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Best of South Africa

15 Day South Africa Tour from Johannesburg

15 Days
3 Countries

South Africa, Eswatini, Lesotho

13 Cities

Johannesburg, Hazyview, Kruger National Park, Mbabane, Hluhluwe, Umhlanga, Himeville, Drakensberg, Chintsa, Gqeberha, Tsitsikamma National Park, Knysna, Cape Town

26 Meals

9 Dinners, 14 Breakfasts, 1 Lunch, 1 Be My Guest, 1 Farewell Dinner

Active

Faster paced with mix of 1 and 2-night stays in each destination. Requires walking to participate in top sites.

Average group size maximum 35
Best Value Tour by Trafalgar

Best Value Tours by Trafalgar

If you like hassle free travel with everything handled for you – looking to meet great people, eat great food, enjoy great sightseeing, and have immersive experiences, Trafalgar is for you.  From the iconic not-to-be-missed to one-of-a-kind local experiences, including Be-my-Guest dining and stays with stories, you’ll connect deeper to your destination, and every tour has at least one MAKE TRAVEL MATTER immersive impact experience offering you the chance to dive into culture and community.

View all Trafalgar Tours

Safari & Wildlife Tours

Experience the awe-inspiring sight of majestic elephants in the wild, track exotic birds in the depths of the rainforest, or catch a glimpse of playful otters and porpoises cruising through icy waters. Our Safari & Wildlife Vacation collection features unforgettable experiences led by knowledgeable guides and local specialists deeply committed to conservation and wildlife.

View all Safari and Wildlife Tours

Connect with the culture of two countries as you travel from north to south to encounter South Africa’s legacy of Mandela and the cosmopolitan spirit of Cape Town.

Average group size
maximum 35
Best Value Tour by
Trafalgar
Travel style
Safari & Wildlife
Globe

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Day-by-day itinerary

Day 1

Welcome to Johannesburg

Your seamless South African journey begins with an airport transfer from O.R. Tambo International Airport to your hotel. Settle in to the pace of Africa’s most energetic city before meeting your Travel Director and fellow travelers for a Welcome Dinner.

View of Johannesburg, South Africa
Accommodation The Maslow Hotel Johannesburg
Included Meals Dinner

Day 2

Journey to the Kruger National Park Area

The golden Highveld gives way to rolling green hills as we travel to South Africa's Lowveld. We admire the iconic sights along Mpumalanga's Panorama Route – the Blyde River Canyon, the heavenly landscapes of God's Window and Bourke's Luck Potholes. Before evening falls, we venture to our hotel near the famous Kruger National Park, our home for two nights.

Blyde River Canyon in Mpumalanga, South Africa
Accommodation Sabi River Sun Resort Hazyview
Included Meals Breakfast, Dinner
Iconic Experience Drive through Kruger National Park, South Africa
Scenic Drive Along Panorama Route

Take in the magnificent sights of Kruger National Park Area on your scenic drive. 

Included in Trip

Iconic Experience

Day 3

Safari in Kruger National Park

Connect with nature and explore South Africa's oldest and most iconic national park in the company of a Local Specialist. Uncover the secrets of the bushveld and keep a look out for the magnificent 'Big 5', the Little 5 and everything in between. See the glistening yellow Golden-orb spider waiting on her web, smell the damp scent of acacia trees in the early morning and keep your head down in search of animal spoor. Spend your afternoon at leisure.

Leopard in Kruger National Park, South Africa
Accommodation Sabi River Sun Resort Hazyview
Included Meals Breakfast, Dinner
Iconic Experience Lions by Safari in Karongwe Private Game Reserve, South Africa
Kruger National Park Tour LS

Travel to the most iconic national park in South Africa and marvel at its wildlife.  

Included in Trip

Iconic Experience

Day 4

Onwards to Eswatini

Travel to landlocked Eswatini. Dive Into Culture during a visit to a Swazi Chief’s village and gain insights into the community’s way of life, sampling some of the local pap and stew, and admiring their striking crimson traditional dress.

Connect with Swazi culture during a visit to a local Chief's village
Accommodation Royal Swazi Spa Hotel Mbabane
Included Meals Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Dive Into Culture Connect with Swazi culture during a visit to a local Chief's village, Eswatini, Africa
Visit a Local Chief's Village in Eswatini

Connect with Swazi culture during a visit to a local Chief's village.

