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Adventure Tours   >  

South Africa Overland: Sea Cliffs & Safari Drives Adventure Tour

Africa

  • South Africa

Now's the time to explore Africa on your terms with this tour that's affordable for young travellers. They don't call it the Rainbow Nation for nothing - see how South Africa's people, experiences, and stunning landscapes come together on this 10-day tour. Explore Tsitsikamma National Park, head into the Cango caves, and embark on a safari drive in Addo Elephant National Park. Led by a knowledgeable and dynamic CEO (Chief Experience Officer), this journey across the southern coast will have you in search of phenomenal wildlife and dramatic scenery. With an itinerary taking in the best of the coast, you'll be talking about this 10-day adventure for years to come.


Money Exchange  

The currency in South Africa is the South African Rand (ZAR).

Each of the countries you visit has their own currency, and all can be obtained locally by changing foreign currency or ATM's (where available). The easiest foreign currency to exchange for locally for any of the local currencies is the $US; however the British Pound and Euro may also be exchanged as well. $US notes that are older than year 2006 are not accepted everywhere and can be difficult to change. In addition, $US notes prior to 2000 are worthless in some areas of Africa, as they are rarely accepted and impossible to exchange. We recommend $US 50 notes, and $US 100 notes can be difficult to change in some places.
Remember that each country has its own currency and in most countries you will not be able to pay in shops with USD. Your CEO will inform you where you can change money into the local currency.

If you plan to rely on cash, please bring foreign currency (Euro, Pound, USD) with you, as it is often expensive to buy these currencies locally. And in more rural areas, it is often not likely. Please note that South African Rand is widely accepted in throughout southern Africa, and you may use this as you “foreign currency” while travelling in other countries in the region.

Travelers' cheques are not recommended in Africa. They are difficult if not impossible to exchange in many places. Where they are accepted, you often need the receipt of the purchase of the cheques, and the process of changes cheques where possible is extremely time consuming. Please no not expect to rely on traveller's cheques for access to cash in Africa.

Debit cards are very useful for cash advances, but you must remember to bring your PIN number (be aware that many ATM machines only accept a 4-digit PIN). The Visa/Plus system cards are the most widely accepted debit cards; it is harder to find machines Master Card/Cirrus cards. While there are many ATMs in the major centres, there are no guarantees that your credit or debit cards will actually work in Africa. Check with your bank.

Credit cards can be used in major cities and towns ONLY but please do not rely on them as a method of payment because they are generally not widely accepted. You should be aware that to purchase products or services on a credit card a fee of 5%-10% usually applies. Credit cards, especially Visa cards, ARE INDEED USEFUL, HOWEVER, for taking cash advanced in ATMs

Please note that in many areas there may be occasional power-outages, where there will be no electricity for hours at a time. In addition, ATMs outside of larger centers often run out of cash or can be out of order unexpectedly. These factors could affect your ability to access money from ATMs. As such, please do not rely on credit or debit cards as your only source of money.

A combination of foreign currency and debit/credit cards for cash advances is best. Always take more rather than less, as you don't want to spoil the trip by constantly feeling short of funds. Experience has shown that it is better upon arrival at the airport/starting city, to draw a large amount of money from the ATM's in the local currency. Your CEO can advise you on the approximate amounts of money you will need for each country of your tour.

As currency exchange rates can fluctuate often we ask that you refer to the following website for daily exchange rates: www.xe.com.


Emergency Fund  

Please also make sure you have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an 'emergency' fund, to be used when circumstances outside our control (ex. a natural disaster) require a change to our planned route. This is a rare occurrence!


A Couple of Rules  

Illegal drugs will not be tolerated on any 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 our travellers. Our philosophy of travel is one of respect towards everyone we encounter, and in particular the local people who make the world the special place it is. The exploitation of prostitutes is completely contrary to this philosophy. Our CEOs have the right to expel any member of the group if drugs are found in their possession or if they use prostitutes.


Travel Insurance  

Travel Insurance: Travel insurance is compulsory in order to participate on any of our trips. When travelling on a group trip, you will not be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance has been sighted by your CEO, who will take note of your insurance details. When selecting a travel insurance policy please bear in mind that all clients must have medical coverage and that we require a minimum coverage of USD 200,000 for repatriation and emergency rescue. We strongly recommend that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects. If you have credit card insurance we require proof of purchase of the trip (a receipt of credit card statement) with a credit card in your name. Contact your bank for details of their participating insurer, the level of coverage and emergency contact telephone number.


