Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is included in my Wildlife and Cultural safari package?
Your package includes game drives, all internal transportation, all activities, Cape Town excursions (like wine tasting, beach days, and mountain visits), comfy accommodations, most meals, water, snacks, and enough unforgettable moments to fill a scrapbook—and your camera roll.
2. What is NOT included in my Wildlife and Cultural safari package?
Not included: international airfare, travel insurance, wild animal cuddling (sorry), alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, one fine dinning experience, gratuities, shopping, extra carricular activities, medical, and any unplanned add-ons like baby seal clubbing or buying out an entire vineyard.
3. What types of experiences do you offer?
Luxury safaris, family fun, adrenaline-packed adventures, romantic escapes, wellness retreats, beach bum days, and city explorations. Basically, a buffet of awesome.
4. Can I customize my safari and city experience?
Absolutely! Want lions in the morning and wine by sunset? You got it. We specialize in blending wild adventures with Cape Town class.
5. Will I be able to request specific animal sightings?
You can request... but animals are a bit unpredictable. Think of it like Tinder for wildlife—you might match with a lion, or a very photogenic warthog.
6. How close will I get to the animals?
Close enough for jaw-dropping photos, but not so close that you’ll end up a guest at their next dinner party. Safety (and zoom lenses) first.
7. What does a typical day look like on safari and in Cape Town?
Morning safari? Check. Afternoon wine farm? Check. Sunset on the beach? Double check. Expect adventure with a side of chilled South African sauvignon (unless you are a tea-totaler - btw - there is no sweet iced tea in South Africa).
8. How physically demanding are the activities?
Most of it is easy-going. If you can climb into a safari vehicle and lift a wine glass, you’re all set. Some hikes and walking tours require moderate fitness - but we will tailor those to the group.
9. Are safaris and Cape Town excursions suitable for families with kids?
Yes! We love little explorers. Many of our activities are kid-friendly, and we can tailor the fun to their energy levels (and snack needs).
10. How do I book a trip?
Just visit our website or shout really loudly into the wind—we prefer the website though. We’ll help build your dream itinerary from start to giraffe-finish.
11. What payment methods do you accept?
Credit cards, bank transfers, and South African charm. We make paying painless—no need to barter with biltong.
12. Is a deposit required to secure my booking?
Yes—usually 25% upfront to lock it in. It’s like calling dibs, but fancier.
13. What is your cancellation and refund policy?
Plans change—we get it. Our policy is flexible, just like a yoga-practicing leopard. Check our terms for full details - and discuss it with us so we are all on the same page.
14. Do you offer payment plans or financing options?
Yep! Because your dream trip shouldn’t be a nightmare for your bank account.
15. Are there group discounts available?
Of course! Bring your friends, your book club, or your family reunion. We reward the socially adventurous. With 7 or more, there may be some benefits available - defintely with 10 or more.
16. Can I book a private trip for just my group?
Yes. Private guides, private vehicles, private wine glasses—your tribe, your vibe.
17. When is the best time of year to visit South Africa?
May to October = wildlife wonderland. November to April = green, lush, and vineyard-ready. Basically, come when you want—we’ll be here with the elephants (and the wine).
18. Which airport should I fly into?
Best is Cape Town (CPT), but lion lanes and warthog paths will defintely be less crowed.19. Do you provide airport transfers?
Yes. We pick you up like VIPs—no safari hitchhiking required.
20. Do I need a visa to visit South Africa?
Most visitors from the US, UK, and EU don’t need one for short stays. But we’ll help you check, so there are no surprise plot twists at the airport.
21. Are vaccinations required or recommended before traveling?
Only if you’re visiting certain regions. But sunscreen and a good attitude are always required.
22. Should I get travel insurance?
It’s a no-brainer. We hope you don’t need it—but if you do, it’s worth its weight in giraffe gold.
23. Can you help with booking flights?
Yes—unless you choose to do it yourself, we cN HELP book the flights and plan your path to paradise. We don’t fly the plane, but we do want to make sure you land in the right place.
24. What currency is used in South Africa, and should I bring cash?
South African Rand (ZAR). Bring some cash for markets and tips. Credit cards work almost everywhere—yes, even on wine farms.
25. What languages are spoken during the trip?
English is widely spoken, but you might also hear Afrikaans, Zulu, Xhosa, and a few lion growls if you're lucky.
26. What should I pack for my safari and Cape Town trip?
Layers, neutrals, walking shoes, swimwear, sunglasses, a hat with character, and a bit of safari swagger. Also, leave room for souvenirs. And wine.
27. What kind of clothing is best?
Neutral colors for the bush, something breezy for the beach, and smart-casual for Cape Town’s chic spots. Basically, be ready for elephants AND espresso.
28. Can I bring a drone?
Nope. Drones are a no-go in national parks. Plus, birds give better aerial views anyway—and they don’t buzz.
29. Do I need to bring binoculars?
If you have them, bring them. Otherwise, just squint mysteriously—it adds to the experience. You could always do the Heidi Klum hand binocular.
30. Are there luggage weight restrictions?
Yes—especially for internal travel. Pack light, pack clever, and avoid luggage the size of a baby elephant. Try limit yourself to one checked bag, one carry on.back pack and one hand bag or cumputer bag.
31. Is laundry service available?
Yes, for the most part. This is South Africa. You do not need a new outfit for every day. Bring casual outfits (shorts/skirts etc) and one smart casual outfit for when we go out in the evening. We always carry a backup of grass skirts for the ladies and leather things for the men. This is Africa.
