Journey to South Africa and Victoria Falls
Includes: International Airfare, Hotel, Tours, Transfers and More!
Land Program: Includes Guided Tours Plus Some Free Time
Start Date: Jan 30, 2025
(Sailing Feb 9, 2025)
About This Journey
Discover the abundant wildlife, scenic landscapes and vibrant culture that South Africa and Zimbabwe have to offer! On this 22 night Journey, we invite you to hop in a safari vehicle to snap photos of passing elephants, stand in awe at one of the world’s largest waterfalls, feel the ocean’s power at the Cape of Good Hope, sip local award-winning wine and experience the cultural tapestry of Africa’s southern region. Begin your Journey with an overnight in Johannesburg before traveling to Zimbabwe to explore one of the Natural Wonders of the World—Victoria Falls. Enjoy a delightful dinner cruise along the Zambezi River while admiring the spectacular sunset views, a moment of tranquility amidst nature’s grandeur. You’ll then fly to the Kapama Southern Camp, adjacent to Kruger National Park, for the highlight of your trip! You’ll participate in exhilarating game drives, giving you a great chance to see Africa’s “Big 5”. We will then head to Cape Town, a city with a rich history and imposing landscapes. Travel to the top of the legendary Table Mountain and explore the city’s other highlights. A moving visit to Robben Island will lend firsthand insight into Nelson Mandela’s island-prison.Take time to explore the nautical side of South Africa with a full day’s tour of Cape Peninsula and travel to world-renowned Stellenbosch for a day exploring South Africa’s increasingly prestigious wine industry. Your adventure continues as you set sail onboard the Azamara Quest, tracing the stunning shorelines of Africa with stops in South Africa. Disembark in Cape Town, or continue your cruise along the coast of Namibia, Gambia, Senegal, Morocco and more with a cruise extension. Prepare for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure as you stay in luxurious safari lodges, discover thunderous Victoria Falls and embark on an adventurous cruise along the Southern coast of Africa!
42 or 51 Night Journey with Optional Cruise Extension Also Available–See Itinerary Option 2 or 3 for Details!
Visits: Azamara Quest, 37094, 37095, 37096 and 37097, Port Elizabeth, Richards Bay, Durban, Mossel Bay, Luderitz, Namibia, Jamestown, Saint Helena Island, Banjul, Gambia, Dakar, Senegal, Gran Canaria, Tenerife, La Palma, Canary, Cadiz, Spain, Madeira, Funchal, Lisbon, Portugal, Casablanca, Morocco, Gibraltar.
Journey to South Africa and Victoria Falls
Start Date: January 30, 2025
(Sailing February 9, 2025)
| Day | Port | Arrival | Departure |
| 1 | Arrive Johannesburg – Transfer to Hotel and Welcome Dinner | ||
| 2 | Johannesburg to Victoria Falls – Flight to Victoria Falls and Sunset Dinner Cruise | ||
| 3 | Victoria Falls – Tour of the Falls | ||
| 4 | Victoria Falls to Kapama Reserve – Flight to Hoedspruit, Transfer to the Lodge and Dinner | ||
| 5 | Kapama Reserve – Morning and Evening Game Drives | ||
| 6 | Kapama Reserve – Morning and Evening Game Drives | ||
| 7 | Kapama Reserve to Cape Town – Transfer to Airport for Flight to Cape Town | ||
| 8 | Cape Town – Full-Day tour of Cape Town | ||
| 9 | Cape Town – Full-Day tour of Cape Peninsula | ||
| 10 | Cape Town – Full-Day tour of the Cape Winelands & Stellenbosch | ||
| 11 | Cape Town – Transfer for Embarkation | 6:00 PM | |
| 12 | At Sea | — | — |
| 13 | At Sea | — | — |
| 14 | Durban, South Africa | 6:00 AM | 8:00 PM |
| 15 | Richards Bay, South Africa | 7:00 AM | — |
| 16 | Richards Bay, South Africa | — | 2:00 PM |
| 17 | At Sea | — | — |
| 18 | At Sea | — | — |
| 19 | Port Elizabeth, South Africa | 8:00 AM | — |
| 20 | Port Elizabeth, South Africa | — | 1:00 PM |
| 21 | Mossel Bay, South Africa | 6:30 AM | 3:00 PM |
| 22 | Cape Town, South Africa | 9:30 AM | |
| 23 | Cape Town – Disembarkation and Transfer to Airport |
Interested in the land program without the cruise? Call us for a quote.
**Please note that this itinerary is subject to change at any time, including port of call changes. Please call a Personal Vacation Manager with any questions.
