Botswana is a mecca for nature enthusiasts. From the flooded plains of the Delta to the elephant rich Chobe, Botswana is sure not to disappoint. A glimpse into Zambia offers the spectacle of Victoria Falls, one of the most amazing natural wonders of the world. Delta and Falls Discoverer Original 2008 GPF 10 18 Max 18, Avg 12 Africa Zambia, Botswana, Namibia Culture/History, Wildlife/Nature 10 3 3 http://www.gapadventures.com/images/banners/zambia/zambia_livingstone_victoria_falls_2.jpg Arrive in Windhoek at any time. Begin your journey east, to the edge of the Kalahari desert. Visit a San Bushmen village to learn about the local desert peoples, take a nature walk to explore the fascinating landscape, or even embark on a game drive to search our some of the region's wildlife.
Today we cross the border into Botswana, travelling along the northern portions of the Kalahari Desert throughout the day - this is a severly arid, baren, though awesome landscape. After arrival in Maun, the biggest town in the Okavango Delta area, you can pick up any supplies and prepare for your 2 night/3 day journey deep into into the Okavango Delta.
The Okavango Delta Excursion is an experience not to be missed. While based at a bush camp within the world's largest inland delta, enjoy game walks and traditional mokorro (dug-out canoe) excursions, marveling at the wide variety of wildlife that calls the delta their home. This is truly an African experience! Wake up to the African sun rising over the beauty of the Delta. Today we stop in Maun, and continue to the village of Gweta, located near bizarre salt pans of Makgadikgadi. You will get a feeling of the local culture here as you spend the night here in fascinating traditional mud huts.
Today we journey to the Chobe area, your base for a visit to Chobe National Park, home to one of the largest elephant populations in Southern Africa. The best way to appreciate Botswana's largest national park and its thousands of resident elephants, crocodiles, and hippos, is on an afternoon boat cruise on the Chobe River. You may also choose to embark on a game drive in search of lions, antelope, and of course elephants. With time for a morning game before departing, we cross the mighty Zambezi River by ferry as we enter into Zambia. Spend the next day exploring the breathtaking Victoria Falls, a natural wonder of the world. Adventure activities abound - go white-water rafting or canoeing on Zambezi, take an elephant-back safari, or even fly over the falls for some fantastic views in a "micro-light", a motorized han-glider. Arrive in Windhoek at any time. Begin your journey east, to the edge of the Kalahari desert. Visit a San Bushmen village to learn about the local desert peoples, take a nature walk to explore the fascinating landscape, or even embark on a game drive to search our some of the region's wildlife.
Today we cross the border into Botswana, travelling along the northern portions of the Kalahari Desert throughout the day - this is a severly arid, baren, though awesome landscape. After arrival in Maun, the biggest town in the Okavango Delta area, you can pick up any supplies and prepare for your 2 night/3 day journey deep into into the Okavango Delta.
The Okavango Delta Excursion is an experience not to be missed. While based at a bush camp within the world's largest inland delta, enjoy game walks and traditional mokorro (dug-out canoe) excursions, marveling at the wide variety of wildlife that calls the delta their home. This is truly an African experience! Wake up to the African sun rising over the beauty of the Delta. Today we stop in Maun, and continue to the village of Gweta, located near bizarre salt pans of Makgadikgadi. You will get a feeling of the local culture here as you spend the night here in fascinating traditional mud huts.
Today we journey to the Chobe area, your base for a visit to Chobe National Park, home to one of the largest elephant populations in Southern Africa. The best way to appreciate Botswana's largest national park and its thousands of resident elephants, crocodiles, and hippos, is on an afternoon boat cruise on the Chobe River. You may also choose to embark on a game drive in search of lions, antelope, and of course elephants. With time for a morning game before departing, we cross the mighty Zambezi River by ferry as we enter into Zambia. Spend the next day exploring the breathtaking Victoria Falls, a natural wonder of the world. Adventure activities abound - go white-water rafting or canoeing on Zambezi, take an elephant-back safari, or even fly over the falls for some fantastic views in a "micro-light", a motorized han-glider. 1080 945 665 475 1305 945 875 Local Payment 300 USD 1080 945 665 475 1305 945 875 Local Payment 300 USD 1080 945 665 475 1305 945 875 Local Payment 300 USD 1080 945 665 475 1305 945 875 Local Payment 300 USD 1080 945 665 475 1305 945 875 Local Payment 300 USD 1080 945 665 475 1305 945 875 Local Payment 300.0 USD 1080 945 665 475 1305 945 875 Local Payment 300 USD 1080 945 665 475 1305 945 900 Local Payment 300 USD 1080 945 665 475 1305 945 875 Local Payment 300 USD 1080 945 665 475 1305 945 875 Local Payment 300 USD 1080 945 665 475 1305 945 875 Local Payment 300 USD 1080 945 665 475 1305 945 875 Local Payment 300 USD 1080 945 665 475 1305 945 875 Local Payment 300 USD 1080 945 665 475 1305 945 875 Local Payment 300 USD 1080 945 665 475 1305 945 875 Local Payment 300 USD 1080 945 665 475 1305 945 875 Local Payment 300 USD 1080 945 665 475 1305 945 875 Local Payment 300 USD 1080 945 665 475 1305 945 875 Local Payment 300 USD 1080 945 665 475 1305 945 875 Local Payment 300 USD 1080 945 665 475 1305 945 875 Local Payment 300 USD 1080 945 665 475 1305 945 875 Local Payment 300 USD 1080 945 665 475 1305 945 875 Local Payment 300 USD 1080 945 665 475 1305 945 875 Local Payment 300 USD 1080 945 665 475 1305 945 875 Local Payment 300 USD 1080 945 665 475 1305 945 875 Local Payment 300 USD 1080 945 665 475 1305 945 875 Local Payment 300 USD 1080 945 665 475 1305 945 875 Local Payment 300 USD 1080 945 665 475 1305 945 875 Local Payment 300 USD 1080 945 665 475 1305 945 875 Local Payment 300 USD 1080 945 665 475 1305 945 875 Local Payment 300 USD 1080 945 665 475 1305 945 875 Local Payment 300 USD 1080 945 665 475 1305 945 875 Local Payment 300 USD 1080 945 665 475 1305 945 875 Local Payment 300 USD 1080 945 665 475 1305 945 875 Local Payment 300 USD 1080 945 665 475 1305 945 875 Local Payment 300 USD 1080 945 665 475 1305 945 875 Local Payment 300 USD 1080 945 665 475 1305 945 875 Local Payment 300 USD 1080 945 665 475 1305 945 875 Local Payment 300 USD 1080 945 665 475 1305 945 875 Local Payment 300 USD Accommodation Hotel (5 nts), Chalet/bungalow/hut (2 nts), Basic camping (2 nts). Brief Highlights Kalahari, Maun, Chobe National Park, Okavango Delta, Windhoek, Victoria Falls. Brochure Notes Departure Departs twice monthly DepEnd Sat-Mon Group Leader Tour leader, Driver, Local guides. Group Size Max 18, Avg 12 Included Highlights - Okavango Delta entrance with dugout canoe trip Local Payment USD300 Max Pax 18 Meal Budget Allow USD150 for meals not included. For additional expenses, see dossier. Meals Included 9 Breakfasts, 2 Lunches, 3 Dinners. Min Pax 10 Recommendation Combine with our Cape and Dunes Discoverer tour, see code DAFD. StartFinish Windhoek to Victoria Falls Transport Air-conditioned touring vehicle, Walking, Mokoros. Trip Map A Couple of Rules Illegal drugs will not be tolerated on any trips. Possessing or using drugs not only contravenes the laws of the land but also puts the rest of the group at risk. Smoking marijuana and opium is a part of local culture in some parts of the world but is not acceptable for G.A.P Adventures Adventure travellers. Our philosophy of travel is one of respect towards everyone we encounter, and in particular the local people who make the world the special place it is. The exploitation of prostitutes is completely contrary to this philosophy. Our group leader has the right to expel any member of the group if drugs are found in their possession or they use prostitutes.
About Accommodation Hotel
3 nights in comfortable twin rooms with en suite or shared facilities.

