Fantastic Experiences, Great Value

020 7263 3000

Wildlife & Wilderness of Namibia + Cape Town + Victoria Falls

Rhino tracking, Damaraland, Namibia
Zebra, Etosha, Namibia
Panorama, Cape Town, South Africa
12 Apostles, Cape Town, South Africa
Ostrich, Etosha, Namibia
Bo-Kaap, Cape Town, South Africa
Sossusvlei Dune, Namibia
Aerial view, Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe
Elephant at waterhole, Etosha, Namibia
Incl flights, accommodation & transfers
From   £5398 £5098
21 days

Holiday highlights

  • Admire the views from Table Mountain and soak up the vibrancy of Cape Town.
  • Visit one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, the mighty Victoria Falls.
  • Discover abundant wildlife in Etosha National Park and the Kalahari.
  • See mind-blowing sand dunes and clay pans in Sossusvlei.
  • Go rhino tracking in the untamed and ruggedly beautiful Damaraland.

View this Itinerary in Photos

  • Fly overnight from the UK to Windhoek. Namibia’s capital city is an interesting mix of European architecture and African culture. The current city was founded in 1890 when Von Francois laid the foundation stone of the Alte Feste (Old Fortress).

    Meals included: Meal included on the international flight.

  • After a morning arrival in Windhoek, you are met at the airport and taken to your hotel. You meet your driver-guide who will be accompanying you throughout the trip. The afternoon and evening are free for you to recover from your flight or explore the city at your leisure. Perhaps visit the Christ Church, built following the wars between the Germans and the Khoikhoi, Herero, and Owambo (indigenous groups). Another highlight is the Tukondjeni Market, where you can find Namibian food such as barbecued meat, dried fish, fried mopane worms (known as “omaungu”) and indigenous vegetables called “ombidi”.

  • Today is an early start as you drive south for around 300 kilometres to the Kalahari Desert. Most of the route will be on smooth paved roads, whilst the last third of it is a gravel road, but not too bumpy. The journey is stunning, with mountainous views and plenty of photo opportunities. As you enter the Kalahari you find yourself in a vast region characterised by red sand dunes and endless grass plains interspersed with acacias. There are a few breaks en-route to stretch your legs, use the toilet and buy snacks, before arriving at the lodge in the early afternoon where you can have a late lunch. This is often the case on travelling days throughout this itinerary, and you will generally either buy snacks and then arrive at the next hotel for a late lunch, or buy lunch enroute depending on the day. Spend the rest of the afternoon relaxing at the lodge, or take the optional Kalahari Sundowner Game Drive with the chance to spot giraffe, zebra, wildebeest as well as a breathtaking sunset over the unique dune formations. In the evening, enjoy dinner at the lodge.  

    Meals included: Breakfast at the hotel. Dinner at the lodge.

  • Leave early for a scenic 300km drive (50% gravel roads, 50% paved roads) to Sossusvlei. Like yesterday you have a few breaks en-route to stretch your legs, use the toilet and buy snacks, before arriving at the lodge in time for a late lunch and the rest of the afternoon to relax. 

    Meals included: Breakfast at the lodge.

  • The day begins with an early start and a 45-minute drive to the park gate for opening time at sunrise (typically between 6 – 6:30am). The benefit of entering the park at sunrise is that you are able to see the sand dunes at their most picturesque, with the first light creating beautiful shadows on the imposing dunes. There will be a chance to stop at the 170-metre-high dune 45, which you can climb to be rewarded with a panoramic view of the surrounding desert. Depending on fitness levels, it takes around an hour to get to the top. Whether or not you climb is also dependent on factors such as the size of your group and climate. Once you reach the end of the 60km paved road, you switch to a park-operated vehicle for the final five kilometres. This takes you on a sandy track to visit Deadvlei, a large, ghostly expanse of dried white clay, punctuated by skeletons of ancient camelthorn trees. For the more adventurous, and if time allows, there is a chance to climb the tallest dune in the Sossusvlei area, the appropriately named Big Daddy, at a staggering 325 metres. Due to the extreme heat, the climb can be very demanding and you may choose to climb part of it, or not do it at all. On the drive back, keep an eye out for oryx and other desert wildlife. The final stop will be at Sesriem, a 30-metre-deep canyon which is one of the few places in the area that holds water, carved into the rock by the Tsauchab River. From here you will return to your hotel, with the afternoon free to relax.

    Read Scott's blog to find out how he got on when climbing Big Daddy and exploring Deadvlei. 

    Meals included: Breakfast at the lodge.

  • Leave early for a 400-kilometre drive to Swakopmund. It is a scenic but bumpy journey on gravel roads, taking around five hours. Make a pitstop at Solitaire, a welcoming settlement named due to its remote location in the middle of the desert, where you can enjoy a snack at the German bakery. Depending on timing you stop for lunch in Walvis Bay or Swakopmund, and also visit the lagoon where you may see large flocks of flamingos gathering from October to April. Arrive in Swakopmund where you'll have the rest of the afternoon free to relax. With palm-lined streets, seaside promenades and half-timbered German architecture, Swakopmund still manages to create a feel of timelessness and has the ambience of a small German village.

    Meals included: Breakfast at the lodge.

  • Today is a free day to explore Swakopmund. If you choose to take the optional Catamaran Cruise you will spend the morning looking for dolphins, whales, turtles, seals and pelicans whilst aboard a catamaran, with fresh oysters and sparkling wine served as you cruise past iconic landmarks such as Pelican Point.

    Meals included: Breakfast at the hotel.

  • Today is the longest drive of the trip (around 500km) as you make your way to Palmwag Lodge in Damaraland, situated halfway between Swakopmund and Etosha National Park. Around 80% of this full day journey is on a bumpy gravel road, however, the ever-changing scenery is beautiful, with a wide range of landscapes to admire along the way.  The day starts early by heading north along the Skeleton Coast, whose name derives from the bones that lined the beaches following whaling operations and seal hunts. Along the coast you will pass a shipwreck and Henties Bay where you will have your final chance to stock up on food before entering the remote and wild Damaraland. The landscape changes as you turn inland and pass through mountains and rugged scenery. The next stop is at Twyfelfontein, a UNESCO World Heritage Site dating back 6000 years and home to one of the largest concentrations of petroglyphs in Africa. The site includes engravings of rhino, ostrich, elephant as well as human figures and footprints. It forms an extensive record of ritual practices relating to the hunter-gather communities in southern Africa. After learning about the art on a one-hour tour, you continue to Palmwag, the ideal base from which to appreciate this wild and off-the-beaten-track region. 

    Meals included: Breakfast at the hotel. 

  • You can spend the day at leisure or take one of the optional excursions. The Rhino Tracking excursion starts early with breakfast at 5:30am before heading into the vast areas of Damaraland with a qualified guide and tracker, to search for these amazing creatures. The excursion is done with an open game drive vehicle and the actual tracking is done on foot, so can be quite strenuous in the heat. If you would prefer something a bit more gentle then you can take the Palmwag Game Drive excursion which goes into the concession in search of lion, elephant, rhino, giraffe and zebra. It may also be possible to do an afternoon game drive - please contact us for further details. 

    Meals included: Breakfast at the hotel. 

    Read our blog to find out what to expect on the Rhino Tracking excursion.

  • Leave the lodge early for a drive of around five hours (around 300km) to Etosha National Park. The road is two thirds paved and one third gravel. Arrive at Etosha in time for a late lunch at the lodge, then, in the afternoon head into the national park for a game drive in the tour vehicle. The national park is home to a variety of wildlife including lion, giraffe, elephant, white and black rhino. Your guide will take you to the various waterholes to see these animals gather, before heading back to the lodge for the evening.

    Meals included: Breakfast at the lodge.

  • Spend the full day crossing Etosha National Park in the tour vehicle, mostly on a gravel track. As you cross the park, your driver will stop at waterholes so you can get as close as possible to the wildlife. If you are lucky, you may see zebra, elephant, lion, rhino, antelope and prolific birdlife. The pan itself contains water only after very good rains and sometimes for only a few days each year, but is enough to stimulate the growth of a blue-green algae which can lure thousands of flamingos if you are lucky. Stop for a couple of hours in the centre of the park for lunch (not included) at Camp Halali where there is a watering hole that sometimes attracts animals. Then, head east and continue exploring Etosha National Park before leaving the park and continuing to your lodge.

    Meals included: Breakfast at the lodge.

  • This morning, enter the park in the tour vehicle for more game viewing, returning to the lodge in time to relax around the pool and have a leisurely lunch. You can then return to the park for an afternoon’s game viewing in your tour vehicle. Alternatively, there is an optional Open Vehicle Game Drive in the morning which gives a more classic safari experience as you will be in an open safari vehicle rather than the usual tour vehicle. When on safari in an open sided 4x4 vehicle, there is nothing between you and the wilderness. Sounds and smells can be picked up more easily, and you will have better photography opportunities as you follow the animals around. There is also the opportunity to do an afternoon open vehicle game drive - please speak to us for further details. 

    Meals included: Breakfast at the lodge.

  • You can arrange a final morning game drive directly with the lodge before you drive back south to Windhoek. The journey takes around six to seven hours on a paved road, stopping en route at Okahandja's craft market where woodcarvers from all over come to sell a variety of wooden carvings including animals, bowls, jewellery and curios. This is a great place to buy biltong, a classic snack in Southern Africa consisting of dried, cured meat. The evening is free to explore Windhoek.

