Clothing and Personal Care

• It is recommended to wear sun block at all times.
• Bring a hat and sunglasses - Namibia has sunshine through out the year.
  As Namibia has a typical semi-dessert climate with hot days and cool nights, warm clothing is necessary no matter what part of Namibia is visited.
• When visiting during the summer it is advisable to pack cotton clothing.
• Points for electric shavers (electric current 250VAC) are available at most hotels, rest-camps and resorts

Fire Arms

• Hand guns are not permitted in Namibia
• Declare all firearms and ammunition irrespective of where the permit was obtained

Malaria Prevention

• Northern Namibia is a Malaria-endemic zone. Travelers should have the necessary medication/prophylaxis, insect repellent lotions or sprays.
• It is advisable to sleep under a mosquito net at night when visiting Northern Namibia
• If windows and doors are not screened with mosquito netting, keep the windows and doors closed.

Photographer Tips

• Keep film in a cool box especially while traveling.
• It is advisable to have all lenses fitted with UV or have filters due to harsh light.

5. Safety

• When traveling by road keep your vehicle locked at all times.
• Visible articles in the car should be placed out of sight so as not to tempt petty "thieves".
• Lock valuables in a safe place
• Be aware of handbag snatchers, pick pockets or suspicious looking persons.
• Extreme caution should be exercised when considering bathing in African rivers. Most rivers carry the Bilharzia patho-gene and harbour dangerous crocodiles and hippos.

Road Travel

• Petrol stations are available throughout Namibia and are located approximately 250 km apart. However, they do not accept credit cards as a form of payment for petrol. Ensure that you have cash (N$/SAR) or a petrol card.
• Traffic in Namibia is left-hand driven as United Kingdom.
• Use of seat belts in Namibia is compulsory.
• It is advisable not to drive at night because wild animals become more active at sunset and sunrise.
• Switch on the headlights of your vehicle to be more visible in dusty conditions on the road.
• Permits must be obtained when traveling to National Parks or Game Reserves.

Driving License:
A foreign/international driver’s license is invalid, unless:

• The license has been issued in English; or
• A certificate of authenticity or validity relating to the license issued in English by a competent authority (Embassy, High Commissioner); or
• A translation of that license in English by a sworn translator, is attached thereto; and
• The license contains a photograph and signature of the holder thereof.

Please note that BOTH the national and international driving licenses (if needed) have to be brought along at all times. The international driving license is valid ONLY in conjunction with the national driving license!

Kindly make sure that these requirements are adhered to, in order to ensure that the insurance takes affect in terms of the rental agreement. Vehicles can not be handed over to clients who do not comply with the above regulation.
(from the Namibia Insurance Association)

Water Use

• Water is Namibia's scarcest commodity. Tourists can contribute positively to water-saving efforts.
• Where possible take a shower rather than a bath.
• It is illegal to wash a car using a hosepipe. Use a bucket of water and cloth instead.
• Minimize on leaving water running while shaving, brushing teeth or washing hands.
• Tap water is drinkable in Namibia unless you are advised otherwise concerning a particular location.
• When traveling by road ensure you have adequate drinking water.

Botswana

Martins Drift Border Post Information

Hours: The Martins Drift / Groblersbridge Border Posts open at 08h00 and closes at 18h00 hours.

Arrivals Martins Drift Botswana side:

Immigration:

Park your vehicle, and proceed to the main building, you are required to report to Immigration first. Opposite the Immigration counter you will find immigration forms to fill. Children under the age of 16 accompanied by a parent, are not required to fill in the form, the parent must however include the children on their immigration form.

Tip: In the immigration form you will be asked to give the number of days that you will be in Botswana, the day that you enter Botswana is considered your 1 st day, and the day that you exit Botswana is considered your last day. Ensure that you include these days otherwise a fine could be imposed by the Immigration Department. Do not be afraid to add a few days on your form. As a visitor to Botswana you are allowed 90 days per annum.

Before handing the passports to the Immigration officer, the driver of each vehicle will be required to fill in the vehicle register book, which you will find on the Immigration counter. It is a simple register asking for name, address, destination, number of people in the vehicle etc. With the forms completed, and the register completed by the driver, proceed to the closest Immigration Officer and hand over your passport with the form. The driver must give the Immigration Officer the vehicle registration number in order to obtain a stamped gate pass from Immigration.

Tip: At Immigration you will note that the cubicles are divided into Residents, Citizen and Non Citizen sections. Ignore these signs and proceed to any Immigration officer on duty.

