23 Day Southern Africa Uncovered Small Group Tour

•  22 nights in 3 and 4-star accommodation
• Breakfast daily, 5 lunches and 7 dinners
• Airport transfers included on the first and last day of your tour 
• Dedicated private touring vehicle throughout
• Internal flight from Cape Town to Victoria Falls
• Fully escorted by English-speaking tour leaders (Days 1 - 18)
• Escorted by English-speaking local guides (Days 19 -22)
• Sightseeing including entry fees as per itinerary

• Mpumalanga – Panorama Route scenic drive
• Mpumalanga – Blyde River Canyon
• Mpumalanga – Bourke’s Luck Potholes
• Kruger National Park – Open vehicle morning and afternoon game drives
• Eswatini – Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary guided walk
• Eswatini – Umphakatsi Chief’s homestead cultural visit
• Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Game Reserve – Game drive
• iSimangaliso Wetland Park – Boat cruise
• Drakensberg – Sani Pass 4x4 excursion
• Lesotho – Traditional Basotho village visit
• Chintsa – Wild Coast beaches
• Zuurberg – Guided mountain walk
• Addo Elephant National Park – Open vehicle game drive
• Tsitsikamma – Storms River Mouth suspension bridge walk
• Oudtshoorn – Ostrich farm visit
• Oudtshoorn – Cango Caves
• Robertson – Wine estate tour and tasting
• Cape Town – Full-day Cape Peninsula tour
• Cape Town – Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve
• Cape Town – Boulders Beach penguin colony
• Victoria Falls – Guided walking tour
• Victoria Falls – Zambezi River sunset cruise
• Hwange National Park – Game drives and walking safari

Pre/Post Tour Accommodation
You can enhance your holiday by arriving or departing before or after the tour. On this tour you can choose from the following options:

Pre Tour Accommodation

• $160.00 per room, per night for double and twin share
• $126.00 per room, per night for solo travellers

Post Tour Accommodation

• $752.00 per room, per night for double and twin share
• $538.00 per room, per night for solo travellers

Please select the number of extra nights required in the 'Additional Nights Accommodation' field when making your purchase. The additional cost for these arrangements will be added to your final payment invoice and are subject to availability.

Please note: All add-ons, including upgrades, pre/post accommodation, and optional tours, are subject to availability until confirmed by our operators. We recommend waiting for final confirmation of all itinerary components before making irreversible bookings like flights.

Upgrades
Not available 

Airport Transfers 
Some of our packages will include airport transfers in either one or both directions when arriving or departing from your destination. To know if transfers are included please view the ‘inclusions’ section of your selected package. If airport transfers are stated, transfers will be included as advised.

If transfers are not included, we also offer the option to book your airport transfers using our online portal. Access to this portal is available through your Traveller Hub once your booking is confirmed. Transfers are readily available and do not need to be booked until your final hotel list has been confirmed. Once you have made a transfer booking, please refer to your confirmation email for all transfer details including a local contact number for the transfer company.

If you book pre and/or post-tour accommodation on your arrangement, and the tour includes transfers, note that these will be forfeited. The transfers are only provided in line with the tour dates and pre and/or post-tour accommodation purchased through Inspiring Vacations when available.

Bedding Configuration
Bedding configurations (double or twin) are requests only. All efforts will be made to meet your preferences, but we can not guarantee your request will be available at all properties.

Single travellers
When booking this tour, solo travellers will be presented with two options:

1 - Single Supplement
By paying an additional $2,250.00 per person, in addition to the twin-share price, you guarantee the privacy of your own room throughout the entire trip.

2- Shared Room with a known friend
If travelling together with a friend, you can opt to share your room with him/her and avoid paying a single supplement. 

You and your friend can create a unique booking each. Creating a unique booking, gives each of you the flexibility of making different travel arrangements (such adding extra accommodation, flights, etc), make separate payments and have individual access to our Traveller’s Hub

During the purchase path, you will need to provide your friend’s booking ID (if known) or at a minimum, your friend’s full name.

Triple Share
Not available

Child Policy
Children must be 12 years old or above and share a room with parents at all times. Children are charged the same price as adults.

Payment Information
Secure your trip with a $99.00 deposit per person.

Starting Point

Your starting hotel may differ from the original itinerary.  Please refer to your final documentation which will be provided approximately 14-30 days before departure for your confirmed hotel list. If you need to book pre-tour accommodation independently, we suggest you do this only once you have received your final hotel list for your tour. If you would like to book something sooner, we recommend that you book using a flexible rate that can be cancelled through your chosen third-party provider without penalty. 

Travellers will arrive at various times throughout the day depending on flights booked. If arriving before standard check-in time, which is generally 3pm, you are welcome to leave your luggage at hotel reception and explore your surroundings until check-in becomes available as there are no scheduled activities on day 1 of the itinerary.  The hotel may grant early check-in, however this is strictly subject to availability and at the hotel’s discretion. 

