YOUR GUIDE TO SOUTH AFRICA Songimvelo Safari Adventure · TOURING THE COUNTRY …………………………………………… 10 Maps of South Africa ………………………………………

YOUR GUIDE TO SOUTH AFRICA

Songimvelo Safari Adventure

© 2016 Go Touch Down Travel and Tours Page 2 of 33

Contents

Page

WELCOME ……………………………………………………………. 3

SOUTH AFRICA ENTRY REQUIREMENTS…………………………… 4

TIPS FOR TRAVELERS ………………………………………………… 5

Weather in South Africa ……………………………………. 5

What to Wear ………………………………………………… 6

Baggage Information ………………………………………. 7

Voltage Requirements ……………………………………… 8

Currency ………………………………………………………. 9

TOURING THE COUNTRY …………………………………………… 10

Maps of South Africa ……………………………………….. 10

Safari Adventure .……………………………………………. 12

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS…………………………………... 22


Welcome!

We are delighted that you have chosen Go Touch Down Travel &

Tours as your trusted hosts for your South African adventure.

Our staff will tend to your every need… from helping you plan before

your departure, to pampering you during your visit and ensuring you

return with a lifetime of precious memories.


South Africa Entry Requirements

United States of America and Canadian Citizens require a valid passport to enter South

Africa when visiting less than a 90 day period and holding proof of an onward ticket.

The passport must be valid for more than six months after the intended return date to

the USA or Canada. More than a 90 day visit will require a visa.

Your United States or Canadian passport must have a minimum of two completely

blank pages labeled “visa” for the visa issuance by immigration offices upon arrival in

South Africa. These two blank pages must face each other so the entry stamp can be

placed on one page and the exit stamp on the page it faces.

No advance visa is required for United States or Canadian passport holders when

traveling to South Africa for tourist purposes. Please note that immigration officers hold

the right to deny entry to any traveler.

If traveling with children under the age of 18, please note that in addition to their

passport, immigration also requires the original unabridged birth certificate regardless of

the relationship of the minor to the traveling companions. If the minor is traveling

without both parents, a power of attorney is required. Please contact the consulate for

all details prior to travel.

Without proper documentation entry will not be granted.

NOTE: If you are traveling to other countries in Southern Africa, additional blank pages

are required.

For Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe or Zambia, you will require two more blank pages facing

each other.

The visa fee for valid for entry into Zimbabwe and Zambia is US $50 per person, payable

in cash upon arrival at immigration in Victoria Falls.

Please note: The charge card machines are not always operational. We recommend to

have the US $50 per person in cash prior to arrival.

Please note entry requirements can change without notice.

Please check with your local health clinic for any vaccinations required. No inoculations

are required currently for entering South Africa from non-yellow fever countries. We

recommend the malaria tablet while you are in the Kruger National Park, however it is

not mandatory. Please speak with a Doctor before taking any medication.


Tips for Travelers

The following sections contain overviews of useful information such as weather

and seasons, what type of clothing to pack, baggage information and

regulations, voltage requirements and South African currency.

For more in-depth information regarding these and other topics, please see the

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) section beginning on page 22.

Weather in South Africa

South Africa has a climate like Southern California or the Mediterranean. It is

beautiful year-round.

Summer Months

Our summer months are from the end of August to April with the hottest period

from October to February. Average day temperatures in summer range from a

minimum of 15 °C (59 °F) to a maximum of 28 °C (82.4 °F), although

temperatures can get as high as 36 °C (96.8 °F) in some areas. One should

expect rain storms or drizzle on any of these days. It hardly ever rains throughout

the day and generally the rain storms last for only an hour or so.

Winter Months

Our winter is from May to July with the coldest period being towards the end of

June and July. In winter, early morning temperatures can drop below 5°C (41°F)

and well below zero at night in some places. Maximum average day

temperatures in winter are a respectable 19 °C (66.2 °F to 23 °C (73.4 °F) Some

areas like Durban in Kwa-Zulu Natal get as hot as 26 °C (78.8 °F) in winter, perfect

for a day at the beach. A subtropical location and a high interior plateau are

responsible for South Africa's temperate conditions so appreciated by visitors.


What to Wear

South Africans are generally laid back when it comes to clothing, so there is no

need to haul out your best silks and diamonds when heading for our shores, unless

you're attending a very prestigious event.

1. For summer, bring clothes that are cool, light and comfortable because

summer temperatures can get well into the 30 degree range in some areas.

2. Also bring an umbrella or raincoat during summer as this is when most of the

country gets its rain. In areas like Gauteng and the North West Province,

thunder showers are common. A light jacket or wrap is a good

precaution. Don't forget a bathing suit.

3. The winters are generally mild, comparing favorably with European

summers. But we do get some days when temperatures dive, especially in

high-lying areas such as the Drakensberg, so be prepared with jerseys and

jackets. Cape Town gets its rain during the winter season so it’s advisable to

bring rain gear along.

4. Always bring a hat, sunglasses and sunblock as the sun can be strong even

in the winter months.

5. Walking shoes are a good idea all year-round, with warm socks in the

winter.

6. If you are doing business in the country, business attire (suit and tie) is

generally called for in the corporate sector, but media, for example,

generally dress more casually.

7. For game viewing, neutral-toned items are advised, but there's no need to

go overboard. A good pair of walking shoes is also advisable. Camouflage

clothing and/or accessories are NOT acceptable.

8. For the evening, if you are dining at an upscale restaurant or seeing a

show, smart-casual attire is recommended.

9. Leave some room in your suitcase for South African clothing. Information on

local designers can be found on the internet. Look out for local labels like

Hip Hop, Stoned Cherrie, Maya Prass, Eboka and more.


Baggage Information

Size and Weight Restrictions

For carry-on bags your bag must:

Not exceed 45 inches (length + width + height), or 115 cm.

Fit easily in our SizeCheck® unit (approximately 22" x 14" x 9", or 56 x 36 x 23

cm).

