WHY YOU’D LOVE IT!
Relish a two-night stay at splendid, 5,000 acre Hwange National Park, a dazzling elephant sanctuary, where the Big-Five and the largest selection of mammals to be found in any of Africa’s national parks will provide an outstanding photo safari to beat any other.
Located in southern Zimbabwe near the city of Bulawayo, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its striking granite rock formations, ancient cave paintings, and rich cultural history. Matobo National Park is home to diverse wildlife, including a high concentration of black and white rhinos, leopards, and numerous bird species, notably the world’s highest density of Verreaux’s eagles. The blend of natural beauty, history, and spirituality makes Matobo Hills a remarkable destination.
Marvel at the incredible sight of Victoria Falls and enjoy everything from white-water rafting to sunset cruises, helicopter rides, and bungee jumping. Enjoy an unforgettable opportunity to get up close with elephants in their natural environment and take a momentous 45- minute ride on an elephant as the climax of your visit.
Highlights include:
- Victoria Falls – Zimbabwe
- Hwange National Park – Zimbabwe
- Matobo National Park- Zimbabwe
MAP
DAILY
Itinerary at a glance
◽️ DAY 0 | Travel
Departure
◽️ DAY 1 | South Africa
Johannesburg arrival
◽️ DAY 2-4 | Zimbabwe
Hwange National Park
◽️ DAY 5-7 | Zimbabwe
Matopos National Park
◽️ DAY 8-9 | Zimbabwe
Victoria Falls
◽️ DAY 10 | Return
Departure
MAP
Visualize your journey!
DAY 0
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
JOHANNESBURG
Overnight
📍 African Sky Boutique Hotel
AFRICAN SKY HOTEL
Guest House Overview
Dinner & Breakfast (drinks excl.) | Wifi available | No Laundy service
Welcome to South Africa! Johannesburg (JNB / OR Tambo) Airport arrival with meet & greet service.
Your arrival night overnight accommodation: AfricaSky Boutique Hotel is conveniently located only 10 minutes from Johannesburg's O.R. Tambo International airport. A short drive will have you arriving at an oasis, rooms beautifully appointed and nestled in a peaceful lush garden. Enjoy dinner, bed & breakfast all on-site. True African hospitality and service excellence.
Just look out towards the information desk located in the arrivals hall for your pick-up with your name on it. 10 Minute road transfer to your overnight accommodation.
DINNER, B&B
GUEST HOUSE
OVERNIGHT
DAY 2-3
📍 Shongwe Samanzi
VICTORIA FALLS
Area Overview
Victoria Falls is the 7th wonder of the world! Located in Zimbabwe, situated in the heart of Southern Africa and entirely landlocked. 12% of its land is allocated to National Parks and Game Reserves.
Undoubtedly, the country's most iconic attraction is the awe-inspiring Victoria Falls, the largest waterfall in the world, locally known as Mosi-oa-Tunya, or the "Smoke That Thunders" because of the spray made by the mass of water dropping 100 meters below in the gorges. Victoria Falls is twice the size of Niagara Falls and stretches across a significantly longer distance. Visitors can get up close to the falls, but be prepared to experience some splashing.
The Victoria Falls, now in it's 150 millionth fantastic year, - its zenith in about May each year. It’s a truly awe-inspiring experience—the sight, the sound, the smell—and the humbling feeling that this is indeed nature's supreme masterpiece. No photograph can begin to depict reality. And nothing prepares you for your first sight. .
The Victoria Falls present a spectacular sight of awe-inspiring beauty and grandeur on the Zambezi River, forming the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe—the largest sheet of falling water in the world and significant worldwide for its exceptional geological and geomorphological features and active land formation processes with outstanding beauty attributed to the falls, i.e., the spray, mist, and rainbows.
David Livingstone was the first European to see the Victoria Falls in 1855. The Scottish explorer is believed to have been the first European to view the falls, and he named them Victoria Falls in honor of Queen Victoria.
While in Victoria Falls, don't miss the opportunity to enjoy a delightful cruise on the Zambezi River for a different perspective of the falls, especially during sunset. You can also opt for a thrilling helicopter ride over the falls. For a unique experience, consider having afternoon tea at the classic Victoria Falls Hotel. Additionally, if you're interested in shopping, Victoria Falls is an excellent place to purchase local souvenirs, artwork, and handcrafted carvings.
SHONGWE SAMANZI
Bed & Breakfast | Wifi available | Laundry available at addl. cost
Amanzi Luxury Tented Camp, the most isolated camp in the Lower Zambezi National Park, is located in the midst of this breathtaking landscape and serves as the ideal starting point for an intimate African wildlife safari.
