Travel Butlers Ltd
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The Common, Cranleigh
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Etosha and Zambezi

Example holiday

Etosha and Zambezi

We hope that this example holiday will give you give some inspiration to help you begin to plan your own dream holiday to Africa.

The next couple of pages show a summary of the itinerary, followed by a detailed page on each destination.

Important travel information for visitors to Namibia, Botswana and Zimbabwe is included at the back of this document.

All the holidays we offer to our clients are tailor-made so we can adjust this trip to fit in with your travel dates, interests, preferred accommodation...and of course your budget.

All our travel consultants have extensive knowledge of travel throughout Southern and East Africa, and our strong relationships with suppliers mean that our rates to you will always be competitive.

Let us take the hard work out of planning your trip: you can get in touch either by giving us a call on +44 (0) 1483 266725, completing the Enquiry Form on our website or emailing us at info@travelbutlers.com.

We look forward to hearing from you!

The Travel Butlers Team

Travel Butlers Ltd
Astra House
The Common, Cranleigh
Surrey GU6 8RZ, United Kingdom
tel: +44 (0)1483 266725


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Etosha and Zambezi

Example Itinerary

TB-1826-1 / 43854

Example Cost

Holiday Title: Etosha and Zambezi

Holiday Destination: Holiday to Namibia, Botswana and Zimbabwe for 9 nights

Passengers: 2 Adults

Example Cost for 2 Adults: * per person sharing.

*Excludes international flights from your home country - please ask us if you would like us to include these for you.

ABTOT provides protection for your booking as set out in Section 6 of our booking conditions.

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Travel Butlers Ltd
Astra House
The Common, Cranleigh
Surrey GU6 8RZ, United Kingdom
tel: +44 (0)1483 266725


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Summary Of The Itinerary

Printable Version

Holiday Title: Etosha and Zambezi

Passengers: 2 Adults

Day 1

You will depart from Windhoek and travel north through extensive cattle farming areas and bush land to the Etosha National Park, famous for its vast amount of wildlife and unique landscape. In the late afternoon once you have reached your camp, you have the rest of the day at leisure.

Mokuti Etosha Lodge is situated just 2 km from the eastern entrance of the Park and set in its own adjoining private reserve. All of the spacious rooms have private verandas. The lodge offers excellent dining experiences in both the restaurant and under the stars in the boma. There are 2 bars where you can enjoy sundowners or a nightcap, a sparkling swimming pool and 2 floodlit tennis courts. The lodge also has a fitness centre and spa.

Etosha National Park

2 nights at Mokuti Lodge


Day 2

The day is devoted purely to the abundant wildlife found in the Etosha National Park, which surrounds a parched salt desert known as the Etosha Pan. The Park is home to 4 of the Big Five - elephant, lion, leopard and rhino. Game viewing in the Park is largely focussed around the waterholes, some of which are spring fed and some supplied from a borehole, ideal places to sit and watch over 114 different game species, or for an avid birder, in excess of 340 bird species. Popular game species such as giraffe, blue wildebeest, plains and mountain zebra, hyena, lion, leopard, antelopes such as kudu, oryx, eland, as well as some of the endangered species such as black rhino, cheetah and the black-faced impala are all found here. An extensive network of roads link the waterholes allowing visitors the opportunity of an extensive game viewing safari over the stretch of the Park as each different area will provide different encounters.


Day 3

After breakfast you will travel north-east towards Namibia's lush Kavango region, passing numerous villages lining the roadside. With its magnificent woodlands and perennial rivers, the Kavango region contrasts sharply with the rest of Namibia. Large swathes of tall woodland, riverine forests, floodplains and reed-lined channels dominate the area. This is also the area where you will see many of the traditional huts and homesteads still in popular use today. Upon arrival at your lodge, you can enjoy an optional sundowner boat cruise on the Okavango River.


Day 4

After breakfast you will continue along the Okavango River into the Zambezi region. Lush, green and riverine - that is what the Zambezi region looks like. This juxtaposition is what makes Namibia the "Land of Contrasts". The area is typified by perennial rivers and large forests of trees. Whereas most of Namibia is arid, this area is lush, the soil rich and the wildlife plentiful. It is a lively hotbed where you can see subsistence and cattle farming and the well-known traditional wood carvings. From the banks of the Okavango River directly at the footsteps of your lodge you have a magnificent view onto the Popa Falls, a series of small rapids.

Shametu River Lodge is close to the Mahango National Park. Women are draped in colourful cloth and Nguni cattle are a common sight. The lodge has a restaurant, bar, swimming pool, and lounge area as well as a wooden deck where you can enjoy sundowners. As an optional extra activity this afternoon you can enjoy a late afternoon boat cruise on the Okavango River or short walk to a local Habukushu village.

continues on next page...
Travel Butlers Ltd
Astra House
The Common, Cranleigh
Surrey GU6 8RZ, United Kingdom
tel: +44 (0)1483 266725


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...continued from previous page.

Day 5

After an early breakfast you will travel into the Mahangu National Park. Being Namibia's smallest but most densely populated National Park, the visit will be rewarding in terms of wildlife and bird watching. The Mahango Game Park has a high number of elephants, as well as a healthy population of certain species of antelope which are scarce or not seen in other parts of the country - including the roan and sable antelope, tsessebe, red lechwe and sitatunga. The Mahango National Park is also an excellent destination for bird watching with over 400 species to be spotted.


Day 6

Departing the Mahango National Park, today you travel across the Zambezi Region to the lush woodlands of the Kwando River. Hundreds of elephants, large buffalo herds and numerous antelopes roam these majestic riverine woods. With over 400 species of birds, this area counts as one of the best birding hotspots in the whole of southern Africa. After settling in, you can opt to participate in an afternoon nature drive that takes you into the Bwabwata National Park. Should the road conditions here permit, enjoy a scenic stop at the famous Horseshoe bend, where at times hundreds of game species gather to quench their thirst.


Day 7

After breakfast, travel across the border to Kasane, a small and bustling town right on the edge of the Chobe National Park. Your accommodation for the following 2 nights is in a special corner of the African wilderness, where 2 mighty rivers meet, a wetland paradise that is a haven for nature and wildlife. Discover the wonders of this magical destination. Here wildlife roams freely in profusion and diversity. It is home to the largest concentration of elephant in Africa, while other game consists of large herds of buffalo, puku, lechwe, bushbuck and kudu. Other significant species such as lion, leopard, wild dog, sable and roan antelope are encountered in many areas of the adjacent game reserve.

Enjoy an afternoon boat cruise (depending on current water levels of the Chobe river) to experience the rich diversity of bird and wildlife of the Chobe River.


Day 8

Before traveling across the border to Zimbabwe there is still time to optionally take part in an early morning game drive through the Chobe National Park, offered by the lodge's own activity centre. Returning to the lodge breakfast is served on the terrace overlooking the river. Then depart across the border to the vibrant town of Victoria Falls and one of the most spectacular natural wonders - the Victoria Falls. The remainder of the day is at leisure to explore the town and its collection of art and craft markets on foot.

Victoria Falls - Zimbabwe

2 nights at Explorers Village


Day 9

Today with your guide, join a local guided excursion to Victoria Falls to discover why the Victoria Falls is one of the seven natural wonders on Earth as you explore it on foot. This dramatically beautiful event is accompanied by a deafening roar and fine spray that arcs up into the sky, giving the falls its local name - Mosi-oa-Tunya - the "smoke that thunders". Afterwards, you have the option to visit a craft market where handmade crafts of the local inhabitants can be purchased before returning to your accommodation. The remainder of the day is at leisure to relax or participate in the adventure-filled optional activities.


Day 10

You will be transferred to Victoria Falls Airport where you will check in for your flight home.

 
Travel Butlers Ltd
Astra House
The Common, Cranleigh
Surrey GU6 8RZ, United Kingdom
tel: +44 (0)1483 266725


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Mokuti Lodge

Etosha National Park: 2 Nights

Located on its own 4,000 hectare private nature reserve, which shares a common border with Etosha, Mokuti Lodge boasts unique African charm, and is only 4 minutes away from the Von Lindequist Gate of the Etosha National Park.

You can make the most of the landscaped gardens, relaxing in the shade under the trees or at the pool, or visit the Ontouka Reptile Park, play a game of tennis or billiards, explore the grounds by following one of the marked walking trails, be pampered in the Spa or workout at the gym.

There's also the option of accompanying one of Mokuti’s experienced game guides in an open safari vehicle into the Etosha National Park.

Etosha is home to 114 different mammal species including zebra, springbok, eland, oryx, kudu, giraffe and the all-important big four (lion, leopard, elephant and black and white rhino). The wide variety of animals guarantees impressive game viewing.  It is also a bird watchers' paradise, with more than 340 bird species recorded in the Park.

At night, guests tell tall stories around open fires after enjoying dinners served in the Tambuti Dining Room and Terrace, the African Boma or even al fresco under the towering garden trees.

Each of the 98 rooms, set under cool thatch, is equipped with an en-suite bathroom, air- conditioning and ceiling fan, telephone, mini-fridge, complimentary Wi-Fi and satellite TV with various channels.

Example Details For Mokuti Lodge

Nights: 2 Nights
Adults: 2 Children: 0
Room: 1 x Standard Room
Includes: Breakfast is included.

Location

Mokuti Lodge Location Map
Travel Butlers Ltd
Astra House
The Common, Cranleigh
Surrey GU6 8RZ, United Kingdom
tel: +44 (0)1483 266725


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Taranga Safari Lodge

Rundu: 1 Night

Taranga Safari Lodge is one of a very few luxury bush camp lodges in the Rundu-Kavango region. Intimate with only a few open fronted luxury riverbank tented cottages, situated amongst tall riverine trees, guests are offered ample opportunity to take in the sights and sounds of the African bush with views across the river into the nearby flood plains and during season the lily covered wetlands.

