Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to travel to Africa?
It is advisable to be alert no matter which country in the world one is travelling in. If you follow the guidelines, you will generally be safe. Some areas are quite poor and it is advisable not to display wealth like jewellery, money, cameras. Leave valuable jewellery at home and only take small amounts of cash. Be careful when you are taking cash out of an ATM (Automated Teller Machine), always cover your pin number and do not ask anyone for assistance except a trusted bank assistant. If a supposedly “friendly person” offers to assist you at an ATM, please ignore them and walk away. If you feel your bank card has been scammed, please cancel with your bank immediately. Visa & Master credit cards are acceptable in most places, Amex and Diners not so much. Leave valuables such as passports, air tickets, laptops etc.. in the hotel safe, if there is none in your room, leave with management for safe keeping.
When using taxis, ask the hotel concierge or restaurant management to arrange one for you. It is always safer to pre-arrange a private certified taxi. Do not walk alone in the streets at night, particularly after dark, it is not safe, your safety whilst travelling is paramount, please be vigilant at all times.
We are based in South Africa and on hand to deal with issues that may arise.
The local people are generally extremely friendly and willing to please, but there are “opportunists” who take advantage, one has to be always on one’s guard against such people.
Is the water safe to drink?
In most parts of Africa the water is safe to drink, but we would highly recommend bottled or filtered water.
Is English Widely Spoken?
Yes, English is widely spoken in Southern Africa, especially in the major cities, private lodges, hotels and tourist areas.
Do I need Malaria Medication or Inoculations?
It depends on which country and area you are visiting. Your private Travel Consultant will advise you if you are travelling to a malaria area. We advise that you consult your doctor or local travel clinic regarding appropriate medication.
Should I get Travel Insurance?
Most definitely “YES”.
Full comprehensive Travel Insurance is highly recommended. Most operators / suppliers will request to see a copy of it before you travel. Insurance for Emergency evacuation, Medical expenses and Repatriation expenses is compulsory. On top of that, cancellation and curtailment of trip and damage / theft / loss of personal luggage, money and/or goods is recommended.
Cancellation fees for cancelled bookings are charged by our operators / suppliers and beyond our control. Your Travel Insurance should cover you for costly cancellation fees, trip interruption, misconnection of flights, protection in the event of illness, accident or any other unforeseen incident whilst travelling overseas. Africa Exclusively will not bear any responsibility for any insurance claims.
Do I require a Visa?
Depending on the valid passport that you are travelling on, most countries in Southern Africa require visas. Please ask you private Travel Consultant to advise you accordingly.
FOOD
What kind of food can I expect to eat?
Throughout Africa the food is generally very good. South Africa has an excellent selection of restaurants and wines to suit most palates. The food at luxury game lodges is delicious and plentiful. Apart from the normal culinary offerings, the luxury game lodges and hotels cater for guests dietary requirements if advised in advance.
How much money should I allow for meals?
At luxury game lodges all meals are included in the price of your safari package. Boutique hotels, guesthouses generally include breakfast in the cost. Some hotels offer room only, your private Travel Consultant will advise you of inclusions and exclusions. In general, food and wine are reasonably priced in South Africa…on average, dinner ZAR300 per person upwards and a bottle of wine ZAR150 upwards – depending on food choice and wine selection.
What is the shopping like?
Shopping is very good in larger cities such as Johannesburg, Cape Town, Durban with upmarket shopping centres selling International brands. Jewellery is also very popular. The African handicrafts; bead work, carvings, paintings, woven and leather items make memorable souveniers. .
CURRENCY / MONEY
Most hotels, restaurants, safari lodges and shops accept Visa & Master Cards. A limited number will take Amex or Diners, the preference is Visa or Master.
Local Currency can be obtained from a local ATM Machine, be very aware when you are using these machines, do not ask anyone for assistance except a bank teller. A bank or Bureau de Change will also assist, you will need to present your passport, air tickets and possibly proof of address.
South Africa – South Africa Rands
Botswana – US$ Dollars or Pula (National currency)
Namibia – South African Rands or Namibian Dollar
Zimbabwe – US$ Dollars
Zambia – US$ Dollars, Zambian Kwacha (National currency)
Tanzania / Kenya East Africa in general – US$ Dollars
Tipping
The rates below are guidelines only, it depends on you and the service you receive. Tipping is not compulsory, but is greatly appreciated for good service.
Porters at airport / hotels
ZAR20.00 – ZAR25.00 per bag
Transfer & Touring Guides / Driver
Transfer: ZAR 20.00 – 25.00 per person
Half day tour: ZAR 50.00 per person
Full day tour: ZAR 100.00 per person
Camps & Safari Lodges
ZAR150.00 – 200.00 per guest per night – Ranger / Guide
ZAR100.00 – 150.00 per guest per night – Tracker
ZAR100.00 – 110.00 per guest per night – Butler
ZAR100.00 – 110.00 per guest per night – General Camp Staff
Restaurants / Waiters
10% – 15% on the total meal account.
Please bear in mind, some restaurants add it on to your bill automatically, please check your account before you pay.
SAFARI TIME
What colour of clothing should I wear?
Avoid bright colours, better to blend into the bush and wear subdued colours like; brown, khaki and olive. Camouflage clothing is not recommended in African countries
Do I have to dress up for dinner on safari?
Most safari lodges have a very relaxed dress code, guests are not expected to put on formal wear for dinner, but you may personally like to.
Should I take warm clothes?
It is always a good idea to have some warm clothes even if it is summer….cool long pants and long sleeves are recommended especially in the evening and early mornings when the mosquitoes are out. In winter it can be very cold in the mornings and evenings, but gets hot during the day. A mix of garment textures and weight is advisable…tee-shirts, shorts, track suit pants and tops, sturdy walking shoes.
Should I take insect repellent?
Most of the smaller private lodges provide insect repellent in the rooms and on game vehicles, but the larger ones may not. It is a good idea to take your own and ensure you have the product that suits you / not allergic to.
Should I pack binoculars?
Many lodges provide them on game vehicles, but it is always best to have your own “light weight” ones so you don’t miss out on a sighting.
Are children allowed on Safaris?
Some lodges do not allow children under 12 years. Other lodges will allow children from 6 years, even younger depending on the game lodge. In this instance, the lodge will recommend the family pre-arrange a private game vehicle at additional cost for the duration on their stay. In general, children under 12 years are not allowed on game drives with adult paying guests; it is dangerous at Big 5 sightings and a possible disruption to adult game viewing experience. If a child under 12 years has been to the bush a lot, has good bush ethics, the ranger may give permission to join adult guests, otherwise, children will be left at the lodge with a pre-arranged babysitter.
However, more and more lodges are welcoming children under 12 years, offering special “children’s programmes” and special “children’s game drives”. Your private Travel Consultant will recommend appropriate child-friendly game lodges.
Are open safari vehicles safe to travel in?
The open 4×4 safari vehicles are safe. Your ranger / guide will give you a “safety briefing” before setting off on a game drive. You must listen and adhere to his instructions, no standing up / loud talking or shouting especially at a sighting.