GETTING FROM JOHANNESBURG TO HOEDSPRUIT

Visit www.flycemair.co.za to book your internal flight.

To organise a shuttle transfer from Johannesburg to Hoedspruit contact swiftkrugershuttles.com, we have a promo code that we will give you when you book your shuttle. There is a daily shuttle from OR. Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg to Hoedspruit. Although a little longer than the airplane, this option is comfortable as well as cheaper. They offer a discounted rate for DAKTARI volunteers, so be sure you let them know you are coming to volunteer at DAKTARI when you make your reservation. The SWIFT shuttle leaves every morning from the airport. If you are staying overnight in Joburg keep in mind that most lodges can drop you off at the airport free of charge! (The lodges listed below all provide this service)

You can also hire a car at the airport and drive to Hoedspruit. Contact us to get directions from Johannesburg to DAKTARI. Make your car reservation at discount rate with Bluu Car Rental and get a special discount code! Contact us for more information.

PLACES TO STAY

DAKTARI is only able to pick you up on Saturday from Hoedspruit. Depending on your flights, this means that you may need to stay overnight in Johannesburg or Hoedspruit. The lodges listed below have all been vetted by DAKTARI and have special rates for our volunteers. They will also provide free transportation to and from the airport to make it easier for you to get around. We recommend you keep the information for these lodges on hand in case you miss a connecting flight in Johannesburg and have to wait until the following day for a flight.

JOHANNESBURG

Emerald Guest House

Emerald Guest House Airport offers a convenient Bed & Breakfast experience located next to the airport. Nestled in serene gardens with a swimming pool, it provides a peaceful retreat. Additionally, it supports DAKTARI’s project and extends discounts for volunteers. For added convenience, complimentary airport transfers are provided. Guests can enjoy on-site dining options and easily make bookings or tour arrangements through their website or via email at info@airportinn.biz.

The lodge – https://emeraldguesthouse.za-southafrica.com/

HOEDSPRUIT

Sausage Tree Safari Camp

Sausage Tree is situated in the Balule Nature Reserve and is about 2500 ha big. Since it’s part of the Greater Kruger National Park, you’ll see lots of wildlife around. The tents at this camp are elevated and give you an even better view of everything around. There is an ensuite bathroom with a bath and even an outdoor shower! If you book a trip to Sausage Tree Safari Camp, DAKTARI will receive R50 to keep our organisation up and running.

Contact them to make your booking:

E: info@sausagetree.co.za
W: www.sausagetree.co.za

Swiblati Lodge

Pascale and Didier are eager to share with you their new paradise. The lodge is located in the reserve of Hoedspruit Wildlife Estate which covers 680 hectares, giving free rein to many animals. The lodge has a lovely swimming pool and each room has its private terrace open on the savannah as well as a large bathroom with indoor and outdoor shower.
According to the booking periods they offer either self catering or bed and breakfast.
Visit their website and organise your booking directly with them. They also offer safari on request!

E: contact@swiblatilodge.com
T: (+590) (0)6 90 94 96 14
W: www.swiblatilodge.com

Bushbaby River Lodge

Bushbaby River Lodge was crowned the best 4 star B&B of Limpopo in both 2017 and 2018.

You can explore the Hoedspruit Wildlife Estate and at night, enjoy the presence of lots of nocturnal animals right at your doorstep. At Bushbaby River Lodge, you have your own private chalet with a kingsize bed and even an outdoor shower.

Contact them to make your booking:

E: info@bushbabyriverlodge.co.za
W: www.bushbabyriverlodge.com

WHAT TO PACK

Depending on the season you will be visiting DAKTARI, your packing may vary. In general, you should bring the items below. On Saturdays, there is a trip into Hoedspruit where you will be able to purchase all toiletries. Also, if you would like to bring any items for DAKTARI or for the children, please see the list on this page.

  • Sandals or flip flops
  • Walking shoes or trainers, you’ll need these for doing the bush walks
  • At least one pair of long trousers (jeans are also fine). If travelling between May and September, you may want to bring several pairs as it can be cold throughout the day
  • Shorts/skirt
  • T-shirts (you will be given a DAKTARI t-shirt that you can wear when teaching the children)
  • Long sleeve shirts/sweaters/jerseys to protect you at night. If travelling between May and September, you may want to bring several as it can be cold throughout the day
  • A hat and sunglasses
  • Swimsuit for DAKTARI’s pool!
  • A head-lamp is necessary
  • Insect repellent
  • Sunscreen

BEFORE YOU FLY

VISAS

Visa requirements vary by country, however, most do not require a visa prior to entry to South Africa if you are staying for less than three months. If you are staying for longer than 90 days, you will need a visa. Please confirm with your local government department if a visa is required to enter South Africa.

VACCINATIONS

There is usually no legal obligation for specific vaccinations to enter South Africa, this is subject to change and you will need to check before you depart and especially if you plan to pass through other countries. However we recommend visiting your GP or doctor to ask their professional opinion, they may suggest you take anti-malaria treatment, have a rabies vaccination etc. Here is a useful website that you may find helpful.

TRAVEL INSURANCE

Travel insurance is REQUIRED for you to stay at DAKTARI. We will ask for a confirmation of your insurance and an emergency contact for you. It is always important to have a suitable cancellation and travel/volunteer insurance when you go abroad. Many travel insurances do not cover voluntary work, internships or extreme sports and have a limited validity. DAKTARI advises you to use of the services of JoHo Insurance. JoHo Insurances specialises in insuring volunteers, interns, travellers and expats worldwide. Click here for more information and to apply for insurance online.

FUND MY TRAVEL

If you are ready to start planning your trip but are discouraged by a financial roadblock, DAKTARI Bush School & Wildlife Orphanage has another solution for you. We have partnered with fundmytravel, who provides us with an online platform where you can fundraise for your meaningful travel experience. You create a campaign page, complete a brief profile to build trust, add a video and tell you story!

Fundmytravel has a team of dedicated staff that will help you reach your fundraising goals. They can provide tips and insights on the best ways to spread your work and offer sharing tools to get your campaign greater exposure through social media and email. Click the button below to learn more and get started!

THE WEATHER IN HOEDSPRUIT

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