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Published: September 12th 2019
HIER VOLGT ALLE INFORMATIE UIT DE TRAVEL KEY APP
Johannesburg - Panorama Route - Kruger National Park - Soutpansberg Mountain Range - Botswana - Nata - Chobe River Front - Chobe National Park - Moremi Game Reserve - Maun - Boteti River - Makgadikgadi Pans National Park - Khama Rhino Sanctuary - Marakele National Park 13 September 2019 - 03 October 2019
In plaats van alle papieren / boekwerk die men voorheen kreeg met reisroute, bezienswaardigheden, tips, douaneformaliteiten, weg condities, enz. enz. enz. is er nu een mooi app ontwikkeld waar al deze informatie instaat. Nu wil ik wel graag alle informatie die ik heb bijelkaar hebben 😉 en dus ben ik flink aan het kopiëren en plakken geweest en heb screenshots van een aantal pagina's gemaakt en dat staat nu dus allemaal in dit blog!
ROUTES
Directions
- Airport Game Lodge to Forever Resort Blyde Canyon Camping
Distance: 388.83km Travel Time: 4:18 hours GPS co-ordinates for Forever Resort Blyde Canyon Camping: S 24° 34' 52.556" E 30° 46' 17.799"
Start: Airport Game Lodge • Head southeast toward 4th Rd. Restricted usage road (30 m) • Turn right onto 4th Rd (1.3 km) • Turn right onto 3rd Ave/M32 (53
m) • Sharp left onto High Rd/R23 (6.6 km) • Turn left onto Great N Rd/M45/R23. Continue to follow R23 (5.6 km) • Turn left to merge onto N12 toward Witbank. Partial toll road (105 km) • Merge onto N4. Toll road (85.9 km) • Take the exit toward R33 (0.5 km) • Keep left at the fork and merge onto R33 (2.9 km) • Turn right onto Steven Masango St (0.3 km) • Continue onto R540 (32.0 km) • Continue onto Naledi Dr (2.0 km) • Continue onto R540 (52.3 km) • Turn left onto R36 (2.3 km) • Continue straight onto Viljoen St (1.2 km) • Turn left (0.6 km) • Continue straight (0.2 km) • Turn right onto R36 (69.4 km) • Turn right onto R532 (21.0 km) • Turn left (0.2 km)
End: Forever Resort Blyde Canyon Camping
Directions
- Forever Resort Blyde Canyon Camping to Satara Main Camp
Depart after breakfast and drive back along the R532. At The T-junction turn right onto the R36 and continue straight onwards onto the R527. The road will split, keep right towards Klaserie. At Klaserie turn right onto the R40 and then turn
left onto the R531 towards the Orpen entrance gate into the Kruger National Park. The gates open at 05:30am and please ensure that you are at Satara Rest Camp before 18:30pm, when the camp gate closes. You will be fined if you are late. Please take note of the speed limits inside the park, 50km/h on tar roads and 40km/h on gravel roads (please take into consideration the driving speeds as it will take on average 1hour to drive 35km). Check in at Reception by presenting your Uitkyk Holidays Voucher. THERE IS A CONSERVATION FEE / ENTRANCE FEE OF R372 .00 PER PERSON PER DAY - SUBJECT TO CHANGE, PAYABLE AT THE ENTRANCE GATE. We also advise that you purchase a detailed map of the Kruger National Park where you will find information and route descriptions to all the different camps. Drive along the H7 and then turn left onto the H1-4, follow the signs for Satara Rest Camp. The approximate distance from Forever Blydepoort to the Orpen gate is: 150km. The approximate distance from the Orpen gate to Satara is: 48km which could take up to 2:30 hours to drive due to the speed limit and game viewing. Distance:
189.16km Travel Time: 2:56 hours GPS co-ordinates for Satara Main Camp: S 24° 23' 37.035" E 31° 46' 41.492"
Start: Forever Resort Blyde Canyon Camping • Head southwest toward R532 (0.2 km) • Turn right onto R532 (21.0 km) • Turn right onto R36 (31.5 km) • Continue straight onto R527 (17.0 km) • Turn right onto R531 (29.4 km) • Continue onto R40 (2.0 km) • Turn left (41.4 km) • Slight left (0.7 km) • Turn left onto Orpen - Satara Rd/H7 (44.7 km) • Turn left (0.7 km) • Slight left (0.2 km) • Turn right (0.2 km) • Turn right (64 m) • Turn left (22 m) • Slight right (71 m) • Turn left (67 m) • Turn left (18 m)
End: Satara Main Camp
Directions
- Satara Main Camp to Letaba Rest Camp
Depart after breakfast and turn left onto the H1-4 towards Olifants. Continue straight onwards and follow the signs for Letaba. Stay one night at the campsite on a self catering basis. The approximate distance from Satara to Letaba is: 69km. Distance: 71.34km Travel Time: 1:38 hours GPS co-ordinates for Letaba Rest Camp:
S 23° 51' 16.350" E 31° 34' 45.630" Start: Satara Main Camp • Head north (0.2 km) • Turn right (0.1 km) • Turn left toward Satara Camp Rd (78 m) • Turn left onto Satara Camp Rd (0.1 km) • Turn left onto Olifants - Satara Rd/H1-4. Continue to follow H1-4 (46.1 km) • Continue onto Letaba - Olifants Rd/H1-5 (23.5 km) • Turn right onto S94 (0.5 km) • Continue straight (0.3 km) • Turn right (0.2 km) • Slight right (0.3 km) • Turn left (27 m) • Turn right. Destination will be on the left (9 m)
End: Letaba Rest Camp
Directions
- Letaba Rest Camp to Punda Maria Rest Camp
Distance: 177.28km Travel Time: 3:46 hours
Depart from Letaba and drive along the H1-6 in the direction of Mopani Rest Camp and continue straight onwards towards Shingwedzi. Approximately 55km after passing Shingwedzi turn left onto the H13-1 and follow the signs for Punda Maria. GPS co-ordinates for Punda Maria Rest Camp: S 22° 41' 27.228" E 31° 00' 52.041"
Start: Letaba Rest Camp
• Head west (9 m) • Turn left (27 m) • Turn right
(0.8 km) • Slight left (0.4 km) • Sharp right (0.4 km) • Turn right onto Mopani - Letaba Rd/H1-5. Continue to follow H1-5 (105 km) • Continue onto Punda Maria - Shingwedzi Rd/H1-7 (50.7 km) • Turn left onto H13-1 (14.8 km) • Turn right onto Punda Maria Restcamp Rd/H13-2 (4.3 km) • Slight right. Destination will be on the right (0.7 km)
End: Punda Maria Rest Camp
Directions
- Punda Maria Rest Camp to Tshipise a Forever Resort
Distance: 166.22km Travel Time: 2:45 hours GPS co-ordinates for Tshipise a Forever Resort: S 22° 36' 22.271" E 30° 10' 22.822"
Start: Punda Maria Rest Camp • Head northwest toward Punda Maria Camp Rd (1.2 km) • Continue onto Punda Maria Restcamp Rd/H13-2 (3.8 km) • Turn right onto H13-1 (16.9 km) • Turn right (3.5 km) • Turn left (10.4 km) • Turn right (13.1 km) • Turn right (38.3 km) • Turn left onto R525 (78.8 km) • Turn left. Destination will be on the right (0.2 km)
End: Tshipise a Forever Resort
Directions
- Tshipise a Forever Resort to Syringa Lodge
Distance: 321.76km Travel
Time: 4:14 hours GPS co-ordinates for Syringa Lodge: S 21° 59' 22.786" E 27° 50' 27.746"
Start: Tshipise a Forever Resort • Head north toward R525 (0.2 km) • Turn left onto R525 (1.0 km) • Turn right onto R508 (35.1 km) • Continue straight onto Irwin St (1.0 km) • Turn right onto N1 (1.2 km) • At the roundabout, take the 2nd exit and stay on N1 (2.9 km) • Turn left onto R572 (89.3 km) • Turn right onto R521. Entering Botswana (11.6 km) • Continue straight (1.1 km) • Turn left onto Transit Rd (15.5 km) • Continue onto River Crossing (Drift) (0.2 km) • Turn right (32.7 km) • Turn right (8.8 km) • Keep left (41.7 km) • Turn right (0.7 km) • Turn left (0.7 km) • At the roundabout, take the 1st exit (53.4 km) • Turn right onto A15. Destination will be on the right (24.7 km)
End: Syringa Lodge
Directions
- Syringa Lodge to Nata Lodge Campsite
Distance: 323.95km Travel Time: 3:51 hours GPS co-ordinates for Nata Lodge Campsite: S 20° 13' 24.429" E 26° 16' 11.248" Start: Syringa Lodge • Head northwest
on A15 toward A15 (0.1 km) • Turn right to stay on A15 (0.3 km) • Turn left at the 1st cross street to stay on A15 (1.8 km) • Turn right onto Dikgomo (0.5 km) • Turn left onto Tshekedi Rd (1.3 km) • Turn left onto A15 (54.2 km) • Turn right onto A1 (87.4 km) • Keep left (0.3 km) • Slight left onto Doc Morgan Ave/Gemmel Dr/A3. Continue to follow A3 (178 km) • Turn right. Restricted usage road (0.3 km)
End: Nata Lodge Campsite
Directions
- Nata Lodge Campsite to Kubu Lodge
Distance: 309.93 km Travel Time: 3:42 hours GPS co-ordinates for Kubu Lodge: S 17° 47' 49.225" E 25° 13' 40.393"
Start: Nata Lodge Campsite • Head southwest toward A3. Restricted usage road (0.3 km) • Turn right onto A3 (9.4 km) • Continue straight onto A33 (298 km) • Turn left (0.3 km) • Turn right (0.5 km) • Turn left onto Upper Rd/A33 (1.5 km) • Turn right (0.2 km) • Turn left (68 m)
End: Kubu Lodge
Directions
- Kubu Lodge to Ihaha Rest Camp
Today
you will enter the National Parks of Botswana. Prepare yourself for a few days of no luxury, pure fun and adventure in the bush. It is important that you do your grocery shopping and fill all water and fuel tanks because you won’t find anything in the National Parks of Botswana.