Tipping  

Tipping is an expected, though not compulsory, component of your tour program. The gesture serves as an expression of appreciation for exceptional service, and amounts given are up to your discretion.

Tipping is one of the most direct ways that you can have a positive economic impact within the African community. Although it may not be customary for you, it is an important source of income for those in the tourism industry. Giving a tip should be a seen as a formal 'thank you', and the action should in no way be awkward.

The best method of tipping someone that has served the whole group is to plan in advance, and not rush when it comes to saying goodbye. A suggestion would be for each group member to contribute anonymously by putting their tip into an envelope. This often works the best and the group should gather to present the gift to the recipient(s), offering their thanks and showing their appreciation. This method brings the action out into the open, allowing for a friendly and appreciative interaction between the group and the recipient(s).

You may use the following as a guideline, all given in a per person format:

CEO: $5-8 USD (per day, per person)

Local guides: $2-3 USD (per day)
Safari Guide/Driver: $2-3 USD (per day)

Restaurant Staff: 10-15% of cost of bill


Optional Activities  

Tsitsikamma
- Tree Canopy Tour (660ZAR per person)
- Tsitsikamma Woodcutters Journey (375ZAR per person)
- Bloukrans Bungee Jump (1400ZAR per person)

Oudtshoorn
- Cango Caves Tour (150ZAR per person)

Table Mountain
- Table Mountain Cable Car (300-360ZAR per person)
- Table Mountain Hike (600-1500ZAR per person)

Cape Town
- Two Oceans Aquarium (185ZAR per person)
- Tandem Paragliding (1500ZAR per person)
- Cape Point & Boulders Beach Tour (1100ZAR per person)
- Table Mountain Abseiling (1350ZAR per person)
- Sandboarding in the Atlantis Dunes (900ZAR per person)
- Wine Tour and Tasting (1075ZAR per person)


Group Leader  

2 Chief Experience Officers (CEOs) throughout as head guide/cook and driver, local guides.


Health  

We recommend you contact your family physician, or your local travel clinic for the most up-to-date health information at least one month before departure. Travellers should also carry a basic first-aid kit and hand sanitizers/antibacterial wipes on their travels. Medical facilities are basic throughout these countries. For your own safety, we strongly recommend that you advise your tour leader of any medical condition that may affect you while travelling with the group. Your tour leader will be able to inform you of local health advisories (e.g. drinking water quality). Please ensure you have all the inoculations recommended by your doctor.
 
 
Yellow Fever Certificate Note: (Updated: May 2017)
 
It is compulsory to show a valid Yellow Fever Certificate if you are travelling to the following G Adventures-visited countries from a Yellow Fever endemic country:

-           Botswana
-          Ethiopia
-          Kenya
-          Madagascar
-          Malawi
-          Mozambique
-          Namibia
-          Rwanda
-          South Africa
-          Swaziland
-          Uganda
-          Zambia
-          Zimbabwe
 
For some of these countries, proof of Yellow Fever vaccination is also required for passengers who have travelled more than 12 hours through the airport of an endemic country. If other countries not endemic to Yellow Fever have been visited after visiting an endemic country, then a Yellow Fever certificate may still be required on entry. Please check country-specific regulations before your departure.
 
 
Malaria
Malaria is a mosquito-borne disease that is present in some regions in Africa. Risk of malaria can increase during periods of heavy rain, during the rainy seasons, and in densely populated areas of Southern & East Africa. To prevent malaria, we recommend speaking to your doctor about taking preventative medication (prophylaxis), combined with regular use of insect repellent spray/cream. Please check updated travel health advisories specific to malaria before your departure.


Feedback  

After your travels, we want to hear from you! Your feedback information is so important to us that we'll give you 5% off the price of your next G Adventures trip if your feedback is completed on-line within 30 days of finishing your trip. Your tour evaluation will be e-mailed to you 24 hours after the conclusion of your trip. If you do not receive the tour evaluation link in the days after your tour has finished, please drop us a line at customerservice@gadventures.com and we will send it on to you.


Important Notes  

1. This is not a physically demanding journey; however, travelling can be difficult, with long drives and poor road conditions at times. Despite this, most clients feel that the diversity of the African landscape, countries, culture and wildlife are all well worth the experience. We use a comfortable and safe customized safari vehicles for the long drives.

