pre-departure information for your overland adventure overland pre... · pre-departure information...

PRE-DEPARTURE INFORMATION FOR YOUR OVERLAND ADVENTURE Travelling in Africa is unpredictable. Expect the unexpected. Our overland trips are not luxury tours and

trips of this kind do not always proceed as planned. At times it may be dusty, dirty, wet, hot or all of these

at the same time! Our vehicles are all serviced and maintained at our different workshop points

throughout Africa, but bearing this in mind, the continent and roads we are travelling on are, at times,

very rugged and hard on both our vehicles and passengers. If you approach your trip with a spirit of

adventure and a positive attitude, you and your fellow passengers will get the most out of the journey.

CONTENTS

1. GENERAL Pg 2

2. BEFORE YOUR TRIP Pg 2

Pre-Departure meetings and departures

Passports and Visas

Luggage and what to bring

Itinerary Flexibility

Onward Travel

3. HEALTH & WELFARE Pg 3

Medical / Health

Malaria

Vaccinations

Insurance

4. WHILST ON YOUR OVERLAND TRIP Pg 4-5

Our overland Safari Vehicles

Security

Spending Money

Optional Excursions

Tipping

Crew

Whilst on Safari

Take only photographs leave only footprints

Local Laws

Photography

Charging of batteries

Communication

Climate & weather

5. MONEY GUIDE & VISAS Pg 7-13

11/2016 On The Go Tours

Pre-Departure Information of 12

1. GENERAL

Thank you for choosing On The Go Tours in conjunction with Africa Travel Co. for your African adventure. The

following information is provided to assist you in preparing for your trip.

All of our overland trips are designed with people who have an adventurous spirit in mind, who’d like to visit East,

Central and Southern Africa, but only have a limited time frame. The nature of overland travel is such that it is

generally better suited to the young (and young at heart), but we do not impose an upper age limit.

We provide all cooking and camping equipment, with the exception of your sleeping bag on all of our trips.

Transport is on specially converted Mercedes or MAN trucks that are completely self-sufficient - carrying all the

necessary equipment, passenger's luggage, fuel, fresh water and food stocks. In addition, all our vehicles carry a

range of spare parts and the driver is well versed at fixing common faults. Before each truck begins a trip it will have

been thoroughly serviced and overhauled, but it is comforting to know that in the unlikely event of a breakdown the

necessary spares and experience are available.

Accommodation on our trips is in two person dome tents with mosquito nets over the door and window areas, a

sewn in ground sheet and a separate flysheet.

Passengers are expected to participate in all aspects of the trip. This means pitching and dismantling your own tent

and, on a roster basis, helping with the daily chores such as cooking, washing up and truck cleaning. On all of our

trips we have a Safari Cook, although we do ask you to assist in the food preparation and shopping. Bargaining in

the local markets and helping produce a meal for between 10 and 30 people, can be great fun. The advantages of

group travel are achieved when the group works as one. Sharing the responsibility for the roster duties, as well as the

packing and security of the vehicle, equipment and belongings will help to make the groups collective experience

an enjoyable one.

2. BEFORE YOUR TRIP

PRE-DEPARTURE MEETINGS AND DEPARTURES

The Pre-Departure Meetings usually last for approximately one hour and are a great opportunity for you to meet your

fellow travellers. The meetings cover a range of topics and important information that should make you feel a lot

more comfortable with how your trip will operate as well as ways for you to maximise your experience. Please make

every effort to attend this meeting or advise your travel agent or On The Go. directly, if you know you will be unable

to attend.

PASSPORTS AND VISAS

It is your responsibility to ensure you have all the correct documentation to complete your trip. The Trip Leader

cannot stop or alter a trip because you don’t have the correct paper work. Your passport must be valid for at least

six months after the end of your trip. You should have at least one blank page for each country to be visited. TIP:

We advise you to bring a photocopy of the first 4 pages of your passport, which you store away from the original, just

in case you lose it. Most visas, for most nationalities, are obtainable on arrival at each border. However, you must

check with each consular office of each county we visit prior to your departure as to what the visa requirements are.

Make sure you check this, way in advance of your departure, so that, if required, you have enough time to get them.

This is completely your responsibility. For more information please see: http://www.projectvisa.com/.

LUGGAGE AND WHAT TO BRING

As a guide, we recommend you keep to your airline's restriction – no more than 20 kg. The truck has limited luggage

space, so we recommend you bring along a backpack (preferably with built-in frame) and a day bag. We do not

recommend large suitcases. Most people make the mistake of bringing too much. Clothes should be easy to wash

and dry, but avoid nylon and other synthetics as they can be very uncomfortable in hot weather. Please remember

that Africa can be much colder than you might expect, particular at night and in the early morning, so pack

accordingly.