Included in Trip

Dive Into Culture

Day 5

Head to Hluhluwe

We venture to 'garden of province' of KwaZulu-Natal and its northern wilderness. Traversing rolling sugarcane fields and lush valleys, we arrive at Hluhluwe-Imfolozi National Park where there is an opportunity to embark on an optional 4x4 game drive. This evening enjoy a delicious South African braai – a perfect way to end the day.

Food, Steaks in Mbabane, South Africa
Accommodation ANEW Hotel Hluhluwe
Included Meals Breakfast, Dinner
Optional Experiences Enjoy a safari at Hluhluwe-Imfolozi in South Africa
Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Game Drive

If you visit KwaZulu-Natal, you can't leave without visiting Big Five country in the oldest park in South Africa: Hluhluwe-iMmfolozi. This is the l...

See More
Additional Cost Applies

Optional Experiences

Day 6

Venture to Durban (Umhlanga Rocks)

Board an optional morning cruise on Lake St. Lucia and get up close to the hippos, crocodiles and birdlife residing in the estuary. Alternatively, explore the town of St. Lucia. We continue south to Durban for an effortless encounter with this tropical east coast hub, which begins with a delicious Curry Buffet at the Oyster Box Hotel, one of Trafalgar’s Stays With Stories – a seaside hotel that captures the nostalgia of a bygone era.

Hippo in Lake St. Lucia, South Africa
Accommodation The Oyster Box Durban
Included Meals Breakfast, Dinner
Trafalgar Difference Stay at the Oyster Box Hotel in Durban, South Africa
Stays with Stories

Durban’s award-winning, five-star Oyster Box Hotel is one of South Africa’s finest. Enjoy unmatched service, elegant charm, a garden terrace, and s...

See More
Included in Trip

Trafalgar Difference

Iconic Experience Enjoy the views of Durban, South Africa
Durban Orientation

Enjoy the views of the tropical east coast hub in Durban.

Included in Trip

Iconic Experience

Optional Experiences Boat cruise in St. Lucia, South Africa
St. Lucia Boat Cruise

All aboard the comfortable Santa Lucia, a spacious double-decker boat on St Lucia Estuary, with ample room for everybody to have the best view poss...

See More
Additional Cost Applies

Optional Experiences

Day 7

Make Tracks for the Drakensberg Mountains

Venture through the scenic Valley of 1000 Hills bound for the spectacular escarpment that winds north from the Eastern Cape to Mpumalanga. The Underberg’s vibrant arts and crafts scene and stunning setting provide a beautiful backdrop for a morning drive. You’ll continue to the foothills of the iconic Sani Pass where you’ll have the rest of the afternoon at leisure and stay overnight .

View in Drakensberg Mountains, South Africa
Accommodation Premier Resort Sani Pass Southern Drakensberg
Included Meals Breakfast, Dinner
Iconic Experience See the Valley Of 1000 Hills, Durban, South Africa
Valley of 1000 Hills Scenic Drive

Bask in the beautiful views of the Valley of 1000 Hills on your scenic drive. 

Included in Trip

Iconic Experience

Day 8

A Day in the Drakensberg

Indulge in the freedom of a day spent exploring this UNESCO World Heritage Site on your terms. Consider joining an optional 4x4 Sani Pass drive, ascending to a heavenly height of 2,876 meters for lunch at Africa’s highest pub in Lesotho, or alternatively relax down here on earth amidst the Drakensberg’s lofty peaks.

Underberg landscape in Southern Drakensberg, South Africa
Accommodation Premier Resort Sani Pass Southern Drakensberg
Included Meals Breakfast, Dinner
Optional Experiences Tour and pub lunch on the Sani Pass, South Africa
Sani Pass 4 X 4 Tour

The Tour departs at 09h30 and takes approx. 2.5 hours to reach the summit, climbing a grand 2874 meters above sea level, stopping at breath taking ...

