Highlights of South Africa

Transcription

1 Highlights of South Africa LAND TOUR Plus optional extensions in: Big Five Bush Safari, South Africa; Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe 2016

2 SAF /17/15 1

3 Grand Circle Travel Highlights of South Africa Table of Contents 1. PASSPORT, VISAS AND TRAVEL DOCUMENTS... 4 Passport Required... 4 Visas Required for Zimbabwe Extension Only... 5 Traveling Without a U.S. Passport?... 5 Backup Photocopies HEALTH... 6 Keep Your Abilities In Mind... 6 Health Check... 7 Vaccinations... 7 Yellow Fever Vaccination Not Required... 7 Prescription Medications... 8 Prevention of Malaria... 8 Staying Healthy on This Trip... 8 Drinking Water... 8 Jet Lag Relief LUGGAGE REGULATIONS & AIR TRAVEL Luggage Limits Luggage Suggestions Airport Security/TSA Air Inclusive Travelers Airport Transfers Leaving Africa Land Only Travelers BEFORE YOU LEAVE Optional Tours Most Need Early Purchase MONEY MATTERS How to Carry Your Money Local Currency ATMs Credit Cards Optional Tour Payments Shopping U.S. Customs Regulations and Shipping Charges Problem with a Purchase? Tipping Guidelines PACKING FOR YOUR TRIP In General Packing Your Carry-On Laundry Service Travel Gear Suggestions REGIONAL CLIMATE INFORMATION By Destination SAF /17/15 2

4 Climate Charts TRAVEL AND TECHNOLOGY In General Regional Electricity Phones & Calling Bringing Your Own Phone Phone Calling Cards Photo Gear ABOUT YOUR TRIP & DESTINATIONS Your GCT Program Director South Africa Zimbabwe Optional Extension ADDITIONAL RESOURCES Books, Maps, and Movies Suggested Movies Grand Circle Community & Useful Websites SAF /17/15 3

5 1. PASSPORT, VISAS AND TRAVEL DOCUMENTS Passport Required U U.S. citizens need a valid passport for this itinerary. Please take a moment to ensure that your passport meets all of these requirements. If not, you could be refused entry into a country and you might be required by that country to return to the U.S. immediately, which would be at your own expense. Your passport should meet these requirements for this itinerary: It should be in good condition It should be valid for at least 6 months after your scheduled return to the U.S. It should have the recommended number of blank pages (see below for details). The blank pages must be labeled Visas at the top. Pages labeled Amendments and Endorsements are not acceptable. Recommended number of blank pages: This recommendation is based on a worst case scenario. On this trip you might use fewer pages depending on the whims of the Immigration officials you meet. Since the consequence of having too few pages can be severe you could be denied entry into a country we take a better safe than sorry stance, and we recommend these guidelines: Main trip only: If you are taking the main trip without any extensions, you will require a total of 6 blank passport pages for South Africa (4), Swaziland (1), and re-entry into the U.S. (1). For South Africa alone, you need 4 pages total even though these pages may still be blank by the end of the trip. Pre-trip extension in South Africa: Does not require any additional pages. Post-trip to Zimbabwe: You will need at least 1 more page for a total of 7 blank pages. If you plan to take the Chobe National Park optional tour, you will need 3 more blank passport pages (for a total of 9) because the tour leaves Zimbabwe, tours in Botswana, and comes back to Zimbabwe. Both the pre- and post-trip extensions: You will need at least of 7 blank pages. If you plan to take the Chobe National Park optional tour during the post-trip extension, you will need 3 more blank passport pages (for a total of 9) because the tour leaves Zimbabwe, tours in Botswana, and comes back to Zimbabwe. NOTE on the number of blank passport pages: It is very common for travelers to return from this trip without using up 6 pages in their passport. The issue is that South Africa requires more pages than they stamp. The U.S. State Department explains it this way: South African law requires travelers to have two fully blank visa pages. Blank endorsement pages are not sufficient. The blank pages must be visa pages. All travelers should have at least two fully blank passport visa pages upon each arrival in South Africa, including following trips to neighboring countries. Travelers without the requisite blank visa pages in their passports will be refused entry into South Africa, fined, and returned to their point of origin at their own expense. SAF /17/15 4

6 If you need to renew your passport: Contact the National Passport Information Center (NPIC) at , or visit their website at for information on obtaining a new passport or renewing your existing passport. You may also contact our recommended visa service company, PVS International, at for help with your passport. Visas Required for Zimbabwe Extension Only We ll be sending you a detailed Visa Packet with instructions, application forms, and fees about 100 days prior to your departure. In the meantime, we re providing the information below as a guideline on what to expect. This info is for U.S. citizens only. All visas and fees are subject to change. Visas are not required for the main trip or pre-trip extension in South Africa. Zimbabwe (optional extension) visa required. We recommend that you wait and obtain this visa upon arrival. This is based on changes to the application process that make getting a visa on arrival a reliable and more cost-effective option. If you are taking the optional Victoria Falls posttrip extension, you will require an entry visa for Zimbabwe. Traveling Without a U.S. Passport? If you are not a U.S. citizen, or if your passport is from any country other than the U.S., it is your responsibility to check with your local consulate, embassy, or a visa services company about possible visa requirements. For your convenience, we recommend the services of PVS International, a national visa service located in Washington D.C.; they can be reached at or South African Entry Requirements Travelers who are accompanied by minors younger than 18 years old will require special documentation for the minor s entry into South Africa. For further information, please visit the South African embassy s website at or check in with the South African embassy. Backup Photocopies The smartest security precaution you can take is to make photocopies of your passport s personal information pages, your air tickets, your traveler s check serial numbers (if you re using them), and your credit cards. Also, bring extra passport-sized photos. Make a list of the phone and fax numbers for reporting lost credit cards, your travel protection plan company (if you have an optional travel protection plan) and medical emergency network. Keep these documents separate from the originals, and they can save you immeasurable time, money, and trouble if your originals are lost or stolen as you travel. In addition, scan these photocopies and them to your address; you can then print out replacement copies if necessary. SAF /17/15 5

