BEST OF SOUTHERN AFRICA - 14 DAYS

A nation of spectacular natural beauty, friendly people and rich culture, Zimbabwe’s status as one of Africa’s leading safari destinations was dampened for years by its political instability. But now that the country is transcending its strife and returning to a state of equilibrium, it is once again emerging as a vacation highlight of the continent. Victoria Falls – known to locals as ‘The Smoke That Thunders’ – is one of the seven natural wonders of the world and the sheer power of this massive body of water plunging into the Zambezi Gorge is awe-inspiring and unforgettable. Lake Kariba, with its game-rich shores and islands, is an idyllic safari spot featuring mind-blowing sunsets; Hwange National Park is known for its huge herds of elephants; and a kayak trip down the Zambezi through the Mana Pools National Park will appeal to the intrepid traveller, providing close encounters with crocodiles, hippos and a host of other wildlife.

A passport, valid for at least six months beyond your last date of stay in Zimbabwe, is mandatory.  One blank page (in addition to any pages required by other countries in your itinerary) will be required for official use.

Visas are required for US passport holders entering Zimbabwe. These can be secured on arrival with payment of $30.00 per person, US currency.  Travelers also entering Zambia can request a Uni-Visa (good for both countries) on arrival, at a cost of $50.00 US.  Requirements for passport holders of other countries vary.

Proof of yellow fever inoculation (administered at least 10 days before arrival) is required whenever travelers are arriving after having stayed in or transited (more than 12 hours) through any yellow fever country.  Your (yellow) official medical card must be presented.

It is the sole responsibility of the traveler to understand and fulfill any entry requirements.

Currency

Zimbabwe uses the Zimbabwe Dollar (ZWL). Limited amounts of currency may be available from banks and ATM's within the country.

Only VISA and MasterCard are accepted in Zimbabwe, however it should be noted that very limited facilities will have credit card machines, and the connection is not always reliable so it is advisable to carry cash as back up.

Camps, hotels and lodges that cater to overseas typically serve a variety international fare, and the quality of food prepared in the most remote bush camps is usually excellent.

Water in the main towns is usually purified.. The locals drink it, and are used to the relatively innocuous bugs that it may harbor. If you are in the country for a long time, then it may be worth acclimatising yourself to it. However, if you are in Zimbabwe for just a short period of time, then try to drink only bottled or treated water,  generally supplied by your hotel or lodge.

In Zimbabwe, the rains come principally in December, January, February and March.  The further north you are, the earlier the precipitation arrives and the later it leaves.  Zimbabwe's higher eastern areas usually receive more rainfall than the lower-lying western ones.

By April and May most of the rain is gone, leaving a verdant setting, which is starting to dry out. Especially in more southerly and higher locations, the night-time temperatures start to drop.

The nights in June, July and August become much cooler, so don't forget to bring some warmer clothes, in case you want to spend an evening outside; the days are still clear and warm. For Zimbabwe, this is the start of the peak season.  Days are often cloudless and game sightings continually increase.

Into September and October the temperatures rise once again: Zimbabwe's lower-lying rift valley (Mana Pools ) can get very hot in October.  During this time, you'll see some fantastic game, as the Zimbabwe's wildlife concentrates around the limited water sources.

November is unpredictable; it can be hot and dry, it can also see the season's first rainfalls – and in this respect it's a very interesting month, as on successive days, you can see both weather patterns.

When in Zimbabwe the cardinal rule is to wear casual, comfortable clothes during the day as temperatures can get very hot. It is advisable to wear light loose fitting clothing,   Warmer clothes are advised for the evenings and rainwear for the wet season. 

A  hat and sunglasses are a good idea year round. Long sleeved shirts and long trousers will also guard against the scourching sun rays. It is recommended you wear light shoes, especially if your itinerary entails a lot of walking. 

For safaris, please remember to wear appropriate clothing and shoes. Earth color clothes, such as browns, greens and tans are advisable. 

Internet cafes: Limited 
Accommodation options: Yes 
Restaurants: Yes 
Cafes: Yes 
Shopping malls: Limited 
Public parks: Limited 
Libraries: Limited 

Despite recent and surprisingly rapid modernization, Botswana’s cities provide little in the way of tourist attractions. However, what the cities lack in excitement, the surrounding wilderness areas more than make up for in outstanding natural beauty. The country’s primary tourist draw card is undoubtedly the vast red expanse of the Kalahari Desert and its remarkably beautiful Okavango Delta - the largest inland delta in the world provide a haven for an abundance of African wildlife. Other highlights include the impressive Makgadikgadi salt pans where visitors are privy to massive zebra migrations during the flood season; the Savuti plains which host large prides of lions; and the Tsodilo Hills where 4500 rock paintings form a unique record of human settlement over many millennia.

