Currency Converter:
Algerian Dinar 0.01380 72.45000
Baharaini Dinar 2.65449 0.37672
Botswana Pula 0.17562 5.69410
Cypriot pound 2.03957 0.49030
Ghanaian Cedi 0.00011 9,052.00016
new Israeli shekel 0.21115 4.73600
Jordanian Dinar 1.41343 0.70750
Kenyan Shilling 0.01322 75.62000
Kuwaiti Dinar 3.42524 0.29195
Moroccan Dirham 0.10746 9.30550
Namibian Dollar 0.14848 6.73500
Omani Rial 2.59774 0.38495
Qatari Rial 0.27465 3.64100
Saudi Riyal 0.26665 3.75020
South African Rand 0.14806 6.75410
Tanzanian Shilling 0.00086 1,156.99998
Tunisian Dinar 0.72674 1.37600
Emirati Dirham 0.27227 3.67280
Zimbabwe Dollar 0.00002 61,692.99890
Algerian Dinar 0.01380 72.45000
Baharaini Dinar 2.65449 0.37672
Botswana Pula 0.17562 5.69410
Cypriot pound 2.03957 0.49030
Ghanaian Cedi 0.00011 9,052.00016
new Israeli shekel 0.21115 4.73600
Jordanian Dinar 1.41343 0.70750
Kenyan Shilling 0.01322 75.62000
Kuwaiti Dinar 3.42524 0.29195
Moroccan Dirham 0.10746 9.30550
Namibian Dollar 0.14848 6.73500
Omani Rial 2.59774 0.38495
Qatari Rial 0.27465 3.64100
Saudi Riyal 0.26665 3.75020
South African Rand 0.14806 6.75410
Tanzanian Shilling 0.00086 1,156.99998
Tunisian Dinar 0.72674 1.37600
Emirati Dirham 0.27227 3.67280
Zimbabwe Dollar 0.00002 61,692.99890
Languages:
Main article: African languages
By most estimates Africa contains well over a
thousand languages. There are four major
language families native to Africa.
The Afro-Asiatic languages are a language family of
about 240 languages and 285 million people
widespread throughout North Africa, East Africa, the
Sahel, and Southwest Asia.
The Nilo-Saharan language family consists of more
than a hundred languages spoken by 30 million
people. Nilo-Saharan languages are mainly spoken
in Chad, Sudan, Ethiopia, Uganda, Kenya, and
northern Tanzania.
The Niger-Congo language family covers much of
Sub-Saharan Africa and is probably the largest
language family in the world in terms of different
languages. A substantial number of them are the
Bantu languages spoken in much of sub-Saharan
Africa.
The Khoisan languages number about 50 and are
spoken in Southern Africa by approximately 120
000 people. Many of the Khoisan languages are
endangered. The Khoi and San peoples are
considered the original inhabitants of this part of
Africa.
Languages of Europe have also acquired
prominence; English, French,Portuguese, and
Spanish, are official languages in several countries
as a result of colonization. In South Africa, which
was unique in having a significant number of
European settlers, English and Afrikaans are the
native languages of a significant portion of the
population.
Main article: African languages
By most estimates Africa contains well over a
thousand languages. There are four major
language families native to Africa.
The Afro-Asiatic languages are a language family of
about 240 languages and 285 million people
widespread throughout North Africa, East Africa, the
Sahel, and Southwest Asia.
The Nilo-Saharan language family consists of more
than a hundred languages spoken by 30 million
people. Nilo-Saharan languages are mainly spoken
in Chad, Sudan, Ethiopia, Uganda, Kenya, and
northern Tanzania.
The Niger-Congo language family covers much of
Sub-Saharan Africa and is probably the largest
language family in the world in terms of different
languages. A substantial number of them are the
Bantu languages spoken in much of sub-Saharan
Africa.
The Khoisan languages number about 50 and are
spoken in Southern Africa by approximately 120
000 people. Many of the Khoisan languages are
endangered. The Khoi and San peoples are
considered the original inhabitants of this part of
Africa.
Languages of Europe have also acquired
prominence; English, French,Portuguese, and
Spanish, are official languages in several countries
as a result of colonization. In South Africa, which
was unique in having a significant number of
European settlers, English and Afrikaans are the
native languages of a significant portion of the
population.
Passports & Tourist Visas
This information is based on current requirements for U.S. passport holders. A passport is required for travel to Africa and
for most countries your passport must be valid at least 6 months or longer beyond the dates of your trip. You should have at
least two adjacent blank pages in your passport.
South Africa and most African countries do not require advance entry visas for U.S. citizens, as in most cases visas can be
procured upon arrival for a fee. For Zambia it is best to pre-apply for visas before arrival. We can do the paperwork for you
for a fee once we receive your passport information. If you prefer to have the visas prior to departure we can help you get
them for a processing fee. You will need to send us your passport along with the visa application and other requirements.
Visa requirements change from time to time - it is important to check requirements before travel.
Visas for Botswana, Namibia, Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia and Zimbabwe can all be procured on arrival.
Climate in Africa
With a few exceptions (like Zambia between November and April), Africa is a year-round destination, and our focus is to help
you plan the best trip given your interests and time frame.
In equatorial Africa (Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania and Uganda) July and August are the coolest months and April and May are
the wettest.
Weather in Southern Africa (Botswana, Namibia, South Africa and Zimbabwe) varies dramatically. Cape Town has cool, wet
winters and warm dry summers, while Kruger Park, Botswana and Zimbabwe are cool and dry in winter. Rain in South or East
Africa is not usually a problem, because the normal rain pattern is short downpours followed by sunshine. Johannesburg is
known for quick 4 p.m. thunderstorms. The bigger question is what is happening in nature during the season you want to
travel.
Showing Respect for Wildlife
For 30 years we have had no clients injured by animals! However, caution is advised, as the wild animals are not like those
found in theme parks – they aren’t tame.
Most safari camps are unfenced: dangerous animals can and do wander through the camp. Attacks by wild animals are rare,
but do listen to the camp staff and guides. Safety precautions must be taken seriously.
Don’t go wandering off on your own without a guide – even to your rooms. Remain in your room or tent at night after retiring.
Respect your ranger’s judgment when approaching lions, cheetah or any wild animal in your safari vehicle. Don't insist on
moving closer for better pictures. A vehicle driven too close can hinder a hunt or cause animals to abandon efforts made for
a hard-earned meal.
Water
It is very important to drink plenty of water especially in hot, dry conditions. Generally, tap water throughout Southern Africa
is safe. However, bottled water is readily available, so those with sensitive stomachs should be prudent. Water in East
African cities is less reliable, but bottled water is readily available.
Sun, Bugs and Medical Concerns
If you travel regularly keep up on recommended inoculations and vaccinations. See your personal physician, a local travel
clinic or contact the Center for Disease Control in Atlanta for specific recommendations: 404 332-4559 or www.cdc.gov.
Below are some health tips and information on malaria. Beyond medical advice, consider statistics and ask what people who
visit or live in the areas you visit say and do. Above all, do not allow fear to tarnish your African experience!
ü Keep all medications you may need in your carry-on luggage.
ü Carry an International Immunization Card, available at any travel clinic, to document your shots.
ü Make sure your polio and tetanus immunizations are up to date. A hepatitis vaccine is advisable.
ü Zanzibar requires yellow fever and cholera vaccination certificates.
ü Inquire about the Bilharzia parasite before swimming in fresh water - especially in rivers running east.
ü Malaria occurs in many safari areas and anti-malarial medication is highly recommended for travel in malarial areas.
Clothing and mosquito repellents with Deet reduce your risk.
ü Use a hat, cap or sun block - the African sun is stronger than you realize. Clothing is the best sun protection.
ü Kilimanjaro Climbers: Consult your physician regarding medications you may need for altitude sickness.
What is Malaria?
Malaria is a parasite transmitted to humans by a noiseless species of mosquito active in the early evening and throughout
the night, at the times when one is usually sleeping or sitting around the campfire.
Please remember that the best insurance is bite prevention. In all camps your tents and chalets will have screens to keep
out bugs, as Africa does have its fair share of crawling critters. Use mosquito repellents liberally. Wear long-sleeved shirts
and trousers or slacks in the evenings. If staying in a bungalow or tent, spray an insecticide to kill any mosquitoes that may
have flown in with you. Use mosquito coils, if provided, and sleep under a mosquito net if provided.
Malaria is most prevalent at lower altitudes during the warmer and wetter months. In many cases, camps are situated in
remote, unpopulated areas, reducing the chances of contracting malaria. Nonetheless preventative measures should be
taken.
With sensible precautions malaria is uncommon. In 30 years of organizing African safaris Travel Beyond has had no traveler
contract malaria.
Personal Safety
Most tourists visit areas less affected by crime and, with sensible precautions, are unlikely to experience crime. Do exercise
the usual precautions: watch your suitcases and handbags, and place wallets and passports in a front pocket or in a travel
document pouch worn on your body when in public areas. Do not walk alone - especially at night - and ask the advice of
local people before walking or driving in unfamiliar areas.
Recommended Packing List for Southern Africa
Pack light! Remember that a layered wardrobe will serve you best, and you can always buy an extra pair of safari shorts or a
shirt. When in doubt leave it at home. Although eager porters abound, you should be capable of carrying your own bags at
all times. Free baggage carts are available in most African airports.
For game viewing it is important to wear neutral, natural colors, but it is not necessary to buy a complete khaki wardrobe.
One-day laundry and dry-cleaning is available in larger hotels and when you are on safari the staff will wash a moderate
amount of clothes (excluding under garments) each day.
In East Africa and other more conservative areas it is inconsiderate for women to show a lot of skin (especially in the cities)
or to wear shorts; exercise common sense. These considerations do not apply on safari in the bush.
Note that Royal Blue attracts Tsetse flies!
Your passport and travel documentation provided by Travel Beyond.
Other Optional Items
Packing & Other Free Tips
You will find suede looks sharper than leather in dusty, dry desert areas.
Pack essential items (a change of clothes and medications) in your carry-on bag in case of luggage delay.
Wrap duct tape around your water or shaving cream bottle for emergency repairs of luggage and other items.
Contact Information: in case of emergency, give someone back home your itinerary and contact list plus passport data,
travelers check numbers and credit card numbers.
Meal preferences: most flights in Africa serve meals. If you prefer vegetarian, Kosher or want to try something different, let
us know and we will make a note in your flight record. SAA often has sandwiches, apples and other snacks available
throughout the long night flights. Just ask!
Ear protection: light aircraft can be loud. A small pair of earplugs makes the flight more restful.
The Southern Cross: be sure to ask a ranger to point it out one night!
Notes on Binoculars
Briefly, the wider the diameter of the front lens the more light will be transmitted, and the better you will see in shadows and
twilight. Magnification power between 7x and 12x is perfect.
Additional Packing List for Kilimanjaro Climbers
On the climb your porter will carry up to 40 pounds of equipment, including your sleeping bag (rated to 0°F or colder) and
pad, in a duffel bag which you provide. Plan to pack as light as possible. Every item is important, but do not bring extra! All
gear, tents and cooking equipment will be provided.
You will carry a daypack with personal items, water, snacks and a camera. You should wear your hiking boots on the plane,
and pack all critical gear in your carry-on bag in case of luggage delay. Note: climbers say “cotton kills” as it does not
provide insulation when wet.
Appliances & Laptops
Taking a laptop computer, video camera or hairdryer?
Europe and Africa both use 220 volts, but U.S. plug and phone outlet shapes are different and different countries have
different shapes. The solution is a plug adapter kit. We offer adapters for electrical outlets, and phone jacks so you can
stay on line. Please call us or see our web site: www.travelbeyond.com.
Note most video and laptop power adapters work on 110 and 220 volt current, so you only need a plug adapter, not a
voltage converter. Many camps in remote areas will not have electricity. If you ask you may be able to charge an appliance
in the camp office.
Money Matters
You will find credit cards accepted and ATM cash machines available in most African countries. If you can draw cash on your
ATM or credit card with the Cirrus and Plus system in the U.S. or Europe that will work in Africa too. Exchanging traveler’s
checks or U.S. currency at foreign exchange bureaus, banks and hotels is seldom quick or convenient. For that reason ATM’
s, when available, are a better option. Note: gas stations will require cash!
In Southern Africa (Botswana, Namibia, South Africa and Zimbabwe) you will find ATM’s in almost every town or airport and
even at national parks. ATM’s provide a better exchange rate than banks or hotels. In case of a lost or malfunctioning card
it is prudent to carry approximately US$500 in travelers checks or cash. For convenience, ATM’s should be your first choice,
but do check what fee your bank might charge for overseas ATM use. Make larger withdrawals to minimize transaction fees.
ATM’s are scarce outside main capitals in East Africa (Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania and Uganda). Take low-denomination
traveler’s checks or bills and exchange only what you will need. Although camps and hotels will accept credit cards, do not
rely on them entirely.
Whether for departure taxes, tipping, curio shopping or other small purchases, you can never have enough $1 and $5 bills –
bring plenty. US Dollar bills are widely accepted in Zambia, Zimbabwe and East Africa. Carry $200 in $10, $5 and $1 bills
per person. Know the current exchange rate as you travel! Throughout Africa most street vendors will accept U.S. currency.
Tipping
U.S. travelers are known as big tippers and generally receive above average service as a result. What is pocket change to
you may be a week’s wages to the person cleaning your room. Remember that tourism benefiting the local people is Africa’s
greatest hope for preserving culture and wildlife. These suggested amounts would be considered generous by many and
are likely more than the average tip given by other nationalities.
Tipping should be an encouragement and reward for satisfying service. Developing your own gratuity philosophy will remove
the stress of tipping by automating the tipping response. A well-deserved tip should be a satisfying interaction for all parties.
In restaurants, the normal tip is 10% of your bill. Tip tour guides and safari rangers $4-$10 per day per person. Trackers
might receive $2-$4 per day per person, and transfer drivers $1-$2 per person. In camps $4-$10 per day per person may
be put in the staff tip box at the reception desk. This money will then be shared among the cooks, maids and maintenance
staff. $1 per person for porters is gracious.
For Kilimanjaro climbs, longer overland trips or Shongololo rail tours, we suggest distributing $75-$200 per person between
porters and guides. On trains with cabin attendants and assigned waiters tipping is expected.
Calling home from Africa
AT&T, MCI and many U.S. phone companies have toll-free access numbers for travelers calling home from foreign
countries. In most African countries phone cards are available which will give you airtime to call home. Cards are available
everywhere. Cell phones are widely available and may be rented, and while international rates are not cheap, this is by far
the most convenient way to stay in touch. In Africa, incoming calls are not billed to your cell, so your caller pays the bill!
Driving and Crossing the Streets
Except in former French colonies, Africans drive on the left side of the road. Traffic in major cities is as congested as in the U.
S. but on interstate roads outside cities traffic is light. South Africa and Namibia are wonderful countries to drive in! When
driving or walking across a street in a left-drive country, remember to reverse your child-hood conditioning: look RIGHT-
LEFT-RIGHT!
This information is based on current requirements for U.S. passport holders. A passport is required for travel to Africa and
for most countries your passport must be valid at least 6 months or longer beyond the dates of your trip. You should have at
least two adjacent blank pages in your passport.
South Africa and most African countries do not require advance entry visas for U.S. citizens, as in most cases visas can be
procured upon arrival for a fee. For Zambia it is best to pre-apply for visas before arrival. We can do the paperwork for you
for a fee once we receive your passport information. If you prefer to have the visas prior to departure we can help you get
them for a processing fee. You will need to send us your passport along with the visa application and other requirements.
Visa requirements change from time to time - it is important to check requirements before travel.
Visas for Botswana, Namibia, Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia and Zimbabwe can all be procured on arrival.
Climate in Africa
With a few exceptions (like Zambia between November and April), Africa is a year-round destination, and our focus is to help
you plan the best trip given your interests and time frame.
In equatorial Africa (Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania and Uganda) July and August are the coolest months and April and May are
the wettest.
Weather in Southern Africa (Botswana, Namibia, South Africa and Zimbabwe) varies dramatically. Cape Town has cool, wet
winters and warm dry summers, while Kruger Park, Botswana and Zimbabwe are cool and dry in winter. Rain in South or East
Africa is not usually a problem, because the normal rain pattern is short downpours followed by sunshine. Johannesburg is
known for quick 4 p.m. thunderstorms. The bigger question is what is happening in nature during the season you want to
travel.
