14 Day Classic South Africa with Victoria Falls
From
$3539
Land Only
$4949*
Air & Land
Featured Hotels
(Hotels may vary based on departure day of the week)
| Sunday Departure | ||
|---|---|---|
| Southern Sun Waterfront Cape Town | Cape Town | |
| The Rockefeller Hotel & Residences | Cape Town | |
| Anew Hotel Hluhluwe & Safaris | Hluhluwe | |
| Mountain View International Hotel by BON Hotels | Mbabane | |
| Happy Valley Hotel | Ezulwini | |
| Piggs Peak Hotel | Piggs Peak | |
| Anew Resort Hazyview Kruger Park | Hazyview | |
| Sabi River Sun Resort | Hazyview | |
| Kruger Gate Hotel | Kruger National Park | |
| Southern Sun Sandton | Johannesburg | |
| Victoria Falls Safari Lodge | Victoria Falls | |
| Monday Departure | ||
|---|---|---|
| City Lodge Hotel Victoria & Alfred Waterfront | Cape Town | |
| Southern Sun Waterfront Cape Town | Cape Town | |
| Anew Hotel Hluhluwe & Safaris | Hluhluwe | |
| Hilton Garden Inn Mbabane | Mbabane | |
| Mountain View International Hotel by BON Hotels | Mbabane | |
| Anew Resort Hazyview Kruger Park | Hazyview | |
| Southern Sun Sandton | Johannesburg | |
| Victoria Falls Safari Lodge | Victoria Falls | |
| Wednesday Departure | ||
|---|---|---|
| Southern Sun Waterfront Cape Town | Cape Town | |
| The Rockefeller Hotel & Residences | Cape Town | |
| Emdoneni Lodge | Hluhluwe | |
| Anew Hotel Hluhluwe & Safaris | Hluhluwe | |
| Hilton Garden Inn Mbabane | Mbabane | |
| Mountain View International Hotel by BON Hotels | Mbabane | |
| Happy Valley Hotel | Ezulwini | |
| Anew Resort Hazyview Kruger Park | Hazyview | |
| Hippo Hollow Country Estate | Hazyview | |
| Umbhaba Eco Lodge | Hazyview | |
| Kruger Gate Hotel | Kruger National Park | |
| Southern Sun Sandton | Johannesburg | |
| Victoria Falls Safari Lodge | Victoria Falls | |
| Thursday Departure | ||
|---|---|---|
| Southern Sun Waterfront Cape Town | Cape Town | |
| Anew Hotel Hluhluwe & Safaris | Hluhluwe | |
| Mountain View International Hotel by BON Hotels | Mbabane | |
| Umbhaba Eco Lodge | Hazyview | |
| Kruger Gate Hotel | Kruger National Park | |
| Southern Sun Sandton | Johannesburg | |
| Victoria Falls Safari Lodge | Victoria Falls | |
| Friday Departure | ||
|---|---|---|
| Southern Sun Waterfront Cape Town | Cape Town | |
| Anew Hotel Hluhluwe & Safaris | Hluhluwe | |
| Mountain View International Hotel by BON Hotels | Mbabane | |
| Anew Resort Hazyview Kruger Park | Hazyview | |
| Kruger Gate Hotel | Kruger National Park | |
| Southern Sun Sandton | Johannesburg | |
| Victoria Falls Safari Lodge | Victoria Falls | |
Click a Date to Book Online
Click a Date to Book Online
| 2024 Dates & Prices Single Supplement: $450 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hotel | Dates | Embark | Tour Starts | Ship | Land Only | Air & Land | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
$3499 | $5039* | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
$3749 | $5379* | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
$3549 | $5209* | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
$3749 | $5359* | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
$3849 | $5429* | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
$3849 | $5309* | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
$3749 | $5249* | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
$3999 | $5339* | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
$3849 | $5349* | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
$3749 | $5539* | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
$3999 | $5289* | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
$3799 | $5289* | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
$3469 | $4959* | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
$3749 | $5499* | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
$3749 | $5119* | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
$3699 | $5719* | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
$3699 | $5559* | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
$3699 | $5659* | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
$3699 | $5689* | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
$3699 | $5619* | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
$3749 | $5739* | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
$3699 | $5869* | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
$3899 | $6269* | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
$3799 | $5969* | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| $3899 | $5899* | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
$3899 | $6009* | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
$3899 | $6079* | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| $3899 | $5759* | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
$3899 | $5319* | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
$3899 | $5449* | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| $3899 | $5529* | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| $4149 | $5759* | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| $4149 | $5609* | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Only 1 seat left! | $4149 | $5639* | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| $4149 | $5789* | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
$4149 | $5709* | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
$4149 | $5609* | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| $4149 | $5739* | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| $3899 | $5389* | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
$4149 | $5739* | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| $4149 | $5639* | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| $4149 | $5779* | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| $4149 | $5799* | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| $3899 | $5389* | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| $3899 | $5459* | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| $3899 | $5469* | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| $3899 | $5569* | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| $3999 | $5709* | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Only 1 seat left! | $3999 | $5709* | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| $3999 | $5669* | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| $3899 | $5389* | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
$3999 | $5939* | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| $3999 | $5519* | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| $3899 | $5409* | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| $3799 | $5209* | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| $3699 | $5359* | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| $3669 | $4949* | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| $3799 | $5079* | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
$3999 | $5329* | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| $3669 | $4979* | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| $3649 | $4979* | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
$3849 | $5129* | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| $3699 | $5279* | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| $3649 | $5079* | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| $3539 | $4959* | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| $3749 | $5289* | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| $3699 | $5639* | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2025 Dates & Prices Single Supplement: $450 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Hotel | Dates | Embark | Tour Starts | Ship | Land Only | Air & Land | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| $3679 | $5089* | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| $3679 | $5349* | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| $3899 | $5309* | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| $3899 | $5179* | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
$4099 | $5449* | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| $4099 | $5489* | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| $4099 | $5409* | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| $4099 | $5379* | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| $4049 | $5508* | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| $4099 | $5649* | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| $4099 | $5549* | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| $4099 | $5549* | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| $4049 | $5508* | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| $4099 | $5649* | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| $4099 | $5549* | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| $4099 | $5649* | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| $4099 | $5549* | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| $4049 | $5508* | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| $4099 | $5649* | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| $4099 | $5549* | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| $4099 | $5549* | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| $4049 | $5508* | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| $4099 | $5649* | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Not Included:
Optional tours and gratuities.
Additional Information:
Land only price does not include arrival transfer, but does include flights Cape Town-Durban, Johannesburg-Victoria Falls & Victoria Falls-Johannesburg.
Passengers should select international flights from Johannesburg that depart no earlier than 7:30 PM on day 14. The flight from Victoria Falls arrives to Johannesburg at approximately 3:30 PM. Passengers with late evening flights will have a long layover in Johannesburg airport.
Children under 12 years of age are not permitted on open vehicle game drives in Kruger National Park.
Please note, all passport holders should have four or more entirely blank (unstamped) visa pages in their passport when traveling to South Africa, Zimbabwe, and eSwatini. Click here for more information.
Accommodation Details:
Triple rooms are not available for this package.
Passengers traveling abroad require a passport valid for six months beyond their travel dates. All travelers are responsible to check if a visa is required for all countries on their itinerary. For visa information, check our Visas page.
Is This Trip Right for You?
Escorted Package Includes
- Flights New York-Cape Town, Johannesburg-New York
Other departure cities available. Click on date of departure for selection and prices - Airline taxes & fuel surcharges
- All intra-flights: Cape Town-Durban, Johannesburg-Victoria Falls & Victoria Falls-Johannesburg
- 12 nights accommodations
- 4 nights Cape Town
- 1 night Hluhluwe
- 1 night Mbabane (eSwatini)
- 2 nights Hazyview
- 2 nights Johannesburg
- 2 nights Victoria Falls
- Hotel taxes, fees & service charges
- Hotel porterage
- Arrival transfer included only with airfare purchase on package arrival dates†
- Departure transfer
- 20 meals: 12 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 5 dinners
- Sightseeing per itinerary in modern air-conditioned motor coach
- Game drives in modern 10-seater safari vehicles
- Services of English-speaking tour manager throughout
- Entrance fees per itinerary
Special Features
- Experience Cape Town, during the city tour pass by Castle of Good Hope, the Grande Parade and visit Table Mountain
- In the course of the Cape Peninsula tour, visit the Cape of Good Hope reserve and view the penguin colonies at Boulders Beach
- Game viewing cruise on the St Lucia Estuary, a uniquely diverse ecosystem
- Game drive through Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Game Reserve
- A thrilling game drive in an open-vehicle through Kruger National Park
- In Soweto, the most metropolitan township, visit Nelson Mandela's former home
- Visit spectacular Victoria Falls, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Enjoy a sunset cruise on the mighty Zambezi River
†Arrival transfer is available for purchase for land only or on alternative flight dates
Is This Trip Right for You?
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Gate 1 Travel itineraries may contain suggestions for activities for your leisure time; these suggestions do not constitute a recommendation nor an endorsement of any specific service provider and the decision to participate in any such activities should be made independently.
This tourist class hotel is located in the heart of the Zulu's beautiful untamed Elephant Coast in KwaZulu Natal near to renowned Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Game Reserve and iSimangaliso Wetland Park.
Hotel Details
This tourist class hotel is located a short distance away from the Mbabane city center.
Hotel Details
This tourist class hotel is situated in the midst of a secluded pine forest in the mountainous north-west region of eSwatini.
Hotel Details
This first class hotel is just a 25 minute drive from Kruger National Park's Phabeni Gate.
Hotel Details
This first class hotel faces the Zambezi National Park and overlooks a large central waterhole.
Hotel Details
This tourist class hotel is located in Cape Town, near the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront.
Hotel Details
This tourist class hotel is located in the heart of the Zulu's beautiful untamed Elephant Coast in KwaZulu Natal near to renowned Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Game Reserve and iSimangaliso Wetland Park.
Hotel Details
This superior tourist class hotel is situated in the Mbabane Central Business District.
Hotel Details
This tourist class hotel is located a short distance away from the Mbabane city center.
Hotel Details
This first class hotel is just a 25 minute drive from Kruger National Park's Phabeni Gate.
Hotel Details
This first class hotel faces the Zambezi National Park and overlooks a large central waterhole.
Hotel Details
This tourist class hotel is located in the heart of the Zulu's beautiful untamed Elephant Coast in KwaZulu Natal near to renowned Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Game Reserve and iSimangaliso Wetland Park.
Hotel Details
This superior tourist class hotel is situated in the Mbabane Central Business District.
Hotel Details
This tourist class hotel is located a short distance away from the Mbabane city center.
Hotel Details
This first class hotel is just a 25 minute drive from Kruger National Park's Phabeni Gate.
Hotel Details
This first class hotel is located on the banks of the Sabie River just outside Hazyview.
Hotel Details
This superior tourist class lodge is a fifteen minute drive from Kruger National Park.
Hotel Details
This first class hotel faces the Zambezi National Park and overlooks a large central waterhole.
Hotel Details
This tourist class hotel is located in the heart of the Zulu's beautiful untamed Elephant Coast in KwaZulu Natal near to renowned Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Game Reserve and iSimangaliso Wetland Park.
Hotel Details
This tourist class hotel is located a short distance away from the Mbabane city center.
Hotel Details
This superior tourist class lodge is a fifteen minute drive from Kruger National Park.
Hotel Details
This first class hotel faces the Zambezi National Park and overlooks a large central waterhole.
Hotel Details
This tourist class hotel is located in the heart of the Zulu's beautiful untamed Elephant Coast in KwaZulu Natal near to renowned Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Game Reserve and iSimangaliso Wetland Park.
Hotel Details
This tourist class hotel is located a short distance away from the Mbabane city center.
Hotel Details
This first class hotel is just a 25 minute drive from Kruger National Park's Phabeni Gate.
Hotel Details
This first class hotel faces the Zambezi National Park and overlooks a large central waterhole.
Hotel Details- Tours purchased while travelling may cost an extra 10% or more
- Tours often sell out. Avoid disappointment
- Save your cash. Credit card processing may not be possible locally
- Travel insurance only covers services purchased prior to departure
- Book Online or call to book these tours up to 1 week before your departure
- The day the optionals operate varies by the day of the week
Treat yourself to a memorable evening of entertainment and traditional African gastronomy. Enjoy an exciting interactive djembe drumming session before dinner. Then, savor a 14-course meal with dishes from several African nations, accompanied by live performances.
Approximate tour duration is 4.5 hours.
| Day #4 | 01 Jan 2024 - 12 Sep 2024 | $59.00 |
| 14 Sep 2024 - 31 Dec 2024 | $59.00 | |
| 01 Jan 2025 - 31 Dec 2025 | $62.00 |
Join a thrilling full day excursion to "Shark Alley" to experience shark cage diving. Early this morning depart Cape Town and head east to the coastal fishing town of Gansbaai. Upon arrival, the crew of your expedition boat will review the day's activities, safety etiquette and provide fascinating insight to these marine predators. Enjoy a light breakfast before boarding your boat and heading out into the open waters between Geyser Rock and Dyer Islander where sharks hunt for seals and penguins. Outfitted with a wetsuit, lifejacket and snorkeling mask, climb through the top of the cage secured to the boat. You will take turns with your fellow divers watching these predators under water and from the comfort of the ship deck.
Return to the port in the early afternoon where you will be greeted with a hot bowl of soup and bread. Relax as the marine biologist recaps your adventure and answers any remaining questions before your return to Cape Town.
*Departure from the hotel will be as early as 4 AM and the drive from Cape Town to Gansbaai is approximately 2.5 hours (one way). The boat will be launched around 9 AM and the boat trip will last between 3-5 hours depending on the weather and sea conditions. Shower facilities will be available after the ship returns from the dive. The return transfer to Cape Town will be at approximately 2 PM and arrival at 4:30 PM. Pick-up and drop-off times are approximate and will be advised locally.
*Due to limited capacity, advanced booking is recommended for this tour. This is not an exclusive tour and therefore you may be with passengers from other tour companies. Shark sightings are not guaranteed and are dependent upon weather and sea conditions. Due to inclement weather and/or rough seas, this tour may be canceled and refunded.
*Sea conditions can be unpredictable and may become choppy or very rough at times. As a result, some customers experience discomfort and/or seasickness. Some over-the-counter medications, such as Dramamine or Benadryl, may help reduce or prevent seasickness. Clients who are prone to seasickness are advised not to participate in this tour.
*Optionals "Full Day Shark Cage Diving" and "South African Wine Tour" operate at the same time and should not be booked together.
| Day #5 | 01 Jan 2024 - 31 Dec 2024 | $205.00 |
| 01 Jan 2025 - 31 Dec 2025 | $215.00 |
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 and enjoy tastings at some of the excellent vineyards along the way. Begin with a visit 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. Then continue northwest to the old, scenic village of Franschhoek, founded near the Drakenstein Mountains in 1688 by French immigrants, whose descendants eventually supplied highly sought after wine to Napoleon, Bismarck, and even King Edward VII. Stop for lunch on your own, and then enjoy a final tasting before bidding farewell to the wine country and returning to Cape Town.
Approximate tour duration is 8 hours.
*Optionals "Full Day Shark Cage Diving" and "South African Wine Tour" operate at the same time and should not be booked together.
| Day #5 | 01 Jan 2024 - 31 Dec 2024 | $62.00 |
| 01 Jan 2025 - 31 Dec 2025 | $65.00 |
This dinner will allow you to meet a local South African family and visit their home. You will have the opportunity to enjoy a home cooked three course meal with wine typical to South Africa. Give yourself the chance to experience local culture in a relaxed and comfortable environment with fascinating conversation about the way of life in South Africa, while also exchanging views as well as experiences with your hosts.
Approximate tour duration is 4 hours.
| Day #5 | 01 Jan 2024 - 31 Dec 2024 | $59.00 |
| 01 Jan 2025 - 31 Dec 2025 | $62.00 |
Take a helicopter flight over Victoria Falls, one of the world's most spectacular waterfalls. Soar above the towering wall of mist created by the Victoria Falls, and marvel at this natural wonder. A truly once in a lifetime opportunity not to be missed.
Approximate tour duration is 1.5 hours. The actual time in the air is 12 minutes.
| Day #13 | 01 Jan 2024 - 31 Dec 2024 | $155.00 |
| 01 Jan 2025 - 31 Dec 2025 | $163.00 |
Treat yourself to a memorable evening of entertainment and traditional African gastronomy. Enjoy an exciting interactive djembe drumming session before dinner. Then, savor a 14-course meal with dishes from several African nations, accompanied by live performances.
Approximate tour duration is 4.5 hours.
| Day #4 | 01 Jan 2024 - 12 Sep 2024 | $59.00 |
| 14 Sep 2024 - 31 Dec 2024 | $59.00 | |
| 01 Jan 2025 - 31 Dec 2025 | $62.00 |
Join a thrilling full day excursion to "Shark Alley" to experience shark cage diving. Early this morning depart Cape Town and head east to the coastal fishing town of Gansbaai. Upon arrival, the crew of your expedition boat will review the day's activities, safety etiquette and provide fascinating insight to these marine predators. Enjoy a light breakfast before boarding your boat and heading out into the open waters between Geyser Rock and Dyer Islander where sharks hunt for seals and penguins. Outfitted with a wetsuit, lifejacket and snorkeling mask, climb through the top of the cage secured to the boat. You will take turns with your fellow divers watching these predators under water and from the comfort of the ship deck.
Return to the port in the early afternoon where you will be greeted with a hot bowl of soup and bread. Relax as the marine biologist recaps your adventure and answers any remaining questions before your return to Cape Town.
*Departure from the hotel will be as early as 4 AM and the drive from Cape Town to Gansbaai is approximately 2.5 hours (one way). The boat will be launched around 9 AM and the boat trip will last between 3-5 hours depending on the weather and sea conditions. Shower facilities will be available after the ship returns from the dive. The return transfer to Cape Town will be at approximately 2 PM and arrival at 4:30 PM. Pick-up and drop-off times are approximate and will be advised locally.
*Due to limited capacity, advanced booking is recommended for this tour. This is not an exclusive tour and therefore you may be with passengers from other tour companies. Shark sightings are not guaranteed and are dependent upon weather and sea conditions. Due to inclement weather and/or rough seas, this tour may be canceled and refunded.
*Sea conditions can be unpredictable and may become choppy or very rough at times. As a result, some customers experience discomfort and/or seasickness. Some over-the-counter medications, such as Dramamine or Benadryl, may help reduce or prevent seasickness. Clients who are prone to seasickness are advised not to participate in this tour.
*Optionals "Full Day Shark Cage Diving" and "South African Wine Tour" operate at the same time and should not be booked together.
| Day #5 | 01 Jan 2024 - 31 Dec 2024 | $205.00 |
| 01 Jan 2025 - 31 Dec 2025 | $215.00 |
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 and enjoy tastings at some of the excellent vineyards along the way. Begin with a visit 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. Then continue northwest to the old, scenic village of Franschhoek, founded near the Drakenstein Mountains in 1688 by French immigrants, whose descendants eventually supplied highly sought after wine to Napoleon, Bismarck, and even King Edward VII. Stop for lunch on your own, and then enjoy a final tasting before bidding farewell to the wine country and returning to Cape Town.
Approximate tour duration is 8 hours.
*Optionals "Full Day Shark Cage Diving" and "South African Wine Tour" operate at the same time and should not be booked together.
| Day #5 | 01 Jan 2024 - 31 Dec 2024 | $62.00 |
| 01 Jan 2025 - 31 Dec 2025 | $65.00 |
This dinner will allow you to meet a local South African family and visit their home. You will have the opportunity to enjoy a home cooked three course meal with wine typical to South Africa. Give yourself the chance to experience local culture in a relaxed and comfortable environment with fascinating conversation about the way of life in South Africa, while also exchanging views as well as experiences with your hosts.
Approximate tour duration is 4 hours.
| Day #5 | 01 Jan 2024 - 31 Dec 2024 | $59.00 |
| 01 Jan 2025 - 31 Dec 2025 | $62.00 |
Take a helicopter flight over Victoria Falls, one of the world's most spectacular waterfalls. Soar above the towering wall of mist created by the Victoria Falls, and marvel at this natural wonder. A truly once in a lifetime opportunity not to be missed.
Approximate tour duration is 1.5 hours. The actual time in the air is 12 minutes.
| Day #13 | 01 Jan 2024 - 31 Dec 2024 | $155.00 |
| 01 Jan 2025 - 31 Dec 2025 | $163.00 |
Treat yourself to a memorable evening of entertainment and traditional African gastronomy. Enjoy an exciting interactive djembe drumming session before dinner. Then, savor a 14-course meal with dishes from several African nations, accompanied by live performances.
Approximate tour duration is 4.5 hours.
| Day #4 | 01 Jan 2024 - 12 Sep 2024 | $59.00 |
| 14 Sep 2024 - 31 Dec 2024 | $59.00 | |
| 01 Jan 2025 - 31 Dec 2025 | $62.00 |
Join a thrilling full day excursion to "Shark Alley" to experience shark cage diving. Early this morning depart Cape Town and head east to the coastal fishing town of Gansbaai. Upon arrival, the crew of your expedition boat will review the day's activities, safety etiquette and provide fascinating insight to these marine predators. Enjoy a light breakfast before boarding your boat and heading out into the open waters between Geyser Rock and Dyer Islander where sharks hunt for seals and penguins. Outfitted with a wetsuit, lifejacket and snorkeling mask, climb through the top of the cage secured to the boat. You will take turns with your fellow divers watching these predators under water and from the comfort of the ship deck.
Return to the port in the early afternoon where you will be greeted with a hot bowl of soup and bread. Relax as the marine biologist recaps your adventure and answers any remaining questions before your return to Cape Town.
*Departure from the hotel will be as early as 4 AM and the drive from Cape Town to Gansbaai is approximately 2.5 hours (one way). The boat will be launched around 9 AM and the boat trip will last between 3-5 hours depending on the weather and sea conditions. Shower facilities will be available after the ship returns from the dive. The return transfer to Cape Town will be at approximately 2 PM and arrival at 4:30 PM. Pick-up and drop-off times are approximate and will be advised locally.
*Due to limited capacity, advanced booking is recommended for this tour. This is not an exclusive tour and therefore you may be with passengers from other tour companies. Shark sightings are not guaranteed and are dependent upon weather and sea conditions. Due to inclement weather and/or rough seas, this tour may be canceled and refunded.
*Sea conditions can be unpredictable and may become choppy or very rough at times. As a result, some customers experience discomfort and/or seasickness. Some over-the-counter medications, such as Dramamine or Benadryl, may help reduce or prevent seasickness. Clients who are prone to seasickness are advised not to participate in this tour.
*Optionals "Full Day Shark Cage Diving" and "South African Wine Tour" operate at the same time and should not be booked together.
| Day #5 | 01 Jan 2024 - 31 Dec 2024 | $205.00 |
| 01 Jan 2025 - 31 Dec 2025 | $215.00 |
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 and enjoy tastings at some of the excellent vineyards along the way. Begin with a visit 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. Then continue northwest to the old, scenic village of Franschhoek, founded near the Drakenstein Mountains in 1688 by French immigrants, whose descendants eventually supplied highly sought after wine to Napoleon, Bismarck, and even King Edward VII. Stop for lunch on your own, and then enjoy a final tasting before bidding farewell to the wine country and returning to Cape Town.
Approximate tour duration is 8 hours.
*Optionals "Full Day Shark Cage Diving" and "South African Wine Tour" operate at the same time and should not be booked together.
| Day #5 | 01 Jan 2024 - 31 Dec 2024 | $62.00 |
| 01 Jan 2025 - 31 Dec 2025 | $65.00 |
This dinner will allow you to meet a local South African family and visit their home. You will have the opportunity to enjoy a home cooked three course meal with wine typical to South Africa. Give yourself the chance to experience local culture in a relaxed and comfortable environment with fascinating conversation about the way of life in South Africa, while also exchanging views as well as experiences with your hosts.
Approximate tour duration is 4 hours.
| Day #5 | 01 Jan 2024 - 31 Dec 2024 | $59.00 |
| 01 Jan 2025 - 31 Dec 2025 | $62.00 |
Take a helicopter flight over Victoria Falls, one of the world's most spectacular waterfalls. Soar above the towering wall of mist created by the Victoria Falls, and marvel at this natural wonder. A truly once in a lifetime opportunity not to be missed.
Approximate tour duration is 1.5 hours. The actual time in the air is 12 minutes.
| Day #13 | 01 Jan 2024 - 31 Dec 2024 | $155.00 |
| 01 Jan 2025 - 31 Dec 2025 | $163.00 |
Treat yourself to a memorable evening of entertainment and traditional African gastronomy. Enjoy an exciting interactive djembe drumming session before dinner. Then, savor a 14-course meal with dishes from several African nations, accompanied by live performances.
Approximate tour duration is 4.5 hours.
| Day #4 | 01 Jan 2024 - 12 Sep 2024 | $59.00 |
| 14 Sep 2024 - 31 Dec 2024 | $59.00 |
Join a thrilling full day excursion to "Shark Alley" to experience shark cage diving. Early this morning depart Cape Town and head east to the coastal fishing town of Gansbaai. Upon arrival, the crew of your expedition boat will review the day's activities, safety etiquette and provide fascinating insight to these marine predators. Enjoy a light breakfast before boarding your boat and heading out into the open waters between Geyser Rock and Dyer Islander where sharks hunt for seals and penguins. Outfitted with a wetsuit, lifejacket and snorkeling mask, climb through the top of the cage secured to the boat. You will take turns with your fellow divers watching these predators under water and from the comfort of the ship deck.
Return to the port in the early afternoon where you will be greeted with a hot bowl of soup and bread. Relax as the marine biologist recaps your adventure and answers any remaining questions before your return to Cape Town.
*Departure from the hotel will be as early as 4 AM and the drive from Cape Town to Gansbaai is approximately 2.5 hours (one way). The boat will be launched around 9 AM and the boat trip will last between 3-5 hours depending on the weather and sea conditions. Shower facilities will be available after the ship returns from the dive. The return transfer to Cape Town will be at approximately 2 PM and arrival at 4:30 PM. Pick-up and drop-off times are approximate and will be advised locally.
*Due to limited capacity, advanced booking is recommended for this tour. This is not an exclusive tour and therefore you may be with passengers from other tour companies. Shark sightings are not guaranteed and are dependent upon weather and sea conditions. Due to inclement weather and/or rough seas, this tour may be canceled and refunded.
*Sea conditions can be unpredictable and may become choppy or very rough at times. As a result, some customers experience discomfort and/or seasickness. Some over-the-counter medications, such as Dramamine or Benadryl, may help reduce or prevent seasickness. Clients who are prone to seasickness are advised not to participate in this tour.
*Optionals "Full Day Shark Cage Diving" and "South African Wine Tour" operate at the same time and should not be booked together.
| Day #5 | 01 Jan 2024 - 31 Dec 2024 | $205.00 |
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 and enjoy tastings at some of the excellent vineyards along the way. Begin with a visit 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. Then continue northwest to the old, scenic village of Franschhoek, founded near the Drakenstein Mountains in 1688 by French immigrants, whose descendants eventually supplied highly sought after wine to Napoleon, Bismarck, and even King Edward VII. Stop for lunch on your own, and then enjoy a final tasting before bidding farewell to the wine country and returning to Cape Town.
Approximate tour duration is 8 hours.
