Of course, as this is one of the best times in the bush as all the animals are smiling.

Absolutely! Since we are in sole charge of the property we can do whatever we want (within the reasons of safety, of course!)

Yes, our reserve is well-located to outposts and stores where we can pick things up for you if you need them. We recommend trying to bring everything that you think you may need but in an emergency we will be able to accommodate most requests.

No, we would recommend bringing a pair of binoculars as sometimes there is a great sighting deeper into the bush or up a tree. Sometimes the animals are close to or on the road but it is never a guarantee.

Opportunity to see the big 4 of the big 5 up and personal- we are in the process of reintroducing lions back into the ecosystem of this reserve and until then you will get to see Elephant, Rhino, Buffalo and Leopard. African Wildlife is unpredictable but through the course of your stay it is very well within your reach to see all of these animals during your stay!

There are ATM-s where you can draw South African Rands available at our stops en route to the camp.

Yes, we do take American Dollars or Euro as well as South African Rands.

Our rates do not include gratuities. Any gratuities you wish to leave for the staff will be GREATLY appreciated. These can be paid in CASH directly to the member of staff at your discretion, or by CREDIT CARD along with your beverages account on the morning of your departure.

It’s important that you receive the most accurate and up-to-date travel health information for the region you will be visiting. The only one qualified to provide you with this advice is your family physician or a specialist from a Travel Health clinic.

The Eastern Cape is designated as a Malaria Free zone so you shouldn’t have any issues! Additional preventive measures such as covering your arms, feet and legs during the early mornings and evenings by wearing long sleeve clothing, apply a good quality mosquito repellent and sleep under a mosquito net. Lodges are equipped with mosquito and insect repellent as well as mosquito nets around the beds and on the windows and doors. Do not let the risk of malaria stop you from enjoying your safari! Over a million people visit the nearby Kruger National Park every year, and very few cases of malaria are reported!

It seems obvious, but we would be remiss if we didn’t put this at the top of the list of what you must pack for your trip!

Remember to put your prescription medications in your carry-on (in case your check-in bag goes astray… it happens!) and make sure you have enough of each type to last your entire safari!

If you wear prescription glasses, be sure to pack more than one set (in case you lose one or they get broken). You will be outdoors for much of the time, so be prepared. Pack a hat, sunblock, long sleeves, and lip balm.

While most people will remember to take their camera and/or video (or will use their mobile phone), not everyone thinks they need to take binoculars!

Binoculars are ESSENTIAL for optimum wildlife viewing on safari (and a GOOD pair of binoculars will make a BIG difference to your safari). We strongly recommend investing in a pair of binoculars for our safaris!

Africa is a photographer’s dream. Not only does the boundless wildlife come in all shapes and sizes, but the continent is also blessed with stunning landscapes, colorful people and fabulous light! Don’t miss out. Buy a camera, if you don’t already have one.

Apart from selecting reasonably neutral or ‘non-bright’ colored clothing, safari-wear is generally casual and practical. Be sure you take clothes that you feel comfortable in – especially when it comes to your walking/hiking boots. The newer quick-drying fabrics, shirts with ventilation and trousers that convert into shorts are all worth considering. Be sure to check the average temperature for the month you’ll be visiting to best prepare!

Layering is key

Wearing clothes in layers is the most practical way to cope with fluctuating day/night temperatures and cool evenings while on safari. As the day warms up you can peel off another layer. Then as it begins to cool toward evening, you can put them back on. Here’s the “must-haves” to pack for your safari:

• T-shirt, shirt or blouse – long sleeves and collars help to protect from the sun and mosquitoes
• Fleece or warm jacket
• A pair of safari trousers – those that zip off at the knees are very handy, too!
• Comfortable walking shoes and or a pair of hiking boots!
• Be sure to bring a good pair of socks!
• We suggest Merino wool! It’s a good choice of fabric because it keeps your feet from becoming over-heated and it absorbs a lot of moisture. Built-in synthetic support panels may give a good, comfortable fit but may make your feet too hot
• A safari hat that is SPF proof to avoid any sunburns!
• Bandanna or cotton scarf and a sarong (kanga, pareo, kikoi)
• Maybe a pair of open sports sandals for general daytime use in warmer months
• Swimsuit – For your beach day and yes, we do have a pool!
• A light, compact raincoat

Dull and/or neutral colors are more suitable for safari, white and/or bright colors are not practical as they tend to stand out – definitely not advisable on a walking safari. Cotton clothing is recommended although the newer synthetic safari clothing lines are quick drying and extremely comfortable.

Feel free to bring your electronics! Just ensure you have the correct country specific adapter plugs! type M 3 pin round plugs, 220V, 15amp are what we have available in our lodging!

Just in case the worst happens: diarrhea, headaches, heartburn, insect repellent, hand sanitizer, bites (antihistamine), indigestion, sore throat (lozenges), and eye drops. We will have all of the preventative medicines available on-site for purchase if any of these issues arise for our guest!

A good (flashlight) is a must. A rechargeable torch is ideal but a small battery-powered torch is sufficient as well. The new LED miner’s lights that fit on your head (and leave your hands free) are also a good option. A smaller (pencil) torch for emergencies or looking at star maps is also worth considering. Most camps will provide a torch, or will walk you back to your tent as required, but being self-sufficient is always a good idea.

A good book. It never hurts to have an interesting book when travelling. You never know when you are going to be delayed at the airport or fall victim to Africa time!

A travel diary or journal is something we recommend. You will see and experience so much in such a short period of time on safari, that the only way to maintain a good record of it will be to write it down. It does require discipline, but will serve as an invaluable record of your safari adventure.

We keep our group sizes low so you have the freedom to move around and get involved with your surroundings, as well as more personal attention from our local guides. This intimate size ensures that your group will not crowd your experience. You can expect up to 8-10 MAX participants on a trip but the average is 8.

Requirements for travel visas vary widely depending on your nationality and your destination. If you do require a visa you can arrange them yourself or use the services of a travel agent or visa processing company.

To travel independently you must be at least 18 years of age. There are no upper age limits for most of our tours (although 18-to-Thirtysomethings tours are restricted exclusively to 18-to-39-year-olds). Also, travelers with pre-existing medical conditions are required to complete a medical questionnaire.

If you are travelling on your own, you will be sharing a room with another VETPAW participant of the same sex. Some tours have an optional single supplement or rarely a mandatory single supplement.

An optional service that may be available is called “My Own Room”. This service allows solo travelers to request their own private room while on tour. The cost and the details vary by trip, so please contact experiences@vetpaw.org for more information.

It’s extremely difficult if not impossible to join a tour after it has begun. It is possible to leave a tour early however you will be responsible for your own arrangements from the moment you decide to leave the tour. You would also be responsible for all costs associated with joining a tour late or leaving one early. If you feel this may be necessary please consult experiences@vetpaw.org before you book your adventure.

No, the programs fee only includes your stay and accommodations for the ten days.

No, you do not need to rent a car during your stay with us. All transportation to and from the airport will be arranged for your arrival/departure. Also, during your stay with us on the reserve you will be driven around in our safari Land cruisers by our team members. However, you’re more than welcome to rent a vehicle at your own discretion.

You’ll be placed in a Facebook group once your group is filled and there you will be able to make introductions and share any tid-bits of information prior to your arrival. Our program does appeal to a wide range of travelers, most of whom share an adventurous spirit and a desire to experience these destinations at a grass-roots level! So get ready to have a great time with people who share the same interests as you most likely do!