Kruger and Mozambique

Transcription

1 10 Days Johannesburg to Maputo Go on safari in Greater Kruger, South Africa's flagship national park, before enjoying rest and relaxation in neighbouring Mozambique, the continent's best kept secret. Spend your days searching for the Big Five on morning and evening game drives and sunbathing on some of Southern Africa's most beautiful beaches, draped along the dazzling Indian Ocean coast. HIGHLIGHTS AND INCLUSIONS Trip Highlights Johannesburg - South Africa's largest city Kruger National Park - home of the 'Big Five' Maputo - Mozambique's vibrant capital Mozambique Beaches - Indian Ocean Paradise What's Included 1 night accommodation in Johannesburg including breakfast. Superior package:peermont Metcourt at Emperors Palace. Deluxe package: Peermont Metcourt Suites. 3 nights in Greater Kruger. Superior Package: Mjejane River Lodge - standard room. Includes all meals and 2 safari activities a day. Deluxe Package: Rhino Post Safari Lodge - luxury bush suite. Includes all meals, teas, coffees and 2 game drives a day. 1 night accommodation in Maputo including breakfast. Superior package:southern Sun Maputo. Deluxe package: Hotel Cardoso 4 nights at the beach in Mozambique. Superior Package: Machangulo Beach Lodge - ocean view chalet. Includes full board, selected soft drinks, non motorized activities and a boat transfer from Maputo Marina to lodge Deluxe Package: White Pearl Resorts - pool suite. Includes all meals, snacks, local brand drinks, mini bar spirits and snacks, canapés at the pool bar, high tea, beach picnic, nonmotorized activities, private butler and return helicopter transfer between Maputo and the resort. Airport arrival and departure transfers on days 1 and 10 All relevant transfers and transportation What's Not Included Domestic flight from Johannesburg to Greater Kruger - Kruger Mpumalanga (superior package)/skukuza Airport (deluxe package) International flights and visas Tipping - an entirely personal gesture DETAILED ITINERARY Day 1 : Johannesburg Upon arrival at Johannesburg Airport you will be met and transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is at leisure to explore South Africa's largest city. If time permits consider booking a half day city tour. There are many things to see and do in Johannesburg and no trip would be complete without a visit to Soweto, the site of the 1976 uprising, which started the path to democracy. Soweto today is a lively and metropolitan township. Superior accommodation: Peermont Metcourt at Emperors Palace Deluxe accommodation: Peermont Metcourt Suites Overnight - Johannesburg Days 2-4 : Kruger N.P. Johannesburg - Kruger. On the morning of day 2, travel back to the airport for your flight east - 1 -

2 to the gateway to Greater Kruger National Park. Greater Kruger is South Africa's most famous game park and is home to a plethora of animals including the Big Five (elephant, rhino, lion, leopard, buffalo). Spend the next three days exploring the reserve and spotting wildlife on daily game drives or activities. Greater Kruger is one of the largest game reserves in Africa, covering a staggering 20,000 km². It is also part of the Great Limpopo Transfrontier Park, which includes reserve areas in neighbouring Mozambique and Zimbabwe. Kruger and private game reserves such as the Sabi Sand, Timbavati, Thornybush, Kapama and Manyeleti offer incredible opportunities to view the Big Five, including white and black rhino. Note: Flight from Johannesburg to Kruger not included. We can booked it for you upon request. Superior accommodation: Mjejane River Lodge Deluxe accommodation: Rhino Post Safari Lodge Overnight - Greater Kruger National Park (B:3, L:3, D:3) Day 5 : Maputo Kruger - Maputo. Leaving Greater Kruger behind, a private transfer will take you to Mozambique today where you will spend a night in the vibrant capital - Maputo. The remainder of the day is at free to explore the city. In the far south of the country, Maputo is nestled in a gorgeous bay on the Indian Ocean. Formerly the Portuguese city of Lourenco Marques, Maputo is an eclectic mix of European, Arab and African cultures, with a large harbour, historic buildings, a vibrant Municipal Market and lively nightlife. Superior accommodation: Southern Sun Maputo Deluxe accommodation: Hotel Cardoso Overnight - Maputo (B) Days 6-9 : Mozambique Beaches Maputo - Mozambique beaches. Journeying south leave the city and head to the beach for four days of sun, sea and relaxing. With dazzling powder-white beaches, coconut palms, crystal blue waters, idyllic offshore islands and some of the world s best diving, Mozambique really is an Indian Ocean paradise. Being one of the world's top diving destinations you may even be lucky enough to swim with a whale shark or a dugong! This really is an Indian Ocean paradise. Superior accommodation: Machangulo Beach Lodge Deluxe accommodation: White Pearls Resort Overnight - Mozambique Beaches (B:4, L:4, D:4) Day 10 : Maputo After breakfast, you take a transfer back to Maputo airport for your onward flight.