FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Whether it’s your first trip, or you’re a seasoned traveller, you probably have a few questions you’d like answered before making a trip to South Africa. To help put you at ease, we’ve summarised some of our most asked questions below.

If you don’t find the answer you’re looking for, feel free to get in touch with us here.

BOOKING YOUR TOUR

How do I book?

You can apply by filling out the online application form – Click here to apply.

You will receive an email shortly after to discuss the finer details of the trip, as well as payment options.

We are readily available for further communication via various channels.

When should I book?

Each of our tours is carefully planned, unique and customised with bespoke experiences to optimise travel for women in South Africa. We can’t guarantee future tour dates, so if you see an upcoming tour with availability we recommend booking as soon as possible to secure your spot.

Do you arrange travel visas?

Due to the diverse and constantly changing requirements for different nationalities, we do not arrange visas. We are however happy to provide you with your tour itinerary and proof of accommodation for you to make the application either with an agency or directly to the consulate in your country.

Do I need insurance for the trip?

To get your visa, you will most likely need proof of medical insurance. To travel with Rise & Roam, we require you to have travel and medical insurance for your trip. Before purchasing separate insurance, check with your credit card provider and medical aid if you are already covered for your trip through their services. ]

Do I need any vaccinations?

No, vaccinations are generally not necessary to enter South Africa, however, we do recommend that you check with your local travel clinic that no new amendments have been made to travel regulations in and out of the perspective countries you will be travelling through.

PAYMENT

How does payment work?

Space is limited on each tour so we highly recommend booking your spot as soon as possible. To secure your place, you will be required to pay a 50% deposit. Thereafter you will need to pay the final balance 60 days before arrival. The balance of the payment may change according to exchange rates if paid in separate instalments.

Is my deposit refundable?

No, the deposit is not refundable. Because space is limited on our tours (only 12 spots per tour) we require an upfront deposit to secure your booking.

Do you offer payment plans?

Yes! We do offer payment plans. You have the option of a 3 payment plan which consists of the non-refundable 50% deposit, followed by two equal payments before the tour. Please note that this option is subject to change, depending on the tour cost and date of booking. But be assured that all information and any changes to our payment plan offering will be provided to you before making your booking.

Does the tour price include international airline tickets?

No, our tour fees are inclusive of travel within South Africa only. You will be responsible for your air travel to South Africa. Please see the tour itinerary for exact tour cost inclusions.

Payments & refunds

All tour payments are non-refundable and non-transferable. We require travel insurance to ensure you are protected in the event of a medical or family emergency. If you need to cancel for a covered reason, you can file a claim with your travel insurance.

Can I switch tours after I have booked?

Unfortunately not. We are unable to change the date or booking once you have put a deposit down on a specific tour date.

TOUR DETAILS

What is the size of the tour group?

We keep our tour group numbers low with a minimum of eight and a maximum of 12 ladies. The small group size ensures personal attention from our local guides, ease of travel, and exclusive experiences for group activities. We also find this is the ideal number for building authentic connections and positive group vibes.

Do you plan individual itineraries?

Yes! We can custom design a tour itinerary for you, arranging all logistics but allowing you to navigate it on your own should you not wish to join a group or want to travel on dates that do not coincide with tour dates.

What if I have special dietary needs?

We can accommodate most dietary requirements and food allergies. Please consider that we will be dining at restaurants for most of the meals on tour, so please let us know as soon as possible so that we can communicate with establishments well in advance. We will always cater to dietary requirements to the best of our ability, but we won't always have control over the food being supplied. We ask that tour members be mindful of their dietary requirements when ordering and also carry suitable snacks as a backup. Please note that there may be times that we are travelling in remote areas and certain dietary requirements cannot be met.

Are single occupancy rooms available?

Our pricing is based on twin rooms, however, if you would like a single room there will be a single room supplement applicable. Please request a separate quote for this on inquiring to book a tour.

How do I join the start of the tour?

Rise & Roam will arrange your transfer on arrival from the airport to the tour hotel. Your check-in times will vary according to the hotel and your flight schedule. We will coordinate your arrival and check-in times as efficiently as possible.

Will I have time to do sightseeing around the start and end cities of the tour?

If you want to explore the start or end cities more than what the itinerary allows, we recommend arriving a few days earlier or staying on longer after the tour. Rise & Roam can assist with planning these additional days for you if required. The tour activities are all optional, so if you prefer some personal time and wish to sit out of any activities you are more than welcome to do so. Unfortunately, these activities are not refundable should you not join the group.

Can I join for part of the tour only?

The tour is a full package. Travellers cannot join for only a selected section of the itinerary. We are, however, able to customise a tour itinerary for you, arranging all logistics but allowing you to navigate it on your own should you not wish to join a group or want to travel on dates that do not coincide with tour dates.

BAGGAGE

Baggage Tips

You will be responsible for carrying your luggage, so keep it light and easy to manage.
Please adhere to baggage allowances on your specific airline and ensure your suitcase size complies with the outlined regulations on your ticket.
We recommend that you bring a day bag or backpack to carry the items required for a full day of touring.

It is important to take the following items in your hand luggage:

Personal medications in their original, labelled packaging
Contact lenses
Paperwork including tickets, insurance, medical records, allergy information, travel documents, and emergency contacts
Camera equipment and valuables

AMENITIES & FINANCES

Can I use my credit card for shopping and food?

Before departure, verify with your bank that your ATM card and PIN will work internationally. ATMs are easy to find in all major cities in South Africa and all major stores will accept Mastercard and Visa. For more information on money matters in South Africa click here.

Are tips and gratuities included in the tour fee?

South Africa has a tipping culture. Whether it is the porter, waiter, or driver, it is always good manners to leave a tip. Rise & Roam tries to include gratuities where possible, however, you are more than welcome to offer a tip whenever you feel you have received excellent service. This is always a much-appreciated gesture.

Can I charge electronics?

Yes, you can. The plug types in South Africa are D, M, and N. The standard voltage is 230 V, and the frequency is 50Hz. We strongly advise travellers to pack an appropriate adapter with surge protection and a power bank. Should you be going on a safari you may need to do without your hairdryer for a few days as many lodges run on solar power.

Will my belongings be safe?

While we do our best to keep everyone and everything safe at all times, you ultimately need to be the caretaker of all your personal belongings. Be discreet with valuables or cash, always keep your camera equipment and day bag close by and in your sight when touring and make use of a suitcase with a lock. Travel insurance is always a good idea to cover any mishaps.

Is there easy access to medical care and medication?

Although pharmacies are easily accessible in all major cities, it is advised that you bring enough (and a little extra) personal medication along with you. Keep it in the original packaging. Private hospitals and doctors are also easily available should you become ill or have an accident, but please note you will need to cover these bills.

How will we travel within South Africa?

All local travel within South Africa will be in a private tour minibus.

Will there be Wi-Fi and mobile signal?

Hotels and lodges usually provide Wi-Fi either in the suite or in the communal lodge area. You will be able to buy a South African SIM card and easily purchase top-up data. Mobile signal is good in and around the cities, however, should you be staying off the beaten track on safari or along secluded mountain ranges, the signal may be weak.

Will I be able to do laundry?

There are opportunities to do some laundry along the tour. However, if you want to maximise your relaxation time, we suggest packing so that laundry day isn’t needed until you arrive back home. If you prefer to pack light and launder, be sure to ask your tour host where and when you can do washing once you’re on the tour.

Travel Tips

Exploring South Africa Safely

South Africa is famous for its unique combination of natural beauty, vibrant cities, arts and culture, and diverse wildlife. From unforgettable safaris to breathtaking b