Getting through Immigration should be a hassle free procedure. Once you are done with Immigration, you are required to proceed to Customs down the passage. All passport holders for the commonwealth, with exception of the following countries are not required to have a Visa: Ghana, India, Nigeria Sri Lanka, Pakistan

Climate

Botswana 's climate is semi-arid. Though it is hot and dry for much of the year, there is a rainy season, which runs through the summer months. Rainfall tends to be erratic, unpredictable and highly regional. Often a heavy downpour may occur in one area while 10 or 15 kilometres away there is no rain at all. Showers are often followed by strong sunshine so that a good deal of the rainfall does not penetrate the ground but is lost to evaporation and transpiration.

The summer season begins in November and ends in March. It usually brings very high temperatures. However, summer is also the rainy season, and cloud coverage and rain can cool things down considerably, although only usually for a short period of time.

The winter season begins in May and ends in August. This is also the dry season when virtually no rainfall occurs. Winter days are invariably sunny and cool to warm; however, evening and night temperatures can drop below freezing point in some areas, especially in the southwest.

The in-between periods - April/early May and September/October - still tend to be dry, but the days are cooler than in summer and the nights are warmer than in winter.

Summer days are hot, especially in the weeks that precede the coming of the cooling rains, and shade temperatures rise to the 38°C mark and higher, reaching a blistering 44°C on rare occasions. Winters are clear-skied and bone-dry, the air seductively warm during the daylight hours but, because there is no cloud cover, cold at night and in the early mornings. Sometimes bitterly so - frost is common and small quantities of water can freeze.

Customs

Passengers with nothing to declare are welcome to go to their vehicles and wait for their driver. This is where you are most likely going to spend a lot of time in line, unless off course you make use of the Kwa Nokeng Border Services.

In order to cross into Botswana each driver must purchase a Road Disc and a road permit for his vehicle and trailer. At the far end of the Customs isle you will see a cashier's cubicle. You will recognize the cashier's cubicle by the endless line of motorists queuing in front of it, waiting to pay for the permits.  Before getting in the queue, ask any Customs officer to stamp your gate pass for you.

Once you get to the Customs cashier ask her to issue you with a Road Disc & Vehicle entry permit for your vehicle, you will have to pay for your vehicle and trailer separately. You will pay P20.00 for the Road Disc and P40.00 for Road Permit, for example a vehicle will cost you P60.00, and a vehicle with a trailer will cost you P120.00.

Tip: Your P20.00 road disc is valid up to the 31 st of December each year. So if you are traveling to Botswana a few times a year, keep your disc with you as it is valid until the end of the year that you purchased it.

Tip: If you are leaving and re-entering Botswana during your visit, for example going to Vic Falls for a few days and then returning back into Botswana, ask the Customs cashier to issue you with a Double entry permit. This permit allows you to enter Botswana twice, which means you won't have to stand in another queue when returning back into Botswana during your holiday.

Tip: Ignore the signs above the customs cubicles, if you require assistance proceed to the Customs Cubicle closest to Immigration.

Once you have received your Road Disc & Road Permit and your gate pass is stamped by both Immigration & Customs, you may proceed to the border post exit with your vehicle. Buckle up before you get to get as there are Police officers present at the gate. Give the Customs Officer your gate pass, road disc and road permit, ensure that he returns the road disc and road permit to you. Welcome to Botswana, you can proceed if you like to the Kwa Nokeng Caltex Complex next to the border to freshen up, get fuel for much cheaper than in SA, change some money and visit their C store.

General

Botswana is one of the finest tourist destinations on the African continent. The Okavango, which originates in the uplands of Angola to the north-west, flows into and then spreads over the sandy spaces of the Kalahari to form an immense and wondrous inland delta of lagoon and labyrinthine channel, palm-fringed island and fertile floodplain. A number of safari lodges and camps have been established in and around this watery wilderness. This wilderness and the nearby game-rich Moremi Game Reserve and Chobe National Park reserves, offer the visitors the best of several worlds, appealing variously to the game-viewer and bird-watcher, the hunter and the sporting fisherman, the explorer of hidden places and the lover of Africa in its loveliest and least spoilt state.

From the calcrete floors and ancient baobabs of the Makgadikgadi Pans to the savannah grasslands of Chobe National Park and the mophane woodland of the Tuli Block, there is a wide variety of wildlife in Botswana. However it is in the Okavango Delta and Moremi Game Reserve that visitors will find unforgettable beauty. In the lush indigenous forests of the delta and its islands, and along the floodplains spawned by this great marriage of water and sand, more than 400 species of birds flourish. On the mainland and among the islands in the delta, lions, elephants, hyenas, wild dog, buffalo, hippo and crocodiles congregate with a teeming variety of antelope and other smaller animals - warthog, mongoose, spotted genets, monkeys, bushbabies and tree squirrels.

Interspersed throughout Botswana are rich collections of historical and cultural heritage. Unique San rock art, geological wonders, and traditional art are additional attractions located in various parts of the country. Experience of a tourist is further enhanced by the friendly, hospitable and warm-hearted people of Botswana. Botswana offers a truly unique African experience untouched by the more destructive pressures of encroaching civilisation, presenting a wonderful wilderness for the enjoyment of all who seek to reach just that little bit further into Africa for a holiday of a lifetime.

