FAQs

Namibia

As of 1 April 2025 many previously visa-exempt nationalities now require a tourist visa to enter.
Visitors must have a passport valid at least 6 months beyond date of entry and at least 3 blank pages.
Depending on your nationality: you can obtain a visa on arrival at main entry points (airports, certain land borders), or apply for an e-visa ahead of travel.

Botswana

Passport must be valid (typically at least 6 months).
Visa requirements depend on your nationality. Many European / Commonwealth-country passports are visa-exempt for tourist stays up to 90 days.
Always double-check with your embassy or consulate before travel, as rules can change.

South Africa

Many nationalities enjoy visa-free entry for short stays (often up to 90 days) for tourism.
Your passport should be valid for at least 30 days after planned departure and have blank pages for entry/exit.

In Southern Africa (Namibia, Botswana, South Africa), the dry season — roughly May to October — is widely considered the best time for wildlife viewing. Animals tend to concentrate near water sources, vegetation is sparse, and game sightings tend to be more frequent.
The “green” or wet season (roughly November–April) can also offer advantages: lush landscapes, fewer tourists, and sometimes great birding or newborn sightings — though some remote camps or roads may be less accessible.

Neutral-coloured clothing (beige, khaki, olive, earth tones) is recommended — helps you blend in, reduces disturbance to wildlife.
Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen) is a must — African sun and open landscapes can be intense.
Even in dry season expect chilly early mornings or desert nights — bring layers, a jacket or jumper for early/late safari moments.
Binoculars can noticeably enhance wildlife-viewing.

For destinations like Namibia and Botswana, many safari companies and guides emphasise that conditions are generally safe for visitors — especially when staying in lodges or using organised tours.
As with any travel, basic precautions help — avoid isolated urban areas at night, listen to your guides, follow safety advice, especially around wildlife.
Travel insurance is recommended (often required) — especially if you’re going remote, doing self-drive safaris, or engaging in adventure activities (walking safaris, flights, etc.).

In Namibia and Botswana, self-drive safaris are a popular option — many places even cater for it (rent-a-4×4, camping gear, mapped routes).
But remote roads, rough terrain or long distances may favour a guided safari — especially if you’re unfamiliar with conditions. A guided safari may include transfers, local knowledge, wildlife tracking, and safety support.
If you do self-drive: ensure your vehicle is suitable (often 4×4 for national parks, gravel roads), plan your route, get proper advice and permits.

Costs depend heavily on comfort level (luxury lodge vs. basic camp vs. self-drive + camping), length of stay, guided vs self-drive, and included activities (drives, walks, flights, etc.).
As a rough guideline, many safari-specialist sources group costs under a wide range: budget-friendly safaris and fully-fledged luxury safaris differ significantly.
Always check what’s included: accommodation, transport, meals, guide fees, park fees — some packages quote per person based on double occupancy.

Vaccinations may be recommended depending on your travel origin and itinerary (e.g. malaria risk areas, etc.). Many safari operators advise discussing with a medical professional before travel.
Always travel with travel/medical insurance — to cover emergencies, evacuation or unforeseen circumstances, especially in remote areas.

Safari, especially in nature-driven destinations like Namibia, Botswana or South Africa, is unpredictable — wildlife sightings depend on weather, season, water availability, animal movement, and more.
Good guides and knowledge of landscape increase odds, but no safari operator can guarantee sightings. Many responsible operators emphasise patience, respect for wildlife, and realistic expectations.
For richer wildlife experience: travel during dry season, visit well-known conservation areas / national parks, and keep flexible — early mornings or late afternoons often have better animal activity.

You can choose from many styles depending on how you want to travel:

Guided tours: local guides, prepared itineraries, support — good if you want comfort, knowledge, and ease.
Self-drive safari: you drive, stop where/when you want, flexible — popular in Namibia/Botswana for experienced or adventurous travellers.
Walking or walking-safari: where allowed, allows for intimate, low-impact wildlife or landscape experience — but only with experienced guides and following safety rules.
Fly-in safaris (charters / small planes): sometimes used to access remote lodges or reserves, especially in Botswana’s Delta or remote Namibia — useful if you have limited time or want to avoid long drives.

It depends on season. In high season (dry months, holiday periods), lodges and camps — especially popular ones — fill up fast. Early booking is advisable.
In shoulder or green season, there’s more flexibility, but weather or travel conditions may vary.
If doing self-drive: you have more flexibility, but still plan for accommodations, permits, and check road or park conditions ahead of time.