    Meals included: Breakfast at the lodge.

  • Fly from Windhoek, Namibia to Cape Town, South Africa. Sitting on a peninsula below the imposing Table Mountain, Cape Town brings together the cultures, cuisines and landscapes of South Africa into one amazing city. From the pristine coastlines and verdant nature reserves to the traditional fishing communities and cosmopolitan centre, there is plenty to explore.

    Meals included: Breakfast at the hotel.

  • Spend the day getting to know Cape Town. Perhaps enjoy a leisurely afternoon browsing the shops and restaurants on the waterfront or relax on Clifton Beach. There is also Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, home to an impressive collection of indigenous plants, including fynbos heather and proteas (the national flower) scattered amongst pleasant pathways and secluded spots. Lion’s Head is Table Mountain’s smaller brother, and forms part of the dramatic backdrop to the city. Upon walking to the top of the distinctive shaped mountain slope resembling a crouching lion you will be rewarded with panoramic views of the city. See the best of this fascinating city on our half-day optional City & Table Mountain excursion, which lets you discover the spirit of the Mother City, experience her vibrant cultures and history and enjoy botanical scenery. Highlights include a cable car ride up Table Mountain and visits to the Malay Quarter, Green Market Square, the Company Gardens, Houses of Parliament, City Hall, Castle and Slave Lodge.

    Meals included: Breakfast at the hotel.

  • Spend a further day taking in the delights of Cape Town, or venture out to see the highlights and appreciate the surrounding natural beauty on our optional full-day Cape Peninsula excursion. You’ll travel along the Atlantic seaboard with its gorgeous white beaches and rugged mountains to Cape Point. Along the way you visit Seal Island, Chapman’s Peak & Drive, Cape Point National Park and Boulders Beach, one of the only places in the world where you can get close to African penguins. Alternatively, the Robben Island excursion involves a boat trip across Table Bay to visit the infamous Maximum-Security Prison where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned, and Murray’s Bay Harbour attractions.

    Meals included: Breakfast at the hotel. Lunch is included on the Cape Peninsula excursion.

  • Fly to Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe. The largest waterfalls in the world, based on the sheer volume of water passing into the gorge, Victoria Falls is an iconic African sight. Transfer from the airport to your hotel, then have the rest of the afternoon at leisure.

    Meals included: Breakfast at the hotel.

  • Take the optional Victoria Falls Excursion to visit the falls on the Zimbabwe side, on an informative guided tour where you can learn about the history and observe the flora and fauna. If you don’t take the guided tour, you can explore Victoria Falls at your own pace. The falls themselves are of course the main attraction and can be enjoyed by walking along a spectacular walkway with viewpoints showcasing the mighty falls. Towering over the Batoka Gorge between Zimbabwe and Zambia, the 198-metre bridge was opened in 1905 and represents an incredible feat of Victorian design and industrial revolution engineering. Read our blog about the Top 5 Things to Do at Victoria Falls. In the evening, take the optional Sunset Zambezi Cruise, which is a superb way to relax and enjoy the beauty of the river. You will have the opportunity to see a variety of wildlife along the river banks including hippo, crocodile, and elephant and sometimes even rhino, as well as many different bird species.

    Meals included: Breakfast at the hotel.

  • Visit Chobe National Park across the border in Botswana on the optional full-day Botswana Wildlife excursion. The park is well known for its large herds of elephant (up to 85,000 during the dry season) that frequent the Chobe River every day, as well as lion, leopard, buffalo, antelope, hippo and crocodile. On the excursion you will transfer across the border then spend the morning cruising along the river with excellent game viewing opportunities. After having lunch at a hotel on the riverbank, board the safari vehicle for an afternoon game drive in the Chobe National Park before being transferred back across the border to Victoria Falls.

    Meals included: Breakfast at the hotel. Lunch is included on the Botswana Wildlife excursion.

  • Transfer to Victoria Falls airport for your return overnight flight to the UK, via Johannesburg.

    Meals included: Breakfast at the hotel. Meal included on the international flight.

  • Your flight arrives in the UK.

Accommodation

Accommodation in Windhoek

The Windhoek Luxury Suites

Included
Windhoek Luxury Suites

Standard Hotel: A stylish hotel, conveniently located within the Namibian capital. The Windhoek Luxury Suites are set in peaceful gardens, with a terrace and a wood-decked pool. The stylish rooms are spacious and feature private balconies or gardens, and a walk-in shower.

Why stay here: The Windhoek Luxury Suites offer a tranquil base for your first night in Namibia.

Hotel facilities 

• Free WiFi is available in all areas 

• There is a wood-decked pool and gardens. 

About the room 

All rooms have en-suite bathrooms, air conditioning, WiFi, a TV, a coffee maker, a mini bar, a safety deposit box, and a hair dryer.

Room types available 

Ground/Loft room.

Accommodation in Kalahari

Intu Afrika Zebra Kalahari

Included

Standard Hotel: The Intu Afrika Zebra Kalahari has a fantastic location in the middle of the desert surrounded by the red dunes of the Kalahari. The lodge has a total of 16 rooms, a restaurant, swimming pool and watering hole. The rooms are adjacent to the lodge and are comfortable with an ensuite bathroom.

Why stay here? Meals are served on a deck overlooking the waterhole, so you can enjoy your meal while watching the wildlife emerge from the surrounding bush to quench their thrist. 

Hotel facilities

  • There is a restaurant, bar, swimming pool and waterhole. 

  • Dinner is included.

About the room

All rooms have en-suite bathrooms, safety deposit box, air conditioning,  desk, and kettle. 

Room types available 

Standard room

 

This is our standard hotel for 2023 departures.

Bagatelle Kalahari Game Ranch

Included
Exterior, Bagatelle Kalahari Game Ranch, Namibia
Llama Travel Customer Rating
Overall
90%
90%
Service
92%
92%
Location
94%
94%

Standard Hotel: The Bagatelle has a great location in the middle of the desert, overlooking the red dunes of the Southern Kalahari. There is a restaurant, swimming pool and recreational area which includes a pool table and hammocks. The rooms are in individual chalets, constructed of wood and on stilts on top of a sand dune, with views across the desert.   

Why stay here? This ranch offers elegant individual chalets decorated with wooden furnishings, and a beautiful location in the Kalahari Desert.  

Hotel facilities

  • There is a restaurant, bar, swimming pool, spa and wellness centre, games room and garden.

  • The hotel offers packed lunches and laundry facilities. Dinner is included.

About the room

All rooms have en-suite bathrooms, safety deposit box, air conditioning, bathrobes, desk, kettle and mosquito net.

Room types available 

Savannah Chalet

 

This is our standard hotel for 4 October 2023 departure

Accommodation in Sossusvlei

Elegant Desert Lodge

Included
Entrance, Elegant Desert Lodge, Sossusvlei, Namibia
Llama Travel Customer Rating
Overall
75%
75%
Service
77%
77%
Location
81%
81%

Standard Lodge: Set on a farmland near Sesriem, around 40 kilometres from the entrance to Sossusvlei, the Elegant Desert Lodge enjoys a spectacular location in the desert. There is a swimming pool, terrace, bar and restaurant. The rooms are in individual units, with en-suite bathrooms and private terraces where you can sit and admire the vast desert landscape.

Why stay here?  The lodge is powered by solar energy and uses sustainable products. There is a pool area, beautifully-styled rooms and the opportunity to dine under the stars.  

Lodge facilities

  • The lodge offers free WiFi in the public areas.

  • There is a restaurant, bar, swimming pool, terrace and garden.

  • The lodge offers laundry, a safety deposit box and daily maid service.

About the room

All rooms have an en-suite bathroom, safety deposit box and mosquito net.

Room types available 

Standard Room

Accommodation in Swakopmund

Swakopmund Hotel & Entertainment Centre

Included
Grounds, Swakopmund Hotel & Entertainment Centre, Namibia
Llama Travel Customer Rating
Overall
76%
76%
Service
76%
76%
Location
80%
80%

Standard Hotel: Built in and around the old German Station Building, this hotel features beautiful architecture and superb facilities. There are three restaurants, a swimming pool, gym, gift shop, bar and health studio. All rooms are air-conditioned and come with a TV, minibar, en-suite bathroom and a view overlooking the pool or gardens.

Why stay here? This modern hotel is a few blocks from the seafront, and within walking distance of all the main attractions of Swakopmund. The outdoor pool and health club offers a variety of leisure options during the day.

Hotel facilities

  • The hotel offers free WiFi in public areas.

  • There are three restaurants, a bar, casino, cinemas, swimming pool, beauty area, squash court and fitness centre.

  • The hotel offers daily maid service, dry cleaning, laundry service, shuttle service, concierge, 24-hour front desk, currency exchange, shops and beauty services.

About the room

All rooms have a mini bar, TV, air conditioning and en-suite bathroom.

Room types available 

Standard Room

Accommodation in Damaraland

Palmwag Lodge

Included
Entrance, Palmwag Lodge, Damaraland, Namibia
Llama Travel Customer Rating
Overall
78%
78%
Service
75%
75%
Location
83%
83%

Standard Lodge: Palmwag Lodge is located on the dry banks of the Uniab River which winds through Damaraland. There is a swimming pool and bar serving light meals and drinks. The rooms are in individual stone bungalows with thatched roofs, close to the main area, each with mosquito nets, en-suite bathroom and seating area.

