Questions About a Tour?
DO I NEED A VISA FOR ISRAEL?
U.S. citizens traveling to Israel do not need a visa. However, you must have a passport that is valid for at least six months from the date you are departing Israel for your return home.
DO I NEED TO BRING ANY MEDICATIONS?
If you are taking prescription or over-the-counter medications, be sure to pack enough to last your entire trip, as well as a little extra in the event of unexpected delays. Carry each medication in its original container with the label and pack it in your carry-on bag. Traveler’s diarrhea and/or upset stomach are the most common conditions for tourists. It is recommended to bring Imodium AD and/or chewable Pepto Bismol tablets.
IS IT SAFE TO TRAVEL TO ISRAEL?
Traveling to Israel is safe. The crime rate in Israel is low compared to many other countries and the risk for tourists is minimal. In fact, traveling in Israel is safer than most European countries and parts of the United States. Also, no immunizations are required to travel to Israel.
- Think light and small! Only take items you truly need. Too much stuff can be a burden on your trip. Pick out what you think you need and cut it in half.
- Roll your clothes rather than folding them. Many travel experts agree that rolling is superior to folding. Tightly rolled clothes take up less space and are less likely to wrinkle.
- Use packing cubes. They not only help you stay organized but also save loads of space in your suitcase. If you buy a good quality set, they will last a long time.
- Let the hotel do your laundry. The typical tour is ten days. Pack for five days and do laundry halfway through the trip. It is relatively inexpensive and can make a big difference in the amount of clothes that you bring.
- Put a dryer sheet or two in your suitcase. Not only are they very light, they will also keep your clothes smelling fresh.
WHAT WILL THE WEATHER BE LIKE IN ISRAEL?
Temperatures in Israel average between 50 – 80F during the spring and fall, and 70 – 90F during the summer. Jerusalem is slightly cooler while Galilee and the Dead Sea region are warmer. As you get closer to your departure date, we recommend that you add Jerusalem and Tiberias to your weather app to get the forecast and current temperatures.
WILL I BE ABLE TO USE MY PHONE IN ISRAEL?
Most of the major U.S. cell phone carriers offer a “Travel Pass,” which allows you to use your domestic plan for an additional $10/day. If you do not want to get charged for using your phone, put your phone on airplane mode before you arrive in Israel. Each hotel and the tour bus will have free Wi-Fi available.
CAN I BRING MY HAIRDRYER?
The electrical current in Israel is 220 volts with a Type H power socket. If you want to use shavers, curling irons, hairdryers and other small appliances you will need both a power converter and an adapter. For small electronics, such as phones and tablets, you will only need an adaptor. Power converters can be purchased at most retailers; be sure to check whether or not the power converter is made for appliances like hairdryers and curling irons. Most of the hotels in Israel have hairdryers in each room.
DO I NEED TO BRING A DIGITAL CAMERA?
Unless you are a professional photographer, we suggest that you use your smartphone as your camera. The newer smartphones take amazing photos and videos that are, in many cases, better than a consumer digital camera. Using a smartphone makes it easy to share your photos with others on the trip as well as those back home. Most of our team carries the newer models of the Apple iPhone as our primary camera.
HOW MUCH LUGGAGE CAN I BRING?
The airline will allow each person to check one suitcase weighing 50lbs or less for your international flight. You may have one small carry-on bag and one personal item, such as a purse or laptop bag, onboard with you. Any carry-on bags and personal items must be able to fit in the overhead compartment or under the seat in front of you. Over-sized carry-on bags will be checked by the gate agent. Domestic carriers may charge for checked luggage.
HOW MUCH WALKING WILL I DO?
You will walk an average of three to five miles per day on this tour. This walking is done in small increments throughout the day and you will have frequent opportunities to rest if needed. If you are not accustomed to this amount of exercise, start walking a little each day to prepare yourself. We recommend properly breaking-in any shoes you plan to wear before departing on the tour.
HOW MUCH MONEY SHOULD I BRING?
