep the Falls at high water form the largest curtain of falling water in the world with spray visible from 20 kilometres away (hence the local name Mosi Oa Tunya, or ‘Smoke that Thunders’). At low water the Zambezi dries so much that it is possible to walk out onto the river bed itself!

N.B: For the sake of practicality, meals in Livingstone/Victoria Falls area are restricted to breakfasts. This allows you to enjoy the optional activities without having to be back with the group at mealtimes. The Waterfront camp restaurant overlooks the Zambezi River and offers a selection of simple and reasonably priced meals and snacks throughout the day (allow US$15-$30 per meal). Relax and enjoy at your own leisure, or alternatively, take a taxi into Livingstone to try local fare.

Accommodation: Victoria Falls Waterfront – Camping in twin share tents with shared facilities

Meals Included : Breakfast

WIFI : Yes

Optional Activities : See day 7

We have a free day in Livingstone today to explore the town. Spend your leisure day in Livingstone exploring the activities, town and markets or simply relax poolside at the Waterfront. The perfect time to catch up on your social media and share your experiences before heading off into the Southern Africa part of your holiday.

Accomodation : Waterfront – Camping in twin share tents with shared facilities

Meals Included : Breakfast

WIFI: Yes

Optional Activities : Bungee Jumping US$160, Full Day Abseil US$190, Mosi Oa Tunya National Park Game Walk US$110, Chief Mukumi Village Tour US$50, Gorge Swing US$95, Zambezi Jet Boat & Cable Car from US$120, Half Day Canoe US$110, Zambezi Sunset Cruise US$75, Full Day White-water Rafting US$160, Helicopter/Microlight Flights from US$185, Half Day Fishing US$145, Bridge Tour US$65

Moving on from Livingstone, we travel a short distance to the Botswana border and on to the town of Kasane – the gateway to Chobe National Park. By size, Chobe is the third largest park in the country and is the most diverse – home to elephant, lion, buffalo, hippo and abundant birdlife, including the famous African fish eagle. We take a Fish Eagle cruise on the Chobe River – a great opportunity to see hippo and perhaps elephant or buffalo coming to the river to bathe and drink. The Chobe River is a major watering spot for large breeding herds of elephants, as well as families of giraffe, sable and buffalo. The flood plains are the only place in Botswana where the puku antelope can be seen. Birding is also excellent here. When in flood, spoonbills, ibis, and various species of stork and other waterfowl flock to the area.

Please note that some group members may be ending or starting their tour in Livingstone.

Accomodation : Thebe River Lodge – Camping in twin share tents with shared facilities

Meals Included : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

WIFI: Yes

Optional Activities : No

This morning we head out to explore the Chobe National Park in an open vehicle game drive where we may have the opportunity to spot not only elephant that are so prolific in the park, but also lion and different antelope species. Moving on from Chobe we continue south and may still encounter elephant and buffalo alongside the road. We arrive to our camp in the afternoon. There are no fences and wildlife roams freely. Many groups report seeing elephant and antelope at close proximity from the campsite – a very relaxing way to view wildlife!

Accomodation : Elephant Sands Lodge – Camping in twin share tents with shared facilities

Meals Included : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

WIFI: Yes

Optional Activities : No

We leave Elephant Sands and make our way to Maun, the gateway to the Okavango Delta. Maun is an eclectic mix of modern buildings and native dwellings. Although officially still a village, Maun has developed rapidly from a rural frontier town to a community that has spread along the wide banks of the Thamalakane River. This is an area where red lechwe antelope can still be seen grazing alongside local donkeys, goats and cattle. Since Maun’s founding in 1915 it has had a reputation as a hard-living ‘Wild West’ town helping the local cattle ranching and hunting operations. Maun today is a thriving tourist town famous for its donkey population and to a lesser extent, goats. These animals can be seen standing around town as they are used by local traders and farmers alike to transport their wares to sell on the curb side.

