WILDCHILD ECO-GUIDE CHALLENGE IN BOTSWANA 22 - 26 OCTOBER 2022
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Let your imagination soar JOURNEY OVERVIEW Calling all aspiring conservationists, planet warriors, budding rangers, or any teenager who loves the wilderness and its special creatures and wants to make sure that they leave our world a better place. This 5-day limited edition itinerary has been specially crafted for a teenager and their parent who wish to go behind and scenes of what ranger life is all about in the Okavango Delta. You and your parent will have the unrivalled opportunity to connect with other like-minded teens and their parents; whilst reconnecting in the luxurious surrounds of &Beyond Xaranna Okavango Delta Lodge. Hosted by an &Beyond Ranger Trainer, you will have the exclusive opportunity to learn the tricks of the ranger trade from bird, dung, and plant identification to animal tracking, stargazing and basic astronomy. Not only will you have insider access to the daily exploits of our rangers but (most importantly) you will learn about caring for the land, wildlife and people of this unique destination; and thus, the significant impact you and your parent can make by becoming an ambassador for Africa’s wild places. HIGHLIGHTS OF THE ITINERARY • Join a group of 6 or more guests on this &Beyond 30 Year Limited Edition set-departure • Privately guided throughout by an expert &Beyond Regional Guide Trainer • Experience the day in the life of becoming &Beyond Guide • Join African Wild Dog researchers and learn about Baobab conservation measures • Disconnect to reconnect WHAT WE LOVE ABOUT THIS JOURNEY • Hosted and guided by &Beyond experts • Iconic wildlife and landscapes • Reconnecting with family www.andBeyond.com
At a glance DAY PROGRAMME 22 Oct ‘22 Meet and greet on arrival at Maun Airport Scheduled light aircraft transfer from Maun Airport to Xaranna airstrip Evening game drive Overnight at andBeyond Xaranna Okavango Delta Camp 23 Oct ‘22 Morning game drive en route to nature walk Ancient bushmen skills (hunting, identifying plants for medicinal uses, survival skills and bushmen games) Afternoon boat cruise with sunset drinks Evening stargazing Overnight at andBeyond Xaranna Okavango Delta Camp 24 Oct ‘22 Wild dog research with the Conservation team Boabab tree conservation Rhino tracking Star bird spotting Overnight at andBeyond Xaranna Okavango Delta Camp 25 Oct ‘22 Morning game drive Track identification Eco-guide award ceremony Overnight at andBeyond Xaranna Okavango Delta Camp 26 Oct ‘22 Morning game drive Scheduled light aircraft transfer from Xaranna airstrip to Maun Airport Departure www.andBeyond.com
Expect the extraordinary andBeyond Xaranna Okavango Delta Camp Okavango Delta, Botswana 22 October 2022: Upon arrival at Maun Airport, you will be welcomed by an andBeyond representative who will assist you onto a Mack Air light aircraft for your flight to Xaranna airstrip. Your first flight over this pristine water wilderness will leave lasting impressions. Keep a look out for hippos in the waterways and elephants amongst the trees (approx. 15 minutes). Put your feet up during your 4 night stay at andBeyond Xaranna Okavango Delta Camp in a Safari Tent with indoor bathtub and al fresco shower, sala and private plunge pool. After a quick orientation, and the opportunity to freshen up, you will meet the other teens and their parents before embarking on your first afternoon game drive. In the evening, at dinner, you will meet your host, the Botswana Regional Trainer for andBeyond; who will give you an overview of your programme for the next few days. 23 October 2022: After an early morning wake-up call, you will hop aboard a game drive vehicle for your first day challenge. Enjoy an informative nature walk followed by the unrivalled opportunity to learn a few ancient bushmen skills (think: hunting, identifying plants for medicinal uses, survival skills and bushmen games). In the afternoon, head out on a boat cruise (weather permitting) and enjoy sunset drinks whilst learning about the Okavango Delta’s life-giving waterways. At dinner, lose yourself in the night sky with an evening of stargazing. www.andBeyond.com
24 October 2022: Today, you will learn about the painted wolf (African wild dog), search for the iconic baobab tree, and track rhino. Meet up with a wild dog research team and spend the morning tracking and interacting with the dogs and finding out all about the packs and the project. With 9% of the Okavango Delta in our care, we support the Botswana Predator Conservation Trust with their African Wild Dog Dispersal Study. Your next stop will be to find the Delta’s towering baobab trees. You will be helping our teams in treating and wrapping a baobab with wire and chili to assist it in surviving hungry elephant herds. Following a delicious lunch at the lodge (and the opportunity to unwind a little), you will set off for an afternoon game drive to search for rhino that were translocated through the Rhinos Without Borders initiative. Here, you will learn first-hand the success of partnering with others to make a difference. Two tourism giants combined forces to increase the rhino in Botswana to save a species on the brink of extinction from poaching. During your game drive you will also learn bird identification and calls, and a challenge will ensue to