Why stay here? This lodge offers a peaceful location next to a palm-lined spring, often attracting elephants. It is the gateway to the vast Palmwag Concession which supports a healthy population of black rhino.

Lodge facilities

  • There is a restaurant, swimming pool, lounge and bar.

  • The lodge offers laundry service, tea, coffee and light refreshments.

About the room

All rooms have an en-suite bathroom, hot water, mosquito net, power point, safety deposit box, insect repellent and either a ceiling fan or standing fan.  

Room types available 

Tented Chalet

Accommodation in Etosha National Park (South)

Etosha Safari Lodge

Included
Lodges, Etosha Safari Lodge, Namibia
Llama Travel Customer Rating
Overall
82%
82%
Service
75%
75%
Location
87%
87%

Standard Lodge: Etosha Safari Lodge is full of character. It is located just ten kilometres from the Anderson Gate into Etosha National Park, on a hilltop where wildlife can roam freely. There is a restaurant, bar and swimming pool. The rooms are in individual blocks, each with a veranda where you can sit and enjoy great views.

Why stay here? This camp is the perfect place to relax and unwind, featuring a restaurant where you can dine on the terrace and watch the sunset.  

Lodge facilities

  • There is free WiFi in the reception area.

  • There is a restaurant, bar, swimming pool, tea and coffee facilities.

  • The hotel offers laundry service and 24-hour security.

About the room

All rooms have an en-suite bathroom, mosquito net, veranda, air conditioning and safety deposit box.

Room types available 

Standard Room

Accommodation in Etosha National Park (East)

Mokuti Etosha Lodge

Included

Standard Lodge: The lodge is less than five minutes from the eastern Von Lindequist Gate and is located on its own private 4,000-hectare nature reserve. Charming thatched buildings and two pools are nestled among the vast indigenous gardens. The rooms are beautifully decorated with Namibian crafts and rich fabrics, with garden views.

Why stay here? Mokuti Etosha Lodge has an excellent location close to Etosha National Park, with lush grounds providing the perfect place to relax between excursions. 

Lodge facilities

  • There is free WiFi in the rooms.

  • There is a dining room, restaurant, three bars, two outdoor pools, tennis courts, gym and souvenir shop.

  • The lodge offers luggage storage, currency exchange, 24-hour front desk, airport shuttle and room service.

About the room

All rooms have air conditioning, garden views, tea and coffee facilities, flat-screen TV, mini bar and en-suite bathroom.

Room types available 

Standard Room

This is our standard lodge for 2024 departures

Etosha King Nehale

Included

Standard Lodge: Set on the striking Andoni plains the lodge is located just one kilometer from Etosha National Park. The lodge is tastefully decorated with traditional Oshiwambo cultural ornaments, while the rooms are spacious with each having its own veranda and plunge pool. The lodge has a restaurant, bar, boma and curio shop.

Why stay here? The lodge has access to its on private waterhole on the edge of the Etosha National Park. Only guests staying at the lodge have access to the viewing hide giving you extra chances to spot some of Etosha’s famous wildlife up close.  

Lodge Facilities

  • There is free WiFi
  • There is a restaurant, bar, curio, tea and coffee facilities.
  • The hotel offers laundry service and 24-hour security.

About the room

All rooms have air conditioning, tea and coffee facilities, veranda with plunge pool, hairdryer and en-suite bathroom.

Room types available 

Standard Room

This is our standard hotel for 2025 departures

Accommodation in Cape Town

SunSquare Cape Town City Bowl

Included
SunSquare Cape Town City Bowl, South Africa
Llama Travel Customer Rating
Overall
72%
72%
Service
72%
72%
Location
58%
58%

Standard Hotel: The SunSquare Cape Town City Bowl is a modern hotel in the city centre, with a great view over the city and Table Mountain. There is an enclosed rooftop pool, restaurant, bar and fitness centre. There are a number of good restaurants within walking distance of the hotel, and the waterfront is a 10-minute drive away. All 202 rooms are modern, bright and spacious with views of the city, Table Mountain, Signal Hill, the harbour or Bo Kaap.  

Why stay here? The central location means you can reach all the main sights on foot in around 5-10 minutes. The rooftop bar, pool and outdoor deck area offer spectacular views of Cape Town harbour and Lions Head.

Hotel facilities

  • Free Wi-Fi is available in all areas.

  • There is a restaurant, bar, swimming pool and fitness centre.

  • The hotel offers a concierge service, currency exchange, 24-hour front desk, daily maid and laundry service. 

About the room

All rooms have en-suite bathroom, tea and coffee making facilities, air conditioning, safe, TV, fridge and seating area.

Room type 

Standard Room

V&A Waterfront Hotel

£360
(£360 Single Supplement)

Superior Hotel: Built in 1904 as the North Quay Warehouse, the V&A Waterfront is one of Cape Town’s finest establishments, boasting a prime location on the fashionable waterfront, within walking distance of the city centre. There are a range of dining options including a fine dining establishment and relaxed restaurant serving artisanal-style dishes on the quayside terrace, as well as a spa and wellness centre, bar and a swimming pool across the road, surrounded by a courtyard. There are 94 well-appointed rooms offering views of the Alfred Basin Table Mountain or the piazza.

Why stay here?  This hotel is set apart from other Cape Town hotels due its excellent location, attention to detail and personalised luxury. The bedrooms offer picturesque views of Cape Town Harbour or Table Mountain, and the pool is a great place to relax after exploring the bustling city.

Hotel facilities

  • Free WiFi is available in all areas.

  • There is a restaurant, bar, outdoor swimming pool, spa, garden and terrace.

  • The hotel offers a shuttle service, ATM, currency exchange, concierge service, luggage storage, tour desk, safety deposit box, 24-hour front desk, room service, gift shops and daily maid service.

About the room

All rooms have an en-suite bathroom, tea and coffee making facilities, minibar, safety deposit box, satellite TV, toiletries and air conditioning. Rooms are well-appointed, contemporary and each decorated in a different style, to complement the warm personalised service.

Room type

Loft Room

Accommodation in Victoria Falls

Bayete Guest Lodge

Included

Standard Hotel: A comfortable, family run guest lodge away from the hustle and bustle of the town. The Bayete has 30 rooms set within lush tropical gardens, and large teardrop pool where guests can swim and relax. Next to the pool is the dining boma and bar, decorated with local artwork and materials.

Why stay here: The Bayete provides a quiet oasis to retreat to after a busy day at the falls.

Hotel facilities

  • Free WiFi is available in all areas
  • There is a restaurant, bar and pool

About the room

All rooms have en-suite bathrooms, air conditioning, WiFi, tea and coffee making facilities, and a safety deposit box, a hair dryer.

Room types available

Deluxe

Batonka Guest Lodge

£195
(£90 Single Supplement)

Superior Hotel: Situated 1.7 miles from the waterfalls in a quiet suburb of Victoria Falls town, Batonka Guest Lodge is away from the town but within walking distance of the main attractions. The lodge is set in picturesque gardens with indigenous plants and features a range of amenities including a swimming pool, lounge and indoor and outdoor dining areas with a veranda. Each of the 22 rooms are well appointed and spacious, with décor and features such as double basins and large shower. The rooms have large private patios with a seating area looking out over the garden or pool.

Why stay here? The lodge offers a quiet and peaceful location, with elegantly decorated rooms to reflect the lodge’s colonial past. It is a great option for those looking for a small, personalised lodge with a high level of service.

Hotel facilities

  • Free WiFi is available in all areas.

  • There is a restaurant, bar, swimming pool, lounge and garden.

  • The hotel offers a concierge service, luggage storage, tour desk, laundry, shuttle service and room service.

About the room

Rooms are in individual units with a pool or garden view, and each have air conditioning, TV, safety deposit box, en-suite bathroom, toiletries, TV, mosquito net and kettle.

Room types available 

Pool/Garden View Room

Victoria Falls Hotel

from £480
(£480 Single Supplement)

Superior Hotel: Built in 1904, this Edwardian-style property is one of Africa’s oldest and most iconic hotels. It is the epitome of luxury and grandeur, with facilities including an Edwardian pool, spa and hair salon, art gallery, exhibition, bars and three restaurants.

Why stay here? The hotel is steeped in history, having originally being conceived as accommodation for workers on the Cape-to-Cairo railway. As well as being renowned for its impeccable service and luxurious accommodation, the location is second to none. 

Hotel facilities

  • Free WiFi is available in all areas.

  • There is a range of restaurants, bars, entertainment, Edwardian swimming pool, gift shop, beauty spa, hair salon, stone sculpture exhibition, art gallery, lounge and internet lounge.

  • The hotel offers a concierge service, luggage storage, tour desk, laundry, shuttle service, room service, chapel, 24-hour front desk and daily maid service.

About the room

All rooms have a minibar, safe, air conditioning, satellite TV and tea and coffee facilities.

