Price

$4416

Available: 7+ spaces

Secure your place on this trip with $350 deposit. Final payment due 60 days before departure.

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      • Hotels: Standard/Basic Class

      • 07/08/2023 - 07/25/2023

      • Max Participants: 18

      • 18 Days / 17 Nights

      Overview

      This 18-day journey through four African countries hits the highlights and is perfect for the adventurer who wants to discover the region’s diversity. Explore the Okavango Delta by traditional mokoro canoe, marvel at some of the highest sand dunes in the world in the Namib Desert, and meet the San Bushmen of the Kalahari. Your knowledgeable tour leader will take care of the hassles and planning while you recharge in hotels, local lodges, and camps for a once-in-a-lifetime cultural experience you’ll forever treasure. Visit Southern Africa with us, all while earning professional development credit with other educators.

      This is a shared departure with G Adventures, which means that it is open to the general public and there may be non-teachers in the group who book directly through G Adventures. Participants who book with G Adventures must be at least 12 years old.

      Our first priority is our travelers’ safety, especially so during the COVID-19 pandemic. Please click here for more details regarding our health and safety policies.

      What's Included:
      • Okavango Delta overnight bush camping excursion
      • Etosha National Park entrance with wildlife safari drives
      • Local traditional dinner
      • Sossusvlei Dunes and Sesriem Canyon entrance
      • Fish River Canyon entrance
      • San Bushmen walk
      • Ai-Ais Hot Springs visit
      • !Khwa ttu San Culture and Education Centre
      • G Adventures Tour Leader throughout, driver throughout, local guides
      • 12 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 5 dinners – allow $355-465 USD for meals not included
      • Hotels (6 nts), lodge/chalet (4 nts), guesthouse (1 nt), basic camping (1 nt), adventure tents (1 nt), participation camping (4 nts)
      • All transport between destinations and to/from included activities using air-conditioned touring vehicle, safari vehicle, walking, mokoro
      What's Not Included:
      • International air travel
      • Incidentals
      • Travel health and cancellation insurance
      • Applicable visas
      • Tips or gratuities
      • Airport taxes
      • Beverages
      • Meals not mentioned in itinerary
      • Optional tours and admissions

      Itinerary Download PDF

      As today is the arrival day, you may arrive at any time. There are no planned activities until an evening welcome meeting. Check the notice boards or ask at reception for the exact time and location of the group meeting, typically 6:00 p.m. or 7:00 p.m. After the meeting, you might take the opportunity to head out for a meal in a nearby local restaurant to get to know your tour leader and traveling companions further. Please make every effort to arrive on time for this welcome meeting. If you are delayed and will arrive late, please inform us. Your tour leader will then leave you a message at the front desk informing you of where and when to meet up. The mist off Victoria Falls can rise to a height of more than 400m (1312 ft). Local tribes used to call the falls Mosi-o-Tunya, meaning “the smoke that thunders.” Explorer and missionary David Livingstone renamed the falls after Queen Victoria when he first saw them in 1855. There is a lot to see in Victoria Falls so we suggest coming in one day early. Don't worry, we can book your extra hotel nights. Visiting both the Zimbabwean and Zambian sides of the falls is a must and can easily be done in an afternoon. Please see our optional activity list further below to get an idea of the things you can do in the area. Your accommodation is in Victoria Falls (Zimbabwe) and NOT Livingstone (Zambia). Please make sure you have the necessary visa.

      Today we drive to the border and cross from Zimbabwe into Botswana. Continue to the Kasane area, outside the gates of Chobe National Park, home to the largest elephant population in Southern Africa. You will have the option to check out one of Botswana's national parks and its thousands of resident elephants, crocodiles, and hippos on a sunset boat cruise on the Chobe River. There are options here for a casual cruise to enjoy the scenery with a cocktail—or a photo safari by boat, with the opportunity to capture some great shots with instruction, a professional camera, and a zoom lens. The evening is a great time to be on the river. Approximate travel time: 1.5 hrs by private vehicle

      You can opt to rise early for a sunrise safari on the Chobe River. Then we travel to Nata where you can opt for a bush walk or sunset wildlife safari drive in the area. Watch elephants drink from the camp's watering hole at night. Approximate travel time: 4 hrs by private vehicle

      Prepare for a 1-night/2-day journey into the delta. Opt to take a scenic flight over the delta. In the morning we travel to Maun, the biggest town in the Okavango Delta area, to pick up any supplies needed and prepare for the journey into the Okavango Delta. You will be able to pre-book an amazing flight over Okavango Delta, which would take place this day. Get a fresh perspective on the vast wilderness of Africa with a once-in-a-lifetime view only a select few will ever see. Enjoy the hippos in the waterways and elephants and buffalo in the tree line. Gaze at the winding water channels as they make their way through the Delta. In the evening, watch a traditional dance group performance on the poolside terrace. Approximate travel time: 3.5 hrs by private vehicle

      Today the excursion begins with a drive in safari vehicles for about 1-2 hrs to the "dock" to board a mokoro (canoe) that takes us deep into the delta. After a 1-2 hrs in the mokoro, arrive at the basic bush camp. You will enjoy wildlife walks, mokoro trips, and birdwatching in the pristine wilderness area of the Okavango Delta, the world's largest inland delta. In the evening, count the shooting stars, sing with the locals, or simply unwind with a sundowner (cheers!) around the campfire. Approximate travel time: 1-2 hrs by 4x4, 1-2 hrs by mokoro

