garden route adventure (IUBOH)

Durban to Cape Town 13 days.

• Trip Type: Traveller Basic
• Route: Durban to Cape Town
• Length: 13 days
• Transport: Overland vehicle
• Accommodation: Lodge (2 nts), camping (6 nts), dormitory (4 nts). 12 Breakfasts, 10 Dinners

Countries Visited

Lesotho

Lesotho is a spectacularly beautiful mountainous country that is completely encircled by South Africa (the only country in the world that is completely surrounded by a single other country!). Home to the proud and welcoming Basotho people it remains deeply traditional. The scenery here is breath-taking and offers wonderful hiking opportunities.

South Africa

Think South Africa, you might think Safari, and the amazing wildlife and although it is a huge icon of the country, if you explore the land you will find other images South Africa has to offer.

The capital is Cape Town, and the location for some astonishing scenery. With its stunning coastline, dominating mountain and modern cityscape, Cape Town is one of Africa's most appealing cities. With vineyards on its doorstep, adventure activities around every other corner and plenty of restaurants and cafes to while away the time. Whether finishing or joining your trip here, Cape Town is a very easy city to spend some extra time in.

Escape from the busy life of the city and visit one the many national parks. Which ever direction you travel in, the wildlife will never be far away. For any safari 1st timer the search for the big 5 is the main goal; elephants, lions, leopards rhino and buffaloes are so grouped as they were the most dangerous to hunt on foot during the days of big game hunting.

South Africa's western links mean that whatever type of food can be found but for local flavours try sosaties, a delectable barbecued grilled meat that is skewered. A melt in your mouth taste is one to be remembered. The wonderful stew of Potijekos is a traditional stew that is prepared in pots outside and is one of the most popular dishes in the country.

The vibrant lifestyle carries through South African culture and the music is no different. Flourishing from folk music to jazz, hip hop and pop, with the traditional music still playing all over the country, the sounds of South Africa are beautifully diverse and an important factor in the country's culture.

The show case of the 2010 FIFA world cup has shown the world that South Africa is a modern country with deep routes in traditional culture. It's the perfect destination to understand how the modern world can blend with traditional African culture.

Day 1: Durban

Travel to Durban, catch some sun and relax in the beachside playground of South Africa.

You can arrive at any time on day 1 as there are no activities planned until the welcome meeting tonight at 6pm. Your leader will leave a note at reception telling you where this important meeting will take place. Please ask a member of reception for this information. Your leader will collect your kitty and check your passport and insurance details at this meeting. 

After the group meeting there is the option of joining the group for dinner

Optional Activities

Accommodation

Day 2 to 3: Drakensburg

Hike through the dramatic cliffs, valleys and plateaus of the stunning Drakensberg mountain range.

First thing this morning, we leave Durban behind, travelling inland towards the majestic Drakensberg mountain range (370 km, approx 6-7 hours), arriving in the last afternoon.

The Drakensberg is the highest mountain range in Southern Africa (3482 m) and forms part of the border between South Africa and Lesotho. The mountain range is referred to locally as the Barrier of Spears or the Dragon Mountains and is home to an amazing amount of flora and fauna.

We then have a whole day to explore part of the mountain range on foot; you can take a short hike for an hour or so, or challenge yourself to a full day hike with a local guide.

Included Activities

Accommodation

Day 4 to 5: Leshoto Highlands

Enter the Kingdom of Lesotho and be instantly charmed by the warmth of the people and the majestic mountain scenery. Visit villages and markets - choose to travel on foot or by pony.

Our drive to Lesotho is 320 km and takes approx 6-7 hours). We first pass through the spectacular Golden Gate National Park famous for its extraordinary sandstone rock formations. The park is also home to elands, zebras, mongooses and hundreds of bird species. We then cross the border into Lesotho.

Generally the border crossing is quite smooth, but we may experience some delay depending on the time of year.

Nestled like a small island in the middle of South Africa, Lesotho is commonly known as the 'kingdom in the sky' with beautiful mountain ranges and endless hiking trails.

We have a full day to explore the Lesotho highlands. Some of our options include wandering around the town exploring the markets and shops or perhaps going out to explore the landscape and local villages.

