Ultimate Southern Africa

This unique, peanut-shaped country, once known as Northern Rhodesia, offers visitors an authentic African experience complete with adrenalin pumping adventure sports, a variety of fascinating cultural activities, and an abundance of indigenous wildlife, which finds refuge in Zambia’s vast national parks. Spend your evenings enjoying the spectacular site of the world’s largest waterfall, the Victoria Falls, while sipping on sundowners after an exhilarating day of whitewater rafting down the rapids of the mighty Zambezi River. If that sounds a little too adventurous for your taste, take a houseboat cruise along the exquisite Lake Kariba while watching wild elephants drink at the riverbank as you try your hand at catching the elusive tiger fish. However you choose to spend your time in this unique country, you are bound to leave with a heavy heart and a desire to return again soon to this exceptionally beautiful Southern African country.

- The Zambia Tourism Agency (formerly Zambia Tourism Board) is pleased to announce that the Government of the Republic of Zambia through the Ministry of Home Affairs (Department of Immigration) launched the e-Visa facility on Wednesday, 14th October, 2015 at Mulungushi International Conference Centre in Lusaka which was officiated by the Minister of Home Affairs.

- The e-Visa facility is open to all foreign nationals who require visas to come to Zambia and can be accessed through the web portal indicated below:

http://e-Visa.zambiaimmigration.gov.zm/#/

What is an e-Visa?

- An e-Visa is an alternative to conventional visas issued by the Department of Immigration in Zambia (through Headquarters, Ports of Entry and Zambia Missions) permitting foreigners who require visas to enter Zambia. Applicants therefore, may obtain their e-Visa approval letter electronically after submitting required information and payment is made by Cash and Credit or Debit Card (Master or Visa) at the point of entry.

- The link to download your e-Visa is given on the final step where you will be informed that your application has been completed successfully. In addition, the same link to download your e-Visa will be emailed to you. Immigration Officers at Ports of Entry can verify your e-Visa on their system. However, you are advised to download and keep the hard copy of your e-Visa Approval Letter.

- As in the case with other visas, respective Zambian Officials at the Port of Entry reserve the right to deny entry into Zambia to a holder of an e-Visa Approval Letter without any explanation.

Eligibility

- All foreign nationals who require visas to come to Zambia are eligible to apply for an e-Visa.

e-Visa Fees

- The normal visa fees shall apply as follows:

§ Single Entry US$ 50

§ Double /Multiple Entry US$ 80

§ Transit US $50

§ Day Tripper US$ 20

- For regular updates, visit The Immigration website: www.zambiaimmigration.gov.zm

Validity

- Normal validity rules shall apply.

e-Visa processing time

- For nationals that may obtain visas at ports of entry, the e-Visa will take 3 working days to process and for nationals that require visas prior to travel to Zambia processing time will take a minimum of 5 working days.

- For further information about entry requirements visit the website of the Zambia Department of Immigration

- Take cash, not Travellers Cheques!

- Visa Credit Cards can usually be used in the international hotels and the more internationally inclined restaurants and shops of the main cities and tourist related businesses. MasterCard and American Express are seldom accepted.

- However, the Zambian Ministry of Finance and National Planning has announced, for ease of payment of VISA and other fees, these payments can be done via bankcards with immediate effect at the following Zambia airports:

- 1. Kenneth Kaunda International Airport in Lusaka
2. Harry Mwaanga Nkumbula International Airport in Livingstone
3. Simon Mwansa Kapwepwe International Airport in Ndola

- The following bank cards will be accepted:

- VISA
MasterCard
Maestro and
American Express

- However, it is always advisable to have some cash because frequently these credit card machines do not work or are down without connection.

- There are ATM cash machines in the main cities.

- Western Union and/or Moneygram outlets, where cash can be transferred and accessed the same day, can be found in almost every main street throughout the country.

- There are many options for local transport by aircraft, bus, taxi or by hire car.

- Independent travel is a challenge. The country has a dilapidated infrastructure, crumbling roads and lack of signage.

- For some that can be off putting; for other, a good reason to come to Zambia!

- Malaria is endemic. You must consult your doctor before you travel to ensure that you are prescribed the correct type of mefloquine and malarone tablet protection.

- It is with much delight that we share the exciting news of Yellow Fever certification being lifted (with immediate effect) for travel between Zambia and its regional neighbours, South Africa and Botswana. This follows the recent announcement by the World Health Organisation (WHO) of declaring Zambia yellow fever free.

- Immunization against hepatitis, cholera and meningitis is recommended.

