Charter Airline Baggage Limitations
Please note that a luggage restriction of 20kgs (44lbs) packed in soft-sided duffel bags is applicable to all scheduled charter flights in South Africa, Botswana Zambia and Zimbabwe. This weight limitation includes your hand luggage.
In Kenya, Tanzania and Namibia the luggage limit is 15Kgs (33lbs) packed in soft sided duffel bags. This weight limit includes your hand luggage.
Note that seat rate charter flights operate a shuttle service and guests may be collected at other camps before proceeding to your destination.
South Africa and Botswana Visa Note
USA, Canadian and EU passport holders do not need a visa for entry to South Africa or Botswana. However, you are required to have at least two consecutive empty visa pages in your passport, per country, to be allowed entry. Please ensure that your passports are valid for at least 6 months after your date of entry. If you are on a different passport, please let me know and I will check the requirements for your trip.
Zambia Visa Note
An entry visa is required for Zambia for most passport holders. The entry fee is US$50 per person (subject to change). This can be purchased at Livingstone Airport on arrival. If you plan to visit both sides of the Falls you can purchase a Kaza Visa for US$50 per person. Please note that you will need to have cash available to purchase your visa as they do not accept credit cards. (Most African countries only accepts USD bills that are in excellent condition and dated 2006 or later).
Zimbabwe Visa Note
Most passport holders can purchase their visa for Zimbabwe on arrival for US$30. If you plan to visit both sides of the Falls you can purchase a Kaza Visa for US$50 per person. Please note that you will need to have cash available to purchase your visa as they do not accept credit cards. (Most African countries only accepts USD bills that are in excellent condition and dated 2006 or later).
Kenya Visa Note
Please note that you will need to purchase a visa for Kenya. The cost is currently US$50pp. It is best to apply for your visa online on http://evisa.go.ke/evisa.html
Should you decide to purchase your visa on arrival, you need to have cash available as they do not accept credit cards. (Please note that East African countries only accepts USD bills that are in excellent condition and dated 2006 or later).
Tanzania Visa Note
US passport holders can purchase their visa for Tanzania at the port of entry for US$100 per person. Please can you have cash available to purchase your visa as they do not accept credit cards. (Please note that East African countries only accepts USD bills that are in excellent condition and dated 2006 or later).
Uganda Visa Note
Uganda Immigration have implemented the use of Electronic Visas. All visitors who require an entry visa must apply through the online application system prior to arrival: https://visas.immigration.go.ug.
Please make sure to bring your bar-coded visa letter with you when you travel. The cost is US$50 per person.
Rwanda Visa Note
Visas, if necessary, are issued when passengers arrive at Kigali International Airport. The cost is US$50 upon arrival.
The passport of the traveler must be valid at least 6 months after the date of arrival in Rwanda.
Yellow Fever
Please note that you need a Yellow Fever inoculation certificate for travel to Rwanda, Uganda and Kenya. You must travel with the original certificate as you may be asked for proof.
Malaria Medication
We recommend that you take malaria prophylactics as you will be travelling to a malaria risk area. You will need to liaise with your GP or travel clinic regarding the medication most suited to your needs. Unfortunately we're not able to recommend which one to take as it is dependent on other medication you're currently taking / any medical conditions etc.
Located in southwestern Africa, Namibia boasts a well-developed infrastructure, some of the best tourist facilities in Africa, and an impressive list of breathtaking natural wonders. Visitors can explore the capital of Windhoek and discover the lovely coastal town of Swakopmund boasting remnants of the country’s German influence, reflected in the architecture, culture, cuisine and the annual Oktoberfest celebrations. To properly appreciate this extraordinary country, you will have to venture out of the cities to explore the remarkable natural landscapes Namibia has to offer. These include: the impressive Fish River Canyon; the vast Etosha National Park teeming with abundant wildlife, such as lions, desert-adapted elephants and the Hartmann's Mountain Zebra; the hauntingly beautiful Kalahari Desert; and of course the Namib Desert stretching for over 2000 km along the magnificent Atlantic Coast. Namibia is an ideal destination for travellers seeking an unforgettable African experience in a uniquely beautiful untamed wilderness.
Banking and Currency
Currency
Local currency: Namibian Dollar
Symbol: N$
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
Travel, Transport and Getting Around
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, Drink and Cuisine Advice
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.
Climate and Weather
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.
Clothing and Dress Recommendations
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
Internet Availability
Internet cafes: Yes
Accommodation options: Yes
Restaurants: Yes
Cafes: Yes
Shopping malls: Yes
Public parks: No
Libraries: Yes
Electricity and Plug Standards
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.
General Guidance
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.