*Optionals "Full Day Shark Cage Diving" and "South African Wine Tour" operate at the same time and should not be booked together.
| Day #5 | 01 Jan 2024 - 31 Dec 2024 | $62.00 |
This dinner will allow you to meet a local South African family and visit their home. You will have the opportunity to enjoy a home cooked three course meal with wine typical to South Africa. Give yourself the chance to experience local culture in a relaxed and comfortable environment with fascinating conversation about the way of life in South Africa, while also exchanging views as well as experiences with your hosts.
Approximate tour duration is 4 hours.
| Day #5 | 01 Jan 2024 - 31 Dec 2024 | $59.00 |
Take a helicopter flight over Victoria Falls, one of the world's most spectacular waterfalls. Soar above the towering wall of mist created by the Victoria Falls, and marvel at this natural wonder. A truly once in a lifetime opportunity not to be missed.
Approximate tour duration is 1.5 hours. The actual time in the air is 12 minutes.
| Day #13 | 01 Jan 2024 - 31 Dec 2024 | $155.00 |
Treat yourself to a memorable evening of entertainment and traditional African gastronomy. Enjoy an exciting interactive djembe drumming session before dinner. Then, savor a 14-course meal with dishes from several African nations, accompanied by live performances.
Approximate tour duration is 4.5 hours.
| Day #4 | 01 Jan 2024 - 12 Sep 2024 | $59.00 |
| 14 Sep 2024 - 31 Dec 2024 | $59.00 | |
| 01 Jan 2025 - 31 Dec 2025 | $62.00 |
Join a thrilling full day excursion to "Shark Alley" to experience shark cage diving. Early this morning depart Cape Town and head east to the coastal fishing town of Gansbaai. Upon arrival, the crew of your expedition boat will review the day's activities, safety etiquette and provide fascinating insight to these marine predators. Enjoy a light breakfast before boarding your boat and heading out into the open waters between Geyser Rock and Dyer Islander where sharks hunt for seals and penguins. Outfitted with a wetsuit, lifejacket and snorkeling mask, climb through the top of the cage secured to the boat. You will take turns with your fellow divers watching these predators under water and from the comfort of the ship deck.
Return to the port in the early afternoon where you will be greeted with a hot bowl of soup and bread. Relax as the marine biologist recaps your adventure and answers any remaining questions before your return to Cape Town.
*Departure from the hotel will be as early as 4 AM and the drive from Cape Town to Gansbaai is approximately 2.5 hours (one way). The boat will be launched around 9 AM and the boat trip will last between 3-5 hours depending on the weather and sea conditions. Shower facilities will be available after the ship returns from the dive. The return transfer to Cape Town will be at approximately 2 PM and arrival at 4:30 PM. Pick-up and drop-off times are approximate and will be advised locally.
*Due to limited capacity, advanced booking is recommended for this tour. This is not an exclusive tour and therefore you may be with passengers from other tour companies. Shark sightings are not guaranteed and are dependent upon weather and sea conditions. Due to inclement weather and/or rough seas, this tour may be canceled and refunded.
*Sea conditions can be unpredictable and may become choppy or very rough at times. As a result, some customers experience discomfort and/or seasickness. Some over-the-counter medications, such as Dramamine or Benadryl, may help reduce or prevent seasickness. Clients who are prone to seasickness are advised not to participate in this tour.
*Optionals "Full Day Shark Cage Diving" and "South African Wine Tour" operate at the same time and should not be booked together.
| Day #5 | 01 Jan 2024 - 31 Dec 2024 | $205.00 |
| 01 Jan 2025 - 31 Dec 2025 | $215.00 |
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 and enjoy tastings at some of the excellent vineyards along the way. Begin with a visit 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. Then continue northwest to the old, scenic village of Franschhoek, founded near the Drakenstein Mountains in 1688 by French immigrants, whose descendants eventually supplied highly sought after wine to Napoleon, Bismarck, and even King Edward VII. Stop for lunch on your own, and then enjoy a final tasting before bidding farewell to the wine country and returning to Cape Town.
Approximate tour duration is 8 hours.
*Optionals "Full Day Shark Cage Diving" and "South African Wine Tour" operate at the same time and should not be booked together.
| Day #5 | 01 Jan 2024 - 31 Dec 2024 | $62.00 |
| 01 Jan 2025 - 31 Dec 2025 | $65.00 |
This dinner will allow you to meet a local South African family and visit their home. You will have the opportunity to enjoy a home cooked three course meal with wine typical to South Africa. Give yourself the chance to experience local culture in a relaxed and comfortable environment with fascinating conversation about the way of life in South Africa, while also exchanging views as well as experiences with your hosts.
Approximate tour duration is 4 hours.
| Day #5 | 01 Jan 2024 - 31 Dec 2024 | $59.00 |
| 01 Jan 2025 - 31 Dec 2025 | $62.00 |
Take a helicopter flight over Victoria Falls, one of the world's most spectacular waterfalls. Soar above the towering wall of mist created by the Victoria Falls, and marvel at this natural wonder. A truly once in a lifetime opportunity not to be missed.
Approximate tour duration is 1.5 hours. The actual time in the air is 12 minutes.
| Day #13 | 01 Jan 2024 - 31 Dec 2024 | $155.00 |
| 01 Jan 2025 - 31 Dec 2025 | $163.00 |
| Know Before You Go | |
| 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. |
| Getting Ready to Go |
| Passports and Visas |
| It is each traveler's responsibility to have a passport valid for at least 6 months beyond the dates of travel 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. IMPORTANT: Passengers who are not U.S. citizens must check with the respective consulate or a visa agency to determine what personal identification is required. Passengers who enter, leave and then re-enter the same country on their itinerary should check if they require a double-entry visa. Passport applications are available at most U.S. Post Offices, as well as at regional Passport Agencies. Passengers requiring visas, whether obtained in advance or locally upon arrival, should ensure that their passport has blank pages.
|
| SOUTH AFRICA - Passengers are required to have at least two, entirely blank (unstamped) visa pages (i.e. one side of such a page not front and back thereof) in their passport, each time entry is sought into South Africa, including re-entry from eSwatini. Therefore passengers continuing on to Zimbabwe and/or Botswana are required to have four blank visa pages. These pages are in addition to the endorsement/amendment pages at the back of the passport. South African government regulations prohibit airlines from boarding passengers without the required blank visa page. For more information, please visit the South African consulate website http://www.southafrica-newyork.net/homeaffairs/tourist_visa.htm or http://www.southafrica-newyork.net/homeaffairs/ |
| Children Under 18 Traveling to South Africa - The South African Department of Home Affairs no longer requires additional documentation for visitors under the age of 18 as of Nov 2019. Passengers traveling with children under 18 to South Africa will simply require a valid passport for entry. For more information please visit: http://www.dha.gov.za/index.php/statements-speeches/621-advisory-new-requirements-for-children-travelling-through-south-african-ports-of-entry-effective-1-june-2015.
|
| Traveling with Friends or Family? |
| If you are traveling with friends or family who are booked on another reservation, please make sure that we are aware. On occasion, we may operate more than one vehicle on your tour departure in which case we will ensure that guests will be assigned together. This is achieved by connecting your reservations before your departure. Once you arrive in your destination, it may not be possible to make assignment changes. To check that your reservations are linked, log into https://www.gate1travel.com/reservations with your email and password, select your reservation number, and check to see that your reservations are indicated as "Traveling With" at the top right side of the display. |
| 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, driver's license) are in order. Make sure also that you have enough prescription medications to last through the trip and carry them with you in case your luggage is delayed. Bring a change of clothes in your carry-on bag in the event that your luggage is delayed or lost. Lost luggage is common. We strongly urge you to consider carry-ons instead of checked bags when possible, and when checking a bag is necessary, choose a bag color and identification that stands out. We suggest that you make photocopies of passports, visas, personal ID and any other important travel documents and pack them separately from the originals. You may also make a digital copy of your passport to keep a clear picture with the important details in your cell phone or digital camera photos. If you lose the originals while traveling, you'll have copies for easier reporting and replacement. Pack a list of medications including dosage and generic names. You may consider bringing a small supply of over the counter medications for headaches and/or anti-diarrhea pills (especially when traveling outside of the USA and Western Europe). We recommend that you pack a portable alarm clock. Due to security reasons, many museums have restrictions on the size of bags that can be taken inside and backpacks, carry-on bags or large purses may not be permitted. It is recommended to bring a small shoulder bag or purse to use in these situations instead. Avoid placing valuables such as cameras in your checked luggage. Airplane pressure can cause similar pressure in your body, most notably in ears, as well as liquid tubes and bottles. Your physician can suggest medication for decongestion. We suggest that you place liquid containers into Ziploc bags to catch any leaks. |
| Travel Safety Advice: The safety of our guests is Gate 1’s #1 concern. Before making the decision to reserve your vacation, we want you to be aware of potential situations which may impact your holiday. While most of the time our programs run precisely according to plans, on rare occasion force majeure events including weather, transportation mechanical issues, or uninhabitable accommodation, civil unrest and even criminal or terrorist activities will present themselves unexpectedly and with little or no notice. Gate 1 will make the decision to cancel a tour only after receiving verifiable government issued information. We are otherwise obliged to comply with contractual airline and vendor agreements and carry out the tour until or unless we are advised otherwise. In the event of such an occurrence anytime after your date of departure, Gate 1 and the local destination ground staff, in coordination with government advisories, airlines, hotels, cruise ships and other vendors, will make decisions with regard to your safety first. We strongly recommend that tour participants review the destination country's specific information at https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/alertswarnings.html. |
| Travel Protection |
| Even the best-planned trips can be impacted by the unexpected. And that is why we recommend that you help protect yourself and your investment by purchasing Travel Protection for your Gate 1 trip. Travel Protection can help with medical coverage for illness or injury, trip cancellation and/or interruption, baggage loss, medical evacuation, and more. At any time before you complete Final Payment, you may choose to purchase Travel Protection. The protection plan premium is non-refundable after a 10-day review period. In addition, you must be medically able to travel at the time the premium is paid. For a summary of the plan details on coverages, benefits, limitations and exclusions, please refer to the Description of Coverage by visiting www.gate1travel.com/insurance/. Cancel for Any Reason Waiver Benefit (CFAR) is a non-insurance feature that allows you to cancel up to 72 hours before your scheduled departure for any reason not otherwise covered in the Travel Protection Plan. CFAR must be purchased at the same time as the Travel Protection Plan as well as within 21 days of the original booking date. Independent or escorted tour reservations will be eligible for a future travel credit equal to the full cost of your trip, less the cost of initial deposit, airline-assessed fees, amendment fees, and insurance premium. Sea or river cruise reservations will be eligible for a future travel credit equal to 50% of the cost of your trip, less the cost of initial trip deposit, airline-assessed fees, amendment fees, and insurance premium. All CFAR credits are valid for a period of two years from the original date of travel. CFAR Credits have no cash value and are not transferrable. Airline-assessed fees are generally $300 per person, but may be as much as fully non-refundable. Some non-refundable airline tickets may retain value, less airline-assessed fees. Your future air credit must be used to book with the same airline. Deadlines to rebook and complete travel vary by airline and may be as early as 12 months from when the tickets were originally issued (not the date of travel). For details, www.gate1travel.com/insurance/. This program does not apply to custom groups and Antarctica cruises. Residents of New York, Missouri & Minnesota may purchase this Cancel for Any Reason Waiver Benefit separate from Travel Protection. Call to speak with a reservation agent for details. This Cancel for any Reason Wavier Benefit is not insurance and is provided by Gate 1 Travel. |
| Mobile Phones |
| Mobile networks differ from country to country. We recommend you check with your provider to see if your wireless plan will work in the destination(s) you are visiting. To avoid possible roaming charges, you may want to consider purchasing an international plan. With most major phone companies, for a modest fee, you will be able to use your domestic plan's talk, text, and data allowances just like you do at home. If you can access the internet while you travel, you can also take advantage of services such as WhatsApp or Skype. |
| Making Telephone Calls from One Country to Another |
| When dialing a number from one country to another, you should proceed as follows: dial your country's Exit Code (often indicated with a “+” sign), then the destination Country Code, then the Phone Number. For most countries, the exit code is 00. Exceptions include the USA and Canada (011), Hong Kong and Cambodia (001), Australia (0011), and Russia (8 Pause 10*). For Brazil, please consult with the local telephone company. If you are dialing from a mobile phone, you can enter a “+” instead of the international Exit Code (011, 001, 0011 or 00) by pressing and holding the 0 key. For most countries in Africa, Asia, Europe, South America and South Pacific, if you are calling from a local phone to a number within the same country, you should drop both the exit and country codes and then add a leading 0 (zero). Exceptions include Spain, Italy, Hungary and Malta (no additional zero needed to dial locally). Example: To dial the following number in Germany (as listed on your voucher): +(49) 0555-555 From USA or your US cell phone: 011-49-555-555 From another country in Europe: 00-49-555-555 From a German phone within Germany: 0555-555 |
| WiFi Access |
| WiFi is available in most airports, hotels, and cruise lines, as well as on some flights, trains, and buses. There may be a fee for access and service quality and speed may vary greatly especially while on moving vehicles. Availability on cruises is also dependent upon its location while sailing through multiple countries. Please note that WiFi can be extremely slow, unreliable, and sometimes nonexistent in developing countries. |
| Staying Healthy While Traveling |
| All travelers should familiarize themselves with local conditions, such as high altitude or required immunizations, which could affect their health. We recommend you consult with your personal healthcare provider, the Centers for Disease Control (www.cdc.gov) and/or the World Health Organization (http://www.who.int/en/) for their recommendations. There are several easy steps you can take to stay healthy while traveling which may help prevent contracting an illness while away from home.
|
| Notice on Aircraft Cabin Insecticide Treatment - Please note that some countries may require aircraft cabin insecticide treatment for in-bound foreign flights. A list of such countries is available at:
http://www.dot.gov/office-policy/aviation-policy/aircraft-disinsection-requirements. |
| South Africa & eSwatini - While the majority of South Africa is malaria-free, visitors to Kruger National Park and the Limpopo Province are encouraged to consult their health care providers regarding malaria prophylaxis. Malaria is endemic to the Kruger National Park Area. The Waterberg region of the Limpopo Province is considered a non-endemic area however as of March 2017, the CDC has received official reports of possible locally transmitted cases of malaria in this region and further investigation and surveillance is taking place. Visitors should use mosquito repellent and wear long pants, closed shoes, and a lightweight long sleeve shirt when in this area. Additionally, you may encounter mosquitoes in other areas, both rural and urban, especially during wet seasons. Please consult your physician before traveling to South Africa. Passengers arriving in South Africa after visiting or connecting 12 hours or more in designated yellow fever countries must carry proof of yellow fever vaccination. Designated yellow fever countries include but are not limited to Kenya, Senegal, & Ghana and it is recommended to check with the South African consulate prior to travel for the complete list of countries. This tour visits areas of high elevations on the Panorama Route (5,870 feet) and in eSwatini (6,110 feet), and may cause temporary altitude discomfort for some travelers. Those affected should avoid over-exertion, drink extra water, and eat lightly. |
| Zimbabwe - Malaria is prevalent throughout Zimbabwe, except in Harare, due to the capital's high altitude. The CDC strongly recommends that malaria prophylaxis and preventative measures be taken when traveling outside of Harare. Information on vaccinations and other health precautions, such as safe food and water precautions and insect bite protection, may be obtained from the Center for Disease Control and Prevention's hotline for international travelers at 1-877-FYI-TRIP (1-877-394-8747) or via the CDC website. For information about outbreaks of infectious diseases abroad, consult the World Health Organization (WHO) website. The WHO website also contains additional health information for travelers, including detailed country-specific health information. Tuberculosis is an increasingly serious health concern in Zimbabwe. For further information, please consult the CDC's information on TB. |
| Consideration for Tour Participants (Escorted Tours) |
For the benefit of all tour participants, we ask tour members to be considerate of their fellow travelers in the following ways:
|
| Climate & Clothing |
| South Africa & eSwatini - Spring and Autumn: 55-70°F, Summer: 60-80°F, Winter: 45-65°F. Bring comfortable walking shoes, clothes you can layer, and an all-weather jacket. Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses are also recommended. A bandanna or light scarf is recommended as protection against dust and dirt on game drives. On game reserves, it is recommended to wear neutral colors such as khaki and beige, which are most comfortable during the heat of the day. Binoculars are a must for wildlife viewing, and a long-range lens is recommended for photography. South Africa Average Temperatures: https://www.gate1travel.com/weather/africa/#south-africa-weather |
| Zimbabwe - November: - March 63°F-86°F; April - July: 43°F-85°F; August - October: 48°F-93°F. Victoria Falls offers a mild and dry winter from June to mid-August and a warm to hot spring, until the rains start in mid-November. The dry season around Victoria Falls generally is from May to October; the wet season is from November to March. Bring comfortable walking shoes, clothes you can layer, and an all-weather jacket. Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses are also recommended. A bandanna or light scarf is recommended as protection against dust and dirt on game drives. On game reserves, it is recommended to wear neutral colors such as khaki and beige, which are most comfortable during the heat of the day. A rain coat will be provided while on the Victoria Falls tour, however please wear shoes you do not mind getting wet and bring a small umbrella for extra protection. Binoculars are a must for wildlife viewing, and a long-range lens is recommended for photography. |
| About Drones |
| Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV) or "drone" technology has quickly become affordable and is increasingly popular with recreational users. While some countries have clear, established drone laws, others do not, or existing regulations are undergoing review and change. Travelers who wish to bring a drone on their trip are responsible to research and abide by the laws and regulations of the countries they are visiting, as well as to check with their airline(s) regarding their rules for transporting drones. Please note that tours are unable to extend the length of scheduled visits and stops to accommodate use of drones. |
| Book & Film Recommendations |
| Many of our guests enjoy reading about their destination - either in advance of their trip or while traveling - as a way of adding context to their visit. Whether reading a traditional guide book, learning about the history and culture, or simply enjoying a fictional novel set in the destination, a good book can add greatly to your experience. Similarly, a good movie set in your destination helps set the mood before you travel. We asked our Tour Managers and staff to recommend books and films which past guests may have enjoyed. The following does not constitute an endorsement of any authors, books or films listed, it is merely a collection of guests' recommendations. |
| SOUTH AFRICA: Books Long Walk to Freedom by Nelson Mandela Cry, The Beloved Country by Alan Paton Zulu by Caryl Ferey Mafeking Road by Herman Charles Bosman The Power of One by Bryce Courtenay Playing the Enemy by John Carlin Country of My Skull by Antjie Krog |
| Preparing for Your Trip |
| Seat Assignments |
| As a courtesy service, complimentary airline seat assignments are requested on your behalf and, when available, are displayed in order of Passenger #1, #2 and so on. Assignments reflect the best available seats at the time of booking. Some airlines and/or fare types do not allow for pre-seating and require this be done at airport check-in only; in which case the display shows “N/A”. Seats are subject to change by your airline(s) including, for example, when there is a schedule change or equipment change after your initial booking; this may cause seat assignments to be changed or even cancelled. Some airlines offer preferred seating for an additional fee; these seats may only be purchased directly from the airline. You will need your family name and the 6-digit airline “Record Locator” which is displayed with the flight details on your reservation. In the event that you change seat assignments directly with your airline, changes will not be reflected on your invoice or documents. At the time that Gate 1 travel documents are issued, the currently assigned seats will be listed based on the assignments stored in your airline reservation at that time. Should you have questions regarding your assignments, please write to us at www.gate1travel.com/contactus. |
| Luggage & Packing |
| Checked bags are typically limited to a total dimension of 62 inches by adding length + width + height (example: 26"+26"+10" = 62”), and a maximum weight of 50 lbs (23kg). Smart Bags with a USB charging port, GPS tracking device and other high-tech features are prohibited as checked or carry-on baggage unless the bag is made with removable batteries and the batteries are removed and stored separately. Many airlines charge for checked bags including flights which begin and end within the USA. The most inexpensive airfare options commonly known as Basic Economy airfares do not include any checked bags nor seat assignments before the day of departure. However, for some airlines, other airfare categories also do not include checked baggage. This will be clearly displayed in our airfare selection and on your invoice. Where available, we highly recommend selecting airfares which include at least 1 piece of checked baggage. Gate 1 Travel is not responsible for checked bag fees, excess luggage or weight charges levied by an airline. Checked baggage allowances displayed on reservation details and invoices reflect the applicable allowance at the time of booking but are subject to change by your airline(s). For your airline’s requirements and fees, visit www.gate1travel.com/baggagefees.aspx. For important baggage information, visit www.gate1travel.com/luggage.aspx. Avoid placing valuables in your checked luggage. Federal law forbids the carriage of hazardous materials aboard the aircraft in your luggage, your carry-on or on your person. A violation can result in five years’ imprisonment and penalties of $250,000 or more (49 U.S.C. 5124). Hazardous materials include explosives, compressed gases, flammable liquids and solids, oxidizers, poisons, corrosives and radioactive materials. Examples: Paints, lighter fluid, fireworks, tear gases, oxygen bottles, and radio-pharmaceuticals. There are special exceptions for small quantities (up to 70 ounces total) of medicinal and toilet articles carried in your luggage and certain smoking materials carried on your person. Check the Transportation and Safety Administration (TSA) website www.tsa.gov to find out the current list of acceptable items you may bring on a plane before packing. We recommend that you use brightly colored luggage tags, straps or other identifiers to help you locate you luggage upon arrival or to describe it in the event that it is lost. |
| Southern Africa - Passengers arriving into Johannesburg and connecting to Cape Town must collect their luggage upon arrival to Johannesburg, and re-check their baggage into their connecting flight to Cape Town. Flights within South Africa and between South Africa and Zimbabwe have a weight restriction for luggage of 44 lbs. per piece of checked luggage and 14 lbs. per piece of carry-on luggage, with a limit of one checked and one carry-on piece of luggage per person. This differs from international flight luggage limits and should be taken into account when preparing for your trip. A lock is recommended for checked luggage while traveling within Southern Africa. Passengers traveling while pregnant are advised to carry a doctor’s note approving their health is suitable for flying. Southern Africa authorities reserve the right to deny passengers boarding if they do not carry such a note. |
| Day of Departure |
| Flight Services |
| What to do if You Need Assistance |
Whether you purchased your airfare from Gate 1 Travel or from the airline directly, please bear in mind that Gate 1 Travel does not own nor operate the airline(s), nor the airport facilities where they operate. At times, flying can be a frustrating experience, especially when things do not go exactly as planned, and airline explanations can be confusing or even misleading. Should you face a problem, remain calm and seek assistance either from the airline directly or from Gate 1. Please be aware that in most cases, on the day of your flight(s), airlines pass responsibility for your reservation to their staff at the airport and it is not always possible for Gate 1 Travel to intervene on your behalf, either through our reservations system or directly with your airline. |
| Arrival & Departure |
| Arrival Procedures |
| Upon arrival, please complete immigration formalities if necessary 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 collecting your luggage or 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. If you are delayed due to lost luggage, phone the number on the voucher or have a companion exit the Customs Area to advise the transfer representative. Be wary of airport scammers who offer unwanted assistance. If you are arriving without a pre-arranged transfer, we strongly recommend going to the Tourist Information Desk to ask for a licensed taxi or transfer service. You may be asked to pay for the transfer at the desk prior to the trip, this will ensure you are not charged extra during the trip. |
| 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, the better we can respond. Please refer to the Emergency Assistance instructions on this same document. 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 you 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. The cost of a transfer is more expensive than hiring a taxi, as a Gate 1 transfer necessarily includes round trip service, or 'dead-leg'. Often the places of call (airports, seaports, hotels) demand entrance and parking fees, where drivers may have to wait for up to an hour. Passengers comfortable hiring a taxi on their own and do not require assistance will save money. |
| About Your Escorted Tour Participants in South Africa |