(b) Johannesburg Superior package - Peermont Metcourt at Emperors Palace (classic room) The modern, three star Peermont Metcourt Hotel is conveniently located in the Emperors Palace Resort, only a short drive from O.R. Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg. The hotel is set in a landscaped garden within the resort, with full access to the resort facilities. The Metcourt Hotel offers 248 rooms with various room configurations thus suiting a variety of travellers. The rooms are modern with ergonomic furniture, en-suite open-plan bathrooms, some with a bath and shower and others a shower only, air-conditioning, flat screen television with select satellite channels, writing desk, laptop safe and tea and coffee facilities. The hotel guest facilities include a comfortable, large ground floor reception, an express-style deli for quick convenient meals, the F.L.A.G Café breakfast restaurant, 21 Bar and lounge and a private, sheltered pool terrace set in a landscaped garden. The Emperors Palace Resort has numerous restaurants and entertainment facilities as well as a variety of shops. The Metcourt Hotel offers a complimentary shuttle to and from the airport that operates every 20 minutes from 06h00 until 23h00. Deluxe package: Peermont Metcourt Suites The Peermont Metcourt Suites offers affordable accommodation at Emperors Palace Resort in Johannesburg. Located next to O.R. Tambo International Airport, Emperors Palace is set in landscaped gardens and offers accommodation, relaxation facilities, a magnificent casino, dining and entertainment. This modern contemporary hotel comprises 80 comfortable en-suite bedrooms, including inter-leading family rooms. Rooms are twin or double, air-conditioned, include a select satellite television package, tea and coffee facilities, armchairs, coffee table and desk. Hotel services include a buffet breakfast at the Primavera Restaurant and there is a courtesy shuttle that runs at intervals between the Resort and O.R. Tambo International Airport. Guests staying at the Metcourt Suites can safely walk around Emperors Palace Resort. There are a number of restaurant options, cocktail bars and cafes; a comprehensive children s - 2 -

3 entertainment facility and a retail shopping concourse making this a convenient location for an overnight stop in Johannesburg. Greater Kruger Superior package: Mjejane River Lodge - standard room A bush safari experience with the comforts of a hotel, Mjejane River Lodge is perched on the banks of the Crocodile River adjacent to the southern Kruger National Park. This riverside setting can be appreciated from all areas of the lodge, with an array of animals making daily use of the river. There are 10 good-sized standard rooms offering double or twin accommodation. With traditional safari style decoration in browns and beiges to blend in with the surrounds, the rooms are all have en-suite bathrooms, hairdryer, minibar fridge, tea and coffee station and patios overlooking the Crocodile River. An ideal setting for relaxing and soaking up the bush surrounds, the main lodge facilities include a restaurant, bar and swimming pool set under shady trees with views extending to the river below. A lovely large lawn in front of the lodge adds to the space and serene atmosphere. Due to the location of Mjejane, just outside the Kruger National Park, guests have access to a variety of activities. These include game drives in the morning and afternoon, nature walks, horse riding and mountain biking (nearby). Includes: All meals and two game activities daily, Kruger Conservation levy Please note: There is approx. R per person per night Standard Kruger conservation levy payable direct at the lodge. Getting there: Includes a shuttle road transfer from Peermont Metcourt at Emperors Palace to OR Tambo Airport. Excludes flight from Johannesburg to Kruger Mpumalanga Airport (we can book this for you upon request). Includes private road transfer from Kruger Mpumalanga Airport to Mjejane River Lodge Deluxe package: Rhino Post Safari Lodge - luxury bush suite Situated at the southern end of 12,000 hectare private concession within the central region of the Kruger National Park, is the base lodge for walking trails offered by Isibindi Africa, Rhino Post Safari Lodge. Set on the banks of the Mutlumuvi riverbed under shady Tamboti trees, the lodge has waterhole views and a relaxed ambience. A wilderness area with no permanent structures allowed, the eight units are built on stilts using natural materials of stone, wood, thatch and canvas to create an authentic bush experience. Spaciously appointed and elegantly decorated the units are open plan with a bathroom