Valid for all trips departing September 18th, 2023 - December 31st, 2027FAQS

The weather in Zimbabwe and Botswana can vary, but is generally warm to hot depending on time of year. The beginning of summer can also be very wet. We encourage you to pack as lightly as possible, with clothing that will provide sun protection, make you comfortable in a range of temperatures, and a shell to protect against rain if it occurs. Have comfortable shoes for walking, both on pavement and off-road trails.  We encourage you have a hat, sunscreen, and bug spray. Some accommodations have pools, so you may wish to bring a bathing suit.

Your nationality will define your visa requirement. You will need to check and obtain any necessary visa into Zimbabwe. Galagadi will help arrange a temporary visa into Botswana if your journey includes that as a destination.

 

Travellers to this region typically do get vaccinated, but you must seek the advice of your family physician or a specialist from a Travel Health clinic.

Standard prices listed are based on two people sharing a room. If you are travelling alone, the standard price is based on you sharing a room with another solo traveller of the same gender. If you wish to have a private room, there will be a supplemental charge that will be determined at the time of booking and based on the hotel and availability. Please contact us directly during time of booking to arrange this.

In most cases, you will be traveling in vans between accommodations and parks. When on safari, the park or reserve will have their own vehicles specifically outfitted for off-road safaris.

 

Some hotels and lodges have porters to help you with luggage, but there will be times when you need carry your own luggage on and off vans and up and down staircases. Suitcases with wheels may not work in all situations.

Tipping is not included in the tour price. Tipping is entirely at your discretion, but it is very much appreciated and is an important source of income. We recommend 10% for standard service, and 15%+ for exceptional service in restaurants. $1 to $2 USD for assistance in hotels.

To express gratitude to safari and Galagadi staff, we recommend $5-$8 USD per person per day for you tour host, $2-$3 USD per person per day for a driver and safari guide, and $2-$3 USD per person per day for other guides or providers.

 

While Zimbabwe and Botswana do have their own currency, the US dollar is the most common and desired currency. We recommend you only bring US dollars.

ATM machines are available in urban centres.

Most business establishments do take credit cards, and so can be widely used.

We suggest having small denomination US cash for tipping.

You must have travel insurance with a minimum medical, evacuation and repatriation coverage of $200,000 USD covering all applicable dates of travel. This insurance must cover personal injury and emergency medical expenses. You may elect to have additional coverage to include cancellation, curtailment, and all other expenses that may arise as a result of loss, damage, injury, delay or inconvenience while traveling.

Insurance coverage is not included in the cost of any tour by Galagadi. You are responsible for advising your insurer of the type of travel, destination(s) and activities included in your booking so that the insurer may provide appropriate coverage.

A 10% non-refundable deposit is required at the time of booking to secure your reservation and begin planning your tour or safari experience.

The remaining balance must be paid in full prior to your tour start date, as specified at the time of booking. Failure to complete the final payment may result in cancellation of your reservation.

Please note that all payments are subject to our cancellation and refund policy, with applicable refund terms depending on how close to the departure date the cancellation occurs.

Cancellations are subject to the following terms:

  • More than 30 days before the tour date: A refund will be issued for all payments made, excluding the 10% non-refundable deposit
  • 15–30 days before the tour date: A 50% refund of the total booking amount will be issued, excluding the deposit
  • Less than 15 days before the tour date: No refund will be issued

Please note that failure to arrive on the scheduled tour date without prior notice will be considered a no-show, and no refund will be provided.

All cancellations and refunds are handled in accordance with our full Refund Policy.

Galagadi will not change the price after you have paid in full.  The tours are priced to include applicable taxes.

After your deposit is paid, Galagadi reserves the right to impose surcharges on any products or services for reasons arising from operating cost increases external to Galagadi.  This may include transportation costs, fuel costs, taxes, airport charges, changes in costs by restaurants, hotels and safari operators, currency and exchange fluctuations, increases in taxes, or government action which impacts the price of the applicable products or services.

Galagadi will only do so when the increase is greater than 2% of the original price paid (excluding add-ons, insurance, and taxes). Galagadi will provide notice to you as soon as reasonably possible. 

If the increase in price is greater than 8% of the original price, you may choose to cancel the applicable booking for full refund, or accept the change of price.  You must notify Galagadi of your choice within 14 days of receipt of notice of the increase.  If you fail to respond within 14 days, you will be deemed to have accepted the price change and will be liable for payment of the increase.

Any special requirements must be disclosed to Galagadi at the time of booking. This includes mobility, dietary, hotel, or other medical needs. We will use reasonable efforts to accommodate them, but it is not guaranteed we can meet them.

All dates, itineraries and prices of the tours are subject to change at any time and the current price will be quoted and confirmed at the time of booking.

