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Home›Destinations›Africa›Tanzania›Kenya to Cape In Depth›Kenya to Cape In Depth Trip NotesKenya to Cape In Depth Trip Notes
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- 51
- YDOWC
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Trip Price tool tip
USD $3,450CAD $3,470AUD $3,355EUR €2,685GBP £2,090NZD $4,300ZAR R26,800CHF FR3,110
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Kitty tool tipUSD $2,660‡
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Total price tool tip
USD $6,110*CAD $6,052*AUD $5,900*EUR €4,541*GBP £3,712*NZD $7,492*ZAR R45,300*CHF FR5,214**
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- Overland
- Basix
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‡ As our kitty is flexible the indicated amount is indicative only - please click here to
view the kitty amount for your departure date.
Print Version



Last Modified: 27 Mar 2013
Kenya to Cape In Depth
Trip code: YDOWC
Validity: 01 Jan 2012 to 31 Dec 2013
Visit Africa and travel through the plains of Kenya, discover the beauty of Tanzania’s epic landscapes, tour the exotic spice island of Zanzibar, explore the vast Lake Malawi, learn about the diverse history of the Zambia, see the incredible Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe, marvel at the beauty of Botswana and revel in the culture of South Africa on this Overland adventure from Nairobi to Cape Town.
This trip is operated by our experienced local partners Dragoman Overland. Dragoman shares Intrepid's ethos for adventure travel and has many years' expertise in overlanding.
Warning - this is a new trip for us!
While we have thoroughly researched this area to put together this trip, it still must be remembered that this is a relatively new trip for us. To be frank, we expect some things to go wrong. When we head to new destinations, we usually find there are more pleasant surprises in store than unpleasant ones, but the warning is sincere. If it concerns you then we recommend that you wait for a year until we get any bugs ironed out.
While we have thoroughly researched this area to put together this trip, it still must be remembered that this is a relatively new trip for us. To be frank, we expect some things to go wrong. When we head to new destinations, we usually find there are more pleasant surprises in store than unpleasant ones, but the warning is sincere. If it concerns you then we recommend that you wait for a year until we get any bugs ironed out.
Table of Contents
To save you money and the hassle of booking multiple trips, this journey is a combination of some of our most popular adventures so your leader and the composition of your group may change.
Style
Basix
- The best value journeys on the planet! On a Basix trip you can expect amazing experiences, but none of the inclusions that you may not want. Which means budget (1-2 star) accommodation, plenty of free time, activities that are optional and the freedom to choose meals to suit your budget. On some trips you may be camping and required to set up your own tent. You'll also have access to a group leader to offer advice and help you uncover the region's hidden gems. On a Basix journey, the way you travel is all a part of the adventure. Depending on the destination and the itinerary, you could find yourself travelling on anything from a donkey to a bus or a private safari vehicle. These trips are ideal for first-time travellers seeking fun and independence with the support of a group leader. They're also ideal for independent travellers looking to make the most of their travel time with minimum hassle and maximum experiences.
Themes
Overland
Map

Itinerary
Days 1-3 Nairobi/Masai Mara
Jambo! Welcome to Kenya.
The trip begins with a group meeting at 10am, after which we head straight out to the Masai Mara, so please ensure you arrive in time.Our large bags will be left behind and stored in a secure location in Nairobi. You will need to bring along a smaller day pack for this trip.We recommend you pack:
Clothing for 3 days (Including a warm jumper or fleece and long trousers)
A waterproof jacket
Toiletries (Including Sun screen, insect repellent)
Camera & charger
Small towel
Head torch
Water bottle
Books/journal/playing cards etc
Personal snacks
Please try and prepare this small day pack either in advance or soon after the group meeting.
Clothing for 3 days (Including a warm jumper or fleece and long trousers)
A waterproof jacket
Toiletries (Including Sun screen, insect repellent)
Camera & charger
Small towel
Head torch
Water bottle
Books/journal/playing cards etc
Personal snacks
Please try and prepare this small day pack either in advance or soon after the group meeting.
There are no activities planned until this important meeting; please ask the hotel reception where it will take place. We'll be collecting your kitty, insurance details and next of kin information at this meeting so please ensure you have all details on hand to provide to your leader.
Nairobi - which takes its name from a Maasai phrase meaning 'place of cool waters' - has a cosmopolitan atmosphere. There are plenty of good bars and restaurants, while markets and shops have most things you could want or need, as well as various arts and crafts from the region.
If you arrive early, you can head out and explore the National Museum of Kenya, the Karen Blixen Museum (author of Out of Africa) or Bomas of Kenya where traditional homesteads of several Kenyan tribes are displayed in an outdoor village.
After the meeting we will head off in our Land Cruisers to the Masai Mara for the next 2 nights.
A huge area of woodlands and open plains backed by the striking Esoit Oloololo Escarpment, the Masai Mara is home to all of the Big Five. Keep an eye out for prides of lions, herds of elephants and, if you are lucky, a stealthy cheetah or leopard. In the rainy season this area is flooded by over a million wildebeest on their annual migration.
Both nights are spent in the same camp. Facilities are ready-made tents with twin beds (Including bedding so no need to bring any sleeping gear), toilet and shower areas and a bar serving soft drinks. Camera / phone charging facilities are available at an extra cost for a few hours each evening.The following morning we have an early breakfast before setting off in the Land Cruisers again for a full day of game driving.
On our third day here we start with an early morning game drive after breakfast, before heading out of the Masai Mara and returning to Nairobi for the night.
Included Activities
- Masai Mara - Game drive
Optional Activities
- Langata Giraffe Sanctuary, Nairobi - KES1000.00
- National Museum, Nairobi - USD10.00
- Bomas of Kenya, Nairobi - USD10.00
- Karen Blixen museum, Nairobi - USD14.00
- Carnivore Restaurant, Nairobi - KES2000.00
Accommodation
Camping (with facilities) (3 nts)
Day 4 Arusha
Back on the truck today and we have a full day's drive of approximately 300 km as we cross the Tanzanian border on our way to Arusha.
Tonight we'll stay in a well equipped campsite on the outskirts of Arusha where we will prepare ourselves for heading into the Serengeti.
Situated at the base of Mt Meru, Arusha is the safari capital of Tanzania and there's plenty to see and do. There are lots of good bars and restaurants. Markets and shops have most things you could want or need alongside various arts and crafts from the region.
Accommodation
Camping (with facilities) (1 nt)
Days 5-6 Serengeti National Park/Ngorongoro Crater
Today we are up very early, leaving our truck behind, putting our camping and personal gear into 6-person jeeps and heading out for our three day excursion.
While here we stay at one of the camps within the National Park. The camp where we stay is very simple but is located right in the middle of the plains, surrounded by animals and the nocturnal noises. Your leader will outline the basic safety rules to be followed when camping in an unfenced location where wild animals are present.
The wide, open plains of the Serengeti - green after the rains, brown and burnt in the dry season, and home to thousands of hoofed animals and fierce predators - are perhaps the quintessential image of Africa. Flat and rolling with long grasses and dotted with acacia trees, the plains get their name from the Maasai word Siringitu - 'the place where the land moves on forever'.
The following morning we are up very early as we set off in our jeeps for an early morning game drive. There is also the option this morning of a hot air balloon flight, which must be pre-booked at the time of booking.
For an unforgettable experience, you might like to do an optional sunrise balloon ride over the Serengeti. As the balloon only holds 16 people, places are limited and need to be arranged in advance. Please inquire when booking your trip to secure this optional activity.
If you have pre-booked this activity, you'll be picked up and driven to the launch site where you receive a safety briefing from your pilot and help inflate the balloon. You'll then float over the Serengeti as the sun comes up gaining an overview of the immensity of the Serengeti, seeing the abundance of wildlife in their early morning activity and sometimes descending to tree height for amazing wildlife photography opportunities. Upon landing, you'll be treated to a five-star bush breakfast before being returned to your accommodation.Please note that we offer this activity as a pre-booked service which will guarantee you a spot in a balloon. If you choose to wait and book this activity locally on the ground you may get a better price. However this is a popular activity and places are limited. It is at your own discretion if you wish to pre-book this service with us or try and book it locally while you are on your trip.
If you have pre-booked this activity, you'll be picked up and driven to the launch site where you receive a safety briefing from your pilot and help inflate the balloon. You'll then float over the Serengeti as the sun comes up gaining an overview of the immensity of the Serengeti, seeing the abundance of wildlife in their early morning activity and sometimes descending to tree height for amazing wildlife photography opportunities. Upon landing, you'll be treated to a five-star bush breakfast before being returned to your accommodation.Please note that we offer this activity as a pre-booked service which will guarantee you a spot in a balloon. If you choose to wait and book this activity locally on the ground you may get a better price. However this is a popular activity and places are limited. It is at your own discretion if you wish to pre-book this service with us or try and book it locally while you are on your trip.
We exit the Serengeti around lunchtime and head back through the conservation area to our campsite on the rim of the Ngorongoro Crater. Again our campsite is very basic. It can often be quite cold on the crater rim so it is recommended that you take warm clothes for this night.
Included Activities
- Serengeti - Game drive
Optional Activities
- Balloon ride, Serengeti National Park - USD500.00
Accommodation
Bush camp (no facilities) (2 nts)
Day 7 Mto Wa Mbu
We are up with the sun this morning as we make an early descent into the world famous Ngorongoro Crater, where we will spend approximately 3 hours game driving in the crater.
A huge, perfectly intact volcanic crater, Ngorongoro is home to some 30,000 animals including endangered black rhinos, lions, leopards, elephants, impalas, zebras and hippos. The crater floor offers excellent game viewing all year round and the photographic opportunities here are unrivalled.
Departing the crater we will return to Mto Wa Mbu and participate in a community village project before finally heading back to camp for an evening relaxing at the campsite's bar, reliving our safari experience.