Fit in an overhead bin or underneath the seat in front of you.

If your carry-on bag doesn't meet these size restrictions it must be

checked, and all checked baggage rules will apply.

To avoid extra charges for oversize or overweight baggage on international

flights, your checked bag must:

Weigh 50 pounds (23 kg) or less.

Not exceed 62 inches (157 cm) when you total length + width + height.

For flights within South Africa, the weight limit is 44 pounds (20 kg).

Special Items:

Each special item you're checking counts as one bag.

When checking in online, you don't have to tell us what the special item is—only

that you have one.

An agent will determine any possible charges for your special item when you

bring it to the baggage drop.

Special Items Include:

Overweight bags - bags over 50 lbs.

Oversize bags - bags over 62 inches

(when you total the length + width + height)

Infant and children items - stroller, child restraint seats

Assistive devices - wheelchair

Sports equipment - bicycle, bowling, fishing or ski equipment, parachute,

surfboard, windsurf board, scuba tank

Musical instruments

Fragile/bulky items - saddle, antlers, Hawaiian pineapples, military duffle

bags


Voltage Requirements

Voltage: 220/240 V; Plug M.

You will need a voltage converter, and plug adapter in order to use U.S.

appliances. We recommend getting a universal adapter and converter kit. They

cost between $12 and $30 dollars and can be found in many hardware stores,

travel shops and online retailers. Virtually all laptop computers and some electric

razors take universal voltages. Always be sure to check with the manufacturer of

the appliance for proper use and conversion.

COUNTRY THREE-PHASE VOLTAGE FREQUENCY NUMBER OF WIRES (not

including the ground wire)

South Africa 220-240 V 50 Hz 3, 4

United States of America 100-127 V 60 Hz 3, 4


CURRENCY

The currency of South Africa is the Rand (Zar). The exchange rate between the

Rand and the US Dollar is approximately 10:1.

We recommend that you exchange your dollars for rand upon your

arrival at airport in Johannesburg.

Should you need to exchange more during your trip, your guide will

suggest the best place to do so.

IMPORTANT: Due to the prevalence of fraud, USD notes printed prior

to 2003 may or may not be accepted by airport and immigration

officials as well as vendors and hotels; check your currency before

traveling, and be vigilant when accepting foreign exchange.


Touring the Country

MAPS OF SOUTH AFRICA



Safari Adventure

Dunkeld Country Estate – Dullstroom

Dunkeld Country Estate is a luxury trout and game lodge.

Situated in the highly sought after town of Dullstroom, the area boasts the spectacular

Panorama Route offering magnificent views of remarkable landscapes featuring many

breathtaking highlights, including Blyde River Canyon, Echo Caves and Pilgrims Rest.

The resort boasts many well-stocked dams filled with Brown, Rainbow and Golden Trout,

offering fly-fishermen enthusiasts the enjoyment of quality angling in pursuit of that

perfect catch. The heritage of the estate has been preserved with the conversion of the

hundred year old farmhouse into a restaurant.

The Estate consists of a Luxury Lodge which offers 13 spacious rooms as well as 4 private

self-contained family suites and 20 comfortable self-contained chalets.

The combination of untouched beauty, high standards, true South African hospitality,

excellent personal service and professional staff members, makes Dunkeld Country

Estate a truly remarkable holiday destination for the entire family.

Game viewing includes Blesbok, Duiker, ORibi, Rooihartebeest, Black Wildebeest and

Zebra.


Blyde River Canyon

The Blyde River Canyon Reserve extends along the BLYDE RIVER CANYON'S winding path

which, at every turn, offers more and more impressive views over sheer edges dropping

800m into the riverbed.

Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve is renowned for the spectacular mountain scenery

and panoramic views over the Klein Drakensberg escarpment, giving the area its name

of Panorama Route. Viewpoints are named for the spectacles they offer, names such as

God's Window and Wonder View hint at the magnitude of the scenery. The Pinnacle is a

single quartzite column rising out of the deep wooded canyon and the Rondavels (also

called Three Sisters) are three huge spirals of dolomite rock rising out of the far wall of the

Blyde River canyon. Their domed heads are iced in green and their sides are stained with

fiery orange lichen. From the Three Rondavels you can see the extensive Swadini Dam,

which marks the end of the reserve, in the far distance.

At the meeting point of the Blyde River (river of joy) and the Treur River (river of sorrow)

water erosion has created a unique geological phenomenon. The Bourke’s Luck Potholes

have taken thousands of years to form into strange cylindrical sculptures carved by

swirling water. The smooth red and yellow rocks contrast with the dark pools.

The geology and climate of this high rainfall plateau have given rise to masses of

waterfalls, beautiful to look at and many of which you can visit. Others are hidden deep

within some of the largest man-made forestry plantations in the world featuring row upon

row of pine and eucalyptus trees.

Dullstroom Region

The village of Dullstroom, situated at 2,100m above sea level in the Steenkampsberg

range, dates back to the early 1880's when Dutch settlers came to the area. The town

derives its name from one Wolterus Dull, chairman of the Dutch immigrants. The "stroom"

(stream) refers to the abundance of water in the area, notably the Crocodile River.

This river, which runs through the Kruger National Park, has its origin in Dullstroom. Other

major tributaries, like the Lunsklip, Klip River, Steelpoort and Elands River, do not only feed

important rivers and marshlands, but also have become synonymous with some of the

best trout fishing in the country. The area, known for its cool, sub-alpine climate and misty

atmosphere is reminiscent of the Scottish Highlands. It is also known as a habitat for the

three endangered species of cranes, a vast variety of wild flowers and rare species of

mammals - a true paradise for the nature lover.

Dullstroom and its surrounding area are primarily known as a haven for family fun, fly-

fishing and fresh country air. The wide selection of elegant hotels, a variety of restaurants,

shops and activities have made this an appealing tourist destination and an ideal stop-

over on the way to the Lowveld and Kruger Park.