NB: If time allows, we have the opportunity to take an optional scenic flight over the Delta in the afternoon.

Accomodation :  Delta Rain’s Sitatunga Camp – Camping in twin share tents with shared facilities

Meals Included : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

WIFI: Yes

Optional Activities : Okavango Delta Scenic Flight per 5-seater plane – 45 min flight time from US$650, Maun Horse Riding (2 Hours) US$50

We leave Elephant Sands and make our way to Maun, the gateway to the Okavango Delta. Maun is an eclectic mix of modern buildings and native dwellings. Although officially still a village, Maun has developed rapidly from a rural frontier town to a community that has spread along the wide banks of the Thamalakane River. This is an area where red lechwe antelope can still be seen grazing alongside local donkeys, goats and cattle. Since Maun’s founding in 1915 it has had a reputation as a hard-living ‘Wild West’ town helping the local cattle ranching and hunting operations. Maun today is a thriving tourist town famous for its donkey population and to a lesser extent, goats. These animals can be seen standing around town as they are used by local traders and farmers alike to transport their wares to sell on the curb side.

NB: If time allows, we have the opportunity to take an optional scenic flight over the Delta in the afternoon.

Accomodation : Elephant Camp – Twin share pre-erected tents with en-suite facilities (basic-style bucket shower & toilet )

Meals Included : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

WIFI: No

Optional Activities : No

This morning we take an easy paced mokoro ride out of the Okavango Delta back to the polers’ station from where we will drive back to Maun. We aim to get back to camp around lunch time to allow for the opportunity to enjoy an optional scenic flight over this spectacular UNESCO world heritage site. Alternatively, the afternoon can be spent at leisure at the camp’s pool.

Accomodation : Delta Rain’s Sitatunga Camp – Camping in twin share tents with shared facilities

Meals Included : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

WIFI: Yes

Optional Activities : See Day 10

We leave Maun to make our way to Ghanzi, which skirts the Kalahari Desert. Here, in this midst of (seemingly) barren terrain – we meet the San/Bushman and have a guided bush walk for a cultural experience and insight into these ancient people’s way of life. We learn how they work with nature and manage the renewable resources found in their natural surroundings without damaging the fragile balance of this ecosystem – something we can all learn from. Your support of this ecotourism venture gives the San/Bushman a sustainable income and helps keep their culture alive.

Around the campfire at night, you can experience the ancient dance rituals of the San/Bushman. On special occasions this could be a healing or trance dance, which can continue all night, and is an intense spiritual experience for participants and visitors alike.

Accommodation : Ghanzi Trailblazers – Camping in twin share tents with shared facilities

Meals Included : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

WIFI: No

Optional Activities : Traditional Dancing US$15

Today we leave Botswana behind and travel to Windhoek, the capital of Namibia. Situated in a basin between the Khomas Highland, Auas and Eros Mountains, Windhoek (population approx 200,000) is small capital by global standards. The city centre is characterised by a proliferation of German style buildings, a lasting reminder of Namibia’s early colonial history. Take the opportunity to enjoy a night out at one of the local restaurants or visit the famous ‘Joe’s Beer House’

Accommodation: Urban Camp – Camping in twin share tents with shared facilities

Meals Included : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

WIFI: Yes

Optional Activities : No

We make our way north to Etosha National Park, a vast reserve of over 20,000 sq km surrounding a central salt

depression or pan. The pan is seasonally full of water, but specially managed waterholes sustain some 114 mammal and 340 bird species throughout the rest of the year. We spend two nights here, usually making camp near a floodlit waterhole. Observers frequently see a range of night visitors including elephant, giraffe, zebra, even lion and hyena, making it one of the most memorable wildlife encounters in Namibia – a truly African experience and a highlight of any trip to Namibia. We have a short afternoon game drive on entering the park on our way to the camp.

Please note that some group members may be ending or starting their tour in Windhoek.