Land Program |
| Day 1 – Arrive Johannesburg
Upon arrival at the airport, you will meet our representative for your transfer to the hotel. After check-in, you’ll have time to get settled in and relax before joining your fellow travelers for a welcome dinner. (D) Note: if you wish to spend more time in Johannesburg, ask your Personal Vacation Manager about the optional hotel extension – which will add one night to your Johannesburg hotel stay. |
Day 2 – Johannesburg to Victoria Falls
 Zambezi River sunset cruise Today you will be transferred to the airport for your flight to Victoria Falls. Meet your Zimbabwe representative for you transfer to the lodge. This afternoon you will be transferred to the Zambezi River above the Falls for a serene sunset cruise. Contemplate the amazing sky colors changing as the sun goes down while enjoying your dinner onboard. Be on the lookout for wild herds along the riverbanks and watch flocks of birds skim the waterline and soar off into the setting sun. (B, D). |
Day 3 – Victoria Falls
 Victoria Falls After breakfast you will be collected for your tour of The Falls. One of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, Victoria Falls is as magnificent as it is powerful. Throughout the morning you will move to several different vantage points to get a perspective of just how spectacular The Falls are. The thunderous noise as millions of gallons of water surge over the precipice into a series of narrow gorges truly provides one of Nature’s most spectacular shows. After your visit to the Falls you will continue to an interactive visit to a local village where you can learn about traditional Zimbabwean life and culture. Back at the hotel, freshen up before your Boma dinner in an open-air atmosphere. (B, L, D) |
Day 4 – Victoria Falls to Kapama Reserve
 African Leopard This morning we will transfer you to the airport for our flight to Hoedspruit. Upon arrival, meet the lodge representative for your transfer to the Kapama Southern Camp. Located on the southernmost section of the Kapama Private Game Reserve, Kapama Southern Camp offers an extraordinary safari experience where the wildlife roams freely in their natural environment. The possibilities of Game sighting are simply unparalleled, including the much-sought-after ‘Big 5’ (Lion, Elephant, Cape Buffalo, African Leopard and Rhinoceros). Take a moment to relax, enjoy your lodge and appreciate the beautiful surroundings before your first dinner at this amazing wildlife reserve (B, L, D). |
Day 5 & 6 – Kapama Reserve
 Nature reserve morning drive For the next two days, you’ll rise early at the nature reserve for your morning game drive. Here you will search for lions, elephants, zebras, wildebeest, giraffe, waterbuck and kudu. Return to your camp for lunch and some rest and relaxation before setting out again for an evening game drive where you will search for nocturnal animals such as lion, leopard, hyena and jackal. (B, L, D) |
| Day 7 – Kapama Reserve to Cape Town
Enjoy a hearty breakfast before transferring to the airport for your flight to Cape Town. You will then be transferred to your hotel at the Waterfront. This vibrant touristic area is ideally located close to the city’s main attractions, numerous shops and restaurants. This evening, you’ll be transferred to the GOLD Restaurant for dinner. So much more than just an African restaurant, a night at GOLD is an immersive experience that will take you on a 14-dish taste-safari paired with traditional Mali puppets and entertainment. (B, D) |
Day 8 – Cape Town
 Table Mountain After breakfast, we’ll start the day by taking a ferry to Robben Island, the island-prison where Nelson Mandela was incarcerated for 27 years. View his maximum-security cell and the lime quarries where he was forced to labour. This World Heritage Site is now a landmark paying tribute to Mandela’s lifelong fight against oppression. Then, you will continue on a tour of some of Cape Town’s most significant landmarks before taking a ride up to the legendary Table Mountain, where you will enjoy breath-taking views of city. Return to your hotel where the remainder of the evening is at your leisure. (B, L) Note: ferry to Hobben Island and Table Mountain cable cars are subject to weather conditions. |
Day 9 – Cape Town
 Cape Peninsula Spend the day exploring the Cape Peninsula. Your tour begins with a drive past the pristine beaches that lead to an area of the continent dubbed the “Fairest Cape”. Meander along the coast to Hout Bay, a functioning harbour nestled among the hills of the region. Weather permitting, you will take a boat ride from the Bay around Seal Island. Watch the hundreds of Cape Fur Seals who live on the island frolic in the water or sunbathe on the rocks. Once back on land, continue to Chapman’s Peak Drive, one of the most breath-taking views in South Africa. This winding road tightly hugs the cliffs, giving panoramic views of the ocean, as well as the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve.