see who can spot as many of andBeyond’s Star Bird species. In the evening, you will have to earn your dinner by joining the lodge chefs in an interactive cooking competition over an open fire, at the lodge boma. 25 October 2022: It’s another fun-filled day today! Kick-start your morning with a game drive, followed by breakfast at the lodge. Afterwards, teens and parents go their separate ways. You and your fellow teens will embark on an all-important sustainability audit at the lodge, engaging with different staff members to find out how the lodge is leaving a light footprint in the Delta. In the meantime, your parent can catch up on some well-deserved “me time” and enjoy a morning at their leisure (we recommend indulging in a wellness treatment or just relaxing by the pool). In the afternoon, the both of you will head out learning about wildlife track identification and other signs to see if wildlife have been in the area. Tonight will be your Eco-guide Challenge award ceremony. 26 October 2022: Squeeze in one last morning game drive or just sleep in (you deserve it) before we wave a fond farewell as you connect with your light aircraft transfer back to Maun Airport where you depart on your homeward flight. www.andBeyond.com
Expect the extraordinary andBeyond Xaranna Okavango Delta Camp Okavango Delta, Botswana Perfectly positioned within an exclusive 25 000 hectare wilderness concession, andBeyond Xaranna Okavango Delta Camp boasts breathtaking views out over a permanent channel of the Okavango Delta. The overall atmosphere of the Camp is cool, light and airy, in keeping with its gentle geographic location on the Delta. The nine sleek ensuite safari tents are organic in design with a combination of canvas and bleached timber, delicately decorated in shades of fatigue (khaki) and soft lily pink. Each tent boasts a romantic sala, private plunge pool, indoor bathtub and al fresco shower. The guest areas are all positioned carefully to maximise the sweeping views out across the channels. The intimate guest sitting area boasts a spacious reading area, perfect for afternoon relaxation. The elevated dining area features shady verandas with mesmerising views leading out onto an open air boma, where exotic candlelit dinners are served under the stars. A fully-stocked Safari Shop offers chic safari gear, African art and jewellery. WHAT WE LOVE ABOUT ANDBEYOND XARANNA OKAVANGO DELTA CAMP Staying at Xaranna Okavango delta camp will afford you a chance to experience a breath taking mokoro ride which is normal concluded by wet leg drink stop in the middle of the delta. (Seasonal - dependent on water levels) Have a picnic lunch delivered to your suite and enjoy it whilst sitting on the top step of your private plunge pool. Venture to the end of the jetty to gaze at the magnificent star studded sky skies, and ask your guide for a fascinating star gazing session. Add some creamy Amarula to your porridge to kick start your morning. In chilly winter months relish homemade porridge around the roaring fire and watch the blazing sun rise. Indulge in a deeply relaxing massage next to your glimmering private pool at your sala. Embark on a fascinating tour of the solar power plant, and learn about our cutting edge technology in the middle of the Delta. Take to the skies on a scenic helicopter flight, arguably one of the best ways to see the Delta from a different perspective. www.andBeyond.com
Journey overview Rates: VALIDITY PER PERSON BASED ON THE ADULT AND TEENAGER SHARING A TWIN ROOM* 22 – 26 October 2022 USD 6,500 *This itinerary has been specially curated for a teenager (14-18yrs) and their parent. In the spirit of giving back, your teenager will only be costed at 50% of the adult rate. Scheduled flight cost as optional extra: OR Tambo International Airport / Maun Airport / OR Tambo International Airport: USD 600 per person return Flight cost is subject to availability and rates are subject to change. Flights: DESTINATION Scheduled light aircraft transfer from Maun Airport to Xaranna Airstrip Scheduled light aircraft transfer from Xaranna Airstrip to Maun Airport Accommodation DESTINATION ACCOMMODATION DETAILS Okavango Delta andBeyond Xaranna Okavango Delta Camp Fully inclusive: all local brands (excl. spirits) www.andBeyond.com
Journey overview What’s included: • Meet and greet at Maun Airport • Twin accommodation • Meals as specified • Soft drinks, house wine, local brand spirits, local beer, teas and coffees (premium brands to own account) • Refreshments on game drives • Laundry • Seat on charter flights as per the itinerary • Activities as mentioned in the itinerary • National parks entrance fees • Transfers to/from lodge airstrips • Domestic airport tax within Botswana • Emergency medical evacuation insurance • Administration Fee What’s not included: • Gratuities and all items of a personal nature • Champagne, cognacs, cellar wines, cigars and cigarettes • Visas (visit our partner, Sherpa, for reliable and convenient access to all visa-related requirements, supporting information, and costs) • Travel Insurance (visit our partner Global Rescue for more information) • International airfare / airport taxes • Scheduled flights: ➢ OR Tambo International Airport / Maun Airport / OR Tambo International Airport Conditions: • Rates are quoted based on 1 adult and 1 teenager (14-18yrs) sharing a twin room. In the