Suggested list of what to pack:

PASSPORT & photocopy

VACCINATION CERTIFICATE & photocopy

TRAVEL INSURANCE POLICY & photocopy

MONEY & AIRLINE TICKETS

underwear & socks personal toiletries

2 long sleeved shirts or blouses spare contact lenses & solution / spare glasses

3 – 4 short sleeved shirts or t-shirts sleeping bag

2 pairs trousers or 1 pair & 1 skirt water bottle

http://www.projectvisa.com/



1 – 2 pairs shorts pen knife

tracksuit pants torch & spare batteries

light sweater small sewing kit

heavy sweater washing soap for clothes

water/wind proof jacket clothes line & pegs

comfortable walking boots or trainers small scrubbing brush

sandals or flip-flips sealable plastic bags

1 set of smart clothes & shoes camera & spare batteries/charger

Hat extra memory card/film

Swimsuit binoculars

Towel universal plug adapter

watch (inexpensive) reading material

sunglasses (inexpensive) music (our vehicles are equipped with stereos)

ITINERARY FLEXIBILITY

This information and the itinerary we’ve given you, are intended to serve as guidelines only. Each trip must be

flexible to allow for all variables that are beyond our control - such as adverse road conditions, complications caused

by the weather, unstable political situations, etc. Our trips generally run as planned, and you’ll, more than likely, get

see everything listed, if not more.

Please Note that any trip travelling via Nairobi or Victoria Falls and any trip where we’ve added another truck to a

departure date because of passenger demand, may have a Truck and/or Crew change.

ONWARD TRAVEL

As already mentioned, conditions in Africa are constantly changing and we can therefore not be held responsible

for disruptions and delays that may cause you to miss your connections. We recommend that you allow 1 to 3 days

after the completion date of your trip before flying out.

3. HEALTH & WELFARE

MEDICAL / HEALTH

All of our vehicles carry a basic first aid kit that is used in emergencies. Passengers will be asked to replace any item

they use. We would therefore strongly advise you to bring your own medical kit, which you’ll be able to get at any

reputable medical store.

Suggested contents include:

pain killers anti-malarial, medication

plasters / sterile dressings eye drops insect repellent

anti-histamine tablets / cream antiseptic cream sterile wipes

water purification tablets anti diarrhoea remedy re-hydration salts

lip balm sun screen / after sun lotion moisturiser / body lotion

MALARIA

Malaria is endemic in most parts of Africa. It is your responsibility to take precautions against catching it. First and

foremost, don’t get bitten!!! Wear long sleeved shirts and trousers when mosquitoes are most active - early in the

morning and evening! Use plenty of insect repellent with a high level of DEET on any exposed areas – neck, wrist and

ankles!!! Consult your doctor prior to leaving for Africa so that they can prescribe suitable anti-malarial medication.

For further information see http://www.alib.co.za/aftrip/malaria.html.

VACCINATIONS

Please consult your doctor / immunisation centre for the relevant vaccination requirements for the countries through

which you will be travelling. Most countries you visit will require a Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate if you’ve been

into an area that’s infected. Your home country will also probably need the Vaccination Certificate if you’ve been

into an infected area. Typhoid, Hepatitis A and B, Meningococcal meningitis, Diphtheria and Tetanus are all

prevalent in much of Africa and while it is not compulsory to be vaccinated against these, all precautions should be

taken to prevent them. TIP: We advise you to bring a copy of your yellow fever vaccination certificate, which you

store away from the original, just in case you lose it. All travellers wishing to partake in the gorilla trek excursion will be

required to present their yellow fever vaccination certificate to the park’s officials prior to their trek.

INSURANCE

Personal travel insurance is compulsory to join all of our trips. This should include, at least, comprehensive medical

cover including the cost of airlifting you to a specialist hospital. Make sure that you will be covered when

participating in Adventure Activities, like white water rafting. We recommend you make sure your possessions are

covered for both theft and damage. We also recommend you cover yourself for Cancellation and Curtailment Fees

if you are unable to travel due to sudden illness, airline strikes, etc. NB: A copy of your Insurance Policy must be

http://www.alib.co.za/aftrip/malaria.html



handed to your Trip Leader at the start of your trip.

4. WHILST ON YOUR OVERLAND TRIP

OUR OVERLAND SAFARI VEHICLE’S

All of our trucks are either Mercedes Benz or MAN trucks that have been designed, modified and built to ensure your

safety and comfort. All our vehicles carry full cooking and camping equipment, cassette players, exterior and

interior lighting, long-range fuel tanks and 300 to 400 litre water tanks. (Bring along an adapter to connect your CD /

MP3 players to the cassette player.) They have either all forward facing seats or a combination of forward and

backward facing seats with little tables between. A few of our trucks have a few side facing seats right in the front of

the truck, but the rest of the truck has forward facing seats. Keep in mind, bench seating often faces inwards, so

while you can communicate with your fellow travellers, it’s not advantageous for game viewing and photography.

Our trucks have soft cushioned seats. Our fleet of overland trucks have fitted windows that slide to open.

SECURITY

We cannot stress enough, the need for you to be alert whilst travelling in Africa, as petty theft is common. Don't bring

any unnecessary, expensive jewellery with you. Keep an eye on your belongings, at all times. There is a safe on

each truck where we suggest you store your travel documents and money. We recommend you photocopy all of

your travel documents, which you keep separately from the originals.

Vehicle security is a part of trip life and is one of your roster duties. The vehicle should never be left unattended,

except when we are staying in a guarded campsite.

Although every precaution will be taken, neither On The Go Tours, Africa Travel Co, nor its agents and employees

can accept any responsibility for anything deposited in the safe or left on the vehicle.

