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Why should I travel with Hartley’s Safaris? |
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Why should I travel with Hartley’s Safaris?
How do I go about planning my holiday?
Your travel arrangements will start with essential itinerary planning and advice, as there are literally a thousand possible variations. A good itinerary is one that best suits your interests, combines a variety of experiences and has smooth and easy logistics. Our website provides detailed information on the many destinations and experiences available.
Once you have an idea of when and where you would like to travel and have an approximate budget in mind, our experienced African safari specialists will be able to discuss your requirements in greater detail and on this basis prepare an itinerary and quote for your consideration. Nearly all of our business is done by telephone, fax or email, although we do welcome visitors to our office in Fourways, Johannesburg where we have a complete library of brochures, maps, and books for perusal.
Our comprehensive and up to date travel advice section is essential reading. This covers a number of subjects including entry requirements, health and vaccinations, insurance, currency, gratuities, park fees, accommodation, luggage, clothing and suggested packing list, photography and equipment, electricity, special diet and drinks, wildlife and safety guidelines, communication, flights and recommended reading.
This depends on where you want to go and what you want to see and do, as there is a season for everything. Game viewing is considered best during each country’s “dry season” when the game is concentrated around the water sources. This is typically July to October in Southern and Central Africa and Dec to March and July to October in East Africa. In Southern and Central Africa rain falls mostly during the summer months of November – March, generally at the end of a long, hot day. For a safari holiday in Tanzania and Kenya there are two rainy seasons: the “long rains” in April and May and the “short rains” in November. With the rain comes the rejuvenation of the bush, exciting storms, incredible photographic light, migratory birds, new born game and low season rates, which are sadly missed by so many in preference of the big game in high season. However, many Zambia walking safaris only operate from May to November as the roads become impassable in the rains and many seasonal bush camps close. In South Africa, away from the game parks, high season in the Cape is December to April.
A two-week holiday costs around US$6,000.00 per person sharing including international flights. The cost of each holiday varies according to the destination, type of accommodation, transfer logistics, season of travel, fluctuations in air ticket pricing and length of stay. A typical African safari holiday normally includes all flights and taxes, all safari activities, air / road transfers, all meals, park fees and sometimes laundry and drinks. At additional cost are travel insurance, some departure taxes, gratuities and items of a personal nature. Holidays that include western style hotels are usually based on a room only or bed and breakfast basis. Often our clients tell us that their luxury safari holiday has been one of the greatest experience they have ever had and, if you have the budget, it is always worth spending a little extra to get the best possible guides who will open your eyes to the marvels of the bush.
Is it possible to travel with children?
Africa is the ultimate destination for children and a luxury family safari provides an opportunity to see in real life all the animals, colours, people, sights and sounds that are seen on screen and read about in the classroom. As well as it being an expensive holiday, few camps and lodges accommodate children under 12 or 16 so as not to disrupt the harmony of other guests. However, there are now many camps and lodges that cater specifically for families with young children. This usually involves providing interconnecting tents / rooms, a private vehicle and guide just for your family, as well as specific activities aimed at children, while you take a rest!
What we would like to know from you?
We want to know anything and everything you want to experience so that we can marry your expectations with what is on the ground. The more information we have the better equipped we will be to plan your perfect holiday. The things we like to know include:
