Know Before You Go

Lion World Travel shares the coverage available under the USTOA $1 Million Travelers Assistance Program with other affiliates of The Travel Corporation USA who are required to post $1 Million with USTOA to be used to reimburse the advance payments of Lion World Travel customers in the unlikely event of Lion World Travel cessation of business.

3. I have seen The Travel Corporation mentioned on your website. How is Lion World associated with The Travel Corporation and who are they? ↑ top

Lion World Travel is a member of the The Travel Corporation family of brands. The Travel Corporation is a highly successful international travel group with 40 award-winning brands including Trafalgar, Insight Vacations, Contiki, Uniworld and the Red Carnation Hotel Collection.

Flying

1. How much baggage can I take? ↑ top

Baggage restrictions depend on the airline with which you are flying. This is usually one checked bag per person not weighing more than 50 pounds. Carry-on luggage is limited to one piece per person. Click here for more information about the baggage guidelines of most of the airlines we use.

If you are flying on small charter aircraft within Africa, further restrictions will apply. Please check with your Africa Specialist for more information. Baggage guidelines will also be sent to you with your final documents.

2. Can I earn frequent flyer miles? ↑ top

You may be able to earn frequent flyer points on some of our flights. Please advise your Africa Specialist of your frequent flyer program and they will advise you if points are available on the flights being used for your trip and will assist in providing the information to the airline. Remember to keep all boarding passes and copies of your tickets in case of any issues, as these are proof that you have flown.

3. May I use my points to upgrade to business class? ↑ top

If air is included with your package the fares used are usually at specially contracted rates which do not allow upgrading with frequent flyer miles. If you are interested in purchasing an upgrade to business class we can offer great business class rates.

On Safari

1. Will I be safe in an open safari vehicle? ↑ top

The safari vehicles are very safe, but please take heed of your guide’s instructions for the best safari viewing experience – no standing or leaning out of the vehicle and no loud talking or shouting. However, depending on the safari location and game lodge you may encounter different types of safari vehicles. Learn more.

2. Do I need to wear safari colors? ↑ top

You do not need to restrict your clothing to safari colors, but it is suggested that you avoid very bright colors. So, either earth tones or other subdued colors would be recommended. Read our guide on how to pack for more expert tips.

3. Should I bring binoculars? ↑ top

Many lodges and guides will have binoculars in the vehicles, but it is a good idea to bring your own if you can afford the weight in your luggage. Read our guide on how to pack for more expert tips.

4. Should I bring insect repellent? ↑ top

Many small private lodges will provide insect repellant in the rooms but some of the larger lodges in East Africa and South Africa do not. In any case, it’s a good idea to bring your own, especially if you have sensitive or allergic skin and know which product you can safely use. Read our guide on how to pack for more expert tips.

5. Can I bring children on safari? ↑ top

Children under the age of 6 are rarely accepted at lodges and it is not recommended to bring young children on safari. If accepted, they will not be allowed to go on game drives and will have to remain at the lodge under the care of a babysitter or guardian. Some lodges will allow children 6 and over to go on game drives and other lodges only allow children over the age of 12. It is best to check with your Africa Specialist as to which lodge is the best for you to consider. For inspiration, check out our suggestions for Family Travel.

Health and Safety

1. Is it safe to travel to Africa? ↑ top

You will find the people very friendly, helpful and eager to please. The beauty and tranquility of the land, the magnificent wildlife, and the hospitality of the people will all contribute to a lifetime of memories!

However, we highly recommend you leave jewelry at home and carry only small amounts of cash. If not needed, leave money, valuables and passports in the hotel safes or with camp managers.

Our Africa based associate tour companies and hotels provide us with a strong presence in Africa and with our local offices in Africa providing 24-hour emergency assistance and having personnel on hand to deal with any issues that may arise, our clients can feel safe and secure in traveling with us.

2. What can you tell me about government travel warnings and advisories? ↑ top

We keep updated on all travel advisories and should a new travel warning come into effect prior to your travel date, we will notify you. However we suggest that you check on the following websites for further information.

United States Department of State

Government of Canada Travel Advice

3. Is the water safe to drink? ↑ top

In many parts of Africa the water is perfectly safe but because this depends on location, we do suggest that you drink filtered water.

4. Do I need inoculations? ↑ top

This will depend on where you will be visiting. We suggest that you check with your Africa Specialist or on the following websites for the most up to date information:

CDC

Health Canada

5. Do I need malaria medication? ↑ top

Most areas in Africa are malarial areas. Your Africa Specialist will let you know if you are visiting a non-malaria area. Otherwise, we strongly advise you to consult with your physician prior to the commencement of your vacation, for information on precautions against malaria.

6. Will someone be at the airport to meet us on arrival? ↑ top

Yes, you can feel secure in knowing that we arrange for a “meet and greet” for all our clients. With our local offices in Africa providing 24-hour emergency assistance and having personnel on hand to deal with any issues that may arise, our clients can feel safe and secure in traveling with us.

7. Should I get travel insurance and what is the cost? ↑ top

Trip Cancellation, Trip Interruption and Medical Insurance is required. This is a mandatory requirement from suppliers in Africa – proof of insurance must be provided before bookings are confirmed. It is your personal responsibility to ensure you have sufficient insurance coverage for the entire duration of your trip.

Your Africa Specialist will be able to assist you. Note that cancellation fees are charged by our suppliers and are beyond our control. Insurance should cover you for costly cancellation penalties, trip interruption and missed flight connections. Travel insurance also offers you protection in the event of illness or accident while abroad. Certain activities, such as hot-air balloon rides, may require additional coverage.

