Solo-ish South Africa

Solo-ish South Africa

10 Days
From

$3199

Solo-ish South Africa

10 Days Starting in Cape Town and ending in Johannesburg

Visiting: Cape Town, Kruger National Park, Johannesburg

Tour operator:

G Adventures

Tour code:

26237

Group size:

1 - 18

Physical rating:

3 - Average

Special diets catered:

Vegetarians, Vegans

Tour operated in:

English
From: $3199

NB: Prices correct on 28-Sep-2024 but subject to change.

Tour Overview

South Africa doesn’t need an intro, but this 10-day Solo-ish adventure is one you'll want to hear about. We know going on safari solo can be a bit daunting, but with this trip, you’ll be joining a crew of like-minded explorers just as excited to roam as you are. Start in Cape Town, hitting all the must-sees like Table Mountain and Boulders Beach — with a special G surprise, of course. Then, it’s off to the wild East for a few epic days in Kruger National Park, spotting the Big Five and more. Ready to make some wild memories?

Highlights

  • Savour the stunning views of Table Mountain and the flavours of a farm-to-table lunch, Head out on thrilling safari drives through Kruger National Park and spot wildlife up close, Dive into Cape Town's flavours with an immersive cooking class, Embark on an adventurous bush walk in search of local wildlife, Indulge in a classic bush dinner under the stars at camp.

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Dinner Party: Cape Town

Location: Cape Town

Meals Included: DINNER

Welcome to Cape Town. Enjoy an included arrival transfer to the start hotel and take some time to freshen up and get settled. After an afternoon welcome briefing with your CEO and new Solo-ish travel mates, attend a hands-on, intimate cooking experience with the whole group in the hillside neighbourhood of Bo-Kaap.

ACTIVITY: Your opportunity to meet your CEO and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Opt to join the group for a local meal afterwards. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group.

ACTIVITY: Food is a universal language, and there's no better way to get to know a new friend, or a new community, than by breaking bread together and digging in to a delicious meal. Gather round with local women as they give you a warm-hearted tour of their beloved Bo-Kaap. Gather together in the kitchen as you help your host cook a multi-dish meal of traditional regional staples like potato Malay curry, samosas, and chili poppers. Step-by-step, you will learn together and witness how food has this undeniable power to bring strangers together. Sit down around the table in your host’s home and enjoy the delicious fruits of your labour as you laugh and share stories about one another. You’ll be surprised how early on the connection can feel effortless.

Day 2: We Day: Cape Town

Location: Cape Town

Meals Included: BREAKFAST, LUNCH

Today is all about Cape Town. First the group and CEO will enjoy a cable car ride up to the top of the city’s iconic Table Mountain. Soak in the views that locals and visitors alike rave about, and set your sights on landmarks like Lion’s Head, Signal Hill, Table Bay, and Devil’s Peak. Explore some of the hiking trails at the top before returning to the base via cable car. In the afternoon attend a farm-to-table experience in a community garden where you will enjoy a workshop and listen to stories before having a delicious, locally sourced meal as a group on a rooftop overlooking the city.

ACTIVITY: With your incredible CEO at the helm, get to know the local community and your Solo-ish travel mates on a day packed full of interesting and engaging adventures. Start by getting to know the glories of Cape Town during an epic day featuring both a highlight and unique experience. First up a cable car ride to the top of iconic Table Mountain to enjoy the remarkable panoramic views from new heights. Enjoy time to hike the surrounding trails with others or on your own, and feel the luxury of solitude but skip the loneliness. Then head to a community garden to hear from a local entrepreneur about the work they are doing to grow organic produce. Cap off the day on a rooftop overlooking the city and sit down for a fresh spread of food from the garden.

Day 3: G Day: Cape Town

Location: Cape Town

Meals Included: BREAKFAST, LUNCH, DINNER

Get ready for what G does best and enjoy a day of the must-see sites and highlights of Cape Town with a surprise G twist occurring somewhere along the way. Start in the multicultural Bo-Kaap area for a historic walk amid the colourful houses, then head to Kalk Bay for the charm of this fishing village where mussel shells used to be farmed to make chalk. Boulders Beach is next where you'll hop into a kayak to paddle with the penguins. The remainder of the day is focused on various viewpoints and lookout spots around Cape Town and who knows where you just might end up to cap off G Day.

ACTIVITY: With your Solo-ish travel mates and CEO, explore some of the world's coolest activities alongside new friends. It's not just an epic day of fun, its chock full of incredible experiences and a surprise G element along the way to take your day to an 11. From the lovely Bo-Kaap neighbourhood to the charming fishing village of Kalk Bay, and the iconic penguins at Bolders Beach to Simontown beach huts, this day in Cape Town gets you to all of the must-see spots while adding in a special G surprise somewhere along the way. Visit the Cape Point Lighthouse, set off along the Chapmans Peak Drive, and feel fully enveloped in the allure of Cape Town.

