Reservations

Short term reservations must be accompanied by a signed agreement committing to the tour, the number of persons due to go on tour, the place of residence of the person or persons booking the tour and valid contact details of at least one of the persons booked on the tour.

A deposit of 50% of the total amount of the reservation is required to confirm a booking, the balance of which must be paid a minimum of two weeks before the commencement date of the tour.

In order to confirm reservations with our service providers we in turn need to make a deposit with them within 5 working days of the acceptance of the tour itinerary.

For agent bookings, payment must be made before guest’s arrival.

The quoted rates include all the expenses, either included or excluded as described in each individual itinerary.

Accommodation is based on two persons sharing a room. Single rooms are available at an additional cost but are not always guaranteed.

Group rates available on request.

Cancellation policy

Cancellations are only effective upon Alan Tours receipt of written notification.

The scale of charges expressed as a percentage of the tour rate, is as follows:

• Cancellations made within 60 days before date of departure forfeit 25%
• Cancellations made within 30 days before date of departure forfeit 50%
• Cancellations made within less than 14 days before date of departure forfeit 100%
• A full refund will be considered on merit, by management, in the event of illness / hospitalisation / accident or death, upon receipt of proof.
• No refund will be granted should the client / operator not complete the tour.

Credit Card

We accept MasterCard and Visa credit cards. Alternatively you can settle via EFT (Electronic Funds Transfer). Banking details below:

Bank: __________________Nedbank
Branch: ________________Walmer Park
Branch code: ____________113717
Account number:  ________1137025042
Account Holder: _________Alan Tours
Swift code:  _____________NEDSZAJJ
Type: _________________  Cheque account

Vehicles will be provided according to the route and number of clients.

Insurance and public liability. Alan Tours are covered by a reputable and well recognised company of insurance brokers, cover that includes passenger liability and full vehicle insurance and underwritten by Lloyds of London.

General information
The quoted rates are subject to change without prior warning if there are any increases in bed levies, park/conservation fees, fuel, sales tax or VAT or any other circumstances beyond our control in South Africa or the countries described in the quotation or reservation.
Alan Tours cannot be held responsible for any loss of life, limb or other injury or loss or damage to property and belongings nor the time lost due to unforeseen delays due to circumstances out of our control while our guests are on tour with Alan Tours or any of our designated service providers or sub-contractors assisting us in the day to day running of our business that may occur on the tour or activity booked with us. 

Guests should take out reliable and comprehensive travel insurance for their own personal belongings, personal accident, emergency or medical travel and other expenses, cancellation and restrictions imposed on their travel plans and bookings.

Alan Tours will not be held responsible for any changes initiated by airlines or discontinue flights on certain routes or change scheduled timetables resulting in missed connections etc.

It is essential that we are advised by our guests of any allergies or other medical conditions they might have, so that we and our service providers are aware of the situation before their arrival in South Africa. Should there be any dietary requirements that need to be catered for please advise us in good time to ensure that our service providers can make the necessary arrangements to provide the required meals etc. Some of these requirements might attract extra costs.

Thank you for your understanding.

Contact details

ALAN TOURS
P.O. Box 185
Claredon Marine
6023
South Africa
Tel:  +27 (0) 41 378 1486
Cell: +27 (0) 72 4634
Fax:  +27(0) 86 603 3701
info@alantours.co.za
www.alantours.co.za

Alan Tours compiled a list of the most Frequently Asked Questions, to put your mind at ease, while you prepare for your journey. On this page you will be able to peruse the questions most commonly asked by travellers when preparing to travel to South Africa for a holiday.

If your question is not answered here, please e-mail your query to us and we will contact you directly with an answer.

What are the entry requirements?

It is of utmost importance that you thoroughly check your visa requirements before your intended date of travel. Alan tours will not be held responsible should necessary visa requirements not be fulfilled. Border officials are not able to issue visas on the spot, therefore visas must be obtained in advance. Both the cost, currency, accepted method of payment, and type of visa (i.e., single, double or multiple entry) should be checked in advance to avoid any inconveniences and delays when entering countries or crossing borders. Please note some countries can change their visa requirements no warning.
All visitors are required to carry a passport that is valid for six months beyond the intended length of stay. Please ensure that you have the correct visas for the countries you are visiting.
You are required to have a minimum of two blank pages in your passport to enable the entry visa into South Africa to be issued.

What should I pack?

Contrary to what a lot of people think or are not told by travel agents is that South Africa does have a winter and it rains upon occasion, more often at certain times of the year than at others. Being a predominantly arid country, we thank our lucky stars when it does rain, this should not be seen as being vindictive when this sort of behavior occurs after an occasional shower opens up over an open game drive vehicle for example, it is an entirely involuntary reaction to a life time of being close to the soil.

With the above in mind, when planning to come to South Africa bring enough clothing to ensure you enjoy the journey at all times and during all weather conditions.
Port Elizabeth is reputed to have the third best coastal climate for a coastal city in the world. The next question I get asked is; which are the first three? I still don’t know but we’re quite happy to be fourth. The climate is temperate and moderate where summer temperatures can reach a high of around 35 degrees centigrade during the day the normal is around 25 degrees and 20 degrees at night. The winter daily temperature is about 15 to 24 degrees with the nights going down to the 4’s and 5 degrees on the coldest nights.