Songimvelo Game Reserve

While South Africa holds hundreds of game reserves scattered throughout the country,

there are very few like Songimvelo. We believe in providing the most unique experiences

and that includes your experience on safari.

Here at Songimvelo you will spend quality time on an uncommercialized game reserve,

an opportunity very few people in the entire world have to experience: The wild and true

South Africa.

The Songimvelo reserve is 80,000 hectares (60,000 of which are fenced). Less than 2,000

visitors enjoy the intimate Songimvelo reserve each year, compared to Kruger National

Park’s one million visitors. In fact, if every visitor were on the Songimvelo reserve at once,

they would each have a sprawling 40 hectares to themselves. If the same were to occur

at Kruger, each visitor would have just one hectare.


The Songimvelo Game Reserve is located along the Barberton Mountain Lands, south of

Kruger and just west of Swaziland. This area is not only unique in that it’s practically

untouched but it is also a world-class heritage site in an unsurpassed state of preservation.

Scientific research from the Barberton Mountain Lands has provided the earliest records

of how the earth’s crust was formed. It is currently in the process of redefining the date

for the first occurrence of life on earth – an astonishing one billion years earlier than

previously estimated. Here evidence has been found of one of the first massive meteorite

impacts possibly related to the formation of our moon.

Tidal traces billions of years old are so precisely recorded they allow for calculation of

changes in the distance between the earth and the moon. The Barberton Mountain

Lands is the only place on earth where the development of the early earth crust and

evolution of life itself can be studied.

This is truly the place where life began.

In Songimvelo you can expect game viewing to include rhinos, elephants, zebras, giraffe,

Eland (not in Kruger), hippos, bless buck, water buck, and more.


Humala River Lodge is located in the Songimvelo Game Reserve. This exclusive lodge offers

only 10 spacious and luxury A-frame thatched roof cabins with canvas walls and elevated

balconies. Each of the 10 cabins is carefully positioned to offer you privacy and views of

the Krom River, the surrounding mountains and rolling landscape. The en-suite bathroom,

with tub, two basins, private toilet Here you will walk in the footprints of the animals you

were tracking early in the day, It and open air shower, is spacious and situated at the back

of the cabin.

In addition to your game drives at Humala, you can take guided bush walks, venture on a

hiking expedition to explore the ancient bushmen’s paintings, swim in the refreshing rock

pool, or simply enjoy sipping some Pinotage on your balcony.

Humala River Lodge


Getting to know the Greater Kruger National Park

Lying in the heart of the Lowveld is a wildlife

sanctuary like none other. Its atmosphere is so

unique that it allows those who enter its vastness

to immerse themselves in the unpredictability and

endless wilderness that is the true quality of Africa.

The largest game reserve in South Africa, the

KRUGER NATIONAL PARK is larger than Israel.

Nearly 2 million hectares of land that stretch for

352 kilometers (20,000 square kilometers) from

north to south along the Mozambique border is

given over to an almost indescribable wildlife

experience. Certainly it ranks with the best in

Africa and is the flagship of the country’s national

parks - rated as the ultimate safari experience.

The Kruger National Park lies across the provinces

of Mpumalanga and Limpopo in the north of

South Africa, just south of Zimbabwe and west of

Mozambique. It now forms part of the Great

Limpopo Transfrontier Park - a peaceful park that

links Kruger National Park with game parks in

Zimbabwe and Mozambique. Fences are already

coming down to allow game to freely roam in

much the way it would have in the time before

man’s intervention. When complete, the Greater

Limpopo Transfrontier Park will extend across

35,000 square kilometers: 58% of it South African,

24% Mozambican and 18% Zimbabwean territory.

This is the land of Baobabs, Fever trees, Knob

thorns, Marula and Mopane trees underneath

which lurk the Big 5, the Little 5 (buffalo weaver,

elephant shrew, leopard tortoise, ant lion and

rhino beetle), the birding Big 6 (Ground hornbill,

kori bustard, lappet-faced vulture, martial eagle,

pel’s fishing owl and saddle-bill stork) and more

species of mammals than any other African

Game Reserve.

The Kruger Park is a self-drive destination, although there are guided tour operators, with

an excellent infrastructure that includes picnic sites, rest camps, waterholes and hides.

The Kruger Park is a remarkable reserve offering an incredible experience of Africa at its

most wild.

http://www.sa-venues.com/game_lodges_nationwide_south_afr.htm

http://www.sa-venues.com/wildlife/default.htm

http://www.sa-venues.com/mpumalanga.htm

http://www.sa-venues.com/north_province.htm

http://www.sa-venues.com/

http://www.sa-venues.com/wildlife/birds_martial_eagle.htm


Very broadly speaking, the Kruger National Park is flat with a few gentle hills, and people

tend to classify the Bushveld of the Kruger as unvaried and dry, which is rather like saying

South Africa is sunny - it conceals an amazingly rich diversity. The Kruger National Park is

divided into no fewer than six ecosystems - baobab sandveld, Lebombo knobthorn-

marula Bushveld, mixed acacia thicket, combretun-silver cluster leaf, woodland on

granite, and riverine forest.

Four regions make it easier for you to select the type of experience you want from your

visit in the Kruger National Park.

THE CENTRAL REGION

Encompassing only 30% of the Kruger Park’s surface area, the central region supports

nearly half the park’s lion population as well as numbers of leopard, hyena and cheetah.

Possibly the main reason for this is the quantity of sweet grasses and abundant browsing

trees found in this area that support a large group of antelope, giraffe, buffalo, zebra and

wildebeest. This means that it’s a popular region amongst tourists and subsequently there

are a number of camps in this region. It’s understandable as the chance of sighting even

one of the 60 prides of lion that make the central region their home is a huge draw card.

