Trekabout 2016 Baobabs, Lemurs & Safari current at: 30/06/2015 ANTANANARIVO MORONDAVA ANDASIBE-MANTADIA NATIONAL PARK JOHANNESBURG Encompass Africa (Pty) Ltd PO Box 1476 New Farm Queensland Australia T: +61 (0) 7 3266 2377 F: +61 (0) 7 3319 8959 E: info@encompassafrica.com.au http://www.encompassafrica.com.au ACN: 135089879 ABN: 54135089879 License No: 3295630
SABI SAND PRIVATE GAME RESERVE Encompass Africa utilises an online application that creates your itinerary in a virtual form, allowing interaction with a map, daily descriptions and images and videos of accommodation and activities. It s a wonderful way for you to visualise the safari experience we are proposing. Please copy and paste the URL into your browser. http://tiny.cc/trekaboutmadasa Encompass Africa (Pty) Ltd PO Box 1476 New Farm Queensland Australia T: +61 (0) 7 3266 2377 F: +61 (0) 7 3319 8959 E: info@encompassafrica.com.au http://www.encompassafrica.com.au ACN: 135089879 ABN: 54135089879 License No: 3295630
Overview Destination Accommodation Nights Basis Room Type Antananarivo Relais Des Plateaux 1 HB standard room Kirindy Reserve Gite de Kirindy 1 FB hut Morondava Palissandra Cote Ouest 1 FB bungalow Andasibe-Mantadia National Vakona Lodge 3 FB standard room Antananarivo Royal Palissandre 1 HB standard room Johannesburg City Lodge OR Tambo 1 BB standard room Sabi Sand Private Game Sabi Sabi Bush Lodge 3 FI luxury suite BB = Bed & Breakfast FI = Fully Inclusive (local beer, house wine) FB = Full Board HB = Half Board (Dinner & Breakfast) Encompass Africa (Pty) Ltd PO Box 1476 New Farm Queensland Australia T: +61 (0) 7 3266 2377 F: +61 (0) 7 3319 8959 E: info@encompassafrica.com.au http://www.encompassafrica.com.au ACN: 135089879 ABN: 54135089879 License No: 3295630
Costings Item Currency Per Person Madagascar & South Africa AUD 8,050 Single supplement for Madagascar & South Africa AUD 1,730 *All International and regional African flights not included except for two domestic flights within Madagascar which are included. We can assist with all flight arrangements from Australia and within Africa. It's best to book all flights in conjunction with our preferred carrier South African Airways as they offer great discounted fares on the regional African routes. Optional Extras Encompass Africa (Pty) Ltd PO Box 1476 New Farm Queensland Australia T: +61 (0) 7 3266 2377 F: +61 (0) 7 3319 8959 E: info@encompassafrica.com.au http://www.encompassafrica.com.au ACN: 135089879 ABN: 54135089879 License No: 3295630
Important Notes This is a tailormade itinerary quotation, therefore flexible should you wish to make changes before you book. Please note no reservations have been made and remain subject to availability at time of booking (applicable to flights and accommodation). Cost is indicative only and subject to change due to local fluctuations outside our control, airfare increases and increased surcharges and taxes. If your itinerary involves light aircraft flights, there will be strict luggage restrictions that are enforced by local aviation authorities for your safety. If your total bag weight exceeds allowances (usually 15-20kg), you may wish to leave excess luggage at a hotel you may be returning to or store in lockers at the airport. Alternatively, simply pack lighter in a soft sided bag and utilise laundry services in hotels and camps. For safety reasons, clients weighing over 100 kilograms will be required to pay an additional fare to ensure weight restrictions are maintained. Please note the weight restrictions on light aircraft are in place for your personal safety. Failure to advise us of your weight may result in additional costs when you arrive into Africa. Check in at city hotels is between 12noon and 15h00. If you arrive earlier, you are not guaranteed check in until this time and thus you may choose to arrange a day room or pay the previous night s accommodation to allow immediate check in. Insurance is compulsory for all travellers and we strongly recommend that