Included Activities

Optional Activities

Meals Included

Day 6 to 7: Cintsa

The charming seaside town of Cintsa is surrounded by sparkling, blue ocean and sun-dappled forests. The local Xhosa people live a traditional lifestyle deeply rooted in tribal customs. Enjoy the range of outdoor activities on offer, from mountain biking to swimming.

The journey from Lesotho to the stunning Wild Coast of South Africa and the small town of Cintsa is 620 km and takes approx 10-12 hours. We arrive in the late afternoon and have time to relax before an optional group dinner.

We spend the next 2 nights here so you will have plenty of time to explore.

Whilst in Cintsa we stay at a campground with shared facilities.

Optional Activities

Accommodation

Day 8: Addo Elephant National Park

Nestled in the heart of a densely forested valley, Addo Elephant National Park boasts a spectacular array of animals. An afternoon game drive will provide a chance to encounter elephants and endangered rhinos.

Our drive to the park is 500 km and takes approx 7-8 hours.

A true success story in conservationism, Addo Elephant National Park was created in 1931 to protect the region's 11 remaining elephants. Today there are over 450 elephants in the park, as well as Cape buffalo, black rhinos, all kinds of antelopes and even the flightless dung beetle which is unique to the park

Whilst in Addo we stay at a campground that has basic shared facilities.

Included Activities

Optional Activities

Accommodation

Day 9 to 10: Garden Route, Tsitsikamma National Park

Discover a mesmerising pocket of the Garden Route. Admire the ancient forests which tumble down to the pounding Indian Ocean. Daredevils have the option to test their mettle on the world's highest bungee jump.

Our first stop is the Tsitsikamma National Park (250 km, approx 4-5 hours) where we spend the next two nights.

Protecting both land and sea, at Tsitsikamma National Park steep ancient forests meet the breakers of the Indian Ocean. It is a spectacular place for walking and wildlife viewing. The Cape clawless otter, dolphins, porpoises and, in season, Southern Right whales are all visitors here, along with baboons, monkeys and myriad birds. Spend time hiking the Otter Trail, take a tree-top canopy adventure, ride a horse along the beach or go snorkelling or kloofing. Tsitsikamma is also home to the highest bungee jump in the world.

Whilst staying in the park our accommodation is in comfortable rooms with en suite facilities.

Optional Activities

Accommodation

Day 11: Oudtshoorn

Stop by the sleepy hamlet of Knysna then continue on to the ostrich capital of the world.

Our journey today crosses the arid Karoo region bound for Oudtshoorn (220 km, approx 3-4 hours).

The ostrich capital of the world, at the turn of the 20th century Oudtshoorn was full of 'feather barons' that grew rich off the popularity of the ostrich feather. Nowadays there are literally thousands of ostriches in the area being farmed for their meat, leather, and on a smaller scale, their feathers and eggs. A short stroll around town and you will find yourself discovering all sorts of ostrich souvenirs.

Tonight we camp. There are hot showers and flush toilets.

Included Activities

Accommodation

Day 12: Stellenbosch

Explore the magical Cango Caves then settle into beautiful Stellenbosch.

We travel from Oudtshoorn to Stellenbosch (350 km, approx 7-8 hours) on the scenic Route 62 via the towns of Calitzdorp, Ladysmith, Montaque and Robertson.

We should arrive in Stellenbosch in the afternoon where we check into our accommodation before heading out to sample some of the local produce from this beautiful area.

Known as the City of Oaks, Stellenbosch is one of South Africa's main university towns and more importantly the centre of the South African wine industry, which produces over 1 million litres of wine a year!

Included Activities

Accommodation

Day 13: Cape Town

Head to a vineyard to sample some of the region's best wines before relaxing in the coastal beauty of Cape Town.

The journey to Cape Town is 80 km and takes approx 1-2 hrs).

Optional Activities

Important Notes

Local Partner

Dragoman runs this trip in conjunction with our trusted local partner.