THE FAR NORTH REGION

This is a rather fascinating part of the Kruger National Park, not least because the eco-

zones here are noticeably different from other habitats in the Kruger. Sightings of rare

birdlife and major areas of sand formed by river flood plains, combined with sandstone

formations of the Mozambique coastal plain, make it attractive to visitors. There are also

a number of tropical aspects, as part of the region lie in a rain shadow and along the

banks of the Luvuvhu River lie a series of riverine forest. A picnic site on the river bank

provides hours of splendid bird viewing.

What you can witness in this part of the Kruger National Park is extraordinary - the

knocking sand frog, a collection of bats, the nocturnal bush pig and the rare Sharpe’s

grysbok. There are samango monkeys, packs of endangered wild dog, and the major

water pans across the Wambiya sandveld are a good place to sight tropical warm-water

fish, such as the rainbow killifish, not found anywhere else in South Africa. The sandstone

hills, just west of Punda Maria, is the only place where you can see the Natal red hare

and yellow-spotted rock dassie, or hyrax. What makes a visit to this remote part of the

Kruger Park so meaningful is the solitude.

THE NORTHERN REGION

North of the Orange River is a semi-arid region covering 7,000 square kilometers that sees

very little rain. Vegetation here changes very little from the unvarying shrub mopane,

which thrives in hot, low-lying valleys. However, across this great expanse of hot dryness,

five rivers forge their way, providing narrow corridors along whose banks grow trees

distinctly different from the mopane - the nyala, the sycamore fig, the tamboti and the

http://www.sa-venues.com/wildlife/wildlife_lion.htm

http://www.sa-venues.com/wildlife/wildlife_leopard.htm

http://www.sa-venues.com/wildlife/wildlife_hyena.htm

http://www.sa-venues.com/wildlife/wildlife_cheetah.htm

http://www.sa-venues.com/wildlife/south_africa_birdlife.htm

http://www.sa-venues.com/wildlife/wildlife_wilddog.htm


tall apple leaf. The Letaba and Olifants rivers contain as much as 60% of the Kruger Park’s

hippo population and bird life here abounds. There are plenty of bush pigs in the

undergrowth of the Luvuvhu River and on most of the river banks you can hope to see

sizeable herds of elephant. Kruger National Park’s estimates as many as 9,000 of these

beautiful beasts inhabit this area together with buffalo, bushbuck, impala and kudu, all

concentrated near a water supply.

THE SOUTHERN REGION

Bounded by the Crocodile River in the

south and the Sabie River in the north,

the southern region is also host to the

jagged ridge of the Lebombo

Mountains along the border with

Mozambique. The highest point in the

park, Khandzalive, lies in the

southwestern corner - almost in

counterpoint to Pretoriuskop that lies in

the west of the southern region of the

Kruger National Park.

The valleys are home to trees rarely

found in other parts of the Kruger park,

such as the Cape chestnut, coral tree

and lavender fever-berry; and granite

lies beneath most of the region,

producing distinctive smoothed koppies at irregular intervals, which are typically

surrounded by rock figs and form ideal locations for rock dassies or hyrax, baboon and

klipspringer, not to mention the odd leopard.

This is the region where you’re almost sure of seeing a white rhino as most of them occur

here, particularly around Pretoriuskop, Mbyamiti River and south of lower Sabie. On the

whole, there is more game purported to exist in the southern part of the park, so if you

don’t make it to the northern reaches of the Kruger National Park, you won’t miss out. This

part of the Kruger Park is to some extent shrouded in history. Around Pretoriuskop, known

for its profusion of trees, is Ship Mountain, its hull-shape the site of an old wagon trail that

crosses a stream marking the birthplace of Jock of the Bushveld. The combretum

woodlands, also part of this region, attract reasonable herds of kudu, impala, giraffe,

buffalo, zebra, white rhino and elephant, and the scarcity of lion in this part of the park

makes way for the cheetah and wild dog.

http://www.sa-venues.com/wildlife/wildlife_hippo.htm

http://www.sa-venues.com/accommodation/sabie.php

http://www.sa-venues.com/wildlife/wildlife_klipspringer.htm

http://www.sa-venues.com/wildlife/wildlife_leopard.htm

http://www.sa-venues.com/wildlife/wildlife_zebra.htm


Seasons Sport & Spa

Tailored to suit all ages and preference, the Eco Golf Estate is a superb getaway for

families and couples alike. The estate, just a stone’s throw from the Hartebeespoort Dam,

is only a 45 minute drive from Sandton, Pretoria and Rustenberg on the northern slopes of

the Magaliesberg.

Nestled in 300 acres of indigenous bushveld, the resort includes a Hydro and Beauty Spa,

18-hole golf course, jogging and hiking trails, mountain biking, swimming pools, children’s

playgrounds and an entertainment center.

At Seasons Sport and Spa you have a unique concept of 4 luxury lodge rooms that share

a central kitchen, lounge and dining room, patio, private pool and a fire pit. The lodge

rooms are spacious with lots of natural light and a modern flair. Each room has a private

patio, flat screen TV, coffee bar, bar fridge and air conditioning.

With stylish outdoor furniture and braai facilities, the large balconies are the perfect place

to unwind and entertain. The balconies of some of the luxury units include a lovely view

over a private view area.


Hartbeespoort

Hartbeespoort, informally also known as Harties, is a small resort town in the Northwest

Province of South Africa, situation on the slopes of the Magaliesberg Mountain and the

banks of the Hartbeesport Dam. The name of the town means "gateway of the

hartbees" (a species of antelope) in Afrikaans.. It was previously known as

Schoemansville, named after General Hendrik Schoeman, a Boer General in the Anglo-

Boer War, who owned the farm upon which the Hartbeespoort Dam was built.

Harties Cableway

Officially named The Aerial Cableway Hartbeespoort and affectionately called The

Harties Cableway, this popular attraction not also offers breathtaking views from the

Magaliesberg Mountain, but also excellent recreational and educational facilities.

