Tour Description

Witness vast landscapes, natural wonders, towns rich in cultural traditions and modern cities humming with life on this epic journey through Africa. This 64-day odyssey takes you from cosmopolitan Cape Town to the bustling streets of Nairobi, travelling through immense canyons, green-clad mountains, gorgeous beaches and small villages. Encounter the sweeping beauty of the Serengeti, meet the San people, have close encounters with mountain gorillas and be warmed by Malawi. Camp on balmy beaches in Tanzania, trek through steamy rainforest and see cheeky chimps at play in Uganda. With unforgettable inclusions plus plenty of freedom, this adventure was designed for curious travellers with a strong independent streak.

Priced From:

$ 19485.00pp ^*

Valid From: 01JAN2025

Valid To: 31DEC2025

Start Location: Cape Town

End Location: Nairobi

Countries: Botswana, Kenya, Malawi, Namibia, South Africa, Tanzania, United Republic Of, Uganda, Zambia, Zimbabwe,

Tour Advisors

Tiffany McCrea-Lennon

Managing Director

Michelle Baldwin

Travel Specialist

Gaylyn Murdoch

Administration Manager

Russell Mein

Travel Specialist

Holly Skene

Travel Co-ordinator

Kim Thomas

Broker

Highlights

Seek out rare mountain gorillas on a trek through Uganda’s steamy forests, and watch them play, eat and laze in the sun. With all gorilla permits included on your trip, you can spend an unforgettable hour in their presence.

Go on safaris in some pretty iconic spots, including the Ngorongoro Crater, the Serengeti savanna, the Okavango Delta and the Masai Mara.

Chill out on the northern beaches of Zanzibar with plenty of free time to choose your own adventure. Kick back on the white sands, or maybe go snorkelling in the sparkling blue waters of the Indian Ocean.

Track rhinos on foot in Matobo National Park, home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including warthogs, leopards, and klipsingers. Learn about the park's cultural significance and San rock paintings.

Tour a local coffee farm in Karatu village to see the innovative farming practices of the locals, then tuck into a traditional dinner cooked by a local Tanzanian family in their home.

Included Activities

Irente - Local lunch

Ngorongoro Forest - Elephant Cave Trek

Karatu - Home-Cooked Dinner

Karatu - Coffee Farm Tour

Ngorongoro Crater - 4x4 Game Drive

Serengeti National Park - Morning 4WD Safari

Mto Wa Mbu - Village walk & local dinner

Lake Nakuru - Overland Vehicle Game Drive

Lake Nakuru - Morning Overland Vehicle Game Drive

Queen Elizabeth National Park - Overland Vehicle Game Drive

Bwindi National Park - Mountain Gorilla Permit & Trek

Kericho - Tea plantation visit

Masai Mara National Reserve - 4x4 Game Drive

Loita Hills - Maasai Village Visit

Masai Mara National Reserve - Full Day 4WD Safari

Itinerary

Sawubona! Welcome to South Africa. With its stunning coastline, modern cityscape and nearby mountains, Cape Town is one of Africa's most exciting cities. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm this evening. You can arrive at any time as there are no activities planned until this important meeting. If you do happen to arrive early, why not get out and explore Cape Town, perhaps taking a walk in Newlands Forest, jumping on the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway, or heading down to the waterfront to see Cape Town Stadium up close.

Leaving Cape Town behind, travel up the Western Cape. Sit back, relax and enjoy the sprawling scenery. Tonight, you will stay on a working farm with your small group. This is a great chance to gain an insight into everyday life in this remote part of South Africa.

Journey to the Orange River, the beautiful natural border between South Africa and Namibia. On the way, you'll pass through Namaqualand, which is renowned for its wildflowers that spring up from late July to mid-September. Traditionally known as the Gariep River, the Orange River is the longest in South Africa (2200 km). Its source is high up in the Drakensberg mountain range in Lesotho, and it flows into the Atlantic Ocean at Alexander Bay in South Africa.

This morning there is the chance for an optional canoe adventure on the Orange River. Floating leisurely down the stream is a great way to discover the beauty of this region. Head further west into the desert lands of Namibia towards Fish River Canyon. At 500 m deep and over 160 km long, Fish River Canyon is one of the largest canyons in the world. At any time of year there are remarkable photographic opportunities here as you watch the colour of the granite rocks change as the sun goes down.

Be ready for a long travel day as you drive toward the fabled dunes of Namibia. You will have the opportunity to stop at a market or shop to stock up on supplies before tomorrow's bush camp. When you arrive, stretch your legs and take in the exciting desert scenes. You will be situated in the most famous part of the Namib Desert, among the vast dune fields, the most spectacular of which are found near the Sesriem Canyon. Get an early night in preparation for your dawn hike tomorrow.

Wake up before dawn and scramble to the top of the dunes for a dramatic sunrise view across a vast sea of sand. The colour changes as the sun creeps up above the horizon, and the views are nothing short of incredible, providing a spectacular setting for your brunch. The dunes themselves are some of the highest in the world and home to much animal life. Afterwards, jump in the back of a pickup truck for a trip to Sossusvlei – the incredible salt and clay pan just nearby. You'll have plenty of time to explore this mysterious desert oddity. In the afternoon, drive to your bush camp in the heart of the Namib Desert.

Continue to Swakopmund today. Surrounded by the massive dune fields of the Namib Desert on three sides and the Atlantic Ocean on the other, Swakopmund is an ideal place for outdoor activities. The township has an interesting German–Namibian atmosphere, which makes it a pleasant place to simply walk around and explore.

With free time today, it's worth checking out the Germanic architecture and taking advantage of some excellent souvenir shopping. If you're after a dose of history and culture, you can stop in at the lighthouse and visit the Swakopmund Museum. Active types and thrill-seekers might like to take advantage of the many outdoor activities on offer – this town is the adventure-sports mecca of Namibia.

With another free day in this beautiful seaside town, you might like to do some reading, relaxing and swimming. Alternatively, you can venture further afield – perhaps to the Okakambe Trails or the Camel Farm (both located in the same area, around 12 km east of town). A horse ride or camel ride is a great way to see the desert from a different perspective.

Travel to Spitzkoppe today. Experience the sight, sound and smell of thousands of olive-coloured seals on the shores of Cape Cross while travelling up the Atlantic Coast. Visit one of the most stunning areas of Namibia, the wild lands around the mountain of Spitzkoppe, also known as the Matterhorn of Namibia. Although you shouldn't try to climb to the top, there are some excellent hikes and guided walks throughout the area, which is rich in plant life and even has some bush paintings to be found. The Spitzkoppe is known for its stunning beauty and the thousands of ancient Bushmen rock art paintings that are still viewable. Be sure to look out for the sunset from your bush camp this evening – the landscape is known to take on dazzling oranges and reds.

This morning, set off and travel to Etosha National Park, stopping at a market or shop and ATM if required. Etosha is among the world's premier places to view wildlife. A wide range of southern Africa's wildlife roams here, including all the big carnivores and the five rare or endangered species, including black rhino, Hartmann's mountain zebra, black-faced impala, roan antelope and the tiny Damara dik-dik. Tonight, there is an option to take an evening game drive in the park before spending the night at the particularly spectacular Okaukuejo Camp. The camp overlooks a floodlit waterhole visited by many different species throughout the day and night.

Enjoy a full-day game drive in Etosha National Park. Game viewing in the park is relatively easy due to the constructed waterholes and the large, sparsely vegetated pans. The bushland surrounding the pans is difficult to see through, but there are enough clearings, pans and waterholes to usually allow for some sightings. Namibia has protected its game reserves against poaching, which means significant numbers of elephants, antelope and other herbivores reside here. This evening you will spend the night at Namutoni Camp.

Leaving Etosha behind and continue to your camp which is located 50 km outside Grootfontein. This will be your base for visiting the San people tomorrow. Arrive at your camp, stretch your legs, perhaps enjoy a cool drink and kick back with your fellow travellers.

