Highlights |
Escorted Package Includes
- Flights NYC-Johannesburg, Cape Town-NYC
- Airline fuel surcharges
- Intra-flight
- 10 nights accommodations
- All transfers
- 15 meals: 10 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 4 dinners
- Sightseeing per itinerary in modern air-conditioned motor coach
- Services of English-speaking tour manager throughout
- Entrance fees per itinerary
Special Features
- Soweto Tour
- Game drive through Kruger Park
- Game drive through Hluhluwe-Umfolozi Game Reserve
- Boat ride in St. Lucia
- Cape Town City & Table Mountain Tour
- Cape Peninsula Tour
Also Available
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Itinerary |
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DAY 1, Thursday - Depart the USA
Depart the USA to South Africa. Your flight includes meals, drinks, and in-flight entertainment for your journey
DAY 2, Friday - Arrive in Johannesburg
Arrive in Johannesburg and transfer to your hotel. Balance of the day at leisure
Overnight: Johannesburg
DAY 3, Saturday - Soweto Tour
After an early breakfast depart on a half day Soweto Tour. Experience a fascinating glimpse of the bustling neighborhood life of Soweto, the most metropolitan township in the country, setting trends in politics, fashion, music, dance and language. Drive by the former residence of Bishop Desmond Tutu and visit Nelson Mandela's former home, before proceeding to the Hector Peterson memorial, dedicated to one of the first casualties of the Soweto uprising of 1976. Return to the hotel for an afternoon at leisure. This evening enjoy dinner at the hotel
Overnight: Johannesburg
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
DAY 4, Sunday - Panorama Route to Hazyview
Depart Johannesburg after breakfast and travel to Mpumalanga Province, known as "Paradise Country," driving the spectacular "Panorama Route." Stop to admire the views of amazing scenery along the 16-mile-long Blyde River Canyon, cut deep into red sandstone, and God's Window (weather and fog permitting), a breathtaking, Edenic vista at the edge of the escarpment overlooking Kruger National Park. Visit Bourke's Luck Potholes, a series of waterfalls and distinctive rock formations created by countless millennia of water erosion, and continue to the picturesque old mining town of Pilgrim's Rest. Finally, proceed to Hazyview and enjoy dinner at your hotel this evening
Overnight: Hazyview
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
DAY 5, Monday - Kruger National Park Game Reserve
The day begins at dawn with coffee, tea, and rusks, a South African dry biscuit. Then, depart for Kruger National Park to join a thrilling open-vehicle game drive. Larger than the state of Connecticut, the park offers some of the best game and wildlife viewing opportunities in the world, and early morning is an optimal time of day. You may have a chance to see lion, elephant, giraffe, or zebra in their natural habitat. After stopping at a rest camp for pre-packed breakfast, the game safari continues. With any luck, you may even see cheetah and leopard. Return to the hotel to relax. After the day's excitement, enjoy dinner at the hotel this evening
Optional: Afternoon Game Drive in Kruger Park
Overnight: Hazyview
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
DAY 6, Tuesday - Swaziland Sightseeing
After breakfast travel to Swaziland, an independent Kingdom within the borders of South Africa, known for its lovely scenery, fine handicrafts and vibrant indigenous culture. Visit the Ngwenya glass factory, where visitors can watch talented glass blowers create a range of enchanting African animals, birds and fish, as well as tableware, made from recycled glass that is collected by the children of Swaziland. In the afternoon, visitors may opt for an excursion to a Swazi candle factory, where Swazi wax artists make beautiful candles
Optional: Early Morning Game Drive in Kruger Park
Overnight: Swaziland
Meals: Breakfast
Day 7, Wednesday - Hluhluwe - Umfolozi Game Reserve, Travel to St. Lucia
After breakfast, continue south through Swaziland, before re-entering South Africa. Travel to the Hluhluwe-Umfolozi Game Reserve, situated in northern KwaZulu Natal, which contains an immense diversity of fauna and flora and is particularly famous for its conservation of black and white rhinos. Home to Africa's "Big Five," you may have a chance to see elephant, Cape buffalo, lion and leopard, in addition to rhino during your afternoon game drive through the reserve. The park also boasts warthog, crocodile, and antelope. Following the safari, continue to your hotel in St. Lucia