Note: if you need to apply for a tourist visa before departure, we recommend using the details of the suggested hotel on the tour itinerary if you wish to fulfil this before the release of your final tour documentation. Please refer to our visa section for more information on whether or not a visa is required for your destination. 
 
Arrival Details

Airport transfers are included as part of your package, so long as you are arriving as per the purchased itinerary. If you have purchased an extension, either pre or post-tour, the applicable transfer service will be forfeited from your package and you will need to make your arrangements to the starting hotel.

Where the service remains included, on arrival look out for a representative holding an “Inspiring Vacations” sign after you have collected your baggage and exited customs. If you cannot find them, try to avoid wandering around and instead stay in one place and call the emergency contact number on your documentation. 

Where the service has been forfeited due to an early arrival and extended stay, we do offer airport transfers at an additional cost which can be booked via your Traveller Hub.  We recommend you wait until you receive your final documentation to book transfers as your start and end hotels will only be confirmed at this point. Please note that if you are choosing to book an independent airport transfer service, your Inspiring Vacations Tour Leader cannot be held responsible for any unforeseen circumstances that may arise, nor can they resolve any concerns that you may have with your transfer service.

To make your way to your hotel from the airport, there are various connections by train or limousine bus. The airport information desks can provide helpful advice, too. Most destinations offer ride-share services, such as Uber or Didi. 

If you're having any problems finding the hotel, please ring the hotel directly or you can phone our customer support team for on-tour assistance.

Welcome Meeting Instructions

You are welcome to arrive at any time on the first day of your tour in Johannesburg. Standard hotel check-in is from 2pm — if you arrive earlier, the hotel can hold your luggage until your room is ready.

This evening at 6:00pm, please join your tour leader and fellow travellers in the hotel for a pre-departure briefing where you will receive a full overview of the journey ahead. Please ensure that you are on time.

In Case of Emergency

Although we strive to deliver exceptional holiday experiences, unforeseen circumstances can occasionally arise during travel. If any issues arise during your tour, it's essential to promptly communicate them to your tour leader or local representative. This ensures they can take immediate action to address the problem and mitigate any negative impact on the remainder of your journey.

We understand that there may be instances where your tour leader or local representative is unable to resolve a situation to your satisfaction. In such cases, we encourage you to request that the tour leader or local representative escalate the matter to their direct manager for further assistance.

When your final tour documentation is released, this will include an emergency contact for our local travel partner while you are on tour. If this is not included in your documentation, you will receive this on arrival during your welcome meeting. 

Finishing Point

Your finishing hotel may differ from the original itinerary. Please refer to your final documentation which will be provided approximately 14–30 days before departure for your confirmed hotel list.

If you need to book additional post-tour accommodation, please do so once you have the final hotel list. We recommend booking a flexible rate that can be changed or cancelled without penalty should there be any unforeseen changes to your booking.

Travellers will depart at various times throughout the day depending on flights booked. Check-out time is generally from 10am–12pm. You are welcome to leave your luggage at hotel reception and spend your final moments exploring the area, or speak with hotel staff if you would like to extend your check-out time. This service is subject to availability and may incur an additional cost payable directly.

Departure Details

Airport transfers are included as part of your package, so long as you are departing as per the purchased itinerary. If you have purchased an extension, either pre or post-tour, the applicable transfer service will be forfeited from your package and you will need to make your arrangements to the starting hotel. 

Where the service remains included, your tour leader will confirm the pick-up time from your hotel to the airport and this will depend on the flight that you have booked. Generally, you will be required to be at the airport approximately 3 hours before your scheduled departure. 

Where the service has been forfeited due to an extended stay, we do offer airport transfers at an additional cost which can be booked via your Traveller Hub.  We recommend you wait until you receive your final documentation to book transfers as your start and end hotels will only be confirmed at this point. Please note that if you are choosing to book an independent airport transfer service, your Inspiring Vacations Tour Leader cannot be held responsible for any unforeseen circumstances that may arise, nor can they resolve any concerns that you may have with your transfer service.

To make your way to your hotel from the airport, there are various connections by train or limousine bus. The airport information desks can provide helpful advice, too. Most destinations offer ride-share services, such as Uber or Didi. If you're having any problems, you can speak to hotel reception before your departure. 

