FAQs

EXTRA TOUR INFORMATION

Pre-Departure Information

Below is some helpful information. If you only do one thing before coming on tour with us – please make sure that it involves sitting down, putting your feet up and reading through this pre departure information, it will change your experience!

For in-depth downloadable copy visit: Pre-Departure Information

Who Tours with us

Whether you're exploring on your own, traveling with family, or making memories with friends, Footprints in Africa's small group tours offer a unique, personalized travel experience tailored to your needs. If you prefer a private tour, simply let us know—additional rates apply, but the experience will be crafted exclusively for you.

Accommodation Options

We prioritize authentic and intimate experiences by offering accommodations in self-catering villas, guest houses, traditional huts and Rondavels and glamping safari tents, rather than large hotels, wherever possible. This approach allows us to immerse you in the local charm and culture of each destination while adding a touch of adventure and comfort to your stay.

What is Glamping Safari Tents:

• • These fully equipped, safari-style tents provide the perfect blend of nature and luxury.
  • Expect comfortable beds, some have en-suite facilities, and in many cases, private decks with stunning views.
  • Ideal for travellers who want to stay close to nature without compromising on convenience and style.

If the specified accommodations on your itinerary are unavailable, you can rest assured that we will promptly arrange alternate options of equal or superior quality to ensure your comfort.

1. Budget Option: Basic Rooms

• Overview:
  • Perfect for travellers seeking a cozy and budget-friendly stay.
  • Rooms are standard twin/double, offering essential comfort at an affordable price.
  • Bathrooms: In some locations, shared communal bathrooms are available.
  • 3-star accommodations, ensuring a clean and pleasant experience.
• Ideal For:
  • Backpackers, solo travellers, or budget-conscious adventurers.

2. Comfort Option: Midrange Accommodation

• Overview:
  • Designed for those who want added comfort during their travels.
  • Features twin/double en-suite rooms, providing privacy and convenience.
  • Includes additional amenities to enhance the overall experience.
  • 3-star accommodations with a focus on a delightful and comfortable stay.
• Ideal For:
  • Couples, families, or anyone seeking a bit more indulgence without overspending.

Pre/Post Travel arrangements

If you need any transfers, accommodation or tours before or after your trip, please let us know when you make your booking. We recommend arriving at least one day before your tour begins and making any onward travel arrangements for the day after the tour ends to ensure a smooth experience.

Please note, Footprints in Africa will not be responsible for any delays or additional travel costs associated with onward arrangements made on the same day the tour ends.

Tour Departure/End Point

We offer flexible departure and drop-off points from hotels and locations near airports, ensuring convenience and accessibility every step of the way. Whether you're starting your adventure or wrapping up

Passport and Visas

Before embarking on your adventure through Africa, it's crucial to have all necessary documentation in order. We strongly recommend ensuring that your passport is valid for at least 6 months from the date of your exit flight and that you have at least 2 blank pages per country you plan to visit. Additionally, please carry printed copies of your passport with you during the tour.

VISAS!!! It’s important to be aware that if you are denied entry to a country for any reason, all additional costs or transportation required to re-join the tour will be at your own expense. While we are here to assist, please note that obtaining the necessary visas is your responsibility. Taking these precautions will help ensure a smooth and hassle-free travel experience.

Meals and Activities on Tour

Each itinerary includes a specific meal plan and a detailed list of highlights and activities, so it's important to review the information carefully to know what's covered and what might be at your own expense.

Breakfast:

• Included in your itinerary and provided either by an on-site or nearby restaurant or prepared by your guide. This ensures you start each day well-fed and ready for your adventure.

Lunch:

• Not included in the package. While we've scheduled time for meals, on longer driving days, we may not have the opportunity for a sit-down lunch at a restaurant. Instead, you'll find supermarkets, farm stalls, or takeaway options along the way to enjoy a quick bite on the road or at picnic sites.

Dinners:

• Not included in the package, but there are convenient options available. You can choose to dine at nearby or on-site restaurants or take advantage of self-catering facilities available at certain locations. This flexibility allows you to enjoy your meals according to your preferences.

Traditional South African Braai:

A must-try experience! Your guide will prepare a Traditional South African Braai (barbecue) where facilities allow. Often, a food kitty can be put together for shopping, and the group can participate in preparing and enjoying this unique local dish together.

WEATHER IN SOUTHERN AFRICA ACROSS THE SEASONS

Covering Botswana, Zimbabwe, South Africa, Eswatini, Mozambique, and Lesotho, this region experiences diverse climates due to its varying geography and elevations. Here's a breakdown by season:

Summer (Wet Season)

• Months: November to March
• Weather:
  • Hot and humid with afternoon thunderstorms, especially in Botswana, Zimbabwe, South Africa, Eswatini, and Mozambique.
  • Lesotho experiences cooler, wetter conditions in its mountainous areas, often with snowfall at higher altitudes.
• Temperatures:
  • Lowlands (South Africa, Botswana, Mozambique, Eswatini): 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F).
  • Lesotho Highlands: 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), cooler at night.
• Highlights:
  • Wildlife Viewing: Difficult due to dense vegetation but great for birdwatching (migratory species arrive).
  • Victoria Falls: Water levels begin to rise, becoming dramatic by February/March.
  • Coastal areas, especially in Mozambique, are perfect for beach holidays with warm sea temperatures.