From Kasane, Follow the signs to Chobe National Park. You will enter Chobe National Park at the Sidudu Gate where you will also pay your Park Fees and Vehicle Fees for your stay in Ihaha, South Gate and Kumaga.
The price is P50 per vehicle per day and P120 per person per day.
The road from Sedudu Gate along the river to Ihaha Rest Camp is a very scenic road. The approximate distance from Kubu Lodge to Kasane is 10km and Sedudu Gate is situated about 5km from Kasane. The distance from Sedudu Gate to Ihaha Campsite is 35km.
Remember to show them your original booking confirmation and the receipt that you paid the entrance fees. Follow your Chobe National Park map and make your way to Ihaha Camp. Distance: 55.50km Travel Time: 58 minutes GPS co-ordinates for Ihaha Rest Camp: S 17° 50' 21.199"
E 24° 52' 42.974"
Start: Kubu Lodge • Head south (68 m) • Turn right toward Upper Rd/A33 (0.2 km) • Turn right onto Upper Rd/A33. Continue to follow A33 (44.8 km) • Turn right (9.4 km) • Turn left. Destination will be on the left (1.1 km)
End: Ihaha Rest Camp
Directions
- Ihaha Rest Camp to Thobolo's Bush Lodge
Depart from Ihaha and follow directions towards Kachikau. Just before the border turn left towards the small village of Kachikau where the tar ends and becomes a four wheel drive road for the last ten kilometres to the lodge, at the 10km mark, take the bush road off to the right for another 3kms and arrive at The Lodge.
Thobolo’s is ideally situated along a well driven route to Savuti, Moremi and Maun. The lodge overlooks the largest natural pan in the area, Barangwe Pan. A large Baobab Tree (named The Attitude Tree by The Lodge) welcomes you at the entrance.
Distance: 77.90km Travel Time: 1:34 hours GPS co-ordinates for Thobolo's Bush Lodge: S 18° 12' 15.420" E 24° 23' 32.520"
Start: Ihaha Rest Camp • Head south (0.4
km) • Slight left (0.7 km) • Turn right (9.4 km) • Turn right onto A33 (16.9 km) • Slight left toward Transit Rd (45 m) • Turn left onto Transit Rd (11.8 km) • Continue onto Transit Rd (28.6 km) • Slight right (7.6 km) • Slight right onto Transit Rd (2.5 km)
End: Thobolo's Bush Lodge
Directions
- Thobolo's Bush Lodge to Moremi South Gate Campsite
Ensure an early departure; depart no later than 09h00! depart from Thobolo’s and drive back on the 4x4 routes driving to Ghoha Gate. Stay on the marked 4x4 routes and, enter the park at Ghoha Gate, Please be careful of deep sand north of Ghoha Gate! you will exit Chobe National Park at the Mababe Gate and enter Moremi Game Reserve.
The distance from Savute to Mababe gate is 64km via sand road and 71km via the marsh road and take about 2-2.5hrs. Continue to South Gate of Moremi. You will be staying at South Gate Campsite. Distance: 209.17km Travel Time: 5:23 hours GPS co-ordinates for Moremi South Gate Campsite: S 19° 25' 31.706" E 23° 38' 43.315"
Start: Thobolo's Bush Lodge
• Head west on Transit Rd (56.4 km) • Transit Rd turns slightly left and becomes Sandridge Rd (23.5 km) • Continue straight (15.8 km) • Turn left (40.9 km) • Turn left at Transit Rd (36.9 km) • Turn right (24.6 km) • Turn left. Destination will be on the right (11.1 km)
End: Moremi South Gate Campsite
Directions
- Moremi South Gate Campsite to Island Safari Lodge
Distance: 84.20km Travel Time: 1:37 hours GPS co-ordinates for Island Safari Lodge: S 19° 55' 28.200" E 23° 30' 32.414"
Start: Moremi South Gate Campsite • Head south (80.6 km) • At the roundabout, take the 2nd exit (1.1 km) • Turn right. Partial restricted usage road (2.4 km)
End: Island Safari Lodge
Directions
- Island Safari Lodge to Kumaga Campsite
Distance: 154.74km Travel Time: 1:54 hours GPS co-ordinates for Kumaga Campsite: S 20° 27' 14.257" E 24° 30' 58.821" Start: Island Safari Lodge • Head northwest. Partial restricted usage road (2.4 km) • Turn left (1.0 km) • At the roundabout, take the 2nd exit (8.6 km) • Continue onto Sekgoma Rd/A3. Continue to follow A3 (80.4
km) • Turn right (3.6 km) • Turn left (54.4 km) • Turn left (1.4 km) • Slight right (0.2 km) • Slight left (2.5 km) • Slight left (0.3 km)
End: Kumaga Campsite
Directions
- Kumaga Campsite to Khama Rhino Sanctuary Campsite
Distance: 383.30km Travel Time: 3:58 hours GPS co-ordinates for Khama Rhino Sanctuary Campsite: S 22° 14' 35.686" E 26° 44' 7.912"
Start: Kumaga Campsite • Head southwest (0.3 km) • Slight right (1.8 km) • Slight right (0.8 km) • Turn left (0.3 km) • Continue straight (1.3 km) • Turn left (84.3 km) • Keep left (0.8 km) • Keep left (88.2 km) • Continue straight (22.8 km) • Turn right onto A14 (180 km) • Turn right (35 m) • Turn left (34 m) • Turn left. Restricted usage road (2.6 km) • Turn right. Restricted usage road (0.4 km)
End: Khama Rhino Sanctuary Campsite
Directions
- Khama Rhino Sanctuary Campsite to Bontle Rest Camp Today you will drive to South Africa. Exit Botswana at the Martins Drift Border Post. From the border post, take the R572 and then the R510 via Ellisras
(Lephalale) to Marakele National Park. There are no shops in the park; therefore, we advise that you travel to Thabazimbi and to buy all the necessary groceries for your stay in Marakele National Park. There’s a mall, you will need to turn left at the T-Junction and proceed straight on the road to Marakele National Park. At the moment, there’s only one sign near the entrance of the national park on your left-hand side. Follow the signs to Marakele National Park and stay at Bontle campsite for one night on self-catering base. Approximate distance for the day is 450km Distance: 394.60km Travel Time: 4:38 hours GPS co-ordinates for Bontle Rest Camp: S 24° 31' 16.417" E 27° 29' 34.440"
Start: Khama Rhino Sanctuary Campsite • Head east. Restricted usage road (0.4 km) • Turn left. Restricted usage road (2.6 km) • Turn right toward A14 (34 m) • Turn right toward A14 (35 m) • Turn right onto A14 (66.9 km) • Turn right onto A1 (9.7 km) • Turn left. Entering South Africa (101 km) • Continue onto N11 (10.2 km) • Turn right onto R572 (48.1 km) • Turn left onto R510 (38.3 km) • At the
roundabout, take the 2nd exit and stay on R510 (21.7 km) • Keep left (0.3 km) • Merge onto R510 (34.4 km) • Turn right to stay on R510 (27.1 km) • Turn left (30.1 km) • Turn right (2.2 km) • Turn right toward Ndlopfu Dr (89 m) • At the roundabout, continue straight onto Ndlopfu Dr (0.3 km) • Turn left (92 m) • Turn right (1.0 km) • Turn left. Destination will be on the left (7 m)
End: Bontle Rest Camp
Directions
- Bontle Rest Camp to SA Roadtrippers Johannesburg
Distance: 266.46km Travel Time: 3:06 hours GPS co-ordinates for SA Roadtrippers Johannesburg: S 26° 05' 46.698" E 28° 20' 26.445"
Start: Bontle Rest Camp • Head east (7 m) • Turn right (1.0 km) • Turn left toward Ndlopfu Dr (92 m) • Turn right onto Ndlopfu Dr. Go through 1 roundabout (0.4 km) • Turn left (2.2 km) • Turn right (16.2 km) • Turn right (38.4 km) • Turn left onto R516 (59.0 km) • Continue onto Rooiberg Rd (0.2 km) • At the roundabout, take the 4th exit onto Voortrekker Rd (0.8 km) • Turn right
onto Ritchie Rd (0.1 km) • Turn left onto Sutter Rd (0.1 km) • Turn right onto Marx St (0.7 km) • Continue onto R101 (17.4 km) • Turn left (2.7 km) • Turn right to merge onto N1 toward Pretoria. Partial toll road (89.7 km) • Take exit 134 to merge onto R21 toward Kempton Park. Partial toll road (27.1 km) • Take exit 36 for R23 toward Benoni (0.8 km) • Turn left onto R23 (signs for Benoni) (1.9 km) • Slight left onto 3rd Ave/M32. Continue to follow M32 (6.8 km) • Turn left onto Gum Rd (0.7 km)
End: SA Roadtrippers Johannesburg
MPUMALANGA
Mpumalanga, formerly known as the Eastern Transvaal, is one of South Africa's top tourist destinations. People are drawn by the magnificent scenery, fauna and flora and by the saga of the 1870s gold rush era and a wealth of fascinating tribal legends. Aptly known as "Paradise Country", there are few regions in the World can match the extraordinary beauty of the Lowveld and escarpment. Mountains, panoramic passes, valleys, rivers, waterfalls and forests characterize the landscape. This is also Big Game Country, the setting
for dozens of sanctuaries teeming with wildlife and birds. Amongst them, the famous and world-renowned Kruger National Park, as well as several luxurious private reserves. The entire area offers exceptional opportunities for bird-watching, hiking, horse-riding and fishing. Streams once panned for gold have become the haunts of eager anglers and lazy trout. Steeped in the history of pioneers, hunters and fortune seekers. The fascinating gold rush towns of Barberton and Pilgrim's Rest are amongst the most famous. A special, additional dimension occurs in the Middleveld region which is inhabited by the Ndebele people, notable for their traditional costumes and attractively brightly coloured painted houses. En route to the Kruger National Park through Mpumalanga, you have the advantage of some stunning scenery. Turn off the N4 to the village of Dullstroom, travel over the Long Tom Pass and its splendid panoramic views to Lone Creek Falls and the charming forestry town of Sabie. Just beyond Sabie, the Mac Mac Falls are worth stopping for; and you can treat yourself to a swim in the crystalclear pools. A small detour leads to Pilgrim's Rest; a fascinating historic town, well worth exploring before continuing to Blyderivierspoort Nature Reserve. In the Reserve, you can
feast your eyes on the Blyde River Canyon and the rich bird life it offers. At the southern tip of the Reserve, the view from God's Window stretches to eternity across the Lowveld. From there, it's a short and easy drive to some of the finest Private Game Reserves in the Country and Orpen Gate, access gate to the Kruger National Park.
