Before You Travel

1Do I need travel insurance?

All insurance is solely the responsibility of the client. Before a client commences a tour, he/she should arrange his/her own insurance with protection for the full duration of the travel, to cover including but not limited to, personal injury, damage and loss of personal items including but not limited to camera equipment and other electronic equipment, medical expenses, repatriation expenses and loss of luggage. If a Client falls ill, all hospital expenses, medical expenses, doctor’s fees and repatriation costs are the Client’s responsibility and the Company shall not be liable for any refund of the tour rate whatsoever.

The carriage and storage of all baggage and personal effects are at all times the client’s risk and the company will not accept any liability for any loss or damage of baggage or personal effects. It is the clients’ responsibility to ensure all personal items are covered by travel insurance for the correct value.

2Do mobile phones work in Africa?

Yes, there is extensive coverage throughout Southern and East Africa. In some countries, this may be primarily in and around major urban areas. However, in South Africa, networks cover all national roads, towns and cities. Before traveling, ask your mobile phone service provider to open your phone to allow international roaming.

3Do you have a age limit on your Safaris?

Every client over the age of 65 is required to submit a medical certificate or self-declaration of medical fitness before the start of the tour (please request this form from your travel consultant). For all Adventure Safaris, there is an age limit of 70 years. For all Lodge Safaris, there is an age limit of 80 years.

4Is there internet available?

Certainly. Most city hotels will have either internet connection in the bedroom, or a business centre where you can spend time online. Some safari lodges and camps in South Africa also offer this facility. In remote areas, however, there is no internet.

5What cloths should you take on Safari?

On flying safaris, the light aircrafts that charter guests only permit 8 kg of luggage per person. Only pack a few items of light and preferably cotton clothing for your stay in the bush. Clothing should be in neutral colours e.g. khaki, beige or bush green. A good guideline is two of everything: socks, underwear, shorts, shirts and one sweater. Don’t forget to bring a hat! In winter, make sure to take warm clothing as the evenings are cool.

6What currency should you take along?

Most major world currencies are available throughout Southern and East Africa. Any of the following currencies are accepted: US Dollar, Euro and Pounds. There are ATM machines as well as money exchange companies in most of the major cities in the regions we operate in.

7What do you need to know about malaria?

There is a risk of catching malaria in Africa. It is highly recommended to ask your doctor’s advice about anti-Malaria drugs before leaving your country. If you take anti malaria drugs – your chances of getting it are slim. Malaria is transmitted by mosquitoes and, as the insects are most active at night, it is recommended that travellers wear long-sleeved trousers and shirts at night and sleep under mosquito netting. Pack a good mosquito repellent.

Tanzania: It is not recommended for children younger than eight years.

Botswana and Zambia: Many lodges do not accommodate children under 12 years of age.

Most safari lodges have babysitting services available. We offer child discounts on most of our safaris. Should you have any specific questions about travelling with small children or as a family – just contact us.

8What visas are required?

Refer to the individual countries under the “destinations” section

Booking Process

1Can you pay for Safari by credit card?

We accept Visa and MasterCard for your safari deposit. The balance is due 60 days prior to departure and is payable by credit/debit card or wire transfer.

2Do you offer international flights, pre and post Safari accommodation?

Yes, ASG is a comprehensive Travel Agent so in addition to our scheduled safaris we organise all pre- and post-accommodation, transfers, etc. Contact us if you would like us to tailor–make your travel arrangements.

3How far in advance shall we book our Safari?

It is better to book as far as possible (4 – 6 months) in advance to ensure availability at the time you wish to travel. This is especially important during the peak seasons: July, August, Christmas and New Year’s. And for those travelling on Tailor-made Safaris and those adding extensions to ScheduledSafaris.

General Questions

1Are doctors and hospitals available on Safari?

Yes, many. But once again, the further north in Africa you travel, the fewer doctors and medical facilities there are. South Africa has many private hospitals, excellent specialists and state of the art equipment and facilities, including emergency rescue and air ambulance. Government facilities are overcrowded and should be avoided.

2Are laundry facilities available on Safari?

