The Basics

Why South Africa?
Well, why not? Our trip to New Zealand was perfect in every way. While obsessing over the Costco travel website upon our return from NZ, we noticed a special on a package to South Africa. In the end, we did not book that specific package but it made a trip to South Africa seem possible. We were all excited by the idea and again, just like the NZ trip, in the matter of only 2 phone calls we were booked on our trip.

What is the time difference?
South Africa is in the SAST time zone. 9 hours ahead of PHX and CA. 8 hours ahead of NM. 7 hours ahead of NE and TN. 6 hours ahead of PA.

How long is the flight?
Really, really, really, really long. We have to start from the east coast so it will take us 4.5 hours to get to D.C. The flight from DC to Johannesburg is just over 17 hours and since we will then go on to Cape Town, there is another 2 hour flight. We will be "on the move" about 30 hours and flying about 24. That is all assuming there are no travel/weather delays. WISH US LUCK!

Where is South Africa?
South Africa covers the southern tip of the African continent. It borders Namibia, Botswana, and Zimbabwe to the north, and Mozambique and Swaziland to the northeast.

What language is spoken in South Africa?
South Africa has 11 official languages. English - with a local South African flavor - is the most widely spoken.

Do you need special immunizations?
No. However, while on our safari tours we will be in a high risk malaria area so will be on anti-malaria pills for several days.

What is the weather like?
When it is summer here it is winter there. We will be there during spring. Average temperatures in Cape Town in October are around 70 degrees, in Johannesburg the average is around 77 degreees, and in Hoedspruit the average is around 90 degrees.

Where will we stay?
Cape Town - Commodore Hotel
Johannesburg - Michelangelo Hotel
Hoedspruit - Jackalberry Safari Lodge