The Panorama Route: The magnificent Panorama Route in Mpumalanga is best known for its cultural heritage and its dramatic landscapes. Offering a vast array of exciting options for the visitor, the Panorama Route hosts some of the best adrenalin enhancing adventures in the country as well as some more placid pastimes. One of the major highlights of the region is the Blyde River Canyon Reserve, home to spectacular wildlife and birdlife and some of the best views in South Africa. The Blyde River Canyon is the third largest canyon of its kind in the World. Other highlights include the exquisite waterfalls in Graskop and Sabie, the Echo Caves that speak of Africa’s powerful tribes such as the Pedi, Mapulane and Swazi, trails left behind by the Voortrekkers in regions such as Lydenburg and Ohrigstad, ancient
artistic footprints left by the indigenous people of Africa and the Gold Rush territory, Pilgrim’s Rest, home to the early gold prospectors.
The Lowveld Legogote Region is situated in the lower reaches of the Mpumalanga escarpment and comprises of the towns Nelspruit (Mpumalanga's capital), White River, Kaapsehoop and KaNyamazane. With an array of attractions to explore, the Lowveld Legogote is well known for the Sudwala Caves (one of the oldest caves in the World), the quaint village of Kaapsehoop and its wild horses, the mesmerising butterfly garden in the White River area and the Lowveld Botanical Gardens that offers several hiking trails, the largest collection of Cycads and an African rainforest. The Grass & Wetlands: The Mpumalanga Grass and Wetlands region is a birders paradise. This serene region is located in the south-eastern part of Mpumalanga and shares its borders with Swaziland, Kwa-Zulu Natal and the Free State provinces. Highlights of the region include the hundreds of lakes and forgotten hamlets in the central area, rock formations and splendid scenery of the imposing mountains. It is in the Grass and Wetlands region where one can engage in unusual activities like "frogging expeditions" or watch stars during "stargazing
week-ends". Fierce battles were fought in the past, with the most notable being the battle of Chrissiesmeer that is annually re-enacted. In the region, you can discover and marvel at the lost Legoya nation's huts that are still standing after a millennium, as well as Bushmen paintings.
The Cosmos Country: Cosmos Country lies in the south-western part of Mpumalanga against the Free State and Gauteng borders and includes the towns of Secunda, Delmas, Leandra, Bethal, Standerton, Balfour and Greylingstad. Known as the 'energy belt' of Mpumalanga, the Mpumalanga Cosmos Country region houses a number of power stations that supply energy to most southern African countries. Lively economic and agricultural activity takes place in Standerton, Leandra and Balfour. The region is the centre of crude oil production in Southern Africa and it boasts the world's largest underground coal mining complex. Despite the serious industrial activity, the Cosmos country has its own natural beauty. The open grasslands of this region transform into a kaleidoscope of colour with a carpet of cosmos flowers blooming in late summer, hence the name Cosmos Country. Visitors are also attracted to the region by the annual Potato Festival and the search for fortunes at
a casino located in the area.
Kruger National Park: Lying in the heart of the Lowveld is a wildlife sanctuary like no other, its atmosphere so unique that it allows those who enter its vastness to immerse themselves in the unpredictability and endless wilderness that is the true quality of Africa. The largest Game Reserve, the Kruger National Park is larger than the country of Israel. Nearly 2 million hectares of land that stretch for 352 kilometres (20 000 square kilometres) from North to South along the Mozambique border, is given over to an almost indescribable wildlife experience. Certainly, it ranks with the best in Africa and is the flagship of the country’s National Parks - rated as the ultimate safari experience. The Kruger National Park lies across the provinces of Mpumalanga and Limpopo in the North of South Africa, just South of Zimbabwe and West of Mozambique. It now forms part of the Greater Limpopo Transfrontier Park - a peace park that links the Kruger National Park with game parks in Zimbabwe and Mozambique, and fences are already coming down to allow game to freely roam in much the way it would have in the time
before man’s intervention. When complete, the Greater Limpopo Transfrontier Park will extend across 35 000 square kilometres, 58% of it South African, 24% Mozambican and 18% Zimbabwean territory. This is the land of baobabs, fever trees, knob thorns, marula and mopane trees underneath which lurk the Big Five (Leopard, Lion, Elephant, Rhino and Cape Buffalo), the Little Five (Buffalo Weaver, Elephant Shrew, Leopard Tortoise, Ant Lion and Rhino Beetle), the Big Six birds (Southern Ground Hornbill, Kori Bustard, Lappet-faced Vulture, Martial Eagle, Pel’s Fishing Owl and the Saddle-billed Stork) and more species of mammals than any other African Game Reserve.
Blyde River Canyon: The Blyde River Canyon Reserve extends along the Blyde River Canyon's winding path, which at every turn offers more and more impressive views over sheer edges dropping 800m into the riverbed. Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve - The fresh mountain scenery and panoramic views over the Klein Drakensberg escarpment are quite spectacular and give the area its name of 'Panorama Route'. Viewpoints are named for the spectacle they offer, and God's Window and Wonder View hint at the magnitude of the scenery. The 'Pinnacle' is a single quartzite column rising out of the deep
wooded canyon and the ‘Three Rondavels' (also called 'Three Sisters’) are three huge spirals of dolomite rock rising out of the far wall of the Blyde River Canyon. Their domed heads are iced in green and their sides are stained with fiery orange lichen. From the 'Three Rondavels' you can see the extensive Swadini Dam in the far distance, which marks the end of the Reserve. At the meeting point of the Blyde River (river of joy) and the Treur River (river of sorrow) water erosion has created one of the most remarkable geological phenomena in South Africa. The ‘Bourke’s Luck Potholes’ have taken thousands of years to form strange cylindrical sculptures carved by swirling water. The smooth red and yellow rocks contrast with the dark pools.
God’s Window: Situated on the Drakensberg escarpment in Mpumalanga is God’s Window. Just one look down and you will begin to understand why it is called "God's Window". With magnificent views, canyons, rock formations and waterfalls, God's Window is truly an area of breathtaking scenic splendour. It is no wonder that Mpumalanga is known as Paradise Country! God’s Window is so called for the panoramic view of the Lowveld more
than 900m down into lush indigenous forest clad ravine. The majestic cliffsplunge over 700m to the Lowveld and the private game reserves which have made the area one of South Africa's main wildlife destinations. God's Window is a small part of a 250km long earthwork of sheer cliffs and extravagant beauty. One can observe the hills and forests as far as the eye can see. In fact, it seems as if one can see forever! Viewing sites are provided along the length of the spectacular Blyde River Canyon including God's Window, and there are numerous fantastic walks, hiking, horse and mountain bike trails. From the parking area a very steep stepped footpath along the edge of the escarpment leads to the actual viewpoints. For the best lookout points and exotic forest plants, steer away from the crowds and hike up into the clouds and the misty Rain Forest. Ensure you take a few refreshments along as it is very humid and an extremely steep and strenuous walk. God's Window and Graskop are perfect en-route stopping points for those visiting the Kruger National Park. There are curio stalls and toilet facilities at the parking area. For just R10,00 (subject to change)
one can witness one of the most magnificent sites in South Africa. God’s Window is truly a popular sight and for good reason! One can spend hours here just admiring the unsurpassed scenery. It is a view that has inspired and awed thousands of painters and photographers from all over the World.
