SWART SAFARI

Botswana Safari
IT'S TIME FOR AFRICA!

SAFARI DATES, DETAILS & COST

HOW MANY DAYS BEFORE THE MAGIC STARTS?

Day(s)

:

Hour(s)

:

Minute(s)

:

Second(s)

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USD $ 3,580 / pps*

*pps=per person sharing, min. of 2 pax travelling

WHY YOU’D LOVE IT!

Botswana is an unforgettable travel destination blessed with abundant wildlife, ancient cultures, and a staggering diversity of landscapes. The country is rich in wildlife, including elephants, lions, leopards, buffalo, and a diverse range of bird species. Its various habitats attract predators and prey.

Marvel at the natural wonders that make up Khwai, located inside the iconic  Okavango Delta.  This unique terrain is a heady mix of tantalising lagoons and shallow channels interspersed with unspoilt islands and tranquil delta wildlife who call this magical space home! Her lies the  Khwai region, a pristine wilderness offers a unique blend of lush landscapes and diverse ecosystems, providing a habitat for majestic elephants and elusive predators.

The Okavango Delta is a vast inland river delta in northern Botswana. Known for its sprawling grassy plains, which flood seasonally, becoming a lush animal habitat. Navigate past hippos, elephants and crocodiles on water;  experience wildlife (lions, leopards, giraffes, buffalo & more) on land. Its various habitats attract predators and prey.

A truly astonishing safari adventure filled with magical experiences that you won’t find anywhere else in the world!

 

MAP

MAP

Visualize your journey!

DAILY

Itinerary at a glance

◽️ DAY 0         | Travel

     Departure

◽️ DAY 1-2        | Botswana

     Khwai region

 

◽️ DAY 3-4     | Botswana

     Okavango Delta

 

◽️ DAY 5     | Return 

    Departure

 

DAY 0 | Travel

DEPARTURE

Travel

DEPARTURE

Your adventure starts now!

Embark on an African safari and anticipate breathtaking landscapes, encountering diverse and majestic wildlife in their natural habitats, and immersing yourself in the rich cultural experiences of the continent.

* See your safari itinerary for transfer logistics

DAY 1-2 | BOTSWANA – Khwai region

KHWAI CONCESSION

Safari Days

📍 Nokanyana Lodge

KHWAI CONCESSION

Area Overview

A wildlife-rich and diverse ecosystem that offers a mosaic of lagoons, shallow flooded pans, open grass plains, and wooded woodlands is located on the boundaries of the well conserved Moremi Game Reserve. Without a doubt, one of Botswana's most picturesque regions is the Khwai region. Take advantage of the traditional Khwai village's cultural offerings while staying at Khwai Leadwood.

The Khwai Concession is a private reserve adjacent to the world-renowned Moremi Game Reserve, separated from this reserve by the Khwai River. Dominated by grasslands, permanent flood plains and large areas of Mopane forests and home to large herds of elephants take their bath next to hippos, whilst being watched by lechwe antelopes. As the Khwai concession lies outside the parks, it offers the freedom and flexibility normally only possible with the heavier price tag of a private concession. Go off road for a closer look at sightings, night drives in search of nocturnal species, and with a little advanced planning, head out on game walks to check wildlife on foot!

During the dry season, many animals migrate down from the Linyanti area because the Khwai River provides a reliable source of water, attracting many antelopes, giraffes, buffalos, and zebras. There are also numerous bird species, particularly egrets, cranes, vultures, and various eagle species that specialize in catching catfish.

ACTIVITIES
During your time here, you’ll spend most days exploring the narrow Khwai river, which forms the natural boundary to the Moremi Game Reserve the south. The Khwai river is a beacon for wildlife and plays host to leopards talking Letswe in the long grass, lions swimming from the banks to save their cups during territorial disputes and crocodiles competing with while dogs for a meal of Impala.

Safari days!

Each day on safari in Africa is a magical experience, whether you’re exploring the savanna on foot or in a 4x4 vehicle in search of the Big 5 or taking to the sky in a hot-air balloon to witness the Great Wildebeest Migration. Every single day is steeped in the promise of a unique adventure and cherished memories.