Embark on a 180-km round-trip to visit the San people. You'll go out walking with some of the tribe, listening to their stories and songs. You'll soon discover that they communicate in a unique and fascinating Khoisan dialect, commonly known as a 'clicking' language. The San are the oldest ethnic group in Namibia, having inhabited southern Africa for an estimated 20,000 years. Around 30,000 of them live in Namibia, but only 2000 still follow a traditional way of life. The San have a deep understanding of nature and ecology, living in harmony with their environment.

Head to Bagani, where you will set up camp for the night. Bagani is a small, friendly town with some good hiking trails along the river and plenty of nice spots in which to relax and soak up the ambience. This area is the homestead of the local Mbukushu kings.

Drive across the border into Botswana and head south along the Okavango Panhandle (the narrowest part of the delta) to Seronga. Here you'll leave your vehicle and join your transport for the journey into the delta. Boarding boats out into the swamps, travel to Gao Island to meet your mokoro team and start exploring the Okavango Delta with them. Each mokoro (small dugout canoe) takes two people and is poled along through the meandering waterways by a local tribesman. Punting along past birds and lily pads, you'll hear hippos occasionally piercing the peaceful atmosphere with their charming grunts. On the first night here, you'll camp on an island away from civilisation.

Continue your trip around the delta and then return to Gao Island before heading to the relative civilisation of Umvuvu Camp with its (usually) hot showers and small bar. Today there is an option to take a nature walk with your guide. This is a great chance to discover the beautiful natural surrounds, gain some insight into the history of the local area and look out for animals such as giraffe, zebra and elephants. Today, there is an option to take a scenic flight to have an aerial view of the Delta.

After your exciting Okavango adventure, return to Bagani for the night. There will be time to relax, or to take part in one of the many activities on offer. Bagani offers a range of boat trips. There are also many excellent hiking trails to explore. Ask your leader about how to take up one of these options.

Setting off from Bagani this morning, embark on a pretty long drive. Don’t fear – your destination, the incredible Chobe National Park, will be well worth it. Enter Botswana at Goma border, which is also the gateway to the park. Once arrived, take an optional cruise down the Chobe River – one of the best ways to witness some of the park's many animals.

Enjoy an early-morning game drive. Adventuring through the park, you’ll have the opportunity to get up close to the wildlife. With luck you’ll spot a variety of creatures – lions, buffaloes and any number of exotic birds. Botswana's first national park is famous for its high concentration of elephants, so keep an eye out for them. They can often be seen swimming in the Chobe River. The river also attracts cheetahs, hippos, and crocodiles who like to sun themselves by the water's edge. In the afternoon, perhaps take an optional boat cruise to gain a different view of these amazing animals.

Travel on to Victoria Falls, crossing the border into Zimbabwe in time to have lunch on the banks of the Zambezi. Though a visit to Victoria Falls' is optional, it is highly recommended – if you didn’t see the waterfall, have you actually been to Victoria Falls? The staggering curtain of water is about 1.6 km and cascades 108 m into a narrow gorge below. In the wet season, the spray created can rise up an incredible 400 m and the falls become an impressive raging torrent. In the dry season, the view of the falls is unobstructed by spray and you can see little islets in the river below. Gather your travel crew together tonight for dinner, celebrating the southern Africa adventure and memories you’ve shared.

Today is a free day to enjoy the many activities on offer. If you are interested in the optional helicopter flight (12 minutes or 25 minutes), Intrepid only endorses Zambezi Helicopter co CAA Zimbabwe. Your leader can help you arrange this and recommend a variety of other activities to ensure you make the most of your free time.

Use your free time to visit the magnificent Victoria Falls. This thundering curtain of water is one-and-a-half kilometres wide, falling 108 metres into a narrow gorge below. In the wet season, the spray created can rise up an incredible 400 metres and the falls become a raging torrent. In the dry season, the view of the falls is unobstructed by spray and you can see little islets in the river below. Be sure to ask your local leader for their tips and advice on what to do in Victoria Falls.

Depart Victoria Falls and travel toward Bulawayo (approximately 7 hours) via the Victoria Falls Wildlife Trust – one of The Intrepid Foundation’s projects. Here you can learn about the rescue and rehabilitation of wildlife, human-wildlife conflict and the trusts role in anti-poaching. There may also be a chance to meet any rescued or orphaned wildlife currently in their care. Onwards to Bulawayo – known locally as the 'City of Kings', Zimbabwe's second-largest city has an interesting history and some impeccable colonial architecture.

Wake up early and get ready to track rhinos in Matobo National Park. Home to a significant population of black and white rhinoceros that can be tracked on foot. As your expert guide takes you through the park, look out for other game like leopards, warthogs, and springhares. You'll also learn about the local plants and trees, including wild pear and paperbark, and discover San paintings and the fascinating rock formations. The Matopos area has great spiritual and cultural significance to the local people and there are many sites within the park where important ceremonies still take place.

Drive the short stretch to Masvingo (approximately 5–6 hours). This colonial settlement – the oldest in Zimbabwe – makes for the perfect base from which to explore the Great Zimbabwe Ruins. The ruined city, now a World Heritage-listed site, was first constructed in the 11th century. It's thought to be the former royal palace of the Zimbabwean monarch. Spend a few hours exploring this intriguing site before heading off to camp for the evening.

Travel to Harare today (approximately 5–6 hours). You will arrive at your destination in time for lunch. You only have an hour or two to explore Zimbabwe's capital city, so if you're feeling active and up for a stroll, get out and make the most of it. Perhaps head to the National Gallery, the museum, the botanical gardens or simply wander the city centre and visit the colourful markets.

Today you will cross into Zambia and drive to your campsite just outside Lusaka, Zambia's capital (approximately 8 hours). Your journey begins with a nice scenic drive to the border. At some point during the day there will be an opportunity to stop at an ATM and stock up on any supplies you might need at a shop or market.

Spend some time checking out Lusaka before a long day of travel. You'll see that it's a modern city but still retains a traditional African feel. Afterwards, travel on to Petauke (approximately 8 hours).

After breakfast, travel (approximately 4 hours) to a workshop in South Luangwa where local craftswomen take snare wire recovered from poaching traps and transform it into jewellery inspired by the African bush. The women will show you around their purpose-built workshop and give you a chance to try coiling or hammering the wire yourself. For each sale made, a donation is given to anti snare patrols dedicated to the conservation of the region. Afterwards, make your way through the heartland to South Luangwa National Park (approximately 2 hours). The concentration of animals around the Luangwa River and its lagoons is among the highest in Africa. Many elephants, buffaloes, leopards, Thornicroft’s giraffes and lions are known to roam here. There are also some 400 species of birds inhabiting the area. A great way to experience South Luangwa and its beautiful scenery is to take an optional river trip – ask your group leader for more details.

Dates & prices

Dates

Prices

Availability

Departure Date :

05JAN2025

Return Date :

09MAR2025

20265NZD

available

Departure Date :

16FEB2025

Return Date :

20APR2025

19485NZD

available

Departure Date :

27APR2025

Return Date :

29JUN2025

19485NZD

available

Departure Date :

25MAY2025

Return Date :

27JUL2025

20265NZD

available

Departure Date :

08JUN2025

Return Date :

10AUG2025

20265NZD

available

Departure Date :

22JUN2025

Return Date :

24AUG2025

20265NZD

available

Departure Date :

06JUL2025

Return Date :

07SEP2025

20265NZD

available

Departure Date :

20JUL2025

Return Date :

21SEP2025

21045NZD

available

Departure Date :

03AUG2025

Return Date :

05OCT2025

21045NZD

available

Departure Date :

10AUG2025

Return Date :

12OCT2025

21045NZD

available

Trip Notes

Trip title

Africa Encompassed Northbound

Trip code

UXODC

Validity

Validity: 01 Jan 2025 to 31 Dec 2025

Introduction

Style

Basix

Themes

Wildlife

Transport

Overland vehicle,4x4 Safari Vehicle,Ferry,Minibus,Mokoro

Physical Rating

Physical preparation

You'll need to be fit enough to trek to the location of your family of mountain gorillas. This may involve up to 5 hours of walking up and down hills, in hot and humid conditions and through tropical (and at times thick) foliage. There may be mud underfoot, which will make the trekking slippery. You will be provided with a walking stick and the option to hire a porter who can carry your day pack and assist you on the trek. If you do not hire a porter, you'll be expected to carry your own gear, including water and a rain jacket as well as your camera equipment. For the remainder of the tour, you do not need any real fitness besides the ability to get in and out of the safari vehicles. The step up into the overland truck, while not overly high, can become tiring, as can the constant setting and packing up of camp. You need to judge yourself to be physically fit enough to haul yourself up and down at least 8-10 times a day. Please also note that some roads, particularly in the national parks, can be in quite poor condition and you may experience a fair amount of bouncing around.

