travel tips
easy travel through Africa
arrive refreshed
Travelling through glorious mama Africa can be much easier than expected.
Just ensure all your hippo’s are neatly in a row and you are guaranteed a seamless hassle-free journey.
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Take a look at some of Out In Africa Travel’s tips to ensure a smooth arrival and departure.
flights into Africa
Choose your own holiday dates and book online with the airline of your choice.
Last minute air tickets are pricey so book early – and save good money.
Most guests rest up in Cape Town for a few days before the safari
or fly direct to the country in which you will go on safari
passport and visa
Double check visa requirements for all African countries you plan to visit.
In South Africa, for example, you need TWO blank pages, side by side in passport PER BORDER ARRIVAL and passports need to be valid for at least another 6months after DEPARTURE DATE.
Keep travel docs, proof of accommodation, proof of sufficient funds and proof of travel insurance handy
travel insurance
All guests visiting Botswana, Namibia, Tanzania and Kenya MUST have comprehensive travel, medical, cancellation, curtailment and default insurance for the duration of their trip.
Due to the remoteness of safari lodges in these countries, it is VITAL to be covered for accidental death and disability; major medical; emergency medical evacuation; loss of personal effects, trip cancellation and any other unforeseen circumstances.
Proof of comprehensive Travel Insurance documents required at border posts.
traveling with children
If travelling with children, please DOUBLE CHECK all entry requirements for each individual country. For example:
South African law regards any person younger than 18 years as a child. Please refer to SA Home Affairs for specific regulations and requirements. To avoid frustration, delays and inconvenience at the time of travel, carry an Unabridged Birth Certificate, and where relevant, certified copies of all other documentation and letters.
In Botswana, as another example, minor’s need birth certificates for entry.
malaria
Malaria meds are strongly advised for guests visiting Kruger Park, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Victoria Falls, northern Namibia, Tanzania and Kenya.
Please consult your doctor as malaria medication courses commence PRIOR to arrival in Africa.
Also pack lightweight long sleeved shirts and trousers with closed shoes for evenings and early morning when mosquitoes are most active.
Legend has it that the quinine in a gin and tonic keeps mozzies at bay.
We believe it..
honeymoons
Nothing like a secluded sun-deck with private pool under African skies to make romance blossom. Consider a honeymoon safari and qualify for some discounts and specials. In some cases the bride gets to stay at a cool 50% discount… talk to us
how many nights on safari
As it is usually a lengthy flight into Africa, we suggest a few nights of resting up after arrival before, all refreshed and ready for action, you embark on the all exciting safari.
Consider places like Cape Town and the beautiful nearby Winelands for a relaxing pre-safari stay.
Two nights on safari is a bit rushed… while 3 nights is just perfect giving you 2 full days on safari.
If time allows, spend 2 nights at one safari lodge + add-on 2 nights at another.
We also suggest keeping the best for last so do the safari(s) at the end of your holiday.
safari pack list
Most importantly, if you are flying on an inter-lodge flight to any game safari lodge, travel LIGHT as safari charters require 15kg max per person in a soft bag with no solid frames or wheels.
Pack t-shirts, shorts, sandals, sun hat, sun glasses, sunscreen and swimming costume, long sleeved shirts, trousers & closed shoes for evenings when mosquitoes are most active.
Pack lightweight, neutral colours plus a pair of comfortable walking shoes or boots.
A warm jacket, scarf, gloves and thermals ensure comfort on chilly winter game drives and boats.
Don’t forget insect repellent, malaria meds and bring spectacles rather than contact lenses.
Let’s go.
staff gratuities
At Africa’s big game safari lodges, any form of service-based tips are at the discretion of the guest and NOT compulsory at all.
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Gratuities are done at the end of your stay and can be done in cash or by credit card.
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Suggested safari staff gratuities are:
Guide/ranger – From US$10-20 per person per day
Tracker – From $5-10 per person per day
General staff – From $10-20 per person per day
most of all - travel light
Inter-lodge safari flights require soft bags only with a 15kg limit
based in Cape Town South Africa
so remember