Overnight: St. Lucia
Meals: Breakfast
Day 8, Thursday - St. Lucia Estuary Cruise, Flight to Cape Town
This morning, enjoy a cruise on the St. Lucia Estuary. This tidal estuary is home to Nile crocodiles, hippopotami, sea turtles, and even sharks, making it a fascinating and uniquely diverse ecosystem. Later, transfer to the airport for your evening flight to Cape Town. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel
Overnight: Cape Town
Meals: Breakfast
DAY 9, Friday - Cape Town City Tour
After a leisurely breakfast depart on a half day Cape Town city and Table Mountain tour. Driving to the city center, pass famous landmarks such as the Castle of Good Hope built in 1666 by the Dutch East India Company and City Hall, a splendid baroque building, and of course the Grand Parade. See St. George's Cathedral, the Anglican Diocese of Nobel Peace Laureate Archbishop Desmond Tutu. Pass the Company Gardens and the Malay Quarter. The route then leads to Kloof Nek and the magnificent Table Mountain. Ascend to the top (weather permitting) by means of a cable car. At the summit, see wild flowers and the famous silver tree, and marvel at a birds-eye view of the city and its beaches. On a clear day it is even possible to see Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned, on one side, and Cape Point on the other. Descend from the Upper Cableway Station and proceed to the Milnerton Lighthouse before returning to your hotel
Optional: Half Day Private Cape Town Cultural Tour (PM)
Overnight: Cape Town
Meals: Breakfast
DAY 10, Saturday - Cape Peninsula Tour
Today, depart on a full day Cape Peninsula Tour with lunch along the way. Drive to Cape Point at the southwestern tip of the Cape Peninsula, passing steep mountains, secluded coves, and sweeping beaches en route. After a stop at the fishing village of Hout Bay, one of Cape Town's best-kept secrets, continue to the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve, comprising over 17,300 acres of indigenous flora and fauna, where you may see baboons by the road-side, rheboks, Cape Mountain zebras, bonteboks and the elusive eland. The native plant life, known as fynbos, forms one of only six floral kingdoms in the world. Then, have the opportunity to see the majestic coastline, where the Atlantic and Indian Oceans meet. Following the coastline along False Bay, return to Cape Town after lunch by way of Simon's Town. Here, visit the penguin colonies at Boulders Beach, and continue with a scenic drive over Muizenberg Mountain. Lastly, visit the Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens, resting at the foot of Table Mountain, for a short walking tour of the beautiful gardens before finally returning to Cape Town
Overnight: Cape Town
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
DAY 11, Sunday - Full Day in Cape Town
Enjoy the day at leisure in Cape Town. In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner at the hotel
Optional: Full Day Private Winelands Tour
Overnight: Cape Town
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
DAY 12, Monday - Depart for the USA
Transfer to the airport for your departure flight
Meals: Breakfast
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Optionals |
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Book your Optional Tours before you travel and see more, save time, save money, and protect your investment. Tours purchased while traveling may cost an extra 10% or even more! Tours often sell out - avoid disappointment! Save your cash - many countries do not accept credit cards. Travel insurance only covers services purchased prior to departure.
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| Half Day Afternoon Open Vehicle Game Drive |
Day #5 |
01 Apr 2010 - 31 Oct 2010 $103
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Spend the afternoon participating in an exhilarating open vehicle game drive in Kruger National Park. This world-famous park is home to an abundance of flora and fauna, creating a wildlife experience ranking among the best on the planet. During your time in the African bush, learn about the diverse ecosystem and search for wildlife including the "Big Five," lion, elephant, leopard, buffalo, and rhino.
