Nicole & Paul A Honeymoon Journey through Southern Africa

Located in southwestern Africa, Namibia boasts a well-developed infrastructure, some of the best tourist facilities in Africa, and an impressive list of breathtaking natural wonders. Visitors can explore the capital of Windhoek and discover the lovely coastal town of Swakopmund boasting remnants of the country’s German influence, reflected in the architecture, culture, cuisine and the annual Oktoberfest celebrations. To properly appreciate this extraordinary country, you will have to venture out of the cities to explore the remarkable natural landscapes Namibia has to offer. These include: the impressive Fish River Canyon; the vast Etosha National Park teeming with abundant wildlife, such as lions, desert-adapted elephants and the Hartmann's Mountain Zebra; the hauntingly beautiful Kalahari Desert; and of course the Namib Desert stretching for over 2000 km along the magnificent Atlantic Coast. Namibia is an ideal destination for travellers seeking an unforgettable African experience in a uniquely beautiful untamed wilderness.

Currency 
Local currency: Namibian Dollar 
Symbol: N$ 
ISO code: NAD 
Subunit: Cent (1/100 of a Dollar) 
Banknotes: 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 NAD 
Coins: 5, 10, 50 cents, 1, 5, 10 NAD 

Banking 
Card Transactions: Widely accepted 
ATMs: Yes 
Mastercard: Yes 
Visa: Yes 
American Express: Yes 
Diner’s Club: Yes 

Banking Hours:
Weekdays: 08:30 – 15:30, Saturdays: 08:30 – 11:00
Public Holidays: No
Foreign exchange services: Yes

Air: 
Main airlines: Airlink, Fly Namibia
International Airports: Hosea Kutako International Airport 
Domestic Airports: Eros Airport 

Road: 
Driving on the: Left 
Tar roads: Yes 
Gravel roads: Yes 
Valid International Driver's License needed: Yes 
Car hire available: Yes 
Taxis: Yes 
E-hailing services: Yes 

Bus: 
Inter-city bus services: Yes 
Local city bus networks: Yes 

Rail: 
Railway system: Yes 
Subway System: No 

Water: 
Ferries: No 
Water taxis: No 
Leisure cruises: Yes

Food and water safety: 
Can you drink the tap water: Yes 
Fresh fruit and veg: Yes 
Ice: Yes 
Meat: Yes 
Street food: Yes 

Local cuisine: 
Namibian cuisine features a rich blend of German and South African influences, with a focus on grilled meats and fish. Dishes like Biltong (dried, spiced meat), Kapana (grilled meat from street vendors), and Potjiekos (slow-cooked meat and vegetable stew) are popular. Seafood is also abundant along the coast. 

Drinks: 
Popular local drinks include Windhoek Lager and Tafel Lager, locally brewed beers. 

Tipping: customary, usually around 10-15% in restaurants. 

Annual rainfall: Varies from under 50 mm in the desert to over 700 mm in the Caprivi Strip 
Average temperature: 20°C 

Summer: 
Average highs: 30°C 
Average lows: 15°C 

Winter: 
Average highs: 20°C 
Average lows: 5°C 

Best time to visit: 
The best time to visit Namibia is during the cooler dry months from May to October when wildlife viewing is at its best in parks like Etosha National Park. The weather is pleasant for exploring the desert landscapes and other outdoor activities. 

Spring and Summer 
Cool, light, breathable and comfortable: Yes 
Lightweight warm clothes: No 

Winter and Autumn 
Jerseys, cardigans, sweaters, jackets: Recommended 
Heavyweight clothing and boots: Yes 

General 
Umbrella and raincoat: Yes 
Warm gloves, hat and scarf: No 
Swimming costume (bathing suit): Yes 
Hat, sunglasses, and sunblock: Yes 
Walking shoes: Yes 
Casual: Yes 
Smart-casual attire: Yes 

Plug Type: Type D, M, and G 
Voltage (V): 220 V 
Frequency (Hz): 50 Hz 

*Travel plug adapter and voltage converter might be necessary depending on your appliances. 

TIPPING GUIDELINES

Tipping Guidelines For 4 - 5 Star Safari Lodges  (See below if you are staying at a very high-end luxury lodge)

Ranger/ Field Guide: $18 – 20 per person per day

Tracker: $8-10 per person per day

Specialist Activity Guides (Bushmen experience, Mokoro poler, bird guide etc.): $8 -10 per person, per activity

Butler: $6-10 per person per day

General safari lodge staff: $10-15 per person per day. Can generally be put in gratuity box at reception. Most camps/lodges allow tipping by credit card.