Autumn (Transitional Season)

• Months: April to May
• Weather:
  • Mild temperatures, with drier and cooler conditions marking the transition into the dry season.
  • Clear skies across the region.
• Temperatures:
  • Lowlands: 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F).
  • Lesotho Highlands: 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F).
• Highlights:
  • Safari viewing improves as vegetation thins, and waterholes attract wildlife.
  • Comfortable weather for hiking in Lesotho’s Drakensberg Mountains or Eswatini’s reserves.

Winter (Dry Season)

• Months: June to August
• Weather:
  • Cool and dry, with chilly mornings and evenings, especially in Lesotho, South Africa, and Eswatini.
  • Coastal Mozambique remains warm and sunny.
  • No rainfall during this season in most areas.
• Temperatures:
  • Lowlands: 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F) during the day, colder at night.
  • Lesotho Highlands: Daytime highs of 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F), with nights dropping below freezing and occasional snow.
• Highlights:
  • Wildlife Safaris: Peak game viewing in Kruger National Park (South Africa), Hluhluwe-iMfolozi (Eswatini), and Botswana’s Okavango Delta.
  • Perfect weather for hiking or cultural tours in Lesotho and Eswatini.
  • Coastal Mozambique offers great diving and snorkeling with warm waters.

Spring (Pre-Wet Season)

• Months: September to October
• Weather:
  • Dry, but temperatures start to climb, especially in Botswana, Zimbabwe, and Mozambique, with October being the hottest month.
  • Dusty landscapes with vegetation drying out.
• Temperatures:
  • Lowlands: 30°C to 40°C (86°F to 104°F) during the day.
  • Lesotho Highlands: Cooler, around 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F).
• Highlights:
  • Wildlife gathers in large numbers around water sources, making it the best time for safaris in South Africa, Eswatini, and Botswana.
  • Victoria Falls: Lower water levels mean better visibility of the gorge and the rock formations.
  • Coastal areas like Mozambique are ideal for relaxing on the beach or exploring marine life.

MALARIA RISK ACROSS SOUTHERN AFRICA

Malaria is a risk in several areas of Botswana, Zimbabwe, South Africa, Eswatini, Mozambique, and Lesotho, though the level of risk varies depending on the location, season, and elevation. Here's a detailed overview:

Botswana

• High-Risk Areas:
  • The Okavango Delta, Chobe National Park, and northern regions are high-risk areas for malaria.
  • The risk decreases in the drier, southern parts of the country.
• Seasonal Risk:
  • Highest during the wet season (November to April) due to increased mosquito activity.
  • Lower risk during the dry season (May to October).
• Precautions:
  • Malaria prophylaxis is strongly recommended if visiting northern Botswana.

Eswatini

• High-Risk Areas:
  • Malaria risk is confined to low-lying eastern areas, especially near the borders with Mozambique and South Africa.
  • High-altitude areas, including Mbabane, are malaria-free.
• Seasonal Risk:
  • Highest risk in the wet season (November to April).
• Precautions:
  • Prophylaxis is recommended for visits to low-lying regions during the wet season.

Lesotho

• Malaria-Free:
  • Lesotho's high altitude makes it a malaria-free country year-round.
  • No prophylaxis is required.

Mozambique

• High-Risk Areas:
  • Entire country is a high-risk malaria area, including coastal regions, national parks, and urban centers.
  • Risk is higher in rural areas than in cities like Maputo.
• Seasonal Risk:
  • Malaria is a year-round risk, though transmission increases during the wet season (November to April).
• Precautions:
  • Prophylaxis is strongly recommended for all travelers to Mozambique.
  • Take extra precautions, such as mosquito nets and repellents.

South Africa

• High-Risk Areas:
  • Malaria is limited to the northeastern parts, including:
    • Kruger National Park, iSimangaliso Wetland Park, and parts of Limpopo and Mpumalanga provinces.
  • Major cities like Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Durban are malaria-free.
• Seasonal Risk:
  • Malaria transmission is highest during the wet season (September to May).
  • Lower risk during the dry winter months (June to August).
• Precautions:
  • If visiting Kruger or nearby areas during the wet season, consider prophylaxis and other preventive measures.

General Malaria Prevention Tips

1. Prophylaxis:
   • Consult a healthcare provider for appropriate anti-malarial medication (e.g., Malarone, Doxycycline, or Lariam).
2. Insect Protection:
   • Use insect repellents containing DEET or picaridin.
   • Sleep under mosquito nets, preferably treated with insecticides.
   • Wear long-sleeved shirts and pants, especially in the evening and early morning.
3. Seasonal Awareness:
   • Adjust precautions based on travel season and region.
4. Early Symptoms:

If you experience fever, chills, headache, or flu-like symptoms within a few weeks of travel, seek immediate medical attention, as these may be signs of malaria.