Southern Africa

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.

Please note that all visitors to Zimbabwe must have a passport which is valid for at least six months beyond their intended departure date from Zimbabwe and must have 2 empty visa stamp pages.   

A Visa is required for US citizens 
A visa for Zimbabwe is $30 and can be obtained upon arrival.  This visa is valid for 30 days.  Exact change is necessary and must be payable in USD.  Visa costs are subject to change at any time.

ALL US CURRENCY MUST BE PRINTED 2006 OR AFTER
 

Currency

Cash transactions are permitted in a foreign currency, with USD being the most widely accepted and used, however, the South African Rand [ZAR] is allowed as well.   When paying with a foreign debit card, this is then converted to the foreign currency equivalent at the prevailing rate of exchange.

Banking

Banks in Zimbabwe are open for business Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 08h00 to 15h00, on Wednesdays from 08h00 to 13h00 and Saturdays from 08h00 to 11h30. They are closed on Sundays and Public Holidays. 

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.

Departure taxes
A US$35 International Passenger Service fee applies to all guests flying out of Zimbabwe, plus $15 Aviation Infrastructural Development Fund fee.  Guests travelling on Air Zimbabwe or a charter flight must pay this fee direct at the airport in US$ cash. Those travelling with other scheduled airlines will usually have this fee included in the ticket cost and paid at the time of its issue.  There is also a US$15 Domestic Passenger Service Fee which applies when departing internally from any registered, manned airport. These include Harare, Bulawayo, Kariba, Hwange and Victoria Falls airports. This fee must be paid direct at the airport in US$ cash.  Please ensure that you have the exact amount of US Dollars in cash (change is usually not provided) before you leave your home country as you cannot get any US$ within Zimbabwe. Please note that large denomination bills such as U$50 or US$100 bills are not accepted. Traveller’s cheques and credit cards are also not accepted for this purpose.

 ALL US CURRENCY MUST BE PRINTED 2006 OR AFTER FOR TIPPING AND EXTRAS

Credit cards are sometimes accepted though there are some vendors who don't accept these (if you want to shop at the market then you will need cash for this - NOT traveller’s cheques or credit cards).  Visa is usually accepted throughout Zimbabwe at the larger hotels but American Express and Diners Club are often not and MasterCard is not accepted at all (please note that the Wilderness Safaris Zimbabwe camps are unable to accept credit cards).  

Credit cards will not be accepted for gratuities.
 

Air:
Main airlines: Air Zimbabwe
International Airports: Harare International Airport (HRE), Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo International Airport (BUQ)
Domestic Airports: Yes, in major cities and tourist areas

Road:
Driving on the: Left
Tar roads: Yes
Gravel roads: Yes, in rural areas
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: Limited
Subway System: No

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

There are a few basic health matters that require care and attention. The following points are recommended guidelines only. Please consult your doctor and also check with your health department prior to departure for any changes in health regulations.

1)    Malaria
Malaria within South Africa's borders is encountered mainly in: 
•    northern and eastern Mpumalanga, 
•    northern KwaZulu-Natal, 
•    the border areas of the Northern and North West provinces. 
Outside of our borders it is found in:
•    the lower lying areas of Swaziland
•    in Mozambique, Zambia and Zimbabwe, 
•    most parts of Botswana
•    in northern Namibia

Malaria prophylactic recommendations for southern African travelers 

Expert opinion differs regarding the best approach to malaria prophylaxis. It is important to bear in mind that malaria may be contracted despite chemoprophylaxis, especially in areas where chloroquine resistance has been reported. Both chloroquine-resistant and normal strains of malaria are prevalent in Africa. 
Please remember that the best precaution is the preventative kind: 
•    Avoid being bitten by using mosquito repellents liberally.  Some lodges may provide a locally made repellent but please bring your own as there may be skin sensitivity.
•    Wear long-sleeved shirts and trousers/slacks in the evenings. 
•    Please use the mosquito net over your bed where supplied/available.
•    If staying in a bungalow or tent, spray with a suitable insecticide to kill any mosquitoes that may have flown into your room. 
•    Mosquito coils are also effective.
Malaria is transmitted by a very small percentage of female Anopheles mosquitoes. They are mainly active in the early evening and throughout the night. Malaria transmission is at its highest during the warmer and wetter months of November through to April. From May through to October the risks of acquiring malaria are reduced. There is also less prevalence in remote areas where our camps are situated; nonetheless, you need to consider taking preventative measures.  
There is a six to seven day minimum incubation period before symptoms present themselves. If you become ill on your return, while still on prophylaxis or even once you have stopped taking them, ensure that your doctor does everything to establish that your illness is not malaria. Malaria can be prevented if you are sensible and take basic precautions. There have been very few cases of our guests contracting malaria in our more than 20 years of operation. It is inadvisable for pregnant woman to visit malarial areas as malaria infection during pregnancy can be detrimental to mother and child.