      Enjoy the sunrise in the delta before traveling back to Maun by mokoro. Travel along the northern portions of the Kalahari Desert throughout the day—this is a severely arid and barren landscape, though very beautiful—and arrive at Ghanzi in the heart of the Kalahari. Get a glimpse of how the San tribe adapted to the Kalahari Desert and learn about their fascinating wilderness survival skills. The gatherer life of the San/Bushmen has all but disappeared; there are few remaining who retain the survival skills of their ancient way of life. During the walk, San/Bushmen guides will share their knowledge on mastering this harsh environment, helping us learn about the botany of our surroundings. Arrive in the late afternoon and camp in the Ghanzi area. Approximate travel time: 1-2 hrs by Mokoro, 1-2 hrs by 4x4, 4-5 hrs by private vehicle

      Today we leave Botswana and travel to Windhoek, the German-influenced capital city of Namibia. Approximate travel time: 8-9 hrs by private vehicle

      This morning we visit the G Adventures-supported Penduka Village Restaurant & Shop, just outside of Windhoek. Penduka works with women from the Katutura township and surrounding rural communities by helping them develop livelihoods while working in their handicraft workshops and cafe. Penduka trains and employs women disadvantaged through poverty, disability, ill-health, or lack of education, empowering them to develop skills in textiles, beading, and pottery. Pick up a fresh-packed lunch at the cafe to help support the center before touring the facilities and purchasing some of these crafts. Then continue up to Etosha National Park and set off into the wilds in the touring vehicle for an included wildlife safari drive. Over 100 species of mammals call Etosha home, including elephants, giraffes, lions, rhinos, and hyenas. After sunset, some animals may head to the watering holes near the campground. Approximate travel time: 5.5 hrs by private vehicle

      Enjoy another wildlife safari drive in our touring vehicle and keep your eyes peeled for some of the famous wildlife. You can opt for more safaris in an open-top jeep or just have a bit of downtime back at the campground. Approximate travel time: 6-7 hrs by private vehicle

      Drive to the historical town of Swakopmund. Looking out over the beautiful desert landscapes as we begin moving to the far west of Namibia. On this route, we pass through a moon-like landscape and see the imposing Spitzkoppe, also known as the “Matterhorn” of Namibia in the distance. We spend two nights in Swakopmund, where you can explore this historical town or try sandboarding or a guided desert tour focused on human and animal survival in the harsh desert landscape. Approximate travel time: 7.5 hrs by private vehicle

      There's plenty to see and do in Swakopmund, and we wanted to make sure that you had some time to take it all in. Optional activities include sandboarding, skydiving, and a township tour. Swakopmund has bizarre lunar landscapes, unforgettable sunsets, and prehistoric Welwitchia plants.

      Get a real feel for the Namib Desert as we spend hours crossing this empty region. En route, take a coffee break in Solitaire, a mystical village consisting of a filling station, a general dealer/coffee shop, and a small mechanical workshop. Drive through Walvis Bay, the only town on the Namibian coastline that boasts a deep-sea harbor. Arrive in the area in the late afternoon, where the towering red sand dunes of Sossusvlei form the gateway into the Namib Desert. Approximate travel time: 4.5 hrs by private vehicle

      Enjoy a visit to Sossusvlei, a clay pan enclosed by the world’s largest sand dunes, up to 300m (984 ft) high. Spend some free time here enjoying the sand dunes on your own. Opt to climb up breathtaking Dune 45. Then enjoy a short stop at Sesriem Canyon, a small canyon typical of the area. The Tsauchab River flows through the canyon every five to ten years, which creates the nearby salt and clay pan of Sossusvlei.

      Continue south through the Namib Desert. We'll visit Fish River Canyon, the largest canyon in Africa and, arguably, the second largest in the world. We will only have access to the rim, but the views are spectacular. We finish the day at Ai-Ais, a sulfur-rich mineral spring at the southern end of the Fish River Canyon. Ai-Ais means "scalding hot" or "burning water" in one of the local Nama dialects. The spring is part of the Ai-Ais/Richtersveld Transfrontier Park, covering a large piece of land in northern South Africa and southern Namibia. The hot springs resort is a popular gateway to Namibia from the south and the endpoint of the grueling five-day Fish River Canyon hike. The spring water is piped to a number of indoor and outdoor pools and Jacuzzis. Spend the evening relaxing in the healing waters. Approximate travel time: 9-10 hrs by private vehicle

      After a relaxing morning in the hot springs, continue on to the banks of the Orange River. Relax on the river bank or go for a swim in one of the longest river in southern Africa, and enjoy the beautiful scenery in this part of the country. Approximate travel time: 2 hrs by private vehicle

      Cross the border into South Africa and continue down the coast, stopping along the way, until we come to Lambert’s Bay, a picturesque town on the west coast of South Africa. In the afternoon, opt to visit the well known Bird Island where you can find more than 25,000 blue-eyed gannets at certain times of the year. Penguins also gather on this island for breeding between August and October. Opt to stroll through this lovely town, visiting unique artisan shops and boutiques. Approximate travel time: 7 hrs by private vehicle