A small village community, Mto Wa Mbu offers an excellent way to get a close-up look at life in an African town away from the main tourist trail.
Responsible Travel Note -
You will notice some Masai villages in the region of the Ngorongoro crater. While it is of course fascinating to visit different cultures, past experience has shown that these villages exist primarily as businesses. You will be charged an entry fee of USD20 and the Masai will try very hard to sell souvenirs to you. While many clients still enjoy the experience, others have found it artificial and uncomfortable. We would very much prefer that Intrepid clients choose to bypass this activity as we feel it negatively impacts the Masai culture and your perception of this culture. This is why we stop by Mto Wa Mbu on the way to the crater so that you may experience some culture in a more authentic environment.
You will notice some Masai villages in the region of the Ngorongoro crater. While it is of course fascinating to visit different cultures, past experience has shown that these villages exist primarily as businesses. You will be charged an entry fee of USD20 and the Masai will try very hard to sell souvenirs to you. While many clients still enjoy the experience, others have found it artificial and uncomfortable. We would very much prefer that Intrepid clients choose to bypass this activity as we feel it negatively impacts the Masai culture and your perception of this culture. This is why we stop by Mto Wa Mbu on the way to the crater so that you may experience some culture in a more authentic environment.
Included Activities
- Ngorongoro Crater - Game drive
Accommodation
Camping (with facilities) (1 nt)
Day 8 Marangu
If we didn't get the chance yesterday, then after breakfast this morning we will participate in the local community village program before getting back on board our truck to head high onto the slopes of Kilimanjaro, and to the village of Marangu (approx 230 km).
Our camping area is the grounds of a beautiful colonial hotel with views of Mount Kilimanjaro.
The small village of Marangu is located on the lower slopes of Mt Kilimanjaro. The fertile fields are irrigated by streams that are fed by Mt Kilimanjaro's glaciers.
Included Activities
- Usambara Village Education Project visit, village walk & lunch
Accommodation
Camping (with facilities) (1 nt)
Days 9-10 Dar es Salaam
Leaving the cool slopes of Kilimanjaro behind we have a long travel day today as we travel further south towards the coastal city of Dar es Salaam (approx 560 km).
Dar es Salaam, Tanzania's old capital, means 'Haven of Peace'. Many of its buildings display Arabian influence and the port area is fascinating to visit with its ocean-going dhows and inshore ngalawas (out-rigger fishing canoes).
Once in Dar es Salaam we set up camp on a balmy beach outside of the city. The camp is in the grounds of a hotel and has flush toilets and showers. Feel free to jump in the ocean and have a swim before dinner!
The following day is free for optional activities, or you may simply like to relax on the beach.
Accommodation
Camping (with facilities) (2 nts)
Days 11-13 Zanzibar
Catch the ferry over to Zanzibar and spend the first night in Stone Town.
Filled with idyllic beaches, winding cobblestone alleyways and fragrant bazaars, Zanzibar's rich history involves everything from slave traders to Arabian sultans and fruit exporters. The sight of traditional dhows sailing along the coast invokes images of what the island was like back in the days of Livingstone.
The old part of Zanzibar's main city is known as Stone Town. The best way to see this exotic port town is on foot, exploring the bazaars, shops, mosques, palaces, courtyards and myriad intricate alleyways. When the sun is setting, why not enjoy a sundowner from a bar overlooking the seafront before trying one of the island's local seafood curries at one of the town's many restaurants.
The next day we take a spice tour and have a local lunch before heading to the northern beaches for optional activities or relaxation.
Drive to the spice plantations where you'll receive a guided tour and the opportunity to touch, smell and taste various spices such as cinnamon, vanilla and ginger, as well as teas made with these spices. At the end of the day there will also be an opportunity to buy some of the locally grown spices.
The third day is free for optional activities.
Included Activities
- Zanzibar Spice tour
Optional Activities
- Snorkelling, Zanzibar - USD40.00
- Prison island tour, Zanzibar - USD25.00
- Scuba diving, Zanzibar - USD90.00
Accommodation
Hotel (3 nts)
Day 14 Dar es Salaam
Today we transfer back to the ferry (approx 90 minutes) and return to our campsite by the beach outside Dar Es Salaam.
Optional Activities
- Dhow trip, Dar es Salaam - Free
- Fishing, Dar es Salaam - Free
Accommodation
Camping (with facilities) (1 nt)
Day 15 Iringa
Heading for Malawi, we head through Mikumi National Park. The journey today is approximately 550 km. We stay at a campsite in the grounds of the Kisolanza Farm in Iringa tonight.
Set into the slopes of a cliff overlooking the Little Ruaha River, Iringa was built by the Germans in the late 19th century as a fortified defence. One of the highlights is the markets, which attract vibrantly clad locals and nearby tribespeople. It is also a great place to try the legendary Dabaga chilli sauce.
Accommodation
Camping (with facilities) (1 nt)
Days 16-18 Lake Malawi
Today we cross the border into Malawi and travel to our beautiful lakeside campsite at Chitimba (approx 510 km).
Malawi is dominated by its lake, which covers almost a fifth of the country and provides a livelihood for many Malawian people. Fishermen, canoe and net makers, and fish traders all ply their trade on Lake Malawi. A common sight is of a fisherman in his bwato (a dugout canoe made from a hollowed tree trunk) fishing on the still lake at the break of day.
The next day we drive along the shore of the lake to Kande Beach where we have the rest of the day, and the following day, free for optional activities. Make sure you take the opportunity to meet some local Malawians, easily some of the friendliest people in Africa.
Optional Activities
- Guided village walks, Lake Malawi - USD10.00
- Horse riding, Lake Malawi - USD50.00
- Snorkelling, Lake Malawi - Free
- Scuba diving, Lake Malawi - USD75.00
Accommodation
Camping (with facilities) (3 nts)
Day 19 Lilongwe
Today we head approximately 350 km to the capital, Lilongwe. If we make good time today then we will have the afternoon free to explore the town and its many markets and shops.
Lilongwe is the political capital of Malawi with a population of just under a million people. Situated on the Lilongwe River, it's a great place to soak up some Malawian culture with lots of coffee shops, bars and restaurants.
Accommodation
Camping (with facilities) (1 nt)
Days 20-21 South Luangwa National Park
Our journey today takes us approximately 250 km, across the border into Zambia and to the stunning South Luangwa National Park.
We stay here for two nights in a boutique campsite bordering the national park. During our stay we take an early morning game drive and an evening game drive.
South Luangwa National Park is probably the best park in Zambia to see hippos and crocodiles - the Luangwa River has vast numbers of them. The plains beside the river are populated with many kinds of buck, kudu, gazelle and also the red lechwe and Thornicroft giraffe which are unique to Zambia. The park is also renowned for its large elephant population, although you will notice that the elephants here are smaller in size than their counterparts in the plains of East or Southern Africa.
While we are staying in South Luangwa National Park we may have the chance to organise an optional visit to Kawaza Village to experience rural life in Zambia. Kawaza is a social centre for many of the surrounding smaller villages and is situated about 10 km from the national park. As far back as 1997 it has been the centre of a community tourism project. The local villagers of Kawaza genuinely want to share their culture with visitors so that they see not only the wildlife but also the local life of the people who live in the area. Usually we will take part in or watch on of the village's two dancing groups. Normally the women's group will perform local dances and stories and discuss everyday life in rural Zambia. They are very keen for guests to join in, and they will cook a traditional Kunda midday meal for us.The Kunda, who live throughout the Luanda Valley, have been here for thousands of years. Like all traditional farming and hunting communities in this part of Africa, they have suffered over the past years with diminishing resources. At Kawaza the villagers are now benefiting directly from our visits, and have a stake in the local tourist infrastructure. Each year the village decides what to do with the money, whether it be school supplies, a water pump or local medicines.Please note that during the wet season (January to March) it may not be possible to visit this village.
Included Activities
- Game drives
Optional Activities
- Evening game drive, South Luangwa National Park - Free
- Kawaza Village Visit, South Luangwa National Park - USD25.00
Accommodation
Camping (with facilities) (2 nts)
Day 22 Luangwa River
Today is a drive day of approximately 520 km as we head south towards the Lower Zambezi area. Tonight we stay at a campsite on the banks of the Luangwa River.
Accommodation
Bush camp (no facilities) (1 nt)
Days 23-25 Lower Zambezi
Drive to the banks of the Lower Zambezi where we meet our guides for a briefing and confirmation of the following days' activities.
The next two days we spend canoeing along the Lower Zambezi River.
The Zambezi Valley has been known outside of Africa for thousands of years. Legends suggest that the kingdoms of Hiram, Solomon and Sheba were enriched with goods originating from the area. More recent history records some of the explorations of hunters, missionaries and slave traders along this part of the Zambezi River.Nowadays the Lower Zambezi has very different adventures in store - the prime pursuit being a canoe safari. All our gear is carried in the canoes and camps are erected on islands in the river along the way. Everyone gets involved in setting up camp and cooking.
Included Activities
- 2 day canoe trip on the Lower Zambezi
Accommodation
Camping (with facilities) (3 nts)
Day 26 Choma/Livingstone
After breakfast we have an early morning transfer by road or boat (depending on season) back to the truck and then drive on to either Choma or Livingstone depending on time.
Accommodation
Bush camp (no facilities) (1 nt)
Days 27-29 Victoria Falls
Cross the border to Zimbabwe for an early start to Victoria Falls. Upon arrival in Victoria Falls we will arrange your optional activities, and either visit the falls, or arrange the visit for tomorrow.
The Victoria Falls are an enormous curtain of water, about a mile wide, falling 108 m into a narrow gorge below. In the wet season, the spray created can rise up an incredible 400 m and the falls are an impressive raging torrent. The spray from the falls can sometimes be seen from kilometres away. It's no wonder that the local name Mosi oa Tunya means the 'smoke that thunders'. In the dry season, the view of the falls is unobstructed by spray and it's possible to see little islets in the river below.