Although each day is unpredictable to a certain extent, based on the time of year or location, there is a general format or schedule that safaris tend to follow, but, as a rule, safaris do follow a familiar rhythm that combines thrilling game viewing with ample time to relax in between—a dream vacation in anyone’s book. One rule of thumb is that there are usually two game drives a day: one in the early morning and one in the late afternoon, when animals are at their most active.

READ MORE DETAILS!

5.30 am: Time for a Wake-Up Call
6 am– 9 am Morning Game Drive
9 am- 11 am Return to Camp for Breakfast or Brunch
11 am –1 pm Relaxation: Read, Nap, Swim, Walk or Spa
1 pm – 2 pm Lunchtime
2 pm – 3:30 pm Relaxation: Read, Nap, Swim, Walk or Spa
3.30 pm: High Tea
4 pm –7 pm Afternoon Game Drive
7: 30 pm Dinner Time
9 pm Turn in for Bedtime
 

 

NOKANYANA LODGE

Camp Overview

Full board, excl. premium drinks | Limited Wifi | Solar power | Laundry available at addl. cost

Nokanyana Lodge is located at the eastern edge of the Greater Okavango’s watery wilderness, near both the Moremi Game Reserve and the Khwai Concession area. Known as a "land of rivers" by Livingstone, this region is one of Africa’s most sought-after safari destinations. Its prime location makes Nokanyana an ideal stop when traveling through Botswana, as incredible wildlife can be seen right on the lodge’s doorstep—often without even needing to leave the property.

Nokanyana is located at the meeting point of the Khwai and Mababe rivers, surrounded by a mix of vegetation, open plains, riverine forests, and the Hippo Pools, a popular spot for sundowners. Morning game drives may venture into a corner of Chobe National Park that extends into Nokanyana’s concession. Alternatively, guests can enter Chobe National Park through the Mababe Gate and explore the southern part of the Mababe Depression, which stretches north toward Savute.
 
This area is known for its large buffalo herds and occasional sightings of wild dogs. A visit to the nearby Mababe Village offers insight into how the local community coexists with wildlife. No stay at Nokanyana is complete without a scenic drive along the Khwai River floodplain, typically done on arrival or departure from the Khwai airstrip due to its distance from the lodge

The lodge features 7 luxurious tents and three family tents, all set along the banks of the Khwai River, offering excellent wildlife viewing. Designed to provide panoramic views of the surrounding bush, the tents include both indoor and outdoor showers, so guests can enjoy the sights and sounds of nature while staying comfortable. 

FULL BOARD

TENTS

GAME VIEW

DAY 3-4 | Okavango Delta

OKAVANGO DELTA

Safari days!

📍 Mopiri Camp

OKAVANGO DELTA

Area Overview

Botswana’s magnificent Okavango Delta is where the wild things are: an immense, water logged oasis alive with elephants and birdlife, adrift in the middle of Kalahari sands. The real magic of the Delta lies in its water, trickling through from far away highlands, and spreading across the channels and floodplains.

A maze of lagoons, lakes and hidden channels covering an area of over 16,000 sq km in flood and shrinking to less than 9,000 sq km in the dry season. It is a lush water-wilderness of papyrus swamps, shallow reed-beds and floodplains, dotted with islands and laced with a network of channels.

Trapped in the parched Kalahari sands the fresh water oasis attracts wildlife that depends on the permanent waters of this unique wilderness. The fragile ecosystem remain one of the world’s unspoilt and beautiful wildernesses where a vast diversity of animals and birds can be seen.

When the rains arrive, they transform the floodplains into a Noah’s Ark of African wildlife. As the water brings life to the delta, its local residents shape and recreate it. Termites slowly build mounds into islands, germinated with palm trees by passing elephants. Waterways open and close on the whim of wide-bottomed hippos, carving out channels where they crash through reeds, and leaving room behind them for exploration by mokoro.Over 400 species of birds, nearly 200 species of mammals, and over 150 species of reptiles!

For those looking to get a little closer to nature, guided bush walks are conducted on a number of the nearby islands, offering an opportunity to track some of the larger land-based species that inhabit this water wilderness. Bird- watching opportunities are outstanding, and fishing for bream and tiger fish is also offered as an activity. This activity is based on the water levels at the time.

Safari days

Each day on safari in Africa is a magical experience, whether you’re exploring the savanna on foot or in a 4x4 vehicle in search of the Big 5 or taking to the sky in a hot-air balloon to witness the Great Wildebeest Migration. Every single day is steeped in the promise of a unique adventure and cherished memories.