spirit of giving back, your teenager will only be costed at 50% of the adult rate. The itinerary per person rate is calculated taking this saving into account. • This unique journey requires a minimum number of guests to travel. However, if we aren’t able to reach the minimum number; &Beyond reserves the right to cancel BUT you will be reimbursed the full amount for the journey. We will confirm the journey numbers at least 5 months prior to departure. • Set departure date between 22 - 26 October 2022 • Minimum 6 guests / 3 rooms to guarantee the departure • Maximum 18 guests / 9 rooms per departure • Due to the nature of this itinerary, the minimum child limit will be 14years and maximum 18years of age. Should the entire group comprise of one party and there are children under 14 years, we would be able to adjust the course content in order to cater for younger children • Flight cost is subject to availability and rates are subject to change • This offer may not be combined with other offers. However, additional nights may be added by using the applicable long stay rate. Should you wish to travel on different dates with your own party, please contact one of our dedicated Travel Specialists to plan your adventure www.andBeyond.com
• Flight cost is subject to availability and rates are subject to change • &Beyond may need to pass on cancellation/amendment costs once bookings including the flight offer have been confirmed • The rates quoted are subject to change without warning if there are any increases in bed levies, park fees, fuel, sales tax or VAT, third-party services or any other circumstances beyond our control • Rates are subject to currency fluctuations and ROE • andBeyond trading terms apply www.andBeyond.com
The details are in the fine print Botswana INSURANCE It is essential that adequate travel insurance be taken out prior to departure and it is important to note that it is recommended to purchase it within 14 days from paying your deposit. This should cover any medical situation such as hospitalisation, as well as cancellation, curtailment of arrangements and baggage. When you travel with andBeyond, you are automatically covered by our emergency evacuation insurance. This guarantees emergency evacuation to the nearest hospital should you suffer either severe illness or injury. This does not cover the cost of treatment once in hospital and in no way replaces your normal travel insurance. There are certain medical exclusions. Please advise us of any existing conditions in advance in order to arrange cover, subject to our insurer’s approval. Please contact us for further details. It is important to note that some travel insurance policies may not be recognized by certain local hospitals, therefore please check with your provider if their product is accepted in your destination and seek alternative cover if necessary. Medical Emergency Number: +27 83 300 3927 or +27 87 135 3952 CHECK-IN TIMES In accordance with global practice most hotel and lodge check-in/out times are as follows: Check-in: 14h00; Check-out: 11h00 LANGUAGE English is widely spoken throughout Southern Africa. PHOTOGRAPHY Bring sufficient memory cards and batteries as these are not always readily available. Remember to ask permission before taking a photograph of any local people. The use of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (Drones) is not allowed in any of the conservation areas we manage, until such time as their impact on wildlife and anti-poaching initiatives can be assessed. This rule applies throughout Africa, as our partners have adopted a similar stance. GRATUITY GUIDELINE Please note, the below are guidelines only. Gratuities are at your own discretion and are not compulsory. Waiters and Drivers: 10% of the fare or bill City Guides: Private transfer: USD 5 per transfer Private half-day tours: USD 10 per tour Private full-day tours: USD 20 per tour On Safari: Ranger/Guide: USD 20 per couple per day Tracker: USD 15 per couple per day Butler: USD 15 per couple per day Camp Staff: USD 15 per couple per day CULTURAL AWARENESS Please note that local laws, religious beliefs and cultural practices in parts of Africa may be more conservative than those in your country of origin. As these must be observed and adhered to, we suggest that guests carry out due diligence and exercise their discretion when travelling in the region. CONTACT DETAILS 24 Hour Emergency Numbers: Direct Guests: +27 72 607 6385 DMC Wholesale, DMC Retail & Groups: +27 83 280 7342 www.andBeyond.com
The details are in the fine print Lodge Wholesale & Inbound Sales: +27 83 280 7251 Bateleur Club: +27 83 463 8923 andBeyond, South Africa, Johannesburg Tel: +27 11 809 4300 (Office Hours Only) Fax: +27 11 809 4511 24 Hour Emergency Number: +27 60 969 8086 Email: safaris@andBeyond.com Physical Address: 164 Katherine Street, Pin Mill Farm Block F Sandown, Johannesburg, South Africa andBeyond, South Africa, Cape Town Tel: +27 21 531 2517 (Office Hours Only) 24 Hour Emergency Number: +27 72 190 1908 or +27 82 468 1512 Physical Address: Office 4, 1st Floor, Howard Centre Mall Pinelands, Cape Town, South Africa andBeyond Botswana, Maun Tel: +267 686 1979 (Office Hours Only); Fax: +267 686 1972 24 Hour Emergency Number: +267 74466001 Physical Address: Plot 568, Mathiba Road, Maun, Botswana MONEY Banks and foreign exchange bureaus are available at