insurance be issued at the time of paying your deposit. This will cover you against loss of deposit in the event of cancellation, provided of course that the reason for cancellation falls within the terms and conditions of your policy. You will need a ten year passport for travel to all destinations. We recommend that your passport is valid for at least six months following your due date of return. Your passport must have a minimum of TWO blank visa pages per country visited (excluding endorsement pages). This is a condition of entry set by the Department of Immigration of most countries and guests will be refused entry especially into South Africa if this requirement is not met. MADAGASCAR Australian passport holders require a visa to enter Madagascar. The tourist visa allows you to enter for leisure for up to 30 days. This visa is available on arrival with your passport (please note it must be valid for at least 6 months), 2 passport size photographs and your airline ticket proving departure from country. There is currently no fee for this visa, however this is subject to change without notice, so we recommend you take US$ with you to cover any costs associated with entry. If you wish to attain visa prior to departure please contact the Consulate General of Madagascar on (02) 9299 2290 or email consul@madagascarconsulate.com.au Departure fee applicable for regional flight departures is US$15. Malaria tablets are strongly recommended. Please note currencies accepted at most accommodations are local, euro and US$ and credit cards are only accepted at large hotels in the capital city. Madagascar is not a wealthy, well developed country. Whilst the islands are not plagued with famine or civil strife, it's still listed as a third world country. Travel in Madagascar is not easy - roads are in Encompass Africa (Pty) Ltd PO Box 1476 New Farm Queensland Australia T: +61 (0) 7 3266 2377 F: +61 (0) 7 3319 8959 E: info@encompassafrica.com.au http://www.encompassafrica.com.au ACN: 135089879 ABN: 54135089879 License No: 3295630
poor condition and the country lacks much of the infrastructure required for traditional tourism. Thus it is important that you are well prepared before heading off on your Madagascar adventure. Just have an open mind and go with the island flow!. SOUTH AFRICA Australian passport holders do not require a visa to enter South Africa. Passports must be valid for at least 6 months from the date you return to Australia. Malaria tablets highly recommended. Consult your GP or travel doctor. The Encompass Africa Way It's all about you Our passion is creating travel experiences that matter with each trip imbued with a classic spirit of adventure designed just for you, the independent-minded, smart and savvy traveller who values expertise and on-the-ground first hand knowledge. Put another way, we ve gone back to basics, remembering why any of us travel in the first place because we love it. Our Knowledge & Service Staffed by some of the most experienced people in the business from Africa or have lived, guided and travelled over a lifetime in Africa, our family company has the ability to listen to and interpret your needs. We are an independent travel company and only specialise in Africa so we can provide impartial honest advice. Our team spends 3-4 months in Africa each year hand picking the best hidden gems, camps and lodges. Our ongoing research means you enjoy the best experiences in Africa, first hand knowledge and benefit from our many long term relationships and partners in Africa with the latest up to date information and on the ground knowledge available. Our Price Guarantee The importance of this can often be forgotten. Encompass Africa has a solid reputation in Africa as a leading safari operator and specialist. We pride ourselves on our commitment to direct supplier and client relationships. We work just like an African based tour operator and as a result, you benefit from great discounted prices. In fact, an