Day 4: Me Day: Cape Town

Location: Cape Town

Meals Included: BREAKFAST

It’s time for a day that belongs to you! After three immersive days, Cape Town might be feeling familiar and you’re likely ready to take on some exploration by yourself. From museums to hikes, or perhaps a wine tour to the nearby vineyards, there’s no shortage of options. And you can decide to be as alone or social as you choose for the best of both worlds. If you'd like to spend time with your incredible CEO, choose to join her on a visit to Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden.

ACTIVITY: Traveling solo alongside your new Solo-ish travel mates means there's always something fun to do and new friends to explore with. But the joy of travel can also be about taking time to yourself to recharge, refresh and reflect on the journey. Today, choose to join your CEO for an incredible activity, or take the time to yourself to enjoy your own company in one of the most incredible places on our planet.

Day 5: Cape Town To Kruger

Location: Cape Town

Meals Included: BREAKFAST, LUNCH

You’ll feel simultaneously sad and excited to be leaving Cape Town for the next leg of this Solo-ish adventure. Board a flight to Kruger where the safari portion begins. After arriving at your accommodations in this wild area, you will enjoy a safari drive for a glimpse of the resident animals as the day winds down.

TRANSPORT: Look! Up in the sky! It's a bird! It's a plane! It's... yup, it is a plane, actually.

TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

ACTIVITY: Experience the perfect introduction to the wildlife of the Kruger area and hop in a 4x4 safari vehicle to get yourself one step closer to the surrounding nature. Be ready to spot large herds of elephant roaming in the area as well as groups of buffalo, antelope, hyena, and more.

Day 6: Kruger Area

Location: Kruger National Park

Meals Included: BREAKFAST, DINNER

Rise with the bright African savanna sun for an included bush walk near the lodge to get up close and personal with the nature that surrounds you. Spend the remainder of the day on your own with time for optional activities through the lodge, or to be alone amid the grandness of this iconic area. In the evening, gather together for a bush dinner in the fresh, open air.

ACTIVITY: Awake in the early morning and set of into the bush with an expert guide. Learn about various plants and animals in the morning glow of the savanna and experience a whole new way of being close to the nature that South Africa is known for.

FREE TIME: Spend free time back at the lodge to enjoy lunch on your own and relax before this evening's activities.

ACTIVITY: Jump in the safari vehicle as the light begins to fade for an evening drive into the bush. Enjoy ample opportunities to spot wildlife as you watch the golden light illuminate the landscape.

ACTIVITY: Gather round for a Boma dinner and indulge your taste buds with South African cuisine in harmony with the wildness of the landscape. Lit by lanterns and the warming fire, you will taste your way through traditional dishes made from local ingredients.

Day 7: Kruger National Park

Location: Kruger National Park

Meals Included: BREAKFAST, LUNCH, DINNER

Travel into the untamed Big 5 Reserve of Kruger National Park to your tented safari camp. Embark on wildlife drives through the park and enjoy time to participate in the various activities near the camp on your own like, horse trails or an aerial cable along the Sabie River.

TRANSPORT: Travel through the beautiful scenery to your next lodge stay.

ACTIVITY: After breakfast the group will travel to the next location, a tented safari camp near Kruger National Park. Upon arrival, enjoy an afternoon to get settled and have an included lunch on the property before the evening wildlife drive through the park to spot the resident animals and photograph the grandness of this environment.

Day 8: Kruger National Park

Location: Kruger National Park

Meals Included: BREAKFAST, LUNCH, DINNER

Spend a final day in the tented camp area. Participate in safari drives, bush walks, nearby ziplining, or simply relax in your serene surroundings and take time for yourself. Whether that be writing, reading, meditating, or simply listening to the lively sounds of Kruger National Park, the choice belongs to you. Gather for a group dinner at camp in the evening.

ACTIVITY: Soak in the calming atmosphere of the bush on a morning safari drive. Search for the big five and slow down as the sun rises to sit in silence and simply be in nature.

FREE TIME: AFTERNOON Take some time to yourself and enjoy your surroundings in the African bush. Enjoy lunch at the lodge property.

ACTIVITY: Jump in the safari vehicle as the light begins to fade for an evening drive into the bush. Enjoy ample opportunities to spot wildlife as you watch the golden light illuminate the landscape.

Day 9: Kruger National Park/Johannesburg

Location: Kruger National Park

Meals Included: BREAKFAST

Take advantage of some time this morning to say your good-byes to the beautiful savanna and leave Kruger for Johannesburg. In the evening, gather with your CEO and Solo-ish friends for an optional farewell dinner in Johannesburg.

ACTIVITY: Soak in the calming atmosphere of the bush on a final morning safari drive. Take some time to breath in the smells and close your eyes to listen to the sounds that have been your background music for the last four days.

TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Day 10: Johannesburg

Location: Johannesburg

Meals Included: BREAKFAST

You arrived a solo traveller and are leaving with many new friends. Say goodbye to your fellow Solo-ish travellers and depart at any time.

ACTIVITY: Not ready to leave? Your CEO can help with travel arrangements to extend your adventure.

What's Included

  • Accommodation
    Hotels (5 nts), Lodge (2 nts), Tented Camp (2 nts) on a twinshare basis. If you are interested in purchasing your own room, please see below for the My Own Room option.

  • Meals
    9 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 5 dinners

  • Your Welcome Moment: Welcome Moment - Meet Your CEO and Group Dinner Party: Cooking Class & Dinner in Bo-Kaap, Cape Town We Day: Get To Know Cape Town, Cape Town G Day: Full-day Highlights of Cape Town, Cape Town Me Day: Cape Town Me Day, Cape Town

  • Complimentary Arrival Transfer

  • 7 Safari drives and a bush walk in the Kruger National Park area

  • Free time in Cape Town and Kruger for your own choice of activities

  • Internal flight from Cape Town to Kruger

  • Transport between destinations and to/from included activities

Accommodation

Hotels (5 nts), Lodge (2 nts), Tented Camp (2 nts) on a twinshare basis. If you are interested in purchasing your own room, please see below for the My Own Room option.

Transport

Plane, safari vehicle, private van, walking.

Meals Included

9 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 5 dinners

Group Size

Maximum 18, avg 16.

Solo Travellers

We believe solo travellers should not have to pay more to travel so our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. Single travellers joining group trips are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip. Some of our Independent trips are designed differently and solo travellers on these itineraries must pay the single trip price.

Meals

Eating is a big part of travelling. Travelling with G Adventures you experience the vast array of wonderful food that is available in southern Africa. On this tour, we provide a few meals for you and your group members, so as to give you the maximum flexibility in deciding where, what and with whom to eat. It also gives you more budgeting flexibility in you choices. Our groups tend to eat together to enable you to taste a larger variety of dishes and enjoy each other's company. There is no obligation to do this though - while in the larger centres, your CEO will be able to suggest favourite restaurants during your trip.

For the included meals, vegetarian meal requests and other dietary requirements need to be specified prior to arrival.

Check out our Q&As

  • What's Included

    Your Welcome Moment: Welcome Moment - Meet Your CEO and Group Dinner Party: Cooking Class & Dinner in Bo-Kaap, Cape Town We Day: Get To Know Cape Town, Cape Town G Day: Full-day Highlights of Cape Town, Cape Town Me Day: Cape Town Me Day, Cape Town. Complimentary Arrival Transfer. 7 Safari drives and a bush walk in the Kruger National Park area. Free time in Cape Town and Kruger for your own choice of activities. Internal flight from Cape Town to Kruger. Transport between destinations and to/from included activities.

  • Highlights

    Savour the stunning views of Table Mountain and the flavours of a farm-to-table lunch, Head out on thrilling safari drives through Kruger National Park and spot wildlife up close, Dive into Cape Town's flavours with an immersive cooking class, Embark on an adventurous bush walk in search of local wildlife, Indulge in a classic bush dinner under the stars at camp.

  • Dossier Disclaimer

    The information in this trip details document has been compiled with care and is provided in good faith. However it is subject to change, and does not form part of the contract between the client and the operator. The itinerary featured is correct at time of printing. It may differ slightly to the one in the brochure. Occasionally our itineraries change as we make improvements that stem from past travellers, comments and our own research. Sometimes it can be a small change like adding an extra meal along the itinerary. Sometimes the change may result in us altering the tour for the coming year. Ultimately, our goal is to provide you with the most rewarding experience. Please note that our brochure is usually released in November each year. If you have booked from the previous brochure you may find there have been some changes to the itinerary. VERY IMPORTANT: Please ensure that you print a final copy of your Trip Details to review a couple of days prior to travel, in case there have been changes that affect your plans.

  • Itinerary Disclaimer

    While it is our intention to adhere to the route described below, there is a certain amount of flexibility built into the itinerary and on occasion it may be necessary, or desirable to make alterations. The itinerary is brief, as we never know exactly where our journey will take us. Due to our style of travel and the regions we visit, travel can be unpredictable. The Trip Details document is a general guide to the tour and region and any mention of specific destinations or wildlife is by no means a guarantee that they will be visited or encountered. Aboard expedition trips visits to research stations depend on final permission. Additionally, any travel times listed are approximations only and subject to vary due to local circumstances.