2)    Tsetse Flies
Tsetse flies occur in large areas of sub-Saharan Africa including parts of northern Botswana and Zambia . They look similar to other large flies except that when perched, both wings are held folded directly over the other above the abdomen and they have a long proboscis extending forward from a large head.  They are best known as the carrier of trypanosomiases – causing sleeping sickness in humans which can be fatal but is easily treated and cured.  Not all Tsetse Flies transmit all variations of the disease and in the areas of operation our clients travel,  they are regarded more as an irritation (the bites are sharp) than as a serious threat. Enormous efforts have been made in eradication of Tsetse Flies in various countries and sleeping sickness has now largely disappeared from southern Africa. The World Health Organisation (WHO) for example reports, that less than 50 cases were reported in Zambia in 2005 and none in Botswana from where it has long been absent.  The disease is easily treated with modern medicine and in the unlikely event that symptoms are recorded after a visit to an area containing Tsetse Flies we recommend that a doctor be consulted. These symptoms can present a few weeks to months after a visit and begin with fever, headaches and pains in the joints followed by dramatic swelling of the lymph nodes. If left untreated these symptoms can evolve to cause anaemia as well as cardiac and kidney disorders before the sleep cycle is disrupted by alternate bouts of fatigue, insomnia and sleep.

3)    Ticks
Ticks occur the world over and are well known ecto-parasites. The most obvious species in the savannah regions of Africa are the ‘hard ticks’ which attach themselves to their hosts to feed before they either fall or are brushed off. Ticks are also well known as carriers of diseases that affect both animals and humans, and in southern Africa this is referred to as tick bite fever.  Symptoms of this disease present after a 5-7 day incubation period and include fevers, headaches, malaise and even a skin rash, but effects can vary dramatically from person to person. A dark black mark usually results at the site of the infected bite and is a helpful diagnostic. The disease is easily treated with antibiotics although this is not always necessary. 
After walking in the bush with your guide it is best to brush your clothes down and to examine your body for ticks, taking care to remove these entirely without leaving the biting mouth parts behind in your skin. Anti-tick sprays such as Bayticol can be very effective against ticks and wearing long pants will prevent many bites.

It's sensible to take some basic precautions whilst travelling anywhere in the world. Below are recommendations that we feel hold true for travel in general and which we thus suggest are followed during a southern African itinerary – they apply mostly to travel in the major cities and towns but elements are also relevant for stays in camps in conservation areas.  Always drive with your doors locked and your windows closed. Store handbags/parcels/valuables out of sight in the boot of the car. Keep mobile phones, wallets and cameras well hidden and avoid wearing expensive jewelery. Never leave your luggage unattended (e.g. don’t leave handbags under tables, on the backs of chairs or on restroom hooks). Please report any stolen property and/or any incident involving your safety and security to the establishment where you are staying.  Separate your cash and credit cards and don’t carry all your cash with you. Avoid counting cash in the open. Do not allow strangers to assist you in your transactions at automated bank teller machines (ATM's). Store valuables and additional cash in your hotel’s safety deposit box or camp safe. Keep your room locked at all times and hand in room keys or cards whenever you leave your hotel. Take note of and abide by any warnings posted in public areas and parks. 

Food and water safety: 
Can you drink the tap water: No 
Fresh fruit and veg: Yes 
Ice: No 
Meat: Yes 
Street food: Yes 

Local cuisine: Zimbabwean cuisine is influenced by traditional African dishes and British colonial heritage. Sadza, a thick maize porridge, is a staple, often served with meat and vegetables. Other popular dishes include Nyama, a grilled meat dish, and Mopane worms. 

Drinks: Notable local drinks include Chibuku (traditional beer) and maheu (fermented drink). 

Tipping: 10-15% is customary in restaurants if a service charge is not included. 