A passport valid for at least six months beyond your last date of stay in Botswana is mandatory.  One blank page (in addition to any pages required by other countries in your itinerary) is required.

Visas are not required for US passport holders entering Botswana. Requirements for passport holders of other countries vary.  

Proof of yellow fever inoculation (administered at least 10 days before arrival) is required whenever travelers are arriving after having stayed in or transited through the airport of any yellow fever country. Your (yellow) official medical card must be presented.

Any person under the age of 18 years at time of entry must have specific official government documentation in all cases: whether arriving with one or both biological parents, with a guardian, or travelling independently.  Please inquire for details.

It is the sole responsibility of the traveler to understand and fulfill any entry requirements.

Botswana's currency is called Pula (which means 'rain' in Setswana). It is divided into 100 thebe (which means 'shield' in Setswana). The US Dollar, Euros, the British Pound, and the South African Rand are the most easily convertible currencies, often accepted at many safari lodges.

Full banking services are available in major towns, although ATMs are sprouting up all over the country. Most credit cards are accepted, but American Express is sometimes an exception, so we recommend having a Visa or Master Card.   Cultural sites and community art and craft outlets usually only accept cash. 

Tap water is considered safe to drink, although outside main cities and towns, visitors are advised to check first and sterilise water if in any doubt. Bottled water is available in most tourist centers.  Filtered water is available at most camps. Milk is pasteurised, and dairy products, local meat, poultry, seafood, fruit and vegetables are generally safe.  Safari lodges and camps serve international cuisine, generally of an extremely high standard, along with local beer and imported wine and spirits.

Botswana's climatic pattern is typical of southern Africa, although its rainfall is less than countries further east. The rains in Botswana come mostly between December and March, when average minimum temperatures are in the upper 60°s. Some days will be bright and sunny, some will have afternoon thunderstorms, and some will just be grey.

As with Namibia, April and May in Botswana are generally lovely, with the sky clear and the landscape green. Night temperatures start to drop during these months, especially in the Kalahari. Note that places in and around the Okavango tend to have less extreme, more moderate temperatures than the drier areas of the Kalahari.

From June to August the night-time temperatures in drier areas can be close to freezing, but it warms up rapidly during the day, when the sky is usually clear and blue. It's now very much 'peak season' for most safari areas: the land is dry in most areas so the animals congregate around the few available water sources.

This continues into September and October, when temperatures climb again, drying the landscapes and concentrating the game even more. This is still a great time of year for big game safaris – although October can feel very hot, with maximum temperatures sometimes approaching 100°F.

November is difficult to predict, as it can sometimes be a continuation of October's heat, while sometimes it's cooled by the first rains; it's always an interesting month.

In summer, lightweight, light coloured cottons are preferable. Avoid synthetic materials and black clothing, as they increase perspiration and discomfort. In winter, wear trousers, long-sleeved shirts / blouses and jerseys. From May through August, the night time temperatures can be cold so warm jerseys and jackets are vital, especially on morning and evening game drives. Garments of neutral colours that blend with the bush and forest are advisable for safaris and game viewing. Bring a lightweight jacket and/or jersey for unexpected temperature changes or rain. Closed, comfortable walking shoes or gym shoes are a must in all seasons. Special attention should be given to protection from the sun. Bring a sunhat or visor, good quality sunscreen, sun lotion and polarised sunglasses.

Internet cafes: Yes in cities 
Accommodation options: Yes 
Restaurants: Yes in cities 
Cafes: Yes in cities 
Shopping malls: Yes 
Public parks: No 
Libraries: Yes in cities 

Electrical outlets in Botswana are the "Type M” South African SABS1661 ("Large" 15 amp BS-546) sockets. This is actually an old British standard. If your appliance's plug doesn't match the shape of these sockets, you will need an adapter in order to plug in. Adapters simply change the shape of your appliance's plug to match whatever type of socket you need to plug into.