See More
Additional Cost Applies

Optional Experiences

Day 9

On the Road to the Eastern Cape Beaches

From enigmatic mountain landscapes to South Africa’s untamed coastline, we venture through the Eastern Cape and the green hills of the Transkei, dotted with Xhosa kraals and homesteads. Discover the legacy of Nelson Mandela, at his birthplace in Xunu, then enjoy the unspoiled Wild Coast beaches of Chintsa, where the only footprints in the sand will be yours.

Port St. Johns, Eastern Cape Beaches, South Africa
Accommodation Crawfords Beach Lodge Eastern Cape
Included Meals Breakfast, Dinner
Iconic Experience View the beautiful coast of Xunu, South Africa
Xunu Orientation

Venture along the beautiful coast of Xunu and discover its rich historic roots. 

Included in Trip

Iconic Experience

Day 10

Travel to Gqeberha

Wake to the sound of the ocean and spend time admiring pristine natural surrounds before we begin our journey to Gqeberha. Once a British settlement known as Port Elizabeth, this port city holds the distinction of being South Africa’s friendliest city, which you’ll encounter first-hand as you explore it on your own terms this evening.

Town Hall, market square and surroundings, Gqeberha, South Africa
Accommodation Boardwalk Hotel Gqeberha
Included Meals Breakfast
Iconic Experience Explore Gqeberha, formerly known as Port Elizabeth, South Africa
Gqeberha Orientation

Spend the day exploring Gqeberha, formerly known as Port Elizabeth, and all of its wonders.

Included in Trip

Iconic Experience

Day 11

On to Tsitsikamma National Park and Knysna

Walk beneath the tranquil canopy of Tsitsikamma's giant and ancient Yellowwoods, arriving at Storms River Mouth to peer into the depths of the gorge. Connect with locals during a Be My Guest experience in Knysna, where you’ll learn a few key Xhosa phrases and gain insights into Xhosa culture. Host Ella will share her life story and reveal the meaning behind some of the local songs that will accompany your traditional Xhosa meal. The visit also contributes towards supporting Ella's work in the local community and is a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience. Our final stop today is the picturesque lagoon setting of Knysna, known as South Africa’s own Garden of Eden. Famed for its indigenous forests, fresh oysters and the two landmark Knysna Heads that stand as sentinels at the edge of the lagoon which shield the town from the Indian Ocean.

Wooden bridge in Tsitsikamma National Park, South Africa
Accommodation Knysna Hollow Country Estate
Included Meals Breakfast, Be My Guest
Be My Guest Join host Ella for a traditional meal and insights into the local Xhosa culture
Knysna Traditional Meal

Join host Ella and friends for a traditional meal and insights into the local Xhosa culture, including traditional dress, language and songs.

Included in Trip

Be My Guest

MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Visit Emzini, a not for profit supporting the local community in Knysna
Visit the Emzini Organization in Knysna

Emzini is a not-for-profit organization supporting the local community providing education, food, clothing and a safe place to live. Your visit dir...

See More
Included in Trip

MAKE TRAVEL MATTER®

Day 12

Knysna Your Way

You’ll have a free day to explore the jewel of the Garden Route. Start your day with a leisurely coffee in the Knysna Quays overlooking the lagoon, then consider an Optional Experience to Featherbed Nature Reserve including a drive through the reserve to the top of the lagoon’s Western Head. 

Sailboats moored in Knysna, South Africa
Accommodation Knysna Hollow Country Estate
Included Meals Breakfast
Optional Experiences Take a tour through Featherbed Nature Reserve in Knysna, South Africa
Featherbed Nature Reserve Eco Experience with lunch

Cruise on Knysna Lagoon over to Western Head where you'll join a tour through Featherbed Nature Reserve, a South African Heritage site. You'll make...

See More
Additional Cost Applies

Optional Experiences

Day 13

Continue to Cape Town

Leave the Garden Route behind bound for the Mother City. You’ll wind your way through vibrant coastal towns and the Cape Winelands before arriving in Cape Town later this afternoon. Head straight to the most iconic site in the city and visit Table Mountain by cable car (weather permitting).

Cape Dutch Manor House in Cape Town, South Africa
Accommodation Southern Sun The Cullinan Cape Town
Included Meals Breakfast
Iconic Experience Cableway on Table Mountain in Cape Town, South Africa
Cape Town Orientation

Discover the iconic sights in Cape Town. 