all international airports and main towns. Officials may not be in a position to issue change, so please carry small denominations of cash where possible. Most hotels and lodges accept Visa and MasterCard. Credit card transactions could take anything up to a few months to go through, especially from more remote areas. The currency is Pula (P); US Dollars cash is widely accepted. It is recommended that guests carry a small amount of cash. CLIMATE Botswana’s climate is mainly temperate. Summer, October to April, can be very hot, but daytime temperatures typically average around 30ºC (86ºF). The rainy season lasts from January to March. Winter, May to September, brings cooler weather with an average temperature of 25ºC (77ºF), early mornings and evenings may be very cold. DIETARY Most dietary requirements can be catered for. Please advise us of any specific dietary requirements before you travel, and these will be communicated to all properties. WHAT TO PACK As a general guide, comfortable, casual wash and wear clothes are recommended. Muted colours are recommended for game- viewing. Game-drives are conducted in the early morning and late afternoon which can be very cold, especially in winter. The most practical items to pack for safari are: Khaki, green, beige and neutral colours Shirts with long sleeves (even in summer, as protection from the sun and mosquitoes) T shirts Shorts or a light skirt Jeans or safari trousers for evenings and cooler days www.andBeyond.com
The details are in the fine print Jackets and sweaters are recommended for early morning and evening game drives Lightweight water-proof jacket Swim and beachwear Comfortable walking shoes Sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, insect repellent, moisturizer and lip-salve are all essentials Binoculars and camera equipment Good quality safari clothing is available in safari shops Camouflage-patterned clothing is not permitted in Zimbabwe. This applies to any clothing that can be construed as mimicking military-wear. Travellers are urged not to wear, or even carry, any military-inspired clothing while travelling in Zimbabwe. You might want to consider some of our recommended travel accessory options: These include top quality Thule luggage items, which are not only designed for your total comfort, but also for your ultra-convenience as they are accepted by all andBeyond’s preferred flight providers. While we offer a pair of Swarovski Optik binoculars per guest suite/room in all our African lodges/camps for your exclusive use during your stay, perhaps you would prefer to purchase your very own pair for use throughout your itinerary. Browse our Travel Shop for full details. If you would like to purchase safari clothing, or browse other luggage and travel accessories to prepare for your trip, please visit www.andBeyondsafarishop.com for a wide selection of quality products. Laundry: Most lodges, camps and hotels do their best to deliver a same day laundry service, weather permitting. Dry cleaning can be arranged at most hotels but is not available at lodges. At the lodges soap suds are generally provided in your room for delicate items. Please be mindful that, due to culture and customs in many of the areas in which we operate, some lodges/camps do not wash underwear. While most lodges/camps can arrange for your shoes to be polished, we regret that we are unable to provide a service for these to be washed. ELECTRICITY 220/240 Volts AC, 50hz It is possible that lodges in more remote areas do not have electricity and run on generator or solar power. HEALTH REQUIREMENTS Please consult your physician for advice on malaria precautions before travel to Southern Africa. In light of COVID-19 please note the following general safety requirements. All guests are to bring and wear a cloth mask that can be used in all public areas and during activities at all times. Frequently sanitize or wash hands with soap and water as often as is possible Always observe social distancing protocols and keep 1,5m (4ft) to 2m (6ft) away from other people Should any visitor exhibit symptoms, or they have a temperature above 37.3°C / 99.14°F, or where medical services suspect they have COVID-19, those guests will be required to isolate in their room and will not be allowed to join scheduled activities until the results of the COVID-19 test is received In the event the guest tests positive for COVID-19, they will be required to be quarantined according to country regulations at their own cost COVID-19 regulations for Botswana In addition to all current entry requirements, on arrival into Botswana the latest information provided on COVID-19 protocols by the Botswana government is as follows: Due to the current surge of COVID in India, all travellers originating from or transiting through India within the past 14 days, will be required to undertake mandatory quarantine at a site selected by the ministry of health and wellness, for a period not www.andBeyond.com
