Southern Africa is a region of unparalleled diversity and natural beauty, and this two-week program offers the opportunity to explore some of its most notable highlights in depth. Wildlife is the region's calling card, and there will be plenty of chances to spot the "big five" in Kruger, Hwange, and Matobo national parks. Aside from wildlife viewing, there will be many occasions to experience the unique history and regional cultures of Soweto, the Lowveld, and Victoria Falls. Come away with a deeper understanding and appreciation of what makes this part of the world truly special. Visit South Africa and Zimbabwe with us, all while earning professional development credit with other educators.
What's Included:
Cape Town orientation walk
Soweto township tour
Panorama Route drive
Kruger National Park wildlife safari drive in our vehicle (half-day)
Traditional dance experience
Great Zimbabwe National Monument visit
Rhino walk in Matobo National Park
Victoria Falls Entry Fee
Lusumpuko Women's Club lunch
Border-crossing support
G Adventures tour leader and driver throughout the program, local guides/rangers.
12 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 4 dinners – allow $245-$320 USD for meals not included
Arrive in Cape Town at any time. There are no planned activities until the Welcome Meeting in the evening. The airport is Cape Town International Airport (CPT).
Consider arriving 1-2 days early to explore the city, adjust to the time zone, and buffer against flight delays. We can request extra hotel nights for you before the program begins.
Hotel Check-in and Welcome Meeting
Hotel check-in is normally between 2–3 p.m. Check with reception for the exact time and location of the group welcome meeting, typically between 6–7 p.m. Please make every effort to attend this meeting. If you're running late, send a message in the group WhatsApp or call the emergency number on your trip voucher so that your tour leader can let you know where and when to meet the group.
After the meeting, you might choose to get dinner at a nearby restaurant with your traveling companions and your tour leader to further get to know one another.
Joining Instructions
Cape Town International Airport is about 22 km from downtown. If you pay in advance for an arrival transfer, a G Adventures representative will be at the airport to meet you. Otherwise, we recommend two ways to get into the city:
Taxi: After exiting the international terminal, cross the street to the taxi stand. Official taxis have the kilometer rate indicated on the door. Uber and Bolt are also available in Cape Town.
Shuttle: After arriving at the international terminal, turn left and walk straight ahead until you come to the shuttle services desk.
Accommodation: Inn on the Square (or similar)* To confirm the hotel that your group will be using, please reach out to us or check your service voucher.
Enjoy a day of leisure in Cape Town, choosing from a variety of optional activities. Visit Table Mountain, explore Cape Point, or embark on a wine tour in and around Stellenbosch. For the adventurous, opt to go skydiving, abseiling, or, if you're really brave, cage diving for a close encounter with a great white shark. Wander through the city center, which has some of the oldest buildings and gardens in South Africa. Check out the Cultural Historical Museum, Planetarium, and many other museums and theaters. See our optional activities section further below for more information.
If you are interested in visiting Robben Island, you must book it directly with the museum on their website in advance: http://www.robben-island.org.za. Due to high demand, it is common that this tour can be sold out over one month in advance.Accommodation: Inn on the Square (or similar)Meals included: Breakfast
Take a short flight from Cape Town to Johannesburg. In the afternoon, explore South Africa’s largest township on two wheels and under your own steam. This guided bike tour (1-2 hrs) will take you through the vibrant streets of Soweto, giving you the opportunity to meet some of its diverse residents, see the sights, hear the music, and even taste a local "home-brewed" beer.
Accommodation: Onomo Johannesburg Sandton Hotel (or similar)Meals included: Breakfast
Approximate travel time: 2 hrs by plane, 1.5 hrs by private vehicle, 1-2 hrs by bike
Sit back for a long day on the road as we take in the scenery on the Panorama Route into the Kruger National Park area. In the evening, enjoy a cultural encounter with the local community. Get a taste of the local cuisine with a delicious dinner, then watch a traditional dance performance.
Accommodation for the next two nights will be in luxury, air-conditioned tents with en-suite bathrooms. Each tent has a lovely covered deck overlooking the Sabie River and the lush foliage of hundreds of macadamia trees.
Accommodation: Lions Rock Rapids luxury tents (or similar)Meals included: Breakfast | Dinner
Approximate travel time: 8 hrs by private vehicle
Jump into our touring vehicle for a full-day safari in Kruger National Park, home to an extraordinary array of large mammals. Spot elephants, lions, giraffes, and perhaps elusive leopards as we explore this breathtaking wilderness of savanna and scrubland. At over 7,500 square miles and home to 147 species, Kruger is one of the largest and most impressive animal reserves in the world and has more species of large mammals than any other park on the continent. If you want an open-top 4x4 safari instead of the included safari in our touring vehicle, you can sign up for an optional 4x4 safari instead for an extra fee.
Return to our camp in the evening, where you can take some time to relax and enjoy the nocturnal sounds of the bush.