Room types available 

Standard Room

Excursions

Excursions Package

Namibia Excursion Package Save £31

Take the Kalahari Sundowner Game Drive, Catamaran Cruise and Palmwag Game Drive excursions for a discounted price.

from £159

Kalahari Sundowner Game Drive

£55
Giraffe, Kalahari, Namibia
Llama Travel Customer Rating
90%
90%

This late afternoon excursion takes you into the Kalahari where you can look for a range of desert-adapted flora and fauna including giraffe, oryx, wildebeest, eland and kudu. As the day draws to a close, enjoy a sundowner and refreshments whilst taking in the breathtaking sunset over the Kalahari.

Full Description:

Enjoy a stunning two-hour drive in a classic 4x4 safari vehicle, surrounded by the unique dune topography and vegetation of the Kalahari. The reserve has some of the highest dunes in the region, interspersed with acacia trees and offering panoramic views over the pan. You will have the opportunity to spot a diverse range of animals as well as over 150 different bird species. The well-known suricate (meerkat) can also to be seen, although they are very shy. There is no better way to spend an evening in the desert than to watch the sun sinking away into the distant dunes whilst sipping a refreshing beer or gin and tonic.

Catamaran Cruise

£60
Pelican, Catamaran cruise, Namibia
Llama Travel Customer Rating
92%
92%

Observe dolphins, whales, turtles, seals, pelicans and sunfish whilst aboard a catamaran on this adventure-packed half-day excursion. Enjoy oysters and sparkling wine on-board while you look out for marine life. The journey goes past several ships and oil rigs in the bay, and you will cruise past oyster farms and see the lighthouse at Pelican Point, home to around 60,000 cape fur seals. 

Full Description:

You leave Swakopmund at around 8am for a half an hour drive to Walvis Bay. Depart at 9am from the Walvis Bay waterfront for an educational sightseeing tour in the bay area in search of the marine Big Five: whales, dolphins, mola, leatherback turtle and seals. Tea and coffee are served while cruising past oyster farms on the initial route to Pelican Point with its landmark lighthouse and 60,000 resident cape fur seals. In season (July to November), larger mammals such as the southern right whale and humpback whales are often spotted, while other whale species, such as the gray whale and the pygmy right whale have made appearances. Bottlenose, heaviside and dusky dolphins are regularly seen, as are ocean sunfish and leatherback turtles. The catamaran is usually accompanied by a variety of seabirds, such as the kelp gull, hartlaub’s gull, pelican and cape cormorant. The journey from Pelican Point goes past some of the more interesting ships and oil rigs in the bay as you are served fresh oysters with sparkling wine, savoury snacks and dessert. You return to the waterfront at around 12:30pm before being transferred back to Swakopmund. 

Palmwag Scenic Drive

£75
Game drive, Palmwag, Damaraland, Namibia
Llama Travel Customer Rating
71%
71%

This four-hour drive goes into the Palmwag Concession to search for the animals that roam in this arid paradise, as well as a number of plant species unique to Damaraland. The springs support diverse fauna including giraffe, kudu, zebra and oryx. This region also boasts Namibia's largest population of predators outside of Etosha National Park, including lion, cheetah and leopard.

Full Description:

On this half-day excursion, you will set off in the morning in an open safari 4x4 vehicle with an experienced guide who will show you all that the concession has to offer. Spreading over 450,000 hectares in northern Damaraland, the Palmwag Concession is an arid wilderness of rocky landscapes, grasslands and dry river courses.  Drive through the majestic landscape to look for a variety of animals including the zebra, giraffe, kudu, oryx, springbok, ostrich, jackal brown and spotted hyena, and with a bit of luck and skill, the desert adapted elephant, the endangered black rhino and lion. Birdlife is also prolific, with many endemic species including rüppell’s korhaan, benguela long-billed lark and herero chat, as well as birds of prey such as the verreaux’s eagle, booted eagle, lanner falcon and greater kestrel.

Rhino Tracking

£175

This half-day excursion takes you in search of rhino in Palmwag, with the guidance of a qualified guide and tracker. It is done with an open game drive vehicle and once the rhino have been located, you attempt to approach this rare species on foot. The black rhino is one of the world's most endangered animals, and almost half them are found in Namibia. Whilst seeing the rhino is not guaranteed, there is a fairly good chance as Palmwag supports a large population of them. 

Full Description:

Start at dawn with an early breakfast then set off to the Torra Conservancy where you look for the rhinos. Damaraland, and specifically the Palmwag Concession, is home to a range of desert-adapted wildlife including the largest free-roaming black rhino population in Africa, so chances of spotting them are relatively high. You are taken off the beaten track into the vast areas of Damaraland to track and observe the rhino. Once the rhino have been located, you leave the vehicle and get closer to them on foot, observing them in silence. Seeing them amble around the savannah in search of roots and grasses to chew on or water to drink is a sight to behold. The communities directly benefit from these excursions since part of the income generated through rhino tracking is paid to the conservancies. This excursion requires a reasonable level of fitness, as it involves walking across very uneven ground in the heat. There will be a safety briefing beforehand to inform you of the possible dangers of approaching the rhino on foot. The length of the excursion depends on how long it takes to find a rhino, however you will generally be back at the lodge before lunch.

Click here to read our Product Manager's blog about his rhino tracking experience.

Etosha Open Vehicle Game Drive

£85
Etosha Game Drive Vehicle
Llama Travel Customer Rating
89%
89%

This half-day excursion takes around five hours, as you enter Etosha National Park for a morning of game viewing in an open-sided safari vehicle with an experienced guide. For those who want a more classic safari experience, this is a great option. The vehicles usually have 9 elevated seats for better viewing. Sounds and smells can be picked up more easily, and you will have better photography opportunities as you follow the animals around.

Full Description:

Spend the morning spotting Etosha's wildlife on this morning excursion in a classic 4x4 vehicle. Etosha National Park’s main characteristic is a salt pan so large it can be seen from space. This endless white expanse in Namibia is an unlikely venue for the ideal African safari; yet the surrounding regions are home to numerous springboks and zebras. If you are lucky you may even spot elephants,  endangered black rhinos and even leopards in areas of thicker vegetation. Lions are camouflaged in the pale-golden colour of the grasslands, while giraffes rise high above most of the dry vegetation. The abundant Etosha wildlife that congregates around the waterholes gives you almost guaranteed game sightings every day.

The excursion usually starts 30 minutes before sunrise and lasts around five hours. An afternoon excursion is also possible, departing around 2pm.

City & Table Mountain

£130

This half-day tour lets you discover the vibrant cultures and rich history of Cape Town, with visits to Table Mountain and numerous other sites. Explore the market of Greenmarket Square, marvel at the colourful houses and cobbled streets of the Cape Malay Quarter, walk through the Company Gardens, visit Cape Castle and pass through District Six, the Houses of Parliament, Slave Lodge and the City Hall.

Full Description:

Set off in the morning for this half-day tour of Cape Town. The first stop (weather permitting*) is Table Mountain’s Lower Cableway Station, for a 5-minute revolving cable car ride to the top. The cable car’s rotating floor ensures that all passengers have an aerial view of the city. 1,067 metres above sea level, Table Mountain is a sandstone plateau rising up above the Cape Flats. The top is approximately 3km wide, and at its highest point, Maclear’s Beacon, rises to 1,085m.  Over the centuries it has become one of South Africa's most famous landmarks.  The steep cliffs and rocky outcrops of the mountain are home to a variety of flora and fauna including approximately 1,470 species of plants and the Table Mountain ghost frog.

Return to the city via the old Cape Malay Quarter (Bo-Kaap) which is renowned for its multi-coloured buildings. The cluster of Cape Dutch and Cape Georgian houses are on Signal Hill, and the museum provides a moving account of the community and its history as a former slave quarter. From there, go to the Castle of Good Hope for a guided tour of South Africa’s oldest building, with its formidable collection of Old Cape paintings. Built between 1666 and 1679, this pentagonal fortification replaced a small clay and timber fort built by Commander Jan van Riebeeck in 1652. Walk through the Company Gardens, which was originally created in the mid-17th century by the region’s first European settlers, growing fresh produce for ships rounding the Cape. It is now home to the South Africa Museum, Houses of Parliament, National Gallery and St George’s Cathedral. Take in the nearby Grand Parade, where Nelson Mandela addressed the nation on his release in 1990, and then move on to the District Six Museum, which showcases the colourful life of this area and the forced relocation of its residents during the Apartheid era. Stroll through the city to Greenmarket Square, where you can haggle with local vendors for beautiful wares, then arrive back at the hotel around 1pm.

 

*If the cable car doesn’t run due to bad weather, then you are taken to Signal Hill, which also boasts beautiful views.

Cape Peninsula

£240

This full-day tour is an excellent way to appreciate the natural beauty that surrounds Cape Town, with highlights including Seal Island, Chapman’s Peak Drive, Cape Point National Park and Boulders Beach. Throughout the day you will drive along a stunning stretch of coastline, stopping for a boat trip to Seal Island which is home to thousands of Cape fur seals. Make your way to Cape Point, the south-westernmost tip of Africa that has captivated travellers for centuries with its fascinating history. After lunch, stop to visit Boulders Beach, renowned for its huge colony of African penguins, then continue back to Cape Town along False Bay coast.