Galagadi will not be liable in any way for death, bodily injury, illness, damage, delay or other loss or detriment to person or property, or financial costs both direct and indirect incurred, or for failure to commence, perform or complete any duty owed to you if such death, delay, bodily injury, illness, damage or other loss or detriment to person or property is caused by Act of God, war or war like operations, mechanical breakdowns, terrorist activities or threat thereof, civil commotions, labor difficulties, interference by authorities, political disturbance, howsoever and where so ever any of the same may arise or be caused, riot, insurrection and government restraint, fire, extreme weather, significant risks to human health such as the outbreak of serious disease, or any other cause whatsoever beyond the reasonable control of Galagadi or the Third Party Supplier of services, whether or not foreseeable, which would make it dangerous or not viable for a tour to commence or continue, any and all of which, individually and collectively, constitute “Force Majeure”.

We recommend:

Lightweight, neutral-colored clothing
Comfortable walking shoes
Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses
Insect repellent
Light layers for cooler mornings/evenings

Yes—the tours are a fully guided experience.

All tours, transfers, and safari activities are operated by professional guides and certified local partners, ensuring both safety and a deeper, more educational experience throughout your journey.

Yes—safety is a top priority.

All activities are operated by trained professionals using certified vehicles and equipment. You’ll experience wildlife up close, but in a controlled and secure way.

The tours are considered low to moderate in physical demand.

Most activities (game drives, cruises, transfers) are relaxed and accessible. However, some experiences—like walking tours of Victoria Falls or village visits—may involve light walking and standing.

It’s suitable for most travelers with a basic level of mobility.

You can expect to see a wide range of iconic African wildlife, especially in Chobe National Park, which is known for:

  • Large herds of elephants (one of the highest concentrations in Africa)
  • Lions, buffalo, and giraffes
  • Hippos and crocodiles along the Chobe River
  • Various antelope species and abundant birdlife

Wildlife sightings vary, but Chobe is considered one of the most rewarding safari destinations year-round.

Accommodation varies by itinerary. In Victoria Falls, stays are typically at mid-to-upscale lodges such as Shearwater Explorer Village or Palm River Lodge, offering comfort, central location, and curated experiences.

In Chobe (for extended safaris), accommodation is full-board safari lodge style, including meals and game activities. Some packages also offer flexibility where accommodation can be excluded or upgraded.

How should I protect against the elements?

The weather in Zimbabwe and Botswana can vary, but is generally warm to hot depending on time of year. The beginning of summer can also be very wet. We encourage you to pack as lightly as possible, with clothing that will provide sun protection, make you comfortable in a range of temperatures, and a shell to protect against rain if it occurs. Have comfortable shoes for walking, both on pavement and off-road trails. We encourage you have a hat, sunscreen, and bug spray.   Some accommodations have pools, so you may wish to bring a bathing suit.

Do I need a travel visa?

Your nationality will define your visa requirement. You will need to check and obtain any necessary visa into Zimbabwe. Galagadi will help arrange a temporary visa into Botswana if your journey includes that as a destination.

Should I get vaccinations

Travellers to this region typically do get vaccinated, but you must seek the advice of your family physician or a specialist from a Travel Health clinic.

I’m travelling alone. Can I book my own room?

Standard prices listed are based on two people sharing a room. If you are travelling alone, the standard price is based on you sharing a room with another solo traveller of the same gender.   If you wish to have a private room, there will be a supplemental charge that will be determined at the time of booking and based on the hotel and availability. Please contact us directly during time of booking to arrange this.

What type of ground transportation is used?

In most cases, you will be traveling in vans between accommodations and parks. When on safari, the park or reserve will have their own vehicles specifically outfitted for off-road safaris.

What type of luggage to bring?

Some hotels and lodges have porters to help you with luggage, but there will be times when you need carry your own luggage on and off vans and up and down staircases. Suitcases with wheels may not work in all situations.

Can I book extra nights of hotel accommodations?

In most cases we can help you arrange additional accommodation at our starting or ending hotels, or we will give you the name of a hotel you can contact directly.  The ability to accommodate this request will be subject to hotel availability.  We encourage you to book the extra nights more than 30 days prior.   You will need contact us directly for make these special arrangements.  

Is tipping included in the price?

Tipping is not included in the tour price.  Tipping is entirely at your discretion, but it is very much appreciated and is an important source of income. We recommend 10% for standard service, and 15%+ for exceptional service in restaurants.   $1 to $2 USD for assistance in hotels.  

To express gratitude to safari and Galagadi staff, we recommend $5-$8 USD per person per day for you tour host, $2-$3 USD per person per day for a driver and safari guide, and $2-$3 USD per person per day for other guides or providers.  

What is the best currency and I can I use a credit card?

While Zimbabwe and Botswana do have their own currency, the US dollar is the most common and desired currency.   We recommend you only bring US dollars. 

ATM machines are available in urban centres.   

Most business establishments do take credit cards, and so can be widely used.   

We suggest having small denomination US cash for tipping.

To express gratitude to safari and Galagadi staff, we recommend $5-$8 USD per person per day for you tour host, $2-$3 USD per person per day for a driver and safari guide, and $2-$3 USD per person per day for other guides or providers.

Do I need travel insurance?