LIMPOPO
Limpopo was previously called the Northern Province. The game viewing in Limpopo is superb and possibly the best in South Africa hence Limpopo is the best Eco-tourism destination in Southern Africa. Limpopo has spectacular mountain scenery, which beckons hikers, climbers and bikers while mystic cultural destinations intrigue both local and international tourists. Limpopo's six tourism regions offer travelers a vivid contrast between the Highveld splendours of the Waterberg, Soutpansberg and Magoebaskloof mountains and the wildlife delights of the Lowveld, including the northern reaches of the Kruger National Park. Polokwane, on the Great North road to Zimbabwe, is at the economic and geographic heart of the province.
Other prime tourist and business destinations include Makhado at the foot of the Soutpansberg mountains, Tzaneen, east of the lovely Magoebaskloof pass, Mokopane, Hoedspruit and Phalaborwa, situated a mere stone’s throw from the
Kruger National Park. Waterberg Region: The needle of the compass shudders as it swivels resolutely south-west to the Waterberg Region - vast, peaceful, incredibly beautiful and more than three million years old.
Situated in the magnificent Waterberg Mountain Range. This region is a harsh but rewarding area of startling beauty, a beauty which lies in its superb vistas, mountain gorges, clear streams and rolling bushveld hills, all rich in indigenous species of plant and animal life - including the 'Big Five'. This is an area where the heat is quenched, and aching muscles soothed by the mineral baths of the myriad hot spring resorts. The Waterberg ('Water Mountain') is a unique wilderness area of South Africa yet to be fully discovered. One of the country's lesser known geographical wonders and blueish in colour, the range supports a biome spanning over 15,000 km², offering breathtaking valleys far from the madding crowd of the bustling tourist centers.
Capricorn: Named after the Tropic of Capricorn, which passes through the northern section of Limpopo, the Capricorn Region stretches lithely from the Ysterberg, along the foothills of the lush Wolkberg Mountains, to the Tropic of Capricorn in the north. It is ideally situated
as a stopover between Gauteng and the northern areas of Limpopo and between the north-western areas of the country and the Kruger National Park.
It is also in close proximity to the neighbouring countries of Botswana, Zimbabwe and Mozambique. The major centers of the Capricorn Region include Polokwane, Dendron, Sekhukhune and Zebediela, the last being home to one of the largest citrus farms in the southern hemisphere. The fascinating diversity of the region, incorporating grassy plains, bushveld and misty mountains, as well as a myriad of plant and animal species, makes it a veritable treasure chest for the traveller. The region has mines, farms, forests, cultural villages, dams, art, game and monuments, as well as a fascinating and diverse people.
It is the centre for local African culture, to which the numerous towns south of Polokwane and north of Mokopane attest in the coming together of carefully preserved social traditions and indigenous identities. Vhembe: The Vhembe Region is named after the impressive mountain range that stretches for some 130 km from west to east through the region. The area incorporates endless expanses of undulating indigenous bush characterised by the remarkable form of the baobab, wonderful wildlife,
a profusion of birds and exciting adventure opportunities. The region boasts one of the most varied natural, geological, archaeological and cultural systems in the world and a fascinating history dating back many centuries when the San roamed the veld and left us their artworks on rocks. These were the times when Arabs and Indians sailed their dhows down south and traded beads and ceramics for the gold and ivory of the ancient African kingdoms ensconced in their fortresses at Mapungubwe and Thulamela.
Mopani: The Mopani region in the Lowveld is one of the last unspoilt corners of Africa – vast, unhurried, and timeless. The Mopani region has a river in a valley called the Great Olifants River that meanders through the Kruger National Park forming the southern border of the province, it offers vast expanses that seem untouched by the passage of time and remain unmistakably African. To conserve and extend this legacy, the Kruger National Park has been incorporated into the Gaza-KrugerGonarezhou Park, a Transfrontier conservation area stretching over 35 000 square kilometres covering Mozambique, Zimbabwe and South Africa. This area is to become part of the proposed Great Limpopo Transfrontier Park. Already, many of the conservation areas
bordering on the Kruger National Park have removed their fences and now from part of the Greater Kruger National Park, resulting in huge traversing areas of unspoilt wilderness.
Within these areas and the many other game and nature reserves in the region the full splendour of Africa’s wildlife can be enjoyed. The Mopani Valley is not only rich in wildlife, but offers spectacular scenery of mountains, rivers and dams, a rich history and many cultural attractions. The contrasts in climate, scenery and landscape are both striking and dramatic.
Sekhukhune: The region is named after King Sekhukhune who was a King of the Marota (commonly known as the Bapedi) in Sekhukhuneland during the 18th century. Sekhukhune is a cross-border municipality between Limpopo and Mpumalanga Province. It is a rural area with an economic base in the fields of mining and agriculture. With good soil, a sub-tropical climate and the availability of reasonable quantities of water, the area boasts of a strong and prosperous farming industry which consists of citrus, grapes, tomatoes, sweet potatoes, cabbage, peppers, beans and pumpkins, wheat, maize, cotton and tobacco. The region is endowed with mineral resources like chrome, platinum and diamond deposits.
Places of interest include the Lebowa Platinum Mines, Potlake Game Reserve, Mona Meetse spring water, Ledingwe Cultural Village, Echo Stone at Phahlamanoge and Lenao la Modimo (God's Footprint). Schuinsdraai is a popular water-recreation destination where anglers can relax at the shores of Flag Boshielo Dam.
GAUTENG
Gauteng: Although it is the smallest of South Africa’s nine provinces, Gauteng (the Sotho word for "Place of Gold"), is the commercial and industrial powerhouse of the country and indeed of southern Africa. Gauteng is a cosmopolitan, multicultural mix of people from all walks of life, from all corners of the world. Gauteng's main attraction is big business, but there is so much more ... museums, galleries, historical battlefields. Gauteng is also an entertainment playground offering world-class restaurants, shebeens, shopping malls and music venues. Johannesburg Johannesburg is an African city of note. Johannesburg is characterised by contradiction and an apparent seamless combination of irreconcilable differences. The largest city in South Africa, Johannesburg is also the wealthiest and, without doubt, the economic powerhouse of Africa. It’s a booming, happening city and the emphasis is on making money - whether in business or on the streets - and has been since its beginnings when
the world’s richest gold fields were discovered in Johannesburg during the 1880s. To the first-time visitor Johannesburg, or Jozi as it’s more commonly known, can be a little daunting, more so because of the misrepresentation by the media of Johannesburg as something of a war zone. There is crime; you do need to keep your wits about you, but once bitten by the vibe of Jozi, you’re going to want to come back again. The Johannesburg inner city, abandoned by an exodus of big business that transferred to Sandton and, until recently, avoided by all except die-hard tourists, is undergoing a complete regeneration. The area close to City Hall and Newton Cultural Precinct, which has completely transformed the Market Theatre and surrounds, now forms the heart of urban revival, and the Johannesburg inner city remains the largest employment centre in South Africa. But it’s the sprawl of the leafy northern suburbs - there are over six million trees in Johannesburg - that draws the visitor: buzzing, trendy suburbs like Parktown and Norwood, with their restaurant-lined avenues that cater for the dining and décor set; the high street of Greenside that so easily dons the mantle of hip chic; fashionable Melville
(forget venturing a little further to Yeoville - Jozi’s Greenwich Village it might have been but not any longer), and the sprawling malls of Sandton, all combine to make the city a great place to be. Though not touted as an outdoor city, there are, nevertheless, a number of parks and nature reserves, like Emmerentia Dam and the Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden that are worth a visit.
Pretoria: Known as the Jacaranda City for all the purple blossom-bedecked trees, which line its thoroughfares, Pretoria is a lovely, quiet city. It has a long, involved and fascinating history. Here you will find significant old buildings and fascinating museums. The Transvaal Museum has natural history displays and is the home of Mrs. Ples, the australopithecine fossil found at Sterkfontein in the Cradle of Humankind. Also, worth visiting are the Cultural History Museum and Smuts Museum in Irene, outside Pretoria. Sedate, leafy Pretoria tends to endure a Cinderella complex when compared with the neighbouring city of Johannesburg. When it comes to world class cities, Johannesburg is one of the most ‘happening’ cities on the African continent and the city gleams with the glamour of money. Pretoria has been
left to shrug off its former association with the apartheid government in a relative state of slumber, lying as it does in a warm, sheltered valley surrounded by the hills of the Magaliesberg range that ensure that temperatures here are invariably a few degrees warmer than Johannesburg. But don’t let the sleepy nature of the pretty city lull you into a false perception. Pretoria has a beauty of its own, and the slow pace of life is regarded as a bonus by its residents. Many Jo’burgers seek a quieter existence in Pretoria, prepared to commute daily rather live in the comparative rat race. Wall flower the city is not. When in full bloom in October, Pretoria literally comes alive with blossoms and leaves no one in doubt as to the origin of its nickname - Jacaranda city. Pretoria functions as one of three capitals of South Africa with a population that exceeds a million people, the bulk of whom are government officials. The city centre is laid out in typical city fashion on a grid with wide roads, making getting around fairly simple. Pretoria’s potential name change to Tshwane (the city lies in the greater Metropolitan municipality of Tshwane) was
approved by the names’ council in 2005 but still lacks endorsement by the Minister of Arts And Culture, remaining ‘under consideration’, which may or may not have something to do with the hue and cry that ensued at the onset of the name change. Practically mandatory when visiting the city are the Pretoria Botanical Gardens, the Zoo, the Union Buildings and various museums and galleries that include Melrose House, the Pioneer Museum, Sammy Marks museum, and the Voortrekker Monument. Outdoor activities include the Wonderboom and Groenkloof Nature Reserves, the Austin Roberts Bird Sanctuary, and a steam train ride around Pretoria.