What else you need to know

Itinerary disclaimer

Occasionally our itineraries are updated during the year to incorporate improvements stemming from past travellers' comments and our own research. Our brochure is usually released in November each year. The information given in this itinerary may be slightly different to that in the brochure. It's very important that you print and review a final copy of your Trip Notes a couple of days prior to travel, in case there have been changes that affect your plans. For the latest updated Trip Notes please visit our website: www.imaginative-traveller.com

Please note that while we operate successful trips in this region throughout the year, some changes may occur in our itineraries due to inclement weather and common seasonal changes to timetables and transport routes. This can happen with little notice so please be prepared for modifications to the route.

Physical preparation

The step up into the overland truck, while not overly high, can become tiring, as can the constant setting and packing up of camp. You need to judge yourself to be physically fit enough to haul yourself up and down at least 8-10 times a day.

Included activities

Included activities are listed in the day-to-day itinerary, all other activities are optional and at your own expense. If you choose not to participate in the included activities on this itinerary, the cost will not be refunded.

Kitty

On this trip it's compulsory to contribute to a kitty. The kitty is an on-ground payment put into a central fund and overseen by travellers and the crew. It helps fund accommodation, camp meals and some included activities. Kitty amounts are subject to change to reflect local price increases. Please check our website for the up-to-date amount 48 hours prior to your trip commencement.

Your kitty will be collected when you arrive for your trip, either on Day 1 or in stages throughout your trip.

A trip kitty of ZAR3572.00 CASH will be required.

Optional activities

A selection of optional activities are listed in the day-to-day itinerary. This isn't an exhaustive list and should be used as a guide only. Prices are for entrance only and don't include transport costs to and from the sites or local guides unless indicated. It may not be possible to do all the activities listed in the time available at each destination. Optional activities aren't necessarily endorsed or recommended by Imaginative Traveller nor included in price of this trip. If you do any optional activities, you do so at your own risk and it must be clearly understood that your participation is your own decision and doesn't form part of your contract with Imaginative Traveller.

Money Exchange

The official currency of South Africa is the Rand (ZAR).

The best way to manage your money in Africa is a mixture of cash, an ATM card (best to have both Visa and MasterCard) and some traveller's cheques.

CASH:

Cash is easily changed at exchange bureaus and they generally offer the best rates.

***PLEASE NOTE: IF YOU ARE BRINGING USD, WE STRONGLY RECOMMEND LARGE BILLS IN GOOD CONDITION, 2003 SERIES ONWARDS ONLY. ANY OLD OR DAMAGED NOTES MAY NOT BE ACCEPTED. YOUR KITTY PAYMENT MUST BE PAID WITH BILLS NO OLDER THEN 2003 SERIES***

EUR or GBP are also widely accepted. The South African Rand can also be used widely in countries of Southern Africa. When changing money, only use reputable authorised money exchange vendors and never anyone on the street. There are many instances of travellers being given counterfeit notes or being tricked when money is being counted out.

TRAVELLER'S CHEQUES:

You should also carry some traveller's cheques for back up emergency cash. While traveller's cheques are undoubtedly the safest way to carry money, they are becoming harder to cash around the world and can often result in unfavourable exchange rates and commission charges. It can also be tricky to reach banks during banking business hours which are often short in many African countries. Note: Receipts for traveller's cheques are required by banks and money changers.

VISA AND MASTERCARD:

With ATMs being increasingly available in the many major towns and cities, credit or debit cards are a convenient way to access money. A charge is made for each international transaction - please check with your bank how much this fee will be. Check with your bank before leaving home that your card can be used as a debit card in Africa. You may also want to notify your bank that you are visiting Africa as it's not unknown for banks to freeze cards which show sudden transactions in other countries. If you're on a multi-country tour, your tour leader will be able to give you an approximate idea of how much money you may need for your stay in each country.

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, participating in optional activities, and tipping. Please also remember the following specific recommendations when planning your trip.

Tipping

If you are happy with the services providing a tip - though not compulsory - is appropriate. While it may not be customary to you, it is of great significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels, inspires excellent service, and is an entrenched feature of the tourism industry across many Imaginative Traveller destinations. We recommend that any tips are given to the intended recipient by a member of your group, rather than collected and passed on by the group leader.

The following amounts are based on local considerations and feedback from our past travellers:

Restaurants: Please check the bill and if there's an addition of 10% service charge, there's no requirement for tipping. Otherwise, 10% of the total bill amount is appropriate.

At local markets and basic restaurants: Leave the loose change.