Food

1. What kind of food can I expect to eat? ↑ top

Throughout Africa the food is generally excellent. In South Africa, Mozambique, Seychelles and Mauritius expect excellent seafood. South Africa has great chefs with world class restaurants, and meals are similar to what you would expect in North America. Produce is fresh and locally grown. In East Africa at lodges meals are often served buffet style providing lots of options for all dietary preferences.

If you are interested in trying local delicacies, African restaurants and menu choices are abundant. Ask our Safari Specialist for recommendations.

2. I have allergies and dietary restrictions. Will I be able to find meals that take that into account? ↑ top

As long as you provide your Africa Specialist with your dietary restrictions well in advance, we will ensure that the lodges or restaurants we arrange for you will be notified. When on your own for meals, you should have no problems getting food that accommodates your needs as long as you are specific in your request to your servers.

3. How much money should I allow for my meals? ↑ top

At safari lodges and camps all meals are included in the price of your safari. City stays in South Africa usually only include breakfast. Meals are very reasonable when compared to prices in North America.

In South Africa, a really outstanding dinner may cost you ZAR500 per person. That’s roughly US$50 and we would easily pay more than that in North America! For a simple lunch allow ZAR 200 per person (about US$20).

Beer is about ZAR30 (US$3) per bottle and wines start at about ZAR100 (US$10) per bottle in a restaurant.

Money Matters

1. Where is the best place to exchange money? ↑ top

We suggest you get local currency on arrival at your first destination at the bank/exchange bureau.

2. What currency will I need? ↑ top

South Africa – South African Rands

Botswana – US Dollars

Namibia – South African Rands or Namibian Dollars

Zimbabwe – US Dollars generally accepted at Lodges (Zimbabwean Dollars required at local shops)

Zambia – Zambian Kwacha

East Africa – US Dollars

3. How much should I tip my driver or guide? ↑ top

The following is only a guideline and tipping is always at your discretion.

Camp and Game Lodge Guides / Rangers

ZAR 150.00 - ZAR 200.00 OR USD $15.00 - $20.00 per guest per day

Camp and Game Lodge Trackers

ZAR 100.00 OR USD $10.00 per guest per day

Lodge Butlers where applicable

ZAR 50.00 OR USD $5.00 per guest per day

General Safari Camp/Lodge Staff

ZAR 75.00 OR USD $7.50 per guest per day

Porterage

ZAR 15.00 USD $2.00 per bag

City Hotel Staff (ie. housekeeping)

ZAR 50.00 or USD $5.00 per guest per day

Transfer and Touring Driver/Guides

Transfer: ZAR 50.00 or USD $5.00 per person

Half day tour: ZAR 100.00 or USD $10.00 per person

Full day tour: ZAR 200.00 or USD $20.00 per person

Restaurants: 10% to 15% on meal accounts

4. What is the shopping like in Africa? ↑ top

Shopping varies according to destination. Generally African handicrafts such as leather goods, wooden carvings, sculptures, paintings, bead work and woven articles are popular purchases. Jewelry is an excellent purchase in South Africa.

5. Can I purchase wine? ↑ top

South Africa produces some of the world’s finest wines so if you are a wine lover we suggest you have a box shipped to you. Both Canada and the USA have restrictions on how much can be brought in duty free, and anything over that amount will be charged import duties.

USA

One American liter (33.8 fl. oz.) of alcoholic beverages may be included in your returning resident personal exemption if:

• You are at least 21 years old.

• It is intended exclusively for your personal use and not for sale.

• It does not violate the laws of the state in which you arrive.

Canada – only one of the following is allowed:

• 1.5 litres (50.7 US ounces) of wine, or

• 1.14 litres (38.5 US ounces) of liquor, or

• A total of 1.14 litres (38.5 US ounces) of wine and liquor

6. Can I use a credit card? ↑ top

In most cases Visa, MasterCard and American Express are widely accepted. For travel to Rwanda, Uganda Zambia and Zimbabwe, you may need to pay in cash for purchases at local shopping outlets.

7. Can I get the VAT I paid for my purchases reimbursed? ↑ top

Yes in South Africa, provided the value of each invoice purchased exceeds ZAR 50.00 and the total value of all items exceeds ZAR 250.00 You must have a valid passport, valid tax invoices and must produce the goods if requested. The invoice must stipulate that it is a VAT invoice and show the amount charged. Follow this link for more information: http://www.taxrefunds.co.za/

Honeymoon Registry

1. Why should I have a honeymoon registry? ↑ top

You have a home established already and do not need conventional domestic gifts. The honeymoon registry is an exciting alternative to a customary gift registry. Your friends and family can assist in making your dream honeymoon a reality. Our staff of highly knowledgeable Africa Specialists will take away the stress of organizing all of the details involved in arranging your dream honeymoon.

2. How does the honeymoon registry work? ↑ top

Plan your honeymoon with us and we will make all of the reservations (air, accommodations, tours, etc.) and publish your customized web page. Family and friends can visit your personalized web page and view your itinerary and then email or call us to contribute money toward the cost of your honeymoon.

3. Is there a fee for the registry? ↑ top

To begin your honeymoon registry, we require a deposit that will go toward the final payment of your honeymoon. The deposit amount varies based on your itinerary. It may be as low as $500 per person, but is typically 25-40% of your total safari cost.

4. Where Can I go on a Honeymoon Safari in Africa? ↑ top

You can choose any of our destinations in Africa for your honeymoon. A classic safari in the Serengeti or Maasai Mara is always a favorite. Some couples like to add an island or beach escape to places like Zanzibar or Mauritius onto their honeymoon safari. Victoria Falls is often a popular stop after honeymoon safaris in South Africa and Botswana. Other couples want the excitement of a Gorilla trek in Rwanda to complete their African honeymoon.

Whatever your interests are, we can create your dream honeymoon in Africa.

Start Your Registry Today