Pre-trip Accommodation & Airport transfers
We provide a free booking service when reserving pre-trip accommodation and airport transfers on your behalf.  Just log in to your account on our website & select the accommodation / transfer required, or you can contact us direct.   We will require your flight number, arrival time, and arrival date so please ensure this information is forwarded to us as soon as you have booked your flight and no later than 6 weeks prior to departure. All prices listed for pre-trip accommodation & airport transfers are approximate and subject to limited availability. 

Pre-trip Accommodation
All accommodation will be reserved in either dorm facilities (when available) or on a shared twin basis (between 2 people of the same sex from your trip) unless you are a couple or you have requested a specific type of room. If dorm or sharing options are not available we will reserve a single room at the relevant rate. Rest assured that we will always try to provide the most economical option for you. If you are arriving early in the morning and you would like to check in immediately, you may have to reserve your room for the previous night to ensure direct check in, otherwise you may have to wait until normal check in times (usually 12pm to 2pm).

Post-trip Accommodation & Airport Transfers
Post trip accommodation & airport transfers can be arranged with your tour leader during the trip or directly with the hotel on arrival. The return airport transfer is not included and is at your own expense. We regret these services cannot be arranged via the UK Oasis before departure.

Pre-Departure Meeting
Your tour leader will meet you on the morning of departureat the joining hotel / camp where you will be briefed on the day to day running of the trip at the pre-departure meeting. There will be a notice in reception advising you of the time of the meeting, and any further information. Your tour leader will also require 2 copies of your passport photo page, a copy of your travel insurance (details of the policy number and confirmation that the duration will cover you for the entire trip) and a 24-hour emergency medical telephone number. It is essential that you attend this meeting - please let the UK office or your tour leader know if you are unable to do so.

We would advise that you arrive in your departure city at least 1 day before your trip begins.  Return flights must be booked for at least the day AFTER your trip is due to end. Many people usually fly in the day before departure (except if joining in Vic Falls - we suggest arriving 2 days before if you wish to partake in the many adrenaline activities on offer) and allow at least 2-3 days to explore at the end.

For those booking their flights from the UK, the best is an 'open jaw' or 'multi-city' type ticket which allows you to fly into one destination and out of another.  Airlines such as SAA, BA, KLM, VIRGIN do tickets into Nairobi and out of Cape Town or Jo' Burg as well as other cities in East and Southern Africa.  Gulf Air, Olympic, Alitalia & Air France all have competitive fares year round.

It is easy to find prices for flights online, through various search engines (www.opodo.co.uk or www.ebookers.co.uk are but two) and direct with airline websites. But it is worth bearing in mind that you may well be able to find a cheaper fare through a travel agent, who's experience may help with complicated itineraries and many of whom offer airline insolvency cover in the cost.

One way ticket: If you intend to travel on a one way ticket to meet up with one of our trips - we recommend that you contact us at the time of paying your balance. We will supply you with a letter confirming that you are travelling overland on the specified trip that you have booked, in case immigration or the airline queries the fact that you do not have a return flight ticket. It is also recommended that you have a copy of your payment confirmation / receipt (that you will be sent at time of balance payment) and itinerary as further proof of booking.

Passports
Your passport must be valid for at least 9 months from your departure date and you will also require the following number of blank pages for each country you visit. Please use this as an approximate guide and maybe add a page or two for good luck.

If you have dual nationality you can only use one passport for the entire trip. Please also bring 2 photocopies of your passport details to give to your tour leader.

Visas
All visas are to be paid in US$ only! The information below is to be used only as a guide & may change without prior notice. Most of the nationalities below can currently obtain visas en route, so there is no need to get them before the trip, but we do recommended that you check your personal current visa requirements with the relevant embassies well in advance before you travel. 

Rwanda - If you are visiting the Mountain Gorillas in Rwanda - a visa is required for the nationalities listed.   On exiting Rwanda a re-entry visa into Uganda / Kenya will be necessary for everybody.

Uganda - With proof of a Valid Student Card - it may be possible to get a visa into Uganda for a reduced cost - approx US$40

Zambia / Zimbabwe - If you are planning on going over to the Zambian side of Vic Falls from Zimbabwe - you will be able to get a Day Tripper visa into Zambia costing US$20. This is available at the border and only valid for stays of less than 24hrs.

S. Africa - If you require a visa before you travel please make sure you obtain a multiple entry visa as we re-enter S. Africa from Lesotho on our  trips to Jo'Burg.

Departure Taxes - If you are planning to fly out of any of the following countries (Kenya - Malawi - Zimbabwe - Zambia) please check with your Travel Agent or Airline if your flight ticket already includes a departure tax payment out of the country. If it doesn't - please budget for approx US$30 for all the countries listed - to be paid in US$ only.

For more information on other nationalities & Visas checkout www.projectvisa.com

Vaccinations & Health
As we are not medically trained - we are unable to give detailed or professional advice on vaccination requirements, so please use this information and chart only as a guide.  Please consult a reputable travel clinic or GP for advice on any medical issues. We suggest allowing 8 weeks to get all your vaccinations. For more information visit: www.fitfortravel.scot.nhs.uk or www.nomadtravel.co.uk  Oasis travellers receive a 10% discount on vaccinations, medical kits, clothing and camping equipment from the Nomad Travel Clinics - you will receive your discount code on your booking receipt.

KEY
Y = Recommended
Y* = Compulsory if coming from an infected area.
* = Low risk except if visiting Kruger, which is considered a high risk area

There are other vaccines not listed here which are sometimes advised recommended - please see a registered GP or Travel Health clinic for further advice. (Cholera, Diphtheria (all countries advise), Meningitis, Hep B etc )

Yellow Fever
Being vaccinated against Yellow Fever and having a valid certificate and a photocopy is deemed compulsory in some countries we visit, especially at certain borders or when entering from an area / country with risk of transmission. If you are joining in Malawi then a Yellow fever Certificate is not usually needed as it is not usually classed as being a Yellow Fever Area.