 Penguin colony Here you will ride up on the funicular for a truly magnificent view. Continue on to lunch with lovely views of False Bay and the harbour. Meander along the coastline to the historic naval port of Simon Town and view the adorable penguin colony at Boulder’s Beach. Return to the hotel where evening will be at your leisure. (B, L) |
Day 10 – Cape Town
 Stellenbosch vineyards Spend the day exploring the winelands of South Africa. The vineyards of this region have been growing in prestige for many years. Drive out to the gentle, rolling hills of the Paarl Valley and stop for a walking tour of Stellenbosch, with its charming Cape Dutch architecture and quaint shops. Then journey along to the vineyards. Enjoy a cellar tour and wine tasting at a local vineyard, before enjoying lunch at a leading wine estate. This evening, raise your glass to an incredible Journey as we enjoy a Farewell Dinner together at a waterfront restaurant. (B, L, D) |
| Day 11 – Cape Town Embarkation
After breakfast, check out of the hotel and transfer to the port, where you will board the Azamara Quest for a 12-night cruise to South Africa and Mozambique. (B) |
| Day 12–22 – Cruising onboard the Azamara Quest (see below for cruise highlights)
|
| Day 23 – Cape Town Disembarkation
Enjoy breakfast onboard, then disembark the Azamara Quest and transfer to the airport for your return flight home. |
For meals not included in your land programs, all hotels chosen include a restaurant on property where you may relax and enjoy a meal. In addition, your guide is available to make suggestions on nearby dining, shopping or sightseeing.
Port Highlights |
 Durban, South Africa Durban, South Africa: Known as “the Asian Capital of South Africa”, Durban is city on the Indian Ocean where Zulu, Indian and European cultures thrive against the backdrop of golden sand beaches, majestic mountain ranges and plunging valleys. |
 Richards Bay, South Africa Richards Bay, South Africa: A quaint, welcoming town, Richards Bay is one of the main gateways to the vast interior African region famous for some of the most breathtaking scenery and exotic wildlife on Earth. |
 Port Elizabeth, South Africa Port Elizabeth, South Africa: Lovingly referred to as “The Friendly City,” Port Elizabeth is home to beautiful beaches, world-class restaurants and the densest population of elephants in the world. |
 Mossel Bay, South Africa Mossel Bay, South Africa: With one of the world’s most pleasant climates, Mossel Bay is a true treasure found on South Africa’s Garden Route. Bounded by lush natural beauty, it’s beloved for its beachy atmosphere and renowned for its connection to early human life. |
Journey to South Africa and Victoria Falls
Included Features
- International airfare, transfers and baggage handling
- Airfare while on tour (Johannesburg – Victoria Falls – Hoedspruit – Cape Town), including transfers and baggage handling
- 10-night pre-cruise land program in South Africa and Zimbabwe
- Johannesburg, South Africa: 1-night hotel stay
- Welcome Dinner
- Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe: 2-night hotel stay
- Sunset Dinner Cruise
- Full-day tour of the falls with visit to local community
- Boma Dinner
- Kapama Wildlife Reserve, South Africa: 3-night hotel stay
- Morning and Afternoon Game Drive
- Morning and Afternoon Game Drive
- Cape Town, South Africa: 4-night hotel stay
- Immersive GOLD Dinner Experience
- Full-day tour of Cape Town
- Full-day tour of Cape Peninsula
- Full-day tour of the Cape Winelands & Stellenbosch
- Johannesburg, South Africa: 1-night hotel stay
- Tour Leader throughout pre-cruise land program and Local Tour Hosts during included tours
- Most meals while on tour (see itinerary highlights) and all meals while onboard
- 12-night sailing aboard the Azamara Quest
- Amenities included during your Azamara cruise:
- AzAmazing Celebrations event
- Select standard spirits, international beers and wines
- Gratuities
- Bottle water, soft drinks, specialty coffees and teas
- Self-service laundry
- Shuttle service to and from port communities, where available
- Concierge services for personal guidance and reservations
- Much more!
- Ask about extending your cruise! Sail on a back-to-back cruise and add 18 nights, visiting ports like Walvis Bay in Namibia, Banjul in Gambia and Dakar in Senegal before disembarking in Spain. Extend your cruise for a further 11 nights and cruise to the Canary Islands, Madeira, Gibraltar, Cadiz and Agadir and Casablanca in Morocco before disembarking in Lisbon. Talk to a Personal Vacation Manager for details about these cruise extension options.
- Amenities included during your Azamara cruise:
Journey to South Africa and Victoria Falls
What to Expect on Your Trip
Pacing
4 out of 5 – Land Program Includes Guided Tours plus Some Free Time
The overall pace is active, as we have included guided tours to most major attractions in the area. Most days will include a full-day or half-day tour, with some free time mixed in as well. Guests should be prepared to walk a couple miles per day while on full-day tours. Breakfast is always included at the hotel. Some additional meals may be included, while other meals may be at your leisure. All hotels will have a restaurant on property where you may dine. If you wish to go out, your guide is available to make suggestions for nearby dining.
Physical Activity
The land portion of the trip should be considered active and includes a considerable amount of walking. Enrichment Journeys will do everything in our power to ensure comfort through our third-party providers, including air-conditioned buses and comfortable accommodations where applicable. Steps can be steep and uneven. Wheelchair access at many sites is limited. Based on crowds and traffic, order of visits may be changed.A fold-up wheelchair may be able to be stored on the bus but requires prior arrangements. Guests must be able to transfer from their chair to the transportation.