Although each day is unpredictable to a certain extent, based on the time of year or location, there is a general format or schedule that safaris tend to follow, but, as a rule, safaris do follow a familiar rhythm that combines thrilling game viewing with ample time to relax in between—a dream vacation in anyone’s book. One rule of thumb is that there are usually two game drives a day: one in the early morning and one in the late afternoon, when animals are at their most active.

READ MORE DETAILS!

5.30 am: Time for a Wake-Up Call
6 am– 9 am Morning Game Drive
9 am- 11 am Return to Camp for Breakfast or Brunch
11 am –1 pm Relaxation: Read, Nap, Swim, Walk or Spa
1 pm – 2 pm Lunchtime
2 pm – 3:30 pm Relaxation: Read, Nap, Swim, Walk or Spa
3.30 pm: High Tea
4 pm –7 pm Afternoon Game Drive
7: 30 pm Dinner Time
9 pm Turn in for Bedtime
 

 

 MOPIRI CAMP

Camp Overview

Full board, excl. premium drinks | Limited Wifi | Solar power | Laundry available at addl. cost

On the western bank of the vast and idyllic Weboro Lagoon, nestled between palm trees and under large shady figs, lies Mopiri Camp!
With stunning panoramic views of the delta's vibrant wildlife and vegetation, guests can often spot elephants, hippos, and a variety of bird species, including Pel's Fishing Owl and the African Skimmer.

Surrounded by water throughout the year, Mopiri offers a range of activities including lure fishing (March to December), water safaris by mokoro or motorboat, and birdwatching tours led by experienced guides, fishing, Nature walks & cultural vivists.

Mopiri Camp offers a range of comfortable and well-appointed accommodation options, designed to blend seamlessly with the surrounding wilderness while ensuring a luxurious and memorable stay. The camp features 10 luxurious tents, each thoughtfully designed with modern amenities to provide a relaxing retreat in the heart of nature.

The camp, powered by solar energy, features seven luxurious tents, each with en-suite bathrooms, double sinks, rain showers, and spacious decks for privacy. Charging points available in the main area and rooms. No hairdryers available.

FULL BOARD

TENTED CAMP

GAME VIEW

DAY 5 | Return

RETURN

DEPARTURE

Unfortunately, all good things must come to an end! Goodbye to the safari life, feeling relaxed, mesmerizing scenery, great food, family time, and romantic memories.

Morning road transfer back to the airport for your outbound flight... dreaming of the trip of a lifetime!

IMPORTANT INFO TO TAKE NOTE OF

Please refer to 👉 FAQ's for all related travel information

INCLUDED
  • Experience of a lifetime
  • 24/7  support before & during your safari
  • Accommodation
  • Road transfers
  • Tours & Activities
  • Meals & Drinks
  • Tour Guide (where applicable)
  • Airport & airstrip transfers
  • Park fees, levies & taxes (unless otherwise indicated)
  • Inter-Africa commercial & light aircraft flights

____________

* As indicated on your detailed safari itinerary

EXCLUDED
  • International airfare
  • Personal gifts & purchases
  • Incidental charges
  • Travel insurance
  • Conservation fees*
  • Visa fees
  • Balloon safari* (if applicable)
  • Laundry*
  • Tips

____________

* Unless otherwise indicated on your itinerary

Due to constantly changing requirements, it is recommended that travelers contact the appropriate embassy for accurate and up-to-date information & requirements

Please refer to https://travel.state.gov/content/travel.html for updated information on each country.

Passport & Visa requirements are guest’s sole responsibility*

The table below shows the number of blank visa pages required by each country.

  • If you plan to visit multiple countries during the same trip, you need to add the requirements for each country together.
  • If your passport does not have a sufficient number of blank pages, you will need to replace it before your trip.
  • It is no longer possible to add visa pages to a passport. You must apply for a new passport.

Botswana  3 blank pages (3 or more unused pages; one blank page per entry)

Kenya        2

Mozambique  3

Namibia   3

Rwanda    1

South Africa   2 (2 Consecutive blank Visa Pages: South Africa requires travelers to have 2 consecutive completely blank visa pages in their passports upon every arrival in South  Africa. YOU WILL BE DENIED ENTRY if you do not have  2 consecutive   blank visa pages in your passport. This does not include the endorsement pages.