Rabies
Vaccinations are regularly advised for all countries that we travel through in Africa.

Malaria
In some of the areas we visit there is a risk of contracting Malaria. You must be aware that whatever malaria prophylactics you are taking, they only offer partial protection. They must be coupled with your own physical efforts against being bitten - which is the best prevention. Malaria-carrying mosquitoes come out at sunset so from this time you should wear long sleeves and trousers.  Exposed skin, especially ankles, should have insect repellent containing 'Deet' applied to them.   Your crew will advise on where the affected areas are on the trip.     There are a number of prophylactic malaria treatments on the market & requirements change.  It is also wise to take a sample of whichever prophylactic you choose, a few weeks before you leave.  This way you may determine early on if you have any adverse reactions so you can change the regimen if necessary. www.fitfortravel.scot.nhs.uk

Health
To join our trips you should be in good general health. Your medical insurance co' must be told if you have any pre-existing medical condition / allergy or if you are on any regular medication, otherwise you may not be covered under your policies for these. Our crew and the Oasis office will need to know of any medication or conditions you may have. For general health advice log onto www.nathnac.org/travel

It is a compulsory requirement that you have adequate travel insurance before you join any Oasis Trip & at the very least are insured for all necessary medical & repatriation costs incurred overseas with a minimum sum insured of £500,000.

Your Tour Leader will ask to see a copy of your insurance policy at the pre-departure meeting and you will be asked to provide the following details: 24-hour emergency medical telephone number, your policy number, confirmation that the policy duration is sufficient to cover you for the entire duration of your trip.  It is also wise to leave a copy of your insurance policy with a friend or relative for safe keeping.

We believe that your safety and holiday enjoyment are very important. It is a mistake to think that "it will never happen to me". It is also very important that you are covered for all the activities that you may wish to undertake while on our trip.

For further information on the insurance we offer, the activities covered, costs and how to book - click here or check out the Insurance section of our website.

Local Payment (LP)
LP is part of your overall trip payment and is the most cost effective and practical way to get hard currency to Africa to pay for a variety of your day-to-day local costs (i.e. all meals prepared by the group, campsite fees,  gas, and certain activities listed on the trip page) which cannot be pre-paid from the UK. It is a guaranteed amount, set before your trip departs, and unlike 'group kitty' systems we will not ask you to contribute more once the trip is underway.

Please note: Your LP is payable to your Tour Leader on the morning of departure in  CASH ONLY. Your LP needs to be paid as 50% US$ CASH and 50% British Pounds Sterling or Euro CASH (exchange rates of the day will be used by your tour leader). We use www.xe.com for current up to date rates, please also use this as a guide.

Spending Money
From past trips and traveller feedback £100 to £145 per week should cover costs such as visas, some meals out (on average 2 per day are supplied), soft drinks and beers, email & communications, souvenirs and other general spending. Personal spending habits & budgets differ greatly from person to person. Budget on optional activities separately (see optional excursions page) & allow extra for your Local Payment contribution.

Changing money
Change your money only at banks, hotels, airports or forex bureau's.  It is illegal to change money on the street, as these people will normally be opportunistic thieves or undercover police. Your crew will advise you where & when you can change money & with what means.  It is also a good idea to have a small CASH emergency fund, to allow for the unexpected.

How to bring your currency?
As a general rule it is best to bring your money as 2/3rds US$ cash & 1/3rd in US$, £GB or Euro Travellers Cheques (TC's). US$ TC's are accepted more from Kenya to Zimbabwe & £GB TC's from Botswana to South Africa. The rate of exchange for TC's & small denomination US$ bills are usually slightly less than larger bills, but it is still advisable to bring an assortment of both.
We also advise to bring £50 worth of SA Rand in Cash, as this may be needed if we arrive into Namibia or South Africa on a weekend & the banks / ATM's are closed (only if you are travelling to these countries). US dollars dated pre-2000 are not accepted in Africa so please ensure your notes are dated 2001 onward & Scottish pounds are also not accepted.

Visa's need to be paid for in US$ CASH ONLY!

Travellers Cheques (TC's) - as well as debit / credit cards can attract 2 to 8 % commission. The use of TC's overseas can be frustrating but at the same time worthwhile as they can be replaced in an incidence of loss or theft. A large number of activities can be paid for using TC's (see optional excursions page).

Credit & Debit Cards - a combination of several types are suggested as not all types are accepted in all places. Visa & Maestro are best, MasterCard has limited access through parts of Africa. Over the counter cash advances can be expensive, time consuming and should not be relied upon - you will be given local currency and NOT US$ or £GB. We recommend that you inform your bank that you will be using your card abroad to avoid it being blocked. Please see the optional excursions page for activities that can be paid for using a Credit or Debit Card.

ATM's - In some destinations we probably won't even see a bank or ATM for days on end.  www.visa.com or www.mastercard.com can give a general idea of locations of ATM's around the world - but please do not rely on this means alone to obtain local cash, please only use as a guide - things change, and ATM's don't always work!
Besides memorising your PIN, it is also important to be aware of your daily withdrawal limit and bank withdrawal costs.

Tipping is often expected and relied upon. It is often more than a reward for services well done, but, as wages are extremely low, it is an accepted means of supplementing an income. If you would like to leave a tip for any activity/individual, you could organize this as a group and give a tip at the end. A recommended amount for restaurants is usually 10% of your total bill and similar for activities.  Some countries also charge an extra Government tax.  Your crew will usually be able to help you with any queries regarding this.  Please budget a tip of $10 per person (if you have a good trip) for the Serengeti & Ngorongoro Crater safari as this is hugely appreciated by the local guides, driver and cook who will be looking after you.