2. South Africa requires all travellers journeying from yellow fever risk countries to show proof of Yellow Fever vaccination by means of a valid Yellow Fever certificate.

3. Your trip includes an element of participation camping. Your CEOs will do all the majority of the meal preparation, but we do ask the clients to help with the setting up of camp, some meal preparation, and washing up. It is all part of your adventure and when everyone puts in a little effort the trip will run smoothly and the team spirit is part of the fun!
All camping equipment (with the exception of your sleeping bag and pillow) is supplied. We supply dome tents and assembly/disassembly takes only 5 minutes. All tents have built-in insect nets. Mattresses are also provided, which are approximately 4cm thick, warm and comfortable.

4. Sleeping bags cannot be rented on any of our Africa overland or safari tours.

5. VISAS. Please read the Visa section very carefully. Visas are your own responsibility. Always double check with the embassies what each countries requirement are.

6. Water-wise tips when visiting Cape Town:

Cape Town is currently experiencing one of the worst droughts it has seen in over 100 years, and while we want you to have the best time possible while there, here are some tips to help reduce your water usage:
- Bring a reusable water bottle, that you can fill with Cape Town's tasty tap water.
- Reuse your towels in the hotel, for at least two days, before getting new ones.
- Keep your laundry until you have a full load to do, rather than just doing a handful of items.
- Turn off the tap when brushing your teeth, or shaving.
- Keep your showers to two minutes or less, and don't use the bath.
- Use hand sanitizer, instead of washing hands.

7. Please note that this tour combines with other G Adventures tours. As such, the staff and some travel companions on your tour may have previously been traveling together with G Adventures, prior to Day 1 of your tour. Likewise, some staff and travel companions may be continuing together on another G Adventures tour, after your trip concludes.

8. DRONES
The use of drones in national parks in Southern Africa is prohibited.


Group Leader Description  

On this tour, you will be accompanied by two Chief Experience Officers (CEOs). The Chief Experience Officers (CEOs) will be the group manager and leader, cook and driver. They will provide information on the places where we are travelling, offer suggestions for things to do and see and introduce you to our local friends. He/she will take care of the small things so you can concentrate on enjoying your adventure.

All of our CEOs in southern Africa are experienced group leaders, with a broad knowledge base of the region's history, cultures, and wildlife. Most of our leaders in the region are from South Africa, though it may be possible that you'll have a leader from another country in the southern African region.

All of our overland adventure vehicle (OAV) drivers are experienced in the routes travelled, and highly skilled in dealing with different terrains. All of our cooks will organize and lead the meal preparation, and have experience in cooking a variety of local and international dishes for large groups.

We also use local guides for some included activities where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places we are visiting.


Laundry  

Laundry facilities are offered by some of our campgrounds for a charge. There will be times when you may want to or have to do your own laundry so we suggest you bring non-polluting/biodegradable soap.


Group Size Notes  

Max 22, avg 14.


About Accommodation  

Camping in Africa is truly an adventure. You will be able to get off the beaten track to get a first-hand experience of the beautiful wilderness and nature. While camping, we stay at designated campsites in national parks and outside towns. Campsite facilities in southern Africa are generally good, but can be basic in certain places. There are generally small restaurants and/or bars, washing facilities and occasionally telephones available.

The camps have flush toilets, and showers at some camps are outdoors, having simple reed enclosures for privacy. Additionally, warm water is available at most sites, but it is not guaranteed to always be warm when you take your shower; the warm water may be used up others who also use the camp. We usually set-up camp within close proximity to the toilet facilities, though occasionally to reach them you may to walk a short distance.

All camping equipment (with the exception of your sleeping bag and pillow) is supplied, including camp mattresses, which are warm and comfortable. We supply dome tents and assembly/disassembly takes only 5 minutes. They are good quality, durable, industry-standard 2-person safari tents. Please note that most adults will not be able to fully stand up inside the tents, though most travellers find these more than adequate, as they have a base area of approximately 4 square meters. These tents are regularly treated with a waterproofing agent, but under certain rainy conditions, the tent fabric may become saturated to the point where seepage or leakage may occur. All tents have built-in mesh insect netting on the windows and doors.

We travel with our own portable camp chairs with a comfortable back-rest, and we utilize our own cooking equipment to provide the group good quality camp meals.