Encompass Africa holiday means you tap into a lifetime of African expertise, knowledge and specialist advice cheaper than if you were to book direct. Peace of Mind Aside from first hand advice, personal service and African based prices, Encompass Africa offers peace of mind to all travellers. We are an Australian registered company, a member of Australia's Travel Compensation Fund, ATTA (Advancing Tourism to Africa) and a fully licensed Australian tour operator. We pride ourselves on good business practices and are part of a responsible community of the leading companies in African tourism. We guarantee you 24/7 contact in Australia and whilst travelling with us in Africa. We are only a phone call away. You therefore get the best of both worlds of dealing with an African priced tour operator, but with the peace of mind of an Australian based, licensed and financially protected company. Encompass Africa (Pty) Ltd PO Box 1476 New Farm Queensland Australia T: +61 (0) 7 3266 2377 F: +61 (0) 7 3319 8959 E: info@encompassafrica.com.au http://www.encompassafrica.com.au ACN: 135089879 ABN: 54135089879 License No: 3295630
Baobabs, Lemurs & Safari Itinerary Tuesday 24 May 2016 On arrival into Tana (Antananarivo), clear immigration and collect your luggage, before proceeding through customs. Page 1 In the arrival hall, you will be warmly greeted by a driver and assisted with your luggage. Transfer by road to your accommodation. On arrival at Relais Des Plateaux, check in and spend 1 night in a standard room with breakfast & dinner included. ANTANANARIVO Built on a narrow, rocky ridge, Antananarivo occupies a strategic point at the centre of the island of Madagascar. Two forts watch over the city from the east and southwest, while within the city limits lay royal palaces, embassies, some fifty churches and a mosque. The city's most distinguishing feature may be the burnt out remains of the Rova, or Queen's Palace, situated on a prominent hill. Its steep alleys and stairways make Antananarivo a challenging but rewarding city to explore on foot. RELAIS DES PLATEAUX is a very relaxed hotel featuring lovely gardens with exotic species. There are 19 rooms in total each with comfortable bedroom, ensuite bathroom featuring shower, mini bar and safe plus the essential air conditioning for hot summer months. The main area is completely pedestrianised to preserve the peace and quiet and there is a lovely swimming pool and seating area plus the restaurant that serves fresh food between 6am and 10pm. (Note for early starters, breakfast can be served at 4am and for late arrivals a cold meal will be left in your room if required on arrival) CONSULTANT NOTES: This is our preferred property for overnight stays when you are flying out the next morning or transiting onwards because it avoids the hustle and bustle and traffic delays in town. Outdoor Dining Area Comfortable Rooms Relax by the Pool Wednesday 25 May 2016 After an early breakfast, it's time to check out. Meet your private driver/guide in reception at the agreed time and transfer to Tana Airport. Arrive in time to check in and board the Air Madagascar flight MD702 departing 08h30 to Morondava. On arrival into Morondava Airport at 09h30 disembark, collect your luggage and proceed with your private driver/guide to the vehicle. Transfer to Morondava. From here you will venture out on foot through the town of Morondava with your guide visiting a colourful market and carpentry work shop. Enjoy lunch before beginning the 50km journey to Kirindy. On arrival at Gite de Kirindy, check in and spend 1 night in a bungalow with breakfast & dinner included. Please note accommodation is very basic in Kirindy Park and it's the only option within the aprk and area to allow you to access the nocturnal wildlife. After dinner you will have the opportunity to venture out on foot to spot the nocturnal wildlife. Kirindy is the best place on the whole island to observe fossas (Madagascars biggest predator) on the night walk.