Tanzania     2

Uganda        1

Zambia        3

Zimbabwe   3

(All visitors to Zimbabwe need to present a valid passport, return transportation ticket, sufficient funds and at least 3 blank visa pages for entry and exit stamps.

How Many Blank Pages Are Required by Each Country?

  • Many countries have a specific travel regulation for the number of blank passport pages visitors should have. This is to allow space for visas and visa stamps.
  • Before embarking on an international trip, it is important to check your destination’s passport requirements to ensure that you meet them.
  • Having a certain number of blank passport pages is a mandatory rule for some territories, along with any necessary travel documents such as an eVisa or Travel Health Certificate.
  • Each border authority has its own passport requirements for travelers. The number of compulsory blank pages depends on the individual territory.
  • Countries such as the United Kingdom, Canada, and Morocco only require visitors to have 1 blank page to enter.
  • Others, for example Germany, India, and South Africa, follow a 2-page regulation.
  • Some African destinations need at least 3 blank pages, such as Botswana, Mozambique, and Zambia.
  • There are even some territories, including Brunei and Namibia, that demand a minimum of 6 empty passport pages.
  • If you fail to meet these requirements, you could be refused permission to board by an airline or refused entry at border control.

What if I am visiting multiple countries?

  • If a trip consists of visiting multiple countries, it is necessary to add the requirements of each country together.
  • For example, if you are traveling to somewhere that requires 1 page, then continuing to somewhere that requires 2, you will need to have a total of 3 empty passport pages.

Can I Add Passport Pages?

  • Most countries do not allow passport holders to add pages. The United States, for example, previously provided this service but no longer do. The same applies for the UK.
  • In most cases, it is necessary to apply for a new passport if there are no more blank pages left.
  • You can contact your destination’s embassy or consulate if you are unsure about passport page requirements.

👉 Visa

No visa required for USA Citizens for:

  • South Africa, Botswana, Namibia & Zambia

    Visa required for USA Citizens for:

    • Zimbabwe: Buy at port of entry ($ 50 cash US Dollar bills)
    • Kenya,Tanzania & Uganda: Applied for online prior to travel!

    Visa requirements differ from country to country and, on occasion, are subject to change with no warning.

     
    The team at Africa Photo Safaris will always do what we can to provide accurate and helpful information pertaining to visas, however we cannot be held responsible for compliance with visa requirements as this is the client's sole responsibility. For peace of mind, we recommend you check visa regulations with the embassy, high commission, or consulate of the countries you are traveling to.
     
    ZIMBABWE
    Visa's are purchased at the port of entry (Victoria Falls Airport). Please brig US dollar bills
    • USA: US$50
    • Britain / UK / Ireland: US$70 
    • Canadian:US$75 
     
    ZAMBIA
    U.S.A Passport holders do not require a visa to visit Zambia, if yoyur stay does not exceed 30 days in Zambia.
     
    BOTSWANA
    U.S.A Passport holders do not need a visa to visit Botswana for a stay of up to 90 days within a 12-month period.
    MOZAMBIQUE
    Except for a handful of SADC countries all visitors to Mozambique require a visa. Although visas can and are often issued on arrival, we recommend obtaining a visa prior to travel.
     
    SOUTH AFRICA
    U.S.A Passport holders do not need a visa to visit South Africa for a stay of up to 90 days within a 12-month period.
    Please contact your High Commission or Consulate to confirm the relative information.
     
    Insider Tips
    • On arrival please ensure you request the correct visa for your needs
    • Always check your visa has been issued for the correct number of days
    • Zimbabwe, KAZA UniVisa and Mozambique visas each use a full passport visa page
    • Carry the exact amount of cash to pay for your visa as credit card machines may be offline and change is not always available

    👉 Health

    Prior to traveling to Africa, we highly recommend you visit a medical professional such as your doctor or local travel clinic for advice on what health precautions need to be taken. This visit should take place at least 4-8 weeks prior to departure as it will determine the need for any vaccinations and/or antimalarial medication as well as identifying any other medical precautions.