Please plan to bring spending money for lunches, sodas, bottled water, souvenirs, and any other personal expenses. Lunches will be $15 – $20 per day. Many merchants accept U.S. dollars and credit cards. It is wise to bring smaller denominations of the U.S. dollar because while merchants may accept the dollar, exact change may not always be available. U.S. dollars can be exchanged into local Israeli shekels easily and locally. Before your departure, be sure to alert your credit card company that you will be using your card overseas.
DO I NEED A VISA FOR GREECE?
U.S. citizens traveling to Greece do not need a visa. However, you must hold a passport that is valid for at least six months from the date you are departing Greece for your return home.
DO I NEED TO BRING ANY MEDICATIONS?
If you are taking prescription or over-the-counter medications, be sure to pack enough to last your entire trip, as well as a little extra in the event of unexpected delays. Carry each medication in its original container with the label and pack it in your carry-on bag. Traveler’s diarrhea and/or upset stomach are the most common conditions for tourists. It is recommended to bring Imodium AD and/or chewable Pepto Bismol tablets.
DO I NEED TO BRING A DIGITAL CAMERA?
Unless you are a professional photographer, we suggest that you use your smartphone as your camera. The newer smartphones take amazing photos and videos that are, in many cases, better than a consumer digital camera. Using a smartphone makes it easy to share your photos with others on the trip as well as those back home. Most of our team carries the newer models of the Apple iPhone as our primary camera.
- Think light and small! Only take items you truly need. Too much stuff can be a burden on your trip. Pick out what you think you need and cut it in half.
- Roll your clothes rather than folding them. Many travel experts agree that rolling is superior to folding. Tightly rolled clothes take up less space and are less likely to wrinkle.
- Use packing cubes. They not only help you stay organized but also save loads of space in your suitcase. If you buy a good quality set, they will last a long time.
- Let the hotel do your laundry. The typical tour is ten days. Pack for five days and do laundry halfway through the trip. It is relatively inexpensive and can make a big difference in the amount of clothes that you bring.
- Put a dryer sheet or two in your suitcase. Not only are they very light, they will also keep your clothes smelling fresh.
WILL I BE ABLE TO USE MY PHONE IN GREECE?
Most of the major U.S. cell phone carriers offer a TravelPass, which allows you to use your phone for $10/day. If you do not want to get charged for using your phone, put your phone on airplane mode before you arrive in Greece. Each hotel and the tour bus will have free Wi-Fi available. Wi-Fi is available for purchase on the ship. We recommend using WhatsApp to stay connected while traveling overseas. Make sure the people you would like to connect with also have these apps installed on their mobile device.
CAN I BRING MY HAIRDRYER?
The electrical current in Greece is 220 volts with a Type C power socket. If you want to use shavers, curling irons, hairdryers and other small appliances you will need both a power converter and an adapter. For small electronics, such as phones and tablets, you will only need an adaptor. Power converters can be purchased at most retailers; be sure to check whether or not the power converter is made for appliances like hairdryers and curling irons. Many of the hotels have hairdryers in each room.
WHAT WILL THE WEATHER BE LIKE IN GREECE?
Temperatures in Greece average between 60 – 80F during the spring and fall, and 70 – 90F during the summer. As you get closer to your departure date, we recommend that you add the cities you will be visiting to your weather app to get the local forecast and current temperatures.
This is a casual tour. In some locations, you will be walking on uneven ground while sightseeing. Comfortable sneakers or walking shoes are highly recommended. We recommend layering with sweaters and jackets to avoid being overly hot or cold. Jeans and tennis shoes are acceptable everywhere. Hats and glasses are also a necessity to protect yourself from the bright sunshine. There is a swimming pool on the ship, so you might want to pack a bathing suit.
HOW MUCH LUGGAGE CAN I BRING?