Note: Some camps will have a central gratuity box for the general staff, while others do not. Envelopes are also available.

Tipping Guidelines For High-End Safari Lodges (andBeyond etc)

Ranger/ Field Guide: From $ 20 per person per day

Tracker: From $20 per person per day

Specialist Activity Guides (Bushmen experience, Mokoro poler, bird guide etc.): From $20 per person, per activity

Butler: From $17  per person per day

Therapist: 10% of treatment

General safari lodge staff: From $20 per person per day. Can generally be put in gratuity box at reception. Most camps/lodges allow tipping by credit card.

One of the most culturally and geographically diverse places on earth, South Africa, fondly known by locals as the 'Rainbow Nation', boasts 11 official languages, and its inhabitants are influenced by a fascinating mix of cultures. Discover the gourmet restaurants, impressive art scene, vibrant nightlife, and beautiful beaches of Cape Town. Enjoy a local braai (barbecue) in the Soweto township, browse the bustling Indian markets in Durban, or sample some of the world's finest wines at the myriad wine estates dotting the Cape Winelands. Some historical attractions to explore include the Zululand battlefields of KwaZulu-Natal, the Apartheid Museum in Johannesburg, and Robben Island, just off the coast of Cape Town. Above all else, its untamed wilderness is astonishing: wildlife roams freely across massive unfenced game reserves such as the world-famous Kruger National Park.

Currency 
Local currency: South African Rand 
Symbol: R 
ISO code: ZAR 
Subunit: Cent (1/100 of a Rand) 
Banknotes: R10, R20, R50, R100, R200 
Coins: 10c, 20c, 50c, R1, R2, R5 

Banking 
Card Transactions: Widely accepted 
ATMs: Yes 
Mastercard: Yes 
Visa: Yes 
American Express: Yes 
Diner’s club: Yes 
 
Banking Hours: Weekdays: 09:00 – 15:30 
Weekend: Saturdays: 08:30 – 11:00 
Public Holidays: Closed 
Foreign exchange services: Yes 

Air: 
Main airlines: South African Airways 
International Airports: O.R. Tambo (Johannesburg), Cape Town International, King Shaka (Durban) 
Domestic Airports: Numerous across the country 

Road: 
Driving on the: Left 
Tar roads: Yes, well-maintained in most areas 
Gravel roads: Yes, especially in rural areas 
Valid International Driver's License needed: Yes 
Car hire available: Yes 
Taxis: Yes 
E-hailing services: Yes, including Uber and Bolt 

Bus: 
Inter-city bus services: Yes 
Local city bus networks: Yes 

Rail: 
Railway system: Yes, including luxury options like the Blue Train 
Subway System: Gautrain in Gauteng 

Water: 
Ferries: Limited, mainly in coastal cities 
Water taxis: No 
Leisure cruises: Yes, especially from Cape Town and Durban 

Food and water safety:
Can you drink the tap water: Yes, in most urban areas
Fresh fruit and veg: Yes
Ice: Yes
Meat: Yes
Street food: Yes, widely popular and generally safe

Local cuisine:
South African cuisine is diverse and flavourful, featuring dishes like biltong (dried, seasoned meat), bobotie (spiced minced meat baked with an egg-based topping), and boerewors (farmers' sausage). The culinary scene includes a strong tradition of barbecuing, known locally as "braai."

Drinks:
Notable local drinks include Rooibos tea, craft beers, and South African wines.

Tipping: Customarily 10-15% in restaurants and for services.

Annual rainfall: Varies widely, Cape Town (winter rainfall, 515 mm), Johannesburg (summer rainfall, 713 mm) 
Average temperature: Varies, Cape Town 17°C, Johannesburg 15.5°C 

Summer: 
Average highs: 28°C (Cape Town), 26°C (Johannesburg) 
Average lows: 16°C (Cape Town), 15°C (Johannesburg) 

Winter: 
Average highs: 18°C (Cape Town), 17°C (Johannesburg) 
Average lows: 8°C (Cape Town), 4°C (Johannesburg) 

Best time to visit: 
The best time to visit South Africa is from May to September for wildlife viewing, as animals are more concentrated around water sources. For beach holidays, mid-December to March is ideal, especially in Cape Town. 