Chalets/Bungalow
3 nights are spent in Chalets/Bungalows. Rooms are Twin, Triple or Quad with en suite or shared facilities.

Tented Camp
2 nights are spent tents in the Delta. Tents are twin with shared ablutions.

Hut
1 night is spent in a hut.
About our Transportation For all of our original class trips in southern Africa, including this tour, we use private 22-seat buses for the entire journey. With air conditioning, reclining well-cushioned seats, and sliding windows, this style of transportation is a comfortable way to travel through the region. In addition, even with a full group of 18 travelers, there will be extra space for the benefit of the group. Having our own private vehicle throughout the tour allows us the flexibility of making stops when needed. In addition, we are able to travel to out-of-the-way locations where public transportation does not reach.

Road conditions in the region can range from good to very poor. As such, we slow our traveling speed in the rough spots and enjoy some sand and bumps en route – something which is of course part of the adventure of traveling in Africa!

In the Okavango Delta, we leave our bus behind and explore in the area in mokoros – traditional dug-out canoes. The mokoros usually seat 2 people and are handled by ‘polers’ – so named as they move the mokoro forward by using a very long pole pushed into the ground under the water. This is a relaxing and peaceful way to take in the fascinating environment and wonderful scenery of the delta.

Arrival Complications We don't expect any problems, and nor should you, but if for any reason you are unable to commence your trip as scheduled, as soon as possible please contact your starting point hotel, requesting that you speak to or leave a message for your trip leader (if you are not on a group tour please refer to the emergency contact details provided in this dossier). If you are unable to get in touch with your leader, please refer to our emergency contact details. If you have pre-booked an airport transfer and have not made contact with our representative within 30 minutes of clearing customs and immigration, we recommend that you make your own way to the Starting Point hotel, following the Joining Instructions. Please apply to your travel agent on your return for a refund of the transfer cost if this occurs.
Associated Planeterra Project
Brochure Intro Botswana is a mecca for nature enthusiasts. From the flooded plains of the Delta to the elephant rich Chobe, Botswana is sure not to disappoint. A glimpse into Zambia offers the spectacle of Victoria Falls, one of the most amazing natural wonders of the world. Checklist Suggested Items:
-Fleece or wool jumper/jacket
-Windproof/waterproof jacket
-Small towel and swimwear
-4 shirts/t-shirts, cool and breathable
-Long-sleeved shirt or sweater for evenings
-1 pair of shorts
-2 pairs of long trousers
-1 pair hiking pants/track pants
-Comfortable shoes
-Warm sleeping bag
-Sport sandals
-Sun hat, Bandana
-Sunblock
-Sunglasses
-Watch or alarm clock
-Water bottle
-Purification tablets or filter (bottled water is also available for purchase)
-Pocketknife
-Flashlight or Headlamp (with extra batteries and bulbs)
-Money belt
-First-aid kit (should contain Lip balm with sunscreen, Aspirin, Ibuprofin , Malaria pills, bandaids/plasters, tape, anti-histamine, Antiseptic cream, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhoea, rehydration powder, insect repellent, extra prescription drugs you may be taking)
-Toiletries (biodegradable)
-Hand sanitizer gel/Sanitizer wipes
-Toilet paper
-Camera and extra memory card/film
-Extra batteries (recommended)
-Electricity Plug Adapter

