A pre-departure meeting will be held the night prior to your trip departure, the details of where to meet are listed on your tour voucher and trip dossier.

The Pre-Departure meeting is held at 6pm THE DAY BEFORE the scheduled departure date at the meeting point. The pre-departure meeting is held to discuss the tour itinerary in more detail, meet your crew and fellow passengers.

In addition the crew will check that all passengers have the following necessary travel documents:-
1. Tour voucher
2. Travel insurance documentation
3. Your passport
4. Vaccination certificate – if applicable

It is IMPORTANT that you attend this meeting. Please advise KUMUKA or your AGENT if you CANNOT attend this meeting.

Leaving Johannesburg behind us, we explore the water based national parks of Southern Africa.  Experience the Okavango Delta, where you can spot hippos, a variety of birdlife and enjoy the thrill of a bush camp in the wilderness.  Get back to nature in a dug out canoe and then relax on a cruise in Chobe - hopefully see herds of elephants as they make their way down to the river for a sunset drink.   Next there are adventures galore in Victoria Falls and then it is on to Lake Malawi, with the option of diving or snorkelling in this pristine freshwater lake. Spot game in Mikumi National Park before a well deserved rest on Zanzibar Island. End you tour in the East African wilderness, with wildlife spotting in the Ngorongoro Crater and stunning Lake Nakuru National Park.  Wildlife, beaches, adventure and friendly people - all this in just 29 days!

Maun And The Okavango Delta.  Leaving Maun we enter the Okavango Delta for 3 days (2 nights). The Okavango Delta is formed by the Okavango River, which flows into the desert and disappears as it fans out to form the delta. We camp in the bush at designated free camps and there are bush walks and trips in Mokoros. We take all our own equipment and food and bring it all back out (including the rubbish). The method of transport is by 4 wheel drive vehicle, motorboat and Mokoro (a dug out canoe).  Mokoros are traditionally made of wood but as they come to the end of their serviceability fiberglass canoes are now replacing them. These are not quite as authentic but since traditional canoes are made from an entire tree, fiberglass alternatives are better for the local environment.   The delta region is home to vast numbers of animals and it is possible to take some walks to try to see them.  Walking in Africa is a completely different experience from game viewing by vehicle and this is a great opportunity to learn about this unique environment from your Botswanan guides.

Victoria Falls.   Known locally as ‘Mosi oa Tunya’ or ‘the smoke that thunders’, the falls  are one of the world’s natural wonders. Although they are neither the world’s highest nor widest falls, they are an amazing spectacle as water cuts a dramatic gorge through the earth's crust and then crashes 111 metres to the river below. The Batoka Gorge forms the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia and is an excellent base for adventure and wildlife activities galore. 

Here we have the option to enjoy an evening river cruise on the upper (above the falls) Zambezi River.  This  lasts about 3 hrs with drinks included. There are also a wide variety of other optional activities, the most famous being seasonal whitewater rafting on the lower Zambezi.  This excursion takes a full day and has around 14 rapids, none below grade 4 (rapids are graded from 1 to 6). Please note that at certain times of the year the rafting may be restricted or even closed due to high water levels (March – May). Bungy jumping is also an option for all those who wish to throw themselves 111 metres head first off of a perfectly good bridge. Various flights are on offer including light fixed wing aircraft, helicopter, microlight and ultralight, all offering a wonderful viewing of the falls. Videos and still photographs are available for purchase of most activities, and are a great reminder of your adrenaline filled visit to the mighty Victoria Falls and Zambezi River. Depending on activities being done we may also spend a night on the Zambian side of the Falls.  There is also is horse riding, elephant riding, lion and rhino encouters, canoeing, not to mention a walk in the Mosi oa Tunya National Park.  The first night of the tour will be spent in Victoria Falls.

NB Please note that entrance (approximately 20 USD) to Mosi oa Tunya (Victoria Falls) National Park is not included in your tour price.

Lake Malawi Beaches.  On our trip through Malawi we visit a couple of small bays along the lakeshore. Snorkelling and diving are available or chose to swim or relax  on the beaches. There is also ample time to visit local villages and craft markets which abound with woodcarvings, the most famous of these being large carved chairs.  These chairs have proved very popular with our clients, however they tend to be less popular when it becomes time to send such a large object home!

Dar-Es-Salam And Zanzibar.  Next our journey will bring us to the humid, exotic city of Dar es Salaam (translated from Swahili as “haven of peace”).  Situated on the Indian Ocean, we will spend a night here before travelling on to Zanzibar.

We travel to Zanzibar by ferry from Dar es Salaam and this journey can take up to 3 or 4 hours. Conditions are usually smooth but beware the occasional day with rolling seas.
Zanzibar is known as the Spice Island, which comes from the many different spices that were grown there by the original Omani settlers. A lot of spices are still grown on the island and make up a large part of the economy of the island. The island does have a more sordid past in that it was once a major slave trading port; and it is still possible to visit the site of the old slave trading markets. The town centre still shows a lot of its Arabic origins in its architecture. It’s fascinating to walk around the labyrinth of old buildings and walled streets. For the beach lovers you can go out of the town and spend some relaxing time on the isolated beaches. There are spice tours that take in all manners of exotic fruits and spices and you can sample many of the tastes and smells first hand. Just off the coast of the old town is Prison Island, where there is a population of giant land tortoises who are happy to share their stretch of beach.