    • Currently no mandatory vaccinations are required when entering Botswana, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Mozambique and South Africa.
    • Yellow fever vaccination certificate is required by visitors coming from a country where yellow fever occurs, or if they have been in transit for more than 12 hours at an airport in a country here yellow fever occurs. Applicable to Kenya, Tanzania & Uganda.
    • Malaria prophylaxis medication is recommended when traveling to Zimbabwe, Botswana, Zambia, Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda and in certain areas of South Africa.

    Insider Tips

    • Take out comprehensive travel insurance to safeguard against the unexpected. Should you fall ill or have an accident when staying in a remote area you may have to be evacuated by air to a private medical facility which is a costly exercise.
    • Carry the name and contact details of your doctor together with information pertaining to any medical condition and its treatment.
    • If you take prescription medication ensure you carry sufficient to last the duration of your trip, plus a little extra in case of flight delays.
    • Prescription medication should be kept in its original container which should be clearly labelled.
    • More unusual drugs and ones that contain sedatives should be carried with a medical attestation signed by a physician certifying the traveler requires the medication for a specific medical condition.
    • Ask you medical practitioner to recommend items for a basic first aid kit
    • In the event your checked bag is lost or delayed we recommend you carry prescription medication including anti-malaria tablets, spare contact lens and essential toiletries in your hand luggage.
    • If you travel with a CPAP machine, please advise us well in advance so we can check your chosen safari lodges/camps are able to run a generator throughout the night. Alternatively, you may choose to carry a portable battery pack that can be re-charged daily.
    • Please advise us of any special dietary requests in advance of travel.

    👉 Stay in Touch

    IMPORTANT: Please install the WHATSAPP app on your phone and set up the account –it is all free! This is the preferred method to stay in contact during your safari, just in case you have a question—you never know!

    Once the app is downloaded, please add my contact number: +1 949 400 5262. You should see me listed as "KARI | AfricaPhotoSafaris" and the please send me a quick message just so I know we are connected.

    We suggest purchasing a local SIM card and data at the port of entry: Johannesburg (South Africa) Nairobi  (Kenya) or Windhoek (Namibia) for example.  At this point swop out the SIM card with you current SIM card. Open WHATSAPP: It will ask you if you want to change your WHATSAPP number to the new "local" number. Click NO and proceed. Your WHATSAPP number will now remain the same as your USA / European number you used to originally register with WHATSAPP. You will be able to make calls, seind adn receive message and photos on WHATSAPP on the local network.

    Please ask your airport pick up driver to escort you over to the local cellular provider shop in the airport.

    👉 Health

    Prior to traveling to Africa, we highly recommend you visit a medical professional such as your doctor or local travel clinic for advice on what health precautions need to be taken. This visit should take place at least 4-8 weeks prior to departure as it will determine the need for any vaccinations and/or antimalarial medication as well as identifying any other medical precautions.

    • Currently no mandatory vaccinations are required when entering Botswana, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Mozambique and South Africa.
    • Yellow fever vaccination certificate is required by visitors coming from a country where yellow fever occurs, or if they have been in transit for more than 12 hours at an airport in a country here yellow fever occurs. Applicable to Kenya, Tanzania & Uganda.
    • Malaria prophylaxis medication is recommended when traveling to Zimbabwe, Botswana, Zambia, Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda and in certain areas of South Africa.

    Insider Tips

    • Take out comprehensive travel insurance to safeguard against the unexpected. Should you fall ill or have an accident when staying in a remote area you may have to be evacuated by air to a private medical facility which is a costly exercise.
    • Carry the name and contact details of your doctor together with information pertaining to any medical condition and its treatment.
    • If you take prescription medication ensure you carry sufficient to last the duration of your trip, plus a little extra in case of flight delays.
    • Prescription medication should be kept in its original container which should be clearly labelled.
    • More unusual drugs and ones that contain sedatives should be carried with a medical attestation signed by a physician certifying the traveler requires the medication for a specific medical condition.
    • Ask you medical practitioner to recommend items for a basic first aid kit
    • In the event your checked bag is lost or delayed we recommend you carry prescription medication including anti-malaria tablets, spare contact lens and essential toiletries in your hand luggage.
    • If you travel with a CPAP machine, please advise us well in advance so we can check your chosen safari lodges/camps are able to run a generator throughout the night. Alternatively, you may choose to carry a portable battery pack that can be re-charged daily.
    • Please advise us of any special dietary requests in advance of travel.
    Suggested packing list
    2 pairs of shorts
    2 pairs of safari trousers (those that zip off at the knees are very handy)
    2 short sleeve shirts
    2 long sleeved shirts with collar to protect the back of your neck
    3 T-shirts
    Fleece and jumper/sweater
    Light weight warm jacket
    Light rain jacket
    1 pair of sandals/flip-flops
    1 pair of comfortable walking shoes or sneakers
    Undergarments
    Socks
    Swimming costume
    Sun hat or cotton scarf
    Beanie/warm hat, scarf/pashmina, gloves (winter)
    Sunglasses
    Contact lenses and/or prescription glasses (take a spare if you have one)
    High factor sunblock and lip balm
    Personal toiletries and wet wipes (body wash, shampoo and conditioner is usually provided)
    Basic medical kit with aspirin, band-aid, Imodium, eye drops, antihistamine cream, headache tablets and motion sickness pills if needed.
    Flashlight (most camps provide a torch)
    Camera, spare camera batteries, dust proof case, cleaning equipment, and memory cards
    Universal worldwide travel adapter
    Binoculars in the range 8x40 or 10x40 are most useful
     