Amanzi is a byword for upscale lodging in Africa...offering some of Africa's most amazing wildlife encounters and breathtaking big game views, all while being tucked away behind an old grove of jackelberry and apple leaf trees high on the banks of the endlessly magnificent Zambezi River.
Four traditionally designed tented luxury suites at this small, opulent safari camp. Unwind on your suite's deck and take in the breathtaking views of the river, or you can walk a short distance along raised wooden walkways to the dining area and lounge, which lead to the pool and teak sundeck. From the elevated riverbank location, you can enjoy expansive views of the endlessly flowing Zambezi!
The head chef at Amanzi has developed a distinctive meal that blends African and European flavours. Every dish is lovingly crafted and customised to meet your unique dietary needs. Coffee by the campfire kicks off the safari day. A hearty continental breakfast, a buffet lunch, and a traditional safari high tea are served throughout the day, followed by a plated dinner accompanied by the best South African wines.
Exploring the Lower Zambezi on foot allows you to appreciate some of the myriad intricacies that make up these distinct habitats, as well as learn about animal trails and signs, insects, and even traditional medicinal applications for local flora and trees.You'll also have the opportunity to immerse yourself in Africa's enormous landscapes and channel the spirit of our ancestors while leaving just footsteps. Gain a new perspective on the complexities and intimate nuances of the African bush. Each Amanzi walking safari is suited to the season and your particular interests. Our hikes normally cover roughly 4km in two to three hours, with the optimum time to go out being in the cool early morning.
Transfer to Victoria Falls via commercial flight. Flight time from Cape Town to Victoria Falls is 3 hrs and 1.5 hr from Johannesburg. Flights are booked and details provided by AfricaPhotoSafaris.
DAY 4-6
HWANGE N/PARK
Safari Days
📍 Sable Valley
HWANGE NATIONAL PARK
Area Overview
Hwange National Park, One of Africa’s top national parks, Hwange National Park in Zimbabwe’s northwest should be on any safari lover’s bucket list. Roaming Hwange’s savanna grasslands and woodlands are the Big Five and 100 other species of mammals – the park has the biggest diversity of mammals out of the world’s national parks.
Situated in the south west of Zimbabwe between Bulawayo and Victoria Falls. There are two distinct geographic zones, neither are able to support viable agriculture. The flora of the well-drained northern area, part of the Zambezi watershed, is dominated by mopane and mixed Terminalia, which is distinctly different from the rest.
It is home to 107 animal species and 400 species of birds.
ACTIVITIES
Game, game & more game!
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Safari days!
A typical day on Safari in Africa! 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.
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SABLE VALLEY
Full board, excl. premium drinks | No Wifi in camp, but available off site in case of emergency | Laundry included
This is truly the heart of the experience. Designed for optimal photography, the sunken hide offers sweeping 180-degree views of both sunrise and sunset, surrounded by a thousand termite mounds and regularly visited by resident herds of elephant, buffalo, and sable.
Enjoy wine, beers, or soft drinks throughout the day from the built-in fridge, and as the evenings grow chilly, settle beside the cozy indoor fireplace.
Situated close beyond Hwange National Park's borders, providing an unmatched and breathtaking wilderness experience. They offer individualized care and an unparalleled feeling of exclusivity by purposefully limiting the number of guests. You'll get the opportunity to be one of the very few cars to see the wonderful sights that our concession has to offer. From family groups of elephants, lone bulls, and a wide variety of predators like lions, cheetahs, leopards, painted dogs, hyenas, jackals, and more than 300 bird species to herds of more than 500 buffalo that bring in clouds of "Dust and Drama" on the Dete Vlei.
Sable Valley comprises 11 traditional thatched rondavels, with the main area offering panoramic views of the Dete Vlei. Sable Valley's feel is cozy, relaxing, and boho chic, with traditional African decor mixed in with vintage artifacts acquired by our proprietors over time. Lounge by the pool or enjoy the main area's panoramic views of the Dete Vlei, which is home to elephants, buffalo, endangered sable antelope, and other species. The newest property, which features our innovative underground hide and treehouse platform, is ideal for couples, groups, single travelers, and families alike.
Sable Valley has redefined the concept of “hiding out” — here, nature comes to you. For the true wildlife purist, our thoughtfully designed wooden blinds and viewing decks blend seamlessly into the landscape, allowingThe novel underground conceal offers a unique perspective and close-up game viewing experience. Located in front of the camp, this one-of-a-kind experience is available both day and night, with frequent visits from elephants, buffalo, rare sable antelope, and other species. The underground hideaway in Sable Valley includes wifi, charging stations for cameras and computers, a fireplace, a mini bar, and numerous seating places.