Trip Suitability

• This is an extensive multi-country tour visiting South Africa, Eswatini, Lesotho and Zimbabwe. Multiple border crossings are involved and you will need your passport accessible at all times. Please ensure you have the correct visas and sufficient blank passport pages well in advance of departure.
• The Sani Pass 4x4 excursion climbs to nearly 3,000 metres on a steep, winding mountain road to reach Lesotho. Travellers prone to motion sickness or with concerns about altitude should consider carefully. Mountain weather can change rapidly year-round and warm layered clothing is essential, even in summer.
• The internal flight between Cape Town and Victoria Falls is arranged by our local partner. Specific flight details will be provided by your Tour Leader on arrival and cannot be provided in advance. Group flights cannot be upgraded, amended or checked in online, and the group will be required to check in together. The flight may involve a change of aircraft in Johannesburg.
• Several days involve long road journeys, including a travel day of approximately 8 hours between Drakensberg and Chintsa, with comfort stops along the way.
• Game viewing in Africa is a wild experience and sightings are never guaranteed, even in the most renowned reserves. Game drives take place in open vehicles and conditions can be hot, dusty, cold or wet depending on the season.
• Some sightseeing entry fees and optional activities are paid locally and not included in your tour. The penguin colony entrance fee at Boulders Beach (approximately USD $25) is paid on the day. Optional activities such as the Bloukrans Bridge bungee jump, Hout Bay Seal Island boat trip, horse riding, canoeing and additional hiking in Chintsa are at your own expense.
  

Trusted Travel Partner Tour

Your chosen tour will be operated by one of our trusted travel partners. These are meticulously crafted tours designed by established travel partners we know and trust. These tours offer a unique and exciting way to explore the world, packed with incredible sights and experiences. 

Trip Suitability

• This is an extensive multi-country tour visiting South Africa, Eswatini, Lesotho and Zimbabwe. Multiple border crossings are involved and you will need your passport accessible at all times. Please ensure you have the correct visas and sufficient blank passport pages well in advance of departure.
• The Sani Pass 4x4 excursion climbs to nearly 3,000 metres on a steep, winding mountain road to reach Lesotho. Travellers prone to motion sickness or with concerns about altitude should consider carefully. Mountain weather can change rapidly year-round and warm layered clothing is essential, even in summer.
• The internal flight between Cape Town and Victoria Falls is arranged by our local partner. Specific flight details will be provided by your Tour Leader on arrival and cannot be provided in advance. Group flights cannot be upgraded, amended or checked in online, and the group will be required to check in together. The flight may involve a change of aircraft in Johannesburg.
• Several days involve long road journeys, including a travel day of approximately 8 hours between Drakensberg and Chintsa, with comfort stops along the way.
• Game viewing in Africa is a wild experience and sightings are never guaranteed, even in the most renowned reserves. Game drives take place in open vehicles and conditions can be hot, dusty, cold or wet depending on the season.
• Some sightseeing entry fees and optional activities are paid locally and not included in your tour. The penguin colony entrance fee at Boulders Beach (approximately USD $25) is paid on the day. Optional activities such as the Bloukrans Bridge bungee jump, Hout Bay Seal Island boat trip, horse riding, canoeing and additional hiking in Chintsa are at your own expense.

Trusted Travel Partner Tour

Your chosen tour will be operated by one of our trusted travel partners. These are meticulously crafted tours designed by established travel partners we know and trust. These tours offer a unique and exciting way to explore the world, packed with incredible sights and experiences. 

Safari Etiquette and Safety

• Always follow the directions of your guide to ensure safety around wild animals.
• Keep noise to a minimum to avoid disturbing wildlife.
• Never attempt to feed or touch animals.
• Stay inside the vehicle unless instructed otherwise by your guide.

Public Game Reserves & National Parks

Southern and East Africa’s public game reserves and national reserves offer some of the world’s best wildlife viewing across diverse landscapes, from open savannas to dense woodlands and wetlands. Iconic parks like the Serengeti, Kruger, Maasai Mara and Etosha are home to the Big Five, while Chobe, Hwange and Amboseli are renowned for their elephant herds.

Travallers should expect seasonal crowds in popular parks, with peak times leading to busy wildlife sightings. Unlike private reserves, public parks have set opening and closing hours, limiting night drives and off-road exploration. Road conditions vary, with some areas featuring rough, unpaved tracks, particularly in remote regions. Facilities range from well-equipped visitor centers to more basic amenities in less developed parks.

Despite these challenges, public reserves play a crucial role in conservation and offer unforgettable safari experiences with responsible tourism practices.

Visas & Entry Requirements

Many countries require a visa and obtaining the correct visa for your tour and any countries you may transit through is your responsibility. We recommend you check your visa requirements as soon as you have booked your tour. This will ensure you have time to prepare your documents and for your visa application to be processed. You can check the visa entry requirements for your nationality via our page here: 

https://inspiringvacations-8357211.hs-sites.com/visa-information 

You’ll need a valid passport to travel internationally and most countries require your passport to have a minimum of 6 months validity, so remember to check the expiry date.

We need your passport information to get everything ready for your tour so the information on your booking must match your passport exactly. Please take care to provide the correct details. We recommend carrying a copy of the photo page of your passport while travelling and leaving a copy at home with family or friends.