In the past we have been asked by travellers about tipping your Oasis Crew.  Our guys work very hard at making your trip a great travel experience. Working overseas can often be challenging and they are pretty much on call for you 24 hours a day, so it's appreciated with a thank you for hard work and good service - even if it is just verbally. Although a tip is not expected by either Oasis or our Crew if you have had a great trip and feel you would like to show your appreciation by leaving your crew a tip - an amount of $1 a day  has been recommended to us by some past customer feedback.

Please be aware that tipping and the amount you tip is entirely up to you individually and always your choice.

Stuff to buy
From silver, gold, clothing, woven bags, silk, jewellery boxes, backgammon boards, stone and wood carvings, batiks and leather goods to intricate Makonde carvings and stone chess boards, Africa has it all.  These are just some of the things you can purchase.  It is also worth taking any shoes or clothes you no longer use, as these can be bartered in exchange for most goods. It is possible to post things home from several of the major cities we visit.

Become part of the "Souvenir Alert " Campaign - and think before you buy.  Check that your purchased goods are not breaking the law and endangering wildlife, or your souvenirs may be confiscated by customs on your return. www.defra.gov.uk/animalhealth/CITES/

In East Africa (Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania) the year is loosely divided into the 'short' rains (November) and the 'long' rains (March to May).The 'rains' usually last for one or two hours each day followed by hot sunny weather. Nights can be surprisingly cold at higher altitude in West Uganda and Ngorongoro Crater.

In Southern Africa (Malawi, Zimbabwe, Botswana and South Africa) the 'dry' season is April to October when the nights can be quite cold. From November to March the weather is hotter and there is summer rainfall, although this is very intermittent when it may not rain for months, or it can rain for a day at a time. Click  here to view the climate chart

The less you take the less you have to pack, wash & lug home & you can always pick up extras along the way. Most people make the mistake of bringing too much gear.  Clothes washing or laundry facilities will be available at least once a week.  You will be travelling in the heat & camping in the cold, so bring clothes for all climates; rough stuff is best. Pack according to season: summer is very hot in places & winter can be very cold with occasional frost overnight in the south.  (May to Aug can be very cold in Southern Africa). Make sure that you bring your gear in a 70-90L rucksack or holdall - suitcases are not suitable.

Even though our trucks are equipped with a comprehensive medical kit, we advise you to bring a small personal medical kit as our truck kit is not for general everyday use. It will also be your responsibility to carry your kit on included excursions and optional activities as some local operators may not have medical kits to hand.

Cameras (incl. Digital & Video Cameras)
An easy to use 'point and press' will get you some good photos. For memorable shots, it may be worthwhile investing in an SLR camera, but be sure to get some practice in before the trip!  Most towns and cities have internet cafes where you can download onto CD/ internet sites - but don't rely on it.
We recommend you bring:

• Strong bag / carry case to protect the camera - zip lock / plastic bags are useful for dusty / sandy conditions

• Spare / extra batteries

• Polarizing Filter / Lens Hood for SLR's - this will help to minimise the washed out effect from very brought sunlight

• Film - this is getting harder to find and may well be out of date or expensive

• Memory / Storage media (2 x memory cards in case one gets corrupted) - again this could be hard to find

• USB cable - to connect in internet cafes or for downloading

We can recommend Clock Tower Cameras for second hand cameras and lenses. Contact Paul or Eddy on 01273 706010 or visit their website: www.clocktowercameras.co.uk

Photography no no's!!
It is forbidden in all the countries we visit to take photos of anything military.  Bridges, border posts and airports are also sensitive, so be careful or be prepared to have your film / camera confiscated by irate officials. Please act with discretion and respect when taking photos of people (especially in areas of poverty) - if in doubt it is always better to ask first before you snap away!

Electrical charging & power supply
It may be difficult to find a power source for charging at times, so a spare battery is a must.
Consider a 12V in-car charger (our vehicles are equipped with a couple of 12 volt cigarette lighter charger sockets - truck trips only) or bring along your 230v mains charger and travel adaptor plug for use at some of the hotels, hostels and campsites we stay at.

NOTE: 12V - 230V inverters cannot be used on our vehicles because of the power drain they cause.

Log onto www.kropla.com  for information regarding the different electrical plugs and voltage used in each country.

As an Oasis Overland traveller you will receive a 25% discount off Lonely Planet & Footprints guides, which give concise info on all countries to help make sure you don't miss out on stuff you want see!

Michelin supply good maps of East & Southern Africa if you want to map your route.

Ref number - Michelin
746 Centre -  Cameroon down to South Africa and up to Kenya
741 North - Morocco down to Cameroon
745  North East  - includes Egypt , Sudan , Ethiopia

The Oasis truck will be your new home giving you a comfortable, secure base with which to experience your trip. As part of the adventure you will be expected to have an active involvement in the day to day running of the trip, be part of the group and get stuck in and help with various tasks, whether it's cooking meals over open fires, pitching your tent or keeping the truck clean and tidy.

Accommodation
Oasis uses roomy three-person tents but only for two people. They are specially made for us to meet the tougher conditions of an overland trip and have mosquito netting sewn into the door and windows.  We spend some nights bush or desert camping and the rest of the time in campsites. Facilities and standards at campsites vary, some are well equipped and managed and some are very basic.  At bush camps you will be living off the truck, so there will be no showers or en-suite facilities! At certain campsites there is the opportunity to upgrade to a private room at your own expense if you are missing your bed.