Joining point

Holiday Inn Express Cape Town City Centre

101 St. George's Mall

Cape Town

8001

SOUTH AFRICA

Joining point description

Holiday Inn Express Cape Town City Centre is just a 15 minute drive from Cape Town International Airport to our lively downtown location, set on a tree-lined street packed with restaurants, art galleries, markets, cafes and bars. Exploring Cape Town is made easy, with our close proximity to all major public transport lines, including the popular City Sightseeing Red Busses.

Joining point instructions

If you have pre-booked a transfer please look out for our representative holding a board with your name at the arrival terminal. Please do not go with anyone else. The driver will wait for an hour after your scheduled arrival time. If you are unable to find your driver please phone +27 21 424 6169. If you are delayed beyond one hour after your scheduled arrival time, please make your own way to the hotel. If you are making your own way to the hotel there are safe and reliable airport taxis which will cost around ZAR300. There are also shuttle service available.

Alternate Joining point

For trips departing on the following dates, use this joining point.

04 Jan 2026 (UXODC260104), 15 Feb 2026 (UXODC260215), 29 Mar 2026 (UXODC260329), 12 Apr 2026 (UXODC260412), 26 Apr 2026 (UXODC260426), 24 May 2026 (UXODC260524), 07 Jun 2026 (UXODC260607), 21 Jun 2026 (UXODC260621), 05 Jul 2026 (UXODC260705), 19 Jul 2026 (UXODC260719), 02 Aug 2026 (UXODC260802), 09 Aug 2026 (UXODC260809), 16 Aug 2026 (UXODC260816), 23 Aug 2026 (UXODC260823), 06 Sep 2026 (UXODC260906), 04 Oct 2026 (UXODC261004), 18 Oct 2026 (UXODC261018)

Never@home (Kloof Street)

73 Kloof Street

Gardens

Cape Town

8001

SOUTH AFRICA

Alternate Joining point description

Never@home is centrally located on lively and vibrant Kloof Street with its large variety of restaurants, coffee shops, cafes and bars and is only 3 minutes from Long Street as well as the bustling city centre. Rooms are simple yet clean and comfortable.

Alternate Joining point instructions

Finish point

Hillpark Hotel

Lower Hill Rd

Upper Hill

Nairobi

0100

KENYA

Finish point description

Hillpark Hotel, features an outdoor heated swimming pool, a restaurant and a bar. Guests can enjoy the convenience of a 24-hour front desk reception, room service, gym and complimentary WiFi. Rooms are equipped with a coffee making facilities and a flat screen TV.

Finish point instructions

We are happy to arrange a departure transfer for you at an additional charge to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport. Please ask your booking agent if you would like to add this service and provide your flight details. Alternatively your tour leader or the hotel staff can assist you with arranging the transfer.

Important information

1. A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip and is subject to availability. The single supplement excludes Day 7-9 in Swakopmund and Day 16-17 in the Okavango Delta, where you will be in shared accommodation. Please speak to your booking agent for further information. 2.This trip requires a higher non-refundable deposit (AUD 1000, USD 1000, EUR 800, NZD 1250, GBP 650, CAD 1000, ZAR 8000, CHF 900) in order to secure the included gorilla permit. Please note that we will need to confirm the availability of a gorilla permit if you are booking within 45 days of the departure date. The additional deposit paid at time of booking will be credited to the final balance of your booking. 3. Optional sunrise balloon rides in the Serengeti National Park and Masai Mara National Reserve are possible on this itinerary. As the balloon only holds 16 people, places are limited and we recommend you book in advance. Please inquire when booking your trip to secure spot for this optional activity. 4. This trip is a combination of UXOF, YXOS, YXON, YXOQ and YXOG our most popular itineraries. As such the make up of your group and your leader may change on days 22, 38, 41 and 49. 5. The Zanzibar portion of your itinerary may have more than 22 passengers as we have a few tours that overlap in Zanzibar. 6. This trip finishes upon arrival in Nairobi on Day 64. Please do not book any flights until after 10 pm on this evening. 7. Some governments currently have increased foreign travel advice around security in place for Queen Elizabeth National Park in Uganda. Please check your government’s foreign travel advice before departure and ensure your travel insurance covers all destinations and activities on your itinerary.

Group leader

On this trip you will be accompanied by three crew members - Group Leader, Cook and Driver who will usually be Kenyan. Your Group Leader’s role involves organizing the overall operation and smooth-running of the trip, managing trip logistics, coordinating the tipping kitty (where applicable) and will form work groups to take turns cooking, cleaning and shopping. (From time to time your leader may drive as well) Your Group Leader will work towards making the trip as safe and enjoyable as possible for all travellers. Intrepid trips are built around the co–operation and participation of all the group members under the supervision of the group leader. The group leader will show the group how to set up and use the equipment. While not being guides in the traditional sense you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects. We also use local guides where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places we are visiting, especially when tracking and identifying game - we think it's the best of both worlds. Regardless of the country of origin, our Group Leaders are chosen for their leadership skills and are wonderful ambassadors for our company and our beautiful continent and its people. Your Cook is responsible for the cooking and will help to coordinate the work groups for preparing the meals and washing up! Cooks are also responsible for organizing food shopping (they are always happy to have you on board) and most importantly, they make sure high hygiene standards are kept at all times while camping. Your Driver’s main responsibility is to get you to your destination safely; they are also responsible for the maintenance of the vehicles along the way. Everyone is expected to participate and carry their share of the workload/duties, making camp chores easier. The duties Rota system is adopted where all members share in general camp duties – cooking, shopping, washing up etc. If the whole group participates it will be quicker, easier, and more fun. We endeavour to provide the services of an experienced leader and crew; however, situations may arise where your leader is new to a particular region or training other group leaders.

Safety

Many national governments provide a regularly updated advice service on safety issues involved with international travel. We recommend that you check your government's advice for their latest travel information before departure and ensure that your travel insurance covers you for all areas your itinerary covers. Please refer to our website's safety page for links to major travel advisories and updates on safety issues affecting our trip. We strongly recommend the use of a neck wallet or money belt while travelling, for the safe-keeping of your passport, air tickets, cash and other valuable items. Leave your valuable jewellery at home - you won't need it while travelling. Many of our hotels have safety deposit boxes, which is the most secure way of storing your valuables. A lock is recommended for securing your luggage. Your group leader or local representative will accompany you on all included activities, however during your trip you'll have some free time to pursue your own interests, relax and take it easy or explore at your leisure. While your group leader or local representative will assist you with the available options in a given location, please note that any optional activities you undertake are not part of your Intrepid itinerary, and Intrepid makes no representations about the safety of the activity or the standard of the operators running them. Please use your own good judgement when selecting an activity in your free time. Please also note that your group leader or local representative has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the trip itinerary if it's deemed necessary due to safety concerns. For more details on the type of conditions and safety standards you can expect on your trip, please refer to Intrepid's operational safety policy on our website. We recommend that you take a moment to read through this information before travelling, and would appreciate any feedback on how well it's being implemented in the field: www.intrepidtravel.com/safety-guidelines