The riverine forest provides a great opportunity to view a rich variety of birdlife including the African Jacana, Giant Kingfisher and on occasion the rare African Fish Eagle. The Okavango river which is home to crocodile and hippo is flowing from east to west past the lodge on its final journey towards the Okavango Delta.

There are daily guided river safaris taking you out for an adventure; an early sunrise cruise through the rising early morning river mist or a late afternoon sundowner or fly fishing. You may plan to go on a bushwalk, traditional village tour or choose to celebrate the end of a lazy day by spending memorable time at night around the fire pit stargazing.

Everything at the lodge focuses on relaxation and enjoying the African wilderness at your own pace. The large wooden decks offer a private and idyllic location for those wishing to unwind. You'll find a swimming pool at the main deck to keep everyone cool or allow you to just relax and enjoy the African sun.

Example Details For Taranga Safari Lodge

Nights: 1 Night
Adults: 2 Children: 0
Room: 1 x Classic Chalet
Includes: Breakfast is included.

Location

Taranga Safari Lodge Location Map
Travel Butlers Ltd
Astra House
The Common, Cranleigh
Surrey GU6 8RZ, United Kingdom
tel: +44 (0)1483 266725


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Shametu River Lodge

Caprivi: 2 Nights

On the doorstep of the Kavango River and facing the beautiful Popa Falls, Shametu River Lodge provides true Namibian hospitality and is just around the corner from the Bwabwata National Park.

Wake up to the singing of the birds and the roaring sound of the nearby falls. In the day, occupy your time with a range of activities from a picnic, fishing trip or a sunset cruise.

There are daily game drives departing into the Mahango National Park or Bwabwata National Park, both of which have many species of antelope, along with giraffe, zebra, blue wildebeest, buffalo and a certain times, large herds of elephant. Hippo and crocodile flourish in the rivers and predators include lion, leopard, cheetah, hyaena and African wild dog.

Bird lovers will not be disappointed the rivers provide breeding habitats for wetland birds such as the endangered wattled crane and African skimmer. Keep an eye out for other notable species such as the African owl or banded snake-eagle.

The lodge has 11 beautifully furnished luxury chalets that are nestled between lush trees, along with 4 luxury tents on the banks of the Okavango River offering spectacular views of the Popa Falls.

In addition, there are 4 villa rooms 60 metres away from the main lodge on top of a little hill with views of the river valley below.

Example Details For Shametu River Lodge

Nights: 2 Nights
Adults: 2 Children: 0
Room: 1 x Standard Room
Includes: Breakfast is included.

Children under the age of 6 years are not permitted on mokoro excursions.

Please Note: As the animals are wild, it is not possible to guarantee what you will see during your safari.

Location

Shametu River Lodge Location Map
Travel Butlers Ltd
Astra House
The Common, Cranleigh
Surrey GU6 8RZ, United Kingdom
tel: +44 (0)1483 266725


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Namushasha River Lodge and Campsite

Caprivi: 1 Night

Caprivi (also sometimes called the Caprivi Strip) is a narrow strip of land in the far north of Namibia that stretches about 450 km. The region has Botswana for its southern border, and Angola and Zambia to the north.

This area is very green and lush, and is dominated by riverine forests, flood plains, swamps and open woodland. It is the wettest region in Namibia, not only due to the high rainfalls it gets between December to March, but also because of the number of number of major rivers like the Okavango, Kwando and Zambesi, which all originate from neighbouring Angola.

Over 400 of Namibia's bird species occur in this area, so for birding enthusiasts, this is a definate 'must do' - but equally, if you are just a general nature lover, you will also get immense enjoyment from a stay here.

Sunset river cruises, swamp safaris, horseback trails, mokoro trips, and game viewing (either on foot or by open 4x4 vehicles) are just some of the other activities that you can enjoy. Day trips can also be taken across the border to the Chobe National Park in Botswana or Victoria Falls on either the Zimbabwe or Zambia side.

One of the scenic highlights of the area is the Popa Falls, in the western part of the Caprivi. The Popa Falls are more like rapids rather than waterfalls, as they are formed where the Okavango breaks through a 4m high rocky intrusion in its riverbed, but they are still stunningly beautiful, nevertheless.

Namushasha River Lodge celebrates the wonders of the Zambezi water world. With elephants, hippos, many bird species, water lillies and African bush, a visit to Namushasha provides an enriching adventure into nature to the accompaniment of the chiming of reed frogs, bird calls, hippo grunts and the soothing sound of a boat skimming through water.

Namushasha's impressive central entrance, designed in true African style with a wooden chandelier and carved animals, leads guests into the attractive lodge set between the trees. The dining room, with its high thatched roof, is open on the sides to the river world, providing a suitable and airy welcome to wonderland.