Accommodation: Lions Rock Rapids luxury tents (or similar)Meals included: Breakfast | Dinner
Head north to Timbavati Safari Lodge. We will have a bush walk looking out for the "small 5": the antlion, elephant shrew, leopard tortoise, buffalo weaver, and rhino beetle. The bush is rich in legends and historical narratives and boasts a diverse array of bugs/insects and reptiles, as well as an abundance of indigenous plant species with medicinal and traditional uses that are best explored through the expertise of local guides.
Accommodation: Timbavati Safari Lodge (or similar)Meals included: Breakfast | Dinner
Approximate travel time: 2 hrs by private vehicle
Opt for a morning safari drive or soak up the atmosphere in the camp before traveling to the next location in the Louis Trichardt area. You will have a free afternoon. One option is to explore and investigate the diverse fauna and flora of this lush area on foot. Marked trails take you across scenic valleys, along sparkling streams, and through various indigenous forests. There is an Anglo-Boer history museum that can be visited at Lalapanzi Hotel free of charge. Guided tours of the museum can be arranged in advance at Reception with the help of your tour leader.
You could also relax by the pool.
Accommodation: Lalapanzi Hotel (or similar)Meals included: Breakfast
Approximate travel time: 3-4 hrs by private vehicle
Get an early start for another long day on the road. You'll want to have your passport easily accessible for the border crossing into Zimbabwe.
Accommodation: Clevers Lakeview Resort Guesthouse (or similar)Meals included: Breakfast | Dinner
Approximate travel time: 7-8 hrs by private vehicle
We start the day with a visit to the Great Zimbabwe National Monument, the ancient ruins the country was named for. Hike around the site, climb to the citadel, and learn more about the life of the people who inhabited the area and how these structures were built.
Afterward, continue to Matobo National Park.
Accommodation: Farmhouse Matopos (or similar)Meals included: Breakfast
Approximate travel time: 4.5-5.5 hrs by private vehicle
Wake up early and choose to explore ancient cave paintings, visit the grave of Rhodes, hike the unique and stunning landscape, or hang out by the pool. In the afternoon, enjoy an included nature walk with the opportunity to get up close and personal with the resident wildlife.
Accommodation: Farmhouse Matopos (or similar)Meals included: Breakfast
We will spend most of today driving to Hwange National Park. When we arrive, you can enjoy an evening wildlife safari drive if you like!
Accommodation: Hwange Safari Lodge (or similar)Meals included: Breakfast
Approximate travel time: 6-7 hrs by private vehicle
This morning, we will drive to our final stop, Victoria Falls!
For lunch, we will sit down for a traditional, Zimbabwean meal, cooked by the Lusumpuko Women’s Club, a group of women from a nearby township. A demonstration by the ladies will show you exactly how Zimbabweans traditionally eat their food, and you’ll be served a farm-to-table meal made with traditional, local, in-season ingredients. This meal provides much-needed income to the cooperatives’ 20 members, changing their lives and families in the process.
In the afternoon, witness the natural splendor of the massive falls from the Zimbabwean side. The entrance fee is included for your self-guided visit.
The rest of your day will be free to explore more of Victoria Falls. We recommend crossing the border to see the Falls from the Zambian side.
Accommodation: Explorers Village Lodge (or similar)Meals included: Breakfast | Lunch
Approximate travel time: 2-3 hrs by private vehicle
There are no planned activities today, so you may depart Victoria Falls at any time. The airport is Victoria Falls International Airport (VFA). If you wish to extend your stay in Victoria Falls, consider booking post-tour accommodation with us.
We highly recommend pre-booking an excursion with us to Chobe National Park in Botswana. This full-day guided tour to a wildlife-abundant region includes a cruise on the Chobe River, lunch, and an afternoon wildlife safari with an expert guide. This activity includes two border crossings between Zimbabwe and Botswana (transportation provided), so you will need to purchase a double-entry visa when you first arrive in Zimbabwe. (If you also plan to visit the Zambian side of Victoria Falls, you will need to pay for the Zambian visa and yet another Zimbabwean visa to re-enter Zimbabwe.) Please note the Chobe National Park excursion takes an entire day, so you will need to book at least one post-trip night in Victoria Falls.
Please note that check-out time from the hotel is usually mid-morning, but luggage storage services are available at the reception desk.
Want more adventure? Book two or more GEEO programs in the same school year and receive a discount! GEEO will give you 10% off of the lesser value program(s) (up to 3 programs per year).
If you would like to extend your time abroad but don't see another GEEO program that interests you, let us know. We can work with you to find a trip from our tour operator’s much larger catalog. Their tours are open to the general public and not designed specifically for educators, but we can still offer you and your travel companions a discounted educator price on any additional tours that you book.
Meals included: Breakfast
*Itinerary Disclaimer: While it is our intention to adhere to the routes described on our website, there is a certain amount of flexibility built into the itinerary and on occasion it may be necessary, or desirable, to make alterations. The itinerary is brief, as we never know exactly where our journey will take us. Due to our style of travel and the regions we visit, travel can be unpredictable. The information on our website is a general guide to the tour and region, and any mention of specific destinations or wildlife is by no means a guarantee that they will be visited or encountered. Additionally, any travel times listed are approximations only and subject to vary due to local circumstances.