We generally spend 3 to 4 days on the island. We recommend that you budget around U$200-$300 for your stay on Zanzibar to cover food, transport around the island, optional tours, accommodation upgrades, drinks and souvenirs. Please note that this is a recommendation only as different passengers have widely differing spending patterns.

Arusha to Nairobi. From Arusha we leave Tanzania and enter Kenya for the final part of our journey before finishing our tour in the hustle and bustle of Nairobi. NO accommodation is included on Day 29.

Please be aware that arrival times and the itinerary may change due to unforeseen delays or events such as festivals and public holidays. However, we shall endeavour to ensure all sites are visited and that your tour runs as smoothly as possible but please note that Africa does not run like clockwork, therefore do not expect the streamlined travel arrangements associated with some other continents. Things do not always go to plan; there will be times when you will need to be patient and philosophical about your travels. Conditions in Africa can vary dramatically; for example, whilst we always try to use the best campsites, there is a big difference between those found in Eastern Africa to those found in Southern Africa, which are generally better.

Be flexible, you will enjoy your tour much more. Kumuka makes a point of visiting the indigenous populations of each country you visit, in order to give a true reflection of the country; please treat the local people and their customs with respect.

Lastly, your tour leader is always conscious of everybody's views, but sometimes he/she will have to make an unpopular decision and your understanding will be appreciated in these circumstances.

Your passport is a valuable document and you should exercise extreme care in keeping it safe. We recommend that you keep your passport on you at all times, preferably in a money belt that is worn under your clothing. We advise that you take copies of relevant pages in your passport and any visas that you may purchase in case of loss or damage. Your tour leader will require your passport details at the pre-departure meeting. Again, we recommend that you have a photocopy of all passport details, kept separate. Your passport must be valid for six months after the END of your tour, and must have one blank page for each country to be visited.

The following information is a guideline only.  Kumuka Worldwide are not medical professionals and we strongly advise you make an appointment with your GP or Traveller’s Medical Centre at least TWO months prior to your departure date.

Vaccinations:
You must have an International Certificate of Yellow Fever Vaccination if crossing borders within Africa. Southern African countries i.e. South Africa, Namibia, Botswana and Zimbabwe DO NOT need the International Certificate of Yellow Fever Vaccination if you are only travelling between these countries.

Compulsory Inoculations:
Yellow Fever if you are arriving from an infected area. Please refer to your GP or Immunization Clinic.

Strongly Recommended:
Diphtheria, Polio, Tetanus, Typhoid, Meningitis, Hepatitis A & B, Yellow Fever.
These may vary from country to country, please consult your GP or local Travel Clinic.
- A dental check-up prior to travelling.
- That you know your blood group in case of emergency.
- That if you have any pre-existing medical conditions which might affect you on tour, you make these known to your tour leader and your agent/Kumuka at the time of your booking.

You can also visit www.kumuka.com for further details.

Medical Supplies:
Each Kumuka vehicle has a well-equipped medical kit that by law must remain sealed and can only be used in an emergency. We advise that all passengers bring along their own personal first aid kit. Below is a list of some recommended items:

Band Aids/Bandages, Laxatives, Upset stomach remedy, Anti-diarrhea remedy, Panadol/Aspirin, Rehydration remedy, Antiseptic cream/powder, Sterile dressing, Any relevant course of medication such as contraceptive pills.

A complete Travellers Medical Pack can be purchased at most Vaccination Centres, Chemists and outdoor travel shops.

As a general rule when travelling, it is worthwhile being prepared for all types of weather.  Keep a lightweight waterproof jacket/poncho – this should prepare you for all seasons!

For detailed climate information about the areas you are travelling to, please visit our website www.kumuka.com

You might like to read up on the destinations that you are about to visit as these cities all have interesting sites and histories. We recommend a variety of guidebooks such as Lonely Planet, The Rough Guide and Insight Guides. All these publications have good general information as well as more specific country information that will help orientate you in the countries you visit.

Please use your discretion and be sensitive to cultural differences in the countries that you visit, in particular visits to religious buildings and when taking photographs. Your Tour Leader will advise you of any specific customs to observe.

We suggest that you take into account the time of year you will be travelling, and pack accordingly to the season. Quick drying clothes are recommended, and at many campsites there are laundry facilities. Your tour leader will advise where this is possible.

Contrary to expectations it does get cold in Africa. Southern Africa, particularly South Africa and Namibia get quite cold at night between June and August. Mount Kilimanjaro will be cold at night all year round, due to the extreme altitude. You will need to bring your warmest clothes.

