The First Steps
The first question is always how many days can you invest in the safari.
From our experience the fewest days for a reasonable trip would be nine,
basically one week, plus a weekend away from home. If time is not a
major factor, we can keep you thoroughly entertained for three weeks or
even longer. In our experience the average safari lasts thirteen days.
The second question is how much are you going to budget for the trip,
and what level of accommodation will you expect. Keep in mind that while
they may be available, we do not use any accommodation below a
"Three Star" rating. Right now the region offers the best
travel value, and "bang for the buck" of any destination we
frequent.
The third question is what are your interest "Hot Buttons."
Is game viewing going to be the focus, or will cultural experiences be
equally important? You can do it all, but it is helpful if there is a
particular interest we can gear toward.
Getting There
Non-stop service to Africa is available from the gateway cities of
Atlanta or New York's JFK. We are a contracted wholesale agent for South
African Airways which allows us to provide you with inexpensive
transatlantic airfares. We also have low-cost add-onn fares from most US
cities. SAA is an award-winning airline with great service and food, and
an outstanding safety record.
Frequent Flyer Programs
Delta code shares with South African Airways, but SAA does not accept
their Sky Miles points for upgrades. You can use Sky Miles to secure
round trip tickets, in any class, to either Cape Town or Johannesburg,
but advance planning is very important, as seats are limited. Delta
points are earned when traveling on a paid SAA ticket.
Travel Within the Countries and Region
It's easy to travel around the region. Modern jets are used for many of
the major destinations from the Johannesburg or Cape Town hubs, but
turbo prop planes service smaller destinations. Planning is important,
because there may not be daily departures between some of your chosen
destinations. In some areas, especially Botswana, single and twin-engine
charter planes are frequently used.
Renting a car is safe and easy, and we can recommend some self-drive
itineraries.
Scheduled train travel in Africa, except for the luxury trains, isn't
for the faint hearted...
Itineraries and Countries
Africa offers so much to see and do, and each country offers unique
safari opportunities and varied experiences. Your safari will be
individually planned and customized to meet your expectations. Our
expert staff can guide you through the process and offer suggestions
based on personal experience. First time visitors tend to focus on South
Africa since it offers everything from great game viewing, to the charm
and picturesque beauty of Cape Town. Adding on visits to other countries
becomes a factor of interest, or they may become a future safari all by
themselves.
Selecting Camps, Lodges and Hotels
The procedure is simplified, by narrowing the choices down to camps,
lodges and hotels we feel offer the best value, and consistently
outstanding service. Some are world famous, others are real finds, but
all offer great accommodation and gracious hospitality. Our staff can
guide you through the choices by region and budget. The good news is
that you will not have made a mistake regardless of the properties
selected.
When to Go
The seasons are reversed from North America, when it's hot at home, it's
mild in the southern African region. While you certainly can go anytime,
our favorite time for travel is from February through October. Overall,
with very few exceptions, southern Africa has a relatively dry climate
with low humidity.
Currency
While each country has their own currency, dollars will work there, or
are easily exchanged. The very good news is that the eschange rate is
very favorable at the moment. Visa or Master Cards work at any major
lodge, hotel or restaurant.
Entry Requirements
Every passenger needs a valid passport. No advance visas are required
for any country except Tanzania, if you are staying less than six
months. Countries requiring tourist visas make them available at their
borders. American tourists are very welcome, and border problems are
extremely rare.
Shots and Medications
No special shots or immunizations are necessary while visiting the
southern African region, with the exception of Tanzania and Kenya. There
are some areas you may travel to that we recommend taking an oral
malaria prophylactic.
Language
English is widely spoken in all of the southern Africa region, in
addition to the many native dialects. You won't have any problems
communicating at any of the major tourist destinations.
Food and Dining
The regional cuisine is varied and very good. When game is served, there
is always a chicken, beef or pork alternative. Vegetarians or special
diets are all accommodated for without any fuss. The water is safe to
drink, and bottled water is an available alternative. The bush camps are
in competition with one another to provide the best and most lavish
array of well-prepared meals.
Safety
We, nor our clients, have ever experienced any problems traveling in the
region. Tourism is a major foreign currency earner, and tourists are
well looked after. As in any place in today's world, including America,
a common sense approach to your own personal safety is advised. We know
of no safer place that being in the African bush.