Page 2 KIRINDY RESERVE is a dry deciduous reserve in Western Madagascar, some 50 kilometres northeast of the town of Morondava. This private reserve is run by a Swiss company dedicated to selective and sustainable logging (Centre de Formation Professionelle Forestière) to ensure wildlife is not disrupted and trees are replace with saplings of the same species. It comprises one of the most outstanding and threatened wildlife habitats in Madagascar: the dry deciduous forest, whose extension has been reduced to 3 per cent of their original extent. The reserve is dominated by majestic baobab trees and a forest canopy throughout 100 square kilometres. This is the only place where the world's smallest known primate, the giant jumping rat, resides. This animal can hop like a miniature kangaroo, but is also seen walking on all four limbs. The Sakavala people living here are mainly proud zebu holders. Kirindy is the best place in the whole island to observe fossas (Madagascar's biggest predator), specially during the mating time between October and December. Lemur species here include the Red Fronted Lemur (Rufifrons Eulemur), Verreaux's Sifaka (Propithecus verreauxi) which is commonly called the white lemur and dancing lemur for its habit of walking on the ground shifting horizontally and nocturnal lemurs - the rare Coquerel's giant mouse lemur and pygmy mouse-lemur, fork-crowned lemur, Gray mouse lemur, western fat-tailed dwarf lemur and red-tailed sportive lemur. Several bats, tenrecs, mongooses and rodents complete the mammal population. 40 bird, 50 reptile and 15 amphibian species are also found in this magnificent forest including the crested Coua and crested drongo. GITE DE KIRINDY The only accommodation available within Kirindy National Park, Kirindy Gite is operated by the government parks service, Madagascar National Parks. Accommodation is in rustic wooden bungalows. The toilets may be shared and squat-style, though we would do our utmost to secure bookings at the newer bungalows with ensuite western style toilets (early booking is advisable in high season). Showers (cold/refreshing!) are en-suite. Your impressive nocturnal wildlife encounters should leave you feeling that your night in basic accommodation was well worthwhile. Local wildlife Casual atmosphere Rustic bungalows KIRINDY VISIT One of the finest private reserves in Madagascar, you will have the chance to see lemur species day and night, birdlife and the endangered dry deciduous forest with giant baobab trees. Late afternoon to early morning you get to observe nocturnal lemurs such as sportive or lepilemure weasel lemur and the small ring-tailed squirrel lemur. Keep an eye out on the night walk for Fossa, largest predator on the island. Madagascar has dozens of different species of snakes, none of which are dangerous to humans. Birdlife in Kirindy is wonderful including endemic species like crested drongo. Fosa 'White dancing lemur' Paroedura pictus (gecko) Thursday 26 May 2016 After breakfast, it's time to check out. Enjoy a morning visit with your guide in the reserve in search of the 7 lemur species which reside here. The most common are the common brown lemurs and the Verreaux's sifakas. Several bats, tenrecs, mongooses and rodents complete the mammal population. 40 bird, 50 reptile and 15 amphibian species are also found in this magnificent forest. This afternoon visit the famous Baobab Avenue, where you will have the opportunity to photograph until sunset. Your guide will have drinks and snacks available to really savour the moment.
Afterwards you will continue on to your overnight accommodation. On arrival at Palissandra Cote Ouest, check in and spend 1 night in a bungalow with meals included. Page 3 MORONDAVA is a city located in Menabe Region of Western Madagascar, along the delta of the Morandava River. The city is famous amongst other things for the spectacular Avenue of Baobabs nearby. These giant baobab trees are an 800 year-old legacy of the dense tropical forests that once thrived here. Over the years, as the country's population grew, the forests were slowly but surely cut down, leaving only the baobab trees, which the locals preserved for religious reasons. Today, deforestation still continues as large areas of this region, including some of few remaining baobabs, are still being cleared to make way for sugar cane plantations. PALISSANDRA COTE OUEST is located on Nosy Kely beach in the region of Menabe. There are beautiful landscapes, and blowing sinsets over the sea or on th aisle of Baobabs. The hotel has been particularly careful on its construction by the choice of building material and design. It is composed of rosewood, granite, roof mokotry, and local crafts. It combines comfort and refinement in the purest Malagasy tradition. The bungalows are featured with private terrace and sea views, comfort and refinement in Malagasy tradition, scattered in a coconut grove. Equipped with air conditioning, satellite TV, safe, minibar, shower, hair dryer. The restaurant serves delicious World cuisine. Enjoy a moment