The adjoining campsite has 16 sites situated on the grassy bank of the Kwando river under shady trees. They are equipped with private ablution blocks and power points. Campers are welcome to make use of the lodge facilities.

Example Details For Namushasha River Lodge and Campsite

Nights: 1 Night
Adults: 2 Children: 0
Room: 1 x Standard Room
Includes: Breakfast is included.

Location

Namushasha River Lodge and Campsite Location Map
Travel Butlers Ltd
Astra House
The Common, Cranleigh
Surrey GU6 8RZ, United Kingdom
tel: +44 (0)1483 266725


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Chobe Safari Lodge

Chobe National Park: 1 Night

On the very doorstep of the Chobe National Park, which hosts the largest concentration of elephant in Southern Africa, lies Chobe Safari Lodge. The lodge is set on the banks of the Chobe River at Kasane.

Game drives into the Chobe National Park depart twice daily, or alternatively, guests can choose to go on a full day game drive, including picnic lunch.

Boat cruises, led by expert guides, are available throughout the day to suit your individual needs. These are a wonderful and somewhat different way of viewing the game. During the dry season in particular, the wildlife congregate in their thousands at the water's edge to quench their thirst.

Other activities and lodge facilities include village visits, fishing, a swimming pool, and a curio shop. Guests can relax in either of the two bars - either the Sedudu Bar, which is famous for the most beautiful sunsets, or the Cocktail bar which overlooks the Caprivi floodplains. Dinners are normally served buffet style and feature the rich flavours of Africa.

Guests can also join a dinner cruise and enjoy a succulent buffet dinner under the stars aboard a boat, turning your evening meal into an unforgettable occasion as you sip wine while listening to the hippos grunting and snorting around you in the river.

The lodge has 46 individually decorated Safari Rooms which offer every comfort, including air-conditioning, luxurious en-suite bath and shower facilities, as well as satellite TV. Each room has its own patio offering views of the river from the comfort of your own room.

There are also 22 River Rooms, also air-conditioned, which are attached to the main lodge complex. These rooms lead out onto a riverside garden where you can often see monkeys and mongoose.

Finally, there are 8 traditional thatched rondavels are independently positioned close to the river and the lodge gardens, with ceiling fans and en-suite bathrooms.

Example Details For Chobe Safari Lodge

Nights: 1 Night
Adults: 2 Children: 0
Room: 1 x Safari Room
Includes: Breakfast is included.

Location

Chobe Safari Lodge Location Map
Travel Butlers Ltd
Astra House
The Common, Cranleigh
Surrey GU6 8RZ, United Kingdom
tel: +44 (0)1483 266725


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Explorers Village

Victoria Falls - Zimbabwe: 2 Nights

Only a short 2 hour flight from Jo'burg, a trip to Victoria Falls is certainly memorable. One of the 7 Wonders of the World, the sheer noise of the Falls as they cascade over the edge into the deep gorge is deafening, and the misty clouds of spray, occasionally broken by rainbows, are visible from over 40 km away - giving rise to the local name that translates as 'the Smoke that Thunders'.

Ever since the 19th century English explorer David Livingston became the first Westerner to see the Falls, they have held a magical draw for visitors to Africa, and they remain an iconic travel destination that many dream of but few get the chance to visit.

75% of the Falls can be seen from the Ziimbabwe side, and a network of paths allows you to see more of the Falls from virtually every angle, and get a better perspective of its full width and power. Both the widest single part of the falls - the Main Falls - and the greatest drop - the Rainbow Falls at 108 meters - are on the Zimbabwean side, and this side never dries up completely, even at the height of the dry season (October to December).

Another truly spectacular way to view and appreciate the full extent of the Falls is by taking a 'Flight of Angels' helicopter ride over the Falls. Sunset cruises on the Zambezi River are also very popular, and adrenelin seekers can enjoy bungee jumping, white water rafting and body boarding.

Explorers Village is situated only 400m from the Victoria Falls.The property boasts 54 deluxe rooms, 42 standard rooms and also offers some serviced camping facilities.

It is so close to the Falls that it occasionally receives an early morning shower from the Falls spray. The property overlooks the African bush and a waterhole frequently visited by elephant and buffalo and yet it is very near the craft markets and entertainment district.

There are also spa facilities which offer a range of pedicures and massages, plus a bar, restaurant, lounge, and pool area.

Example Details For Explorers Village

Nights: 2 Nights
Adults: 2 Children: 0
Room: 1 x Standard Room
Includes: Breakfast is included.

Location

Explorers Village Location Map
Travel Butlers Ltd
Astra House
The Common, Cranleigh
Surrey GU6 8RZ, United Kingdom
tel: +44 (0)1483 266725


Page 

Important Travel Information For Namibia

Passport, Visa and Entry Requirements

Latest Travel Updates

For up-to-date travel information from the UK government, please check:

UK Government Advice: www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/namibia

 

Normally, holders of the following passports do not require a visa to enter Namibia when travelling as a tourist for stays up to 90 days:

United Kingdom; United States of America; Canada; Australia; New Zealand; Ireland; Belgium; Netherlands; Italy; France; Germany; Spain; South Africa.