      Continue on the last stretch of the trip to lovely Cape Town. Stop at the G Adventures-supported !Khwa ttu San Culture and Education Centre along the way. The San people of Southern Africa have historically faced centuries of political and cultural oppression. The !Khwa ttu San Culture and Education Centre provides tailor-made training for young San women and men of Southern Africa. Travelers learn about San culture and history at the interpretive museum. Visits help trainees gain experience with international clients while garnering support for the center's efforts to preserve San culture and history. We arrive in Cape Town in the early afternoon, so you might not have time to participate in lengthy activities or see many sights. If you would like to see or do anything, we recommend booking an extra night or two before your return flight home. Cape Town has many different options should you book extra time to explore after the tour. Visit Table Mountain, explore Cape Point (Cape of Good Hope), or join a wine tour in and around Stellenbosch (45 min drive). Visit the old French Huguenot town of Franschoek and surroundings (1 hr drive). For the truly adventurous, try skydiving, abseiling, or even cage diving, for a close encounter with the great white sharks. Opt to wander through the city center, which has some of the oldest buildings and gardens in South Africa (Botanical Gardens and Parliament Gardens), or visit the Cultural Historical Museum, Planetarium, and numerous other small museums and theaters. Approximate travel time: 5.5 hrs by private vehicle

      Depart Cape Town at any time. We highly recommend booking post-accommodation to fully enjoy this city. Want more adventure? GEEO will give you a discount for booking more than one program in the same summer! Book two or more GEEO programs and receive 10% off on the lesser value program (up to 3 programs). For more details please click here. Want more adventure? Book two or more GEEO trips in the same year and receive a discount! GEEO will give you 10% off of the lesser value program(s) (up to 3 programs). If you don’t see a program that interests you that pairs with this trip, but still would like to extend your time abroad, let us know. We will work with you to find a non-teacher trip from our tour operator’s much larger catalog. Even better, if you are an educator, we can still offer you a discounted price on the trip you choose!