Responsible Travel Note:
During your visit to the Victoria Falls area you may notice businesses offering an optional 'Walk with the Lions' experience. We recommend that Intrepid travellers bypass this activity as it is contrary to Intrepid's Responsible Travel guideline stating that we 'actively discourage the participation of Intrepid groups in activities which exploit animals - wild or domestic.' Professional wildlife conservation organisations, including Born Free and the World Society for Protection of Animals (WSPA), advise that habituating lions to humans can shorten their life and may result in lion-human conflict issues. While there is some merit in the argument that the money that you pay for the activity goes towards lion research, we feel that the negative impacts on the lions' rehabilitation far outweigh this.
During your visit to the Victoria Falls area you may notice businesses offering an optional 'Walk with the Lions' experience. We recommend that Intrepid travellers bypass this activity as it is contrary to Intrepid's Responsible Travel guideline stating that we 'actively discourage the participation of Intrepid groups in activities which exploit animals - wild or domestic.' Professional wildlife conservation organisations, including Born Free and the World Society for Protection of Animals (WSPA), advise that habituating lions to humans can shorten their life and may result in lion-human conflict issues. While there is some merit in the argument that the money that you pay for the activity goes towards lion research, we feel that the negative impacts on the lions' rehabilitation far outweigh this.
As this is a combination trip, your group leader and the composition of your group may change at this location. There will be a group meeting to discuss the next stage of your itinerary, meet your new fellow travellers, and collect the next part of your kitty.
Included Activities
- Visit Victoria Falls
Optional Activities
- Whitewater rafting (full day) - USD140.00
- Whitewater rafting (half day) - USD140.00
- Gorge swing, Victoria Falls - USD90.00
- Bungee jumping, Victoria Falls - USD130.00
Accommodation
Camping (with facilities) (3 nts)
Day 30 Hwange National Park
After breakfast we head towards Hwange National Park (190 km, approx 3-4 hours), stopping en route to visit the Painted Dog Conservation Group for an insight into the plight of the African wild dog.
In the afternoon we'll take a half day game drive in Hwange National Park, before camping in the park.
Hwange National Park became the royal hunting grounds of the Ndebele warrior-king Mzilikazi in the early 19th century and was set aside as a national park in 1929. Today, Hwange boasts a tremendous selection of wildlife with over 100 species of mammals and nearly 400 bird species. The elephants of Hwange are world famous and the park's elephant population is one of the largest in Africa.
Included Activities
- Painted Dog Conservation Centre
Accommodation
Camping (with facilities) (1 nt)
Days 31-32 Bulawayo/Matobo National Park
Up early we have a morning game drive within Hwange National Park before travelling 310 km to Bulawayo.
Known locally as the 'City of Kings', Bulawayo is Zimbabwe's second largest city and has a very interesting historical past.
The next day we have a full day at Matobo National Park, including an incredible safari on foot to track rhinos.
Home to a large population of black and white rhinoceros, Matobo National Park is the site of the grave of Cecil John Rhodes, the founder of Rhodesia and the De Beers diamond company. The Matobo area has great spiritual and cultural significance to the local people and there are many sites within the park where important ceremonies still take place.
Optional Activities
- Railway Museum, Bulawayo - USD2.00
- Natural History Museum, Bulawayo - USD10.00
- National Art Gallery, Bulawayo - USD2.00
Accommodation
Camping (with facilities) (2 nts)
Days 33-34 Makgadikgadi Pans
Leaving Zimbabwe behind, today we cross the border into Botswana, to the awesome Makgadikgadi Pans - one of the largest salt pans in the world.
Once a lake some 30 metres (100 feet) deep, Makgadikgadi covered an immense area of 80,000 sq km (30,888 sq miles). Now, Lake Makgadikgadi has evaporated and turned into large salt pans. Only occasional rocky outcrops or isolated sand dunes interrupt the flat, endless white landscape.
Our base at night is the intriguingly named Planet Baobab, which is home to the largest pool in the Kalahari, and has a funky bar and restaurant serving dishes from all across Africa. It is from here that we arrange the various optional activities onto the pans or to nearby communities.
Optional Activities
- Overnight quad biking trip, Makgadikgadi Pans - USD195.00
- Cattle Post Visit, Makgadikgadi Pans - USD80.00
- Bush walking, Makgadikgadi Pans - USD35.00
Accommodation
Camping (with facilities) (2 nts)
Day 35 Maun
Today we have a drive of approximately 550 km to Maun, our base for visiting the Okavango Delta.
The fifth largest town in Botswana, Maun is known as the Gateway to the Delta. Although officially still a village, it has developed rapidly from a rural frontier town and its eclectic mix of modern buildings and native huts have spread along the Thamalakane River. It now has shopping centres, hotels and lodges, although it retains a rural atmosphere and local tribesmen continue to bring their cattle to Maun to sell.
Accommodation
Camping (with facilities) (1 nt)
Days 36-37 Okavango Delta
Set off early for the Okavango Delta where we meet our transport for the next 2 days. The Delta is one of the world's most fascinating ecosystems and we explore it in mokoros, small dugout styled canoes, poled into the reed beds of the Delta.
Formed by the Okavango River as it flows from the highlands of Angola down to a basin on the edge of the Kalahari Desert, the Okavango Delta is unlike anything else in the world. The river has no outlet from the desert and spreads out into thousands of small streams to form a wilderness that is totally unspoilt. The 16,000 sq km maze of wetlands is a wonderland of clear meandering waterways, green islands, lush plains and prolific wildlife. The delta is filled with a diversity of flora and fauna that includes hippos, crocodiles, elephants and the big cats. However, it's not for the game that we come as it can't always be found. The delta is about exploring one of the world's most fascinating ecosystems.
Accommodation
Camping (with facilities) (2 nts)
Day 38 Maun
We continue our trip around the Delta before transferring back to Maun (60 km, approx 2-3 hrs) for a hote shower and a relaxing drink at the bar.
Accommodation
Camping (with facilities) (1 nt)
Day 39 D'Kar
Today is a driving day of approximately 280 km heading south of Maun to the district of Ghanzi. We aim to camp at the Dqae Qare Game Reserve - a community based tourism project of the Bushmen from D'Kar village.
The D'Kar community is governed by a trust which looks after the interests of various Bushmen communities in Botswana.
Dqãe Qare Game Reserve is located in the Kalahari Desert and is a community project owned by the people of D'Kar. The aims of the project are to create employment, preserve the Ncoakhoe indigenous knowledge through tourism activities, and to generate income.
Accommodation
Camping (with facilities) (1 nt)
Day 40 Windhoek
Today is a full day's drive (approx 600 km) to Windhoek, the capital of Namibia.
The old German colonial town of Windhoek has been blended into a modern city. The German architecture of the older buildings lends the town a historic atmosphere. Good examples of this German architecture can be seen in a number of buildings but the best are the Tintenpalast (Ink Palace), the Christuskirche (church), the gymnasium and the Genossenschaftshaus.
Accommodation
Camping (with facilities) (1 nt)
Days 41-42 Etosha National Park
It is approximately a 520 km drive from Windhoek to Etosha National Park today.
Etosha National Park is home to a wide range of Southern Africa's wildlife, including all the big carnivores and five rare or endangered species: black rhino, Hartmann's mountain zebra, black-faced impala, roan antelope and the tiny Damara dik-dik. The wildlife is prolific and Etosha has every right to proclaim itself as one of the world's pre-eminent wildlife areas. Game viewing in the park is relatively easy due to the man-made waterholes and the large sparsely vegetated pans. The bushland surrounding the pans is difficult to see through but there are enough clearings, pans and waterholes to usually allow for some sightings. Namibia has protected its game reserves against poaching so there are large herds of elephants, antelope and other herbivores.
We'll camp in the park at a well equipped campsite overlooking a floodlit waterhole visited by many different species throughout the day and night. We stay in the park for two nights, giving us plenty of opportunity for game drives.
Accommodation
Camping (with facilities) (2 nts)
Day 43 Spitzkoppe
The drive today is approximately 500 km to Spitzkoppe. We bush camp here in the midst of this remote region, and should be able to witness the breathtaking sunsets and sunrises as the colours of the landscape take on remarkable oranges and reds.
Spitzkoppe is known as the 'Matterhorn of Namibia'. The mountain is nearly 2000 metres high and although you should not attempt to climb to the top, there are some excellent hikes in the area. This is a great place to get away from it all and appreciate the stunning, harsh beauty of this sparsely populated country.
Accommodation
Bush camp (no facilities) (1 nt)
Days 44-45 Swakopmund
From the desert we travel to Cape Cross, where we experience the sight, sound and smell of thousands of olive-coloured seals on the shores.
We then continue on to the old German colonial town of Swakopmund where there are plenty of optional adventure activities on offer.
Surrounded by the massive dune fields of the Namib Desert on three sides, and the Atlantic Ocean on the other, Swakopmund is an example of the extraordinary German culture that's found in all major settlements in Namibia. It's worth wandering around the town to admire the beauty of the Germanic architecture and take advantage of some excellent souvenir shopping.
Swakopmund has become the adventure capital of the region. This is a place for the adrenaline junky as there are some excellent adventure activities that you could try. Some of the most popular include sandboarding, quad biking across the beautiful dunes and tandem skydiving over the desert. Other activities here include deep-sea fishing, horse riding in the dunes, aerobatic flights, bike riding, dolphin cruises, paintball, uranium mine tours, pleasure flights around Namibia or balloon flights along the Skeleton Coast.
