What to Expect
- Flexibility is Key: The information provided in the itinerary is subject to change. Any changes made, prioritize your safety and are aimed at enhancing the overall quality of your experience.
- 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. Be prepared for long hours on the road between Johannesburg and Kruger and vice versa. In Africa, some roads may be uneven, leading to occasional bumpy rides during the journey.
- Adventures for the whole family: This is a family-friendly tour and is open to all ages. Certain activities might have specific age restrictions for safety reasons. For precise details on age requirements, feel free to check details with your consultant.
- All-Weather Adventure: Our tours operate year-round, so be prepared for any weather conditions, from scorching heat to chilly nights. Pack accordingly!
Start & End Point Information
We provide transfers from both Johannesburg and Hoedspruit Airport, ensuring a seamless journey to the lodge. Alternatively, guests have the option to arrange their own transportation.
Please refer to the “Dates and Prices” section for respective rates.
Johannesburg Transfers
If you would like to be picked up and/or dropped off in Johannesburg, we can arrange pick up and drop off at the following locations:
- O.R Tambo airport
- Hotels and guesthouses located within the city center
The pick up time in Johannesburg is usually between 6:30 am and 9:30 am.
Your consultant will confirm your exact pick up time once you have provided your pick up address.
We drop clients off in Johannesburg around 6 pm. If you are catching a flight on this day, please book domestic flights for 8 pm or later and international flights for 10 pm or later.
Hoedspruit Transfers
If you prefer to skip the drive from Johannesburg to Kruger (approx. 6 hours) you can catch a flight to Hoedspruit Eastgate Airport and we can pick you up from there.
We also offer transfers to Hoedspruit airport after the safari and you can catch a flight back to Johannesburg. If we drop you off at Hoedspruit you will miss the stop over at Blyde River Canyon on the last day.
Please ask your consultant to advise arrival and departure times for Hoedspruit airport.
See below for recommended flights between Johannesburg and Hoedspruit Eastgate Airport.
Airlink Flights – Airlink website
Cemair Flights – Cemair website
We recommend that you arrive at least one day before your scheduled tour departure date. This proactive approach minimizes the risk of unexpected challenges. Additionally, for a stress-free end to your journey, we strongly advise booking your return flights for the day after the official tour end date to avoid potential delays and last-minute changes.
No Transfers / Self-drive to lodge
Guests making their own way to the lodge will need to pay once-off conservation fee of ZAR 150 per vehicle. Please ask your consultant for details on where to meet and at what time.
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.
Passports & 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 another country, 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
These are subject to updates and may vary based on your nationality so please double check this information directly with the embassies for each country.
Medical & Health Requirements
VACCINATIONS
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.
To enter or transit through South Africa, passengers must possess a valid Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate if arriving from or transiting through countries or regions designated as yellow fever-infected by the World Health Organization. Failure to present a valid certificate issued at least 10 days before arrival will result in entry refusal. There is no provision for vaccination upon arrival, including transit through affected areas. Please be aware that this requirement applies to transit as well.
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.
MALARIA
Kruger is considered a low risk Malaria area and requires a proactive approach to safeguard your well-being. By using mosquito repellent and adhering to these guidelines, you can significantly mitigate the risks associated with this disease.
Mosquitoes, the carriers of malaria, thrive in areas with high concentrations of people and water.
Minimize exposure by adopting protective measures such as:
Wearing long-sleeved shirts, socks, closed shoes, and long pants during the evening hours when mosquitoes are most active.
Rooms are equipped with mosquito nets and tents come with built-in nets. For proper coverage make sure the mosquito net fully covers your sleeping area, including the sides and bottom. Tuck the edges of the net under the mattress or sleeping mat to prevent mosquitoes from finding their way in.
An imperative line of defense against mosquito-borne illnesses is the application of an effective insect repellent, preferably in stick or lotion form. Prioritize products containing the active ingredient DEET, as it is renowned for its efficacy in repelling mosquitoes.
Consult with your healthcare provider for medical advice.
It is crucial to comprehend that malaria prophylactics do not serve as preventive measures but act as treatment modalities in the event of contraction. Moreover, these medications contribute to minimizing the severity of the illness. Contrary to misconceptions, malaria is curable with prompt medical intervention.
Here is a useful link to check malaria-affected areas:
Malaria Affected Areas
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
We suggest packing light and adhering to airline weight restrictions of 20kg or less. We also recommend bringing an additional smaller day pack for daily excursions.
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 weather as temperature shifts can be significant.
Early morning and late evening game drives may be chilly during certain times of the year. 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. Avoid synthetics, which can be uncomfortable in hot weather.