      Details

      Frequently Asked Questions
      Please click here to go to our general FAQ, which has essential information that applies to all of our programs.
      Resources to Learn & Teach about Southern Africa
      Visit our recommended reading page to see the list of books GEEO recommends reading before your program (this is not required reading). We also have lesson plans and Pinterest boards that may be useful for you as you learn about your destination and prepare to bring lessons back to your classroom.
      Terms and Conditions
      It is very important for you to visit our Terms and Conditions page before signing up for this program.
      Cancellation Policy
      All cancellations must be submitted to GEEO in written form by emailing your request for cancellation to travel@geeo.org. If you do not receive a confirmation that we have received your written cancellation request, please call us at 1-877-600-0105. Verbal cancellation requests will not be honored.
      • If you cancel 60 days or more prior to departure, all your program fee payments will be refunded besides your $350 deposit, which is kept on file for future use
      • If you cancel between 30 and 59 days prior to departure, you will receive a 50% refund and your deposit is kept on file for future use
      • If you cancel within 30 days of departure, you will receive no refund, but your deposit is kept on file for future use
      Trip Notes
      1. TRANSPORTATION: This is not a physically demanding journey; however, traveling can be difficult, with long drives and poor road conditions at times. 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
      2. YELLOW FEVER: According to the WHO and CDC, there is no risk of yellow fever in Botswana. It is compulsory to show a valid Yellow Fever vaccination certificate if you are traveling to Botswana from a Yellow Fever endemic country, or have recently traveled to a Yellow Fever endemic country (with entry stamps in your passport), including the following countries (but not limited to): Angola, Benin, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Congo, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Republic of the Cote d’Ivoire (Ivory Coast) Equatorial Guinea, Ethiopia, Gabon, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Zambia, Guinea-Bissau, Kenya, Liberia, Mali, Mauritania, Niger, Nigeria, Rwanda, São Tomé and Príncipe, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Somalia, Sudan, Tanzania, Togo, Uganda, Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, French Guiana, Guyana, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Suriname, Trinidad and Tobago, Venezuela.**We advise all travelers to Botswana who are coming from one of the above countries, or who have visited them in the last 10 years, to be prepared with a Yellow Fever vaccination certificate or letter from your doctor with proof of vaccination. Yellow Fever inoculations need to be administered at least 10 days prior to your entry into the country. Border officials in Botswana have been strictly enforcing these requirements. Travelers without the correct documentation run the risk of being denied entry, and will not be able to continue with the tour. (Any additional travel expenses will be on your own account.) ** This means you should either skip the Zambian side of Victoria Falls or get a Yellow Fever Vaccination.
      3. EXTRAS: Looking to add to your experience? Check out our Extras! Specially designed for travelers with unique interests, Extras are optional add-ons to your trip that make your adventure more you-centric. Some extras must be booked prior to departure, and you may find the details under Optional Activities below and email travel@geeo.org to book them.
      4. 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.
      5. MONEY EXCHANGE: We strongly advise that you bring ZAR or USD from your home country or exchange money before the start of the tour, to avoid delays on tour. Please see the Money Exchange section for more details.
      6. DRONES: The use of drones in national parks in Southern Africa is prohibited.
      Group Leader Description
      All GEEO/G Adventures group trips are accompanied by one of G Adventure’s group leaders, which they refer to as Chief Experience Officers (CEO) and an expert driver. All of our leaders in southern Africa are registered and licensed tourism guides, meaning they’ve studied to have a broad knowledge base of the region’s history, cultures, and wildlife, and are legally certified to lead/guide tours in the regions visited. Most of our leaders in the region are from South Africa, though it may be possible that you’ll have a leader from another country in the southern African region. As the group manager and leader, the aim of the group leader is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. They will provide information on the places where we are traveling, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends. He/she will take care of the small things so you can concentrate on enjoying your adventure. In addition, as an integral part of the team, your driver is skilled and experienced driver who has intimate knowledge of the vehicle and routes traveled. We also use local guides where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places we are visiting.
      Fitness Level
      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.
      Meals
      Eating is a big part of traveling. Traveling with G Adventures you experience the vast array of wonderful food that is available in southern Africa. On this tour, we provide only a few meals for you and your group members, so as to give you the maximum flexibility in deciding where, what, and with whom to eat. It also gives you more budgeting flexibility in your choices. Our groups tend to eat together to enable you to taste a larger variety of dishes and enjoy each other’s company. There is no obligation to do this though. While in the larger centers, your group leader will be able to suggest favorite restaurants during your trip. Your tour leader prepares the meals included in the Okavango Delta, arranging to purchase the foodstuffs before our bush camping excursion begins. Breakfasts will generally be cereals, but if time allows a warm breakfast may be prepared. Lunches will be light meals such as sandwiches and/or salads. All evening meals will be freshly-prepared hot meals and will consist of a variety of continental and local dishes. For the included meals, vegetarian meal requests and other dietary requirements need to be specified prior to arrival.
      About our Transportation
      For all of our standard class trips in southern Africa, including this tour, we use a private local bus for the journey. With air conditioning and sliding windows, this style of transportation is a comfortable way to travel through the region. In addition, even with a full group of 18 travelers, there will be extra space for the benefit of the group. Having our own private vehicle throughout 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. Road conditions in South Africa are generally good, though once in Namibia and beyond, the road quality deteriorates. As such, we slow our traveling speed and enjoy some sand and bumps en route – something which is of course part of the adventure of traveling in Africa! In the Okavango Delta, we leave our bus behind and explore the area in mokoros – traditional dug-out canoes. The mokoros usually seat two people and are handled by ‘polers’ – so named as they move the mokoro forward by using a very long pole pushed into the ground under the water. This is a relaxing and peaceful way to take in the fascinating environment and wonderful scenery of the delta.
      About Accommodation
      Hotel 6 nights in comfortable twin rooms with en suite or shared facilities. Lodge 4 nights in standard rooms with en-suite facilities. Guesthouse 1 night is spent in a guesthouse. Rooms are twin or single with shared facilities. Basic Camping (participative, please bring your sleeping bag and towel) 1 night is spent in pitched tents in the Delta with very basic facilities (no shower, dig-out toilet). Tents are twin share. Adventure Tents 2 nights are spent in simple Dorm/Adventure tents. Rooms are twin or single with shared facilities. Camping (participative, please bring your sleeping bag and towel) 4 nights are spent in pitched tents in Etosha National Park and Solitaire Area. Tents are twin share with shared facilities.
      Single Travelers