Personal Effects:
Torch (we recommend a head torch), camera & film, spare passport photos, water bottle, money belt, sewing kit, sunhat/sunglasses, discman/MP3 player, books, wet ones, tissues, soap to wash clothes, writing materials, swiss army knife, calculator, personal toiletries, including tampons, contraceptives, insect repellent, sunscreen.

NOTE: If you wear glasses, it is advisable to bring a spare pair since opticians are uncommon. If you wear contact lenses you may find that climatic changes and dust can create visual irritation, therefore, it is advisable to bring a pair of glasses.

English is widely spoken in the countries we visit in Africa but you might like to take the time before your trip to read up on the country you will be visiting and perhaps learn a few words of the language. Your effort will always be welcomed and will make your trip all the more enjoyable.

Please note we will attempt to provide for travellers with special meal or dietary requests, however they cannot be guaranteed - please ensure the tour leader is aware of any special requests.

Vegetarians or those with special dietary needs or allergies can be catered for, however in some countries the type of food may be limited, you may like to bring some supplies from home. It is your responsibility to ensure that our reservations team know of your special requirements at time of booking in order for us to do all possible to assist your needs.

Kumuka provides all meals whilst camping. The variety of food will differ, as you will be visiting a number of different countries. Everyone helps out with the cooking and all are encouraged to join forces and put their culinary skills (or lack thereof!) to the test over the campfire! You will be surprised with what you can create with a little imagination!

All our tours begin with a pre-departure meeting when you meet your tour leader, driver and fellow travellers. If you wish to spend a few additional days in your start city before the departure of your tour, then we can arrange accommodation for you.

On the last day of the tour we usually arrive at our final destination in the late afternoon, when the tour ends. If you would like to book accommodation for that night or even stay additional nights, we will be more than happy to arrange this for you as well. All our accommodation is carefully chosen, conveniently located, clean and comfortable. (All rates per person per night and subject to availability).

For many, tipping is a means of supplementing their wage and is a normal part of payment for goods and services. Be sure to keep small denomination notes or coins on you to avoid embarrassment. Sales and service taxes are imposed in some restaurants and bars.

Bargaining is also expected and in all markets prices are inflated to accommodate such a practice. Rule of thumb is to cut the offer in half and work upwards. This can sometimes be hard work but do not let yourself be intimidated by stallholders, you can always say no and walk away.

The tips below are purely given as a guideline. Poor service should result in lower tips; in serious circumstances a report should be lodged with local ground staff or on the feedback form. We recommend the following amounts are not exceeded except in special circumstances.

ALL prices are PER day PER GROUP (so split between the number of passengers each day) – generally paid as a total sum in USD at the end of each trip.

Suggested tipping for all routes on Kilimanjaro
Guide                  USD$ 15
Cook                  USD$ 10
Assistant Guide   USD$ 10
Porters               USD$ 7 – NOTE there will be at least 2 porters per trekker

Suggested tipping for all Gorilla treks
Guide                  USD$ 15
Assistants            USD$ 10

Suggested tipping for all driver/guides on lodge based tours
Guide                  USD$ 15-20

Kumuka endeavours to advertise a compliment of optional activities available locally during tours with selected ground handlers to make your tour more enjoyable. These ground handlers and activity partners are selected for their standards in quality, professional ability and reputation. Whereas, Kumuka has developed a travel insurance policy to cover all activities offered during your journey, Kumuka can not be held responsible for injuries or claims arising from adventurous activities by third party.Below is a list of optional excursions available at your expense on your African tour. Please note that these are intended as a guide only and prices and availability cannot be guaranteed. Your tour leader will be able to organise any optional excursions on your behalf. The list below is by no means comprehensive. There will be many other optional activities available, price guidelines can be found on our website at: http://www.kumuka.com.au/Africa-Optional-Activities.aspx. All activities are undertaken at passenger’s own risk.

Botswana - Okavango Flight - Fixed Wing Aircraft (min 5 ) Okavango Helicopter (min 4) Zimbabwe - Walk With Lions - Horse Riding - Elephant Ride Victoria Falls - Rafting Full/Half Day - River Boarding Half Day - Flight of Angels Helicopter (30Mins)  - Flight of Angels - Fixed Wing Aircraft - Horse Riding - Bungy Jump - Jet Boating - Game Walks - Malawi - Lake Malawi Water Sports - Scuba Diving (various dive options) - Village Walk - Horse Riding – Tanzania - Zanzibar - meals & transfers (If you wish to upgrade accommodation please budget an extra U$10-30 per night) - Spice Island Tour - Prison Island Tour and Snorkel - North and East Coast Beaches - Masai Village - Kenya  Lake Naivasha Crescent Island Boat (min 4) - Horse Riding - Hells Gate National Park

Please note: The ALL options paid in US$ CASH with US$ notes have to be paid with notes dated post 2000. Anything issued prior to this may not be accepted.

Tour Questionnaire - We would like to hear about your experiences on tour. One week after your tour ends you will automatically receive a feedback questionnaire via email. If we do not have your email address you can still complete a questionnaire by visiting www.kumuka.com/feedback

Email - If you have any specific comments about your tour then please write to us by email to operations@kumuka.com