Soweto: South of Johannesburg is Soweto, a city developed as a township for black people under the apartheid system. Most of the struggle against apartheid was fought in and from Soweto. The name Soweto is an acronym, made up - in apartheid days - from the first letters of the words “south western township”. Soweto is inhabited by over two million people, with homes ranging from extravagant mansions to makeshift shacks. Soweto is a city of enterprise and cultural interaction. It is a popular tourist destination with sites such as Kliptown (where the Freedom Charter was drawn up), the
home of former President Nelson Mandela, the Hector Petersen Memorial site, restaurants and shopping malls. It boasts one of the largest hospitals on the continent and the only African-owned private clinic. Soweto is a sprawling township, or more accurately, a cluster of townships on the south-western flank of Johannesburg. Soweto was created in the 1930s, with Orlando the first township established. In the 1950s, more black people were relocated there from 'black spots' in the inner city - black neighbourhoods which the apartheid government had reserved for whites. Soweto's growth was phenomenal - but unplanned. Despite government attempts to stop the influx of black workers to the cities, waves of migrant workers moved from the countryside and neighbouring countries to look for employment in the city of gold. With a population of over 2 million, the township is the biggest black urban settlement in Africa with a rich political history. Soweto was the centre of political campaigns aimed at the overthrow of the apartheid state. The 1976 student uprising, also known as the Soweto uprising, started in Soweto and spread to the rest of the country. Many of the sights on the heritage route therefore have political significance. Sowetans pride
themselves on being urbane and streetwise. They look down on the moegoes (country bumpkins) from the rural areas. Most residents here are rooted in the metropolis and are detribalised. Soweto is a melting pot of South African cultures and has developed its own sub-cultures - especially for the young. Afro-American influence runs deep but is adapted to local conditions. In their speech, dress and gait, Sowetans exude a sense of cosmopolitan sophistication. Sowetans have evolved a local lingo, tsotsitaal, an eclectic mix of several local languages, Afrikaans and street slang, constantly evolving and spoken mainly by the young. From the foot bridge of the Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital, the largest on the continent, one can get a panoramic view of Soweto. In Diepkloof, you will find many grey, four-roomed dwellings, cynically called 'matchbox houses' by locals. These are the original dwellings constructed to accommodate the first black migrants to the cities who had come in search of greener pastures. Although they are small, locals take pride in their houses and many take efforts to make them habitable and even homely. In contrast to these symbols of poverty, there are various 'extensions' that have been established to accommodate the relatively affluent. One example is Diepkloof Extension, home to the emerging black middle class. The suburb boasts beautiful houses, the roads are in good condition, and there are playgrounds and schools. Other attractive sights are residences of famous anti-apartheid activists. Just a few kilometres drive from Diepkloof, you arrive at Orlando, the first township of Soweto. Here, you can visit Nelson Mandela's first house (left) which is a popular tourist attraction. Mandela stayed here before he was imprisoned in 1961. Security guards will not let you in, but you can see the modest house clearly enough from the street. You can also have a glimpse of the mansion belonging to Winnie Madikizela-Mandela in an affluent part of Orlando West. Archbishop Desmond Tutu's house, the Sisulu residence and the Hector Pieterson memorial museum are in the same neighbourhood. The recently renovated museum offers a detailed account of the events of 1976, including visuals and eye-witness accounts.
General Tips for Self-Drive Travelers in Southern Africa
1. Uitkyk Holidays is your appointed ground handler for this journey. In case of any emergency or problem that may arise during your travels, please contact Uitkyk Holidays immediately for assistance and so that they matter may be resolved. Uitkyk Holidays will not be held responsible for any refunds or claims that are only brought to their attention after the completion of your trip.
2. Exchange money at the Airport as you will get the best exchange rate there. It is recommended to always have some local currency on you to use to pay for toll fees and entrance fees as credit card facilities are not always available. Please note that for Botswana you will require Botswana Pulas to pay for extras. For Namibia it is Namibian Dollars but South African Rands is also accepted in both Botswana and Namibia. For Zambia & Zimbabwe it is best to have American Dollars with you. For Mozambique you require some Meticais, but South African Rands and US Dollars are also generally accepted (exchange rates not favorable when paying in a foreign currency). Euros will also be accepted but you will not receive a favorable exchange rate.
3. It is highly recommended that you double check the distances, to be driven the following day, the night before and ensure you leave early enough to allow enough time to reach your next destination before dark. It is not recommended to drive at night especially in areas and cities that you are unfamiliar with.
4. Kindly remember that the approximate distances shown on your day by day directions is merely that – an approximate calculation of the distance you will be traveling. We work on local maps and route descriptions provided by establishments, however, as there is generally more than one way to reach your next stop, we cannot give you an exact distance calculation.
5. Please take into consideration that border crossings in Southern Africa can be a very tedious and time-consuming process. It can take anything up to two hours to cross a border so please allow for this in your daily planning and kindly take into consideration the border operating hours. We have included directions in your Travel Papers that describe the process as much as possible, however, as these procedures and subsequent costs are controlled by the various Governments, they tend to change regularly without any notice.
6. Please take into consideration that the traveling time on normal tarred roads in South Africa is approximately 1 hour per 100km. Gravel roads (and especially roads in Botswana, Namibia, Zambia, Zimbabwe and Mozambique) should be allowed additional traveling time for as these roads are not always in perfect condition and may have livestock or wildlife roaming freely near the roads.
7. The speed limit inside the Kruger National Park, and other National Parks in South Africa, is generally 50 km per hour on tarred roads and 40 km per hour on gravel roads. A mere 100km can therefore take up to 4,5 hours to drive. Please take this into consideration when planning your next day.
8. Please always adhere to the speed limits and remember to keep your seat belt buckled. There are traffic police throughout Southern Africa. If you are stopped by a traffic official please ensure that you show your car papers, license and third-party insurance papers on request. If you can avoid it, do not hand your documents to the traffic official but rather present them clearly for inspection. If you have handed your documents over, please ensure you receive all the documents back before you leave. Being friendly and polite will get you much farther than being rude to an official.
9. Your tour package does not include any entrance fees, toll gate fees, conservation fees, border crossing fees ext. These are for your own account. Entrance fees are payable at all National Parks and Game Reserves in Southern Africa. Please ensure you have enough cash on hand with you to do so.
10. In South Africa, and surrounding countries, we drive on the left-hand side of the road.
11. Check on your travel documents for the gate opening and closure times for National Parks and ensure you plan your time so that you will reach your destination before the gates closes. You will be fined if you are found traveling inside National Parks, like the Kruger Park, after the camp or gate closure times.
12. It is highly recommended to purchase a detailed map of the Park that you will be traveling through. This can normally be done at the entrance gate such as the gates of the Kruger National Park
13. If you are visiting a private game lodge which is located for instance inside the Sabi Sands Private Game Reserve, try to reach the lodge before lunch time so that you are still able to enjoy lunch and be in time for the afternoon game drive around 15:00 or 16:00 (season dependent).
14. Please refer to your local establishment (be it guesthouse, lodge, hotel or rest camp) for referrals to local restaurants, activities and things to do in the area.
15. When traveling in Botswana, always talk to other travelers along the way about the roads they have already traveled to stay updated about road conditions and other information that might be handy.
16. When you travel in Botswana and you are visiting more than one National Park, i.e. Chobe, Moremi and Makgadikgadi Pans, ensure that you receive your white printed vouchers / receipts (used to be pink and green) back after showing it at the first camp, as you will need to show it again at all other camps. Failure to produce the papers will result in access being denied to you.
17. Please note that the entrance fees for the Central Kalahari Game Reserve need to be paid in advance at Gabarone, Ghanzi, Maun or Kasane. Failing to do so will mean you have to turn back and will not be allowed to enter the park. The entrance fees for Chobe, Moremi and the Makgadikgadi are paid at the Wildlife Office in either Maun, Kasane or Francistown.
18. When driving to Mozambique or Botswana, fill up the fuel tank in South Africa before entering the neighboring country. It is always recommended to top up your tank regularly as fuel may not always be readily available in neighboring countries or rural areas.
General Tips for 4x4 & Camping Self-Drive Travelers in Southern Africa 1. On receipt of your 4x4 rental vehicle it is very important that you personally check the inventory list thoroughly and ensure that everything has been included in the vehicle as specified (i.e. camping fridge, gas light, spare wheels etc.) The camping gear is essential to your tour and it is therefore vital to check that everything has been packed accordingly. Once you are in the African bush there are no shops or assistance in the nearby vicinity. Should you require any additional gear you may request this at the depot.
2. There are various insurance options and it is important that you familiarize yourself with all the options and the conditions as well as the costs. Your 4x4 has a standard insurance cover with an excess of ZAR 45 000. This can be reduced to either ZAR 20 000, at a cost of ZAR 150 per day, or to ZAR 0, at a cost of ZAR 300 per day (rates are subject to change without prior notice). This can be arranged before the start of your journey at the reception of the 4x4 Depot!
3. Please ensure that you have your “Cross Border Letter” with you if you are planning to travel across the South African borders. Your name must be clearly indicated on this letter. This letter will give you the required authority to take the rental car across the border of South Africa to Zimbabwe, Zambia, Mozambique, Botswana or Swaziland.