Child Policy

Children must be 12 years old or above and share a room with parents at all times. Children are charged the same price as adults.

Age Limits

Due to the physical nature of this trip and the remote locations visited, there is an age limit of 80 years. For our guests above the age of 70 years, we require the medical declaration document to be signed by a medical practitioner confirming that the guests are fit (both physically and emotionally) to travel. 

Pace

This tour category is Lively

Our Lively tours are faster paced typically including full sightseeing days, some early starts, longer driving days and a number of 1 night hotel stays - perfect for those eager to maximise each moment and cover more ground.

Activity and Mobility

This tour is categorised as: 3 out of 5 - Balanced

Our Balanced tours involve a moderate level of physical activity and are designed to suit the majority of travellers. Be prepared for walking on varied surfaces, which may include cobblestones, gravel paths, and noticeable inclines common in historic towns and natural areas. You must be confident on your feet and capable of navigating multiple flights of stairs and uneven ground without assistance to fully participate.

Activity snapshot

• Activity: Balanced — a mix of game drives in open vehicles, scenic drives between destinations, and short to moderate walks at heritage and natural sites.

• Typical walking distances: Generally short walks of 1–3 km on sightseeing days, with longer optional walks at Tsitsikamma Forest, Cape Peninsula and Hwange National Park.

Mobility requirements

• Mobility: Best suited to travellers who can manage moderate walking, climb in and out of safari vehicles unassisted, navigate uneven natural terrain, and handle their own luggage. Walking safaris in Hwange require a reasonable level of fitness.

• Walking surfaces: Mixed — paved city pavements in Cape Town and Johannesburg, dirt and grass tracks on game walks, uneven rocks and boardwalks at Bourke’s Luck Potholes and Storms River, and wooden suspension bridges at Tsitsikamma. The Sani Pass road is unpaved with sharp switchbacks.

Terrain & environment

This tour traverses an extraordinary range of landscapes, from the lowveld bushveld of Kruger and Hwange to the high mountains of Lesotho and the Drakensberg, the wetlands of iSimangaliso, the Wild Coast of Chintsa, the forests of Tsitsikamma and the wine valleys around Cape Town. Climate and conditions vary considerably between regions, and at altitude (notably Sani Pass and the Drakensberg) temperatures can drop sharply even in summer.

As a general requirement across all of our tours, you may be required to walk up and down stairs, get on and off transportation, handle your own luggage, and participate in all scheduled sightseeing that may be conducted on uneven ground and terrain. Any physical ailments you may have must be disclosed at the time of booking to determine your suitability and where required, supporting documentation may be requested to ensure that we are comfortable that you will enjoy your tour.

Group Size 

Minimum: 4 people, Maximum: 14 people 

Escorted Style 

This tour is partially escorted.

Days 1 to 18 of your tour will be fully guided by a dedicated tour leader.

Your flight between Cape Town and Victoria Falls will be unescorted.

From Days 19 - 23 you will not have a dedicated tour leader, in Victoria Falls you will have local guides and in Hwange a local guide will be provided at your accommodation.

Tour Type 

Our expertly crafted Small Group Tours take you to iconic landmarks and hidden treasures, ensuring a rich blend of must-see sights. Unwind in premium accommodations after each day filled with sightseeing alongside your dedicated tour leader, leaving you free to explore at your own pace during designated free time. Benefit from smaller group sizes, creating a truly unforgettable travel experience.

Exclusions

• International airfares
• Visas
• Travel insurance
• Tipping
• Optional activities
• Personal expenses
• Anything not mentioned in the itinerary

Getting Around

Throughout the South African, Eswatini and Lesotho portion of your tour, you will travel by dedicated private touring vehicle. For longer drives, comfort stops will be made along the way where you can freshen up, stretch your legs, use the bathroom and often purchase refreshments. Some lunch stops will be taken at rest stops, with picnic lunches arranged on longer travel days where suitable facilities are limited.

Game drives in Kruger and Hwange National Parks are conducted in open-topped 4x4 safari vehicles to maximise visibility and the wildlife viewing experience. The Sani Pass excursion into Lesotho is conducted in specialist 4x4 vehicles operated by an experienced local guide, given the steep, winding and unsealed nature of the pass.

Between Cape Town and Victoria Falls you will travel by scheduled commercial flight, arranged by our local partner. The flight may involve a change of aircraft in Johannesburg. On arrival in Victoria Falls you will be met by your local guide and transferred by road to your hotel, with road transfers also used between Victoria Falls and Hwange National Park.

Accommodation Details

This tour features a curated selection of 3 and 4-star hotels, lodges and rest camps across Southern Africa. Each property has been carefully chosen based on a stringent set of criteria, ensuring high standards of comfort and convenience for the location. Our team continuously reviews and updates our selections, incorporating customer feedback to guarantee that every property is well placed and offers a quality stay.