7 2. HEALTH Keep Your Abilities In Mind We ve worked closely with our local Program Directors and regional associates to identify the aspects of this vacation that you should be aware of, from physical requirements to cultural factors. Please carefully review the information below prior to departing on this trip. Pacing 7 locations in 19 days Physical Requirements Not accessible for travelers using wheelchairs or scooters Travelers using walkers, crutches, or other mobility aids must travel with a companion who can assist them throughout the trip You must be able to walk 1-2 miles unassisted and participate in 2-3 hours of physical activities each day, including stairs Balance and agility are required for boarding 4x4 vehicles unassisted Climate Daytime temperatures range from F during touring season December-March are the warmest months Terrain Travel over uneven walking surfaces, including unpaved paths, hills, stairs, and cobblestone Transportation Travel by 45- to 52-seat motorcoach, 4x4 vehicle, ferry, and cable car Cuisine Meals will be based on the local cuisine We reserve the right for our Program Directors to modify participation, or in some circumstances send travelers home if their limitations are impacting the group's experience. SAF /17/15 6

8 Health Check Feeling healthy and confident of your mobility is essential if you want to fully enjoy your trip abroad. If you have ongoing medical conditions or concerns about your health, we highly recommend that you schedule a checkup with your personal physician at least six weeks in advance of your departure date. Discuss with your doctor any aspects of your international itinerary that may affect your health and be guided by his or her advice. (You can use the Keep Your Abilities in Mind on the previous page as a guideline to discuss with him or her.) You may want to have a dental exam before your trip. A loose filling or developing cavity would be difficult to remedy while you are traveling. If you have a condition that requires special equipment or treatment, you must bring and be responsible for all necessary items related to your condition. Vaccinations At time of writing, there were no required vaccinations for this itinerary in South Africa or Zimbabwe. (That is, none of those countries require proof a specific vaccination in order to enter.) However, your doctor might feel that there are some basic vaccinations that you should have updated before you travel. Or there may be vaccinations that he or she recommends for you because of your personal medical history. We suggest you consult with your own physician at least 6 weeks prior to departure, and ask about vaccinations at that time. If you d like to know more about possible vaccinations for this trip or just about health in general while traveling the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is a great resource. You can contact them online or by phone. Online: By phone: We suggest you visit the CDC s website at wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel, where you will find comprehensive information about preventing illness while traveling. At the CDC s Hotline toll-free at hours a day. But please keep in mind that the CDC s suggestions may not apply to you! For example, you might already have some of the vaccinations they routinely recommend. So be sure to ask your own doctor. Yellow Fever Vaccination Not Required A yellow fever vaccination is NOT required for our standard itinerary on this trip. However, even though South Africa generally doesn t require a yellow fever vaccination, the rules are not always clear, even to officials and are sometimes misinterpreted. We strongly suggest that you bring some sort of documentation about the vaccination as a Plan B. This can be a simple letter from your doctor saying that you should not have the vaccination. Or if you did get the vaccination at some point in the past 10 years, then you could bring your Yellow Fever Card. This will save you from any inconvenience if you are asked for documents in South Africa, or if you have to transit through or deplane in an endemic country, such as Senegal. SAF /17/15 7

9 Prescription Medications If you take medications regularly, be sure to pack an ample supply that will last your entire trip, as obtaining refills of your medication can be difficult during your trip. Pack these medications in your carry-on bag, and keep them in their original, labeled containers. To be prepared for any unforeseen loss of your medications, you should also bring copies of the prescriptions, written using the generic drug name rather than a brand name. Prevention of Malaria At time of writing, the CDC suggested anti-malarial medication for some parts of South Africa and all of Zimbabwe. But since there are a range of anti-malarial medications, and some can have strong side effects, we suggest that you speak with your doctor. He or she might feel that medication isn t even needed for South Africa since you will only spend a few days in an area where malaria in known to be present (Kruger National Park). Travelers on the post-trip extension to Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe are more likely to need medication, but even then your doctor might advise you against it, depending on what other medications your are taking and your general health. Other than medication, the most important steps you can take to prevent malaria are to use insect repellent (preferably containing DEET at 30-35% strength) on exposed skin and on your clothing to prevent mosquito bites. If temperatures allow, you can also to wear clothing that keeps your arms and legs covered. Staying Healthy on This Trip Traveler s Diarrhea Precautions Perhaps the greatest health risk is traveler s diarrhea, caused by eating contaminated fruit or vegetables or drinking contaminated water. We've carefully chosen the restaurants for your group meals, and food at these establishments is generally as safe as in restaurants in the U.S. When dining out on your own, watch what you eat. Stay away from ice, uncooked food, and non-pasteurized milk and milk products. Drink only bottled water, which is readily available. Mild cases of diarrhea may respond to Imodium or Pepto- Bismol (not as strong as Imodium); both can be purchased over the counter before you go. For more stubborn cases, you might want to talk to your doctor about bringing along a prescription medication. Basic Illness Prevention It's common for people traveling in contained spaces to be more susceptible to easily transmitted viral and bacterial illnesses such as flu, stomach and respiratory bugs, and colds. The single most effective way to prevent this is frequent hand-washing. We ask all travelers to be extra diligent in their normal handwashing hygiene, and to drink plenty of fluids for proper hydration. Simple steps like these will help ensure that everyone enjoys the comfortable, carefree vacation they looked forward to. Drinking Water Tap water is safe to drink in South Africa, but bottled water is also readily available if you prefer. In Zimbabwe, the tap water is only safe to drink at your hotel in Victoria Falls. When you are away from your hotel, you should drink bottled water only. SAF /17/15 8