You must have travel insurance with a minimum medical, evacuation and repatriation coverage of $200,000 USD covering all applicable dates of travel. This insurance must cover personal injury and emergency medical expenses. You may elect to have additional coverage to include cancellation, curtailment, and all other expenses that may arise as a result of loss, damage, injury, delay or inconvenience while traveling. 

Insurance coverage is not included in the cost of any tour by Galagadi.  You are responsible for advising your insurer of the type of travel, destination(s) and activities included in your booking so that the insurer may provide appropriate coverage.

What is the deposit amount and when do I need to pay in full?

The deposit amount is 50% of the total trip cost. This initial payment is due within 90 days of booking to secure your reservation. The remaining balance must be paid in full no later than 45 days prior to the trip start date.

This payment structure helps ensure your spot is confirmed while giving you flexibility to plan ahead for the final payment. If you have any questions about the schedule or need alternative arrangements, feel free to reach out—we’re happy to work with you where possible.

What are the terms of cancellation?

If cancellation is received 90 days or more before commencement, the initial deposit amount will be retained by Galagadi, but all other payments will be refunded in full.

If cancellation is received 89-46 days before commencement, the initial deposit amount and 50% of the remainder of the payments made will be retained by Galagadi. The other 50% of the remainder will be refunded.  

If cancellation is received less than 45 days before commencement, Galagadi will retains all payments made. There will be no refund.

Are prices fixed?

Galagadi will not change the price after you have paid in full.  The tours are priced to include applicable taxes.

After your deposit is paid, Galagadi reserves the right to impose surcharges on any products or services for reasons arising from operating cost increases external to Galagadi.  This may include transportation costs, fuel costs, taxes, airport charges, changes in costs by restaurants, hotels and safari operators, currency and exchange fluctuations, increases in taxes, or government action which impacts the price of the applicable products or services.

Galagadi will only do so when the increase is greater than 2% of the original price paid (excluding add-ons, insurance, and taxes). Galagadi will provide notice to you as soon as reasonably possible. 

If the increase in price is greater than 8% of the original price, you may choose to cancel the applicable booking for full refund, or accept the change of price.  You must notify Galagadi of your choice within 14 days of receipt of notice of the increase.  If you fail to respond within 14 days, you will be deemed to have accepted the price change and will be liable for payment of the increase.

What if I have special requirements?

Any special requirements must be disclosed to Galagadi at the time of booking. This includes mobility, dietary, hotel, or other medical needs. We will use reasonable efforts to accommodate them, but it is not guaranteed we can meet them.

Is there possibility of the dates changing or the tour being cancelled?

All dates, itineraries and prices of the tours are subject to change at any time and the current price will be quoted and confirmed at the time of booking.   

Galagadi will not be liable in any way for death, bodily injury, illness, damage, delay or other loss or detriment to person or property, or financial costs both direct and indirect incurred, or for failure to commence, perform or complete any duty owed to you if such death, delay, bodily injury, illness, damage or other loss or detriment to person or property is caused by Act of God, war or war like operations, mechanical breakdowns, terrorist activities or threat thereof, civil commotions, labor difficulties, interference by authorities, political disturbance, howsoever and where so ever any of the same may arise or be caused, riot, insurrection and government restraint, fire, extreme weather, significant risks to human health such as the outbreak of serious disease, or any other cause whatsoever beyond the reasonable control of Galagadi or the Third Party Supplier of services, whether or not foreseeable, which would make it dangerous or not viable for a tour to commence or continue, any and all of which, individually and collectively, constitute “Force Majeure”.

What should I pack?

We recommend:

Lightweight, neutral-colored clothing
Comfortable walking shoes
Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses
Insect repellent
Light layers for cooler mornings/evenings

Are the tours guided?
Yes—every experience is fully guided by professional, licensed local experts.

From Victoria Falls tours to safari game drives, you’ll be accompanied by knowledgeable guides who ensure both safety and a richer experience.

Are safari activities safe?

Yes—safety is a top priority.

All activities are operated by trained professionals using certified vehicles and equipment. You’ll experience wildlife up close, but in a controlled and secure way.

How physically demanding are the tours?

The tours are considered low to moderate in physical demand.

Most activities (game drives, cruises, transfers) are relaxed and accessible. However, some experiences—like walking tours of Victoria Falls or village visits—may involve light walking and standing.

It’s suitable for most travelers with a basic level of mobility.

What wildlife can I expect to see?

You can expect to see a wide range of iconic African wildlife, especially in Chobe National Park, which is known for:

  • Large herds of elephants (one of the highest concentrations in Africa)
  • Lions, buffalo, and giraffes
  • Hippos and crocodiles along the Chobe River
  • Various antelope species and abundant birdlife

Wildlife sightings vary, but Chobe is considered one of the most rewarding safari destinations year-round.

What type of accommodation is included?

Accommodation varies by itinerary. In Victoria Falls, stays are typically at mid-to-upscale lodges such as Shearwater Explorer Village or Palm River Lodge, offering comfort, central location, and curated experiences.

In Chobe (for extended safaris), accommodation is full-board safari lodge style, including meals and game activities. Some packages also offer flexibility where accommodation can be excluded or upgraded.