     
    Tips
    • In the event your checked bag is lost or delayed we recommend you carry prescription medication including anti-malaria tablets, spare contact lenses, essential toiletries, and a change of underwear in your hand luggage.
    • If you take prescription medication ensure you carry sufficient to last your whole trip, plus a little extra in case of delays. Prescription medications should be in their original containers with the doctor’s prescription printed on the container.
    • Leave expensive and sentimental pieces of jewellery at home and never carry jewellery in your checked baggage.
    In Africa tipping is customary but not obligatory and should only be undertaken if you are satisfied with the level of service you have received. Tipping is a much-appreciated gesture that goes a long way to making many lives easier. Whatever amount you believe to be appropriate will be appreciated by not just the staff you have interacted with daily but by those who work hard behind the scenes to ensure everything runs smoothly.
     
    When staying in a safari camp/lodge tip just once at the end of your stay. Guides and trackers (and should you wish mokoro polers) are tipped separately. Envelopes are provided so you can personally hand each recipient their tip when saying goodbye. Housekeeping, front of house and back of house staff share the proceeds of the communal tipping box which is distributed equally.
     
    The following guidelines are purely suggestions as there is no set rule when it comes to how much to tip.
     
    BOTSWANA, ZIMBABWE AND ZAMBIA
    US$10-20 per guest per day for a safari guide when game viewing in a shared vehicle
    US$ 20-30 per  guest per day for a safari guide when game viewing in a private vehicle
    US$ 5-10  per guest per day for trackers and mokoro polers
    US$10-15  per guest per day for general staff
     
    MOZAMBIQUE
    US$10-20 per day for a host/butler
    US$10-20 per activity
    US$20-30 per day for general staff
     
    SOUTH AFRICA – Safaris
    In South Africa tips are normally given in South African Rand
    ZAR 100-200 per guest per day for rangers when game viewing in a shared vehicle
    ZAR 200-400 per guest in a private vehicle
    ZAR 1,000 per guest when staying in a luxury lodge
    ZAR 50-100 per guest per day for a tracker (may be more at a luxury lodge)
    ZAR 100-200 per guest per day for general staff
     
    SOUTH AFRICA – City stays
    ZAR 25  per guest for an airport to city hotel transfer and double for longer out of town transfers
    ZAR 20-25 per bag hotel porterage
    ZAR 100 per guest for a half day sightseeing tour
    ZAR 200 per guest for a full day sightseeing tour
    ZAR 250-500 per guest for a half day sightseeing tour with a specialist guide
    ZAR 500-1000  per guest for a full day sightseeing tour with a specialist guide
    ZAR 100 per guest per day for general staff
    10% is the minimum tip on meal accounts in restaurants and hotels, with 15-20% the accepted norm for attentive service, especially in Cape Town and the winelands

    IMPORTANT: Please install the WHATSAPP app on your phone and set up the account –it is all free! This is the preferred method to stay in contact during your safari, just in case you have a question—you never know!

    Once the app is downloaded, please add my contact number: +1 949 400 5262. You should see me listed as "KARI: AfricaPhotoSafaris" and the please send me a quick message just so I know we are connected.