  • Important Notes

    1. This is not a physically demanding journey; however, travelling can be difficult, with long drives and poor road conditions at times. Despite this, most clients feel that the diversity of the African landscape, countries, culture and wildlife are all well worth the experience. We use a comfortable and safe air-conditioned tour vehicle for the long drives. 2. It may be required to show a Yellow Fever certificate if you are traveling to South Africa from a Yellow Fever endemic country. 3. DRONES The use of drones in national parks in Southern Africa is prohibited. 4. ACCOMMODATION NOTE: Please be aware that properties we stay in with only two stories may not have elevators installed and climbing the stairs with your luggage will be necessary.

  • Group Leader Description

    On this tour, you will be accompanied by a group Chief Experience Officer (CEO) and an expert driver. The Chief Experience Officer (CEO) will be the group manager and leader. All of our leaders in southern Africa are registered and licensed tourism guides, meaning they’ve studied to have a broad knowledge base of the region’s history, cultures, and wildlife, and are legally certified to lead/guide tours in the regions visited. Most of our leaders in the region are from South Africa, though it may be possible that you’ll have a leader from another country in the southern African region. As the group manager and leader, the aim of the group leader is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. They will provide information on the places where are travelling, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends. He/she will take care of the small things so you can concentrate on enjoying your adventure. In addition, as an integral part of the team, your driver is skilled and experienced driver who has intimate knowledge of the vehicle and routes travelled. We also use local guides where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places we are visiting. As the group manager and leader, the aim of the group leader is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. They will provide information on the places where are travelling, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends. He/she will take care of the small things so you can concentrate on enjoying your adventure. In addition, as an integral part of the team, your driver is skilled and experienced driver who has intimate knowledge of the vehicle and routes travelled. We also use local guides where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places we are visiting.

  • Group Size Notes

    Maximum 18, avg 16.

  • Meals Included

    9 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 5 dinners

  • Meals

    Eating is a big part of travelling. Travelling with G Adventures you experience the vast array of wonderful food that is available in southern Africa. On this tour, we provide a few meals for you and your group members, so as to give you the maximum flexibility in deciding where, what and with whom to eat. It also gives you more budgeting flexibility in you choices. Our groups tend to eat together to enable you to taste a larger variety of dishes and enjoy each other's company. There is no obligation to do this though - while in the larger centres, your CEO will be able to suggest favourite restaurants during your trip. For the included meals, vegetarian meal requests and other dietary requirements need to be specified prior to arrival.

  • Transport

    Plane, safari vehicle, private van, walking.

  • About our Transportation

    For all of our standard class trips in southern Africa, including this tour, we use a private local bus for the journey. With air conditioning, and sliding windows, this style of transportation is a comfortable way to travel through the region. In addition, even with a full group of 18 travelers, there will be extra space for the benefit of the group. Having our own private vehicle throughout the tour allows us the flexibility of making stops when needed. In addition, we are able to travel to out-of-the-way locations where public transportation does not reach. Road conditions in South Africa are generally good, though once in Namibia and beyond, the road quality deteriorates. As such, we slow our traveling speed and enjoy some sand and bumps en route – something which is of course part of the adventure of traveling in Africa!

  • Solo Travellers

    We believe solo travellers should not have to pay more to travel so our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. Single travellers joining group trips are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip. Some of our Independent trips are designed differently and solo travellers on these itineraries must pay the single trip price.

  • Accommodation

    Hotels (5 nts), Lodge (2 nts), Tented Camp (2 nts) on a twinshare basis. If you are interested in purchasing your own room, please see below for the My Own Room option.

  • My Own Room

    Please note that if you have booked the "My Own Room" option for this tour, you will receive your own single room for all night stops

  • About Accommodation

    On Solo-ish Adventures, it's all about making new friends. Accommodation for Solo-ish Adventures is in twin-share rooms. No booking or rooming requests will be taken, and matrimonial bedding is not offered on Solo-ish Adventures.

  • Joining Hotel

    For details of your joining hotel please refer to your tour voucher, G Account, the G Adventures App or contact your travel agent.

  • Joining Instructions

    For details of your joining hotel please refer to your tour voucher, G Account, the G Adventures App or contact your travel agent. If you would like to book an airport Arrival transfer for your tour, please contact our Sales Team or your Travel Agent in advance of travel. If you have paid in advance for an arrival transfer, a G Adventures representative will be at the airport to meet you. If for any reason you are not met at the airport, please call our local support line. If you are unable to make contact for whatever reason, please make your way to the joining point hotel via taxi. Please note that day 1 is an arrival day and there is an evening dinner party activity planned. Your flight should arrive by 2pm to give you enough room to get settled before the activity. Upon arrival to your Joining Hotel (note that check-in time will be in the afternoon), look for a note or bulletin board in the reception with a note from your CEO. This note will give the details of your Welcome Meeting on day 1 (usually between 5pm and 7pm), where you will get a chance to meet your CEO and other travellers, as well as learn more about how the tour will run. If you don’t see a note, please ask reception for details! If you are arriving later and will miss the Welcome Meeting, your CEO will leave a note at reception for you with any information you may need, and with morning instructions for the next day.