Accomodation : Okaukuejo or Halali or Namutoni Camp – Camping in twin share tents with shared facilities

Meals Included : Breakfast, Lunch

WIFI: No

Optional Activities : No

Today, we enjoy a full day game driving in this magnificent animal kingdom – taking in the park’s main characteristic, the salt pan. Despite the dry nature of the terrain, the park sustains a wide variety of bird species including the large kori bustard, secretary bird and many other seed & insect eaters, as well as birds of prey.

After a full day game driving we return to camp, or onto the next camp and enjoy our last evening around the floodlit watering holes, observing natural animal behaviour at its best.

Accomodation : Okaukuejo or Halali or Namutoni Camp – Camping in twin share tents with shared facilities

Meals Included : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

WIFI: No

Optional Activities : No

We game drive out of Etosha National Park and turn south making our way to the beautiful Damaraland region where we explore the eerie Spitzkoppe where ancient bushman paintings are still visible. The giant boulder-like rock formations reach a peak at some 1800m above sea level and create a spectacular view. Take your time to explore the area and its delightful calmness. Keep an eye on the ever-changing colour of the rock, especially during sunrise and sunset, when they acquire intense red shades. The most impressive rock painting is “Bushman Paradise” and the natural rock bridge is a favourite viewpoint.

NB: Please take care if climbing onto the rocky outcrops. The surfaces have been smoothed by aeons of sun, wind and blown dust: they can be extremely slippery especially if you are not wearing suitable footwear.

The Spitzkoppe Rest camp lies at the base of the mountain and is owned and maintained by the local community to which all proceeds from our visit to Spitzkoppe go.

Accomodation : Spitzkoppe Community Camp – Camping in twin share tents with shared basic toilet facilities

Meals Included : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

WIFI: No

Optional Activities : No

Departing the granite infused Spitzkoppe, we make our way to the Atlantic coast and to Swakopmund.  Swakopmund makes for a refreshing change with cooler Atlantic sea air, a taste of civilization and a swathe of exciting things to do and places to explore. Try some adventure desert-based activities like quad biking, sand boarding, skydiving (weather permitting). For those seeking a quieter life, enjoy the other side of Swakopmund: shops, restaurants, museums, the aquarium, art galleries or simply walk along the promenade admiring the ocean, the quaint German-style architecture and indulge in the town’s café culture.

N.B: For the sake of practicality, meals in Swakopmund are restricted to breakfasts. This allows you to take on half day or full day activities (some of which include lunch) without having to be back for meal times. Swakopmund town offers a variety of bakeries and cafes with a selection of reasonably priced meals (allow ZAR 80-150 per meal). Relax and enjoy these days at your own leisure.

Please note that some group members may leave their tour on this day.

Accomodation : Amanpuri Dorm Bed

Meals Included : Breakfast

WIFI: Yes

Optional Activities : See day 19

Today is a free day to enjoy all this quaint seaside town has to offer – from the many optional activities to the German patisseries, cafés and restaurants.

Accomodation : Amanpuri Dorm Bed

Meals Included :  Breakfast

WIFI: Yes

Optional Activities : Sandboarding – Stand Up US$50 Sandboarding – Lay down US$40, Quad Biking US$55, Skydiving US$200, Deep Sea Fishing US$120, Scenic Flights US$360, Swakopmund Township Tour US$40, Dolphin and Seal Cruise US$60, Kayaking US$60

Continuing south, we cross over the Tropic of Capricorn, stopping for a photo opportunity en route to our stunning desert campsite in the Khomas region of Namibia.

