What to Expect
- Flexibility is Key: Your itinerary should be used as a guide because, well, this is Africa! Expect changes due to the vast distances and evolving circumstances. Rest assured, every adjustment is made with the group’s best interests in mind.
- Accommodation Considerations: While we make every effort to stick to the accommodations listed, please note that they serve as guidelines, and adjustments may occur. We recommend obtaining the latest version of the itinerary at least one week before departure to stay informed of any changes.
- Embrace Diversity: Get to know your fellow travellers! With a mix of ages, nationalities, and cultures, everyone has a unique story. Take this chance to connect and learn from one another.
- Road Conditions: Please be mindful that road conditions can vary significantly. While some routes may offer smooth travel, factors like weather, road quality, and traffic congestion can influence our travel time.
- Comfortable Travel: This small group tour usually attracts 2 to 12 passengers. You will travel in comfortable air-conditioned SUVs or Mini Buses, depending on group size.
- All-Weather Adventure: Our tours operate year-round, so be prepared for any weather conditions, from scorching heat to chilly nights. Pack accordingly!
Pre & Post Tour Accommodation
Detour Africa is here to arrange a seamless experience, including pre and post-tour accommodation, as well as convenient airport transfers. Please ask your consultant for assistance.
Passport & Visa Requirements
PASSPORTS
Ensure your passport has sufficient pages for all required visas, with a minimum of 2 clear pages for each country you’ll be visiting. Note that South Africa requires 2 clear pages upon entry, especially crucial if you plan to fly home from South Africa after touring multiple African countries.
Additionally, ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months after your departure date from Africa. It’s wise to keep a copy at home or with friends. Consider taking a photo of your passport and its contents, and emailing it to yourself for added security.
Using more than one passport (to avoid visa payments) is not advisable. For example, when entering Namibia, the immigration official must see the exit stamp for South Africa in the same passport for entry clearance.
VISA REQUIREMENTS
It is your responsibility to secure any necessary visas for your upcoming trip. Visa requirements differ based on your nationality and destination so please contact the various embassies or visa service agencies to check visa requirements. We also advise that you recheck visa requirements at least four weeks before departing for your tour as regulations can change.
Detour Africa will not be held responsible for clients being denied entry should they not be in possession of the relevant visas.
Ensure a smooth journey by having a valid onward or return flight or proof of alternative transportation to depart from the country where your tour ends. Alternatively, show proof of sufficient funds, such as a credit card, enabling you to purchase an air ticket for your departure.
Here is a useful link to check your visa requirements. Travel Visa Checker
Medical & Health Requirements
VACCINATIONS
To ensure a healthy and worry-free adventure, we recommend considering the following vaccinations for your journey through Africa: Hepatitis A (Havrax), Cholera, Yellow Fever, Tetanus Booster Shot, and Rabies.
It is crucial to note that this is only a general recommendation. For the most accurate and up-to-date vaccination requirements, we strongly advise consulting with your doctor or a travel clinic. They can provide personalized guidance based on your health history, ensuring you receive the most relevant and current information to stay protected during your travels. Your well-being is our priority, and we want you to embark on your African adventure fully prepared and in good health.
COVID-19
Detour Africa and our suppliers have implemented stringent COVID-19 protocols to prioritize your health and safety. While we diligently adhere to guidelines, it’s essential for clients to actively comply with each visited country’s requirements. Clients bear responsibility for their documentation, and we will not be liable if you are denied access to a country due to non-compliance.
In the unfortunate event of a client contracting COVID-19 during the tour, it’s important to note that all associated expenses, including testing, medical costs, hospitalization, and quarantine accommodation, will be the client’s responsibility. Additionally, no refunds will be issued for unused tour nights and services in such cases.
To maintain a secure and enjoyable experience for all, any guest not adhering to the established protocols may face expulsion from the tour. We emphasize the importance of securing adequate travel and medical insurance before arrival, ensuring comprehensive coverage for your peace of mind throughout your journey.
Insurance
Medical insurance is a mandatory requirement. Your guide will request your policy number before the tour begins so please keep your insurance details handy when starting your tour. Ensure that your travel and medical insurance covers both cancellation and emergency evacuation in case of serious illness or injury, especially considering our tours often venture far from well-equipped hospital facilities. It’s important to note that credit card insurance might not offer sufficient coverage, so we strongly recommend obtaining a separate travel insurance policy for comprehensive protection.
Many of our customers opt for World Nomads Travel Insurance and highly recommend their services. While we’re not directly affiliated with World Nomads, we do encourage you to explore their offerings to secure a reliable insurance solution for your journey.
Luggage Requirements
Please note that the weight limit for luggage is a maximum of 20kg.
What to Pack
Please be advised that Africa experiences varying weather patterns, and conditions on your tour may differ. It’s important to check and monitor the specific weather for your destination, as temperature shifts can be significant.
Early morning and late evening game drives may be chilly during certain times of the year. Some game drives take place in open 4×4 safari vehicles for extended periods, potentially the entire day. Considering this, it’s recommended to have clothing that provides protection against wind chill and keeps you warm.
Here are some suggested items to pack:
- Comfortable clothing for all weather conditions
- Waterproof jacket (rain season from Nov to Mar)
- Comfortable shoes
- Swimwear
- Hat or cap
- Beanie and gloves for winter travels
Additional suggested items for your packing list:
- Toiletries
- Camera with extra batteries and memory cards
- Insect and mosquito repellent
- Suntan lotion, sunblock, and after-sun lotion
- Sunglasses
- If you wear glasses or contact lenses, it’s advisable to bring a spare pair.