      Half of the people that travel with GEEO are traveling by themselves, so please don’t worry if you have no one who can join you on your trip. Our pricing is based on double occupancy or, in other words, two people to a room. You never have to pay for a single room unless you want one. GEEO can find you a roommate of the same gender. Most of our trips have a “My Own Room” option, also known as a “Single Supplement,” which is an extra fee that will allow you to have a room to yourself. If you want to room alone, please email travel@geeo.org. To see the price for the “My Own Room” option, please click here where you can look up your trip in the extra services spreadsheet. Please note that if you have booked the “My Own Room” option for this tour, you will receive your own single accommodation for all night stops, with the following exceptions: Day 5, 8, 9, 12, 13
      Joining Instructions
      Day 1 is an arrival day, and no activities have been planned. Upon arrival to the city on Day 1, or earlier if you have booked pre-accommodation with us, please make your way to the joining hotel. Please note: Check-in time will be in the afternoon. Once you arrive at the hotel, look for a note at reception from your tour leader. This note will give the details of your Welcome Meeting on Day 1, usually between 6:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m., at which you will get a chance to meet your tour leader and other travelers, as well as learn more about how the tour will run. If you don’t see a note, please ask reception for details! If you have not booked a pre-arranged transfer, you can make your own way to the Shearwater Village by taxi. When arriving at the international terminal, depart the arrival hall and outside you will find taxis to town. It is approximately 20 km from the airport and takes about 25 minutes (Cost is about USD 30 for a taxi). If you have paid in advance for an arrival transfer, a G Adventures representative will be at the airport to meet you. If for any reason you are not met at the airport, please call our local support line. If you are unable to make contact for whatever reason, please make your way to the joining point hotel via taxi.
      Emergency Contacts
      Should you need to contact G Adventures during a situation of dire need, it is best to first call their 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 may 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 you are unable for any reason to contact our local office, please call the numbers listed below, which will connect you directly with our 24 hour Sales team, who will happily assist you. Toll-free, North America only: 1 888 800 4100 Calls from UK: 0344 272 0000 Calls from Germany: 0800 365 1000 Calls from Australia: 1 300 796 618 Calls from New Zealand: 0800 333 307 Outside North America, Australia, New Zealand, Germany and the UK: +1 416 260 0999
      Packing List
      Please read this article on GEEO’s blog for our staff’s suggestions on the best gear to pack for your upcoming travels. You will be on the move a lot, so our advice is to pack as lightly as possible. Your baggage should be clearly labeled and restricted to one soft compact suitcase (please avoid a hard-top case), or sports bag, maximum 15kg, plus a daypack. Luggage limits on airlines are strictly enforced and space on vehicles is limited. Porters are not often available, so be prepared to carry your own bags. It is important to pack clothes for warm days and cool evenings, as well as a warm jacket for early morning wildlife safari drives. A set of smart casual clothes is also advisable. During the winter months (May to October), the temperatures can get quite cold in Namibia and Botswana. It is wise to bring plenty of layers for cool mornings and evenings. A set of smart casual clothes is also advisable. Please be advised that if you plan to bring a drone with you, the use of drones in national parks in Southern Africa is prohibited. Health & Safety (Required!)
      • N95/KN95 Face masks (At least three per week)
      • Hand sanitizer
      • Pen (Please bring your own pen for filling out documents.)
      • Quick Covid Test/Antigen Tests (At least 5, and for longer trips, 3 per week of travel)
      Suggested Checklist
      • Sleeping bag (Cannot be rented)
      • Long-sleeved shirts or sweater
      • Warm gloves
      • Warm hat
      • Warm layers
      • Compact, packable winter coat
      • Light windproof/waterproof rain jacket
      • Camping towel
      • Swimsuit
      • Sun hat
      • Personal clothing for weather in the 50’s to the 80’s – we recommend packing 8-9 days of outfits so you only have to do laundry twice
      • At least one pair of long pants
      • Daypack
      • Sturdy walking shoes
      • Sport sandals or flip-flops
      • Sunblock
      • Sunglasses
      • Watch or alarm clock
      • Small flashlight or headlamp
      • Toiletries – your hotels will have soap and shampoo
      • Camera
      • 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
      Optional Checklist
      • Lightweight silk sleep sheet
      • Travel pillow
      • Money belt
      • Water bottle
      • Phone/Tablet for internet – most hotels have WiFi
      • Chargers for electronics as well converters/adapters, if needed
      • AirTags or Tile trackers
      • Packing cubes
      • Earplugs
      • Snacks – packing a few granola bars is a good idea; you can buy snacks when you get there too, so don’t go crazy here
      • Ziplock bags for wet clothing
      • Reading/writing material
      • Hand sanitizer/Baby wipes
      Document Checklist
      • Passport (with photocopies)
      • Travel insurance (with photocopies)
      • Airline tickets (with photocopies)
      • USD/EUR cash
      • Credit or debit card
      • G Adventures vouchers, pre-departure information, and dossier
      • Any entry visas or vaccination certificates required
      • GEEO Classroom action plans for your group – this is sent 10-30 days before departure
      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 ask your guide to arrange if any laundry needs to be done so that they can advise or make arrangements for you. Most travelers on this trip find that Swakopmund and Windhoek are convenient places to get their washing done, though facilities are available as well in Cape Town and Victoria Falls.
      Passports and Visas
      All GEEO trips require that the participant have a valid passport. Please see our general FAQ for information on obtaining a passport. As with all of our trips, we try to provide the most accurate information we can, but governments sometimes change visa rules. It is your responsibility to double-check the information we provide below by searching here. For this program, you must have at least 6 empty pages in your passport. Namibia, for some unexplained reason, requires that you have 3 empty passport pages. That means you might need to apply for a new passport. We are not sure if this is actually enforced, but better be safe than sorry. ZIMBABWE You need a passport, visa, return ticket, and adequate funds to cover your intended stay in order to enter Zimbabwe. If you are traveling to Zimbabwe for tourism, business, or transit, you may obtain a visa at the airports or other border ports-of-entry. There is currently no option of getting a Zimbabwean tourist visa in advance through the Zimbabwean Embassy in Washington. You can expect to pay $30 USD for a 30-day/single-entry visa. We recommend seeing Victoria Falls from both the Zimbabwean and Zambian side. You should be able to get a “Kaza” visa on arrival for $50 USD which is good for both Zimbabwe and Zambia. IMPORTANT NOTE: If you have purchased a single entry visa upon arrival and then decide to leave Zimbabwe (even for a few hours) you will need to buy another visa to re-enter Zimbabwe. In this instance, you should buy a double entry visa upon arrival as it works out cheaper. Multiple entry visas cannot be obtained at the port of entry into Zimbabwe. You may enter Zimbabwe on a single entry visa and then obtain a multiple entry visa from the town office – but this may take up to 7 working days to be issued. Alternatively, a multiple entry visa can be obtained from the Zimbabwe Embassy in your country prior to departure for Zimbabwe. BOTSWANA, NAMIBIA, AND SOUTH AFRICA Americans do not need visas for any of these countries for the duration of the stay involved with this tour. Non-Americans should check with their nearest embassy.
      Money Exchange