There’s lots to do at the base station and at the top. Kids can wander along the Dassie

Loop walkway, where educational placards describe points of interest seen from the

top, or play in the KidZone, while parents enjoy some much-needed rest. Stone-fired

pizza and other tasty treats can be found at the on-site restaurants, express food stalls

and bar, where there are plenty of picturesque seating areas and bomas.

In April 2015, the cableway was named one of the top 12 coolest cableways in the

world, and in May it was awarded a Certificate of Excellence by Trip Advisor for its

consistently great reviews. In June, the Magaliesberg Mountains were declared a World

Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO.


Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit?

With our year round temperate climate, your decision about the best time to visit South

Africa will not so much be based on the weather but more about the experiences and

adventures you wish to have.

For example, South Africa’s winter months (June, July, August) – which have the least

rainfall, except for the Western Cape with its Mediterranean climate – is a peak time for

game viewing as a shortage of water means animals gather at watering holes. Foliage is

also less, which makes game spotting easier. But depending on the experiences you

seek, there may be another time that's more suitable to visit South Africa's game parks.

For example, if you want to see newborn animals, then September/October is the best

time to visit.

Holiday makers flock to Cape Town and the Western Cape in the summer months to take

advantage of the lovely weather, beautiful beaches and many outdoor adventures.

Nonetheless, winter - even though the rainy season - also has its charm. Visiting the Cape

Winelands during winter is a special treat.

Autumn, winter and spring are also ideal times to visit the Northern Cape’s wonderful

national parks with their black-mane lions. It is also a good time to enjoy animal tracking

adventures with the Kalahari Bushmen because during summer months the temperature

can get unbearably hot.

For a South African winter beach holiday, Durban in KwaZulu-Natal is the place to go.

With its year-round T-shirt weather and warm Indian Ocean it is a superb venue for great

water-based adventures.

Hiking in the Drakensberg Mountains is also great all year round. Do be aware that in

winter night temperatures can drop below freezing and snow can sometimes be found

in the higher reaches. During the summer months, afternoon thunderstorms are a

frequent occurrence.

There are some adventures in South Africa that can only be experienced at specific times

of year. For example, if you want to see the world-famous Namaqualand daisies, then

September (our spring) is the time to visit. The famous Sardine Run – a unique

phenomenon when millions of sardines travel up the east coast of South Africa causing

a feeding frenzy that attracts thousands of sharks, dolphins, whales, birds and other

ocean predators – occurs between May and July.


If you love hiking, spring and autumn are the ideal times to hike as temperatures are

neither too hot nor too cold. Spring and autumn are also the best times to visit for fly-

fishing in South Africa.

For those seeking to explore South Africa’s rich heritage, cultures, and political past, you

can visit any time of year, unless your interest is a specific event like the Zulu Reed Dance,

which takes place annually in September.

What temperatures can I expect in South Africa?

Average day temperatures in summer range from a minimum of 15 °C (59 °F) to a

maximum of 28 °C (82.4 °F), although temperatures can get as high as 36 °C (96.8 °F) in

some areas. In winter, early morning temperatures can drop below 5°C (41°F) and well

below zero at night in some places. Maximum average day temperatures in winter are a

respectable 19 °C (66.2 °F to 23 °C (73.4 °F) Some areas like Durban in Kwa-Zulu Natal

get as hot as 26 °C (78.8 °F) in winter, perfect for a day at the beach.

A subtropical location and a high interior plateau are responsible for South Africa's

temperate conditions so appreciated by visitors.

South African temperatures, which are measured in centigrade, average at highs of 28°C

to average lows of 8°C in the summer months while winter temperatures range from 1°C

at night to around 18°C in the day. Average annual rainfall is on the low side at less than

500mm a year, making the country somewhat dry. Much of the rain falls in the Western

Cape in the winter, differing from the rest of the country, which experiences summer

rainfall. Thunder and lightning storms are common in provinces like Gauteng, North West

and KwaZulu-Natal. On the plus side, the South African climate boasts more than its fair

share of sunshine, recording an average of 8.5 hours a day.

South Africa's climatic conditions generally range from Mediterranean in the south-

western corner of the country to temperate in the interior plateau, and subtropical in the

northeast. A small region in the northwest has a desert climate.

Our relatively mild and short winters do not justify the expense of central heating in many

buildings and homes, which may lead visitors to think the winter is colder than it actually

is. The answer to this is dressing in layers.

The following table provides average temperatures in South Africa.


Safari Weather Conditions

What should I pack?

Please note that these are just suggestions and depending on the month/season

travelling. Warmer clothes are required for travelling in June/July/August.

People often ask us to recommend things which we think they should bring with them

when coming on a safari to Kapama Private Game Reserve. Through our own and

previous guests experiences we have compiled a list of those items we have found to

be useful and necessary:

1-2 pair/s of smart/ casual trousers

2-3 pairs of shorts

4 Shirts/ T-shirts (any combination)

1 light cotton sundress for the ladies

1 pair of walking/ running shoes

1 pair of sandals/crocks, etc.

1 swim suit

1 sun hat

Sunscreen

Water bottle

Mosquito Repellent (With DEET if possible). Otherwise, you can purchase at the

resort.


Light Jacket / Cardigan for the evenings (depending on the season of travel)

Our summer months are from the end of August to April with the hottest period from

October to February. One should expect rain storms or drizzle on any of these days. It

hardly ever rains continually though and generally the rain storms last for only an hour or

so. We provide rainproof ponchos for guest to use on the vehicles during game drives

and there are sufficient umbrellas for guest to use at the lodges.

Our winter is from May to July with the coldest period being towards the end of June

and July. We provide fleece blankets for guests to use on the vehicles during game

drives.

Additional Packing Guidelines

• It may at times be very cold during the early morning and during the evening safari.

A warm fleece jacket, a fleece scarf and a warm hat will be needed. A warm pair of

gloves may also be an added advantage. You may also want to bring a warm track

suite to wear instead of a dress or light trousers.