- Please check the latest information with your medical practitioner

- There are privately owned pharmacies that can prescribe most medication should you become sick.

- Some safari lodges have a nurse and staff who are trained to deal with minor bush ailments

- Armed robberies and vehicle hijackings happen across the country from time to time. Be vigilant at all times. Take particular care when approaching locked gateways at night. Don’t stop to give lifts to people at the roadside. Watch out for objects that have been placed to block the road.

- Bag snatching, pick pocketing and theft from parked cars are common at some restaurants and internet cafes in downtown areas, particularly near bus and railway stations and in some shopping areas. Keep large amounts of money, expensive jewellery, cameras and phones out of sight. Don’t change large sums of money in busy public areas. Thieves have followed people after they have withdrawn money from banks and later robbed them at gunpoint.

- Walking after dark, particularly in tourist or down town areas, can be dangerous. Violent robberies have occurred in the Cairo Road area of Lusaka, including Chachacha, Freedom Way and Lumumba Roads. Tourists have sometimes been attacked in remote places

- Keep valuables and originals of important documents in a safe place and carry a copy of your passport and immigration permit.

- Use reputable banks, bureaux de change or ATMs to exchange money as counterfeit US$100 and Zambian Kwacha 50,000 notes are in circulation.

- Most restaurants and hotels serve European style food such as steak, chicken or fish

- There are good Ethiopian, Indian, Korean, Chinese and Portuguese restaurants, and even better French and Italian

- However, the best food is normally supplied by the safari lodges and camps where the meals tend to be western or Asian based.

- There is a good local beer called Mosi

- South African wines, as well as those from the new and old world, are plentiful.

- Zambia has three main seasons

- May to August is dry and warm

- September and October is dry and hot

- November to April is the rainy season. It is also the time of the year when the animals produce their young, so game viewing is good.

- It is coolest in June and July, but this period is also the sunniest and driest.. During this time it can get literally freezing at night and in the early morning, particularly when on safari, so we would like to suggest that you pack accordingly – very warm clothing including an anorak/winter jacket, a beanie, scarf and gloves are recommended.

- September and October can be very hot and very dry, and game viewing is limited to areas where there is permanent water like along the Zambezi and Chobe rivers. Game viewing at waterholes is excellent at this time

- Statistically the rainy season is from late November to March, although rainfall is relatively lower than in other tropical parts of the region.

- The Victoria Falls/Zambezi River experiences low water levels between August and January (subject to rainfall). At this time it is definitely better to stay on the Zimbabwe side rather than the Zambian side of the Victoria Falls.

- Generally the dress code is casual, although most international hotels and restaurants require gentlemen to wear long trousers for dinner, and occasionally a jacket and tie.

- Zambia earlier set a fashion trend with the “Kenneth Kaunda” safari suit, the forerunner of African smart casual business attire.

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

- Most camps are situated in remote areas and have to generate their own electricity. Generators are used as a main power source, whilst in some camps solar units charge the batteries located at each tented room, providing good 12V lights all night (if used sensibly).

- There are only 220V power points in camp. If you have an item that runs on 110V, please bring a converter. Batteries are charged in the main area or office while you are out on an activity so please bring spare batteries for use.

- Electrical plug outlets are not available in most tented camps and therefore it is not possible to use appliances such as hairdryers or electric shavers during your stay there.

- In major cities, electrical appliances run on 220/240V AC accessible via 14-amp, British type 3 square-pinned plugs. While some camps may be able to supply adaptors (3-prong round, 3-prong square, 2-prong round, 2-prong flat) it is advisable that you carry your own.

- Remember also to bring the appropriate phone, ipad and other appliance adaptors.

Situated in the southern reaches of Africa, Botswana is renowned for its pristine wilderness areas characterised by deep lagoons, wetlands, lush palms, rugged hills and desert plains. The country’s primary tourist drawcard is undoubtedly the vast red expanse of the Kalahari Desert and its remarkably beautiful Okavango Delta, the largest inland delta in the world. These natural wonders provide a tranquil haven for an abundance of African wildlife to thrive. 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 a significant pride of lions; and the Tsodilo Hills, where 4500 rock paintings form a unique record of human settlement over many millennia.