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| Half Day Morning Open Vehicle Game Drive |
Day #6 |
01 Apr 2010 - 31 Oct 2010 $103
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Spend the morning participating in an exhilarating open vehicle game drive in Kruger National Park. This world-famous park is home to an abundance of flora and fauna, creating a wildlife experience ranking among the best on the planet. During your time in the African bush, learn about the diverse ecosystem and search for wildlife including the "Big Five," lion, elephant, leopard, buffalo, and rhino.
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| Half Day Cape Town Cultural Tour |
Day #9 |
01 Apr 2010 - 31 Oct 2010 $89
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Join this cultural tour for a unique look at the three distinct eras of South African history, from the birth of the country, to Apartheid South Africa, to the New South Africa, and see how much the nation has changed since Nelson Mandela was released from prison. The tour affords the opportunity to interact, mingle and exchange cultural values with the local community. You will be welcomed in the traditional African manner in the townships of Langa, the oldest formal township, and in Khayalitsha, the largest informal settlement. The tour includes visits to the District Six Museum, and Gugulethu township, meaning "our pride", which was established as a result of the migrant labor system. Experience a visit to a "shebeen", an informal tavern and see local artisans at work.
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| Full Day Winelands Tour |
Day #11 |
01 Apr 2010 - 31 Oct 2010 $121
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Wind through South Africa's fertile valleys, prized for their renowned vintages, and discover the rustic beauty of sprawling estates shaded by giant oaks and rows of vines running as far as the eye can see. Travel the country's principal wine route to Paarl, Stellenbosch and Franschoek, and enjoy tastings at some of the excellent vineyards along the way. Begin with the "Pearl of Paarl" and visit one of the local estates to enjoy a wine tasting and cellar tour. Then continue northwest to the old, scenic village of Franschoek, founded near the Drakenstein Mountains in 1688 by French immigrants, whose descendants eventually supplied highly sought after wine to Napolean, Bismark, and even King Edward VII. Next, stop for lunch, on own account and then it is off to another wine tasting. Lastly, travel to Stellenbosch, South Africa's second oldest town and the historic heart of the country's wine region. First recognized as an ideal location for vineyards in 1679, viticulture has been entwined with the town's history ever since. Also of interest is the town's fascinating variety of architecture, including buildings in Cape Dutch, Georgian, and Victorian styles. Enjoy a final tasting before bidding farewell to the wine country and returning to Cape Town.
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Book your Optional Tours before you travel and see more, save time, save money, and protect your investment. Tours purchased while traveling may cost an extra 10% or even more! Tours often sell out - avoid disappointment! Save your cash - many countries do not accept credit cards. Travel insurance only covers services purchased prior to departure.
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Rates & Hotels |
Step 1: Select Your Featured Hotels Step 2: Click a Date to Book Online
OR: Click here to create your own flexible vacation
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| Dates & Prices |
Land Only |
Air & Land |
| Dates & Prices |
Land Only |
| Dates & Prices |
Air & Land |
| 2010 |
Apr 8 (Sold Out) | $1779 | $3149* |
Apr 22 (Sold Out) | $1819 | $3149* |
May 6 (Sold Out) | $1729 | $3099* |
| May 20 | $1679 | $3049* |
| Jul 22 | $1739 | $3749* |
Aug 12 (Sold Out) | $1669 | $3149* |
Sep 2 (Sold Out) | $1779 | $3149* |
| Sep 9 | $1779 | $3149* |
Sep 16 (Sold Out) | $1779 | $2999* |
| Oct 7 | $1999 | $3249* |
| Oct 21 | $1979 | $3199* |
| Create Your Own Flexible Vacation |
*Not Included:
Airport taxes & fees, domestic airport taxes of $48.33, optional tours, and gratuities.
Additional Information:
Land only price does not include arrival/departure transfers, but does include flight Durban-Cape Town.
Protea Hotel Wanderers standard rooms cannot comfortably accommodate 3; therefore, prices for triples reflect a double, plus a single room configuration which is available on request. Protea Hotel Victoria Junction standard rooms cannot comfortably accommodate 3; therefore, prices reflect a loft room which is available on request.
Please note, all passport holders should have one or more entirely blank (unstamped) visa pages in their passport when traveling to South Africa or Swaziland. Click here for more information.
