Preparing for your trip

Checklist

Documents & Entry Requirements

Entry requirements are provided for your convenience. However, unless otherwise stated, it is your responsibility to determine the requirements that apply to you and your trip and to comply with them, including obtaining any necessary visas or other travel documents by the required deadlines and carrying them with you. Especially with COVID-19, requirements are subject to change, so check back for the latest before you depart.

You should have a total of 9 blank passport pages. You will need 2 consecutive blank passport pages for entry into South Africa, 2 blank passport pages for each into Zimbabwe, 3 blank passport pages for entry into Botswana, and 2 blank passport pages for entry into Kenya. U.S. citizens require a visa to enter Zimbabwe and Kenya.

Note: This trip will include two entries into Zimbabwe and therefore you will need a double-entry visa, which can be obtained upon arrival at the airport in Zimbabwe. Please be prepared with cash for this visa (suggested amount: $60) and be sure to have an additional blank passport page for entry into Botswana.

Botswana Entry Requirements

Advice from Friendly Planet

Yellow Fever Vaccination Entry Requirements: Proof of Yellow Fever Vaccination is required for travelers arriving to Botswana from a country with risk of Yellow Fever transmission. This includes airport transits or layovers in countries with a Yellow Fever risk.

World Health Organization, List of Yellow Fever Endemic Countries
Find a local vaccination center

Advice from our partner Sherpa

Kenya Entry Requirements

Advice from Friendly Planet

Yellow Fever Vaccination Entry Requirements: Proof of Yellow Fever Vaccination is required for travelers arriving to Kenya from a country with risk of Yellow Fever transmission.

World Health Organization, List of Yellow Fever Endemic Countries
Find a local vaccination center

Advice from our partner Sherpa

South Africa Entry Requirements

Advice from Friendly Planet

All visitors are required to have two consecutive blank passport pages for each entry into South Africa. Note that some of our packages include multiple entries into South Africa. You may be denied entry if your passport does not have enough blank pages.

Yellow Fever Vaccination Entry Requirements. Proof of Yellow Fever Vaccination is required for travelers arriving to South Africa from a country with risk of Yellow Fever transmission. This includes airport transits or layovers of more than 12 hours in countries with a Yellow Fever risk.

World Health Organization, List of Yellow Fever Endemic Countries
Find a local vaccination center

Advice from our partner Sherpa

Zimbabwe Entry Requirements

Advice from Friendly Planet

Some packages offer an excursion from Zimbabwe to Chobe National Park in Botswana (either included in the itinerary, as in Highlights of Southern Africa, or offered as an optional excursion in one of our other packages). If you are visiting Chobe National Park, you'll need to obtain a double-entry Zimbabwe visa, which can be obtained upon arrival at the airport in Zimbabwe. Please be prepared with cash for this visa (suggested amount: $60) and be sure to have an additional blank passport page for entry into Botswana.

Yellow Fever Vaccination Entry Requirements. Proof of Yellow Fever Vaccination is required for travelers arriving to Zimbabwe from a country with risk of Yellow Fever transmission. This includes airport transits or layovers of more than 12 hours in countries with a Yellow Fever risk.

World Health Organization, List of Yellow Fever Endemic Countries
Find a local vaccination center

Advice from our partner Sherpa

General Requirements & Guidelines

• In general, you must have a passport to travel abroad, which should be valid for at least six months after your return date. Passports expiring before then should be renewed as soon as possible. Passports contain at least 2 blank pages for each country visited. If your passport does not have this many pages, obtain a new passport as soon as possible.
• if your passport and visa are not in order, airlines and cruise ships may deny boarding, countries may deny entry, and your trip may be disrupted. Travel insurance may not cover such losses.
• Any changes in names or passport information should be reported to us immediately. Airlines and cruise ships may deny boarding if the name on your passport does not match your tickets.
• Minors (age 17 or younger) departing and/or returning to the U.S. without parents or with only one parent may be required by U.S. Customs & Border Protection (CBP) to present a notarized parental consent letter and/or unabridged birth certificate (more information). Many other countries have similar entry requirements, especially for minors traveling with a parent/guardian with a different surname; check with the consulates of all countries you'll be visiting to learn more.

Final Documents

Your final travel documents will be sent to you via email by 14 days prior to departure. These will include your daily itinerary, hotel and emergency contact information, and other relevant information. Please print your documents and take them with you. If you're departing in less than a week and haven't received your documents, let us know immediately!

Travel Insurance Documents

If you purchased travel insurance, please print and carry your policy documents, including contact information for emergency travel assistance and instructions on how to make a claim. If you purchased the travel protection plan we offer, we recommend you print the full policy.

Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)

We encourage all U.S. citizens and nationals traveling abroad to enroll in the Department of State's Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). This free service allows you to receive important updates about safety and security issues in your destination, and makes it easier for the U.S. Embassy, as well as family & friends, to contact you in case of an emergency. To enroll or get more information, please visit the STEP website or any U.S. Embassy or Consulate.

Flights, Transfers & Arrival

Questions about your flights before you depart? Read the information below first. If you still have questions, contact our air specialists at 800-555-5765 ext. 2 or air@friendlyplanet.com.

Flights & Tickets

For this package, we generally book your flights and issue tickets after your final payment due date.

Once we have issued your tickets, we'll send you an "e-ticket receipt" which contains all of your flight information, including times, carriers, an airline booking reference number, and an e-ticket number. If you have not received this, or have questions about the flights we booked for you, please contact our air department. You will not receive paper tickets. We recommend you print and carry a copy of your flight details, including the airline booking reference number and e-ticket number, as some airports require this to enter the terminal. You do not need to reconfirm your flights with the airline prior to your departure, as we will handle this for you.

You may contact Kenya Airways directly for your preferred seating once you receive your electronic tickets via email. Otherwise, seats will be assigned at the airport when you check-in.

Flight Schedule

You may review the sample flight schedule(s) below. This information is for general planning purposes. You will receive your actual flight schedule by email once we issue your tickets.

Airlines may change schedules at any time, even after flights have been confirmed, and we are not responsible for such changes. Please check for updates to your flight schedule prior to booking any connecting flights and again 72 hours prior to departure.

Connecting Flights

If you plan to purchase connecting flights to your departure city, we strongly suggest waiting until after your final payment due date and after you receive the e-tickets for your international flights, to reduce the chances that that your departure might be cancelled or rescheduled or that your international flight times might change. Before purchasing connecting flights, verify the times for your international flights. Leave at least 3½ hours connecting time between flights, and if you're traveling within a few weeks of Daylight Savings Time changes (in March and November, when flight schedules may change even more dramatically), allow 5–5½ hours between flights. Nobody likes waiting around the airport, but missing your flight is far worse!

Airport Transfers

Please make sure to arrive at the airline check-in counter at your gateway city at least 3 ½ hours before departure. Please check-in individually and advise the check-in agent you would like to check your luggage through to Cape Town. Proceed to the departure gate to board your flight to Cape Town via Nairobi. Upon arrival in Cape Town, kindly go through immigration, collect your checked luggage and proceed through customs. Our representatives, ERM Tours, will be waiting for you at the arrival hall, holding an ERM/Friendly Planet Travel group sign.

Arrival Complications

We make every effort to ensure our tours run smoothly and trouble-free. We don't expect any problems, and nor should you. But when things don't go as planned, here's what to do:

• You miss your flights, or your flights are cancelled: Please call us immediately. If it's outside our normal business hours, leave a message in our emergency mailbox, with a phone number at which to reach you, and we'll get right back to you.
• Your flights are delayed and you're worried about missing your included transfers: Please contact us to let us know about the delay, and we will notify our partners in destination. They will be tracking your arrival and will plan accordingly.
• Your package includes transfers, but you can't find our representative at your destination: Don't panic—they may have been unexpectedly delayed. Wait up to 30 minutes. Then contact our local partners in destination, listed on the emergency contact page of your final documents. If you can't reach them, call us. If it's outside our normal business hours, leave a message in our emergency mailbox. If all else fails, make your own way to the starting hotel (or cruise port), and we'll refund you the cost of your transfer.

Packing & Luggage

Baggage allowance: Each passenger may bring one piece of checked-in luggage and one carry-on piece. Your checked-in luggage should weigh no more than 44 pounds, and each piece may not exceed 62 inches as a sum of all three dimensions (length, height and width). Most airlines do not consider roll-aboard as hand luggage. Kindly make sure that your carry-on luggage will fit under your seat or in the overhead compartment. For your safety and protection we suggest that your checked-in luggage have a (TSA approved) lock on it. *Please note: Luggage that is irregularly shaped will not be permitted at check-in counters at O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB) in South Africa. Luggage that is round, has long straps, or does not have at least one flat surface will not be allowed to be checked.

While some airlines may permit two checked-in bags per person, we strongly suggest to bring only one checked-in luggage with a maximum weight of 44 lbs. We recommend a lighter weight and smaller dimensions for both the checked-in and carry-on luggage than what airlines typically allow in order to fit in the overhead compartments on the motor coaches used for transfers and touring. Porterage during your tour is covered for only one checked bag per person. Kindly note that these limitations facilitate an easier, faster, and smoother approach towards the collection and transport of your luggage throughout the tour. In the interest of comfort and convenience for you and your fellow travelers, we recommend that you do not over-pack and to take a variety of separates with climate and comfort in mind. We appreciate your understanding and your cooperation regarding these limitations.