Local guides/Porters: Throughout your trip you may at times have a local guide in addition to your leader. We suggest US$1 per person, per day for local guides/porters.

Your crew (including the leader and driver, and perhaps cook depending on your trip): You may also consider tipping your crew for outstanding service throughout your trip. The amount is entirely a personal preference; however as a guideline US$2-3 per person, per day can be used. Of course you are free to tip more or less as you see fit, depending on your perception of service quality and the length of your trip. Remember, a tip is not compulsory and should only be given when you receive excellent service.

Departure tax

All departure taxes should be included in your international flight ticket.

Minimum Age

The minimum age for this trip is 18 years old and bookings for minors, even if accompanied by a parent, cannot be accepted.

Group size

Maximum of 16 travellers per group.

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 likely a range of age groups 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.

Due to privacy reasons we are unable to provide you with contact details and any personal information about your fellow travellers booked on your trip prior to departure.

Single travellers

Our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and don't involve a compulsory single supplement. Single travellers share with people of the same gender in accommodation ranging from twin to multishare. Some of our itineraries have accommodation booked on a mixed gender share basis and where applicable this will be specified in our Trip Notes.

A Single Supplement is available on this trip, please ask your booking agent for more information. Please note that this only applies to accommodation during the tour - pre-trip and post-trip accommodation will be booked on a single room basis.

Accommodation

Camping (with facilities) (6 nts), Dormitory (4 nts), Lodge (2 nts)

Accommodation on this trip is mainly in two-person dome tents.

The type and variety of accommodation is determined by conditions on each of our routes. Each route is different - on some we use a mixture of campsites and wild camps; on others we also use hotels. In Africa it's not usually practical to camp when staying in towns and cities so we use hotel accommodation and eat out in local restaurants.

There may be the occasional night stop, when we stay in the grounds of a hotel or at a campsite which may also have cabins available. In this case there may be a choice of camping or upgrading to a room (at additional cost).

Campsites do have facilities but they usually aren't to the same standard you would find in western countries. For example the bathroom facilities can be very basic (the toilets may be a squat-style hole in the ground). There is rarely toilet paper provided and shower facilities can be as simple as a hose pipe spurting out cold water. Wild camps have no facilities at all.

Not all campsites are as basic as this description - it's just to make sure there are no surprises for you.

Meals

12 Breakfasts, 10 Dinners

Budget for meals not included: USD 200.00

By travelling on an Overland trip you have chosen a participation camping tour. This means that you will be helping your cook or leader prepare meals for the group. You may also get the chance to help with the shopping.

Participating in the camp is usually done on a duty roster system with group of 5 or 6 people (depending on group size) having a different camp job each day. If you have any dietary requirements please tell us at the time of booking, and also remind your crew at your welcome meeting.

A typical camp breakfast might be toast with spreads, cereal, something hot such as eggs or pancakes, as well as tea and coffee. Lunch is almost always a sandwich with healthy salad and assorted fillings, sometimes with fruit to follow. There may be a chance on occasion to buy your lunch. Dinner might be a BBQ, rice dish or pasta dish and there is always the chance to try some African food such as ugali and stew.

On the more remote sections of your, your food and diet will be dependent on what is available locally as well as tinned and dry ingredients.

One thing is sure - you definitely won't go hungry or lose weight on your safari! When you aren't camping you will have the freedom to decide where, what and with whom you eat.

Transport

Overland vehicle

Our trucks are purpose-built, self contained safari vehicles. The exact model will depend on your group size, trip route and style. In Southern Africa some departures may use vans and luggage trailers subject to group size and vehicle availability.

Your vehicle type may differ from those listed above.

There are many long hours spent driving on rough roads on all African itineraries. While most people love the chance to watch the changing landscape and daily village life, feedback shows that long periods of inactivity does not appeal to all clients. We provide the approximate distance covered each day and how many hours this normally takes to drive so that you can choose the safari experience which is right for you.

African conditions are extremely tough on vehicles. While we fastidiously maintain our vehicles at our workshops, you should not expect Africa to be your traditional touring experience. While it's certainly our aim to avoid them, it's important that you set off on your trip knowing that the occasional breakdown can happen and are best treated as part of the African adventure. Due to wet weather there may be times when we have to take an alternative route which will mean longer travel times.