During the day
As a guide driving days normally start at about 8am and finish at about 5pm, with stops for lunch and buying food, seeing local sights etc. We won't be driving every day, although there are times when we will drive for two, but we will then stop for a few days and you will have free time to explore, meet local people, do some optional activities or just relax and do your own thing. Expect to sometimes get dusty & dishevelled during the day and although you will be able to shower most nights (except at bush camps), not all camps will have hot showers

Meals & cook groups
When 'on the road' or camping, we usually cook using gas or over open fires in a rota system and you can expect to cook in a group of two or three people approximately once every ten days depending on the number of people on trip and whereabouts you are.   Your cook group will have to decide on what to cook, utilise stocks from the truck stores and locally obtain ingredients from markets, shops etc  and rustle up a meal.  But don't worry if you're not a Gordon Ramsay as the rest of the group and the Tour leader usually lend a helping hand.  Here is an idea of what to expect at meal times:

Breakfasts:  Usually simple - we help ourselves to cereal, toast, hot drinks and on occasion we will splurge with a cooked breakfast. 
Lunch:  Cold and usually quick. The cook group will put out bread, tinned supplies and maybe make a salad.
Dinner:  Cooks come into their own in the evening and will always attempt to cook up some delights.    When the truck is parked up for a few days in a town or city most people usually like the option to eat out at local restaurants - so we often don't cook all meals when at these locations.

In the evenings
When at  a bushcamp or campsite where you and your tent buddy will put up the tent, and then lend a hand with getting out the tables, stools, firewood and water containers. The fire grates need to be taken out, the fire lit and someone can fill the kettle and make hot drinks while the cook group prepares the evening meal. Then just sit back & chill and enjoy the rest of your evening!

Vegetarians / Vegans
Our Tour Leader will always do their best to cater for Vegetarians or Vegans or any other dietary requirements whenever possible, but it must be remembered that the variety of dishes available may not be the same as available to meat eaters. If there is anything in particular you require or would miss from home, it would be best to bring it with you.

Remember that when eating out in local restaurants & hotels that the vegetarian concept, while often not new, is still alien & often incomprehensible to many local people and you will often be offered fish or chicken in error.  Most large towns and cities, or areas used to tourists, will often have more choice for vegetarians but please be aware that you will not receive the variety or quantity of dishes available to meat eaters.

Oasis Crew
We usually have two crew whose duties are extensive and quite demanding, with challenges ranging from driving and maintaining the expedition vehicle to a high standard, to organising visas and border crossings, arranging accommodation, pre-booking some excursions and guides, helping with shopping and cooking as well as finding the best deals, socializing and making sure everything runs as smoothly as possible. While our crew are experienced and knowledgeable they are not tour guides as such. Our trips pass through many countries and our tour leaders cannot be expected to have detailed knowledge of each countries history, flaura and fauna and archaeological sites. Even so - they will be more than willing to pass on any interesting and useful information that they have acquired whilst on the road. A rewarding way to gain a better insight into the wildlife, cultural and historical diversity of the countries we travel through is by reading guide books as well as talking to the local people and using local guides.

Adventure travel can be unpredictable and occasionally our crew may have to amend the itinerary to take into account changing local circumstances or because of a delay at a border or because of circumstances outside our control. This can all lead to additional work and commitment for our crew who will do all they can to minimize any disruption to the trip. While our crew are essentially on call 24 hours a day 7 days a week, it has to be remembered that no one is actually expected to work these hours, so at Oasis we are realistic that within a trip there will be times when our crew need 'down time' and a chance to relax and 'let their hair down' as well. They are only human!

The most reliable way to receive messages from friends and family is via email.  This is quite common place in many areas that we visit, but the efficiency or speed of connection is never a guarantee!  You will usually be able to email every couple of days, depending on which countries you visit.   Telephone calls can be expensive usually £1 to £5 for a three minute call, and internet access around £1 to £3 per half hour.  There is also the opportunity to use Skype in some areas.

Postage - For longer trips Poste Restante mailing service is still operated by the main post offices in major towns, and they will normally hold mail for up to 4 weeks.
For information on how it all works www.en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Poste_restante

Language - English is spoken fairly widely in all the countries we visit.  Most African countries have so many languages, they have in many cases, adopted those of their former colonial rulers as the common national language.  Radio and newspapers are usually in English.

All major cities have their share of petty crime (just like our cities!) and sensible precautions need to be taken.  Wearing expensive looking jewellery / watches and carrying cameras, will draw unnecessary attention to you.  Leave valuables such as passports, excess money etc in your hotel safe or truck safe (we recommend carrying a copy of your passport details page at all times). You may find a simple money belt is more discrete than a bag.   Always be aware of your surroundings and when approached by people you do not know, use your common sense. At night in cities it's best to use a taxi, rather than walking around the streets, single women in particular need to be careful & we suggest that it is safer to be in a group.

On board the truck
Each vehicle is fitted with a hidden, lockable safe to be used for money, passports and documents.  Passengers will be responsible for the safe and Oasis Overland cannot accept any liability for clients' personal or monetary contents kept in the safe or on board the truck.  We advise you to not take items of value that are not essential for the journey. In certain areas a roster may be drawn up for the group to share the task of guarding and keeping the vehicle secure.

Before you go

• Remove unnecessary packaging before you go - waste disposal facilities are often stretched in the places we visit. To avoid unnecessary pollution of local water supplies take environmentally friendly toiletries with you.

• Why not invest in a wind-up or solar-powered torch or media player before you travel or at least rechargeable batteries.

• Learn some of the local language and read up on the local history / culture before you go. You'll get so much more out of your trip.

• Why not pack some pens / pencils exercise books in your rucksack and they can be donated to a local school or project while you're away.

• Take a sturdy water bottle with you from home that you can re-use throughout your trip.

