GENERALLY ASKED QUESTIONS
The Bus and Shuttle Terminal is across the road from the International terminal building next to the InterContinental Hotel. Any airport staff member will be able to assist you. (We normally send a map of the terminal area as well.)
NB: This shuttle departs from a set location at a set time. No private hotel pickups are available for the shared shuttle service.
Option 1: Most hotels in Johannesburg offer airport transfers and often this is even a free service for hotel guests — their shuttles will drop you off at the Bus and Shuttle terminal where you would meet our shuttle.
Option 2: Services like Uber are a very cost effective and reliable way of getting around the major cities.
Option 3: There is also a rail way called the Gautrain (there is a station in Sandton that you can catch directly to the airport) — however I find the direct options are normally less stressful, more reliable and cost effective.
Option 1 (Recommended): Fly from Johannesburg to Hoedspruit Airport — the flight is only 55 minutes and you can still arrive in time for lunch and the afternoon/sunset safari 😊 If you need, I can also assist with these flights.
If you choose to fly, we will discount the Johannesburg road shuttle (R1250.00 pp) and only charge the local airport-to-lodge transfers (R550.00 pp).
Option 2: We can arrange a private road transfer to collect you when your flight lands, but as it is a 5.5 hour trip it can mean a rushed first afternoon and it is expensive to allocate a whole vehicle for only 2 guests. Often option 1 works out cheaper.
Option 3: If your dates are flexible, we can arrange a night in Johannesburg and begin the safari the next day.
• Protea Hotel OR Tambo
• Southern Sun OR Tambo
• Holiday Inn OR Tambo
• InterContinental Hotel OR Tambo (this one is right next to the Bus and Shuttle terminal at OR Tambo airport where you would meet our shuttle)
Unless you book a tour that specifies private, this is not a private tour (but we can arrange a private option if you would like).
Our vehicles can take a maximum of 9 guests, but it is very rare to have more than 6 on a vehicle where possible — often it may be only 1 other couple (if that). We also do not have set departure dates, so we book according to each guest’s individual travel dates. Guests would only share if another booking matches the exact same dates and exact same tour.
For the Private Reserve drives (Day 1 & last day), this depends on how many guests may be at the lodge on that day — but we still aim to keep it small. If you want to ensure it is only you, we can arrange a private vehicle (with a slight increase in rate).
In terms of further discounts, we work hard to ensure that our rates reflect not only an exceptional guest experience but also incredible value. This rate has been thoughtfully structured to include everything — accommodation, safari activities, transfers, meals, beverages, taxes, entrance fees, and more — ensuring there are no hidden costs.
Given the level of inclusivity and the quality we deliver, this is the best rate we can offer, even during peak season. We take great care in providing both value and excellence, and we’re confident that this package represents just that. 😁
If you are flying into Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport (MQP) near Nelspruit, please note transfers to the Greater Kruger region are typically around 2.5 hours depending on the lodge location and route.
We are also happy to help you plan flights and pre/post safari nights (Johannesburg, Cape Town, etc.) to avoid cutting game drives short due to travel times.
We do recommend carrying some cash for informal purchases such as roadside vendors (especially on the Panorama Route), small curios, and certain local stalls where card facilities may not be available.
If you are flying directly, you can ask your transfer guide to stop at a bureau de change where possible — provided it does not affect the schedule of other guests.
That said, it’s important to manage expectations: this is a wild conservation area, not a zoo — so sightings can never be guaranteed. Our guides will always do their absolute best to place you in the right areas at the right times, but nature can’t be planned or predicted (and that’s part of what makes a safari so special).
DIDN’T FIND YOUR QUESTION?
CONTACT US HERE:
PACKING FOR THE TRIP:
• Camera (charger, batteries, memory cards)
• Binoculars (with bag for dust protection)
• Lightweight Flashlight / Torch (LED is best)
• Mosquito and Insect Repellent
• Sunscreen (SPF 30+ recommended)
• Day backpack (to carry snacks, water, books etc.)
Our team takes care of most of your needs each day, and your guide / host will always be able to assist if you need anything during your stay.
Recommended items:
• 3–4 cotton t-shirts / blouses
• 3–4 shorts (try to avoid denim and nylon)
• Long sleeve shirt and trousers
• Lightweight windbreaker / waterproof jacket
• Fleece jacket or jersey
• Comfortable walking shoes (especially for bush walks)
• Hat / cap & Sunglasses
• Swimming attire
• 1 set of smart-casual clothes (if you’d like to dress up for dinner)
TIPPING GUIDE FOR THE TRIP:
Please see this tip guide as a general guideline when travelling in South Africa:
Restaurant and wait staff
Std 10% of bill (15–20% if exceptional)
Day tour / activities guides
Standard: R100–R350 per day
Great Guides: up to R500 per day (based on your experience)
Transfers / drivers
R50–R100 depending on distance and service
Safari guide & tracker (if applicable)
Tracker: R100–R300 per drive
Guide: R200–R400 per drive
Hotel staff tips
R150–R300 per night
Cash is preferred. South African Rands are easiest, but foreign currency can be used if needed.
HEALTH AND SAFETY:
We live here and most locals don’t take prophylaxis routinely — we focus on prevention in the warmer months, especially in the evenings. The mosquitoes that can carry malaria are typically nocturnal (active from sundown to sunrise), so we recommend repellents and prevention measures to minimise risk further.
This is what we call the “Chanel No. 5 of the bush” 😁
If you are travelling from a Yellow Fever risk country, you may need proof of Yellow Fever vaccination (this depends on your travel route).
As a general rule: never walk alone at night, and always follow lodge guidance.
PAYMENT
We know travelling can feel daunting, but it is generally safe to keep your passport on you. Most lodges also have safes if you prefer to store it securely.
RESERVATION:
As a general guideline: full day safaris can often be booked with a minimum of 12 hours notice, and overnight safaris typically require at least 3 days notice (availability dependent).
WEATHER:
However, guest safety always comes first. If weather conditions, flooding, road closures, or park authority instructions make it unsafe to operate, activities may be delayed, adjusted, or cancelled.
NB: As per our Terms & Conditions, Shinzelle Safaris cannot be held liable for tours that cannot depart due to inclement weather, road closures, or circumstances beyond our control.