  • Emergency Contact

    Should you need to contact us during a situation of dire need, it is best to first call either the G Adventures Local Representative (if one is listed below) or our G Adventures Local Office. If for any reason you do not receive an immediate answer, please leave a detailed message and contact information, so they may return your call and assist you as soon as possible. AIRPORT TRANSFER If you have purchased an arrival through G Adventures or if an arrival transfer is included in the cost of your tour, please note that: Your arrival transfer has been arranged based on flight information provided to us. If you are advised of a flight schedule change or flight cancellation within 48 hours of your scheduled arrival time, please call the emergency contact number to advise of your new arrival flight information. If you do not, we will not be able to rearrange your arrival transfer and you will need to make your own way to the starting hotel at your own expense. If your arrival transfer does not arrive within 30 minutes after you have exited the arrivals area please take a taxi to your start point hotel.  EMERGENCY CONTACT NUMBERS G Adventures Local Representative (South Africa) From outside South Africa: +27 713823286 From within South Africa: 071 3823286 If you are unable for any reason to contact our local office, please call the numbers listed below which will connect you directly with our Sales team who will happily assist you. Hours of operation by region can be found here. Toll-free, North America only: 1 888 800 4100 Calls from UK: 0344 272 0000 Calls from Germany: 0800 365 1000 Calls from Australia: 1 300 796 618 Calls from New Zealand: 0800 333 307 Outside North America, Australia, New Zealand, Germany and the UK: +1 416 260 0999

  • Finishing Point Instructions

    If you would like to book an airport Departure transfer for your tour, please contact our Sales Team or your Travel Agent in advance of travel.

  • What to Take

    You will be on the move a lot, so our advice is to pack as lightly as possible. Your baggage should be clearly labeled and restricted to one soft compact suitcase, or sports bag, maximum 15kg, plus a daypack. Luggage limits on airlines are strictly enforced and space on vehicles is limited. Porters are not available, so be prepared to carry your own bags. It is important to pack clothes for warm days and cool evenings, as well as a warm jacket for early morning wildlife safari drives. . It is wise to bring plenty of layers for cool mornings and evenings. A set of smart casual clothes is also advisable. Please be advised that if you plan to bring a drone with you, the use of drones in national parks in Southern Africa is prohibited.

  • Packing List

    Documents: • Flight info (required) (Printouts of e-tickets may be required at the border) • Insurance info (required) (With photocopies) • Passport (required) (With photocopies) • Vouchers and pre-departure information (required) • Visas or vaccination certificates (With photocopies) Essentials: • Toiletries (required) (Shampoo, bodywash, soap, etc.) • Binoculars (optional) • Camera (With extra memory cards and batteries) • Cash, credit and debit cards • Day pack (Used for daily excursions or short overnights) • Ear plugs • First-aid kit (should contain lip balm with sunscreen, sunscreen, whistle, Aspirin, Ibuprofen, bandaids/plasters, tape, anti-histamines, antibacterial gel/wipes, antiseptic cream, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, rehydration powder, water purification tablets or drops, insect repellent, sewing kit, extra prescription drugs you may be taking) • Flashlight/torch (Headlamps are ideal) • Fleece top/sweater • Footwear • Hat • Locks for bags • Long pants/jeans • Moneybelt • Outlet adapter • Personal entertainment (Reading and writing materials, cards, music player, etc.) • Reusable water bottle • Shirts/t-shirts • Sleepwear • Small travel towel • Sunglasses • Swimwear • Watch and alarm clock • Waterproof backpack cover • Windproof rain jacket Health & Safety: • Hand sanitizer (required) • Face masks (Clients will be only be required to wear a face mask where it is mandated by local regulations.) • Pen (Please bring your own pen for filling out documents.) Warm Weather: • Sandals/flip-flops • Shorts/skirts (Longer shorts/skirts are recommended) • Sturdy water shoes/sandals • Sun hat/bandana • Swimwear

  • Laundry

    Please ask your guide/CEO to arrange if any laundry needs to be done, so that he / she can make arrangements for you. He/She will advise guests accordingly, in advance if guests want to do laundry where it is available.

  • Visas and Entry Requirements

    All countries require a valid passport (with a minimum 6 months validity). Contact your local embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date visa requirements, or see your travel agent. It is your own responsibility to have the correct travel documentation. Visa requirements for your trip will vary depending on where you are from and where you are going. We keep the following information up to date as far as possible, but rules do change and sometimes without warning. While we provide the following information in good faith, it is vital that you check the information yourself and understand that you are fully responsible for your own visa requirements. Visa information specific to your destination and nationality can be found in our Important Pre-Departure Information page here

  • Spending Money

    Every traveller is different and therefore spending money requirements will vary. Some travellers may drink more than others while other travellers like to purchase more souvenirs than most. Please consider your own spending habits when it comes to allowing for drinks, shopping and tipping. Please also remember the following specific recommendations when planning your trip.