While you're travelling
From experience gained in running trips, we have developed our own practical and a manageable environmental policy which all of our crew practice on the trips we operate, and they will share this information with you at the start of your trip. We welcome your input on this, plus any new ideas you may have, to improve our existing procedures. As a guide here's a few tips to bear in mind.

• Don't waste water. It is a scarce resource in many of the places our trips visit.

• Never buy endangered species or endangered habitat products. Apart from the fact of it being illegal it also encourages the trade to continue.

• Look after and preserve the areas we visit. Be careful about stepping on coral reefs or trekking on undesignated tracks.

• Buy locally made crafts and products helping to support the local economy.

• Don't feel when bargaining that you have to get the cheapest price possible just for the sake of it. Pay what the item is worth to you.

• Try the local food and drinks - this will help to support local farmers and food sellers. Sitting in a local cafe is also a great way to meet local people.

• Dispose of litter appropriately on your trip. This includes cigarette butts. Not only does litter look unsightly it can be lethal to wildlife.

• Where any toilet facilities exist, however unsavoury they might seem to you, they should be used. Where they do not, always bury your waste and amke sure it is never near, (at least 30m) from a water source.

• When game viewing do not encourage your guides to get too close to the wildlife so that their natural behaviour is impeded.

• Respect local customs, traditions and beliefs of the people in the different regions that you travel through.

• Do not take photos of people, ritual events or special places unless you have asked first. Dress appropriately according to local codes and show respect around religious festivals.

• Recycling is almost non-existent in many of the ares and countries we visit - we do the best we can with limited resources & space on our vehicles.

• For books dedicated to travelling more responsibly & ethically see: www.tourismconcern.org.uk

Community Projects
Oasis are active in raising awareness and providing support to a number of projects and local schools where we believe we can make a positive difference. You can also help support these projects or possibly visit them on your trip. To gain further information check out the websites below:

Jinga, Uganda - Providing education and stability to local children - www.softpowereducation.com
Harare, Zimbabwe - Hupenyu Hutsua Children's Home - assisting with donations of food & materials - contact Oasis.
Nairobi, Kenya - Sponsoring Kamboyo, one of the orphaned elephants - www.sheldrickwildlifetrust.org
Luxor, Egypt - You have the opportunity to visit the Sunshine International Children's Orphanage. Oasis is a sponsor of this independently run Children's Orphanage - caring fro underprivileged youths and orphans - www.sunshine-international.org.uk
Cairo, Egypt - Oasis support the Sudanese Community Development Program -
www.scdp-egypt.com

Mountain Gorilla Trekking Permits
On our trips to Rwanda & Uganda, the opportunity of being up close and personal with a family of highland Mountain Gorillas, has to be classed as one of the most amazing wildlife encounters in Africa. You may see a variety of monkeys, chimpanzees and buffalo on the hike as well.  Accompanied by park rangers, you will track these rare, gentle giants who live on the forested slopes of the Virunga Mountains. Full payment is required upon confirmation of availability. We will contact you upon booking request.

Trekking the Gorillas
The trek to find the Gorillas can take several hours and you will need to be in reasonable physical shape.  For much of the trek you will be in high grass or thick vegetation & it could well rain, so wear protective clothing (to prevent being scratched) & waterproofs as well as good walking boots or shoes.  Once your guide has located the Gorilla family you will be permitted to view them for strictly 1 hour.  A maximum of one group of eight people per day are able to visit each Gorilla family. Your group will be accompanied by a tracker/guide & an armed park ranger.

Time passes quickly when you are with your Gorilla family so remember to put away your camera and enjoy the experience for what it is rather than through your viewfinder. If we view the Gorillas from Uganda there is the opportunity to paddle out onto Lake Bunyoni in canoes and visit some of the nearby islands , or hire mountain bikes to visit nearby villages & schools. From Rwanda there will also be an opportunity to visit the genocide memorial in the capital Kigali, which is a moving and humbling experience.Please bear in mind that Mountain Gorillas are wild animals and as such there is no guarantee that you will see them. That said however, we have never had this happen on previous trips.  For the protection of the Gorillas, if you are ill on the day of the trek you will not be permitted to trek (this decision is made by the rangers and wildlife authority staff alone). If there are permits and time allows with our itinerary, it may be possible to trek the following day at very little or no extra cost - this will be dependant on receiving permission from the local authorities and regulations at the time. There are no refunds or transfers under ANY circumstance for cancellation, no show or non allowance to trek.

How to request a Gorilla trekking permit
In order for us to confirm your Gorilla Permit, it is essential that you notify us of your interest in trekking at the same time as making your booking.  This can be done by just adding the Gorilla Permit to your trip at the time of booking. We make reservations many months in advance (sometimes as early as 6 months for some dates).

Please be aware the cost of securing a Gorilla Trekking Permit in advance through our local sources is payable in full to Oasis overland at the time of booking. This cost incorporates the permit cost (paid to the relevant wildlife authorities locally) and service/bank fees/transport/communication costs incurred by our local agent in order to secure your permit in advance. At the time of accepting full payment for your permit, we inform our local supplier who secures a permit with guarantee of payment at a later stage. The balance is then paid at a later date when it is requested by the relevant Wildlife Authorities.

Due to the popularity of Trekking to the Mountain Gorillas and the limited availability of obtaining Trekking Permits, the Wildlife

Authority responsible for organizing the Permits require the following details before confirmation is granted;

1.  Your full passport details
2.  Guarantee of Full payment

Please note:

• Please be aware that before your departure, the cost of the trekking permit may change. This may be due to currency fluctuations & / or price increases by the local wildlife authority.
• Transport from our base in either Uganda or Rwanda to the starting point of your trek is not included in the above permit cost - which will account to an average of $15 - $20 US pp (dependant on the number of people trekking)
• Visit to Rwanda will incur additional visa costs for some nationalities (please see visa section in the main trip page).