Spring and Summer 
Cool, light, breathable and comfortable: Yes 
Lightweight warm clothes: No 

Winter and Autumn 
Jerseys, cardigans, sweaters, jackets: Recommended 
Heavyweight clothing and boots:  Yes 
 
General 
Umbrella and raincoat: Yes, during the rainy seasons 
Warm gloves, hat and scarf: In winter, particularly in high-altitude areas 
Swimming costume (bathing suit): Yes 
Hat, sunglasses, and sunblock: Essential 
Walking shoes: Yes 
Casual: Yes 
Smart-casual attire: Yes 

Internet cafes: Yes, mainly in urban areas 
Accommodation options: Yes, with good connectivity 
Restaurants: Yes, in major cities 
Cafes: Yes, with Wi-Fi available 
Shopping malls: Yes 
Public parks: Yes, in major cities 
Libraries: Yes 

TIPPING GUIDELINES ON SAFARI

Tipping Guidelines For 4 - 5 Star Safari Lodges  (see below if you are staying at a very high-end luxury safari lodge)

Ranger/ Field Guide: $18 – 20 per person per day

Tracker: $8-10 per person per day

Specialist Activity Guides (Bushmen experience, Mokoro poler, bird guide etc.): $8 -10 per person, per activity

Butler: $6-10 per person per day

General safari lodge staff: $10-15 per person per day. Can generally be put in gratuity box at reception. Most camps/lodges allow tipping by credit card.

Note: Some camps will have a central gratuity box for the general staff, while others do not. Envelopes are also available.

Tipping Guidelines For High-End Luxury Safari Lodges

Ranger/ Field Guide: From $ 20 per person per day

Tracker: From $20 per person per day

Specialist Activity Guides (Bushmen experience, Mokoro poler, bird guide etc.): From $20 per person, per activity

Butler: From $17  per person per day

Therapist: 10% of treatment

General safari lodge staff: From $20 per person per day. Can generally be put in gratuity box at reception. Most camps/lodges allow tipping by credit card.

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TIPPING GUIDELINES FOR CITY TOURING

Restaurants and bars: 10 -15%, depending on the service received

Porterage: $2 per person per bag portered

Transfer driver: $3-4 per person. Consider increasing if you had extensive help with your luggage.

Private Tour Guide: $10 – 15 per person per day

Scheduled Tour Guide: $6 per person per day

Spa Treatment Therapist:  At your discretion

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TIPPING GUIDELINES LUXURY TRAIN TRAVEL (ROVOS RAIL & BLUE TRAIN)

Cabin Attendant: $15 per person per journey

Waiter on Dining Car: $12 per person per journey
OR
Train Staff: $10 - $20 per person per night (for longer journeys)

Situated on the east coast of Africa, this tropical paradise is blessed with 2500 kilometres of spectacular coastline. With its idyllic beaches fringed with palm trees and lapped by crystal-clear waters brimming with a dazzling array of marine life, this enchanting African nation is an ideal adventure holiday destination, with an abundance of activities on offer such as snorkelling, sunset cruises, horse-riding, dolphin tours and world-renowned scuba diving. Mozambique’s two major centres, Maputo and Inhambane, offer an exotic kaleidoscope of art, music and delicious local food as well as a lively nightlife scene. Spend your days immersing yourself in the fascinating local culture, marvelling at the impressive colonial architecture and interacting with the fabulously friendly local inhabitants. Those seeking a more remote getaway can head for the isolated beaches of Benguerra Island; the historic Portuguese and Muslim architecture of Mozambique Island; or the outstanding wildlife of Gorongosa National Park. However, you choose to spend your time in this exceptionally scenic destination you are likely to leave with a heavy heart and a burning desire to return time and time again.

ENTERING MOZAMBIQUE

You DO require a visa to enter Mozambique if you are a citizen of -

· USA

· Canada

· Australia

· United Kingdom

· any of the EU countries

If you are a citizen of another country, please consult THIS LIST (http://www.worldtravelguide.net/mozambique/passport-visa), to determine if you need a visa before you enter.

In all cases, ALL visitors are required to have a passport which is valid for at least six months beyond your intended departure date from Mozambique.