Electrical outlets in Botswana usually supply electricity at between 220 and 240 volts AC; whereas in the United States we use 110 volts. If you're plugging in an appliance that was built for 220-240 volt electrical input, or an appliance that is compatible with multiple voltages, then an adapter is all you need; however adapters do not change the voltage, so If you need to use appliances that are not compatible with 220-240 volts, you will need a voltage converter in addition to an adaptor.

This vast country is undoubtedly one of the most culturally and geographically diverse places on earth. Fondly known by locals as the 'Rainbow Nation', South Africa has 11 official languages and its multicultural inhabitants are influenced by a fascinating mix of African, Asian and European cultures. Spend your days: discovering the gourmet restaurants, impressive art and nightlife scenes and fine beaches of Cape Town; enjoying a typical local braai (barbecue) in the Soweto Township; browsing the bustling Indian markets in Durban; or sampling some of the world’s finest wines at the myriad wine estates dotted around the picturesque Cape Winelands. Due to its rich and turbulent history there are plenty of historical attractions to explore including the Zululand battlefields of KwaZulu-Natal, the Apartheid Museum in Johannesburg and Robben Island, just off the coast of Cape Town. Above all else, South Africa’s attraction lies in its remarkably untamed wilderness with its astonishing range of wildlife roaming freely across massive unfenced game reserves such as the world famous Kruger National Park. With all of this variety on offer, it is little wonder that South Africa has fast become Africa’s most popular tourist destination.

A passport with validity for at least six months beyond the last date of your stay in South Africa is required.  Your passport must have 2 blank pages sitting side-by-side (a blank left side page sitting next to a blank right side page) to allow for official entry and exit stamps.  Please ensure you have additional pages as required for any other countries you may be visiting.

Visas are not required for US passport holders entering South Africa. Requirements for passport holders of other countries vary.  

Proof of yellow fever inoculation (administered at least 10 days before arrival) is required whenever travelers are arriving after having stayed in or transiting (more than 12 hours) through any yellow fever country.  Your (yellow) official medical card must be presented.

It is the sole responsibility of the traveler to understand and fulfill any entry requirements.

Currency

The currency is the Rand, which is divided into 100 cents. There are R200, R100, R50, R20 and R10 notes. Coins come in R5, R2, R1, 50c, 20c, 10c and 5c.

Banking

Banks are found in most towns, and are generally open from 9AM 3.30PM on weekdays and 8.30AM to 11AM on Saturdays (Closed Sundays and Public Holidays). Most of them offer foreign exchange services, with cash, bank & credit cards as well as travellers cheques. You can also obtain cash from automatic teller machines (ATMs). Several international banks have branches in the main city centres. Always advise your bank that you are travelling outside of the country as they might block your purchases if they are not informed.

Standards of hygiene in relation to food health and safety in South Africa are generally high in hotels, restaurants, pubs and nightspots.  Tap water in South Africa is safe to drink and cook with when taken from taps in urban areas.  Not all tap water in rural areas is safe for consumption, so take precautions if necessary.

It is safe to eat fresh fruit, vegetables and salads, and put ice in your drinks.  South Africa's fish, meat and chicken are of excellent quality, so there is no need to limit yourself when enjoying the local cuisine.

Restaurants are subject to South Africa's food safety control legislation, which is implemented by local government.  Regulations include certification and regular inspections by health inspectors to ensure hygienic standards are maintained.

Street food is not as common in South Africa as it is in other countries, although vendors selling traditional snacks and meals can be found in city centers and townships. Food safety in such instances cannot always be guaranteed.

South African temperatures, which are measured in centigrade, average at highs of 82°F to average lows of 46°F in the summer months while winter temperatures range from 33°F at night to around 64°F in the day. Average annual rainfall is on the low side at under 20 inches a year, making the country somewhat dry. Much of the rain falls in the Western Cape in the winter, differing from the rest of the country, which experiences summer rainfall. On the plus side, the South African climate boasts more than its fair share of sunshine, recording an average of 8.5 hours a day.

Summer

Bring clothes that are cool, light and comfortable because summer temperatures can get well into the 85-100 degree range in some areas. Also bring an umbrella or raincoat during summer as this is when most of the country gets its rain, but don't forget a bathing suit!

Winter

The winters are generally mild, comparing favorably with European summers, but there are days when temperatures dive, especially in high-lying areas such as the Drakensberg, so be prepared with jerseys and jackets.  Cape Town gets its rain during the winter season so it’s advisable to bring rain gear along.