A particular highlight is your two-night stay at Mlilwane Rest Camp in Eswatini, set within the Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary, where impala, zebra and warthog often wander the grounds. On the Wild Coast you stay beachfront at Crawford’s Beach Lodge in Chintsa, and in Hwange you stay at Nantwich Lodge, located within Hwange National Park itself for an immersive bush experience.

Packing Essentials

• Passport with at least 6 months validity beyond the date of your tour and sufficient blank pages for multiple stamps
• Photocopies of important travel documents stored separately
• Lightweight, breathable clothing in neutral colours (khaki, beige, olive, brown) for game drives — avoid bright white, dark blue and black
• Warm fleece, jumper and waterproof jacket for cool early-morning game drives, the Drakensberg, Sani Pass and Lesotho
• Comfortable closed-toe walking shoes, plus sandals or thongs for evenings
• Smart casual outfits for hotel restaurants and city dining
• Swimwear for hotel pools and beach time at Chintsa
• Wide-brimmed sun hat, polarised sunglasses, high-SPF sunscreen and lip balm
• Insect repellent (DEET-based recommended for the Kruger and Hwange regions)
• Reusable water bottle
• Binoculars and a camera with spare batteries, memory cards and a zoom lens for wildlife
• Universal travel adapter (South Africa uses Type M, N and D plugs)
• Personal first aid kit, any prescription medications in original packaging, and copies of prescriptions
• Daypack for game drives and excursions
• Travel insurance documents and emergency contact details

Climate

This tour spans an enormous range of climates and the conditions you experience will depend heavily on the time of year you travel.

The Kruger and Mpumalanga region has a subtropical climate. The dry winter months (May to September) bring warm, sunny days and cool nights, with sparse vegetation that makes wildlife easier to spot — generally regarded as the best time for safari. Summer (October to April) is hot, humid and prone to afternoon thunderstorms, with lush green landscapes.

Eswatini and the KwaZulu-Natal region around St Lucia share a similar subtropical pattern, with warm coastal humidity in summer.

The Drakensberg, Lesotho and Sani Pass sit at high altitude and can be cold year-round, with snowfall possible in winter (June to August). Even in summer, mountain temperatures can drop rapidly and warm clothing is essential.

The Garden Route and Cape Town have a Mediterranean climate — hot, dry summers (December to February) and cool, wet winters (June to August). The famous Cape “South-Easter” wind can blow strongly, particularly in summer.

Victoria Falls and Hwange are tropical, with a hot wet season (November to March) and a cooler dry season (April to October). The falls are at peak flow from February to May, while wildlife viewing in Hwange is generally best from August to October when animals concentrate around waterholes.

Pack layers, sun protection and a waterproof jacket regardless of season.

Currency and ATMs

This tour visits four countries, each with its own currency, although in practice the South African Rand is the most useful overall.

South Africa uses the South African Rand (ZAR). ATMs are widely available in cities and larger towns, and major credit and debit cards are accepted in hotels, restaurants and shops. Cash is useful for tipping, markets and small purchases.

Eswatini uses the Lilangeni (SZL), which is pegged at par to the South African Rand. Rand is universally accepted alongside local currency.

Lesotho uses the Loti (LSL), also pegged to the Rand and freely interchangeable. Rand is widely accepted, but small change in Loti can be useful at the village visit.

Zimbabwe predominantly uses the United States Dollar (USD) for tourism transactions, including at Victoria Falls and Hwange. Bring smaller, clean, post-2009 USD notes for tips, drinks and incidentals, as change can be limited. ATMs in Zimbabwe are unreliable for foreign cards — it is best to bring sufficient USD cash with you.

Notify your bank of your travel plans before departure to avoid your cards being blocked.

Food and Allergies

Southern African cuisine is hearty, varied and shaped by a rich blend of indigenous, European and Asian influences. In South Africa, look out for the braai (barbecue), boerewors (spiced sausage), bobotie (spiced mince with egg topping), biltong (dried, cured meat), and fresh seafood along the coast. The Cape winelands offer world-class wines paired with seasonal local produce.

In Eswatini and Lesotho, traditional dishes are based around maize meal (pap or sadza), stews, beans and seasonal vegetables, often eaten communally. In Zimbabwe, sadza with grilled meat or vegetable relish is a staple, and the Victoria Falls area also offers a wide range of international cuisine to suit visitors.

Vegetarian and vegan options are increasingly available in cities and tourist areas, although choices may be more limited in remote bush lodges and rural villages. Travellers with strict dietary requirements (gluten-free, severe allergies) should be prepared to communicate clearly and bring some of their own snacks for travel days.