• Try to keep the colours of your clothing as neutral as possible in order to blend in with

the environment. Khaki colors and browns or greens are generally the best. Darker

colors and colors that are very bright tend to attract unwanted insects such as

mosquitoes and other bug type visitors.

• You should bring a comfortable pair of walking shoes for use during bush walks or

when off the game drive vehicle and a pair of sandals or flip-flops to wear around the

lodge.

• Meal times are generally informal, so it is not necessary to dress up in formal clothing

for dinner.

• If you wear prescriptions eye glasses or contact lenses it may be an idea to bring a

spare pair in case yours get mislaid or broken. Also ensure that you have sufficient lens

cleaning lotion as the outdoor environment may at times become extremely dusty

which could require frequent cleaning.

• Our electricity works on a 220 volt alternating current system. Wall plug units take a

round pin 15 Amp plug. It is advisable to bring the necessary converter or adapter from

your country should you want to charge anything or use your own electrical appliances

on our electrical supply systems anywhere in South Africa.

• You should also bring a video or digital camera, a good pair of binoculars, enough

memory cards for your camera (or film for those who still prefer to use film) and your

plug and charger for the camera equipment.


• Should you want to send emails or photos home to friends or family you should bring

your Laptop or personal computer. We have wireless internet spots at some of our

lodges. We also have a dedicated computer which is set aside for guests at all of our

lodges.

• Cellular phones work in most areas of South Africa and also within the reserve,

although it is not advised to take cellular phones on game drive vehicles as they are

considered an unnecessary disturbance to the wildlife and other guests. Guests are

welcome to use their cellular phone camera if it is set on airplane mode.

• All our rooms are supplied with basic amenities such as soap, shampoo and body

lotions. You may however want to bring your own favourite items with you as well.

• We have a reasonably priced 24-hour laundry service available for guest use at all our

lodges.

• There are curio shops at all of our lodges so it is possible to purchase most of the items

listed above should any of them be forgotten.

• Please travel with minimal luggage. We suggest using only ONE suitcase if possible as

inter-land airlines baggage restrictions are less weight than international flights.

• Remember to bring your malaria prophylaxis medication with you.

**Please note we strongly suggest you take malaria medication.

Please speak with your local travel clinic for all updated information**

Is it customary to tip in South Africa?

Tipping in South Africa is widely practiced.

Here is some information on tipping in South Africa.

Parking attendants and security guards are common in parking lots and at roadside

bays. They generally ask if they can watch your car while you are going about your

business - if you agree, a tip of R2 and up should be offered, depending on the length of

your stay. In South Africa we still have the luxury of petrol attendants at gas stations to fill

up our vehicle tanks, check oil, water and tire pressure, and clean the windscreens. How

much to tip for this special South African service? From R2 up.

The going rate for porters at airports is between R5 and R10 per piece of luggage.

South Africa, you'll soon see, has a tradition of roadside newspaper vendors. It is

customary to give the seller a few cents - rounding off the cost of your newspaper should

be sufficient.


Hotel porters usually expect a tip of R10 to R20 per porter service.

Some of the other service providers you may want to tip are taxi drivers, tour guides and

assistants in hairdressers and beauty salons. Should you need assistance in taking your

purchases from supermarket to your vehicle, you may want to show your gratitude to

your helper with a small monetary reward.

You'll soon find your way around tipping etiquette in South Africa - it's easy as it’s usually

well-received.

Important Notes:

Please note that when you travel with Go Touch Down Travel & Tours on our

promotional tours, we include the tipping at restaurants. For restaurants and

bars 10% to 15% is the accepted tipping standard for any meals or drinks other

than those included in our promotional tours.

However, tipping your driver/guide is not included and although not expected,

it is appreciated should you decide to tip them at the end of your tour. The

guideline is R150-200 ($10-13) per person per day. (The guides at Kapama

Reserve should be tipped separately).

What are the baggage requirements for my connecting flight between Cape Town and

Johannesburg?

If you are connecting, you’ll be travelling with Kulula Airlines. Hand Baggage

Allowance - Only one bag per person will be allowed onboard the aircraft. It

must be lighter than 7kg (15lbs) and be smaller than 55x40x20cm - so most ladies'

handbags can be taken onboard.

Checked Baggage Allowance - You're allowed one free checked bag weighing

up to a maximum of 20kg (44lbs). Any excess weight will cost an additional R25

per kilo at the airport. Excess baggage fees may be paid at reduced rates (up

to 50% discount) during the time of booking or up to 24 hours prior to departure

via the Kulula website or Contact Centre.

No one bag may weigh more than 32kg (70lbs).

Who do I contact in case of an emergency?

If you're in your hotel room, contact the emergency number provided or the front desk.

If you're out and about, dial 10111 from a landline for the police or 112 from a mobile

phone for emergency assistance.


Does South Africa accommodate international roaming for mobile phones?

South Africa's mobile phone operators utilize the GSM system. If your phone is GSM

compatible, set up international roaming with your service provider before you leave

home. Alternatively, you can rent a mobile phone at the airport on arrival in South Africa,

and purchase pre-paid airtime at retail outlets during your stay.

What traditional food is served in South Africa?

South Africa boasts excellent fresh produce, meat, fruit, fish and sea food and is

renowned for its wines. Types of dishes served include sosaties (a type of kebab), bobotie

(curried mince), crayfish, biltong (seasoned dried meat), and potjiekos (a casserole

cooked for hours in a three-legged iron pot). Also try some traditional African and Afro-

fusion dishes. Our local beers, Cape wines, brandies and liqueurs are renowned the world

over. The traditional beer - umqombothi - is a home-brewed sorghum beer sold in many

African townships.

How can I access medical services quickly in an emergency?

ER24 EMS is a private, national, emergency medical care service, committed to providing

South Africans with efficient, effective emergency response and pre-hospital care.