Annual rainfall: Varies 
Average temperature: 22°C 

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

Winter: 
Average highs: 25°C 
Average lows: 10°C 

Best time to visit: The best time to visit Zimbabwe is during the dry season from May to October when wildlife viewing is at its best, especially in national parks like Hwange and Mana Pools. The weather is generally pleasant during this time, making it ideal for outdoor activities. 

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, such as cotton or linen, as they are cool and easy to wash. Warmer clothes are advised for the evenings and rainwear for the wet season. 

A brimmed 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 colour clothes, such as browns, greens and tans are advisable. 

The following is a list of suggested items which should be used as a guideline while planning for your trip.

A few things to remember before looking at the list:…
Try to stick to khaki, brown & neutral colors.  Avoid bright colors, when possible -- especially blue or black (these colors attract tse tse flies).  Also avoid white.  Absolutely NO camouflage
Your bag must be soft sided
Excess luggage can be stored in Johannesburg, Maun or Victoria Falls (must be arranged in advance)
Remember LAYERS, temperatures can fluctuate from as little as 32F to 80F during the day – in the morning bundle up and as the sun comes out, slowly peel off the layers.

Clothing:
1 Sun hat/bush hat.
1 Headscarf/bandana – particularly for dusty dry regions.
3 Polo type shirts and/or T-shirts – preferably with a sleeve to protect        
   your shoulders from the sun.
2 Long-sleeved cotton shirts.
3 Pairs long pants
2 Shorts (unless above long pants can zip off to become shorts) 
1 Pajamas – summer and warm for the cooler nights.
Plenty of Underwear (sports bra recommended for game drives 
   as the roads can be bumpy and uneven) and socks.
Long Underwear (top & bottom) for winter months (can double as  
   PJ’s)
3 Pairs of shoes:  1 sneakers, 1 loafers/flats, 1 waterproof sandal 
   (Teva or similar)
Bathing suit
Warm jersey/parka & Scarf / gloves for the cold winter months 
   (May to September)
Light rain gear for summer months (late November to April).
More formal attire for your stay at prestigious city hotels or on one of the luxury trains.

Equipment/Other:
Good quality sunglasses - preferably polarized
Small flashlight & extra batteries
If you wear contact lenses, we recommend that you bring along a pair of glasses in case you get irritation from the dust.
Hand sanitizer as well as sanitizing wipes
Personal toiletries (basic amenities supplied at hotels/lodges).
Malaria tablets (if applicable)
Antihistamine tablets if you suffer from any allergies
Anti nausea tablets if you suffer from motion sickness
Moisturizing cream and suntan lotion – SPF 20 or higher 
Insect repellent for body application e.g. Tabard, Rid, Jungle 
Juice, etc
Basic medical kit (aspirins, bandaids, Imodium, antiseptic cream and Anti-histamine cream, hydrocortisone cream, etc)
Tissues/"Wet Ones"
Camera equipment and plenty of film/memory sticks, extra batteries and personal charger
Waterproof/dustproof bag/cover for your camera
Converter/Adaptors for electricity/power conversion
Binoculars - Essential (night vision binoculars are not essential but  recommended if your safari includes night activities)

Luggage:
This may not apply to all safari itineraries, ask your journey specialist if you have questions.   Due to the size of the light aircraft, and by extension the luggage stowage area, it will only accommodate soft bags (i.e. no rigid sides) and your entire luggage complement (including carry-on and camera equipment, etc.) should weigh no more than 20 kg (44 lbs.) for Southern Africa and 15kgs/33 lbs. for East Africa.
RECOMMENDED duffel bag dimensions  24-26 x 12 x 12

Internet cafes: Limited, mainly in major cities
Accommodation: Yes, including hotels, guesthouses, and lodges
Restaurants: Yes
Cafes: Yes
Shopping malls: Limited
Public parks: Limited, in urban areas
Libraries: Limited

Zimbabwe operates on 220/240 volts.  They also use type G plugs and we recommend you travel with a travel converter kit.
If you are planning on taking with laptops, battery chargers, phones etc, we recommend that you obtain either a voltage adapter (electrical converter) or a plug adapter for your travels, most often both. Most voltage adapters for travel convert 220-240 to 110-120, useable by your American appliance. A plug adapter, on the other hand, allows you to plug into a foreign outlet
 