Included in Trip

Iconic Experience

Day 14

Cape Town Your Way

Capture the cosmopolitan energy of South Africa’s Mother City. Spend the day exploring its streets and squares in search of a tucked-away restaurants, boutiques and galleries. Or consider joining one of our Optional Experiences to tour around the scenic Cape Peninsula, sample the Cape’s finest wines in the Cape Winelands or visit infamous Robben Island. Spend your final evening at a Farewell Dinner with your traveling companions indulging in delicious Cape Malay specialty dishes.

Twelve Apostles Mountain in Cape Town, South Africa
Accommodation Southern Sun The Cullinan Cape Town
Included Meals Breakfast, Farewell Dinner
Optional Experiences Cruise along Millionaire's Paradise in Cape Town, South Africa
Cape Peninsula Tour - Full Day

Cruise along Millionaire's Paradise from Clifton to Camps Bay. Wind along Chapman's Peak Drive with lunch (own account) at Cape of Good Hope Sectio...

See More
Additional Cost Applies

Optional Experiences

Optional Experiences Enjoy wine cellar tour and tasting in Cape Town, South Africa
Cape Winelands Tour - Full Day

A superb day dedicated to celebrating the glorious grape, the exceptional winelands region, and the heavenly scenery. The area's rich with history,...

See More
Additional Cost Applies

Optional Experiences

Optional Experiences Visit Nelson Mandela's cell on Robben Island, South Africa
Robben Island Tour

Journey to the famous Victoria and Alfred Waterfront to board a ferry to Robben Island (weather permitting), a home of our icon Nelson Mandela for ...

See More
Additional Cost Applies

Optional Experiences

Optional Experiences Enjoy helicopter flight over Cape Town, South Africa
Cape Town Helicopter Flight - 12 Minutes

Spectacular views and a different perspective of the city await you on this 12 minute helicopter flight that showcases Cape Town's iconic sights. K...

See More
Additional Cost Applies

Optional Experiences

Day 15

Farewell Cape Town

We bid a fond farewell to Cape Town after breakfast. Explore the city on your terms before your transfer to Cape Town International Airport. Find out more about your free airport transfer at trafalgar.com/freetransfers.

Flag at harbour in Cape Town, South Africa
Included Meals Breakfast

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Included Highlights

Top rated highlights

Learn more about the landmarks, history and culture that makes your destination special.

Iconic Experience
Scenic Drive Along Panorama Route

Take in the magnificent sights of Kruger National Park Area on your scenic drive. 

Included in Trip
Iconic Experience
Kruger National Park Tour LS

Travel to the most iconic national park in South Africa and marvel at its wildlife.  

Included in Trip
Dive Into Culture
Visit a Local Chief's Village in Eswatini

Connect with Swazi culture during a visit to a local Chief's village.

Included in Trip
Trafalgar Difference
Stays with Stories

Durban’s award-winning, five-star Oyster Box Hotel is one of South Africa’s finest. Enjoy unmatched service, elegant charm, a garden terrace, and s...

See More
Included in Trip
Iconic Experience
Durban Orientation

Enjoy the views of the tropical east coast hub in Durban.

Included in Trip
Iconic Experience
Valley of 1000 Hills Scenic Drive

Bask in the beautiful views of the Valley of 1000 Hills on your scenic drive. 

Included in Trip
Iconic Experience
Xunu Orientation

Venture along the beautiful coast of Xunu and discover its rich historic roots. 

Included in Trip
Iconic Experience
Gqeberha Orientation

Spend the day exploring Gqeberha, formerly known as Port Elizabeth, and all of its wonders.

Included in Trip
Be My Guest
Knysna Traditional Meal

Join host Ella and friends for a traditional meal and insights into the local Xhosa culture, including traditional dress, language and songs.

Included in Trip
MAKE TRAVEL MATTER®
Visit the Emzini Organization in Knysna

Emzini is a not-for-profit organization supporting the local community providing education, food, clothing and a safe place to live. Your visit dir...

See More
Included in Trip
Iconic Experience
Cape Town Orientation

Discover the iconic sights in Cape Town. 