Entry Requirements:
US citizens require a passport valid for six months beyond travel dates.
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| Although most of the planning and preparation is taken care of for you, there are still a few things you should know and some details you should take care of to ensure your comfort, safety and peace of mind. Please review the following information before your departure to ensure that any surprises along the way will only be pleasant ones. | |
| Passports and Visas | It is each traveler's responsibility to have a passport valid for at least 6 months from the date of departure and a visa if required. Please check the information at www.gate1travel.com/visas.aspx for the specific country/region you are visiting for more details. Passengers who are not U.S. citizens must check with the respective consulate or a visa agency to determine what personal identification is required. Passport applications are available at most U.S. Post Offices, as well as at regional Passport Agencies.
| | Trip Preparation | A little pre-planning can make your trip go a lot smoother. Several weeks before your trip, make a list of what you will need to take with you. Make sure your personal documents (passports, visas) are in order and that you have enough prescription medications to last through the trip. We suggest that you make photocopies of passports, visas, and any other important travel documents and pack them separately from the originals. Pack a list of medications including dosage and generic names. If you lose the originals while traveling, you'll have copies for easier reporting and replacement. We recommend that you pack a portable alarm clock.
| | Health Information | Check with your personal physician for the latest overseas travel health information, or contact the Center for Disease Control’s travelers’ hotline at 404-332-4559, web site www.cdc.gov.
| South Africa - While the majority of South Africa is malaria-free, visitors to Kruger National Park are encouraged to consult their health care providers regarding malaria prophylaxis. Additionally, visitors should use mosquito repellent and wear long pants, closed shoes, and a lightweight long sleeve shirt when in this area. Please consult your physician before traveling to South Africa.
| | Climate & Clothing | South Africa - Spring and Autumn: 55–70 ºF, Summer: 60–80ºF, Winter: 45–65ºF. Bring comfortable walking shoes, clothes you can layer, and an all-weather jacket. Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses are also recommended. On game reserves, visitors should wear neutral colors such as brown, khaki, and beige.
South Africa Average Temperatures: http://www.gate1travel.com/weather/africa/#south-africa-weather
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| E-Tickets & Check-In Procedures |
Please review the flight itinerary included in these documents. Print and carry a copy of the air itinerary which contains the record locator (airline reservation number) and e-ticket number(s). At check-in, be prepared to provide your government issued identification (valid passport) and your e-ticket itinerary/ ticket numbers to the agent in order to receive your boarding pass.
An e-ticket (electronic ticket) represents the purchase of an airline seat. This form of ticket has replaced almost all formerly provided paper tickets. The e-ticket exists only as a digital record in the airlines computers. In most cases your reservation will be confirmed solely on the basis of your government-issued identification. However it may still be necessary to present the e-ticket itinerary which contains your specific reservation code and ticket number(s). Once confirmed, your luggage will be checked-in and a boarding pass provided.
Advance online check-in is available on some airlines. If available, you may enter your airline confirmation number at the airline's website, and print the boarding pass on your home printer within twenty-four hours of departure. Airlines without advance online check-in require you to present your identification and e-ticket numbers at the airport self-service kiosk or check-in counter.
When e-tickets cannot be issued, you will receive paper tickets.
If your tour program includes foreign domestic flights, and those tickets are not included together with the e-ticket itinerary in these documents, a separate voucher(s) confirming those services will be included. You will receive those tickets at your destination from a Gate 1 representative.
| | Airline Flights | Please check in at least three hours prior to the scheduled departure time to allow for security steps. Passengers connecting from another point within the USA may check their luggage through to their final destination, and although problems with lost luggage have been minimal, it is a possibility. Certain carriers do not allow baggage “interlining,” and luggage must be checked separately for each flight. If you are connecting from a domestic flight which is delayed for any reason, causing you to miss your international flight, you must ask the airline for assistance in getting you to your destination. Since all airline tickets are issued on special fares which carry restrictions and penalties if changed, you must have the airlines responsible make alternate arrangements on your behalf as Gate 1 has no authority or control over airline activities and policies. Do not leave the airline check-in desk until an alternative itinerary has been confirmed for you.