Learn more about Baggage Allowances on your international flights. Note that our baggage allowances may be less than those for your international flights. If you exceed the baggage limits, you may be subject to excess baggage charges levied by the airlines and/or by Friendly Planet.

Regardless of the limits—we recommend a smaller size and weight for both your checked and carry-on bags. It's so much easier and faster for you to get around when you have fewer, lighter bags! For your carry-on, consider a soft-sided bag such as a duffel rather than a hard clamshell-type case, which may not fit as easily into overhead compartments or under your seat, especially on buses. For your protection, we suggest your checked luggage have a TSA-approved lock.

Luggage tags: For your safety, we are no longer mailing Friendly Planet luggage tags to you. We encourage you to use your own. Fill in the luggage tags with your name and contact information and attach to each bag, including carry-ons and camera cases, so that your luggage can be identified should it get misplaced during your trip.

What to pack: Check out our list of top 10 must-haves for international travel, as well as what not to pack. Pack smart: put your travel documents, medications, one change of clothing, and other essentials in your carry-on, in case your checked baggage is misplaced. And pack light, for your own comfort and convenience. For clothing, we suggest packing a variety of separates with climate and comfort in mind.

What not to pack: U.S. law forbids you to carry hazardous materials aboard aircraft in your checked or carry-on baggage or on your person, including explosives, compressed gases, flammable liquids & solids, loaded firearms, poisons, corrosives and radioactive materials. Common examples include paints, lighter fluid, fireworks, mace/tear gas and oxygen bottles. Restricted materials may vary by airline and destination. Some items, in quantities of no more than 70 ounces total, may be carried within baggage, including medicinal or toilet articles such as hairspray, perfume and certain medicines that are necessary during your journey. Please check with the airline and/or visit the FAA website prior to travel if you have any questions.

While on Tour

What to Expect

This moderately-paced, escorted tour includes a reasonable amount of walking or hiking and requires an average level of physical fitness. This tour also includes long scenic drives between destinations, sometimes on bumpy unpaved roads and may have limited rest stops.

Please remember that you are traveling as part of a group, and your personal cooperation will make the trip better for everyone. Please be on time for group activities, and please note that smoking is not permitted on our tour buses. Be sensitive to the local customs, as many activities may be conducted differently than in our own country. You will find a polite, gentle approach and a friendly, positive demeanor will help you achieve the best results as you travel.

In General: While we have made every effort to secure comfortable accommodations and transportation, we ask you to keep in mind that the standards you will encounter may be different from those you are used to at home. This is primarily due to the fact that the tourism infrastructure, while extensive, is still in the development stages, and therefore somewhat limited in some areas. On touring days, you may encounter some delays due to the tremendous congestion and traffic in and around the city. Your patience and understanding are appreciated.

Please remember that you are visiting countries where customs are not the same as in the USA. Many people speak English, and you may assume you are being understood, but it is often the case that the person you are speaking to does not clearly comprehend. Be sure to ask your guide, the hotel clerk, the waiter or any other service providers to confirm that what you have asked or said has been understood. This is very important when shopping.

Road Conditions: On some days during your trip, a considerable driving distance is involved. Please note that due to poor road conditions in some of the areas visited, some discomfort during those days should be expected.

Game Reserves: There will be various safaris through Game Reserves. Please keep in mind that wildlife viewing is a matter of luck, and although experiencing game drives is wonderful, there are no assurances that you’ll view all the animals you would like to see.

Remember that you're a guest in someone else's homeland, and that you're traveling to experience their country and culture. Be sensitive to local customs and manners, as many things may be done differently than what you're used to. And while we have made every effort to secure modern and comfortable accommodations and transportation, please note that the standards in other countries may be different from those you are accustomed to at home. Overall, you will find a polite, positive, patient, and open-minded approach generally yields the best travel experience!

Please keep in mind that you'll be traveling with a group. Sharing your explorations with like-minded folks can often be a source of joy, and some of our travelers become lifelong friends. But traveling with strangers can also sometimes be challenging, especially in a foreign country. We ask that you be patient and respectful with your fellow travelers, including their needs and preferences. Also remember that you have responsibilities to the group—please be prompt for group activities so you don't keep everyone else waiting. Lastly, please defer to your tour leader, guide or manager. They are there for your safety and wellbeing, and to ensure the journey goes smoothly for everyone. If you have a problem with one of our tour guides or managers, please let us know, either while you're on tour or after you return, and we'll make sure your concerns are addressed.