Included in Trip

What to expect

Visit Bourke's Luck Potholes, Kruger National Park, Eswatini (formerly Swaziland), Gqeberha (formerly Port Elizabeth), Tsitsikamma National Park, Knysna and Table Mountain by Cable Car
View Blyde River Canyon, God's Window, the Drakensberg mountains and Storms River Mouth, South Africa's wildlife and birds on safari
See South Africa's wildlife and birds on safari

Optional Experiences

Sign up on tour for additional experiences that have been curated by your Travel Director from their own in-depth local knowledge.

Optional Experience
Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Game Drive

If you visit KwaZulu-Natal, you can't leave without visiting Big Five country in the oldest park in South Africa: Hluhluwe-iMmfolozi. This is the l...

See More
Additional Cost Applies
Optional Experience
St. Lucia Boat Cruise

All aboard the comfortable Santa Lucia, a spacious double-decker boat on St Lucia Estuary, with ample room for everybody to have the best view poss...

See More
Additional Cost Applies
Optional Experience
Sani Pass 4 X 4 Tour

The Tour departs at 09h30 and takes approx. 2.5 hours to reach the summit, climbing a grand 2874 meters above sea level, stopping at breath taking ...

See More
Additional Cost Applies
Optional Experience
Featherbed Nature Reserve Eco Experience with lunch

Cruise on Knysna Lagoon over to Western Head where you'll join a tour through Featherbed Nature Reserve, a South African Heritage site. You'll make...

See More
Additional Cost Applies
Optional Experience
Cape Peninsula Tour - Full Day

Cruise along Millionaire's Paradise from Clifton to Camps Bay. Wind along Chapman's Peak Drive with lunch (own account) at Cape of Good Hope Sectio...

See More
Additional Cost Applies
Optional Experience
Cape Winelands Tour - Full Day

A superb day dedicated to celebrating the glorious grape, the exceptional winelands region, and the heavenly scenery. The area's rich with history,...

See More
Additional Cost Applies
Optional Experience
Robben Island Tour

Journey to the famous Victoria and Alfred Waterfront to board a ferry to Robben Island (weather permitting), a home of our icon Nelson Mandela for ...

See More
Additional Cost Applies
Optional Experience
Cape Town Helicopter Flight - 12 Minutes

Spectacular views and a different perspective of the city await you on this 12 minute helicopter flight that showcases Cape Town's iconic sights. K...

See More
Additional Cost Applies

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South Africa

  • Official Languages across South Africa: South Africa has 11 official languages. These languages are recognized by the Constitution of South Africa and reflect the country's diverse cultural heritage. The 11 official languages are: Afrikaans, English, isiNdebele, isiXhosa, isiZulu, Sepedi (also known as Sesotho sa Leboa), Sesotho (also known as Southern Sotho), Setswana (also known as Tswana), siSwati (also known as Swazi), Tshivenda, Xitsonga
  • Currency used in South Africa: The South African Rand.
  • Capital City:: The capital of South Africa is Pretoria.
  • Time Zone(s) in South Africa: South Africa Standard Time (SAST) is observed in most of South Africa. During the summer months, South Africa observes daylight saving time, South Africa Daylight Time (SADT), shifting the clocks forward by one hour.

South Africa passport, visa, and entry requirement information for US citizens.

  • Passport: Your passport should have at least two blank pages for entry stamps. Your passport is valid for at least six months beyond the conclusion of your trip
  • Visa Requirement: A visa is not required to enter South Africa, but a Tourist Visa is required to enter Kenya and Tanzania. Learn more about obtaining a visa for your trip.
  • Entry Requirements: You can see the most up-to-date entry requirements for the destination(s) you’ll visit on tour by going to getours.com/travel-requirements-restrictions.

The climate in South Africa varies significantly due to its diverse geographical features. The country experiences a range of climates, including Mediterranean in the southwestern Cape region, temperate in the interior plateaus, subtropical in the northeastern regions, and desert in some areas. Generally, South Africa has hot summers and mild winters, but temperatures can vary greatly depending on the location. The country's coastal areas often experience more moderate temperatures, while inland areas can be hotter during the summer and colder during the winter. Rainfall patterns also differ, with some regions experiencing a summer rainfall pattern, while others have a winter rainfall pattern.