that includes a free-standing bath, his and hers basins, outdoor shower and separate toilet. Each unit has a private viewing deck with excellent riverbed views. The shady main camp has a dining area, lounge with a wine cellar, fireplace and bar, viewing deck and swimming pool and a waterhole. With low environmental impact at the core of the camp the walkways are raised and battery power is used for lighting. Activities available from Rhino Post Safari Lodge include twice daily game drives in the morning and afternoon within the 12,000 hectare concession and the Kruger National Park (no off-road driving). Includes: All meals, teas, coffees and twice daily game drives. Each guest is entitled to 1 of the following on an evening game drive, glass of wine, local beer, cider or soft drink. Drive In Fees. Getting there: Includes shuttle road transfer from Peermont Metcourt to OR Tambo Airport Excludes flight from Johannesburg to Skukuza Airport (we can book this for you upon request). Includes a shared road transfer from Skukuza Airport to Rhino Post Safari Lodge Maputo Superior package: Southern Sun Maputo - non seaview room Offering rich Portuguese heritage, the Southern Sun Maputo is located on the Maputo beachfront, a popular haven for business and leisure travellers. An upmarket area of this vibrant town, this hotel offers magnificent sea views. Accommodation is in 158 elegant wellappointed rooms. The rooms feature en-suite bathrooms with a shower/bath combination, king, queen or double beds, air-conditioning, hairdryer, minibar and tea and coffee facilities. Sea facing rooms and suites are recommended for the superb view, the other rooms are road facing. The Portuguese heritage flows through the décor, detail and hospitality of this stately hotel. Here guests can enjoy light meals and sundowners on the perfectly placed outside terrace and swimming pool that overlook the ocean. The hotel restaurant offers indoor dining with a buffet breakfast, and a la carte and buffet dinners. There is a fitness and business centre and complimentary Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel. Getting there:includes private road transfer from Kruger. Deluxe package: Hotel Cardoso - standard city view room Commanding sweeping views over Maputo Bay and the city below, Hotel Cardoso is situated on a cliff top in the heart of Mozambique s capital city. Its central location makes it a popular choice for business travellers and conferencing. The 130 rooms are individually decorated with room views varying between the city and the sea. Rooms feature en-suite bathrooms, air-conditioning, satellite television, hairdryers and Wi-Fi. Hotel facilities include the Fiamma Restaurant, the Bar Por do Sol A toast for a scenic sundowner, Café Acacia next door to the hotel for a light meal, a large outdoor swimming pool, spacious gardens and terraces with great views. Hotel Cardoso is well located for an overnight stop in Maputo. The city boasts some beautiful historic buildings and vibrant history and culture that can be enjoyed on a city tour

4 Getting there:includes private road transfer from Kruger. Mozambique beaches Superior package: Machangulo Beach Lodge - ocean view chalet Tucked away in southern Mozambique on the very edge of Machangulo Peninsula and overlooking the channel that runs between Inhaca Island and the Bay of Maputo, is Machangulo Beach Lodge. Caught between the ocean and estuary, Machangulo overlooks endless white beaches, untouched dune forests, estuaries and the open ocean. The lodge features five premium ocean view chalets, perched on a ridge overlooking spectacular scenery. Each chalet has an onsuite bathroom, air-conditioning, mosquito net, minibar and private deck. There are also additional villas nestled in the dunes a bit closer to the beach. These are suitable for larger groups or families travelling together, with a four-bedroom villa with its own pool, lounge and kitchen and the two two-bedroom family villas. Accommodation is connected by walkways and staircases to the main lodge and the beach. The main lodge includes a large lounge, bar, and dining area where seafood is a specialty. Hidden behind the main building is the Boma, and situated near the beach is the Beach Bar with a pool and deck. Access is via a one hour boat transfer from the marina in Maputo and departure time is determined by the tide. Activities from the lodge include dune walks, a visit to Santa Maria Village to experience the local culture, excursions to Inhaca and Portuguese Island or the mainland capital of Maputo; fishing, snorkelling, beach picnics, seasonal whale watching (June November) and turtle nesting excursions (late Spring) and the Wellness Spa. The activity centre provides beach towels, gazebos, hammocks, boogie boards, fishing rods, snorkel sets, kids toys and beach chairs. NOTE: Excursions and motorised activities are an additional cost and some activities are tide and weather dependent. Includes: All meals, snacks in lodge or during activities, welcome drink, tea/coffee, water, selected juices, iced tea, ices coffee, nonmotorized activities, Wi-Fi and laundry. Getting there: Includes a shared road transfer from Maputo International Airport to Maputo Marina and a shared boat transfer from Maputo Marina to Machangulo Lodge. Please note: Arrival into Maputo should be no later than as, depending on the tide, the boat to Machangulo departs at approx Transfer time is approx. 