Currency: 
Local currency: Pula (BWP) 
Symbol: P 
ISO code: BWP 
Central bank: Bank of Botswana 
Subunit: Thebe 
Banknotes: P100, P50, P20, P10 
Coins: P5, P2, P1; T50, T25, T10, T5 

Banking: 
Card Transactions: Yes 
ATMs: Yes 
Mastercard: Generally, no 
Visa: Yes 
American Express: Generally, no  
Diner’s club: Generally, no 
 
Banking Hours: 
Weekdays: 08h00 or 09h00 – 16h15 or 17h15 

Weekends: 08h00 or 09h00 – 10h45 or 12h00  

Public Holidays: No 

Foreign exchange services: Yes 

Air:
Airports in major cities  
Main airlines: Mack Air and Kalahari Air  
International Airports: In major cities

Road:
Tar roads: Yes
Gravel roads: Yes
Valid International Drivers License needed: Yes, if your national licence is not in English. If your national licence is in English, you may use it for up to 6 months.  
Car hire available: Yes
Taxis: Yes
Uber available: No, but similar services

Bus: 
Inter-city bus services: No 
Local city bus networks: No 
 
Rail: 
Railway system: Yes, overnight train from Francistown to Gaborone to Lobatse. 
Subway System: No 
 
Water: 
Ferries: No 
Water taxis: No 
Leisure cruises: No 

Food and water safety:  
Can you drink the tap water: Yes within major cities 
Fresh fruit and veg: Yes within major cities 
Ice: Yes within major cities 
Meat: Yes within major cities 
Street food: Yes within major cities 
 
Local cuisine: Food centres around meat such as goat, beef, chicken and fresh water fish, and a maize meal known locally as “pap”.  Adventurous culinary enthusiasts may want to try the traditional speciality of Mopane Worms, while those with a sweet tooth should make sure to sample the local Kalahari Truffles (made as a dessert) and unusual fruit called Marula. It is believed that watermelon originated here.  

Drinks:  Bojalwaja Setswana (the beer of Botswana) - created using fermented sorghum seeds.  

Tipping: 10%, usually added to the bill at restaurants. It is also customary to tip game drivers and guides.

Annual rainfall: 475 mm  
Average temperature: 27°C 
 
Summer: 
Average in highs: 31°C 
Average in lows: 20°C 
 
Winter: 
Average in highs: 23°C 
Average in lows: 22°C 
 
Best time to visit: It’s best to visit Botswana between April and September – the dry winter months. At this time, animals usually stay close to their water sources, increasing your chances of seeing them.  

Spring and Summer 
Cool, light, breathable and comfortable: Yes 
Lightweight warm clothes: Yes 
 
Winter and Autumn 
Jerseys, cardigans, sweaters, jackets: Yes 
Heavyweight clothing and boots: Yes 
 
General 
Umbrella and raincoat: Yes 
Warm gloves, hat and scarf: Yes 
Swimming costume (bathing suit): Yes 
Hat, sunglasses and sunblock: Yes 
Walking shoes: Yes 
Casual: Yes 
Smart-casual attire: Yes 

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 

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.

Government regulations change without notice, it is important to check regulations with the relevant authority prior to travel. This is a guideline only.

- “All international travellers are required to travel with a valid passport and we suggest a minimum of three (3) full open "Visa" pages. The page must say Visa at the top of the page.

- There are blank pages at the back of an International passport without "Visa" printed on it; these pages are not acceptable for travel to South Africa”.

- Our recommendation is 3 pages (or even 4 if you are travelling through more than one country on your journey). If there is insufficient space in the passport then entry into a country could be denied.

- Passports should be valid for at least six months.

- Any applicable visas and/or relevant documentation are the responsibility of the traveller.

- Visitors must also be in possession of outward travel documents and have sufficient funds for the duration of their stay.

- Travellers from those countries that require a visa will in addition have to obtain a bio-metric visa in person.

Special Regulations concerning families

- from 01 June 2015 parents will have to provide a full Birth Certificate for all travelling children under 18.

- When children are travelling with guardians, including grandparents and other relatives, these adults are required to produce affidavits from parents proving permission for the children to travel.

- If the required information is not available at airport check in, then the airline may refuse boarding at the international departure point for South Africa.

- For more information please visit http://www.southafrica.info/travel/documents/visas.htm

- The unit of currency is the South African Rand. Visitors may import an unlimited amount of foreign exchange.

- We recommend you change money at official bureaux de change, although some lodges and hotels may offer facilities which would often offer a less attractive rate of exchange.

- Take cash, not Travellers Cheques! Change some money into South African Rand soon after your arrival, as you may need some for tips or taxis, for example.

- Credit Cards can usually be used in the international hotels and in many safari lodges and in restaurants and shops of the main towns and tourist related businesses.