TIPPING / GRATUITIES
Tipping is not compulsory. If, however, you want to tip because you have received good service, we have enclosed a brief guideline to assist you:
•    Camp, Game Lodge and Specialist Guides
We recommend US$10-$15 (R100-150) per guest per day
•    Mokoro Paddlers and Trackers 
We recommend that each paddler receive US$5 (R50) per guest per day and that camp / lodge trackers receive US$5 (R50) per guest per day. 
•    The General Safari Camp / Lodge Staff
We recommend about US$10 (R100) per guest per day for safari camps. This should be placed in the communal tipping box to be distributed equally amongst all the staff
•    Transfer Driver
Transfer        US$5 (R50) per person
•    Touring (excluding Camp / Game Lodge) Driver and/or Guides
Half day tour        US$5-$10 (R50-R100) per person
Full day tour        US$15-$20 (R150-200) per person
•    Hotel Staff
We recommend between US$5 (R50) per guest per day for hotel staff i.e. housekeeping etc
•    Porterage
We recommend about US$2 (R20) per person per movement.
•    Blue Train and Rovos Rail
Cabin attendant        US$10 (R100) per person per journey
Waiter, Dining Car    US$7.50 (R75) per person per journey
•    Restaurants / Hotels
10% is customary on meal accounts if you are satisfied with the service.
For guests who are staying in any of the Singita properties the tipping guidelines will differ slightly, please ask your consultant for details.

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.

All visitors to Botswana must have a passport which is valid for at least six months beyond their intended departure date from Botswana. Visitors to southern Africa must ensure they have enough blank pages in their passports bearing in mind they may be visiting several different countries.
Visitors must also be in possession of outward travel documents and have sufficient funds for the duration of their stay.

Travel Regulations For Children
All passengers under 18 years of age will need to present an unabridged/certified birth certificate as well as a valid passport when entering, departing or transiting Botswana.  

For single parents, or those travelling alone with their child/ren, the following must be provided:
-An affidavit (no more than 3 months old on the date of travel) in which the absent parent gives consent for the child to travel, or
-A court order granting full responsibilities or legal guardianship of the child, or
-The death certificate of the absent parent.
 

Currency

Botswana's currency is Pula (which means 'rain' in Setswana). It is divided into 100 thebe (which means 'shield' in Setswana). Travellers' cheques and foreign currency may be changed at banks, bureaux de change and authorised hotels. 

The US dollar, Euros, British Pound and the South African Rand are the most easily convertible currencies (and accepted by some estabishments - but, generally, then an inflated rate of exchange will be applied). 

Banking

Seven main commercial banks, as well as a number of foregin exchange bureaux, operate in Botswana. Operating hours are Monday to Friday 08h30 to 15h30 and Saturday 08h30 to 10h45.

Full banking services are available in major towns, although ATMs are sprouting up all over the country. Most credit cards are accepted at hotels and restaurants. Cultural sites and community art and craft outlets usually only accept cash. 

 ALL US CURRENCY MUST BE PRINTED 2009 OR AFTER FOR TIPPING AND EXTRAS

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 

There are a few basic health matters that require care and attention. The following points are recommended guidelines only. Please consult your doctor and also check with your health department prior to departure for any changes in health regulations.

1)    Malaria
Malaria within South Africa's borders is encountered mainly in: 
•    northern and eastern Mpumalanga, 
•    northern KwaZulu-Natal, 
•    the border areas of the Northern and North West provinces. 
Outside of our borders it is found in:
•    the lower lying areas of Swaziland
•    in Mozambique, Zambia and Zimbabwe, 
•    most parts of Botswana
•    in northern Namibia

Malaria prophylactic recommendations for southern African travelers 

Expert opinion differs regarding the best approach to malaria prophylaxis. It is important to bear in mind that malaria may be contracted despite chemoprophylaxis, especially in areas where chloroquine resistance has been reported. Both chloroquine-resistant and normal strains of malaria are prevalent in Africa. 
Please remember that the best precaution is the preventative kind: 
•    Avoid being bitten by using mosquito repellents liberally.  Some lodges may provide a locally made repellent but please bring your own as there may be skin sensitivity.
•    Wear long-sleeved shirts and trousers/slacks in the evenings. 
•    Please use the mosquito net over your bed where supplied/available.
•    If staying in a bungalow or tent, spray with a suitable insecticide to kill any mosquitoes that may have flown into your room. 
•    Mosquito coils are also effective.
Malaria is transmitted by a very small percentage of female Anopheles mosquitoes. They are mainly active in the early evening and throughout the night. Malaria transmission is at its highest during the warmer and wetter months of November through to April. From May through to October the risks of acquiring malaria are reduced. There is also less prevalence in remote areas where our camps are situated; nonetheless, you need to consider taking preventative measures.  
There is a six to seven day minimum incubation period before symptoms present themselves. If you become ill on your return, while still on prophylaxis or even once you have stopped taking them, ensure that your doctor does everything to establish that your illness is not malaria. Malaria can be prevented if you are sensible and take basic precautions. There have been very few cases of our guests contracting malaria in our more than 20 years of operation. It is inadvisable for pregnant woman to visit malarial areas as malaria infection during pregnancy can be detrimental to mother and child.