Details
Important
Before you decide to travel with GEEO, it is important that you read all of the program information on this page. Our programs are quite adventurous, and we find that travelers who review the full trip details are happier with their experiences.
Terms and Conditions: Review GEEO's full Terms and Conditions before signing up for a GEEO program, especially information related to deposits, our cancellation policy, mandatory travel insurance, etc.
This trip includes 5 nights in hotels in comfortable twin rooms with en-suite bathrooms, 5 nights in lodges in standard rooms with en-suite bathrooms, and 2 nights in permanent tents with en-suite bathrooms.
Not all hotels have WiFi, and some areas (e.g., Great Zimbabwe) have sketchy cell phone signal. The 2 nights in Kruger will be in luxury, air-conditioned tents with en-suite bathrooms; each tent has a lovely covered deck overlooking the Sabie River and the lush foliage of hundreds of macadamia trees. There are some holes at the bottom of tents to run lines for electricity, so if you have problems with lizards or insects in your tent/room, please ask the lodge staff for assistance. The farmhouse at Matobo National Park is rustic with insect nets provided in the rooms. While mosquito nets are typically provided, bringing your own lightweight travel net never hurts as backup.
TRANSPORTATION
This is not a physically demanding journey; however, traveling can be difficult, with long drives and poor road conditions at times. The road to Victoria Falls involves extremely challenging conditions with significant potholes that can make for an uncomfortable journey. Despite this, most clients feel that the diversity of the African landscape, countries, culture, and wildlife are all well worth the experience. We use a comfortable and safe air-conditioned touring vehicle for the long drives. We use a private local bus for most of the journey and a short flight from Cape Town to Johannesburg. Having our own private vehicle for most of the tour allows us the flexibility of making stops when needed. In addition, we are able to travel to out-of-the-way locations where public transportation does not reach.
LUGGAGE
Pack light and bring luggage which is compact and lightweight, and which you can easily transport. The carrying of your luggage remains your responsibility at all times.
ACTIVITY LEVEL & PACE
Please make sure you have thoroughly read the itinerary and can handle the group activities, which sometimes include day hikes with your daypacks. This trip includes moderate hiking and other activities that require an average/moderate level of fitness to enjoy. You can skip the longer hikes if you wish. We recommend always carrying snacks with you. Meals can sometimes be far apart.
YELLOW FEVER
According to the WHO and CDC, there is no risk of Yellow Fever in South Africa or Zimbabwe. It is compulsory to show a valid Yellow Fever vaccination certificate if you are traveling to South Africa or Zimbabwe from a Yellow Fever endemic country . If required, Yellow Fever inoculations need to be administered at least 10 days prior to your entry into the country.
WATER IN CAPE TOWN
Cape Town is currently experiencing one of the worst droughts it has seen in over 100 years, and while we want you to have the best time possible while there, please try to reduce your water usage.
MONEY EXCHANGE
We strongly advise that you bring ZAR (South African Rand) and USD, or exchange money before the start of the tour, to avoid delays on tour. Be prepared to purchase most things with cash since credit cards are not widely accepted as payment. See the "Money Exchange" section for more details.
DRONES
The use of drones in national parks in Southern Africa is prohibited.
MEALS
Eating is a big part of traveling. While traveling with GEEO, you can experience the vast array of wonderful food that is available in Southern Africa. On this program, you will have some flexibility to decide where, what, and with whom to eat during some meals. This will also provide some budgeting flexibility. While our travelers often eat together and share dishes so that they can taste a larger variety of food and enjoy each other's company, there is no obligation to do so. Your tour leaders will be able to suggest some favorite restaurants. For the included meals, vegetarian meal requests and other dietary requirements need to be specified in Good to Go prior to arrival.
GROUP LEADER
All GEEO programs are led by a G Adventures Chief Experience Officer (CEO), whose role is to take the hassle out of travel and help you get the most from your trip. They’ll share information about the places you visit, suggest activities and restaurants, and introduce you to our local friends. While not traditional guides, CEOs have broad knowledge of the region’s history, culture, and daily life. On some excursions, local guides are used for deeper insight.
PROGRAM DETAILS
Single Travelers
Traveling solo? You’re in good company—about half of our participants do the same.
Shared room by default. The program fee covers one person in a twin room. We’ll pair you with a roommate of the same gender if you don’t have a travel companion.
Want a private room? Most trips offer a “My Own Room” (single-supplement) upgrade. Check the price in the Extra Services section, then email travel@geeo.org to reserve it. You pay the single-supplement only if you request it.
My Own Room Exception: Receive private accommodation every night except nights 9 and 10 at the farmhouse.
Emergency Contacts
Should you need to contact the tour operator during an emergency, it is best to call the local G Adventures office. If for any reason you do not receive an immediate answer, please leave a detailed message and contact information so they can return your call and assist you as soon as possible.