Showing Respect for Wildlife
For 30 years we have had no clients injured by animals! However, caution is advised, as the wild animals are not like those
found in theme parks – they aren’t tame.
Most safari camps are unfenced: dangerous animals can and do wander through the camp. Attacks by wild animals are rare,
but do listen to the camp staff and guides. Safety precautions must be taken seriously.
Don’t go wandering off on your own without a guide – even to your rooms. Remain in your room or tent at night after retiring.
Respect your ranger’s judgment when approaching lions, cheetah or any wild animal in your safari vehicle. Don't insist on
moving closer for better pictures. A vehicle driven too close can hinder a hunt or cause animals to abandon efforts made for
a hard-earned meal.
Water
It is very important to drink plenty of water especially in hot, dry conditions. Generally, tap water throughout Southern Africa
is safe. However, bottled water is readily available, so those with sensitive stomachs should be prudent. Water in East
African cities is less reliable, but bottled water is readily available.
Sun, Bugs and Medical Concerns
If you travel regularly keep up on recommended inoculations and vaccinations. See your personal physician, a local travel
clinic or contact the Center for Disease Control in Atlanta for specific recommendations: 404 332-4559 or www.cdc.gov.
Below are some health tips and information on malaria. Beyond medical advice, consider statistics and ask what people who
visit or live in the areas you visit say and do. Above all, do not allow fear to tarnish your African experience!
ü Keep all medications you may need in your carry-on luggage.
ü Carry an International Immunization Card, available at any travel clinic, to document your shots.
ü Make sure your polio and tetanus immunizations are up to date. A hepatitis vaccine is advisable.
ü Zanzibar requires yellow fever and cholera vaccination certificates.
ü Inquire about the Bilharzia parasite before swimming in fresh water - especially in rivers running east.
ü Malaria occurs in many safari areas and anti-malarial medication is highly recommended for travel in malarial areas.
Clothing and mosquito repellents with Deet reduce your risk.
ü Use a hat, cap or sun block - the African sun is stronger than you realize. Clothing is the best sun protection.
ü Kilimanjaro Climbers: Consult your physician regarding medications you may need for altitude sickness.
What is Malaria?
Malaria is a parasite transmitted to humans by a noiseless species of mosquito active in the early evening and throughout
the night, at the times when one is usually sleeping or sitting around the campfire.
Please remember that the best insurance is bite prevention. In all camps your tents and chalets will have screens to keep
out bugs, as Africa does have its fair share of crawling critters. Use mosquito repellents liberally. Wear long-sleeved shirts
and trousers or slacks in the evenings. If staying in a bungalow or tent, spray an insecticide to kill any mosquitoes that may
have flown in with you. Use mosquito coils, if provided, and sleep under a mosquito net if provided.
Malaria is most prevalent at lower altitudes during the warmer and wetter months. In many cases, camps are situated in
remote, unpopulated areas, reducing the chances of contracting malaria. Nonetheless preventative measures should be
taken.
With sensible precautions malaria is uncommon. In 30 years of organizing African safaris Travel Beyond has had no traveler
contract malaria.
Personal Safety
Most tourists visit areas less affected by crime and, with sensible precautions, are unlikely to experience crime. Do exercise
the usual precautions: watch your suitcases and handbags, and place wallets and passports in a front pocket or in a travel
document pouch worn on your body when in public areas. Do not walk alone - especially at night - and ask the advice of
local people before walking or driving in unfamiliar areas.
Recommended Packing List for Southern Africa
Pack light! Remember that a layered wardrobe will serve you best, and you can always buy an extra pair of safari shorts or a
shirt. When in doubt leave it at home. Although eager porters abound, you should be capable of carrying your own bags at
all times. Free baggage carts are available in most African airports.
For game viewing it is important to wear neutral, natural colors, but it is not necessary to buy a complete khaki wardrobe.
One-day laundry and dry-cleaning is available in larger hotels and when you are on safari the staff will wash a moderate
amount of clothes (excluding under garments) each day.
In East Africa and other more conservative areas it is inconsiderate for women to show a lot of skin (especially in the cities)
or to wear shorts; exercise common sense. These considerations do not apply on safari in the bush.
