Caprivi Explorer Escorted Group Tour Windhoek to ... - Audley Travel

Caprivi ExplorerEscorted Group TourWindhoek to Victoria Falls26 th January – 9 th February 2013Caprivi Explorer – Windhoek to Victoria Falls

AUDLEYWe are proud to have received a number of awards over recent years. We have been the Daily Telegraph UltraTravel Best Small Tour Operator winner and runner-up for the previous two years and, similarly, have been thewinner or runner-up of the Guardian and Observer’s Best Small Tour Operator award for the past five years aswell as featuring in Wanderlust magazine’s Top 10 Tour Operators for the past nine years. The readers of CondéNast Traveller magazine have also voted us their Favourite Specialist Tour Operator 2010.These awards are widely recognised as being the most respected in the travel industry as they are professionalsurveys of the publications’ readerships. With over 500 tour operators for you to choose from in the UK alone, wehope you find these awards are an additional reassurance of the quality of service you can expect from Audley.OUR NAMIBIA TEAMWe have an experienced team of specialists, all of whom have been to Namibia many times. Please call any ofthem should you have any questions about the tour.Chris Oldham exploring Sandwich HarbourDirect line: 01993 838 522Roz Balen kayaking at Pelican PointDirect line: 01993 838 519Steve Howes at the Fish River CanyonDirect line: 01993 838 504Kirsty Leyns quad-biking at the NamibRandNature ReserveDirect line: 01993 838 527Caprivi Explorer – Windhoek to Victoria Falls

MAPS OF THE REGIONCaprivi Explorer – Windhoek to Victoria Falls

TOUR INFORMATIONHOME TRUTHSWe aim to provide accurate and detailed information and to make you aware of the less positive aspects of thejourney you are undertaking, some facts you should be aware of are outlined below:EARLY STARTSThere are a number of early starts in the itinerary. This is done invariably in order to capture the best part of theday for game viewing. For this reason we have built in time at leisure, often in the middle of the day, when youcan relax.GROUP SIZEThe group size is between a minimum of four and a maximum of sixteen. The small size of the group ensures thatthe trip is a more personal experience and that you can always hear and speak to your guides. The small groupsize also ensures that your experience of a particular sight is not marred by the presence of too many people.SINGLE TRAVELLERSAlthough we welcome single travellers, due to the complicated logistics of this tour, the single supplement canmake this an expensive option. There are still two options; you can choose to share a room with another singletraveller on the tour and pay the standard tour price or if you really do want to guarantee sole occupancy of aroom, a supplement of £550 will be payable. Please note that due to limited availability at some of the lodges onthe tour, we are only able to accept a maximum of four single travellers unless you are prepared to share a room.EXTENDING YOUR TRIPYou have the option to extend your trip, either before or after your tour. For example, some may want to go andsee Namibia’s dunes and desert before starting the trip whilst others may like to fly to a beach in Mozambique orMauritius at the end of the trip. If you would like to extend your trip please just call one of our Namibiaspecialists on 01993 838 525.TOUR HEALTH & FITNESS REQUIREMENTSTo ensure that all participants get the most out of the tour, it is important that you are fully aware of the level ofactivity and fitness and medical health required to successfully complete this itinerary. Please read this dossiercarefully prior to confirming your place on the tour, and having established the facts, it is your responsibility tocontact us with any concerns regarding individual levels of fitness, health or ability. Please be aware that ourtour leaders have the right to exclude customers from the tour if they feel they are not sufficiently fit, healthy orable to complete the tour without affecting its safety, comfort or smooth progress. If you would like to discussany of these issues further please call our Namibia team on 01993 838 525.ACTIVITY LEVEL – MEDIUMThe vast majority of this trip does not require any significant level of physical fitness or agility. However, thereare a few elements which involve getting in and out of boats or walking on rough un-surfaced paths and so acertain degree of physical dexterity will be required. An experienced guide will be on hand to help anyone shouldthey need it. There is a lot of driving on rough, bumpy roads, in a range of vehicles including coaches and 4x4cars, game drives can last for four or five hours at times. Finally, it may also be necessary for guests to carrytheir own luggage to and from vehicles and camps rooms.Baby elephant enjoying a mud bathCaprivi Explorer – Windhoek to Victoria Falls

DAY BY DAY SUMMARY OF THE TOURItinerary in BriefAccommodation ArrangementsSaturday 26January 2013You will fly from London to Johannesburg. The flight isovernight.Overnight on aircraft.Sunday 27January 2013You will connect onto a flight to Windhoek. On arrival youwill be greeted by your guide and taken to Galton Housefor one night. Your guides will meet you in the evening fora welcome meal where they will brief you about your trip.Galton House, WindhoekLuxury Room - Breakfast is includedMonday 28January 2013Today you head north via Okahandja craft market and viaOutjo into Etosha. There will be time for a late afternoongame drive. After dinner you can enjoy an evening besidethe floodlit waterhole.Okaukuejo Rest Camp, Etosha National ParkStandard room - All meals are includedTuesday 29January 2013You will have a game drive across Etosha stopping atselected waterholes on the way. There will be a picniclunch at Halali followed by an afternoon game drivetowards the eastern gate. You will leave the park by thisgate and arrive at Mushara Bush Camp in time to relax andhave dinner.Mushara Bush Camp, Etosha National ParkTent - All meals are includedWednesday 30January 2013A second full day of game drives on the eastern side of thepark, with a picnic lunch taken at either Halali orNamutoni.Mushara Bush Camp, Etosha National ParkTent - All meals are includedThursday 31January 2013You will leave Mushara after breakfast and visit LakeOtjikoto. The journey continues via Rundu to Bagani thenonto Nunda River Lodge.Nunda River Lodge, Popa Falls and MahanguGame ParkBungalow or Tent - All meals are includedFriday 01February 2013You will begin the day by going to to visit Popa Falls andthen on to a game drive into Mahangu Game Reserve. Thisreserve is good for birding and you can often see largeherds of elephant here.Nunda River Lodge, Popa Falls and MahanguGame ParkBungalow or tent - All meals are includedSaturday 02February 2013You will be driven across the Caprivi to Kongola and on toMazambala. During the afternoon you can enjoy anafternoon boat trip on the Kwando River.Mazambala Island Lodge, Mudumu and MamiliNational ParkBungalow - All meals are includedSunday 03February 2013You will have a full day game drive into the eastern side ofBwabwata National Park including a visit to Horse ShoeBend, an area which generally has the most prolific wildlife. You may either return to the lodge for lunch, or stay outfor the whole day.Mazambala Island Lodge, Mudumu and MamiliNational ParkBungalow - All meals are includedMonday 04February 2013You will be driven up to Katima Mulilo and then south fromthere to Ngoma in order to cross into Botswana. Continuefrom there to Kasane. After checking in at the lodge thereshould be time for a late afternoon game drive into ChobeNational Park.Chobe Safari Lodge, Chobe National ParkRiver Room – All meals are includedTuesday 05February 2013You will have a morning game drive into Chobe Nationalpark returning to the lodge for lunch. During the afternoonyou can enjoy an afternoon boat cruise on the Chobe riverto watch out for game coming down out of the Park todrink at the river.Chobe Safari Lodge, Chobe National ParkRiver Room – All meals are includedCaprivi Explorer – Windhoek to Victoria Falls