Accomodation : Sossus On Foot Camp – Camping in twin share tents with shared facilities

Meals Included :  Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

WIFI: No

Optional Activities : Desert Excursion US$25

This morning we leave our desert camp early and enter the National Park to trek to the top of famous Dune 45. It’s a spectacular sight but be warned, it’s not an easy feat to reach the top as some dunes are over 300m high! After a well-earned breakfast we continue deeper into the park for a short shuttle ride and nature walk to ‘Dead Vlei’, amidst the giant sand dunes – a real glimpse of Namibia’s unspoilt natural environment. Bring your camera – the shifting colours of the desert as the sun climbs throughout the mid/late morning offer some brilliant photographic opportunities. Departing from the dunes, we stop off at the smaller Sesriem Canyon where the multiple layers of rock and pebbles make for an interesting insight to what lies beneath the mountains of sand. Thereafter we make our way to our camp for the night.

Accomodation : Little Sossus Lodge – Camping in twin share tents with shared facilities

Meals Included :  Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

WIFI: No

Optional Activities : No

Today we drive south through barren and rocky landscapes, dotted with quiver trees, to the world’s second-largest canyon. Fish River Canyon is one of the natural wonders of Africa, some 500m deep and over 160km long. Again, there are plenty of opportunities for keen photographers as we spend time around this area and visit the canyon’s infamous sharp river bend known as ‘Hell’s Corner.

Accomodation : Little Sossus Lodge – Camping in twin share tents with shared facilities

Meals Included :  Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

WIFI: No

Optional Activities : No

Leaving the mighty Fish River Canyon, we travel south to the Gariep (Orange) river. Our campsite lies on the banks of the river on the Namibia side. On arrival we have the opportunity to partake in an optional canoe safari on the river to see the striking Richtersveld scenery, or simply relax on the water’s edge at camp.

Accomodation : Felix Unite – Camping in twin share tents with shared facilities

Meals Included :  Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

WIFI: Yes

Optional Activities : Canoe Safari US$40

This morning, we cross the border into South Africa and continue south passing through Namaqualand, well known for its prolific display of wildflowers that occur in spring (best seen between August – September). We camp at a picturesque campsite nestled near the Olifants River. Here we have the opportunity to sample some of the beautiful wines of the region.

Accomodation : Highlanders Camp – Camping in twin share tents with shared facilities

Meals Included :  Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

WIFI: No

Optional Activities: Wine Tasting US$10

We leave the scenic Cederberg area and travel south, passing the rich fruit growing area of Citrusdal and the spectacular views as we meander down the Piketberg Pass to the Western Cape Province. We continue to cosmopolitan Cape Town – without a doubt one of the world’s most beautiful cities, where our tour ends. If time allows we recommend you spend a few days exploring the city and surroundings. Take advantage of the variety of activities normally available here.

Accomodation : No

Meals Included :  Breakfast

WIFI: Yes (Cape Town Accommodation)

Optional Activities: No

Inclusions & Exclusions

The tour price covers the following services:

Accomodation : 21 nights camping in 2-person dome tents, 1 night in twin share pre-erected en suite tents, 2 nights dorm room

Meals : 24 Breakfasts, 19 Lunches, 19 Dinners

Transportation : Fully equipped safari vehicle, All road tolls and vehicle taxes, All ground transportation

Highlights : Kruger NP, Full Day Open Vehicle Game Drive with Resident Guide Shangaan Cultural Evening Matobo National Park, Open Vehicle Game Drive and Wilderness Walk with Resident Guide, Mosi Oa Tunya NP, Victoria Falls Visit Chobe NP, Fish Eagle Boat Cruise

Activities : Chobe NP Open Vehicle Game Drive with Resident Guide, Okavango Delta Wilderness Excursion Mokoro/Walking Safari* Kalahari Bushman Walk Etosha NP, Game Drives Spitzkoppe, Bushman Paintings Sossusvlei shuttle & guided walk* Dune 45 Sesriem Canyon

What is NOT included in the tour price?