In camping within the national parks and conservation areas, some camp sites are enclosed for keeping the resident wildlife out. Other camps are open to the natural environment - care must be taken, especially at night, when a torch/flashlight is recommended when walking around the camp area.

Despite the challenge that a few days “roughing it” may pose to some, the experience of being that close to nature, camping under the African stars, and seeing incredible wildlife at your tent door-step is not just gratifying but ultimately an experience of a lifetime.

In Durban, we stay in backpacker's (hostels) or small guest houses, which will give us a break from camping and to be better located than the campgrounds in the area. Here, the accommodation is based on several people sharing dormitory-style rooms, with possibly 6 to 8 people sharing a room. Although we will try, we cannot guarantee to be able to divide the group into different dormitories based on gender lines. As such, males and females may have to share the same sleeping quarters for these nights. The bathrooms and showers are private, but may also be shared between both males and females.


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, as soon as possible please contact your starting point hotel, requesting that you speak to or leave a message for your CEO (if you are not on a group tour please refer to the emergency contact details provided in this dossier). If you are unable to get in touch with your leader, please refer to our emergency contact details. If you have pre-booked an airport transfer and have not made contact with our representative within 30 minutes of clearing customs and immigration, we recommend that you make your own way to the Starting Point hotel, following the Joining Instructions. Please apply to your travel agent on your return for a refund of the transfer cost if this occurs.


Dossier Disclaimer  

The information in this trip details document has been compiled with care and is provided in good faith. However it is subject to change, and does not form part of the contract between the client and the operator. The itinerary featured is correct at time of printing. It may differ slightly to the one in the brochure. Occasionally our itineraries change as we make improvements that stem from past travellers, comments and our own research. Sometimes it can be a small change like adding an extra meal along the itinerary. Sometimes the change may result in us altering the tour for the coming year. Ultimately, our goal is to provide you with the most rewarding experience. Please note that our brochure is usually released in November each year. If you have booked from the previous brochure you may find there have been some changes to the itinerary.

VERY IMPORTANT: Please ensure that you print a final copy of your Trip Details to review a couple of days prior to travel, in case there have been changes that affect your plans.


Transport  

Private vehicle


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 and tipping. Please also remember the following specific recommendations when planning your trip.


International Flights  

Check-in times and baggage allowances/restrictions vary by airline and can change at any time. For the most up-to-date information for your flight, please contact your airline. We recommend checking in online in advance to avoid potential delays at the airport.


About our Transportation  

For this tour we will use a touring vehicle with comfortable seats and sliding windows, this style of transportation is a great way to travel through the region and get a good view the surroundings. When necessary, a trailer will be used for your luggage, and the tour gear. Please note these vehicles may not be air-conditioned.

This is not a physically demanding journey; however, travelling can be difficult, with long drives and poor road conditions at times. Please take note of the travel times and distances in the above itinerary, and consider that this is often on poor quality, bumpy roads. Despite this, most clients feel that the diversity of the African landscape, culture and wildlife are all well worth the experience.


My Own Room  

Please note that if you have booked the "My Own Room/Tent" option for this tour, you will receive your own single room/tent for all nights, except for the below.


Solo Travellers  

We believe single travellers should not have to pay more to travel so our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. Single travellers joining group trips are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip. Some of our Independent trips are designed differently and single travellers on these itineraries must pay the single trip price.


Joining Instructions  

If you do not have a pre-arranged arrival transfer booked through G Adventures, please make your own way to the joining hotel.

Airport Shuttle Services:
When arriving at the international terminal, turn sort of right and you should see the shuttle service desks just ahead of you. Please note pre-arranging the shuttle is cheaper than just turning up at the desk. Cost approximately 80ZAR.

Taxis:
Leave the international terminal and you will see the taxi stand. Official taxis have meters (please note the rate after 12am is double). The airport is 19km from the city centre, and the cost is approximately 250ZAR (pre-midnight).

If you have paid in advance for an arrival transfer, a G Adventures representative will be at the airport to meet you. If for any reason you are not met at the airport, please call our local support line. If you are unable to make contact for whatever reason, please make your way to the joining point hotel via taxi.

Please note that Day 1 is an arrival day and no activities have been planned for that day other then your welcome meeting in the evening, so you can arrive at any time.