Wednesday 06February 2013Your guide will leave you at this point and you will have atransfer from Chobe Safari Lodge across the border intoZimbabwe and on to Victoria Falls Town. The afternoon isat your leisure.Ilala Lodge, Victoria Falls Town, ZimbabweStandard - Breakfast is includedThursday 07February 2013You have a day at the Victoria Falls at your leisure. Youmight like to walk to the Falls, have afternoon tea on theterrace of the Victoria Falls hotel or barter for crafts in themarket.Ilala Lodge, Victoria Falls Town, ZimbabweStandard - Breakfast is includedFriday 08February 2013You will be met by a Bushtracks driver and taken to theairport. You will catch a flight to Johannesburg. InJohannesburg you will connect onto a flight to the UK.Overnight on aircraft.Saturday 09February 2013You will arrive back in the UK in the early morning.Kudu, Etosha National ParkCaprivi Explorer – Windhoek to Victoria Falls

VEHICLES & GUIDESTHE GROUP TOUR VEHICLESThe group tour will travel around the country in two or three 4x4 safari vehicles. These vehicles have beenspecially modified so that every guest has a comfortable window seat with good support. They also carry secondbatteries for fridge/freezers, lights and camera battery charging, long range fuel tanks and plenty of water. Mostalso have VHF inter-vehicle radios that allow multi vehicle groups to communicate with each other while ‘on theroad’. These radios also enable us to communicate with local rangers in the eastern side of the Etosha NationalPark, ensuring that those ‘special’ sightings are never missed when you are in the area. We also have satellitetelephones which can be booked and used when deemed to be necessary.OUR GUIDESThe knowledge, experience and attitude of our guides are critical to a successful safari which is why we ensurethat they are both personable and very professional. Our group tour guides are trained to the highest levels ofprofessionalism and expertise. The guides will have an intimate knowledge of each camp/lodge and area, beingable to expose the relevant highlights, adding continuity and depth to your safari. We invest in guides’ trainingensuring that they are constantly updated and that they never cease adding to their encyclopedic knowledge. Itgoes without saying that they know exactly what a ‘True African Safari’ is all about. Not only are our guideshighly qualified, each has a specific area of expertise. Together they possess the breadth and depth of knowledgeto allow them to answer questions and satisfy the particular interests of each of our guests. Here are some of theguides we use on our group tour safaris.ORLANDO PETRUSHARASEBSEBASTIAAN KAZIMBUPEREZKAMUKUENJANDJEELVIS NGHIMUTINACaprivi Explorer – Windhoek to Victoria Falls

TOUR PRICESunset at Popa FallsArrangements as specified per person £4,610Single Supplement £550Per person deposit required to confirm these arrangements £692The deposit required is detailed above and relates to the itinerary detailed in this quotation. In most cases thedeposit is 15% of the total cost, however in some instances a larger deposit is required in order to secureparticular services. Please refer to the Important Information booklet and booking form for further details on ourTerms and Conditions. Please note if you confirm your booking within 60 days of your departure date fullpayment is required at the time of booking.INCLUDED IN THE PRICE• International long-haul flights as specified in the itinerary with UK airport taxes.• All short-haul flights as specified in the itinerary.• Full-time services of your guide.• Park entrance fees in the National Parks & Reserves in Namibia and Botswana.• Twin share accommodation as specified.• Bottled water in the vehicles• Meals as specified in the itinerary in detailNOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE• Travel insurance.• Items of a personal nature such as laundry, drinks, etc.• Tips for your guide (discretionary).• Visas• Park fees for the Victoria Falls National Park, or activities at Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe.• Departure taxes from ZimbabweVISASNamibiaBotswanaZimbabweBritish citizens do not need a visa.Passports need to be valid for at least 6 months from the date you are due to leave Namibia.British citizens do not need a visa.Passports need to be valid for at least 6 months from the date you are due to leave Botswana.British Citizens travelling to Zimbabwe require a visa and this can be obtained on arrival for U$55. Pleaseensure you carry sufficient cash in U$ with you for this visa fee as credit cards are not accepted. If you arenot a UK passport holder then please check with your country specialist what the visa requirement is.Important Note: We cannot under any circumstances guarantee that your visa application for any country will beaccepted. However, in our experience refusals are extremely rare. Visa information is given in good faith and isaccurate to the best of our knowledge.Caprivi Explorer – Windhoek to Victoria Falls

YELLOW FEVERThe only circumstance you would require a yellow fever certificate would be if you visited Zambia whilst stayingat the Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe. If you do this then you do require a yellow fever certificate to enter SouthAfrica, even if you are only in transit in the airport.QUALITY OF SERVICEMost companies claim to offer first class service, but very few genuinely set out to achieve it. At Audley we arewholeheartedly devoted to offering you first class service from the moment we start planning your trip until afteryour return. If you feel that our standards at any time drop below your expectations or you have any suggestionsabout how we could improve our service, then please contact the Africa Safari Manager, Ruth Milligan on 01993838 503 or e-mail ruth.milligan@audleytravel.comHOW TO BOOKIf you are happy with the arrangements outlined within this tour and would like to book, please forward yourcompleted booking form and the deposit specified above. The deposit can be paid by cheque, bank transfer orcredit / debit card. Please make cheques payable to Audley Travel.On occasions, we may be asked by suppliers to make payment to them earlier than normal. Such requests may,for example, be made in order to secure flights, accommodation and other services during periods of peakdemand. Whilst suppliers may have no contractual right to make such requests, failure to comply with them mayresult in the loss of confirmed arrangements. Where this situation arises, we reserve the right to ask you to makepayment of the requested sum within a stipulated period and prior to balance due date. We will of courseendeavour to avoid doing so if we can. Any such part payment will be treated as part of your deposit for thepurposes of our terms and conditions.PAYMENT BY CREDIT CARDPlease note that we do not charge a fee on deposit payments by credit card, except when a deposit is more than15%. In this situation a charge will apply. Credit card fees are detailed on the booking form. We charge a creditcard fee due to the high fees charged to tour operators by the credit card companies. We have chosen to makethis transparent rather than including it within the trip price. You may therefore wish to pay the balance by banktransfer, debit card or personal cheque.Oryx, Etosha National ParkCaprivi Explorer – Windhoek to Victoria Falls

