No products in the cart.
FAQS
Everything you need to know about our Tours
What is the best time of year to visit?
With South Africa enjoying a fairly moderate climate, with each season offering its own unique seasonal gems (think flowering aloes and migrating whales in winter or rolling green hills and newborn animals in summer), the right time to visit South Africa is anytime!
What temperatures can I expect?
For summer travelers, expect daytime temperatures to be in the 60-80s F range, but can get down to the 40s F in the mountains. For winter travelers, daytime temperatures will mostly be in the 50-60s F but can drop to below freezing, especially in the mountains.
What should I pack?
A detailed suggested packing list will be sent to you once you have booked your tour.
How fit do I need to be?
All of our activities are optional. The bushwalk and berg hike both require a high level of fitness. If these activities are beyond your capability, this would be a great time to enjoy some downtime and take advantage of the facilities and magnificent scenery around camp.
*For those choosing the adventure package, a high level of fitness is essential.
Is the water in South Africa safe to drink?
In many parts of South Africa the water is perfectly safe but because this depends on location, we do suggest that you drink bottled water, which will be available for purchase at all locations.
* For Adventure travelers sometimes drinking water will be sourced directly from mountain streams. If this is not something that you are comfortable with, we would suggest investing in a product that will filter your water (like this).
Do I need to get any shots to visit South Africa?
Check with your doctor as well as CDC guidelines.
Will we be in malaria areas?
The Kruger National Park and iSimangaliso Wetland Park are considered moderate-risk malaria areas and Hluhluwe-Imfolozi is considered a low-risk malaria area. Please consult your doctor well before leaving for South Africa as some malaria medication courses need to be started days/weeks in advance of visiting a malaria area.
Are flights included?
No, flights are NOT included. Tours commences at Johannesburg (O.R. Tambo) International airport and conclude at Durban (King Shaka) International airport.
When should I arrive in South Africa?
Plan to arrive at least one full day before the start of your tour. Tours run on a tight schedule and cannot be paused for anyone due to delayed flights.
What currency will I need and where is the best place to exchange money?
You will need South African Rands as USD are NOT accepted as general tender in South Africa. The easiest way to get local currency is to draw cash directly from an ATM.
Can I use a credit card?
In most cases, Visa, MasterCard, and American Express are widely accepted.
Is there a minimum age requirement for Vakasha tours?
Vakasha travelers accompanied by an adult must be at least 13 years old for the Introduction to Nature Tour and at least 14 years old for the Adventure Package. Travelers 18 and over do not need to be accompanied.
What are the accommodations like?
Accommodation ranges from safari rustic to bush chic with emphasis always being placed on comfort and prime nature location.
*Adventure travelers will enjoy the thrill of adventure accommodation such as tents, caves and beach camps with some hotel and lodge accommodations in between.
*Adventure travelers will enjoy the thrill of adventure accommodation such as tents, caves and beach camps with some hotel and lodge accommodations in between.
How much should I tip?
10-15% is standard for good restaurant service. ZAR50 – ZAR100 for housekeeping upon departure and ZAR100 for guided tours will be greatly appreciated.
Will I have my own bathroom?
Yes, all rooms have their own bathroom.
*Adventure travelers can expect a range of bathroom facilities that may consist of nothing more than a trowel and some toilet paper. It doesn’t get much more adventurous than that!
Are meals included?
We have tried to balance flexibility and convenience regarding meal options. We include meals when there are limited meal options in an area but when there are more meal options available, we generally do not include meals, to allow our travelers the flexibility of choosing their own food preferences. Budget $150 (total) for meals.
*All meals are included for adventure travelers.
*Snacks, beverages and gratuities are not included in either package.
*All meals are included for adventure travelers.
*Snacks, beverages and gratuities are not included in either package.
Where do I go when I arrive at the airport?
We suggest spending your first night in South Africa at the City Lodge airport hotel. This is a quality hotel within the airport complex and will also serve as our meeting point on the morning of departure. This is not included in the price of the tour and will have to be booked separately. Travelers are welcome to choose alternative accommodation options but will need to ensure that they are at the meeting point on the morning of departure.
Can I use my cell phone?
Check with your cell phone provider. Each company is different and they can give you the most up-to-date information. An eSIM or local South African SIM (available at the airport) are also good options. There will be WiFi available at most of our locations along the way.
Are Vakasha tours a good option for solo travelers?
Yes! Solo travelers are most welcome on all Vakasha tours. The small group sizes, busy activity schedules and learning opportunities all create a very inclusive environment for all travelers.
*Please note that prices are at sharing rates. If you would like to have a room to yourself, this is possible with a surcharge. If you book as a single willing to share but we are unable to find another traveler to share with you, you will also be charged the surcharge for a single occupancy traveler.
Do I need a power converter or adapter for the electricity in South Africa?
Yes, South Africa uses 220/230 volts electricity and requires a type M plug. Travelers will need a voltage converter for 110 volt devices. It is best to travel with your own adapters.
*Adventure travelers will only have access to power outlets on the nights when we will be staying in hotels or lodges.
*Adventure travelers will only have access to power outlets on the nights when we will be staying in hotels or lodges.
Explore South Africa now