of pure gastronomic pleasure in a relaxed combination of tradition and modernity. Cultural and musical entertainment will be offered to you for your evenings. Includes a breakfast buffet. Also at the bar you can enjoy delicious cocktails before a beautiful sunset. Delicious dining Perfect sunsets Beach bungalows BAOBAB ALLEY VISIT The Avenue or Alley of the Baobabs is a prominent group of baobab trees lining the dirt road between Morondava and Belon'i Tsiribihina in the Menabe region in western Madagascar. Its striking landscape draws travelers from around the world, making it one of the most visited locations in the region. It has been a centre of local conservation efforts, and was granted temporary protected status in July 2007 by the Ministry of Environment, Water and Forests, the first step toward making it Madagascar's first natural monument. Along the Avenue in some 260 metres long segment are remaining some 20-25 trees about 30 metres in height, of the species Adansonia grandidieri, endemic to Madagascar.Some 20-25 more trees of this species grow in nearby rice paddies and meadows. Baobab trees, up to 800 years old, known locally as renala (Malagasy for "mother of the forest"), are a legacy of the dense tropical forests that once thrived on Madagascar. The trees did not originally tower in isolation over the sere landscape of scrub but stood in dense forest. Sunset Local life Stunning landscape Friday 27 May 2016 Rise early this morning and make your way back to Baobab Alley to photograph this region at sunrise. The group will then head back to the hotel for breakfast. Afterwards you will meet your guides at the agreed time and transfer back to the airport. Catch a scheduled Madagascar Air flight to Tana. On arrival into Tana, disembark and collect your luggage. Meet your guides
Page 4 in the arrival hall who will assist you with luggage and transfer you by road to Perinet. This is a 3 hour drive from town through quite attractive landscapes. You will feel the onset of humidity as you enter primary forests and pass lakes. There are also rural farming areas with rice fields and fruit plantations. On arrival at Vakona Lodge, check in and spend 3 nights in a standard room with meals included. ANDASIBE-MANTADIA NATIONAL PARK is a 155 square kilometre protected area consisting principally of primary growth forest in the Alaotra-Mangoro region of eastern Madagascar. The park's elevation ranges from 900-1250 metres, with a humid climate. Average annual precipitation is 1700 mm, with rainfall on 210 days of each year. This rainforest is habitat to a vast species biodiversity, including many endemic rare and endangered species, including 11 lemur species. The park's two component parts are Mantadia National Park and Analamazoatra Reserve, which is best known for its population of Madagascar's largest lemur, the Indri. This is one of the easiest parks in Madagascar to visit from the capital city, Antananarivo, with a 3-hour drive east on a paved road, Route Nacional 2 (RN 2). Most guests spend time in the Analamazaotra Reserve located with in Andasibe National Park, for those with good fitness and interest in strenuous walks can visit Mantadia. VAKONA LODGE is a great option for guests visiting Andasibe National Park. It is situated on a hillside that drops down to a lake and the combination of luxuriant vegetation, fresh mountain air and only the sounds of the frogs to disturb you is lovely. The main building has an octagonal reception area and large dining room with huge windows overlooking the small lake. The service is slow in the restaurant however when the food arrives it is usually both plentiful and good. There is a log fire in the centre which is very nice in the cold season. Dotted around the hillside up steep steps are the 28 bungalows which have been built in a Madagascan style. Each of the bungalows has its own terrace. Inside the rooms are basic but comfortable. There are beds with mosquito nets and en-suite bathrooms with piping hot showers and plentiful water. There is a pool and sun deck and a number of paths and sign-posted trails lead you to the middle of the primary forest. Activities include walks, canoeing, horse riding and visits to the national park for safaris seeing the lemurs in action. Lovely setting Comfortable rooms Close to the action Saturday 28 May 2016 Head out today with your guides who will spend the day showing you around this stunning reserve. Get close to Indri, enjoy forest trails, waterfalls and spotting rare orchid varieties. Return in the afternoon for a well deserved rest and dinner at the lodge. MANTADIA FULL DAY For a lovely day, we recommend Mantadia because it is picture perfect, home to many rare orchids that bloom in the forest, Indri Indri visible usually all year round plus stunning waterfalls and forest canopy. Lovely waterfalls Indri Indri Rare orchids