Guides/drivers are not allowed to lift or push wheelchairs, so guests requiring physical assistance must travel with a companion who can assist.Motorized wheelchairs and scooters cannot be accommodated on this group program.
For the cruise portion of the trip, passengers will board and leave the ship up stairways and gangways and you may have to walk a moderate distance to transfer to train, bus and car stations. Time spent on the road and traveling can be long, so you will need to be prepared for stretches of down time in between destinations.
Cultural Focus
The focus of this Enrichment Journey is on local culture, natural beauty and wildlife. You will encounter dishes and ingredients typical to the region that you may not have encountered before and you will be introduced to local artistry of the region. Enrichment Journeys encourages an open mind when in unique situations and meeting people abroad. Sometimes the attractions, beaches and cities themselves can be crowded.
Unique Factors
If you have special needs or physical limitations, you will need to check in with your personal vacation manager before booking the trip. The temperature can vary between day and night, so pack accordingly with items that can be layered. Some guests may wish to have a light sweater or windbreaker with them.
Transportation
While on tour:
Johannesburg to Victoria Falls: 2-hour flight
Victoria Falls to Hoedspruit: 2.5-hour flight (including layover)
Hoedspruit to Cape Town: 3-hour flight
Please note that these times are approximate and only reflect the transportation time. Our trip may be longer due to stops for sightseeing along the way.
International Airfare:
Included international airfare is from select airports only. To inquire about a different airport, please contact your Personal Vacation Manager.
Enrichment Journeys is committed to providing remarkable experiences at extraordinary value. As a result, airlines and routes are selected to maximize that value and may involve multiple stops and extended layovers versus non-stop or direct flights. Passengers wishing to utilize specific carriers, direct/non-stop flights, Business Class upgrades, or to extend their time in any of our beginning or ending destination cities may do so by contacting Enrichment Journeys and inquiring about the Custom Airfare Program. There is a $100 per person charge for this service, however this charge will be applied toward any flights or upgrades you choose to purchase. The $100 charge must be paid prior to receiving a custom air quote.
Journey to South Africa and Victoria Falls
Ask about receiving 10% off all shore excursions from Shore Excursions Group!
Journey to South Africa and Victoria Falls
Extend your cruise by 18 or 29 Nights! (see option 2 and 3 under Itinerary)
Visit the ports of Luderitz, Walvis Bay, Jamestown, Banjul, Dakar, Grand Canaria, Tenerife, La Palma, Madeira, Agadir, Casablanca, Gibraltar, Cadiz and Lisbon. Speak to a Personal Vacation Manager for details. View the Itinerary Option 2 and 3 under the Itinerary Section.
1-night Johannesburg Extension (pre)
Want an extra day to adjust to the new time zone? With this optional extension you will arrive to Johannesburg a day early and have one extra day to relax at the hotel before the tour starts. Note: tours are not included. Price of $275 per person (based on double occupancy) includes:
- 1-night hotel accommodations in Johannesburg with daily breakfast
- Private transfer from airport to hotel and from hotel to airport
Journey to South Africa and Victoria Falls
Itinerary Option 1 (22 Nights)
| 1/30/2025 | Retail Value | EJ Price | Savings Per Person | Single Rates |
| Obstructed-Club Ocean View (8) | SOLD OUT | SOLD OUT | SOLD OUT | SOLD OUT |
| Suite | SOLD OUT | |||
Itinerary Option 2 (42 Nights)
| 1/30/2025 | Retail Value | EJ Price | Savings Per Person | Single Rates |
| Obstructed – Club Ocean View (8) | SOLD OUT | SOLD OUT | SOLD OUT | SOLD OUT |
| Suite | SOLD OUT | |||
Itinerary Option 3 (51 Nights)
| 1/30/2025 | Retail Value | EJ Price | Savings Per Person | Single Rates |
| Obstructed – Club Ocean View (8) | SOLD OUT | SOLD OUT | SOLD OUT | SOLD OUT |
| Suite | SOLD OUT | |||
Prices are in USD and are based on double occupancy.
Interested in the land program without the cruise? Call us for a quote.
| Air Add-Ons | |||||
| City | Add-On | City | Add-On | City | Add-On |
| Atlanta | $300 | Chicago | $450 | Washington – Dulles | $350 |
| Boston | $300 | John F. Kennedy | $0 | San Francisco | $450 |
| Detroit | $400 | Los Angeles | $450 | Orlando | $350 |
| Dallas-Ft. Worth | $400 | Miami | $300 | Seattle | $450 |
| – Business Class Air Available on Request – Additional Gateways Available on Request – Air Add-On Rates are subject to change without notice. While we try to include the most common airports by default, we have many clients coming from different parts of the country. If you desire air from an unlisted airport, you must first reserve your Enrichment Journey with one of the listed airports as your default gateway and then ask, or have your Travel Agent ask, Enrichment Journeys to provide a quote for your preferred gateway. |
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All prices on our website and e-Journey Travel Guide are subject to change without notice. While we make every effort to provide you the most accurate and up-to-date information, occasionally, a trip or pricing category may be misprinted or unavailable at the time of booking. In the event of an incorrect price due to typographical, photographic, or technical error, or error in pricing information received from our suppliers, we retain the right to correct the price and to refuse or cancel any bookings placed at the incorrect price. In addition, all offers, prices, and conditions of sale may be subject to change without notice including tours, included features, highlights, minimum or maximum stays, itinerary, times in port, and/or other conditions/restrictions.