      The currency in South Africa is the South African Rand (ZAR). The South African rand is also an accepted form of payment in Namibia. The Namibian currency is the Namibian Dollar (NAD), which is equivalent to the South African Rand. In Botswana, you pay with Pula (BWP). Zimbabwe uses the US Dollar and South African Rand. Each currency can be obtained locally by changing foreign currency or by using ATMs (where available) which will disperse local currency. Your tour leader will inform you where you can change money throughout the tour and approximately how much money you will need. The easiest foreign currency to exchange for locally for any of the local currencies is the $US; however, the British Pound and Euro may also be exchanged as well. For Zimbabwe, we strongly advise that you bring ZAR or USD from your home country or exchange money before the start of the tour, to avoid delays on tour, as it can be difficult to obtain cash at ATMs. Please note that due to past problems with forgery, $US notes that are older than the year 2006 are not accepted in Africa. Large note ($US 50, $US 100, etc) can be difficult to change in some places but will gain you the best exchange rate. If you plan to buy your visas at borders, you will need to bring cash U.S. dollars to pay for these visas. Please note you cannot use the local currency or any other currency to buy these visas; they must be purchased in USD. Please do not bring Travelers’ checks to Africa. They are difficult if not impossible to exchange in many places. Visa/Plus system cards are the most widely accepted debit cards. it is harder to find machines Mastercard/Cirrus cards. We highly recommend that if you hold a Mastercard, you obtain a Visa card prior to departure and travel with both. This is also useful should something unforeseen happen to one of your cards during your travels. While there are many ATMs in the major centers, there are no guarantees that your credit or debit cards will actually work in Africa. Check with your bank. Credit cards can be used in major cities and towns ONLY, but please do not rely on them as a method of payment, because they are generally not widely accepted. You should be aware that to purchase products or services on a credit card, a fee of 5%-10% usually applies. The majority of our optional activities can also be paid by credit card. Your tour leader will advise on these. Please note that in many areas, 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. These factors could affect your ability to access money from ATMs. As such, please do not rely on credit or debit cards as your only source of money. A combination of foreign currency and debit/credit cards for cash advances is best. Always take more rather than less, as you don’t want to spoil the trip by constantly feeling short of funds. As currency exchange rates can fluctuate often we ask that you refer to the following website for daily exchange rates: www.xe.com.
      Tipping
      Tipping is an expected, though not compulsory, component of your tour program. The gesture serves as an expression of appreciation for exceptional service, and amounts given are up to your discretion. Tipping is one of the most direct ways that you can have a positive economic impact within the African community. Although it may not be customary for you, it is an important source of income for those in the tourism industry. Giving a tip should be seen as a formal “thank you,” and the action should in no way be awkward. The best method of tipping someone that has served the whole group is to plan in advance, and not rush when it comes to saying goodbye. A suggestion would be for each group member to contribute anonymously by putting their tip into an envelope. This often works the best and the group should gather to present the gift to the recipient(s), offering their thanks and showing their appreciation. This method brings the action out into the open, allowing for friendly and appreciative interaction between the group and the recipient(s). You may use the following as a guideline, all given in a per person format: Tour leader: $5-8 USD (per day) Local guides: $2-3 USD (per day) Safari Guide/Driver: $2-3 USD (per day) Restaurant Staff: 10-15% of cost of bill Okavango Delta polers: 50-100 BWP (Botswana Pula)
      Vaccinations
      We legally cannot give you any medical advice. It is very important to consult your doctor or a travel clinic about which vaccinations you will need for your trip. Please take this seriously!
      Flights
      We find the best prices for flights are often available 60 days before departure, but of course this varies greatly from route to route and year to year. We advise that you wait until this trip is confirmed before booking non-refundable and non-changeable flights. GEEO and G Adventures bear no responsibility for any flights purchased before the trip is confirmed. This program begins in Victoria Falls and ends in Cape Town. Please double-check our itinerary for the date by which you must arrive in Victoria Falls. You could also fly into nearby Livingstone if flights are cheaper. You can arrive at any time you choose, but try to make it in time for our 6:00 p.m. Welcome Meeting on Day 1. Your trip ends in Cape Town and you can depart any time on that final day. We do recommend adding on at least one extra day on the front and back of this trip.
      Plugs and Converters
      There are two components to provide external power to your device: adapters and transformers. The adapter is the plug, adapting the prongs on a standard U.S. two to three-pronged power cord to match the prongs required by the local outlets. The transformer changes the local voltage to that required by your device. You will want to bring plug converters for Plug types G, M, D, and N. Their voltage is 220-230 Volts. U.S. outlets are 120V. Most new devices (phones and laptops) can handle the different voltage rates, but some devices only work on the U.S. standard of 120V. Check your device to see what voltage range it handles. Most transformer blocks will have an “Input” line that defines its voltage capacity. For example, “Input: 100-240V” means that it will work on voltages from 100V to 240V. If your transformer can’t handle the different voltage, you’ll need to purchase a voltage converter. You can find world regional voltage converters power packs at various vendors.
      Advice From Past Participants
      "Be prepared for a lot of sand and dust. It can get cold at night so bring layers. There were not very many opportunities for laundry so be prepared to do some sink laundry. There are some long rides on the bus so bring some reading material or headphones. Many people were a bit disappointed with only using their phones for cameras when taking pics of wildlife so encourage bringing a camera with zoom." "Keep reminding everyone to get there early and stay late in order to see Victoria Falls and Cape Town. The bathrooms were nice along the way (no holes in the floor passing as toilets...), and even though the road trip days are long, it's actually quite an "easy" "familiar" trip. It's not like parts of Asia that feel SO different. Aside from camping which is a bit more rugged, this trip was very doable and I'd recommend it to pretty much any type of traveler. Plus only one camping night was totally "wild" without facilities. Every other camping night had showers and toilets."
      Expectations
      Before you decide on traveling with GEEO, it is important that you read all of the information about the program you are considering. Remember, our programs are quite adventurous.
      • The purpose of the accommodation is to provide a safe, well-located place for you to sleep. The hotels on this trip can be pretty basic.
      • We use a mix of transportation that gets our guests from location to location safely. Expect some looooooong days in our vehicle.
      • You must be able to easily carry or roll your luggage, so do not over-pack.
      • We recommend always carrying snacks with you. Meals can sometimes be far apart.
      • Please make sure you understand the role of your tour leader on this trip as they are not the traditional “guide” you may be expecting. While our trips are educational, they aren’t study/lecture trips. We want you to learn through exploring, and much of your experience will be based on how active you choose to be in acquiring knowledge and interacting with locals.
      Hopefully this is the kind of adventure you are interested in!
      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.
      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. At night in the desert it can get quite cold, so make sure you pack warm clothes.