- MasterCard and Visa are widely, whereas American Express and diners Club are accepted to a lesser extent.

- If you are hiring a car, it is worth noting that garages do not normally accept Credit Cards.

- However, it is always advisable to have some cash, because sometimes credit card machines do not work, or are down without connection.

- There are ATM cash machines in most towns and shopping centres, and at airports.

- If you are taking US$ please be aware that large notes (US$50-US$100) prior to 2000 are not normally accepted. Best make sure you have smaller denomination and notes which have been issued after 1999.

- Compared with other Western Countries, the Public Transport facilities are mediocre.

- We recommend you pre book your journeys with dmAFRICA as much as possible.

- Taxis operate only from special ranks and/or through agencies, which are listed in the telephone directories.

- We suggest however that the concierge at the hotel arranges your transport requirements in cases where you have not pre booked with dmAFRICA.

- Getting around on safari has three options, all of which can be booked with dmAFRICA

- By organised safari vehicles.

- By light aircraft. There are charter and regular flights to all the main wildlife areas in Southern Africa.

- By private jet; most lodge/camp airstrips are not equipped to handle many of the more sophisticated private jets. It is normal to access South Africa through Johannesburg or one of the other international airports and travel onwards by light aircraft. Night flying in game parks is not normally permitted.

- Malaria is endemic in some parts of South Africa and many of its neighbouring countries. You must consult your doctor before you travel to ensure that you are prescribed the correct type of tablet protection.

- Immunization against hepatitis, cholera and meningitis is recommended.

Please check the latest information with your medical practitioner

- South Africa does not have a national welfare scheme. Although public hospitals tend to be overcrowded and the medical staff usually overworked, the standard of patient care is very high. Private hospitals in general offer a lot more comfort and individual attention, although they are considerably more expensive. It is advisable to obtain medical insurance prior to travel.

- Pharmacies are open until at least 18.00 on weekdays and 13.00 on Saturdays. Emergency pharmacies remain open until 22.00. A few provide 24 hour service.

- A few wildlife lodges and camps have a private nurse on duty and almost all have camp staff trained in basic first aid.

- Unfortunately petty theft and more serious crime is a factor in South Africa. Take the same precautions as you would in any major city.

- Avoid walking alone in apparently deserted areas, especially in and around the cities.

- Avoid displaying expensive items, especially jewellery, in public areas.

- Use the safe boxes, and other security accessories, made available to you in hotels and lodges/camps.

- It is preferable and usually more enjoyable to walk with company or in groups.

- In general, the food served in hotels and lodges is European food. A full breakfast and lunch will be buffet style and dinner is usually a set menu. A few top of the range lodges offer limited a la carte menus.

- In the resorts and cities it is possible to find international food to suit all tastes. In fact, the dining experience is a highlight of most people’s visit to South Africa.

- Agriculturally, South Africa is virtually self sufficient with staple crops, and fine quality beef and other livestock.

- Pineapple, mango, papaya, banana, avocado and coconut are all plentiful, and inexpensive when in season.

- Freshwater fish from the abundant rivers and lakes is plentiful.

- Of course, at the coast the seafood is included on all menus, with a variety and quality which is now legendary.

- South African wine is famous now the world over, and many people include a visit to the Winelands as an important part of their visit.

- Local beers are of the lager type, and are good.

- We recommend drinking only bottled water throughout your stay, although tap water is generally safe to drink in the cities.

- Most medical and religious dietary requirements can be met providing that sufficient notice is given

- The weather in South Africa is generally pleasant throughout the year – warm to hot days, and cool to warm nights.

- The months May to September are considered winter, and it can get very cold at night and in the early morning, particularly when on safari. You should pack accordingly.

- The months of January to March are considered summer, and also the rainy season in much of the country. Days are normally warm with afternoon cloud build up, and possible showers, although these are usually short-lived. Wildlife can migrate during this time in search of new grazing.

- The early part of June is very cold in the mornings and evenings, occasionally even dropping below zero, and winter lasts until August. Days are normally sunny and pleasant with occasional cold snaps, and windy spells towards the end of this period. Game viewing can be excellent in the dry winter months in some areas.

- Spring starts in September with all the vegetation coming into leaf, and days are much warmer with the occasional cool evening and morning.

- From October there are very warm sunny days with warm evenings. Some rains are experienced sporadically, though larger showers can be expected usually only around December. Wildlife sightings can vary depending how early the rains have started.

- The Cape Town area has its rainfall in the months May to September so it can be wet and windy at this time.