Geography

Botswana is bordered by Zambia and Zimbabwe to the northeast, Namibia to the north and west, and South Africa to the south and southeast. At Kazungula, four countries - Botswana , Zimbabwe , Zambia and Namibia - meet at a single point mid-stream in the Zambezi River .

The country is situated in the southern African region and about two-thirds of Botswana lies within the Tropics; it is bisected by the Tropic of Capricorn (the imaginary line of latitude which is 23° 30' south of Equator) just south of the town of Mahalapye. This is the most southern latitude where the sun is directly overhead at noon . This happens on December 22st, the longest day of the year in this hemisphere.

The distance between the extreme north and the extreme south of Botswana is about 1,110 kilometres. It is 960 kilometres across at its widest. The area of Botswana is approximately 581,730 square kilometres and is about the size of France or Kenya . It is approximately 500 km from the nearest coastline, to the southwest.

In the north-west, the Okavango River flows in from the highlands of Angola and soaks into the sands, forming the 15,000 sq. km network of water channels, lagoons, swamps and islands. The Okavango is the largest inland delta system in the world a bit smaller than Isreal or half of Switzerland . The northeastern region of the Kalahari Basin contains the Makgadikgadi Pans - an extensive network of salt pans and ephemeral lakes.

Health

Compared to the rest of Africa, Botswana is not a risky place to visit from a health perspective. In spite of this, there are certain precautions visitors should take even though there are no legal requirements for taking these precautions. Botswana requires no inoculations except for visitors from yellow fever zones.

Botswana's public health system consists of different kinds of health facilities: 23 district health teams, 3 referral hospitals, 12 district hospitals, 17 primary hospitals, 222 clinics, 330 health posts and 740 mobile stops.

Money

Botswana's unit of currency is the Pula (P), which is divided into 100 Thebe (t). The word ' Pula ' means rain and ' thebe ' means shield. The shield appears on the national coat of arms. Bank notes come in denominations of P10, 20, 50 and 100, and coins in denominations of 5t, 10t, 25t, 50t, P1, P2 and P5.

Major credit cards, including Visa, MasterCard, American Express and Diners Club, are accepted widely. Most hotels and lodges accept foreign currency or travellers' cheques.

There are also Exchange Bureaus at major border posts. Credit card cash advances are available in major cities through Barclays Bank or Standard Chartered Bank. Cash transfers are easiest through Western Union money transfer. Please note that credit card cash is also available at First National Bank.

While cash of any amount is no longer restricted, any person entering or leaving Botswana is required to declare Pula and/or foreign currency bank notes in their possession if the amount is equal to or exceeds an equivalent of P10,000.00 (ten thousand Pula). A family unit must declare any amount carried by each member if the aggregate in the possession of the family is P10,000.00 or more.

Travellers' cheques and any other monetary instruments need not to be declared.

PARKS AND RESERVES

Over 17% of Botswana's land area has been set-aside as national parks and game reserves. From the lush green of the Okavango Delta in the north to the red desert dunes in the south, great areas of wilderness have been carefully preserved to offer visitors an opportunity to experience nature at its very best; to feel a sense of solitude; to see an incredible variety of wildlife species and to enjoy the prolific birdlife.

Within the national parks and game reserves, areas have been set aside in which visitors may camp. Many of these areas have only the most basic of facilities or are completely undeveloped, whilst other areas have formal ablution blocks. Although the national road networks between main centres are tarred and in first class condition, many of the access tracks that lead to the parks and reserves, and many of the tracks within the protected areas, are rough and sandy, requiring the use of a 4x4 vehicle.

Access to the parks and reserves has been limited in order to ensure that visitors have an enjoyable experience and can feel the wilderness atmosphere. Because of this, advance bookings for campsites are essential.

PARKS AND RESERVES

Over 17% of Botswana's land area has been set-aside as national parks and game reserves. From the lush green of the Okavango Delta in the north to the red desert dunes in the south, great areas of wilderness have been carefully preserved to offer visitors an opportunity to experience nature at its very best; to feel a sense of solitude; to see an incredible variety of wildlife species and to enjoy the prolific birdlife.

Within the national parks and game reserves, areas have been set aside in which visitors may camp. Many of these areas have only the most basic of facilities or are completely undeveloped, whilst other areas have formal ablution blocks. Although the national road networks between main centres are tarred and in first class condition, many of the access tracks that lead to the parks and reserves, and many of the tracks within the protected areas, are rough and sandy, requiring the use of a 4x4 vehicle.