      Costs

      Please keep in mind this trip offers some free time to pursue activities that interest you. Make sure you look over all of the optional activities and note these additional costs when deciding whether you can afford this program. Breakfasts and a few dinners are included in this trip, giving you the opportunity to eat out according to your own resources. The prices below are in U.S. Dollars and are rough estimates so you can budget your trip.
      Tour Company Fee
      See our price in the top right corner
      Optional Activities
      $250-$700 USD
      International Airfare from the United States
      Roughly $1,600-$2,200 USD If you require assistance in booking your international airfare, we would be happy to help you.
      Insurance
      $67-$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 well.
      Tipping
      We recommend $125 USD for your tour leader, $50 for your driver, and another $50 for others.
      Meals Not Listed in the Itinerary
      $355-$465 USD
      Laundry, Drinks, Phone Calls, etc.
      Make sure you budget for these types of expenses
      Vaccines
      Variable. Please consult your doctor.
      Visa
      $50. This is for the combined Zambia and Zimbabwe visa.
      Souvenirs
      Variable. At your personal discretion.
      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.

      Optional Activities

      Most optional activities are booked and paid for locally in the local currency. You do not have to decide in advance for which activities you would like to sign up. The prices listed are based on the latest information we have received from our participants and G Adventures. They are not guaranteed to be accurate. Please use them as a rough guide for budgeting your trip.
      Victoria Falls
      (You would need to arrive early for these activities) Microlight Flight over Victoria Falls: 175 USD per person 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. Livingstone Island (Devil's Pool) Morning Breezer: 2h30m-3h, 98-123 USD per person 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: 2h-3h 133-183 USD per person 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. Victoria Falls Guided Tour: 1h30m-2h30m, 53 USD per person Join a knowledgeable guide for an unforgettable experience at Victoria Falls. Explore the rainforest and learn about the geology, history, and local legends of this world wonder. After your immersion, get up close to the falls and discover the beauty of “the smoke that thunders.” Be sure to have your camera ready! Bridge Swing over the Zambezi: 168 USD per person 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. Zambezi Bungee Jump: Price ? 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. Zambezi River Sunset Cruise: 50 USD per person Climb aboard and cruise along the beautiful Zambezi River. Enjoy some snacks, drinks, a festive atmosphere, and gorgeous views of the sunset. It's the ideal way to end an eventful day in Victoria Falls. Please note that National Park Fees are included at 10 USD per person. Canoeing the Zambezi: 160 USD per person Opt to canoe above the Falls on the upper Zambezi for a unique and tranquil bird and animal sighting experience. Victoria Falls Helicopter Ride: 15 min for 180 USD per person, 25 min for 314 USD per person 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 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 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: 4h-7h, 130 USD per person Take the opportunity to go whitewater rafting on the Zambezi River while Victoria Falls roars above. Depart in the morning and navigate through the canyon that forms the famous falls. The dramatic rapids will fill you with excitement and complete your experience. Includes a full-day of rafting on class III-V rapids, transfers, and lunch. Please note: River conditions and activity pricing vary depending on the seasons. High water season is from about February to July. Low water season generally runs from August to January each year - this is when the Zambezi is at its very wildest. The "closed season" is dependent on the season’s rains, and usually is from March to April; during this time rafting on the river is not permitted. Additionally, this activity requires passengers to hike down and up the Batoka Gorge (approx. 45 minutes each way) to access the river; an average level of fitness is required. This activity price excludes a $10 park entrance fee.
      Chobe National Park/Kasane
      Chobe River Sunset Cruise: $40 USD Get a fantastic perspective of one of Botswana's national parks and its thousands of resident elephants, crocodiles, and hippos on a sunset boat cruise on the Chobe River. Bring a few drinks and a camera, sit back, and enjoy the view. Chobe Photo Wildlife Safari Drive: $130 USD This is not your ordinary wildlife safari drive. Experience this once-in-a-lifetime wildlife photo safari where you're set up with a camera, a window seat, and the instruction required to take incredible safari photos. Perfect for both beginner and experienced photographers. Service includes: transfers, park fees, refreshments, camera usage (DSLR cameras with zoom lens), 8G photo memory card and an exclusive seat on the photo 4x4. Chobe National Park Safari Drive: $40 USD Enjoy a drive along routes that overlook this beautiful river. Keep an eye out for the remarkable variety of animals that are drawn to this permanent water source.
      Nata
      Bushwalk: 205 BWP Head out into the bush to learn more about the area. Keep your eyes open and your binoculars ready to spot eagles, bustards, flamingoes, and Blue-cheeked bee-eaters. Nata Area Wildlife Safari Drive: 310 BWP Head out for a wildlife safari drive to see the flora of the Nata region up close and personal. Chobe National Park Safari Drive: $40 USD per person Immerse yourself in Chobe National Park in an open-backed, open-seated safari vehicle, and experience the stunning wilderness of the game-rich park in the care of a very knowledgeable and friendly guide. Explore with your eyes as the tour drives along routes that overlook the beautiful Chobe River and keep an eye out for the remarkable variety of animals that are drawn to this permanent water source. During the safari drives it is not uncommon to spot several of Africa’s “big five” in the greater Chobe area and the early morning drive lasting 3 hours is a wonderful opportunity to have some unique sightings. Okavango Delta Flight: $240 USD (We can book this for you in advance of the trip) Get a fresh perspective on the vast wilderness of Africa with a once-in-a-lifetime view only a select few will ever see. Enjoy the hippos in the waterways and elephants and buffalo in the tree line. Gaze at the winding water channels as they make their way through the Delta.