Luggage & Carry-On Bag Size Limits for Africa Tours

  • Luggage & Carry-On Bag: East Africa safari vehicles cannot accommodate the typical on-tour luggage and carry-on bag dimensions. We kindly ask our guests to travel with a soft-sided bag or medium-sized suitcase.

Baggage allowances vary from airline to airline, and you should check with your chosen carrier for details prior to travel.

Packing Tips for Your Tour

Packing for a safari tour in Africa requires careful consideration to ensure you have everything you need for a comfortable and enjoyable experience in the wild. It's best to travel light and prioritize the essentials. The less you bring, the easier it will be to move around and enjoy the experience without unnecessary weight. The specific items you'll need can vary based on the destination and time of year. Here's a general packing list to get you started:

Passport and Travel Documents: Ensure you have your passport, travel insurance, and any necessary travel documents.

Clothing:

  • Neutral-colored clothing: Pack lightweight, breathable, and neutral-colored clothing (e.g., khaki, beige, green) to blend in with the natural environment and avoid attracting insects.
  • Long-sleeved shirts and pants: These will protect you from the sun, insects, and any thorny vegetation you might encounter during walking safaris.
  • Lightweight jacket or fleece: Evenings and early mornings can be cool, so having a warm layer is essential.
  • Wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses: Protect yourself from the sun's strong rays.
  • Sturdy, comfortable shoes: Bring closed-toe walking shoes or hiking boots for bushwalks or trekking.
  • Sandals or flip-flops: For relaxing around the campsite or lodge.
  • Swimwear: Some lodges or camps have pools or natural swimming spots.
  • Rainproof gear: Depending on the season and location, rain showers can be common, so a waterproof jacket and pants are useful.

Sun Protection:

  • Hat, sunglasses, UV-protective clothing.
  • Sunscreen with high SPF. If you're visiting any coastal areas, bring reef-safe sunscreen formulated without harmful chemicals known to be damaging to coral reefs and marine life. Traditional sunscreens often contain ingredients like oxybenzone and octinoxate, which have been found to contribute to coral bleaching and negatively impact marine ecosystems. Look for sunscreens with certifications such as "Reef Safe," "Coral Safe," or "Ocean-Friendly" to ensure they are environmentally friendly.

Medications and First Aid:

  • Any prescription medications you need. (See more below under Health & Wellness)
  • Basic first aid kit with adhesive bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, etc.

Toiletries:

  • Travel-sized toiletries, including shampoo, conditioner, soap, and toothpaste.
  • Travel towel (quick-drying and compact).
  • Hand sanitizer and wet wipes.
  • A washcloth and carry bag (often not available in hotels abroad).

Electronics:

  • Binoculars: Get a good pair for wildlife viewing.
  • A camera: You’re traveling on a safari to see extraordinary scenery, animals, and sites. So that you don't miss a single moment, bring a trustworthy camera. Taking pictures of wildlife can be a daunting experience; everything is moving so fast, and the last thing you want is blurry photos to document one of the most extraordinary trips of your life. To get the results you want for your photo album, Instagram account, or Facebook feed, use these tips for taking photos while on safari. No matter what, disable geotagging on all your devices. Posting locations of wildlife can attract poachers, which is probably the last thing you want. Here’s a site that fills you in on how to do this.
  • Extra camera batteries and memory cards: You won't want to miss any photo opportunities.
  • Mobile phone.
  • Chargers for each electronic you bring.
  • Travel adapter and/or voltage converter
  • Flashlight or headlamp: Useful for navigating in the dark.
  • Portable power bank for charging devices on the go.
  • Small travel hair dryer (make sure you have the correct converter and adapter).

Miscellaneous:

  • A travel-friendly daypack or bag to carry your essentials during excursions.
  • Insect repellent.
  • Reusable water bottle. At GET, we’re all about caring for our planet, and with that in mind, we always recommend that you pack a reusable water bottle for your trip. Bringing your own reusable water bottle or asking for tap water at restaurants means you can make a difference by reducing your vacation plastic waste.
  • A small travel alarm.

Optional:

  • Scarf or shawl for visiting religious sites or to cover up in conservative areas.
  • Light sleepwear.
  • A new, blank journal to document your trip. Don't know your travel journal style? Find out here!
  • Ziplock bags (storing snacks, toiletries, and keeping things organized).