Access to the parks and reserves has been limited in order to ensure that visitors have an enjoyable experience and can feel the wilderness atmosphere. Because of this, advance bookings for campsites are essential.

Public Holidays

1 January (New Year's Day)
2 January (Public Holiday)
13 April (Good Friday)
14 April (Public Holiday)
16 April (Easter Monday)
1 May (Labour Day)
24 May (Ascension Day)
1 July (Sir Seretse Khama Day)
16 July (President Day)
17 July (Public Holiday)
30 September (Botswana Day)
1 October (Public Holiday)
25 December (Christmas Day)

Mozambique

ABOUT MAPUTO

Maputo is generally quite safe, but being a big city, take precautions such as not displaying expensive jewellery and other valuable items, and pay someone to watch your car if you park it (5000 Meticais is acceptable).

BORDER POST FORMALITIES

You must report to the immigration office with your passports and vehicle registration pepers in hand.

On the South African side (Komatiepoort): A Custom's Official will give you a gate pass and this is to be taken to the immigration office. Fill in your vehicle / goods export form and then get your passport stamped. Hand in gate pass when driving out of South Africa.

Mozambique side (Ressano Garcia): As you go through the gate you will be handed another gate pass which is needed for Immigration, Customs - road permit and Customs Inspector. Get your passport stamped - You have to pay R12.00 per person; take out the compulsory 3rd party insurance (R 120.00 per vehicle); buy the compulsory temporary import permit for all vehicles - including boat trailers (payable in meticais Mt 30 000 (approx. R15.00). Proceed out of the office to a customs inspector who will then inspect your vehicle and contents. After signing the gate pass and if you have nothing to declare, on exiting the gate you hand the gate pass in.

There is a bank at the border should you not have meticais or else there are always people selling meticais at the Border on the SA side - we have found it to be safe to buy from them. Just make sure that you get the right amount of money for what you are exchanging - ask them what exchange they are offering - at the moment it is about 2800 to 3300 Meticais to R1.00. To make your life easier, take off the thousands and you can work on a 2.8 / 3.3 to 1 ratio (this will quite probably have changed by the time you get to the border. For example at an exchange rate of 3000, R 500.00 should get you MT 1 500 000.

THE TYPE OF CLIMATE

Most of Mozambique falls within the tropics, so it rarely gets cold. The rainy season is from October to April and the temperatures can get very hot and humid, particularly December, January and February. The winter months are ideal, with mild temperatures and it is generally dry. Due to the climate and culture, dress codes are very relaxed, with sarongs, shorts and T-shirts being quite acceptable at most places.

CLOTHING

DOCUMENTS & FORMALITIES

DOCUMENTS & FORMALITIES

SOME TIPS TO GUIDE YOU ON MOZAMBIQUE IN GENERAL

Once in Mozambique normal border restrictions do apply. The border officials were fairly relaxed in the past, but are they now clamping down more and more on people who take everything with them from South Africa. You do not need to do this, as you can get most of the supplies you need there. All towns have basic supplies and the bigger towns such as Maputo and Inhambane have just about everything you need. Red meat and dairy related products are obtainable, but they are more expensive than in South Africa. You can take some of these items with you, but try not to take too much.

Alcohol is subject to normal border restrictions and they allow 1 bottle of hard tack or 2 bottles of wine per person. Cigarettes are also limited so perhaps try the local brands, which are not bad at all.

Mozambique is one of the world's best, tropical beach and holiday destinations, with miles of unspoiled coastline and untouched natural areas to see. The people are open and friendly, but as Mozambique is a third world African country, time is generally on a different wavelength to what most people are accustomed to. If you approach the country for what it is, you will love it. If you approach it with attitude and 1st world expectations, you will not appreciate it. There have been complaints about the corruption and bribery in Mozambique, we can not say that it does not occur, but if you treat all people with respect and politeness, you should not have a problem.

LAW IN MOZAMBIQUE

It is not uncommon to be stopped at one of the police checkpoints. If you follow these basic guidelines, you should not have any problems...

MALARIA PRECAUTIONS

Malaria is a real threat in Mozambique.

• Repellants - citronella, Tabard, Mosquito coils etc - This is a far better way to prevent malaria. Safer, no side effects, cheaper, not harmful to your body. etc

MONEY

• Take Rands or US Dollars CASH - Credit cards are accepted at some places in Mozambique. Although a lot of the resorts accept Rands, it is good to exchange for use in the markets, shops and petrol stations (You can pay in Rands at the petrol stations, but you may not get the best exchange rate)
• Exchange money at banks (closed for siesta between 12H00 - 14H00), local shops, even the markets - ask around. We usually change money with the locals just before entering the border. This is sometimes the easiest way. They usually stand around at the last filling station before entering the border - Komatiepoort Oasis.