WHY TRAVEL WITH US?REPUTATION & QUALITYWell over 80% of our clients have travelled with us inthe past or have had Audley recommended to them.When you book with us you are assured of qualityarrangements if only for the fact that we simply cannotafford to risk our excellent reputation. Our service hasbeen recognised by the readers of well-knownpublications including the Guardian & Observer, theDaily Telegraph and Wanderlust magazine, where wehave consistently featured in their ‘best tour operator’awards for a number of years.PERSONAL SERVICEWe are committed to offering you a very personalservice, with all your arrangements being handled byone country specialist. They will remain your one pointof contact and will take responsibility for the smoothoperation of your trip. They are supported by a team ofspecialists for that region and a professionaladministration and management team.From the moment you contact us, we are here toanswer your questions accurately and honestly, bethey about specific arrangements or any more generalqueries you may have. We are experienced travellerswith a thorough and in-depth knowledge of ourspecialist destinations, and the benefit of thisexperience is yours throughout. When we do not knowthe answer to a question we will endeavour to find outand get back to you as soon as possible.QUALITY SERVICE WHEN YOU ARE TRAVELLINGWe take a good deal of care when choosing our travelpartners overseas, taking into account their quality ofservice, guides and vehicles. We have built up manylong-standing relationships, ensuring that they deliverthe level of service demanded by Audley clients. Ourlocal guides and drivers, where appropriate, are thepeople you will meet. In many cases we know thempersonally, in all cases we ensure that they are of thehighest calibre. They are there to do much more thanshow you specific sights and provide factualinformation. They will be able to tell you about locallife, culture, cuisines and customs; and, whereapplicable, act as translator. In certain parts of theworld a specialist guide is more appropriate, forexample, a wildlife expert.A SMOOTH JOURNEYWe have procedures in place for dealing quickly andefficiently with mishaps from minor flight timealterations to more fundamental changes. If problemsdo occur we will rapidly rearrange your itinerary tomake best use of your time given the changedcircumstances, not simply cancel part of your trip orleave you sitting in an airport waiting for hours for arescheduled flight. Importantly, in these situations wewill do everything possible to minimise any extra costsinvolved – in the vast majority of cases no extracharges will be made. If a problem does occur whileyou are travelling you can contact us on our 24 hournumber. We will do everything in our power to rectifythe problem immediately rather than allow it to spoilyour trip.DETAILED TRAVEL DOCUMENTSApproximately two to three weeks before you travel wewill send you all your travel documents presented in aconvenient travel organiser. As well as your fullitinerary and air tickets, there will also be additionalinformation such as recommended restaurants andpractical tips. A few days before you travel yourspecialist will call you to have a final talk through youritinerary and answer any last minute questions youmay have.RESPONSIBLE TRAVELWe have a firm commitment to minimisingthe environmental and social impact oftravel, and strive to ensure that a visitfrom an Audley client has a positive effecton the destination. We have afirm commitment to the principles of ‘responsibletravel’ and have been awarded AITO 5 star status (thehighest achievable) for our policies and practises. Wecontinue to work with AITO, and a number of otherbodies, to improve our policies. For more detailsplease refer to our website (www.audleytravel.com/rt)where you will find details of our responsible travelpolicy and also our Travellers’ Code.LEGAL LIABILITYWe are a UK company and hence must fully complywith English law. When booking with us you can restassured that your arrangements are carefully plannedas we have a reputation to maintain and are legallyliable for any omissions or negligent acts. You may notfind you have this level of reassurance if you makeyour own travel arrangements independently.First class guidesCaprivi Explorer – Windhoek to Victoria Falls

CHARITY SUPPORTAudley has been supporting carbon reduction projects through Friends of Conservation since 2005 and inaddition to this each individual department also supports a charity of their choice with a yearly financialdonation. This charity is one that is close to their hearts and the team often chooses to fundraise to add to thisamount. Please ask your specialist if you would like to find out more as in most instances they will have visitedthe charity themselves, or one of their colleagues will have.THE MARA RIANDA CHARITABLE TRUSTOur friend and former colleague Ariana Grammaticas left Audley in 2007 to return to her home country of Kenya.In early 2008 she wrote to us about The Mara Rianda Charitable Trust. Set up by Richard Long, who visited Kenyain 2004, it supports the school and community in the wider Mara area. All the money Richard raises is used toprovide this support, and he covers administration costs himself. So far the Trust has installed a borehole tosupply fresh water, built five new classrooms provided bursaries for exceptional students to go to secondaryschool and paid the salary for one teacher. Though much has been achieved, there is always much more that canbe done!AUDLEY AND THE MARA RIANDA CHARITABLE TRUST IN THE FUTUREWe initially became involved with The Mara Rianda Charitable Trust to help with its aim to bring clean drinkingwater to the children of Aitong Primary School, who were previously drinking from a muddy spring. Complicationsarose when it was discovered that the spring that the trust had hoped to tap for clean water dried up for threemonths of each year. After several meetings with the Maasai elders, it has now been agreed that the water can betaken from the main spring at Aitong village and be pumped over one kilometre to the school. This project isnearing completion, aided by donations from Audley and other organisations. Following on from this greatsuccess, Richard’s next aim is to install more latrines, new solar lighting, a new kitchen and rainwater harvestingequipment back at Mara Rianda Primary School. We are proud to support The Mara Rianda Charitable Trust, andlook forward to supporting these excellent projects in the future.Caprivi Explorer – Windhoek to Victoria Falls