Included Activities
- Cape Cross seal colony
Optional Activities
- Tandem skydive, Swakopmund - USD270.00
- Sandboarding, Swakopmund - USD80.00
- Scenic flight, Swakopmund - USD385.00
- Quad biking (2 hrs), Swakopmund - USD80.00
- Fishing trip, Swakopmund - USD115.00
Accommodation
Hotel (1 nt), Bungalow (1 nt)
Day 46 Sesriem
A drive of approximately 350 km takes us from Swakopmund to Sesriem, our base for exploring the incredible Namib Desert. This desert region is famous for its vase dune fields, the most spectacular of which are found near Sesriem Canyon.
The Namib Desert region is famous for its vase dune fields, the most spectacular of which are found near Sesriem Canyon. The canyon was formed when the Tsauchab River carved a gorge 30 m deep into the gravel deposits, about 15 million years ago. It is thought that this river once flowed to the Atlantic Ocean but its course was blocked by the encroaching sand dunes. Now the river flows out to the dune fields that stretch for hundreds of miles up the coast, and dries up in a clay pan at Sossusvlei.The dunes are stunning, with magnificent red/orange tones from the brightly coloured sands. They are in fact the highest in the world and are home to a plethora of animal life. The sight of the graceful oryx wandering along the base of these massive dunes is beautiful to see.
Accommodation
Camping (with facilities) (1 nt)
Day 47 Bethanie
In the early morning we climb to the top of the dunes for a dramatic sunrise view across a vast sea of sand.
In the afternoon we head to our river camp near the small town of Bethanie (approx 350 km). Here we camp at a riverside ecotourism campsite.
Accommodation
Camping (with facilities) (1 nt)
Day 48 Fish River Canyon
The day begins by exploring Keetmanshoop's Giant's Playground.
The curiously shaped magma formations of Giant's Playground have been gradually revealed by the erosion of the Earth's surface over millions of years. The formations are scattered and piled, often somewhat precariously, over thousands of square kilometres. There is a short trail which guides you past the most striking formations - an area covered in huge, black, basalt rocks all balancing precariously on top of each other.
We then head south towards Fish River Canyon (approx 200 km). Upon arriving at Fish River we will make our way in the truck to the viewpoint over the canyon.
At 500 metres deep and over 160 km long, Fish River Canyon is one of the largest canyons in the world, ranking close in size to Peru's Colca Canyon and the Grand Canyon in the USA. There are remarkable photographic opportunities here and we try to take in the sunset glows before heading on to our campsite.
Included Activities
- Fish River Canyon
Accommodation
Camping (with facilities) (1 nt)
Day 49 Noordoewer
From Fish River Canyon it is approximately 240 km to Noordoewer. We pitch our tents by the scenic banks for the Gariep (Orange) River. This afternoon there is the option to go canoeing or rafting.
Traditionally known as the Gariep River, the Orange River is the longest in South Africa (2200 km). Its source is high up in the Drakensberg mountain range in Lesotho and it flows into the Atlantic Ocean at Alexander Bay in South Africa. The Orange River is responsible for transporting diamonds and creating the deposits that can be found along the Namibian coast.
Optional Activities
- Canoe trip, Orange River - USD37.00
Accommodation
Camping (with facilities) (1 nt)
Day 50 Citrusdal
Today we cross the border into South Africa and head approximately 500 km to Citrusdal. In the evening we will have the option for some wine tasting.
Sitting between the Kou Bokkeveld and the Swatberg Mountains, Cistrusdal is home to some of the most amazing sites in South Africa. The town is famous for it's rock art as it was originally the home of the San and Khoi people who left it behind as a legacy. If you have time, Citrusdal is a very good place to hike. If you are feeling adventurous you can head for the Wolfberg Arch and Cracks and the Maltese Cross. For a more relaxing exploration, the Maalgat pool and the Standsaal caves are the best places to go. A walk through the winery is a must, as you can hike while finding out about the local wines. For the historical side of the city, visit the oldest orange tree in the country, which is something of a national monument.
Optional Activities
- Wine tasting, Citrusdal - Free
Accommodation
Camping (with facilities) (1 nt)
Day 51 Cape Town
Our safari comes to an end in charming Cape Town (330 km, approx 7 hrs).
On arrival you'll be dropped at our finishing point hotel in central Cape Town. No accommodation is provided for tonight, but we are able to book you additional accommodation in Cape Town. Please ask at time of booking.Please don't book any international flights until after 10pm this evening.
With its stunning coastline, dominating mountain and modern cityscape, Cape Town is one of Africa's most appealing cities. With vineyards on its doorstep, adventure activities around every other corner and plenty of restaurants and cafes to while away the time, Cape Town is a very easy city to spend some extra time in.
If you have extra time, Cape Town, with its internationally recognised beaches, is a great place to kick back and relax. If you'd rather get active, hop inside the revolving cable car and set off on one of hundreds of hiking trails that criss cross Table Mountain to its summit, stopping off the admire the views of Camps Bay below. If you've got energy left perhaps strap on a harness and abseil down. Other attractions worth a visit include the Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens, Robben Island, and the Cape Point Nature Reserve.
Optional Activities
- Table Mountain - Hiking, Cape Town - ZAR720.00
- Table Mountain - Cycling, Cape Town - ZAR550.00
- District Six Museum, Cape Town - ZAR25.00
- Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, Cape Town - ZAR45.00
- Robben Island tour, Cape Town - ZAR260.00
- South Africa National Gallery, Cape Town - ZAR35.00
- Harbour cruise, Cape Town - ZAR200.00
- South African Museum, Cape Town - ZAR27.00
- Abseiling/kloofing, Cape Town - ZAR880.00
- Scuba diving (including gear), Cape Town - ZAR730.00
Also available to purchase
For many of our trips we have other services or experiences that are also available to purchase to extend your trip or to make your holiday a little easier. Below is a list of other travel products you can purchase in conjunction with this trip.
- Serengeti Balloon Safari ( Dragoman ) (.)
Itinerary disclaimer
We must emphasise that the routes, activities and places visited described in these trip notes are intentions and are meant as a rough guide only. We intend following the route detailed but exact night stops cannot be guaranteed. It sometimes happens that we decide to make a change to our basic planned itinerary. This may be for a variety of reasons - climatic, road or bureaucratic conditions may demand it. Or it may be because we find a better, more interesting route. While actually en route, unexpected hospitality, a local festival or a great place to chill out can determine our exact route and itinerary on any given trip.Overnight stops and driving distances each day may vary to best suit the needs of the group.
Culture shock rating

Expect some culture shock. You'll be exposed to signs of poverty and access to services may be sporadic. The food will be quite different to home and English speakers harder to find. Respecting the local culture will make it easier to fit in and really experience the location.
Physical rating

This trip will raise your heartbeat. Moderate physical activities are included and a good level of fitness is required.
Physical preparation
In these parts of the world you'll need to be healthy enough to cope with extremes of climate; from hot deserts through to the cold of high mountain areas. Overland travelling can be demanding - long, rough travel days and dusty conditions can be challenging to some. You'll need to be fit enough to help every day with the camp chores (cooking, washing up, general camp set up) as well as putting up, and taking down your own tent. There are some long driving days and some early morning starts. The step-up into the overland vehicle, while not overly high, can become tiring. You need to judge if you are physically fit enough to haul yourself up and down the step at least 8-10 times a day.
Included activities
Included activities are listed in the day-to-day itinerary, all other activities are optional and at your own expense. If you choose not to participate in the included activities on this itinerary, the cost will not be refunded.
Kitty
On this trip it's compulsory to contribute to a kitty. The kitty is an on-ground payment put into a central fund and overseen by travellers and the crew. It helps fund accommodation, camp meals and some included activities. Kitty amounts are subject to change to reflect local price increases. Please check our website for the up-to-date amount 48 hours prior to your trip commencement.Your kitty will be collected when you arrive for your trip, either on day 1 or, if on a combination trip, in stages throughout your trip.
You may pay your kitty in a mixture of US Dollars cash and the rest in local currency (amount and type of currency to be agreed by the leader at the start of the trip). Most of our travellers chose to bring a cash passport with them for withdrawing local currency (you can visit www.cashpassport.com for further information on these). This is a very secure way of carrying your money whilst travelling. You treat them exactly like an ATM card and draw out local currency from an ATM to give to your leader within each country.If you do choose to pay part in local currency your trip leader will confirm the current exchange rates with you so you will know exactly how much to hand over.Travellers cheques have become increasingly difficult to change around the world with passengers and our leaders experiencing huge frustration and numerous hours spent trying to find a bank which will change travellers cheques. For this reason we no longer accept them on our trips.
Kitty does not cover food while staying in hotels and hostels.
KITTY CHANGES:
We constantly monitor local price changes and exchange rate fluctuations that could affect kitty expenses. Final kitty contributions are likely to be different from those quoted in the brochure or at the time of booking so you must check the final amount just before departure.
We constantly monitor local price changes and exchange rate fluctuations that could affect kitty expenses. Final kitty contributions are likely to be different from those quoted in the brochure or at the time of booking so you must check the final amount just before departure.
As our kitty is flexible the indicated amount is indicative only. Follow the link below to view the kitty amount for your departure date.
Optional activities
A selection of optional activities are listed in the day-to-day itinerary. This isn't an exhaustive list and should be used as a guide only. Prices are for entrance only and don't include transport costs to and from the sites or local guides unless indicated. It may not be possible to do all the activities listed in the time available at each destination. Optional activities aren't necessarily endorsed or recommended by Intrepid nor included in price of this trip. If you do any optional activities, you do so at your own risk and it must be clearly understood that your participation is your own decision and doesn't form part of your contract with Intrepid. You may be required to sign/complete a waiver form or a receipt for some optional activities.