| Please note that the number of participants may vary during your tour as we accommodate travelers arriving at different points in the itinerary. All passengers will begin in Cape Town and continue to Johannesburg. Some participates will end their trip in Johannesburg, while others will continue with a post-tour extension to Zimbabwe or Botswana. |
| About Your Accommodations |
| Hotels |
| Gate 1 Travel has carefully selected each hotel based on overall quality, location, price, service, and cleanliness. All rooms are standard twin-bedded (two single beds) rooms with private facilities. Special requests such as bed types, smoking preference and connecting rooms are subject to availability. Room selection in all cases, unless otherwise reserved, is strictly at the discretion of the hotel's management on a run-of-house basis. Triple rooms consist of standard twin beds or one double bed plus a sofa/folding bed or cot for third person except in the U.S. and Canada, where triple rooms often consist of two double/queen beds for three persons; where available, a fee may be charged by the hotel for the addition of a cot/rollaway. The number of persons accommodated does not dictate the room size. Although available at most 4 and 5 star hotels, the use of air-conditioning abroad differs greatly from the United States, and is often shut down at night and from the end until the start of the summer months. Some lodges and accommodations in remote regions may not have all of the amenities, such as hairdryer, alarm clock and room service, that you might find in a larger hotel located in a city center. |
| Hotel Check-in/ Check-out |
| Hotel check-in time is generally not before 4:00 p.m. and check-out time is prior to 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. |
| At Your Destination |
| 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 and learn about foreign cultures, we ask first and foremost that you practice tolerance and respect for local customs. |
| Cape Town Water Conservation |
| Cape Town is in a water-scarce region of South Africa and is susceptible to drought. During your stay, please be mindful of water consumption and support the local government’s conservation efforts, in the event water restrictions are in place. |
| Gratuities |
| Tipping is always a matter of personal discretion. For your convenience, please use the summary below as a guideline for recommended gratuity amounts. Gratuities may be paid in local currency or US dollar equivalent where accepted. Please be aware that 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 manager or phone our local office. Numbers are provided in your documents for your convenience. |
| Suggested Tipping: Southern Africa & eSwatini |
Tour Manager (Coordinator; may or may not act as a guide): US $10 per person per day Driver (Provides chauffeur services and limited assistance with luggage): US $4 per person per day, US $2 per half day Local Guide (Offers in-depth information at specific locations. There may be one or many guides along a tour program): US $4 per person per day of sightseeing, US $2 per half day Game Drive Ranger: US $6 per person per day Hotel porters and wait staff: Included |
| South Africa & eSwatini - Gratuities are appreciated and expected for good service in restaurants and other places that cater to tourists, as well as on safaris. |
| Zimbabwe - Gratuities are appreciated and expected for good service in restaurants and other places that cater to tourists. |
| About Your Sightseeing |
| To ensure a pleasant and fair experience for passengers on our escorted tours, there is a mandatory seat rotation policy on our motor coaches which will be organized by your Tour Manager. On river cruises, color-coded group splits may be used for shoreside included and Optional tours. Some buses are equipped with toilet facility, however they are strictly intended for emergency use only and often require the vehicle to stop for safety reasons before use. When travel dates coincide with religious holidays and national celebrations, some monuments and sites may be closed, sometimes without prior notice. On these occasions, escorted touring itineraries may be amended to reflect these closures. Occasionally, during holidays and certain periods, and/or due to other unforeseen circumstances including weather conditions, there may be last-minute changes, sometimes after arrival, which may affect the sequence of the tour and locations visited. National monuments and tourist sites regularly undergo renovations, which can obscure the monument's view. No tour will be canceled due to renovations, however Gate 1 will decide based on the conditions whether to amend an itinerary. To respect the privacy of all tour participants, your tour manager will not organize a group photo or collect passenger email addresses for a group list. |
| 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 check-in. The details of the hotel can be found in your documents. |
| 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. https://www.gate1travel.com/terms.aspx#optional |
| Independent Activities - Gate 1 itineraries may contain suggestions for activities for your leisure time; these suggestions do not constitute a recommendation nor an endorsement of any specific service provider and the decision to participate in any such activities should be made independently and with due consideration. Gate 1 is not responsible for any activities not expressly included in its programs. Caution should be exercised when selecting certain activities that may require physical strength, coordination or exertion. Particular care should be taken when considering animal rides, such as on camels, mules or horses |
| South Africa & eSwatini - The Rand is the currency of South Africa. The Lilangeni is the currency of eSwatini however the South African Rand is widely accepted. When exchanging currency in a bank, a passport must be presented to complete the transaction. |
| Zimbabwe - Zimbabwe operated under a multi-currency monetary system where the U.S. Dollar (USD) was the most widely accepted form of currency. Until May 2024, The Zimbabwe Dollar (ZWL) was the official currency of Zimbabwe, which will be then be replaced by the Zimbabwe Gold (ZiG). Travelers may withdraw local currency from international credit-card enabled ATMs, which will be marked as international and have the logos of the accepted credit card companies. Foreign currency may be exchanged at the bank, however travelers are encouraged to use credit cards where possible and only exchange amounts of money in cash that they anticipate using. Visa fees are payable in foreign currency and may be paid in cash. Foreign credit cards will continue to be accepted as a form of payment where facilities exist. |
| Shopping |
| Most people enjoy bringing home at least one souvenir from the countries they visit. However, some find any amount of shopping to be too much while others never find enough opportunities. We have built into our Escorted itineraries a few shopping stops at recommended spots. These stops are designed to enhance your experience by providing an opportunity to see first-hand quality locally crafted merchandise which you may not be able to find on your own. Shops are checked to ensure the quality and authenticity of the products they offer, and we limit guides from visiting other locations. In some cases, we plan these stops to provide an opportunity to use clean bathrooms and to stretch your legs. All shops want your satisfaction, and therefore in case of any misunderstanding they ask that you kindly submit your claim to us within one week of the item's receipt. Claims submitted later will be subject to each store’s policies. While shopping independently, 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! About Tax-Free Shopping Tax-Free Shopping allows shoppers to reclaim the VAT (Value-Added Tax) or GST (Goods and Services Tax) they have paid on their purchases in some foreign countries in accordance with restrictions and procedures as dictated by each country. Refund eligibility varies by country, but may require presenting a scanned copy of your passport at the time of purchase, a minimum amount spent, or providing original store receipts. For more details, check the respective country’s online website, with the shop salesperson, with your tour manager or at www.globalblue.com for specific country regulations and airport operation hours. Please keep in mind that you must apply for VAT refund in the airport of the country the items were purchased and allow enough time prior to your flight for the application. U.S. Customs & Shipping Charges You may carry items with a fair retail value totaling $800 into the U.S. Taxes may be applied to the next $1,000 worth of merchandise. U.S. Customs determines the value of your items, often honoring a genuine sales receipt. Items which are shipped home are always subject to duty when received in the U.S. (in addition to shipping charges). Some shops may offer to include shipping and duties in the price but this typically means shipping only to the customs facility closest to you and payment only of the export duties; you would still need to collect the item and pay U.S. import duties. Please be aware that it is illegal to import products made from endangered animal species. U.S. Customs & Border Protection will seize these items, as well as most furs, coral, tortoise shell, reptile skins, feathers, plants, and items made from animal skins. |
| South Africa & eSwatini - 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. |
| Zimbabwe - Victoria Falls offers wood carvings and soapstone sculptures. |
| Your Safety is Very Important |
|
Prior to your trip, if you are traveling overseas, we strongly recommend that you visit the website of the U.S. Department of State at www.travel.state.gov, specifically the section which addresses International Travel. You should read the tips for foreign travel and travel warnings for the country or countries that you plan to visit. It is also important that you do not allow your common sense to take a vacation while on your trip. Here are several tips which, if followed, will save much potential hardship:
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. |
| Zimbabwe - While we recommend that you apply reasonable caution and common sense when traveling in any country, please be aware that in Zimbabwe, there are issues with theft against tourists in public places. Americans and other foreigners are perceived to be wealthy and are frequently targeted by criminals who operate in the vicinity of hotels, restaurants, and shopping areas of the major cities and tourist areas such as Victoria Falls. Although the majority of crimes in Zimbabwe are non-violent, be alert to any suspicious activity. Always keep valuables in a safe place and avoid walking alone. Passengers should not travel alone after dark. We recommend that taxis be reserved via the hotel concierge desk, and that you do not ride alone when possible. When not possible, we recommend that a hotel, restaurant, or shop call a taxi; instruct the driver not to pick up other passengers. When using ATM machines, be on the lookout for anyone watching or following you. In the unlikely event that you should fall victim to a robbery, do not resist, the majority of injuries from robberies occur as a result of resistance. Do not hitchhike and do not accept rides from strangers. As in most parts of the world, be aware of your surroundings and keep to well-lit and populated areas. |
| On Safari - While on safari, it is very important that you follow all directions provided by your guide in order to ensure the safety of the group. Prior to the first safari, your driver/guide will review "safari etiquette" addressing, amongst other issues, off-road driving and hazards, and interaction with animals. Wildlife listed in the itinerary are based upon optimal conditions conditions and sightings cannot be guaranteed, including the "Big 5." While on tour you will be reminded by your guide of local safety and ecologic procedures to ensure your safety and the protection of the wildlife. Normal precautions include remaining in close proximity to your driver/guide and vehicle, avoiding tall grass and keeping noise to a minimum to not attract extra attention. Your driver/guide will advise you not to turn over rocks or dead wood and to stay clear of ground holes and caves, where scorpions, snakes and other potentially dangerous animal life may be hidden. Refrain from littering, feeding any animals or leaving food waste behind in the parks as this can upset their natural diets and lead to a dependence upon people. In addition, please do not purchase, collect, or remove any animal products, rocks, seeds, plants, or nests from the wild. Roadways to the game viewing sites are for the most part unpaved and will therefore be rough and dusty. Gate 1 safari vehicles are fitted with large roof hatches or open sides to allow for easy viewing of wildlife from all angles. Safari vehicles cannot be air-conditioned and you will be provided bottled water while travelling. Vehicles are equipped with seatbelts which must be worn on public roads. While safari vehicles typically move slowly, drivers warn passengers of bumps or potholes and many passengers may choose not to wear a seatbelt, it is still strongly recommended to do so. Passengers should always remain seated when the vehicle is in motion. Inside the National Parks and reserves there are designated picnic sites. Due to frequent use wildlife tends to avoid these areas with the exception of primates, reptiles, birds and small mammals. However, since picnic sites are open it is possible that a larger animal, such as an elephant, may wander through. Outside of the parks, it may be necessary to make more frequent shopping stops as these stores provide the only acceptable facilities while touring due to the lack of public rest stops. |
| Tourist Street Scams |
Pickpockets and thieves can destroy an otherwise wonderful holiday. Be mindful of these precautions to help avoid being scammed or robbed:
|
| Cape Town - While we recommend that you apply reasonable caution and common sense when traveling in any country, please be aware that in Cape Town, there are significant issues with theft against tourists in public places. Do not carry expensive valuables or wear valuable items (jewelry, watches) out in public and keep cameras and other touristy items out of sight like money belts and hip bags. If you have any questions on how to use the ATM machines ask your Tour Manager, do not ask strangers. Carry little cash and use a credit card as often as possible as they are widely accepted. Keep your card in your eye sight at all times when paying. You should not explore alone and it is recommended to travel in small groups. Be sure to ask directions from your tour manager and the hotel to avoid less safe areas. Do not take public transportation on buses as these vehicles are targets for robbery. We recommend that taxis be reserved via the hotel concierge desk, and that you do not ride alone when possible. As in most parts of the world, be aware of your surroundings and keep to well-lit and populated areas. Be sure to use the hotel safes at all times for your valuable items. |
| Local Emergency Phone Numbers |
South Africa
|
Zimbabwe
|
| Languages |
| South Africa - Zulu, Xhosa, Afrikaans, and English are among the local languages. |
| Zimbabwe - Shona and Ndebele are the local languages. The official language is English. |
| 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. The national electric company of South Africa has imposed planned power outages, locally referred to as "load shedding," to cope with overdemand on the electrical grid. Hotels in major cities are equipped with back-up generators so there are no interruptions to normal services, however hotels outside of major cities may have supplemental generators that provide electricity to only essential services. Power is generally restored within 2-3 hours of the outage, however this can vary. Passengers traveling with CPAP machines must notify Gate 1 Travel in advance so accommodations can be made to ensure there are no interruptions to run these machines through the night. |
| Zimbabwe - The voltage used is 220 volts. |
| Code of Conduct |
| South Africa & eSwatini - 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. |
| Zimbabwe - Visitors should observe normal courtesies. The atmosphere is generally informal and casual dress is appropriate. |
| Meals & Dietary Requests |
| Included meals are based on the restaurant's set menu or buffet and usually represent local cuisine. Vegetarian meals are available in most locations, while vegan, protein-rich or gluten-free menus are rare. Special dietary requests, which must be selected in the passenger details section of your reservation, cannot be guaranteed. We are unable to provide meals in accordance with strict religious requirements, such as Kosher or Halal, nor can we accommodate specifically salt-free, high-protein or low-carb meals.
|
| Zimbabwe - Be sure that all food, including meats, vegetables and fruits are fully cooked. Avoid dairy products, unless you know they have been pasteurized. Drink only bottled or boiled water, or carbonated drinks in cans or bottles. Avoid tap water, fountain drinks, and ice cubes. |
| Holidays |
| On public holidays, there may be reduced public transportation, as well as limited hours or closures of attractions, shops and restaurants. |
| Holidays - South Africa |
Holidays 2024 Jan 1: New Year's Day Mar 21: Human Rights Day Mar 29: Good Friday Mar 31: Family Day Apr 27: Freedom Day May 1: Worker's Day Jun 16: Youth Day Aug 9: National Women's Day Dec 16: Day of Reconciliation Dec 25: Christmas Day Dec 26: Day of Goodwill Holidays 2025 Jan 1: New Year's Day Mar 21: Human Rights Day Apr 18: Good Friday Apr 20: Easter Apr 21: Family Day Apr 27: Freedom Day May 1: Worker's 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 |
| Holidays - Zimbabwe |
Holidays 2024 Jan 1: New Year's Day Feb 21: Robert Mugabe National Youth Day Mar 29: Good Friday Mar 30: Holy Saturday Mar 31: Easter Sunday Apr 1: Easter Monday Apr 18: Independence Day May 1: Workers Day May 25: Africa Day Aug 12: Heroes' Day Aug 13: Defense Forces Day Dec 22: Unity Day Dec 23: Unity Day Holiday Dec 25: Christmas Day Dec 26: Boxing Day Holidays 2025 Jan 1: New Year's Day Feb 21: Robert Mugabe National Youth Day Apr 18: Good Friday Apr 19: Holy Saturday Apr 20: Easter Sunday Apr 21: Easter Monday Apr 18: Independence Day May 1: Workers Day May 25: Africa Day Aug 11: Heroes' Day Aug 12: Defense Forces Day Dec 22: Unity Day Dec 25: Christmas Day Dec 26: Boxing Day |
| Know Before You Go | |
| 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. |
| Getting Ready to Go |
| Passports and Visas |
| It is each traveler's responsibility to have a passport valid for at least 6 months beyond the dates of travel 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. IMPORTANT: Passengers who are not U.S. citizens must check with the respective consulate or a visa agency to determine what personal identification is required. Passengers who enter, leave and then re-enter the same country on their itinerary should check if they require a double-entry visa. Passport applications are available at most U.S. Post Offices, as well as at regional Passport Agencies. Passengers requiring visas, whether obtained in advance or locally upon arrival, should ensure that their passport has blank pages.
|
| SOUTH AFRICA - Passengers are required to have at least two, entirely blank (unstamped) visa pages (i.e. one side of such a page not front and back thereof) in their passport, each time entry is sought into South Africa, including re-entry from eSwatini. Therefore passengers continuing on to Zimbabwe and/or Botswana are required to have four blank visa pages. These pages are in addition to the endorsement/amendment pages at the back of the passport. South African government regulations prohibit airlines from boarding passengers without the required blank visa page. For more information, please visit the South African consulate website http://www.southafrica-newyork.net/homeaffairs/tourist_visa.htm or http://www.southafrica-newyork.net/homeaffairs/ |
| Children Under 18 Traveling to South Africa - The South African Department of Home Affairs no longer requires additional documentation for visitors under the age of 18 as of Nov 2019. Passengers traveling with children under 18 to South Africa will simply require a valid passport for entry. For more information please visit: http://www.dha.gov.za/index.php/statements-speeches/621-advisory-new-requirements-for-children-travelling-through-south-african-ports-of-entry-effective-1-june-2015.
|
| Traveling with Friends or Family? |
| If you are traveling with friends or family who are booked on another reservation, please make sure that we are aware. On occasion, we may operate more than one vehicle on your tour departure in which case we will ensure that guests will be assigned together. This is achieved by connecting your reservations before your departure. Once you arrive in your destination, it may not be possible to make assignment changes. To check that your reservations are linked, log into https://www.gate1travel.com/reservations with your email and password, select your reservation number, and check to see that your reservations are indicated as "Traveling With" at the top right side of the display. |
| 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, driver's license) are in order. Make sure also that you have enough prescription medications to last through the trip and carry them with you in case your luggage is delayed. Bring a change of clothes in your carry-on bag in the event that your luggage is delayed or lost. Lost luggage is common. We strongly urge you to consider carry-ons instead of checked bags when possible, and when checking a bag is necessary, choose a bag color and identification that stands out. We suggest that you make photocopies of passports, visas, personal ID and any other important travel documents and pack them separately from the originals. You may also make a digital copy of your passport to keep a clear picture with the important details in your cell phone or digital camera photos. If you lose the originals while traveling, you'll have copies for easier reporting and replacement. Pack a list of medications including dosage and generic names. You may consider bringing a small supply of over the counter medications for headaches and/or anti-diarrhea pills (especially when traveling outside of the USA and Western Europe). We recommend that you pack a portable alarm clock. Due to security reasons, many museums have restrictions on the size of bags that can be taken inside and backpacks, carry-on bags or large purses may not be permitted. It is recommended to bring a small shoulder bag or purse to use in these situations instead. Avoid placing valuables such as cameras in your checked luggage. Airplane pressure can cause similar pressure in your body, most notably in ears, as well as liquid tubes and bottles. Your physician can suggest medication for decongestion. We suggest that you place liquid containers into Ziploc bags to catch any leaks. |
| Travel Safety Advice: The safety of our guests is Gate 1’s #1 concern. Before making the decision to reserve your vacation, we want you to be aware of potential situations which may impact your holiday. While most of the time our programs run precisely according to plans, on rare occasion force majeure events including weather, transportation mechanical issues, or uninhabitable accommodation, civil unrest and even criminal or terrorist activities will present themselves unexpectedly and with little or no notice. Gate 1 will make the decision to cancel a tour only after receiving verifiable government issued information. We are otherwise obliged to comply with contractual airline and vendor agreements and carry out the tour until or unless we are advised otherwise. In the event of such an occurrence anytime after your date of departure, Gate 1 and the local destination ground staff, in coordination with government advisories, airlines, hotels, cruise ships and other vendors, will make decisions with regard to your safety first. We strongly recommend that tour participants review the destination country's specific information at https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/alertswarnings.html. |
| Travel Protection |
| Even the best-planned trips can be impacted by the unexpected. And that is why we recommend that you help protect yourself and your investment by purchasing Travel Protection for your Gate 1 trip. Travel Protection can help with medical coverage for illness or injury, trip cancellation and/or interruption, baggage loss, medical evacuation, and more. At any time before you complete Final Payment, you may choose to purchase Travel Protection. The protection plan premium is non-refundable after a 10-day review period. In addition, you must be medically able to travel at the time the premium is paid. For a summary of the plan details on coverages, benefits, limitations and exclusions, please refer to the Description of Coverage by visiting www.gate1travel.com/insurance/. Cancel for Any Reason Waiver Benefit (CFAR) is a non-insurance feature that allows you to cancel up to 72 hours before your scheduled departure for any reason not otherwise covered in the Travel Protection Plan. CFAR must be purchased at the same time as the Travel Protection Plan as well as within 21 days of the original booking date. Independent or escorted tour reservations will be eligible for a future travel credit equal to the full cost of your trip, less the cost of initial deposit, airline-assessed fees, amendment fees, and insurance premium. Sea or river cruise reservations will be eligible for a future travel credit equal to 50% of the cost of your trip, less the cost of initial trip deposit, airline-assessed fees, amendment fees, and insurance premium. All CFAR credits are valid for a period of two years from the original date of travel. CFAR Credits have no cash value and are not transferrable. Airline-assessed fees are generally $300 per person, but may be as much as fully non-refundable. Some non-refundable airline tickets may retain value, less airline-assessed fees. Your future air credit must be used to book with the same airline. Deadlines to rebook and complete travel vary by airline and may be as early as 12 months from when the tickets were originally issued (not the date of travel). For details, www.gate1travel.com/insurance/. This program does not apply to custom groups and Antarctica cruises. Residents of New York, Missouri & Minnesota may purchase this Cancel for Any Reason Waiver Benefit separate from Travel Protection. Call to speak with a reservation agent for details. This Cancel for any Reason Wavier Benefit is not insurance and is provided by Gate 1 Travel. |
| Mobile Phones |
| Mobile networks differ from country to country. We recommend you check with your provider to see if your wireless plan will work in the destination(s) you are visiting. To avoid possible roaming charges, you may want to consider purchasing an international plan. With most major phone companies, for a modest fee, you will be able to use your domestic plan's talk, text, and data allowances just like you do at home. If you can access the internet while you travel, you can also take advantage of services such as WhatsApp or Skype. |
| Making Telephone Calls from One Country to Another |
| When dialing a number from one country to another, you should proceed as follows: dial your country's Exit Code (often indicated with a “+” sign), then the destination Country Code, then the Phone Number. For most countries, the exit code is 00. Exceptions include the USA and Canada (011), Hong Kong and Cambodia (001), Australia (0011), and Russia (8 Pause 10*). For Brazil, please consult with the local telephone company. If you are dialing from a mobile phone, you can enter a “+” instead of the international Exit Code (011, 001, 0011 or 00) by pressing and holding the 0 key. For most countries in Africa, Asia, Europe, South America and South Pacific, if you are calling from a local phone to a number within the same country, you should drop both the exit and country codes and then add a leading 0 (zero). Exceptions include Spain, Italy, Hungary and Malta (no additional zero needed to dial locally). Example: To dial the following number in Germany (as listed on your voucher): +(49) 0555-555 From USA or your US cell phone: 011-49-555-555 From another country in Europe: 00-49-555-555 From a German phone within Germany: 0555-555 |
| WiFi Access |
| WiFi is available in most airports, hotels, and cruise lines, as well as on some flights, trains, and buses. There may be a fee for access and service quality and speed may vary greatly especially while on moving vehicles. Availability on cruises is also dependent upon its location while sailing through multiple countries. Please note that WiFi can be extremely slow, unreliable, and sometimes nonexistent in developing countries. |
| Staying Healthy While Traveling |
| All travelers should familiarize themselves with local conditions, such as high altitude or required immunizations, which could affect their health. We recommend you consult with your personal healthcare provider, the Centers for Disease Control (www.cdc.gov) and/or the World Health Organization (http://www.who.int/en/) for their recommendations. There are several easy steps you can take to stay healthy while traveling which may help prevent contracting an illness while away from home.
