What kind of food should I expect in Africa?
Our crew will prepare well balanced meals, taking into consideration the different palates of our passengers. There will be opportunities to try local cuisine in various establishments, or our crew will be more than happy to prepare their favourite local dishes!
I am a vegetarian. Will this be a problem?
No, we are very accommodating to travellers with strict dietary requirements (i.e. vegans, gluten-free, allergies etc.) and our crew are well trained in providing delicious meals to satisfy everyone’s needs.
Can we drink the tap water?
We advise against drinking tap water in East Africa, but in parts of Southern Africa, tap water is potable. Your tour leader will inform you when you are in a country with potable tap water. Bottled mineral water is available everywhere.
I want to bring my mobile phone, iPod, laptop, camera, etc. Will there be charging facilities?
Yes, facilities are available at campsites throughout East and Southern Africa. You will need a UK plug/adapter for all of East and Southern Africa with the exception of South Africa where you will need a South African adapter. Power outages are common, so bring extra batteries as back-up. Local SIM cards are available in all countries and provide cheaper plans than roaming from your home country. (Ensure your phone is unlocked to access local SIM).
Should I bring travellers’ cheques?
They are very uncommon and you will incur a high commission rate. It is best to bring cash (US or Sterling); as well as a bank debit card, credit card, and/or travel card. ATM’s will give local currency and are available in most places.(Ensure US bills are unmarked, recent – 2006 or later, and fairly ‘new’ looking). Money can easily be changed for local currency at banks or a bureau de change.
What can we expect at the campsites?
Most campsites in Southern Africa have good facilities (i.e. Hot water, toilets, showers, bar, pool, etc.); some campsites in East Africa can be very basic, but you will be made aware of the facilities by your tour leader. There are also opportunities to upgrade to rooms (dorms or private) at certain campsites, if you prefer not to pitch a tent; your tour leader will let you know.
Do we need to bring our own toilet paper?
It is advisable to bring one roll in case some facilities do not have any. It may also come in handy on long drives, where toilet paper may not be available at some rest stops!
What type of clothing should I bring?
Casual, comfortable clothing is best. Bring long pants as well as shorts and short sleeve and long sleeve shirts, a sweater for cooler nights, especially in the desert. Sandals/flip flops and closed-toed shoes should also be packed. Also, one waterproof jacket in case of rain, a hat to protect you from the sun, and sunglasses! Dress conservatively in parts of East Africa (ladies-try not to show a lot of skin!). Also keep in mind, camouflage clothing is prohibited in many parts of Africa.
Do I need to bring my own tent?
No, we provide 2-person tents and roll mats. You need to bring a sleeping bag and pillow.
What’s the best time to visit Africa?
There is no “best” time to visit; as seasons change, they bring different experiences and highlights. Weather patterns also differ in Southern Africa from East Africa, with temperatures in the south possibly reaching 0 degrees Celcius or below!
Do we have to camp?
No! If you prefer not to camp, we can arrange for different accommodation (i.e. lodges, simple hotels, fitted tents etc…) according to your requests. If you would like to camp some days, but not others, we can arrange for upgrades to rooms at some campsites.