Note that Royal Blue attracts Tsetse flies!
Your passport and travel documentation provided by Travel Beyond.
- 1-2 pairs cotton khaki pants
- 1-2 pairs slacks and blazer, dress or skirt and blouse for more dressy evenings
- 2 pairs sturdy shorts
- 2 long-sleeved shirts
- 1 sweater or sweatshirt
- 1 jacket or windbreaker
- Sneakers, sandals/Tevas/good walking shoes plus dressy shoes as needed
- 4 shirts: cotton polo or other lightweight shirts that can be hand washed work well
- 6 pair socks
- 6 pair underwear
- Handkerchiefs
- 1 bathing suit
- A good hat for the sun
- Personal toiletries
- Malaria tablets (consult your doctor)
- Basic medical kit (aspirin, band aides, Immodium, antiseptic cream and anti-histamine cream)
Other Optional Items
- Binoculars – one per person!
- Water bottle
- Diary, paper, pen and pencils
- Money belt or document bag
- Flashlight
- A Pocket Knife (pack in checked luggage)
- Sun glasses
- Sunscreen & Chapstick
- Alarm Clock or Watch
- Camera, film and batteries
- A waterproof/dustproof bag or cover for your camera equipment
Packing & Other Free Tips
You will find suede looks sharper than leather in dusty, dry desert areas.
Pack essential items (a change of clothes and medications) in your carry-on bag in case of luggage delay.
Wrap duct tape around your water or shaving cream bottle for emergency repairs of luggage and other items.
Contact Information: in case of emergency, give someone back home your itinerary and contact list plus passport data,
travelers check numbers and credit card numbers.
Meal preferences: most flights in Africa serve meals. If you prefer vegetarian, Kosher or want to try something different, let
us know and we will make a note in your flight record. SAA often has sandwiches, apples and other snacks available
throughout the long night flights. Just ask!
Ear protection: light aircraft can be loud. A small pair of earplugs makes the flight more restful.
The Southern Cross: be sure to ask a ranger to point it out one night!
Notes on Binoculars
Briefly, the wider the diameter of the front lens the more light will be transmitted, and the better you will see in shadows and
twilight. Magnification power between 7x and 12x is perfect.
Additional Packing List for Kilimanjaro Climbers
On the climb your porter will carry up to 40 pounds of equipment, including your sleeping bag (rated to 0°F or colder) and
pad, in a duffel bag which you provide. Plan to pack as light as possible. Every item is important, but do not bring extra! All
gear, tents and cooking equipment will be provided.
You will carry a daypack with personal items, water, snacks and a camera. You should wear your hiking boots on the plane,
and pack all critical gear in your carry-on bag in case of luggage delay. Note: climbers say “cotton kills” as it does not
provide insulation when wet.
- Gortex jacket with hood and pants
- Rain poncho.
- Light shoes (running shoes or hiking boots) for lower altitude climbs and medium-weight insulated hiking boots for
warmth and traction in the scree on the final ascent (gaiters are good to have too). Technical mountaineering boots
are not recommended. - Long underwear tops and bottoms: Polypropylene, Capilene and the new SmartWool are excellent
- Wool or fleece sweater
- Wool or fleece pants
- Wind shirt
- Thick and thin, warm and dry socks/liners. Experiment with wool vs. synthetic fabrics. Again, SmartWool (www.
smartwool.com) socks are excellent, and for most people cause less chafing than synthetic fibers. - Warm head-gear and upper body wear: a stocking hat, balaclava/face mask, tee shirts, a turtle neck, down vest and
mittens (with shell and liners) - Warm-up suit or extra long-johns for sleeping
- Bandanas for your neck
- A lightweight towel
- Plastic bags for keeping things dry
- Water treatment pills or powder
- Trail snacks & drink mixes
- 2 one-quart wide-mouthed plastic bottles (Nalgene bottles are excellent).