|
| Notice on Aircraft Cabin Insecticide Treatment - Please note that some countries may require aircraft cabin insecticide treatment for in-bound foreign flights. A list of such countries is available at:
http://www.dot.gov/office-policy/aviation-policy/aircraft-disinsection-requirements. |
| South Africa & eSwatini - While the majority of South Africa is malaria-free, visitors to Kruger National Park and the Limpopo Province are encouraged to consult their health care providers regarding malaria prophylaxis. Malaria is endemic to the Kruger National Park Area. The Waterberg region of the Limpopo Province is considered a non-endemic area however as of March 2017, the CDC has received official reports of possible locally transmitted cases of malaria in this region and further investigation and surveillance is taking place. Visitors should use mosquito repellent and wear long pants, closed shoes, and a lightweight long sleeve shirt when in this area. Additionally, you may encounter mosquitoes in other areas, both rural and urban, especially during wet seasons. Please consult your physician before traveling to South Africa. Passengers arriving in South Africa after visiting or connecting 12 hours or more in designated yellow fever countries must carry proof of yellow fever vaccination. Designated yellow fever countries include but are not limited to Kenya, Senegal, & Ghana and it is recommended to check with the South African consulate prior to travel for the complete list of countries. This tour visits areas of high elevations on the Panorama Route (5,870 feet) and in eSwatini (6,110 feet), and may cause temporary altitude discomfort for some travelers. Those affected should avoid over-exertion, drink extra water, and eat lightly. |
| Zimbabwe - Malaria is prevalent throughout Zimbabwe, except in Harare, due to the capital's high altitude. The CDC strongly recommends that malaria prophylaxis and preventative measures be taken when traveling outside of Harare. Information on vaccinations and other health precautions, such as safe food and water precautions and insect bite protection, may be obtained from the Center for Disease Control and Prevention's hotline for international travelers at 1-877-FYI-TRIP (1-877-394-8747) or via the CDC website. For information about outbreaks of infectious diseases abroad, consult the World Health Organization (WHO) website. The WHO website also contains additional health information for travelers, including detailed country-specific health information. Tuberculosis is an increasingly serious health concern in Zimbabwe. For further information, please consult the CDC's information on TB. |
| Consideration for Tour Participants (Escorted Tours) |
For the benefit of all tour participants, we ask tour members to be considerate of their fellow travelers in the following ways:
|
| Climate & Clothing |
| South Africa & eSwatini - Spring and Autumn: 55-70°F, Summer: 60-80°F, Winter: 45-65°F. Bring comfortable walking shoes, clothes you can layer, and an all-weather jacket. Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses are also recommended. A bandanna or light scarf is recommended as protection against dust and dirt on game drives. On game reserves, it is recommended to wear neutral colors such as khaki and beige, which are most comfortable during the heat of the day. Binoculars are a must for wildlife viewing, and a long-range lens is recommended for photography. South Africa Average Temperatures: https://www.gate1travel.com/weather/africa/#south-africa-weather |
| Zimbabwe - November: - March 63°F-86°F; April - July: 43°F-85°F; August - October: 48°F-93°F. Victoria Falls offers a mild and dry winter from June to mid-August and a warm to hot spring, until the rains start in mid-November. The dry season around Victoria Falls generally is from May to October; the wet season is from November to March. Bring comfortable walking shoes, clothes you can layer, and an all-weather jacket. Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses are also recommended. A bandanna or light scarf is recommended as protection against dust and dirt on game drives. On game reserves, it is recommended to wear neutral colors such as khaki and beige, which are most comfortable during the heat of the day. A rain coat will be provided while on the Victoria Falls tour, however please wear shoes you do not mind getting wet and bring a small umbrella for extra protection. Binoculars are a must for wildlife viewing, and a long-range lens is recommended for photography. |
| About Drones |
| Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV) or "drone" technology has quickly become affordable and is increasingly popular with recreational users. While some countries have clear, established drone laws, others do not, or existing regulations are undergoing review and change. Travelers who wish to bring a drone on their trip are responsible to research and abide by the laws and regulations of the countries they are visiting, as well as to check with their airline(s) regarding their rules for transporting drones. Please note that tours are unable to extend the length of scheduled visits and stops to accommodate use of drones. |
| Book & Film Recommendations |
| Many of our guests enjoy reading about their destination - either in advance of their trip or while traveling - as a way of adding context to their visit. Whether reading a traditional guide book, learning about the history and culture, or simply enjoying a fictional novel set in the destination, a good book can add greatly to your experience. Similarly, a good movie set in your destination helps set the mood before you travel. We asked our Tour Managers and staff to recommend books and films which past guests may have enjoyed. The following does not constitute an endorsement of any authors, books or films listed, it is merely a collection of guests' recommendations. |
| SOUTH AFRICA: Books Long Walk to Freedom by Nelson Mandela Cry, The Beloved Country by Alan Paton Zulu by Caryl Ferey Mafeking Road by Herman Charles Bosman The Power of One by Bryce Courtenay Playing the Enemy by John Carlin Country of My Skull by Antjie Krog |
| Preparing for Your Trip |
| Seat Assignments |
| As a courtesy service, complimentary airline seat assignments are requested on your behalf and, when available, are displayed in order of Passenger #1, #2 and so on. Assignments reflect the best available seats at the time of booking. Some airlines and/or fare types do not allow for pre-seating and require this be done at airport check-in only; in which case the display shows “N/A”. Seats are subject to change by your airline(s) including, for example, when there is a schedule change or equipment change after your initial booking; this may cause seat assignments to be changed or even cancelled. Some airlines offer preferred seating for an additional fee; these seats may only be purchased directly from the airline. You will need your family name and the 6-digit airline “Record Locator” which is displayed with the flight details on your reservation. In the event that you change seat assignments directly with your airline, changes will not be reflected on your invoice or documents. At the time that Gate 1 travel documents are issued, the currently assigned seats will be listed based on the assignments stored in your airline reservation at that time. Should you have questions regarding your assignments, please write to us at www.gate1travel.com/contactus. |
| Luggage & Packing |
| Checked bags are typically limited to a total dimension of 62 inches by adding length + width + height (example: 26"+26"+10" = 62”), and a maximum weight of 50 lbs (23kg). Smart Bags with a USB charging port, GPS tracking device and other high-tech features are prohibited as checked or carry-on baggage unless the bag is made with removable batteries and the batteries are removed and stored separately. Many airlines charge for checked bags including flights which begin and end within the USA. The most inexpensive airfare options commonly known as Basic Economy airfares do not include any checked bags nor seat assignments before the day of departure. However, for some airlines, other airfare categories also do not include checked baggage. This will be clearly displayed in our airfare selection and on your invoice. Where available, we highly recommend selecting airfares which include at least 1 piece of checked baggage. Gate 1 Travel is not responsible for checked bag fees, excess luggage or weight charges levied by an airline. Checked baggage allowances displayed on reservation details and invoices reflect the applicable allowance at the time of booking but are subject to change by your airline(s). For your airline’s requirements and fees, visit www.gate1travel.com/baggagefees.aspx. For important baggage information, visit www.gate1travel.com/luggage.aspx. Avoid placing valuables in your checked luggage. Federal law forbids the carriage of hazardous materials aboard the aircraft in your luggage, your carry-on or on your person. A violation can result in five years’ imprisonment and penalties of $250,000 or more (49 U.S.C. 5124). Hazardous materials include explosives, compressed gases, flammable liquids and solids, oxidizers, poisons, corrosives and radioactive materials. Examples: Paints, lighter fluid, fireworks, tear gases, oxygen bottles, and radio-pharmaceuticals. There are special exceptions for small quantities (up to 70 ounces total) of medicinal and toilet articles carried in your luggage and certain smoking materials carried on your person. Check the Transportation and Safety Administration (TSA) website www.tsa.gov to find out the current list of acceptable items you may bring on a plane before packing. We recommend that you use brightly colored luggage tags, straps or other identifiers to help you locate you luggage upon arrival or to describe it in the event that it is lost. |
| Southern Africa - Passengers arriving into Johannesburg and connecting to Cape Town must collect their luggage upon arrival to Johannesburg, and re-check their baggage into their connecting flight to Cape Town. Flights within South Africa and between South Africa and Zimbabwe have a weight restriction for luggage of 44 lbs. per piece of checked luggage and 14 lbs. per piece of carry-on luggage, with a limit of one checked and one carry-on piece of luggage per person. This differs from international flight luggage limits and should be taken into account when preparing for your trip. A lock is recommended for checked luggage while traveling within Southern Africa. Passengers traveling while pregnant are advised to carry a doctor’s note approving their health is suitable for flying. Southern Africa authorities reserve the right to deny passengers boarding if they do not carry such a note. |
| Day of Departure |
| Flight Services |
| What to do if You Need Assistance |
Whether you purchased your airfare from Gate 1 Travel or from the airline directly, please bear in mind that Gate 1 Travel does not own nor operate the airline(s), nor the airport facilities where they operate. At times, flying can be a frustrating experience, especially when things do not go exactly as planned, and airline explanations can be confusing or even misleading. Should you face a problem, remain calm and seek assistance either from the airline directly or from Gate 1. Please be aware that in most cases, on the day of your flight(s), airlines pass responsibility for your reservation to their staff at the airport and it is not always possible for Gate 1 Travel to intervene on your behalf, either through our reservations system or directly with your airline. |
| Arrival & Departure |
| Arrival Procedures |
| Upon arrival, please complete immigration formalities if necessary 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 collecting your luggage or 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. If you are delayed due to lost luggage, phone the number on the voucher or have a companion exit the Customs Area to advise the transfer representative. Be wary of airport scammers who offer unwanted assistance. If you are arriving without a pre-arranged transfer, we strongly recommend going to the Tourist Information Desk to ask for a licensed taxi or transfer service. You may be asked to pay for the transfer at the desk prior to the trip, this will ensure you are not charged extra during the trip. |
| 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, the better we can respond. Please refer to the Emergency Assistance instructions on this same document. 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 you 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. The cost of a transfer is more expensive than hiring a taxi, as a Gate 1 transfer necessarily includes round trip service, or 'dead-leg'. Often the places of call (airports, seaports, hotels) demand entrance and parking fees, where drivers may have to wait for up to an hour. Passengers comfortable hiring a taxi on their own and do not require assistance will save money. |
| About Your Escorted Tour Participants in South Africa |
| Please note that the number of participants may vary during your tour as we accommodate travelers arriving at different points in the itinerary. All passengers will begin in Cape Town and continue to Johannesburg. Some participates will end their trip in Johannesburg, while others will continue with a post-tour extension to Zimbabwe or Botswana. |
| About Your Accommodations |
| Hotels |
| Gate 1 Travel has carefully selected each hotel based on overall quality, location, price, service, and cleanliness. All rooms are standard twin-bedded (two single beds) rooms with private facilities. Special requests such as bed types, smoking preference and connecting rooms are subject to availability. Room selection in all cases, unless otherwise reserved, is strictly at the discretion of the hotel's management on a run-of-house basis. Triple rooms consist of standard twin beds or one double bed plus a sofa/folding bed or cot for third person except in the U.S. and Canada, where triple rooms often consist of two double/queen beds for three persons; where available, a fee may be charged by the hotel for the addition of a cot/rollaway. The number of persons accommodated does not dictate the room size. Although available at most 4 and 5 star hotels, the use of air-conditioning abroad differs greatly from the United States, and is often shut down at night and from the end until the start of the summer months. Some lodges and accommodations in remote regions may not have all of the amenities, such as hairdryer, alarm clock and room service, that you might find in a larger hotel located in a city center. |
| Hotel Check-in/ Check-out |
| Hotel check-in time is generally not before 4:00 p.m. and check-out time is prior to 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. |
| At Your Destination |
| 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 and learn about foreign cultures, we ask first and foremost that you practice tolerance and respect for local customs. |
| Cape Town Water Conservation |
| Cape Town is in a water-scarce region of South Africa and is susceptible to drought. During your stay, please be mindful of water consumption and support the local government’s conservation efforts, in the event water restrictions are in place. |
| Gratuities |
| Tipping is always a matter of personal discretion. For your convenience, please use the summary below as a guideline for recommended gratuity amounts. Gratuities may be paid in local currency or US dollar equivalent where accepted. Please be aware that 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 manager or phone our local office. Numbers are provided in your documents for your convenience. |
| Suggested Tipping: Southern Africa & eSwatini |
Tour Manager (Coordinator; may or may not act as a guide): US $10 per person per day Driver (Provides chauffeur services and limited assistance with luggage): US $4 per person per day, US $2 per half day Local Guide (Offers in-depth information at specific locations. There may be one or many guides along a tour program): US $4 per person per day of sightseeing, US $2 per half day Game Drive Ranger: US $6 per person per day Hotel porters and wait staff: Included |
| South Africa & eSwatini - Gratuities are appreciated and expected for good service in restaurants and other places that cater to tourists, as well as on safaris. |
| Zimbabwe - Gratuities are appreciated and expected for good service in restaurants and other places that cater to tourists. |
| About Your Sightseeing |
| To ensure a pleasant and fair experience for passengers on our escorted tours, there is a mandatory seat rotation policy on our motor coaches which will be organized by your Tour Manager. On river cruises, color-coded group splits may be used for shoreside included and Optional tours. Some buses are equipped with toilet facility, however they are strictly intended for emergency use only and often require the vehicle to stop for safety reasons before use. When travel dates coincide with religious holidays and national celebrations, some monuments and sites may be closed, sometimes without prior notice. On these occasions, escorted touring itineraries may be amended to reflect these closures. Occasionally, during holidays and certain periods, and/or due to other unforeseen circumstances including weather conditions, there may be last-minute changes, sometimes after arrival, which may affect the sequence of the tour and locations visited. National monuments and tourist sites regularly undergo renovations, which can obscure the monument's view. No tour will be canceled due to renovations, however Gate 1 will decide based on the conditions whether to amend an itinerary. To respect the privacy of all tour participants, your tour manager will not organize a group photo or collect passenger email addresses for a group list. |
| 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 check-in. The details of the hotel can be found in your documents. |
| 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. https://www.gate1travel.com/terms.aspx#optional |
| Independent Activities - Gate 1 itineraries may contain suggestions for activities for your leisure time; these suggestions do not constitute a recommendation nor an endorsement of any specific service provider and the decision to participate in any such activities should be made independently and with due consideration. Gate 1 is not responsible for any activities not expressly included in its programs. Caution should be exercised when selecting certain activities that may require physical strength, coordination or exertion. Particular care should be taken when considering animal rides, such as on camels, mules or horses |
| South Africa & eSwatini - The Rand is the currency of South Africa. The Lilangeni is the currency of eSwatini however the South African Rand is widely accepted. When exchanging currency in a bank, a passport must be presented to complete the transaction. |
| Zimbabwe - Zimbabwe operated under a multi-currency monetary system where the U.S. Dollar (USD) was the most widely accepted form of currency. Until May 2024, The Zimbabwe Dollar (ZWL) was the official currency of Zimbabwe, which will be then be replaced by the Zimbabwe Gold (ZiG). Travelers may withdraw local currency from international credit-card enabled ATMs, which will be marked as international and have the logos of the accepted credit card companies. Foreign currency may be exchanged at the bank, however travelers are encouraged to use credit cards where possible and only exchange amounts of money in cash that they anticipate using. Visa fees are payable in foreign currency and may be paid in cash. Foreign credit cards will continue to be accepted as a form of payment where facilities exist. |
| Shopping |
| Most people enjoy bringing home at least one souvenir from the countries they visit. However, some find any amount of shopping to be too much while others never find enough opportunities. We have built into our Escorted itineraries a few shopping stops at recommended spots. These stops are designed to enhance your experience by providing an opportunity to see first-hand quality locally crafted merchandise which you may not be able to find on your own. Shops are checked to ensure the quality and authenticity of the products they offer, and we limit guides from visiting other locations. In some cases, we plan these stops to provide an opportunity to use clean bathrooms and to stretch your legs. All shops want your satisfaction, and therefore in case of any misunderstanding they ask that you kindly submit your claim to us within one week of the item's receipt. Claims submitted later will be subject to each store’s policies. While shopping independently, 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! About Tax-Free Shopping Tax-Free Shopping allows shoppers to reclaim the VAT (Value-Added Tax) or GST (Goods and Services Tax) they have paid on their purchases in some foreign countries in accordance with restrictions and procedures as dictated by each country. Refund eligibility varies by country, but may require presenting a scanned copy of your passport at the time of purchase, a minimum amount spent, or providing original store receipts. For more details, check the respective country’s online website, with the shop salesperson, with your tour manager or at www.globalblue.com for specific country regulations and airport operation hours. Please keep in mind that you must apply for VAT refund in the airport of the country the items were purchased and allow enough time prior to your flight for the application. U.S. Customs & Shipping Charges You may carry items with a fair retail value totaling $800 into the U.S. Taxes may be applied to the next $1,000 worth of merchandise. U.S. Customs determines the value of your items, often honoring a genuine sales receipt. Items which are shipped home are always subject to duty when received in the U.S. (in addition to shipping charges). Some shops may offer to include shipping and duties in the price but this typically means shipping only to the customs facility closest to you and payment only of the export duties; you would still need to collect the item and pay U.S. import duties. Please be aware that it is illegal to import products made from endangered animal species. U.S. Customs & Border Protection will seize these items, as well as most furs, coral, tortoise shell, reptile skins, feathers, plants, and items made from animal skins. |
| South Africa & eSwatini - 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. |
| Zimbabwe - Victoria Falls offers wood carvings and soapstone sculptures. |
| Your Safety is Very Important |
|
Prior to your trip, if you are traveling overseas, we strongly recommend that you visit the website of the U.S. Department of State at www.travel.state.gov, specifically the section which addresses International Travel. You should read the tips for foreign travel and travel warnings for the country or countries that you plan to visit. It is also important that you do not allow your common sense to take a vacation while on your trip. Here are several tips which, if followed, will save much potential hardship:
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. |
| Zimbabwe - While we recommend that you apply reasonable caution and common sense when traveling in any country, please be aware that in Zimbabwe, there are issues with theft against tourists in public places. Americans and other foreigners are perceived to be wealthy and are frequently targeted by criminals who operate in the vicinity of hotels, restaurants, and shopping areas of the major cities and tourist areas such as Victoria Falls. Although the majority of crimes in Zimbabwe are non-violent, be alert to any suspicious activity. Always keep valuables in a safe place and avoid walking alone. Passengers should not travel alone after dark. We recommend that taxis be reserved via the hotel concierge desk, and that you do not ride alone when possible. When not possible, we recommend that a hotel, restaurant, or shop call a taxi; instruct the driver not to pick up other passengers. When using ATM machines, be on the lookout for anyone watching or following you. In the unlikely event that you should fall victim to a robbery, do not resist, the majority of injuries from robberies occur as a result of resistance. Do not hitchhike and do not accept rides from strangers. As in most parts of the world, be aware of your surroundings and keep to well-lit and populated areas. |
| On Safari - While on safari, it is very important that you follow all directions provided by your guide in order to ensure the safety of the group. Prior to the first safari, your driver/guide will review "safari etiquette" addressing, amongst other issues, off-road driving and hazards, and interaction with animals. Wildlife listed in the itinerary are based upon optimal conditions conditions and sightings cannot be guaranteed, including the "Big 5." While on tour you will be reminded by your guide of local safety and ecologic procedures to ensure your safety and the protection of the wildlife. Normal precautions include remaining in close proximity to your driver/guide and vehicle, avoiding tall grass and keeping noise to a minimum to not attract extra attention. Your driver/guide will advise you not to turn over rocks or dead wood and to stay clear of ground holes and caves, where scorpions, snakes and other potentially dangerous animal life may be hidden. Refrain from littering, feeding any animals or leaving food waste behind in the parks as this can upset their natural diets and lead to a dependence upon people. In addition, please do not purchase, collect, or remove any animal products, rocks, seeds, plants, or nests from the wild. Roadways to the game viewing sites are for the most part unpaved and will therefore be rough and dusty. Gate 1 safari vehicles are fitted with large roof hatches or open sides to allow for easy viewing of wildlife from all angles. Safari vehicles cannot be air-conditioned and you will be provided bottled water while travelling. Vehicles are equipped with seatbelts which must be worn on public roads. While safari vehicles typically move slowly, drivers warn passengers of bumps or potholes and many passengers may choose not to wear a seatbelt, it is still strongly recommended to do so. Passengers should always remain seated when the vehicle is in motion. Inside the National Parks and reserves there are designated picnic sites. Due to frequent use wildlife tends to avoid these areas with the exception of primates, reptiles, birds and small mammals. However, since picnic sites are open it is possible that a larger animal, such as an elephant, may wander through. Outside of the parks, it may be necessary to make more frequent shopping stops as these stores provide the only acceptable facilities while touring due to the lack of public rest stops. |
| Tourist Street Scams |
Pickpockets and thieves can destroy an otherwise wonderful holiday. Be mindful of these precautions to help avoid being scammed or robbed:
|
| Cape Town - While we recommend that you apply reasonable caution and common sense when traveling in any country, please be aware that in Cape Town, there are significant issues with theft against tourists in public places. Do not carry expensive valuables or wear valuable items (jewelry, watches) out in public and keep cameras and other touristy items out of sight like money belts and hip bags. If you have any questions on how to use the ATM machines ask your Tour Manager, do not ask strangers. Carry little cash and use a credit card as often as possible as they are widely accepted. Keep your card in your eye sight at all times when paying. You should not explore alone and it is recommended to travel in small groups. Be sure to ask directions from your tour manager and the hotel to avoid less safe areas. Do not take public transportation on buses as these vehicles are targets for robbery. We recommend that taxis be reserved via the hotel concierge desk, and that you do not ride alone when possible. As in most parts of the world, be aware of your surroundings and keep to well-lit and populated areas. Be sure to use the hotel safes at all times for your valuable items. |
| Local Emergency Phone Numbers |
South Africa
|
Zimbabwe
|
| Languages |
| South Africa - Zulu, Xhosa, Afrikaans, and English are among the local languages. |
| Zimbabwe - Shona and Ndebele are the local languages. The official language is English. |
| 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. The national electric company of South Africa has imposed planned power outages, locally referred to as "load shedding," to cope with overdemand on the electrical grid. Hotels in major cities are equipped with back-up generators so there are no interruptions to normal services, however hotels outside of major cities may have supplemental generators that provide electricity to only essential services. Power is generally restored within 2-3 hours of the outage, however this can vary. Passengers traveling with CPAP machines must notify Gate 1 Travel in advance so accommodations can be made to ensure there are no interruptions to run these machines through the night. |
| Zimbabwe - The voltage used is 220 volts. |
| Code of Conduct |
| South Africa & eSwatini - 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. |
| Zimbabwe - Visitors should observe normal courtesies. The atmosphere is generally informal and casual dress is appropriate. |
| Meals & Dietary Requests |
| Included meals are based on the restaurant's set menu or buffet and usually represent local cuisine. Vegetarian meals are available in most locations, while vegan, protein-rich or gluten-free menus are rare. Special dietary requests, which must be selected in the passenger details section of your reservation, cannot be guaranteed. We are unable to provide meals in accordance with strict religious requirements, such as Kosher or Halal, nor can we accommodate specifically salt-free, high-protein or low-carb meals.
|
| Zimbabwe - Be sure that all food, including meats, vegetables and fruits are fully cooked. Avoid dairy products, unless you know they have been pasteurized. Drink only bottled or boiled water, or carbonated drinks in cans or bottles. Avoid tap water, fountain drinks, and ice cubes. |
| Holidays |
| On public holidays, there may be reduced public transportation, as well as limited hours or closures of attractions, shops and restaurants. |
| Holidays - South Africa |
Holidays 2024 Jan 1: New Year's Day Mar 21: Human Rights Day Mar 29: Good Friday Mar 31: Family Day Apr 27: Freedom Day May 1: Worker's Day Jun 16: Youth Day Aug 9: National Women's Day Dec 16: Day of Reconciliation Dec 25: Christmas Day Dec 26: Day of Goodwill Holidays 2025 Jan 1: New Year's Day Mar 21: Human Rights Day Apr 18: Good Friday Apr 20: Easter Apr 21: Family Day Apr 27: Freedom Day May 1: Worker's 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 |
| Holidays - Zimbabwe |
Holidays 2024 Jan 1: New Year's Day Feb 21: Robert Mugabe National Youth Day Mar 29: Good Friday Mar 30: Holy Saturday Mar 31: Easter Sunday Apr 1: Easter Monday Apr 18: Independence Day May 1: Workers Day May 25: Africa Day Aug 12: Heroes' Day Aug 13: Defense Forces Day Dec 22: Unity Day Dec 23: Unity Day Holiday Dec 25: Christmas Day Dec 26: Boxing Day Holidays 2025 Jan 1: New Year's Day Feb 21: Robert Mugabe National Youth Day Apr 18: Good Friday Apr 19: Holy Saturday Apr 20: Easter Sunday Apr 21: Easter Monday Apr 18: Independence Day May 1: Workers Day May 25: Africa Day Aug 11: Heroes' Day Aug 12: Defense Forces Day Dec 22: Unity Day Dec 25: Christmas Day Dec 26: Boxing Day |
| Know Before You Go | |
| 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. |
| Getting Ready to Go |
| Passports and Visas |
| It is each traveler's responsibility to have a passport valid for at least 6 months beyond the dates of travel 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. IMPORTANT: Passengers who are not U.S. citizens must check with the respective consulate or a visa agency to determine what personal identification is required. Passengers who enter, leave and then re-enter the same country on their itinerary should check if they require a double-entry visa. Passport applications are available at most U.S. Post Offices, as well as at regional Passport Agencies. Passengers requiring visas, whether obtained in advance or locally upon arrival, should ensure that their passport has blank pages.
|
| SOUTH AFRICA - Passengers are required to have at least two, entirely blank (unstamped) visa pages (i.e. one side of such a page not front and back thereof) in their passport, each time entry is sought into South Africa, including re-entry from eSwatini. Therefore passengers continuing on to Zimbabwe and/or Botswana are required to have four blank visa pages. These pages are in addition to the endorsement/amendment pages at the back of the passport. South African government regulations prohibit airlines from boarding passengers without the required blank visa page. For more information, please visit the South African consulate website http://www.southafrica-newyork.net/homeaffairs/tourist_visa.htm or http://www.southafrica-newyork.net/homeaffairs/ |
| Children Under 18 Traveling to South Africa - The South African Department of Home Affairs no longer requires additional documentation for visitors under the age of 18 as of Nov 2019. Passengers traveling with children under 18 to South Africa will simply require a valid passport for entry. For more information please visit: http://www.dha.gov.za/index.php/statements-speeches/621-advisory-new-requirements-for-children-travelling-through-south-african-ports-of-entry-effective-1-june-2015.
|
| Traveling with Friends or Family? |
| If you are traveling with friends or family who are booked on another reservation, please make sure that we are aware. On occasion, we may operate more than one vehicle on your tour departure in which case we will ensure that guests will be assigned together. This is achieved by connecting your reservations before your departure. Once you arrive in your destination, it may not be possible to make assignment changes. To check that your reservations are linked, log into https://www.gate1travel.com/reservations with your email and password, select your reservation number, and check to see that your reservations are indicated as "Traveling With" at the top right side of the display. |
| 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, driver's license) are in order. Make sure also that you have enough prescription medications to last through the trip and carry them with you in case your luggage is delayed. Bring a change of clothes in your carry-on bag in the event that your luggage is delayed or lost. Lost luggage is common. We strongly urge you to consider carry-ons instead of checked bags when possible, and when checking a bag is necessary, choose a bag color and identification that stands out. We suggest that you make photocopies of passports, visas, personal ID and any other important travel documents and pack them separately from the originals. You may also make a digital copy of your passport to keep a clear picture with the important details in your cell phone or digital camera photos. If you lose the originals while traveling, you'll have copies for easier reporting and replacement. Pack a list of medications including dosage and generic names. You may consider bringing a small supply of over the counter medications for headaches and/or anti-diarrhea pills (especially when traveling outside of the USA and Western Europe). We recommend that you pack a portable alarm clock. Due to security reasons, many museums have restrictions on the size of bags that can be taken inside and backpacks, carry-on bags or large purses may not be permitted. It is recommended to bring a small shoulder bag or purse to use in these situations instead. Avoid placing valuables such as cameras in your checked luggage. Airplane pressure can cause similar pressure in your body, most notably in ears, as well as liquid tubes and bottles. Your physician can suggest medication for decongestion. We suggest that you place liquid containers into Ziploc bags to catch any leaks. |
| Travel Safety Advice: The safety of our guests is Gate 1’s #1 concern. Before making the decision to reserve your vacation, we want you to be aware of potential situations which may impact your holiday. While most of the time our programs run precisely according to plans, on rare occasion force majeure events including weather, transportation mechanical issues, or uninhabitable accommodation, civil unrest and even criminal or terrorist activities will present themselves unexpectedly and with little or no notice. Gate 1 will make the decision to cancel a tour only after receiving verifiable government issued information. We are otherwise obliged to comply with contractual airline and vendor agreements and carry out the tour until or unless we are advised otherwise. In the event of such an occurrence anytime after your date of departure, Gate 1 and the local destination ground staff, in coordination with government advisories, airlines, hotels, cruise ships and other vendors, will make decisions with regard to your safety first. We strongly recommend that tour participants review the destination country's specific information at https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/alertswarnings.html. |
| Travel Protection |
| Even the best-planned trips can be impacted by the unexpected. And that is why we recommend that you help protect yourself and your investment by purchasing Travel Protection for your Gate 1 trip. Travel Protection can help with medical coverage for illness or injury, trip cancellation and/or interruption, baggage loss, medical evacuation, and more. At any time before you complete Final Payment, you may choose to purchase Travel Protection. The protection plan premium is non-refundable after a 10-day review period. In addition, you must be medically able to travel at the time the premium is paid. For a summary of the plan details on coverages, benefits, limitations and exclusions, please refer to the Description of Coverage by visiting www.gate1travel.com/insurance/. Cancel for Any Reason Waiver Benefit (CFAR) is a non-insurance feature that allows you to cancel up to 72 hours before your scheduled departure for any reason not otherwise covered in the Travel Protection Plan. CFAR must be purchased at the same time as the Travel Protection Plan as well as within 21 days of the original booking date. Independent or escorted tour reservations will be eligible for a future travel credit equal to the full cost of your trip, less the cost of initial deposit, airline-assessed fees, amendment fees, and insurance premium. Sea or river cruise reservations will be eligible for a future travel credit equal to 50% of the cost of your trip, less the cost of initial trip deposit, airline-assessed fees, amendment fees, and insurance premium. All CFAR credits are valid for a period of two years from the original date of travel. CFAR Credits have no cash value and are not transferrable. Airline-assessed fees are generally $300 per person, but may be as much as fully non-refundable. Some non-refundable airline tickets may retain value, less airline-assessed fees. Your future air credit must be used to book with the same airline. Deadlines to rebook and complete travel vary by airline and may be as early as 12 months from when the tickets were originally issued (not the date of travel). For details, www.gate1travel.com/insurance/. This program does not apply to custom groups and Antarctica cruises. Residents of New York, Missouri & Minnesota may purchase this Cancel for Any Reason Waiver Benefit separate from Travel Protection. Call to speak with a reservation agent for details. This Cancel for any Reason Wavier Benefit is not insurance and is provided by Gate 1 Travel. |
| Mobile Phones |
| Mobile networks differ from country to country. We recommend you check with your provider to see if your wireless plan will work in the destination(s) you are visiting. To avoid possible roaming charges, you may want to consider purchasing an international plan. With most major phone companies, for a modest fee, you will be able to use your domestic plan's talk, text, and data allowances just like you do at home. If you can access the internet while you travel, you can also take advantage of services such as WhatsApp or Skype. |
| Making Telephone Calls from One Country to Another |
| When dialing a number from one country to another, you should proceed as follows: dial your country's Exit Code (often indicated with a “+” sign), then the destination Country Code, then the Phone Number. For most countries, the exit code is 00. Exceptions include the USA and Canada (011), Hong Kong and Cambodia (001), Australia (0011), and Russia (8 Pause 10*). For Brazil, please consult with the local telephone company. If you are dialing from a mobile phone, you can enter a “+” instead of the international Exit Code (011, 001, 0011 or 00) by pressing and holding the 0 key. For most countries in Africa, Asia, Europe, South America and South Pacific, if you are calling from a local phone to a number within the same country, you should drop both the exit and country codes and then add a leading 0 (zero). Exceptions include Spain, Italy, Hungary and Malta (no additional zero needed to dial locally). Example: To dial the following number in Germany (as listed on your voucher): +(49) 0555-555 From USA or your US cell phone: 011-49-555-555 From another country in Europe: 00-49-555-555 From a German phone within Germany: 0555-555 |
| WiFi Access |
| WiFi is available in most airports, hotels, and cruise lines, as well as on some flights, trains, and buses. There may be a fee for access and service quality and speed may vary greatly especially while on moving vehicles. Availability on cruises is also dependent upon its location while sailing through multiple countries. Please note that WiFi can be extremely slow, unreliable, and sometimes nonexistent in developing countries. |
| Staying Healthy While Traveling |
| All travelers should familiarize themselves with local conditions, such as high altitude or required immunizations, which could affect their health. We recommend you consult with your personal healthcare provider, the Centers for Disease Control (www.cdc.gov) and/or the World Health Organization (http://www.who.int/en/) for their recommendations. There are several easy steps you can take to stay healthy while traveling which may help prevent contracting an illness while away from home.