For donation: notebooks, pens, pencils, pins, flags, pictures, postcards from your country for local villagers or children

Optional Items: reading/writing material, binoculars, cover for backpacks, Maps, guidebooks

Documents:
-Passport (with photocopies)
-Travel insurance (with photocopies)
-Yellow fever certificate
-Airline tickets (with photocopies)
-USD cash, Credit or debit card (see personal spending money)
-G.A.P Adventures vouchers, pre-departure information and dossier
-Any entry visas or vaccination certificates required
Departure Tax USD20, may be included in the international air ticket (when departing from Livingstone the tax is payable only in USD, ZAR & GBP). Detailed Trip Notes Food
This trip includes breakfast and dinners where indicated. We will try out local restaurants and cuisine through-out the journey. We will not supply bottled drinking water although it is available at many shops along the tour.

REGIONAL INFORMATION
Climate
Southern Africa is renowned for its excellent outdoor living climate. The winter months are from May to September and are characterized by cold nights and pleasant days. Summer is from October to April and starts off with increasing dry heat and dust. Rains generally only start from mid to late December and last until March; this period is hot and humid. Large parts of Namibia are desert environment, so you will have to come prepared with appropriate clothing for the winter season (nights only).

Local Currency
Namibian Dollar; Botswana Pula; Zambian Kwacha. We recommend that you bring US$ or South African Rand for personal expenses on this trip. Traveller's cheques can be changed in Maun and Livingstone.

Electricity 220-240V, 50Hz. Electric plug types come in two sizes and are standard throughout the countries. The two and three round pin standard plugs are acceptable in most parts of these countries.

Language
There are multiple official languages in Namibia, Botswana and Zambia, although English is widely spoken. There are also numerous dialects spoken throughout different parts of these lands.

Namibia:
Full country name: Republic of Namibia
Area: 824,292 sq km (318,259 sq mi)
Population: 2,032,000 (July 2005 est) 1.820,916 (Census 2002)
Capital city: Windhoek (pop 161,000)
People: 86% African (50% Owambo, 9% Kavango, 7% Herero, 7% Damara, 5% Nama, 4% Caprivian, 3% San, 2% Baster, 0.5% Tswana), 7.4% mixed, 6.6% white Languages: English, Afrikaans, German, Oshivambo, Herero, Nama
Religion: Christian, Lutheran, native religions
Government: Republic
President: Sam Nujoma
Major industries: Meat packing, fish processing, dairy products, mining (diamond, lead, zinc, tin, silver, tungsten, uranium, copper), millet, sorghum, peanuts, livestock, fish, tourism.
Major trading partners: UK, South Africa, Spain, Japan, Germany, USA

Formally known as South West Africa. The whole territory became German protectorate in 1884, except for the British/Cape Colony enclave of Walvis Bay. After the First World War the territory was administered by South Africa until independence on 21 March 1990. The capital is Windhoek and the second largest town is Walvis Bay, Namibia’s only port. Swakopmund is a coastal town with a German influence and revolves mainly around tourism. Namibia’s economy relies on diamond mining in the south, cattle farming in the north, fishing along the coast and tourism. Most of the country is desert or semi desert. There is a population of around 1.8 million. This, around 1, 5 people per sq. km is one of the lowest in the world. The official language is English although there are many different cultures including Herero, San, Koikoi, Owambo, Afrikaans and German. Namibia was at one stage a German colony therefore having German-speaking people. About 75% of the locals are Christian and the others have traditional beliefs. Namibia is a land of contrasts. Being largely semi-desert and desert, midsummer temperatures may rise to 40°C, while winter night temperatures can drop to freezing. Along the coast it is cool, with regular morning fogs. Namibia’s rain falls in summer, from October to April, and the land averages 300 days of sunshine annually.

Botswana:
Full country name: Republic of Botswana
Area: 600,370 sq km (231,800 sq mi)
Population: 1.6 million Capital city: Gaborone (pop 192,000)
People: Botswana 60%, Bakalanga, Basarwa, Bakgalagadi
Languages: English, Setswana
Religions: indigenous beliefs 50%, Christian 50%
Government: parliamentary republic
President: Festus Mogae
Major industries: diamonds, copper, nickel, coal, salt, soda ash, potash, livestock processing, sorghum, maize, millet, pulses, groundnuts (peanuts), beans, cowpeas, sunflower seed, livestock
Major trading partners: EU, Southern African Customs Union (SACU), Zimbabwe