10 Jet Lag Relief You will feel better on the first days of your trip if, shortly before you leave home, you start to adjust to the different time zone of your destination. Since you will cross several time zones to reach your destination, you may lose many hours of regular sleep. On arrival, your body then will have to suddenly adjust to new sleeping and eating patterns. The result is jet lag. Its symptoms are fatigue often compounded by insomnia and general restlessness irritability, and vague disorientation. You cannot totally avoid jet lag, but you can minimize it. Here's how: Start your trip well rested. Begin a gradual transition to your new time zone before you leave. Switch to your destination time zone when you get on the plane. Attempt to sleep and eat according to the new schedule. Try to sleep on overnight flights. Avoid heavy eating and drinking caffeine or alcoholic beverages right before and during your flight. Drink plenty of water and/or fruit juice while flying. Stretch your legs, neck, and back periodically while seated on the plane, and make an effort to get up and walk about the cabin a few times to keep your blood circulation normal. After arrival, avoid the temptation to nap. Don t push yourself to see a lot on your first day. Try to stay awake your first day until after dinner. SAF /17/15 9

11 3. LUGGAGE REGULATIONS & AIR TRAVEL Luggage Limits Pieces per person Weight restrictions Size restrictions Luggage Type MAIN TRIP LIMITS One checked bag and one carry-on bag per person The limiting factor on this trip is the flight you ll take inside of South Africa. The current standard for this flight is 44lbs for checked bags and 15 lbs for carry-on bags. Varies by airline. Measured in linear inches (length+width+depth). Generally, 62 linear inches is the checked bag limit; carry-on limit is 45 linear inches. A sturdy, fabric-sided suitcase with built-in wheels and lockable zippers is recommended. TRIP EXTENSION(S) LIMITS Both extensions have the same luggage restrictions as the main trip. REMARKS / SUGGESTIONS One suitcase and one carry-on bag per person: Due to the space limitations on bus transfers, you'll be restricted to one suitcase and one carry-on bag per person. This is to ensure that we have room for everyone s luggage. We ask that you abide by this limit to avoid inconveniencing your fellow travelers and prevent additional airlines luggage fees (which are your responsibility). Most airlines now charge to check more than one suitcase per person for international flights. Note: Enforcement of published restrictions by countries and airlines is a matter of governmental and corporate policy. Enforcement may include spot checks and may be inconsistently applied. Expect penalties and fines to be imposed immediately, however, when and if enforced. Before you choose to ignore the published restrictions you should ask: Do I feel lucky? And, even if you answer yes, you should make sure that you have the ability to pay the fine. Should I confirm luggage restrictions with my U.S./international airline(s) before departure? Absolutely, confirm current restrictions about a week or so before your departure. You should take this step no matter if your vacation has a lower limit then the average international flight or not, because there may be recent changes, such as new security regulations, or an update to the standard weight/size allowances. For your convenience, we maintain a list of the toll-free numbers for the most common airlines on our website in the FAQ section. You should also check with the airlines on luggage fees many airlines charge to check luggage, sometimes even on international flights. Others will charge a fee if you bring a second carry-on item, like a purse or a laptop. These fees are not included in your trip price; they are payable directly to the airlines. If you are making a connecting flight, you should also confirm if your luggage can be checked through to your final destination. SAF /17/15 10

12 Luggage Suggestions Consider a duffel bag or soft-sided suitcase for your checked luggage. Due to space limitations on our motor coaches, you are allowed one piece of checked luggage per person. Porterage at airports and hotels is provided for one bag per person. All bags should have luggage tags. Consider a daypack or small backpack as your carry-on bag. It will do double duty during excursions and walking trips. A daypack leaves your hands free and distributes its weight onto your back. Packed with daily travel needs (sweater, camera, rain/wind jacket, water bottle, etc.), it will compress to fit the storage space of foreign motorcoaches, and yet still have room for an impulse buy at a local street market. Tip: Bring a second, empty lockable bag folded into your main suitcase, with a luggage tag and small lock. Use this to carry souvenirs home but remember that you may incur extra luggage fees. If you re traveling with a companion we recommend cross-packing, i.e., pack 2 outfits of your clothing in your companion s luggage and vice-versa, in case one bag is delayed. Airport Security/TSA Restrictions on what can be included in your carry-on luggage may change. To avoid inadvertently packing restricted items in your carry-on, we suggest that you consult the Transportation Security Administration website at which keeps a current list of restricted items. Follow the TSA s rule for liquids: Liquids must be in a 3.4 ounce or less (100ml) bottle (by volume); all bottles must be in a 1 quart-sized, clear, plastic, zip-top bag; 1 bag per passenger placed in screening bin. One-quart bag per person limits the total liquid volume each traveler can bring. The 3.4 ounce (100ml) container size is a security measure. Note that this rule is used increasingly throughout the world. Locking your luggage: To reduce the risk of damage to your luggage, either do not lock your bags when checking in for flights that originate in the U.S. or use TSA-approved locks. (These are locks that TSA screeners can open and relock with a special tool, avoiding damage to your luggage or lock if a physical inspection is required. Look for the words TSA or TSA-approved on the lock s packaging.) Outside of the U.S., we strongly recommend that you lock your luggage as a preventative measure against theft. SAF /17/15 11