SPENDING MONEY

Only you know to what extent your spending habits will tax you! Africa is not as cheap as a lot of the travel books

would have you believe and as such we would recommend that you allow for between U$30.00 to U$35.00 per day

for things like bottled water, snacks, drinks and curios. This obviously depends on how much of curio shopper and

drinker you are!!! You will also have to budget for any Optional Excursions you’d like to do.

We advise you to bring your spending money in both cash preferably in US dollars. Credit Cards are not widely

accepted. If you’re travelling in East Africa, U$ notes should be clean, un-torn and printed after 2007. Larger

denomination notes attract a better exchange rate, but we suggest you bring along a mix of both small and large

denomination notes. You may need to change only a small amount to tide you over in a country and you should try

to get rid of each country’s currency before you leave that country as you won’t be able to change it anywhere

else! Your trip leader will advise you on when & where to change to local currencies.

OPTIONAL EXCURSIONS

Please budget accordingly for any of the optional excursions listed for your trip. While we do list a guideline to the

prices for these, they may increase without notice by the local operators.

Gorilla Trek: Please familiarise yourself with our document on trekking procedures and costs for the excursion. This is

available to download from the Customer Login section of our website.

TIPPING

We are often asked about gratuities. These are always at your discretion, of course, and then only for, at least,

satisfactory service. If you found the service to be unsatisfactory, you are obviously not obligated to leave a tip.

However, we would ask that you let us know (on our Client Feedback Form) in what way the service was

unsatisfactory so that we can rectify the problem for future clients. The tips below are a guideline only. Scale your

tips according to your satisfaction – average service should equate to an average tip. Local guides (like the rangers

when gorilla trekking and the polers when in the Okavango Delta), between U$5.00 and U$7.00 per day. Assistants to

the guides, (like bushwhackers when gorilla trekking and camp assistants when in the Okavango Delta) between

U$4.00 and U$5.00 per day. Others who have provided a service (like housekeeping staff when staying in lodges for

a few days), about U$2.00 per day. When eating out, satisfactory service usually warrants a tip of about 10% of the

total bill. For the Kilimanjaro Climb – please refer to the tipping guide provided on your trip dossier.

CREW

Our overland safaris have 3 crew members - your Driver, Trip Leader and Safari Cook. Your Driver & Cook are

generally Kenyan, Zimbabwean, Namibian or South African. They have a wealth of experience and are more than

happy to share it with you. Your Trip Leader is generally African, European or Australasian. They have travelled

through Africa, either independently or as a passenger. Most of our crew have been on the road for a number of

years and have vast experience in running successful trips throughout the route we travel. NB: Your Trip Leader is not

a “Tour Guide” in the normal sense. They are not experts in all aspects of the culture, history and wildlife of each

area. They are employed to ensure the smooth running of your trip. That said, all of our crew have a passion for



Africa and have acquired much knowledge of each area, which they’ll happily share. For more in-depth

information there are usually books on board the truck for your use, but if you have a specific interest like bird

watching for example, consider buying one of the guides listed at the end of this document.

Due to circumstances beyond our control, like impassable roads or group safety, it may be necessary to make

alterations to the planned itinerary. If this is necessary, the Trip Leader will discuss the issue with the group and alter

the itinerary accordingly. The Trip Leader will obviously consider the wishes of the group, but there may be occasions

where they have to make an unpopular decision. In ALL matters relating to the trip’s running, the Trip Leader’s

decision will be final.

WHILST ON SAFARI

On the Kenya to Cape route (or vice versa), it is possible to stay in a secure campsite every night and there are few

nights when a shower or a beer are not available - whether they be hot or cold, respectively, is another matter!

Sometimes conditions can be challenging and if it’s raining you’ve still got to put up your tent. Africa is a vast

continent so some of the drives can be long and there are a few patches of bumpy roads. There maybe a few

hiccups in the itinerary when a bridge is washed away or there’s a mechanical emergency. But, none of these will

spoil your trip if you approach them with the right attitude and a sense of humour.

"TAKE ONLY PHOTOS, LEAVE ONLY FOOTPRINTS".

Africa is a diverse and unique continent with both a very beautiful and a very ugly side to her. Wherever possible, we

try to let you experience Africa first hand so that you may get a better understanding of what makes her so unique.

We ask that you leave her as you find her. Respect the locals. Ask before taking a photo. You probably wouldn’t

enjoy suddenly being accosted by a group of tourists taking pictures of you! Some people believe that you take

away their spirit when you photograph them, so ensure you show them the same courtesy you would appreciate,

and ask for permission. Bargaining for curios is the norm. It is a great way to interact with the locals, but bear in mind

they’re trying to make a living, so don’t bargain just for the sake of it. Be prepared to pay what you think the item is

worth. You will see some of the absolute poverty that grips much of the continent, but will amazed at how people

with seemingly so little are able to triumph over their circumstances to come out on the other side with such a

generous spirit. In many of the places you visit, you will experience begging in some form or another. Whether or not

to give has caused many a heated debate. The answer is entirely personal, but consider the long term consequence

of your decision. If you’d like to distribute goodies, why not ask for permission to take a photo, a smile or a song from

the kids and as payment you could let them have a goodie. Please bear in mind that while the kids in your

hometown may find sweets a real treat, their moms and dads haul them off to the dentist regularly to get their

cavities filled. Many of the areas you visit will not have access to dentists, so instead of sweets, why not bring along

some fruit or pens/balls/old clothes/etc. which will be happily received by the kids but won’t leave them toothless.

