AFRICA : SOUTH AFRICA

The world truly is an amazing place. Experience the natural and the man-made beauty and marvel at our wonderful planet. Beautiful destinations are everywhere. Take your pick and allow us to create a once-in-a-lifetime experience for you.

South Africa

South Africa is on the southernmost tip of the African continent. It boasts several distinct ecosystems such as big game parks to stunning beaches and lush winelands.

Wander through this rainbow nation’s vibrant cities to get the ultimate culture buzz. Travel from the bustling cities of Cape Town, Johannesburg and Durban, set amongst some of the most beautiful landscapes in the world, to the hushed silence and wildlife moments. This nation is a fascinating amalgam of many different cultures.
· Visit the Nelson Mandela Museum
· Take a wildlife safari in the Kruger National Park
· See the Boulders Beach penguins
· Visit Durban, South Africa’s playground along the coast
· Hike the Lion’s Head/Table Mountain
· Visit Robben Island and see Nelson Mandela’s jail cell.
· Eat African inspired food at many trendy restaurants in the Maboneng Precinct.
· Stroll through the galleries and stores.
· Visit Cape Town where the bustling city life perfectly juxtaposes with nature’s majesty.

South Africa has something for everyone, from the more deluxe traveller to the outdoor hiker and sleeping rough type.
From big city life to small-town charm, from the hustle and bustle of the cities to the tranquillity of natural wildlife parks, South Africa will entice and enthral you.

South Africa

South Africa is on the southernmost tip of the African continent. It boasts several distinct ecosystems such as big game parks to stunning beaches and lush winelands.

South Africa has something for everyone, from the more deluxe traveller to the outdoor hiker and sleeping rough type.
From big city life to small-town charm, from the hustle and bustle of the cities to the tranquillity of nature wildlife parks, South Africa will entice and enthral you.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

DO I NEED A VISA?

For the countries mentioned here on our website (South Africa, Zambia, and Zimbabwe) you will not need a visa.
Australian passport holders will need a visa for Tanzania and Kenya.

DO MOBILE PHONES WORK IN AFRICA?

Yes, there is extensive coverage, however, if you are going outside major urban areas phone coverage may be limited.

CAN I ACCESS THE INTERNET?

Most inner city hotels will have internet connection in the rooms or in a business centre somewhere in the hotel. Some safari lodges and camps in South Africa also offer this facility. In remote areas, however, there is no internet.

IS THERE A MINIMUM AND MAXIMUM AGE FOR SAFARI TOURS?

In most cases children 9 years of age and over can go on safari tours. If you are over 65 years of age you will need a medical certificate. 70 years of age is the limit to when you can go on safari.

WHAT DO I PACK FOR A SAFARI?

On flying safaris, the light aircrafts that charter guests only permit 8 kg of luggage per person. Only pack a few items of light and preferably cotton clothing for your stay in the bush. Clothing should be in neutral colours e.g. khaki, beige or bush green. Bring 2 pairs of everything: underwear, socks, shorts, shirts and one sweater. Don’t forget to bring a hat! In winter, make sure to take warm clothing as the evenings are quite cool.

HOW SAFE IS TRAVEL IN AFRICA?

Touchdown Tours recommends travel to the places mentioned in our website and a few select others. Eastern and southern African nations are quite safe to visit but as for all large cities everywhere the same safety principles apply.
For example, don’t carry any valuables in plain view, including cameras when not in use. Avoid walking alone at night and always check with hotel staff about the safety of walking in certain areas. Remain aware of your surroundings.
Those on group or escorted tours are least at risk. Self-drive individuals should plan their travel routes in advance. Lock car doors at all times. Never leave bags or other personal items in view or on seats. If you are on safari, always pay close attention to your guide or ranger’s information as they have experience in the presence of wild animals.

DO I NEED TRAVEL INSURANCE?

Many people often ask “Do I really need travel insurance?” It’s something travel agents hear a lot. This specific type of insurance is not something to skimp out on, especially when you are paying large amounts for your travel. The few extra dollars could be not only money-saving but also life-saving.

There are many benefits to travel insurance. It will offer you:
· Coverage in cases of unforeseen events when travelling
· It can not only save you tens of thousands for medical emergencies but help with emergency accommodation and vehicle accidents
· Dental insurance
· Assistance with lost or stolen luggage, handbags, backpacks and other items
· Assistance when your flight has been cancelled or rescheduled – this can wreak havoc on your travel plans.

Many Aussies mistakenly believe that their Australian health insurance will cover them in other countries. This is not the case, and any trip to a doctor’s clinic or a hospital, especially the latter, can end up costing thousands, even tens of thousands.

Even within Australia, if you happen to be travelling in an area that is more remote and there is a sudden medical emergency, you may have to be airlifted out to a bigger city.

Things such as weather, strikes, or technical issues can result in people missing a connecting flight or even leaving on the one they are scheduled to be on. In such cases, the last thing people want is to be left out of pocket for something that was unavoidable and not their fault.

It is also important to mention that banks and credit card companies are now offering insurance for travel, however, this insurance is often not comprehensive travel insurance and many people find out too late, that it was not worth what they paid for it. Travel insurance companies are experts in travel and therefore have the expertise and the coverage that is necessary for people travelling overseas or domestically.

So, when travelling, whether it be domestic or overseas, travel insurance is a must and should never be overlooked. Always check the terms and conditions. Touchdown Tours only works with reputable travel insurance companies that can have you covered for every unforeseen event.