Group leader

On this trip you will be accompanied by 2 crew members, a Group Leader and a Driver. (Depending on your group size, from time to time your leader will also be your driver)

Your Group Leader's role involves organizing the overall operation and smooth-running of the trip, managing trip logistics, coordinating the kitty (where applicable) and will form work groups to take turns cooking, cleaning and shopping.

Your Group Leader will work towards making the trip as safe and enjoyable as possible for all travellers. Our trips are built around the co-operation and participation of all the group members under the supervision of the group leader. The group leader will show the group how to set up and use the equipment.

While not being guides in the traditional sense you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects. We also use local guides where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places we are visiting, especially when tracking and identifying game - we think it's the best of both worlds. Our Group Leaders are chosen for their leadership skills and are wonderful ambassadors for our company and our beautiful continent and its people.

Your Driver's main responsibility is to get you to your destination safely; they are also responsible for the maintenance of the vehicles along the way.

Everyone is expected participate and carry their share of the workload, making camp chores easier. If the whole group participates it will be quicker, easier, and more fun.

We endeavour to provide the services of an experienced leader and driver; however, situations may arise where your leader is new to a particular region or training other group leaders.

Joining point

For trips departing on the following dates, use this joining point.

29 Jan 2012 (IUBOH120129), 26 Feb 2012 (IUBOH120226), 01 Apr 2012 (IUBOH120401), 29 Apr 2012 (IUBOH120429), 13 May 2012 (IUBOH120513), 27 May 2012 (IUBOH120527), 10 Jun 2012 (IUBOH120610), 24 Jun 2012 (IUBOH120624), 08 Jul 2012 (IUBOH120708), 22 Jul 2012 (IUBOH120722), 05 Aug 2012 (IUBOH120805), 19 Aug 2012 (IUBOH120819), 02 Sep 2012 (IUBOH120902), 16 Sep 2012 (IUBOH120916), 30 Sep 2012 (IUBOH120930), 14 Oct 2012 (IUBOH121014), 04 Nov 2012 (IUBOH121104), 11 Nov 2012 (IUBOH121111), 02 Dec 2012 (IUBOH121202), 09 Dec 2012 (IUBOH121209), 30 Dec 2012 (IUBOH121230), 27 Jan 2013 (IUBOH130127), 03 Mar 2013 (IUBOH130303), 31 Mar 2013 (IUBOH130331), 21 Apr 2013 (IUBOH130421), 19 May 2013 (IUBOH130519), 09 Jun 2013 (IUBOH130609), 07 Jul 2013 (IUBOH130707)

Happy Hippo Backpackers

222 Mahatma Ghandi Road (prev Point Road)

Durban

4001

SOUTH AFRICA

Joining point description

The Happy Hippo is a converted warehouse located in the docks area of Durban. It has a variety of rooms which lead into central living and kitchen areas as well as clean shared bathroom facilities. There is also a great rooftop bar to enjoy.

Joining point instructions

If you have pre-booked a transfer with us your driver will be waiting for you in the arrivals section near where you clear customs. The driver will wait for an hour after your scheduled arrival time.

If you are unable to find your driver please phone 082 886 4042 or 031 201 2717. If you are delayed beyond one hour after your scheduled arrival time, please make your own way to the hotel.

Taxi services leave from in front of the departures terminal at Durban airport. The cost should be approximately ZAR150 and it will take approximately 30 minutes. There is also a airport shuttle that leaves every hour on the hour for ZAR50 per person and will drop you at the Happy Hippo. This may take up to one hour depending on how many hotel drops the shuttle must make.

Arrival complications

We don't expect any problems (and nor should you) but if for any reason you are unable to commence your group trip as scheduled, please contact your starting point hotel, requesting that you speak to or leave a message for your group leader.

If you have pre-booked an airport transfer (where available) 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 in these Trip Notes. Should this occur, please apply to your travel agent for a refund of the transfer cost on your return.

No refund is available on missed transfers or portions of your trip owing to a different flight arrival or delayed flight arrival. Any additional cost incurred in order to meet up with your group is at your own expense.