Monday 28January 2013Windhoek to Okaukuejo with Ultimate Safarisshared vehicle with your driver guideYou will drive north from Windhoek, stopping first at the Okahanja Craft Market. You will be able to getout, stretch your legs and get a cold drink. If you would like to you can try your hand at bartering forsome of the hundreds of crafts on sale here. Following a stop here you will continue north to Etosha,entering by the southern gate. You will proceed to Okaukuejo Restcamp.Etosha National Park IntroductionEtosha is one of Africa's largest game parks. Much of it is covered by the silver Etosha salt pan thatshimmers in the heat. To the south of the pan there are open grasslands and woodland and permanentwaterholes that act as a magnet for game. In the dry season the game congregates in their thousandsaround the water sources, leading to some phenomenal game viewing.On Etosha's grassveld it is easy to find grazers, including Burchell's zebra, blue wildebeest, red hartebeestand black-faced impala. Kudu are found on the margins of the woodland, whilst giraffe nibble the acaciasand eland come to drink. Etosha's cats are thriving with large populations of lion, leopard and cheetah.Elephant occur in hundred strong herds whilst black and white rhino are found particularly in the west ofthe park. Etosha has over 340 bird species and it is common to see ostrich and secretary birds on theopen plains. There are over 35 species of raptor, including the yellow-billed kite, steppe eagle and pygmyfalcon. From black-faced babblers to the crimson-breasted shrike, birders will not be disappointed.Gemsbok, Etosha National ParkTuesday 29January 2013Western Etosha to Eastern Etosha - Ultimate Safarisguided transferToday you will enjoy a game drive through Etosha National park from west to east. Your guide will stop offat waterholes along the way in the hope of spotting some good game.Wednesday 30January 2013Excursion with Ultimate Safaris in Etoshashared excursion accompanied by your guideThe whole day will be spent on an extended game drive to spot the many different animal and birdspecies in Etosha. Your guide will also take you to the immense Etosha Pan lookout to enjoy views overthe shimmering flats.Thursday 31January 2013Eastern Etosha to Popa Falls - Ultimate Safaristransfer by vehicle with your driver-guideToday your guide will drive you from Eastern Etosha to Popa Falls. You will leave early in the morning andmay be able to visit Lake Otjikoto and Tsumeb museum if of interest. You will continue your route viaRundu to Bagani and then proceed to your lodge.The Caprivi Strip IntroductionIn northern Namibia the Caprivi Strip stretches east along the top of Botswana and is quite unlike therest of the country. It receives high rainfall, has lush vegetation and rich and diverse wildlife.The Okavango & Kwando Rivers snake across the Strip giving rise to waterfalls, rapids and swamps. Fertilesoils support many small villages with children herding goats and cows, often all over the road.There are a number of national parks in the Caprivi. Mahangu is characterised by riverine forests, floodplains and magnificent baobabs. The park is rich in game with many antelope species, elephant, buffaloand lion. The picnic spot in the park overlooks a wonderful hippo pool. Neighbouring Bwabwata hasextensive savannah, ancient Kalahari woodland, lily studded wetlands and abundant game. Further east,Mdumu is notable for its large herds of buffalo whilst neighbouring Mamili is the largest wetland area inNamibia. The intricate network of channels, reed beds and ox-bow lagoons are a haven for sitatunga, redlechwe and a myriad of birds from greater swamp warblers to lesser jacanas. Finally, in eastern Caprivithere are beautiful wilderness areas beside the Chobe River. Lodges here provide ideal bases for ChobeRiver trips or visits into Botswana.Caprivi Explorer – Windhoek to Victoria Falls

Popa Falls and Mahangu Game Park IntroductionIn the corner of the Caprivi Strip lies the captivating Mahangu Game Reserve. The reserve serves as aborder between Botswana and Namibia and has the perennial Okavango River running through it.Characterised by riverine forests, flood plains and magnificent baobabs, this is one of Namibia's mostdiverse areas. In Mahangu you will find many animals including elephant, buffalo, red lechwe, sable, roanantelope, bushbuck, kudu, reedbuck, impala, wildebeest, tsessebe and sitatunga. The birding in thereserve is spectacular with more than 400 bird species. The reserve has a mixture of wetland habitats,adjacent to large stretches of pristine Kalahari sandveld, making it an ideal home for birds. Conspicuousexamples being ostrich, king fishers, bee-eaters, herons, cormorants, African skimmers, wattled cranes,pygmy geese, hornbills, egrets, coucals and African fish eagles. The picnic spot in the park, whichoverlooks the river, is well worth a visit. A good number of hippo and crocodile are present here.Contrastingly, the Popa Falls are not the most spectacular site to visit, however are lovely as part of aboat trip. These rapids in the Okavango River drop about 2.5 metres over a rocky area, caused by ageological fault. From here the Okavango River begins gradually to spread out across the Kalahari's sandsuntil eventually, in Botswana, it forms the remarkable Okavango Delta.HoneybadgerFriday 01February 2013Game viewing in Mahangu Game Reserve - Ultimate Safarisshared excursion with your driver guideYou will spend the day game viewing in the Mahangu Game Reserve. You will enjoy a morning drive beforestopping for a picnic lunch - there is a picnic spot where you can enjoy the views over the river and thebig baobab tree. Mahangu is known for excellent birds as well as large herds of elephant.Saturday 02February 2013Mahangu Game Park to Mudumu National Park - Ultimate Safaristransfer by vehicle with your driver-guideYou will leave the Mdumu area and drive across the Caprivi to Kongola. The road is tar, however you dopass through a national park and so can sometimes spot game on the way.Mudumu and Mamili National Park IntroductionThe Mudumu National Park is over a 1000 square kilometre in size covered with dense savannah, mopanewoodlands and with the Kwando River as its western border. The park is home to the rare sitatunga andthe shy red lechwe while spotted necked otters, hippo and crocodiles inhabit the waterways. During agame drive, animals likely to be encountered are elephant, buffalo, roan antelope, kudu, impala andBurchell's zebra. Mudumu is most notable for its buffalo which is uncommon in Namibia as well as thesitatunga, roan and sable antelope. The park is of course a birder's paradise like the rest of the easternCaprivi. Of particular interest are slaty egrets, white-rumped babblers, greater swamp warblers, chirpingcisticolas and swamp boubous. In the backwaters and swamps pygmy geese and African and Lesserjacanas are found.The Mamili National Park is much smaller covering only 320 square kilometres but has the distinction ofbeing the largest wetland area with conservation status in Namibia. The park is characterised by anintricate network of channels, reed beds, ox-bow lakes and tree-covered islands, with the main focus onNkasa and Lupala, two large islands in the Kwando/Linyanti River. During the dry season the islands canbe reached by road but after the rains 80% of the area becomes flooded, cutting them off from themainland. The same bird and animal species occur in Mamili as in Mudumu National Park.Caprivi Explorer – Windhoek to Victoria Falls