Money Exchange
The best way to manage your money in Africa is a mixture of cash and an ATM card (best to have both Visa and MasterCard).CASH:
Cash is easily changed at exchange bureaus and they generally offer the best rates.***PLEASE NOTE: MANY BUSINESSES AND BANKS IN EAST AFRICA DO NOT ACCEPT US DOLLAR NOTES OLDER THAN 2004. IF YOU ARE BRINGING USD, WE STRONGLY RECOMMEND LARGE BILLS IN GOOD CONDITION, 2004 SERIES ONWARDS ONLY. ANY OLD OR DAMAGED NOTES MAY NOT BE ACCEPTED. IF YOUR KITTY PAYMENT IS REQUIRED TO BE PAID IN USD, IT MUST BE PAID WITH BILLS NO OLDER THAN 2003 SERIES***EUR or GBP are also widely accepted. The South African Rand can also be used widely in countries of Southern Africa. When changing money, only use reputable authorised money exchange vendors and never anyone on the street. There are many instances of travellers being given counterfeit notes or being tricked when money is being counted out.TRAVELLER'S CHEQUES:
Some people like to carry traveller’s cheques for back up emergency cash. While traveller’s cheques are undoubtedly the safest way to carry money, they are becoming harder to cash around the world and can often result in unfavourable exchange rates and commission charges. They are no longer accepted in many locations in Kenya & Tanzania. It can also be tricky to reach banks during banking business hours which are often short in many African countries. Note: Receipts for traveller’s cheques are required by banks and money changers.VISA AND MASTERCARD:
With ATMs being increasingly available in the many major towns and cities and even some campsites, credit or debit cards are a convenient way to access money. Throughout Africa, cards with the Visa logo are most readily recognised, although MasterCard is also accepted in most places. A charge is made for each international transaction - please check with your bank how much this fee will be. Check with your bank before leaving home that your card can be used as a debit card in Africa. You may also want to notify your bank that you are visiting Africa as it's not unknown for banks to freeze cards which show sudden transactions in other countries. If you're on a multi-country tour, your tour leader will be able to give you an approximate idea of how much money you may need for your stay in each country.
Cash is easily changed at exchange bureaus and they generally offer the best rates.***PLEASE NOTE: MANY BUSINESSES AND BANKS IN EAST AFRICA DO NOT ACCEPT US DOLLAR NOTES OLDER THAN 2004. IF YOU ARE BRINGING USD, WE STRONGLY RECOMMEND LARGE BILLS IN GOOD CONDITION, 2004 SERIES ONWARDS ONLY. ANY OLD OR DAMAGED NOTES MAY NOT BE ACCEPTED. IF YOUR KITTY PAYMENT IS REQUIRED TO BE PAID IN USD, IT MUST BE PAID WITH BILLS NO OLDER THAN 2003 SERIES***EUR or GBP are also widely accepted. The South African Rand can also be used widely in countries of Southern Africa. When changing money, only use reputable authorised money exchange vendors and never anyone on the street. There are many instances of travellers being given counterfeit notes or being tricked when money is being counted out.TRAVELLER'S CHEQUES:
Some people like to carry traveller’s cheques for back up emergency cash. While traveller’s cheques are undoubtedly the safest way to carry money, they are becoming harder to cash around the world and can often result in unfavourable exchange rates and commission charges. They are no longer accepted in many locations in Kenya & Tanzania. It can also be tricky to reach banks during banking business hours which are often short in many African countries. Note: Receipts for traveller’s cheques are required by banks and money changers.VISA AND MASTERCARD:
With ATMs being increasingly available in the many major towns and cities and even some campsites, credit or debit cards are a convenient way to access money. Throughout Africa, cards with the Visa logo are most readily recognised, although MasterCard is also accepted in most places. A charge is made for each international transaction - please check with your bank how much this fee will be. Check with your bank before leaving home that your card can be used as a debit card in Africa. You may also want to notify your bank that you are visiting Africa as it's not unknown for banks to freeze cards which show sudden transactions in other countries. If you're on a multi-country tour, your tour leader will be able to give you an approximate idea of how much money you may need for your stay in each country.
Spending money
Every traveller is different and therefore spending money requirements will vary. Some travellers may drink more than others while other travellers like to purchase more souvenirs than most. Please consider your own spending habits when it comes to allowing for drinks, shopping, participating in optional activities, and tipping. Please also remember the following specific recommendations when planning your trip.
Tipping
If you are happy with the services providing a tip - though not compulsory - is appropriate. While it may not be customary to you, it is of great significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels, inspires excellent service, and is an entrenched feature of the tourism industry across many Intrepid destinations. We recommend that any tips are given to the intended recipient by a member of your group, rather than collected and passed on by the group leader.The following amounts are based on local considerations and feedback from our past travellers:Restaurants: Please check the bill and if there’s an addition of 10% service charge, there’s no requirement for tipping. Otherwise, 10% of the total bill amount is appropriate.At local markets and basic restaurants: Leave the loose change.Local guides/Porters: Throughout your trip you may at times have a local guide in addition to your leader. We suggest US$1 per person, per day for local guides/porters.Your crew (including the leader and driver, and perhaps cook depending on your trip): You may also consider tipping your crew for outstanding service throughout your trip. The amount is entirely a personal preference; however as a guideline US$2-3 per person, per day can be used. Of course you are free to tip more or less as you see fit, depending on your perception of service quality and the length of your trip. Remember, a tip is not compulsory and should only be given when you receive excellent service.
Departure tax
All departure taxes should be included in your international flight ticket.
Important notes
LOCAL PARTNER:
Please note this Intrepid trip is operated by our experienced local partners Dragoman Overland. Your departure will be run in a Dragoman vehicle with a Dragoman crew.
Please note this Intrepid trip is operated by our experienced local partners Dragoman Overland. Your departure will be run in a Dragoman vehicle with a Dragoman crew.
MINIMUM AGE:
The minimum age for this trip is 18 years old and bookings for minors, even if accompanied by a parent, cannot be accepted.
The minimum age for this trip is 18 years old and bookings for minors, even if accompanied by a parent, cannot be accepted.
Group size
Maximum of 22 travellers per group.
Your fellow travellers
As you travel on a group trip you will be exposed to all the pleasures and maybe some of the frustrations of travelling in a group. Your fellow travellers will probably come from all corners of the world and likely a range of age groups too. We ask you to be understanding of the various needs and preferences of your group - patience with your fellow travellers is sometimes required for the benefit of everyone's travel experience. Remember too that you have responsibilities to the group. If you are requested to be at a place at a certain time, ensure that you don't keep the rest of the group waiting. We have found time and time again that the very best trips we operate are those where the dynamics within the group work well - this takes just a little effort on your part.Due to privacy reasons we are unable to provide you with contact details and any personal information about your fellow travellers booked on your trip prior to departure. However you can download Intrepid's FREE Meet Up app to chat with your fellow travellers before your trip. Meet up, discuss your upcoming trip and share the excitement of planning for your adventure. For more information visit:
www.intrepidtravel.com/meetup
www.intrepidtravel.com/meetup
Single travellers
Our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and don't involve a compulsory single supplement. Single travellers share with people of the same gender in accommodation ranging from twin to multishare. Some of our itineraries have accommodation booked on a mixed gender share basis and where applicable this will be specified in our Trip Notes. On a selection of our trips, you have the option to pay a single supplement to ensure that you have your own room (where available). Please note that this only applies to accommodation during the tour - pre-trip and post-trip accommodation will be booked on a single room basis.
Accommodation
Camping (with facilities) (40 nts), Bush camp (no facilities) (5 nts), Hotel (4 nts), Bungalow (1 nt)
The type and variety of accommodation is determined by conditions on each of our routes. Each route is different - on some we use a mixture of campsites and wild camps; on others we also use hotels.Where it's not practical to camp (ie: in towns and cities), we use hotel accommodation and eat out in local restaurants. The frequency and regularity of hotel stops depends on the route and area.Campsites will range from rather basic to those with excellent facilities, including swimming pools, restaurants and bars. In some cases it may also be possible to upgrade locally to bungalows, lodges or even tree-houses. One of the highlights of overlanding is that in more remote areas we will wild-camp. This allows us to get far away from the tourist crowds to some beautiful, secluded spots. We will also arrange as many village or local homestays as possible, allowing us to get close to indigenous populations and ensures our money stays within local communities.
Meals introduction
While travelling with us you'll experience the vast array of wonderful food available in the world. Your group leader will be able to suggest restaurants to try during your trip. On our camping trips we often cook the region's specialities so you don't miss out. To give you the maximum flexibility in deciding where, what and with whom to eat, generally not all meals are included in the trip price. This also gives you more budgeting flexibility. As a rule our groups tend to eat together to enable you to taste a larger variety of dishes and enjoy each other's company. There's no obligation to do this though.
When travelling on an Overland trip you have chosen a participation camping tour. This means that you will be helping your leader prepare meals for the group. You may also get the chance to help with the shopping!Your leader will come up with meal ideas and quantities needed for large groups. Participating in the camp is usually done on a duty roster system with group of 5 or 6 people (depending on group size) having a different camp job each day. If you have any dietary requirements please tell us at the time of booking and also remind your crew at your welcome meeting.
Meals
All meals when camping
Please budget for additional meals and expenses while on your trip. Our suggestion is based on past traveller feedback but you may choose to spend more or less.
USD 200.00
Transport
Ferry, Mokoro, Overland vehicle
As from 1 January 2011 a new law in South Africa has been introduced whereby the cross border transport agency are no longer allowing foreign-registered vehicles to enter the country. We will be working with a local South African operator for the South African section of this tour who will be providing the services of an alternative vehicle* and driver vetted by Intrepid. Your Intrepid leader and cook will still accompany you on this section and your itinerary will remain unaffected.*The vehicle used on this section will be an overland vehicle similar in style to an Intrepid vehicle. However for smaller groups which don't require a large vehicle, smaller land cruiser style vehicles may be used.