The first inhabitants of Botswana were the San (Bushmen). They still populate the country, but the Tswana tribe is now more prominent. Other tribes include the Kalanga, Nbukushy, Yei and the Herero. The Herero women still wear the full-length Victorian-style dresses, which were introduced to them by German missionaries in the late 1800’s, however it is now a tribal trademark. The British controlled Bechuanaland (as Botswana was then known) from 1885 until the country received their independence on September 30th 1966. Ironically diamonds were discovered in Botswana in 1967! Interesting fact – Botswana’s diamonds do very well on the International market as they are classified as “Blood free,” meaning they are not used to fund guerrilla warfare. Botswana has the strongest economy and currency in Africa, mostly due to their diamonds and livestock. The European Union put many stipulations on their imported meats and Botswana’s tight vetenary checks, aiming at controlling foot and mouth, mean that the EU are happy to buy their meat. Agricultural income will improve when they have combated the problem of widespread drought. They are currently installing irrigation systems around the country to try to feed the most water-deprived areas. Botswana handles it’s international debt much better than any other African country with the interest being paid with one months export earnings, rather than the six months earnings it takes most other African countries. With the amount of for ex the have saved up the country could survive with no income for 36 months. Botswana has the world’s highest birth rate at 3.5%, and average women have 5 children. The country has a strong currency, the Pula meaning rain and the Thebe meaning raindrop. Government policies and poaching: Their policy on tourism is “high cost and low impact” therefore rather having a few less tourists and charging more money for the privilege of a visit to a park or similar. The country has a very good army, which has an anti poaching unit. Poaching has in the past been a problem in the country but in now almost under control. The army is allowed to shoot to kill without asking questions if you are caught poaching. Rhinos are very few due to poaching and they have breeding programs in place.

ZAMBIA
Full country name: Zambia
Area: 752,615km2 (17th largest in Africa)
Population: 10.4 million
Capital city: Lusaka
Largest Towns: Lusaka, Ndola, Livingstone, Kabwe, Kitwe.
People: Bemba, Tonga, Nyanja, Ngoni, Lozi plus many other different groups as well as Colonial ex-pats and people of Asian descent
Official Language: English
Other Languages: Bemba, Tonga, Nyanja, Lozi
Religion: Christian, ZCC and Islam
Government: Multiparty parliamentary democracy
President: Levy Mwanawasa
Currency: Kwacha
Major industries: Agriculture (mainly subsistence farming), mining, tourism

• Formally called Northern Rhodesia, Zambia gained its independence from colonial Great Britain in 1964.
• By the end of 1970, Zambia has become one of the poorest countries in the world due to corruption, mismanagement of the economy and a fall in the world copper price.
• In the 1990s Kuanda, the president since independence, was forced to amend the constitution, legalizing opposition parties and setting full elections in 1991. They were defeated by Frederick Chiluba. However, Zambia’s situation has not improved.
• The country has three distinct seasons: cool and dry from May to August, hot and dry in September and October and rainy between November and April.
• The majority of the population are subsistence farmers and there are also some large commercial farms growing sugar cane.

INTERESTING FACTS
1. Zambia is the fourth-largest supplier of copper in the world and the leading producer of cobalt. Combined the mining of these two minerals accounts for 75% of Zambia’s foreign exchange and 5% of employment in the country.
2. There are 73 officially recognized ethnic groups living within Zambia’s borders, each with their own culture and language.
3. Unlike many African countries, Zambia’s borders do not adhere to any logical language or tribal boundaries.
4. Unlike neighbouring Botswana the Zambian government does not have a comprehensive anti-poaching policy and poaching remains a major problem facing Zambia’s wildlife.
5. Approx 750 different species of bird have been recorded in Zambia. 6. The Victoria Falls on the Zambian side is known as “Mosi oa Tunya” (the smoke that thunders). Dossier Disclaimer The information in this dossier has been compiled with care and is provided in good faith. However it is subject to change, and does not form part of the contract between the client and G.A.P Adventures. The itinerary featured is correct at time of printing. It may differ slightly to the one in the brochure. Occasionally our itineraries change as we make improvements that stem from past travellers, comments and our own research. The group leader will advise you of any changes at the initial group meeting. Please note that our brochure is usually released in November each year. If you have booked from the previous brochure you may find there have been some changes to improve the itinerary. VERY IMPORTANT: Please ensure that you print a final copy of your dossier to review a couple of days prior to travel, in case there have been changes that affect your plans.
Dossier Intro Botswana is a mecca for nature enthusiasts. From the flooded plains of the delta to the elephant rich Chobe, Botswana is sure not to disappoint. A glimpse into Zambia offers the spectacle of Victoria Falls, one of the most amazing natural wonders of the world. Emergency Contact Should you need to contact G.A.P Adventures during a situation of dire need, it is best to first call our local G.A.P Adventures emergency number. If for any reason you do not receive an immediate answer, please leave a detailed message and contact information, so they may return your call and assist you as soon as possible.

G.A.P Adventures South Africa Emergency Number:
From outside South Africa: +27 82 5757 434
From within South Africa: 082 5757 434

If you are unable for any reason to contact the number above, we have a toll-free line for North America, which will connect you directly with our Toronto office. In the event that you cannot get through, you can reach a member of our Operations department at the mobile number below.