  • Adventure Pass activities
  • Travel insurance
  • Meals not stated above
  • Items of a personal nature
  • Tips & gestures
  • Airport transfers
  • Optional activities
  • NB Lunch & Dinner in Livingstone

Tour Style

Adventure Camping Tour

Travelling on a camping adventure tour is great fun, but it can also be challenging! This is a participation tour and your help will be needed in setting up the camp each night and assisting (usually on a rota basis) with the various day to day campsite duties, such as shopping, cooking and keeping the vehicle and camp tidy. But don’t worry it’s not all hard work and it’s a great way to meet the local people and get to know your fellow travellers. Your contribution benefits the success of the tour – most people find the greater their involvement, the greater their enjoyment of the whole trip. Our accommodated tour option travels together with the camping counterpart.

Africa is an adventure destination and travelling here is not always predictable so be prepared to ‘expect the unexpected in difficulties or delays which might come our way! However, you’ll soon find that the diversity of the African landscape, the wildlife, and the communities we pass on our way, make the sometimes-rough travel and long driving days worthwhile. Come with a sense of adventure and a flexible attitude and you will be sure to enjoy your African adventure across this amazing continent.

Africa provides an ever-changing environment, power failures, water, and fuel shortages, temperature fluctuations, and other uncontrollable/unplanned situations do occur. You will need to remain flexible understanding and good-humored. “African time” can be difficult and frustrating for those who are used to a very structured life, so this is something to keep in mind!

What’s Included:

All tour highlights, 2-person dome tents, fully equipped safari vehicles, camping and cooking equipment, mattresses, service of two crew, all road and vehicle taxes, all ground transportation, and meals as indicated.

What’s Not Included:

Adventure Pass activities, visas, travel insurance, flight departure taxes, airport transfers, optional activities, tips, drinks, sleeping bag and items of personal nature. NB Lunches and dinners in Swakopmund and Livingstone and dinner in Windhoek are not included in the tour price

Accommodation

We use 2-person dome tents with fly sheets, sewn-in groundsheets, zip-up insect screens and foam mattresses. We mainly use campsites, which usually have reasonable wash and shower facilities, electricity points and sometimes even a small shop, bar or swimming pool. In the Serengeti & Ngorongoro Crater there are basic facilities. On Zanzibar we use basic tourist class local hotels.

PRE/POST TOUR ACCOMMODATION

This tour departs Pretoria early on Day 1; we strongly recommend therefore that you plan to arrive the day before departure to overcome any jet-lag and to acclimatize to Africa. We would be happy to book pre-tour accommodation and transfers (LVI) for you – please call or email us (or speak to your agent) with your arrival details and accommodation requirements. However please book early to avoid disappointment and the risk of having to find more expensive (or less convenient) lodgings

If time allows, we also suggest planning a night or two extra (after your tour) to make the most of this part of Africa. Accommodation is usually available locally on arrival, but you can also pre-book this with Travel Talk. There is a variety of activities and excursions in the Nairobi area you can arrange locally or with your Tour Leader.

See below for a guide to extra accommodation costs. These prices are a guideline only and are subject to change so please check with Travel Talk for current prices.

Transport

24-seater, self-contained, custom-built vehicle with on-board tables, plug sockets, freezer, water tank, library, safety features and 70-litre individual lockers, mokoro (dugout canoe), river boat, 4×4 safari, vehicle and fast ferry. Vehicle changes may occur on this route. Travel times indicated are approximate, and do not include stops en-route.

Game Park Visits

To maximise the quality of game driving and to comply with local authority rulings, some of our National Park visits and game viewing is carried out using services provided by local African ground handlers. As well as enhancing our experience using local guides and smaller vehicles it also allows us to contribute at a ‘grassroots’ level to local economies from which local people benefit.

Travel Advice, Visas & Insurance

The table below indicates the visas required for travel to the countries on this tour but should be treated as a guide only. At least one month prior to travel seek confirmation from embassies or a visa specialist, that these requirements are still current. For UK citizens the Foreign & Commonwealth Office (FCO) offers free up-to-date travel info: www.fco.gov.uk.

