FAQ's
CLOTHING
Q: What should I wear?
A: You will require comfortable, casual and semi-casual clothes for your safari to Africa. Please note that bright colours are not suitable for game-viewing and that game-drives are conducted in the early morning and late afternoon which can be cold, especially in winter.
Q: What should I pack?
A: Here are some packing suggestions:
Light cotton trousers
Cotton shorts
Light cotton shirts (long and short sleeved)
Comfortable walking shoes
Sandals
Shower-proof rain jacket/windbreaker
Sunhat
Fleece
Insect repellent
Small torch
Bathing suit
Suntan lotion
Sunglasses
Camera (telephoto lens recommended)
Binoculars
For winter, pack an extra:
Warm jacket
Woollen hat
Scarf and gloves
Batteries, camera film, sunscreen and an extensive range of branded safari wear can be bought from most of lodge safari shops
GUEST SAFETY
Q: Will I be safe?
A: Guest safety is of paramount importance and even though Africa is a safe destination, it is wise to take certain standard security precautions. Please carry a record of your passport number, airline tickets and travellers cheques, and ensure that these items are kept in a safe place. Make use of your hotel safety deposit box for expensive items and never leave baggage or personal items unattended, especially at airports.
HEALTH
Q: What kind of medical precautions do I need to take?
A: Please consult your physician or health department for the latest health and anti-malaria precautions. Some countries require advance inoculations (and certificates thereof) - we will advise you of these.
MONEY
Q: Where can I change currency?
A: As certain African currencies are difficult to change outside the country of origin it is advisable to only change money as required. Most international airports have banks where money can be changed, and facilities are usually available at hotels and lodges. Most major credit cards are accepted at lodges/hotels, shops and restaurants. As exchange rates fluctuate, please check with your local bank or business media prior to departure. ATMs are available throughout South Africa.
PASSPORTS AND VISAS
Please ensure that you are holding a valid passport with sufficient blank pages for entry stamps in each country visited, and that you apply for visas prior to your departure. Nationals of certain countries do not require visas depending on the country you are visiting. It is advisable to check with the Consulate of the country you intend visiting for the latest visa and entry requirements beforehand or contact us and we'll gladly advise you with regard to documentation
PHOTOGRAPHY
Q: What wildlife photography advice can you give?
A: African safaris offer many excellent photographic opportunities. We recommend that you use a telephoto lens (at least 80-300mm in size) for the photography of birds and game, as well as a wide-angle lens. As most game-drives are in the early morning or late afternoon, high-speed film (200/400ASA) should be used.
Film and batteries are usually available along major tourist routes and from lodges, but we advise that you purchase film, bulbs and batteries prior to your departure. A lens hood and ultra-violet filter are advisable and a good bag for your equipment including a dust cover (plastic bag) is essential.
SEASONS AND TEMPERATURES
Q: What is the weather like?
A: Each region usually experiences lovely hot summers and mild winters and offers exceptional game viewing opportunities throughout the year.
Botswana: Subtropical climate with hot, humid, wet summers (September to April) and warm to cool, dry winters (May to August). Daytime summer temperatures may rise above 35ºC/95ºF, and winter nights rarely drop below 10ºC/50ºF.
Zimbabwe: Hot, wet summers (November to March) and warm to cool, dry winters (April to October). Daytime summer temperatures may rise above 35°C/95°F, while the nights in winter rarely drop below 10°C/50°F. The weather is mild with little rain from April to May and August to September.
South Africa: Daytime summer temperatures (September - April) are high and may soar above 36°C/97°F. Winters (May - August) have chilly nights and crisp early mornings (minimum 3°C/38°F), but the days are fine and warm. Rainfall occurs predominantly in the summer months from September to April in the form of magnificent late afternoon/evening thundershowers.
TIPPING GUIDELINES
Q: What should I tip?
A: Tips are not included in the cost of your safari. We recommend you tender small amounts to your lodge/hotel staff. Your lodge manager will provide you with guidelines for tipping if required. Where restaurant meals are involved, the tipping standard is usually 10% of the bill.
WATER
Q: Can I drink the water?
A: Tap water is safe to drink in South Africa, Botswana, Namibia and Zimbabwe but bottled water is available if you prefer.
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