If you are a passport holder from another country, please contact your local Namibia High Commission or Embassy for up-to-date visa requirements, as citizens of certain countries are required to obtain visas before travelling. You can also check on https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Visa_policy_of_Namibia

Please note that if you are applying to the Embassy for your visa, some visas can take a long time to be processed so please do take this into consideration, as it is your responsibility to ensure you have the correct visa in place before you travel.

Your passport should be valid for a minimum period of 6 months from the date of entry into Namibia and have at least one completely blank page for Namibian immigration to use. If you’re travelling to South Africa, you will need an additional 2 blank pages.

TRAVELLING TO/FROM NAMIBIA WITH CHILDREN YOUNGER THAN 18 YEARS OF AGE AT DATE OF TRAVEL: The following requirements apply regardless of nationality.

Parents travelling with children must produce an unabridged birth certificate for the child, showing full details of the child's parents. If the birth certificate is in a language other than English, it must be accompanied by a sworn translation issued by a competent authority in the country concerned.

If the child is adopted, the adoption certificate must be produced.

If only one parent is travelling, said parent must also show consent in the form of an affidavit from the other parent named on the birth certificate authorising the child to travel (the affidavit must be no more than 6 months old from the date of travel), or a court order granting full parental responsibilities to the travelling parent, or (where applicable) a death certificate for the deceased parent. Legally separated parents should also provide a court order when the other parent does not give consent.

Where a person is travelling with a child who is not their biological child, he/she must produce an unabridged birth certificate for the child supplemented by affidavits from the child's parents/legal guardian giving consent for the child to travel and copies of the identity documents or passport of the parents/legal guardian PLUS their contact details.

There are also additional rules for unaccompanied minors - available on request.

PLEASE NOTE: All documents must be original - PHOTOCOPIES ARE NOT ACCEPTED. In the case of foreign countries that do not issue unabridged birth certificates, a letter to this effect issued by the competent authority of the foreign country should be produced.

For more information, please contact your Namibia High Commission.

IMPORTANT: Plastic bags are banned in all Namibian National Parks. Arriving visitors are requested to avoid bring plastic bags into the Parks and any plastic bags in your possession will be removed by the Ministry of Environment and Tourism personnel when you enter any of the National Parks.

PLEASE NOTE: Countries can change their entry requirements at any time. Travel Butlers try to ensure that the information displayed here is correct, but the onus remains with the traveller to verify the information with the relevant High Commission or Embassy and ensure that they can comply with the applicable entry requirements.

Travel Butlers Ltd
Astra House
The Common, Cranleigh
Surrey GU6 8RZ, United Kingdom
tel: +44 (0)1483 266725


Page 

Important Travel Information For Namibia

Continued

Medical

You are advised to contact your doctor or clinic around 4-8 weeks before your trip to check whether you need any vaccinations and to get their professional medical advice regarding travel to Namibia.

To help avoid heatstroke, drink plenty of bottled water/fluids, and keep out of the midday sun.

Tap water is chemically treated and safe to drink in major cities and towns, but you can often taste the chemicals, so it is not particularly pleasant. Bottled water is readily available and is a much nicer-tasting alternative!

We also advise that you do not drink the water in more remote places such as Etosha and other National Parks, or on farms - the water may be safe to drink, but it simply is not worth the risk or being laid up with a dodgy stomach for the next few days. Do not drink water from any river lake without firstly purifying the water.

Always take water with you on a long car journey to avoid dehydration.

There is a risk of malaria in the Caprivi Strip. During the summer/wetter months (November-June), it is also advisable to take malaria precautions if you are visiting the Etosha National Park although the risk of malaria during this time is still deemed to be low. Check with your doctor about suitable antimalarial tablets. Dengue fever can also be transmitted via mosquito bites. Try to avoid mosquito bites wherever possible - wear loose long-sleeved clothing and trousers, and use a repellent on clothing and exposed skin.

There is no risk of yellow fever in Namibia, so a yellow fever vaccination is NOT required for travellers whose sole destination is Namibia. However, in accordance with International Health Regulations, Nambia requires all travellers over one year of age arriving from a yellow fever risk country, or having been in transit longer than 12 hours at the airport of such a country, to have a yellow fever certificate. These countries include Kenya and Uganda but it is up to the traveller to check the full list here https://nathnacyfzone.org.uk/factsheet/60/yellow-fever-maps

Languages And Culture

English is the official language of Namibia, although it is only the first language of a small percentage of the population, about 7%. Afrikaans is the most widely spoken first language for most Namibians, and around 30% of the population also speak German. Different tribes throughout the country speak either a Bantu dialect (including Owambo, Caprivian and Herero) or a Khoisan dialect (including Nama, Damara and San). The Khoisan dialects are characterised by a 'clicking' sound.

We would ask that all travellers are respectful of the local culture as follows:

If the army or police are protecting a building or place, check before taking any photographs. If in doubt, put your camera away! 

Homosexuality is not prohibited by law, but local attitudes can be less tolerant and public displays of affection may attract negative attention. Whilst everyone is of course entitled to their own sexual preferences and gender identity, we would advise all clients of the LGBT+ community to refrain from public displays of affection (including kissing and holding hands) and to be as discrete as possible about their relationship.

Travel Butlers Ltd
Astra House
The Common, Cranleigh
Surrey GU6 8RZ, United Kingdom
tel: +44 (0)1483 266725


Page 

Important Travel Information For Botswana

Passport, Visa and Entry Requirements

Latest Travel Updates

For up-to-date travel information from the UK government, please check:

UK Government Advice: www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/botswana

 

Normally, holders of the following passports do not require a visa to enter Botswana when travelling as a tourist for stays up to 90 days:

United Kingdom; United States of America; Canada; Australia; New Zealand; Ireland; Belgium; Netherlands; Italy; France; Germany; Norway; Spain; South Africa.

If you are a passport holder from another country,  you can check to see if you require a visa and apply for an eVisa here: https://evisa.gov.bw/#/home.

Your passport should be valid for a minimum period of 6 months from the date of entry into Botswana and have sufficient blank pages for the Botswana entry/exit stamps (at least 2).

TRAVELLING TO/FROM BOTSWANA WITH CHILDREN YOUNGER THAN 18 YEARS OF AGE AT DATE OF TRAVEL: The following requirements apply regardless of nationality.

Parents travelling with children must produce an unabridged birth certificate for the child, showing full details of the child's parents. If the birth certificate is in a language other than English, it must be accompanied by a sworn translation issued by a competent authority in the country concerned.

If the child is adopted, the adoption certificate must be produced.

If only one parent is travelling, said parent must also show consent in the form of an affidavit from the other parent named on the birth certificate authorising the child to travel (the affidavit must be no more than 6 months old from the date of travel), or a court order granting full parental responsibilities to the travelling parent, or (where applicable) a death certificate for the deceased parent. Legally separated parents should also provide a court order when the other parent does not give consent.

Where a person is travelling with a child who is not their biological child, he/she must produce an unabridged birth certificate for the child supplemented by affidavits from the child's parents/legal guardian giving consent for the child to travel and copies of the identity documents or passport of the parents/legal guardian PLUS their contact details.

There are also additional rules for unaccompanied minors - available on request.

PLEASE NOTE: All documents must be original - PHOTOCOPIES ARE NOT ACCEPTED. In the case of foreign countries that do not issue unabridged birth certificates, a letter to this effect issued by the competent authority of the foreign country should be produced.

For more information, please contact your local Botswana High Commission.

IMPORTANT:  Plastic bags are banned in Botswana. This ban is primarily aimed to reduce plastic in commercial use (as opposed to tourists bringing in plastic bags to carry personal property), however, we would strongly recommend guests avoid bringing plastic bags into the country if possible.

PLEASE NOTE: Countries can change their entry requirements at any time. Travel Butlers try to ensure that the information displayed here is correct, but the onus remains with the traveller to verify the information with the relevant High Commission or Embassy and ensure that they can comply with the applicable entry requirements.

Travel Butlers Ltd
Astra House
The Common, Cranleigh
Surrey GU6 8RZ, United Kingdom
tel: +44 (0)1483 266725


Page 

Important Travel Information For Botswana

Continued

Medical

You are advised to contact your doctor or clinic around 4-8 weeks before your trip to check whether you need any vaccinations and to get their professional medical advice regarding travel to Botswana.

To help prevent diarrhoea, avoid tap water – drink only bottled water and use bottled water for tooth brushing, and avoid ice made with tap water – and only eat fruit or vegetables that are cooked or can be peeled.

To help avoid heatstroke, drink plenty of bottled water/fluids, and keep out of the midday sun.

There is a risk of malaria in the northern half of Botswana, including Chobe and the Okavango Delta, particularly during the months of November to June - check with your doctor about suitable antimalarial tablets. Try to avoid mosquito bites wherever possible - wear loose long-sleeved clothing and trousers, and use a repellent on clothing and exposed skin.

There is no risk of yellow fever in Botswana, so a yellow fever vaccination is NOT required for travellers whose sole destination is Botswana. However, in accordance with International Health Regulations, Botswana requires all travellers over one year of age arriving from a yellow fever risk country, or having been in transit longer than 12 hours at the airport of such a country, to have a yellow fever certificate. These countries include Kenya and Uganda but it is up to the traveller to check the full list here https://nathnacyfzone.org.uk/factsheet/60/yellow-fever-maps

Languages And Culture

English is the official language of Botswana and widely spoken with all guides and general staff in camps and lodges having a good command. In the broader population, however, not everyone will speak English fluently as many have grown up speaking different tribal languages. 