THE SMALL COMFORTS

PAST THE BORDER

The Maputo corridor is now complete, making it a good highway all the way from Gauteng. There is a total of toll fees of R 83.50 in South Africa and Mt 78 500.00 (about R 24.50) in Mozambique - (each way). You can pay the toll fees in Mozambique with Rands, US dollars or Meticais.

The road going north from Maputo (EN 1 - National Road #1) is generally a good tar road - The road from Maputo to Inhambane is slightly potholed (nothing serious, but be careful).

Traveling after dark is NOT advisable, as there are no streetlights and sometimes the other vehicles on the road have inadequate lighting. If you do travel after dark, take it easy, especially when there are oncoming cars. Some resorts require 4 x 4, or at least a vehicle with good clearance such as a Venture or bakkie. These roads are thick sandy tracks, so a normal car could get bogged down.

Petrol costs around R 6.50 / litre. It gets more expensive the further north you go. It's advisable to fill up at the garage just before the border. There are filling stations in Maputo, Macia, Xai-Xai, Quissico, Inhambane, Maxixe, Massinga, Vilanculos and Inhassoro. For those going to the resorts south of Maputo - Fill up at Kosi Bay, as there is not always petrol at Ponta Do Ouro. Diesel is about the same price in Mozambique as it is in SA (sometimes even cheaper). We suggest you fill up at the BP in Xai-Xai as the filling station at Quissico is not always reliable. Do not get stuck without petrol!!

You can only get unleaded petrol in Maputo, Xai-Xai and Maxixe. Normal fuel is available all the way up to the north of Mozambique at all the bigger towns.

REQUIREMENTS TO ENTER MOZAMBIQUE

• A passport and a visa. (make a copy to take with just incase) You can purchase a visa at the border, but it's more expensive and time consuming than if you get it before your journey. Alternatively at a Mozambique High Commission. If you are flying in to Inhambane, visas are available on arrival at the airport.

• Original vehicle registration papers if driving yourself. (make a copy to take with just incase)

• Driver's license (Southern African citizens do not need an International driver's license) (make a copy to take with just incase)

• Emergency triangles

BORDER POST TIMES:

VEHICLE AND BOAT REGULATIONS AND TIPS

Kamatipoot - Maputo (110km) - fuel available

Maputo - Macia (160km) - fuel available

Macia - Xai Xai (61km) - fuel available

Xai Xai - Quisico (90km) - fuel available

Quisico - Inhambane (120km) - fuel available

Inhambane - Anda Ca Lodge approx. (30km)

South Africa

Application Requirements for Visas

Application to: Consulate (or Consular section at Embassy or High Commission). Applicants in countries where South Africa is not represented may send their applications direct to the Director-General for Home Affairs, Private Bag X114, Pretoria 0001.

Application requirements:

(a) Passport valid for 6 months beyond date of departure.
(b) 2 passport-size photos with signature on reverse side.
(c) 1 completed application form (failure to complete the application fully and in detail may result in visa being delayed or refused).
(d) Proof of sufficient funds to cover visit.
(e) Onward/return ticket and, if in transit, proof of sufficient documentation for admission to the country of destination.
(f) No criminal record.
(g) Visitors should be of sound mind and body.

For study permits: (a)-(g) and, (h) Official letter of acceptance from South African academic institution.

For work permits: (a)-(g) and, (h) Official letter of employment from South African company stating salary and position.

For business visas: (a)-(g) and, (h) Letter from employer.

Note: In the case of failure to comply with any of these regulations, visitors may be required to leave a cash deposit with the Immigration Officer.
Working days required: Applications should be made well in advance.
Temporary residence: Certain nationals can obtain a temporary residence permit free of charge on arrival. For more information, contact the Embassy.

Banking

Banks are situated right through the country and all handle international transactions.

Banking hours are:
Monday to Friday - 09:00 to 15:30
Saturday 08:30 to 11:00

Automated teller machines (ATM's) are situated in all towns and shopping centres and are available 24-hours a day.

Credit Cards

All major credit cards and traveler's cheques are accepted.

Currency

The monetary unit is the Rand (R) which equals 100 cents. (International symbol is ZAR).

Bank note denominations are R200, R100, R50, R20, and R10.

Tax

Tourists can have their sales tax (Value Added Tax or VAT) refunded at the port of exit provided the value of purchases exceeds R250.
VAT is currently 14% and levied on most items

Best Time to Visit

It depends entirely on your destination as South Africa has been called " a world in one country".

On the interior ( Highveld) the summers are hot and thundery and the winters bright, dry and cold with sunshine throughout the year.

At the Cape (western coastal areas) the summer and autumn months ( January to May) are the best, because of the winter rainfall.

The eastern coastal area (Kwazulu Natal) has hot and humid summers at sea level. The winters are less humid (and probably the best time to go) with sunshine throughout the year.

