Passport, Visa, Health and Money Matters

Your passport is your most important travel document. Check its validity well before your departure to ensure it meets the necessary requirements. Most countries require that your passport:

• Has at least two blank pages for each destination you plan to visit.
• Is valid for at least six months beyond your return date.

If your passport does not meet these criteria, it is best to renew it in advance, as you may be denied entry.

To safeguard your passport, consider the following precautions:

• Make a certified copy and keep it in a separate location.
• Leave a copy with a trusted contact at home.
• Take a photo of your passport and store it on your phone.

Visa requirements depend on your nationality and the countries you plan to visit. Many nationalities do not need a visa for South Africa and Botswana, while countries like Kenya and Tanzania require travellers to apply for a tourist visa in advance. Some visas can be purchased on arrival, such as those for Zimbabwe and Zambia.

It is your responsibility to determine and obtain the required visas. For an up-to-date list of visa-exempt countries, reach out to your African safari expert at Wild Wings Safaris.

For countries that charge a visa fee (e.g. Zimbabwe, Zambia), ensure you have sufficient cash in USD to pay upon arrival. Check your itinerary to determine how many entries you need:

• A double-entry visa is often cheaper than two single-entry visas.
• A multiple-entry visa may require advance application at an embassy or consulate.
• For Victoria Falls, if you plan to visit both Zimbabwe and Zambia, the KAZA Univisa is the best option.

A common concern for travellers to Africa is malaria. Many top safari destinations are in malaria-prone areas, but malaria cases among tourists are rare. To minimise risk:

• Take malaria prophylaxis (e.g., Malarone/Malanil/Malateq).
• Avoid mosquito bites by using repellent and wearing long-sleeved clothing in the evenings.
• If you feel unwell during or after your trip, inform your doctor that you have been in a malaria area so you can be tested.

For more information, visit our Malaria Information Page.

Another important health consideration is Yellow Fever. While rare in most African safari destinations, some countries have a low risk. Our blog, Keeping You Safe On Safari: Travel Health Tips, lists African countries requiring proof of Yellow Fever vaccination for entry and countries requiring proof of vaccination if arriving from a Yellow Fever region.

Accessibility for travellers with disabilities can vary across Africa. If you or a travel companion require special accommodations, please contact our UK office at +44 203 474 0093 before making a reservation to ensure we can meet your needs.

The most commonly used currencies in Southern and East Africa are:

• South African Rand (ZAR) – Used in South Africa.
• US Dollar (USD) – Widely accepted in many safari destinations, including Zimbabwe and Zambia.

• Exchange money at airports, banks, or official forex offices before departure or upon arrival.
• Some countries (e.g. Zimbabwe and Zambia) only accept USD notes printed in 2009 or later.
• Carry small denominations ($1, $5, $10 bills) as merchants may not always have change.
• In Zambia, all businesses must invoice and trade in Zambian Kwacha (ZMW). If you expect to make local payments, exchange some USD for Kwacha at the airport.
• Never exchange money on the street – it is illegal and often leads to scams.

• Credit cards are widely accepted, especially in South Africa.
• In remote areas or smaller establishments, card machines may not work due to network issues, so always carry some cash as a backup.
• ATMs are widely available in countries with modern infrastructure like South Africa.

To protect your cash and valuables:

• Avoid visible money belts.
• Do not carry wallets in exposed pockets.
• Never leave money or valuables in your room or unattended in vehicles.
• Use the safe in your room whenever possible.