Full Description:

The excursion starts early in order to avoid Cape Town traffic, as you are picked up around 6:30am and driven along the Atlantic seaboard towards Hout Bay. The first stop is a one-hour boat cruise to visit Seal Island, a small land mass located 5.7 km off the northern beaches of False Bay. The island is so named because of the 64,000 Cape Fur Seals that occupy it.

If open (weather dependent), continue on Chapman’s Peak Drive, renowned for being one of the most stunning roads in the world. Winding its way between Noordhoek and Hout Bay, this rocky coastal road offers numerous points where you can pull over and admire a panoramic view across the Atlantic Ocean and the shapely shoreline that meets it. From vantage points, some of which are up to 593m above sea level, it is not uncommon to see whales and dolphins, and troops of baboons curiously observing passing tourists. From here you continue to Cape Point, within Table Mountain National Park, which forms part of the Cape Floral Region, a World Heritage Site. Here, you take the Flying Dutchman Funicular to the old lighthouse.

After a delicious seafood lunch in a restaurant, the return journey takes you along False Bay coast where you travel through the historic naval base of Simon's Town and Boulders Beach, renowned for being home to a colony of up to 3,000 African Penguins. Formerly known as jackass penguins because of their distinctive braying, they are the only penguins found on the continent. Colonies can be found from southern Namibia all the way around the South African coast to Port Elizabeth; however, few places offer as remarkable a viewing point as Boulders Beach. After spending half an hour here to admire and photograph the penguins, transfer back to the hotel in Cape Town, arriving mid-afternoon.

Robben Island Tour

£130

Discover one of South Africa's most revered national monuments on this half-day excursion to Robben Island. This World Heritage Site was a prison for some 450 years – for, at one time or another, convicts, slaves, exiled Eastern princes, lepers, the insane and political prisoners being punished for resisting oppressive rule. Get access to the cell where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for 27 years, and visit other important sites around Murray's Bay Harbour. 

Full Description:

Transfer from your hotel to the harbour for a 30-minute boat trip across Table Bay to Robben Island. Upon arrival you are met by a former prisoner who will be your guide. After a 45-minute bus journey with commentary and moving stories from your guide, stop and visit the infamous Maximum-Security Prison as well as the Murray's Bay Harbour attractions including the Muslim shrine, or kramat, and the Museum Shop.  For some 450 years, Robben Island was a place of banishment, exile, isolation and imprisonment. It was here that rulers sent those they regarded as political troublemakers, social outcasts and the unwanted of society. During the apartheid years, Robben Island became internationally known for its institutional brutality. 

Explore the historic prison where Nelson Mandela was incarcerated, along with countless other convicts. See Mandela's prison cell and explore the island's multi-layered history in a private vehicle with an expert guide. Return by boat to the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront and transfer to your hotel.

Please note that this excursion may be cancelled due to sea conditions.

Zambezi Sunset Cruise

£85
Sunset Cruise, Zambezi, Victoria Falls
Llama Travel Customer Rating
99%
99%

This two-hour excursion in the late afternoon is a great way to relax and enjoy the beauty of the Zambezi River, with the opportunity to see a variety of game including hippo, crocodile, elephant and birdlife. There are excellent photo opportunities against spectacular sunsets.

Full Description:

Board the boat in the late afternoon for a two-hour boat cruise along the upper Zambezi River, spotting wildlife along the river banks with the help of an experienced guide. Enjoy drinks and snacks aboard as the sun sets over Africa, before returning to the jetty and transferring back to your hotel.

Victoria Falls Guided Tour

£80
Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe
Llama Travel Customer Rating
88%
88%

Appreciate one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World on this excursion to Victoria Falls. The guided tour lets you discover the fascinating history and observe the flora and fauna and view the falls by walking along a boardwalk with several viewpoints.

Full Description:

The largest waterfalls in the world, based on the sheer volume of water passing into the gorge, Victoria Falls is an iconic African sight. This guided tour on the Zimbabwean side of Victoria Falls will allow you to fully appreciate their grandeur. You will visit them with a guide, walking along a spectacular walkway with viewpoints showcasing the mighty falls. Towering over the Batoka Gorge between Zimbabwe and Zambia, the 198-metre bridge was opened in 1905 and represents an incredible feat of Victorian design and industrial revolution engineering.

Botswana Wildlife Excursion

£210
Crocodile, Chobe National Park, Botswana
Llama Travel Customer Rating
89%
89%

A two-part excursion in Chobe National Park, consisting of a morning boat ride on the Chobe River and afternoon game drive in the national park. This trip takes you across the border to Botswana for a full day of wildlife viewing, with lunch included at a hotel on the riverbank. With luck you may spot elephant, lion, leopard, buffalo, antelope, hippo and more. 

Full Description:

Transfer across the border to Chobe National Park in Botswana, well known for its large herds of elephant (up to 85,000 during the dry season) that frequent the Chobe River every day, as well as lion, leopard, buffalo, antelope, hippo and crocodile. Once arrived, you will board a boat and spend the morning cruising along the river, with excellent game viewing opportunities including some of the biggest crocodiles in Africa and large pods of hippo. Stop for lunch at a hotel on the riverbank, then board the safari vehicle for an afternoon game drive, with the chance to spot the Big 5 and other game including giraffe, antelope, zebra, leopard and cheetah. Transfer back across the border to Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe.

2024

2025

Prices include

Return flights from the UK; any internal flights; accommodation (bed and breakfast except where indicated); transfers; service of guides and local reps, UK airport taxes.

Prices do not include

Any optional excursions, travel insurance, tips.

Holidays without international flights

The above prices include return international flights from the UK. If you wish to arrange your own flights, we will reduce our prices accordingly. The reduction depends on when you travel, please call us for details.

Departure Airport

Flights are scheduled to be from London. Other airports may be possible, although a supplement sometimes applies.

Holiday Information

All the practical information you need regarding your trip is found here. From how to prepare before you leave and travelling to your destination, to advice on travelling within your country of choice.

About Your Holiday

  • All the flight-inclusive holidays on this website are financially protected by the ATOL scheme. When you pay you will be supplied with an ATOL Certificate. Please ask for it and check to ensure that everything you booked (flights, hotels and other services) is listed on it. Please see our booking conditions for further information or for more information about financial protection and the ATOL Certificate go to: www.atol.org.uk/ATOLCertificate

    For holidays not including any flights, financial protection is provided through IPP: https://www.llamatravel.com/ipp-protection

  • In many cases, the best way to describe our holidays is flexible tours, so you can choose where to visit by combining different extensions and excursions, and which hotels to stay in. In most cases, you will be with other Llama Travellers, but not necessarily the same people throughout. This allows you to get to know like-minded people, but not have to spend all your time with the same group. If we don't have anyone else taking a particular part of a holiday, we will normally operate this just for you.

    In some cases, we operate more traditional tours, with the same Llama Travel group travelling together for the majority of the holiday, which allows land travel from one location to another, and in this case we may have a minimum number of travellers required to operate the group.

    Excursions are usually taken together with other Llama Travel customers in groups of no more than 18 people. If we have more than 18 booked, we operate two groups. These will usually be in English, although in some places, especially on wildlife excursions, the excursions may be operated by one of our local partners, so you may be with people other than Llama Travel customers and the group may be a mix of English and other languages. In these cases, group sizes can sometimes be larger. If you would like to know the likely situation for your holiday, please ask us and we will be able to check. Transfers may be with more than 18 people.

    We get a wide range of people taking our holidays, with probably the largest group being couples aged in their forties to sixties, or even older. However, we also have a large number of customers in their twenties and thirties, especially for some of the more active holidays. What unites everyone is a sense of curiosity and a desire to discover new cultures, landscapes and wildlife. Although most of our customers travel with friends or family, we also have quite a few single travellers who are happy to mix and match as described above.

    Group Size
    Most holidays can operate with a minimum of 2 passengers, but some holidays have a higher minimum group size. If we have fewer than the minimum number of passengers, we will let you know two months before departure. In this case, we will refund you any monies paid or offer you an alternative option. It may be possible to operate the trip for fewer than 4 passengers for an additional cost.

    All holidays in Europe have a minimum group size of 4 passengers.
    All holidays in Namibia or South Africa have a minimum group size of 6 passengers.
    All holidays in Kenya have a minimum group size of 4 passengers.
    All holidays in Asia have a minimum group size of 4 passengers.
    All holidays in Costa Rica and Mexico have a minimum group size of 4 passengers.

  • Prices listed are per person and based on two persons sharing a room and include all flights from the UK and within destination, service of guides and reps (please note that tips are not included), accommodation and all transfers and excursions listed in the itinerary. Where applicable, entrance fees, taxes and charges are included in our prices at the rates advised to us at the time of preparation. An adjustment will be made to your price if any of these change before your holiday. UK airport taxes are included.

Booking Conditions

How To Book

  • You can pay your deposit by bank transfer, cheque, standard UK debit card or non-premium UK personal Visa / MasterCard credit card. Balance payments can be made by bank transfer or cheque. We do not accept cards for balance payments. We are unable to accept cash.

  • To book a holiday or discuss your requirements, please call us on 020 7263 3000. We can usually confirm availability immediately, but may need to check with a supplier first.

Before You Go

  • Adequate travel insurance is essential. We do not sell or recommend any specific policy, but good medical insurance should cover medical evacuation and repatriation. If you are going to be taking part in any activity, please ensure your policy covers you for this, especially if this involves high-altitude trekking, such as the Inca Trail.