This information is provided as a guidance, we strongly advise that you check with the consulate or embassy as this information can change. Please note, visa costs can change at any time and with little notice depending on the political climate of the region. It is your responsibility to make sure that all the required travel documents are ready when travelling.

NB Certain nationalities travelling to South Africa are required to apply for a visa in advance of arrival. Please check your itinerary carefully as you may be exiting and re-entering South Africa and so require a MULTIPLE ENTRY visa. Obtaining the correct paperwork is the responsibility of the traveller and Travel Talk will not be able to assist where the correct visa is not obtained. Please contact Travel Talk should you be unsure and require any assistance with visa application letters in this regard.

Travel Advice

We are closely monitoring the latest travel updates to Africa and follow the advice of the UK Foreign Office (FCDO). For the latest travel advice from the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office, https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/

We recommend all travellers to check their Government National Travel Advisory prior to their departure:

Australia – https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/

Canada – https://travel.gc.ca/

New Zealand – https://www.safetravel.govt.nz/

USA – https://travel.state.gov/

Travel Insurance

All passengers travelling with Travel Talk are required to have personal travel insurance before participating in any of our tours. Your guide will collect your travel insurance details on the first day of your trip. It is your responsibility to make sure you have an adequate and suitable travel insurance for you in place, you may read more at https://www.traveltalktours.com/travel-insurance

Health & Safety

The health and safety of our passengers, staff and communities visited is of utmost priority. As we monitor and comply with the official advice from the UK Foreign Office, as well as World Health Organization and government authorities regularly, we have implemented several policies and precautions on our tours for your wellbeing. You may find our Safe Travels Protocols at https://www.traveltalktours.com/safe-travels

Travel Talk Adventures has received the Safe Travels stamp by the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC), which allows travellers to recognise companies around the world that have adopted health and hygiene global standardised protocols – so consumers canexperience ‘Safe Travels’.

Please make sure to regularly check your Government’s travel advice before travelling and be well-informed of any requirements. Your tour guide will also notify you of the regulations and protocols to follow throughout your trip with us.

Please note that if any traveller is unable to complete the itinerary or possess a potential risk to themselves and/or the rest of the group, we reserve the right to remove them from all or part of a trip.

Please consult with your doctor for the latest medical travel information and any vaccinations you may need. We recommend that you bring any personal medical requirements and medications with you as these may be difficult to obtain while on tour.

VACCINATIONS

The table below indicates the vaccinations suggested for travel on this tour but should be treated as a guide only. You should seek professional medical advice from your GP or clinic at least six weeks prior to departure. Please note some areas visited are malarial. We recommend you speak to your doctor or travel clinic about appropriate anti-malarial tablets.

C = Compulsory, R = Recommended, * = If travelling from infected countries a certificate of proof may be required. NB: To be used as a guide only.

Please see your GP or travel clinic for up-to-date medical advice. Alternatively, contact TravelTalk for any queries or advice regarding vaccination requirements.

Weather

The best time to visit Africa is from September to December, when the dry and warm weather across the continent offers the ideal conditions for safari trips in the southwest, sightseeing in the Cape region, and adventures in East Africa. 

It is also the best time for game viewing in the wilderness areas stretching from west to east. Southern Africa’s majestic animal migrations take place during these months, creating fascinating views of wildlife for the best photographic experience. 

Your chances of witnessing animal births are high, especially in Southern Africa’s national parks. Trips to Africa from September to December have a lot to offer if you wish to witness the incredible wildlife diversity and the intriguing local life.

Check out our weather guide for the best time to visit Africa.

Money Matters

PERSONAL EXPENSES

Naturally you will require extra money for your own personal spending on the tour, for Activities and Excursions, snacks, drinks, souvenirs, tips and items of a personal nature. Everybody has different spending habits but as a guideline we suggest you budget US$15-30 per day. Also keep US$ cash for relevant airport taxes and visas needed, optional activities and any additional accommodation before or after your tour.