AIRPORT TRANSFER
If you have purchased an arrival through G Adventures or if an arrival transfer is included in the cost of your tour, please note that your arrival transfer has been arranged based on flight information provided to us. If you are advised of a flight schedule change within 48 hours of your scheduled arrival time, we will do our best to rearrange your arrival transfer however we cannot guarantee this. If your arrival transfer does not arrive within 30 minutes after you have exited the arrivals area, please call the local emergency contact numbers listed below for more information.
EMERGENCY CONTACT NUMBERS:
G Adventures Local Representative (South Africa)
From outside South Africa: +27 713823286
From within South Africa: 071 3823286
If for any reason you are unable to reach the G Adventures local office, please call the numbers listed below, which will connect you directly with the 24-hour G Adventures Sales team, who will happily assist you and connect you with the right person.
Toll-free, North America only: 1 888 800 4100
Packing List
See our blog post of staff-recommended gear to help you pack for your upcoming travels. You must be able to carry your own luggage—up stairs, on and off of transport, and during 15 to 20 minute walks. Bring one soft-sided bag (not hard-top), max 15kg and one daypack for daily items. Space is limited on transportation, so oversized bags cannot travel.
Pack Light: You will be moving around a lot, so pack as lightly as possible. Airlines strictly enforce luggage limits, space on vehicles is tight, and you will be responsible for carrying your own luggage.
Be Prepared: Be ready for warm days and cool evenings. Early morning safari drives can be chilly, so bring a warm jacket. From May to October, temperatures in Southern Africa can be especially cold, so pack layers for early mornings and nights. Also pack a set of smart casual clothes for evenings or city visits.
IMPORTANT: Drones are not allowed in national parks in Southern Africa!
As you prepare your packing list, we recommend checking average weather conditions for your destination.
SUGGESTEDOPTIONALDOCUMENTS
Long-sleeved shirts or sweater
Warm gloves
Warm hat
Warm layers
Compact, packable winter coat
Light windproof/waterproof rain jacket
Sun hat
Personal clothing for weather in the 50’s to the 80’s – we recommend packing 7-8 days of outfits so you only have to do laundry once
At least one pair of long pants
Daypack
Sturdy walking shoes
Sport sandals or flip-flops
Sunblock
Sunglasses
Watch or alarm clock (or use your phone)
Small flashlight or headlamp
Toiletries – your hotels will have soap and shampoo
Camera (or use your phone)
First-aid kit, including: lip salve, aspirin, bandaids, anti-histamine, Dramamine, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, electrolyte powder, insect repellent, extra prescription drugs you may be taking
Travel pillow
Light weight silk sleep sheet
Money belt
Water bottle
Phone/tablet for internet – most hotels have WiFi
Chargers for electronics as well as converters/adapters, if needed
AirTags or Tile trackers
Packing cubes
Hair dryer (some accommodations provide them in the room or at reception, but possibly not all)
Earplugs
Snacks – packing a few granola bars is a good idea; you can also buy snacks when you get there too, so don’t go crazy
Ziplock bags
Reading/writing material
Hand sanitizer/baby wipes
Passport (with photocopies)
Any entry visas or vaccination certificates required
Travel insurance ID card
Flight itinerary/boarding pass(es)
USD/EUR cash
Credit/debit card
G Adventures vouchers
*Laundry: Please note that you will be on the move a lot, and as such there will not be a lot of time for same-day laundry service. Please consult your tour guide to arrange laundry services, if necessary, so that they can advise you or make arrangements. Facilities are available in Cape Town and Victoria Falls.
Passports and Visas
Travelers are responsible for securing all required travel documents and meeting the entry requirements for every country on their itinerary, including applicable transit/layover countries.
PASSPORT
All travelers must have a passport valid for at least 6 months beyond your trip dates with enough blank pages for stamps. Need to apply or renew? Start here.
ENTRY/VISA REQUIREMENTS
Visa rules change frequently—always verify the latest requirements on the U.S. State Department Country Information Pages. Non-U.S. passport holders should verify requirements with your country's official government resources. Use the tool below to see entry requirements for your specific itinerary.
Entry information below is provided by Sherpa, a third-party service and trusted G Adventures partner. You must search each of your destination countries separately; “Add connection” solely searches transit visa requirements. Additional fees apply if you choose to purchase any services through Sherpa.
Money Exchange
Currency: The local currency in South Africa is the South African rand (ZAR). Zimbabwe uses both the U.S. dollar and South African rand. For current exchange rates, visit www.xe.com.
Cash Requirements: This trip involves extensive tipping throughout, so you will want to have cash on hand. Bring small denomination bills ($1, $5, $10, $20) as large bills are difficult to break. Consider keeping some USD rather than converting everything to ZAR. Your tour leader will tell you where you can exchange money throughout the tour and approximately how much cash you will need. Please note that due to past problems with forgery, US dollar notes that are older than the year 2006 are not accepted in Africa.
Credit/Debit Cards: Credit cards can be used in major cities and towns, but please do not rely on them as a method of payment, because they are generally not widely accepted. Visa/Plus cards are the most widely accepted; it can be more difficult to locate ATMs and businesses that accept Mastercard/Cirrus cards. When purchasing products or services on a credit card, a fee of 3%-10% often applies.