In all instances, ALL visitors must ensure there are THREE successive blank pages in their passport per country to be visited.

Visitors traveling through South Africa, to and from Mozambique, should be advised that the passports of ALL travellers to South Africa must contain at least TWO blank consecutive (unstamped) visa pages EACH time entry to South Africa is requested; these pages are IN ADDITION to the endorsement/amendment pages at the back of the passport.

ALL tourists requiring a visa must obtain the visa IN ADVANCE from the relevant Mozambique High Commission or Embassy.

If you are travelling from a country where there is no Mozambican diplomatic mission it ‘may’ be possible to acquire a visa on arrival, BUT, please NOTE:

There are reports of visitors experiencing problems and being turned back, we strongly advise double-checking facts and requirements BEFORE departure.

CURRENCY - CREDIT CARDS & ATMs

The currency of Mozambique is the Metical (MZN), which is made up of 100 Centavos.

You cannot exchange meticals outside of Mozambique, but you can convert them back at exchanges prior to leaving the country.

ATMs

ATMs are restricted to the bigger towns and cities, from which local currency is dispensed.

In rural and remote areas, there is very limited or no access to ATMs.

Credit Cards

Acceptance of credit cards is limited to the bigger cities in Mozambique, and in the main hotels, lodges and resorts, MasterCard and Visa can be used. American Express and Diners Club are frequently NOT accepted at all. Be sure to ask your bank about a Visa or MasterCard with no foreign transaction fees! Debit cards are not acknowledged.

TIPPING

Although not compulsory, if you are happy with the level of service provided, it is customary to tip guides, drivers, and support staff, and it is appropriate to do so in US$ or Mozambican Metical (MZN).

General Guidelines for Tipping

· Dive Instructor - $15 per couple per day

· Fishing Guide - $15 per couple per day

· Butler - $15 per couple per day

· Lodge/Resort/Camp Staff - $15 - $20 per couple per day

· Transfer Drivers - $5 per transfer

· Porters - $1 per bag, more if heavy

· Restaurants - 10% - 15% of the bill

Whilst it is not encouraged to carry enormous quantities of cash, visitors should be aware that facilities for exchanging or drawing any type of currencies are restricted to the bigger towns and the cities.

NOTE: US dollars dated 2006 or earlier are NOT accepted in Mozambique.

Air: 
Main airlines: LAM Mozambique Airlines 
International Airports: Maputo International Airport 
Domestic Airports: Beira Airport, Nampula Airport 

Road: 
Driving on the: Left 
Tar roads: Yes, mainly in urban areas 
Gravel roads: Yes, common in rural areas 
Valid International Driver's License needed: Yes 
Car hire available: Yes 
Taxis: Yes 
E-hailing services: Yes, in major cities 

Bus: 
Inter-city bus services: Yes 
Local city bus networks: Yes 

Rail: 
Railway system: Yes, limited service 
Subway System: No 

Water: 
Ferries: Yes, to the Bazaruto Archipelago 
Water taxis: No 
Leisure cruises: Yes 

VACCINATIONS & GENERAL HEALTH INFORMATION

Malaria

Since there is malaria in many parts of Mozambique, it is strongly recommended you obtain anti-malaria medication before entering the country. To obtain a prescription for anti-malaria medication, consult your own medical doctor or health authority prior to departure. Currently, the most commonly prescribed anti-malarial tablet is Malarone. Your primary-care physician will be able to offer the best advice.

Vaccinations

Medical services and facilities are limited, and medicines are often unavailable; as a precautionary measure, polio, tetanus, typhoid and hepatitis vaccinations are recommended. If you are traveling from a country with a risk of yellow fever, upon your arrival the government of Mozambique may require proof of a yellow fever inoculation.

USA, Canada, Australia, United Kingdom, and the EU, do NOT fall into this category, BUT, if you have travelled or transited through countries where yellow fever is apparent, you may be required to provide a yellow fever certificate. Endemic countries include Kenya, Rwanda and Uganda. A full list of yellow fever risk countries may be viewed HERE. The yellow fever vaccination is valid for ten years, and must be administered no later than ten days prior to departure.

NOTE: should you fall into the yellow fever risk category, you are required to travel with your Yellow Fever certificate/card.

Water

All resorts and lodges supply clean (bottled or filtered) water for their guests. Do however check with the resort/lodge staff if it safe to brush your teeth with the tap water.