The details are in the fine print exceeding 10 days at their own cost with immediate effect. Travellers will further be required to undertake an exit COVID-19 test at their own cost from day 5 – 7 during their quarantine to determine whether they are released from the quarantine/isolation facilities A guest entering and exiting Botswana must have a valid PCR negative test no older than 72 hours from the sample date. Additional to the obligatory negative PCR test result that guests must present, another rapid test will be performed free of charge when arriving. Guests will be screened for COVID-19 symptoms upon entry. Guests symptomatic upon arrival will be required to undertake mandatory testing and possible isolation and or quarantine. Guests will be required to remain in contact with the local health authority for a period of 14 days during self- monitoring. Guests not meeting the requirements are prohibited entry into Botswana. Guests exiting Botswana are expected to comply with travel regulations of the destination country at their own expense. Yellow Fever: andBeyond’s Terms and Conditions require you to obtain advice from your medical practitioner or travel clinic before travelling to any destination to determine if you are required to get a yellow fever vaccination, no less than 10 days prior to travel. If required, you must be able to produce a yellow fever certificate as proof of vaccination. Depending on which countries you are traveling to prior or post your stay to Southern Africa the certificate will be required. The certificate may also be required when re-entering your country of origin, or other African countries, if you have visited a destination within the yellow fever belt. For more information you may consult the following website, but we must reiterate that we advise you to visit your medical practitioner or your closest travel clinic for further information. http://www.who.int/ith/vaccines/yf/en/ Ticks: Ticks can be found in Africa’s wilderness areas. To avoid getting bitten when going on bush walks, guests are advised to take precautions by wearing long trousers, socks and boots. Please note that there is a possibility that tick bites could lead to tick bite fever. Symptoms include fever, headaches and painful, enlarged lymph glands in the area of the bite. If you experience these symptoms after returning home, please visit your doctor and advise them of the possibility of tick bite fever. Allergies, Medication and Prescriptions: If you suffer allergies, it is advised to take counteracting medication with you, as the medication you require may not be available due to the remoteness of these destinations. If on medication at time of travel please ensure that you bring a sufficient supply for the entire trip, as it may be difficult to obtain after arrival. This applies to any malaria prophylaxis, prescriptions, chronic or preferred brand medication. FIRST AID Although most hotels and lodges are equipped with a first aid kit, we suggest that you bring a small airtight container with a few well-chosen articles, such as plasters, travel sickness tablets, antiseptic cream, pain relieving tablets for headaches, indigestion tablets, sunscreen, eye drops, insect repellent, medication for upset stomachs and after-sun moisturiser. We remind travellers who have any allergies, for example insect stings, or an asthma condition, to pack the required medication. Covid 19 andBeyond Disclaimer of Liability When travelling with andBeyond your safety is of paramount importance to us. We have implemented various Covid -19 related safety measures, processes and procedures (“Infectious Diseases: Health and Safety Protocol”) at our lodges and camps to ensure we create an environment that is both safe and hygienic when you stay with us, which protocol was developed by taking guidance from guidelines and hygiene policies prescribed and published by the World Health Organisation, the South African National Department of Health and the National Institute for Communicable Diseases of South Africa and all the relevant health authorities of the destinations we operate in. Should you wish to view our Infectious Diseases: Health and Safety Protocol, please request this information from any of sales or reservation team and we will share this information with you. www.andBeyond.com
The details are in the fine print Your itinerary may include accommodation services at properties (i.e. accommodation at non andBeyond branded lodges and /or camps) and / or ancillary services such as transfers, tours, and activities that will not be provided by andBeyond but by independent third party owners and / or operators that are not owned and / or managed by andBeyond (“Third Party Service Providers”). Whilst all Third Party Service Providers of andBeyond have committed to implement similar processes and procedures as to our Infectious Diseases: Health and Safety Protocol to try and protect guests making use of their services, andBeyond is not in a position to validate or dictate their health and safety protocols which will vary between Third Party Service Providers. As a result we cannot confirm the standard to which Third Party Service Providers protocols adhere to and as such we cannot accept any form of liability (in the broadest terms) should you (or any member of your party) contract an infectious disease (including Covid-19) when using the services of a Third Party Service Provider. The same will apply in respect of public areas (i.e. landmarks, public venues, sightseeing venues, etc.) which you may wish to visit whilst staying at either our lodges / camps or properties owned by Third Party Service Provider as neither andBeyond nor Third Party Service Providers have any control over health and safety