LOCAL LAWS

All passengers are required to obey the laws of the countries we travel through. Any passenger found in possession

of contraband, non-prescribed narcotic drugs or firearms will be asked to leave the trip immediately, with no refund

of the Trip Price.

PHOTOGRAPHY

Africa is a photographer’s paradise. There will be a few opportunities to download your photos, but these will only

be in the bigger centres. We therefore suggest you invest in an extra memory card with a high storage capacity so

that you won’t have to delete your precious memories. If your camera still uses film, bring along a good stock, as film

can be scarce (and, when available, expensive). Consider bringing along a re-sealable polythene bag to protect

your camera from the dust.

If you are visiting the gorillas, make sure you familiarise yourself with your camera settings as flash photography is not

permitted. If you’re planning on videoing your trip, make sure you bring along an extra battery as it isn’t always

possible to re-charge you batteries every day.

WARNING - Under no circumstances should you attempt to photograph government buildings (including borders),

police, military personnel or any government official. It is not unknown for people to have cameras confiscated if

officials even suspect a photo has been taken. If in doubt, ask.

CHARGING OF BATTERIES

Most of the camp sites have electrical points, so you should be able to charge your batteries every 3 to 4 days,

provided they have electricity, which is not always guaranteed. We recommend you bring along 2 sets of

rechargeable batteries as well as 2 sets of normal batteries, so you can be guaranteed of having working batteries

at all times as while there may be electrical points. South Africa, Mozambique, Swaziland, Namibia and Botswana

use round 3-pronged plugs, while all countries from Zimbabwe north use square 3-pronged plugs (UK type), so make

sure you bring along a Plug Converter.

RECEIVING MAIL

Most people no longer receive posted mail whilst on tour, preferring instead to catch up on news from home via



email. Internet access is available throughout Africa, but this is generally only in the major centres, and then only

when the connection is working! You’ll probably have access to the internet once every week/week and a half.

Connection speeds are a lot slower than you’ll experience at home and the fees are relatively high. Wireless

networks are also occasionally available (more in Southern Africa than East Africa.

You should be able to check your mail at the following points:

KENYA: Nairobi & Nakuru

UGANDA: Kampala but intermittent connectivity

TANZANIA: Arusha, Dar Es Salaam & cheaply in Zanzibar

MALAWI: Lilongwe but intermittent connectivity

ZAMBIA: Lusaka

ZIMBABWE: Victoria Falls but intermittent connectivity

BOTSWANA: Kasane & Maun

NAMIBIA: Swakopmund and Windhoek have good facilities

SOUTH AFRICA: Cape Town & Johannesburg have good facilities

Bear in mind that checking your email will cut into your excursion/exploration time.

MOBILE PHONES

Most towns will have a mobile phone network provider so roaming on your mobile phone is possible on your safari.

We do however recommend rather buying an inexpensive local sim-card for countries you’ll be visiting as roaming

fees can be quite expensive.

CLIMATE & WEATHER

Average minimum and maximum temperatures per country

Country City Climate

Average Monthly Maximum & Minimum Temperature, Days of Rain

JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

Botswana Maun

Max('C) 32 31 31 31 28 25 25 29 32 35 34 32

Min('C) 19 19 18 15 10 6 6 9 14 19 19 19

Rain 8 7 5 2 1 - - - 1 3 5 7

Kenya Nairobi

Max('C) 25 26 25 24 22 21 21 21 24 24 23 23

Min('C) 12 13 14 14 13 12 11 11 11 13 13 13

Rain 5 6 11 16 17 9 6 7 6 8 15 11

Malawi Lilongwe

Max('C) 27 27 27 27 25 23 23 25 27 30 29 28

Min('C) 17 17 16 14 11 8 7 8 12 15 17 18

Rain 19 18 13 5 1 - - 1 1 1 7 15

Namibia Windhoek

Max('C) 29 28 27 25 22 20 20 23 25 29 29 30

Min('C) 17 16 15 13 9 7 6 8 12 15 15 17

Rain 8 8 8 4 1 - - - - 2 3 6

South Africa Cape Town

Max('C) 26 26 25 22 19 18 17 18 18 21 23 24

Min('C) 16 16 14 12 9 8 7 8 9 11 13 14

Rain 3 2 3 6 9 9 10 9 7 5 3 3

South Africa Jo'burg

Max('C) 26 25 24 22 19 17 17 20 23 25 25 26

Min('C) 14 14 13 10 6 4 4 6 9 12 13 14

Rain 8 7 5 2 1 - - - 1 3 5 7

Tanzania Arusha

Max('C) 28 28 27 25 23 22 22 23 25 27 27 27

Min('C) 13 14 15 16 15 13 12 12 13 14 14 14

Rain 12 9 11 7 2 - - - - 1 4 9

Uganda Kabale

Max('C) 24 24 23 23 23 23 23 23 23 24 23 23

Min('C) 9 11 11 11 11 9 8 9 11 10 11 10

Rain 11 13 16 20 16 5 3 8 15 18 19 15

Zimbabwe Harare

Max('C) 26 26 26 25 23 21 21 23 27 29 27 26

Min('C) 16 16 14 12 9 7 7 8 12 15 15 16

Rain 15 13 9 4 2 1 0 0 1 4 10 14

**** Please note that these are only the average temperatures per country, and Africa does tend to get extremely cold and

extremely hot at certain times of the seasons. Use this as a basic guideline only.