Climate

Summer is from October to March with temperatures from 15 ºC (60º F) at night to 30º C ( 96º F) at noon.

Winter is from April to September with temperatures from 0º C (32º F) at night to 18ºC ( 66º F) at noon.

Despite regional differences, the climate is generally mild throughout the year.

Except for the Western Cape, with a Mediterranean climate and winter rainfall, the rest of the country is a summer rainfall area.

South Africa ranks very high as far as sunshine days are concerned.

Customs

Duty-free allowances:

Green Channel
No commercial or restricted goods and within duty-free allowance.

Customs Charges
Pay duty (an average of 20%) on items over allowed limit before leaving Customs hall.

The supply is 220/230 volts AC 50 Hz with three-point wall plug. US-made appliances may need a transformer.

Health

Medical facilities
Medical facilities in cities and larger towns are world-class, but you will find that in rural areas the clinics and hospitals deal with primary health needs, and therefore do not offer the range of medical care that the large metropolitan hospitals do. Trained medical caregivers are deployed round the country, so help is never far away.

The sun
We have a warm sunny climate and you should wear sunscreen and a hat whenever you are out of doors during the day, particularly between 10am and 4pm, regardless of whether there is cloud cover or not. Even if you have a dark complexion, you can still get sunburned if you are from a cooler climate and have not had much exposure to the sun. Sunglasses are also recommended wear, as the glare of the African sun can be strong.

Can I drink the water?
High-quality tap (faucet) water is available almost everywhere in South Africa, treated so as to be free of harmful micro-organisms, and in any area other than informal or shack settlements, is both palatable and safe to drink straight from the tap. In some areas, the water is mineral-rich, and you may experience a bit of gastric distress for a day or two until you get used to it. Bottled mineral water, both sparkling and still, is readily available in most places.

Drinking water straight from rivers and streams could put you at risk of waterborne diseases - especially downstream of human settlements. The water in mountain streams, however, is usually pure and wonderful. In the Cape, particularly, the water contains humic acid, which stains it the colour of diluted Coca-Cola - this is absolutely harmless, and the water is wonderful. You may also find this colouring in tap water in some areas. It's fine - it just looks a bit weird in the bath. Language

There are 11 official languages.

The English speaking tourist will experience no difficulties, neither the Dutch nor Flemish speakers.

Malaria

Many of the main tourist areas are malaria-free, so you need not worry at all. However, the Kruger National Park, the Lowveld of Mpumalanga and Limpopo, and the northern part of KwaZulu-Natal do pose a malaria risk in the summer months. Many local people and some travellers do not take malaria prophylaxis, but most health professionals recommend you do. Consult your doctor or a specialist travel clinic for the latest advice concerning malaria prophylaxis, as it changes regularly.

Whether you take oral prophylaxis or not, always use mosquito repellent, wear long pants, closed shoes and light long-sleeved shirts at night, and sleep under a mosquito net in endemic areas (the anopheles mosquito, which carries malaria, operates almost exclusively after dark). It is advisable to avoid malarial areas if you are pregnant.

More information: SAA Netcare Travel Clinics

Passports

Passports valid for at least 6 months beyond date of departure from South Africa required by all.

Visas

Required by all except the following for business and tourist purposes:

(a) nationals of Britain, EU countries, USA, Australia, Japan, Canada, Iceland, Liechtenstein, New Zealand, Norway and Switzerland for visits of up to 90 days;

(b) nationals of Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Ecuador, Israel, Jamaica, Malta, Paraguay, St Helena, Swaziland, Uruguay and Venezuela for visits of up to 90 days;

(c) nationals of Antigua & Barbuda, Barbados, Belize, Benin, Botswana, Bolivia, Cape Verde, Comoros Islands, Costa Rica, Cyprus, Gabon, Guyana, Hong Kong (SAR), Hungary, Jordan, Korea (Rep. of), Lesotho, Malawi, Malaysia, Maldives, Mauritius, Mexico, Namibia, Peru, Seychelles, Singapore, Slovak Republic, Thailand, Turkey (except holders of Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus passports, who do require visas) and Zambia for visits of up to 30 days;

(d) transit passengers continuing their journey by the same or first connecting aircraft provided holding onward or return documentation and not leaving the airport

Note: Holders of Visitors visas are not allowed to take up employment in South Africa. Unaccompanied children must hold written consent from their parents when travelling alone.

Telecommunication

The facilities are of high standard, widely available and offer international dialing, telex, telefax, electronic mail and cellular phone options.
Larger hotels have internet access in rooms.

Postal Service

Available in all cities, towns and country areas.
Opening hours is:
    Weekdays - 08:30 to 16:30
    Saturday - 08:00 to 12:00

Speed services offer 24-hour deliveries.