13 Air Inclusive Travelers If you have purchased international air with Grand Circle Travel, there are some points that may be helpful for you to know. U.S. Departure: If you are among a group of ten or more GCT travelers who depart the U.S. from your international gateway city, it is our goal to have a GCT Representative assist you at the U.S. airport with the check-in of your flight. Unless there are extenuating circumstances beyond our control, the Representative will be at the check-in counter three hours before your departure time. If you are flying domestically before your international flight, the representative will be stationed at the check-in counter for your departing international flight, not at the domestic arrival gate. Johannesburg Arrival: Once you arrive overseas, you ll need to collect your luggage and clear customs. A GCT Representative will meet you outside of customs and assist you with your transfer to the hotel. Important note on porters: Airport porters are NOT allowed in the baggage claim area. On arrival, you must take your luggage off the baggage carousel and load it onto a cart, which you will then move through customs. When you exit customs, you'll handle your cart until reaching your transfer vehicle. Your driver will load your luggage into the transfer vehicle. Flight Delays: Grand Circle Travel is not responsible for flight delays or cancellations. In the unfortunate circumstance that your flight is delayed or changed, please try to reach the regional GCT office (their number will be in your Final Documents) in order to make new arrangements for your transfer. Due to airline regulations our staff is not notified of flight rerouting, and our local representative won t necessarily be aware of your new arrival time. In these cases you will need to arrange your transfer by taxi to your hotel. U.S. Return: At the end of your main trip you ll transfer to the Cape Town airport for your return. If you take the optional post-trip extension, you ll be transferred by motorcoach to the Victoria Falls airport where you'll board a flight to Johannesburg to connect to your return flight to the U.S. If you are among a group of ten or more GCT travelers who return to the same U.S. gateway city, a GCT Representative will meet you as you exit Customs and help you find taxis, buses, hotel accommodations, or connecting flights. Again, it is our goal to have our GCT Representative waiting to assist your group. In rare instances, unforeseen circumstances may prevent this service. Flying with a Travel Companion: If you re traveling with a companion from a different household, and both of you are beginning and ending your trip at the same airport on the same dates, let us know you d like to travel together and we ll make every effort to arrange this (please note, however, that this is not always possible). If you request any changes to your flights, please be sure that both you and your companion tell us that you still want to fly together. SAF /17/15 12

14 Airport Transfers If you have purchased international air with Grand Circle Travel and have not customized your dates of travel, then airport transfers are included in your program price. If you will be booking your own international flights or will be customizing your travel dates with our air department, then airport transfers will NOT be included in your program price. Transfers must be purchased separately, as an optional add-on, and are subject to availability. To learn more, or purchase airport transfers, please call our Traveler Support team at You can also find more information online at Please note: You must fly into or fly home from the same airport as Grand Circle travelers who purchased included airfare, and transfers are only available the same day that the group arrives or departs. Leaving Africa Land Only Travelers If you will be making your own air arrangements, please be mindful that your return flight will depend on if you are taking the post-trip extension to Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe. If you are NOT taking the post-trip extension, book your return flight from Cape Town the connecting flight from Cape Town to Johannesburg is part of the GCT flight package, and is not part of the Land Only tour. If you ARE taking the post-trip extension to Victoria Falls, book your return flight from Johannesburg the flight from Victoria Falls to Johannesburg is included in the extension price. SAF /17/15 13

15 4. BEFORE YOU LEAVE Optional Tours Most Need Early Purchase Your Land Tour offers both included and optional tours. Below are descriptions of some of the optional tours featured on your itinerary. Most of these excursions require an early decision. Note that prices are subject to change. Private Game Drive in Kruger National Park To pre-book this optional tour you must do so by 45 days prior to departure. This tour may also be booked onsite, but space is limited. A minimum of 6 participants is required to operate this tour. During your stay in Kruger National Park, come with us on this optional excursion to enjoy an all-day game-viewing drive in an open safari vehicle with a maximum of ten passengers per vehicle. Depart the Lodge between 5:30 and 6:00 am with a packed breakfast and spend the day exploring the Kruger National Park with a qualified guide. You can enjoy lunch on your own at one of the local camps in the Park. This optional full-day tour lasts roughly 8 hours; the price is $135 per person. Hluhluwe-Umfolozi Afternoon Game-Viewing Drive To pre-book this optional tour you must do so by 45 days prior to departure. This tour may also be booked onsite, but space is limited. Take a second look at the wildlife of the oldest game reserve in all of Africa. The park is home to many of Africa s iconic species, including the Big Five, and is one of the finest places in the world to observe the white rhino in its natural habitat. In fact, the reserve played an instrumental role in bringing the species back from extinction with fewer than 20 alive in the world in 1900, the game reserve s conservation efforts have resulted in a tremendous rebound, with more than 1,600 of the proud species alive in Hluhluwe-Umfolozi alone. The cost of this tour is $65 per person. SAF /17/15 14