Journey to South Africa and Victoria Falls
The following hotel list is preliminary and subject to change. Although we contract for hotels a year or more in advance, unforeseen circumstances do occasionally require a change of hotel. Should it be necessary to change a hotel, one of equal quality or value will be substituted and you will receive confirmed hotel information with your final itinerary.
64 Jones Road, Kempton Park, South Africa
Tel +27 (0)11 928 1000
Email: info@emperorspalace.com
Unsurpassed luxury coupled with state-of-the-art facilities and easy access to O.R. Tambo International Airport makes the 5-star Peermont D’oreale Grande Hotel the perfect choice for guests looking for supreme comfort and lavish indulgence. The award-winning Peermont D’oreale Grande Hotel offers a matchless regal experience enhanced by superior levels of service and guest relations. This luxury hotel also boast a gym and spectacular swimming pool. Guest also have easy access to Octavia’s Day Spa, located within the hotel.
Stand 1403 Parkway Drive, Victoria Falls
Tel: +263 (0) 719 384 920
Email: onlinereservations@palmriverhotel.com
The hotel’s location could not be more idyllic, situated as it is along the banks of the iconic Zambezi River, among towering indigenous trees and only 4 kilometres from Africa’s Natural World Wonder, Victoria Falls – so close, in fact, that on a clear, quiet day you can hear the thunder and see the spray of the mighty waterfall from your room.
Kapama Southern Camp, Hoedspruit, Kruger National Park 1380, South Africa
Tel: 011 27 87 550 4766
The charm and hospitality of Southern Camp staff make it a warm and inviting place for anyone looking for the ultimate African safari and a relaxed atmosphere. The lounge, pool and dining areas are the perfect spots to relax, sip on a refreshing beverage and play a one-sided game of hide and seek with the local wildlife. For dinner, the traditional outdoor boma lets you dine under the stars as the chefs create dazzling fare right in front of you.
Address: Portwood Square, Portswood Rd, V & A Waterfront, Cape Town, 8002, South Africa
Phone: +27 21 415 1000
Email: Commodore@LegacyHotels.com
The Commodore Hotel lies where Table Mountain and the sea meet. Overlooking the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront, with views of Table Mountain, Robben Island, the Harbour and the Atlantic Ocean, is the luxury accommodation of The Commodore Hotel. A short walk from V & A Waterfront, this harbour-view hotel is also nearby the Two Oceans Aquarium and the Cape Town Diamond Museum. The classic rooms feature minibars, free Wi-Fi and flat-screen TVs. The Commodore Hotel is Legacy’s flagship hotel in Cape Town, epitomizing stylish living, quality service and a tranquil setting that have ensured our guests return year after year. Amenities include cocktail bar and relaxed restaurant, offering a harbour-side terrace and international dishes, 24-hour room service, a 24-hour gym and spa (with treatments for a surcharge).
Cruise Line: Azamara Cruises
Azamara Cruises provides guests with unparalleled service: the finest dining at sea, a glorious spa and wellness experience, and innovations such as Destination Immersion®, making it one of the world’s top up-market cruise lines. With the hallmark of longer stays, more overnights and night touring, Azamara Cruises will not only take you to awe-inspiring destinations but also give you more time to fall in love with them.
Amenities Included
- AzAmazing CelebrationsSM event on most voyages
- Select standard spirits, international beers and wines
- Gratuities
- Bottled water, soft drinks, specialty coffees and teas
- Self-service laundry
- Shuttle service to and from port communities where available
- Concierge services for personal guidance and reservations
Ship: Azamara Quest
Like her sister ships, the sturdy Azamara Quest is a mid-sized beauty with a deck plan well-suited to the needs of modern voyagers. You’ll never feel crowded in the comfortable social spaces of our bars, restaurants, lounges, casinos and Cabaret. Nor will you feel like a sardine jammed in around the pool, where the attentive staff is always ready to offer complimentary bottled water, soft drink or fresh towel. Staterooms feature modern amenities, furnishings and European linens. And one of the greatest features of this ship is the high percentage of staterooms with Verandas. There’s nothing better than opening your door to the fresh sea air and views. Azamara’s friendly ships are an altogether wonderful place to call your home away from home!