    We suggest purchasing a local SIM card and data at the port of entry: Johannesburg (South Africa) Nairobi  (Kenya) or Windhoek (Namibia) for example.  At this point swop out the SIM card with you current SIM card. Open WHATSAPP: It will ask you if you want to change your WHATSAPP number to the new "local" number. Click NO and proceed. Your WHATSAPP number will now remain the same as your USA / European number you used to originally register with WHATSAPP. You will be able to make calls, seind adn receive message and photos on WHATSAPP on the local network.

    Please ask your airport pick up driver to escort you over to the local cellular provider shop in the airport.

    Comprehensive travel insurance to safeguard against the unexpected, such as a medical emergency, is a necessity when traveling to Africa. This is especially important when visiting off the beaten track areas on safari and for this reason most safari lodges/camps make travel insurance a condition of booking.
     
    It is the responsibility of each traveller to take out comprehensive travel and medical insurance at the time of confirming their booking. Cover should include cancellation and curtailment, medical emergencies, evacuation and repatriation expenses, disability and death, lost luggage, and personal effects. Certain activities are classified as high-risk or dangerous and may require extra cover to be taken out, please ensure you consult with your insurance company to ensure you are adequately covered. It is important to check if there is a travel age limit and should you be suffering from a pre-existing condition please check if there is a cap on medical emergency cover.
     
    Certain banks and credit cards include or offer travel insurance as part of their service. Please always check exactly what is offered in the way of cover and if it is adequate for your needs. Although more expensive it may well be better to purchase a standalone policy that provides comprehensive cover.
     
    By ensuring you are covered for the unexpected, travel insurance will provide you with peace of mind allowing you to relax and enjoy your holiday.
    Recommended: Allianz & America Express

    A power adapter changes the plug type to fit different outlets but does not alter voltage.

    A power converter changes the voltage of the electrical current to match the device's requirements. Adapters are used for compatibility with outlets, while converters are necessary when voltage differences exist between regions.Most Southern African counties use 220 watts, and the power sockets are of type D, M and N. But keep in mind that the majority of chargers for tablets, laptops, cameras, and cellphones are dual voltage, so a power converter is not required for these.

    So, no need for a NO power converter for a laptop or camera as these electronics usually have built in power converters ( see the black “charging block” on your devices – it shoud say 110 v – 240 v

    However, you need power adaptors in South Africa, Namibia, and Botswana. Order on EBay or on Amazon

    👉 UNIVERSAL ADAPTOR for all types

    • Botswana: M-plug & G-plug adaptors. The standard voltage is 230 V and the standard frequency is 50 Hz.
    • Namibia and South Africa: M-plug adaptors. The standard voltage is 220 V and the standard frequency is 50 Hz.
    • Zimbabwe:  D & G adaptors.  Plug type D has three round pins in a triangular pattern, and G-plug adaptors have three rectangular pins in a triangular pattern. Zimbabwe operates on a 240V supply voltage and 50Hz.
    • Tanzania: D & G adaptors. The standard voltage is 230 V and the standard frequency is 50 Hz.
    • Kenya: G adaptors. The standard voltage is 220-240 V and the standard frequency is 50 Hz.

    Hairdryers and other hair styling devices: do not pack your US 120V products!

    If the camp has regular power: Please purchase a travel hair dryer with DUAL voltage 120-220v, click for example 

    If only solar power is available in camp: 12 v Hairdryer  and Hair straightener

    It is sensible to take basic precautions whilst traveling anywhere in the world. Below are recommendations that we feel hold for travel in general and which we thus suggest are followed if traveling to Africa.
     