Flight schedule changes are common and may occur anytime until departure. Therefore it is the responsibility of each passenger to reconfirm their flights 72 hours prior to departure for all flights.
| | Airline Luggage Restrictions | Most international airlines are consistent with regard to the number and weight of the pieces you may check and bring onboard. Domestic carriers however, typically on small aircraft, differ. Therefore, we suggest that you check in advance if you are concerned about size or weight restrictions. Many airlines have begun to apply charges for checked bags. Please contact your airline or refer to its website for detailed information regarding your airline's checked baggage policies. Airline policies vary and may change at any time. Gate 1 Travel is not responsible for any excess luggage/ weight charges levied by an airline.
| | Airline Seats | Airline seats are confirmed whenever possible. Some airlines and/or fare types do not allow for pre-seating and require this be done at airport check-in only. Even when seats are pre-assigned however, we recommend that you contact the carrier one to two weeks prior to departure to reconfirm your seats. In many cases there are equipment changes after your initial booking which can cause airplane seating reconfiguration.
| | Airline Tickets | Most airline tickets are issued using special fares which cannot be changed or canceled without incurring additional cost. Should you lose or misplace your tickets while traveling, you should immediately notify the airline. In most cases they will have you complete a Lost Ticket Indemnity Form, and for a fee, issue replacement tickets.
| | Code-share Flights | Many airlines participate in alliances and special agreements with other airlines which permit passengers to travel from one point to another using more than one carrier. While your ticket may indicate that you are flying with one carrier (eg: Delta), you may find that you are actually seated in a plane belonging to another carrier (eg: Alitalia). Please review your airline itinerary carefully to determine which airline you should go to for check-in; if your flight is operated by a carrier other than the primary airline indicated on the itinerary, your itinerary will state "Flight Operated by (Airline)." If you have any concerns regarding which airline to check-in with, you may contact the airline directly or Gate 1 Travel for clarification.
| | Luggage | All Gate 1 tour packages allow one piece of luggage per person, plus carry-on bag. Additional baggage will be subject to airline handling charges of up to $100 per piece. As Gate 1 will not be responsible for loss or damage to luggage and personal belongings, you MUST report any loss or damage immediately at the time of the incident and obtain a written report from the local authority for submission to your insurance provider. If your luggage is lost or damaged by the airlines, a baggage claim form MUST be filed with the carrier before leaving the airport. See www.gate1travel.com/luggage.aspx for Important Baggage Information for U.S. Travelers.
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| Arrival Procedures | Upon arrival, please complete immigration formalities and claim your luggage. If your program includes airport arrival transfers, check your voucher for specific instructions, as they vary with every destination. In most cases, you will be met after passing through Customs by the local representative who will be holding a Gate 1 Travel sign and/or a sign with your name on it. In some instances you will be instructed to walk a short distance to a transportation counter. The company's name and location will be printed on your voucher. If for any reason you do not connect with the Gate 1 transfer personnel, go to the Tourist Information Desk and ask them to page the Gate 1 Travel representative or phone the number on your voucher.
| | What To Do When Your Flight Is Delayed | Airlines do not share flight manifest information. Therefore, the only way we may learn of a delay or schedule change while you are traveling is from you, the traveler. The sooner you are able to contact one of our offices, overseas or in the USA, the better we can respond. Gate 1 Travel is only able to guarantee pre-reserved arrival transfers for up to one hour from the scheduled time, no matter the cause. In case you are delayed for any reason, and are unable to follow the instructions on your voucher, please make independent transfer arrangements and retain your receipts. Unused tour services, including transfers and hotel nights are not refundable. Upon your return home you will need to contact your airline and/or insurance carrier to investigate the possibility of reimbursement for any unused tour services.
| | Departure Procedures | If your program includes departure transfers, instructions will be stated on your voucher or provided locally.
| | Transfers | Due to local traffic and other extenuating circumstances, we ask that you allow 30 minutes from your scheduled transfer time for our representative to arrive. This includes hotel, airport and cruise transfers. Such possible delays are taken into consideration in scheduling transfers and you should therefore have no concerns about arriving late for your tour, flight or cruise. For transfers from a hotel, let the hotel reception desk or concierge know that you are waiting for a transfer. In the case of a missed transfer, reimbursement for your out-of-pocket expenses will be considered provided you obtain a written statement from the hotel's front desk verifying the length of time you waited, and the time you left the hotel, and a receipt for your transportation with time and date.