Call 084 124.

Netcare 911 (dial 082 911) offers 24-hour emergency medical assistance.

For ambulance services, dial 10177

How easy is travel around South Africa for Senior travelers?

South Africa, with its excellent infrastructure and modern medical facilities, is an ideal

holiday destination for senior travelers.

At Go Touch Down Travel & Tours we make sure all our travelers’ needs are met as we

provide privatel, intimate tours.

Airports, shopping centers and tourist attractions are often geared to assisting senior

citizens. For those who cannot walk long distances, wheelchairs or onsite transport can

often be arranged.

Is it safe to travel to South Africa?

Safety precautions are not unlike those recommended when travelling to other

countries and major cities. More common sense than hard and fast measures, safety

precautions in South Africa mostly require vigilance on behalf of the traveler and sound

travel preparation.


Important South African safety advice includes avoiding deserted areas at

night, securing valuables such as photographic equipment and wallets on your person

and leaving expensive, flashy jewelry in your hotel safe while out and about.

Other safety precautions you may want to consider include:

1. Locking valuables and luggage away in the car trunk while travelling (never leave

handbags or cameras on car seats).

2. Being vigilant of your luggage and other belongings (never leave them

unattended).

3. Storing valuables in your hotel safe.

4. Limit the amount of money you carry on your person. Also, don't accept offers of

assistance at ATMs and keep your pin numbers secure.

5. When using a credit card in restaurants, ask the waiter to bring a portable credit

card machine to your table. Report stolen or lost cards immediately.

6. Carry a current road map with you. If you're in any doubt about a place you wish

to visit or how to get there, have a word with your hotel concierge first or contact

the National Tourism Information and Safety Line on 083 123 2345 for assistance.

7. Only use reputable tour operators and travel and transport services. If you're not

sure, ask your hotel to recommend a service provider for you.

8. In rural areas, watch out for wild or farm animals - road signage will warn you when

you need to take care.

9. If you intend to travel to malaria-risk areas, take the necessary prophylaxis before

you leave home.

Remember, our guests have their driver/guide with them at all times, affording great

peace of mind!

Food and Health

Standards of hygiene in relation to food health and safety in South Africa are generally

high in hotels, restaurants, pubs and nightspots.

It is safe to eat fresh fruit, vegetables and salads, and to put ice in your drinks. Our fish,

meat and chicken are of excellent quality, so there is no need to limit yourself when

enjoying the local cuisine.

Restaurants are subject to South Africa's food safety control legislation, which is

implemented by local government. Regulations include certification and regular

inspections by health inspectors to ensure hygienic standards are maintained.

Street food is not as common in South Africa as it is in other countries, although vendors

selling traditional snacks and meals can be found in city centers and townships. Food

safety in such instances cannot always be guaranteed.

At markets and public events, fast-food chains operate mobile outlets or coffee stands,

which are safe to patronize. Here you'll also often find individuals selling take-away eats


like boerewors rolls, pancakes, samoosas and other South African foods - generally safe

to eat. In such instances - as with fresh food preparation at establishments across the

country - servers should handle the food with utensils or, if by hand, with gloves.

Is it safe to drink tap water?

South Africa is one of 12 countries in the world where drinking tap water is perfectly safe!

What are the differences in etiquette when it comes to dining in South Africa?

Food etiquette in South Africa is mostly westernized, with some of its own idiosyncrasies.

For instance, it's acceptable to eat pasta by twirling it onto a fork with the aid of a spoon,

and to eat lobster with your hands. The popular braai (barbeque-grill) is another occasion

where you can use your hands. In rural areas, traditional stew and mealie pap are also

eaten with the hands - use your right hand only and roll the pap into a ball with your

fingers, then dip it into the stew and eat.

Most restaurants supply bread rolls as you wait for your meals - these should be broken

and buttered a piece at a time.

At fine dining restaurants, dress a little more formally towards a smart-casual look. Most

other eateries, however, are extremely informal, and in the many family-friendly

establishments South African food etiquette is relaxed.

If you are invited to dine at the home of South Africans or share a braai with them, it is

good etiquette to take a box of chocolates or a bunch of flowers, or a small gift as a

token of appreciation.

Do I need vaccinations to travel to South Africa?

USA and Canadian travelers do not require having any vaccinations. Only the malaria

tablet is recommended when visiting the Kruger Park area.

Very often (particularly after periods of low rainfall), the malaria risk in Kruger is very low.

Many people decide not to take prophylactics and rather try to avoid getting bitten. The

most vulnerable times are between dusk and dawn. People are advised to stay indoors

during these periods, or cover exposed skin with light clothing or insect repellents. The

ankles are the most critical area. Burning anti-mosquito coils and ensuring netted screens

are kept closed are other preventative measures. While malaria prophylactics are

recommended, no prophylactic is foolproof. Any person developing flu-like symptoms 7

to 20 days (or even longer) after being in malaria-risk areas should be tested immediately

for malaria, until the symptoms clear or an alternative diagnosis is made. It is important to

advise medical practitioners that you have been in a malaria-risk area to avoid incorrect

diagnosis.


Should you be entering South Africa via any countries mentioned below, proof of Yellow

Fever Vaccination would be required upon entry into South Africa:

Angola, Argentina, Benin, Bolivia, Brazil, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Central

African Republic, Chad, Colombia, Guinea-Bissau, Congo, Côte d’Ivoire,

Democratic Republic of the Congo, Ecuador, Equatorial Guinea, Ethiopia, French

Guyana, Gabon, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Guyana, Kenya, Liberia, Mali,

Mauritania, Niger, Nigeria, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Rwanda, Sao Tome and

Principe, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Somalia, Sudan, Suriname, Togo, Trinidad and

Tobago, Uganda, United Republic of Tanzania, Venezuela, and Zambia.

The units of measurement used in South Africa are metric.

Road distances are measured in kilometers, petrol in liters and solid food in grams.