FIRE PRECAUTIONS Please be aware that local laws governing tourism facilities in this region differ from those in your home country and not all the accommodation which we use has a fire exit, fire extinguishers or smoke alarms. BALCONIES Some hotel balconies don't meet western standards in terms of the width of the balcony fence being narrower than 10cm. TRAFFIC AND DRIVING ON THE OTHER SIDE OF THE ROAD Depending on where you come from please note that drivers in this part of the world may drive on the opposite side of the road from what you are used to. Look both ways before crossing any road. Traffic can be a little more chaotic than you might be used to at home. Be aware! SEAT BELTS Please be aware that local laws governing transportation safety may differ from those in your home country and not all the transport which we use is able to provide seat belts. PICK POCKETING & PERSONAL SAFETY While travelling there is always the risk of pick-pocketing and petty theft, particularly in the more touristy cities. We recommend that you exercise caution when walking at night and encourage you to walk in groups and only on main, well-lit thoroughfares. Be particularly vigilant on public transport. Simple measures like carrying your day pack on your front, not hanging your bag over the back of your chair or on the floor and wearing a money belt will reduce any chance that your valuables should go missing. WATER SAFETY Please take care when taking part in any activities in the ocean, river or open water, where waves and currents can be unpredictable. It's expected that anyone taking part in water activities is able to swim and have experience in open water. All swimmers should seek local advice before entering the water. TRAVEL ADVICE & TRAVEL INSURANCE We recommend that you check your government's advice in relation to the areas you will be visiting for their latest travel information before departure and ensure that your travel insurance covers you for all areas your itinerary covers.

UNFENCED CAMPSITES On some trips you will at times stay in unfenced campsites within National Parks. While this is a fantastic experience, there are a few safety rules to follow. While staying in National Parks it's important that you listen to any advice given by your group leader or local representative and the park rangers regarding responsible and safe behaviour.

BILHARZIA Bilharzia is a parasitical disease which is usually spread by swimming in contaminated water. It can be assumed that the infection is present, to a greater or lesser extent, in almost all water sources, but most especially in shallow reedy waters in the vicinity of villages. Although the adult parasites do not themselves cause a great deal of harm, after about 4-6 weeks they start to lay eggs, which triggers an intense but usually ineffective immune response, the symptoms of which can include fever, cough, abdominal pain, and an itchy skin complaint known as safari itch. After a while the symptoms settle down and the patient is left with a sense of feeling tired all the time.

LGBTQIA+ TRAVELLERS On 30 May 2023 an anti-homosexuality act was brought into law in Uganda. The act includes harsh prison sentences, and the death penalty in some cases, for same sex sexual activity and also for supporting or promotion of LGBTQIA+ rights. Some of the language in the law is vague and open to interpretation and it remains unclear how this law will be implemented. We recommend that LGBTQIA+ travellers carefully consider the risks of travelling to Uganda and refer to your government’s foreign travel advisories. Equaldex and ILGA are other useful resources for LGBTQIA+ travellers.

FOREIGN TRAVEL ADVICE FOR QUEEN ELIZABETH NATIONAL PARK Some governments have increased foreign travel advice around security in place for Queen Elizabeth National Park in Uganda. In particular, the UK government has heightened travel advice in response to a recent targeted attack on UK travellers in Queen Elizabeth National Park. Insurance coverage (particularly for UK travellers) may be affected by this level of advice. Travel insurance that covers all destinations and activities within your itinerary is compulsory to join this trip. Please check your government’s foreign travel advice before departure and contact your insurance provider to ensure you have the appropriate level of coverage for travel to Queen Elizabeth National Park.

Visas

PASSPORT You’ll need a valid passport to travel internationally and most countries require your passport to have a minimum of 6 months validity, so remember to check the expiry date. We need your passport information to get everything ready for your trip so it’s important that the information on your booking matches your passport exactly. Please take care to provide the correct details. We recommend carrying a copy of the photo page of your passport while travelling and leaving a copy at home with family or friends. VISAS & ENTRY REQUIREMENTS Many countries require a visa and obtaining the correct visa for your trip and any countries you may transit through is your responsibility. We recommend you check your visa requirements as soon as you have booked your trip. This will ensure you have time to prepare your documents and for your visa application to be processed. You can check the entry requirements for your nationality on your government's foreign travel advisories, consular websites or on our page here: www.intrepidtravel.com/visa-entry-requirements Starting October 1, 2024, all foreign non-residents travelling to Zanzibar and its surrounding islands are required to purchase mandatory Inbound Travel Insurance from the Zanzibar Insurance Corporation. The cost is USD 44 per person, and USD 22 for children aged 17 and under. This insurance applies to all travellers, regardless of any existing coverage, and is valid for stays of up to 92 days. You can apply and pay for the insurance before departure using the following link: https://visitzanzibar.go.tz/ INFORMATION FOR VISA APPLICATIONS: If you require an address for Visa Applications in Zambia, please use: Eureka Camping Park 10kms South of Lusaka City centre, on the Kafue Road, Tel: (+260 211) 272351 or 278110 Fax: (+260 211) 272351 E-mail: [email protected] If you require an address for Visa Applications in Tanzania, please use: Kibo Palace Hotel PO Box 2523 Old Moshi Road Arusha - Tanzania Phone: +255 272544472 If you require a contact number for Visa Applications in Tanzania, please use: Intrepid Tanzania: +254 758 555 550 or +254 758 555 551 LETTER OF INVITATION KENYA / TANZANIA If you require a letter of invitation or a list of hotel confirmations, please contact your booking agent, and we will issue one tailored to your specific tour and departure. MALAWI: If you need a letter of invitation or hotel confirmation for your visa application, please contact your booking agent. Travellers should contact [email protected] to apply for visa letters. UGANDA: If you require a letter of invitation or a list of hotel confirmations, please contact your booking agent, and we will issue one tailored to your specific tour and departure. For more information, please visit - https://visas.immigration.go.ug/#/help/visa BORDER CROSSINGS ON THIS TRIP: Exit South Africa - Vioolsdrift (Day 3) Enter Namibia - Noodower Exit Namibia - Muhembo (Day 16) Enter Botswana - Mohembo Exit Botswana - Mohembo (Day 18) Enter Namibia - Muhembo Exit Namibia - Ngoma (Day 19) Enter Botswana - Ngoma Exit Botswana - Kazungula (Day 21) Enter Zimbabwe - Kazungula Exit Zimbabwe - Chirundu (Day 28) Enter Zambia - Chirundu Exit Zambia - Mwami (Day 32) Enter Malawi - Mchinji Exit Malawi - Songwe (Day 35) Enter Tanzania - Kasumulu Exit Tanzania - Namanga (Day 49) Enter Kenya - Namanga Exit Kenya - Malaba (Day 52) Enter Uganda - Malaba Exit Uganda - Busia (Day 61) Enter Kenya - Busia CHILDREN TRAVELLING TO BOTSWANA If you’re travelling to Botswana with a person under the age of 18, then you need to provide a certified copy of the child’s full unabridged birth certificate in order to enter the country. This means the one listing the child’s details and both parents’ details. The short birth certificate which only lists the child’s details won’t be accepted. Additionally, if the child is travelling with only one parent, with neither biological parent, or is unaccompanied, then they must provide an affidavit of consent of the parent(s) that are not travelling to prove that the trip is made with both parents' consent. Please contact your nearest Botswanan Embassy if you have further questions regarding this.

Why we love it

Go on safaris in some pretty iconic spots, including the Ngorongoro Crater, the Serengeti savanna, the Okavango Delta and the Masai Mara.

Tour a local coffee farm in Karatu village to see the innovative farming practices of the locals, then tuck into a traditional dinner cooked by a local Tanzanian family in their home.