Power Outages: There may be occasional power-outages when there will be no electricity for hours at a time. In addition, ATMs outside of larger centers often run out of cash or can be out of order unexpectedly. As such, please do not rely on credit or debit cards as your only source of money.
Emergency Funds: Bring at least $200 USD (or the equivalent in local currency) in cash for emergencies in case of ATM or card issues. Always carry more rather than less to avoid feeling short of funds while traveling.
See the Estimated Trip Costs section at the bottom of this page for budgeting guidance.
For more advice, see our post, Smart Travel Finances: Your Guide to Money, ATMs, Fees, and Safety Abroad
Tipping
Tipping is optional but appreciated and goes a long way for the people who look after you on the trip. If you are happy with the service, use these ballpark amounts and adjust as you see fit:
- Service providers/Waiters: 10-15% of the bill.
- Local guides and drivers: $2-3 USD per person per day.
- Safari Guide/Driver: $2-3 USD per person per day.
- G Adventures tour leader (CEO): $5-8 USD per person per day. (We suggest pooling contributions in an envelope and presenting it as a group)Tipping Kitty: On some trips, your CEO may suggest a “tipping kitty” where everyone contributes at the start of the tour, and the CEO uses that pooled amount to tip service providers for the group as a whole (not including your CEO). If your CEO doesn’t mention it and you’d like to use a kitty, we recommend asking about it early in the trip. Your CEO will advise the suggested amount and preferred currency for the kitty.
Vaccinations
GEEO cannot provide any medical advice, so it is very important to consult your doctor or a travel clinic about which vaccinations you will need for your trip. We recommend contacting Passport Health, which has travel clinics located throughout the United States. You can also check the CDC's recommended vaccinations for your destination. Please take this seriously!
Yellow Fever Note: Some countries on GEEO programs may require proof of Yellow Fever vaccination if you are arriving from or transiting through countries with risk of Yellow Fever transmission. This includes long layovers (typically over 12 hours) in affected countries. The vaccine must be administered at least 10 days before entry to be considered valid. Always check with your health provider and the official entry requirements of each country to determine if you need a Yellow Fever vaccination certificate.
Flights
Wait for official trip confirmation via email from GEEO before booking your flights. Prices tend to be lowest 90–120 days out, but that window varies by route and year. Neither GEEO nor G Adventures bear responsibility for any flights purchased before the trip is confirmed.
This program begins in Cape Town and ends in Victoria Falls. Check the itinerary for the required arrival date. Aim to arrive no later than mid-afternoon for the 6 p.m. Day-1 welcome meeting, and consider arriving a day or two early to buffer flight delays and see more of Cape Town. You can depart Victoria Falls any time on the final day of the program, or stay longer to see more of the area.
Plugs and Converters
The places visited on this program use Type C, Type D, and Type G outlets, and the voltage is 220-230V. To use your electronics safely, you’ll need to consider:
1. Adapter (plug shape)
Adapts your U.S. plug to fit another type of socket. See our recommended all-in-one travel adapter in our Gear Recommendations post.
2. Converter / transformer (voltage)
Steps the outlet voltage down to 120V for U.S. appliances that can’t handle higher voltage.
Check what you need: Look on your device's plug or power brick. “Input: 100-240V” works worldwide—you only need a plug adapter. Any range narrower (e.g., "110-120V" or “Input: 120V”) means you need an adapter and a voltage converter to avoid damage. Converters are inexpensive and available online or in travel stores.
Weather
This trip takes place over the Southern Hemisphere's winter. It is a great time to travel in this region as it will be relatively dry and the days will be comfortable temperatures between the high 50s and 80s. Early morning safari drives can be quite cold - pack thermal underwear, gloves, warm hat, and multiple warm layers for dawn game drives. At night in the desert it can get quite cold, so make sure you pack warm clothes.
Historical Monthly Weather Averages
Cape Town
Loading...
Unable to load weather data.
Johannesburg
Loading...
Unable to load weather data.
Bulawayo
Loading...
Unable to load weather data.
Victoria Falls
Loading...
Unable to load weather data.
Average High
Average Low
Rainfall
Advice From Past Participants
Extend Your Stay: A few of us stayed a day longer and booked the safari to Chobe National Park in Botswana. All of the safaris were wonderful, but Chobe was completely different, with herds of animals and dirt roads for the jeeps to traverse the park and the beaches. We saw a huge variety of wildlife in different settings (the morning included a boat tour down the river where we saw a lot of animals) and was an astounding experience.
Arrive Early in Cape Town: I and a few others arrived in Cape Town two days early, so we had lots of time to explore. There was so much to see there, and even with the extra days there were still things that I would have loved to have seen—Botanical Gardens, Art Museum, Bo Kaap area, History Museum, etc. I was glad I had planned the extra time in Cape Town.
Victoria Falls Activities: There is very little time for all the optional activities in Victoria Falls. Our group all booked the River Sunset Cruise and had no time to do anything else on our day in Victoria Falls. If travelers want to do activities in Zambia, plan on an extra day, and plan on border-crossing and booking it yourself.