The airline will allow each person to check one suitcase weighing 50lbs or less for your international flight. You may have one small carry-on bag and one personal item, such as a purse or backpack, onboard with you. Any carry-on bags and personal items must be able to fit in the overhead compartment or under the seat in front of you. Over-sized carry-on bags will be checked by the gate agent and placed in the cargo compartment below. Domestic carriers charge for checked luggage.
HOW MUCH WALKING WILL I DO?
You will walk an average of two to three miles per day on your tour. This walking is done in small increments throughout the day and you will have frequent opportunities to rest if needed. If you are not accustomed to this amount of exercise, start walking a little each day to prepare yourself. We recommend properly breaking-in any shoes you plan to wear while touring.
HOW MUCH MONEY SHOULD I BRING?
In Greece, the currency is the euro. You will need to get any dollars changed into euros. This can be accomplished at the hotel reception desk. You can also withdraw euros from an ATM for a fee. Please plan to bring spending money for lunches, sodas, bottled water, souvenirs, and any other personal expenses. Lunches will be $15 - $20 per day, however, lunches are included while on the ship. Before your departure, be sure to alert your credit card company that you will be using your card overseas.
DO I NEED A VISA FOR ITALY?
U.S. citizens traveling to Italy do not need a visa. However, you must hold a passport that is valid for at least six months from the date you are departing Italy for your return home.
DO I NEED TO BRING ANY MEDICATIONS?
If you are taking prescription or over-the-counter medications, be sure to pack enough to last your entire trip, as well as a little extra in the event of unexpected delays. Carry each medication in its original container with the label and pack it in your carry-on bag. Traveler’s diarrhea and/or upset stomach are the most common conditions for tourists. It is recommended to bring Imodium AD and/or chewable Pepto Bismol tablets.
DO I NEED TO BRING A DIGITAL CAMERA?
Unless you are a professional photographer, we suggest that you use your smartphone as your camera. The newer smartphones take amazing photos and videos that are, in many cases, better than a consumer digital camera. Using a smartphone makes it easy to share your photos with others on the trip as well as those back home. Most of our team carries the newer models of the Apple iPhone as our primary camera.
- Think light and small! Only take items you truly need. Too much stuff can be a burden on your trip. Pick out what you think you need and cut it in half.
- Roll your clothes rather than folding them. Many travel experts agree that rolling is superior to folding. Tightly rolled clothes take up less space and are less likely to wrinkle.
- Use packing cubes. They not only help you stay organized but also save loads of space in your suitcase. If you buy a good quality set, they will last a long time.
- Let the hotel do your laundry. The typical tour is ten days. Pack for five days and do laundry halfway through the trip. It is relatively inexpensive and can make a big difference in the amount of clothes that you bring.
- Put a dryer sheet or two in your suitcase. Not only are they very light, they will also keep your clothes smelling fresh.
WILL I BE ABLE TO USE MY PHONE IN ITALY?
Most of the major U.S. cell phone carriers offer a TravelPass, which allows you to use your phone for $10/day. If you do not want to get charged for using your phone, put your phone on airplane mode before you arrive in Italy. Each hotel and the tour bus will have free Wi-Fi available. We recommend using WhatsApp to stay connected while traveling overseas. Make sure the people you would like to connect with also have these apps installed on their mobile device.
CAN I BRING MY HAIRDRYER?
The electrical current in Italy is 220 volts with a Type C power socket. If you want to use shavers, curling irons, hairdryers and other small appliances you will need both a power converter and an adapter. For small electronics, such as phones and tablets, you will only need an adaptor. Power converters can be purchased at most retailers; be sure to check whether or not the power converter is made for appliances like hairdryers and curling irons. Most of the hotels have hairdryers in each room.
WHAT WILL THE WEATHER BE LIKE IN ITALY?
Temperatures in Italy average between 60 – 80F during the spring and fall, and 70 – 90F during the summer. As you get closer to your departure date, we recommend that you add the cities you will be visiting to your weather app to get the local forecast and current temperatures.