16 Addo Elephant National Park To pre-book this optional tour you must do so by 45 days prior to departure. This tour may also be booked onsite, but space is limited. On this tour of Addo Elephant National Park, you ll get another chance to see South Africa s most celebrated safari animals. The park houses more than 450 elephants, 400 Cape buffalo, over 48 endangered black rhino, as well as a variety of antelope. Travelling by coach (not an open safari vehicle), you may even see lion and spotted hyena, which have been re-introduced to the area in recent years. The cost of this optional tour is $60 per person. Township Tour in Cape Town To pre-book this optional tour you must do so by 45 days prior to departure. This tour can also be booked onsite, but space is limited. During our stay in Cape Town, join us for this exciting half-day optional tour to discover the local townships of Langa and Guguletu. Although the Townships were originally created during the apartheid period as residential areas for non-whites, today they are vital and energetic urban communities that house a large percent of Cape Town s population. In a tour that will add to our in-depth knowledge of South Africa s people, we ll focus on the traditions, culture, customs, and daily way of life of the residents of these townships though a guided tour by a township resident and a home visit. The price for this optional tour is $55 per person. Chobe National Park Tour To pre-book this optional tour you must do so by 45 days prior to departure. This tour can also be booked onsite, but space is limited. A full-day excursion to Chobe National Park in nearby Botswana. On game-viewing drives, you ll have the chance to see some of the common animals here zebra, cheetah, herds of elephant grazing on the open grassy plains, and lion prides huddled in the bush. The cost of this optional tour is $210 per person. SAF /17/15 15

17 5. MONEY MATTERS How to Carry Your Money Traveler s Checks Not Recommended: We urge you not to rely on traveler's checks for your personal expenses. They can be difficult to exchange and the commission fee for cashing them is quite high (traveler's checks are not accepted in Zimbabwe, on the optional Victoria Falls extension). Most banks or exchange offices will want to see your passport at the time of exchange. It s most practical to view any traveler s checks you might bring as a last cash resort in the event of a special situation. Cash: It is a good idea to change some currency into South African rand before you leave the U.S., as you may not be able to do so for a few days after arrival. You can change money at banks or in your hotel. Please note that torn, dirty, or taped bills will not be accepted a bill with even the slightest tear will be refused. In Zimbabwe, it is essential that any cash you have, whether in U.S. dollars or South African rand, be in small denominations (ones, fives, and tens), as most shops will not be able to break down larger bills. Also note that bills older than the year 2000 are not accepted in Zimbabwe, plus bills should be in good condition. (They have had an issue with counterfeit bills in the past, which why they year and condition matter.) Coins are rare, so you may not receive change for your $1 bill, even if the purchase is small. Local Currency Currency exchange rates fluctuate daily. Your Program Director can advise you of the exchange rate upon your arrival. For current exchange rates, please refer to our website, your bank, or the financial section of your newspaper. South Africa U.S. dollars are not accepted by shops in South Africa. The official currency of South Africa is the rand (abbreviated R), which is divided into 100 cents (c). Banknote and coin denominations are : Banknotes: R10, R20, R50, R100, and R200 Coins: 5, 10, 20, 50c; R1, R2, and R5 If possible, arrive with some local currency South African rand as you may not have the opportunity to change money for the first few days. Banking hours are usually weekdays from 8 or 9 am to 3 pm. Weekend hours vary. Saturday the banks are open in the morning, but Sundays and public holidays they are closed. SAF /17/15 16

18 Zimbabwe The Zimbabwean dollar (ZWD) is no longer in general use. The main form of payment in Zimbabwe is cash, in either U.S. dollars or South African rand. It is essential that you carry cash (U.S. dollars or SA rand) in small denominations (ones and/or fives), as most locations will not be able to break down larger bills. Coins are rare, so you may not receive change for your $1 bill, even if the purchase is small. Keep in mind that most of your purchases in Zimbabwe will be in cash so if you are a shopper, you may want to bring some extra cash or plan on using a local ATM as a backup. Banking hours are generally Monday to Friday, from 8 or 9 am to some time between 3:30 and 5 pm; on Saturday, hours range from 8 am to 1 pm. Small-town banks close for lunch from 12:45 to 2 pm (except on Wednesdays and Saturdays). ATMs In South Africa, ATMs are available everywhere, so it isn t necessary to carry large amounts of cash. In Zimbabwe, ATMs are usually rare but luckily for you, Victoria Falls is an exception. The town does have a few ATMs, although you might have to go out of your way to get to them. Our local staff suggests that bring some spare cash with you if you are taking the Victoria Falls extension, and then use the local ATMs as backups if you find something expensive you want to buy. Always notify your bank before you leave home that you are going abroad so that they may remove any blocks on your account and also ask them about the number of withdrawals you may make abroad. For cash withdrawals, don t forget to memorize the actual digits of your card s 4-digit PIN (Personal Identification Number), as many keypads at foreign ATMs do not include letters on their numeric keys, they only display digits. Note on ATM use: Many banks have begun imposing a fee ranging from $1 to $5 every time you use an ATM in a foreign city. You may want to limit the number of withdrawals that you make. Your Program Director can advise you on locations, but when to exchange money is left to your discretion. SAF /17/15 17

19 Credit Cards In South Africa, credit cards are widely accepted. Hotels, restaurants, and shops even some smaller roadside curio places generally take credit cards. Visa and MasterCard are the most popular and the easiest to use, and American Express is fairly common, but Discover Card is not well-known. Some hotels will give you a cash advance on your credit card, and charge a 4%-10% transaction fee. In Zimbabwe, cash is more common than plastic. Credit cards are just not as common in Zimbabwe; local people usually pay in cash. Hotels will be more likely to take cards since they do a lot of business with tourists, but shops and restaurants are usually cash only. Fortunately, you can use both U.S. dollars and South African rand in Zimbabwe, and there are a few ATMs in Victoria Falls, although you might have to go out of your way to get to them. And remember: Although major American credit cards (Visa and MasterCard) are accepted abroad, always inquire if your type of credit card is accepted before deciding on your purchase. It is also wise to notify the credit card company that you will be using your cards abroad so that they may remove any security block. When using a major credit card you may receive a different exchange rate than if you pay with cash; inquire about the rate first. Please be aware that credit cards might not be accepted for small purchases or in the markets. Note that the Discover credit card is not widely accepted outside the U.S. Keep your receipts in case you have questions about the conversion or exchange rate. Also, keep your receipts as proof of purchase for items to be shipped home. Optional Tour Payments During your trip you will be able to book optional tours directly with your Program Director. He or she will ask you to confirm the payment for these tours by filling out a payment form. Optional tours can only be purchased with a credit or debit card including those taken in Zimbabwe (this is an exception to the general cash-only rule for Zimbabwe). We accept Visa, MasterCard, Discover card, or American Express credit cards only. (Note that American Express is not accepted in Zimbabwe.) We also accept debit cards with the logo of one of these credit card companies, but it must be a card that allows you to sign for purchases. In order to correctly process these charges, there can be a delay of 2-3 months from the date of your return for the charges to be posted to your account. Therefore we ask that you use a card that will not expire in the 2-3 months following your return. Because our headquarters are in Boston, charges may appear to be from Boston or might be labeled as "OPT Boston" (depending on your credit card company). SAF /17/15 18