Here is a basic guideline on what to bring on safari:
- Passport and travel insurance details
- Mixture of lightweight clothing and warm clothing
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Wet wipes
- Camera and Binoculars
- Reusable water bottle
- Insect and mosquito repellent
- Suntan lotion, sunblock, and after-sun lotion
- Hat
- Swimwear
- Sunglasses
- Cash for tips and souvenirs
- Small basic First Aid kit including painkillers, band-aids, after-sun lotion, eye drops, and anti-diarrhea tablets.
Meals
Most meals are included on this safari. Please refer to your tour itinerary for details on what meals are included on your tour.
We recommend budgeting approx. ZAR 200 per meal not included. Your guide will take you to a restaurant or shop where you will be able to purchase something to eat.
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.
Transport
Our game drives are conducted in specialized 4×4 open-top safari vehicles that can seat 9 people.
Transfers are conducted in a mini bus or SUV depending on the number of people.
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
In South Africa, the local currency is the RAND (ZAR), which is widely accepted throughout the country. We recommend carrying some cash for souvenirs and tipping purposes, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience during your travels.
CREDIT CARD
Credit 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
With ATMs becoming more prevalent in major towns, cities and airports, utilizing credit or debit cards provides a convenient and accessible means to access funds during your journey. Ensure your cards feature chip and pin technology for secure transactions.
DEPARTURE TAX
The departure tax, also known as the Passenger Service Charge, is typically included in the price of your airline ticket when you depart from South Africa’s international airports. However, it’s always a good idea to double-check with your airline for any changes or updates regarding departure taxes, as policies and fees may change over time.
TIPPING
To assist you during your journey, we’ve compiled the following tipping guidelines based on feedback from both our valued travelers and dedicated staff.
- Restaurant Service Charge: Upon reviewing your bill, if a 10% service charge is included, there’s no obligation for additional tipping. However, if no service charge is added, it’s customary to consider a 10% gratuity of the total bill amount. In general, service charges are not included in South Africa.
- Lodge Staff: You’ll often find tipping boxes conveniently placed in common areas within the lodges. A suggested amount of approximately USD 2 (ZAR 40) per day per person is appreciated to acknowledge the hard work and dedication of the lodge staff.
- Guides: The amount you choose to tip your guides and drivers is entirely at your discretion. As a general guideline, consider offering between USD 2 to USD 4 (ZAR 40 to ZAR 80), per guide, per day. Feel free to adjust the gratuity amount based on your personal experience of service quality and the duration of your trip.
- Remember, tipping is voluntary and should be extended only when exceptional service is received. Your contributions through tipping play a meaningful role in recognizing the efforts of our staff and enhancing the overall experience of your safari adventure.
Solo Travellers
Our travel style is tailored to suit solo adventurers seeking shared experiences and a safe exploration of Africa. If you are a single traveller, the single supplement will be mandatory.
Please refer to “Dates and Prices” for single supplement fee rates.
Travelling with Children
This is a family-friendly tour and is open to all ages. Certain activities might have specific age restrictions for safety reasons. For precise details on age requirements, feel free to check details with your consultant.
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.
Wi-Fi Access
Ensure seamless connectivity during your stay with our complimentary Wi-Fi service, accessible both in your room and throughout the communal areas.
About Kruger National Park
Kruger National Park, situated in northeastern South Africa, is one of Africa’s most iconic safari destinations and a must-visit for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers alike. Here’s everything you need to know to plan your trip:
- Location and Size:
Kruger National Park covers an expansive area of approximately 19,485 square kilometers (7,523 square miles). It stretches across the provinces of Mpumalanga and Limpopo in northeastern South Africa, bordering Zimbabwe to the north and Mozambique to the east.
- Wildlife and Safari Experience:
Renowned for its remarkable biodiversity, Kruger is home to an impressive array of wildlife, including the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhinoceros) as well as numerous other species such as giraffe, zebra, cheetah, hippopotamus, crocodile, and various antelope species. The park offers exceptional game viewing opportunities, allowing visitors to observe these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.
- Best Time to Visit:
Kruger National Park is a year-round destination, each season offering its own unique advantages. The dry winter months (May to September) are ideal for game viewing, as vegetation is sparse, and animals tend to congregate around water sources. However, the summer months (October to April) bring lush landscapes and increased bird activity, making it an excellent time for birdwatching and photography.
- Safety Precautions:
While Kruger is a safe destination for tourists, it’s essential to adhere to park rules and guidelines for your safety and the protection of wildlife. Always remain inside your vehicle during game drives, maintain a safe distance from animals, and refrain from feeding or approaching them.