Finish point

Saasveld Lodge

73 Kloof Street

Gardens

Cape Town

8001

SOUTH AFRICA

Finish point description

Saasveld Lodge is central located in the lively and vibrant Kloof Street with its large variety of restaurants, coffee shops, cafes and bars and is only 3 minutes from Long Street as well as the bustling city centre. Rooms are simple yet clean and comfortable.

Finish point instructions

If you have pre-booked a departure transfer, please inform your leader and they will notify you of your departure transfer time.

If you are making your own way to the airport the hotel will be able to help book you an airport shuttle or taxi. Please ask at reception.

Emergency contact

In the case of a genuine crisis or emergency, our South African Office can be reached on: +27 11 471 7400 (South African business hours) or +27 828229407 (24/7).

We also have a dedicated 24 hour telephone number which should only be used once you have left the UK and in the event of a real emergency. Should you need to call the number, we will do what we can to help but please bear in mind that real progress or action may not be possible until normal office hours.

If your flight is delayed or cancelled, please let us know and then make your way to the joining hotel as instructed in these trip notes. If you cannot get through leave a message and a contact number as these will be regularly checked.  Emergency Number: +44 (0) 7985106564

Emergency funds

Please also make sure you have access to an additional US$400, to be used when unforeseen incidents or circumstances outside our control (eg. a natural disaster, civil unrest or an outbreak of bird flu) necessitate a change to our planned route.

Visas

Visas are the responsibility of the individual traveller. The visa requirements for your trip vary depending on where you are from and where you are going. As a general rule most countries expect that you will have at least 6 months' validity on your passport. On arrival visitors may be asked to present return tickets and evidence of means to cover your intended stay.

We keep the following information up to date as much as possible, but rules do change - it's important that you check for yourself. Residents from other countries must consult the relevant embassies or your travel agent.

SOUTH AFRICA:

Citizens of Australia, UK and most EU countries do not need visas to visit South Africa as a tourist for up to three months. Citizens of all countries should check with the relevant consulates as to whether a visa is required.

Entry Requirements - Yellow Fever Certificate
As of October 1st 2011, A valid Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate is now required for all passengers over one year of age who arrive or are transiting through South Africa, from a country or region listed by the World Health Organization as infected by yellow fever. Travellers unable to present a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate issued at least 10 days before arrival in South Africa will be refused entry. There is no option for travellers without a vaccination certificate to be vaccinated on arrival. Please note this also includes transiting through an infected country or region. As of October 1st South Africa will also consider Zambia as a country infected by Yellow Fever even though the WHO does not currently list Zambia. All travellers from Zambia into South Africa will be required to show proof of yellow fever vaccination.

LESOTHO:

Entry permits are issued free of charge on arrival for most nationalities, including from the EU, US and Australia. All nationalities should check with their nearest Lesotho Embassy for more information.

BORDER CROSSINGS ON THIS TRIP:

Exit South Africa - Maseru Bridge
Enter Lesotho - Maseru Bridge

Exit Lesotho - Van Rooyenshek
Enter South Africa - Van Rooyenshek

Issues on your trip

While we always endeavour to provide the best possible holiday experience, due to the nature of travel and the areas we visit sometimes things can and do go wrong. Should any issue occur while you are on your trip, it is imperative that you discuss this with your group leader or our local representative straight away so that they can do their best to rectify the problem and save any potential negative impact on the rest of your trip.

We recognise that there may be times when your group leader/local partner may not be able to resolve a situation to your satisfaction - if this is the case, please ask the leader if you may speak to their direct manager.

You may also choose to provide details in your online feedback, which we ask you to complete within 30 days of the end of your trip. But we do ask you to be aware that it is very difficult for us to provide any practical help after the trip is complete.

What to take

What you need to bring will vary according to the trip style you have chosen, the countries you are visiting and when you are travelling. Generally speaking you should pack as lightly as possible. On the vast majority of our trips you are expected to carry your own luggage and although you won't be required to walk long distances with your luggage (max 30 minutes), we recommend keeping the weight under 10kg / 22lb.