Money & Tipping: I think it's important to let everyone know to have plenty of money for tips - they get used fast! Make sure you have small bills for tips. I wish I knew that info in the states to make it easier to obtain smaller bills. I didn't realize Zimbabwe accepted US cash - I would not have converted all of my money into Rand at the start of the trip and saved US cash for Zimbabwe.
Packing Essentials: It is COLD in the morning and night so bring scarf and layers. Thermal underwear for sleeping, gloves for climbing rocks. Bring snacks - it's a good idea. A swimsuit is NOT needed.
Shopping: Shop in Cape Town. There is very little shopping available along the way.
Send us an email if you would like to pre-book any of the extra services listed below for your program. Space and availability are limited, and pricing is not guaranteed until booked.
*Extra services are non-refundable within 30 days of your program's start date.
*Costs will be added to your final balance.
**My Own Room exceptions apply.
Private/Single Room
$699 (Sold Out)
Pre-trip Hotel (per night)
Inn on the Square - Single: $75, Twin/Double: $90
Post-trip Hotel (per night)
Not Available/Sold Out. Try to book the program hotel (Explorers Village Lodge) or alternate accommodation independently. We recommend Victoria Falls Rainbow Hotel.
Arrival Airport Transfer (per person)
Cape Town (CPT) Solo=$30, 2ppl=$20, 3ppl+=$15
Departure Airport Transfer (per person)
Victoria Falls (VFA) $20
ACTIVITIES TO PRE-BOOK
The following activities can be booked 90-60 days before departure and paid for in advance. The prices may vary depending on group size. Some of these extras can also be booked on location, but you would need to pay in local currency or use your credit card.
Cape Town Day Tour: Shark Cage DivingNew Activity:
$255.55
Pre-Trip or Day 1 (July 6)
On this full-day tour, head to the fishing town of Gansbaai and learn all about Great White Sharks from some of the foremost experts on shark cage diving in this region. Take in your surroundings, marvel at the sharks, and opt to get face-to-face with these incredible animals during your tour. See more details here.
South African Wine Tour and Tasting:
$132 per person
Day 2 (July 7)
Take a day trip into the wine lands of South Africa with an expert guide. Visit iconic estates and lesser-visited farms only known to locals in the Stellenbosch area. Indulge in tastings and pairings with cheeses, chocolate, and local delicacies such as Biltong (salted meat). Walk through vineyards and cellars for an all encompassing look at wine production, and learn about the history of this region. Gesondheid!
PLEASE NOTE that if this activity is listed on the first or last day of the itinerary you will need to book a pre-night or post-night with a sales representative as the wine tour begins at 8 am.
Full Day Kruger Wildlife Safari:
$85 per person
Day 5 (July 10)
Kruger National Park has been dubbed the most famous safari destination in the world. Whenever it is mentioned images of African wildlife and wilderness immediately spring to mind. The vastness of this park is what sets it apart. The breath-taking area with expansive and varied nature makes it a wonderful place to view the African “Big Five”.
Hop in a 4x4 safari vehicle and get yourself one step closer to the surrounding nature. Be ready to spot elephants, giraffes, hippos, lions, zebras, and many other species in this impressive South African national park.
Full Day Excursion to Chobe National Park:
$240 per person
Day 13 (July 18)
Depart Victoria Falls in the morning for a full-day guided tour of Chobe National Park in Botswana - a wildlife-abundant region covering about 11,700km² of the Northern Kalahari. Begin your adventure with a cruise down the Chobe River, taking in the sweeping views and witnessing the wildlife grazing along the riverbank. Enjoy an included lunch on land before boarding 4x4 safari vehicles for an afternoon wildlife safari drive with an expert guide. Keep an eye out for lions, elephants, and buffalos. Transfer back to Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, arriving in the early evening. Please note that this activity includes two border crossings between Zimbabwe and Botswana. The ordering of activities is susceptible to change.
** IMPORTANT: You need to get a double-entry visa or a Univisa when arriving in Zimbabwe to ensure you can return again without needing to pay an extra visa fee.
Optional On-Site Activities
Optional activities can be booked and paid for locally. Prices shown are the most recent figures from participants and G Adventures. Use them as budgeting estimates only—actual costs may vary.
CAPE TOWN
Two Oceans Aquarium:235 ZAR
Stay dry while exploring the incredible diversity of marine life that dwells in and around the Indian and Atlantic Oceans. Please note this activity is self-guided.
Cape Point Explorer Day Tour:1,750 ZAR
Enjoy a full day tour along South Africa's breathtaking shoreline, where the Atlantic meets the Indian Ocean. The day begins in the vibrant beachside suburb of Muizenberg, known for its colourful beach huts and surf scene. Then, encounter African penguins at Boulders Beach and head onwards to majestic Cape Point and the historic Cape of Good Hope, offering panoramic views along the southwestern tip of Africa. A delicious lunch is included in this day tour before finishing off the experience with the incredible views along world-renowned Chapman's Peak Drive. Experience the perfect blend of nature, culture, and culinary delights that await just beyond Cape Town.