A G Adventures Representative will organize a short meeting soon after arrival, during which you will meet other tour participants and receive information about general and specific aspects of the trip. A welcome note will be left for you in the hotel so you have all the necessary information regarding the meeting time. If you arrive late, s/he will leave you a message detailing what time and where you should meet the next morning.

The tour departs Durban on Day 2 at 08:00 am.


Packing List  

Additional Items:
• Sleeping bag and liner (Seasonally appropriate)

Cold Weather:
• Long-sleeved shirts or sweater
• Scarf
• Warm gloves
• Warm hat
• Warm layers

Documents:
• Flight info (required) (Printouts of e-tickets may be required at the border)
• Insurance info (required) (With photocopies)
• Passport (required) (With photocopies)
• Required visas or vaccination certificates (required) (With photocopies)
• Vouchers and pre-departure information (required)

Essentials:
• Binoculars (optional)
• Camera (With extra memory cards and batteries)
• Cash, credit and debit cards
• Day pack (Used for daily excursions or short overnights)
• Ear plugs
• First-aid kit (should contain lip balm with sunscreen, sunscreen, whistle, Aspirin, Ibuprofen, bandaids/plasters, tape, anti-histamines, antibacterial gel/wipes, antiseptic cream, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, rehydration powder, water purification tablets or drops, insect repellent, sewing kit, extra prescription drugs you may be taking)
• Flashlight/torch (Headlamps are ideal)
• Fleece top/sweater
• Footwear
• Hat
• Locks for bags
• Long pants/jeans
• Moneybelt
• Outlet adapter
• Personal entertainment (Reading and writing materials, cards, music player, etc.)
• Reusable water bottle
• Shirts/t-shirts
• Sleepwear
• Small travel towel
• Sunglasses
• Toiletries (Preferably biodegradable)
• Watch and alarm clock
• Waterproof backpack cover
• Windproof rain jacket

Health & Safety:
• Face masks (required)
• Hand sanitizer (required)
• Pen (Please bring your own pen for filling out documents.)
• Rubber gloves

Warm Weather:
• Sandals/flip-flops
• Shorts/skirts (Longer shorts/skirts are recommended)
• Sun hat/bandana
• Swimwear

Note: Seasons in Southern Africa are quite extreme. Winters can be really cold and summers will be really hot. If you travel during winter months (May to October) please ensure that you bring warm clothing and a suitable sleeping bag.


Max Pax  

14


Trip Specific Safety  

Travelers must exercise common sense and caution at all times. Tourists should stick to set travel arrangements and avoid unknown areas. Always keep a photocopy of your passport, airline tickets and a record of your travelers' checks and credit card numbers separate from where you keep the originals. South Africa, like any many countries, has its problems but your guide knows the country intimately and will endeavour to show you the best parts while looking after you. Be aware, but not paranoid, and you will have a great trip. We also recommend that you wear minimal jewelry and that you keep valuable items safely stored.

Please note that the use of drones in national parks in Southern Africa is prohibited.


Detailed Trip Notes  

A combination of camping and basic accommodation makes for a comfortable tour, with plenty of opportunity for outdoor activity. This is not a physically demanding journey; however, travelling can be difficult, with long drives and poor road conditions at times. Despite this, most clients feel that the diversity of the African landscape, culture and wildlife are all well worth the experience. We use a comfortable and safe customized safari truck for the long open road drives.

REGIONAL INFORMATION
Climate
Southern Africa is renowned for its excellent outdoor living climate. The winter months are from May to September and are characterized by cold nights and pleasant days. Summer is from October to April and starts off with increasing dry heat and dust. Rains generally only start from mid to late December and last until March; this period is hot and humid. For the winter months, we recommend a sleeping bag rating of 3 seasons.

Electricity
220-240V, 50 HZ, Most electrical plugs are 15 amp 3-prong with round pins. International adaptor are called for, they can be purchased locally (approx 2 U$).

Language
English is one of the 11 official languages of South Africa. There are also numerous dialects spoken throughout different parts of the country. In Mozambique the official language is Portuguese.