Journey to South Africa and Victoria Falls
Before You Go
Money Matters
How you handle your currency and financials while on the trip is up to you. Some people prefer to exchange all their money in advance, while others will rely solely on credit cards. Consider calling your bank ahead of time to make them aware of your international travel, especially when using cards or withdrawing money.
ATM Machines
These are often readily available, especially in major cities. Some will charge fees on top of what your hometown bank may charge for using ATMs abroad. Look for well-marked machines that have the Visa or MasterCard symbols.
Foreign Banks
Currency can be exchanged at most banks, if needed. Ask a local host or tour manager if there is a nearby bank that is open.
Credit Cards
During your trip, you’ll find that most major credit cards are accepted. Call your specific card issuer ahead of time to find out its limitations and benefits overseas.
Incidentals
Do be aware that some additional charges for mini-bars, laundry and room service will not be included in the tour package. Plan accordingly for these extra charges.
Packing Guidelines
Pack as simply as possible for easy transfers and customs screenings. Check with your domestic and international carriers regarding baggage guidelines, allowances and check for additional fees. All bags will be screened before boarding flights and the cruise ship.
What to pack
Basics and layers are key to a comfortable Journey. Be sure to check the weather in the destinations you will visit and pack accordingly. There are always unpredictable variables as well, so make sure you have one sturdy jacket and an outfit for a formal occasion too, just in case.
Here are a few key items to take on your trip:
- Raincoat/poncho
- Hooded jacket/fleece pullover
- Pants with pockets
- Skirt with pockets
- Hat with visor & sunscreen/bug spray
- Warm socks
- Sturdy sandals
- Practical shoes for walking/easy hiking
- Extra pair of prescription sunglasses and/or glasses (if needed)
- Camera(s)
Have back-ups for everything to avoid disappointment. Charge batteries in advance and bring extra film or digital memory cards. If bringing a high-end camera, consider investing in insurance to protect your asset.
Luggage Screening Process
To pass through screening, have liquids either in small containers and bagged, or in checked luggage. All valuables necessary for the trip should be on your person at all times, if possible. This includes medications and documentation. We recommend one main bag and a carry-on, per airline guidelines for weight and size.
Labeling
Have all your bags labeled with your name and address clearly marked. Add something to you luggage that is recognizable in the event your bags are misplaced. You may also consider marking your bags with “Enrichment Journeys” for efficiency.
Carry-on items
In many countries, including the US, large liquid containers are not allowed in carry-ons. On the way back into The States, food or agriculture items are prohibited. If you have questions about a certain item, visit www.tsa.gov for a list of items that cannot be packed.
Airport transfers
Airport transfers are included as part of your Enrichment Journey. Local representatives will advise you of the departure time from your hotel the night before departure. Generally speaking, arrangements have been made to have you at the airport approximately three hours in advance of departure, though this may vary depending on local circumstances. At the end of the cruise, an airport transfer will also be provided. Please advise your Personal Vacation Manager if you do not require transfer arrangements at the time of booking your Journey.
Cell phones
Some cell phones will work overseas, but incur additional charges for the use. Choose whether you would like to add an international plan by calling your carrier, or consider purchasing a pay-as-you-go phone overseas. However, in some destinations, many smartphones and tablets can pick up wireless Internet for free.
Protecting the Value of Your Travel Investment
Enrichment Journeys offers a comprehensive travel insurance package you can purchase alongside your trip. It eases the mind and lets you cancel your trip for a covered reason up until the departure date with a full refund of the Journey.
The insurance covers a wide variety of incidents, including travel delay, emergency medical services and even baggage delay. You will also receive a pre-existing medical conditions waiver if travel insurance is purchased within 14 days of your initial deposit. For a full list of coverage provided, visit the FAQ section of the website.
Medical Issues and Handicaps
As with any extensive trip abroad, our excursions with Enrichment Journeys will require some physical capabilities, including transfers from cruise ships, walking on cobblestone streets and navigating through some busy cities with guides. Although we encourage all types of travelers to join us, we do ask you are aware of your own physical limitations. Unfortunately, we cannot provide individual care to those who may have walkers, wheelchairs or other aids. Enrichment Journeys also cannot accommodate pregnant women past their six month gestation period. Please speak with one of our Personal Vacation Managers to see if certain itineraries are suitable for you and your needs. We are happy to suggest other viable options for you that are more accessible.
Per the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act, travelers have the right to be reasonably accommodated in terms of tours in public situations. However, the laws do not apply for trips and outside the United States. So you must let Enrichment Journeys know ahead of time of any physical limitations, including information added to our questionnaire that needs to be filled out by all passengers. Failure to inform Enrichment Journeys of these limitations could result in refusal to participate, whether it be at the airport through the airline, on board the ship or at the accommodations booked.
If you have any sort of prescription medication, this should be a number one priority in packing. Bring extra, just in case. A small medical kit is also advisable for quick access to remedy minor aches and pains.