This is a casual tour. In some locations, you will be walking on uneven ground while sightseeing. Comfortable sneakers or walking shoes are highly recommended. We recommend layering with sweaters and jackets to avoid being overly hot or cold. Jeans and tennis shoes are acceptable everywhere. Hats and glasses are also a necessity to protect yourself from the bright sunshine.
HOW MUCH LUGGAGE CAN I BRING?
The airline will allow each person to check one suitcase weighing 50lbs or less for your international flight. You may have one small carry-on bag and one personal item, such as a purse or backpack, onboard with you. Any carry-on bags and personal items must be able to fit in the overhead compartment or under the seat in front of you. Over-sized carry-on bags will be checked by the gate agent and placed in the cargo compartment below. Domestic carriers charge for checked luggage.
HOW MUCH WALKING WILL I DO?
You will walk an average of two to three miles per day on your tour. This walking is done in small increments throughout the day and you will have frequent opportunities to rest if needed. If you are not accustomed to this amount of exercise, start walking a little each day to prepare yourself. We recommend properly breaking-in any shoes you plan to wear while touring.
HOW MUCH MONEY SHOULD I BRING?
In Italy, the currency is the euro. You will need to get any dollars changed into euros. This can be accomplished at the hotel reception desk. You can also withdraw euros from an ATM for a fee. Please plan to bring spending money for lunches, sodas, bottled water, souvenirs, and any other personal expenses. Lunches will be $15 – $20 per day. Before your departure, be sure to alert your credit card company that you will be using your card overseas.
DO I NEED ANY VACCINATIONS BEFORE TRAVELING TO KENYA?
No vaccinations are required for Kenya. However, Kenya is considered to be in a malaria-risk area. So please consult your physician or a travel clinic regarding any recommended vaccinations and travel medication that you might need.
DO I NEED TO BRING ANY MEDICATION?
If you are taking prescription or over-the-counter medications, be sure to pack enough to last your entire trip, as well as a little extra in the event of unexpected delays. Carry each medication in its original container with the label and pack it in your carry-on bag. Traveler’s diarrhea or upset stomach are the most common conditions for tourists. It is recommended to bring Imodium AD or chewable Pepto Bismol tablets.
DO I NEED A VISA FOR KENYA?
U.S. citizens traveling to Kenya must purchase a visa in advance. This should be completed online at http://evisa.go.ke/evisa.html. Please apply for your visa no sooner than 60 days prior to departure. Passports must be valid at least six months beyond your intended return date.
- Think light and small! Only take items you truly need. Too much stuff can be a burden on your trip. Pick out what you think you need and cut it in half.
- Roll your clothes rather than folding them. Many travel experts agree that rolling is superior to folding. Tightly rolled clothes take up less space and are less likely to wrinkle.
- Use packing cubes. They not only help you stay organized but also save loads of space in your suitcase. If you buy a good quality set, they will last a long time.
- Let the hotel do your laundry. The typical tour is ten days. Pack for five days and do laundry halfway through the trip. It is relatively inexpensive and can make a big difference in the amount of clothes that you bring.
- Put a dryer sheet or two in your suitcase. Not only are they very light, they will also keep your clothes smelling fresh.
HOW MUCH LUGGAGE CAN I BRING ON SAFARI?
The airplanes that will take you to the safari camp are smaller prop planes and the baggage allowance is STRICTLY limited to 34lbs per person. Our suggestion is to pack very light and/or bring two bags on the trip. If necessary, we can store excess luggage with the hotel or the church while we are on the safari. The bag you bring on the safari MUST be a carry-on size and MUST be under 34lbs or they will not load it on the plane.
WILL MY HAIRDRYER WORK?
The electrical current in Kenya is 220 volts with a Type G UK power socket. You will need a converter for reducing the electrical current down to 110 volts for appliances that will not function on 220 volts. Hairdryers, curling irons, and other small appliances must have a converter and an adapter. These items can be purchased at most retailers. Most cell phones and tablets will work on 220 volts. You will only need a Type G UK adapter for these devices.