While travelling with Inspiring Vacations you’ll enjoy iconic sightseeing, as well as experience the vast array of culinary offerings in Southern Africa. While many meals will be eaten together with your group, not all meals are included in your tour which gives you maximum flexibility in deciding where, what and with whom to eat. If you have dietary requirements and/or food allergies, please let our Customer Support Team know before departure. Your Inspiring Vacations Tour Guide or Local Guide will also be able to give suggestions on which restaurants to try during your tour. For those with a particular food allergy, your Inspiring Vacations Tour Guide will endeavour to advise the main ingredients in the dishes consumed. It is, however, still your responsibility to ensure that you do not ingest any problematic ingredients.

Local Customs

Southern Africa is a mosaic of cultures and a few simple courtesies will be warmly appreciated wherever you go. A friendly greeting before any conversation or transaction is the norm, and time spent on small talk is rarely wasted. South Africa’s diversity is reflected in eleven official languages, and although English is widely spoken, learning a few words in Zulu, Xhosa or Afrikaans is a thoughtful gesture.

Eswatini is one of the world’s last absolute monarchies and the King and royal family are deeply respected. Be respectful when visiting royal residences and traditional homesteads, and follow the lead of your guide. Lesotho’s Basotho people are known for their warm hospitality and the iconic Basotho blanket worn against the highland cold — always ask before photographing villagers, and a small purchase from local crafters is a generous way to say thank you.

In Zimbabwe, greetings are important and a handshake (often with the left hand supporting the right forearm) is a respectful way to meet someone. Always ask before photographing people, and avoid photographing government buildings, military personnel or police.

Dress Code

Dress is generally relaxed and casual throughout the tour. For game drives and walking safaris, neutral colours — khaki, beige, olive and brown — are best. Avoid bright white (which startles wildlife), dark blue and black (which attract tsetse flies in some areas) and noisy synthetic fabrics.

In cities such as Cape Town and Johannesburg, casual smart attire is appropriate for restaurants and bars in the evening. Some hotel restaurants prefer guests to avoid singlets and very short shorts at dinner.

When visiting villages and traditional homesteads in Eswatini and Lesotho, modest clothing that covers the shoulders and knees is respectful. At higher altitudes (Sani Pass, Drakensberg and Lesotho), warm layers, a windproof jacket and closed shoes are essential year-round, and waterproof gear is recommended in summer.

Responsible Dining

Avoid consuming endangered species or items harvested unsustainably. Be respectful of local customs and food practices, and always tip fairly to support local workers. Responsible dining helps protect the environment and promotes the well-being of local communities.

Where possible, choose seafood listed as sustainable on the SASSI (Southern African Sustainable Seafood Initiative) green list, and decline any wildlife products such as ivory, rhino horn or pangolin items — these trades are illegal and devastating to local wildlife populations.

Tipping Your Leader
A friendly reminder that tipping is not included in your package. Tipping is not compulsory on your trip, but they can make a big difference to locals employed in the tourism industry. If you feel that your guide and driver have done an impeccable job, you can choose to give a gratuity, but this is entirely your decision.

The suggested tipping amount for Africa is USD$5-7 per person per day for the guides/leader and USD$3 per person per day for your driver, to be paid in either local currency or USD, so you will need to convert your currency depending on your preference. Please note that this information is to be used as a guideline only and is subject to change based on the recommendations that we receive from our ground operator. Tipping is not compulsory and should be done at your discretion.

Peak Travel Times

Peak travel times in Southern Africa vary by region. Cape Town and the Garden Route are busiest from December to February, when the weather is at its best and South African school holidays drive strong domestic tourism. Booking restaurants and popular activities in advance is recommended during this window.

Safari destinations such as Kruger and Hwange peak in the dry winter months from May to October, when wildlife viewing is at its best. The South African school holidays in late June/July and late September/early October also bring busier conditions in the parks.

Victoria Falls is at its most spectacular flow between February and May. From August to November water levels drop and the falls are quieter, but this is also the best time for activities such as swimming in Devil’s Pool (on the Zambian side) and for game viewing in nearby Hwange. Easter and Christmas/New Year are also peak periods across the region.

Safety and Security

Most national governments provide regularly updated foreign travel advice on safety issues involved with international travel. We recommend that you check your own government's advice for the most up-to-date travel information before departure and ensure that your travel insurance covers you for all destinations and activities on your tour. 

Your Inspiring Vacations Tour Leader or local representative will accompany you on all included activities listed on the itinerary, however, you'll have some free time to explore on your own. While your Inspiring Vacations tour leader or local guide will assist you as best they can with your requests and the options available outside your itinerary, please note Inspiring Vacations makes no representations about the safety of the activity or the standard of the operators running the activity. Please use your judgement when selecting an activity in your free time. 

Please also note that your Inspiring Vacations tour leader or local guide has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the itinerary if it's deemed necessary due to safety concerns.