5. MONEY GUIDE FOR YOUR OVERLAND ADVENTURE The following information is provided to help you with planning your finances while on tour. As African currencies

tend to fluctuate more rapidly than your own, it is intended as a guide only.

In East and Southern Africa US$, £ and € are accepted, though US dollars are most easily used. Cash is the best type

of currency to use even though traveller’s cheques, Visa credit cards and Visa/Visa Electron ATM cards can

occasionally be used – but it can be difficult to cash in Travellers Cheques or to find banks that support certain bank

cards. Knowing which to use where can be extremely confusing. We have therefore put together a country guide

to help you decide what form of payment to use where.

Currency & Denominations

We don’t suggest you change any African currency in your home country as, if it’s even possible, you will be given a

very poor rate of exchange. We recommend that most of your money is in US$ as the Local Payment and all visas

obtainable at the borders must be paid in US$. It is also possible to pay for many of the Optional Excursions in US$. If

bringing another currency, you’ll have to change that currency into the local currency and then buy back the US$,

thus incurring foreign exchange charges twice! We suggest you bring along a good mix of both small and large

denomination notes as the larger denominations attract a more favourable exchange rate. However, you may

need to change a small amount at the airport on your arrival to pay for your taxi and the exchange rates here are a

lot lower than you’ll receive in town. You may also have to change only a small amount to tide you over in a

country. Small US$ notes are also useful for tipping locals for services they’ve provided. All US$ notes must be printed

post 2007, and be in a good condition.

General Notes

Always carry your passport when changing either cash (or traveller’s cheques) or when drawing money inside the

bank. When changing cash or traveller’s cheques or drawing cash from a bank or ATM, you will always receive the

local currency. If you need to then change this money back into US$ cash, you’ll have to pay the foreign exchange

charge twice! Help each other out - if someone wants to exchange US$ cash and you need it, exchange your

excess local currency or draw it from the ATM. This way you’ll get your US$ cash a lot cheaper (and easier) than

having to buy it from the bank. Always bring more money with you than you think you’ll need. You can always take

it home with you. Try to get rid of each country’s currency before you leave that country as you’ll struggle to change

it anywhere else and it could prove to be an expensive memento of your African holiday. Your trip leader will provide

you with more information on this.

Cash

In Africa, cash is generally king! While traveller’s cheques and credit cards are obviously safer options they cannot

be relied on. We recommend you bring a fair amount of your money in cash, which you can opt to store in the

truck’s on-board safe. Where traveller’s cheque and credit card facilities are available, the surcharges can be a

much as 15% on each transaction. If bringing US$ notes, they must all be printed after 2007 and must be in as good

a condition as possible - clean and un-torn.

Traveller’s Cheques

Traveller’s cheques are not that widely used, especially in East Africa, and are more difficult to change - especially

outside of the major centres. Where the facility is available, they will be cashed at a much lower exchange rate

than if you cashed notes. If Optional Excursion operators do accept traveller’s cheques, they will generally add a

surcharge of between 5 and 15% per each transaction! If choosing to bring traveller’s cheques, make sure they’re in

US$ and that they’re a well known brand - Thomas Cook, American Express or Visa. Most places will also need your

proof of purchase receipt - the piece of paper you’re given when buying the traveller’s cheques and told to keep

separate from your cheques.

Credit Cards

Credit cards are always handy for that “in case of an emergency” situation, but are only widely accepted in

Southern Africa, so do not rely on being able to make purchases or pay for excursions with them. Remember you

may have to pay your bank a charge for using the card internationally. If you’re going to bring your credit card,

make sure it’s a Visa card, as MasterCard (Maestro) is not widely accepted. Debit Cards are not always accepted.

Please ensure you know your personal pin code and that is does not exceed 5 digits.

Automatic Teller Machines (ATM)

These are readily available throughout Southern Africa and are occasionally accessible in the major cities in East

Africa. Always check with your Trip Leader when you’ll have the next opportunity to draw cash. ATMs usually offer a

fairly good exchange rate, but remember, you’ll always be issued with the local currency, so if you need US$ you’ll

have to change the local currency back into US$! Remember too, you may have to pay your bank a charge for

drawing money internationally. Some African ATMs tend to “swallow” foreign cards randomly. Try to make sure you



use the ATM during bank business hours, so if it’s “eaten” you can retrieve it immediately. ATM scams are rife in

Africa, so never EVER accept help from anyone when drawing money from the ATM and make sure your PIN number

is not seen by anyone when entering it. If you feel unsafe, cancel your transaction, retrieve your card and find

another ATM. Visa cards are accepted at most ATM’s that accept foreign cards, whereas MasterCard or Maestro

cards are not. Please note that debit cards (EC card) are not always accepted.