Urban Explorer Day Tour:1,900 ZAR
Join this optional experience through Cape Town's vibrant city culture and stunning landscapes. Begin the day in the eclectic neighbourhood of Woodstock, where you'll witness the renowned street art scene alongside a local expert. Then, dive into the community life of Khayelitsha on a guided cycling tour where you'll have the chance to support local business along the route. Mid-day calls for a cruise along the breathtaking Chapman's Peak Drive offering up epic coastal views. Cap off the tour with some time to relax at Muizenberg Beach with its iconic colorful huts. It's an ideal way to truly experience Cape Town.
Overberg Explorer Day Tour:3,450 ZAR
Enjoy an early pickup in Cape Town and transfer to Gansbaa, a fishing town situated along the western Cape. Here, embark on an exhilarating ocean safari where you'll try to spot marine creatures like whales, dolphins, seals, penguins, and great white sharks. Afterwards, there will be time for an optional lunch in town before continuing onwards to Cape Agulhas and the southernmost tip of Africa. Witness the point where the Atlantic and Indian Oceans meet and explore the historic area before transferring back to Cape Town.
*Please note that this trip is weather-dependent and the itinerary may be adjusted to suit boat departure times and ensure traveller safety.
West Coast Explorer Day Tour:1,950 ZAR
Enjoy a full-day to discover the region's natural beauty and rich cultural heritage on a West Coast adventure. Start the day with incredible views of Table Mountain from Blouwberg Beach and travel to the serene expanses of the Atlantic Sand Dunes for a full immersion into the iconic landscapes of the area. Then, dive into the history of the San people at the !Khwa ttu San Heritage Centre on a guided tour with lunch. Cap off today's adventure at the West Coast National Park for vibrant wildflower viewing and the tranquil Langebaan lagoon. Soak up a new side of this unforgettable region and simply enjoy the experience.
Sandboarding and San Cultural Explorer Day Tour:3,630 ZAR
It's adventure first on this optional day tour through some active and cultural highlights of Cape Town. Start with an exhilarating sandboarding activity amid the gorgeous scenery of the Atlantic Dunes. The terrain is perfect for all skill levels. Then, pay a visit to the !Khwa ttu San Heritage Centre where you'll dive into the rich history and traditions of the local San people. Sit down for a delicious lunch here inspired heavily by local recipes, and enjoy a blend of adrenaline and cultural immersion on this memorable outing while in Cape Town.
Sandboarding Half Day Tour - Atlantis Dunes:1,400 ZAR
Choose to enjoy this epic half-day sandboarding adventure at the Atlantic Dunes on the West Coast. You'll be picked up in Cape Town and will enjoy a scenic drive along the way. Then, learn to glide down some of the highest dunes in the Western Cape and feel the wind rushing through your hair. Afterwards, the group will enjoy some time to explore the expansive dune landscape before returning to Cape Town.
Hout Bay Kayaking Half Day Tour:1,500 ZAR
Choose to embark on an optional half-day kayaking excursion in the charming coastal town of Hout Bay. The bay boasts a bustling harbour full of colourful fishing boats and lively market stalls, and is nestled between the iconic Sentinel Peak and Chapman's Peak Drive. Explore the harbour for a bit before a wonderful kayaking experience in the Atlantic Ocean. Paddle through the clear waters and enjoy being surrounded by stunning mountain views and the chance to spot playful seals and dolphins. Head back to Cape Town in the early afternoon after a beautiful coastal half-day getaway.
Table Mountain Cable Car:420 ZAR
This activity is weather-dependent.
Table Mountain Hike:2,100 ZAR
Ascent: 700m (2,297 ft)
KRUGER NATIONAL PARK
Big 5 Sunset/Sunrise Drive:1,400 ZAR
Set off in an open safari vehicle and be on the lookout for wildlife.
Anglo Boer War Museum:
Explore a small yet captivating museum filled with artefacts, articles, and paintings that bring history to life. A knowledgeable staff member will guide you through the exhibits, offering insights into the land, the Boer War, and the history of Louis Trichardt. This tour provides a deep dive into the local heritage and historical context.
MATOBO NATIONAL PARK
Ancient Cave Painting Visit:10 USD
There are various sites around Matobo National Park that boast cave paintings. Enjoy a guided visit to see some of the best examples and learn about the history behind them and the culture of the native people.
HWANGE
Afternoon Wildlife Safari Drive:80 USD
Enjoy a wildlife safari drive in a private concession bordering Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe's largest park, and home to elephant herds, lions, and the rare African wild dog. Get your cameras ready and keep an eye out for Africa's "big five," as well as other predators, over 300 bird species, and discover a remote portion of Hwange National Park where you will seldom see another vehicle.
LIVINGSTONE
Livingstone Island (Devil's Pool) Morning Breezer:125 USD
Take a short morning boat ride down the Zambezi River to the west side of the island overlooking Main Falls. Take in the incredible, close-up view of the rushing waters cascading over the steep rock face. Keep your eye out for rainbows on a sunny day. Due to high demand, we strongly recommend speaking to your CEO at the beginning of the tour to book this activity in advance.