  • Money Exchange

    The currency in South Africa is the South African Rand (ZAR). Local currency can be obtained locally by changing foreign currency or by using ATMs (where available) which will disperse local currency. Your CEO will inform you where you can change money throughout the tour and approximately how much money you will need. The easiest foreign currency to exchange for locally for any of the local currencies is the $US; however the British Pound and Euro may also be exchanged as well. Please note that due to past problems with forgery, $US notes that are older than year 2006 are not accepted in Africa. Large note ($US 50, $US 100 etc) can be difficult to change in some places, but will gain you the best exchange rate. If you plan to rely on cash, please bring foreign currency (Euro, Pound, USD) with you, as it is often expensive to buy these currencies locally. And in more rural areas, it is often not likely. If you plan to buy your visas at borders, you will need to bring $USD cash to pay for these visas. Please note you cannot use the local currency or any other currency to buy these visas- they must be purchased in USD. Please do not bring Travellers’ cheques toAfrica. They are difficult if not impossible to exchange in many places. Visa/Plus system cards are the most widely accepted debit cards. it is harder to find machines Mastercard/Cirrus cards. We highly recommend that if you hold a Mastercard, you obtain a Visa card prior to departure and travel with both. This is also useful should somethingunforeseen happen to one of your cards during your travels. While there are many ATMs in the major centres, there are no guarantees that your credit or debit cards will actually work in Africa. Check with your bank. Credit cards can be used in major cities and towns ONLY but please do not rely on them as a method of payment because they are generally not widely accepted. You should be aware that to purchase products or services on a credit card a fee of 5%-10% usually applies. The majority of our optional activities can also be paid by credit card. Your CEO will advise on these. Please note that in many areas there may be occasional power-outages, where there will be no electricity for hours at a time. In addition, ATMs outside of larger centers often run out of cash or can be out of order unexpectedly. These factors could affect your ability to access money from ATMs. As such, please do not rely on credit or debit cards as your only source of money. A combination of foreign currency and debit/credit cards for cash advances is best. Always take more rather than less, as you don't want to spoil the trip by constantly feeling short of funds. As currency exchange rates can fluctuate often we ask that you refer to the following website for daily exchange rates: www.xe.com.

  • Emergency Fund

    Please also make sure you have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an 'emergency' fund, to be used when circumstances outside our control (ex. a natural disaster) require a change to our planned route. This is a rare occurrence!

  • Tipping

    Tipping is an expected, though not compulsory, component of your tour program. The gesture serves as an expression of appreciation for exceptional service, and amounts given are up to your discretion. Tipping is one of the most direct ways that you can have a positive economic impact within the African community. Although it may not be customary for you, it is an important source of income for those in the tourism industry. Giving a tip should be a seen as a formal 'thank you', and the action should in no way be awkward. The best method of tipping someone that has served the whole group is to plan in advance, and not rush when it comes to saying goodbye. A suggestion would be for each group member to contribute anonymously by putting their tip into an envelope. This often works the best and the group should gather to present the gift to the recipient(s), offering their thanks and showing their appreciation. This method brings the action out into the open, allowing for a friendly and appreciative interaction between the group and the recipient(s). You may use the following as a guideline, all given in a per person format: CEO: $5-8 USD (per day, per person) Local guides: $2-3 USD (per day) Safari Guide/Driver: $2-3 USD (per day) Restaurant Staff: 10-15% of cost of bill

  • Optional Activities

    Cape Town - South African Wine Tour and Tasting - Cape Town Urban Safari (1140ZAR per person)

  • Health

    We recommend you contact your family physician, or your local travel clinic for the most up-to-date health information at least one month before departure. Travellers should also carry a basic first-aid kit and hand sanitizers/antibacterial wipes on their travels. Medical facilities are basic throughout these countries. For your own safety, we strongly recommend that you advise your tour leader of any medical condition that may affect you while travelling with the group. Your tour leader will be able to inform you of local health advisories (e.g. drinking water quality). Please ensure you have all the inoculations recommended by your doctor.     Yellow Fever Certificate Note: (Updated: May 2023)   It is compulsory to show a valid Yellow Fever Certificate if you are travelling to the following G Adventures-visited countries from a Yellow Fever endemic country: -           Botswana -          Ethiopia -          Kenya -          Madagascar -          Malawi -          Mozambique -          Rwanda -          South Africa -          Swaziland -          Uganda -          Zambia -          Zimbabwe   For some of these countries, proof of Yellow Fever vaccination is also required for passengers who have travelled more than 12 hours through the airport of an endemic country. If other countries not endemic to Yellow Fever have been visited after visiting an endemic country, then a Yellow Fever certificate may still be required on entry. Please check country-specific regulations before your departure.     Malaria Malaria is a mosquito-borne disease that is present in some regions in Africa. Risk of malaria can increase during periods of heavy rain, during the rainy seasons, and in densely populated areas of Southern & East Africa. To prevent malaria, we recommend speaking to your doctor about taking preventative medication (prophylaxis), combined with regular use of insect repellent spray/cream. Please check updated travel health advisories specific to malaria before your departure.