1hr30 min. When disembarking and embarking the boat at Machangulo guests will have to wade through shallow water. Deluxe package: White Pearls Resorts - pool suite Situated on the south east coast of Mozambique, a mere 30km north of the South African/Mozambique border, is the gorgeous beachside escape of White Pearl Resorts. A sublime position with 2km of soft white sand beach, White Pearl Resorts is tiered along the sand dunes and surrounded by vast tracts of untouched bush. With 22 sensitively designed timber stilted suites, all linked by wooden walkways, the resort takes full advantage of its striking setting. Sophisticated simplicity, cool, clean lines, contemporary furniture and a palette inspired by the surrounding coastal landscape add to this luxurious getaway. The stylish white suites have all the mod cons: flat screen TV's, Wi- Fi, ipod docking station, air conditioning, butler service, in suite dining, indoor and outdoor showers, private plunge pool and own sunning deck. Suites higher up the dunes have beautiful sea views, while those in the first row have direct beach access. With a leisurely pace and designed for comfort, guest areas include a lounge, swimming pool and bar, beach bar with tapas style menu, the White Pearl Restaurant and four poster day beds on the pool deck; all taking advantage of the stunning sea views. White Pearl Resorts offers a fully equipped PADI dive centre with 16 easily accessible dive sites. Horse riding, dolphin trips, snorkelling, whale watching (July November), fishing charters and nocturnal turtle walks (December February) can all be enjoyed during your stay. Includes: All meals (excluding oysters and lobsters), local brand drinks, house wine, selection of spirits, sparkling wine, tea/coffee, bottled mineral water, snacks, mini bar spirits and snacks, canapés at the pool bar, high tea, beach picnic, non-motorized activities, private butler, complimentary Wi-Fi and laundry. Activities include: beach/horse riding, town tour, star gazing, turtles walks (seasonal between November and February), beach sports, kids Skipper club, snorkelling off the beach, stargazing/moon gazing. Two complimentary 2 ocean safaris per person Getting there Includes a private road transfer from Hotel Cardoso to Maputo Airport and a helicopter transfer from Maputo Airport to White Pearl Resort Please note: 30 min scenic flight. Minimum 2 guests per transfer and max 5 guests in a helicopter. Luggage is strictly restricted to 15 kgs in a soft bag. Excess luggage can be transferred at an additional cost. Flight departs Maputo International Airport at 11h30 and is weather dependent. Guests must take out comprehensive travel insurance as White Pearl will not be liable for any additional costs incurred should a transfer be cancelled due to inclement weather. Please note: Airfares and Airport Taxes are subject to change without prior notice. KNOW BEFORE YOU GO Passports & Visas Please ensure that you have at least two blank pages in your passport, plus an additional blank page for each visa/african country you a visiting. If travelling on one of our longer overland safaris we recommend that you have at least 12 blank pages in your passport

5 Please also note that your passport must be valid for a minimum of six months from the end date of your trip. Any visa information provided in this document is for general guidance purposes only, visa requirements and fees are subject to change. It is essential that you check current entry requirements with each relevant embassy/ consulate prior to departure. Visa procurement is the responsibility of the traveller and not of On The Go. Booking Your Flights When booking your departure flight you should allow time at the end of your African safari for any unexpected delays. We recommend that you book your onward flight no earlier than 24 hours after the end of your safari. In the case of our longer overland camping safaris (22 days or more) we advise against making any firm arrangements for at least 48 hours after the scheduled departure date. We can help to arrange post tour accommodation upon request. Mozambique Country Guide Mozambique Visas A visa is required to enter Mozambique. Some nationalities are able to obtain a visa at the border but as regulations