      • Don’t tempt fate by traveling with expensive jewelry, only bring what you need. If its irreplaceable or has sentimental value, then leave it at home. Never carry jewelry in your checked baggage.
      • In the unfortunate event your checked baggage is lost or delay we recommend you carry prescription medication, including anti-malaria tablets, essential toiletries, and a change of underwear in your hand luggage.
      • Misplacing or losing original travel documents is frustrating and time consuming as it takes time to have them replaced. Always carry a copy of the ID page of your passport, travel itinerary, and travel insurance with you. The best method is to scan these documents and store them electronically. Packing a copy separately from the original documents and leave a copy with a family member or trusted contact are other options.
      • It is advisable to secure your luggage with a suitable lock when flying both locally (within South Africa), regionally (to neighboring countries), and internationally.
      • Please do not check in any valuables or chronic medication as these should be kept in your carry-on luggage
      • Always drive with your doors locked and your windows closed, with handbags/backpacks/parcels, and valuables stored out of sight in the boot/trunk of the car.
      • Keep mobile phones, wallets, and cameras well hidden, and avoid wearing expensive jewelry.
      • Never leave your luggage unattended (e.g. do not leave handbags under tables, on the backs of chairs, or restroom hooks).
      • Separate your cash and credit cards and do not carry all your cash with you.
      • Avoid counting cash in the open.
      • Be vigilant whenever approaching an automated bank teller machine (ATM). If you feel unsafe, rather return at another time or use an alternate machine.
      • Please store any valuables, travel documents (passports/airline tickets/vaccination cards), and additional cash in your camp/lodge/hotel room safe or the property's main safe. Keep your room locked at all times and hand in room keys or cards whenever you leave your hotel.
    To comply with limited weight restrictions of between 12-20 kilogram / 26-44 lbs including hand baggage and camera equipment on light aircraft inter-camp flights means you need to pack smart.
     
    Limiting what you take on safari is not as difficult as it sounds as nearly all safari camps and lodges offer a daily laundry service (weather dependent). Clothing should be light weight cotton fabric, casual and comfortable. Dressing in layers is the most practical way to adjust to changing temperatures, especially in winter when early morning and late afternoon game drives can be frosty and cold.
     
    Please refer to AIRLINE BAGGAGE RESTRICTIONS document for airline specific information.

    PAPERWORK

    IMPORTANT DOCUMENTS TO TAKE NOTE OF! Guest's sole responsibility

    VISA Application/Approvals & PASSPORT Validity, incl. the required amoutn of emty Visa Pages in the passport are guest’s sole responsibility.

    Africa Photo Safaris can assist you with Visa applications (addl. fee applies)

    ACTION ITEM:

    • Please refer to https://travel.state.gov/content/travel.html for updated information on each country.
    • 👉 Click for more detailed information
    • US citizens need to obtain a visa at the port of entry:
      • Zimbabwe: Cost is US $ 50 per person and should be paid in US$ cash/Dollar bills
      • Namibia: Approx  US $ 90 per person and must be purchased online prior to travel
      • Tanzania: $ 100 and must be purchased online prior to travel
      • Kenya: $ 32 and must be purchased online prior to travel
      • Uganda: $ 50 and must be purchased online prior to travel

    ‼️ Requirements for travelling with underage children / minors

    IMPORTANT MANDATORY REQUIREMENT FOR TRAVELING TO SOUTHERN AFRICAN COUNTRIES, including South Africa, Namibia, Botswana & Zimbabwe

    👉 TRAVELING WITH MINORS TO SOUTHERN AFRICA

    All minor children travelling through any South African port of entry must have comply with the requirements below, depending on their spesific situationn:

    • CHILD ACCOMPANIED BY BOTH PARENTS
    • CHILD ACCOMPANIED BY ONE PARENT

    Click for the 👉  Official website

    THE FOLLOWING DOCUMENTS MUST BE COMPLETED AND RETURNED

    1. 👉Safari Contract at least first & last page to be uploaded)
    2. Signed 👉Indemnity form for each person going on the safari (excluding minors)
    3. Upload Passport photo page
    4. Submit Safari guest personal & medical information

    Please make sure all necessary information and paperwork are ready ahead of time so we can complete everything smoothly in one session.

    Documents available for download below

    TAKE ACTION:

    1. Email or Whatsapp a clear color copy of all travelers' passports

    ACTION ITEMS:

    1. Click to download the 👉 Safari Contract
    2. Print & fill out and sign
    3. Take a picture with your phone of the first & last page and email back to Africa Photo Safaris

      ACTION ITEMS:

      1. Print, fill out & sign  APPENDIX C / Indemnity 👉 Click here 
      2. Return a copy to Africa Photo Safaris

      Note:

      APPENDIX C / Indemnity is required for each person going on the safari.

      ACTION ITEMS:

      1. Download the 👉 Safari Guest Information sheet
      2. Fill oput all the details, sign and return a copy to Africa Photo Safaris

      Note:

      • Complete and return a copy  for each person going on the safari

      SUMBIT YOUR INFORMATION, PASSPORT & SAFARI CONTRACT

      *Required for each person going on the safari

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