  • Safety and Security

    Many national governments provide a regularly updated advice service on safety issues involved with international travel. We recommend that you check your government's advice for their latest travel information before departure. We strongly recommend the use of a neck wallet or money belt while travelling, for the safe keeping of your passport, air tickets, travellers' cheques, cash and other valuable items. Leave your valuable jewelery at home - you won't need it while travelling. Many of the hotels we use have safety deposit boxes, which is the most secure way of storing your valuables. A lock is recommended for securing your luggage. When travelling on a group trip, please note that your group leader has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the trip itinerary if it deemed necessary, due to safety concerns. Your Chief Experience Officer (CEO) will accompany you on all included activities. During your trip you will have some free time to pursue your own interests, relax and take it easy and explore at your leisure. While your CEO will assist you with options available in a given location, please note that any optional activities you undertake are not part of your itinerary, and we offer no representations about the safety of the activity or the standard of the operators running them. Please use your own good judgement when selecting an activity in your free time. Although the cities visited on tour are generally safe during the day, there can be risks to wandering throughout any major city at night. It is our recommendation to stay in small groups and to take taxis to and from restaurants, or during night time excursions. Water based activities have an element of danger and excitement built into them. We recommend only participating in water based activities when accompanied by a guide(s). We make every reasonable effort to ensure the fun and adventurous element of any water based activities (in countries with varying degrees of operating standards), have a balanced approach to safety. It is our policy not to allow our CEOs to make arrangements on your behalf for water based activities that are not accompanied by guide(s). Swimming, including snorkeling, is always at your own risk. Read more about travel safety for ways to further enhance your personal safety while traveling.

  • Trip Specific Safety

    GENERAL: Look after your personal items. Do not leave your valuables visible in a car or hotel room. Lock your hotel room door when you enter and when you leave. Do not carry large amount of cash on you. Avoid displaying flashy jewellery and carry your camera in its pack on your shoulder rather than around your neck. Keep your passport, airline tickets, money, important documents locked up in your room/safe - do not carry it with you. Always have enough water (bottled) for the journey. NO matter how beautiful or gentle an animal may appear, the only safe way to look at it is from the safety of your vehicle.

  • A Couple of Rules

    Illegal drugs will not be tolerated on any trips. Possessing or using drugs not only contravenes the laws of the land but also puts the rest of the group at risk. Smoking marijuana and opium is a part of local culture in some parts of the world but is not acceptable for our travellers. Our philosophy of travel is one of respect towards everyone we encounter and in particular the local people who make the world the special place it is. The exploitation of people in the sex trade is completely contrary to this philosophy. Our CEOs have the right to expel any member of the group if drugs are found in their possession or if they utilize the services of paid sex workers, in any capacity.

  • Travel Insurance

    Travel insurance is compulsory in order to participate on any of our trips. When travelling on a group trip, you will not be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance has been sighted by your leader, who will take note of your insurance details. When selecting a travel insurance policy we require that at a minimum you are covered for medical expenses including emergency evacuation and repatriation. A minimum coverage of USD200,000 is required. G Adventures can provide you with the appropriate coverage. We strongly recommend that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects. Some tours include adventure activities that require extra coverage (e.g. crampon use); please review your itinerary and make sure that you are covered for all included activities. If you have credit card insurance we require proof of purchase of the trip (a receipt of credit card statement) with a credit card in your name. Contact your bank for details of their participating insurer, the level of coverage and emergency contact telephone number.

  • Planeterra Foundation - the non-profit partner of G Adventures

    Planeterra International Foundation is a non-profit organization committed to turning travel into impact by helping local communities earn an income from tourism. Planeterra connects underserved local communities to the benefits of tourism by developing and supporting small community-owned businesses. These businesses support Indigenous people, empower women, grant youth access to employment opportunities, and protect the environment. Planeterra also works to ensure these businesses have a thriving customer base by integrating their projects into G Adventures’ itineraries globally. G Adventures is Planeterra’s largest corporate donor, covering all operating costs, so 100% of your donation will bring opportunity to people in need. G Adventures Dollar-a-day Program - Make Every Day Count - Turn your travel into impact with Planeterra Foundation. Did you know? Most communities around the world do not benefit from tourism. Give back to the places you visit on your travels by creating opportunities for local people to earn an income, and protect the environment. Make every day count by donating $1/day for the length of your trip, and join us in empowering the communities you will visit when you travel. 100% of your donation goes directly to Planeterra projects.