Toll-free, North America only: 1 800 465 5600.
Calls from the UK: 0870 999 0144.
Outside North America and the UK: +1 416 260 0999.
Mobile: + 1 647 504 6467
Emergency Fund Please also make sure you have access to at least an additional USD200 (or equivalent) as an 'emergency' fund, to be used when circumstances outside our control (eg. a natural disaster) necessitate a change to our planned route. This is a rare occurrence!
Feedback After your travels, we want to hear from you! Your feedback information is so important to us that you'll receive a special discount code for free online prints and we'll give you 5% off the price of your next G.A.P Adventures trip if your feedback is completed on-line within 30 days of finishing your trip. Please visit http://www.gapadventures.com/evaluations
Finishing Point Hotel New Fairmount Hotel & Casino
Mosi-O-Tunya Road
Livingstone Zambia
Tel: +260-213 320 723
www.newfairmounthotel.com
Email: nfhc@zamnet.zm Finishing Point Instructions The tour ends in Livingstone on Day 10 after breakfast. Free Online Trip Journals An online Trip Journal is a great way to record stories and photos as you travel, not to mention sharing your experiences with friends. Encourage your family and friends to follow in your footsteps as you explore the world! With templates for over 300 G.A.P Adventures trips already online all you have to do to get started is log in, choose your trip and your departure date, it's quick and easy! Head to http://www.gapadventures.com/trip_journal. Group Leader Description On this tour, you will be accompanied on your trip by a G.A.P Adventures tour leader and an expert driver. All of our leaders in southern Africa are registered and licensed tourism guides, meaning that they have studied to have a broad knowledge base of the region’s history, cultures, and wildlife, and are legally certified to lead/guide tours in the regions visited. Most of our leaders in the region are from South Africa, though it may be possible that you’ll have a leader from another country in the southern African region.

As the group manager and leader, the aim of the group leader is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. They will provide information on the places where we are travelling, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues, introduce you to our local friends, and will even prepare the included meals while camping in the Okavango Delta. He/she will take care of the small things so you can concentrate on enjoying your adventure. In addition, as an integral part of the team, your driver is skilled and experienced driver who has intimate knowledge of the vehicle and routes travelled.

We also use local guides where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places we are visiting.
Health We recommend you contact your family physician, or your local travel clinic for the most up-to-date health information at least one month before departure. Travelers should also carry a basic first-aid kit. Travellers to South Africa, Namibia, Botswana and Zambia should observe similar precautions to those taken elsewhere in Africa. Medical facilities are basic throughout these countries. For your own safety, we strongly recommend that you advise your tour leader of any medical condition that may affect you while travelling with the group. Be aware that all safaris enter malaria areas. Your doctor should be able to recommend the necessary prophylactics. Please ensure you have all the inoculations recommended by your doctor.

BOTSWANA: Water in the towns and villages, reassuringly, is perfectly safe to drink. It is recommended to visitors, though - those who want to take sensible precautions - that they are vaccinated against hepatitis A & B, which are common diseases, before entering the country. BUT Bottled water is the safer option when travelling in Botswana, Zambia, and Namibia. Malaria Area - please take malaria tables when travelling to Botswana.

ZAMBIA: A yellow fever certificate is mandatory if you are travelling from an infected area. Vaccinations for cholera, tetanus and yellow fever are advised. Malaria is virulent in the low lying areas of the country which include most of the good wildlife destinations. Take prophylactics two weeks before arrival and continue two weeks after leaving. Your chemist or doctor can advise you of the most suitable drug available as certain drugs lose their effectiveness.

Tap water in the major towns is purified and perfectly safe to drink. In the more remote areas always boil it first, except if you’re staying at a lodge or hotel where drinking water is boiled already.
Important Notes 1. This is not a physically demanding journey; however, travelling can be difficult, with long drives and poor road conditions at times. Despite this, most clients feel that the diversity of the African landscape, countries, culture and wildlife are all well worth the experience. We use a comfortable and safe customized safari truck for the long drives.

2. Please note that this tour combines with other G.A.P Adventures tours. As such, the staff and some travel companions on your tour may have previously been traveling together with G.A.P Adventures, prior to Day 1 of your tour. Likewise, some staff and travel companions may be continuing together on another G.A.P Adventures tour, after your trip concludes.
Itinerary Disclaimer While it is our intention to adhere to the route described below, there is a certain amount of flexibility built into the itinerary and on occasion it may be necessary, or desirable to make alterations. The itinerary is brief, as we never know exactly where our journey will take us. Due to our style of travel and the regions we visit travel with G.A.P Adventures can be unpredictable. The dossier is a general guide to the tour and region and any mention of specific destinations or wildlife is by no means a guarantee that they will be visited or encountered. Aboard expedition trips visits to research stations depend on final permission.

Additionally, any travel times listed are approximations only and subject to vary due to local circumstances. Joining Hotel AUAS CITY HOTEL
Centaurus St.
Windhoek, Namibia
TEL: +264 61 239 768
FAX: +264 61 239 826
EMAIL: acl@mweb.com.na
WEBSITE: www.auascityhotel.com Joining Instructions Upon arrival in Windhoek, arrival transfers are not included. Please make your way to the joining hotel. Windhoek Hosea Kutako International Airport is about 40 km from downtown. There are a variety of ways to get into the city.

Taxi: When arriving at the international terminal, walk straight ahead and out the doors and just to your left you will see sedan vehicles which are the taxis. The amount should be $250N but agree the price before getting into the vehicle.

Shuttle: When arriving at the international terminal, walk straight ahead and out the doors and just to your left you will see a mini-van. This is the shuttle service to Windhoek/Windhoek hotels/guesthouses and departs when the vehicle is reasonably full (Cost is $120N payble in South African Rand 1ZAR=$1N).

Pre-arranged transfer: Upon walking out of the international arrivals, look for a transfer person on with a G.A.P Adventures sign and your name. Ask him/her what hotel he/she will take you to (do not volunteer this information). Then present your passport for proof of identity.

A brief departure meeting will be held in the hotel reception area in evening on Day 1 of your tour. Upon arrival look for information from your tour leader regarding meeting time and also the rest of the tour.