|
| Notice on Aircraft Cabin Insecticide Treatment - Please note that some countries may require aircraft cabin insecticide treatment for in-bound foreign flights. A list of such countries is available at:
http://www.dot.gov/office-policy/aviation-policy/aircraft-disinsection-requirements. |
| South Africa & eSwatini - While the majority of South Africa is malaria-free, visitors to Kruger National Park and the Limpopo Province are encouraged to consult their health care providers regarding malaria prophylaxis. Malaria is endemic to the Kruger National Park Area. The Waterberg region of the Limpopo Province is considered a non-endemic area however as of March 2017, the CDC has received official reports of possible locally transmitted cases of malaria in this region and further investigation and surveillance is taking place. Visitors should use mosquito repellent and wear long pants, closed shoes, and a lightweight long sleeve shirt when in this area. Additionally, you may encounter mosquitoes in other areas, both rural and urban, especially during wet seasons. Please consult your physician before traveling to South Africa. Passengers arriving in South Africa after visiting or connecting 12 hours or more in designated yellow fever countries must carry proof of yellow fever vaccination. Designated yellow fever countries include but are not limited to Kenya, Senegal, & Ghana and it is recommended to check with the South African consulate prior to travel for the complete list of countries. This tour visits areas of high elevations on the Panorama Route (5,870 feet) and in eSwatini (6,110 feet), and may cause temporary altitude discomfort for some travelers. Those affected should avoid over-exertion, drink extra water, and eat lightly. |
| Zimbabwe - Malaria is prevalent throughout Zimbabwe, except in Harare, due to the capital's high altitude. The CDC strongly recommends that malaria prophylaxis and preventative measures be taken when traveling outside of Harare. Information on vaccinations and other health precautions, such as safe food and water precautions and insect bite protection, may be obtained from the Center for Disease Control and Prevention's hotline for international travelers at 1-877-FYI-TRIP (1-877-394-8747) or via the CDC website. For information about outbreaks of infectious diseases abroad, consult the World Health Organization (WHO) website. The WHO website also contains additional health information for travelers, including detailed country-specific health information. Tuberculosis is an increasingly serious health concern in Zimbabwe. For further information, please consult the CDC's information on TB. |
| Consideration for Tour Participants (Escorted Tours) |
For the benefit of all tour participants, we ask tour members to be considerate of their fellow travelers in the following ways:
|
| Climate & Clothing |
| South Africa & eSwatini - Spring and Autumn: 55-70°F, Summer: 60-80°F, Winter: 45-65°F. Bring comfortable walking shoes, clothes you can layer, and an all-weather jacket. Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses are also recommended. A bandanna or light scarf is recommended as protection against dust and dirt on game drives. On game reserves, it is recommended to wear neutral colors such as khaki and beige, which are most comfortable during the heat of the day. Binoculars are a must for wildlife viewing, and a long-range lens is recommended for photography. South Africa Average Temperatures: https://www.gate1travel.com/weather/africa/#south-africa-weather |
| Zimbabwe - November: - March 63°F-86°F; April - July: 43°F-85°F; August - October: 48°F-93°F. Victoria Falls offers a mild and dry winter from June to mid-August and a warm to hot spring, until the rains start in mid-November. The dry season around Victoria Falls generally is from May to October; the wet season is from November to March. Bring comfortable walking shoes, clothes you can layer, and an all-weather jacket. Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses are also recommended. A bandanna or light scarf is recommended as protection against dust and dirt on game drives. On game reserves, it is recommended to wear neutral colors such as khaki and beige, which are most comfortable during the heat of the day. A rain coat will be provided while on the Victoria Falls tour, however please wear shoes you do not mind getting wet and bring a small umbrella for extra protection. Binoculars are a must for wildlife viewing, and a long-range lens is recommended for photography. |
| About Drones |
| Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV) or "drone" technology has quickly become affordable and is increasingly popular with recreational users. While some countries have clear, established drone laws, others do not, or existing regulations are undergoing review and change. Travelers who wish to bring a drone on their trip are responsible to research and abide by the laws and regulations of the countries they are visiting, as well as to check with their airline(s) regarding their rules for transporting drones. Please note that tours are unable to extend the length of scheduled visits and stops to accommodate use of drones. |
| Book & Film Recommendations |
| Many of our guests enjoy reading about their destination - either in advance of their trip or while traveling - as a way of adding context to their visit. Whether reading a traditional guide book, learning about the history and culture, or simply enjoying a fictional novel set in the destination, a good book can add greatly to your experience. Similarly, a good movie set in your destination helps set the mood before you travel. We asked our Tour Managers and staff to recommend books and films which past guests may have enjoyed. The following does not constitute an endorsement of any authors, books or films listed, it is merely a collection of guests' recommendations. |
| SOUTH AFRICA: Books Long Walk to Freedom by Nelson Mandela Cry, The Beloved Country by Alan Paton Zulu by Caryl Ferey Mafeking Road by Herman Charles Bosman The Power of One by Bryce Courtenay Playing the Enemy by John Carlin Country of My Skull by Antjie Krog |
| Preparing for Your Trip |
| Seat Assignments |
| As a courtesy service, complimentary airline seat assignments are requested on your behalf and, when available, are displayed in order of Passenger #1, #2 and so on. Assignments reflect the best available seats at the time of booking. Some airlines and/or fare types do not allow for pre-seating and require this be done at airport check-in only; in which case the display shows “N/A”. Seats are subject to change by your airline(s) including, for example, when there is a schedule change or equipment change after your initial booking; this may cause seat assignments to be changed or even cancelled. Some airlines offer preferred seating for an additional fee; these seats may only be purchased directly from the airline. You will need your family name and the 6-digit airline “Record Locator” which is displayed with the flight details on your reservation. In the event that you change seat assignments directly with your airline, changes will not be reflected on your invoice or documents. At the time that Gate 1 travel documents are issued, the currently assigned seats will be listed based on the assignments stored in your airline reservation at that time. Should you have questions regarding your assignments, please write to us at www.gate1travel.com/contactus. |
| Luggage & Packing |
| Checked bags are typically limited to a total dimension of 62 inches by adding length + width + height (example: 26"+26"+10" = 62”), and a maximum weight of 50 lbs (23kg). Smart Bags with a USB charging port, GPS tracking device and other high-tech features are prohibited as checked or carry-on baggage unless the bag is made with removable batteries and the batteries are removed and stored separately. Many airlines charge for checked bags including flights which begin and end within the USA. The most inexpensive airfare options commonly known as Basic Economy airfares do not include any checked bags nor seat assignments before the day of departure. However, for some airlines, other airfare categories also do not include checked baggage. This will be clearly displayed in our airfare selection and on your invoice. Where available, we highly recommend selecting airfares which include at least 1 piece of checked baggage. Gate 1 Travel is not responsible for checked bag fees, excess luggage or weight charges levied by an airline. Checked baggage allowances displayed on reservation details and invoices reflect the applicable allowance at the time of booking but are subject to change by your airline(s). For your airline’s requirements and fees, visit www.gate1travel.com/baggagefees.aspx. For important baggage information, visit www.gate1travel.com/luggage.aspx. Avoid placing valuables in your checked luggage. Federal law forbids the carriage of hazardous materials aboard the aircraft in your luggage, your carry-on or on your person. A violation can result in five years’ imprisonment and penalties of $250,000 or more (49 U.S.C. 5124). Hazardous materials include explosives, compressed gases, flammable liquids and solids, oxidizers, poisons, corrosives and radioactive materials. Examples: Paints, lighter fluid, fireworks, tear gases, oxygen bottles, and radio-pharmaceuticals. There are special exceptions for small quantities (up to 70 ounces total) of medicinal and toilet articles carried in your luggage and certain smoking materials carried on your person. Check the Transportation and Safety Administration (TSA) website www.tsa.gov to find out the current list of acceptable items you may bring on a plane before packing. We recommend that you use brightly colored luggage tags, straps or other identifiers to help you locate you luggage upon arrival or to describe it in the event that it is lost. |
| Southern Africa - Passengers arriving into Johannesburg and connecting to Cape Town must collect their luggage upon arrival to Johannesburg, and re-check their baggage into their connecting flight to Cape Town. Flights within South Africa and between South Africa and Zimbabwe have a weight restriction for luggage of 44 lbs. per piece of checked luggage and 14 lbs. per piece of carry-on luggage, with a limit of one checked and one carry-on piece of luggage per person. This differs from international flight luggage limits and should be taken into account when preparing for your trip. A lock is recommended for checked luggage while traveling within Southern Africa. Passengers traveling while pregnant are advised to carry a doctor’s note approving their health is suitable for flying. Southern Africa authorities reserve the right to deny passengers boarding if they do not carry such a note. |
| Day of Departure |
| Flight Services |
| What to do if You Need Assistance |
Whether you purchased your airfare from Gate 1 Travel or from the airline directly, please bear in mind that Gate 1 Travel does not own nor operate the airline(s), nor the airport facilities where they operate. At times, flying can be a frustrating experience, especially when things do not go exactly as planned, and airline explanations can be confusing or even misleading. Should you face a problem, remain calm and seek assistance either from the airline directly or from Gate 1. Please be aware that in most cases, on the day of your flight(s), airlines pass responsibility for your reservation to their staff at the airport and it is not always possible for Gate 1 Travel to intervene on your behalf, either through our reservations system or directly with your airline. |
| Arrival & Departure |
| Arrival Procedures |
| Upon arrival, please complete immigration formalities if necessary 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 collecting your luggage or 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. If you are delayed due to lost luggage, phone the number on the voucher or have a companion exit the Customs Area to advise the transfer representative. Be wary of airport scammers who offer unwanted assistance. If you are arriving without a pre-arranged transfer, we strongly recommend going to the Tourist Information Desk to ask for a licensed taxi or transfer service. You may be asked to pay for the transfer at the desk prior to the trip, this will ensure you are not charged extra during the trip. |
| 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, the better we can respond. Please refer to the Emergency Assistance instructions on this same document. 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 you 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. The cost of a transfer is more expensive than hiring a taxi, as a Gate 1 transfer necessarily includes round trip service, or 'dead-leg'. Often the places of call (airports, seaports, hotels) demand entrance and parking fees, where drivers may have to wait for up to an hour. Passengers comfortable hiring a taxi on their own and do not require assistance will save money. |
| About Your Escorted Tour Participants in South Africa |
| Please note that the number of participants may vary during your tour as we accommodate travelers arriving at different points in the itinerary. All passengers will begin in Cape Town and continue to Johannesburg. Some participates will end their trip in Johannesburg, while others will continue with a post-tour extension to Zimbabwe or Botswana. |
| About Your Accommodations |
| Hotels |
| Gate 1 Travel has carefully selected each hotel based on overall quality, location, price, service, and cleanliness. All rooms are standard twin-bedded (two single beds) rooms with private facilities. Special requests such as bed types, smoking preference and connecting rooms are subject to availability. Room selection in all cases, unless otherwise reserved, is strictly at the discretion of the hotel's management on a run-of-house basis. Triple rooms consist of standard twin beds or one double bed plus a sofa/folding bed or cot for third person except in the U.S. and Canada, where triple rooms often consist of two double/queen beds for three persons; where available, a fee may be charged by the hotel for the addition of a cot/rollaway. The number of persons accommodated does not dictate the room size. Although available at most 4 and 5 star hotels, the use of air-conditioning abroad differs greatly from the United States, and is often shut down at night and from the end until the start of the summer months. Some lodges and accommodations in remote regions may not have all of the amenities, such as hairdryer, alarm clock and room service, that you might find in a larger hotel located in a city center. |
| Hotel Check-in/ Check-out |
| Hotel check-in time is generally not before 4:00 p.m. and check-out time is prior to 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. |
| At Your Destination |
| 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 and learn about foreign cultures, we ask first and foremost that you practice tolerance and respect for local customs. |
| Cape Town Water Conservation |
| Cape Town is in a water-scarce region of South Africa and is susceptible to drought. During your stay, please be mindful of water consumption and support the local government’s conservation efforts, in the event water restrictions are in place. |
| Gratuities |
| Tipping is always a matter of personal discretion. For your convenience, please use the summary below as a guideline for recommended gratuity amounts. Gratuities may be paid in local currency or US dollar equivalent where accepted. Please be aware that 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 manager or phone our local office. Numbers are provided in your documents for your convenience. |
| Suggested Tipping: Southern Africa & eSwatini |
Tour Manager (Coordinator; may or may not act as a guide): US $10 per person per day Driver (Provides chauffeur services and limited assistance with luggage): US $4 per person per day, US $2 per half day Local Guide (Offers in-depth information at specific locations. There may be one or many guides along a tour program): US $4 per person per day of sightseeing, US $2 per half day Game Drive Ranger: US $6 per person per day Hotel porters and wait staff: Included |
| South Africa & eSwatini - Gratuities are appreciated and expected for good service in restaurants and other places that cater to tourists, as well as on safaris. |
| Zimbabwe - Gratuities are appreciated and expected for good service in restaurants and other places that cater to tourists. |
| About Your Sightseeing |
| To ensure a pleasant and fair experience for passengers on our escorted tours, there is a mandatory seat rotation policy on our motor coaches which will be organized by your Tour Manager. On river cruises, color-coded group splits may be used for shoreside included and Optional tours. Some buses are equipped with toilet facility, however they are strictly intended for emergency use only and often require the vehicle to stop for safety reasons before use. When travel dates coincide with religious holidays and national celebrations, some monuments and sites may be closed, sometimes without prior notice. On these occasions, escorted touring itineraries may be amended to reflect these closures. Occasionally, during holidays and certain periods, and/or due to other unforeseen circumstances including weather conditions, there may be last-minute changes, sometimes after arrival, which may affect the sequence of the tour and locations visited. National monuments and tourist sites regularly undergo renovations, which can obscure the monument's view. No tour will be canceled due to renovations, however Gate 1 will decide based on the conditions whether to amend an itinerary. To respect the privacy of all tour participants, your tour manager will not organize a group photo or collect passenger email addresses for a group list. |
| 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 check-in. The details of the hotel can be found in your documents. |
| 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. https://www.gate1travel.com/terms.aspx#optional |
| Independent Activities - Gate 1 itineraries may contain suggestions for activities for your leisure time; these suggestions do not constitute a recommendation nor an endorsement of any specific service provider and the decision to participate in any such activities should be made independently and with due consideration. Gate 1 is not responsible for any activities not expressly included in its programs. Caution should be exercised when selecting certain activities that may require physical strength, coordination or exertion. Particular care should be taken when considering animal rides, such as on camels, mules or horses |
| South Africa & eSwatini - The Rand is the currency of South Africa. The Lilangeni is the currency of eSwatini however the South African Rand is widely accepted. When exchanging currency in a bank, a passport must be presented to complete the transaction. |
| Zimbabwe - Zimbabwe operated under a multi-currency monetary system where the U.S. Dollar (USD) was the most widely accepted form of currency. Until May 2024, The Zimbabwe Dollar (ZWL) was the official currency of Zimbabwe, which will be then be replaced by the Zimbabwe Gold (ZiG). Travelers may withdraw local currency from international credit-card enabled ATMs, which will be marked as international and have the logos of the accepted credit card companies. Foreign currency may be exchanged at the bank, however travelers are encouraged to use credit cards where possible and only exchange amounts of money in cash that they anticipate using. Visa fees are payable in foreign currency and may be paid in cash. Foreign credit cards will continue to be accepted as a form of payment where facilities exist. |
| Shopping |
| Most people enjoy bringing home at least one souvenir from the countries they visit. However, some find any amount of shopping to be too much while others never find enough opportunities. We have built into our Escorted itineraries a few shopping stops at recommended spots. These stops are designed to enhance your experience by providing an opportunity to see first-hand quality locally crafted merchandise which you may not be able to find on your own. Shops are checked to ensure the quality and authenticity of the products they offer, and we limit guides from visiting other locations. In some cases, we plan these stops to provide an opportunity to use clean bathrooms and to stretch your legs. All shops want your satisfaction, and therefore in case of any misunderstanding they ask that you kindly submit your claim to us within one week of the item's receipt. Claims submitted later will be subject to each store’s policies. While shopping independently, 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! About Tax-Free Shopping Tax-Free Shopping allows shoppers to reclaim the VAT (Value-Added Tax) or GST (Goods and Services Tax) they have paid on their purchases in some foreign countries in accordance with restrictions and procedures as dictated by each country. Refund eligibility varies by country, but may require presenting a scanned copy of your passport at the time of purchase, a minimum amount spent, or providing original store receipts. For more details, check the respective country’s online website, with the shop salesperson, with your tour manager or at www.globalblue.com for specific country regulations and airport operation hours. Please keep in mind that you must apply for VAT refund in the airport of the country the items were purchased and allow enough time prior to your flight for the application. U.S. Customs & Shipping Charges You may carry items with a fair retail value totaling $800 into the U.S. Taxes may be applied to the next $1,000 worth of merchandise. U.S. Customs determines the value of your items, often honoring a genuine sales receipt. Items which are shipped home are always subject to duty when received in the U.S. (in addition to shipping charges). Some shops may offer to include shipping and duties in the price but this typically means shipping only to the customs facility closest to you and payment only of the export duties; you would still need to collect the item and pay U.S. import duties. Please be aware that it is illegal to import products made from endangered animal species. U.S. Customs & Border Protection will seize these items, as well as most furs, coral, tortoise shell, reptile skins, feathers, plants, and items made from animal skins. |
| South Africa & eSwatini - 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. |
| Zimbabwe - Victoria Falls offers wood carvings and soapstone sculptures. |
| Your Safety is Very Important |
|
Prior to your trip, if you are traveling overseas, we strongly recommend that you visit the website of the U.S. Department of State at www.travel.state.gov, specifically the section which addresses International Travel. You should read the tips for foreign travel and travel warnings for the country or countries that you plan to visit. It is also important that you do not allow your common sense to take a vacation while on your trip. Here are several tips which, if followed, will save much potential hardship:
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. |
| Zimbabwe - While we recommend that you apply reasonable caution and common sense when traveling in any country, please be aware that in Zimbabwe, there are issues with theft against tourists in public places. Americans and other foreigners are perceived to be wealthy and are frequently targeted by criminals who operate in the vicinity of hotels, restaurants, and shopping areas of the major cities and tourist areas such as Victoria Falls. Although the majority of crimes in Zimbabwe are non-violent, be alert to any suspicious activity. Always keep valuables in a safe place and avoid walking alone. Passengers should not travel alone after dark. We recommend that taxis be reserved via the hotel concierge desk, and that you do not ride alone when possible. When not possible, we recommend that a hotel, restaurant, or shop call a taxi; instruct the driver not to pick up other passengers. When using ATM machines, be on the lookout for anyone watching or following you. In the unlikely event that you should fall victim to a robbery, do not resist, the majority of injuries from robberies occur as a result of resistance. Do not hitchhike and do not accept rides from strangers. As in most parts of the world, be aware of your surroundings and keep to well-lit and populated areas. |
| On Safari - While on safari, it is very important that you follow all directions provided by your guide in order to ensure the safety of the group. Prior to the first safari, your driver/guide will review "safari etiquette" addressing, amongst other issues, off-road driving and hazards, and interaction with animals. Wildlife listed in the itinerary are based upon optimal conditions conditions and sightings cannot be guaranteed, including the "Big 5." While on tour you will be reminded by your guide of local safety and ecologic procedures to ensure your safety and the protection of the wildlife. Normal precautions include remaining in close proximity to your driver/guide and vehicle, avoiding tall grass and keeping noise to a minimum to not attract extra attention. Your driver/guide will advise you not to turn over rocks or dead wood and to stay clear of ground holes and caves, where scorpions, snakes and other potentially dangerous animal life may be hidden. Refrain from littering, feeding any animals or leaving food waste behind in the parks as this can upset their natural diets and lead to a dependence upon people. In addition, please do not purchase, collect, or remove any animal products, rocks, seeds, plants, or nests from the wild. Roadways to the game viewing sites are for the most part unpaved and will therefore be rough and dusty. Gate 1 safari vehicles are fitted with large roof hatches or open sides to allow for easy viewing of wildlife from all angles. Safari vehicles cannot be air-conditioned and you will be provided bottled water while travelling. Vehicles are equipped with seatbelts which must be worn on public roads. While safari vehicles typically move slowly, drivers warn passengers of bumps or potholes and many passengers may choose not to wear a seatbelt, it is still strongly recommended to do so. Passengers should always remain seated when the vehicle is in motion. Inside the National Parks and reserves there are designated picnic sites. Due to frequent use wildlife tends to avoid these areas with the exception of primates, reptiles, birds and small mammals. However, since picnic sites are open it is possible that a larger animal, such as an elephant, may wander through. Outside of the parks, it may be necessary to make more frequent shopping stops as these stores provide the only acceptable facilities while touring due to the lack of public rest stops. |
| Tourist Street Scams |
Pickpockets and thieves can destroy an otherwise wonderful holiday. Be mindful of these precautions to help avoid being scammed or robbed:
|
| Cape Town - While we recommend that you apply reasonable caution and common sense when traveling in any country, please be aware that in Cape Town, there are significant issues with theft against tourists in public places. Do not carry expensive valuables or wear valuable items (jewelry, watches) out in public and keep cameras and other touristy items out of sight like money belts and hip bags. If you have any questions on how to use the ATM machines ask your Tour Manager, do not ask strangers. Carry little cash and use a credit card as often as possible as they are widely accepted. Keep your card in your eye sight at all times when paying. You should not explore alone and it is recommended to travel in small groups. Be sure to ask directions from your tour manager and the hotel to avoid less safe areas. Do not take public transportation on buses as these vehicles are targets for robbery. We recommend that taxis be reserved via the hotel concierge desk, and that you do not ride alone when possible. As in most parts of the world, be aware of your surroundings and keep to well-lit and populated areas. Be sure to use the hotel safes at all times for your valuable items. |
| Local Emergency Phone Numbers |
South Africa
|
Zimbabwe
|
| Languages |
| South Africa - Zulu, Xhosa, Afrikaans, and English are among the local languages. |
| Zimbabwe - Shona and Ndebele are the local languages. The official language is English. |
| 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. The national electric company of South Africa has imposed planned power outages, locally referred to as "load shedding," to cope with overdemand on the electrical grid. Hotels in major cities are equipped with back-up generators so there are no interruptions to normal services, however hotels outside of major cities may have supplemental generators that provide electricity to only essential services. Power is generally restored within 2-3 hours of the outage, however this can vary. Passengers traveling with CPAP machines must notify Gate 1 Travel in advance so accommodations can be made to ensure there are no interruptions to run these machines through the night. |
| Zimbabwe - The voltage used is 220 volts. |
| Code of Conduct |
| South Africa & eSwatini - 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. |
| Zimbabwe - Visitors should observe normal courtesies. The atmosphere is generally informal and casual dress is appropriate. |
| Meals & Dietary Requests |
| Included meals are based on the restaurant's set menu or buffet and usually represent local cuisine. Vegetarian meals are available in most locations, while vegan, protein-rich or gluten-free menus are rare. Special dietary requests, which must be selected in the passenger details section of your reservation, cannot be guaranteed. We are unable to provide meals in accordance with strict religious requirements, such as Kosher or Halal, nor can we accommodate specifically salt-free, high-protein or low-carb meals.
|
| Zimbabwe - Be sure that all food, including meats, vegetables and fruits are fully cooked. Avoid dairy products, unless you know they have been pasteurized. Drink only bottled or boiled water, or carbonated drinks in cans or bottles. Avoid tap water, fountain drinks, and ice cubes. |
| Holidays |
| On public holidays, there may be reduced public transportation, as well as limited hours or closures of attractions, shops and restaurants. |
| Holidays - South Africa |
Holidays 2024 Jan 1: New Year's Day Mar 21: Human Rights Day Mar 29: Good Friday Mar 31: Family Day Apr 27: Freedom Day May 1: Worker's Day Jun 16: Youth Day Aug 9: National Women's Day Dec 16: Day of Reconciliation Dec 25: Christmas Day Dec 26: Day of Goodwill Holidays 2025 Jan 1: New Year's Day Mar 21: Human Rights Day Apr 18: Good Friday Apr 20: Easter Apr 21: Family Day Apr 27: Freedom Day May 1: Worker's 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 |
| Holidays - Zimbabwe |
Holidays 2024 Jan 1: New Year's Day Feb 21: Robert Mugabe National Youth Day Mar 29: Good Friday Mar 30: Holy Saturday Mar 31: Easter Sunday Apr 1: Easter Monday Apr 18: Independence Day May 1: Workers Day May 25: Africa Day Aug 12: Heroes' Day Aug 13: Defense Forces Day Dec 22: Unity Day Dec 23: Unity Day Holiday Dec 25: Christmas Day Dec 26: Boxing Day Holidays 2025 Jan 1: New Year's Day Feb 21: Robert Mugabe National Youth Day Apr 18: Good Friday Apr 19: Holy Saturday Apr 20: Easter Sunday Apr 21: Easter Monday Apr 18: Independence Day May 1: Workers Day May 25: Africa Day Aug 11: Heroes' Day Aug 12: Defense Forces Day Dec 22: Unity Day Dec 25: Christmas Day Dec 26: Boxing Day |
| Know Before You Go | |
| 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. |
| Getting Ready to Go |
| Passports and Visas |
| It is each traveler's responsibility to have a passport valid for at least 6 months beyond the dates of travel 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. IMPORTANT: Passengers who are not U.S. citizens must check with the respective consulate or a visa agency to determine what personal identification is required. Passengers who enter, leave and then re-enter the same country on their itinerary should check if they require a double-entry visa. Passport applications are available at most U.S. Post Offices, as well as at regional Passport Agencies. Passengers requiring visas, whether obtained in advance or locally upon arrival, should ensure that their passport has blank pages.
|
| SOUTH AFRICA - Passengers are required to have at least two, entirely blank (unstamped) visa pages (i.e. one side of such a page not front and back thereof) in their passport, each time entry is sought into South Africa, including re-entry from eSwatini. Therefore passengers continuing on to Zimbabwe and/or Botswana are required to have four blank visa pages. These pages are in addition to the endorsement/amendment pages at the back of the passport. South African government regulations prohibit airlines from boarding passengers without the required blank visa page. For more information, please visit the South African consulate website http://www.southafrica-newyork.net/homeaffairs/tourist_visa.htm or http://www.southafrica-newyork.net/homeaffairs/ |
| Children Under 18 Traveling to South Africa - The South African Department of Home Affairs no longer requires additional documentation for visitors under the age of 18 as of Nov 2019. Passengers traveling with children under 18 to South Africa will simply require a valid passport for entry. For more information please visit: http://www.dha.gov.za/index.php/statements-speeches/621-advisory-new-requirements-for-children-travelling-through-south-african-ports-of-entry-effective-1-june-2015.