Apps to Download

Some useful apps you may want to consider downloading before your tour include Google Translate — the lens function is especially useful when wanting to read product labels, signs and menus. Google Maps with offline maps downloaded is great for easy navigation without being reliant on wifi. We also recommend downloading WhatsApp before you leave and using this to communicate with other group members while on tour.

For wildlife enthusiasts, the Sasol eBirds of Southern Africa app and the Roberts Bird Guide are excellent companions for identifying the region’s prolific birdlife. When visiting Kruger National Park the KrugerExplorer app provides information on all the animals and plants found in the park and works offline.

Uber and Bolt operate in major South African cities and can be useful during free time in Cape Town and Johannesburg.

Itinerary Changes

Sometimes, unexpected things can happen, like unpredictable weather or higher-than-usual crowds at attractions. In these situations, your tour leader might need to adjust the itinerary slightly to improve your overall experience. 

This flexibility ensures you get the most out of your trip! Your tour leader will always keep you informed of any changes and explain the reasoning behind them. Remember, when travelling with a group, sometimes going with the flow can lead to even more amazing experiences.

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is strongly recommended on all our trips. We require that at a minimum you are covered for medical expenses including emergency repatriation. It is also important to consider forced pre-trip cancellations and how your chosen insurance policy may cover such circumstances, so please keep this in mind when choosing your provider. 

We strongly recommend all travellers have a policy that also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage or personal effects. For international trips, you will be asked by your tour leader for your travel insurance details if they were not already added to your Traveller Hub account pre-departure.

If you have credit card insurance your Inspiring Vacations tour leader or local guide may require details of the participating insurer/underwriter, the level of coverage, policy number, and emergency contact number rather than the bank's name and your credit card details. Please contact your bank for these details before arriving in-country.

Before you depart, you will be asked to submit your Travel Insurance details through the booking holder's Traveller Hub account through the Inspiring Vacations website. This is to ensure that we have this information readily available should we ever need it. 

Health, Wellness & Fitness Requirements

All travellers need to be in good physical health to participate fully on this trip. For the safety and wellbeing of yourself and others, if you are unwell before travelling, please stay at home and contact us to make alternative arrangements.

When selecting your trip please make sure you have read through the itinerary carefully to assess your ability to manage and enjoy our style of travel. If we find that you are unable to complete the itinerary without undue risk to yourself and/or the rest of the group, we reserve the right to exclude them from all or part of a trip without refund.

You should consult your doctor for up-to-date medical travel information or any necessary vaccinations before departure. We recommend that you carry a first aid kit as well as any personal medical requirements in their original packaging as they may not easily be obtained while travelling. If you are carrying medication, ensure you check your government's foreign travel advice for any local restrictions or requirements. For the safety and wellbeing of yourself and others, if you are unwell before travelling, please stay at home and contact us to make alternative arrangements and we would be more than happy to assist you.

Important Information for Customers with Mobility Limitations

We want to ensure everyone has a fantastic and inclusive experience on our tours. If you require the use of a mobility aid, such as a cane, walker, or wheelchair, please disclose this information at the time of booking.

To ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for the entire group, our tours are designed with a specific itinerary in mind. This may involve moderate walking, uneven terrain, or stairs. While some itinerary adjustments may not be possible, we'll do our best to find alternative solutions within the planned activities whenever possible.

Open communication helps us ensure your trip is a perfect fit and it allows your local guide or tour leader to assist you where possible. 

Information for CPAP Users

If you use a CPAP machine, please let us know at the time of booking. Some portions of our itinerary, like overnight cruises or camping trips, may have limited access to power outlets. In such cases, we recommend travelling with portable battery packs. 

Certain activities, like overnight journeys on board smaller vessels, may not be suitable for CPAP use due to space limitations or noise concerns. We can discuss these potential limitations upfront and help you make informed decisions about your trip.

Documentation

Tour documentation is typically emailed to the lead passenger or your travel agent between 14-30 days before your scheduled departure. This will include your final hotel list. 

Official Travel Advice

To ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey, we recommend referring to the official travel advisory website of your home country for the latest updates on your chosen destination. These websites provide valuable information on:

• Safety and Security: Current risks and precautions for the country you'll be visiting.
• Visa Requirements: Ensure you have all the necessary documentation for entry.
• Entry and Exit: Up-to-date border regulations and health requirements.

Here are some helpful links to get you started:

• Australia: https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/destinations
• New Zealand: https://www.safetravel.govt.nz/
• America: https://travel.state.gov/
• Canada: https://travel.gc.ca/travelling/advisories 
• India: https://www.mea.gov.in/travel-advisories.htm

In the unlikely event of a situation that could potentially disrupt your tour, we want to assure you of the following:

• Local Expertise: We maintain regular communication with our trusted travel partners in your destination.
• Constant Monitoring: We continuously monitor official travel advisories from relevant government websites.
• Flexibility and Safety: Should it become necessary, we will make appropriate adjustments to your itinerary to prioritise your health and safety.