20 Shopping There is no requirement to make a purchase during stops at local shops or markets, and any purchase made is a direct transaction with the shop in question, subject to the vendor s terms of purchase. Grand Circle Travel cannot be responsible for purchases you make on your trip or for the shipment of your purchases. Your purchase decisions are very personal. You must use your best judgment when deciding whether an item is worth the price being asked. If you plan a major purchase, we strongly recommend that you research the prices and quality available at home before your trip. Just one visit to an import shop or gold dealer will put you way ahead when you go shopping. This is the only way to know if you are getting a good price. South Africa South Africa offers great shopping opportunities at colorful outdoor markets, known for their lively atmosphere and tiny merchant shops. If you're interested in trying your hand at bargaining, this is not a common practice at shops and quality stores. However, at some craft markets and curio shops, it's a longstanding tradition. Traditional items for sale include artifacts, hand-woven rugs, pottery, beadwork, wood carvings, batiks, tie-dyed textiles, kangas, meerschaum pipes, fine basketry, and quality coffee and tea. In sophisticated Cape Town, there are fashionable boutiques and big-city shopping malls. South Africa is a major source of the world s diamonds and other precious stones, so the shopping is good for these items either as jewelry or at gem shops. Zimbabwe In Zimbabwe, you can sometimes trade items (like pieces of good clothing, T-shirts, caps, or sunglasses) for souvenirs, though now it s become common to toss some cash into the deal as well. SAF /17/15 19

21 U.S. Customs Regulations and Shipping Charges For all things related to U.S. Customs, the ultimate authority is the U.S. Bureau of Customs & Border Protection. Their website, has the answers to the most frequently asked questions. Or you can call them at The top three points to know are: At time of writing, your personal duty-free allowance is $800 for items brought with you. Items totaling more than $800 are subject to duty fees. Items shipped home are always subject to duty when received in the U.S. Even when the shop has offered to include shipping and duties in the price, this typically means shipping to the nearest customs facility and payment of the export duties not door-to-door shipping or payment of the import duties. All additional duties or shipping charges would be your responsibility. Unless an item is small enough to send by parcel service (like FedEx), chances are you will need to arrange shipping or pick-up once the item is in the U.S. and will need to pay customs duties. It is illegal to import products made from endangered animal species. U.S. Customs & Border Protection will seize these items, as well as most furs, coral, tortoise shell, reptile skins, feathers, plants, and items made from animal skins. Problem with a Purchase? The best way to address a problem with a purchase is to not have one in the first place! So don t forget to examine merchandise before paying for it, check contracts or agreements before signing, and review your receipt before leaving the shop. For major purchases, don t hesitate to ask in advance about the return policy local practice may vary from U.S. standards, so don t assume that you have a certain number of days after the purchase to speak up. But what if you do discover an issue with an item later on? In that case, your best recourse is to contact the vendor directly. For this reason we recommend that you keep a copy of all your receipts, invoices, or contracts, along with the shop s contact information. Expect that any resolution will take longer than it would in the U.S. due to delays in communication, the complexities of international shipping/customs duties, and even cultural differences in how business is conducted. SAF /17/15 20

22 Tipping Guidelines Of course, whether you tip, and how much, is always at your own discretion. But for those of you who have asked for tipping suggestions, we offer these guidelines. To make it easy for you to budget, we have quoted the amounts in U.S. dollars; tips can be converted and paid in local currency or in U.S. dollars. GCT Program Director: It is customary to express a personal thank you to your GCT Program Director at the end of the trip. We recommend $4-$6 per traveler for each day your Program Director is with you. Please note that tips for your Program Director can only be in the form of cash, and local currency is appreciated. If you are taking any of the optional extensions, your Program Director during the extension(s) may not be the same as the one on your main trip. Hotel Housekeeping: Many travelers will leave the equivalent of $1 per person, per day, for the hotel housekeeping staff. Included in Your Trip Price: Gratuities are included for local guides and motorcoach drivers on your main trip, extensions, and all optional tours. Time at Leisure When you are exploring on your own, it s useful to know when to tip and how much, because local customs often differ from the U.S. Here are a few helpful guidelines for the most common services a traveler might use: Taxis: Tipping is not included in the fare; a 10% tip is appropriate. Restaurants, cafes, and bars: Tips for the waiter or bartender not included in the bill. A 10% tip is usual if the service is good. Some restaurants will add a 10% service charge for groups of 6 of more; in this case an additional tip is not needed. Suggestion from previous travelers: If you are low on rand in South Africa, you can use U.S. dollars for tips, but rand are usually preferred. During the optional extension in Victoria Falls, you can tip in either U.S. dollars or in rands they use both currencies in Zimbabwe. SAF /17/15 21