African jacanaSunday 03February 2013Game viewing from Mazambala - Ultimate Safarisshared excursion with your driver guideYou will have a full day of excursions with your guide. You will be able to explore the eastern side ofBwabwata National Park, including a visit to Horse Shoe Bend which is the area with the most prolificgame. You may either enjoy morning and afternoon game drives, coming back to the lodge for lunch, orstay out all day taking a picnic with you.Monday 04February 2013Mudumu to Kasane - Ultimate Safaristransfer by vehicle with your driver-guideYou will be driven east to the small town of Katima Mulilo and then south from there to Ngoma where youwill cross into Botswana. You will continue on to Kasane, just outside the Chobe National Park.Chobe National Park IntroductionEncompassing an impressive 10,700km2 of wilderness, the Chobe National Park stretches from the tip ofNorthern Botswana to the fringes of the Okavango Delta. It has a wide range of distinctive landscapes,from the emerald floodplains of the Chobe River to the sweeping grasslands of the Savuti Marsh andskeletal leadwood trees in the Savuti Channel. With such varied environments and habitats there's amagnificent array of wildlife.A profusion of palatable grass species attracts a variety of herbivores, including wildebeest, impala, kudu,waterbuck, giraffe and tsessebe. The puku is found as is the endemic Chobe bushbuck. Predator sightingsare good, with leopard, cheetah, wild dog and large prides of lion that hunt elephant. From servals toside-striped jackals, the list is endless.All that said, Chobe is most famous for its elephant and buffalo populations, both of which can herd inmammoth proportions. With an estimated 40,000 to 60,000 elephant, these gentle giants constantlysurround you. In the dry season the Chobe River sees thousands lining the banks and crossing the water.Boat trips at this time provide excellent photograph opportunities.Elephant beside the road in ChobeTuesday 05February 2013Game viewing from Chobe Safari Lodge with Ultimate GuideYou will spend a morning game driving in an open game-viewing vehicle within Chobe National Park,exploring along sandy tracks within the wooded interior and along the lush riverfront in the hope ofspotting some of the many inhabitants of this wonderful park. You will return to Chobe Safari Lodge inthe late morning for lunch and some leisure time. Later this afternoon you will enjoy another superb boatcruise along the Chobe River. Please note the game viewing will be in open vehicles from Chobe SafariLodge – these have three seats across which means that not everybody will have a 'window' seat.Caprivi Explorer – Windhoek to Victoria Falls

Wednesday 06February 2013Kasane to Victoria Falls Town with Bushtrackstransfer by private vehicle with guide & driverA driver from Bushtracks will meet you at your hotel. He will drive you through Kasane to the border postwhere you will buy a visa to enter Zimbabwe. After entering Zimbabwe you will continue your journey tothe Victoria Falls Town where the driver will drop you at your hotel.Victoria Falls Town, Zimbabwe IntroductionThe small town of Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe is less than two kilometres south of the Zambezi River andthe border to Zambia. Until Zimbabwe's political problems surfaced, it was the place to stay to see thewaterfalls and the town was buzzing and vibrant. Whilst the past few years saw troubled times for thecountry, Victoria Falls Town was one of the few areas that managed to retain a semblance of a tourismindustry. Recently the town has really begun to come to life again with hotels receiving refurbishmentsand new restaurants opening. The streets are now busy and everything from washing powder to woodencurios is readily available. The town has a number of hotels, including the famous Victoria Falls Hotelwhich always was, and still is, the place to have tea on the terrace. You can walk to the Falls from manyof the hotels and enjoy a leisurely morning exploring the rainforest pathways with the backdrop ofchattering monkeys. Easily reached from the parks in Zambia, Zimbabwe and Botswana, Victoria FallsTown is once again, a wonderful start or end to any safari.Please note that the town of Victoria Falls and the Victoria Falls Airport are both in Zimbabwe, notZambia. If you are confused at all as to the geography of the area please call a member of the AudleyAfrica team.Thursday 07February 2013Friday 08February 2013Day at the Victoria Falls - ideas for your free timerecommendations for your free timeThere are many activities to choose from around the Victoria Falls. For the adventurous the optionsinclude white water rafting (possible from July to January for either half a day or a full day), canoeing onthe Upper Zambezi and 15 or 30 minute helicopter flights over the Falls. More gentle ideas include asunset trip on the Zambezi River, a ramble around the town and of course, visiting the Falls themselves(the entrance fee to the Falls is currently U$30 pp). Elephant back rides are possible from various lodges.Victoria Falls Hotel to Victoria Falls Airportroad transferYour driver will meet you your hotel reception and drive you to the airport, a journey of around 30minutes.Victoria Falls Town, Zimbabwe to JohannesburgTo be advised flight - Flight No: TBA - Dep: - Arr: - (same day); Class: Economy class; Non-stop flight;Johannesburg to London HeathrowFlight - Flight No: TBA - Dep: 0000 - Arr: 0000 - (next day); Class: Economy class; Non-stop flight;Saturday 09February 2013Arrive back in the UK early in the morningIMPORTANT NOTES• Flight times and the daily order of sightseeing are subject to change.• Transfer times are approximate and subject to local conditions at the time of travel.• All flight times are local.Caprivi Explorer – Windhoek to Victoria Falls

ACCOMMODATION INFORMATIONYour accommodation is described below, if you require further information about any guest house or hotel please call.HOTEL, RESORT & GUEST HOUSE GRADINGSBasic: Very primitive accommodation where we are not aware of anything better.Simple: Clean and simple but limited facilities.Medium: A good standard of accommodation, reasonable range of facilities.First Class: A high standard of accommodation with a wide range of facilities.Deluxe: Superb accommodation with facilities and service to match.Opulent: The world’s most unashamedly luxurious hotels and resorts.• ‘Plus’ indicates that the accommodation is classified as between the rating given and the next rating up.• The above classifications are for your guidance only, they are the opinions of our staff and are quite subjective.GALTON HOUSE, WINDHOEKMEDIUMThis lovely new guesthouse is situated on a hillside in theupmarket neighbourhood of Eros, with sweeping viewsover the city. It has been decorated in a modern, stylishway, without being pretentious. There are eight rooms,two of which are designed for families. All rooms haveensuite bathrooms as well as air-conditioning, a digitalsafe, satellite TV, hair-dryer, and international plugadaptors. The main areas include an honesty bar, coffeestation, swimming pool, WIFI internet, curio shop andsecure off-street parking. For early check-ins or latecheck-outs, there is also a dayroom where you canfreshen up.Galton House, WindhoekChristus Kirche, WindhoekCaprivi Explorer – Windhoek to Victoria Falls