Just add this on to your trip when booking!

Wildlife
Click here to view a chart detailing what animals you may see in the various gameparks and reserves we visit between Nairobi and Jo'burg.

Migration
The  'Great Wildebeest Migration' has to be one of the most impressive wildlife spectacles in the animal kingdom. For those lucky enough, this once in a lifetime experience can be viewed in the surrounds of The Serengeti National Park / Ngorongoro Conservation Area of Tanzania and the Maasai Mara of Kenya and can be done before our after your trips with us. Click here for more info on the migration.

Detailed Itinerary

Please note that our itineraries are not set in stone and can be subject to change.

Days 1 to 2

After our pre departure meeting - our trip departs Nairobi and heads north into one of Africa's greatest natural features, the East African Rift Valley. Stretching from the Dead Sea in Jordan down to Mozambique in Southern Africa, our first view is from the top of a steep escarpment. Overland trips through East Africa will allow you to experience some of the most dramatic scenery in the world, and the Rift Valley is a definite highlight. The valley floor seems to sweep on forever and is dotted with volcanic peaks, shimmering lakes and countless springs. Our journey takes us into the heart of the Rift Valley to Lake Naivasha. We camp near the lake shore where Hippos sometimes feed at night! Here you can walk to Elsamere, the house of Joy Adamson - of Elsa the Lion and Born Free fame, and enjoy a film of her life - and cream teas! You can also hire mountain bikes and cycle or walk through Hells Gate National Park - the only game reserve in Kenya in which you are permitted  to do so.

Or for a less active but equally enjoyable game viewing experience - visit the Crater Lake Game Sanctuary. Both offer excellent scenery & opportunities to spot hyrax, abundant bird & plant life along with several types of gazelle, impala and eland.

Days 3 to 4

We then continue west and travel to Uganda. A mountainous drive with spectacular scenery through the Nandi Hills brings us to our next stop at Eldoret. From here we cross the Kenya - Uganda border, and continue to the capital Kampala.

Days 5 to 6

Kampala has had a turbulent past, but these days it is a friendly and safe city. We have a free day to spend in local cafes and nightspots - where you can get to know the local people. There is also the opportunity to spend the day visiting a local Chimpanzee Sanctuary and rehabilitation centre on one of the islands on Lake Victoria. The following day we have a long drive as we head west through swamps, patches of forest and fertile green countryside. As we travel through Uganda, we'll pass through a number of small towns and villages; Mpigi, where you will see roadside stalls manufacturing and selling traditional musical instruments; Kyazanga, where we can buy fresh rotisserie and roasted meat and vegetables, as well as roasted plantain bananas. We will also be able to make a photo stop where our route crosses the Equator.

Days 7 to 10

The Virunga range of volcanic mountains and the rainforests on these mountain slopes are home to several families of highland Mountain Gorillas. Getting up close to these amazing creatures is a truly a once in a lifetime experience and one of the highlights of the trip. We will visit the gorillas in either Uganda or Rwanda. If we view them from Uganda there is the opportunity to paddle out onto Lake Bunyoni in canoes and visit some of the nearby islands - or hire mountain bikes to visit nearby villages & schools. From Rwanda there will also be an opportunity to visit the genocide memorial in Kigali, which is a moving and humbling experience.

Days 11 to 15

We then return to Kampala and camp near Jinja - Uganda's adventure playground. Here, on the edge of Lake Victoria, the Nile begins its 6700km journey to the sea. We spend the next few days at Bujagali Falls, just downstream from the source of the Nile. This is a spectacular area, and with one kilometre of raging water below Bujagali Falls, a superb place to go whitewater rafting or kayaking. You can also organise quad biking , horse riding or a visit to a local school.

Days 16 to 19

On our way back to the Kenyan border - a stop at Sipi Falls may be possible if time allows. From the border we travel through hills covered in tea plantations and rural scenery. A days drive brings us to Lake Nakuru National Park - home to a wide variety of wildlife including Black Rhino, Hippo, Lion, Leopard, Hyena and Giraffe. However, Nakuru is a soda lake and most famous for its pink inhabitants, a flock of almost a million Pink Flamingos which feed noisily along the shoreline. A few hours drive brings us back to Nairobi where we will visit Langata Giraffe centre.

Days 20 to 23

We depart Nairobi early morning and immediately find ourselves in hot savannah grasslands with acacia trees providing the only shade. Various game, usually zebra and giraffe can be seen as we head south and cross into Tanzania - where we camp on the outskirts of Arusha town. Here we use a local African safari travel company to guide us through Ngorongoro Crater and Serengeti National Park. On the crater floor you will have the opportunity to view the abundant wildlife including Elephant, Lion, Cheetah, White Rhino, Buffalo, Hippo, Antelope, Crocodile and Pink Flamingos. From here you can also choose to go into the Serengeti for a day where vast herds of wildebeest roam the plains. For those who wish - there is an option to visit a local Maasai Village and learn about their culture and way of life.

Days 24 to 28

A day's drive brings us to capital Dar Es Salaam, and just another day in the life of an Africa overland safari. We pass a number of small towns and villages along the way and, if we are lucky, we may see the towering peak of Kilimanjaro. At Dar Es Salaam our truck is based for around 4 nights in a campsite on a beautiful Indian Ocean beach. From here most people take the ferry out to Zanzibar for the full four days and venture into the narrow bustling streets of Stone Town and its famous spice markets, old slave forts and dungeons. There is also time to relax on Zanzibar's famous white beaches , scuba dive or snorkel and swim with dolphins!