KENYA

Currency: Kenyan Shilling (KSH)

Money can be changed on arrival in Nairobi. We recommend you use the bureau de changes as they charge little

or no commission to change your foreign cash or traveller’s cheques into Kenyan shillings. Banks and hotels will also

change your money, but you’ll have to pay them commission. There are a few bureau de changes that will sell you

US$ cash, but always check their rate! Banks are closed on Saturday afternoons & Sundays. ATMs are available in

Nairobi and the larger Kenyan towns, generally through Barclays, Standard Chartered and Stanbic Banks. All unused

Kenyan shillings can be changed into Tanzanian or Ugandan shillings at each country’s borders. Ask your Trip Leader

for advice.

Beware of people posing as undercover policemen asking about the amount of local and foreign currency you

have. Kenyan police rarely interfere with tourists, so ask them for identification and, if necessary, agree to meet them

at the local police station.

All snacks, drinks, souvenirs, laundry, internet access, taxis and services of guides, etc are paid in Kenyan shillings. A

local beer will cost between KSH150.00 and KSH 200.00. Internet access in Nairobi is fairly good and will cost

between KSH 15.00 and KSH 60.00 for 15 minutes. International phone calls are expensive and will cost about

KSH250.00 per minute, but pay as you go sim cards are widely available and calls from these cost approx. US$1.5 per

minute.

Optional Excursions throughout Kenya, such as; the Masai Village experience, Naivasha horse riding, Naivasha Boat

hire and the Giraffe Centre are payable in either US dollars or Kenyan shillings.

Visas: Most nationalities require visas, which can be obtained on arrival at each border. Single Entry Visas cost

US$50.00 and are valid for 3 months. If visiting only Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania, you will not need to buy another

visa when re-entering Kenya. However, if you visit any other country, your visa becomes void, so if you’re visiting the

gorillas in either the DRC or Rwanda, you’ll have to buy another visa. Multiple Entry Visas cannot be obtained on the

border. They cost US$100.00 so if you’re only entering Kenya twice, it would cost you no more to buy 2 Single Entry

Visas.

*Please note that it is your responsibility to ensure you have the correct visas for your trip should you, have to

purchase these in advance.

UGANDA

Currency: Ugandan Shilling (USH)

Money can be changed at the border or on arrival in Kampala. We recommend you use the banks and Bureau de

Changes to change your US$, £ or € cash or traveller’s cheques into Ugandan shillings. Banks sometimes sell US$

cash, but ask first and always check their rate! ATMs are available in Kampala, generally through Barclays, Standard

Chartered and Stanbic Banks. Only Visa cards are accepted. All unused Ugandan shillings can be changed into

Kenyan shillings at the Kenyan border. Ask your Trip Leader for advice.

All snacks, drinks, souvenirs, laundry, internet access, taxis and services of guides, etc are paid in Ugandan shillings. A

local beer will cost between USH2 000.00 and USH3 000.00. A bag of laundry will set you back about USH 10 000.00.

Internet access is limited and will cost about USH8 500 for 15 minutes.

Optional Excursions include a visit to the Ngamba Island chimpanzee sanctuary, trekking the mountain gorilla, white

water rafting on the Nile, quad biking and a visit to the Softpower Community Project. Most Excursions can be paid

for using US dollars or GB pounds cash, traveller’s cheques or credit cards. The latter 2 incur charges of between 5 to

15%. Ugandan shillings are also accepted. Gorilla treks can be paid only in US$ cash, in unblemished post 2004 bank

notes.


US$50.00. If visiting only Uganda, Kenya and Tanzania, you will not need to buy another visa when re-entering

Uganda. However, if you visit any other country, your visa becomes void, so if you’re visiting the gorillas in either the

DRC or Rwanda, you’ll have to buy another visa. Multiple Entry Visas cannot be obtained on the border. They cost

US$100.00 so if you’re only entering Uganda twice, it would cost you no more to buy 2 Single Entry Visas



*Please note that it is your responsibility to ensure you have the correct visas for your trip, should you have to


TANZANIA

Currency: Tanzanian Shilling (TSH)

Money can be changed at the ‘bureaus’ at the border or on arrival in Arusha, Dar es Salaam and Stone Town,

Zanzibar. We recommend you use the bureau de changes as they charge little or no commission to change your

US$, £ or € cash into Tanzania shillings. You can change your US$, £ or € traveller’s cheques into Tanzanian shillings,

however, this will incur a commission charge and is more difficult than changing cash. You will have supply the proof

of purchase receipt and may only be able to change up to US$100.00 per day. ATMs are available in Arusha, Dar es

Salaam and Stone Town, Zanzibar, generally through Barclays, Standard Chartered and Stanbic Banks. (Dar es

Salaam offers the best exchange rate.) All unused Tanzanian shillings can be changed into Kenyan shillings or

Malawian kwacha at each country’s borders. Ask your Trip Leader for advice.