There are many long hours spent driving on rough roads on all African itineraries. While most people love the chance to watch the changing landscape and daily village life, feedback shows that long periods of inactivity does not appeal to all clients. We provide the approximate distance covered each day and how many hours this normally takes to drive so that you can choose the safari experience which is right for you.African conditions are extremely tough on vehicles. While we fastidiously maintain our vehicles at our workshops, you should not expect Africa to be your traditional touring experience. While it's certainly our aim to avoid them, it's important that you set off on your trip knowing that the occasional breakdown can happen and are best treated as part of the African adventure. Due to wet weather there may be times when we have to take an alternative route which will mean longer travel times.
Group leader
On all of our Dragoman-operated Overlanding trips you will be accompanied by two Western crew members who are responsible for the group and the overall organisation of the trip.While not being guides in the traditional sense you can expect them to have a broad knowledge of the places visited and to offer suggestions of things to do and see. In East and Southern Africa we will also have an African camp master/cook who is in charge of running the camp and organising all of the meals. Their knowledge of the local produce makes shopping at the markets great fun and you will learn how to prepare and cook some unusual dishes. In the rest of Africa, South America and the majority of Central Asia and China we use local guides who may stay with us for just a few hours or will actually travel with us for some or all of the journey. In these cases they become a third crew member and are able to offer their local knowledge as well as a real insight into the lives of the local people. Our crew are chosen for their leadership skills, and most importantly have a passion for the region and its people.We endeavour to provide the services of an experienced leader and crew; however, situations may arise where your leader is new to a particular region or training other group leadersOn any Overland trip, there are a number of tasks that need to be done. Our overland trip leaders will organise the group into smaller groups of two or three who will take turns in the daily shopping and cooking, vehicle cleaning, disposing of rubbish, etc. There are also a number of other jobs that need doing e.g. collecting water and firewood, luggage loading, supervising the kitty and food stores, which may be assigned to particular people or on a rota system according to group size, make-up, and so on. You must come prepared to 'pull your weight' and share in these duties; you will become very unpopular with other group members if they have to do your share. The more you put into a trip, the more you'll benefit.
Joining point
Kivi Milimani Hotel
Milimani Road
Milimani
Nairobi
100
KENYA
Phone: +254 735491064
Joining point description
The Kivi Milimani hotel is very simple but clean, comfortable and safe. All rooms have en suite with hot water. The hotel's surroundings are lovely with a pool area perfect for relaxing and groovy retro (but original!) 70's bar and restaurant.
Joining point instructions
There is a taxi stand outside the airport building. A taxi should cost approximately US$20, and must be paid in Kenyan Shillings.
Arrival complications
We don't expect any problems (and nor should you) but if for any reason you are unable to commence your trip as scheduled, please refer to the Joining Instructions section above for who to contact.
Finish point
Saasveld Lodge
73 Kloof Street
Gardens
Cape Town
8001
SOUTH AFRICA
Finish point description
Saasveld Lodge is central located in the lively and vibrant Kloof Street with its large variety of restaurants, coffee shops, cafes and bars and is only 3 minutes from Long Street as well as the bustling city centre. Rooms are simple yet clean and comfortable.
Finish point instructions
If you have pre-booked a departure transfer, please inform your leader and they will notify you of your departure transfer time.If you are making your own way to the airport the hotel will be able to help book you an airport shuttle or taxi. Please ask at reception.
Emergency contact
Dragoman 24 HOUR EMERGENCY NUMBER Tel: +44 (0) 1728 862 222 This is an answer-phone. If calling outside UK office hours for non urgent questions, please leave a message. There is a number provided to call for a 24 hour manned mobile, in case of genuine emergency. For further emergency contact details go to:
Emergency funds
Please also make sure you have access to an additional US$400, to be used when unforeseen incidents or circumstances outside our control (eg. a natural disaster, civil unrest or an outbreak of bird flu) necessitate a change to our planned route.
Visas
Visas are the responsibility of the individual traveller. The visa requirements for your trip vary depending on where you are from and where you are going. As a general rule most countries expect that you will have at least 6 months' validity on your passport. On arrival visitors may be asked to present return tickets and evidence of means to cover your intended stay. We keep the following information up to date as much as possible, but rules do change - it's important that you check for yourself. Residents from other countries must consult the relevant embassies or your travel agent.
KENYA:
Australia: Yes - Visa required
Belgium: Yes - Visa required
Canada: Yes - Visa required
Germany: Ye - Visa required
Ireland: Yes - Visa required
Netherlands: Yes - Visa required
New Zealand: Yes - Visa required
South Africa: Yes - Visa required if travelling for more than 30days
Switzerland: Yes - Visa required
United Kingdom: Yes - Visa required
USA: Yes - Visa required
Kenyan Visas can be obtained at point of entry for most nationalities, although some are required to purchase visas in advance. You MUST check before departure. If you plan to purchase your visa on arrival you'll need new (post-2003), clean US dollars cash. The cost is around US$50. Currently you don't require a multi-entry visa between Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda due to an agreement between the three countries (eg. if you exit Kenya to Tanzania you can re-enter Kenya on the same visa). If your trip visits Rwanda and re-enters Kenya you may require a double entry visa to Kenya, depending on the border guard on the day. This can easily be purchased at the border if required.
Australia: Yes - Visa required
Belgium: Yes - Visa required
Canada: Yes - Visa required
Germany: Ye - Visa required
Ireland: Yes - Visa required
Netherlands: Yes - Visa required
New Zealand: Yes - Visa required
South Africa: Yes - Visa required if travelling for more than 30days
Switzerland: Yes - Visa required
United Kingdom: Yes - Visa required
USA: Yes - Visa required
Kenyan Visas can be obtained at point of entry for most nationalities, although some are required to purchase visas in advance. You MUST check before departure. If you plan to purchase your visa on arrival you'll need new (post-2003), clean US dollars cash. The cost is around US$50. Currently you don't require a multi-entry visa between Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda due to an agreement between the three countries (eg. if you exit Kenya to Tanzania you can re-enter Kenya on the same visa). If your trip visits Rwanda and re-enters Kenya you may require a double entry visa to Kenya, depending on the border guard on the day. This can easily be purchased at the border if required.
TANZANIA:
Australia: Yes - Visa required
Belgium: Yes - Visa required
Canada: Yes - Visa required
Germany: Ye - Visa required
Ireland: Yes - Visa required
Netherlands: Yes - Visa required
New Zealand: Yes - Visa required
South Africa: Yes - Visa required
Switzerland: Yes - Visa required
United Kingdom: Yes - Visa required
USA: Yes - Visa required
It is recommended you purchase your visa in advance at any Diplomatic or Consulate Mission of the United Republic of Tanzania abroad. The cost is approximately US$100 depending on nationality and should take 1 business day. At the present time you do not require a multi entry visa to Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda due to an agreement between the three countries (eg. if you exit Kenya to Tanzania you can re-enter Kenya on the same visa). However if your trip visits Tanzania twice after a visit to a country other than those listed above, you may need to purchase two visas.
It is also possible to obtain a tourist's visa for a single entry at any one of the following main entry points to Tanzania, subject to the fulfilment of all immigration and health requirements:
-Dar es Salaam International Airport
-Zanzibar International Airport
-Kilimanjaro International Airport (KIA)
-Namanga Entry Point (Tanzania-Kenya boarder point)
-Kasumulu Border crossing
Australia: Yes - Visa required
Belgium: Yes - Visa required
Canada: Yes - Visa required
Germany: Ye - Visa required
Ireland: Yes - Visa required
Netherlands: Yes - Visa required
New Zealand: Yes - Visa required
South Africa: Yes - Visa required
Switzerland: Yes - Visa required
United Kingdom: Yes - Visa required
USA: Yes - Visa required
It is recommended you purchase your visa in advance at any Diplomatic or Consulate Mission of the United Republic of Tanzania abroad. The cost is approximately US$100 depending on nationality and should take 1 business day. At the present time you do not require a multi entry visa to Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda due to an agreement between the three countries (eg. if you exit Kenya to Tanzania you can re-enter Kenya on the same visa). However if your trip visits Tanzania twice after a visit to a country other than those listed above, you may need to purchase two visas.
It is also possible to obtain a tourist's visa for a single entry at any one of the following main entry points to Tanzania, subject to the fulfilment of all immigration and health requirements:
-Dar es Salaam International Airport
-Zanzibar International Airport
-Kilimanjaro International Airport (KIA)
-Namanga Entry Point (Tanzania-Kenya boarder point)
-Kasumulu Border crossing
MALAWI:
Citizens of Australia, New Zealand, the UK and US don't require a visa to enter Malawi for stays of up to 90 days. All other nationalities should check with their respective embassies for more information.
Citizens of Australia, New Zealand, the UK and US don't require a visa to enter Malawi for stays of up to 90 days. All other nationalities should check with their respective embassies for more information.
ZIMBABWE:
Zimbabwe visas are required by most nationalities, including from the EU, US and Australia. All nationalities should check with their nearest Zimbabwe Embassy for more information. For most nationalities, Zimbabwe visas are available at the point of entry. If you plan to purchase your visa on arrival you will need US$ cash. The cost is approximately US$30/45.
Zimbabwe visas are required by most nationalities, including from the EU, US and Australia. All nationalities should check with their nearest Zimbabwe Embassy for more information. For most nationalities, Zimbabwe visas are available at the point of entry. If you plan to purchase your visa on arrival you will need US$ cash. The cost is approximately US$30/45.
ZAMBIA:
Zambian visas are required by most nationalities, including from the EU, US and Australia. All nationalities should check with their nearest Zambian Embassy for more information. For most nationalities, Zambian visas are available at the point of entry. If you plan to purchase your visa on arrival you will need US$ cash.
Zambian visas are required by most nationalities, including from the EU, US and Australia. All nationalities should check with their nearest Zambian Embassy for more information. For most nationalities, Zambian visas are available at the point of entry. If you plan to purchase your visa on arrival you will need US$ cash.