WHAT WILL THE WEATHER BE LIKE?
Temperatures in Kenya are about the same year-round. Mornings and evenings are in the low 60’s and the days are usually sunny and in the low 80’s. As you get closer to your departure date, we recommend that you add the cities you will be visiting to your weather app to get the local forecast and current temperatures.
The dress for this tour is very casual. Bring layers of clothes as it will be hot and sunny during the day and cooler in the mornings and evenings. You will need one slightly nicer outfit to wear for the church service in Nairobi. Also, be sure to bring the following:
- Hat
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- Light rain-resistant jacket for cool mornings and evenings
- Convertible pants/shorts for safari days
- An extra pair of old shoes that you don’t mind getting dirty
- Hand sanitizer
- Small daypack for snacks, money, camera, binoculars, etc.
- Insect repellent 30-40% Deet
DO I NEED TO BRING A DIGITAL CAMERA?
While in Nairobi, we suggest that you use your smartphone as your camera. The newer smartphones take amazing photos and videos that are, in many cases, better than a consumer digital camera. Using a smartphone makes it easy to share your photos with others on the trip as well as those back home. While on safari, we do recommend a small digital camera with a zoom lens. This will allow you to capture the wildlife without getting to close. We also recommend a small pair of binoculars for a better game viewing experience.
WILL I BE ABLE TO USE MY PHONE?
Using your cellphone in Kenya is expensive and we do not recommend it. If you do not want to get charged for using your phone, put your phone on airplane mode before you arrive in Kenya. We recommend using WhatsApp on Wi-Fi to stay connected while in Kenya. Make sure the people you would like to connect with also have WhatsApp installed on their mobile device. Wi-Fi is available at all hotels and the safari camp.
HOW DO I PAY FOR THINGS IN KENYA?
The U.S. Dollar is widely accepted in Kenya. We recommend that you bring at least $300 cash for incidentals and souvenirs (new $20 and/or $100 bills only). Credit cards are widely accepted throughout Kenya. Before your departure, be sure to alert your bank and credit card company that you will be using your card overseas. It is not necessary to convert into the local currency once you arrive. If you do get the local currency, we do not advise getting large amounts exchanged.
DO I NEED ANY VACCINATIONS BEFORE TRAVELING TO KENYA/ZANZIBAR?
When visiting Kenya and Zanzibar on the same tour, it is required for you to have the Yellow Fever vaccination. Also, these countries are considered to be in a malaria-risk area. Consult your physician or travel clinic at least 6-8 weeks prior to departure regarding other recommended vaccinations and travel medication. When traveling, keep your immunization card with your passport at all times.
DO I NEED TO BRING ANY MEDICATION?
If you are taking prescription or over-the-counter medications, be sure to pack enough to last your entire trip, as well as a little extra in the event of unexpected delays. Carry each medication in its original container with the label and pack it in your carry-on bag. Traveler’s diarrhea or upset stomach are the most common conditions for tourists. It is recommended to bring Imodium AD or chewable Pepto Bismol tablets.
DO I NEED A VISA FOR KENYA OR ZANZIBAR?
U.S. citizens traveling to Kenya must purchase a visa in advance. This should be completed online at http://evisa.go.ke/evisa.html. Please apply for your visa no sooner than 60 days prior to departure. For Tanzania (Zanzibar), you will purchase on arrival, and the cost is 100 USD (Cash is preferred). Passports must be valid at least six months beyond your intended return date.
- Think light and small! Only take items you truly need. Too much stuff can be a burden on your trip. Pick out what you think you need and cut it in half.
- Roll your clothes rather than folding them. Many travel experts agree that rolling is superior to folding. Tightly rolled clothes take up less space and are less likely to wrinkle.
- Use packing cubes. They not only help you stay organized but also save loads of space in your suitcase. If you buy a good quality set, they will last a long time.
- Let the hotel do your laundry. The typical tour is ten days. Pack for five days and do laundry halfway through the trip. It is relatively inexpensive and can make a big difference in the amount of clothes that you bring.