4. Please take good care of your rental vehicle. It will serve not only as your vehicle but also as your bedroom, bathroom and kitchen for the duration of your journey.
5. Dirt / Gravel roads are dangerous! Both wet and dry weather conditions can make these roads problematic. The 4x4’s is specifically designed to be strong and durable to handle these roads and conditions, but speed is the cause of many disasters. If you are unsure of a situation then please take the necessary precautions – such as checking the depth of small rivers and water pools before crossing them. Alternatively wait for another 4x4 to be in the area before crossing so that there is someone that can assist and a tow you if needed. Driving a 4x4 has a golden rule – “As slowly as possible and only as fast as necessary”. Our advice is that as soon as you start driving on a dirt / gravel road, please engage the 4x4 drive. This enhances the vehicles capabilities. The electronic Diff Lock should only be used at very low speeds! Also remember that it is not advisable to drive off the standard road – being tarred or a sand / gravel road. Should any damage occur as a result of the vehicle being driven off the marked or indicated route, the repair costs will be for your account as the insurance does not cover this!
6. Ensure that you regularly top up your fuel tank(s). Firstly, the distances between petrol stations are long and secondly it is not always guaranteed that you will find fuel at the next petrol station. This is and remains Africa!
7. Ensure that you always have enough essential supplies with you – such as drinking water and food. There are not always shops available in the bush from which to purchase provisions.
8. Wild Animals! They will be a big part of your holiday in South Africa. The larger animals are not the only dangerous animals, best viewed and approached very carefully from within your vehicle, but the smaller animals can be just as dangerous and should be respected. You will more than likely be traveling with food items in your vehicle. Animals can smell this from a distance, especially Baboons and Hyena’s. Please ensure that your vehicle is always properly locked (windows closed completely) when leaving the vehicle and that all cutlery and crockery is cleared up and packed away. Firstly, it is not good for the animals to scavenge from humans, as they become dependent on this and dangerous to all travelers, and secondly there are very few if any shops in the bush and you won’t be able to purchase new provisions!
General Road Rules: 1. Four-way stops are commonly found at the quieter intersections – the first vehicle to arrive has priority.
2. All distances, speed limits and speedometers are in kilometers (1 mile is the approximate equivalent to 1.6 km)
3. Vehicles in traffic circles travel clockwise. Drivers on traffic circles should give way to the right.
4. Drivers must always carry a valid driver’s license, registration documents and insurance documents while driving. An International Driver’s Permit carried in conjunction with a national driving license is recommended and must be printed or authenticated in English.
5. Wearing seat belts when driving in a car in the region is mandatory for the driver and passengers.
6. The use of a mobile phone while driving is prohibited, except if you possess hands-free phone equipment, such as connecting your phone’s Bluetooth to the vehicle in question.
7. There are strict drinking and driving laws – with a maximum allowance alcohol blood content of 0.05%! (MISSING)Translated, that means about one glass of wine for the average women and perhaps 1.5 or two for the average large man.
General Road Conditions: 1. Potholes are a major problem in most of the region and can lead to unsafe driving conditions, especially during the rainy season.
2. Road travel at night in rural areas can be hazardous and travelers should note that abandoned vehicles, pedestrians and stray animals could present a danger.
3. Always respect the warnings on road signs – be aware that the roads in many rural areas are not fenced, so you could find dogs, chickens, sheep and even horses or cows on the road, which makes it dangerous to drive at night.
4. Large antelope crossing the road can also be a hazard in certain areas.
5. Many of the national roads between the major centers are toll roads. Make sure you have a credit card or cash in the correct currency to pay.
6. When asking for directions, self-drivers may be surprised to get the response “turn left at the next robot…” – a robot is the South African tern for traffic lights.
7. In South Africa, petrol/fuel stations are mostly open 24 hours and spread along all the routes. They are not selfhelp but manned by attendants who can also check oil, water and tire pressure if required. Gratuities for this service are at your own discretion.
Road Safety against Criminals: 1. Self-drivers should always drive with the doors locked.
2. Do not stop to pick up hitchhikers, however innocent or lost they may look.
3. Do not leave anything valuable on show in the car.
4. Try to always park in a busy, well-lit area.
5. Take advice from accommodation hosts and ask if there are any areas that tourists should avoid.
6. Do not confront aggressive drivers.
7. If possible, avoid traveling at night or in remote areas.
8. Thieves have known to employ various methods to make a vehicle stop, enabling them to rob the occupants. One such method is the placing of large stones in the middle of the road. In the circumstances it is prudent to carefully drive around the stones or obstacle, rather than stop the vehicle.
TRAVELLING IN SOUTH AFRICA
Rental Cars and South African Roads: Driving in South Africa is a great pleasure, you get will get used to driving on the left side so easily. The quality of the car rentals is of outstanding quality, so is the quality of our tar roads. In South Africa the discipline towards the use of the roads is of a better nature than in Holland, whereby travelers give each other the necessary space when required. The right-of-way system in South Africa is achieved using stop streets. As soon as you are out of the noisy city, you are on your long-awaited journey filled with peace and beautiful scenery. On our roads you will find that all the routes are carefully marked with signs that show you which route you are supposed to be on, for example: “N- route”, before you get onto the highway.
Or you will find a sign that says “R- route” before you get onto a local or regional route.
Please do note that there are a lot of pedestrians and animals walking next to the road, so keep within the speed limits given to you. The speed limit on the South African roads is 60km/h within a town, 100km/h in developed areas, and 120km/h on the highways and big roads out of town (with Kwa-Zulu Natal being an exception of 100km/h).
Please note that on the by moving over to the other lane (the left-hand side lane is the “slow lane”). It is stated by law to always wear a safety belt, and if you fail to adhere to this law, you can be fined tremendous amounts of money. On the toll routes you have a choice to pay either cash or with your credit card. With the reception of your rental car you will also receive a map book of South Africa and all the general information you require in order to get around.
Towns/Cities names will appear either in English or in Afrikaans, sometimes even in both. Next to the highways you will find a couple of pit stops where you can fill up your car, wash your face with some cold water (especially on long journeys) and get something to fill those empty stomachs. But you will always find a gas station in every town you go through.
Always see that your tank is filled up, because the roads are long, you must be able to drive up to the next filling station and remember that the gas stations normally only accept cash for gas payments. The most famous gas stations in South Africa are Shell, Caltex, Engen and BP.
Cross Border Fees & Documents: Kindly note that if your tour includes travelling to any of South Africa’s neighboring countries, please ensure that you receive the relevant cross border travel papers/permits from the rental company before you leave the depot / car rental agency. You will not be permitted to cross the border without these documents. Please also bear in mind that any cross-border fees, road taxes, levies and costs are for your own account and should be settled directly. In Namibia the Namibian Dollar and South African Rand are accepted currencies.
In Botswana you will be able to pay the cross-border costs in Botswana Pula and South African Rand. Both the US Dollar and Euro are also normally accepted but the border officials will use an exchange rate that may be less than favorable.
Gratuities and Negotiations: In South Africa is it customary to give a gratuity (“tip”), but it is certainly not compulsory. In most restaurants the waitrons work on a commission-based basis, which means that their salaries consist mainly of your contribution and the tip you give them. It is customary to give a gratuity to taxi drivers, porters, waitrons and room service staff. The average gratuity in the restaurants is approximately 10%! (MISSING)It is also customary to give the security guards the permission to look after your car at the car park, and to pay them R2,00 for that service.
This is a South African project to help with the problem of unemployment in the country. When visiting safari lodges, an average of R10,00 to R15,00 can be given to rangers and trackers per guest per day. The average that can be given to your personal guide/chauffeur will be between R100,00 and R200,00 per day. Please note that this amount is only a guideline and that you are free to give as much as you want or feel necessary.
When you purchase souvenirs next to the roads it advisable to negotiate for the price, as this will usually bring up a lower price.
General Safety Tips: Like everywhere in the World, it is also necessary in South Africa to take your own safety, as well as the safety of your belongings into account at all times. Especially when you are in big cities like Johannesburg, Durban and Cape Town. As precaution against this we would like to give you the following tips to consider.
Ensure that you arrive at your accommodation before dark, so that you don’t have to search for it in the dark. It is also advisable not to walk in the streets alone after closing time of the shops or over weekends. Ask your accommodation or hotel to arrange a transfer or transport for you through a familiar taxi company. Don’t wear any expensive jewelry or watches and take your camera with in an inconspicuous bag.
As far as possible try to leave any valuables and money in your hotel safe. During your stay, try to use your credit card and/or cash card (Cirrus) or Travellers cheques, and as few as possible cash money. Smoking: We would like to inform you that in South Africa there are some guesthouses where you are not permitted to smoke in either the rooms or the lounges. Then there are others where you are not permitted to smoke at all. If you wish that your accommodation should be at a guesthouse where smoking is permitted, please do let us know so that we can arrange for such accommodation at our agent.
The same procedure must occur if you are planning on bringing any pets with you.
Mobile Phones: Just a handy tip for the owners of GSM cellular phones - you can use them in South Africa as well. Our two dominant networks are Vodacom and MTN, of which Vodacom are the ones with the biggest advantages when you are maybe lost and want to ask directions or even if you want to phone another country from South Africa.