- Shade hat and wrap-around sunglasses
- A head lamp with spare batteries
- Baggage Weight Limits
- International flights allow 2 checked bags of no more than 70 pounds each with total combined dimensions (length,
height and width) of each piece not exceeding 62”. You may bring one carry-on bag (not exceeding 45” in total
dimensions) in addition to a purse or laptop. Most domestic African flights allow 44 pounds of luggage per person. Fly-
in safaris aboard light aircraft require soft "duffel" style bags and strictly enforce a total maximum weight of 24lbs per
person. We will let you know specifics for your itinerary. - Baggage Storage
- If you need to store excess bags during any portion of your trip possibilities do exist at some hotels and in some
airports. Please speak with us
Appliances & Laptops
Taking a laptop computer, video camera or hairdryer?
Europe and Africa both use 220 volts, but U.S. plug and phone outlet shapes are different and different countries have
different shapes. The solution is a plug adapter kit. We offer adapters for electrical outlets, and phone jacks so you can
stay on line. Please call us or see our web site: www.travelbeyond.com.
Note most video and laptop power adapters work on 110 and 220 volt current, so you only need a plug adapter, not a
voltage converter. Many camps in remote areas will not have electricity. If you ask you may be able to charge an appliance
in the camp office.
Money Matters
You will find credit cards accepted and ATM cash machines available in most African countries. If you can draw cash on your
ATM or credit card with the Cirrus and Plus system in the U.S. or Europe that will work in Africa too. Exchanging traveler’s
checks or U.S. currency at foreign exchange bureaus, banks and hotels is seldom quick or convenient. For that reason ATM’
s, when available, are a better option. Note: gas stations will require cash!
In Southern Africa (Botswana, Namibia, South Africa and Zimbabwe) you will find ATM’s in almost every town or airport and
even at national parks. ATM’s provide a better exchange rate than banks or hotels. In case of a lost or malfunctioning card
it is prudent to carry approximately US$500 in travelers checks or cash. For convenience, ATM’s should be your first choice,
but do check what fee your bank might charge for overseas ATM use. Make larger withdrawals to minimize transaction fees.
ATM’s are scarce outside main capitals in East Africa (Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania and Uganda). Take low-denomination
traveler’s checks or bills and exchange only what you will need. Although camps and hotels will accept credit cards, do not
rely on them entirely.
Whether for departure taxes, tipping, curio shopping or other small purchases, you can never have enough $1 and $5 bills –
bring plenty. US Dollar bills are widely accepted in Zambia, Zimbabwe and East Africa. Carry $200 in $10, $5 and $1 bills
per person. Know the current exchange rate as you travel! Throughout Africa most street vendors will accept U.S. currency.
Tipping
U.S. travelers are known as big tippers and generally receive above average service as a result. What is pocket change to
you may be a week’s wages to the person cleaning your room. Remember that tourism benefiting the local people is Africa’s
greatest hope for preserving culture and wildlife. These suggested amounts would be considered generous by many and
are likely more than the average tip given by other nationalities.
Tipping should be an encouragement and reward for satisfying service. Developing your own gratuity philosophy will remove
the stress of tipping by automating the tipping response. A well-deserved tip should be a satisfying interaction for all parties.
In restaurants, the normal tip is 10% of your bill. Tip tour guides and safari rangers $4-$10 per day per person. Trackers
might receive $2-$4 per day per person, and transfer drivers $1-$2 per person. In camps $4-$10 per day per person may
be put in the staff tip box at the reception desk. This money will then be shared among the cooks, maids and maintenance
staff. $1 per person for porters is gracious.
For Kilimanjaro climbs, longer overland trips or Shongololo rail tours, we suggest distributing $75-$200 per person between
porters and guides. On trains with cabin attendants and assigned waiters tipping is expected.
Calling home from Africa
AT&T, MCI and many U.S. phone companies have toll-free access numbers for travelers calling home from foreign
countries. In most African countries phone cards are available which will give you airtime to call home. Cards are available
everywhere. Cell phones are widely available and may be rented, and while international rates are not cheap, this is by far
the most convenient way to stay in touch. In Africa, incoming calls are not billed to your cell, so your caller pays the bill!
Driving and Crossing the Streets
Except in former French colonies, Africans drive on the left side of the road. Traffic in major cities is as congested as in the U.
S. but on interstate roads outside cities traffic is light. South Africa and Namibia are wonderful countries to drive in! When
driving or walking across a street in a left-drive country, remember to reverse your child-hood conditioning: look RIGHT-
LEFT-RIGHT!
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