|
| Traveling with Friends or Family? |
| If you are traveling with friends or family who are booked on another reservation, please make sure that we are aware. On occasion, we may operate more than one vehicle on your tour departure in which case we will ensure that guests will be assigned together. This is achieved by connecting your reservations before your departure. Once you arrive in your destination, it may not be possible to make assignment changes. To check that your reservations are linked, log into https://www.gate1travel.com/reservations with your email and password, select your reservation number, and check to see that your reservations are indicated as "Traveling With" at the top right side of the display. |
| 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, driver's license) are in order. Make sure also that you have enough prescription medications to last through the trip and carry them with you in case your luggage is delayed. Bring a change of clothes in your carry-on bag in the event that your luggage is delayed or lost. Lost luggage is common. We strongly urge you to consider carry-ons instead of checked bags when possible, and when checking a bag is necessary, choose a bag color and identification that stands out. We suggest that you make photocopies of passports, visas, personal ID and any other important travel documents and pack them separately from the originals. You may also make a digital copy of your passport to keep a clear picture with the important details in your cell phone or digital camera photos. If you lose the originals while traveling, you'll have copies for easier reporting and replacement. Pack a list of medications including dosage and generic names. You may consider bringing a small supply of over the counter medications for headaches and/or anti-diarrhea pills (especially when traveling outside of the USA and Western Europe). We recommend that you pack a portable alarm clock. Due to security reasons, many museums have restrictions on the size of bags that can be taken inside and backpacks, carry-on bags or large purses may not be permitted. It is recommended to bring a small shoulder bag or purse to use in these situations instead. Avoid placing valuables such as cameras in your checked luggage. Airplane pressure can cause similar pressure in your body, most notably in ears, as well as liquid tubes and bottles. Your physician can suggest medication for decongestion. We suggest that you place liquid containers into Ziploc bags to catch any leaks. |
| Travel Safety Advice: The safety of our guests is Gate 1’s #1 concern. Before making the decision to reserve your vacation, we want you to be aware of potential situations which may impact your holiday. While most of the time our programs run precisely according to plans, on rare occasion force majeure events including weather, transportation mechanical issues, or uninhabitable accommodation, civil unrest and even criminal or terrorist activities will present themselves unexpectedly and with little or no notice. Gate 1 will make the decision to cancel a tour only after receiving verifiable government issued information. We are otherwise obliged to comply with contractual airline and vendor agreements and carry out the tour until or unless we are advised otherwise. In the event of such an occurrence anytime after your date of departure, Gate 1 and the local destination ground staff, in coordination with government advisories, airlines, hotels, cruise ships and other vendors, will make decisions with regard to your safety first. We strongly recommend that tour participants review the destination country's specific information at https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/alertswarnings.html. |
| Travel Protection |
| Even the best-planned trips can be impacted by the unexpected. And that is why we recommend that you help protect yourself and your investment by purchasing Travel Protection for your Gate 1 trip. Travel Protection can help with medical coverage for illness or injury, trip cancellation and/or interruption, baggage loss, medical evacuation, and more. At any time before you complete Final Payment, you may choose to purchase Travel Protection. The protection plan premium is non-refundable after a 10-day review period. In addition, you must be medically able to travel at the time the premium is paid. For a summary of the plan details on coverages, benefits, limitations and exclusions, please refer to the Description of Coverage by visiting www.gate1travel.com/insurance/. Cancel for Any Reason Waiver Benefit (CFAR) is a non-insurance feature that allows you to cancel up to 72 hours before your scheduled departure for any reason not otherwise covered in the Travel Protection Plan. CFAR must be purchased at the same time as the Travel Protection Plan as well as within 21 days of the original booking date. Independent or escorted tour reservations will be eligible for a future travel credit equal to the full cost of your trip, less the cost of initial deposit, airline-assessed fees, amendment fees, and insurance premium. Sea or river cruise reservations will be eligible for a future travel credit equal to 50% of the cost of your trip, less the cost of initial trip deposit, airline-assessed fees, amendment fees, and insurance premium. All CFAR credits are valid for a period of two years from the original date of travel. CFAR Credits have no cash value and are not transferrable. Airline-assessed fees are generally $300 per person, but may be as much as fully non-refundable. Some non-refundable airline tickets may retain value, less airline-assessed fees. Your future air credit must be used to book with the same airline. Deadlines to rebook and complete travel vary by airline and may be as early as 12 months from when the tickets were originally issued (not the date of travel). For details, www.gate1travel.com/insurance/. This program does not apply to custom groups and Antarctica cruises. Residents of New York, Missouri & Minnesota may purchase this Cancel for Any Reason Waiver Benefit separate from Travel Protection. Call to speak with a reservation agent for details. This Cancel for any Reason Wavier Benefit is not insurance and is provided by Gate 1 Travel. |
| Mobile Phones |
| Mobile networks differ from country to country. We recommend you check with your provider to see if your wireless plan will work in the destination(s) you are visiting. To avoid possible roaming charges, you may want to consider purchasing an international plan. With most major phone companies, for a modest fee, you will be able to use your domestic plan's talk, text, and data allowances just like you do at home. If you can access the internet while you travel, you can also take advantage of services such as WhatsApp or Skype. |
| Making Telephone Calls from One Country to Another |
| When dialing a number from one country to another, you should proceed as follows: dial your country's Exit Code (often indicated with a “+” sign), then the destination Country Code, then the Phone Number. For most countries, the exit code is 00. Exceptions include the USA and Canada (011), Hong Kong and Cambodia (001), Australia (0011), and Russia (8 Pause 10*). For Brazil, please consult with the local telephone company. If you are dialing from a mobile phone, you can enter a “+” instead of the international Exit Code (011, 001, 0011 or 00) by pressing and holding the 0 key. For most countries in Africa, Asia, Europe, South America and South Pacific, if you are calling from a local phone to a number within the same country, you should drop both the exit and country codes and then add a leading 0 (zero). Exceptions include Spain, Italy, Hungary and Malta (no additional zero needed to dial locally). Example: To dial the following number in Germany (as listed on your voucher): +(49) 0555-555 From USA or your US cell phone: 011-49-555-555 From another country in Europe: 00-49-555-555 From a German phone within Germany: 0555-555 |
| WiFi Access |
| WiFi is available in most airports, hotels, and cruise lines, as well as on some flights, trains, and buses. There may be a fee for access and service quality and speed may vary greatly especially while on moving vehicles. Availability on cruises is also dependent upon its location while sailing through multiple countries. Please note that WiFi can be extremely slow, unreliable, and sometimes nonexistent in developing countries. |
| Staying Healthy While Traveling |
| All travelers should familiarize themselves with local conditions, such as high altitude or required immunizations, which could affect their health. We recommend you consult with your personal healthcare provider, the Centers for Disease Control (www.cdc.gov) and/or the World Health Organization (http://www.who.int/en/) for their recommendations. There are several easy steps you can take to stay healthy while traveling which may help prevent contracting an illness while away from home.
|
| Notice on Aircraft Cabin Insecticide Treatment - Please note that some countries may require aircraft cabin insecticide treatment for in-bound foreign flights. A list of such countries is available at:
http://www.dot.gov/office-policy/aviation-policy/aircraft-disinsection-requirements. |
| South Africa & eSwatini - While the majority of South Africa is malaria-free, visitors to Kruger National Park and the Limpopo Province are encouraged to consult their health care providers regarding malaria prophylaxis. Malaria is endemic to the Kruger National Park Area. The Waterberg region of the Limpopo Province is considered a non-endemic area however as of March 2017, the CDC has received official reports of possible locally transmitted cases of malaria in this region and further investigation and surveillance is taking place. Visitors should use mosquito repellent and wear long pants, closed shoes, and a lightweight long sleeve shirt when in this area. Additionally, you may encounter mosquitoes in other areas, both rural and urban, especially during wet seasons. Please consult your physician before traveling to South Africa. Passengers arriving in South Africa after visiting or connecting 12 hours or more in designated yellow fever countries must carry proof of yellow fever vaccination. Designated yellow fever countries include but are not limited to Kenya, Senegal, & Ghana and it is recommended to check with the South African consulate prior to travel for the complete list of countries. This tour visits areas of high elevations on the Panorama Route (5,870 feet) and in eSwatini (6,110 feet), and may cause temporary altitude discomfort for some travelers. Those affected should avoid over-exertion, drink extra water, and eat lightly. |
| Zimbabwe - Malaria is prevalent throughout Zimbabwe, except in Harare, due to the capital's high altitude. The CDC strongly recommends that malaria prophylaxis and preventative measures be taken when traveling outside of Harare. Information on vaccinations and other health precautions, such as safe food and water precautions and insect bite protection, may be obtained from the Center for Disease Control and Prevention's hotline for international travelers at 1-877-FYI-TRIP (1-877-394-8747) or via the CDC website. For information about outbreaks of infectious diseases abroad, consult the World Health Organization (WHO) website. The WHO website also contains additional health information for travelers, including detailed country-specific health information. Tuberculosis is an increasingly serious health concern in Zimbabwe. For further information, please consult the CDC's information on TB. |
| Consideration for Tour Participants (Escorted Tours) |
For the benefit of all tour participants, we ask tour members to be considerate of their fellow travelers in the following ways:
|
| Climate & Clothing |
| South Africa & eSwatini - Spring and Autumn: 55-70°F, Summer: 60-80°F, Winter: 45-65°F. Bring comfortable walking shoes, clothes you can layer, and an all-weather jacket. Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses are also recommended. A bandanna or light scarf is recommended as protection against dust and dirt on game drives. On game reserves, it is recommended to wear neutral colors such as khaki and beige, which are most comfortable during the heat of the day. Binoculars are a must for wildlife viewing, and a long-range lens is recommended for photography. South Africa Average Temperatures: https://www.gate1travel.com/weather/africa/#south-africa-weather |
| Zimbabwe - November: - March 63°F-86°F; April - July: 43°F-85°F; August - October: 48°F-93°F. Victoria Falls offers a mild and dry winter from June to mid-August and a warm to hot spring, until the rains start in mid-November. The dry season around Victoria Falls generally is from May to October; the wet season is from November to March. Bring comfortable walking shoes, clothes you can layer, and an all-weather jacket. Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses are also recommended. A bandanna or light scarf is recommended as protection against dust and dirt on game drives. On game reserves, it is recommended to wear neutral colors such as khaki and beige, which are most comfortable during the heat of the day. A rain coat will be provided while on the Victoria Falls tour, however please wear shoes you do not mind getting wet and bring a small umbrella for extra protection. Binoculars are a must for wildlife viewing, and a long-range lens is recommended for photography. |
| About Drones |
| Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV) or "drone" technology has quickly become affordable and is increasingly popular with recreational users. While some countries have clear, established drone laws, others do not, or existing regulations are undergoing review and change. Travelers who wish to bring a drone on their trip are responsible to research and abide by the laws and regulations of the countries they are visiting, as well as to check with their airline(s) regarding their rules for transporting drones. Please note that tours are unable to extend the length of scheduled visits and stops to accommodate use of drones. |
| Book & Film Recommendations |
| Many of our guests enjoy reading about their destination - either in advance of their trip or while traveling - as a way of adding context to their visit. Whether reading a traditional guide book, learning about the history and culture, or simply enjoying a fictional novel set in the destination, a good book can add greatly to your experience. Similarly, a good movie set in your destination helps set the mood before you travel. We asked our Tour Managers and staff to recommend books and films which past guests may have enjoyed. The following does not constitute an endorsement of any authors, books or films listed, it is merely a collection of guests' recommendations. |
| SOUTH AFRICA: Books Long Walk to Freedom by Nelson Mandela Cry, The Beloved Country by Alan Paton Zulu by Caryl Ferey Mafeking Road by Herman Charles Bosman The Power of One by Bryce Courtenay Playing the Enemy by John Carlin Country of My Skull by Antjie Krog |
| Preparing for Your Trip |
| Seat Assignments |
| As a courtesy service, complimentary airline seat assignments are requested on your behalf and, when available, are displayed in order of Passenger #1, #2 and so on. Assignments reflect the best available seats at the time of booking. Some airlines and/or fare types do not allow for pre-seating and require this be done at airport check-in only; in which case the display shows “N/A”. Seats are subject to change by your airline(s) including, for example, when there is a schedule change or equipment change after your initial booking; this may cause seat assignments to be changed or even cancelled. Some airlines offer preferred seating for an additional fee; these seats may only be purchased directly from the airline. You will need your family name and the 6-digit airline “Record Locator” which is displayed with the flight details on your reservation. In the event that you change seat assignments directly with your airline, changes will not be reflected on your invoice or documents. At the time that Gate 1 travel documents are issued, the currently assigned seats will be listed based on the assignments stored in your airline reservation at that time. Should you have questions regarding your assignments, please write to us at www.gate1travel.com/contactus. |
| Luggage & Packing |
| Checked bags are typically limited to a total dimension of 62 inches by adding length + width + height (example: 26"+26"+10" = 62”), and a maximum weight of 50 lbs (23kg). Smart Bags with a USB charging port, GPS tracking device and other high-tech features are prohibited as checked or carry-on baggage unless the bag is made with removable batteries and the batteries are removed and stored separately. Many airlines charge for checked bags including flights which begin and end within the USA. The most inexpensive airfare options commonly known as Basic Economy airfares do not include any checked bags nor seat assignments before the day of departure. However, for some airlines, other airfare categories also do not include checked baggage. This will be clearly displayed in our airfare selection and on your invoice. Where available, we highly recommend selecting airfares which include at least 1 piece of checked baggage. Gate 1 Travel is not responsible for checked bag fees, excess luggage or weight charges levied by an airline. Checked baggage allowances displayed on reservation details and invoices reflect the applicable allowance at the time of booking but are subject to change by your airline(s). For your airline’s requirements and fees, visit www.gate1travel.com/baggagefees.aspx. For important baggage information, visit www.gate1travel.com/luggage.aspx. Avoid placing valuables in your checked luggage. Federal law forbids the carriage of hazardous materials aboard the aircraft in your luggage, your carry-on or on your person. A violation can result in five years’ imprisonment and penalties of $250,000 or more (49 U.S.C. 5124). Hazardous materials include explosives, compressed gases, flammable liquids and solids, oxidizers, poisons, corrosives and radioactive materials. Examples: Paints, lighter fluid, fireworks, tear gases, oxygen bottles, and radio-pharmaceuticals. There are special exceptions for small quantities (up to 70 ounces total) of medicinal and toilet articles carried in your luggage and certain smoking materials carried on your person. Check the Transportation and Safety Administration (TSA) website www.tsa.gov to find out the current list of acceptable items you may bring on a plane before packing. We recommend that you use brightly colored luggage tags, straps or other identifiers to help you locate you luggage upon arrival or to describe it in the event that it is lost. |
| Southern Africa - Passengers arriving into Johannesburg and connecting to Cape Town must collect their luggage upon arrival to Johannesburg, and re-check their baggage into their connecting flight to Cape Town. Flights within South Africa and between South Africa and Zimbabwe have a weight restriction for luggage of 44 lbs. per piece of checked luggage and 14 lbs. per piece of carry-on luggage, with a limit of one checked and one carry-on piece of luggage per person. This differs from international flight luggage limits and should be taken into account when preparing for your trip. A lock is recommended for checked luggage while traveling within Southern Africa. Passengers traveling while pregnant are advised to carry a doctor’s note approving their health is suitable for flying. Southern Africa authorities reserve the right to deny passengers boarding if they do not carry such a note. |
| Day of Departure |
| Flight Services |
| What to do if You Need Assistance |
Whether you purchased your airfare from Gate 1 Travel or from the airline directly, please bear in mind that Gate 1 Travel does not own nor operate the airline(s), nor the airport facilities where they operate. At times, flying can be a frustrating experience, especially when things do not go exactly as planned, and airline explanations can be confusing or even misleading. Should you face a problem, remain calm and seek assistance either from the airline directly or from Gate 1. Please be aware that in most cases, on the day of your flight(s), airlines pass responsibility for your reservation to their staff at the airport and it is not always possible for Gate 1 Travel to intervene on your behalf, either through our reservations system or directly with your airline. |
| Arrival & Departure |
| Arrival Procedures |
| Upon arrival, please complete immigration formalities if necessary 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 collecting your luggage or 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. If you are delayed due to lost luggage, phone the number on the voucher or have a companion exit the Customs Area to advise the transfer representative. Be wary of airport scammers who offer unwanted assistance. If you are arriving without a pre-arranged transfer, we strongly recommend going to the Tourist Information Desk to ask for a licensed taxi or transfer service. You may be asked to pay for the transfer at the desk prior to the trip, this will ensure you are not charged extra during the trip. |
| 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, the better we can respond. Please refer to the Emergency Assistance instructions on this same document. 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 you 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. The cost of a transfer is more expensive than hiring a taxi, as a Gate 1 transfer necessarily includes round trip service, or 'dead-leg'. Often the places of call (airports, seaports, hotels) demand entrance and parking fees, where drivers may have to wait for up to an hour. Passengers comfortable hiring a taxi on their own and do not require assistance will save money. |
| About Your Escorted Tour Participants in South Africa |
| Please note that the number of participants may vary during your tour as we accommodate travelers arriving at different points in the itinerary. All passengers will begin in Cape Town and continue to Johannesburg. Some participates will end their trip in Johannesburg, while others will continue with a post-tour extension to Zimbabwe or Botswana. |
| About Your Accommodations |
| Hotels |
| Gate 1 Travel has carefully selected each hotel based on overall quality, location, price, service, and cleanliness. All rooms are standard twin-bedded (two single beds) rooms with private facilities. Special requests such as bed types, smoking preference and connecting rooms are subject to availability. Room selection in all cases, unless otherwise reserved, is strictly at the discretion of the hotel's management on a run-of-house basis. Triple rooms consist of standard twin beds or one double bed plus a sofa/folding bed or cot for third person except in the U.S. and Canada, where triple rooms often consist of two double/queen beds for three persons; where available, a fee may be charged by the hotel for the addition of a cot/rollaway. The number of persons accommodated does not dictate the room size. Although available at most 4 and 5 star hotels, the use of air-conditioning abroad differs greatly from the United States, and is often shut down at night and from the end until the start of the summer months. Some lodges and accommodations in remote regions may not have all of the amenities, such as hairdryer, alarm clock and room service, that you might find in a larger hotel located in a city center. |
| Hotel Check-in/ Check-out |
| Hotel check-in time is generally not before 4:00 p.m. and check-out time is prior to 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. |
| At Your Destination |
| 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 and learn about foreign cultures, we ask first and foremost that you practice tolerance and respect for local customs. |
| Cape Town Water Conservation |
| Cape Town is in a water-scarce region of South Africa and is susceptible to drought. During your stay, please be mindful of water consumption and support the local government’s conservation efforts, in the event water restrictions are in place. |
| Gratuities |
| Tipping is always a matter of personal discretion. For your convenience, please use the summary below as a guideline for recommended gratuity amounts. Gratuities may be paid in local currency or US dollar equivalent where accepted. Please be aware that 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 manager or phone our local office. Numbers are provided in your documents for your convenience. |
| Suggested Tipping: Southern Africa & eSwatini |
Tour Manager (Coordinator; may or may not act as a guide): US $10 per person per day Driver (Provides chauffeur services and limited assistance with luggage): US $4 per person per day, US $2 per half day Local Guide (Offers in-depth information at specific locations. There may be one or many guides along a tour program): US $4 per person per day of sightseeing, US $2 per half day Game Drive Ranger: US $6 per person per day Hotel porters and wait staff: Included |
| South Africa & eSwatini - Gratuities are appreciated and expected for good service in restaurants and other places that cater to tourists, as well as on safaris. |
| Zimbabwe - Gratuities are appreciated and expected for good service in restaurants and other places that cater to tourists. |
| About Your Sightseeing |
| To ensure a pleasant and fair experience for passengers on our escorted tours, there is a mandatory seat rotation policy on our motor coaches which will be organized by your Tour Manager. On river cruises, color-coded group splits may be used for shoreside included and Optional tours. Some buses are equipped with toilet facility, however they are strictly intended for emergency use only and often require the vehicle to stop for safety reasons before use. When travel dates coincide with religious holidays and national celebrations, some monuments and sites may be closed, sometimes without prior notice. On these occasions, escorted touring itineraries may be amended to reflect these closures. Occasionally, during holidays and certain periods, and/or due to other unforeseen circumstances including weather conditions, there may be last-minute changes, sometimes after arrival, which may affect the sequence of the tour and locations visited. National monuments and tourist sites regularly undergo renovations, which can obscure the monument's view. No tour will be canceled due to renovations, however Gate 1 will decide based on the conditions whether to amend an itinerary. To respect the privacy of all tour participants, your tour manager will not organize a group photo or collect passenger email addresses for a group list. |
| 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 check-in. The details of the hotel can be found in your documents. |
| 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. https://www.gate1travel.com/terms.aspx#optional |
| Independent Activities - Gate 1 itineraries may contain suggestions for activities for your leisure time; these suggestions do not constitute a recommendation nor an endorsement of any specific service provider and the decision to participate in any such activities should be made independently and with due consideration. Gate 1 is not responsible for any activities not expressly included in its programs. Caution should be exercised when selecting certain activities that may require physical strength, coordination or exertion. Particular care should be taken when considering animal rides, such as on camels, mules or horses |
| South Africa & eSwatini - The Rand is the currency of South Africa. The Lilangeni is the currency of eSwatini however the South African Rand is widely accepted. When exchanging currency in a bank, a passport must be presented to complete the transaction. |
| Zimbabwe - Zimbabwe operated under a multi-currency monetary system where the U.S. Dollar (USD) was the most widely accepted form of currency. Until May 2024, The Zimbabwe Dollar (ZWL) was the official currency of Zimbabwe, which will be then be replaced by the Zimbabwe Gold (ZiG). Travelers may withdraw local currency from international credit-card enabled ATMs, which will be marked as international and have the logos of the accepted credit card companies. Foreign currency may be exchanged at the bank, however travelers are encouraged to use credit cards where possible and only exchange amounts of money in cash that they anticipate using. Visa fees are payable in foreign currency and may be paid in cash. Foreign credit cards will continue to be accepted as a form of payment where facilities exist. |
| Shopping |
| Most people enjoy bringing home at least one souvenir from the countries they visit. However, some find any amount of shopping to be too much while others never find enough opportunities. We have built into our Escorted itineraries a few shopping stops at recommended spots. These stops are designed to enhance your experience by providing an opportunity to see first-hand quality locally crafted merchandise which you may not be able to find on your own. Shops are checked to ensure the quality and authenticity of the products they offer, and we limit guides from visiting other locations. In some cases, we plan these stops to provide an opportunity to use clean bathrooms and to stretch your legs. All shops want your satisfaction, and therefore in case of any misunderstanding they ask that you kindly submit your claim to us within one week of the item's receipt. Claims submitted later will be subject to each store’s policies. While shopping independently, 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! About Tax-Free Shopping Tax-Free Shopping allows shoppers to reclaim the VAT (Value-Added Tax) or GST (Goods and Services Tax) they have paid on their purchases in some foreign countries in accordance with restrictions and procedures as dictated by each country. Refund eligibility varies by country, but may require presenting a scanned copy of your passport at the time of purchase, a minimum amount spent, or providing original store receipts. For more details, check the respective country’s online website, with the shop salesperson, with your tour manager or at www.globalblue.com for specific country regulations and airport operation hours. Please keep in mind that you must apply for VAT refund in the airport of the country the items were purchased and allow enough time prior to your flight for the application. U.S. Customs & Shipping Charges You may carry items with a fair retail value totaling $800 into the U.S. Taxes may be applied to the next $1,000 worth of merchandise. U.S. Customs determines the value of your items, often honoring a genuine sales receipt. Items which are shipped home are always subject to duty when received in the U.S. (in addition to shipping charges). Some shops may offer to include shipping and duties in the price but this typically means shipping only to the customs facility closest to you and payment only of the export duties; you would still need to collect the item and pay U.S. import duties. Please be aware that it is illegal to import products made from endangered animal species. U.S. Customs & Border Protection will seize these items, as well as most furs, coral, tortoise shell, reptile skins, feathers, plants, and items made from animal skins. |
| South Africa & eSwatini - 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. |
| Zimbabwe - Victoria Falls offers wood carvings and soapstone sculptures. |
| Your Safety is Very Important |
|
Prior to your trip, if you are traveling overseas, we strongly recommend that you visit the website of the U.S. Department of State at www.travel.state.gov, specifically the section which addresses International Travel. You should read the tips for foreign travel and travel warnings for the country or countries that you plan to visit. It is also important that you do not allow your common sense to take a vacation while on your trip. Here are several tips which, if followed, will save much potential hardship:
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. |
| Zimbabwe - While we recommend that you apply reasonable caution and common sense when traveling in any country, please be aware that in Zimbabwe, there are issues with theft against tourists in public places. Americans and other foreigners are perceived to be wealthy and are frequently targeted by criminals who operate in the vicinity of hotels, restaurants, and shopping areas of the major cities and tourist areas such as Victoria Falls. Although the majority of crimes in Zimbabwe are non-violent, be alert to any suspicious activity. Always keep valuables in a safe place and avoid walking alone. Passengers should not travel alone after dark. We recommend that taxis be reserved via the hotel concierge desk, and that you do not ride alone when possible. When not possible, we recommend that a hotel, restaurant, or shop call a taxi; instruct the driver not to pick up other passengers. When using ATM machines, be on the lookout for anyone watching or following you. In the unlikely event that you should fall victim to a robbery, do not resist, the majority of injuries from robberies occur as a result of resistance. Do not hitchhike and do not accept rides from strangers. As in most parts of the world, be aware of your surroundings and keep to well-lit and populated areas. |
| On Safari - While on safari, it is very important that you follow all directions provided by your guide in order to ensure the safety of the group. Prior to the first safari, your driver/guide will review "safari etiquette" addressing, amongst other issues, off-road driving and hazards, and interaction with animals. Wildlife listed in the itinerary are based upon optimal conditions conditions and sightings cannot be guaranteed, including the "Big 5." While on tour you will be reminded by your guide of local safety and ecologic procedures to ensure your safety and the protection of the wildlife. Normal precautions include remaining in close proximity to your driver/guide and vehicle, avoiding tall grass and keeping noise to a minimum to not attract extra attention. Your driver/guide will advise you not to turn over rocks or dead wood and to stay clear of ground holes and caves, where scorpions, snakes and other potentially dangerous animal life may be hidden. Refrain from littering, feeding any animals or leaving food waste behind in the parks as this can upset their natural diets and lead to a dependence upon people. In addition, please do not purchase, collect, or remove any animal products, rocks, seeds, plants, or nests from the wild. Roadways to the game viewing sites are for the most part unpaved and will therefore be rough and dusty. Gate 1 safari vehicles are fitted with large roof hatches or open sides to allow for easy viewing of wildlife from all angles. Safari vehicles cannot be air-conditioned and you will be provided bottled water while travelling. Vehicles are equipped with seatbelts which must be worn on public roads. While safari vehicles typically move slowly, drivers warn passengers of bumps or potholes and many passengers may choose not to wear a seatbelt, it is still strongly recommended to do so. Passengers should always remain seated when the vehicle is in motion. Inside the National Parks and reserves there are designated picnic sites. Due to frequent use wildlife tends to avoid these areas with the exception of primates, reptiles, birds and small mammals. However, since picnic sites are open it is possible that a larger animal, such as an elephant, may wander through. Outside of the parks, it may be necessary to make more frequent shopping stops as these stores provide the only acceptable facilities while touring due to the lack of public rest stops. |
| Tourist Street Scams |
Pickpockets and thieves can destroy an otherwise wonderful holiday. Be mindful of these precautions to help avoid being scammed or robbed:
|
| Cape Town - While we recommend that you apply reasonable caution and common sense when traveling in any country, please be aware that in Cape Town, there are significant issues with theft against tourists in public places. Do not carry expensive valuables or wear valuable items (jewelry, watches) out in public and keep cameras and other touristy items out of sight like money belts and hip bags. If you have any questions on how to use the ATM machines ask your Tour Manager, do not ask strangers. Carry little cash and use a credit card as often as possible as they are widely accepted. Keep your card in your eye sight at all times when paying. You should not explore alone and it is recommended to travel in small groups. Be sure to ask directions from your tour manager and the hotel to avoid less safe areas. Do not take public transportation on buses as these vehicles are targets for robbery. We recommend that taxis be reserved via the hotel concierge desk, and that you do not ride alone when possible. As in most parts of the world, be aware of your surroundings and keep to well-lit and populated areas. Be sure to use the hotel safes at all times for your valuable items. |
| Local Emergency Phone Numbers |
South Africa
|
Zimbabwe
|
| Languages |
| South Africa - Zulu, Xhosa, Afrikaans, and English are among the local languages. |
| Zimbabwe - Shona and Ndebele are the local languages. The official language is English. |
| 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. The national electric company of South Africa has imposed planned power outages, locally referred to as "load shedding," to cope with overdemand on the electrical grid. Hotels in major cities are equipped with back-up generators so there are no interruptions to normal services, however hotels outside of major cities may have supplemental generators that provide electricity to only essential services. Power is generally restored within 2-3 hours of the outage, however this can vary. Passengers traveling with CPAP machines must notify Gate 1 Travel in advance so accommodations can be made to ensure there are no interruptions to run these machines through the night. |
| Zimbabwe - The voltage used is 220 volts. |
| Code of Conduct |
| South Africa & eSwatini - 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. |
| Zimbabwe - Visitors should observe normal courtesies. The atmosphere is generally informal and casual dress is appropriate. |
| Meals & Dietary Requests |
| Included meals are based on the restaurant's set menu or buffet and usually represent local cuisine. Vegetarian meals are available in most locations, while vegan, protein-rich or gluten-free menus are rare. Special dietary requests, which must be selected in the passenger details section of your reservation, cannot be guaranteed. We are unable to provide meals in accordance with strict religious requirements, such as Kosher or Halal, nor can we accommodate specifically salt-free, high-protein or low-carb meals.