General:

Always bring a hat, sunglasses and sunblock as the sun can be strong even in the winter months.

Walking shoes are a good idea all year-round, with warm socks in the winter.

For game viewing, a couple of neutral-toned items will be useful, but there's no need to go overboard.

For the evening, if you are dining at an upmarket restaurant or seeing a show, smart-casual attire is recommended.

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 

The current is 220/240 volts at 50 cycles per second. A three-point round-pin adapter plug (Type M) should be brought for your electrical appliances - such adapters are also available for purchase at many major airports.

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.

A passport valid for at least six months beyond your last date of stay in Namibia is mandatory.  One blank page (in addition to any pages required by other countries in your itinerary) is required.

Visas are not required for US passport holders entering Namibia. Requirements for passport holders of other countries vary.  

Proof of yellow fever inoculation (administered at least 10 days before arrival) is required whenever travelers are arriving after having stayed in or transited (more than 12 hours) through the airport of any yellow fever country. Your (yellow) official medical card must be presented.

Any person under the age of 18 years at time of entry must have specific official government documentation in all cases: whether arriving with one or both biological parents, with a guardian, or travelling independently.  Please inquire for details.

It is the sole responsibility of the traveler to understand and fulfill any entry requirements.

Currency

Namibia uses the Namibian Dollar (N$), and this is linked on a one-to-one exchange with the South African Rand. The Rand is legal tender in Namibia, but the N$ cannot be used in South Africa.   If you are wishing to purchase currency before arriving in Namibia, it is easiest to buy Rand as the Namibian Dollar is seldom available in banks outside of Namibia. 

Banking

Banks are found in most towns, and are generally open from 9AM to 3.30PM on weekdays and 8.30AM to 11AM on Saturdays, closed on Sundays and public holidays. Most of them offer foreign exchange services, with cash, bank and credit cards as well as travellers cheques. 

You can also obtain cash from many of the ATMs. Several international banks have branches in main city centers. Always advise your bank that you are travelling outside of the country as they might block your purchases if they have not been informed. 

Namibians drive on the left and all signposts are in English. Seat belts must be worn at all times and talking in a mobile phone while driving is prohibited. The general speed limit is 120km per hour on tarred roads outside of towns and 100km per hour on gravel roads. In built up areas, the speed limit is 60km per hour.

Traditional Namibian cuisine is rarely served and so the food at restaurants tends to be European in style and is, generally, of a very high standard.   Namibia is very meat-orientated, and many menu options will feature steaks from various animals. However, there is usually a vegetarian and seafood section offered by most camps and restaurants.

The water in Namibia's main towns is generally safe to drink, though it may taste a little metallic if it has been piped for miles. Natural sources should usually be purified, though water from underground springs and dry riverbeds seldom causes any problems. However, filtered and bottled water are readily available in most towns, camps, lodges and hotels.

Partially covered by the Namib Desert, one of the world's driest deserts, Namibia's climate is generally very dry and pleasant – it's fine to visit all year round. Namibia only receives a fraction of the rain experienced by countries further east. Between about December to March some days will be humid and rain may follow, often in localised, afternoon thunderstorms. These are more common in the center and east of the country, and more unusual in the desert.

April and especially May are often lovely months in Namibia. Increasingly dry, with a real freshness in the air, and much greenery in the landscape; at this time the air is clear and largely free from dust.

From June to August Namibia cools down and dries out more; nights can become cold, dropping below freezing in some desert areas. As the landscape dries so the game in the north of the country gravitates more to waterholes, and is more easily seen by visitors. By September and October it warms up again, although there's often a lot of dust around and the vegetation has lost its vibrancy.

November is a highly variable month. Sometimes the hot, dry weather will continue, at other times the sky will fill with clouds and threaten to rain, but if you're lucky enough to witness the first rains of the season, you'll never forget the drama.

Namibians have a somewhat relaxed attitude toward dress codes.  Casual clothing is recommended.  During the day it is generally hot, so pack light weight loose fitting clothes in natural fabrics.  Avoid blue clothing since tsetse flies are drawn to the color blue.  Long-sleeved shirts and long trousers will protect your against mosquitoes in the evening. 

The current is 220/240 volts at 50 cycles per second. A three-point round-pin adapter plug (Type M) should be brought for your electrical appliances - such adapters are also available for purchase at many major airports.