The tour departs Windhoek on Day 2 in the morning.
Keeping in Touch If you need to be contacted while travelling we recommend that you set up an email address that can be accessed on the road, rather than relying on postal mail. Email cafes are becoming increasingly commonplace and cheap throughout the regions we visit, and have quickly become the preferred way for our leaders and travellers to stay in touch. If someone wishes to contact you in an emergency while you are on one of our trips we recommend that they contact your local booking agent, or refer to our Emergency Contact. We recommend that family and friends don't try to contact you through phoning hotels en route, as our hotels are subject to change, and our hotel receptions often don't have English speaking staff.
Laundry Please note that you will be on the move a lot, and as such there will not be a lot of time for same-day laundry service. Please ask your guide/tour leader to arrange if any laundry needs to be done, so that he / she can advise or make arrangements for you. Local payment description Most of our adventure tours involve a local payment. This amount is a portion of the price of the trip and the final payment for your tour. Paying locally facilitates the flow of funds into countries that we travel through and also helps to reduce the overall price of the tour. This helps G.A.P Adventures keep our prices competitive and in-turn, pass our costs savings on to you. Payment is to be made to your leader or G.A.P Adventures representative upon arrival in cash in the requested currency. Please see our website, brochure or your trip documents and invoice for local payment.
Meals Eating is a big part of travelling. Travelling with G.A.P Adventures you experience the vast array of wonderful food that is available in southern Africa. On this tour, we provide only a few meals for you and your group members, so as to give you the maximum flexibility in deciding where, what and with whom to eat. It also gives you more budgeting flexibility in you choices. Our groups tend to eat together to enable you to taste a larger variety of dishes and enjoy each other's company. There is no obligation to do this though - while in the larger centres, your group leader will be able to suggest favourite restaurants during your trip.

Your tour leader prepare the meals included in the Okavango Delta, arranging to purchase the foodstuffs before our bush camping excursion begins. Breakfasts will generally be cereals, if time allows a warm breakfast may be prepared. Lunches will be light meals such as sandwiches and/or salads. All evening meals will be freshly-prepared hot meals, and will consist of a variety of continental and local dishes.

For the included meals, vegetarian meal requests and other dietary requirements need to be specified prior to arrival. Medical Form Our small group adventures bring together people of all ages. It is very important you are aware that, as a minimum, an 'average level of fitness and mobility' is required to undertake our easiest programs. Travellers must be able to walk without the aid of another person, climb 3-4 flights of stairs, step on and off small boats, and carry their own luggage at a minimum. Travellers over the age of 70, or travellers with a pre-existing medical condition, are required to complete a short medical questionnaire, which must be signed by their physician. This is to ensure that senior travellers have the necessary fitness and mobility to comfortably complete their chosen trip. While our leaders work hard to ensure that all our travellers are catered for equally, it is not their responsibility to help individuals who cannot complete the day's activities unaided. Please refer to the physical and culture shock ratings in this dossier for more information.

Please note that all passengers, regardless of age traveling to Antarctica are required to fill out this questionnaire.

The medical questionnaire can be found online at:

www.gapadventures.com/online_medical_form.
Money Exchange Both Namibia and Botsawana have their own currencies, please see the end of this sections for more details.

The easiest foreign currency to exchange for locally for any of the local currencies is the $; however the British Pound and Euro may also be exchanged as well. $US notes that are older than year 2002 are not accepted everywhere and can be difficult to change. In addition, $US notes prior to 2000 are worthless in some areas of Africa, as they are rarely accepted and impossible to exchange. We recommend $US 50 notes, and $US 100 notes can be difficult to change in some places.

If you plan to rely on cash, please bring foreign currency (Euro, Pound, USD) with you, as it is often expensive to buy these currencies locally. And in more rural areas, it is often not likely. Please note that South African Rand is widely accepted in throughout southern Africa, and you may use this as you “foreign currency” while travelling in other countries in the region.

Travelers’ cheques are not recommended in Africa. They are difficult if not impossible to exchange in many places. Where they are excepted, you often need the receipt of the purchase of the cheques, and the process of changes cheques where possible is extremely time consuming. Please no not expect to rely on traveller’s cheques for access to cash in Africa.

Debit cards are very useful for cash advances, but you must remember to bring your PIN number (be aware that many ATM machines only accept a 4-digit PIN). The Visa/Plus system cards are the most widely accepted debit cards; it is harder to find machines Master Card/Cirrus cards. While there are many ATMs in the major centres, there are no guarantees that your credit or debit cards will actually work in Africa. Check with your bank.

Credit cards can be used in major cities and towns ONLY but please do not rely on them as a method of payment because they are generally not widely accepted. You should be aware that to purchase products or services on a credit card a fee of 5%-10% usually applies. Credit cards, especially Visa cards, ARE INDEED USEFUL, HOWEVER, for taking cash advanced in ATMs

Please note that in many areas there may be occasional power-outages, where there will be no electricity for hours at a time. In addition, ATMs outside of larger centers often run out of cash or can be out of order unexpectedly. These factors could affect your ability to access money from ATMs. As such, please do not rely on credit or debit cards as your only source of money.

A combination of foreign currency and debit/credit cards for cash advances is best, with traveller's cheques being a distant third option. Always take more rather than less, as you don't want to spoil the trip by constantly feeling short of funds. Experience has shown that it is better upon arrival at the airport/starting city, to draw a large amount of money from the ATM’s in the local currency. Your Tour Leader can advise you on the approximate amounts of money you will need for each country of your tour.