Time

South Africa is 2 hours ahead of GMT, one hour ahead of Central European wintertime and 7 hours ahead of Eastern Standard wintertime (USA).

Transport

South Africa has the best developed transport system in Africa, but not as well-developed as in Europe or Japan. Major cities have bus services and inter city bus transport is readily available. Taxis are available on call. The air transport system is well developed with a large number of local carriers. More than 60 international airlines operate to and from South Africa. Car hire services are available in all cities and most of the larger towns. Drivers must have an international driver's license and a minimum of 5 years' experience. Cars can be hired from airports or arranged through Imagine Africa Safaris for pick and drop off in various towns and cities.

What to Bring

Generally, South Africa's climate allows for a sunny holiday at any time of the year. However, your dress requirements may vary according to your particular destination.

It you intend spending a lot of time outdoors and definitely in summer, bring a hat for protection against the rather scorching sun. In the summer, lightweight cotton clothing is advised because daytime temperatures generally hover around 25-30 degrees Celsius.

For the brief period of January until Mid-March, temperatures sometimes reach 35 degrees. During this period, the nights might be just as hot. In the Cape, with its Mediterranean climate, there is no rain to cool down the air. You may or you may not want to bring a costume to swim in. There are a few topless and nude beaches in South Africa, but generally nudity is still frowned upon.

Further inland there is often an afternoon or evening thunderstorm. In fact, the rain may become quite heavy, so a raincoat is advisable. In the summer evenings, the heat usually lessens and only a light jacket is required.

In the winter months (May to October) the sun shines almost every day. Daytime temperatures hover around 17 to 22 degrees celsius. The evenings can get very cold. Temperatures have been known to plummet to below zero in Johannesburg, Gauteng.

Early morning and late afternoon temperatures are rather chilly too. Still, South Africa is not a country where firs are worn. Generally, on most sunny winter days, trousers and a jersey are all that you may require. In the Mediterranean stretch along the south-western Cape, winters are very wet.

Because winter temperatures do not justify having Central Heating in buildings and homes, Europeans tourists might find the winters harsher than South Africans do. We have become accustomed to the cold around us and simply put on more layers if necessary. Only in the last couple of years have some houses installed underfloor heating. In Johannesburg sometimes during winter, and in the Cape in the afternoon a rather chilly wind blows, so bring some wind-proof clothing along.

Zambia

Border Posts and Times

Since Zambia is surrounded by so many different countries, there are numerous border posts dotted about.

All border posts are open from 06:00 to 18:00 except the Chirundu (Zimbabwe/Zambia) border which is open from 06:00 to 19:00 and the Livingstone (Zimbabwe/Zambia) border which is open from 06:00 to 22:00.

Climate

Zambia has three distinct seasons: cool and dry from May to August; hot and dry from September to November; and hot and rainy between December and April. Zambia is accessible all year round; however game viewing in most major National Parks is limited from January-April. During the 'winter' expect warm days and chilled nights while during the 'summer' months, icy beer is required around the clock.

The Economy

Though efforts are being put in place to diversify the Zambian economy, mining is still the biggest foreign exchange earner. Copper is the largest product mined, and as such, the Zambian economy is closely linked with the international copper price. In recent years the price of copper has dropped significantly and the result of this can be felt throughout the country. Other minerals and semi-precious stones (such as amethyst and emeralds) are also mined. Farming (notably tobacco, sugar cane and fruit) as well as textile manufacturing have also significantly contributed to the economy. Tourism is an up and coming sustainable industry. The lodges and national parks in Zambia are both diverse and plentiful while efforts are in place to have the local people directly benefit from tourism. For example, if local people find it more personally rewarding to save an animal for tourists to photograph rather than to kill the animal for meat, it will be to the benefit of everyone.

Food and Drink

Zambia 's national dish would have to be nshima and relish which most every African eats on a daily basis. Nshima consists of a stiff maize meal porridge whilst relish is basically anything accompanying the nshima (this includes meat, chicken or fish and/or vegetables). Africa does not easily cater to vegetarians (though most lodges will if told in advance) as the diet is based around meat and starches. Braai/Barbecuing is a common and social affair throughout Southern Africa . Around the country, fruits, eggs, bread, drinks and seasonal vegetables are sold by the roadside. Drinking is as important to daily life in Zambia as it is in most countries. Mosi and Rhino are the Zambian local lagers and readily available throughout the country. The local beers, made of fermented maize meal with a thick consistency can be found in all markets and township bars, but be warned that it is an acquired taste! Most spirits and South African wines are available in the cities. Major soft drinks and juices are found everywhere . you'd be surprised where you can find a coke vendor!