Page 5 Sunday 29 May 2016 After breakfast, meet your guides at the agreed time and venture out to Analamazaotra reserve. The 810ha reserve protects the largest of all lemurs, the Indri Indri, with a barely visible tail, black-and white markings and a surprised teddy bear face, it is one of the most attractive lemurs, with its loud and eerily haunting calls. There are another 11 species of lemurs that live in this area and your guide will try to find some during the visit. You may find a troop of Grey Bamboo Lemurs, Common Brown Lemur, and Diademed Sifaka. It is a great place for bird watching and special ones to look out for are the Velvet Asity, Blue Coua and Nuthatch Vanga. It is also home to reptiles, invertebrates, and many orchids. Lunch at the hotel In the afternoon visit the Lemur s island where you will have the opportunity to see lemurs up close. You will also enjoy a late evening walk with a local drive where you will be able to see some nocturnal species in Perinet. Returning to your accommodation afterwards. ANALAMAZOATRA RESERVE ACTIVITY Apart from the famous Indri lemur (the largest of lemur family!) there are another 11 lemur species that call the reserve home, including the woody lemur, grey bamboo lemur, diademed sifaka, brown lemur, red mouse-lemur, red-bellied lemur, black and white ruffed lemur and even aye-aye. The extraordinary animal diversity is completed by another 15 mammal species, more than 100 of birds and 50 reptiles including the biggest chameleon of the island. Chameleon Indris Beautiful Rainforest Monday 30 May 2016 After breakfast, it's time to check out. Drive back to Tanà. Possibility to stop at Mandraka for a short visit of Peyrieras private reserve ( entrance fees at guests charge ). Afternoon at leisure in Tana. On arrival at Royal Palissandre, check in and spend 1 night in a standard room with breakfast & dinner included. ROYAL PALISSANDRE s full of elegance, tenderness and warmth. Situated on hillside in the heart of the City of Thousands, it opens the doors to conviviality and the Malagasy hospitality. Furnished with Palissandre, exotic but elegantly decorated, each of our 46 air conditioned rooms has its own electronic safe, direct phone line, Television with local and international channels, wifi, minibar, bathroom and hair dryer Clear and pleasant, the rooms combine comfort and gaiety. Dressed in colorful textile, the decorations let you serene and relax, while the rosewood Palissandre brings warmth and tenderness.
Page 6 Spacious Rooms Swimming Pool Views of the City Tuesday 31 May 2016 After breakfast, it's time to check out. Meet your guides at the agreed time and embark on a city tour before heading to the airport. Bid your guides goodbye as you proceed to check in and catch a scheduled flight to Johannesburg. On arrival into Johannesburg, clear immigration and collect your luggage before proceeding through customs. From the airport, make your way on foot to City Lodge O.R Tambo located in the airport complex, approximately a 10 minute walk from the arrival hall. Check in and spend 1 night in a standard room with breakfast included. Wednesday 1 June 2016 After breakfast, it's time to check out. Make your way to the domestic terminal in time to check in and catch a scheduled flight to Mpumalanga Airport. On arrival into Mpumalanga airport, disembark and collect your luggage. You will be met in the arrivals hall by a transfer driver, assisted to the awaiting vehicle and head to the Sabi Sands Reserve. Your driver will be a local and very happy to talk about life in the region along the way. A cooler box with water is also provided. Should you wish to have anything to eat, we recommend you purchase something from the airport cafe. It's a fascinating drive through villages and plantations with a glimpse at local life. Feel free to speak with the driver and ask questions about life in the region. On arrival at Sabi Sabi Bush Lodge, check in and spend 3 nights in a luxury suite with all meals,breakfast, lunch, boma dinner, selected house beverages, open vehicle safaris, environmental awareness walking safaris included. SABI SAND PRIVATE GAME RESERVE is a 65 000 hectare reserve, pioneered by the landowners in the 1950 s, when the internal fences were dropped and a shared environmental management programme was put in place. Today, many of these families are now third and fourth generation landowners, their legacy being the successful conservation of the highest density of big game in South Africa. The game in the Sabi Sands reserve is well habituated resulting in unforgettable close encounters and prolific sightings, particularly of the elusive leopard. The Sabi and the Sand Rivers run through the reserve, which add further dimension to the bio-diversity of this area. SABI SABI BUSH LODGE is celebrated the world over for its warmth, vibrancy, 5-Star luxury and exceptional safaris. Huge wooden viewing decks overlook a busy waterhole; and each suite features sumptuous linens and fabrics, beautiful leather and wood furnishings, and an en-suite glass fronted bathroom with indoor and al-fresco shower leading onto a private patio. The lounge, bar, pool area and boma are all relaxing meeting places where stories are shared and friends made.