Please note that this activity takes place in Livingstone, Zambia, and visa fees are not included in the price of this activity.
Livingstone Island (Devil's Pool) Swim:125 USD
Take a swim on the wild side. Travel to Livingstone Island and take the opportunity to swim in the Devil's Pool - a rock pool at the lip of Victoria Falls, offering visitors the incredible experience of peering over the edge of one of the largest waterfalls in the world. Please note that this activity is only offered in the low water season (August to December), and on the Lunch and High Tea excursions. Due to high demand, we strongly recommend speaking to your CEO at the beginning of the tour to book this activity in advance.
Please note that this activity takes place in Livingstone, Zambia, and visa fees are not included in the price of this activity.
Microlight Flight over Victoria Falls:360 USD
Take a 12-15 Microlight flight over the falls to get an unparalleled, unobstructed view of the spectacular gorge that the Zambezi River has carved into the surrounding landscape over thousands of years.
Please note that this activity takes place in Livingstone, Zambia and visa fees are not included in the price of this activity.
Zambezi Bungee Jump:168 USD
Get the adrenaline pumping with a bungee jump from the Victoria Falls Bridge over the Zambezi River. Hear the rush of Victoria Falls as you enjoy this once in a lifetime experience.
VICTORIA FALLS
Victoria Falls Helicopter Ride - 25min:284 USD
You don't want to miss the opportunity to see Victoria Falls from above. Watch the Zambezi River make its way toward the gorge and form the largest waterfall in the world. During your 25 minute ride, you will have time to take in the incredible views over the falls, Livingstone Island, and Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park while snapping as many pictures as you like. This extended ride also includes time flying over the vast and towering walls of the Batoka Gorge. You may be lucky enough to see some giraffes and elephants in the surrounding landscape and even catch a rainbow over the falls. Includes pick-up and drop-off from hotel and a 25min flight.
Please note there is a cost for an additional park fee paid for on-site at time of the activity.
Bridge Swing over the Zambezi:168 USD
Get strapped up, step over the Victoria Falls Bridge and free fall for 80 meters into the Batoka Gorge. Enjoy the views as you swing back and forth over the roaring Zambezi river, with cascading waterfalls at your side. Don't think you can hack it alone? Swing with a partner.
Victoria Falls Helicopter Ride - 15 Mins:
You don't want to miss the opportunity to see Victoria Falls from above. Watch the Zambezi River make its way toward the gorge and form the largest waterfall in the world. During your 15-minute ride, you will have time to take in the incredible views over the falls, Livingstone Island, and Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park while snapping as many pictures as you like. You may be lucky enough to see some giraffes and elephants in the surrounding landscape and even catch a rainbow over the falls. Includes pick-up and drop-off from hotel and a 12-15min flight.
Please note there is a cost for an additional park fee paid for on-site at time of the activity.
Victoria Falls Whitewater Rafting:120 USD
Includes a full-day of rafting on grade five rapids, lunch and the park entrance fee.
Rafting is not available from Feb - May due to the water level.
Estimated Trip Costs
Free-time activities aren’t included in the program fee. Use the prices below as ballpark figures to decide which options fit your budget.
Tour Company Fee: See our price in the top right corner
Optional Activities: $400-1,500 USD
International Airfare from the United States: Roughly $1,600-2,200 USD
If you require assistance searching for international flights, we would be happy to help you.
Airport Transfers: Varies depending on whether you take public transport or taxis. Anywhere from $20 to $100.
Insurance: $30-200 USD
Please note: It is mandatory for all of our travelers to have Emergency Medical insurance that covers both emergency evacuation and repatriation to the sum of $200,000 USD. We also strongly recommend purchasing cancellation insurance as an add-on.
Visa: $45 for Zimbabwe double entry visa (needed if you intend to also go into Zambia plus an extra $50 for the Zambian visa.) $160 if you plan on going into Botswana too and need more than two entries.
Tipping: We recommend $55-100 USD for your tour leader, $33-40 for your driver, and another $40 for others.
Meals not listed in the itinerary: $245-325 USD
Laundry, Drinks, Phone Calls, etc.: Make sure you budget for these types of expenses
Souvenirs: Variable. At your personal discretion.
Vaccines: Variable. Please consult with your primary care provider.
Non-Educator Donation: $100 USD (suggested donation)
This is only for non-educator guests traveling with an educator on a GEEO trip. Educators and retired educators should not make this donation.
Photos
Book Any G Adventures Trip Through GEEO
Book any G Adventures program through GEEO, or transfer your existing booking over to us and receive:
5% educator discount or deepest available savings
Expert support 7 days a week (9 AM–9 PM ET)
Nonprofit insurance from $30 (vs. $150-200 elsewhere)
Comprehensive pre-trip guidance
Educator resources and professional development opportunities
Non-educators welcome! Your booking supports our 501(c)(3) mission.
GEEO is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, and our mission is to help teachers travel by offering private educator-focused group trips—but we also partner with G Adventures to offer trips worldwide for anyone, not just educators.