As currency exchange rates can fluctuate often we ask that you refer to the following website for daily exchange rates: www.xe.com.

The Namibian currency is the Namibian Dollar (NAD), which in turn is divided into 100 cents. This is equivalent to the South African Rand. There are notes of 10, 20, 50, 100 Namibian dollars in circulation. There are also coins of 1 and 5 Namibian dollars, 5, 10, 20 and 50 Namibian cents.

The currency of Botswana, the Botswana Pula (BWP), which again is divided into 100 thebe. There are notes of 10, 20, 50 and 100. The coins are as follows: 1, 2, 5, 10, 25, 50 and 1 and 5 pula.
Newsletter Our adventure travel e-newsletter is full of travel news, trip information, interesting stories and contests. To avoid missing out on special offers and updates from G.A.P Adventures, subscribe at www.gapadventures.com/newsletter_signup
Optional Activities Optional activity prices are subject to change and can fluctuate in relation to the high/low season and the number of people on a specific excursion. Not all excursions listed here may be available, due to season, or weather conditions. As generally not a lot of time is spent in start/end cities, you may want to arrange to arrive early, or stay longer after the trip in order to allow sufficient time to participate in optional activities there.

All prices are in US dollar amounts.

BOTSWANA
Kasane/Chobe
Chobe NP Game Walk and Sunset Cruise $75
Chobe NP Game Drive $40
Bush walk $20
Village tour $15

ZAMBIA/ZIMBABWE
Livingstone
Tandem Kayaking (half/full day) $160
Raft / Heli Out (half/full day) $685/$860 (Per group)
Jet Boating $95
River Safaris (am/pm/sunset) $65
Upper Zambezi Canoe (half/full day) $90/$100
Skydive $200
Quad Biking (1hr/2 1/2 hr) $75/$130
Zambezi Paintball $55
White Water Rafting (half day am/pm) $110/$120
White Water Rafting (full day high/low water) $120/$135
Elephant Walk/Ride $90/$150
Elephant Interaction (excl transfer) $60
Lion Encounter (Zimbabwe, excludes visa fees & transfers) $100
Helicopter (15min/30min) $100/$200
Microlight (15min/30min) $100/$200
Bungy Jump (Solo or /Tandem) $90/$130
Bridge Tour $45
AbseilIng (half/full day) $95/$115
Gorge Swing (2 jumps) $75
Flying Fox (transfer not included) $35
Cable Slide (transfer not included) $35
Abseil / Rappelling (transfer not included) $35

Raft/Riverboard Combo
Half day (rapids 1 - 10) - no lift $145
Full day (rapids 1 - 21) - inc lift $160
High Water (rapids 10 - 23) - inc lift $145

Cruises
Dinner/Sunset Boat Cruise $45/$40
Lady Livingstone Sunset Cruise (excl trsf) $50
African Queen Sunset Cruise $55

Tours
Game Drive $45
Falls Tour (Zambia side – walking) $35
Mukuni Village $35
Livingstone City Tour $35

Livingstone Island
Locatoed In the middle of the Zambezi River, touching the lip of the Victoria Falls. The Island was opened in 1995 to provide unique picnics on the edge of the Victoria Falls. Access is seasonal (Aug-Dec) and depends on the water levels in the Zambezi River
Morning Breezer/Lunch Trip/High Tea $50/$100/$75 Our Commitment to Responsible Travel in Antarctica Planeterra-The G.A.P Adventures Foundation Through G.A.P Adventures’ commitment to responsible tourism we have developed Planeterra – the G.A.P Adventures Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to making a positive difference in the lives of people and communities around the world through support of international charities, local organizations and community projects in the places that we visit on our tours. G.A.P Adventures matches all individual donations and pays all administration fees, which means that 100% of each donation is doubled and goes directly to support our projects. For more information about Planeterra and the projects we support, or to make a donation, please visit www.planeterra.org

Planeterra Dollar-A-Day Program
Our Dollar-A-Day Program provides travellers with the opportunity to help us give back to the people and places visited on our tours by donating one dollar per day for the duration of their tour. 100% of these proceeds will go directly to support our Planeterra projects.

To participate in this program please indicate at the time of booking that you would like to participate in G.A.P Adventures’ Dollar-A-Day program, either by clicking the check box online, or by advising your GA.P Adventures specialist or travel agent. (Note: Donation will be charged in the currency of your booking) Responsible Travel Being a responsible tour operator is at the heart of what G.A.P Adventures is all about. From the start, G.A.P Adventures has been committed to offering low-impact tours that benefit traveller and host alike. While our sustainable tourism policies are constantly evolving, our commitment to socially conscious, grassroots style travel has never changed. We work with local communities, businesses and individuals to develop sustainable tourism opportunities that help local economies while minimizing negative environmental and cultural impacts.

For more information about our commitment to responsible travel, please visit the Sustainable Tourism section of the G.A.P Adventures website: www.gapadventures.com
Safety and Security Many national governments provide a regularly updated advice service on safety issues involved with international travel. We recommend that you check your government's advice for their latest travel information before departure. We strongly recommend the use of a neck wallet or money belt while travelling, for the safe keeping of your passport, air tickets, travellers' cheques, cash and other valuable items. Leave your valuable jewellery at home - you won't need it while travelling. Many of the hotels we use have safety deposit boxes, which is the most secure way of storing your valuables. A lock is recommended for securing your luggage. When travelling on a group trip, please note that your group leader has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the trip itinerary if it is deemed necessary due to safety concerns. Your leader will accompany you on all included activities. During your trip you will have some free time to pursue your own interests, relax and take it easy or explore at your leisure. While your group leader will assist you with options available in a given location please note that any optional activities you undertake are not part of your itinerary, and we offer no representations about the safety of the activity or the standard of the operators running them. Please use your own good judgement when selecting an activity in your free time. Although the cities visited on tour are generally safe during the day, there can be risks to wandering throughout any major city at night. It is our recommendation to stay in small groups and to take taxis to and from restaurants, or during night time excursions.