change frequently and without notice it is prudent to obtain your visa in advance of travel. It is essential that all nationalities check the latest advise with the Mozambique embassy when planning their trip. Mozambique visa regulations change frequently and without notice. Australian, New Zealand and Canadian passport holders cannot get a visa upon arrival in Mozambique. If you are unable to obtain a visa prior to departure, it can be obtained from the Mozambique Embassy in Johannesburg which is open Monday Friday. You will need to arrive into Johannesburg a few days prior to your tour departure date in order to get the visa processed. For more information please contact the embassy or visit: If you are unable to obtain a visa prior to departure, it can be obtained from the Mozambique Embassy in Johannesburg which is open Monday - Friday, but the application must be submitted at 8am. For more information please visit visa-applications. If you need to obtain a visa in Johannesburg then we recommend arriving 3 days prior to your tour departure date in order to get the visa processed. Citizens of South Africa do not require a visa for Mozambique. For visa applications please note: on our overland safaris we enter Mozambique from South Africa through Komatie Poort Border and exit into Zimbabwe at the Bandala Border. Please ensure that you have at least two blank pages in your passport, plus an additional blank page for each visa, and that your passport is valid for a minimum of six months from the end date of your trip. Visa procurement is the responsibility of the traveller and not of On The Go. Vaccinations You should seek medical advice before travelling to Mozambique from your local health practitioner and ensure that all you receive all of the appropriate vaccinations. Typically the list includes Tetanus, diphtheria, polio, hepatitis A, hepatitis B (for stays over 3 months) and optionally anti-rabies inoculation, typhoid and meningococci. A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required from travellers arriving from infected areas or who were in transit through infected areas (unless they remained onboard or at the airport). There is a malaria risk throughout the year across Mozambique, therefore anti-malaria medication is essential. Currency & Banking The currency in Mozambique is the Mozambique Meticais (MZN; symbol R) 1 Meticais = 100 centavos. Notes are in denominations of MZN 20, 50, 100, 200, 500 and 1000 Meticais. Coins are in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 20 and 50 centavos and 1, 2, 5, 10 Meticais. ATM facilities in Mozambique are limited and tend to be unreliable so it is advisable to carry cash or travellers cheques. Local banks have branches in most cities but it is best to stock up on cash when you get the opportunity. Traveller s cheques can be changed at banks. These should be in US Dollars or Pound Sterling to avoid additional exchange rate charges. Proof of identity may be requested in some instances, so it s useful to carry a passport or some form of photo identification. Banking hours: Mon - Fri Time & Voltage Time Zone - Mozambique is 2 hours ahead of GMT. Daylight saving time is not observed. Standard voltage is V. In Mozambique there are a variety of sockets, therefore it is best to pack an international adaptors. Primary sockets require a Type M - South African type, type C - European type and a type F - Schuko type (2 pronged with earth connectors on the side). You will need a voltage converter and plug adapter in order to use U.S. appliances. Climate Mozambique s climate is typically tropical, with a wet season during summer between the months of October and March. The dry season is between April to September. There is not much variation of temperature between the seasons except at higher altitudes and a greater humidity during the wet season. The coolest months to visit Mozambique are usually between June and August however the weather can still get above 30 degrees Celsius during the daylight hours. The rainy season generally starts earlier in the north of the country. During the wet season the coast usually experiences the heaviest rainfall and cyclones are also not unheard of during this period