All snacks, drinks, souvenirs, laundry, internet access, taxis and services of guides, etc are paid in Tanzanian shillings. A

local beer will cost between TSH2 500.00 and TSH3 500.00. A bag of laundry is about TSH10 000.00. Internet access is

very good and will cost about TSH 500.00 for15 minutes.

Optional Excursions include the 3 Day Serengeti/Ngorongoro Crater excursion, meals and accommodation on

Zanzibar, a Spice Tour and a half day spent scuba diving or snorkelling. Excursions on Zanzibar can be paid for using

US dollars cash or Tanzanian shillings. (All meals on Zanzibar must be paid in TSH.) The 3 Day Serengeti/Ngorongoro

Crater excursion needs to be paid in US$ cash.


US$50.00 and are valid for 3 months.



MALAWI

Currency: Malawian Kwacha (MKW)

Money can be changed at the border between Tanzania and Malawi and on arrival in Lilongwe. Ask your Trip

Leader to do this for you, when changing at the border. We recommend you use the bureau de changes as they

charge little or no commission to change your US$ or £ cash into Malawian kwacha. You can change your US$ or £

traveller’s cheques into Malawian kwacha. However, this will incur a commission charge. ATMs are available in

Lilongwe, generally through Stanbic Bank, but are unreliable. Spend all your Malawian kwacha as they cannot be

exchanged elsewhere.

All snacks, drinks, small souvenirs, laundry, internet access, taxis and services of guides, etc are paid in Malawian

Kwacha’s. Larger souvenirs, like the chairs for which Malawi is famous, can be paid for in US$ cash. A local beer will

cost about MKW 180.00. A bag of laundry will set you back about MKW 1000.00. Internet access is very limited and

will cost between MKW 50.00 and MKW 80.00 for 15 minutes.

Optional Excursions include water skiing, snorkelling, diving, horseback safaris and the Village walk. Most of these

excursions are operated by the locals and can be paid for using US dollars cash or Malawian Kwacha.

Visas: Most nationalities do not require visas (Austrians, Swiss, Belgians and many Eastern European passport holders

do). Visas are not obtainable at the border, so check with the Malawian Embassy prior to your arrival in Africa

whether you need one and ensure they issue this into your passport prior to travel to Malawi (they do not accept

letters from consulates at the border).


purchase these in advance

ZAMBIA

Currency: Zambian Kwacha (ZMK)

We spend very little time in Zambia and it is therefore not necessary to change any money to Zambian Kwacha.

However, you will have to have US$ cash. Bureau de changes in Livingstone sometimes sell US$ cash, but ask first

and always check their rate! ATMs are available in Lusaka, generally through Barclays, Standard Chartered and

Stanbic Banks. If you do change your money into Zambian kwacha, make sure it’s only a small amount and then

that you spend it all as it cannot be exchanged elsewhere.



All purchases from the campsites we use, like snacks, drinks, laundry & internet access can be paid in US$ cash.

These purchases in town will have to be paid for in Zambian kwacha. A local beer will cost between ZMK8 000.00 and

ZMK10 000.00. A bag of laundry will set you back about ZMK15 000.00. Internet access is very limited and will cost

about ZMK17 000.00 for 15 minutes.

Optional Excursions include the Zambezi Sunset Dinner Cruise and excursions that take place in Livingstone while our

trip is in Victoria Falls - like the Rhino Walk, Quad Biking or a visit to the Mukuni Village. The excursions that take place

in Livingstone can be paid for using US dollars or GB pounds cash or traveller’s cheques and credit cards. Credit

cards are debited in US dollars and may incur fees.

Visas: Most nationalities require visas, which can be obtained on arrival at each border. A new joint

Zimbabwe/Zambia UNIVISA system was introduced in December 2014. This means that you can now enter both

countries using this dual visa, which is valid for 30 days. *Please note that it is your responsibility to ensure you have

the correct visas for your trip, should you have to purchase these in advance.

ZIMBABWE

Currency: US Dollar, South African Rands, GBP and Euro

The Zimbabwe dollar has been withdrawn from circulation and has been replaced with the United States Dollar,

South African Rand, Great British Pound and the Euro. Botswana Pula is also accepted for payment of goods and

services in the Victoria Falls area.

The most widely accepted currency is US Dollars CASH although £, € and ZAR cash are also accepted, Travellers

cheques (Thomas Cook) are accepted for payment of some activities. We recommend bringing smaller bills as

making change can be problematic.

All snacks, drinks, souvenirs, laundry, internet access, taxis and services of guides, etc are paid in US dollars – again

we recommend small denominations as change may not always be available. A local beer will cost about US$2.00.

Internet access is limited and will cost about US$1.00 per minute.

Optional Excursions include white water rafting on the Zambezi, bungee jumping; elephant back safaris, walks with

lions and many more exciting excursions. These activities can be paid for using US dollars cash, Travellers Cheques or

credit cards (Visa). Only Visa Credit cards are accepted as payment for activities. If using a MasterCard, you will

need to draw money at the bank and then pay for your activities.