- Despite regional differences, South Africa’s climate is generally mild throughout the year. Snowfall is rare, and limited to the highest mountain peaks.

- South Africa is a relatively dry country with a mean annual rainfall of 502 millimetres.

- What you eventually pack is a very personal choice; the suggestions below may help

- Informality is the keynote, although more formal attire is expected for your stay in prestigious city hotels or on the luxury trains.

- Be prepared for cool evenings at higher altitudes, and everywhere between May and September, where early morning and late afternoon game drives can become quite chilly.

- On safari try to wear neutral colours as much as possible; green, beige and khaki are best not to startle the game.

- A hat and a pair of sunglasses are advisable for protection against the sun.

- Laundry services are available at most safari lodges and camps.

- Light comfortable shoes are important.

- A flashlight is also very useful, even though many lodges now provide them

- Remember also you need three prong adapter plugs, and do not forget all your back up Ipad, mobile phone and other electrical charges etc.

- When meeting and parting, hands are always shaken; this applies throughout the country in both rural and urban areas. It is the convention to use the right hand, not the left, to shake hands or pass or receive anything.

- The dress code is casual, although most international hotels and restaurants prefer gentlemen to wear long trousers for dinner.

- Bright, light colours and white clothing is not advisable for safaris particularly for walking safaris as animals see mostly in black and white. Safari clothing should be in neutral or bush colours (please note that army camouflage or military uniform is not permitted in almost all African countries)

- Good manners and respect come naturally to South Africans, charming national traits which they look upon visitors to reciprocate.

- Topless bathing is not allowed.

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 

- All electrical appliances run on 220V. Outlets are round 3 pin, 15 amp plugs. Special adaptors for video cameras, chargers and hairdryers are needed and can sometimes be supplied by some hotel receptions. We recommend that you carry your own adaptors.

- Various safari camps and lodges may not have 220V and may operate on solar powered 12V electricity. Remember to bring spare batteries that can be charged at thec amp/lodge while out onsafari activities.

- Power cuts can be common in the rainy season, though most hotels and businesses have back-up generators.

- In some safari lodges electricity is not available during the night.

Baggage

- Light aircraft travel has a strict luggage restriction of 20 kg per person including hand luggage, depending on your destination.

- It is sometimes possible to increase this amount when travelling by private charter flights, depending on the number of persons travelling, and aviation technical matters, such as the altitude and length of runway. Such increases are subject to advance approval and the captain’s decision on the day.

- It is strongly recommended that you use a soft-sided carry bag style or duffel bag plus a small piece of hand luggage such as a handbag or small rucksack (which is also convenient for use on game drives to contain your camera gear, binoculars, sunscreen and hat particularly if on an all day game drive). The weight allowance is a requirement of all light air travel for space and safety reasons.

As of 2 February 2015, South African Airways implemented new hand luggage restrictions which will impact all airlines and travellers.

The new baggage laws will allow for:

- One bag plus one slim line laptop bag per economy class passenger

- Two bags plus slim line laptop bag per business/first class passenger

- No bag should exceed these dimensions: 56cm + 36cm + 23cm (total dimensions of 115cm)

Weight limit per bag: 7kg

Although other airline customers may take only 7kg on board as hand luggage, SAA has an exemption from SACAA and SAA customers may take cabin baggage weighing up to 8kg.

According to SAA, no bag should exceed 56cm x 36cm x 23cm (total dimensions of 115cm) or weigh more than R8 kg per bag.

Economy class customers are allowed one bag plus one slim-line laptop bag, while in business class, customers are allowed two bags plus one slim-line laptop bag.

Handbags are considered part of a customer's wardrobe and not as hand baggage.

Baggage capable of carrying other items such as documents and clothes are considered as cabin baggage and would therefore not be allowed if the customer is exceeding the allowance.

If hand luggage does not comply, the client will be referred back to the check-in counters to check in the baggage as hold baggage. Extra fees may apply, as per SAA guidelines.

Clients are also advised that the enforcement of these regulations may result in some delays at security check points. SAA urges all customers to check in well in advance and to stick to the cabin baggage regulations

Communications

- Generally speaking, communications in South Africa are good.

- Mobile phones can be costly and may have intermittent reception when on safari.

- The internet and wifi is also erratic, but is normally available in international hotels in the main towns and in many wildlife lodges.

- In case of emergency our offices can always pass a message to the vehicle by HF radio.

There is a worldwide embargo on items made from ivory, and you should refuse any offer made to assist you in such purchases.