Medication

Pack your own basic medications for headaches and hay fever for instance, as well as for any other minor afflictions, and/or travel-related maladies. Remember to pack sufficient supplies of prescription/chronic medication for the entire duration of your trip.

Food and water safety: 
Can you drink the tap water: No 
Fresh fruit and veg: Yes, if washed 
Ice: No 
Meat: Yes, if cooked thoroughly 
Street food: Yes, from reputable vendors 

Local cuisine: 
Mozambican cuisine is a delicious blend of African, Portuguese, and Arab influences. Seafood is a staple, especially prawns, served with piri-piri sauce. Coconut, lime, and spices enrich dishes like Matapa, a stew made with cassava leaves and nuts. Corn porridge (Xima) is a common side. 

Drinks: Notable local drinks include Laurentina and 2M beers, and Tipo Tinto rum. 
Tipping: 10% is customary in restaurants. 

THE WEATHER in MOZAMBIQUE

Mozambique experiences a sub-tropical to tropical climate. Summer is from October to April, with temperatures in the range 20°C/68°F to 32°C/90°F. Coastal temperatures are high for much of the year, while the interior is warm to mild. Even in the cooler dry winter months of April to September, temperatures can reach 28°C/82°F, with a minimum of 15°C/59°F. In the south of the country, the hot, humid rainy season is from December to March, whilst farther north this period lengthens by a few weeks.

Coastal northern Mozambique climate is occasionally affected by tropical cyclones. It is usually sunny and pleasant throughout the year.

WHAT to PACK for MOZAMBIQUE

Mozambique is predominantly a beach destination where lightweights are worn all year round. The dress code for resorts is very relaxed, even the smartest of hotels and restaurants do not require formal wear. Clothing should be light and loose fitting for the day, with something a little warmer for the evening. Include a rain jacket during the wet season.

Must Haves

· A good wide-brimmed sun hat - for the intense African sun

· Comfortable sneakers, tennis shoes, or boat shoes

· Reef shoes - useful for walking on rocks

· Sandals/flip-flops for around lodge

· Golf shirts or T-shirts

· Long-sleeved cotton shirts - to provide protection from sun, as well as from mosquitos in the evenings

· Shorts

· A micro-fibre zippered jacket and light rain gear - for rainy months

· Swimwear – whilst at all times respecting modesty of local custom.

A Detailed List of the Most Practical Items to Pack

· SCUBA/PADI certification (if considering diving)

· Shirts with long sleeves

· T-shirts

· Shorts or light skirts

· Light sweater/jumper

· Lightweight water-proof jacket

· Swimwear, including sarong/wrap

· Flip-flops

· Socks & underwear

· Personal toiletries

· Sun block, after-sun gel, moisturiser, lip salve/balm

· Strong insect repellent

· Hat and sunglasses

· Binoculars and camera equipment (plus dust- and/or waterproof bag)

LAUNDRY

Laundry can be done at most camps. At many of the camps and lodges, this service is complimentary, but there may be a nominal charge at other establishments. Depending on prevailing local traditions in the country, the staff at some camps will not wash underwear or intimate apparel.

It is totally acceptable to wear the same outfit more than once while at the beach, there is no need to be a fashionista in the islands!

Internet cafes: Yes 
Accommodation options: Yes, in major cities and tourist areas 
Restaurants: Yes, in major cities 
Cafes: Yes, in major cities 
Shopping malls: Yes, in major cities 
Public parks: No 
Libraries: Yes, in major cities 

POWER in MOZAMBIQUE

Lodges and resorts in Mozambique are situated in remote areas and generate their own electricity - either by solar power or by diesel generator. These power sources in turn charge banks of batteries known as an inverter system, which then provides 220Volt power in each room for lighting and ceiling fans.

Hairdryers & Electric Shavers

It is very often not possible to use appliances such as hairdryers or electric shavers in some of the lodges, as they have low-wattage fuses which will trip the power. You will however be able to charge your equipment in a designated area in the lodge - either in your room, or in a central charging station in the common areas.

Most lodges have adapters for your use, but if you would like to purchase one prior to departure.

The most commonly found plug/socket type in Mozambique is the ‘C’ (shown below), the ‘F’ (shown further below), and the ‘M’ (found closer to the South African border, and shown furthest below).