What does the local payment cover?
When requested in Namibian Dollars the payment covers entry to Namibia National Parks and a fuel levy which has become necessary to add due to the unprecedented increases in the price of fuel during 2006.
When local payment is requested in US$ this covers the Botswana section for Consession fees, Camping fees for Okavango Delta. 
 
What does the tour price include?
The price of the tour includes all camping fees, camping equipment (except sleeping bag which can be hired for N$10/bag/day) entry fees for the sights (except National Parks and fuel which is covered by the local payment) vehicle, trailer, english speaking guide and apprentice guide and meals where indicated (except breakfast on first day, dinner in Swakopmund and dinner on final day) - please refer to each specific itinerary for what is included.
 
Do I need travel insurance?
Yes, insurance whilst travelling with Thimbi Thimbi Safaris is essential.  All clients must be insured to cover aspects such as repatriation, medical expenses, personal accident, cancellation and curtailment.  Proof of insurance can be requested and Thimbi Thimbi have the right to refuse clients onto their safari without refund should the client not have insurance.  In Southern Africa, many emergency services will not send a rescue service until proof of insurance has been issued so should you injure yourself you may end up without medical assistance, something not to be taken lightly.
 
How do I book?
Simple.  You are able to book on line, complete the booking form and fax it to us or alternatively contact one of our agents who will be happy to assist you.
 
What type of person travels with Thimbi Thimbi and I am the right type of person?
A wide range of people from all walks of life and various countries join us for on safari.  We have no age restriction but we do ask clients to have a "sense of adventure" and be a team player. The groups are made up of single travellers, couples, friends and families.  However, when travelling together in a group each individual needs to have a degree of flexibility and patience.  
 
I'm travelling alone, is this a problem?
Not at all, many of our clients travel alone, however, with regard to accommodation/tent you will be matched with someone of same sex.  Should there not be someone else of the same sex in your group then you will be in your own tent.  We may ask you to share a triple room in accommodation with people of the same sex.
 
What's the weather like in Namibia?
We have 2 main seasons, Winter - from May to September which is dry but can get very cold particularly at night during June/July/August and occasionally temperatures fall to freezing, during the day time it can reach 25c or so, depending on the location.  Summer - October through to April is also the rainy season, temperatures increase significantly and its not unusual to reach 35c or sometimes higher.  The early rains (to December) are sporadic but January through to April can bring heavy rains which can occasionally last 2 or 3 days which also provide a welcome relief to the dry desert landscape.
 
Am I expected to tip the guide or apprentice guide?
Tipping is certainly not compulsory but if you feel your guide/apprentice guide has done a good job and offered you an enjoyable and knowledgable trip then rest assured they will always be happy to receive a tip.  A guideline is N$20/day for your guide and N$10 day for the apprentice guide.
 
Is there an age limit?
No there isn't as long as you are prepared to come along with a "young at heart" attitude, be keen to be a team player and also aware that occasionally families can be joining you on safari then this is for you.  The average age for the groups is generally between 24-50 years old.
 
Do I need a mattress or sleeping bag?
We supply each client with a 6cm high density mattress that is 700mm wide and 2000mm long.  High density foam gives a firm support and protects from rocks/stones on the ground along with the odd acacia thorn.   Should you have a particularly sensitive back you may also wish to bring a thermarest style of mat.  Sleeping bags are generally needed but if you don't have one or it's not convenient we can hire one to you for N$10/night/bag we do not supply inner sheets, so you may wish to bring one of these along with you. 
 
Will the itinerary change from the issued one?
Generally speaking each itinerary has had a lot of work put into it to ensure that you get to see the highlights of the country and the safest and best way.  However, sometimes, there are factors beyond our control which means that the itinerary may change and Thimbi Thimbi reserves the right to do this.  Generally these changes are minor and Thimbi Thimbi will do their best to advise clients but occasionally this will happen whilst on the road, this is the time to make the most of it and enjoy the adventure of being in Africa. 
 
What about the risk of malaria and other health issues?
Areas north of Windhoek pose a small risk of malaria which increases during the wet season, however, the further east you travel (Caprivi Strip) or into Botswana or Zambia the risk increases.  The best way to prevent malaria is to not get bitten by wearing long sleeves/pants, putting on repellent and ensuring that your tent is zipped up to prevent mossies getting into the tent.  Please seek the advice of a specialist health centre or visit your doctor prior to your trip to give you uptodate advice on prophylactics but please be aware that this still does not give you 100% protection.  Your doctor will also give you advice on other health requirements.
 
I want to enjoy the cultural aspects of Namibia - where can I see the himba and bushman people?
The himba people mainly live in the North West part of Namibia and the Bushman on the Eastern part of the country though there are small niches living east of Etosha.  Please remember when you visit the tribes to show respect to them and their cultures and views.  They are also changing to the environment that they are living in today so do not be surprised to see them in modern clothing or occasionally clutching a cell phone!  Please also be aware that whilst we endeavour to arrange walks and meetings with the tribes they choose what and when they wish to do things and this occasionally can be out of our control. 
 
I'm vegetarian - will you be able to cater to my dietary requirements?
No problem as long as you advise us in advance what you do/don't eat or if you suffer from any food allergies etc, we will do our best to accommodate you but again please realise that the choice of foods many not always be the same as you will be able to purchase at home.  If you have very specific requirements please liaise with us asap and discuss what the best course of action will be for you and if you may need to bring something from home if our shops do not supply them.

Is the trip definately going to run?
Yes, our departures are guaranteed so whether the trip is full or with just 1 client we will ensure that you will leave on your safari.  
 
Will I be able to check emails during the trip?
In most of the camp sites there are not the facilities to check emails, however, in towns such as Swakopmund you will be able to access emails easily.  
 
Will my cell phone work?
Again, in the towns and in some rural locations there will be cell phone reception but be aware that being in some remote areas will mean that there is no cell phone or land line reception.  For emergency use the Thimbi Thimbi office number can be used to ensure that we will get a message through to the guide as fast as possible.
 
What's the best way for me to take money with me?
Some limited cash as well as credit card is useful though ensure that you have your pin number with you.  There are numerous ATM machines available in towns and fuel stations.  However, travellers cheques can be used in some large towns but foreign exchange shops are not always available outside of Windhoek and Swakopmund so do not rely on them solely.  Cash - South African rand is used in conjunction with Namibian dollars, however, ensure that you exchange all of your dollars before leaving as the dollar is harder to get rid of than rand onceout of the country.
 
Can I book extra accommodation at the start or finish of my safari?
Certainly.  You are welcome to stay at Chameleon Guesthouse and Backpackers before or after your trip but we can book alternative accommodation for you if you prefer to suit you and your pocket.