Page 7 Swimming Pool Large, comfortable suites Waterhole A DAY IN THE LIFE ON SAFARI A typical day on safari essentially revolves around the need to see wildlife at its most active. It usually follows a similar routine with slight variations between destinations and seasons. Meticulously planned to coincide with wildlife, you can expect early mornings, late afternoons and sometimes evening safari activities. Early morning To get out amongst the wilderness and see wildlife waking, you have to also get up early! This is usually anytime between 5am and 6am. Great news is your dawn will be heralded within with a knock knock wake up call and tea, coffee and biscuits served either to your tent or in the main area. Ensure you have warm clothes (like an onion, have layers that can be taken off as the day warms), your camera, hat and sunglasses. Mornings are the best time to spot wildlife as the temperature is cool and the animals are still very active, including the big cats which will be returning from a night of hunting and prowling. Late morning After a few hours on safari, you will stop for a bush break which is usually somewhere scenic with drinks and snacks provided. Sometimes you even turn up to a hearty bush breakfast in a remote, stunning location! It s then time to head back to camp for breakfast (if it wasn t a full bush breakfast) and some time to now relax, escaping the heat of the day. Lunch and early afternoon Most times, this is enjoyed at the camp or lodge so you can relax, utilise facilities and amenities such as pool, hammocks or similar. You might have something to eat and drink at around 3pm before heading out for another game drive. Afternoons offer fantastic lighting and wildlife is again becoming more active as the day cools. Evenings As with early morning, the evening game drive is when wildlife really come into their own. The predators are stirring from their slumber and the prey become active and alert as darkness falls and they endure another nervous night in the wild. You ll usually return just before dark in time for a shower, pre dinner drinks and then dinner. If however wildlife is absolutely exciting, you may stay out longer so we recommend taking warm clothes with you. Dinner will be pushed back so you don t miss out and instead can focus on the wildlife. Return to camp for dinner and then share stories and a few drinks around the campfire with fellow guests. Night Sometimes, you will be offered the unique opportunity to head out on full night time game drive. Vehicles are equipped with spotlights and expert trackers who can amazingly spot wildlife that the average person s naked eye would completely miss! It is night time you ll spot creatures such as chameleon, owls, leopard to name a few. It is a completely different perspective of Africa s bush and rounds off your experience beautifully. Morning traffic Tracker with spotlight Fantastic sightings
Thursday 2 - Friday 3 June 2016 Page 8 On safari in the sensational Sabi Sand Private Game Reserve. Enjoy morning and afternoon safari activities with a guide and tracker. SABI SAND PRIVATE GAME RESERVE Sabi Sand is the ultimate safari destination with the Big Five present in strong numbers. It is here you ll fill your memory card with shots of leopard, elephant, rhinoceros, buffalo and of course lion. With exceptional, diverse landscapes and awesome wildlife sightings, it is a must for any wildlife photography enthusiast. Statistically, over two hundred different species exist in abundance and the area is larger than some countries - all protected from human interference to ensure the sustainability of Africa s wildlife. Being a private reserve, there are less vehicles and tourists, more space to explore and feel genuinely immersed in the beauty of the landscape. You can also game drive morning and evening and off road to ensure you get close to the action! Night and Day Safaris Great encounters Awesome predator sightings Saturday 4 June 2016 After your morning safari and breakfast, it's time to pack and check out. Meet your private driver and transfer to Mpumalanga Airport. Proceed to check in and catch a scheduled flight to Johannesburg. On arrival into Johannesburg, disembark, collect your luggage and proceed onward to your international flight home to Australia or other onward arrangements. All arrangements with Encompass Africa end. We wish you a wonderful African safari holiday with us!