LOCKER SPACE:

WATER BOTTLE:

BATTERIES/POWER:

VALUABLES:

CLOTHING:

Health

All travellers need to be in good physical health in order to participate fully on this trip. When selecting your trip please make sure you have read through the itinerary carefully and assess your ability to cope with our style of travel. Please note that if, in the opinion of our group leader or local guide, any traveller is unable to complete the itinerary without undue risk to themselves and/or the rest of the group, Imaginative Traveller reserves the right to exclude them from all or part of a trip without refund.

You should consult your doctor for up-to-date medical travel information or for any necessary vaccinations and anti-malarial requirements before departure. We recommend that you carry a first aid kit as well as any personal medical requirements (including a spare pair of glasses) as they may not easily be obtained at the locations on this trip. For legal reasons our leaders and guides are prohibited from administering any type of drugs including headache tablets and antibiotics. Please ensure that you are adequately prepared.

YELLOW FEVER:

A valid international certificate of vaccination against Yellow Fever is required in many countries. You may need to present this on arrival at the airport or border crossing. Some countries will refuse entry if you are unable to present your certificate. It's also quite common for your home country to request a Yellow Fever certificate on your arrival back home.

Please check with your doctor before leaving home about the Yellow Fever requirements for the countries you'll be visiting.

Safety

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. Please refer to our website's safety page for links to major travel advisories and updates on safety issues affecting our trip.

We strongly recommend the use of a neck wallet or money belt while travelling, for the safe-keeping of your passport, air tickets, cash and other valuable items. Leave your valuable jewellery at home - you won't need it while travelling. Many of our hotels have safety deposit boxes, which is the most secure way of storing your valuables. A lock is recommended for securing your luggage.

Your leader will accompany you on all included activities, however during your trip you'll 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 the available options in a given location, please note that any optional activities you undertake are not part of your Imaginative Traveller itinerary, and Imaginative Traveller makes 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. Please also note that your group leader has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the trip itinerary if it's deemed necessary due to safety concerns.

FIRE PRECAUTIONS:

Please be aware that local laws governing tourism facilities in this region differ from those in your home country and not all the accommodation which we use has a fire exit, fire extinguishers or smoke alarms.

TRAFFIC AND DRIVING ON THE OTHER SIDE OF THE ROAD:

Depending on where you come from please note that drivers in this part of the world may drive on the opposite side of the road from what you are used to. Look both ways before crossing any road. Traffic can be a little more chaotic than you might be used to at home. Be aware!

PETTY THEFT AND PERSONAL SAFETY:

While travelling there is always the risk of pick-pocketing and petty theft, particularly in the more touristy cities. We recommend that you exercise caution when walking alone at night and encourage you to walk together and only on main, well-lit thoroughfares. Be particularly vigilant on public transport. Simple measures like carrying your day pack on your front, not hanging your bag over the back of your chair and wearing a money belt will reduce any chance that your valuables should go missing.

SWIMMING POOLS:

You may stay at hotels with unfenced pools and no life guard on duty.

UNFENCED CAMP SITES:

On some trips you will at times stay in unfenced camp sites within national parks. While this is a fantastic experience, there are a few safety rules to follow. While staying in national parks it's important that you listen to any advice given by your tour leader and the park rangers regarding responsible and safe behaviour.

BALCONIES:

Some hotel balconies don't meet UK standards in terms of the width of the balcony fence being narrower than 10cm.

SEAT BELTS:

Please be aware that local laws governing transportation safety may differ from those in the western world or from your home country and not all the transport which we use provides seat belts.

Travel insurance

Travel insurance is compulsory for all our trips. 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.

When travelling on a group trip, you won't be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance and the insurance company's 24 hour emergency contact number has been seen by your leader.

If you have credit card insurance your group leader will require details of the participating insurer/underwriter, the level of coverage, policy number and emergency contact number rather than the bank's name and credit card details. Please contact your bank for these details prior to arriving in-country.

We highly recommend the Imaginative Traveller travel insurance which is tailored specifically for adventure travel and covers ALL activities featured in any of our tours.  For more details please go to http://www.imaginative-traveller.com/travel-insurance

At Imaginative Traveller we love helping our clients experience the beauty and cultures of the destinations we visit. However, hand in hand with this we have always been aware that we have a responsibility to minimise any negative impacts that tourism can bring.