      Ghanzi
      Traditional San/Bushmen Dancing: 100-600 BWP per group Around the campfire at night, you can experience the ancient dance rituals of the San/Bushmen. On special occasions, this could be a healing or trance dance, which can continue all night and is an intense spiritual experience for both participants and visitors alike. The dances have changed minimally in the last 20,000 years of San/Bushmen culture. These dances are not only a celebration of life but are also a means of passing on historic folklore from generation to generation.
      Etosha
      Etosha Open Vehicle Wildlife Safari Drive: 660 NAD Set off in an open 4×4 safari vehicle with a naturalist guide in search of the stunning wildlife in the park. Wildlife often come to the many watering holes to drink, so keep your eyes peeled for many animals on the move.
      Swakopmund
      Living Desert Tour: 800 NAD Hop into a 4×4 vehicle and set out into the desert. An expert guide will point out signs of animal life and emphasize survival in the harsh desert landscape for both humans and animals. Sandboarding in the Namib Desert: 700 NAD Head out into the desert, grab a board, and surf the sand dunes. Choose to lie down headfirst, or stand up, surfer-style. Swakopmund Skydiving: 3800 NAD Buckle up your harness, practice your exit, then take a plane up and over the dunes of the Namib Desert. Take a deep breath, leap out, and freefall with an instructor before he opens the parachute. Admire the view over the dunes as you descend and land safely back on the ground. Wow! Guided Cultural Tour: 550 NAD Explore the back streets and local culture on a guided interpretive walk. Learn about the history of Swakopmund, its housing, and other various topics to get a better understanding of local life. Visit a woman from the Herero ethnic group and also a Nama Medicine Woman, who will host a ‘click’ lesson in the local Daman language. Finish at a local pub called a ‘shebeen’ with the opportunity to try the local bush delicacy of Mopani worms and a drink. Skeleton Coast Scenic Flight: 4800 NAD per person Take in amazing views of bird life, shipwrecks, and one of the largest seal colonies in the world over the northern coastline. On the way back, see Namibia's highest mountain, Damaraland, and the picturesque Spitzkoppe rock formations from above.
      Sossusvlei
      Deadvlei Visit: 120 NAD Venture out into Deadvlei. These drylands boast incredible contrasts of black dead trees amidst the white clay soil, surrounded by red sand dunes reaching up to 300 meters high. We don’t want to spoil too much; go and see this unique site for yourselves – it’s a must for any traveler to Namibia.
      Lambert’s Bay
      Bird Island Visit: 50 ZAR Enjoy a visit to aptly-named Bird Island; you can find more than 25,000 blue-eyed gannets at certain times of the year here. Penguins also gather on this island for breeding between August and October.
      Cape Town
      Robben Island: 3.5 hrs, 600 ZAR If you are interested in visiting Robben Island - you must book it directly with the museum on their website prior to travel: 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. Wine Tour and Tasting: 9h-10h, 1295 ZAR Take a day trip into the wine lands of South Africa with an expert guide. Visit iconic estates and lesser-visited farms known only to locals, in areas such as Stellenbosch and Franschoek. 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! Table Mountain Cable Car: 1h-2h, 300-390 ZAR Take the five-minute cable car trip to the top of Table Mountain, 1,085m (3,562 ft) above Cape Town, and explore the summit. This is a great spot to sit and soak up the commanding 360-degree views of Cape Town, Table Bay, the peaks of surrounding mountains, and the rest of Table Mountain National Park. The operation of the cable car is weather-dependent. (Please note that the cable car is closed every year for a 2-week period between July and August for annual maintenance.) Cape Point Tour: 6h-7h, 1800 ZAR Embark on a scenic drive to Cape Point and enjoy a stunning vista. Cape Point National Park is filled with varied wildlife. Many different kinds of birdlife, from sea birds to giant raptors wheeling overheard, can easily be seen. In the summer months (November-February), keep an eye out for southern right whales out to sea. Stop for a packed lunch at Buffels Bay and then visit the penguins at Boulders Beach. Pay a visit to the seals at Kalk Bay’s pier before traveling to Muizenberg to see the colorful beach houses. Cape Town Urban Safari: 6h-7h, 1140 ZAR Take an alternative tour of Cape Town. Journey to District Six, a former inner-city residential area where over 60,000 of its residents were forcibly removed during the Apartheid regime, and to the infamous suburb of Woodstock. See the colorful graffiti murals that line the walls and tell stories of the local people. Head to Devil’s Peak Tap Room to sample their craft beers and enjoy a delicious lunch as you admire the view of the Devil’s Peak mountain. After lunch, experience the vibrant colors of the Bo-Kaap neighborhood and visit a winery. Take the scenic Chapman’s Peak drive for spectacular views of Noordhoek, Hout Bay, and the Atlantic Ocean. End the day with a drink overlooking the ocean. Table Mountain Hike: 2h-4h, 4-6km, Ascent: 700m (2,297 ft), 720-1700 ZAR per person Hike up one of the world's most recognizable mountains, Table Mountain. Rise early to meet your guide for a transfer to the start of the hike. Wind your way up the mountain, stopping regularly to take in the surrounding views of the city, Atlantic coast, and Table Bay. Take note of the changing vegetation on the mountain - a highlight of this trek. Once reaching the summit there are stunning panoramic views. Make your way down to the base of the mountain via the cable way. Boulders Beach Visit, Simon's Town: 170 ZAR per person Visit Boulders Beach, a beautiful sandy beach dotted with massive granite boulders. Since 1982 it has been the home of over 3,000 tunnel nesting African Black footed penguins who cling to viability in a small breeding colony that is heavily protected. Two Oceans Aquarium: 1h-2h, 220 ZAR per person Stay dry while exploring the incredible diversity of marine life that dwells in and around the Indian and Atlantic Oceans.