Questions & Answers about visiting South Africa

 


Is it safe? What about the “violence against foreigners” I have heard about in the news.


 

Answer:
We try to spend as little time in J'burg as possible; not so much because it is dangerous, but because the animals and all the fun and scenery are to the northeast. We usually meet the guests at the airport and whisk you away to the lodge if the flight arrives too late in the afternoon to get to the lodge, then you will overnight at a hotel that is a short taxi ride away and is in a "compound" with restaurants and is guarded. The violence was you hear about is misleading. The media uses the term "foreigners" when most would use the term refugees or immigrants. The black South Africans are upset at the numbers people coming into the country from Zimbabwe, Mozambique, and other bordering nations who then take job opportunities and subsidies that should be going to the people born in S. Africa. It has nothing to do with tourists. The cities have the same risk as all big cities anywhere in the world. As with any trip, you will need to be cautious, but the lodge is safe. We carry many thousands of dollars worth of photo equipment, and do not have a problem leaving some in the rooms while we are out. The area we visit has been a tourist attraction for over 150 years and they are very welcoming and respectful of tourists. Many of the people in this area make their living from tourism and go out of their way to give you a superior experience

 

What will the temperature be?


 

Answer:
May nightime temperatures will be between 55 - 65 degrees and daytime will usually reach the low 80's

 

Is it hot? Are the vehicles air conditioned?


 

Answer:
The daytime temperature is usually in the high 70?s to low 80?s and sunny with low humidity. We are most active in mornings and evenings and spend the mid day at the lodge. The transfer from the airport is air conditioned, but once at the lodge we use open vehicles for the best photography conditions.

 

What should I pack to wear?


 

Answer:
Plan to layer clothing for cool mornings and evenings and warm to hot sunny days (shorts). Lightweight hiking boots with ankle support and a pair of sandals or sneakers are the only shoes you will need. Rain is not likely, but a hat for sun and warmth and a light wool sweater and/or a micro fleece jacket are ideal. Pants and shirts with pockets and roll up sleeves are a great choice.

 

 

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