For those who prefer a higher vantage point, the elevated viewing deck above the Sidule Hide is shaded by leafy teak trees and furnished with comfortable bean bags — a favorite among photographers. From here, the panoramic view of the vast vlei is simply spectacular. To the east, watch the sun and moon rise; to the west, witness the sun set in all its fiery splendor.
Take advantage of "Purpose Driven Safaris" for families and groups to enhance your safari experience and gain a greater understanding of Africa's natural areas. This program is designed for professionals in any field, both skilled and unskilled, who want to give their time and expertise to have a real and long-lasting impact on Zimbabwe's natural environment and community.
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FULL BOARD
TENTED CAMP
GAME VIEW
DAY 7-9
MATOBO N/PARK
MATOBO NATIONAL PARK
Area Overview
Matopos National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the heart of Zimbabwe, is a testament to the country's profound natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. This captivating wilderness reserve showcases a unique landscape characterized by dramatic granite kopjes that appear to be shaped by the hand of celestial sculptors. These ancient rock formations provide an awe-inspiring backdrop to the Park's diverse flora and fauna, making Matobo.
The area is distinguished for its abundance of unusual mountainous granite rock formations. The hills were constructed about 2 billion years ago when granite was driven to the surface by volcanic activity, and this has eroded to produce smooth "whaleback dwalas" and shattered kopjes, strewn with rocks and intermingled with dense flora. The highest point in the hills is the promontory named Gulati (1549 m) just outside the north-eastern corner of the park.
The San people (Bushmen) lived in the hills about 2,000 years ago, leaving a rich heritage of rock art for visitors to enjoy and documenting the region's long history. There are over 3,000 registered rock art sites, with the majority of painting occurring between 320 and 500 C.E.
The Matobo Hills area has a high level of botanic diversity, with over 200 tree species, as well as numerous aloes, wild herbs, and over 100 grass species. The park also has 175 bird, 88 animal, 39 snake, and 16 fish species. Rhinoceros, Sable Antelope, Impala, Leopard, Giraffe, Zebra, Wildebeest, and Ostrich are among the game animals. Matobo National Park has the world's greatest concentration and number of breeding pairs of black eagles.
The Matopas area is a really special destination to visit and comes highly recommended. It is easily accessible from Bulawayo and has a good selection of accommodations.
Rhino Tracking Experience! Offering an extraordinary opportunity to walk in the footsteps of Africa’s most endangered giants. Accompanied by highly trained guides and the Matobo National Park’s specialist rhino trackers, guests embark on foot through the rugged granite hills in search of these magnificent creatures. Along the way, you’ll learn to interpret tracks, dung, and subtle signs of movement — gaining a profound appreciation for both the animals and the dedicated conservation efforts protecting them. It’s an exhilarating, humbling experience that connects you deeply to Zimbabwe’s wild heart and its ongoing fight to preserve the rhino for generations to come.
San Bushman Paintings Experience invites guests to journey back in time through the ancient rock art of the Matobo Hills — a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the richest rock art regions in Africa. Guided by expert storytellers, you’ll explore sacred caves and rock shelters adorned with delicate ochre paintings created thousands of years ago by the San people. Each image tells a story of spiritual connection, daily life, and the deep bond between humans and nature. Walking among these silent masterpieces is a moving and humbling experience — a rare glimpse into Africa’s earliest cultural heritage, preserved in stone.
Game drives in Hwange National Park offers an unforgettable journey through one of Africa’s most iconic wildlife sanctuaries. Led by passionate and knowledgeable guides, each drive explores Hwange’s vast landscapes — from open savannas and teak forests to hidden waterholes teeming with life. Guests can expect to encounter large herds of elephant, buffalo, and sable, as well as predators like lion and wild dog, all within a setting rich in natural drama. Every game drive is an adventure of discovery, showcasing the raw beauty, diversity, and timeless rhythm of the African
Night Game Drives reveal a completely different side of the African wilderness. As the sun sets and the bush comes alive with nocturnal sounds, guests venture out under starlit skies in open 4x4 vehicles, guided by experienced rangers with powerful spotlights. This is when elusive predators like leopard, hyena, and civet emerge to hunt, and the magic of the night unfolds — from glowing eyes in the dark to the haunting calls of nightjars and owls. It’s an intimate, thrilling experience that captures the mystery and beauty of Africa after dusk.
Zimbabwe is world-famous for its exceptional walking safaris, guided by some of the most highly trained and respected professional guides on the continent. Step into the wild on foot with our expert resident guides, whose deep knowledge and instinctive bushcraft bring the landscape to life in extraordinary ways. As you quietly track the movements of elephant and buffalo, you’ll experience the thrill of close encounters in complete safety, learning to read the subtle signs of the bush — from animal tracks and bird calls to the scent of wild herbs on the breeze. Every step immerses you deeper into Africa’s heartbeat, revealing a delicate balance of life that can only be truly appreciated when walking through it, one footprint at a time.