Remember to pack light and versatile items that can be mixed and matched for different outfits. Laundry facilities are often available, or you can have your clothes laundered at hotels during your trip. It's also a good idea to pack a small bag or backpack to bring on the coach for day trips and excursions, leaving your larger luggage at the hotel.

Electricity

Most African countries, including South Africa, run on 220-240 volts at 50 Hz. This means that the electrical outlets and voltage used in African countries are different from the standard 110-120 volts at 60 Hz used in the United States.

If you plan to bring American appliances or electronics to Africa, you will likely need a voltage converter and a plug adapter. Here's what you need to know:

  • Voltage Converter: American appliances designed to run on 120 volts may not function properly or could be damaged if connected directly to the higher voltage in African countries. A voltage converter (also known as a voltage transformer) will step down the voltage to 120 volts, allowing your devices to work safely.
  • Plug Adapter: The physical shape of electrical outlets in African countries may also differ from those in the United States. You'll need a plug adapter to match the American-style plug with the outlets in the destination country.

It's essential to check the voltage and plug type requirements for the specific African country you plan to visit, as they might vary slightly from one country to another. Some modern electronic devices, like laptops and smartphones, are often designed to handle a wide range of voltages, so they might only require a plug adapter. In Kenya, Morocco, and South Africa, the standard electrical voltage is 220-240 volts at 50 Hz. In Namibia, the standard electrical voltage is also 220-240 volts, but it operates at 50 Hz in most areas and at 60 Hz in some regions. If you plan to bring American appliances or electronics to any of these African countries, you will likely need a voltage converter (transformer) as well as a plug adapter.

Before your trip, verify the compatibility of your appliances and devices. You can find this information on the labels or tags of your electronics or in the user manuals. If in doubt, consult with the manufacturer or a qualified electrician.

We suggest buying an adapter with a voltage converter to help reduce the number of things you have to pack. Additionally, it's essential to get any required adapters or converters for your electronic devices before embarking on your guided tour and bringing them along. It's crucial to be cautious when using electrical appliances in foreign countries, as using incorrect voltage or plugs without the right adapters can cause damage to your devices or even pose a safety hazard.

Hair Dryers in Your Hotel

In hotels in Kenya, South Africa, Morocco, and Namibia, you will typically find hair dryers available for guests to use. These hotels are accustomed to hosting international travelers, and providing hair dryers in the rooms is a common amenity. Some remote safari camps may not have the infrastructure or resources to support electrical appliances like hairdryers due to their location in more pristine and wilderness-focused areas.

It is important to keep in mind that the voltage of the hair dryer provided by the hotel will match the local electrical standards of the country where it is located. For example, in Kenya, South Africa, Morocco, and Namibia, the standard electrical voltage is 220-240 volts at 50 Hz. However, some regions in Namibia may operate at 60 Hz.

You will need a voltage converter (transformer) to safely use your own hair dryer or other 120-110 volt appliances you bring. Before using your hair dryer or any electronic device, it is important to verify voltage compatibility and use the appropriate plug adapter if necessary. Although many modern hair dryers are designed to be dual voltage, meaning they can work on both 120 volts and 220-240 volts, it is always recommended to double-check the label or user manual to be sure.

If you are unsure about the electrical compatibility or amenities provided by a specific hotel, you can contact them directly before your trip to inquire about the availability of hair dryers and other electrical considerations for international travelers. If you need a hair dryer during your trip but cannot find one in your hotel room, you can inquire with the hotel staff. Many hotels will be able to provide a hair dryer upon request, either at the front desk or through housekeeping.

Air Conditioning

  • Air conditioning is commonly available in various accommodations and public places in Kenya, Morocco, Namibia, and South Africa, especially in urban areas and more developed regions. However, the availability of air conditioning can vary based on the type of accommodation and the specific location within each country. In major cities like Nairobi, Marrakech, Casablanca, Fes, Cape Town, and Johannesburg, many hotels, lodges, and upscale accommodations provide air conditioning. However, in more remote or rustic safari lodges or tented camps, air conditioning might be limited or not available.

Regardless of where in the world your tour visits, we do our best to ensure your transportation is as comfortable as can be. On Africa safaris, you may be on a coach part of the time and a 4 X 4 safari vehicle at other times.