32. What photography equipment should I bring?
Bring a zoom lens, extra memory cards, and maybe a backup battery. Also, practice your 'David Attenborough' narration voice.
33. Is South Africa safe for tourists?
Yes—especially in the areas we operate. Just follow our local advice and don’t try to befriend the baboons.
34. What safety measures are in place?
Guides are trained, vehicles are maintained, and we prioritize safety like a meerkat on lookout duty.
35. Are medical facilities available nearby?
Yes. Hospitals in cities and clinics near lodges are well-equipped. We also have emergency procedures just in case you twist something chasing a sunset.
36. What should I do if I encounter a wild animal?
Step 1: Don’t run. Step 2: Don’t panic. Step 3: Listen to your guide—always. They’ve seen it all (and lived to tell the tale).
37. Are there age restrictions for certain activities?
Yes. Some activities have age limits. But don’t worry—we have amazing alternatives for young adventurers or folks who prefer relaxation over rhino encounters or baby seal clubbing.
38. Should I take malaria medication?
Only in some areas. Your doctor can advise. But rest assured, we keep mosquito romance to a minimum. BTW - malarie medication is OTC in South Africa, and available for a few dollars. We will let you know if you need it.
39. Is the tap water safe to drink?
Yes in most places. But we also offer bottled water, tea, coffee, and local wine (very hygienic).
40. What kinds of accommodations will I stay in?
Everything from safari lodges to beachfront hotels to boutique guesthouses with views that make postcards jealous.
41. Do lodges and hotels have electricity and WiFi?
Yes—though signal may go on a mini safari of its own in remote spots. WiFi’s better in Cape Town, but don’t worry—nature has full bars.
42. Are vegan, vegetarian, kosher, or halal meals available?
Yes to all the above. Just tell us in advance and we’ll make sure your taste buds and beliefs are well cared for.
43. Can dietary restrictions be accommodated?
Absolutely. Allergies? Preferences? We accommodate like pros—even if you only eat things that start with ‘Q’.
44. What kind of food is served?
Delicious, local, and full of flavor. From bra ais (BBQs) in the bush to seafood feasts by the ocean. The food is the same as US for the most part, we just fix it differently. We have stopped making baby seal flipper fish sandwhiches - despite their high demand.
45. Do I need to bring my own snacks or drinks?
Optional! But if you’re a snacker or picky eater, feel free. There’s also a good chance you’ll discover new favorite treats here. And we will have a supply on hand.
46. Is alcohol available during the trip?
Yes. South African wines are legendary, and most lodges and restaurants offer great selections. Sundowners, anyone?
47. What activities are included in the package?
Game drives, wine tastings, Table Mountain hikes, beach lounging, and maybe a cheeky penguin meet-and-greet. Every day’s a highlight reel. There are humanitarian causes and local squatter camps - or we can visit the prison Nelson Mandela sat in for 27 years - the options are almost unlimited.
48. Can I add optional activities?
Absolutely! Shark cage diving? Helicopter rides? Cooking classes? Stargazing? Yes, yes, yes, and absolutely yes.
49. Are wine farm visits included?
Yes. Sip, swirl, and repeat. We visit stunning estates where the wine is divine and the views aren’t bad either.
50. Can I visit Table Mountain and the Cape of Good Hope?
Yes! It’s one of our most requested experiences. You’ll feel like you’re standing at the edge of the Earth (because, well, you kind of are).
51. Are beach days included?
You bet. Whether you’re a sandcastle architect or a professional sunbather, we’ve got beaches to match your vibe.
52. Can I explore Cape Town on my own?
We can arrange some time to do that - and we will guide you are to what some of the options are, and what places to avoid. Cape Town is safe, walkable, and with its mosaic of colors and tapestry of experiences, full of surprises.
53. Are guided city tours available?
Yes! Cape Town is loaded with history, color, and charisma. Guided tours give you the inside scoop (and the best photo ops).
54. Do you offer walking tours and cultural experiences?
Yes. From township tours to art walks and museum visits, culture is a key ingredient in our adventures. We can visit AIDS patients and enjoy other humanitarian experiences.
55. Can I do a self-drive portion of the trip?
Yes. We can blend guided and self-drive experiences. Just follow the GPS and maybe not the baboons.
56. Are night safaris offered?
Yes! The stars come out, the predators roam, and it’s pure nighttime magic—best enjoyed in silence and awe.
57. Do you offer walking safaris?
Yes, for those who like to walk on the wild side (literally). It’s the ultimate way to see footprints... before they see you.
58. Do you offer corporate retreats or incentive trips?
Yes, we specialize in helping you reward your best players. Nothing inspires success like recognition and a pat on the back - as long as it is not from a hungry baboon.
59. Can I book a honeymoon, wedding, or anniversary package?
What a great place to celebrate a wedding or anniversary - we can even get you married here. May as well start on the wild side of things. Sarafis are a great place to learn about monkey business!
60. Do you offer photographer or filmmaker-focused experiences?
You bring the lenses, and we will create the entire trip around magic Kodak moments.
61. Will my international SIM card work?
Probably - but local SIM cards are inexpensive - and there is way more fun stuff happening in front of you than back home.
62. What happens if it rains?
We cannot control the weather yet, but we will make every effort to ensure our program is adaptable and weather friendly. But Safaris happen in the rain all the time - where we are there or not.
63. What makes your trips different from others?
At South African Safaris, our goal is to serve you, give you the most memorable expereinces, and actually make the journey all about you. Do not be surprised if you get to know yourself and grow yourself in a whole new way in Africa.