Geography

Zambia 's 752,614 sq. km are dominated by a plateau, which slopes to the south. This land-locked country shares its borders with Namibia , Botswana , Zimbabwe , Mozambique , Malawi , Tanzania , Angola and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Due to its accessibility, Zambia makes an ideal country for onward travel. The landscape is diverse, incorporating swamps and wetlands, tropical grasslands and mountain ranges. Zambia also lays claim to three of Africa 's most beautiful rivers: the Luangwa , the Kafue and the mighty Zambezi .

Health

Please see your local doctor or tropical health clinic before embarking on any international travel. All of Zambia is at risk for malaria so be sure to see a doctor and take prophylactics before entering the country. In light of this, the best cure is prevention so always use mosquito spray, sleep under a mosquito net and wear trousers, long sleeved shirts and socks in the evenings and early mornings. The symptoms of malaria vary from person to person, but generally include headaches, backache, nausea, fever, chills, vomiting and/or diarrhoea. If you are in, or have been in, a malarial zone and have a combination of these symptoms then be sure to see a doctor immediately (and yes, even if you are taking prophylactics, you could still get it!). Health clinics are readily found throughout the country. Many locals swear that nightly gin and tonics are not only good for malaria prevention, but also safer than the water; whatever the case, G&T will usually make you feel better. Carrying water purification tablets is recommended if you plan to leave the major cities. Unfortunately, HIV/AIDS is a major problem throughout Africa so be sure to always remember this when travelling through African Countries.

Language

English is the national language of Zambia and widely spoken, even in the rural areas. Bearing this in mind, there are over 70 different ethnic groups, each with their own language and culture; however, Njanja is generally the language spoken amongst the various tribes. Memorising a few sayings in Njanja can help break the ice in many situations. Besides this, Tonga is the main group in the south, Bemba in the north and centre, Njanja in the east and Lozi in the west.

Money

Zambian kwacha (abbreviated k, Zk or kw) is the legal tender and appears in 20, 50, 100, 500, 1000, 5000 and 10000 notes. Coins are archaic and only sold in markets as ancient artefacts. Generally, only k500 notes and above are used as k20 notes are not even accepted in the markets. All tourism establishments will quote their prices in United States Dollars but it is fine to pay in the local currency at the daily exchange rate. ONLY EXCHANGE MONEY in licensed banks and bureau de changes which are available in all major towns (in rural areas you will need a supply of kwacha before you arrive).

National Parks

Over 30% of Zambia 's landmass is taken up by its 19 National Parks and 34 Game Management Areas (GMA). Zambia 's National Parks are still truly untamed expanses of wilderness and both government and tourism providers are working hard to halt the once prevalent degree of poaching within the parks. People are not allowed to live within the Parks; however GMAs buffer all National Parks and human inhabitation is allowed in these areas. Zambia is one of the few countries which allows night game viewing (awesome leopard sightings in Kafue !) and walking safaris (North and South Luangwa are a must!). For information about specific National Parks in Zambia , please go to the Zambia page.

The People

The Zambian people are what make this country truly special. They are not only warm, friendly and hospitable, but their love of music and dance can make even the hardest of travellers stop to look and listen. The majority of the nation consists of various Bantu tribes (98%) with a small proportion of Asians (mostly Indians 1%) and Europeans (1%). There are no tensions between the various tribes and it is usual for friends, family and social circles to be mixed. The population is about 10 million, with an unusually large majority of those living in urban centres.

Post, Phone and Internet

The post in Zambia is safe, efficient, and cheaper than most surrounding countries. In addition to this, it makes a nice alternative to carrying around 20kg of wooden curios for the next five months! For precious and/or expensive items, there are international courier companies available in most major towns. Telephone services in Zambia are expensive, especially for international calls, but are also available in all major towns. It is often cheaper to have people call you back (the international dialling code for Zambia is 260). An increasing number of towns and lodges are providing internet services which tends to be a more reliable and cheaper option for international contact. Expect to pay about USD$6-7 per hour for internet access.

Public Holidays

• 1 January - New Year's Day
• 12 March - Youth Day
• March/April - Good Friday, Easter Saturday, Sunday & Monday
• 1 May - Labour Day
• 25 May - African Freedom Day
• First Monday of July - Heroes Day
• First Tuesday of July - Unity Day
• First Monday of August - Farmers Day
• 24 October - Independence Day
• 25 December - Christmas Day

Expect all shops and banks to be closed on Public Holidays though transport services are still (generally) available.

Travel Visas

Almost all nationalities need visas except Ireland. All other countries pay USD$35 for a single entry visa. Visas are available at all border posts, though a few nationalities need to get them from their home countries in advance. Day visas (if required) are approx. USD$10. If you are coming into Zambia with an organised tour (like when travelling with Imagine Africa Safaris) then visas can be obtained free of charge with a minimum of 3 days notice. Never bribe border officials as this perpetuates problems for other travellers and can get you into trouble when leaving the country. (These costs for visas can change according to government descisions at any time.)