2)    Tsetse Flies
Tsetse flies occur in large areas of sub-Saharan Africa including parts of northern Botswana and Zambia . They look similar to other large flies except that when perched, both wings are held folded directly over the other above the abdomen and they have a long proboscis extending forward from a large head.  They are best known as the carrier of trypanosomiases – causing sleeping sickness in humans which can be fatal but is easily treated and cured.  Not all Tsetse Flies transmit all variations of the disease and in the areas of operation our clients travel,  they are regarded more as an irritation (the bites are sharp) than as a serious threat. Enormous efforts have been made in eradication of Tsetse Flies in various countries and sleeping sickness has now largely disappeared from southern Africa. The World Health Organisation (WHO) for example reports, that less than 50 cases were reported in Zambia in 2005 and none in Botswana from where it has long been absent.  The disease is easily treated with modern medicine and in the unlikely event that symptoms are recorded after a visit to an area containing Tsetse Flies we recommend that a doctor be consulted. These symptoms can present a few weeks to months after a visit and begin with fever, headaches and pains in the joints followed by dramatic swelling of the lymph nodes. If left untreated these symptoms can evolve to cause anaemia as well as cardiac and kidney disorders before the sleep cycle is disrupted by alternate bouts of fatigue, insomnia and sleep.

3)    Ticks
Ticks occur the world over and are well known ecto-parasites. The most obvious species in the savannah regions of Africa are the ‘hard ticks’ which attach themselves to their hosts to feed before they either fall or are brushed off. Ticks are also well known as carriers of diseases that affect both animals and humans, and in southern Africa this is referred to as tick bite fever.  Symptoms of this disease present after a 5-7 day incubation period and include fevers, headaches, malaise and even a skin rash, but effects can vary dramatically from person to person. A dark black mark usually results at the site of the infected bite and is a helpful diagnostic. The disease is easily treated with antibiotics although this is not always necessary. 
After walking in the bush with your guide it is best to brush your clothes down and to examine your body for ticks, taking care to remove these entirely without leaving the biting mouth parts behind in your skin. Anti-tick sprays such as Bayticol can be very effective against ticks and wearing long pants will prevent many bites.

It's sensible to take some basic precautions whilst travelling anywhere in the world. Below are recommendations that we feel hold true for travel in general and which we thus suggest are followed during a southern African itinerary – they apply mostly to travel in the major cities and towns but elements are also relevant for stays in camps in conservation areas.  Always drive with your doors locked and your windows closed. Store handbags/parcels/valuables out of sight in the boot of the car. Keep mobile phones, wallets and cameras well hidden and avoid wearing expensive jewelery. Never leave your luggage unattended (e.g. don’t leave handbags under tables, on the backs of chairs or on restroom hooks). Please report any stolen property and/or any incident involving your safety and security to the establishment where you are staying.  Separate your cash and credit cards and don’t carry all your cash with you. Avoid counting cash in the open. Do not allow strangers to assist you in your transactions at automated bank teller machines (ATM's). Store valuables and additional cash in your hotel’s safety deposit box or camp safe. Keep your room locked at all times and hand in room keys or cards whenever you leave your hotel. Take note of and abide by any warnings posted in public areas and parks. 

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.  

In summer, lightweight, lightcoloured cottons are preferable. Avoid synthetic materials and black clothing, as they increase perspiration and discomfort. In winter, wear trousers, longsleeved shirts / blouses and jerseys. From May – August, night temperatures can fall below zero degrees celsius, 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 shoesor gym shoes are a must in all seasons. Special attention should be given to protection from the sun. Bring a sunhat, good quality sunscreen, sun lotion and polarised sunglasses. Wide brimmed sun hats are essential.

The following is a list of suggested items which should be used as a guideline while planning for your trip.