SOUTH AFRICA
Full country name: Republic of South Africa
Area: 1,221,037km2 (447,443mi2)
Population: 47,432,000 (July 2005 estimate), 44,819,278 (Census 2001)
Capital cities: Cape Town (Legislative), Pretoria (Admistrative) and Bloemfontein (Judicial)
People: Zulu, Afrikaners, Xhosa, Basotho (South Sotho), English South Africans, Bapedi (North Sotho), Indian/Asian, Venda, Tswana, Tsonga, Swazi, Ndebele, others
Language: Afrikaans, English, Zulu, Xhosa, Swati, Ndebele, Southern Sotho, Northern Sotho, Tsonga, Tswana, Venda
Religion: Zion Christian 11%, Pentecostal/Charismatic 8%, Catholic 7%, Methodist 7%, Dutch Reformed 7%, Anglican 4%, other Christian 36%, Islam 2%, none 15%
Government: Parliamentary democracy
Major industries: mining (world's largest producer of platinum, gold, chromium), automobile assembly, metal working, machinery, textiles, iron and steel, chemicals, fertilizer, food stuff, commercial ship repair.
Major trading partners: U.S., UK, Japan, Germany, Netherlands, China, France, Saudi Arabia, Iran (2004).
Currency: Rand (ZAR), consisting of 100 cents


Meals  

As mentioned above, most of the meals on this tour are included in the tour price. When a meal is not included, this is because there are often many options available - we would like to give you the opportunity to explore a bit and test the local cuisine yourself. In these cases, your CEO will be able to suggest some good local restaurants or options for you to choose from.

All included meals will be prepared from fresh local produce. The majority of the shopping for foodstuffs will be done before the trip departs, and fresh goods, such as meats, fruits, vegetables, and dairy products, will be bought en route during the trip from supermarkets, local shops and markets. Breakfasts will generally consist of breads and cereals, if time allows a warm breakfast may be prepared. Many lunches will be provided en-route and will be light meals such as sandwiches and/or salads. All evening meals will be freshly-prepared hot meals, and will consist of a variety of continental and local dishes.

Our cook will organize the meal preparation and lead the way here, but will prepare a duty schedule for ensuring a fair, rotating participation from you and your group members in the meal preparation and dish washing duties.

Vegetarian meals and other dietary requirements need to be specified prior to arrival.


Minimum Age  

Minimum age of 18 years for this trip.


Highlights  

Search for wildlife in Addo Elephant National Park, take in the dramatic scenery of the Wild Coast, hike in Tsitsikamma National Park, soak up the culture of Cape Town.


Meals Included  

9 breakfasts, 8 lunches, 8 dinners


Accommodation  

Participation camping (7 nts), hostels (2 nts, multi-share with 3-4 people).


Joining Hotel  

For details of your joining hotel please refer to your tour voucher, G Account, the G Adventures App or contact your travel agent.


My Own Room Exceptions  

Day 1, 9


What's Included  

Your Welcome Moment: Meet Your CEO and Group
Your First Night Out Moment: Connect With New Friends
Your Foodie Moment: Traditional Durban Bunny Chow, Durban. Addo Elephant National Park entrance and wildlife safari drive. Tsitsikamma National Park entrance fees. All transport between destinations and to/from included activities.


Itinerary Disclaimer  

While it is our intention to adhere to the route described below, there is a certain amount of flexibility built into the itinerary and on occasion it may be necessary, or desirable to make alterations. The itinerary is brief, as we never know exactly where our journey will take us. Due to our style of travel and the regions we visit, travel can be unpredictable. The Trip Details document is a general guide to the tour and region and any mention of specific destinations or wildlife is by no means a guarantee that they will be visited or encountered. Aboard expedition trips visits to research stations depend on final permission.

Additionally, any travel times listed are approximations only and subject to vary due to local circumstances.


What to Take  

You will be on the move a lot, so our advice is to pack as lightly as possible. Your baggage should be clearly labelled and restricted to one soft compact suitcase (please avoid a hard-top case), or sports bag, maximum 15kg, plus a daypack. Luggage limits on airlines are strictly enforced and space on vehicles is limited. Porters are not often available, so be prepared to carry your own bags.

For our camping style tours you will need to provide your own sleeping bag, small pillow and sleeping sheet (if you would like). We provide the tent and the sleeping pads.

Please note that the seasons in Africa is quite extreme. Winters (especially South Africa, Namibia and Botswana) can be really cold and summers will be really hot.
If you travel during winter months(May to October) please ensure that you bring warm clothing and a suitable sleeping bag.

A set of smart casual clothes is also advisable.

Please be advised that if you plan to bring a drone with you, the use of drones in national parks in Southern Africa is prohibited.