protocols followed at public areas or any action(s) of a member of the public which may cause an infection of an infectious disease. As with any protocol the measure of success in implementing a process or procedure under a protocol will be determined by the level of compliance and adherence to the relevant processes and procedures prescribed by the relevant protocol. Whilst andBeyond will ensure full compliance by its management, employees and contractors with the Infectious Disease: Health and Safety Protocol, andBeyond cannot accept any liability in the event of a guest(s) contracting an infectious disease (including Covid 19) as a direct or indirect result of complying or adhering to andBeyond’s Infectious Diseases: Health and Safety Protocol. SAFETY Like anywhere else in the world, visitors must always take reasonable precautions as opportunistic crime does happen and it can be best described as when an opportunity presents itself and subsequently tempts a person to steal. Most accommodations offer in-room or reception safes to secure your valuables. Visitors are advised not to leave their belongings or personal property unattended. Do not carry large sums of money or valuables on your person. Always buy your excursions from a licensed operator, your hotel or travel agent representatives can assist you with verification. FLIGHTS Check-in is 1½hrs prior for domestic departures and 3hrs prior for international departures. Due to particularly stringent security measures at airports, guests are advised to arrive an additional hour prior to their departure time. International travellers may experience significant delays at OR Tambo International Airport. This is due to a new, and lengthy, process of capturing biometrics of passport holders. It is unclear as to how long these delays will last. Please ensure that you allow enough connection time when booking guests’ flights. Scheduled regional and inter-lodge flights may involve multiple stops before reaching the final destination. Flights are operated as “shuttle transfers” and therefore departure times may vary up to 1hr. Times are subject to change without notice. In the event of bad weather, airlines reserve the right to drop guests off at the nearest serviceable airstrip which may mean a road transfer for guests to get to their final destination. Any costs resulting from such diversions would be for your own account. Aircrafts used on inter-lodge flights are small and interior space limited. In addition, some activity and scenic air operators may also have weight and/or height restrictions. For the sake of your own comfort, please advise us at time of booking if you are particularly bulky or tall and we will do our best to accommodate you. Additional costs may apply. Some shuttle inter-lodge flights may depart early in the morning which means you will miss your morning activity. Regrettably, this is beyond our control as flights are scheduled to meet onward and connecting flights out of the various international airports. If a specific departure time is required, a private charter would need to be booked. Please be advise that the departure tax out of Vic Falls Airport to Kasane International Airport is for the guests own account. Previously this amount fluctuated all the time and the operator (Mack Air) could not advise in advance how much guests should have on-hand. It has stabilised now at a rate of USD50.00 departure tax per person Cash Only and this is to be paid directly at the airport by the guests. andBeyond cannot be held responsible should airlines discontinue flights or change scheduled times resulting in missed connections etc. Should an amendment in a routing or itinerary be necessary, we will re-quote accordingly. LUGGAGE ALLOWANCE & PASSENGER WEIGHT www.andBeyond.com
The details are in the fine print When embarking on an African safari, luggage is required to be packed in a soft bag with no wheels or hard frame. These requirements differ from operator to operator, based on various conditions; however, because most of our guests travel cross border, and with more than one charter airline, we recommend that they adhere to the standard rule. Please do consult with your andBeyond consultant on the exact requirements as per your specific itinerary. When travelling to any of our destinations in Africa, please remember that it’s a criminal offense to be in possession of, to deal with or to traffic in wildlife products. This includes, without limitation, Ivory, Rhino horns, furs, claws, teeth, bones, eggs, meat and feathers of any form of wildlife. The penalties for violating legislation governing the possession and trafficking of wildlife products in Africa are among the most punitive in the world and may even lead to life imprisonment upon successful prosecution. To avoid any inconvenience, you are strongly advised not to purchase any wildlife products of any nature from any street vendor, local marketplace, or village market when participating in any excursion. Only purchase wildlife products which are offered for sale at legitimate curio vendor establishments located within the duty free demarcated area of the airport as these vendors are required by law to hold the necessary legal permits to enable them to offer for sale the wildlife products on display in their establishments. OR Tambo International Airport has implemented