African wildlife landscape

Guest information

Travel well.
Arrive ready to see.

Practical notes for a comfortable, prepared and unhurried journey.

A useful beginning

Your final workshop pack is the authority.

Climate, luggage restrictions and entry requirements differ by destination and departure. Confirm current advice before travel and follow the workshop-specific documents issued after booking.

01

Health & comfort

Western Cape travel does not generally require vaccinations, but entry and health requirements can change. Consult your doctor and official travel guidance for every destination. On safari, hydrate, use high-factor sunscreen and bring mosquito repellent.

02

Safety around wildlife

Never approach or feed a wild animal. Follow lodge and guide instructions at all times; do not leave your room or tent at night unless a guide confirms it is safe.

03

Money

The South African Rand is the local currency. Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted, including contactless payment. Carry a small amount of Rand for incidental needs and tipping.

04

Tipping

Tipping is customary in South Africa, though not mandatory. Lodge managers can advise on current guidance for camp staff and safari guides.

05

Connectivity

South Africa’s dialling code is +27. Mobile coverage is widespread, though remote reserves vary. Properties generally provide Wi-Fi in main areas.

06

Climate & layers

Cape autumn and spring can move from cool mornings to mild afternoons, while safari drives before sunrise can feel cold even on a warm day. The earlier guest guidance notes typical Cape highs around 18–20°C (65–68°F), lows around 10–12°C (50–54°F), and the possibility of rain. Pack layers and check the final forecast.

07

Laundry

Laundry is available at many hotels and safari lodges, usually at an additional cost. Service and turnaround times vary in remote areas, so bring enough essentials for several days.

08

Luggage

For light-aircraft and workshop logistics, pack lightly. The existing guest guidance requests no more than one 25 kg suitcase plus hand luggage; your final itinerary may set stricter limits.

09

What to wear

Safari dress is relaxed. Bring muted lightweight layers, comfortable closed shoes, a sunhat, warm puffer or windbreaker for early drives, and smart-casual pieces for evenings.

10

Power & equipment

South Africa uses 230V / 50Hz and plug types C, D, M and N may be encountered. Bring a universal adapter, power bank, charging cables, spare batteries and extra memory cards.

Painter’s field list

Bring less.
Look more.

Towels, dressing gowns and hairdryers are generally supplied. Your workshop-specific art materials list and final travel pack take precedence.

Clothing

  • Two lightweight trousers and one pair of jeans or smart-casual trousers
  • Two pairs of shorts, three T-shirts and one long-sleeved top
  • One or two shirts or blouses, plus cardigan or fleece
  • Puffer or windbreaker and a beanie for dawn drives
  • Closed walking shoes; optional sandals or flip-flops
  • Underwear, socks, sleepwear, swimwear, sunglasses and sunhat

Personal care

  • High-factor SPF, lip balm and mosquito repellent
  • Personal toiletries, medication and sanitary items
  • Travel documents and comprehensive insurance details

Equipment

  • Universal adapter suitable for South African sockets
  • Power bank, cables and spare batteries
  • Camera, extra memory cards and binoculars
  • Workshop-specific art materials list