- Put a dryer sheet or two in your suitcase. Not only are they very light, they will also keep your clothes smelling fresh.
HOW MUCH LUGGAGE CAN I BRING ON SAFARI?
The airplanes that will take you to the safari camp are smaller prop planes and the baggage allowance is STRICTLY limited to 34lbs per person. Our suggestion is to pack very light and/or bring two bags on the trip. If necessary, we can store excess luggage with the hotel or church while we are on the safari. The bag you bring on the safari MUST be a carry-on size and MUST be under 34lbs or they will not load it on the plane.
WILL MY HAIRDRYER WORK?
The electrical current in Kenya and Zanzibar is 220 volts with a Type G UK power socket. You will need a converter for reducing the electrical current down to 110 volts for appliances that will not function on 220 volts. Hairdryers, curling irons, and other small appliances must have a converter and an adapter. These items can be purchased at most retailers. Most cell phones and tablets will work on 220 volts. You will only need a Type G UK adapter for these devices.
WHAT WILL THE WEATHER BE LIKE?
Temperatures in Kenya are about the same year-round. Mornings and evenings are in the low 60’s and the days are usually sunny and in the low 80’s. Temperatures in Zanzibar are a bit warmer, low 70’s in the mornings and evenings and high 80’s during the day. As you get closer to your departure date, we recommend that you add the cities you will be visiting to your weather app to get the local forecast and current temperatures.
The dress for this tour is very casual. Bring layers of clothes as it will be hot and sunny during the day and cooler in the mornings and evenings. You will need one slightly nicer outfit to wear for the church service in Nairobi. Also, be sure to bring the following:
- Hat
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- Light rain-resistant jacket for cool mornings and evenings
- Convertible pants/shorts for safari days
- An extra pair of old shoes that you don’t mind getting dirty
- Hand sanitizer
- Small daypack for snacks, money, camera, binoculars, etc.
- Insect repellent 30-40% Deet
- Sandals/flip flops
- Bathing suit for beach days in Zanzibar
DO I NEED TO BRING A DIGITAL CAMERA?
While in Zanzibar, we suggest that you use your smartphone as your camera. The newer smartphones take amazing photos and videos that are, in many cases, better than a consumer digital camera. Using a smartphone makes it easy to share your photos with others on the trip as well as those back home. While on safari, we do recommend a small digital camera with a zoom lens. This will allow you to capture the wildlife without getting to close. We also recommend a small pair of binoculars for a better game viewing experience.
WILL I BE ABLE TO USE MY PHONE?
Using your cellphone in Kenya and Zanzibar is expensive and we do not recommend it. If you do not want to get charged for using your phone, put your phone on airplane mode before you arrive in Africa. We recommend using WhatsApp on Wi-Fi to stay connected while in Africa. Make sure the people you would like to connect with also have WhatsApp installed on their mobile device. Wi-Fi is available at all hotels and the safari camp.
HOW DO I PAY FOR THINGS IN KENYA/ZANZIBAR?
The U.S. Dollar is widely accepted in Kenya and Zanzibar. We recommend that you bring at least $300 cash for incidentals and souvenirs (new $20 and/or $100 bills only). Credit cards are widely accepted throughout Kenya and Tanzania. Before your departure, be sure to alert your bank and credit card company that you will be using your card overseas. It is not necessary to convert into the local currency once you arrive. If you do get the local currency, we do not advise getting large amounts exchanged.
DO I NEED ANY VACCINATIONS BEFORE TRAVELING TO SOUTH AFRICA?
No vaccinations are required for South Africa. However, consult your physician or a travel clinic regarding any recommended vaccinations and travel medication that you might need.
DO I NEED TO BRING ANY MEDICATION?
If you are taking prescription or over-the-counter medications, be sure to pack enough to last your entire trip, as well as a little extra in the event of unexpected delays. Carry each medication in its original container with the label and pack it in your carry-on bag. Traveler’s diarrhea or upset stomach are the most common conditions for tourists. It is recommended to bring Imodium AD or chewable Pepto Bismol tablets.