  • To issue some tickets, we require passport details and ages when you book. If you subsequently change your passport, please let us know as soon as possible.

    Latin America

    Visas are not required in advance for British citizens for any Llama Travel Latin American destination. For British passports endorsed in any way and all other passports, please ask the appropriate consulate.

    If you are flying via another country, especially the US, you need to comply with the appropriate immigration requirements. Please ask us for details.

    You need a full 10-year passport valid for 6 months after your return to the UK. If you renewed your current passport before the previous one expired, extra months may have been added to its expiry date. Any extra months on your passport over 10 years may not count towards the minimum period needed if you are transiting in Europe.

    There is an entry fee to enter Chile for citizens of Australia, the US, Canada and some other countries which must be paid upon arrival. There is also an entry fee for US and Canadian citizens visiting Argentina, which must be paid in advance online.

    If children are not travelling with both parents, some countries require a letter of consent to enter or depart. Please consult the appropriate consulate.

    Africa

    British nationals can enter Morocco, South Africa, Namibia, and Botswana for a visit of up to 90 days without a visa. For British passports endorsed in any way and all other passports, please ask the appropriate consulate. You need a passport valid for 6 months after your return to the UK. For South Africa, you need a passport with two blank pages.

    For Zimbabwe, British nationals will be granted a KAZA Univisa (valid for travel between Zimbabwe and Zambia and day trips into Botswana) visa, for a fee, paid in cash. This is easiest to obtain upon arrival at the airport or border post, rather than via an agency in the UK. For British passports endorsed in any way and all other passports, please ask the Zimbabwe consulate. You need a passport valid for 6 months after your return to the UK.

    For Kenya, British nationals require a visa, which must be obtained online in advance, and for which there is a cost. You can apply for single entry and transit visas on the e-visas website. For more information, see the website of the Kenya High Commission. Children aged 16 and below do not require a visa to enter Kenya. For British passports endorsed in any way and all other passports, please ask the Kenya consulate. You need a passport with two blank pages, valid for six months after your return to the UK.

    If children are not travelling with both parents, some countries require a letter of consent to enter or depart. Please consult the appropriate consulate. In South Africa and Namibia, children under 18 must also carry an unabridged birth certificate.

    You need a full 10-year passport valid for 6 months after your return to the UK. If you renewed your current passport before the previous one expired, extra months may have been added to its expiry date. Any extra months on your passport over 10 years may not count towards the minimum period needed if you are transiting in Europe.

    To issue some tickets, we require passport details and ages when you book. If you subsequently change your passport, please let us know as soon as possible.

    Asia & the Middle East

    To visit Jordan, you need a full 10 year passport valid for 6 months after your return to the UK. You will need a visa to enter Jordan. The Jordan visa is included in the price of your holiday. On arrival in Amman our representatives will meet you prior to immigration and this will be provided to you free of charge. For British passports endorsed in any way and all other passports, please ask the Jordanian consulate.

    All visitors to Sri Lanka, including British nationals, require an electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA), which must be obtained online in advance, and for which there is a cost. You can apply for single entry and transit visas on the ETA website. For more information, see the website of the Sri Lanka High Commission. For British passports endorsed in any way and all other passports, please ask the Sri Lanka consulate. You need a passport with two blank pages, valid for six months after your return to the UK.

    All visitors to India, including British nationals, require a visa, which can be obtained online in advance, and for which there is a cost. You can apply for single entry and transit visas on the e-visa website. For more information, see the website of the India High Commission. For British passports endorsed in any way and all other passports, please ask the Indian consulate. You need a passport with two blank pages, valid for six months after your return to the UK.

    Visitors from 13 countries, including the UK, can travel to Vietnam visa-free for stays up to 45 days. For stays longer than 45 days, a visa is required at a cost. This can be applied for online on the e-visa website. Stays longer than 90 days are not permitted. You need a full 10-year passport valid for 6 months after your return to the UK. For British passports endorsed in any way and all other passports, please ask the Vietnamese consulate.

    To visit Cambodia, a visa is required at a cost. This can be applied for online on the e-visa website. You need a full 10-year passport valid for 6 months after your return to the UK. For British passports endorsed in any way and all other passports, please ask the Cambodian consulate.

    To visit Laos, a visa is required at a cost. This can be applied for online on the e-visa website. You need a full 10-year passport valid for 6 months after your return to the UK. For British passports endorsed in any way and all other passports, please ask the Laotian consulate.

    If you are arranging a stopover in Singapore, you must complete an electronic SG Arrival Card up to three days before entry into Singapore.

    Europe

    You need a full 10 year passport valid for 6 months after your return to the UK. If you renewed your current passport before the previous one expired, extra months may have been added to its expiry date. Any extra months on your passport over 10 years may not count towards the minimum period needed.

     

  • In many destinations, you can arrange adventure activities, either through Llama Travel or through Llama Travel. If you are interested in taking any of these, please make sure you are covered by your travel insurance.

  • Some countries have strict regulations regarding the entry and exit of children under 18 when not travelling with both parents, or if the child has nationality of the country you are visiting. If you are travelling with children who are not entering or leaving the country with both parents, or if the child has nationality of the country you are visiting, please contact the consulate of the country you are visiting to check requirements.

    Countries in Africa have particularly strict requirements regarding children travelling, and in both South Africa and Namibia, children need to carry an unabridged birth certificate. Additionally, in Namibia, adults travelling with children where they are not the biological or legal guardians of those children, should be in possession of an affidavit statement from the child’s parents giving consent for their travel.

    Such requirements do change from time to time, and although we try to keep abreast of such changes and update this information, if you are travelling with children, we suggest you check current requirements carefully.

  • You will receive tickets approximately 10 days before departure, along with information on accommodation, transfers and excursions. Our agents in destination will give you final details for hotel and excursions when you arrive. Please check airline tickets carefully in case timings have changed after we issued your confirmation.

  • Cards are widely accepted in most hotel and restaurants, and cash machines are common in most destinations. However, when travelling to remote areas, it is advisable to take cash, as it is difficult to withdraw or change money. Travellers cheques are no longer widely used, so it may be inconvenient to take these.

    It is always recommended to inform your bank that you are travelling abroad and to which countries. This will allow them to authorise money withdrawals from your account when you are away. Some banks say that this is not necessary, however we would still recommend contact with your bank as in some cases people have had difficulty in withdrawing currency.

    More information on the situation regarding money, budgeting and tipping in specific countries is in the country information below.

When Your Are Travelling

  • Most people who travel to the countries where Llama Travel operates experience no problems on holiday. However, as is the case anywhere in the world, crime can be a problem, especially in large cities. Tourists can appear attractive targets to criminals. To minimise the risk, use common sense. Do not display signs of wealth, such as expensive looking jewellery or cameras. Avoid empty streets, especially on your own. Take a taxi after dark. By taking sensible precautions, you should have a trouble-free holiday.

    Each country has its own standards for health and safety, but these are often not as good as in the UK. We take this into account when selecting hotels and request that they comply with all local regulations, but cannot guarantee that these are equivalent to British standards. Please take reasonable precautions to protect yourselves whilst on holiday, e.g. by locating fire exit routes.

    Please also check the Foreign Office travel advice for the countries you are visiting at www.fco.gov.uk.

  • Attitudes towards lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) travellers around the world can be very different from those in the UK.

    In Latin America and Europe, attitudes can sometimes be more conservative than in the UK, but there are not usually problems.

    In some African countries, including Morocco, Zimbabwe and Kenya, same sex relationships are illegal and conservative attitudes prevail. However, hotels and lodges do not discriminate and same sex couples can share rooms. In much of Africa and the Middle East, public displays of affection may attract negative attention, especially with LGBT couples, although the majority of people are friendly to visitors, irrespective of gender and sexual orientation. In South Africa, the authorities have introduced legislation which bans any discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation.

    In most of Asia, attitudes to same sex relationships can be conservative, but there are not usually any problems. In Sri Lanka, same sex relationships are illegal, but hotels do not discriminate and same sex couples can share rooms.

    The UK Foreign Office has information LGBT travel on their travel advice for individual countries, found at www.fco.gov.uk.

  • For all wildlife excursions, please always follow the instructions of your guide, both for the animals’ welfare and for your safety. Staff are experienced at dealing with wildlife, but by their nature, excursions involving exposure to wild animals will always carry some risk.

    If you take a safari in Africa, you will be with an experienced guide at all times, who is usually unarmed. All of the game drives run according to schedule, although unexpected delays can occur, which the guide will deal with as quickly and safely as possible. Being in the wilderness means that the environment is unpredictable, so the unexpected can happen. For any excursions taken on foot, there will be a safety briefing to inform you of the possible dangers.

Health & Fitness

  • Please consult your GP or a travel clinic about health and vaccination requirements. Advice for travellers is available at www.fitfortravel.nhs.uk.

    When travelling, stomach illnesses are not uncommon due to changes in diet. We suggest you only drink bottled water and avoid ice in drinks. If you are unsure if salads and fruit have been washed in purified water, it is best to avoid them.

    If you suffer from a disability or condition and are worried whether this will affect the enjoyment of a holiday, please call us. We will do our best to help. We recommend that you bring any medicines you require from the UK.