  • Feedback

    After your travels, we want to hear from you! Your feedback information is so important to us that we'll give you 5% off the price of your next G Adventures trip if your feedback is completed on-line within 30 days of finishing your trip. Your tour evaluation will be e-mailed to you 24 hours after the conclusion of your trip. If you do not receive the tour evaluation link in the days after your tour has finished, please drop us a line at customersolutions@gadventures.com and we will send it on to you.

  • Newsletter

    Our adventure travel e-newsletter is full of travel news, trip information, interesting stories and contests. To avoid missing out on special offers and updates from G Adventures, subscribe at www.gadventures.com/newsletters/ Stay current on how our company invests in our global community through our foundation – Planeterra. Sign up for Planeterra's monthly news to learn more about how to give back and support the people and places we love to visit.

  • International Flights

    Check-in times and baggage allowances/restrictions vary by airline and can change at any time. For the most up-to-date information for your flight, please contact your airline. We recommend checking in online in advance to avoid potential delays at the airport.

  • Group Leader

    CEO (Chief Experience Officer) and local guides throughout.

  • Max Pax

    18

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    G Adventures was established in 1990

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    Most of our trips do not have a single supplement. This means that the accommodation is on a twin share basis and, if travelling on your own, you will be sharing a room with another G Adventures traveller of the same sex. Some tours have an optional single supplement. An optional service that may be available is called "My Own Room". This service allows solo travellers to request their own room.

  • Can I join the tour once it has departed?

    It's extremely difficult if not impossible to join a tour after it has begun. It is possible to leave a tour early however you will be responsible for your own arrangements from the moment you decide to leave the tour. You would also be responsible for all costs associated with joining a tour late or leaving one early. If you feel this may be necessary, please consult us before you book.

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    https://www.gadventures.com/travel-with-confidence/

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    https://www.gadventures.com/about-us/core-values/

Reviews of this operator

Lynsey M, UK  

Rio de Janeiro to Buenos Aires: Waterfalls & White Sands

08-Nov-2021

This tour was very good. I would reccomend it. It is great to see the difference in the three countries, Iguassu Falls definitely a highlight on my whole South America trip.

Connie McKain Albright  

Galapagos

10-Jan-2023

This was our first trip with G Adventures. We took the 8 day trip around Galapagos on their ship Yolita II. The guide, Adrienne, was knowledgeable and very pleasant. Each day had a variety of activities to choose from so you could fill your day or pick and choose what you wanted to do. The guide knew where to look for various animals so we saw an abundance of wildlife - lots of different sea birds, sea lions, a few kinds of iguanas, and many kinds of fishes. The only negative, and it's not G Adventures fault, is that the little ship rocks and rolls and night which can make sleeping challenging.

Trustpilot
Tina. G, Canada  

DAK

08-Nov-2021

The tour was great! Our guide Peter was very knowledgeable and gave us just the right amount of information about the sights and animals we were seeing. He was also very personable and had a great sense of humour. Our cook was great as well! They were both flexible and accomodated our requests to spend longer looking at some animals, to visit craft markets, etc. The lodge accommodations both inside and outside Kruger National Park were fantastic.

Sandra Salter  

I have taken four trips with G…

18-Dec-2022

I have taken four trips with G Adventures. The Guides have been so knowledgeable and friendly. Each trip has been thoroughly planned. The trips have been once in a lifetime experiences.

Trustpilot
Jil S, Canada  

Costa Rica Adventure

08-Nov-2021

The tour was excellent! I think there was something for everyone on this tour... lots of hiking and nature walks for nature lovers, a plethora of optional activities for the adventurous and lots of downtime for the ones who just want to relax. I loved it!

Fergus Lawrence Park   Uk

Sailing Thailand - Phuket to Phuket

18-Dec-2023

Fantastic trip overall with very efficient staff on board. Fantastic food throughout. Deluxe cabin was disappointing and not as advertised and many problems with the air conditioning in our cabin meant we had 2 sleepless nights.

Fergus Lawrence Park   Uk

Sailing Thailand - Phuket to Phuket

18-Dec-2023

Fantastic trip overall with very efficient staff on board. Fantastic food throughout. Deluxe cabin was disappointing and not as advertised and many problems with the air conditioning in our cabin meant we had 2 sleepless nights.

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Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    Barrhead Travel requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 98 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of barrhead travel charges.

    Up to 98 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 97 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 74 days before tour starts: Forfeit 75% of booking price.

    At 28 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

Why book with Barrhead?

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Your flight & hotel package is fully ATOL protected.

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We know because we go – our Touring & Adventure specialists have travelled to over 55 countries.


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