23 6. PACKING FOR YOUR TRIP In General A good rule of thumb is to gather together everything you want to bring; then take half of that. Eliminate all but the essentials and start packing a few days before you leave. That way, you'll have time to think not fret about what you might be forgetting. To have a varied travel wardrobe, yet keep your luggage light, we recommend you select a color scheme and pack color-coordinated clothing items that can be mixed to create different outfits. Pack casual clothes: In this age of informality comfortable, low-key apparel is perfectly acceptable at each of your destinations. Basic pants, shirts, walking shorts, sportswear, everyday dresses/skirts, supportive shoes, and functional outdoor clothes that are relatively easy to care for are recommended. Men do not need a tie or jacket, and women do not need a fancy dress. You may want one smart casual outfit for the Welcome Reception or Farewell Dinner, but it s completely up to you. Consider clothing designed for travel, sports, or camping: With modern fabrics, lightweight packing for comfort and protection through a wide range of weather is easy. A visit to any online or local sporting goods/outdoor stores (L.L. Bean, REI, EMS, etc.) will yield a treasure trove of lightweight, specialized, and fashionable clothing and gear that is readily adaptable to your itinerary. Good walking shoes are essential: Supportive sneakers are ideal for daytime touring. If you prefer more ankle support, take light hiking boots. Bring a few pairs of socks, including a warm pair. A pair of cushioned sandals is handy for town visits, and rubber thongs are very useful for poolside use and bathroom floors, which can be slippery. Light rain gear: Africa s rainfall inland is notoriously unreliable and much of it is very sporadic in both time and place. A waterproof jacket and rain hat will prepare you for whatever the day brings. If you are traveling during the rainy season, you may want to include a foldable umbrella. Seasonal Tips Cold-weather layers (for June, July, and August): For the high altitudes, where evenings and early mornings are often very chilly, we recommend you take a fleece top, warm pants and socks, and, if you want to be really warm, gloves and hat. For early morning game drives (April through to September) it is very chilly. We suggest a warm jacket that will also keep out the wind. Windy in-between weather occurs, too, which calls for a light windproof, breathable shell. Your rain jacket can double as a windbreaker. Make sure it s roomy enough to comfortably fit over your fleece jacket. Dress Codes Dress etiquette in local communities: Summery attire is appropriate, but please do not offend local customs by wearing skimpy shorts. Knee-length shorts, pants, and casual shirts are in order. Tips for the Extensions Victoria Falls (optional extension): For exploring Victoria Falls, bring a bathing suit, shorts, and rubbersoled shoes. At certain times of the year, the mist at Victoria Falls is very heavy and you will get wet! A waterproof jacket and rain hat will prepare you for whatever the day brings. SAF /17/15 22

24 Big Five Safari (optional extension): You ll need to take two things into account when packing for this safari extension. The first is the need for layers. Bring a jacket, a sweater, or a fleece for your earlymorning game drives with the open-air vehicles, it will feel colder than it actually is. And if your trip is in June, July, or August, make that two items to layer like a sweater that you can wear under your jacket because those months are winter in South Africa. The second thing to keep in mind is your color choices. While it is perfectly OK to wear any color on safari, earth tones like green, brown, and tan are good choices. They don t show dirt and dust like white, they don t attract insects like blue can, and they don t scare off animals. (Many animals are color blind, but some don t like bright colors.) Packing Your Carry-On Using a daypack as a carry-on bag for your flights is a smart solution. We strongly urge you to pack your carry-on with at least one full change of clothes, your camera gear, medications, changes of socks and underwear, your important travel documents, and other irreplaceable items, in case your checked bags go astray. Store camera gear and important papers in plastic bags to protect them from dirt and moisture. With a daypack you can then remove these items on arrival and load your bag with the gear you ll need on walking tours and excursions. Note that carry-on luggage weight is restricted (see the section entitled Luggage Limits ). Laundry Service Laundry services are provided for a fee at most of your hotels. Travel Gear Suggestions Though it s often fun to do things as the locals do, it can be frustrating when daily necessities or conveniences from home aren t available. To travel wisely these days you must juggle your personal needs and preferences against the physical constraints of your transportation whether it s an international airplane, a transfer motorcoach, a small ship or a day-long trek on a camel. You ll have to distinguish between what you must have, what you d like to have, whether you can zip your suitcase closed, and what you can reasonably expect to wrestle through airport hallways and security checkpoints. Consult the following items to create your personal checklist ignoring what you don t need and making the tough decisions over borderline cases. Remember that many airlines today will charge you extra for added luggage. What not to pack: Do not pack aerosol cans, as they tend to leak during air travel. Avoid packing glass bottles; use plastic containers instead. Leave at home checkbooks and any credit cards not essential for your trip, valuable jewelry, and anything that you would hate to lose. SAF /17/15 23