    If you have any health problems on holiday, please speak to our local agents or hotel staff. They will arrange for a doctor or hospital if necessary. If you do experience any problems, please seek appropriate medical attention.

    Outside of major cities, medical facilities can be basic, meaning a lengthy transfer if hospital attention is required.

    Latin America

    Yellow fever and / or malaria precautions are recommended for visiting the jungle, Iguazu Falls and some parts of Colombia, Guatemala, Costa Rica, Brazil, Peru and Ecuador. Yellow Fever certificates are sometimes required if you have recently visited a country with an infected area. Children under 6 require proof of vaccination against polio to enter Brazil. Some GPs do not recommend yellow fever vaccinations for travellers over 60 years old. If you are pregnant or planning on becoming pregnant, please speak to your GP about zika. Please seek medical advice before you travel.

    Parts of South America are at high altitude. Most visitors do not suffer major problems. However, shortness of breath is common and we advise you to take things calmly during your first day at altitude. If you suffer from a heart or lung condition, or think that you may suffer due to the altitude, please consult your GP.

    Africa

    Malaria precautions are highly recommended when visiting the Kruger National Park in South Africa, Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe, the north of Namibia, including Etosha, Botswana and Kenya. Yellow Fever vaccination is highly recommended for Kenya. Travellers entering many African countries, including South Africa and Kenya Africa, coming from a yellow fever zone must have a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate. Some GPs do not recommend yellow fever vaccinations for travellers over 60 years old.

    Asia

    Malaria precautions are not usually advised when visiting the areas that Llama Travel offers in India, Sri Lanka, Vietnam or Cambodia, although malaria is present in some other parts of these countries. If you have visited a country with yellow fever recently, you will usually require a valid yellow fever certificate to enter. Please be aware that Shimla in the Himalayas in India is at a moderately high altitude, so we recommend you take things calmly during your first day at altitude. If you suffer from a heart of lung condition, or think you may suffer due to the altitude, please consult your GP.

  • For most of our holidays, age is not a concern. However, a reasonable level of fitness is required, as most holidays require some walking, sometimes on uneven ground. Even relatively mild activities can be strenuous at altitude. High altitude trekking is more strenuous than an equivalent length walk at low altitude.

Getting There

  • Many airlines offer the option of flying from regional airports in the UK, avoiding the need to make your own way to London. Due to the timing of flights, in some cases this may involve an overnight stop in London or another intermediate airport. There is usually a supplement for regional departures. Please note that most of our flights depart from London.

  • You can upgrade to business class or premium economy on most airlines. Call us for prices for the route and airline you are interested in.

    Premium Economy

    Some airlines offer Premium Economy cabins, which provide more comfortable seats which recline further and have more legroom. There are better meals and a bar service.

    Other airlines offer standard economy class seats with extra legroom for an additional cost.

    Business Class

    Many airlines have long-haul business class cabins with seats that convert into full flat beds and often have a privacy screen.

    Business Class within Europe is often similar to economy class seating, but with better meals, and middle seats are often left empty.

  • Most scheduled airlines have a baggage allowance of 23kg per passenger for international flights, but internal flight allowances can be less. Exact limits can be found on airline webpages. Please bear this in mind when packing, as carrying excess baggage will normally incur an expensive additional cost payable at check in. Additionally, certain excursions have a limited baggage allowance. Where this is the case, we will advise you in advance. Llama Travel accepts no responsibility for the delay, loss or damage of luggage.

    There may be additional luggage restrictions for specific countries. In this case, details of this will be in the country information below.

  • Many airlines now charge a fee to select your seat prior to checking in for your flight, even when travelling in premium economy or business class. Alternatively, you may choose your preferred seat free of charge when online check-in opens 24 hours prior to departure or at the airport. Please ask us about the options available at time of booking.

    We all want a comfortable journey, particularly on long haul flights. If you would like a seat with some extra leg room or a larger recline please let us know. Airlines have introduced a range of “economy comfort” seats that may be purchased in advance. In some cases, these seats may only be purchased online directly with the airline once Llama Travel has issued your ticket approximately 30 days prior to departure.

    For internal flights, and for connecting flights in Europe, it is usually only possible to select seats when you check-in online or at the airport.

                        

    It may not be possible to always use online check-in systems, especially when using a codeshare flight. On occasion, your preferred seat may be changed by the airline for operational reasons such as a change of aircraft or to facilitate a disabled passenger on the day you fly and as such, Llama Travel cannot guarantee specific seats.

  • Depending on the route and the airline, if you would like to break your journey to or from your final destination, and add a stopover to your holiday, this may be possible. Please ask us for information.

  • If you are interested in arranging your own international flights, this is sometimes possible. Please ask us for details of this and any discount we can arrange for removing international flights. Please do not book your flights until we have reconfirmed all services with our suppliers and you have checked the confirmation invoice.

  • All people transiting in a third country need to make sure they comply with any immigration requirements for that country.

    This is especially the case when in transit in the US when flying to Latin America. In this case, you must comply with US immigration requirements. It is your responsibility to ensure that you comply with these requirements before you travel. Failure to do so may result in you being denied boarding on your flight to the US and, at best, a last-minute and probably expensive re-routing avoiding the US. It is important, therefore, that you follow these procedures carefully.

    If your flight to Latin America involves a stop in the US, you will be subject to US immigration control upon entry to the US. If you qualify for the US Visa Waiver Program, you are able to avoid the need to apply for a visa, but still need to enter your details online on the US State Department website. If you do not qualify for the US Visa Waiver Program, you must apply in person at a US embassy for a US visa. Please make sure that you do this in good time.

    If you are a UK citizen and have a UK passport, you may qualify for visa-free travel. You will require a machine readable passport to qualify for the ESTA Visa Waiver Program (so you do not require a visa to enter the US). A machine readable passport has the holder's personal details (name, date of birth, nationality and passport number) contained in two lines of text at the bottom of the photo page. This appears as two lines of letters, numbers and chevrons (">>>>>") printed across the long edge of the photo page. It must be also include an integrated circuit chip capable of storing the biographic information from the data page, a digitized photograph and other biometric information.

    Please note, holders of passports indicating that the bearer is a British Subject, a British Dependent Territories Citizen, British Overseas Citizen, British National (Overseas) Citizen or British Protected Person do not qualify for travel without a visa. A passport which states that the holder has Right of Abode or indefinite leave to remain in the UK does not quality for visa-free travel.

    If you have visited certain restricted countries, including Cuba, you may not qualify for visa-free travel.

    If you have been arrested, even if the arrest did not result in a criminal conviction, or if you have a criminal record, you will need a visa.

    If you have any doubts about whether you qualify for the Visa Waiver Program, please check with the US embassy. Full details can be found on the US embassy’s UK website at: http://london.usembassy.gov/vwp3.html

    Many European, Australian and New Zealand passport holders also qualify for the Visa Waiver Program as long as the passport is machine readable and complies with the relevant criteria. Please see the US embassy website for a list of countries which qualify for the Visa Waiver Program. It is important that you check the website of the US Embassy in the country of passport nationality for any further changes before you travel.

    Details of the ESTA Visa Waiver Program can be found on the US State Department website at

    https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov.

    In addition to the Visa Waiver Programme, the US Transportation Security Authority requires anybody flying through the United Sates to supply specific passenger information prior to their international flight.

  • Air fares vary from date to date and between airlines. Our holidays are scheduled to use the most advantageous air fare. You can choose which airline you prefer, we will let you know if a supplement is payable. Levels of onboard service and facilities, such as entertainment, vary by airline and route. Please ask us for details. Flights are sometimes operated by another airline in the appropriate airline alliance.

  • Air fares vary from date to date and between airlines. Our holidays are scheduled to use the most advantageous air fare. You can choose which airline you prefer, we will let you know if a supplement is payable. Levels of onboard service and facilities, such as entertainment, vary by airline and route. Please ask us for details. Flights are sometimes operated by another airline in the appropriate airline alliance.

Namibia

Travelling in Namibia

  • The currency in Namibia is the Namibian Dollar. The South African Rand is also accepted everywhere in Namibia, and both currencies have the same value (approximate exchange rate: 18R = 1GBP). Credit and debit cards can be used in many shops and restaurants, and can also be used to withdraw money from cash machines. In the remote areas, it is best to take cash as there are no ATMS at the lodges, although it is possible to pay by Visa or MasterCard.

    It is always recommended to inform your bank that you are travelling abroad and to which countries. This will allow them to authorise money withdrawals from your account when you are away. Some banks say that this is not necessary, however we would still recommend contact with your bank as in some cases people have had difficulty in withdrawing currency.

  • Tipping in Namibia is standard practice. Wages are low so many people depend on tips to make up the shortfall in their earnings. Restaurant staff are used to receiving 10-15% of the total bill. You can tip your cab driver by rounding up to the nearest ten (although use your discretion regarding distance, time of day etc), and the same goes for general hotel staff. It is recommended to tip guides and drivers USD10 per day when in a group (this will be shared between them).

  • All hotels include breakfast, and other meals are included on some excursions and in several of the lodges. However, you will often need to arrange your own lunches and dinners. We recommend budgeting approximately N$100 – 120 for lunch in a restaurant, N$45 for a sandwich and N$250 – N$300 for a 2-course meal in a restaurant in Windhoek or Swakopmund.