There is a slight predominance of rain in the summertime but the rain never really hangs around for very long mostly coming in the form of passing showers before being swept out to sea again.
The recommended clothing for a safari and other outdoor activities are light cotton tops and trousers and shorts pants. The best colours are khaki and beige. Light cotton, long sleeved clothing is recommended for game drives during the summer months. If planning to do game drives in open game drive vehicles, please make sure you bring a fleece jacket or other warm coat as well as a beanie and scarf for added comfort if you are travelling in the winter months. For foot wear it is advised to bring good light weight durable walking shoes and sandals or slip slops. If one intends to do more strenuous walks and hikes then please bring your hiking boots and trainers as well. Ssun block and lip balm are essential, sunglasses, wide brimmed hat, insect repellent, binoculars and camera (with a zoom) and plenty of spare memory sticks and spare batteries (Africa is the photographer’s dream!)

What is a single supplement?

A single supplement is a fee imposed by hotels, lodges and camps on single travellers. Tour prices are quoted based on two people sharing accommodation. If someone takes a room by themselves they have to pay the per-person price plus the single supplement fee. It is the excess cost you pay in occupying a room designated to take two people by yourself alone.
(see terms and conditions)

How far in advance should I book my safari?

It is better to book your tour/safari with Alan Tours as far in advance as possible to ensure availability at the time you wish to travel. This is especially important for those wishing to travel on private custom safaris (during the peak seasons (October to March).

How many people do you take on a tour?

Most of our tours and safaris have guaranteed departures with a minimum of two people (see itineraries).

Will we be with other guests on our safari?

Our tours are personalized and consist of your group/family only. We book the types of accommodation based on your requests so that you can have as much privacy as you'd like.

Is it okay if I am a single traveller to South Africa?

Of course, we are happy to cater to your needs.

Will I see the Big 5 and Big 7 on safari?

Each day on your safari will produce something different. In National Parks there is the chance you can see elephant, lion, rhino, buffalo and leopard (Whales in season). In addition, you may see a variety of antelope, reptiles as well as different species of birds..

Are we safe from the animals on safari?

Always you will be under experienced guidance and highly trained rangers.

When is the best time to visit for my holiday to South Africa?

It depends on what kind of experience you are looking for but generally South Africa is a year round holiday destination.

Is English language spoken widely?

Yes, English is spoken throughout Southern Africa, especially by those involved in the tourism branche.

How is the local food?

Great!

Do I have to take Malaria tablets?

Malaria occurs in many parts of South, Southern and East Africa and it is very important that you take precautions against malaria prior to starting off on your holiday. Please take the time to visit you doctor or pharmacist for recommendations regarding the correct prophylactic to take in the areas to which you will be visiting.
If you are on prescription medication, please ensure you have an adequate supply to last the duration of your stay and a copy of your prescription(s).

Are there any other health issues to be concerned about?

You should also be aware of hepatitis, for which you can be inoculated. Ticks may carry tick bite fever, which is easily treated.

Is the water safe to drink?

The water in all major cities in South Africa is safe to drink. But there is always bottled water available for those who prefer.

Where can I convert the tour cost into my own currency?

Use the currency converter on our website to change amounts into your own currency.

What time zone is South Africa?

South Africa is 2 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GTM), one hour ahead of Central European winter time, 8 hours behind Australian Eastern Standard Time and 7 hours ahead of Eastern Standard winter time. Between South Africa and its neighbouring countries or between the 9 provinces of South Africa is no daylight saving and no time-zone changes.

What are tips on tipping?

We are often asked questions about gratuities or tipping the staff, if applicable and if yes, how much. We see a gratuity as just that, an appreciation for a job well done. In South Africa we adhere to the international norm of 10% of the bill. For other services it is up to the discretion of the guest, who might like to consult with the lodge manager or guide as the case maybe.

Can my cell phone work in Africa?

Yes, there is extensive coverage throughout South Africa. In some countries, this may be primarily in and around major urban areas. However networks cover all towns, cities and national roads. Before travelling, ask your service provider to open your phone to allow international roaming.

How much money should I take?

Aside from shopping, you need money for incidentals, drinks and tipping. Please note in some rural shops they accept only cash.

What about banks?

For the most part you will find South Africa an easy destination for banking. From the moment you step off the plane you will start seeing the availability of banks, bureau de change and ATMs. The banks are generally open Mondays to Fridays from 9am to 3.30 pm , and on Saturdays 8.30am to 11am. Those at the airports adjust their hours to accommodate international flights. The major banks have branches and ATMs in most large towns and cities. International credit cards are widely accepted.

Where can I smoke?

The law prohibits smoking in most public spaces, including railway stations and airports. Most restaurants have designated non-smoking and smoking areas.

What is a township?

During apartheid, black South Africans were forced to live in areas set apart from whites. These areas, which came to be known as townships, remain today even though apartheid has disappeared, and many are struggling to overcome poverty, poor housing, and overcrowding. Townships throughout South Africa may not be as large as Soweto, but they still have the same warmth, spirit and vibrancy that make a visit unforgettable.

What are the different areas of South Africa?

South Africa is divided into 9 provinces: Western Cape, Eastern Cape, Northern Cape, Free State, Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal, Limpopo, North West and Mpumalanga. Major cities include Cape Town, Pretoria, Johannesburg, Durban and Bloemfontein.

Is it safe to walk around?

Yes, like anywhere, provided you don't go wandering about dark streets at the dead of night. There is crime in South Africa but you don't need to do more than take an usual sensible precautions. Don't display valuable possessions carelessly in the public. Like anywhere else in the world, know that there are some areas of the major town where outsiders present a more vulnerable target.

WHAT TO LEAVE BEHIND

Your watch, laptop, work, stress, concept of time, pre-conceptions about anything
and any attitude that is not pure adventure.

Explore South Africa!