Briefing sessions
A local host or tour manager will be happy to guide you through the trip and answer all of your questions. Upon arrival to your destination, an Enrichment Journeys representative will meet with the group and go over items such as the daily schedule, weather and local customs.
Hotels
All hotels booked by Enrichment Journeys are held to a high standard of comfort and quality, in accordance to international accommodation standards and rating systems. However, each accommodation varies so you may experience various types of properties throughout your excursions.
Journey to South Africa and Victoria Falls
Journey to South Africa and Victoria Falls
Regional Information
Travel Documentation
Have your passport and visas ready and available at all checkpoints. Scan and copy these documents to print out. It is recommended that you e-mail a copy to yourself and someone back home in the event these documents are misplaced. Also, it may be worth bringing an international ID or license.
Passport and Visa
To travel internationally, you must have a passport in good condition and it must be valid for at least 6 months after the last day of your trip. Visa requirements change frequently and for various reasons. As a result, our Personal Vacation Managers are not always able to provide visa information and you should not rely on the information provided below to be the most current and accurate. The best way to obtain up-to-date information regarding visa requirements is to visit the official US government website for Americans traveling abroad, Travel.State.Gov (Canadian citizens should visit https://travel.gc.ca/, for all other countries please visit your government website or local embassy), which details specific information on the countries you would like to visit, including visa requirements.
You may also use a third-party visa service. These services require an additional service fee but make the process of applying for a visa much simpler.
Note: as of August 2023, most U.S. and Canadian passport holders traveling to Zimbabwe will need to obtain a visa at the airport upon arrival. Enrichment Journeys strongly encourages you to check your government website a few months prior to departure (and then again right before departure) to verify this information, as well as for all countries on your itinerary.
Note: as of August 2023, most U.S. and Canadian passport holders traveling to South Africa and Mozambique require at least two consecutive completely blank visa pages in their passports upon every arrival. A visa may also be required, please check with your government website.
Vaccinations
Vaccinations are recommended to protect one’s health from preventable diseases abroad. It is always good to have routine vaccinations up to date when traveling for ailments such as chickenpox, measles and the flu shot. Use your own discretion when deciding on what vaccinations to have based on your preferences and personal medical history. During your Enrichment Journeys tour, the utmost care will be taken with prepared food, atmosphere and other elements, so the likelihood of contracting diseases is scarce.
For a list of recommended vaccinations based on destination, visit https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel or feel free to contact the Center for Disease Control and Prevention directly at 1-800-232-4636.
Electric Current
You will need an adaptor for some parts of your trip. To see what the plugs will look like at your destination, visit https://www.power-plugs-sockets.com/ and click on each country from the right menu.
You may also need to use a converter. Most countries outside of North and Central America use 220-240 V, whereas the U.S. and Canada use 110 V. However, most chargers these days have a box which will act as a converter so that it can be used in all countries around the world. If your charger box says “Input: 100-240V, 50/60 Hz” then you do NOT need to use a converter (but you may still need an adaptor so that the plugs fit in the socket).
Some hotels may have two and three pronged outlets to use for various appliances. Ship cabins also have outlets for you to use with their converter. However, we recommend having at least one or two adaptors with you, as we cannot guarantee that all hotels will be able to accommodate this.
Local Currency
South Africa uses the South Africa Rand (R), currency code ZAR
Zimbabwe uses the Zimbabwe Dollar ($), currency code ZWD
Please visit https://www.oanda.com/currency/converter/ for the current exchange rate.
How you handle your currency and financials while on the trip is up to you. Some people prefer to exchange all their money in advance, while others will rely solely on credit cards. We suggest having at least some local currency with you during the trip, at least enough to take a taxi if needed. Consider calling your bank ahead of time to make them aware of your international travel, especially when using cards or withdrawing money.
Tipping Guidelines
Tipping is always appreciated but not always required. Expect several instances throughout the hospitality industry that allow for tipping. Have small bills ready for hotel staff, boat crew, restaurant servers, drivers, guides and baggage handlers. If you have a meal outside the itinerary or hire a resident driver, a few dollars in the local currency is customary.
Gratuities are included for group meals, at hotels and at airports. The host, guide, or tour manager can be tipped roughly $8.00-$12.00 USD per person, per day. Drivers can be tipped $5 USD per person, per day. Onboard the ship, gratuities are already included when sailing with Azamara Cruises.
For more information about when and how much to tip in each country, feel free to speak with your tour guide at the start of your Journey. A good reference for international tipping is https://www.cntraveler.com/stories/2008-11-11/etiquette-101-tipping-guide.
Time Differences
Please be aware that you may be crossing through several time zones throughout your Journey. To view a time zone map, visit https://m.worldtimezone.com/m-index12.php.