Page 9 General inclusions Accommodation on shared basis. Meals as stated on the itinerary. Excursions and transfers as stated on the itinerary Meet and greet services as stated on the itinerary. Game drives and safari activities as stated on the itinerary. Services of guides and accommodation staff. Relevant park fees as stated on the itinerary. Drinks as specified drink inclusions may differ between camps/lodges Laundry as stated on the itinerary. Note most camps and lodges and hotels offer laundry services for a fee payable locally if not included in tariff All road and light aircraft transfers as stated on the itinerary. General exclusions Meals not specified such as lunch & dinner in city hotels Drinks, entrance fees, porterage, tours/excursions and transfers not specified in the quote Travel insurance Staff gratuities (tips) Any new Government taxes, levies, fuel or industry increases which are beyond our control Visa and visa fees where relevant. International airport departure taxes applicable from manned airports only, which is to be paid in US$ cash on departure unless included in your ticket cost Any items of a personal nature Additional seat charge on light aircraft flights if an individual weighs in excess of 100kg. International, regional and domestic scheduled flights as stated on the itinerary. Accom taxes, Tourism Levies, Value Added Tax (VAT) or Government Sales Tax (GST)
How to Book Page 10 Please review the itinerary proposed in detail and ascertain what upgrades, options and inclusions you would like to include in your booking. Then call us to discuss your preferences and go through the itinerary in detail. We are here to answer any questions you may have. Once you come to a decision, the booking process is easy! Ready to book your Safari We send you through the itinerary again, deposit invoice, Booking terms and conditions and Booking Form. You will need to complete the booking form AFTER you have read through and agree to the Encompass Africa Terms and Conditions. Submit your completed booking form, copies of passports for all travellers and deposit payment. Deposit Payments consist of 100% airfares that Encompass Africa is booking on your behalf (in accordance with airline fare rules) and 30% of land arrangements. The deposit invoice amount is calculated using the current exchange rates on the day that you confirm and invoice issued. Please note the exchange rate is valid for same day payment only and will be recalculated if payment is delayed. Credit card payments attract a merchant fee imposed upon us by the credit card companies. The fees are 1.5% for Visa and Mastercard and 3% for AMEX. The respective fee is added to the total value of the arrangements. If your holiday is booked within 60 days, full payment is required at the time of booking. Once you have paid The Encompass Africa team sets about confirming all arrangements only once deposit funds are received in full, booking form completed and submitted along with copies of passports for all travellers. please note travel insurance is compulsory for all travellers. Once all arrangements are confirmed, you will receive a receipt of payment, confirmed itinerary and our Pre Departure Guide to Africa that we recommend you read. It contains important information on luggage restrictions, entry conditions and medical requirements. Count down really begins The balance of your holiday payment is required 60 days prior to departure. The balance of payment invoice amount is calculated using current exchange rates on the day balance of payment is due and is valid for 24 hours, less the deposit amount receipted. Again, this can be paid by electronic bank transfer, visa and mastercard credit cards and will incur the 1.5% merchant fee and AMEX 3%. Bon Voyage Approximately 3 weeks prior to your departure, final paperwork is prepared and distributed to you. This includes, not limited to full itinerary, contact details whilst travelling and airline tickets to ensure you an effortless holiday in Africa. Guests in Africa Whilst you are travelling, access is given to our exclusive Guests in Africa program. That means you have 24/7 access to staff should you need assistance. Welcome Home We look forward to welcoming you home and hearing all about your African Safari holiday with Encompass Africa.