25 Consider Daily essentials: toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, hairbrush or comb, shaving items, deodorant, shampoo/conditioner, shower cap, body soap, etc. Spare eyeglasses/contact lenses and your prescription Sunglasses with a neck strap Sunscreen, SPF 15 or stronger Insect repellent with DEET Travel money bag or money belt, to be worn under your shirt/jacket if possible Compact binoculars (one pair each 8 x 21 or 6 x 16 work well) Moisturizer, lip balm Swimsuit Compact umbrella Wide-brim sun hat with chin strap Pocket-size tissues Moist towelettes and/or anti-bacterial "water-free" hand cleanser Photocopies of passport, air ticket, credit cards, plus extra passport-sized photos (to replace your passport if lost) Copies of your medicine prescriptions Washcloth For Optional Trip Extensions For the Big Five Bush Safari pre-trip extension only: Flashlight Eye drops, for the dust on safari Medicines Your own prescription medicines Vitamins Cold remedies: Sudafed, Dristan, etc. Pain relief: Ibuprofen/naproxen/aspirin Laxatives: Senokot/Ex-Lax Stomach upset: Pepto-Bismol/Mylanta Allergy medicine for dusty conditions Other Gear Travel alarm Reading materials Travel journal/note pad Phrase book Home address book For the Victoria Falls post-trip extension only: U.S. souvenirs or gently used clothing for trade with vendors Anti-diarrheal (Imodium) Moleskin foot pads Antibacterial (Neosporin/Bacitracin) Optional: motion sickness medicine Optional: Anti-malarial medication (ask your doctor) Optional: Prescription anti-diarrheal Electrical transformer & plug adapters see Regional Electricity section Hand-wash laundry soap (Woolite) clothespins/travel clothesline/stopper Photos, small gift for home-hosted visit Collapsible walking staff Pocket calculator for exchange rate SAF /17/15 24

26 7. REGIONAL CLIMATE INFORMATION We can't predict what the weather will be during your travels, but you'll find historical averages and general information on the climate of your destinations below. As your departure nears it's a good idea to visit the My Account feature of where you ll find monthly temperature averages for the countries you ll visit as well as a current 10-day forecast of local temperatures and conditions. Or check Internet weather sites ( is very comprehensive) for those forecasts. By Destination Remember: You will be in the Southern Hemisphere throughout this tour, and as a result, the seasons will be reversed from those north of the Equator. (For example, January is a summer month.) South Africa: Johannesburg lie in the High Veldt, an area of plains at elevations from 4,000 to 6,000 feet. Summers are warm, though rarely uncomfortably hot; this is the time of year when the most rain falls. Nights are cool in winter, but daytime temperatures are mild and dry weather predominates. A high percentage of sunshine and low humidity year-round make for a pleasant climate. Kruger National Park: The average daily high temperature in January (summer) is 86ºF, but it can get as hot as 117ºF on occasion. Nightly lows in January range from 45-64ºF. In the winter month of July, the average daily high is 73ºF and lows can drop below freezing. TIP from previous travelers: Don t forget that your time in Kruger National Park includes at least one of early-morning game drive. Not only is it naturally colder in the morning than the rest of the day, but it will feel even colder because of the open-air vehicles. To be prepared, bring a jacket, a sweater, or a fleece. Hiuhluwe and Swaziland: The climate is more tropical, with humid, warm summers. Some rain falls year-round, though it s heaviest in the South African summer (December-March). Cape Town: Located where mountains slope down to coastal lowlands, Cape Town has a Mediterranean climate of mild, rainy winters and sunny summers. Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe (optional extension): This optional extension destination is humid and hot most of the year, with temperatures often in the 90s. SAF /17/15 25

27 Climate Charts The following charts reflect the average climate as opposed to weather conditions. This means they serve only as general indicators of what can reasonably be expected. As your departure approaches you may wish to monitor current weather conditions online. Here is the official data from the weather observation stations closest to our destinations: Average Daily High/Low Temperatures ( F), Humidity, & Monthly Rainfall MONTH JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA NELSPRUIT, SOUTH AFRICA Temp. High-Low % Relative Humidity (am-pm) Average # of Days with Rain (for Kruger National Park) % Relative Humidity (avg)* Temp. High-Low Average # of Days with Rain JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC *data not available MONTH HLUHLUWE, SOUTH AFRICA CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA Temp High-Low % Relative Humidity Average # of Days Temp. High-Low % Relative Humidity Average # of Days with Rain (avg)* with Rain (am-pm) JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC *data not available SAF /17/15 26

28 MONTH MOKOPANE, SOUTH AFRICA Temp. High-Low (optional extension) % Relative Humidity (avg) Average # of days with rain VICTORIA FALLS, ZIMBABWE Temp. High-Low (optional extension) % Relative Humidity (avg) Average # of days with rain JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC Please note: The data cited here reflect climate as opposed to weather conditions, and serve only as general indicators of what can reasonably be expected. A 60 degree average high temperature means that days may be as warm as 80 or as cool as 40 but it s most likely you ll encounter temperatures in the 50 to 70 degree range. SAF /17/15 27

29 8. TRAVEL AND TECHNOLOGY In General Smartphone, tablet, digital camera/camcorder, MP3 player: travel today can involve technology that didn t exist even five years ago. The usefulness of digital devices is enormous: smartphones can keep you connected and offer up-to-the-minute information via your cell plan or a local Wi-Fi connection. With a tablet (or smartphone) you can store multiple country guidebooks, access maps and connect to the internet in a small, lightweight device. (Tip: you can download this document from the Grand Circle Travel website and import it into your tablet or e-reader, many of which can display PDF files.) Compact and lightweight, digital camcorders and cameras take high definition movies and still images of the people you meet and places you visit. For robust use a laptop may be effective; for occasional use it s wiser to rely on Internet cafes or a tablet and hotel Internet access rather than shoulder the heft and size of a laptop. To use these devices you should first consider the services available at your destinations. You ll encounter a range of electrical standards, varied plug configurations to access the local current, erratic availability (electricity and internet access), and differing technological standards. You ll need to assess your power and data storage needs, and the accessories required to recharge/connect/use these devices. Finally, it s smart to read the owner s manual before you depart. Pay particular attention to electrical, power and storage requirements to ensure that you understand exactly what you need. Thorough preparation is the best guarantee that your devices will work up to their potential. SAF /17/15 28