Airport transfers

Transfers will depend on the trip you choose and vary among destinations. In general, if you are joining or departing your guided vacation on the first or last day, return transfers between the airport and hotel are included. You’ll find specific information on your itinerary page.

To enable you to personalize your tour experience, you will find a number of Optional Experiences designed to complement the itinerary. These are designed to offer a deeper insight into the culture and character of the areas to be visited and provide some wonderful highlights to your travels. The optional program is designed to let you experience more of what interests you and to get the most from your vacation without replacing or overlapping with anything included in an itinerary.

The majority of Optional Experiences will be offered to you by your Travel Director at the beginning of your trip. Some may be subject to change, depending on the time you are traveling or local circumstances, including weather and days of the week. Your Travel Director will provide further information.

Usually, most Optional Experiences will be priced in the local currency, but please read through the details of individual optional experiences for specific information. Exact payment options will be advised locally by your Travel Director/Local Representative for each Optional Experience, but in many cases, cash, Visa, MasterCard, and American Express are all accepted.

Traveling to Africa on a guided tour can be an exciting and enriching experience. However, it's essential to prioritize your health and safety while exploring new territories. Health risks can vary based on the specific countries or regions within Africa you are visiting. Staying informed, prepared, and cautious will go a long way in ensuring a safe and enjoyable travel experience. Always stay in touch with your Travel Director and always follow their recommendations.

Here are some health advice and recommendations for travelers heading to Africa:

Visit the Doctor: Before embarking on your trip, schedule a visit with a medicine specialist or your healthcare provider. They can provide personalized health advice based on your medical history, current health status, and the specific countries you'll be visiting.

Travel Insurance: Ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, evacuations, and trip cancellations.

Vaccinations: While there are no vaccine or testing requirements, travelers should ensure that all routine vaccinations are up to date.

  • Routine Vaccinations: These include measles, mumps, rubella (MMR), tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis (Tdap), and influenza.
  • Yellow Fever: Some countries in Africa require a yellow fever vaccination certificate for entry. Even if not required, it's highly recommended, as yellow fever is a serious disease transmitted by mosquitoes in some regions.

Malaria Prevention: Malaria is prevalent in many parts of Africa. Consult with your healthcare provider about the appropriate malaria prevention measures, such as antimalarial medications and mosquito bite prevention strategies (e.g., insect repellents, mosquito nets, long-sleeved clothing).

Insect Bite Prevention: Besides malaria, mosquitoes can transmit other diseases like dengue, chikungunya, and Zika. Use insect repellents containing DEET or Picaridin and wear long-sleeved clothing and pants to reduce the risk of bites.

First Aid Kit: Carry a basic first aid kit with essential items like band-aids, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, antidiarrheal medication, and any prescribed medications.

Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water, especially in hot and humid climates, to prevent dehydration.

Respect Local Customs: Be aware of and respect local customs and traditions, as some practices may have health implications.

In order to ensure a healthy and enjoyable trip, we strongly suggest that you pack a plentiful supply of any medication you may need while on vacation. Here’s what you need to know about traveling with medications.

Prior to traveling, please notify GET of any disability requiring special assistance or any specific dietary needs that you may have, and we will strive to accommodate these. 

When traveling with GET, baggage handling at hotels, service charges, and tips for hotel wait staff (for included meals) will all be taken care of by your Travel Director. There are, however, a few instances where individual tipping is welcome.

Local Specialists

It is customary to show appreciation for the insights, stories, and know-how shared with you by the Local Specialists, and we suggest a gratuity equivalent to $1.00-$2.00 USD per person per half day.

Your Coach Driver and Travel Director

The trip cost does not include gratuities for your Travel Director and Driver. At the end of your trip, you may express appreciation to your Travel Director and Driver for their excellent service and the personal attention you received. Gratuities are given at the discretion of each guest, and a suggested amount per person/per day is listed in your travel documents.

For your convenience and ease, there is an option to pre-pay gratuities for the Travel Director and Driver at the time of booking.

Hotel services

It is customary to tip hotel staff for room service delivery if the charge has not already been added to the bill. Where ice machines are not available, and you receive ice from the bar, a small tip to the bartender is always appreciated.

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