AMALINDA LODGE
Full board, excl. premium drinks | No Wifi in camp, but available off site in case of emergency | Laundry includedAmalinda Lodge offers a retreat from the ordinary. A luxurious hideaway that taps into the Matobo Hills' intriguing culture and profound spiritual energy.
Hidden amid the cliffs of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, Amalinda was created to deliver an extraordinary experience while respecting the rich heritage and natural beauties of this otherworldly region. Matopos National Park is Zimbabwe's oldest and smallest national park, including rock formations known as "kopjes" that date back more than 2 million years. Matobo, meaning "bald head" in the native Ndebele language, offers infinite landscapes and the opportunity to observe one of Africa's most iconic endangered species: rhinos.
Its confines are home to a robust rhinoceros population as well as a variety of other species such as leopards, zebras, and a plethora of birds. Matobo's attraction is enhanced by its historical and spiritual significance, with old San rock art adorning the caves and shelters, allowing a glimpse into the region's ancestral past.
This exceptional location provides a one-of-a-kind blend of natural beauties and cultural riches, prompting exploration, reflection, and a profound connection to both the past and the present. Explore San Bushman cave paintings, walk lichen-covered boulders to spectacular views, ride mountain bikes through traditional Ndebele villages with vibrantly painted dwellings and track rhinos on foot in this exceptional region.
Step into another universe, where the tranquilly and mystique of this extraordinary site will revive your soul, leaving you feeling connected to our planet's ageless beauty. Relax with a beverage while lounging in Amalinda's famous natural granite infinity rock pool. The lodge has nine distinct rooms inspired by Matopos' surrounding nature and carved inside granite boulders and rock formations. Amalinda Lodge features a major outdoor dining area, a library and our renowned granite pool with full bar and safari spa.
This warm, friendly haven is ideal for disconnecting, unwinding, and reconnecting with both your family and the grandeur of nature. Enjoy full solitude and intimacy with your own personal chef while exploring stunning scenery or relaxing in our luxurious living rooms.
Explore the intriguing treks and hikes surrounding Amalinda Lodge. Their land provides a safe setting in which you may see warthogs, zebras, klipspringers, kudus, impalas, wildebeests, reedbucks, duikers, steenboks, hyraxes, and a variety of birds.
Keep a watch out for the elusive leopard, an expert in observation and camouflage.
Their experienced guides, armed with unparalleled knowledge and enthusiasm, will take you on an amazing tour to these beautiful giants. Immerse yourself in their world, observing their grace and power up close as you walk quietly in their presence. Please keep in mind that you will be accompanied by armed National Park scouts to ensure your safety while tracking rhinos on foot.
LODGE
DAY 10
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
- IN & EXCLUDED
- PASSPORTS
- BLANK VISA PAGE REQUIREMENTS
- VISAS
- HEALTH
- CONNECT
- HEALTH
- PACKING LIST
- GRATUITIES
- CONTACT
- TRAVEL INSURANCE
- POWER
- SAFETY
- BAGGAGE
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
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* 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
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* 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*
- Expiration date valid at least 6 months past return dates
- Please check the number of blank Visa pages required by each country.Passport MUST have AT LEAST 2-3 blank “VISAS pages” per entry – the word “VISAS” must appear at the top of the page to be considered a “Visas Page” . They must be consecutive and blank back and front. Please note the 6 pages required for NAMIBIA!
- Airlines will refuse board if you do not meet this requirement. Please click to view more info on this link
- Please note special requirements when travelling with a minor(s)
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.
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USA: US$50
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Britain / UK / Ireland: US$70
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Canadian:US$75
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On arrival please ensure you request the correct visa for your needs
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Always check your visa has been issued for the correct number of days
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Zimbabwe, KAZA UniVisa and Mozambique visas each use a full passport visa page
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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.
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.
👉 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.
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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.
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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.
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Leave expensive and sentimental pieces of jewellery at home and never carry jewellery in your checked baggage.
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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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It is advisable to secure your luggage with a suitable lock when flying both locally (within South Africa), regionally (to neighboring countries), and internationally.
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Please do not check in any valuables or chronic medication as these should be kept in your carry-on luggage
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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.
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Keep mobile phones, wallets, and cameras well hidden, and avoid wearing expensive jewelry.
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Never leave your luggage unattended (e.g. do not leave handbags under tables, on the backs of chairs, or restroom hooks).
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Separate your cash and credit cards and do not carry all your cash with you.
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Avoid counting cash in the open.
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Be vigilant whenever approaching an automated bank teller machine (ATM). If you feel unsafe, rather return at another time or use an alternate machine.
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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.
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