NUNDA RIVER LODGE, POPA FALLS ANDMAHANGU GAME PARKMEDIUMNunda River Lodge is located in the Caprivi Strip ofNamibia where the mouth of the Okavango Delta, knownas the Panhandle, is situated. Nunda is named after thelocal Thimbukushu name given to the fruit of thejackalberry tree and is situated on the banks of theKavango River, 2km west of Popa Falls. The Falls areactually more like rapids than waterfalls, created by theKavango River breaking through a four meter high rockyintrusion amidst islands dotted with pristine forests.Nearby are the Caprivi's Mahangu and Bwabwata NationalParks which provide some good game viewingopportunities. Accommodation includes seven spacious,ensuite Meru tents, built on wooden decks as well asseven thatched twin bed en-suite chalets. All units havecovered decks which overlook the river.Activities include guided game drives, boat cruises,angling expeditions and traditional mokoro canoe tripsdown the river. Guided birding and nature walks andcultural visits to nearby traditional villages are alsoavailable.Nunda Safari Lodge, Popa Falls and Mahangu Game ParkMAZAMBALA ISLAND LODGE, MUDUMU ANDMAMILI NATIONAL PARKMEDIUMMazambala is situated on the Kwando floodplains andbuilt around a towering 500 year old sausage tree. It iswithin easy reach of the Bwabwata National Park and theKwando River which allows for a both game drives in open4WDs and boat trips.The lodge has 16 thatched bungalows which arewhitewashed inside and beautifully cool. They are notluxurious but comfortable, spacious and have en-suitebathrooms.The main boma is built on stilts and has a thatched roofand open sides with views of the floodplains. A viewingdeck has been built to the side of this, extending highabove the tree canopy and offers stunning uninterruptedviews. There is also a pool with views of the plains andlarge deck right beside the river. The deck is ideal forrelaxing during the day and enjoying al fresco meals withthe grunting of hippos in the background and kingfishersflitting about in search of a good catch.Mazambala Lodge, Mudumu and Mamili National ParkAs hippos are ever present, you can't walk around duringnight and need to take care when walking through campduring the day as well.Caprivi Explorer – Windhoek to Victoria Falls

CHOBE SAFARI LODGE, CHOBE NATIONALPARKMEDIUMChobe Safari Lodge is situated on the banks of the ChobeRiver, on the far side of Kasane, beyond the main townarea. The lodge lies within lush, peaceful grounds andconsists of a variety of room types, surrounding the mainlodge area which has just been renovated. The mainlodge itself is a large thatched, open sided dining areawith a new bar and lounge area. The restaurant offers amenu of original dishes from across Africa. On the lowerlevel is a new swimming pool and terrace which leadsdown to the boating station, with views across the riverto Namibia.Accommodation is either in simple stand alone en-suiterondavels or the more luxurious River and Safari Rooms,which are more in the mould of modern hotel rooms, inseparate two tier blocks. The River Rooms arecomfortable with minimalist design and slight ethnicundertones, en-suite with a shower over the baths. TheSafari Rooms are more spacious and have an open planbathroom, with a separate shower and bath behind thebedroom area. The rooms are airy and have balconieslooking down to the gardens below, but also offermodern touches such as air conditioning and a TV.The main activities are boat cruises up and down theChobe, where you enter the National Park and view thegame from either a small cruise boat or a large one fittingup to forty plus guests. The boat trips can be takenthroughout the day and it is also possible to enjoy gamedrives with a guide into the National Park, with thenorthern gate just minutes away from Kasane.Chobe Safari LodgeILALA LODGE, VICTORIA FALLS TOWNMEDIUMIlala Lodge enjoys a secluded and peaceful location,close to the centre of town. It is the nearest lodge to theFalls and from the gardens you can see the spray andhear the roar of the water. The lodge also borders theVictoria Falls National Park and it is not unusual to findwildlife wandering happily through the grounds andgrazing on the lawns. A wide verandah wraps round thefront of the hotel providing a shady area where you canrelax and look out across the pretty garden towards theFalls. There is also a pool with a thatched bar where youcan cool off in the heat of the day. The 32 rooms are allen suite with patio doors leading to either a balcony orterrace. Clean and airy with crisp linen and neutralcolours the rooms have all recently been refurbished andare very comfortable. The bathrooms have baths andseparate showers. Food is freshly prepared and goodquality and the restaurant is a popular eating spot forguests staying elsewhere in town. As the hotel is a shortwalk from some of the town's other restaurants, eatingout is also an easy option.Ilala Lodge, Victoria FallsCaprivi Explorer – Windhoek to Victoria Falls

GENERAL INFORMATIONTRAVEL INSURANCEIt is advisable to take out your travel insurance at the time of booking your trip as cover will commence for predeparturecancellation from the policy issue date. This will, therefore, provide cover should you have to cancelyour trip for an insured reason such as illness or serious accident.We strongly recommend that you and all members of your party are adequately insured, protecting againstunforeseen circumstances that could otherwise spoil your travels. Cover should include medical expenses andrepatriation in the event of accident or illness. In addition, we strongly recommend that you have cover forpersonal belongings, delay at your outward or homeward point of departure, personal liability, overseas legalexpenses and cancellation. If you are undertaking any sports or adventurous activities, including trekking, onyour trip you should also make sure that your policy covers these. Please also ensure you read the policyconditions and exclusions.The type of trips we create and the requirements of Audley clients vary greatly. We have therefore listed below anumber of providers who offer policies which may suit these varying requirements. You can find a morecomprehensive list, including links to the providers' websites, at www.audleytravel.com/insurance. Otherproviders and policies are also available. We are unable to provide you with more detailed information and youshould contact the provider concerned directly for this. Please note, this is general information only. We are notproviding any specific advice on travel insurance or recommending any particular policy or insurer.Trips of up to £5,000 ppA large number of companies offer insurance policies which include cover for cancellation charges of up to thefull holiday cost. American Express (0800 028 7573), Insure and Go (0844 888 2787) and the Post Office (0800294 2292) all have policies that you may like to consider. This information can also be found atwww.audleytravel.com with links to the insurers’ websites.Trips over £5,000 ppIt can be more challenging to get insurance which includes cover for cancellation charges of up to the fullholiday cost for higher value trips. A number of providers do, however, offer such policies. Bowlin Insurance(01832 272 888) offers a totally bespoke service, tailoring a policy to your specific requirements, AmericanExpress (0800 028 7573) offer cancellation cover up to £12,500 per person and Insure and Go (0844 8882787) offer cancellation cover up to £7,500 per person. This information can also be found atwww.audleytravel.com with links to the insurers’ websites.Clients over 65 years of ageMany companies now offer cover to people over 65 years of age. However, if you are finding it difficult to getcover you could try Age UK (0845 600 3348) or Saga (0800 015 8055) both of whom currently have no upper agelimit on their policies. See also the companies referred to under pre-existing medical conditions below. Thisinformation can also be found at www.audleytravel.com with links to the insurers’ websites.Pre-existing medical conditionsIf you have a pre-existing medical condition, there are a number of companies that may be able to help you. P JHayman / Free Spirit (0845 230 5000) will consider most pre-existing medical conditions and they have no upperage limit on single trip policies. Age UK (0845 600 3348) and Insure and Go (0844 888 2787) will also consider anumber of preexisting conditions and may be able to help. Cancer Travel Insurance Services (0845 880 0163)specialise in travel insurance for people with non-terminal cancer and have no upper age limit on their policies.This information can also be found at www.audleytravel.com with links to the insurers’ websites.Non-UK residentsIf you are not a UK resident you will usually need to get insurance in your country of residence. Some insurancecompanies, such as Colombus Direct (0870 033 9988), however, will consider policies for non-UK residents. Thisinformation can also be found on our website www.audleytravel.com with links to the insurers’ websites.Once you have a travel insurance policy in place, please let your specialist know who your provider is and yourpolicy number. The above information is provided in good faith and is correct to the best of our knowledge as atJuly 2011. No liability is, however, accepted for any errors and all information must be checked directly with theinsurance provider.Caprivi Explorer – Windhoek to Victoria Falls