Is this trip right for you

This is an overland trip. That means you’ll be travelling with a group in a purpose-built vehicle, visiting remote communities, setting up your own tent, occasionally roughing it in the bush and getting the best possible chance to spot the Big Five. While the trucks don’t have air conditioning, they do have sliding windows which let in the breeze and make it even easier to take spectacular snaps of the local wildlife. For more info on this style of travel, see our Africa overland page: https://www.intrepidtravel.com/africa/overland We use mokoros (small dugout canoes) to pass through the shallow waterways of the Okavango Delta to get to our campsite for the night. Camp in the Serengeti National Park without fences between you and the animals. Your leader will brief you on the safety measures the group must take for the two nights spent in the park. Conditions during the gorilla trek can be muddy and uncomfortable. But the sheer thrill in coming across a habituated group of gorillas, dominated by a great male silverback, outweighs any difficulty. You need to be prepared and fit enough to walk up to 4 hours – up and down hills. A top tip is to pack some gardening gloves to assist in any up-hill climbs. See https://www.intrepidtravel.com/au/gorilla-trekking for more information. As the early bird catches the worm, the early camper sights the animals. There will be many early starts either to make use of the better safari time or to beat the morning traffic on long travel days.

Health

GENERAL HEALTH All travellers need to be in good physical health in order to participate fully on this trip. For the safety and wellbeing of yourself and others, if you are unwell prior to travelling, please stay at home and contact us to make alternative arrangements. When selecting your trip please make sure you have read through the itinerary carefully and assess your ability to manage and enjoy our style of travel. Please note that if in the assessment of our group leader or local representative a traveller is unable to complete the itinerary without undue risk to themselves and/or the rest of the group, we reserve the right to exclude them from all or part of a trip without refund. You should consult your doctor for up-to-date medical travel information or for any necessary vaccinations before departure. We recommend that you carry a first aid kit as well as any personal medical requirements in their original packaging as they may not easily be obtained while travelling. If you are carrying medication, ensure you check your government's foreign travel advice for any local restrictions or requirements. YELLOW FEVER: A valid international certificate of vaccination against Yellow Fever is required in many countries if you are arriving from a country with risk of yellow fever (eg. Kenya). You may need to present this on arrival at the airport or border crossing. Some countries will refuse entry if you are unable to present your certificate. It's also quite common for your home country to request a Yellow Fever certificate on your arrival back home. It is your responsibility to check with your doctor well in advance of leaving home about the Yellow Fever requirements for the countries you'll be visiting. MALARIA & DENGUE Malaria and Dengue are mosquito-borne diseases commonly found in many parts of Africa. Before you travel, discuss your itinerary with a doctor and monitor your government foreign travel advice for up-to-date information on risk levels in particular areas. To reduce your risk of mosquito bites, protect yourself by using insect repellent and wearing long, loose, light-coloured clothing. Malaria symptoms typically appear 7–30 days after infection and may include fever, chills, headache, and fatigue. Doctors can prescribe medication to help prevent Malaria, so it’s important to consult your healthcare provider before travelling. Dengue symptoms generally emerge 4–10 days after being bitten. These may include high fever, severe headache, joint and muscle pain, nausea, and rash. As there is no specific medication for Dengue prevention, avoiding mosquito bites is key. If you develop symptoms of Malaria or Dengue while travelling or after returning home, seek medical attention straight away. TYPHOID: It is recommended that if you are travelling to Harare you make sure that your Typhoid vaccinations are up to date. There has been an outbreak of typhoid in parts of Harare, with over 1500 cases reported since October 2011. For more information speak to your doctor and see the World Health Organization (WHO) website. TSETSE FLY: It is best to avoid dark coloured clothes such as blue and black while on safari. These colours can attract the biting tsetse fly. DRINKING WATER As a rule, we recommend you don't drink tap water, even in hotels, as it may contain much higher levels of different minerals than the water you are used to at home. For local people, this is not a problem as their bodies are used to this and can cope, but for visitors drinking the tap water can result in illness. Generally, this isn't serious, an upset stomach being the only symptom, but it's enough to spoil a day or two of your holiday. Many hotels and lodges provide safe drinking water, while bottled water is another alternative. Water consumption should be about two litres a day. Rehydration salts, motion sickness tablets, and diarrhea blockers are available from many pharmacies - please source from home and bring them with you on your travels.

Food and dietary requirements

By travelling on an Overland trip you have chosen a participation camping tour. This means that you will be helping your cook prepare meals for the group. You may also get the chance to help with the shopping. Your cook will come up with meal ideas and quantities needed for large groups. Participating in the camp is usually done on a duty roster system with group of 5 or 6 people (depending on group size) having a different camp job each day. If you have any dietary requirements please tell us at the time of booking, and also remind your crew at your welcome meeting. A typical camp breakfast might be toast with spreads, cereal, something hot such as eggs or pancakes, as well as tea and coffee. Lunch is almost always a sandwich with healthy salad and assorted fillings, sometimes with fruit to follow. On occasion there will be the opportunity to buy your lunch to allow you try the local cuisine or provide some variety to sandwiches. Dinner might be a BBQ, rice dish or pasta dish and there is always the chance to try some African food such as ugali and stew. Clean drinking water is provided on your overland truck and can be accessed at all times. Your crew will use this to cook and provide cordial at meal times. Please do not hesitate to use this water to minimise the consumption of plastic water bottles. Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages are not part of included meals. One thing is sure - you definitely won't go hungry or lose weight on your safari! When you aren't camping you will have the freedom to decide where, what and with whom you eat.

Money matters

When it comes to money matters on the trip, every traveller is a little different. You know your spending habits better than we do, so please budget a sensible amount for things like meals not included, drinks, shopping, optional activities, tipping and laundry. It’s always better to bring a little more than you think you’ll need. Also, make sure you’ve read your trip details thoroughly, so you know what’s included in the trip price and what isn’t. This should make budgeting a little easier. You’ll find this info in the Inclusions section of your Essential Trip Information (that’s this document). Please note: all recommendations for additional costs, tipping etc. are in USD. You will need to convert these into the relevant local currency. MEALS NOT INCLUDED Breakfast, dinner and most lunches are included while camping on our overland safaris. For lunches not included a budget of USD15 to USD35 per meal will be more than sufficient. For dinners not included, your leader will normally recommend options and restaurants where you can safely try the region's local specialties. Expect meals to cost between USD20 and USD50 per meal. These are indicative prices only. If you are on a tight budget and are happy to try local food, you can eat cheaper than this. TIPPING Gratuities aren’t compulsory on your trip, but they can make a big difference to locals employed in the tourism industry. If you are happy with the services provided, a tip is an appropriate way to thank them. While it may not be customary to you, it is of great significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels, inspires excellent service, and is an entrenched feature of the tourism industry across many destinations. Usually, the equivalent of around USD7 to USD14 per person per day to cover all tips is fine. TIPPING GUIDE To give you a bit of guidance, we’ve put together the following tipping notes. These are just suggestions, based on feedback from past travellers and our staff on the ground. - Your Crew (including Leaders, Drivers and Cooks): You may also consider tipping your crew for outstanding service throughout your trip. The amount is entirely a personal preference; however, USD2 to USD4 per staff member per day can be used as a guideline. Of course, you are free to tip more or less as you see fit, depending on your perception of service quality and the length of your trip. It is best to then divide these amounts into separate envelopes for each crew member. Remember, a tip is not compulsory and should only be given when you receive excellent service. - Local guides: Throughout your trip, you may, at times, have a local guide in addition to your leader. We suggest around USD2 per person, per day for local guides. Basic restaurants: When checking the bill, if a 10% service charge is added, tipping is not required. Otherwise, 10% of the total bill amount is appropriate. - We recommend bringing a range of smaller denominations of USD ($1, $5, $10) for tipping and small purchases. TIPPING KITTY Over the years we have found that many of our travellers find the need for tipping local guides and operators to be both tiresome and embarrassing, especially if they don't have the correct small change. To overcome this, your leader might raise the idea of a group tipping kitty. At your group meeting, your tour leader may discuss the idea of running this kitty, whereby everybody contributes an equal amount and then your tour leader pays the tips as you go. The leader will keep a running record of all monies spent (except restaurant tips). The record can be checked at any time, and any money remaining at the end of the tour will be returned to group members. This kitty does not include tips for your leader and crew. EMERGENCY FUNDS We try to plan for every eventuality, but some things are beyond our control. Please make sure you bring an extra USD500 for emergencies (e.g., natural disasters, or civil unrest). Sometimes, these things necessitate last-minute changes to our itineraries, and we can’t guarantee there won’t be some extra costs involved. CREDIT CARDS, ATMS AND MONEY EXCHANGE: Credit cards are generally accepted in tourist shops and some restaurants across Africa. Visa and Mastercard are generally preferred over American Express, Diners, etc. Smaller venues take cash only. Foreign currency is easily changed at exchange bureaus, and they generally offer the best rates. With ATMs being increasingly available in many major towns and cities and even some campsites, credit or debit cards are a convenient way to access money. Be aware that your withdrawing limit may vary from country to country (regardless of your withdrawing limit in your home country), and it can be as low as the equivalent of USD100 per day. Throughout Africa, cards with the Visa logo are most readily recognized, although MasterCard is also accepted in most places. A charge is made for each international transaction - please check with your bank how much this fee will be. Check with your bank before leaving home that your card can be used as a debit card in Africa. You may also want to notify your bank that you are visiting Africa as it's not unknown for banks to freeze cards which show sudden transactions in other countries. If you're on a multi-country tour, your tour leader will be able to give you an approximate idea of how much money you may need for your stay in each country. PLEASE NOTE: Many businesses and banks in Africa, especially East Africa, do not accept US dollar notes older than 2013. When exchanging USD into local currency, we strongly recommend using medium to large bills ($20, $50, $100), in good condition, 2013 series onwards. Ensure you do not bring torn, marked, or damaged bills. The slightest marking can result in your bill being rejected. MONEY IN ZIMBABWE: Zimbabwe has its own currency, the Zimbabwe dollar. However, obtaining this currency can be challenging, and there can be long lineups to exchange money at banks. On-ground expenses such as lunches and market purchases must be settled in Zimbabwe dollars or by using a credit card. Visas on arrival can be paid in USD and most optional activities require payment in USD. Make sure to bring small denominations as immigration officers and local businesses may not be able to provide change. It's important to plan your travel expenses in advance and bring enough USD into the country to cover your stay. Your tour leader or local representative will be available to offer guidance on this issue if needed. COMMISSIONS Intrepid understands that the receipt of commissions in exchange for recommending particular shops or services is ingrained in the culture of the tourism industry. For this reason, we have established a centralised fund for contributions from recommended suppliers so these can be collected and distributed back into the business. Actively managing the receipt of commissions helps us maintain the level of quality you expect on one of our trips. Travel is always an adventure so Intrepid cannot explicitly guarantee the quality of a product but we aim to provide the best value trips in the market. Please let us know via the feedback form completed after your trip if we are successfully meeting - or exceeding - this objective.