The lodges will usually see to your laundry requirements. On mobile camping safaris, laundry facilities are available in most camps. Information will be found in the detailed itinerary of the safari that you’re interested in.

3Can you create tailor made safaris?

Yes, we can tailor–make a safari for an individual or for large groups. Contact us for more information.

4Do you offer family Safaris?

Africa offers outstanding value for families. But some destinations and establishments cater more fully for the enjoyment of children than others.

Kenya: Children who are five years old and younger are generally not allowed on game drives in the parks and reserves.

Tanzania: It is not recommended for children younger than eight years.

Botswana and Zambia: Many lodges do not accommodate children under 12 years of age.

Most safari lodges have babysitting services available. We offer child discounts on most of our safaris. Should you have any specific questions about travelling with small children or as a family – just contact us.

5Is ASG committed to responsible and sustainable tourism?

The cultures, environments and economies that we visit are fragile and require an ongoing commitment from us to ensure a lasting, positive effect. Tourism, when carried out in a responsible manner, can be a real help to local communities providing an income, a positive cultural exchange and a financial incentive to protect the natural environment. We run our safaris in keeping with eco-tourism guidelines.

6What activities are available during Safari?

There are many different types of activities available while on safari such as: game drives, guided walks, bird watching, boat cruises or canoeing. Adventure-based activities like white water rafting, helicopter flights over the Victoria Falls, and hot air balloon trips over the Serengeti, to name just a few, are also available.

7What meals are available during Safari?

We cater for vegetarian, halaal and other dietary requirements in Southern and East Africa. Just let us know in advance and we will be able to organise your preferred meals. Our tour guides are trained to cater for different types of culinary tastes. As a rule: do not eat anything purchased at the side of the road, and wash fruit and vegetables thoroughly before eating.

8What camera equipment is essential on Safari?

Binoculars are recommended, preferably wide angle. A good DSLR camera with a powerful zoom or telephoto lens will reward you with superb shots.

9What medical supplies are available on Safari?

Pack your prescription medication. Cities and towns all have pharmacies (drugstores) with everything one requires from aspirin to Xanax and Zambuk. Bear in mind that South Africa has a first-world infrastructure, but the further north one travels the more difficult it may be to get medication.

10When is the best time to travel to East Africa?

East Africa is a safari destination and the best time to travel is during the dry months. The rainy season is from April to June – and there are short rains from late November through December. It is often less expensive to travel during the long rainy season.

Dry season offers excellent game viewing and more reliable road conditions. Wildlife gathers around the limited water sources, making it easier to spot animals.

July and August are generally extremely busy months in East Africa, offering comfortable temperatures in addition to being a popular travel time worldwide. It is important to book in advance.

11When is the best time to travel to Southern Africa?

Southern Africa is a year-round destination as different regions are spectacular at different times.

Winter months are between May and September. These months are often popular for game viewing, as it is dry and the wildlife is much easier to see and it is also cooler.

In summer, the temperatures can reach between 30 and 40 °C. But in many countries, summer is the best time to visit beautiful beaches and coastal resorts. Summer often coincides with the rainy season, resulting in lush, green countryside and lovely scenery.

When Travelling

1Is it safe to drink the water?

It is safe to drink the tap water in most African countries. Tap water in hotels and at other lodges in Southern and East Africa is also safe to drink, but bottled water is available in shops if you prefer. If you are ever in doubt, stick to bottled water. Our safari vehicles carry drinking water at all times. Bottled water is supplied at all the main camps and lodges.

2Is it safe to travel in Africa?

The most visited countries in Southern and East Africa like – South Africa, Swaziland, Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Mozambique, Madagascar, Malawi, Tanzania, Kenya, and Ethiopia are safe to visit. If you adhere to the basic principles of navigating any large city anywhere in the world: do not carry valuables in plain sight, keep cameras hidden and do not walk alone at night. Make use of hotel safety deposit boxes.

Travellers with tour operators are the least at risk and self-drive clients are advised to plan in advance what routes they wish to travel, and to get all of their destination information ahead of time. If travelling by car, make sure the doors are locked at all times and that no bags or purses left on passenger seats – and in the bush the only danger you will encounter are wild animals.

African culture is gracious and hospitable. So, you will be in good hands.