Responsible Travel

Responsible Travel is twofold. It’s about taking people to the places they want to go in a safe and responsible manner but also about respecting and maintaining the natural and often delicate balance of the destination. Economic gain from tourism is often fundamental to a country, but should never be at the expense of its culture or the environment.

Our Aims

• It is our aim to provide journeys that have minimal negative and maximum positive impact on the places we visit.
• We do not believe that, as visitors, we should impose our own cultures on others; rather that we should experience foreign cultures and appreciate them for what they are.
• Whilst it is our aim to show destinations and cultures in a positive light, we do not believe in papering over the cracks or shielding visitors from the realities of life. This does not mean, however, that we condone or endorse certain situations or regimes that may be in place. 
  Our guidelines are meant not as rigid instructions but rather as suggestions to make our holidays more enjoyable – for everybody. As cultural and environmental sensitivities vary from country to country more specific guidelines can be found in our individual country and trip dossiers.

Travellers' Guidelines

Before you depart try to spend some time familiarising yourself with the destination you will be travelling to – their culture and customs. The country dossiers on our website offer detailed information about all the regions we visit. They also include some useful phrases in the local language for you to use on your trip! A few words of the local language can open up many more opportunities for you to interact with the people you will meet.

Although it is tempting to give out pens, sweets and money to people begging, and particularly tempting to give to children, we feel that this encourages a begging mentality and has a long-term negative impact on communities. If someone begging earns more than someone in the same community who works this can discourage local employment. If children regularly bring home money it may discourage their parents from sending them to school.

Always ask permission to photograph local people and respect their decision if they would prefer not to have their picture taken.

Respect local dress codes, especially at religious sites. Our tour leaders are always on hand to give you advice about this.

In many of the countries we visit you might see examples of animal cruelty (for example dancing bears, performing monkeys and snake charmers). Please do not take photographs of this or offer money as it encourages the activity.

Respect the environment you are in. It sounds obvious but do not throw litter, take it with you or use rubbish bins! You may see locals throwing rubbish on the street but do not follow their example!

When shopping in countries where haggling is the norm – enjoy it and only pay what you feel is a fair price for the goods you are purchasing. However, remember that the shopkeeper does have to make a living so do stop once you have reached a price you are happy with. Bargaining should be fun but always remember that a small amount can mean much more to the vendor than to you.

Endeavour to take home souvenirs made locally; the money you spend can be very important to the local communities. However, do use your common sense and don’t buy anything that you think might be made out of endangered animals or plants.

To help keep as much money as possible in the host country - try to eat in locally owned restaurants and order local drinks and produce rather than international brands.

In hotels do be conscious of how much water you are using. Many of the areas we visit regularly have shortages; try not to have hour long showers! Don’t leave lights, air conditioners or fans on when you leave the room – you wouldn’t at home!

Respect the environment you are in, especially when in national parks or reserves. Pay attention to rules about keeping on paths, keeping a distance from animals and not removing any of the natural habitat.

Relax and immerse yourself in the differences of the culture you are in – you’ll be back home in the familiar soon enough (and wishing you were still on holiday!). These cultural differences are part of what makes your experience special.

If you would like to offset the carbon dioxide that will be produced on your flights you can do this on our website (on our Responsible travel page). We work with climatecare, who will reduce the equivalent amount of carbon dioxide that you produce in another part of the World through their emission reduction projects. These projects are low carbon efficient technologies in developing countries and not only serve to reduce emissions but also help to spread the adoption of low carbon technologies and improve the quality of life for local communities. Details of climatecare’s projects can be found on their website.

Please do let us know if you have any comments about responsible travel at  rto@imtrav.net

A couple of rules

Illegal drugs will not be tolerated on our 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 Imaginative Traveller travellers. Imaginative Traveller's philosophy of travel is one of respect towards everyone we encounter and in particular, the local people who make our destinations such special places. 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 if they use prostitutes.

Carbon offset

Carbon Offset C02-e 389.00 kgs per pax.

These trip notes have been compiled to help you prepare for your journey, once you have booked. They include the full itinerary and dates, information and kit lists, meeting hotels, insurance, vaccinations, visas, and other information that will help you get ready for your trip.

Please ensure you have an up to date version of these Trip Notes

These trip notes were printed on 24/11/2012