6 South Africa Country Guide Visas Please be advised that visa requirements are subject to change and that visa procurement is the responsibility of the traveller and not On The Go Tours, therefore it is essential that you check current visa requirements with the embassy before travel. Please also ensure that your passport is valid for at least 6 months from your planned date of departure from Africa. UK, Australian, New Zealand, USA and Canadian citizens do not require a tourist visa for South Africa for stays of up to 90 days. Very few nationalities require South African visas prior to entry into the country. Most nationalities are able to get an entry stamp at the border on entering South Africa. Please contact your local South African embassy to find out if you require a visa prior to entering SA. If you are subject to visa requirements, you must apply and receive your visa before your departure for South Africa, visas are not issued at South African ports of entry. Travelling with Children to or through South Africa From 1 June 2015 parents travelling with children into or out of South Africa, or transiting in South Africa will be asked to show the child s unabridged (full) birth certificate which lists the child s details and both parents details. The abridged (short) birth certificate which only lists the child s details won t be accepted. Uncertified copies of birth certificates or copies of the parents/guardians identification will not be accepted. A parental contact affidavit (PCA) must have a certified copy of the parent s/ guardian s identification (ie passport) attached to it. Where only one parent is accompanying a child, parental or legal consent for the child to travel (eg an affidavit from the other parent or if applicable a death certificate) is required and there are other requirements for children travelling unaccompanied or with adults who are not their parents. If you are travelling with children (under 18) it is essential that you contact the South African High Commission or the South African Department of Home Affairs for further information relating to these regulations. If you do not carry the correct documentation you will not be allowed to enter the country. Obtaining the correct paperwork is the responsibility of the traveller and not On The Go Tours. Health & Vaccinations You should seek medical advice before travelling to South Africa from your local health practitioner and ensure that all you receive all of the appropriate vaccinations. As a guide tetanus, diphtheria, polio, hepatitis A (for stays over 4 weeks) and hepatitis B (for stays over 3 months) are recommended. A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required from travellers over one, coming from infected areas. A low malaria risk occurs in northern parts of Mpumalanga (as well as Kruger National park, northern and northeastern parts of KwaZulu- Natal). If travelling to these regions and/or the countries north of South Africa, where there is a high malaria risk, we strongly recommend that you take anti-malaria medication. Precautionary measures to take to prevent contact with mosquitoes include: insect repellent, cover up at sundown, sleep under a mosquito net and wear long sleeve clothing and long trousers in the evenings. Currency The currency in South Africa is Rand (ZAR; symbol R) 1 Rand = 100 cents. Notes are in denominations of R200, 100, 50, 20 and 10. Coins are in denominations of R5, 2 and 1, and 50, 20, 10 and 5 cents. Obtaining local currency within South Africa is very easy. ATMs are widely accessible and very reliable and offer the best rates of exchange. International credit cards are accepted in almost all shops, restaurants, hotels and game reserves. Bureau de changes offer a quick and commission free service but are only found in the main centres such as Cape Town and Johannesburg. Travellers cheques can be changed at banks. These should be in US Dollars or Pound Sterling to avoid additional exchange rate charges. Please note that proof of identity may be requested in some instances, so it s useful to carry a passport or some form of photo identification. Travellers cheques can be difficult to exchange and tend to attract high commission fees. Banking hours: Mon-Fri , Sat Rand can be used in Botswana, Namibia and South Africa, so if you are travelling on one of our overland safaris ample money for these three countries can be obtained prior to beginning your trip in Cape Town or Johannesburg. The Rand and Namibian dollar are tied to each other on an equal level and can be used interchangeably in Namibia. The Rand can also be easily converted to Pula in Botswana at good rates. Time & Voltage Time Zone - South Africa is 2 hours ahead of GMT. Daylight saving time is not observed Standard voltage is V. Primary sockets require a Type M - South African, electrical plug which has three thick circular pins. You will need a voltage converter, and plug adapter in order to use U.S. appliances. Climate Climatic conditions generally range from Mediterranean in the south western corner of the country to temperate in the interior plateau, and subtropical in the northeast. A small area in the northwest has a desert climate. Most of the country has warm, sunny days and cool nights. Rainfall generally occurs during summer (November-March), although in the southwest, around Cape Town, rainfall occurs in winter (from June-August). Temperatures are influenced by variations in elevation, terrain, and ocean currents