|
| Zimbabwe - Be sure that all food, including meats, vegetables and fruits are fully cooked. Avoid dairy products, unless you know they have been pasteurized. Drink only bottled or boiled water, or carbonated drinks in cans or bottles. Avoid tap water, fountain drinks, and ice cubes. |
| Holidays |
| On public holidays, there may be reduced public transportation, as well as limited hours or closures of attractions, shops and restaurants. |
| Holidays - South Africa |
Holidays 2024 Jan 1: New Year's Day Mar 21: Human Rights Day Mar 29: Good Friday Mar 31: Family Day Apr 27: Freedom Day May 1: Worker's Day Jun 16: Youth Day Aug 9: National Women's Day Dec 16: Day of Reconciliation Dec 25: Christmas Day Dec 26: Day of Goodwill Holidays 2025 Jan 1: New Year's Day Mar 21: Human Rights Day Apr 18: Good Friday Apr 20: Easter Apr 21: Family Day Apr 27: Freedom Day May 1: Worker's 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 |
| Holidays - Zimbabwe |
Holidays 2024 Jan 1: New Year's Day Feb 21: Robert Mugabe National Youth Day Mar 29: Good Friday Mar 30: Holy Saturday Mar 31: Easter Sunday Apr 1: Easter Monday Apr 18: Independence Day May 1: Workers Day May 25: Africa Day Aug 12: Heroes' Day Aug 13: Defense Forces Day Dec 22: Unity Day Dec 23: Unity Day Holiday Dec 25: Christmas Day Dec 26: Boxing Day Holidays 2025 Jan 1: New Year's Day Feb 21: Robert Mugabe National Youth Day Apr 18: Good Friday Apr 19: Holy Saturday Apr 20: Easter Sunday Apr 21: Easter Monday Apr 18: Independence Day May 1: Workers Day May 25: Africa Day Aug 11: Heroes' Day Aug 12: Defense Forces Day Dec 22: Unity Day Dec 25: Christmas Day Dec 26: Boxing Day |
| Know Before You Go | |
| 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. |
| Getting Ready to Go |
| Passports and Visas |
| It is each traveler's responsibility to have a passport valid for at least 6 months beyond the dates of travel 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. IMPORTANT: Passengers who are not U.S. citizens must check with the respective consulate or a visa agency to determine what personal identification is required. Passengers who enter, leave and then re-enter the same country on their itinerary should check if they require a double-entry visa. Passport applications are available at most U.S. Post Offices, as well as at regional Passport Agencies. Passengers requiring visas, whether obtained in advance or locally upon arrival, should ensure that their passport has blank pages.
|
| SOUTH AFRICA - Passengers are required to have at least two, entirely blank (unstamped) visa pages (i.e. one side of such a page not front and back thereof) in their passport, each time entry is sought into South Africa, including re-entry from eSwatini. Therefore passengers continuing on to Zimbabwe and/or Botswana are required to have four blank visa pages. These pages are in addition to the endorsement/amendment pages at the back of the passport. South African government regulations prohibit airlines from boarding passengers without the required blank visa page. For more information, please visit the South African consulate website http://www.southafrica-newyork.net/homeaffairs/tourist_visa.htm or http://www.southafrica-newyork.net/homeaffairs/ |
| Children Under 18 Traveling to South Africa - The South African Department of Home Affairs no longer requires additional documentation for visitors under the age of 18 as of Nov 2019. Passengers traveling with children under 18 to South Africa will simply require a valid passport for entry. For more information please visit: http://www.dha.gov.za/index.php/statements-speeches/621-advisory-new-requirements-for-children-travelling-through-south-african-ports-of-entry-effective-1-june-2015.
|
| Traveling with Friends or Family? |
| If you are traveling with friends or family who are booked on another reservation, please make sure that we are aware. On occasion, we may operate more than one vehicle on your tour departure in which case we will ensure that guests will be assigned together. This is achieved by connecting your reservations before your departure. Once you arrive in your destination, it may not be possible to make assignment changes. To check that your reservations are linked, log into https://www.gate1travel.com/reservations with your email and password, select your reservation number, and check to see that your reservations are indicated as "Traveling With" at the top right side of the display. |
| 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, driver's license) are in order. Make sure also that you have enough prescription medications to last through the trip and carry them with you in case your luggage is delayed. Bring a change of clothes in your carry-on bag in the event that your luggage is delayed or lost. Lost luggage is common. We strongly urge you to consider carry-ons instead of checked bags when possible, and when checking a bag is necessary, choose a bag color and identification that stands out. We suggest that you make photocopies of passports, visas, personal ID and any other important travel documents and pack them separately from the originals. You may also make a digital copy of your passport to keep a clear picture with the important details in your cell phone or digital camera photos. If you lose the originals while traveling, you'll have copies for easier reporting and replacement. Pack a list of medications including dosage and generic names. You may consider bringing a small supply of over the counter medications for headaches and/or anti-diarrhea pills (especially when traveling outside of the USA and Western Europe). We recommend that you pack a portable alarm clock. Due to security reasons, many museums have restrictions on the size of bags that can be taken inside and backpacks, carry-on bags or large purses may not be permitted. It is recommended to bring a small shoulder bag or purse to use in these situations instead. Avoid placing valuables such as cameras in your checked luggage. Airplane pressure can cause similar pressure in your body, most notably in ears, as well as liquid tubes and bottles. Your physician can suggest medication for decongestion. We suggest that you place liquid containers into Ziploc bags to catch any leaks. |
| Travel Safety Advice: The safety of our guests is Gate 1’s #1 concern. Before making the decision to reserve your vacation, we want you to be aware of potential situations which may impact your holiday. While most of the time our programs run precisely according to plans, on rare occasion force majeure events including weather, transportation mechanical issues, or uninhabitable accommodation, civil unrest and even criminal or terrorist activities will present themselves unexpectedly and with little or no notice. Gate 1 will make the decision to cancel a tour only after receiving verifiable government issued information. We are otherwise obliged to comply with contractual airline and vendor agreements and carry out the tour until or unless we are advised otherwise. In the event of such an occurrence anytime after your date of departure, Gate 1 and the local destination ground staff, in coordination with government advisories, airlines, hotels, cruise ships and other vendors, will make decisions with regard to your safety first. We strongly recommend that tour participants review the destination country's specific information at https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/alertswarnings.html. |
| Travel Protection |
| Even the best-planned trips can be impacted by the unexpected. And that is why we recommend that you help protect yourself and your investment by purchasing Travel Protection for your Gate 1 trip. Travel Protection can help with medical coverage for illness or injury, trip cancellation and/or interruption, baggage loss, medical evacuation, and more. At any time before you complete Final Payment, you may choose to purchase Travel Protection. The protection plan premium is non-refundable after a 10-day review period. In addition, you must be medically able to travel at the time the premium is paid. For a summary of the plan details on coverages, benefits, limitations and exclusions, please refer to the Description of Coverage by visiting www.gate1travel.com/insurance/. Cancel for Any Reason Waiver Benefit (CFAR) is a non-insurance feature that allows you to cancel up to 72 hours before your scheduled departure for any reason not otherwise covered in the Travel Protection Plan. CFAR must be purchased at the same time as the Travel Protection Plan as well as within 21 days of the original booking date. Independent or escorted tour reservations will be eligible for a future travel credit equal to the full cost of your trip, less the cost of initial deposit, airline-assessed fees, amendment fees, and insurance premium. Sea or river cruise reservations will be eligible for a future travel credit equal to 50% of the cost of your trip, less the cost of initial trip deposit, airline-assessed fees, amendment fees, and insurance premium. All CFAR credits are valid for a period of two years from the original date of travel. CFAR Credits have no cash value and are not transferrable. Airline-assessed fees are generally $300 per person, but may be as much as fully non-refundable. Some non-refundable airline tickets may retain value, less airline-assessed fees. Your future air credit must be used to book with the same airline. Deadlines to rebook and complete travel vary by airline and may be as early as 12 months from when the tickets were originally issued (not the date of travel). For details, www.gate1travel.com/insurance/. This program does not apply to custom groups and Antarctica cruises. Residents of New York, Missouri & Minnesota may purchase this Cancel for Any Reason Waiver Benefit separate from Travel Protection. Call to speak with a reservation agent for details. This Cancel for any Reason Wavier Benefit is not insurance and is provided by Gate 1 Travel. |
| Mobile Phones |
| Mobile networks differ from country to country. We recommend you check with your provider to see if your wireless plan will work in the destination(s) you are visiting. To avoid possible roaming charges, you may want to consider purchasing an international plan. With most major phone companies, for a modest fee, you will be able to use your domestic plan's talk, text, and data allowances just like you do at home. If you can access the internet while you travel, you can also take advantage of services such as WhatsApp or Skype. |
| Making Telephone Calls from One Country to Another |
| When dialing a number from one country to another, you should proceed as follows: dial your country's Exit Code (often indicated with a “+” sign), then the destination Country Code, then the Phone Number. For most countries, the exit code is 00. Exceptions include the USA and Canada (011), Hong Kong and Cambodia (001), Australia (0011), and Russia (8 Pause 10*). For Brazil, please consult with the local telephone company. If you are dialing from a mobile phone, you can enter a “+” instead of the international Exit Code (011, 001, 0011 or 00) by pressing and holding the 0 key. For most countries in Africa, Asia, Europe, South America and South Pacific, if you are calling from a local phone to a number within the same country, you should drop both the exit and country codes and then add a leading 0 (zero). Exceptions include Spain, Italy, Hungary and Malta (no additional zero needed to dial locally). Example: To dial the following number in Germany (as listed on your voucher): +(49) 0555-555 From USA or your US cell phone: 011-49-555-555 From another country in Europe: 00-49-555-555 From a German phone within Germany: 0555-555 |
| WiFi Access |
| WiFi is available in most airports, hotels, and cruise lines, as well as on some flights, trains, and buses. There may be a fee for access and service quality and speed may vary greatly especially while on moving vehicles. Availability on cruises is also dependent upon its location while sailing through multiple countries. Please note that WiFi can be extremely slow, unreliable, and sometimes nonexistent in developing countries. |
| Staying Healthy While Traveling |
| All travelers should familiarize themselves with local conditions, such as high altitude or required immunizations, which could affect their health. We recommend you consult with your personal healthcare provider, the Centers for Disease Control (www.cdc.gov) and/or the World Health Organization (http://www.who.int/en/) for their recommendations. There are several easy steps you can take to stay healthy while traveling which may help prevent contracting an illness while away from home.
|
| Notice on Aircraft Cabin Insecticide Treatment - Please note that some countries may require aircraft cabin insecticide treatment for in-bound foreign flights. A list of such countries is available at:
http://www.dot.gov/office-policy/aviation-policy/aircraft-disinsection-requirements. |
| South Africa & eSwatini - While the majority of South Africa is malaria-free, visitors to Kruger National Park and the Limpopo Province are encouraged to consult their health care providers regarding malaria prophylaxis. Malaria is endemic to the Kruger National Park Area. The Waterberg region of the Limpopo Province is considered a non-endemic area however as of March 2017, the CDC has received official reports of possible locally transmitted cases of malaria in this region and further investigation and surveillance is taking place. Visitors should use mosquito repellent and wear long pants, closed shoes, and a lightweight long sleeve shirt when in this area. Additionally, you may encounter mosquitoes in other areas, both rural and urban, especially during wet seasons. Please consult your physician before traveling to South Africa. Passengers arriving in South Africa after visiting or connecting 12 hours or more in designated yellow fever countries must carry proof of yellow fever vaccination. Designated yellow fever countries include but are not limited to Kenya, Senegal, & Ghana and it is recommended to check with the South African consulate prior to travel for the complete list of countries. This tour visits areas of high elevations on the Panorama Route (5,870 feet) and in eSwatini (6,110 feet), and may cause temporary altitude discomfort for some travelers. Those affected should avoid over-exertion, drink extra water, and eat lightly. |
| Zimbabwe - Malaria is prevalent throughout Zimbabwe, except in Harare, due to the capital's high altitude. The CDC strongly recommends that malaria prophylaxis and preventative measures be taken when traveling outside of Harare. Information on vaccinations and other health precautions, such as safe food and water precautions and insect bite protection, may be obtained from the Center for Disease Control and Prevention's hotline for international travelers at 1-877-FYI-TRIP (1-877-394-8747) or via the CDC website. For information about outbreaks of infectious diseases abroad, consult the World Health Organization (WHO) website. The WHO website also contains additional health information for travelers, including detailed country-specific health information. Tuberculosis is an increasingly serious health concern in Zimbabwe. For further information, please consult the CDC's information on TB. |
| Consideration for Tour Participants (Escorted Tours) |
For the benefit of all tour participants, we ask tour members to be considerate of their fellow travelers in the following ways:
|
| Climate & Clothing |
| South Africa & eSwatini - Spring and Autumn: 55-70°F, Summer: 60-80°F, Winter: 45-65°F. Bring comfortable walking shoes, clothes you can layer, and an all-weather jacket. Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses are also recommended. A bandanna or light scarf is recommended as protection against dust and dirt on game drives. On game reserves, it is recommended to wear neutral colors such as khaki and beige, which are most comfortable during the heat of the day. Binoculars are a must for wildlife viewing, and a long-range lens is recommended for photography. South Africa Average Temperatures: https://www.gate1travel.com/weather/africa/#south-africa-weather |
| Zimbabwe - November: - March 63°F-86°F; April - July: 43°F-85°F; August - October: 48°F-93°F. Victoria Falls offers a mild and dry winter from June to mid-August and a warm to hot spring, until the rains start in mid-November. The dry season around Victoria Falls generally is from May to October; the wet season is from November to March. Bring comfortable walking shoes, clothes you can layer, and an all-weather jacket. Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses are also recommended. A bandanna or light scarf is recommended as protection against dust and dirt on game drives. On game reserves, it is recommended to wear neutral colors such as khaki and beige, which are most comfortable during the heat of the day. A rain coat will be provided while on the Victoria Falls tour, however please wear shoes you do not mind getting wet and bring a small umbrella for extra protection. Binoculars are a must for wildlife viewing, and a long-range lens is recommended for photography. |
| About Drones |
| Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV) or "drone" technology has quickly become affordable and is increasingly popular with recreational users. While some countries have clear, established drone laws, others do not, or existing regulations are undergoing review and change. Travelers who wish to bring a drone on their trip are responsible to research and abide by the laws and regulations of the countries they are visiting, as well as to check with their airline(s) regarding their rules for transporting drones. Please note that tours are unable to extend the length of scheduled visits and stops to accommodate use of drones. |
| Book & Film Recommendations |
| Many of our guests enjoy reading about their destination - either in advance of their trip or while traveling - as a way of adding context to their visit. Whether reading a traditional guide book, learning about the history and culture, or simply enjoying a fictional novel set in the destination, a good book can add greatly to your experience. Similarly, a good movie set in your destination helps set the mood before you travel. We asked our Tour Managers and staff to recommend books and films which past guests may have enjoyed. The following does not constitute an endorsement of any authors, books or films listed, it is merely a collection of guests' recommendations. |
| SOUTH AFRICA: Books Long Walk to Freedom by Nelson Mandela Cry, The Beloved Country by Alan Paton Zulu by Caryl Ferey Mafeking Road by Herman Charles Bosman The Power of One by Bryce Courtenay Playing the Enemy by John Carlin Country of My Skull by Antjie Krog |
| Preparing for Your Trip |
| Seat Assignments |
| As a courtesy service, complimentary airline seat assignments are requested on your behalf and, when available, are displayed in order of Passenger #1, #2 and so on. Assignments reflect the best available seats at the time of booking. Some airlines and/or fare types do not allow for pre-seating and require this be done at airport check-in only; in which case the display shows “N/A”. Seats are subject to change by your airline(s) including, for example, when there is a schedule change or equipment change after your initial booking; this may cause seat assignments to be changed or even cancelled. Some airlines offer preferred seating for an additional fee; these seats may only be purchased directly from the airline. You will need your family name and the 6-digit airline “Record Locator” which is displayed with the flight details on your reservation. In the event that you change seat assignments directly with your airline, changes will not be reflected on your invoice or documents. At the time that Gate 1 travel documents are issued, the currently assigned seats will be listed based on the assignments stored in your airline reservation at that time. Should you have questions regarding your assignments, please write to us at www.gate1travel.com/contactus. |
| Luggage & Packing |
| Checked bags are typically limited to a total dimension of 62 inches by adding length + width + height (example: 26"+26"+10" = 62”), and a maximum weight of 50 lbs (23kg). Smart Bags with a USB charging port, GPS tracking device and other high-tech features are prohibited as checked or carry-on baggage unless the bag is made with removable batteries and the batteries are removed and stored separately. Many airlines charge for checked bags including flights which begin and end within the USA. The most inexpensive airfare options commonly known as Basic Economy airfares do not include any checked bags nor seat assignments before the day of departure. However, for some airlines, other airfare categories also do not include checked baggage. This will be clearly displayed in our airfare selection and on your invoice. Where available, we highly recommend selecting airfares which include at least 1 piece of checked baggage. Gate 1 Travel is not responsible for checked bag fees, excess luggage or weight charges levied by an airline. Checked baggage allowances displayed on reservation details and invoices reflect the applicable allowance at the time of booking but are subject to change by your airline(s). For your airline’s requirements and fees, visit www.gate1travel.com/baggagefees.aspx. For important baggage information, visit www.gate1travel.com/luggage.aspx. Avoid placing valuables in your checked luggage. Federal law forbids the carriage of hazardous materials aboard the aircraft in your luggage, your carry-on or on your person. A violation can result in five years’ imprisonment and penalties of $250,000 or more (49 U.S.C. 5124). Hazardous materials include explosives, compressed gases, flammable liquids and solids, oxidizers, poisons, corrosives and radioactive materials. Examples: Paints, lighter fluid, fireworks, tear gases, oxygen bottles, and radio-pharmaceuticals. There are special exceptions for small quantities (up to 70 ounces total) of medicinal and toilet articles carried in your luggage and certain smoking materials carried on your person. Check the Transportation and Safety Administration (TSA) website www.tsa.gov to find out the current list of acceptable items you may bring on a plane before packing. We recommend that you use brightly colored luggage tags, straps or other identifiers to help you locate you luggage upon arrival or to describe it in the event that it is lost. |
| Southern Africa - Passengers arriving into Johannesburg and connecting to Cape Town must collect their luggage upon arrival to Johannesburg, and re-check their baggage into their connecting flight to Cape Town. Flights within South Africa and between South Africa and Zimbabwe have a weight restriction for luggage of 44 lbs. per piece of checked luggage and 14 lbs. per piece of carry-on luggage, with a limit of one checked and one carry-on piece of luggage per person. This differs from international flight luggage limits and should be taken into account when preparing for your trip. A lock is recommended for checked luggage while traveling within Southern Africa. Passengers traveling while pregnant are advised to carry a doctor’s note approving their health is suitable for flying. Southern Africa authorities reserve the right to deny passengers boarding if they do not carry such a note. |
| Day of Departure |
| Flight Services |
| What to do if You Need Assistance |
Whether you purchased your airfare from Gate 1 Travel or from the airline directly, please bear in mind that Gate 1 Travel does not own nor operate the airline(s), nor the airport facilities where they operate. At times, flying can be a frustrating experience, especially when things do not go exactly as planned, and airline explanations can be confusing or even misleading. Should you face a problem, remain calm and seek assistance either from the airline directly or from Gate 1. Please be aware that in most cases, on the day of your flight(s), airlines pass responsibility for your reservation to their staff at the airport and it is not always possible for Gate 1 Travel to intervene on your behalf, either through our reservations system or directly with your airline. |
| Arrival & Departure |
| Arrival Procedures |
| Upon arrival, please complete immigration formalities if necessary 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 collecting your luggage or 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. If you are delayed due to lost luggage, phone the number on the voucher or have a companion exit the Customs Area to advise the transfer representative. Be wary of airport scammers who offer unwanted assistance. If you are arriving without a pre-arranged transfer, we strongly recommend going to the Tourist Information Desk to ask for a licensed taxi or transfer service. You may be asked to pay for the transfer at the desk prior to the trip, this will ensure you are not charged extra during the trip. |
| 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, the better we can respond. Please refer to the Emergency Assistance instructions on this same document. 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 you 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. The cost of a transfer is more expensive than hiring a taxi, as a Gate 1 transfer necessarily includes round trip service, or 'dead-leg'. Often the places of call (airports, seaports, hotels) demand entrance and parking fees, where drivers may have to wait for up to an hour. Passengers comfortable hiring a taxi on their own and do not require assistance will save money. |
| About Your Escorted Tour Participants in South Africa |
| Please note that the number of participants may vary during your tour as we accommodate travelers arriving at different points in the itinerary. All passengers will begin in Cape Town and continue to Johannesburg. Some participates will end their trip in Johannesburg, while others will continue with a post-tour extension to Zimbabwe or Botswana. |
| About Your Accommodations |
| Hotels |
| Gate 1 Travel has carefully selected each hotel based on overall quality, location, price, service, and cleanliness. All rooms are standard twin-bedded (two single beds) rooms with private facilities. Special requests such as bed types, smoking preference and connecting rooms are subject to availability. Room selection in all cases, unless otherwise reserved, is strictly at the discretion of the hotel's management on a run-of-house basis. Triple rooms consist of standard twin beds or one double bed plus a sofa/folding bed or cot for third person except in the U.S. and Canada, where triple rooms often consist of two double/queen beds for three persons; where available, a fee may be charged by the hotel for the addition of a cot/rollaway. The number of persons accommodated does not dictate the room size. Although available at most 4 and 5 star hotels, the use of air-conditioning abroad differs greatly from the United States, and is often shut down at night and from the end until the start of the summer months. Some lodges and accommodations in remote regions may not have all of the amenities, such as hairdryer, alarm clock and room service, that you might find in a larger hotel located in a city center. |
| Hotel Check-in/ Check-out |
| Hotel check-in time is generally not before 4:00 p.m. and check-out time is prior to 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. |
| At Your Destination |
| 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 and learn about foreign cultures, we ask first and foremost that you practice tolerance and respect for local customs. |
| Cape Town Water Conservation |
| Cape Town is in a water-scarce region of South Africa and is susceptible to drought. During your stay, please be mindful of water consumption and support the local government’s conservation efforts, in the event water restrictions are in place. |
| Gratuities |
| Tipping is always a matter of personal discretion. For your convenience, please use the summary below as a guideline for recommended gratuity amounts. Gratuities may be paid in local currency or US dollar equivalent where accepted. Please be aware that 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 manager or phone our local office. Numbers are provided in your documents for your convenience. |
| Suggested Tipping: Southern Africa & eSwatini |
Tour Manager (Coordinator; may or may not act as a guide): US $10 per person per day Driver (Provides chauffeur services and limited assistance with luggage): US $4 per person per day, US $2 per half day Local Guide (Offers in-depth information at specific locations. There may be one or many guides along a tour program): US $4 per person per day of sightseeing, US $2 per half day Game Drive Ranger: US $6 per person per day Hotel porters and wait staff: Included |
| South Africa & eSwatini - Gratuities are appreciated and expected for good service in restaurants and other places that cater to tourists, as well as on safaris. |
| Zimbabwe - Gratuities are appreciated and expected for good service in restaurants and other places that cater to tourists. |
| About Your Sightseeing |
| To ensure a pleasant and fair experience for passengers on our escorted tours, there is a mandatory seat rotation policy on our motor coaches which will be organized by your Tour Manager. On river cruises, color-coded group splits may be used for shoreside included and Optional tours. Some buses are equipped with toilet facility, however they are strictly intended for emergency use only and often require the vehicle to stop for safety reasons before use. When travel dates coincide with religious holidays and national celebrations, some monuments and sites may be closed, sometimes without prior notice. On these occasions, escorted touring itineraries may be amended to reflect these closures. Occasionally, during holidays and certain periods, and/or due to other unforeseen circumstances including weather conditions, there may be last-minute changes, sometimes after arrival, which may affect the sequence of the tour and locations visited. National monuments and tourist sites regularly undergo renovations, which can obscure the monument's view. No tour will be canceled due to renovations, however Gate 1 will decide based on the conditions whether to amend an itinerary. To respect the privacy of all tour participants, your tour manager will not organize a group photo or collect passenger email addresses for a group list. |
| 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 check-in. The details of the hotel can be found in your documents. |
| 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. https://www.gate1travel.com/terms.aspx#optional |
| Independent Activities - Gate 1 itineraries may contain suggestions for activities for your leisure time; these suggestions do not constitute a recommendation nor an endorsement of any specific service provider and the decision to participate in any such activities should be made independently and with due consideration. Gate 1 is not responsible for any activities not expressly included in its programs. Caution should be exercised when selecting certain activities that may require physical strength, coordination or exertion. Particular care should be taken when considering animal rides, such as on camels, mules or horses |
| South Africa & eSwatini - The Rand is the currency of South Africa. The Lilangeni is the currency of eSwatini however the South African Rand is widely accepted. When exchanging currency in a bank, a passport must be presented to complete the transaction. |
| Zimbabwe - Zimbabwe operated under a multi-currency monetary system where the U.S. Dollar (USD) was the most widely accepted form of currency. Until May 2024, The Zimbabwe Dollar (ZWL) was the official currency of Zimbabwe, which will be then be replaced by the Zimbabwe Gold (ZiG). Travelers may withdraw local currency from international credit-card enabled ATMs, which will be marked as international and have the logos of the accepted credit card companies. Foreign currency may be exchanged at the bank, however travelers are encouraged to use credit cards where possible and only exchange amounts of money in cash that they anticipate using. Visa fees are payable in foreign currency and may be paid in cash. Foreign credit cards will continue to be accepted as a form of payment where facilities exist. |
| Shopping |
| Most people enjoy bringing home at least one souvenir from the countries they visit. However, some find any amount of shopping to be too much while others never find enough opportunities. We have built into our Escorted itineraries a few shopping stops at recommended spots. These stops are designed to enhance your experience by providing an opportunity to see first-hand quality locally crafted merchandise which you may not be able to find on your own. Shops are checked to ensure the quality and authenticity of the products they offer, and we limit guides from visiting other locations. In some cases, we plan these stops to provide an opportunity to use clean bathrooms and to stretch your legs. All shops want your satisfaction, and therefore in case of any misunderstanding they ask that you kindly submit your claim to us within one week of the item's receipt. Claims submitted later will be subject to each store’s policies. While shopping independently, 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! About Tax-Free Shopping Tax-Free Shopping allows shoppers to reclaim the VAT (Value-Added Tax) or GST (Goods and Services Tax) they have paid on their purchases in some foreign countries in accordance with restrictions and procedures as dictated by each country. Refund eligibility varies by country, but may require presenting a scanned copy of your passport at the time of purchase, a minimum amount spent, or providing original store receipts. For more details, check the respective country’s online website, with the shop salesperson, with your tour manager or at www.globalblue.com for specific country regulations and airport operation hours. Please keep in mind that you must apply for VAT refund in the airport of the country the items were purchased and allow enough time prior to your flight for the application. U.S. Customs & Shipping Charges You may carry items with a fair retail value totaling $800 into the U.S. Taxes may be applied to the next $1,000 worth of merchandise. U.S. Customs determines the value of your items, often honoring a genuine sales receipt. Items which are shipped home are always subject to duty when received in the U.S. (in addition to shipping charges). Some shops may offer to include shipping and duties in the price but this typically means shipping only to the customs facility closest to you and payment only of the export duties; you would still need to collect the item and pay U.S. import duties. Please be aware that it is illegal to import products made from endangered animal species. U.S. Customs & Border Protection will seize these items, as well as most furs, coral, tortoise shell, reptile skins, feathers, plants, and items made from animal skins. |
| South Africa & eSwatini - 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. |
| Zimbabwe - Victoria Falls offers wood carvings and soapstone sculptures. |
| Your Safety is Very Important |
|
Prior to your trip, if you are traveling overseas, we strongly recommend that you visit the website of the U.S. Department of State at www.travel.state.gov, specifically the section which addresses International Travel. You should read the tips for foreign travel and travel warnings for the country or countries that you plan to visit. It is also important that you do not allow your common sense to take a vacation while on your trip. Here are several tips which, if followed, will save much potential hardship:
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. |
| Zimbabwe - While we recommend that you apply reasonable caution and common sense when traveling in any country, please be aware that in Zimbabwe, there are issues with theft against tourists in public places. Americans and other foreigners are perceived to be wealthy and are frequently targeted by criminals who operate in the vicinity of hotels, restaurants, and shopping areas of the major cities and tourist areas such as Victoria Falls. Although the majority of crimes in Zimbabwe are non-violent, be alert to any suspicious activity. Always keep valuables in a safe place and avoid walking alone. Passengers should not travel alone after dark. We recommend that taxis be reserved via the hotel concierge desk, and that you do not ride alone when possible. When not possible, we recommend that a hotel, restaurant, or shop call a taxi; instruct the driver not to pick up other passengers. When using ATM machines, be on the lookout for anyone watching or following you. In the unlikely event that you should fall victim to a robbery, do not resist, the majority of injuries from robberies occur as a result of resistance. Do not hitchhike and do not accept rides from strangers. As in most parts of the world, be aware of your surroundings and keep to well-lit and populated areas. |
| On Safari - While on safari, it is very important that you follow all directions provided by your guide in order to ensure the safety of the group. Prior to the first safari, your driver/guide will review "safari etiquette" addressing, amongst other issues, off-road driving and hazards, and interaction with animals. Wildlife listed in the itinerary are based upon optimal conditions conditions and sightings cannot be guaranteed, including the "Big 5." While on tour you will be reminded by your guide of local safety and ecologic procedures to ensure your safety and the protection of the wildlife. Normal precautions include remaining in close proximity to your driver/guide and vehicle, avoiding tall grass and keeping noise to a minimum to not attract extra attention. Your driver/guide will advise you not to turn over rocks or dead wood and to stay clear of ground holes and caves, where scorpions, snakes and other potentially dangerous animal life may be hidden. Refrain from littering, feeding any animals or leaving food waste behind in the parks as this can upset their natural diets and lead to a dependence upon people. In addition, please do not purchase, collect, or remove any animal products, rocks, seeds, plants, or nests from the wild. Roadways to the game viewing sites are for the most part unpaved and will therefore be rough and dusty. Gate 1 safari vehicles are fitted with large roof hatches or open sides to allow for easy viewing of wildlife from all angles. Safari vehicles cannot be air-conditioned and you will be provided bottled water while travelling. Vehicles are equipped with seatbelts which must be worn on public roads. While safari vehicles typically move slowly, drivers warn passengers of bumps or potholes and many passengers may choose not to wear a seatbelt, it is still strongly recommended to do so. Passengers should always remain seated when the vehicle is in motion. Inside the National Parks and reserves there are designated picnic sites. Due to frequent use wildlife tends to avoid these areas with the exception of primates, reptiles, birds and small mammals. However, since picnic sites are open it is possible that a larger animal, such as an elephant, may wander through. Outside of the parks, it may be necessary to make more frequent shopping stops as these stores provide the only acceptable facilities while touring due to the lack of public rest stops. |
| Tourist Street Scams |
Pickpockets and thieves can destroy an otherwise wonderful holiday. Be mindful of these precautions to help avoid being scammed or robbed:
|
| Cape Town - While we recommend that you apply reasonable caution and common sense when traveling in any country, please be aware that in Cape Town, there are significant issues with theft against tourists in public places. Do not carry expensive valuables or wear valuable items (jewelry, watches) out in public and keep cameras and other touristy items out of sight like money belts and hip bags. If you have any questions on how to use the ATM machines ask your Tour Manager, do not ask strangers. Carry little cash and use a credit card as often as possible as they are widely accepted. Keep your card in your eye sight at all times when paying. You should not explore alone and it is recommended to travel in small groups. Be sure to ask directions from your tour manager and the hotel to avoid less safe areas. Do not take public transportation on buses as these vehicles are targets for robbery. We recommend that taxis be reserved via the hotel concierge desk, and that you do not ride alone when possible. As in most parts of the world, be aware of your surroundings and keep to well-lit and populated areas. Be sure to use the hotel safes at all times for your valuable items. |
| Local Emergency Phone Numbers |
South Africa
|
Zimbabwe
|
| Languages |
| South Africa - Zulu, Xhosa, Afrikaans, and English are among the local languages. |
| Zimbabwe - Shona and Ndebele are the local languages. The official language is English. |
| 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. The national electric company of South Africa has imposed planned power outages, locally referred to as "load shedding," to cope with overdemand on the electrical grid. Hotels in major cities are equipped with back-up generators so there are no interruptions to normal services, however hotels outside of major cities may have supplemental generators that provide electricity to only essential services. Power is generally restored within 2-3 hours of the outage, however this can vary. Passengers traveling with CPAP machines must notify Gate 1 Travel in advance so accommodations can be made to ensure there are no interruptions to run these machines through the night. |
| Zimbabwe - The voltage used is 220 volts. |
| Code of Conduct |
| South Africa & eSwatini - 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. |
| Zimbabwe - Visitors should observe normal courtesies. The atmosphere is generally informal and casual dress is appropriate. |
| Meals & Dietary Requests |
| Included meals are based on the restaurant's set menu or buffet and usually represent local cuisine. Vegetarian meals are available in most locations, while vegan, protein-rich or gluten-free menus are rare. Special dietary requests, which must be selected in the passenger details section of your reservation, cannot be guaranteed. We are unable to provide meals in accordance with strict religious requirements, such as Kosher or Halal, nor can we accommodate specifically salt-free, high-protein or low-carb meals.