Day 1 Durban

Arrive at any time.

Tonight, get to know your group on your first night out together. Head to the Ansteys bar located in your accommodation for some drinks with your new travel buddies. Enjoy each other's company in a low key setting before getting a good night's rest for the long, but exciting journey ahead.

Explore the beach and dive into the warm waters of the Indian Ocean just out the front door of our guest house.

Day 2 Durban/Chintsa

The group is on the move again to an even cooler hidden gem in South Africa; Chinsta. You'll travel overland into the heartland of the Xhosa people before arriving in this little piece of paradise along the south east coast of Africa with 15km (9.3 mi) of beach. While it is a long day of travel the views you stumble across will certainly make up for it, especially, the main white-sand beach with a swimmable surf (skinny dipping tonight anyone)?

South of Durban, travel to the Eastern Cape province, into the heartland of the Xhosa people, and on to Chintsa.

Day 3 Chintsa

As the sun rises in the sky along the ocean pure paradise awaits you on this free day to explore Chintsa. You could spend the day getting your tan on at the beach, jumping on a surfboard to catch some waves, horseback riding along the water, or visiting a local craft brewery called Emerald Vale for some home-brewed ale. The choice is yours, but we know that no matter what you decide it will be a good time.

Day 4 Chintsa/Addo Elephant National Park

Traverse the many unique valleys in Southern Africa today as the group continues on to the Addo Elephant National Park; a unique wildlife area. Head out on a wildlife safari drive and listen to the wild sounds of Africa. After arriving at the camp area sit around the fire, share stories, and sip a sundowner (cheers!) as the stars light up the night sky.

Day 5 Addo Elephant National Park/Tsitsikamma

Wake up in the African bush amidst acacia trees with the sounds of nature as your alarm clock. From here the group will be going to Tsitsikamma NP where you can choose to hike, snorkel, canoe, whale watch, or bungee jump.

Tsitsikama is tucked between mountains and deep blue sea with the Storms River flowing in between. Full of vibrant marine life, abundant wildlife, and a breathtaking landscape this is a wonderful home base for the next two nights of camping in this area. Some of the optional activities include hiking a portion of the Otter Trail or taking short walks along the coastline.

Day 6 Tsitsikamma National Park

There's so much to do in this wonderful place so wake up and get moving! Today, depending on your mood you can do any of the activities you didn't get to yesterday.

Rejuvenate your minds on a hike up the Otter or Dolphin trails, set out on a kayak to explore the shoreline, book a snorkelling or scuba lesson to see life under the sea or feel the adrenaline coursing through your veins while you bungee jump. Whatever you decide your only job is to have fun and make some memories!

Day 7 Tsitsikamma/Knysna

Even though you may not want to, it is time to leave this place and head further west to the town of Knysna. But don't worry there's plenty of beauty to be seen at the Knysna Lagoon - think turquoise waters, rugged sandstone cliffs, and sweeping views of the ocean. (sounds nice right?) Along the way you can choose to visit a cheetah sanctuary or monkey park… or maybe both?

Day 8 Knysna/Oudtshoorn

You will be heading from sea cliffs to cool caves on this leg of the trip. After taking numerous selfies and group photos atop the cliffs of Knysna Heads the Lando will drive along the scenic route over the Outeniqua Mountains into the area known as Klein Karoo (“Little Karoo”), and make the quiet town of Oudtshoorn your base. Once here it's cave time… or ostrich time depending on your mood. Grab some friends and head out to explore the Cango caves or visit an ostrich farm and give these cute creatures some love.

Day 9 Oudtshoorn/Cape Town

It's the group's last travel day so have some fun! Travel to the beautiful cosmopolitan city of Cape Town enjoying the impressive views of Table Mountain as you drive. And hey a little party never hurt anyone so why not choose to head out for a final night of good times with your G travel family?

Day 10 Cape Town

Depart at any time.

But why would you want to right? If you aren't ready to go home yet that's totally fine just talk with your CEO about extending your adventure and get to know more of South Africa or beyond!

We highly recommend booking an extra night in Cape Town to explore all that this area has to offer.

If you book any optional activities on the final day of your itinerary please contact your sales agent to see if booking a post-night is necessary to participate in the activity.

Details

Duration: 10 Days

Physical Grading: 3 - Average

Trip Type: Small Group

Travel Style: 18-to-Thirtysomethings

Service Level: Camping



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