We would ask that all travellers are respectful of the local culture as follows:

Although homosexuality is no longer prohibited by law in Botswana, public attitudes are less tolerant and public displays of affection may attract negative attention. Whilst everyone is of course entitled to their own sexual preferences and gender identity, we would advise all clients of the LGBT+ community to refrain from public displays of affection (including kissing and holding hands) and to be as discrete as possible about their relationship.

You should always ask permission before taking anyone’s photograph. Taking photographs of military and government buildings is prohibited.

Travel Butlers Ltd
Astra House
The Common, Cranleigh
Surrey GU6 8RZ, United Kingdom
tel: +44 (0)1483 266725


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Important Travel Information For Zimbabwe

Passport, Visa and Entry Requirements

Latest Travel Updates

For up-to-date travel information from the UK government, please check:

UK Government Advice: www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/zimbabwe

 

Normally, holders of the following passports require a visa to enter Zimbabwe when travelling as a tourist:

United Kingdom; United States of America; Canada; Ireland; France; Germany; Spain; Portugal; Italy; Switzerland; Australia; New Zealand.

If you are a passport holder from another country, please contact your local Zimbabwe High Commission or Embassy for up-to-date visa requirements or check this website: https://www.evisa.gov.zw/.

The following visas are available (all costs are per person and subject to change):

Single Entry: USD 30 (apart from British and Irish nationals who are charged USD 55; and Canadian nationals who are charged USD 75)

Double Entry: USD 45 (apart from British and Irish nationals who are charged USD 75)

Visas will be issued on arrival at an entry point upon payment of the correct visa fee - please make sure you have the correct amount of cash (US dollars) with you as change may not be available.

You can also obtain your visa prior to arrival, and this can be done as an E-Visa via https://www.evisa.gov.zw/home.

For visitors wanting to travel across to Zambia, the KAZA UniVisa is also an option (although unfortunately this is not always available). This visa allows tourists of certain nationalities to travel freely between Zimbabwe and Zambia, within a 30 day period from the date of their first entry.

This same visa will also allow those who cross into Botswana for a day trip to come back into Zimbabwe (or Zambia) without paying any extra visa fees - please note however it is not valid if staying in Botswana overnight.

The UniVisa can ONLY be obtained at SELECTED border posts (currently Victoria Falls Airport, Victoria Falls Land Border, Kazungula Land Border (border with Botswana) and Harare Airport) - the current price is USD 50 per person (subject to change) and payable in cash.

To check whether you are eligible for this visa, please check the KAZA UniVisa sections of the Zambian or Zimbabwean government websites.

For anyone entering Zimbabwe, your passport should be valid for a minimum period of 6 months from the date of entry and have 3 blank pages left in it to enable you to enter Zimbabwe and exit via one of the neighbouring countries, if leaving at short notice becomes necessary.

PLEASE NOTE: Countries can change their entry requirements at any time. Travel Butlers try to ensure that the information displayed here is correct, but the onus remains with the traveller to verify the information with the relevant High Commission or Embassy and ensure that they can comply with the applicable entry requirements.

Travel Butlers Ltd
Astra House
The Common, Cranleigh
Surrey GU6 8RZ, United Kingdom
tel: +44 (0)1483 266725


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Important Travel Information For Zimbabwe

Continued

Medical

You are advised to contact your doctor or clinic around 4-8 weeks before your trip to check whether you need any vaccinations and to get their professional medical advice regarding travel to Zimbabwe.

To help prevent diarrhoea, avoid tap water – drink only bottled water and use bottled water for tooth brushing, and avoid ice made with tap water – and only eat fruit or vegetables that are cooked or can be peeled. To help avoid heatstroke, drink plenty of bottled water/fluids, and keep out of the midday sun.

There is no risk of yellow fever in Zimbabwe, so a yellow fever vaccination is NOT required for travellers whose sole destination is Zimbabwe. However, in accordance with International Health Regulations, Zimbabwe requires all travellers over one year of age arriving from a yellow fever risk country, or having been in transit longer than 12 hours at the airport of such a country, to have a yellow fever certificate. These countries include Kenya and Uganda but it is up to the traveller to check the full list here https://nathnacyfzone.org.uk/factsheet/60/yellow-fever-maps

There is a risk of malaria in all areas of Zimbabwe - check with your doctor about suitable antimalarial tablets. Dengue fever can also be transmitted via mosquito bites. Try to avoid mosquito bites wherever possible - wear loose long-sleeved clothing and trousers, and use a repellent on clothing and exposed skin.