Accommodations

Our hotels are all Western-style, and your room includes a private bathroom. Please be aware that the water in the hotel tap system is not potable. Hotels will normally provide bottled water at a small fee. On occasion, a first bottle will be in your room upon check in. If not, you will have plenty of opportunities to purchase bottled water in and around the hotel. However, any water that you consume from the hotel mini-bar will be charged to your room, and you will be responsible for payment.

Eating & Drinking

The meals included with your package are listed in the itinerary. For all other meals, you're at liberty to dine where you like. Your hotels will have several dining choices, from coffee shops to specialty restaurants.

Please see above for special meal requests.

Tipping

If your professional guide, driver and others with whom you are traveling are doing a good job, please take our suggestions for tipping seriously. While we have already prepaid porterage, you may find that porters will ask for additional tips. If you wish to give porters an extra tip, a dollar bill will be considered generous. Dollar bills are handy for tipping in other situations as well, so we suggest taking a supply of single dollars with you so that you can be prepared for such situations.

Naturally, tipping is personal and completely voluntary. If you have not received good service, your tip should reflect this fact. (You should also let us know without delay.) But just as you would never think of having dinner at a restaurant without leaving an appropriate tip, you should apply the same thinking to tipping as you travel.

Optional Excursions

To enhance your visit, your local guide will offer optional excursions and cultural/dining evening activities. Payments for these excursions should be made directly to your guide. Payment must be made by cash only in U.S. Dollars or South African Rand. Rates quoted are below. Optional excursions purchased locally may be subject to availability.

Cape Town

• Cape Winelands Tour, 1270 ZAR per person (Day 4 – purchased locally) This morning, head to the premier wine producing regions of Paarl, Franschhoek and Stellenbosch through the heart of the Cape Winelands. Visit the town of Franschhoek, passing the Huguenot Monument. Experience breathtaking views from the Taal Monument in Paarl, one of the Cape's first farming districts. Stellenbosch is world-renowned for making some of South Africa’s premier wines. Enjoy a tour of this historic town with its well preserved architecture, pop into some of the local stores and markets, and enjoy some of the fine wines as you enter a renowned wine estate.
• Bo-Kaap Melting Pot Tour & Cooking Class, $145 per person (Day 5 – can only be pre-purchased) This morning, join a Bo-Kaap "Melting Pot" tour to discover the heritage, culture and cuisine of the Cape Malay people. We visit the Bo-Kaap Museum, the oldest Mosque in South Africa, pass the oldest house, the first farmhouse and take a walk past the famous colorful houses. Next you will step into an aromatic spice shop to learn about the origins of the spices. Visit a Cape Malay home and learn how to cook an authentic pot of curry, fold a spicy samosa and knead, spin and roll a perfectly flaky roti. As a finale to your cooking lesson, enjoy tasting your delicacies together with your host.

Please Note: The sequence of visits may be reversed.

If you have not prepaid Friendly Planet for the optional excursion(s) and are interested in joining, you may sign up and pay for the excursion with your local guide, pending availability. There are no refunds for unused optional excursions.

Independent Activities

You can leave the group and explore on your own at any time. However, should the group have planned activities for that day, please make sure to inform your guide in advance. There is NO refund for unused group arrangements. We suggest taking the name of the hotel and phone number with you so that you can communicate with taxi drivers. The hotel staff will gladly assist you.

Special Needs & Requests

Please see above for special meal requests and seat requests. If you have any other special requests, including wheelchair or electric cart assistance, please mention your request when you book with an agent, or in the special requests section when you book online. We will do our best to accommodate them!

Country FAQs

Botswana Fast Facts

Kenya Fast Facts

Frequently Asked Questions about Kenya

1. I heard Kenya has banned plastic bags?
   
   [September 2017] In an effort to curb litter and support environmental sustainability, Kenya has banned most single-use plastic bags. Those arriving in Kenya via airports or land borders will be required to surrender any prohibited bags. (You will not be fined as long as you comply.) The Ziploc® bags used to carry liquids through security are exempt from this ban. The following sorts of bags will not be permitted:
   • Duty-free carrier bags
   • General shopping bags
   • Bin liners (sometimes used to protect luggage during rain)
   • Dry cleaning bags (commonly wrapped around clothing)

   Some suitable & allowed replacements:

   • Paper bags
   • Durable, reusable shopping bags
   • Bags made from cloth, woven grass or sisal

South Africa Fast Facts

Zimbabwe Fast Facts

Fine Print

Terms & Conditions: Please review our terms & conditions for this package.

Cancellations: If something comes up and you need to cancel your trip, please let us know as soon as possible. All cancellations must be made in writing. Cancellation fees vary by package; please see the cancellation fees for this package.