Single Travellers We believe single travellers should not have to pay more to travel so our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. Single travellers joining group trips are paired in twin share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip. Some of our Independent trips are designed differently and single travellers on these itineraries must pay the single trip price.
Spending Money Every traveller is different and therefore spending money requirements will vary. Some travellers may drink more than others while other travellers like to purchase more souvenirs than most. Please consider your own spending habits when it comes to allowing for drinks, shopping and tipping. Please also remember the following specific recommendations when planning your trip.
Tipping Tipping is optional and related to good service received. This is just a guideline that guests can use:
PORTERS: R7.00 per bag ;
WAITERS (Restaurants): 10% of the total bill as a general guideline;
CHAMBER MAIDS: R10.00 per day as a guideline;
BARMEN/LADIES: 10% of the total bill as a general guideline;
GAME RANGERS: R50.00 per activity / TRACKER: R20.00 per activity;
TOUR LEADER & DRIVER: This is up to the discretion of the group/guests - Tour leader/guide = R50.00 per day and driver = R30.00 per day Travel Forum - The Watering Hole Be sure to stop by The Watering Hole, our adventure travel forum. If you're interested in meeting others booked on your upcoming trip, check out the Departure Lounge section of our forum and introduce yourself. Otherwise, just drop in at anytime to share some travel tips, ask questions, meet other travellers and quench your thirst for travel. Our forum is located at wateringhole.gapadventures.com. Travel Insurance Travel insurance is compulsory in order to participate on any of our trips. When travelling on a group trip, you will not be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance has been sighted by your leader, who will take note of your insurance details. When selecting a travel insurance policy we require that at a minimum you are covered for medical expenses including emergency repatriation. We strongly recommend that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects. If you have credit card insurance we require proof of purchase of the trip (a receipt of credit card statement) with a credit card in your name. Contact your bank for details of their participating insurer, the level of coverage and emergency contact telephone number.
Trip Specific Safety GENERAL: Look after your personal items. Do not leave your valuables visible in a car or hotel room. Lock your hotel room door when you enter and when you leave. Do not carry large amount of cash on you. Avoid displaying flashy jewellery and carry your camera in its pack on your shoulder rather than around your neck. Keep your passport, airline tickets, money, important documents locked up in your room/safe - do not carry it with you.

ZAMBIA: Theft, however, is rife in the bigger towns and cities. Don’t walk around with things you can’t do without, like your passport or airline tickets. Carry minimum amounts of cash and keep it hidden or in a money belt and if possible. This is less of a problem in the rural areas. Validity Valid for all trips departing January 1, 2008 - December 31st 2008. Visas All countries require a valid passport (with a minimum 6 months validity). Contact your local embassy, or consulate for the most up-to-date visa requirements, or see your travel agent. IT'S YOUR RESPONSIBILITY TO HAVE THE CORRECT TRAVEL DOCUMENTATION.

As of January 26th, the Zambian government will no longer be issuing any visa waivers to individuals or tour operators. All travelers will be required to obtain a visa prior to entering the country, either at the border or in advance from your local embassy. Please note that the fees associated with Zambian entrance visas have increased for the majority of nationalities. We advise you to contact your local Zambian consulate or embassy to confirm the procedure and costs of obtaining an entrance visa.

For a daily visa update visit, please have a look at www.the-gsa.co.za. We Want Your Photos Want to see your photos and/or stories in print or on the web? Then enter our "Great G.A.P Adventures Photo Story Contest". Simply go online to www.gapadventures.com/contests/photo-story-contest to upload your photo stories! There are travel and camera prizes worth more than $5000 available to be won! If you prefer to submit slide film or photos instead of digital entries online, just make sure they are clearly marked with your name and contact details on each and the place where it was taken. Unfortunately, we are unable to return any entries. Send mailed entries to "Photo Editor" at our head office.
What to Take You will be on the move a lot, so our advice is to pack as lightly as possible. Your baggage should be clearly labeled and restricted to one soft compact suitcase, or sports bag, maximum 15kg, plus a daypack. Luggage limits on airlines are strictly enforced and space on vehicles is limited. Porters are not available, so be prepared to carry your own bags. It is important to pack clothes for warm days and cool evenings, as well as a warm jacket for early morning game drives. During the winter months (May to October), the temperatures can get quite cold in Namibia. It is wise to bring plenty of layers for cool mornings and evenings. A set of smart casual clothes is also advisable. Your Fellow Travellers As you travel on a group trip you will be exposed to all the pleasures and maybe some of the frustrations of travelling in a group. Your fellow travellers will probably come from all corners of the world and are likely to be of a variety of ages too. We ask you to be understanding of the various needs and preferences of your group - patience with your fellow travellers is sometimes required for the benefit of everyone's travel experience. Remember too that you have responsibilities to the group. If you are requested to be at a place at a certain time, ensure that you don't keep the rest of the group waiting. We have found time and time again that the very best trips we operate are those where the dynamics within the group work well - this takes just a little effort on your part.