BOTSWANA:
Citizens of Australia, UK, and the US don't need visas to visit Botswana as a tourist for up to three months. Citizens of other countries, including most EU countries, should check with the relevant consulates as to whether a visa is required.Entry Requirements :
If you are arriving from a country where yellow fever is endemic, you will be required to present a valid Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate to be allowed entry into Botswana. We have received unconfirmed reports from our local operator that as of December 1st, 2012 all foreign tourists under the age of 16yrs will be required to carry a copy of their birth certificate in order to enter Botswana. We recommend that passengers under the age of 16yrs carry a copy of their birth certificate just in case.
Citizens of Australia, UK, and the US don't need visas to visit Botswana as a tourist for up to three months. Citizens of other countries, including most EU countries, should check with the relevant consulates as to whether a visa is required.Entry Requirements :
If you are arriving from a country where yellow fever is endemic, you will be required to present a valid Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate to be allowed entry into Botswana. We have received unconfirmed reports from our local operator that as of December 1st, 2012 all foreign tourists under the age of 16yrs will be required to carry a copy of their birth certificate in order to enter Botswana. We recommend that passengers under the age of 16yrs carry a copy of their birth certificate just in case.
NAMIBIA:
Currently visas are not required for most nationalities to enter Namibia. Please check with the relevant visa office before departure to make sure there has been no change.
Currently visas are not required for most nationalities to enter Namibia. Please check with the relevant visa office before departure to make sure there has been no change.
SOUTH AFRICA:
Citizens of Australia, UK and most EU countries do not need visas to visit South Africa as a tourist for up to three months. Citizens of all countries should check with the relevant consulates as to whether a visa is required.Entry Requirements - Yellow Fever Certificate
As of October 1st 2011, A valid Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate is now required for all passengers over one year of age who arrive or are transiting through South Africa, from a country or region listed by the World Health Organization as infected by yellow fever. Travellers unable to present a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate issued at least 10 days before arrival in South Africa will be refused entry. There is no option for travellers without a vaccination certificate to be vaccinated on arrival. Please note this also includes transiting through an infected country or region. As of October 1st South Africa will also consider Zambia as a country infected by Yellow Fever even though the WHO does not currently list Zambia. All travellers from Zambia into South Africa will be required to show proof of yellow fever vaccination.
Citizens of Australia, UK and most EU countries do not need visas to visit South Africa as a tourist for up to three months. Citizens of all countries should check with the relevant consulates as to whether a visa is required.Entry Requirements - Yellow Fever Certificate
As of October 1st 2011, A valid Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate is now required for all passengers over one year of age who arrive or are transiting through South Africa, from a country or region listed by the World Health Organization as infected by yellow fever. Travellers unable to present a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate issued at least 10 days before arrival in South Africa will be refused entry. There is no option for travellers without a vaccination certificate to be vaccinated on arrival. Please note this also includes transiting through an infected country or region. As of October 1st South Africa will also consider Zambia as a country infected by Yellow Fever even though the WHO does not currently list Zambia. All travellers from Zambia into South Africa will be required to show proof of yellow fever vaccination.
Issues on your trip
While we always endeavour to provide the best possible holiday experience, due to the nature of travel and the areas we visit sometimes things can and do go wrong. Should any issue occur while you are on your trip, it is imperative that you discuss this with your group leader or our local representative straight away so that they can do their best to rectify the problem and save any potential negative impact on the rest of your trip.We recognise that there may be times when your group leader/local partner may not be able to resolve a situation to your satisfaction - if this is the case, please ask the leader to speak to their direct manager.You may also choose to provide details in your online feedback, which we ask you to complete within 30 days of the end of your trip. But we do ask you to be aware that it is very difficult for us to provide any practical help after the trip is complete.
What to take
What you need to bring will vary according to the trip style you have chosen, the countries you are visiting and when you are travelling. Generally speaking you should pack as lightly as possible. On the vast majority of our trips you are expected to carry your own luggage and although you won't be required to walk long distances with your luggage (max 30 minutes), we recommend keeping the weight under 10kg / 22lb.Most travellers carry their luggage in a backpack, although an overnight bag with a shoulder strap would suffice if you travel lightly. Smaller bags or backpacks with wheels are convenient although we recommend your bag has carry straps. You'll also need a day pack/bag to carry water and a camera etc for day trips.You can find Intrepid's Ultimate Packing List on our website. It should be used as a guide only and isn't intended to be a complete packing list.
LOCKER SPACE:
The size of baggage that can be brought on this tour is limited by the locker space on the truck. Different trucks have different sized lockers however to be safe we recommend that your bag be no larger than 66cm deep, 30cm wide, and 30cm high. You will need to bring your own lock for your locker. We recommend a 20-30mm sized padlock with a long shackle.The weight limit for luggage on all trucks is maximum 20kg. Backpacks shouldn't have an external frame unless it can be easily removed and stored separately to avoid damaging other people's luggage.
The size of baggage that can be brought on this tour is limited by the locker space on the truck. Different trucks have different sized lockers however to be safe we recommend that your bag be no larger than 66cm deep, 30cm wide, and 30cm high. You will need to bring your own lock for your locker. We recommend a 20-30mm sized padlock with a long shackle.The weight limit for luggage on all trucks is maximum 20kg. Backpacks shouldn't have an external frame unless it can be easily removed and stored separately to avoid damaging other people's luggage.
CAMPING EQUIPMENT / MATTRESS:
A sleeping bag (we recommend a 3–4 season). It can get very cold at night in winter months in desert and mountainous regions. If you're travelling during the hot season you may wish to also pack a sleep sheet so you will be comfortable no matter the weather. Pillows are NOT provided so please bring a travel pillow along.We don't provide a mattress so please bring your own (a Thermarest / inflatable mattress is recommended).A simple plastic bag / waterproof toiletry bag (that can hang on a nail on the back of a door) will be useful to keep your clothes dry inside basic camp shower structures.
A sleeping bag (we recommend a 3–4 season). It can get very cold at night in winter months in desert and mountainous regions. If you're travelling during the hot season you may wish to also pack a sleep sheet so you will be comfortable no matter the weather. Pillows are NOT provided so please bring a travel pillow along.We don't provide a mattress so please bring your own (a Thermarest / inflatable mattress is recommended).A simple plastic bag / waterproof toiletry bag (that can hang on a nail on the back of a door) will be useful to keep your clothes dry inside basic camp shower structures.
CLOTHING:
You will need to bring a mixture of lightweight clothing, some warm items for the evenings, and long shirts and pants for protection against mosquitoes in the malaria areas. Clothes should be easy to wash and dry. Some people like to take jeans for evenings out but they can be tough to dry and should not be used for trekking. Avoid nylon and other synthetics, which can be very uncomfortable in hot weather. Ex-military or military style clothing and equipment is NOT recommended.
You will need to bring a mixture of lightweight clothing, some warm items for the evenings, and long shirts and pants for protection against mosquitoes in the malaria areas. Clothes should be easy to wash and dry. Some people like to take jeans for evenings out but they can be tough to dry and should not be used for trekking. Avoid nylon and other synthetics, which can be very uncomfortable in hot weather. Ex-military or military style clothing and equipment is NOT recommended.
BATTERIES/POWER:
Most of our trips have access to power to recharge batteries for phones and cameras every couple of days. We always recommend that you carry an extra battery for your camera just in case. Your vehicle will be equipped with a 12 volt “cigarette lighter” socket which may be used at the crew’s discretion, however, do bear in mind that only one piece of equipment can be charged at a time and it will not be allowed if there is a risk of running the vehicle’s batteries low. Batteries may also be recharged from hotel room wall sockets. We suggest you bring a mix of normal and rechargeable batteries and the appropriate recharging unit. Hotels and many campsites have electricity and charging of batteries is advised before checking out the following day.
Most of our trips have access to power to recharge batteries for phones and cameras every couple of days. We always recommend that you carry an extra battery for your camera just in case. Your vehicle will be equipped with a 12 volt “cigarette lighter” socket which may be used at the crew’s discretion, however, do bear in mind that only one piece of equipment can be charged at a time and it will not be allowed if there is a risk of running the vehicle’s batteries low. Batteries may also be recharged from hotel room wall sockets. We suggest you bring a mix of normal and rechargeable batteries and the appropriate recharging unit. Hotels and many campsites have electricity and charging of batteries is advised before checking out the following day.
VALUABLES:
Please try to avoid bringing unnecessary valuables, and use your hotel safe and the safe on the overland truck to store the bulk of your money, passport, and airline tickets. It’s also a good idea to purchase a money belt or pouch that is easily hidden.We strongly recommend that you photocopy all important documents e.g. air tickets, passport, vaccination certificate, etc. and keep the copies separate from the originals. While not valid, a photocopy makes it very much easier to obtain replacements if necessary.
Please try to avoid bringing unnecessary valuables, and use your hotel safe and the safe on the overland truck to store the bulk of your money, passport, and airline tickets. It’s also a good idea to purchase a money belt or pouch that is easily hidden.We strongly recommend that you photocopy all important documents e.g. air tickets, passport, vaccination certificate, etc. and keep the copies separate from the originals. While not valid, a photocopy makes it very much easier to obtain replacements if necessary.
WATER BOTTLE:
Consider bringing your own water bottle to refill along the way. The sale of bottled water contributes to an enormous environmental problem around the world. In addition to the water in bottles, the production of a 1 litre plastic bottle takes 2 litres of water and 200ml of oil. A large proportion end up in limited landfill or discarded in waterways and natural environments. Please avoid the purchase of bottled water by using the chemically sterilized water stored in the purpose-built storage tank or in water jerry cans in your overland vehicle. You're free to refill your bottle as many times a day as you like.