Climate/Weather: All year long it will be fun travelling in South Africa. The temperature throughout the day is always enjoyable. Most of the time it is sunny, with temperatures between 18 and 20 degrees. In the summer, which is between November and March, we experience temperatures between 25 and 30 degrees. In the winter, from May to August, it is much cooler at night and early in the mornings, especially higher up in the mountains and in the Game Parks to the East. But in the Cape Province it is always a bit cooler than the rest of the country. In the winter the temperatures can drop to a low of 15 degrees, sometimes even lower and it is usually windy.
Best Travelling Time: The best travelling time is from the end of August – October: This is the end of the dry season, which makes it good time for game-viewing, as the bush is not dense and there is little water, which makes dams/watering holes good places to spot animals. March to April - Just after the rainy season, the bush is lush and green, everything is blossoming. This too is a good time to spot game because the bush is lush and there is a lot of water available for the animals. Most animals also have their babies around November/December, so there is plenty of game around.
Visas: For South Africa you do not require a Visa, your Passport is still valid for six (6) months after you return to the Netherlands.
Vaccinations: Typhus, DTP, Yellow fever, Cholera (stamp) only necessary if you were in a contagious area for longer than six days. Malaria - Only applies to people travelling to the Kruger National Park (Mpumalanga/Lowveld) and Kwa-Zulu Natal.
Town & City Name Changes: Since the elections of 1994 there have been various changes in South Africa. Once of these that are most likely to affect your travels through the country is the changes of city and town names. Not all of these changes have yet been captured onto local route maps and books. Below is a list of the affected cities and towns (subject to change): Old Names: New Names: Pretoria Tshwane (for the areas surrounding Pretoria City Centre) Nelspruit Mbombela Pietersburg Polokwane Louis Trichardt Makhado (Reverted back to Louis Trichardt) Messina Musina Potgietersrust Mokopane Warmbaths Bela Bela Durban eThekwini (not officially changed yet) Nylstroom Modimolle Ellisras Lephalale Phalaborwa BaPhalaborwa Lydenburg Mashishing Witbank eMalahleni
Please note: For all of the SANParks (South African National Parks) that you enter, please complete the attached form called GATE REGISTRATION & INDEMNITY DOCKET FOR SANParks (small group) and hand it in upon your arrival at the entrance gate.
TRAVELLING IN BOTSWANA
BOTSWANA IMPORTANT:
Payment of Park Fees for Botswana National Parks. Although some entrance gates to the Botswana National Parks will accept cash payments for your park fees, like at Makgadigadi, please be advised that it is customary to pay your park fees at the Wildlife Offices which are located in the following towns:
• Maun Wildlife Office (payment for Moremi, Makgadikgadi, Nxai and Central Kalahari Game Reserve) • Sedudu Wildlife Office (situated near entrance to Chobe, outside of Kasane. Payment for Chobe & Moremi) • Letlhakane Wildlife Office • Francistown Wildlife Office • Ghanzi Wildlife Office • Tsabong Wildlife Office • Kang Wildlife Office • Gaborone Wildlife Office
You can prepay all the park fees for your trip at one Wildlife Office.
Please just make sure that you keep your proof of payment at hand as you will need to show this on check-in at the Gate. The contact number for Botswana National Parks is +267 686 0368. Current costs: Pula 120 per person, per day and Pula 50 per vehicle per day (subject to change) Entrance fees for Chobe can also be paid in Maun at the wildlife office if clients travel via Maun onwards to Chobe.
Visa, Passport & Border Crossing Costs Kindly note that any Visa, Passport and Border Crossing related costs are for your own account and should be settled directly with the relevant authorities. The currencies most accepted are the Botswana Pula and the South African Rand. The Dollar, to a lesser extent, and the Euro will also be accepted but the exchange rate given may not be very favorable, so it is advisable to have some Pulas and Rands at hand during your journey. The current border costs are as follows (this is an approximation only and is subject to change). Botswana to Namibia: Shesheke border USD 50 per person and N$ 1200 per vehicle Ngoma border Pula 90 per person and ZAR 150 per vehicle Mamuno border ZAR 160 per vehicle Namibia to Botswana: Mohembo border Pula 110 per car on first entry Pula 60 per car thereafter Mamuno / Charles Hill border No costs advised
Border Operating times: The following are the operational hours for the various border crossings into Botswana. Please bear in mind that this is subject to change without prior notice: From South Africa 08h00 to 16h00 Pontdrift Platjan Zanzibar Parr’s Halt Hereford Makopong Tshabong Middelpits Bokspits 08h00 to 18h00 Martin’s Drift 07h00 – 19h00 Sikwane Ramotswa Pioneer Gate 07h00 – 22h00 Tlokweng 07h00 – 20h00 Ramatlabama 07h30 – 16h30 Phitshane Molopo From Namibia 08h00 – 16h00 Mamuno 06h00 – 18h00 Mohembo Ngoma Bridge From Zambia / Zimbabwe 06h00 – 18h00 Kazangula
Flooding of Rivers in Botswana Flooding of rivers occurs every now and then in Botswana. One of the rivers that may directly influence your itinerary is the Boteti River which needs to be crossed in order to reach Khumaga camp site in the Makgadikgadi National Park or the Central Kalahari Game Reserve. Please enquire about road conditions at the Wildlife Offices (where you will need to stop to pay your entrance fees) and from fellow self-drive travelers traveling in the opposite direction. If the Boteti River is flooded, and you need to travel to Khumaga camp site, follow the following alternative route: You will need to drive straight with the road from Maun towards Gweta / Nata (do not turn right to Motopi as per the standard route directions). You will need to look for the signs / entrance gate PHUDUHUDU on the right-hand side, approximately 150km from Maun (that will be a few km's after the turn off to Motopi). You can enter the Makgadikgadi National Park at this gate; follow the road and signs to the Khumaga camp site.
Veterinary Gates and Check Points There are veterinary check points (road blocks) and you may be checked for meat or fresh dairy products. This is important as Botswana is serious about protecting itself against Foot and Mouth Disease (found in Zimbabwe, etc). It is therefore not advisable to have a lot of meat products with you — there is a real chance of it being confiscated, especially when driving back from the north. There are veterinary “red zones” inside Botswana and you will sometimes not even be allowed to move meat bought inside Botswana, i.e. especially from the north to the south.
There are very strict controls close to the northern borders of Botswana and all meat (even vacuum-packed meat products) and sometimes even milk/cheese may be confiscated when entering Botswana from Katima Molilo (Namibia). Meat can be bought in larger towns and cities in Botswana – such as Nata, Maun and Kasane ext.
Please note that there may be changes to the above and specific food items confiscated subject to the disease status or scare in neighboring countries.
General Formerly the British protectorate of Bechuanaland, Botswana was renamed on independence in 1966. It is a landlocked country, bordered in the south by South Africa, in the west by Namibia, in the east by Zimbabwe and in the north by Zambia.
Botswana is almost 18 times bigger than the Netherlands (and just a little smaller than Texas) and has maintained one of the world’s highest economic growth rates since independence - transforming itself from one of the poorest countries in the world into a middle-income country ranked as the best credit risk in Africa.
Diamond mining currently accounts for the bulk of export earnings, while tourism, financial services, subsistence farming and cattle-raising form other key sectors.
Tourism is a rapidly growing sector due to the country’s conservation practices and extensive nature preserves (over 17%!o(MISSING)f Botswana’s land area has been set aside as national parks and game reserves).
Culture and History The history of Botswana is characterised by the movement of people into the country from south, north, east and west, as well as the movements of internal groups. Around 1300 AD, people in present-day Transvaal began to form various linguistic and political groups, resulting in the emergence of three main groups: Bakgalagadi, Batswana and Basotho.
The earlier farming inhabitants – the Bakgalagadi – also split into several groups. In the 18th century, further movement of the Batswana resulted in the major tribes which exist today: the Bakwena; the Bangwato; and the Bangwaketse. Botswana has an estimated population of 2 million people, of whom 79%!a(MISSING)re of Tswana origin. About 75%!o(MISSING)f the people live in the eastern part of the country. Only about 20%!o(MISSING)f the total population lives in the four major urban areas – Gaborone (capital), Francistown, Lobatse and Selebi-Phikwe.
The earliest inhabitants of Botswana are believed to be the Basarwa. The proper name for this people is San - meaning “person” – but they are more commonly referred to as “Bushmen”. These people have lived an almost unchanged lifestyle in the country since the Stone Age. They are currently the second largest group of indigenous hunter-gatherers in Africa, second only to the Pygmies of equatorial Africa, yet only comprise 3%!o(MISSING)f the total population of Botswana.
Climate The climate is semi-arid, with warm winters and hot, dry summers and periodic droughts. Though it is dry for much of the year, Botswana does have a rainy season, which runs through the summer months (November to March). Rainfall tends to be erratic, unpredictable and very localised. It varies from 650mm in the extreme northeast of Chobe, to less than 250mm in the extreme southwest of the Kgalagadi.
“Pula” is not only the name for Botswana’s currency, but also the Setswana name for “rain”. Summer days are hot and especially in the weeks preceding the rains, can reach between 38º C and a blistering 44ºC, with humidity ranging from 60%!t(MISSING)o 80%! (MISSING)Winters are clear-skies and very dry, with warm daytime temperatures, but cold at night and early morning. Humidity in winter can reach 70%!d(MISSING)uring the morning, but usually falls to 20%!o(MISSING)r 30%!i(MISSING)n the afternoon.