South Africa is in the Central Africa Time Zone (CAT).

In fall and winter it is 7 hours ahead of the Eastern Standard Time and spring and Summer

6 hours ahead. Hence in October departing from New York or Atlanta the EST is – 6 hours

behind South Africa.

Where are South Africa's World Heritage Sites located?

There are 8 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in South Africa:

1. iSimangaliso Wetland Park (KwaZulu-Natal: cultural heritage)

2. Robben Island (Western Cape: cultural heritage)

3. Cradle of Humankind (Gauteng: cultural heritage)

4. uKhahlamba Drakensberg Park (KwaZulu-Natal: mixed heritage)

5. Mapungubwe Cultural Landscape (Limpopo: cultural heritage)

6. Cape Floral Region (Western and Eastern Cape: natural heritage)

7. Vredefort Dome (Free State: natural heritage)

8. Richtersveld Cultural and Botanical Landscape (Northern Cape: cultural

heritage)

Places of Worship

With freedom of religion enshrined in our constitution, places of worship in South Africa

span the entire world's major religions and some lesser ones too.

Christianity is represented by most of the Western mainstream denominational families

- Catholicism, Anglicanism and Protestantism, along with their affiliated groups such as

Methodist, Congregationalist, Lutheran, Presbyterian, Baptist, Adventist and Dutch

Reformed or Nederlandse Gereformeerde.

Some more recent charismatic and Pentecostal additions, such as the high-profile

Rhema Church, the Apostolic Faith Mission and the Assemblies of God, are also found in


the country. Smaller groups of Eastern Orthodox branches, such as the Greek Orthodox

Church, also offer places of worship around South Africa.

By far the vast majority of South Africans belong to African Independent Churches, which

combine traditional ancestor belief with Christianity. The Zion Christian Church is the

largest of them. Over weekends you may see groups of African Independent Church

worshippers in green, blue or white robes holding prayer meetings at riversides or in open

fields, as their places of worship are connected to natural areas.

Some South African places of worship are also revered for their historical significance. This

includes Soweto's Regina Mundi Catholic Church, which sheltered anti-apartheid

activists during the freedom struggle, and the Anglican Church of Christ the King in

Sophia town, where Archbishop Trevor Huddleston took a stand against oppression.

Other places still are renowned for their spectacular architecture, such as St George's

Cathedral with its awesome stained glass windows in Cape Town, and the Mormon

Temple in Park town, Johannesburg, with its six spires that light up the night sky.

Places of worship in South Africa also include several Islamic mosques, Hindu temples,

Jewish synagogues and facilities accommodating the Baha'i and Hare Krishna faiths.

Bronkhorstspruit, near Pretoria, houses the Nan Hua Temple, the largest Buddhist temple

in Africa.

Families and Children

South Africa is a perfect family-friendly holiday destination with much for the kids to see

and do - from building sand castles on golden beaches, swimming in the ocean, taking

a joy ride in a theme park, spotting wildlife on a game farm or enjoying adventure

activities at one of South Africa's many resorts.

Child-friendly facilities are found throughout South Africa. Hotels offer inter-connecting

rooms, triple bed arrangements, cots, babysitters, feeding chairs at meal times and

children's rates. Self-catering properties are also a good option to consider, especially

establishments that offer multi-roomed cottages and apartments.

In peak holiday time, when South African families take their annual breaks (notably the

months of April, July and December), coastal resorts offer children's entertainment

programs, movie theatres screen the latest family-oriented movies and there are special

stage shows like the annual pantomime at Jo’burg Theatre in Johannesburg.

Theme parks such as UShaka Marine World in Durban, Gold Reef City in Johannesburg

and Ratanga Junction in Cape Town are great child-friendly facilities in South Africa, as

is the Two Oceans Aquarium, also in the Mother City. Sun City has restyled itself as a

family-oriented resort with popular water rides at the Valley of the Waves, as well as

animal attractions. Countrywide there are good zoos, bird parks, crocodile farms and


reptile parks. Some of the private game lodges may not take children under a certain

age, but the national parks are great for family-friendly holidays in South Africa.

If your South African sojourn includes a road trip, national routes are well supplied with

‘pit-stop' conveniences incorporating gas stations, restaurant and restroom

facilities. Family-style restaurants in South Africa are good about offering children's menus

and keeping the young ones busy with coloring books and crayons as they wait for their

meals. Baby food, milk and nappies, are of course, plentiful in supermarkets. Children's

car seats are available from car rental companies and airlines will oblige with bassinets -

both with advance notice.

Shopping in South Africa

Shopping is a very popular pastime for South Africans. International visitors are often

attracted to goods that are proudly South African and the attractive exchange rate

against other major currencies means these can be picked up for a song.

With gold and diamonds being among our most-famed resources, buying jewelery and

gemstones in South Africa is often high on the international visitor's shopping list. Shoppers

are often attracted to blue-colored Tanzanite, a rare stone from Tanzania which is

expertly crafted into dazzling pieces.

South African wines are another sought-after purchase, and most wine estates and

dealers will make arrangements to ship your selection abroad.

Colorful curios and carvings, representing a myriad of South African and African cultures,

are also popular purchases and include wooden and soft stone carvings, beading,

weaving, pottery and basket ware. Articles imaginatively made of ostrich eggshell, wire

and recycled goods are sought after.

With the price of antiques sky rocketing the world over, it may be worth your while to

check out the local stock. Antiques can be found in big cities and smaller country towns.

Where to shop in South Africa?

One can spend hours in the country's shopping malls (usually open 7 days a week),

trawl South Africa's excellent art galleries for that perfect piece, indulge in good-

natured haggling in one of the many flea markets found in most South African cities, or

find a bargain at a roadside vendor.

Documents

YOUR GUIDE TO SOUTH AFRICA Songimvelo Safari Adventure · TOURING THE COUNTRY …………………………………………… 10 Maps of South Africa ………………………………………