Escorted tour programs include transfers, providing you have purchased airfare from Gate 1 to arrive and depart on the scheduled tour dates. If you are traveling independently, you may purchase the transfers from Gate 1 or contract your own method of transportation to the hotel or cruise ship. The cost of a transfer will generally be more expensive than hiring a taxi as the pre-arranged transfer necessarily includes round trip service, or a 'dead-leg'. Additionally the driver may have to wait at the collection point for up to an hour.
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| Hotels | Gate 1 Travel has carefully selected each hotel based on overall quality, location, price, food, service, and cleanliness. All rooms are standard rooms with two single beds and private facilities, unless you have specifically requested and paid for an upgrade. Room selection is strictly at the discretion of the hotel management. We reserve the right to make hotel substitutions with those of equal standard.
| | Hotel Check-in/ Check-out | Check-in time is usually 4pm or later. Check-out time is 12 noon. If you will be arriving early in the day or departing in the evening, hotels will usually allow you to store your luggage in their luggage room. Ask at the front desk if the hotel can check you in earlier, or let you stay later.
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| Eco & Sustainable Tourism | We support global efforts to create a more eco-friendly world, intolerant of any forms of cruelty, abuse and intentional environmental destruction. To that end we ask that our clients maintain a watchful eye as they travel, and report any abuses they may encounter. One of the many benefits of tourism is the shared cultural knowledge and ultimate elimination of negative behavior through education. We rely on your good feedback to enable this element of symbiosis. As you travel to and learn about foreign cultures, we ask first and foremost that you practice tolerance and respect for local customs.
| | Land Only Passengers (Escorted Tours) | Your tour manager will contact you after your arrival at your hotel. Passengers who have not purchased arrival transfers from Gate 1 Travel should proceed directly to the hotel for checkin. The details of the hotel can be found in your documents.
| | Shopping | Shopping in a foreign country can be a wonderful experience. We do include a few stops at recommended popular shops on every escorted tour, intended to enhance your cultural experience. As you explore the country independently, you may find fantastic, one-of-a-kind merchandise. You may get terrific bargains. However, we advise you to exercise care and common sense when making any purchase. Always get a formal receipt. And remember that, just like in this country, if a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is!
| South Africa - Local specialties include handcrafts such as basketware, beadwork, embroidery and sculptures, as well as exceptional gold, platinum, and diamond jewelry. Boutiques, malls, markets, and roadside stands abound.
| | Currency | We suggest getting a small amount of currency for the first country you're visiting before you leave the U.S. It is a good idea to carry a chart with you to help you convert U.S. dollars to the local currency. It's also a good idea not to carry too much money. Many countries have ATM machines that accept most U.S. ATM cards, but be sure you know your ATM password in numbers-the keypads on foreign ATMs don't always have letters. ATM machines will only dispense cash in local currency. Check with respective consulates to learn current currency allowances and requirements. Use your credit card whenever possible. Should you decide to carry cash or travelers checks, exchange them at banks where the rate is more favorable than at hotels or exchange bureaus. Please note that many banks and most vendors will not accept or exchange $100 bills. We suggest to carry $20 bills or smaller.
| South Africa & Swaziland - The Rand is the currency of South Africa. The Lilangeni is the currency of Swaziland.
| | Purchasing Tours Locally | On escorted tours, the guides will generally sell optional tours to passengers who have not pre-purchased them. Payment can be made by cash or credit card, unless otherwise noted below. This does not apply to Independent packages. Please see Gate 1 Terms & Conditions for more information. http://www.gate1travel.com/terms.aspx#optional
| | Credit Cards | While credit cards are accepted in most destinations, it is advisable to carry local currency. Inform your credit card company that you are traveling to avoid your card being blocked for security reasons.