Climate
With the tour covering various regions, you will most likely come in contact with warm and/or cool weather, occasional rain, wind and/or damp environments. Check the weather online before departing for an up-to-date look at the conditions in major destinations.
Many countries outside of North America use Celsius. Here is a °C to °F quick reference guide:
| JAN | FEB | MAR | APR | MAY | JUN | JUL | AUG | SEP | OCT | NOV | DEC | |
| Cape Town | 82/61 | 84/61 | 81/57 | 73/54 | 70/50 | 64/45 | 64/45 | 64/45 | 66/48 | 70/52 | 73/55 | 77/59 |
| Johannesburg | 79/59 | 77/57 | 75/55 | 72/50 | 68/46 | 61/39 | 63/39 | 68/45 | 72/48 | 75/52 | 77/55 | 77/57 |
| Victoria Falls | 88/68 | 86/66 | 88/64 | 86/61 | 84/52 | 79/46 | 79/45 | 84/50 | 91/59 | 93/66 | 91/68 | 88/68 |
Practice the Local Language
Knowing a few phrases in the local vernacular can be a wonderful way to connect with people and feel immersed in the culture. Here are some keywords and phrases:
South Africa: While the country recognizes 11 official languages, most of its population in tourist areas speak English (below are some differences between South African English and American English):
- Robots: traffic lights
- Graze: to eat
- Koppie: small hill
- Sarmie: sandwich
- Braai: outdoor barbecue
- Bioscope: cinema
- Lekker: nice, good, tasty
- Baba: father or dad
- Check you: see you later
- Cuzzy: friend
- Gogo: grandmother or old woman (sign of respect)
- Shapshap: all good
- Skinner: gossip
- Chommie: “Pal” or “buddy”
Zimbabwe: While there are 16 languages officially spoken in the country, most people speak Shona. Here are some basic Shona words:
- Mhoro: Hello
- Ndineurombo: Sorry
- Waitazvako: Thank you
- Pamusoro: Excuse me
- Ndinokumbirawo: Please
- Mengwani: Good morning
- Masikati: Good afternoon
- Manheru: Good evening
Fun Facts
Check out these interesting facts about the destinations you will visit on your Journey.
South Africa
- South Africa has eleven national languages – including Afrikaans, English and IsiZulu.
- South Africa is approximately the size of Texas.
- The administrative capital of South Africa is Pretoria, but the largest city in terms of population is Johannesburg.
- Table Mountain in Cape Town is thought to be one of the oldest mountains in the world.
- Nelson Mandela is perhaps the most famous South African; after fighting for civil rights and being imprisoned during Apartheid, he became the first democratically elected South African leader in 1994.
- The Atlantic Ocean and the Indian Ocean meet off the coast of southern South Africa.
Zimbabwe
- Angkor Wat is the largest religious structure in the world, enclosing 402 acres. It was built by the Khmer King Suryavarman II from 1113-50 to honor the Hindu god Vishnu.
- The Cambodian flag is the one of only two flags in the world featuring a building (Angkor Wat).
- In Cambodia, it is considered impolite to point the bottom of your feet towards someone (or something important, like a Buddha statue).
Thailand
- Zimbabwe has sixteen widely spoken languages -including English, Shona and Ndebele.
Mount Inyangani is the highest point in the country, at 8,503 feet tall. - The name of the country was derived from the fortified trading hub, Great Zimbabwe, which was built in medieval times and was used by the people of the ‘Shona’ tribe. The people of this tribe constitute about 70% of the country’s current population.
- Zimbabwe became independent from the United Kingdom on April 18, 1980. They celebrate their national day on this day to commemorate their independence.
- Zimbabweans mostly call every kind of toothpaste “Colgate,” every soft drink “Coke,” every washing powder “Surf” and every floor polish “Cobra.”
- In terms of the land area Zimbabwe covers, it is three times the size of England.
- The noise of Victoria Falls can be heard from a distance of 24 miles.
Recommended Reading List
Vacation should be easy, peaceful and, most of all, completely stress-free. Let us handle the details, so you can sit back, relax and curl up with a good book as you count down the days to your next Journey! We’ve compiled the following list of books and movies to introduce you to the destinations you are about to visit.
Books
- South Africa: Long Walk to Freedom by Nelson Mandela
- South Africa: A History of South Africa by Frank Welsh, or by Leonard Thompson
- South Africa: Born a Crime by Trevor Noah
Travel Guides
- All countries: Lonely Planet Travel Guides https://www.lonelyplanet.com/places
- All countries: Nomadic Matt Travel Guides https://www.nomadicmatt.com/travel-guides/
Films
- South Africa: Invictus (2009)
- South Africa: Zulu (1964)
- South Africa: Cry Freedom (1987) – set in South Africa but filmed in Zimbabwe and Kenya
- South Africa: Safarina! (1992)
- Africa: Out of Africa (1985)
Journey to South Africa and Victoria Falls
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