    Bar prices are similar to the UK and you should expect to pay around N$25 for a coffee, N$15 for a soft drink, N$25 for a draught beer and N$45 for a glass of wine.

    Throughout Namibia there are opportunities to shop for souvenirs and we advise setting aside some of your budget for this purpose. Credit cards are accepted in many places although Amex has more limited use.

  • Namibia is a very meat-orientated society, and many menu options will feature steaks from one animal or another. However, there is usually a small vegetarian selection in most restaurants, and often a seafood option. Vegan and other diets can be difficult to cater for. The food at restaurants tends to be European in style, with a bias towards German dishes and seafood. Biltong is a dried meat snack famous throughout southern Africa, and a very popular snack amongst locals. 

    In Windhoek there are a range of restaurants to choose from. Namibian oysters are some of the finest in the world, and can be found amongst a variety of shellfish on the coast around the Skeleton Coast. Dinners are included at some of the lodges on the holiday, featuring many local products and the famous local choices of beef and game. This is usually a buffet with a choice of salads, meats, vegetables and fruit or a cooked dessert. On travelling days, you will either have a packed lunch or there will be opportunities to stop on the journey to buy snacks, then have a late lunch upon arrival at the next destination (not included).

  • For the majority of the holiday, you will be in a tour vehicle with a maximum of 18 passengers. The benefit of this is that you are protected from the heat and dust, although views may be slightly more obstructed and you won’t have a wildlife spotter. In Damaraland, you are in an open safari vehicle with up to 9 passengers. In Etosha, there is the possibility to change from your normal tour vehicle to an open safari vehicle, for a supplement. This offers a more classic safari experience as you can get closer to the animals, with excellent photography opportunities.

  • Long journeys are a given in Namibia, due to the geography of the country and its vast landscapes which are spread across thousands of square miles. To give an idea of scale, Namibia is approximately three and a half times the size of the UK, but the UK is home to 64 million more people. The main itinerary covers long distances, and bumpy gravel roads are common, with some journeys taking up the majority of the day. The journeys are stunning with plenty of good photography opportunities, with ever-changing landscapes ranging from mountains to red sand dunes and endless grass plains with acacia trees. There are breaks to stretch your legs, use the toilet and buy snacks, before arriving at the next destination. There are not usually restaurants, so lunch is often just a few snacks you can buy – on these days, we recommend having a hearty breakfast. The journey from Swakopmund to Palmwag in Damaraland is the longest drive of the trip, and takes up the majority of the day. Delays can sometimes occur if the vehicle has a mechanical fault or a tyre needs to be changed.

  • Partially covered by the Namib, one of the world’s driest deserts, Namibia’s climate is generally very dry and pleasant. The cold Benguela current keeps the coast cool, damp and free of rain for most of the year. Inland, all the rain falls in summer (November to April). January and February are hot, when daytime temperatures in the interior can exceed 40°C, but nights are usually cool. Winter nights can be fairly cold so it is recommended to bring some warm items.

    During the day it is generally hot, so you should pack lightweight loose-fitting clothes in natural fabrics, such as linen or cotton. Although mosquitos are not a big problem in Namibia, and only found in certain parts, precautions should still be taken, such as wearing long-sleeved shirts and long trousers at night.

    Electrical sockets in Namibia are 220 Volts. Sockets fit plugs with three round pins.

    We recommend you carry a copy of your passport with you at all times.

    Please bring any medication you may require from the UK.

    You can bring whichever luggage you feel most comfortable with: suitcases, soft bags and rucksacks are fine.

    Lightweight, light coloured cotton trousers and long-sleeved shirts

    Absorbent socks

    Walking boots

    Pullover or jacket for the early mornings and evenings

    Warm hat and gloves for winter months

    Sun hat

    Swimsuit

    Binoculars

    Camera equipment – a lens with a long zoom is recommended for photographing wildlife

    Torch

    Water bottle

    Sun cream

    Insect repellent

    Day pack

Zimbabwe

Travelling in Zimbabwe

  • The most commonly used currency around Victoria Falls is the US dollar. Other currencies such as the South Africa Rand, Botswana Pula and Pound Sterling are accepted however everything is priced in dollars, so these are often exchanged at an unfavorable rate. Credit and debit cards are now accepted by most large establishments but not all, so it is recommended to always carry some cash.

    It is always recommended to inform your bank that you are travelling abroad and to which countries. This will allow them to authorise money withdrawals from your account when you are away. Some banks say that this is not necessary, however we would still recommend contact with your bank as in some cases people have had difficulty in withdrawing currency.

  • Tipping in Zimbabwe is standard practice. Wages are low so many people depend on tips to make up the shortfall in their earnings. Restaurant staff are used to receiving 10-15% of the total bill. You can tip your cab driver by rounding up to the nearest ten (although use your discretion regarding distance, time of day etc), and the same goes for general hotel staff. It is recommended to tip guides and drivers $10 per day.

  • All hotels include breakfast, and other meals are included on some tours and excursions. However, generally, you will need to arrange your own lunches and dinners. We recommend budgeting approximately US$10 – 25 for a meal in a restaurant.

    Bar prices are similar to the UK and a small bottle of beer usually costs around US$2-4 in a hotel bar.

    Throughout Zimbabwe there are opportunities to shop for souvenirs and we advise setting aside some of your budget for this purpose. Credit cards are accepted in most places although Amex has more limited use.

  • Generally, casual comfortable clothing is suitable throughout the year. Rain showers are possible throughout the year, so waterproofs are recommended. Long sleeved shirts and long trousers will protect you against mosquitoes at night. Sun hats, sunglasses and sun protection cream are also recommended.

    Electrical sockets in Zimbabwe are 230 Volts. There are two types of socket: type D which fit plugs with three round pins and type G which is the standard British plug socket.

    We recommend you carry a copy of your passport with you at all times.

    Please bring any medication you may require from the UK.

    You can bring whichever luggage you feel most comfortable with: suitcases, soft bags and rucksacks are fine.

South Africa

Travelling in South Africa

  • The currency in South Africa is the Rand (approximate exchange rate: 18R = 1GBP). Credit and debit cards can be used in many shops and restaurants, and can also be used to withdraw money from cash machines.

    It is always recommended to inform your bank that you are travelling abroad and to which countries. This will allow them to authorise money withdrawals from your account when you are away. Some banks say that this is not necessary, however we would still recommend contact with your bank as in some cases people have had difficulty in withdrawing currency.

  • Tipping in South Africa is standard practice. Wages are low so many people depend on tips to make up the shortfall in their earnings. Restaurant staff are used to receiving 10-15% of the total bill. In cities, you can tip your cab driver by rounding up to the nearest ten (although use your discretion regarding distance, time of day etc), and the norm for hotel porters is around R15-20. Whilst on safari, it is recommended to tip guides and drivers R200 per person per day and general lodge staff R120 shared between them per day.

  • All hotels include breakfast, and other meals are included on some tours and excursions. However, generally, you will need to arrange your own lunches and dinners. We recommend budgeting approximately £15-20 for a three-course meal, £10 for a good bottle of wine, £2 for a beer or soft drink and £1 for a big bottle of water. There are many upmarket restaurants, particularly in the Winelands, where you should expect to pay up to £50 per person, or possibly more. As a wine-producing country, South Africa’s wine is particularly good value and you may want to purchase a few good bottles for your return.

    Throughout South Africa there are opportunities to shop for souvenirs and we advise setting aside some of your budget for this purpose. Credit cards are accepted in most places although Amex has more limited use.

  • It is difficult to pinpoint South African cuisine as much of the food culture e.g. a classic braai (barbeque) is an attitude or spirit rather than a specific dish. South Africans love meat and while good vegetarian options are abundant in the cities and upmarket lodges, in rural areas the choices will be more limited.

    Different parts of the country have different culinary influences but between the Indian and Malay heritage, curry - in various forms - is a common sight on menus.

    In Cape Town, the Waterfront and City Bowl are a hub for eating out, with a range of restaurants from fine dining options and steak houses to pizza joints. Seafood and sushi are particularly good as the ingredients are so fresh. Cape Town fish ‘n chips is known to give the British classic a real run for its money. Seafood is also an excellent option on the Garden Route.

    In Johannesburg, the restaurant scene is buzzing although only a few areas offer sidewalk dining, with most restaurants situated within shopping mall complexes.

    Meals in the Kruger lodges are included and are served in the restaurant, which overlooks the African bush and often has outdoor seating.

  • South Africa is a relatively dry country with sunny days and cooler nights, although it does experience a diversity of changes in climate. Most of the country experiences summer rainfall (December to February), except for the Western Cape, which has rainfall during the winter months (June to August).

    During the day it is generally hot, so you should pack lightweight loose-fitting clothes in natural fabrics, such as linen or cotton. Long sleeved shirts and long trousers will protect you against mosquitoes at night. In the winter it gets chilly, so you should pack a warm jacket for morning game drives.

    Electrical sockets in South Africa are 230 Volts. Sockets fit plugs with three round pins.

    We recommend you carry a copy of your passport with you at all times.

    Please bring any medication you may require from the UK.

    If you are flying via Johannesburg, there are strict regulations regarding luggage. Bags must have at least one flat surface, so round/irregular-shaped bags, or bags with long straps will not be accepted.