A few things to remember before looking at the list:…
Try to stick to khaki, brown & neutral colors.  Avoid bright colors, when possible -- especially blue or black (these colors attract tse tse flies).  Also avoid white.  Absolutely NO camouflage
Your bag must be soft sided
Excess luggage can be stored in Johannesburg, Maun or Victoria Falls (must be arranged in advance)
Remember LAYERS, temperatures can fluctuate from as little as 32F to 80F during the day – in the morning bundle up and as the sun comes out, slowly peel off the layers.

Clothing:
1 Sun hat/bush hat.
1 Headscarf/bandana – particularly for dusty dry regions.
3 Polo type shirts and/or T-shirts – preferably with a sleeve to protect        
   your shoulders from the sun.
2 Long-sleeved cotton shirts.
3 Pairs long pants
2 Shorts (unless above long pants can zip off to become shorts) 
1 Pajamas – summer and warm for the cooler nights.
Plenty of Underwear (sports bra recommended for game drives 
   as the roads can be bumpy and uneven) and socks.
Long Underwear (top & bottom) for winter months (can double as  
   PJ’s)
3 Pairs of shoes:  1 sneakers, 1 loafers/flats, 1 waterproof sandal 
   (Teva or similar)
Bathing suit
Warm jersey/parka & Scarf / gloves for the cold winter months 
   (May to September)
Light rain gear for summer months (late November to April).
More formal attire for your stay at prestigious city hotels or on one of the luxury trains.

Equipment/Other:
Good quality sunglasses - preferably polarized
Small flashlight & extra batteries
If you wear contact lenses, we recommend that you bring along a pair of glasses in case you get irritation from the dust.
Hand sanitizer as well as sanitizing wipes
Personal toiletries (basic amenities supplied at hotels/lodges).
Malaria tablets (if applicable)
Antihistamine tablets if you suffer from any allergies
Anti nausea tablets if you suffer from motion sickness
Moisturizing cream and suntan lotion – SPF 20 or higher 
Insect repellent for body application e.g. Tabard, Rid, Jungle 
Juice, etc
Basic medical kit (aspirins, bandaids, Imodium, antiseptic cream and Anti-histamine cream, hydrocortisone cream, etc)
Tissues/"Wet Ones"
Camera equipment and plenty of film/memory sticks, extra batteries and personal charger
Waterproof/dustproof bag/cover for your camera
Converter/Adaptors for electricity/power conversion
Binoculars - Essential (night vision binoculars are not essential but  recommended if your safari includes night activities)

Luggage:
This may not apply to all safari itineraries, ask your journey specialist if you have questions.   Due to the size of the light aircraft, and by extension the luggage stowage area, it will only accommodate soft bags (i.e. no rigid sides) and your entire luggage complement (including carry-on and camera equipment, etc.) should weigh no more than 20 kg (44 lbs.) for Southern Africa and 15kgs/33 lbs. for East Africa.
RECOMMENDED duffel bag dimensions  24-26 x 12 x 12

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 

TIPPING / GRATUITIES
Tipping is not compulsory. If, however, you want to tip because you have received good service, we have enclosed a brief guideline to assist you:
•    Camp, Game Lodge and Specialist Guides
We recommend US$10-$15 (R100-150) per guest per day
•    Mokoro Paddlers and Trackers 
We recommend that each paddler receive US$5 (R50) per guest per day and that camp / lodge trackers receive US$5 (R50) per guest per day. 
•    The General Safari Camp / Lodge Staff
We recommend about US$10 (R100) per guest per day for safari camps. This should be placed in the communal tipping box to be distributed equally amongst all the staff
•    Transfer Driver
Transfer        US$5 (R50) per person
•    Touring (excluding Camp / Game Lodge) Driver and/or Guides
Half day tour        US$5-$10 (R50-R100) per person
Full day tour        US$15-$20 (R150-200) per person
•    Hotel Staff
We recommend between US$5 (R50) per guest per day for hotel staff i.e. housekeeping etc
•    Porterage
We recommend about US$2 (R20) per person per movement.
•    Blue Train and Rovos Rail
Cabin attendant        US$10 (R100) per person per journey
Waiter, Dining Car    US$7.50 (R75) per person per journey
•    Restaurants / Hotels
10% is customary on meal accounts if you are satisfied with the service.
For guests who are staying in any of the Singita properties the tipping guidelines will differ slightly, please ask your consultant for details.