Visas: Most nationalities require visas, which can be obtained on arrival at each border (South Africans require a

visa, but this is free.) Single Entry Visa costs vary between different nationalities. British and Irish Citizens will pay

US$55.00 for a Single Entry Visa, while most other nationalities will pay US$30.00. If you’re planning on spending one or

more consecutive nights in Livingstone or the Chobe National Park in Botswana, you will need to get a Double Entry

Visa when you first enter Zimbabwe. A Double Entry Visa will cost British and Irish Citizens US$70.00, while most other

nationalities will have to pay US$45.00.

A new joint Zimbabwe/Zambia UNIVISA system was introduced in December 2014. This means that you can now

enter both countries using this dual visa, which is valid for 30 days.

As with most things in Zimbabwe, visa requirements can change on a daily basis, so double check with the

Zimbabwean Embassy prior to your departure for Africa. Visas must be paid for in US$ cash.


purchase these in advance

BOTSWANA

Currency: Botswana Pula (BWP)

Money can be changed on arrival in Maun or Kasane. We recommend you use the bureau de changes as they

charge little or no commission to change your US$, £ or € cash into Botswana pula. ATMs are available in Maun or

Kasane, generally through Barclays, Standard Chartered and Stanbic Banks. Only Visa cards are accepted. All

unused Botswana pula can be changed into Namibian dollars or South African Rands at banks in the respective

countries.

All snacks, drinks, souvenirs, laundry, internet access, taxis and services of guides, etc are paid in Botswana pula. A

local beer will cost between BWP 7.00 and BWP 10.00. Internet access is quite good and will cost about BWP 10.00

for 15 minutes.



Optional Excursions include a game drive in Chobe National Park, the 2 Day Okavango Delta Mokoro Excursion and

a scenic flight over the Okavango Delta. The Chobe National Park activities can be paid for using US dollars cash or

Botswana pula. Other Excursions can be paid for using US dollars or GB pounds cash, traveller’s cheques or credit

cards. The latter could incur charges of 5%. Botswana pula and South African Rands are also accepted.

Visas: Most nationalities do not require visas, although many South American, Eastern European, Middle Eastern

and Asian nationals do. Visas are not obtainable at the border, so check with the Embassy of Botswana prior to your

arrival in Africa whether you need one.



NAMIBIA

Currency: Namibian Dollar (N$)

The Namibian dollar and South African rand are tied to each other on an equal level. South African Rands are

accepted in Namibia, but Namibian dollars are not accepted in South Africa.

Money can be changed in most major towns. We recommend you draw your Namibian dollars at the widely

available ATMs as they offer the best rate of exchange. Both Visa and MasterCard Cards are accepted. We

recommend you use the bureau de changes in Windhoek and Swakopmund as they charge little or no commission

to change your US$, £ or € cash or traveller’s cheques into Namibian dollars. All unused Namibian dollars can be

changed into South African Rands at banks and some shops in Namibia and certain banks in South Africa. Namibian

Dollars are accepted at a lower rate in Botswana.

All snacks, drinks, souvenirs, laundry, internet access, taxis and services of guides, etc are paid in Namibian dollars or

South African Rands. A local beer will cost about N$ 12.00. Internet access is good and will cost about N$ 12.00 for 15

minutes. International phone calls will cost about N$ 25.00 per minute.

Optional Excursions in Swakopmund and the surrounding area include sky diving, sand boarding, quad biking and a

guided walk in Sossusvlei. Most Excursions can be paid for using US dollars, GB pounds and Euro cash, traveller’s

cheques or credit cards. Credit cards incur no fees. Namibian dollars and South African Rands are also accepted.

Visas: Most nationalities do not require visas. Visas are not obtainable at the border, so check with the Namibian

Embassy prior to your arrival in Africa whether you need one.



SOUTH AFRICA

Currency: South African Rand (ZAR)

Money can be changed in most major towns. We recommend you draw your South African Rands at the widely

available ATMs as they offer the best rate of exchange. Both Visa and MasterCard Cards are accepted. We

recommend you use the bureau de changes in the major centres like Cape Town and Johannesburg as they charge

NO commission to change your US$, £ or € cash or traveller’s cheques into South African Rands. All unused South

African Rands can be used in Namibia or exchanged in Botswana or your home country.

All snacks, drinks, souvenirs, laundry, internet access, taxis and services of guides, etc are paid in South African Rands.

A local beer will cost about ZAR 12.00. Internet access is good and will cost about ZAR 12.00 for 15 minutes.

International phone calls will cost between ZAR 20.00 and ZAR 25.00 per minute.

Optional Excursions include canoeing on the Orange River, full day tours of Cape Town and a full day tour of Soweto.

The canoeing on the Orange River can be paid for using US dollars, GP pounds or South African Rands cash. Other

Excursions such as bungee jumping, blackwater tubing, game drives and walks can be paid for using South African

Rands cash, traveller’s cheques or credit cards. Credit cards incur little or no fees unless otherwise stated.

Visas: Most nationalities do not require visas. Visas are not obtainable at the border, so check with the South

African Embassy prior to your arrival in Africa whether you need one.



Please remember this information is to serve as a guide only. African currencies tend to fluctuate far more than your

own and prices may therefore change. Visas are your responsibility and your Trip Leader cannot stop or alter a trip



because you don’t have the correct documentation, so make sure you double check the visa requirements for each

country with their embassy before you depart for Africa.

Safari Njema! (Have a good trip!)

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