What to take

What you need to bring will vary according to the trip style you have chosen, the countries you are visiting and when you are travelling. Generally speaking, we recommend you pack as lightly as possible and make sure that you are able to carry and lift your own luggage, and walk with it for short distances. Most travellers carry their luggage in a backpack, although an overnight bag with a shoulder strap would suffice if you travel lightly. Smaller bags or backpacks with wheels are convenient although we recommend your bag has carry straps. You'll also need a day pack/bag to carry water and a camera etc for day trips. Below are some ideas and helpful tips on what you specifically need for this trip. ESSENTIALS: - Sleeping bag. We recommend a 3–4 season sleeping bag because it can get very cold at night in winter months in desert and mountainous regions. Sleeping bags are also available for hire (if pre-booked). Please speak to your sales consultant, at least 14 days prior to departure, if you wish to hire one. - Pillow or travel pillow. - Closed in shoes. As this trip includes camping and/or bush walking we highly recommend that you take a pair of comfortable, closed-in walking shoes. Closed-in shoes will help to protect your feet from cuts and scratches when walking through bush/grass-lands, and will also act as a barrier protection in rare cases against bites or stings from dangerous animals in this environment. - Lightweight clothing. You will need to bring a mixture of lightweight clothing, some warm items for the evenings, and long shirts and pants for protection against mosquitoes in the malaria areas. Clothes should be easy to wash and dry. Shorts down to the knees are ideal for warmer weather. Some people like to take jeans for evenings out but they can be tough to dry and should not be used for trekking. Avoid nylon and other synthetics, which can be very uncomfortable in hot weather. Ex-military or military style clothing and equipment is NOT recommended. - Waterproof/windproof jacket is a good idea for wet days, and early morning or evening game activities when it can be cool. - Warm fleece and beanie for morning and evening game drives. - Sun protection - hat, sunscreen, sunglasses - Towel (or travel towel) - Toiletries- toothbrush, toothpaste, toilet paper, shampoo, shower gel/soap, body lotion etc - Sandals to wear in public showers RECOMMENDED: - A waterproof toiletry bag (that can hang on a nail on the back of a door) will be useful to keep your clothes dry inside basic camp shower structures. Plastic bags are banned in some African countries. - A good quality headlamp or torch for around the campsite at night. - Personal medical kit. Your guide will carry a large kit but we recommend you carry items such as mild pain killers, electrolytes, anti-diarrhoeal, antibacterial gel, wet wipes, bandaids/plasters etc. - Insect repellent. - Water bottle. We recommend at least a 1.5litre capacity. The sale of bottled water contributes to an enormous environmental problem around the world. In addition to the water in bottles, the production of a 1 litre plastic bottle takes 2 litres of water and 200ml of oil. A large proportion end up in limited landfill or discarded in waterways and natural environments. - Camera with spare battery or power bank. - Binoculars OPTIONAL: - Sleep sheet. If you are travelling during the hot season you may wish to also pack a sleep sheet so you will be comfortable no matter what the weather. - Thermarest. While we provide a basic camping mattress for each client, some travellers find they like the extra comfort of a double layer. - Ear plugs to guard against a snoring tent-mate - A good book, journal, music, podcasts, etc. for the long drives. - A small bottle of biodegradable laundry soap and string for hand washing and hanging your clothes - toilet paper and soap to carry in your day bag - Bathers. Some camps may have access to swimming pools. LUGGAGE LIMIT: The weight limit for luggage on all trucks is maximum 20kg. The size of luggage that can be brought on our overland trips is limited by the individual locker space on the trucks. The average locker size measures 26 inches long, 18 inches wide and 10 inches high. Your main luggage will be stored in these lockers with day bags stored at your feet or on the overhead shelf. For this reason, we highly recommend you pack light with luggage no larger than the locker dimensions. Traditional, framed suitcases will not fit in the truck lockers. Backpacks or duffel bags are an ideal choice. You will need to bring your own lock for your locker. We recommend a 20-30mm sized padlock. Please contact your booking consultant if you think you will have issues with this luggage limitation. VALUABLES: Please try to avoid bringing unnecessary valuables, and use your hotel safe and the safe on the overland truck to store the bulk of your money, passport, and airline tickets. It’s also a good idea to purchase a money belt or pouch that is easily hidden. We strongly recommend that you photocopy all important documents e.g. air tickets, passport, vaccination certificate, etc. and keep the copies separate from the originals. While not valid, a photocopy makes it very much easier to obtain replacements if necessary. POWER: Our overland vehicles are equipped with UK socket power outlets at each seat to use while on the road, while some camps will have powered sites to charge your devices when not on the road. We also recommend power banks and multi country power converters. CONSERVATIVE DRESS FOR WOMEN: In many parts of Africa women travelers should dress modestly as there is a wide range of cultural differences. Wear skirts or shorts that reach just above the knee and tops that cover shoulders at a minimum. If visiting coastal areas wear a cover-up when you step off the beaches.

GORILLA TREK: Tracking gorillas in the dense forest can sometimes be wet, muddy and uncomfortable. You will need a comfortable pair of waterproof hiking boots. Some of the foliage in the forest has sharp spikes and can be prickly. A typical gardening glove with a hard surface on the palm will make it easier to grab onto trees and bushes as you pull yourself up the hillside. It's also a good idea to pack a pair of long socks so that you can tuck your trousers into them and avoid any ants or insects getting to your ankles. Your rain jacket for the trek should be a neutral or dark colour as bright-coloured clothes are not permitted in the park. You are required to wear a surgical mask while within a 10-metre (11-yard) proximity to the gorillas. Surgical face masks are provided on the ground by the National Park for a cost, or you may bring your own. For more information on how surgical masks are keeping gorillas safe, please see our Responsible Travel section. You will be provided with a walking stick and the option to hire a porter who can carry your day pack and assist you on the trek. It costs 20 USD to hire a porter, plus an optional tip. Hiring a porter not only makes your trek easier but also encourages local communities to embrace gorilla conservation and tourism. Some porters are ex-poachers who now recognize the value in gorilla conservation practices.