Days 29 to 31

After meeting the Zanzibar ferry we begin the journey through the interesting and mountainous hinterland of Tanzania. In the afternoon, after negotiating some appalling roads, we pass through the peaceful Mikumi National Park. African safari travel is synonymous with wildlife, and in this national park we usually see Elephant, Giraffe, Zebra and Antelope from the roadside. Passing through lush mountainous landscape and plantations - we enter Malawi which is dominated by its huge fresh water lake.

Days 32 to 36

The next 2 days marks the midpoint of this Kenya to Zimbabwe safari. Camping in Malawi sums up the spirit of an Africa overland trip with Oasis. We spend 4 to 5 days at friendly laid back campsites where most people choose to relax on the sandy beaches or try their hand at scuba diving , snorkelling or windsurfing as we follow the lakeshore south. If you are more inclined to just relax - then there is no better place than on the shores of Lake Malawi. This really is a warm friendly country - making it easy to wander off and meet up with your local hosts in one of the many villages or schools nearby. You can view first hand the talent of the local artisans and purchase some exquisite pieces of furniture and carvings out of ebony and mahogany. 

Days 37 to 38

From here we continue on to the capital Lilongwe in the south of the country where we you the opportunity to visit the local wildlife centre - providing much needed security and shelter for some of Malawi's orphaned and injured wildlife!

Days 39 to 43

After obtaining our Mozambique visa in Lilongwe, we cross into Mozambique and head for Zimbabwe to continue our African overland trip. We follow the infamous Tete Corridor which was well known in the days of Mozambique's long running civil war as the Gun Run. Thankfully these days things are a lot different! We enter Zimbabwe and travel via the capital, Harare before we head south to Gweru. Here we visit a privately run horse and game ranch where you can go game viewing on elephant and horseback or even take a walk with Lion Cubs! Its our destination for the next few days and always a highlight! 

Days 44 to 46

From Gweru - We drive across Mashonaland to the Great Zimbabwe Ruins which was once the greatest medieval city in Sub Saharan Africa and where the name Zimbabwe is derived, literally meaning house of stone. Next we enter Matabeleland and the town of Bulawayo.

Days 47 to 48

You have the option of leaving the truck for a day to venture into Matobo National Park with a local safari company. You will have a unique chance to get out on foot to try and spot the elusive Black Rhino - amongst hordes of other game. There is also the opportunity to visit Cecil Rhodes' grave and Ancient Rock Paintings before catching an old style sleeper train (if available) to meet up with the truck again at one of the greatest adventure playgrounds of the world - Victoria Falls.

Days 49 to 50

For some, Mosi oa Tunya - The Smoke That Thunders, is the highlight of their African safari. From the main road, in the bush 20kms away, a cloud of mist and spray can be seen against the blue sky. As you get closer , a low rumble like thunder can be heard. When you arrive it is a surprise to discover the enormity of Victoria Falls. One mile wide and hurling over 5 million cubic metres of water a minute into the Zambezi Gorge this is the setting for the most adrenaline fuelled  grade 5 white water rafting in the world. There is something here for everyone to end off this Kenya to Zimbabwe safari: A day trip over the Victoria Falls bridge to view the falls from Zambia, Flight of Angels - a great way to get a birds eye view of the falls in a light aircraft or helicopter, Sunset Boat Cruises or a more sedate Canoe trip, to the adrenaline packed Gorge Swing, Abseil or a chance to experience one of the highest commercial Bungee Jumps in the world - a perfect way to end your African experience.

Days 51 to 54

Our overland trip continues from Zimbabwe into Botswana, spending the night on the outskirts of the Chobe National Park - famous for its hordes of Elephants, as well as an abundance of other wildlife. You will have a chance to spend the afternoon on the Chobe River - a less intrusive way to view game and wildlife - as well as the Namibian frontier across the river. We then head south into the Kalahari Basin - known for its dry, desolate and expansive freedom. You will have an opportunity to leave the truck for a few days to venture into the Okavango Delta.  Local poler guides will navigate the extensive waterways using canoes similar to their traditional Mokoro's (dug out canoes).This is a great experience - and the best way to have a chance of seeing the elusive wildlife of this unique desert oasis. You will have a number of opportunities to go on game walks with rangers - giving you the chance to see elephant, crocodile and hippo up close and personal. The Okavango Delta is one of the world's largest inland waterways and its calming serenity will leave those who experience it feeling supremely relaxed. There is also the opportunity to experience the heights of African adventure travel too: see the delta from the air during an hour-long flight.

Days 55 to 57

Travelling west we enter Namibia and continue toward Etosha National Park - recognised as one of the worlds greatest wildlife viewing areas. The semi desert is quite a contrast to the more fertile terrain we have been used to. The night sky ablaze with shooting stars and the warm glow of our campfire makes for unforgettable camping experiences. Besides game drives we can also game watch by night at one of the floodlit water holes where we may well spot Rhino, Elephant and Giraffe among a host of other wildlife. From Etosha we visit a local Cheetah park and get up close to these amazing and endangered creatures, before continuing on to the Brandberg Mountains in Demaraland.

Days 58 to 63

We have a choice of visiting either the stunning Spitzkoppe Rock formations or the world famous Cape Cross. Known as the Matterhorn of Namibia - the Spitzkoppe is part of the Erongo Mt range and was formed over 100 million years ago after the collapse of a gigantic volcano. The scenery is striking from every angle - even more stunning as the granite massifs turn red at sunset. Cape Cross Seal Colony is where the sight of thousands of these mammals, as well as their accompanying pungent odour is remembered by all! The Cool Atlantic Ocean and the prominent Benguela current provide a perfect location for feeding and breeding for the Cape Fur Seal.