Consider bringing your own water bottle to refill along the way. The sale of bottled water contributes to an enormous environmental problem around the world. In addition to the water in bottles, the production of a 1 litre plastic bottle takes 2 litres of water and 200ml of oil. A large proportion end up in limited landfill or discarded in waterways and natural environments. Please avoid the purchase of bottled water by using the chemically sterilized water stored in the purpose-built storage tank or in water jerry cans in your overland vehicle. You're free to refill your bottle as many times a day as you like.
Health
All Intrepid travellers need to be in good physical health in order to participate fully on this trip. When selecting your trip please make sure you have read through the itinerary carefully and assess your ability to cope with our style of travel. Please note that if, in the opinion of our group leader or local guide, any traveller is unable to complete the itinerary without undue risk to themselves and/or the rest of the group, Intrepid reserves the right to exclude them from all or part of a trip without refund.You should consult your doctor for up-to-date medical travel information or for any necessary vaccinations and anti-malarial requirements before departure. We recommend that you carry a first aid kit as well as any personal medical requirements (including a spare pair of glasses) as they may not easily be obtained at the locations on this trip. For legal reasons our leaders and guides are prohibited from administering any type of drugs including headache tablets and antibiotics. Please ensure that you are adequately prepared.
YELLOW FEVER:
A valid international certificate of vaccination against Yellow Fever is required in many countries. You may need to present this on arrival at the airport or border crossing. Some countries will refuse entry if you are unable to present your certificate. It's also quite common for your home country to request a Yellow Fever certificate on your arrival back home.It is your responsibility to check with your doctor well in advance of leaving home about the Yellow Fever requirements for the countries you'll be visiting.
A valid international certificate of vaccination against Yellow Fever is required in many countries. You may need to present this on arrival at the airport or border crossing. Some countries will refuse entry if you are unable to present your certificate. It's also quite common for your home country to request a Yellow Fever certificate on your arrival back home.It is your responsibility to check with your doctor well in advance of leaving home about the Yellow Fever requirements for the countries you'll be visiting.
TYPHOID:
It is recommended that if you are travelling to Harare you make sure that your Typhoid vaccinations are up to date. There has been an outbreak of typhoid in parts of Harare, with over 1500 cases reported since October 2011. For more information speak to your doctor and see the World Health Organization (WHO) website.
It is recommended that if you are travelling to Harare you make sure that your Typhoid vaccinations are up to date. There has been an outbreak of typhoid in parts of Harare, with over 1500 cases reported since October 2011. For more information speak to your doctor and see the World Health Organization (WHO) website.
Safety
Many national governments provide a regularly updated advice service on safety issues involved with international travel. We recommend that you check your government's advice for their latest travel information before departure. Please refer to our website's safety page for links to major travel advisories and updates on safety issues affecting our trip.We strongly recommend the use of a neck wallet or money belt while travelling, for the safe-keeping of your passport, air tickets, cash and other valuable items. Leave your valuable jewellery at home - you won't need it while travelling. Many of our hotels have safety deposit boxes, which is the most secure way of storing your valuables. A lock is recommended for securing your luggage.Your leader will accompany you on all included activities, however during your trip you'll have some free time to pursue your own interests, relax and take it easy or explore at your leisure. While your group leader will assist you with the available options in a given location, please note that any optional activities you undertake are not part of your Intrepid itinerary, and Intrepid makes no representations about the safety of the activity or the standard of the operators running them. Please use your own good judgement when selecting an activity in your free time. Please also note that your group leader has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the trip itinerary if it's deemed necessary due to safety concerns.For more details on the type of conditions and safety standards you can expect on your trip, please refer to Intrepid's operational safety policy on our website. We recommend that you take a moment to read through this information before travelling, and would appreciate any feedback on how well it's being implemented in the field:
TRAVEL ADVISORY:
Where we use a local partner to fully operate one of our itineraries, we use the travel advisory of the country where that operator is based rather than the Australian DFAT advisory. This itinerary is operated by our local partners Dragoman, and as such will follow the British Government (FCO) Travel Advice. To view these travel advisories please log on to:
Where we use a local partner to fully operate one of our itineraries, we use the travel advisory of the country where that operator is based rather than the Australian DFAT advisory. This itinerary is operated by our local partners Dragoman, and as such will follow the British Government (FCO) Travel Advice. To view these travel advisories please log on to:
UNFENCED CAMP SITES:
On some trips you will at times stay in unfenced camp sites within national parks. While this is a fantastic experience, there are a few safety rules to follow. While staying in national parks it's important that you listen to any advice given by your tour leader and the park rangers regarding responsible and safe behaviour.
On some trips you will at times stay in unfenced camp sites within national parks. While this is a fantastic experience, there are a few safety rules to follow. While staying in national parks it's important that you listen to any advice given by your tour leader and the park rangers regarding responsible and safe behaviour.
PETTY THEFT AND PERSONAL SAFETY:
While travelling there is always the risk of pick-pocketing and petty theft, particularly in the more touristy cities. We recommend that you exercise caution when walking alone at night and encourage you to walk together and only on main, well-lit thoroughfares. Be particularly vigilant on public transport. Simple measures like carrying your day pack on your front, not hanging your bag over the back of your chair and wearing a money belt will reduce any chance that your valuables should go missing.
While travelling there is always the risk of pick-pocketing and petty theft, particularly in the more touristy cities. We recommend that you exercise caution when walking alone at night and encourage you to walk together and only on main, well-lit thoroughfares. Be particularly vigilant on public transport. Simple measures like carrying your day pack on your front, not hanging your bag over the back of your chair and wearing a money belt will reduce any chance that your valuables should go missing.
Travel insurance
Travel insurance is compulsory for all our trips. We require that, at a minimum, you are covered for medical expenses including emergency repatriation. We strongly recommend that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects.When travelling on a group trip, you won't be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance and the insurance company's 24 hour emergency contact number has been seen by your leader.If you have credit card insurance your group leader will require details of the participating insurer/underwriter, the level of coverage, policy number and emergency contact number rather than the bank's name and credit card details. Please contact your bank for these details prior to arriving in-country.Please go to our website for links to various travel insurance providers:
Responsible Travel
We believe strongly in low impact or rather positive impact tourism. Broadly speaking this means that we try to minimise the negative aspects of tourism on the local cultures and environments that we visit and highlight the positive aspects. Please visit our website for further details and suggestions on how you can be a responsible traveller:
When packing be aware that dress standards can be conservative in some parts of Africa. To respect this and for your own comfort, we strongly recommend modest clothing. This means covering shoulders and no short shorts in culturally sensitive areas: Mosques, small villages, etc. We recommend a mixture of loose, lightweight clothing and warm clothing for the evenings. Topless sun bathing is unacceptable through out the whole of Africa.
A couple of rules
Illegal drugs will not be tolerated on our trips. Possessing or using drugs not only contravenes the laws of the land, but also puts the rest of the group at risk. Smoking marijuana and opium is a part of local culture in some parts of the world but is not acceptable for Intrepid travellers. Intrepid's philosophy of travel is one of respect towards everyone we encounter and in particular, the local people who make our destinations such special places. The exploitation of prostitutes is completely contrary to this philosophy. Our group leader has the right to expel any member of the group if drugs are found in their possession or if they use prostitutes.
The Intrepid Foundation
Since Intrepid Travel commenced operating in 1989 we've been committed to giving something back to the communities we visit. One way has been through our support for local humanitarian, development and conservation projects. Many of our travellers want to contribute something too. Whilst it is often tempting to give hand-outs to those less fortunate, this has the potential to promote a culture of begging and dependency. Handouts are not a sustainable way for individuals or communities to live. That’s why we established The Intrepid Foundation – to make it easier for travellers wishing to give back to communities in an effective and meaningful way. The Intrepid Foundation is a not-for-profit fund offering a selection of excellent grassroots organisations which you can contribute to. All donations to The Intrepid Foundation will be matched by Intrepid Travel dollar for dollar (up to AU$5,000 per donor and a total of AU$400,000 for all donors in each financial year). And every cent gets there as Intrepid Travel pays for all the administration costs. Donating is simple and secure. Please ask your group leader for information on the projects we support through The Intrepid Foundation or go to our website:
Responsible Travel projects
Organisations and projects currently supported in Kenya include:* New Hope Children's Centre aims to assist the less fortunate in society and give them hope. The centre currently caters for 170 children, both boys and girls, from many parts of Kenya: 130 are residents and 40 live with their grandmothers, with New Hope paying for their school fees and assisting with clothing where necessary.* Saidia Children's Home first opened its doors in 2004 with just five children in a disused and near derelict college building. They now have their own building and land, which is home to about fifty children. Their aim is to improve the lives of AIDS orphans and other disadvantaged children in Gilgil and the surrounding area, ultimately by creating projects that will become independent of outside aid.
Organisations and projects currently supported by The Intrepid Foundation in Tanzania include:* Amani Children's Home rescues street children and orphans from homelessness and restores hope in their lives. At the foot of Mt. Kilimanjaro in Moshi, Amani provides children off the street with a safe and loving home, education, medical care, healthy food, and counselling. Donations through the Intrepid Foundation will be used to rescue, feed, educate and care for the hundreds of homeless children that Amani helps every year.* The Village Education Project Kilimanjaro (VEPK) was established in 1994 with the belief that education is one of the most important parts of building sound long-term economic growth for Tanzania. With the motto ‘Elimu ni uhai - Education is life’, its projects aim to provide improved primary and vocational education to Tanzanian children.
Organisations and projects currently supported by The Intrepid Foundation in South Africa include:* Thusanani Children's Foundation works to prevent and treat developmental delay in orphaned and vulnerable South African children, aged 0-6, in Children's Homes (orphanages) where they live. Developmental delay in these children has a far reaching negative impact on their formal schooling in later years and they run the risk of being seen as children with special education needs. Treatment and prevention of developmental delay can set children on the right path that enables them to be contributing members of society, and break the cycle of abuse and poverty.
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