DO I NEED A VISA FOR SOUTH AFRICA?
U.S. citizens traveling to South Africa can get a visa on arrival. Passports must be valid at least six months beyond your intended return date.
- Think light and small! Only take items you truly need. Too much stuff can be a burden on your trip. Pick out what you think you need and cut it in half.
- Roll your clothes rather than folding them. Many travel experts agree that rolling is superior to folding. Tightly rolled clothes take up less space and are less likely to wrinkle.
- Use packing cubes. They not only help you stay organized but also save loads of space in your suitcase. If you buy a good quality set, they will last a long time.
- Let the hotel do your laundry. The typical tour is ten days. Pack for five days and do laundry halfway through the trip. It is relatively inexpensive and can make a big difference in the amount of clothes that you bring.
- Put a dryer sheet or two in your suitcase. Not only are they very light, they will also keep your clothes smelling fresh.
HOW MUCH LUGGAGE CAN I BRING?
The airline will allow each person to check one suitcase weighing 50lbs or less for your international flight. You may have one small carry-on bag and one personal item, such as a purse or laptop bag, onboard with you. Any carry-on bags and personal items must be able to fit in the overhead compartment or under the seat in front of you. Over-sized carry-on bags will be checked by the gate agent. Domestic carriers may charge for checked luggage.
WILL MY HAIRDRYER WORK?
The electrical current in South Africa is 220 volts with a Type M power socket. You will need a converter for reducing the electrical current down to 110 volts for appliances that will not function on 220 volts. Hairdryers, curling irons, and other small appliances must have a converter and an adapter. These items can be purchased at most retailers. Most cell phones and tablets will work on 220 volts. You will need a Type M adapter for these devices.
WHAT WILL THE WEATHER BE LIKE?
Temperatures in South Africa average between 60 – 80F during the spring and fall, and 70 – 90F during the summer. Remember, South Africa is in the southern hemisphere, so their winters and summers are the opposite of North America. As you get closer to your departure date, we recommend that you add the cities you will be visiting to your weather app to get the local forecast and current temperatures.
The dress for this tour is very casual. Bring layers of clothes as it will be hot and sunny during the day and cooler in the mornings and evenings Also, be sure to bring the following:
- Hat
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- Light rain-resistant jacket for cool mornings and evenings
- Convertible pants/shorts for safari days
- An extra pair of old shoes that you don’t mind getting dirty
- Hand sanitizer
- Small daypack for snacks, money, camera, binoculars, etc.
DO I NEED TO BRING A DIGITAL CAMERA?
Unless you are a professional photographer, we suggest that you use your smartphone as your camera. The newer smartphones take amazing photos and videos that are, in many cases, better than a consumer digital camera. Using a smartphone makes it easy to share your photos with others on the trip as well as those back home. Most of our team carries the newer models of the Apple iPhone as our primary camera.
WILL I BE ABLE TO USE MY PHONE?
Most of the major U.S. cell phone carriers offer a “Travel Pass,” which allows you to use your domestic plan for an additional $10/day. If you do not want to get charged for using your phone, put your phone on airplane mode before you arrive in South Africa. We recommend using WhatsApp on Wi-Fi to stay connected while in South Africa. Make sure the people you would like to connect with also have WhatsApp installed on their mobile device. Wi-Fi is available at all hotels.
HOW DO I PAY FOR THINGS IN KENYA/ZANZIBAR?
The U.S. Dollar is widely accepted in South Africa. We recommend that you bring at least $300 cash for incidentals and souvenirs (new $20 and/or $100 bills only). Credit cards are widely accepted throughout South Africa. Before your departure, be sure to alert your bank and credit card company that you will be using your card overseas. It is not necessary to convert into the local currency once you arrive. If you do get the local currency, we do not advise getting large amounts exchanged.