Spending money is best carried as cash in either US dollars(US Dollars in clean, un-torn, post 2008 edition notes), South African Rand, Sterling or Euro which can be exchanged on arrival and as you travel. Your guide will give general guidance
about spending during the tour.

Currencies are as follows: Zambia – Zambian Kwacha; Botswana – Botswana Pula; Namibia – Namibian Dollar; South Africa – Rand. Please note that Rand is legal tender in Namibia at the same rate of exchange as the Namibian Dollar.

ATM machines are found in Southern Africa. Please note they are sometimes unreliable (therefore should not be relied
upon).

Credit cards can be used to pay for optional activities although charges may be may be high by western standards (+/- 5%).

TIPPING

As in many areas where tourism is an important contributor to the economy it has become customary to offer a small gratuity to local staff at the end of the tour if service has been of a high standard. Naturally, this always remains at your discretion.

OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES AND EXCURSIONS

To give you maximum flexibility on the tour we offer a number of optional activities on the tour. To help budget, approximate prices are listed below in US$ unless otherwise stated. All prices are subject to change and availability.

Essentials to Bring & Internet

-Face mask/cover and hand sanitiser enough for your personal use throughout the trip – See more at https://www.traveltalktours.com/safe-travels/

-Travel Documents: Passport, Visa (if required), flight or transport ticket (and photocopies)

-Travel Talk Tour Voucher (printed or digital)Travel Insurance Policy (and photocopy)

-Personal medical kit and medicine

-Money (cash, credit card, travellers’ cheques)

-Power Adapter

-Reusable water bottle

-Ear plugs and eye mask

-Sun protection – hat, sunglasses, sunscreen

-Comfortable, closed walking shoes

-Wind/water proof jacket

-Warm clothes, hat, and gloves for cold weather

-Sandals, swimwear, shorts for warm weather

Solo Travellers

We have many solo travellers joining our tours. Solo travellers will be roomed with another traveller of the same gender. If you would like a private solo room, please contact us. You may see out solo travels page for more details.

Rules to Follow

We are committed to ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone. We do not tolerate any form of violence (physical or verbal), bullying or harassment involving customers, partners, Travel Talk staff or locals. Sexual relationships between a tour leader and a passenger are forbidden.

We will not tolerate any illegal activity, including but not limited to: use and possession of illegal drugs, trespassing, and disrupting public order. If you consume alcohol, please ensure that you drink responsibly and follow the local laws and regulations.

You must follow the advice of your tour leader and local officials regarding health and safety measures. We operate all tours under Safe Travels protocols for the wellbeing of our passengers, staff and communities visited. Please ensure that you have read the https://www.traveltalktours.com/safe-travels/ and are fully prepared for your trip.

If someone is acting inappropriately regarding these matters, please notify your tour leader immediately or contact us on the emergency contact number provided below.

Your tour leader has the right to remove from the group anyone not abiding by these rules, with no right of compensation or refund. See more at https://www.traveltalktours.com/booking-terms/

Please remember that our travellers come from different parts of the world and will have various needs and preferences. Be understanding and patient with your fellow travellers, and always strive to be on time.

Responsible Travel

We strongly believe that you get the most out of a journey by respecting the culture and people of the places you visit. On our tours, we try to travel in a way that benefits the communities we pass through and minimizes the negative impact on the environment. This can be from ensuring the campsites and accommodation we use are clean when we leave and dressing respectfully in conservative areas to getting involved with local charity projects. We ask that you are open to this when you travel with us. Being proactive in responsible travel helps develop cross-cultural understanding and friendships with the local people and will greatly enhance your experience in Africa.

Read more at https://www.traveltalktours.com/responsible-travel/

Get Connected

WIFI on tour:

While WIFI is becoming more common in some areas of Africa we cannot guarantee the speed, cost or reliability during your tour.

Open until midnight

+44 20 809 995 96
[email protected]

Monday - Friday: 09:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Saturday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Sunday: Closed
W. Europe