By staying informed and working together, we can ensure a fantastic travel experience for you. We will post our own travel updates to our website here.

Connect with fellow travellers on Facebook

During your booking journey, you might have received an email inviting you to join a special Facebook group dedicated to your chosen destination. These vibrant online communities are exclusively for Inspiring Vacations travellers headed to the same incredible place. Joining this group unlocks a wealth of information and connections. Swap travel tips, share packing insights, or even see if anyone's interested in travelling together.  

We also regularly host insightful webinars featuring travel experts who share their tips and tricks for navigating your destination and maximising your itinerary. Don't miss out on this amazing opportunity to connect, learn, and get even more excited about your upcoming trip!

Travelling in a Group

Travelling in a group means you will experience both the pleasures and perhaps at times, some of the frustrations of travelling with people you don’t know. The good news is you all have at least one thing in common: a love of travel and exploration. Your fellow travellers will probably come from different parts of the world, and fall into different age groups. We ask you to be understanding of the various needs and preferences of your group—patience with your fellow travellers is sometimes required for the overall benefit of the group. If you are requested to be at a place at a certain time, please ensure that you respect this request from your tour leader or local guide. Due to privacy reasons, we are unable to provide you with contact details and any personal information about your fellow travellers booked on your trip before departure.

Community Guidelines

Inspiring Vacations does not tolerate any kind of violence, harassment (whether physical, verbal or sexual), or disrespect toward fellow travellers, our teams (Inspiring Vacations Tour Leaders and local expert guides) or local communities.

Any behaviour that prevents your Inspiring Vacations Tour Leader from continuing the itinerary as planned, breaks local laws or opposes any of these guidelines, may result in Inspiring Vacations removing you from the tour.

If something concerns you during your travels, please speak to your Inspiring Vacations Tour Leader immediately. Alternatively, when you are on-tour and require immediate support you can contact our Customer Support team and select the “On-Tour” option when listening to the options.

Inspiring Vacations Tour Leader vs Guide

While both tour leaders and local guides enrich your travel experience, their roles differ. Tour leaders, who often accompany you for the entire trip, handle logistics, ensure smooth sailing of the itinerary, and act as your point of contact for any concerns. They might provide general information about destinations, but in-depth historical or cultural knowledge often comes from local guides. Local guides, frequently native to the area, lead tours at specific sites or attractions, offering a deeper understanding of the local history, art, or way of life.

Coach Transportation

The size of your coach will comfortably accommodate your group. There's usually room for some extra seats, ensuring a relaxing journey. Your luggage will be safely stored either underneath the coach or in a dedicated trailer.

While the exact coach style may vary depending on the departure, all our coaches offer comfortable seating. Keep in mind that Wi-Fi and charging outlets might not always be available. To stay connected and avoid dead batteries,  we recommend fully charging your devices beforehand or bringing a portable charger.

For longer journeys, we'll make sure to include ample restroom breaks along the way, so you can freshen up and recharge at your convenience, as facilities are not on-board the coach.

Staying Connected

If you want to stay connected and access reliable internet while on tour, there are a few options available. It is possible to purchase a virtual sim and we recommend contacting your mobile phone provider for assistance in doing so. You can add a roaming data plan to your existing phone contract is another option, albeit an expensive one. You will need to arrange this before departure. Purchasing a local SIM may be possible as a final option. 

We also recommend downloading WhatsApp and using this to communicate with other group members while on tour, and of course, after the tour if you’d like to stay in touch. Our tour leaders may also use this as a means of communicating essential trip information with you, as well as if you choose to add-on transfers to your booking, as your driver may use this to confirm arrangements with you.

Post-Tour Feedback

Once your booking is confirmed, you will receive a link to a post-purchase survey, which is your opportunity to share your feedback with us on your booking experience and interactions with our Sales and Customer Success teams. This feedback is invaluable to ensure that we are servicing our customers to the best of our ability. 

Furthermore, towards the end of your travels and while you are in your destination, you will receive an email from us with a link to an in-depth trip survey. It is very important to us that we hear from our customers to ensure that we continue to meet and exceed customers' expectations, so this will be your opportunity to let us know how your trip has been, what has worked well and potentially what could be improved.

This is a Land Only package.

This package does not include international airfares. If you would like to add airfares to your booking our flight portal will be available via your Traveller Hub. The flight portal will allow you to search for all available airfares to your destination. The function works like most general flight search engines allowing you to select your preferred airline, book different cabin classes (eg. Business class) and view flight durations and transit times to your destination. 

The flight portal will be available via your Traveller Hub once the following criteria has been met:

• Your booking is confirmed
• Your departure date is within 11 months
• You  have completed your passenger detail form

Visit our Flight Hub for more information on terms and conditions, amending your flights and information on luggage allowances.