| | Gratuities | This is a matter of personal discretion. You may use the following as a guideline:
- Tour escort (Coordinator; may or may not act as a guide):
$6 or $7 per person per day
- Driver (Provides chauffeur services and limited assistance with luggage):
$3 per person per day
- Local Guide (Offers in-depth information at specific locations. There may be one or many guides along a tour program):
$2 per person per half day of sightseeing (2-3 hours)
- River Cruises:
$6 or $7 per person per day as indicated by each cruise line (see details regarding European River Cruises)
- Hotel Porter:
$1 per bag per person
- Wait staff:
$1.50 per person (lunch or dinner)
Tipping is considered by many locals to be a part of their normal remuneration and some may approach you for additional "compensation." There is no need to be intimidated by the request, nor should you feel pressured to pay more than recommended. If you become uncomfortable by any behavior you encounter, please advise your tour escort or phone our local office. Numbers have been provided in your documents for your convenience.
| South Africa - Gratuities are appreciated and expected for good service in restaurants and other places that cater to tourists, as well as on safaris. A general guideline for tipping Game Rangers is approximately 50 Rand ($7) per person, per day.
| | Your Safety is Very Important | Every effort has been taken by Gate 1 Travel to ensure your safety. However, it is important that you do not allow your common sense to take a vacation while you're on your trip. Be aware of potentially dangerous places and situations as you would at home. Avoid wearing expensive jewelry and carry your valuables concealed in inside pockets or hidden pouches. Don't put all your valuables (money, credit cards, passports, etc.) in the same place. (In case that one wallet is stolen, you should have other valuables and identification in another safe place.) Don't leave valuables laying loose in your room-use the hotel safe. Keep copies of your passports, credit card numbers and travelers checks numbers in the hotel safe. If you've purchased an escorted tour program, your travel documents will include telephone numbers of local Gate 1 Travel representatives who will do their utmost to assist you in the event of an emergency. The numbers are printed on your Gate 1 Travel vouchers. Please copy the numbers. Once you relinquish the voucher, you will not have this information. Passengers traveling independently should employ the services of hotel concierges and local authorities.
| | Local Emergency Phone Numbers | South Africa
- Ambulance/Fire: 10177
- Police: 10111
- General Emergency in Cape Town: 107
| | Languages | South Africa - Zulu, Xhosa, Afrikaans, and English are among the local languages.
| | Electricity | Please note: The U.S. uses 120 volts and you can purchase a converter and transformer at most hardware stores for your 120V appliances.
| South Africa - The voltage used is 220 volts.
| | Code of Conduct | South Africa - Shaking hands is the standard greeting. Common courtesies should be observed. Conservative casual dress is appropriate. Rural areas tend to be more conservative than urban areas. In conversation, avoid discussing racial tensions. South Africa is one of the world's great examples of biodiversity. Please be mindful of this ecological significance and do not litter.
| | Holidays - South Africa |
| Holidays 2009 |
| Jan 1 |
New Year's Day |
| Mar 21 |
Human Rights Day |
Apr 10 |
Good Friday |
Apr 12 |
Easter |
Apr 13 |
Easter Monday |
Apr 27 |
Freedom Day |
May 1 |
Workers' Day |
Jun 16 |
Youth Day |
Aug 9 |
National Women's Day |
Sep 24 |
Heritage Day |
Dec 16 |
Day of Reconciliation |
Dec 25 |
Christmas Day |
Dec 26 |
Day of Goodwill |
Dec 31 |
New Year's Eve |
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| Food and Meals | As specified in each itinerary. Meals are based on the hotel's or restaurant's buffet or set menu. In general, beverages are not included, unless specifically stated. Although Gate 1 cannot make guarantees, every effort will be made to honor special dietary requests submitted in writing at least 72 hours prior to departure to info@gate1travel.com.
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