ZAMBIA DRESS CODE Zambia have strict rules around dress code. When in public the following attire falls into their indecent exposure category and can result in fines and even jail; leggings, skinny jeans, mini-skirts (anything above the knee), tight fitting dresses, lace attire, crop tops and sagging trousers. Please ensure you pack and dress appropriately.

PLASTIC BAG BANS ACROSS AFRICA While Namibia holds people liable to a fine of N$500 or imprisonment for entering Game Parks with a plastic bag, Botswana has announced a countrywide ban on plastic bags to come into effect on 1 November 2018. The ban will make the importing, trading and commercial use of plastic bags a criminal offence. Exceptions will be made for plastics that are essential for health and hygiene. With these announcements, Botswana and Namibia join other African countries such as Tanzania, Kenya, Ethiopia, Uganda, Tunisia, Morocco, Rwanda, Uganda, Somalia and Eritrea that have banned plastic bags. South Africa imposed a levy on plastic bags in 2004 but they have not yet been banned. Many countries are strictly enforcing this and have been searching luggage at border points. Camping stores are good for obtaining waterproof reusable bags, for dirty laundry etc, prior to departure.

Climate and seasonal

WINTER MONTHS: Yes it is Africa, however the winter months can be very cold. Please bring a warm sleeping bag as well as warm winter clothing such as a wool pullover, jacket and woolly hat. It's also a good idea to check the weather reports prior to travel.

A couple of rules

Intrepid won't tolerate any kind of violence, harassment (whether physical, verbal or sexual), or disrespect toward fellow travellers, our teams or local communities. To ensure the wellbeing of everyone on the trip, decisions made by your group leader are final. Romantic relationships between travellers and group leader or local representative are not permitted while on trip. Any behaviour that prevents your leader from continuing the itinerary as planned, breaks local laws or opposes any of these guidelines may result in Intrepid denying your booking or removing you from the trip. If something concerns you during your travels, please speak to your group leader immediately. Alternatively, you can contact us on the emergency contact number detailed in the Problems and Emergency Contact Information section of this Essential Trip Information.

Feedback

Can’t stop thinking about your adventure? Tell us all about it! We read each piece of feedback carefully and use it to make improvements for travellers like you. Share your experience with us at: http://www.intrepidtravel.com/feedback/

Emergency contact

While we always endeavour to provide the best possible holiday experience, due to the nature of travel and the areas we visit sometimes things can and do go wrong. Should any issue occur while you are on your trip, it is imperative that you discuss this with your group leader or local representative straight away so that they can do their best to rectify the problem and save any potential negative impact on the rest of your trip. We recognise that there may be times when your group leader or local representative may not be able to resolve a situation to your satisfaction - if this is the case, please ask the group leader or local representative to speak to their direct manager. You may also choose to provide details in your online feedback, which we ask you to complete within 30 days of the end of your trip. Please do be aware that it is very difficult for us to provide any practical help after the trip is completed, so informing us while still travelling will give us the opportunity to resolve the issue in real-time. For general contact details please use the following page: https://www.intrepidtravel.com/contact-us In case of a genuine crisis or emergency, you can reach our local office on the numbers below: For transfers and accommodation issues, Intrepid's Kenya Office can be reached on their 24-hour number +254 758 555 556 or +254 758 555 557. Intrepid's Local Operator: +27 82 822 9407. Intrepid's Local Operator: +27 82 822 9407

Responsible travel

Our Responsible Travel Policy outlines our commitment to preserving the environment, supporting local communities, protecting the vulnerable, and giving back to the places we travel. All our trip group leaders or local representatives, suppliers, and staff are trained on these principles and are core to us delivering sustainable, experience-rich travel. Explore the different parts of our Responsible Travel Policy by visiting: https://www.intrepidtravel.com/responsible-travel Love wildlife? Us too. We believe nature should be protected, respected and never exploited for our entertainment. That’s why we design all of our wildlife trips and experiences to meet the standards set out in our animal welfare guidelines (https://www.intrepidtravel.com/en/animal-welfare), created in collaboration with World Animal Protection. This ensures that the unforgettable animal encounters our travellers rave about are conducted responsibly, with the utmost respect for all creatures. What does that mean for you? Well, we never ride, feed or handle wild animals for a start. Take a closer look at our animal welfare policy (https://www.intrepidtravel.com/sites/intrepid/files/Intrepid_Travel_Animal_Welfare_Policy.pdf) to learn more about how we champion responsible, cruelty-free experiences on our trips, and see how you can help make a difference when you travel with our animal-friendly travel tips (https://www.intrepidtravel.com/en/how-be-better-traveller-wildlife). KEEPING GORILLAS SAFE Gorilla tourism has become vital to the species' survival, providing the critical funding needed to protect and manage the national parks. However, the popularity of gorilla trekking brings thousands of people from all over the world into close contact with wild gorillas. Since humans share approximately 98.4% of their DNA with gorillas, they are susceptible to the infectious diseases we carry. Since COVID-19, the wearing of masks has become a National Park policy. However, some trekking guides, motivated by tips, will allow people to take their masks off. To ensure the health and safety of wild gorillas, it is an Intrepid policy for all our travellers to wear a surgical mask while within a 10-metre (11-yard) proximity to the gorillas. Surgical face masks are provided on the ground by the National Park for a cost, or you may bring your own.

The Intrepid Foundation

Our non-profit, The Intrepid Foundation, gives travellers more opportunities to make a positive impact in the places they visit. We have over 50 Intrepid Foundation partners across the globe addressing four key focus areas: protecting the environment, taking a stand for wildlife, addressing inequality and empowering communities. Intrepid matches all post-trip donations dollar for dollar and takes care of the admin fees – this doubles your impact and ensures every cent goes to our partners on the ground. Visit our website for more info: http://www.theintrepidfoundation.org/ This trip supports the Kilimanjaro Porters Assistance Project (KPAP), who provide education, support and advocacy to ensure the fair and ethical treatment of Kilimanjaro Porters. The Porters who guide and support trekkers are often overworked and underpaid; donations support KPAP's Partner for Responsible Travel Program which recognises and monitors tour operators committed to the fair treatment of mountain crew during a Kilimanjaro climb. Intrepid will double your impact by dollar-matching post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation. To find out more or make a donation, visit: www.theintrepidfoundation.org/t/kilimanjaro-porters-assistance-project-2019 This trip supports the East African Wildlife Society, which aids conservation and promotes the sustainable management of natural resources in East Africa. Donations equip rangers with basic skills and tools to enhance their conservation efforts, help protect endangered wildlife and support the communities living alongside forests, wetlands and marine ecosystems. Intrepid will double your impact by dollar-matching post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation. To find out more or make a donation, visit: https://www.theintrepidfoundation.org/t/east-african-wildlife-society This trip supports Victoria Falls Wildlife Trust, who work with local communities to promote wildlife conservation in Southern Africa. Communities living on the border of Victoria Falls National Park rely on subsistence farming of crops and livestock, usually producing no more than they need. When wildlife – the same creatures travellers would encounter on a safari – run into their land, it can have dire consequences: for the animals, the crops and the people. Donations help employ a team of Community Guardians who collaborate with locals to find sustainable solutions to human-wildlife conflict and conservation. Intrepid will double your impact by dollar-matching post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation. To find out more or make a donation, visit: www.theintrepidfoundation.org/t/victoria-falls-wildlife-trust

Accommodation notes

Accommodation on this trip is mainly in two-person canvas dome tents with camping mattresses supplied. The type and variety of accommodation are determined by conditions on each of our routes. Each route is different - on some, we use a mixture of campsites and wild camps; on others, we also use hotels. In Africa, it's not usually practical to camp when staying in towns and cities, so we use hotel accommodations and eat out in local restaurants. There may be the occasional night stop when we stay on the grounds of a hotel or at a campsite, which may also have rooms/cabins available. In this case, there may be a choice of camping or upgrading to a room. Rooms cost approximately USD 40-100 per room per night for a twin room and cannot be pre-booked. Standards of these rooms vary greatly, and we recommend viewing the room before purchasing the night's accommodation. The day-by-day itinerary advises when upgrades may be possible (subject to availability). Keep in mind that if we are staying in dormitory accommodation, you may have to share with other passengers or be split into same-sex rooms. Campsites do have facilities, but they usually aren't to the same standard you would find in Western countries. For example, the bathroom facilities can be very basic. Toilet paper is rarely provided, and shower facilities can be as simple as a hose pipe spurting out cold water. Wild camps have no facilities at all. At times, there may be spare tents in the vehicles. Unfortunately, these cannot be used without the purchase of a single supplement. This is to ensure the tents avoid wear and tear or are clean and ready for the customers arriving on the next section of the trip.