FINANCIAL PROTECTIONWe hold an Air Travel Organiser's Licence (ATOL) issued by the Civil Aviation Authority (ATOL number 4817).When you buy an ATOL protected air inclusive holiday* from us, you will receive a confirmation invoicefrom us (or via our authorised agent through which you booked) confirming your arrangements and yourprotection under our ATOL. In the unlikely event of our insolvency the CAA will ensure that you are not leftstranded abroad and will arrange to refund any money you have paid to us for an advance booking.*The air inclusive holidays we arrange are ATOL protected providing either the person who pays for the bookingis present in the UK when the booking is made or the first leg of any flight or flights we arrange for youcommences in the UK. For further information, visit the ATOL website at www.atol.org.ukNot all holiday or travel services offered and sold by us will be protected by the ATOL scheme. Thosearrangements which are not protected by our ATOL are covered by insurance arranged by AmTrust Europe Ltd.This insurance means your money will be refunded or you will be returned to the starting point of yourcontracted arrangements if already abroad in the unlikely event of our being unable to provide your holiday dueto our insolvency. Please ask us to confirm what protection will apply to your booking.HEALTHIt is essential that you see your GP or a travel clinic before travelling to make sure that you have taken all thenecessary health precautions. Some vaccinations require more than one visit with a period of weeks betweeninjections. You should visit your GP at least six weeks before departure. For up to date medical advice you maywish to call the Medical Advisory Service for Travellers Abroad (MASTA).MASTA Traveller’s Health LineBefore travelling abroad, you can telephone 0906 550 1402 (premium rate call 60p/minute) to obtain a ‘HealthBrief’ specifically tailored to your journey. Your brief will give information about immunisation and malaria as wellas any Foreign Office advice and the latest health news. Their lines are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.MASTA, 52 Margaret Street, London W1W 8SQ. Internet: www.masta-travel-health.comOther health information services are available, including www.nathnac.org/ and www.fitfortravel.nhs.uk.Deep vein thrombosis (DVT)The majority of international airlines now issue advice on how to lessen the risk of DVT, however, if you have anyconcerns, we recommend that you consult your doctor.Pre-existing medical conditions/Disabled passengersIt is essential that you advise us before booking if you have any disability or pre-existing medical condition whichmay affect your holiday or any special requirements as a result of any disability or medical condition (includingany which affect the booking process) so that we can assist you in considering the suitability of the arrangementsand/or making the booking.Full details must be confirmed in writing at the time of booking and whenever any change in the condition ordisability occurs. You must also promptly advise us if any medical condition or disability which may affect yourholiday develops after your booking has been confirmed. The nature of many of the destinations featured withinour brochures means that in the majority of cases they are unsuitable for those who are wheelchair bound orhave a lack of mobility. We will be delighted to discuss the feasibility of creating a tailor-made itinerary for youthat takes into consideration your level of mobility.On our escorted group tours the Tour Leader is, unfortunately, unable to offer additional assistance topassengers with limited mobility and all such assistance will need to be provided by whoever the passenger istravelling with. We may request that you provide a letter from your doctor confirming your fitness to travel.High altitudeYour itinerary may include sections where the altitude exceeds 10,000 feet (3,048 metres). If you suffer fromcirculation, heart or respiratory problems we advise that you consult with your doctor before confirming yourbooking.SMOKINGAirlines do not permit smoking on the aircraft. At the request of the majority of our clients we do not allowsmoking on any form of transport used for our escorted group tours. Stops are regularly made where you will beable to smoke. For smokers travelling on a tailor-made tour we request that you check with your driver or guidewhether smoking is permitted in the vehicle.Caprivi Explorer – Windhoek to Victoria Falls