|
| Zimbabwe - Be sure that all food, including meats, vegetables and fruits are fully cooked. Avoid dairy products, unless you know they have been pasteurized. Drink only bottled or boiled water, or carbonated drinks in cans or bottles. Avoid tap water, fountain drinks, and ice cubes. |
| Holidays |
| On public holidays, there may be reduced public transportation, as well as limited hours or closures of attractions, shops and restaurants. |
| Holidays - South Africa |
Holidays 2024 Jan 1: New Year's Day Mar 21: Human Rights Day Mar 29: Good Friday Mar 31: Family Day Apr 27: Freedom Day May 1: Worker's Day Jun 16: Youth Day Aug 9: National Women's Day Dec 16: Day of Reconciliation Dec 25: Christmas Day Dec 26: Day of Goodwill Holidays 2025 Jan 1: New Year's Day Mar 21: Human Rights Day Apr 18: Good Friday Apr 20: Easter Apr 21: Family Day Apr 27: Freedom Day May 1: Worker's 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 |
| Holidays - Zimbabwe |
Holidays 2024 Jan 1: New Year's Day Feb 21: Robert Mugabe National Youth Day Mar 29: Good Friday Mar 30: Holy Saturday Mar 31: Easter Sunday Apr 1: Easter Monday Apr 18: Independence Day May 1: Workers Day May 25: Africa Day Aug 12: Heroes' Day Aug 13: Defense Forces Day Dec 22: Unity Day Dec 23: Unity Day Holiday Dec 25: Christmas Day Dec 26: Boxing Day Holidays 2025 Jan 1: New Year's Day Feb 21: Robert Mugabe National Youth Day Apr 18: Good Friday Apr 19: Holy Saturday Apr 20: Easter Sunday Apr 21: Easter Monday Apr 18: Independence Day May 1: Workers Day May 25: Africa Day Aug 11: Heroes' Day Aug 12: Defense Forces Day Dec 22: Unity Day Dec 25: Christmas Day Dec 26: Boxing Day |
![@images[i].Title](http://static.gate1travel.com/shared/africa/gallery/lion3.jpg)
![@images[i].Title](http://static.gate1travel.com/shared/africa/gallery/antelopes.jpg)
![@images[i].Title](http://static.gate1travel.com/shared/africa/gallery/cape-town2.jpg)
![@images[i].Title](http://static.gate1travel.com/shared/africa/gallery/elephants1.jpg)
![@images[i].Title](http://static.gate1travel.com/shared/africa/gallery/giraffe2.jpg)
![@images[i].Title](http://static.gate1travel.com/shared/africa/gallery/cheetah2.jpg)
![@images[i].Title](http://static.gate1travel.com/shared/africa/gallery/cape-town1.jpg)
![@images[i].Title](http://static.gate1travel.com/shared/africa/gallery/zebras1.jpg)
![@images[i].Title](http://static.gate1travel.com/shared/africa/gallery/victoria-falls1.jpg)
My trip was Awesome!!!!! And Director Jason is outstanding. He went above and beyond my expectations to help me since I started having trouble with my knee's. I will always travel with Gate 1. This was my first experience with Gate 1 and it was outstanding. Thanks for showing me the best of South Africa.
Viva H.
It was amazing! Our guide, Belinda, was awesome! She went above and beyond to make this trip one of the best vacations I've ever had. The hotels at both locations were great! I would highly recommend Gate1 to anyone interested in all-inclusive travels, and I already have!
Yvette M.
This was an outstanding trip. I had done a similar itinerary 10 years ago and this time went with my grandson. As a multi-trip, 3 continent Gate 1 traveler, I can say that Lawrence is a outstanding tour manager. He provides great information spanning many appropriate topics. He is pleasant and professional. He is also a very diligent risk manager, which is important for your guests. I will surely continue to travel with Gate 1 as I already have 2 more trips booked. I promote Gate 1 often to my friends. Thanks for the unforgettable trip to South Africa. It was great.
Emily R.
Our trip to Southern Africa was OUTSTANDING! The itinerary provided us with a varied, wondrous experience of the different cultures, wildlife, and beauty of the area. The pace was quite challenging. However, we anticipated that would be the case when we selected this itinerary which included so many venues. Our guide, Don, was exemplary!! He combined his extensive historical knowledge of the area, his genuine affection for the people and wildlife calling this area their home, his humor, and his attention to detail to provide an unforgettable trip. Don's guidance and expertise combined to make our trip a "brilliant jewel" in the GATE 1 crown. Thank you, as always, for great memories.
Marc S.
It was amazing. How lucky was I That there were only 2 other guests. The best thing about it was our guide Godliving. He was the smartest, well versed , caring and so loyal to gate 1. There wasn't a question he couldn't answer regarding the animals, the birds and the trees. He was the 1st to spot an animal far-off in the distance and other guides were quick to follow him. You are so lucky to have him representing you and caring for your clients.... He really made the trip so fabulous. I hope your other guides working for gate 1 are half as good as he.
Harriett G.
We recently completed the Discovery Tour of Tanzania. Our guide, Godliving, was awesome, amazing, outstanding - one of the best guide we have had on our travels with Gate One (and we have done many). He ensured his Gate One Family was well taken care of the entire trip, including all the small details as well as meeting all the expectations each of us had for the trip. He was knowledgeable, entertaining and very willing to share anything and everything with us - including personal information about his family. He made us very comfortable and relaxed. Not only was our trip memorable for all the animals he spotted (all the big five), the unique experiences we encountered (vultures/hyenas feasting on a dead zebra) but also because of our guide. A special thanks to Godliving!
Barbara A.
This trip has been on my bucket list for some time, and I have to say, it fulfilled all those expectations! Our guide, Philip, was absolutely fantastic. He was so knowledgeable about every aspect of the trip: animals, birds, geography, history, people, but more importantly was so good at explaining and anticipating needs, that you felt completely at ease and safe. The remarkable country speaks for itself and I have to say nature cooperated beautifully! Thanks to Gate1 for providing a great opportunity!
James K.
Our trip to South Africa was wonderful, but over and above what we saw, where we stayed, and what we experienced, was our tour manager Renier, the most extraordinary combination of efficiency, meticulous attention to detail, and a marvelously intelligent sense of humor and charm. He transformed an obviously memorable journey into something sensational, and we are quite sure most everyone on the tour felt the same way.
Loron T.
My Kenya trip was amazing.my daughter; granddaughter and I enjoyed the our trip guides. Marcus was our main guide and driver and was very knowledgeable about his home. He shared many experiences and helped us understand the animals and their habitat. Our group was great, we enjoyed each other's company and made new friends. The resorts were great, being in Masa Mara was amazing , able to see some animals so close to our resort. Great trip all around. Thank you for great memories.
Doreen D.
Renier! Renier! Renier! He is an awesome Tour Manager and person all around! He made us feel safe, organized, well prepared and special! I celebrated my birthday on this tour and he made it unforgettable! What a star, exemplary TM! We are so lucky to have had him. So incredibly knowledgeable and joy to be around! We love him!
Jenilee L.
I will complete the survey, but also want to take the opportunity to share with you how awesome our tour guide, Gavin, was. He had a wonderfully calm and respectful discipline for the group that kept everything running at a perfect pace and made for a very smooth journey. His knowledge and informative talks at just the right times and and at just the right pace contributed to a wonderful experience and perfectly showcased the people, the animals, the land/scenery and the food that South Africa has to offer. He is truly an ambassador for South Africa and Gate 1. Having Gavin as the tour guide contributed significantly to a truly enjoyable experience that I will highly recommend to others.
Debra H.
My Tanzania and Kenya tour was absolutely perfect. I can't say enough about the skill, knowledge and friendliness of David and Mwongi. They were easy to understand and very knowledgeable about the Kenyan wildlife and culture. They did an excellent job finding us amazing experiences. By the end of the tour they felt like family. I love that we only had 8 in our tour. Made everything timely and efficient. Meals were excellent. I am gluten sensitive and they did all they could to accommodate my dietary needs. I loved the variety of hotel accommodations. I really appreciated the day room in Nairobi to rest before our long flight home. I have already had 4 people ask me about my tour based on my daily Facebook posts. It was truly the trip of a lifetime for this animal lover and amateur photographer. Thank you!
Jane R.
Our tour manager Shaun was absolutely incredible. His ability to tell anecdotal stories in addition to general tourist info, kept the entire bus engaged for each adventure. My husband and I thoroughly enjoyed his guidance and look forward to our next Gate 1 African trip. (hopefully with Shaun) You guys have a jewel!
Carolyn M.
Our trip was fantastic in every way one can imagine. Our interactions with the Gate 1 time prior to the trip was good. The information they provided was comprehensive. On the ground in Uganda, the local team was superb. The initial briefing by the welcoming team put us at ease. Our driver/guides - Yona, Chris and Edmand were thorough professionals - and went out of their way to make this trip a once in a lifetime experience. The lodges we stayed at, the food and the staff all met our expectations. The diversity of wildlife and avian life we saw was simply amazing. We were especially impressed by the friendliness of the Ugandan people - who all smiled and spoke softly. We felt very safe. We highly recommend this trip.
Jay S.
Thank you for your email. My trip was amazing!! I don't even know where to begin. I have traveled with other tour companies before, but this was my first time traveling with Gate 1 and the entire process has been seamless.
Amanda P.
Our tour manager, Laurence, was absolutely outstanding. His attention to detail, focus on client safety, and extensive knowledge of our many sites to experience made this trip one of our most memorable, both with Gate 1 and other trips. We have visited 46 countries and this trip rates at the top with much of the credit going to Laurence. He provided a personally-prepared information sheet during the initial orientation meeting that proved invaluable throughout the trip. All tour managers should consider this added touch for their clients. His personal stories added immeasurably to our wonderful experience in Africa. Many Kudos to Laurence and to Gate 1 for making our first trip to Africa one that we will always remember.
William D.
I want to write a detailed review of our trip this January. This was our 4th trip with Gate 1. It was literally the BEST trip we have ever taken! I attribute this to our wonderful guide, Wolfugan, who I understand has worked with Gate 1 for 18 years. Wolf was exceptional in every way. He met us, along with another couple at the Kilimanjaro Airport, and we opted to ride in his vehicle for the entire trip. The fact that there were only 13 participants in our Small Group Discovery tour allowed us to only have 4 guests in each safari vehicle, which made for a very enjoyable experience, plenty of room to maneuver to get great photos. Wolf's knowledge of everything was extraordinary. He is a whiz at spotting wildlife (including an elusive leopard as we were pulling into our tent camp), identifying birds, explaining animal behavior, migration patterns, geology, and we always felt safe with his driving skills. He was usually the first vehicle in our group to reach the wildlife, and was able to maneuver for the best photo angles. He is the ultimate professional, being respectful of the guests' needs, and was able to share what life was like for him and his family living in Tanzania. Thank you, Gate 1, for providing Wolfugan with a job that he obviously loves. I have recommended this particular tour to many of my friends, and I hope this generates some bookings for you. I hope my friends can take advantage of Wolf's talents should they go on safari in Tanzania. In short, FIVE STARS all the way around. Feel free to use my comments for any public testimonials. We had several "National Geographic" moments, including a mother lion with 3 cubs, who was in the process of moving her family to a drier setting. We were able to watch her carry the smallest kitten (approximately 3 weeks old!), and see the other cubs follow her in the grass. We were able to catch them nursing. We also saw a lioness with her 1-yr old 2 cubs relaxing in a tree. Our elephant encounters in Tarangire NP were very exciting, we saw lots, including baby elephants. The Great Migration was another highlight, and we saw literally 1000's of animals on the Serengeti plains. The pace of the tour was very fast, but perfect in my opinion. The lodging choices were exceptional. The food ranged from very good to excellent, depending on the venue. Having the 4 nights in Zanzibar after the safari portion was so nice, as we got to "unwind" from our whirlwind tour.
Marcie R.
Gate1 Travel is the best! Thank you for making our trip so memorable. Kudos to our tour director, Desmond who was top notched, caring, loving, professional, unwavering knowledgeable of his beloved country and Zimbabwe. All of the amenities were seamlessly fabulous throughout our visit. Million thanks for everything and we look forward to many more unforgettable memories with you all.
Sokhary N.
It was a fantastic exposure to South Africa - our guide John was incredibly well informed, discussed the advantages and problems of the country and went into the historical perspective/ political orientation of this country. We were impressed by the quality of hotels, the transport and mainly the information provided about south African culture etc by our tour guide. I also like that he is English as am I and we have the similar culture and views in common. We always felt safe, despite the crime rate in the country evidenced by the security protections on most/ all buildings ! I would be very happy to travel with John again in Africa . Please arrange more Africa tours to different parts of Africa with John. So far I have independently visited Namibia, Botswana, Tanzania ,the Gambia and Kenya , I would be happy to visit other countries in Africa with gate 1 travel.
Susan T.
We just completed the Uganda trip with tour manager Chris, our 6th Gate 1 trip. All our tour guides have been excellent, but Chris was outstanding. His graciousness, ability to seamlessly pivot as circumstances dictated without missing a beat, kindness & warmth were exceptional. As we traveled across beautiful Uganda, we were amazed at how many folks Chris knew. It was obvious to my wife & I that Chris was well-respected & liked by so many. Chris' experience as a park ranger in two of the national parks we visited was invaluable. His vast knowledge of his country impressive. Chris' driving skills in rough terrain - wow! The service Chris & Stephen provided was top-notch VIP. We felt pampered and safe at all times. The Uganda trip has moved to the top of our favorite trips list!
Michael G.
On our first day briefing we were greeted by a smiling Christopher who set forth expectations of our safari and ensured we all introduced ourselves in a comfortable manner. I had the fortunate opportunity to tour with Christopher in the jeep and throughout the trip we were kept informed on what our schedule would look like on a daily basis and his goal was ensure that we had a wonderful time, he provided us with his contact information to enable us to ask questions or clarification at any time. Christopher listened to our questions and our "hopes" of what we would like to see. He did not disappoint; I recall we were ready to have lunch and he heard that there was a lion in a particular area. Slight detour as he safely hurried to an area where there were two lioness' in a tree. This is my second Gate 1 trip and I think "most importantly" throughout this particular trip is that we never felt rushed. Obviously on a safari, we wanted to see wildlife at its best. Christopher was able to safely navigate us throughout the parks to find the wildlife and we were able to take our time enjoying the wildlife through our own eyes and camera lenses. This made the trip truly unique and the best. Every day our group said, "this was the best day", the next day "this was the bestest day", and the next day "this was the best of bestest days" and so on and so forth. Thank you, Christopher, for a most memorable fun exciting perfect experience. I have traveled to many countries and been on 3-4 tours. This definitely was my "best trip ever".
Lynda W.
The trip was phenomenal. Having an intimate group of 26 people was a large positive factor. Our tour director, Belinda, was the icing on the cake. She is very personable and was attentive to our needs and took the time to be sure everyone was doing okay and having a splendid holiday. She was knowledgeable about every part of the itinerary and added life to every aspect of our trip. She also answered questions without hesitation and ALWAYS HAD a smile for us. Occasionally, she would treat us to a joke to make us laugh. She was sure to verbally tell what the next day would bring and followed up in writing to be sure everyone was fully aware of what was coming. I have been on a number of escorted trips, but this one was extra special. I do believe that Belinda is the reason why this particular trip was so special and why it stood out from all the other trips I've taken. This was my very first Gate 1 trip and because of how well Belinda took care of me, I will definitely take another Gate 1 trip as soon as possible. Thank you Gate 1 for offering a trip of a lifetime and for having such a caring and dedicated tour guide. I cannot wait to take part in another trip with Gate 1 and I am hopeful that the next tour director is as attentive as Belinda was.
Felicia L.
It was an amazing trip! Gavin (our tour guide) did a remarkable job of creating unity amongst the group so everything ran like clockwork and we were able to make all of our tours, connections etc with plenty of time to be able to enjoy the destination. Everything was very well organized and the stops and accommodations were very enjoyable. Gavin made suggestions for additional outings on some of our " free days" and some of those ended up being some of the most memorable experiences. This was our first Gate one trip and if all of your tours end up being like this then I can see that we will be frequent customers.
Jennifer L.
The Africa trip was the best vacation I've ever taken in my life. While my 16 day trip took me to 5 different countries with 5 land safaris and 3 water safaris I also got to experience the local culture and history of Africa. Gavin, our tour guide did everything possible to make our trip a once in a lifetime, unforgettable experience. He shared his knowledge and experience growing up in South Africa to give us an insiders perspective and a richer more complete view of South Africa. The places we stayed were top notch and the times we actually got to stay in the Safari parks were incredible! I was naïve enough to think I would lose weight on the trip because of the strange new foods, well, that was a mistake! The food was wonderful and I loved the opportunity to have dinner with local families. This trip enabled me to become more enmeshed with the many cultures of African people. We had intimate experiences with Zulu, Swati, and other native people. I was so glad that we went on so many safaris, but also relished the opportunity to see where Nelson Mandela lived and was held captive for so many years.Visiting the Apartheid Museum and being given a tour of Robben Island by a former inmates was powerfully moving. And if all that isn't enough, I left my souvenir walkingstick at the last hotel we stayed in. Just before we crossed the border to head into another country to fly home the people at the Chobe Marina Lodge contacted Gavin and said they found my stick and would try to get it to me before our plane took off. Don't ask me how, but they actually did it! I can't say enough about the service of our tour guide, our bus, drivers, our safari drivers, and the staff at all of the places we stayed, everyone was fabulous!
Joy G.
This trip was absolutely amazing. Elvis was such an amazing tour guide that went above and beyond for all of the guests in the group. He definitely became like family after this tour. This is my second time traveling with Gate 1 and I absolutely loved both of them. Will definitely travel again with you guys!!
Edmarie F.
I just wanted to say that I was really impressed with Gate1 and this unbelievable vacation!! Our Safari was better than great. I was hoping it'd be great but I was prepared for something a little less. From the moment we were picked up from the airport to the time we were dropped off at our Day Room before our flight back home, Everything was way beyond our expectations, really!! The hotels and lodges were -They were absolutely beautiful, even the rustic ones! The staffing and meals at each place were amazing! (I remember reading that Gate1 said the places were 4 and 5 Star accommodations but I was a little hesitant to believe it, I shouldn't have been.) The main reason for our vacation was of course the Safari and this itinerary and it was a Home Run, Grand Slam Home Run! We saw the Big Five and sooo much more. I could go on and on about how pleased we were with Gate1 and this trip but will end by saying THANK YOU for a vacation we'll never forget!!
Thomas M.
Our recent trip to South Africa, Victoria Falls, & Botswana was one of the best experiences my wife and I have ever had. The itinerary was second to none and I truly do not have the time or energy to describe how fantastic the food, the ambiance, and our little traveling group was the entire time...unbelievable. Trust me when I say that many of my friends and family were so jealous of the stories we came back with that most of them will be booking their own South Africa trip with G1. And just a quick shout out to our tour manager (now someone I consider a great friend) Alistair. His passion, knowledge, & love for what he does is very apparent, & completely off the charts. About half way through our trip, one of the travelers in the group received a message from back home. When Alistair heard of the situation, he stepped up with such wisdom, compassion, & sincerity, that it quite honestly made us all stop and take a deep breath & think about what really matters in this crazy world. Not to mention his never ending, and genuine, concern for the safety, involvement, & enjoyment of everyone in our group was incredibly inspiring. We ended up learning so much more about the culture, the people, and the history of all the places we visited then we could have ever expected. Gate 1 is truly fortunate to have Alistair on your team, and it is my sincere hope that at some point, our paths will meet again. Keep up the INCREDIBLE standards that have become synonymous with Gate 1...now I need to go book my next vacation (I mean adventure).
Vincent P.
We enjoyed our safari, really up to our expectations, and the one that made this happened was our tour manager Christopher. Christopher is all of the following: Super friendly, even to most of the safari drivers in game drives, caring, takes time to know and address our concerns. Flexible, goes out of his way and time to fill our expectations. Excellent safari driver, knows where to go off road to look for lions, elephants, hippos, cheetahs, leopards, rhinos, etc. We strongly recommend Gate1Travel customers have Christopher as their tour manager. Christopher is Gate1Travel greatest asset.
Henry C.
My husband and I just returned from an incredible 10 day trip to Kenya and Tanzania with Gate 1 Travel. We had amazing game drives with expert tour guides. Steve, our guide in Kenya, has a degree in zoology. He was a wealth of information. In Tanzania, our guide Abushiri, was wonderful. His knowledge of the land and animals greatly enhanced our experience. I highly recommend the optional sunrise hot air balloon safari over Masai Mara. The accommodations and meals were fantastic. Thank you Steve, Abu, and Gate 1 for helping us experience the sights and beauty of this magical land. We will definitely travel with Gate 1 again!
Christine K.
My trip to South Africa was wonderful. I went to see the animals and we did!!! Thank Goodness! It was a thrill!
Joyce N.
My trip to Africa was one of the best vacations I've had in 25 years of travel. I want to thank you for a fantastic bargain and everything that was included. The tour director was very knowledgeable, accommodating, and excellent at his job. The people we interacted with were great! Thank you again.
Dennis S.
I have to admit the trip was quite exhausting and stressful at times, however it was well worth it! My daughter and I enjoyed every minute of this truly amazing, awesome, wonderful, phenomenal and exciting once in a lifetime memorable experience! To see the wild animal up close and personal, in their natural habitat is beyond my dreams and imagination! We also enjoyed the gorgeous and breathtaking sceneries in South Africa and Victoria Falls, cultural show in Matsamo Village, Boma dinner and drum show, the family hosted dinner and all the other activities that we did. Another fantastic trip with Gate1 that I personally love!
Raquel L.
This was my first Gate 1 Tour Trip to Botswana, Zambia, and South Africa Adventure and I can't see enough good things about it! Definitely a trip of a lifetime. I was the "rookie" of the group, being my first tour, I had nothing to compare to, it went beyond my expectations!! Desire, our tour guide, was top notch and very knowledgeable about all the areas we were in. She is truly a gem and made the trip very fun and memorable! I would definitely go on more Gate 1 tours, can't wait to do it again.
Dionnie S.