Days 64 to 68

A one day drive takes us to the Namib-Naukluft Park, a vast expanse of desert which contains some of the highest sand dunes in the world. At Sossusvlei we stop and explore the area and the dunes. Continuing south we enter the semi-desert, and wide-open countryside of cattle ranching until we arrive at one of Africa's most sensational natural features, Fish River Canyon. We camp next to this massive gorge where you can join a scenic hiking trail along the rim of the canyon - a great way to take in the awesome scenery

Days 69 to 73

A couple of hours drive away we enter South Africa and cross the Orange River - a rich source of diamonds. We travel south through the Cederburg Wilderness Area, an area of rugged valleys and peaks - before getting to Stellenbosch where we visit one of the historic Cape Wineries. The final destination for most on this African adventure is the vibrant and cosmopolitan city of Cape Town. Our accommodation here will be in a backpackers lodge.

Days 74 to 75

There is plenty to do in and around Cape Town, from climbing up Table Mountain to abseiling down it, diving  with sharks (either in ocean cages - or at the Two Oceans Aquarium), scuba diving courses , a tour to Robben Island or a chance to revamp your Trans wardrobe and head out on the town to one of the many hot spots that Cape Town has to offer.

Days 76 to 78

We depart early from Cape Town and head for the most southern tip of Africa at Cape Agulhas - which is the dividing line between the warm Indian Ocean and the cooler Atlantic Ocean. From August to November Southern Right and Humpback Whales maybe spotted along the coast - as they feed in the nutrient rich waters off the southern coast. From Cape Agulhas we travel inland and camp for the first night close to the picturesque town of Swellendam, one of South Africa's oldest settlements with tree lined streets and white washed Cape Dutch homesteads.

Passing through the Outeniqua Mountains to the Little Karoo - we visit the Cango Calcite Caves recognised as one of the worlds finest network of Calcite caves. The bizarre formations of Stalagmites and Stalactites represent over a million years of slow formation. We also visit an Ostrich farm to learn more about the worlds largest bird. The Ostrich has been around for 8 million years and a feather was actually discovered in King Tutankhamun's tomb in Egypt. 97% of the world's population of Ostriches lives in the Karoo and here we will have the opportunity to feed and ride one!

Days 79 to 80

We spend two days winding our way along South Africa's famous Garden Route where there is a wealth of things to see and do. We travel through the popular resort of Knysna, located on a tranquil lagoon that is protected from the sea by two enormous cliffs known as 'the heads'. We visit the Tsitsikamma Forest, where you will be able to hike along the coast and view the crashing waves at the mouth of the scenic Storms River, and maybe spot dolphins and whales in the ocean. Optional excursions in this region include mountain biking, black water tubing, and the mother of all bungee jumps at Bloakrans Bridge - the highest jump in the world at 216 metres.

Days 81 to 82

From the Garden Route we continue along the coast and stop at South Africa's surfing mecca, Jeffrey's Bay, home to the international surfing championships and world renowned super tubes. We head inland to Addo Elephant National Park which has recently been extended to include part of the coast and is now home to the BIG 7 - lion, rhino, elephant, leopard, buffalo, whale and shark! On our game drive we hope to spot some of the many elephant that the park is famous for, which are the most southerly population in Africa.

Days 83 to 85

We have a  long day's drive north and out of South Africa into the mountain kingdom of Lesotho, often referred to as 'the kingdom in the sky'. This little country is completely surrounded by South Africa and is covered by mountains from 1000m to 3000m high. The scenery here is tremendous and the mountain air crisp and fresh - where we will see Lesotho's horsemen dressed in their blankets and gumboots trotting around the hillsides. We spend two nights at Malealea Lodge, Lesotho's most famous countryside retreat tucked up high in the mountains. Here there are isolated waterfalls, cool rock pools ideal for swimming, and peaceful hikes in the surrounding hills. This is also a great place to try pony trekking - one of the best ways to enjoy the scenery is atop a sure footed Lesotho pony.

Days 86 to 88

We drive through the lowlands of Lesotho and visit Thabo Bosiu with a local guide (time & weather permitting). This mountain stronghold was the home of Chief Moshoeshoe, the founder of the Basotho nation. We continue through Lesotho's tiny capital Maseru, and re-enter South Africa. Passing through Golden Gate National Park on the edge of the Drakensburg Mountains. This is an area of massive sandstone rock formations and the park gets its name from the green grasslands, caves and cliffs set against a backdrop of golden rocks. During the summer months the grasslands are full of wild flowers.

Continuing into KwaZulu Natal we enter the Drakensburg Mountains where we will have the opportunity to explore the Royal Natal National Park, a dramatic region of the Drakensburg beneath the famous Amphitheatre - a massive wall of rock with over 4kms of sheer cliff face. Hike to the Tugela Falls, which includes an ascent by chain ladder to view the Tugela River as it plunges over the edge of the amphitheatre wall dropping some 800 metres below. The Drakensburg Mountains are known by the Zulu as the 'barrier of spears, and are today a UNESCO world heritage sight for their outstanding natural beauty.

Days 89 to 90

Johannesburg was built on the gold rush, and has grown into one of the wealthiest cities in the world. We arrive here in the afternoon and stay in a backpackers lodge for 1 night. Although Jo'Burg is changing slowly many of the old apartheid divisions still exist, especially in the urban spread where poorer areas are home to the black population and the richer suburbs home to mainly white people.

There is plenty to do and see in Jo'Burg. A 'must do' activity is a tour of Soweto, where in this sprawling township, modern African culture is at its most vibrant and intense. You can visit one of the local shabeens (pubs), talk to local families and drop into the former home of Nelson Mandela. You can also visit the powerful apartheid museum, take a tour down a 700ft goldmine at Gold Reef City or visit South African breweries.

* Xmas in Rwanda/Uganda New Years in Kenya
** Xmas in Jo'burg
*** Xmas in Namibia, New Years in Cape Town
**** Xmas & New Years in Zimbabwe