HEALTH AND SAFETY STANDARDSEach country has its own regulations and enforcement levels relating to health and safety standards. These do notalways match the very high standards we are used to in the UK. We therefore recommend that you follow a fewprecautionary safety procedures. Always check where the nearest fire exit is and how to raise the fire alarm. Do notenter a swimming pool before checking the water depth first. For more suggestions please see the ImportantInformation section in your Travel Organiser.PASSPORT AND VISA INFORMATION FOR BRITISH CITIZENSPassengers must hold a passport which is valid for at least six months following the return date of your holiday.British passport holders (full British Citizens) currently require visas, in advance of travel, for the followingdestinations featured in our Africa brochure: Madagascar, Mozambique, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia and Zimbabwe.Visas may be required for other countries but can be arranged on arrivalWe are normally able to obtain visas on your behalf, please ask for details at the time of booking. Non-Britishpassport holders should check with the relevant embassies as visa requirements may be different to those of Britishpassport holders. It is your responsibility to ensure you have the correct documentation and visa stamp(s). Failureor inability to obtain all required visas for whatever reason does not entitle you to cancel without paying theapplicable cancellation charges.TRAVEL ADVICEThe Foreign and Commonwealth Office Travel Advice Unit monitors all overseas destinations and offers safetyadvice to British travellers. You can contact the service on 0845 850 2829 or visit www.fco.gov.uk/travelCARBON OFF-SETTINGPlease let your specialist know if you would like to carbon offset your flights. We work with Friends of Conservationand all offsetting payments are donated through them. For more details visit www.audleytravel.com/offset. Thesuggested amounts are in line with the DEFRA’s current guidelines for the cost per tonne of carbon. If you wish toensure that Gift Aid is included please donate directly via www.audleytravel.com/offsetFLIGHTS AND AIRLINESThe difference between a direct flight and a non-stop flight can cause confusion. To clarify, on a direct flight nochange of aircraft is scheduled but touchdowns will be made en route either to refuel or to board or disembarkpassengers. On non-stop flights no change of aircraft is required and no stops are made en route. Virtually all ofthe flights that we use are direct and many are non-stop. Exact details will be given with your itinerary.Premium economy, business and first classIf you require business or first class flights these can be arranged on most airlines at very competitive rates.Premium economy can be arranged on certain airlines, please call us for details.Specific seat requestsWe will do all we can to try to reserve a specific seat for you, if you have a preference. However, whilst airlines mayallow us to request seats, they will not guarantee any specific seat reservation. If this is important to you, it isalways best to arrive for your flight early, regardless of having made this request in advance. Please make it clear onyour booking form if you have a specific request.Flight amendmentsWe generally use special „inclusive tour‟ fares when we purchase your air tickets from the airlines. While thesefares are very good value they are inflexible in terms of changes and offer no refunds once the tickets are issued.Once your flight is confirmed the airlines will charge an amendment fee or insist on the purchase of a completelynew ticket if you make changes.Internal flightsSmaller local airlines are often more likely to change their schedule at short notice. We will endeavour to inform youof any changes in advance of travelling but this may not always be possible.Frequent flyer clubsIf you collect points through any of the airline frequent flyer clubs please provide your membership details on thebooking form and we will ensure that these are recorded against your flight reservation. Please note that on someof our specially negotiated ‘inclusive tour’ fares points are not always awarded.UK AIRPORT HOTELS, CAR PARKING AND LOUNGESWe are able to arrange airport hotel accommodation, car parking, meet and greet services and airport lounge accessin the UK, subject to availability. To arrange any of these services please call our Reservations Administration Teamon 01993 838 051.HOTEL INFORMATIONThere is frequent confusion over the terminology used for bed arrangements in hotel rooms. A „double‟ isrecognised as meaning a room with a double bed, this may be two single beds pushed together. A „twin‟ is a roomCaprivi Explorer: Windhoek to Victoria Falls

with two single beds. Please note that all rooms are allocated at the discretion of the hotel and cannot beguaranteed.Single roomsSingle rooms tend to be smaller than double or twin rooms, however, many hotels do not have single rooms, inwhich case you will be allocated a twin or double room.SPECIAL DIETARY REQUIREMENTSSpecial diets should be requested on the booking form, however, it is unrealistic to expect special diets to becatered for in some of the destinations we feature. We will advise the hotels and airlines of your request but wecannot guarantee their availability.BROCHURE AND ITINERARY ACCURACYWe thoroughly check all the information that is included within our brochures and individual tour itineraries,however, changes do occur and errors are occasionally made. Airlines may change their schedules, roads may closeand government regulations may alter. Should there be any changes to the travel arrangements you have booked wewill do our best to keep you informed of the situation prior to departure.TRAVEL IN THE DEVELOPING WORLDMany of our destinations are in the developing world where attitudes, infrastructure, priorities, lifestyles andcultures are very different from our own. This is often the very reason to visit the destination but certain aspectsmay be frustrating. We always advise that the first thing you should pack is your sense of humour. This can proveinvaluable when travelling over rougher roads, waiting for a delayed aircraft and communicating with hotel staffwhose first language is not English.DATA PROTECTION ACTWe will hold your name, address and any other details you supply us with on our database. This information will beused to make your travel arrangements and to send you information about Audley Travel. In order to make yourtravel arrangements we will need to pass your details to companies and individuals outside the EC where lessstringent data protection controls may be in place. We will not pass on your details to third parties for any otherpurposes.Caprivi Explorer: Windhoek to Victoria Falls

AITO QUALITY CHARTERTHE ASSOCIATION OF INDEPENDENT TOUR OPERATORSAITO is the association for independent and specialist holiday companies. Our member companies, usually ownermanaged,strive to create overseas holidays with high levels of professionalism and a shared concern for qualityand personal service. The Association encourages the highest standards in all aspects of tour operating.EXCLUSIVE MEMBERSHIPAITO sets criteria regarding ownership, finance and quality which must be satisfied before new companies areadmitted to membership. All members are required to adhere to a Code of Business Practice which encourages highoperational standards and conduct.FINANCIAL SECURITYAn AITO member is required to protect money paid by customers to the member for any holiday sold under theAITO logo. This protection applies to customers who are in the UK at the time of booking or to overseas customerswho have booked directly with the member. Members have to comply with UK Government Regulations in thisrespect. Members submit details of their bonding and guarantee arrangements to the Association on a regularbasis.ACCURATE BROCHURES AND WEB SITESAll members do their utmost to ensure that all their brochures and other publications, print or electronic, clearlyand accurately describe the holidays and services offered.PROFESSIONAL SERVICE AND CONTINUAL IMPROVEMENTSAll members are committed to high standards of service and believe in regular and thorough training of employees.Members continually seek to review and improve their holidays. They listen to their customers and always welcomesuggestions for improving standards.MONITORING STANDARDSAITO endeavours to monitor quality standards regularly. All customers should receive a post-holiday questionnairethe results of which are scrutinised by the Association.RESPONSIBLE TOURISMAll members acknowledge the importance of AITO‟ s Responsible Tourism guidelines, which recognise the social,economic and environmental responsibilities of tour operating. Those demonstrating their achievements beyondthe pure acceptance of this principle are recognised by the award of 2 or 5 star status.CUSTOMER RELATIONSAll members endeavour to deal swiftly and fairly with any issues their customers may raise. In the unlikely eventthat a dispute between an AITO member and a customer cannot be settled amicably, AITO’s low-cost IndependentDispute Settlement Service may be called upon by either side to bring the matter to a speedy and acceptableconclusion. Audley is a member of the Association of Independent Tour Operators. To contact the Association, visitwww.aito.co.uk or call 020 8744 9280.Caprivi Explorer: Windhoek to Victoria Falls