restrictions on the shape of luggage that may be checked in. Please note that bags should comply with the following: Bags must be regularly shaped, with at least one flat surface. Round or irregularly shaped bags will not be accepted Bags with long hanging straps will not be accepted Passengers with bags not meeting these restrictions will be asked to wrap their bags at one of the wrapping stations in the airport. Angel Gabriel Aeronautics Maximum of 15kg (33lbs) soft bags and hand luggage of 6kg (13lbs). Passenger weight Angel Gabriel Aeronautics would need advance warning for any two guests exceeding 160kg (352lbs). Male weight should not exceed 104kg (229lbs) and female should not exceed 86kg (189lbs). This information would need to be communicated at time of booking. If Angel Gabriel Aeronautics has not been advised prior to the flight and an additional aircraft needs to be dispatched, this cost will be passed onto the guest. Mack Air Maximum of 20kg (44lbs) which includes hand luggage. Type of luggage & dimensions: Soft and duffel/tog bags with maximum dimensions of 35 cm (13.5 inches) wide x 40cm (15.7 inches) high and 70 cm (27.5 inches) long. Wheels on a bag are only permissible if they are not part of a solid frame or rigid structure. An additional maximum of 45kg (99lbs) of luggage per person per flight may be purchased. All luggage, including excess baggage, must be soft-sided. Passenger weight Mack Air would need advance warning for any guests exceeding 115kg (253lbs). This information would need to be communicated at time of booking. If Mack Air has not been advised prior to the flight and an additional aircraft needs to be dispatched, this cost will be passed onto the guest. Major Blue/ Natural Selection Maximum of 20kg (44lbs) soft bags which includes hand luggage and camera equipment. Passenger weight Major Blue would need advance warning for any guests exceeding 110kg. This information would need to be communicated at time of booking. If Major Blue has not been advised prior to the flight and an additional aircraft needs to be dispatched, this cost will be passed onto the guest. Moremi Air Maximum of 20kg (44lbs) soft bags which includes hand luggage and camera equipment. Passenger weight www.andBeyond.com
The details are in the fine print Moremi Air would need advance warning for any guests exceeding 100kg (220lbs). This information would need to be communicated at time of booking. If Moremi Air has not been advised prior to the flight and an additional aircraft needs to be dispatched, this cost will be passed onto the guest. Wilderness Air Botswana Soft bags with a rigid structure at the base - including wheels and/or a collapsible handle - will be accepted. Alternatively, standard soft duffel/tog type bags, The maximum dimensions of ALL bags which can be accommodated are as follows: 30 cm (11.8 inches) wide x 35 cm (13.8 inches) high and 70 cm (27.5 inches) long. The maximum permissible luggage allowance when travelling on a seat rate basis, including carry-on, remains strictly 20kg (44lbs) per person. An additional maximum of 20kg (44lbs) of luggage not longer than 75kg (165lbs) per person per flight may be purchased Passenger weight Wilderness Air Botswana would need advance warning for any guests exceeding 100kg (220lbs). This information would need to be communicated at time of booking. If Wilderness Air Botswana has not been advised prior to the flight and an additional aircraft needs to be dispatched, this cost will be passed onto the guest. PASSPORTS & VISAS Passports are required by all foreign visitors and must be valid for six months after the intended length of stay. Please ensure that you have at least two consecutive blank visa pages (not endorsement pages) in your passport. Our recommendation is three or even four blank pages if you are travelling through more than one country. If there is insufficient space in the passport then entry could be denied. Visa costs and requirements are specific to nationality and country of origin. It is imperative to check your visa requirements with the relevant embassies / consulates as it may vary according to your nationality. Requirements and costs for visas can change with little notice. The official source for up-to-date visa requirements can be found by following the links by country below. Where it is possible to obtain an electronic visa, we recommend doing so. Eligibility for visa on arrival is indicated on the official websites. On occasion it may prove more convenient to make use of an intermediary to obtain a visa. These services are tailored to the language and market they serve and are available online. WHAT TO EXPECT The time taken to clear immigration and customs will vary based on your arrival time. Guests can book an andBeyond representative to meet them on arrival and assist with formalities before escorting them to their transfer. At the discretion of airport authorities, pre-arranged VIP meet and greet services at certain airports can meet arrivals airside and escort them through expedited formalities. With the introduction of new visa regulations, travellers of all nationalities, that require a visa, are now able to obtain one on arrival in Botswana. However, andBeyond still recommends that you arrange your visa prior to travel, to avoid the potential for long lines at customs and immigration. For those