Transport notes

Our trucks are purpose-built, self contained safari vehicles. Our fleet of vehicles varies depending on your group size, trip route and style. Your vehicle type may differ from those listed above. It is also important to note that our overland vehicles are not air-conditioned, but all vehicles have windows that can be opened to allow for fresh air. Each seat will have access to a power socket to charge your devices. This outlet will use a UK/Kenyan 3 pronged outlet. There are many early starts with long hours spent driving on rough roads on all African itineraries. While most people love the chance to watch the changing landscape and daily village life, feedback shows that long periods of inactivity does not appeal to all clients. We provide the approximate distance covered each day and how many hours this normally takes to drive so that you can choose the safari experience that is right for you. African conditions are extremely tough on vehicles. While we fastidiously maintain our vehicles at our workshops, you should not expect Africa to be your traditional touring experience. While it's certainly our aim to avoid them, it's important that you set off on your trip knowing that the occasional breakdown can happen and are best treated as part of the African adventure. Due to wet weather there may be times when we have to take an alternative route which will mean longer travel times.

Travel insurance

Travel insurance is compulsory on all our trips for those travelling internationally. We require that at a minimum you are covered for medical expenses including emergency repatriation. If you are travelling within your home country or region please confirm before travel that you are entitled to access the public medical system easily should an accident occur. We strongly recommend all travellers have a policy that also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage or personal effects. For international trips, you will not be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance and the insurance company's 24-hour emergency contact number has been sighted by your group leader or local representative. If you have credit card insurance your group leader or local representative will require details of the participating insurer/underwriter, the level of coverage, policy number, and emergency contact number rather than the bank's name and your credit card details. Please contact your bank for these details prior to arriving in-country. For travellers who reside within the European Union, Switzerland or USA the requirement to purchase travel insurance cannot be compulsory. However the purchase of travel insurance is still highly recommended, and travellers from these regions who decline travel insurance when travelling outside of their home region must sign a Travel Insurance Waiver Form at the Group Meeting, recognizing personal responsibility for emergency medical and repatriation costs should they arise. For assistance with travel insurance or other services, please visit the link below: https://www.intrepidtravel.com/booking-resources/our-services PLEASE NOTE: Some travel insurance policies are not recognised by some Namibian hospitals; you should check with your provider if their product is accepted in Namibia before you travel and seek alternative coverage where necessary.

Your fellow travellers

As you travel on a group trip you will be exposed to all the pleasures and maybe some of the frustrations of travelling in a group. Your fellow travellers will probably come from all corners of the world and likely a range of age groups too. We ask you to be understanding of the various needs and preferences of your group - patience with your fellow travellers is sometimes required for the benefit of everyone's travel experience. Remember too that you have responsibilities to the group. If you are requested to be at a place at a certain time, ensure that you don't keep the rest of the group waiting. We have found time and time again that the very best trips we operate are those where the dynamics within the group work well - this takes just a little effort on your part. Due to privacy reasons, we are unable to provide you with contact details and any personal information about your fellow travellers booked on your trip prior to departure. SOLO TRAVELLERS On our trips, rooming is organised on a twin-share basis. We pair up solo travellers with another traveller of the same gender, as per the gender marker on each of their passports. We also offer an optional single supplement on most trips for travellers who prefer to have their own room. This only applies to accommodation during the tour. Pre-trip and post-trip accommodation booked through us will always be on a single-room basis. On a small selection of trips some accommodation will be open-gender and multishare, such as a felucca in Egypt or an overnight train in Vietnam. Please review the Accommodation section of the Essential Trip Information for details about your trip. LGBTQIA+ TRAVELLERS We strive to create a safe and inclusive environment for everyone. If your gender identity differs from what is indicated on your passport, please contact us so that we can discuss rooming options with you.

Itinerary disclaimer

ITINERARY CHANGES Our itineraries are updated regularly throughout the year based on customer feedback and to reflect the current situation in each destination. The information included in this Essential Trip Information may therefore differ from when you first booked your trip. It's important that you review this information prior to travel so that you have the latest updates. Due to weather, local conditions, transport schedules, public holidays, political unrest or other factors, further changes may be necessary to your itinerary once in-country. Your group leader or local representative will keep you up to date with any such changes once your trip is underway. OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES A selection of optional activities that have been popular with past travellers are listed in the day-to-day itinerary. This isn't an exhaustive list and should be used as a guide only for some of what might be available. Prices are approximate, are for entrance fees only, and don’t include transport to and from the sites or local guides unless indicated. All activities are subject to availability, and maybe on a join-in basis. It may not be possible to do all the activities listed in the time available at each destination, so some pre-planning for what you are most interested in is advised. When it's recommended that travellers pre-book these activities, look for a note in the Special Information section of the day-to-day itinerary. For most, they can either be organised independently on the day, or let your group leader or local representative know you are interested at the Welcome Meeting and they can assist. Where activities are considered medium or high risk, we work with operators whose safety and credentials we have sighted and assessed. Although it is possible that you may find the same activity cheaper with another operator on the ground, we cannot vouch for the safety or quality of that operator. Medium and high-risk activities not listed above have not been assessed by us and as such our staff and group leader or local representative are unable to assist you with organising these activities. Activities that contravene our Responsible Travel policies are also not listed. Please remember that the decision to partake in any activity not listed is at your own discretion and risk. ROAD CONDITIONS AND INFRASTRUCTURE IN AFRICA: Roads in Africa are often in very poor condition, which makes it hard on our vehicles. Our vehicles are serviced regularly and are generally in good condition, but breakdowns can and do happen. Sometimes the going on this trip is quite tough, the distances covered fairly large and some of the roads and tracks are not exactly smooth or free from dust, but the rewards are exceptional. The travelling times indicated in our Essential Trip Information is just a rough guide and is dependent on various factors that may be outside our control, such as road conditions, weather and time spent at borders. DRIVE TIMES: The travel times listed in the day to day itinerary are a guide only. Please be aware that delays may occur and please be patient - it's all part of the experience afterall! Additionally, the travel times do not include time spent on game drives as these can vary with each departure. URBAN ADVENTURES: Join us for the Best. Day. Ever. Urban Adventures are for those who want to get away from the tourist crowds and really connect with a city, with a local by their side. The experience can be as short as a couple of hours, or as long as a whole day, but in every case our Urban Adventures tours take travellers to interesting places to experience local culture and see what makes a place unique. If you are travelling before or after your trip with us and would like to book an Urban Adventure in advance, please contact your booking agent or use this link: http://www.urbanadventures.com/?aff=2226. While on tour with us, your leader can assist in booking other Urban Adventures.

Accommodation

Camping (with facilities) (49 nights),Camping (with basic facilities) (4 nights),Camping (without facilities) (1 night),Chalet (3 nights),Hotel (3 nights),Bungalow (2 nights),Hotel with shared facilities (1 night)

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