Attractions Botswana mostly consists of desert and has some of Africa’s last great wilderness, including the famous Okavango Swamps and the Kalahari Desert. The Okavango, which originates in the uplands of Angola to the northwest, flows into and then spreads over the sandy spaces of the Kalahari to form an immense inland delta and fertile floodplain. This combined wilderness area - the Okavango Delta, Chobe National Park and Moremi Game Reserve - offers visitors the best of all worlds, with an incredible variety of animal and bird species making their homes in and around the lush indigenous forests of the delta and its islands, the floodplains and the savannah grasslands of Chobe.
Within the National Parks and Game Reserves, camping areas have been set aside for visitors. Many of these areas have only the most basic of facilities or are completely undeveloped, whilst other areas have formal ablution blocks.
Although the National road networks between main centers are tarred and in good condition, many of the access tracks, which lead to the parks and reserves, are very rough and sandy, requiring the use of a 4x4 vehicle. It is all of these aspects combined that make a visit to Botswana the adventure trip of a lifetime.
Only by these means, you can fully appreciate and experience the beauty and variety of the rough wilderness of Botswana – untouched by encroaching civilization.
BORDER PROCEDURES FOR BOTSWANA The following details the border crossing procedures from South Africa to Botswana at the Martins Drift Border crossing. The procedures will be more or less the same at the other border crossings so you can use this as a general guideline for other border posts. Note that operating times may vary from border post to border post and that the indicated costs are subject to change without prior notice.
The Martins Drift / Groblersburg Border Post open at 08:00 and close at 18:00. On entering the border, park the vehicle and proceed to the main building. You are required to report to Immigration first. Opposite the Immigration counter you will find immigration forms to fill in.
Before handing the passports to the Immigration officer, the driver of each vehicle will be required to fill in the vehicle register book, which you will find on the Immigration counter.
It is a simple register asking for name, address, destination, number of people in the vehicle etc.
With the forms completed, and the register completed by the drive, proceed to the closest Immigration Officer and hand over the passport with the filled in immigration form.
The driver must give the Immigration Officer the vehicle registration number in order to obtain a stamped gate pass from Immigration.
Getting through Immigration should be a hassle-free procedure. Once you are done with Immigration, you are required to proceed to Customs down the passage.
Passengers with nothing to declare are welcome to go to their vehicles and wait for the driver. This is where you are most likely going to spend a lot of time in line.
In order to cross into Botswana each driver must purchase a Road Disc with a road permit for his vehicle.
At the far end of the Customs isle you will see a cashier's cubicle. You will recognize the cashier's cubicle by the endless line of motorists queuing in front of it, waiting to pay for the permits.
Before getting into the queue, ask any Customs officer to stamp your gate pass for you.
Once you get to the Customs cashier ask him/her to issue you with a Road Disc and vehicle entry permit for your vehicle, you will have to pay for your vehicle and trailer separately (prices are subject to change without prior notice).
Border charges (subject to change without prior notice). Vehicles registered in SACU (South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Lesotho and Swaziland) are charged the following fees:
Road transport permit = 50 pula
National road safety = 50 pula, an additional 20 pula will be charged if there is a trailer
Third party insurance = 50 pula and motor vehicle insurance (larger vehicles such as minibuses will pay more)
Temporary import permits (TIP) – this form will be issued at the border post on entry to cars registered in a country other than Botswana.
Once you have received your Road Disc and Road Permit and both Immigration and Customs stamp your gate pass, you may proceed to the border posts exit with your vehicle.
Buckle up before you get to the gate as there are Police officers present at the gate.
Give the Customs Officer your gate pass, road disc and road permit,
MAKE SURE that he/she returns the road disc and road permit to you.
Welcome to Botswana.
You may now proceed to the Kwa Nokeng Caltex Complex next to the border to freshen up, get fuel (much cheaper than in SA) and change some money and visit the store.
Road Conditions in Botswana Kindly note that the below road condition report may include problematic areas that could already have been resolved by the time that you reach the relevant area. It is therefore important that you discuss upcoming road conditions and water crossing with travellers coming from the opposite direction or with the lodge or camp site staff. Road conditions and water levels in Botswana remain subject to change at all times!
Please remember that the below is the full report received from Botswana and it may or may not be applicable to your current itinerary.
Entrance fees for Chobe National Park, Moremi Game Reserve, Makgadikgadi National Park and Nxai Pan National Parks: Entrance fees can be paid at the Botswana Wildlife Office in Maun or at the Sedudu Gate where you will enter into the Chobe National Park from the North or Kasane.
Park fees at the Khutse Gate: You can no longer pay the National Park entry fees for Khutse Game Reserve at the gate. You have to settle at a National Parks office (Maun/Kasane/Gaborone) or via email beforehand.
They are slowly changing the parks to this system, so make sure you have your fees voucher beforehand!
GENERAL:
Shorobe to South Gate Has finally been graded. But people are now speeding, and a couple vehicles have actually rolled. So be careful. Corrugations are already starting to appear. Be very careful when cresting some of the little rises as on two of them there are major potholes on top, you can’t see them until you are bouncing out of them, one is the width of the road and about 50 cm deep. Between Shorobe and Mawana Vet Fence be very careful when cresting some of the little rises as on two of them there are major potholes on top, you can’t see them until you are bouncing out of them, one is the width of the road and about 50 cm deep. From the vet fence to South Gate it is better as it has been graded a little. Mawana Vet Fence to Mababe Village Has been graded, but still not fantastic. A few big sandy potholes after Sankuyo Village. Only graded in patches. South Gate to 3rd Bridge Is fine, the usual sandy patches here and there, 1st bridge has been rebuilt but you can still drive around it as the water hasn’t risen that high this year, 2nd bridge have half rebuilt and again you can drive around it as there is no water there.
There has been nice rain here so many of the big holes have filled with water. Still ok to drive through or there are a few detours to go around. 3rd bridge to Xakanaxa Is fine, no water crossings. After 4th bridge the road is fine. South Gate to Xakanaxa The road is normal with a little water and mud here and there
South Gate to Khwai (North Gate) Same as the Xakanaxa road - some water filled holes, which makes the trip a little longer. Xakanaxa to Khwai The route is fine with a little mud and water around (there are detours around them). If in doubt, travel via South Gate. Khwai to Mababe Gate After Khwai Bridge the road is ok through the village, there is a newly built bridge to cross when leaving the village. When the road does its 90-degree bend to the left and then onto the big crossing, the crossing is now dry and easily passable. After the crossing head back to the gravel road and on to the White concrete bridge. After the bridge it is a little corrugated in places but mostly ok until Mababe Gate. Mababe Gate to Savuti After Mababe Gate most people are going right at the fork along the Mababe Depression, the road is nice and muddy for a while. After about 20 km the road forks again and most people are going left along the sand ridge route. Some people are going right at this fork, but we have heard it is very bumpy as the Elephants walked through here last rainy season, so many potholes.
Savuti to Kasane From Savuti the road is fine, there are the usual sandy patches, but all is good. From Kachikau the road is tarred of course and is smooth driving; just keep an eye out for both wild and domestic animals running across the road to the river. Once at Ngoma Gate there is a new Game Scout (Very Strict) and he is checking all paper work before letting you through, even if you are taking the transit road, he is still checking your camping and entrance vouchers from where you have been.
From Ngoma Gate down along the river to Ihaha is a little bumpy and stony but ok. Sedudu Gate to Ihaha In order to alleviate road congestion on the main road between Sedudu Gate and Serondela (Eastern Riverfront routings); the Botswana National Parks has specified that self-drive tourists should only travel this routing between 09h00 and 14h30.
Baboons at Ihaha Campsite: They are no trouble provided you keep any food away from them (locked in your vehicles). Any food left out or within reach, will attract wildlife. This is also true for Elephants - they love fruit (especially CITRUS fruit) and can cause damage when trying to get fruit out of open vehicle windows (even if left slightly open).
Always be safe & keep food out of reach. The National Parks of Botswana and all campsite operators do not take responsibility for animal behaviour - you will not be refunded for your bookings. Between Nata and Kasane The Nata to Elephant Sands road is good new road. Past Elephant sands towards Kasane, for about 80kms, this is still good new road. From then, there’s a detour, but a good one, as they’re still fixing the old tar road. You can still drive Nata to Kasane in about 3 hours. Kasane to Mankwe Kasane to Mankwe via Mababe gate will take approximately 8 to 9 hours of driving.
Directions to Mboma coming from South Gate Drive straight to 3rd Bridge, 2km before 3rd Bridge there will be a sign coming from South Gate indicating to turn left. Follow that road until you find (Close to Hatab 11) a 3rd sign indicating to turn left again. Follow the road. The 4th sign is approximately 1.5km from the boat station. Turn right and you will reach the boat station. Do not follow the Mboma turn offs as indicated by the Department of Wildlife, only the Mboma Mokoro Sign.
Khumaga Camp Khumaga camp site in the Makgadikgadi National Park can be reached from the main Francistown / Maun road, near the turnoff to Nxai Pan, at Phuduhudu Gate, without having to cross the river. Alternatively, from the Rakops / Maun road by making use of the ferry across the Boteti River. Kindly note that the ferry over the Boteti River is not always operational due to water levels being too low (but still too high to cross by car). We recommend that you phone ahead to confirm if the route is open or not. Khumaga camp site: +267 318 0774.
Savuti to Kachikau Is all ok, a little wet and muddy here and there but nothing to worry about, From Kachikau of course is all tar, watch out for stray animals between Kachikau and Ngoma Gate.
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