Tsetse flies are found throughout the northern Zambezi River drainage area, including the Lake Kariba area. There have been some cases of sleeping sickness occurring after a tsetse fly bite, although these are mainly amongst farmers and other locals who have repeated exposure to bites. However, the fly can still deliver a painful bite, so it is advisable to take necessary precautions - don't wear dark colours, especially black and blue (including denim), wear long-sleeved clothing and trousers, and don't walk through bushes during the hottest part of the day.

Languages And Culture

English is the official language of Zimbabwe and is widely spoken with all guides and general staff in camps and lodges having a good command. In the broader population however, not everyone will speak English fluently as many have grown up speaking different tribal languages. Other indigenous languages spoken include Shona and Ndebele.

We would ask that all travellers are respectful of the local culture as follows:

Carry a photocopy of your passport at all times. Leave your original passport somewhere safe.

It is against the law for civilians to wear any form of clothing made from camouflage material.

Photographing government offices, airports, military establishments, official residences, embassies and other sensitive places is illegal. Taking photographs of members of police and armed forces personnel and of demonstrations and protests is also not permitted. The area around State House in Harare (the President’s official residence) is patrolled by armed members of the Presidential Guard and photography here is strictly prohibited.

Some acts of homosexuality is illegal in Zimbabwe. Whilst everyone is of course entitled to their own sexual preferences and gender identity, we would advise all clients of the LGBT+ community to refrain from public displays of affection (including kissing and holding hands) and to be as discrete as possible about their relationship.

If you’re working as a journalist (for example, as a reporter or news photographer), you must get accreditation before you travel. If you do not have proper accreditation, you are at risk of arrest, detention in difficult conditions, a fine and deportation. The Zimbabwe government uses a broad definition of journalism. This may include any form of interview, filming or photography. Consider carefully the risks associated with engaging in social media activities such as posting comments, blogging or sharing photographs, which can be seen as journalism.

Travel Butlers Ltd
Astra House
The Common, Cranleigh
Surrey GU6 8RZ, United Kingdom
tel: +44 (0)1483 266725


Page 

Book With Confidence

Travel Butlers have 20 years experience of booking travel to Africa and the Indian Ocean for clients from all around the world.  In this time we have supported clients through disruptions caused by numerous unexpected events including natural disasters, localised disease outbreaks and airline cancellations. Nobody can be certain exactly what will happen in the future, however Travel Butlers can offer you peace of mind and flexibility to ensure that you feel confident booking a holiday with us.

Flexibility and peace of mind before you travel

Our team are specialists in travel to Africa and the Indian Ocean, and we are constantly monitoring the changing situation regarding travel to the region. If your trip cannot go ahead due to specific travel restrictions related to Covid-19 then we will get in touch to offer you the choice of the following:

The specific Covid-19 travel restrictions are defined as follows:

We would not normally be able to confirm that your trip cannot proceed due to travel restrictions until a couple of weeks before the start of your trip, however should you want to look at postponing or altering your trip before then we would aim to be as flexible as possible.

If we confirm that your trip is unable to proceed due to Covid-19 travel restrictions, then we will not charge you an amendment fee if you choose to postpone your trip or move it to another destination. We may need to adjust the cost of your trip to reflect the new dates, particularly if those coincide with a more expensive season of travel or higher grade of accommodation. Equally, if the cost of your postponed trip is less, we will reduce the cost accordingly.

You should still take out travel insurance that includes Covid-19  to cover you in the event that your trip can go ahead but you are unable to travel due to illness or a change in your personal circumstances. If there are no travel restrictions in place that mean your trip could not go ahead but you need to cancel due to illness or a change in your personal circumstances then our normal terms and conditions would apply. You should ensure that your travel insurance provides adequate cover for cancelling due to illness, including Covid-19, and you may be able to make a claim against your travel insurance depending on the cover offered by your policy.

Support whilst you are away

We offer 24/7 telephone assistance to all our clients whilst they are away, and also have partners in each country that are able to assist with any PCR tests or other issues that might arise during your trip.

If you fall ill whilst you are away, or if your trip is disrupted due to Covid-19 whilst you are travelling, then our experienced team will be on hand to assist you in whatever way you need.  You would need to pay any additional costs incurred due to illness or travel disruption whilst you are away, however you may be able reclaim these expenses on your travel insurance depending on the cover offered by your policy.  Travel Butlers will be able to assist by providing supporting documentation for your claim.

Financial protection for your Travel Butlers holiday

All of the holidays we sell are 100% financially protected through our ATOL and ABTOT bonding so your money is in safe hands when you book a Travel Butlers holiday. Furthermore, our business is well positioned to navigate through the challenges which the travel industry is currently facing.

Please read our Terms and Conditions for more information.

Finding suitable travel insurance that covers Covid-19

You can now get insurance that offers cover for disruption related to Covid-19, and these policies could include cover for:

Not all policies offer this kind of cover, not necessarily even all policies from the same provider, so you should ensure you check the policy details carefully before buying your insurance. 

You can read more about choosing suitable travel insurance in the FCDO guide to travel insurance.