travelling to Botswana, and require a visa it is essential you have the following: Visas that are received at one of the ports of entry will be valid for a maximum of 14 days Travellers have to submit the completed visa application forms and pay USD 30 in cash for a single entry for a period of up to one month No other currencies will be accepted as a form of payment nor are there any credit card machines available to make payment. This means you need to acquire Botswana Pula prior to your arrival as you will not be able to exchange foreign currency at the visa counter. There may not be currency exchange bureaus available before the immigration sections at the different ports of entry. Please ensure you have the needed Botswana Pula amounts required prior to your departure from your home country prior to your departure if you intend to acquire a visa on arrival. Please note that authorities might not have small denominations available for change, so we recommend that you have the exact amount with you Valid passport www.andBeyond.com
The details are in the fine print Copy of residence status in country of residence Accommodation confirmation Itinerary for the duration of your stay BOTSWANA VISA INFORMATION The official immigrations website for Botswana: http://www.botswanaembassy.org/page/guidelines-for-completing-a-visa-application REQUIREMENTS FOR FAMILIES TRAVELLING WITH CHILDREN: Namibia and Botswana’s Ministry of Nationality, Immigration and Gender Affairs has imposed requirements, with immediate effect, for minors (children under 18) travelling through the country’s ports of entry. Parents travelling with minors will be required to produce certified copies of their child’s unabridged birth certificate, in addition to their valid passports. In the event that one parent is not travelling with the child, the other parent's affidavit, consenting to such travel, will be required. However, an affidavit will not be required if the father’s name does not appear on the child’s birth certificate. Similarly, to South Africa, the new regulations on family travel in Namibia and Botswana have been implemented as a response to concerns associated with global child trafficking. Parents traveling with children should have the following with them: Both parents travelling with a child: The child’s unabridged birth certificate (an original / official birth certificate issued by the birth country, which must include the identification numbers and place of the birth of the child and both parents) A letter of consent from both parents if a minor is travelling alone Valid passport One parent travelling with a child The child’s unabridged birth certificate (an original / official birth certificate issued by the birth country, which must include the identification numbers and place of the birth of the child and both parents) An affidavit from the other parent authorising travel – affidavit must not be older than 3 months An affidavit will not be required if the father’s name does not appear on the child’s birth certificate Valid passport If the unabridged birth certificate is not issued in English, then a sworn translation from a qualified authority from the originating country is required. The unabridged birth certificate is an added form that is compulsory along with passports, visa stamps, etc. CROSSING BORDERS BETWEEN BOTSWANA, ZIMBABWE AND ZAMBIA BY ROAD - WHAT TO EXPECT Zimbabwe - Botswana and Vice Versa Guests are required to present themselves at Immigration. Queues can be expected at Immigration. When crossing from Zimbabwe to Botswana guests will change from a closed vehicle to an open 4x4 game viewing vehicle. You may need to walk a short way with bags to change vehicles. Your driver will assist with your luggage. On the Botswana-side you will be required to step on a treated mat for foot and mouth disease control. The foot and mouth control is a regular occurrence and should be advised to guests as a matter of procedure. Please note that you will be required by Port Health at the Botswana border to disinfect your shoes before entering Botswana. With this in mind, we request that you carry ALL your shoes as hand luggage in a separate bag for the border crossing. Zambia - Botswana and Vice Versa Guests are required to present themselves at Immigration. Queues can be expected at immigration. Guests will cross the Zambezi river in a speed boat, which will take approximately five minutes. The general public and their vehicles cross this border on one of two commercial ferries. www.andBeyond.com
The details are in the fine print There may be delays due to heavy truck congestion. On the Botswana side of the river you will be transferred in an open 4x4 game viewing vehicle. On the Zambian side of the river you will be required to walk a short distance between the boat and the transfer vehicle. On the Botswana-side you will be required to step on a treated mat for foot and mouth disease control. The foot and mouth control is a regular occurrence and should be advised to guests as a matter of procedure. Please note that you will be required by Port Health at the Botswana border to disinfect your shoes before entering Botswana. With this in mind, we request that you carry ALL your shoes as hand luggage in a separate bag for the border crossing. www.andBeyond.com
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