- Small basic First Aid kit including painkillers, band-aids, after-sun lotion, eye drops, and anti-diarrhea tablets.
Meals & Drinking Water
MEALS
Each itinerary features a unique meal plan, with some included in the package and others at additional cost. We encourage you to carefully review the itinerary to understand what is covered and what may require extra payment. If you have any questions or need clarification regarding the inclusions, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us for details.
To ensure we cater to your specific needs, please inform us of any special dietary requirements at the time of booking. It’s important to note that we cannot accommodate requests made at the start of the tour, so giving us a heads-up during the booking phase is key.
DRINKING WATER
Staying hydrated is essential while on tour, especially in warm climates where dehydration is common. Aim to consume at least 2 litres of water daily, increasing your intake during hot summer months.
Please note that tap water in some of the destinations we visit may not be safe for drinking, so your guides will inform you when it’s not advisable to consume local water.
If you prefer bottled water, your guides will direct you to local shops or supermarkets where you can purchase drinking water.
Transport
Transfers from Johannesburg are provided in comfortable, air-conditioned SUVs or minibuses (depending on group size).
Game drives take place in either closed or open safari vehicles. Please check the tour itinerary for details on the specific vehicle used for each game drive.
Closed vehicles are typically 12-seater, air-conditioned minibuses.
Open vehicles are usually 9-seater 4×4 safari vehicles, though some may accommodate more passengers.
Money & Currencies
Money can significantly impact your tour experience, so it’s essential to budget wisely. Africa isn’t known for being inexpensive, so prudent spending is key.
CASH
It’s advisable to have local currency for smaller purchases and to check the current exchange rates before traveling to ensure you have the most accurate information regarding currency exchange and acceptance.
In South Africa, the official currency is the South African Rand (ZAR). It is widely accepted throughout the country for transactions and purchases.
Safeguard your cash in a flat money belt worn close to your body, while keeping a small amount readily accessible for convenience.
CREDIT CARDS
Card facilities are available in major cities, though some establishments may impose surcharges. Visa and MasterCard are widely accepted, whereas Diners and American Express may have limited acceptance. Remember to inform your bank of your travel plans to avoid any card access issues while abroad.
ATM’S
ATM’S provide a convenient means to withdraw local currency upon arrival in a new country, although availability may vary. Ensure your cards feature chip and pin technology for secure transactions.
DEPARTURE TAX
This may be applicable in various countries when departing on international flights. Typically, these taxes must be paid in cash currency, with US Dollars often preferred. Departure tax amounts can range from US$10 to US$60, depending on the departure point. Be sure to account for these expenses when planning your travel budget.
TIPPING
Tipping is a customary practice in most African countries, particularly in restaurants where around 10-15% is considered standard for good service. Feel free to adjust this based on the level of service – more for exceptional experiences and, of course, no obligation if the service falls short.
When it comes to taxi drivers, tipping is discretionary and not always expected. If uncertain, your guides are excellent resources. They can advise you on local norms and suggest appropriate amounts in the local currency.
For our exceptional crew, tipping is a thoughtful way to acknowledge their hard work or those instances where they’ve gone above and beyond. To streamline the process, we recommend appointing one person in your group to collect contributions. Place the collected amount in an envelope and present it to your guide(s) at the end of the trip.
A suggested amount is 10 – 15 USD per person per day. Remember, tipping is a gesture of appreciation for outstanding service and is by no means obligatory. Your comfort and satisfaction are our top priorities throughout your journey.
Travelling with Children
Certain African countries require travelers entering or leaving the country with a minor (under the age of 18) to present an unabridged birth certificate that includes details of both parents. In some cases, if a child is traveling with only one parent or without both parents, additional documentation such as a parental consent affidavit may be required. This affidavit typically needs to be notarized. Travel regulations, including those related to documentation for minors, can change. Governments periodically review and update their travel policies, so it’s crucial to check with the relevant embassies, consulates, or official government websites for the most current information.
Please ask your consultant for more information on age restrictions.
Stay Connected
Consider purchasing a SIM card from the country you’re visiting. These are usually readily available in major cities, and sometimes vendors may sell them even at border posts (consult your guide for advice). Keep in mind that reception may be limited in many of the areas we traverse.
While Wi-Fi is accessible at most lodges, it’s important to manage expectations as the speeds and connectivity may not match those back home, particularly in rural regions.
Before departing, it’s wise to inform your family and friends about your adventure tour and the likelihood of being out of contact during that time. Rest assured, we continuously monitor your whereabouts during the tour and can locate you if needed. Feel free to provide your family with our contact details.
Add-on Activities
We understand that every traveler has unique preferences, budgets, and interests. Plus, weather conditions can play a role in the activities available. That’s why we’ve designed our itineraries to be flexible, allowing you to tailor your experience.
During your tour, you’ll have the opportunity to choose from a range of activities that are not included in the standard package. Your guide will provide insights and recommendations to help you decide which extra activities align with your interests.
It’s important to note that these activities are operated by trusted third-party operators, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience. So, whether you’re an adventure seeker or prefer a more relaxed pace, you have the freedom to enhance your journey with activities that resonate with you. Please ask your consultant for an up-to-date list of add-on activities available to you on your tour.
