FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS – Photo Safaris

HOW WE CAN ASSIST YOU in extending your trip:

Zulu Nyala Tours is based at Zulu Nyala Heritage Safari Lodge. They are available to help you with all your airport transfers, travel arrangements, accommodation, and tours in Southern Africa if you’d like to extend your trip over and above your time with us!

WHEN TO CONFIRM your booking:

It is essential that you book your accommodation prior to confirming your flights. We have many guests visiting us each year and a limited number of rooms. Thus, we suggest that you book your room with us at least one year in advance.

GENERAL INFORMATION:

PEAK SEASON – February to May and August to November.

Your game viewing experience at Zulu Nyala will be exceptional regardless of the time of year. Hluhluwe has a sub-tropical climate, this means our winters are mild and dry whilst our summers are hot and humid.

• Summer Season – September to April: Temperature range: 60 degrees – 104 degrees F

• Winter Season – May to August: Temperature range: 40 degrees – 70 degrees F

• Rainy Season – September to March

• Hottest Months – December to February

HOW DO WE GET THERE?

Most international flights to South Africa arrive at O.R. Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg. From O.R. Tambo International Airport you can fly directly to King Shaka International Airport in Durban or to Richards Bay. Zulu Nyala operates daily shuttle services from and to our venue between Durban (+/-3 hours drive) and Richards Bay (+/-1.5 hours drive) Airports. These shuttles must be arranged in advance with the reservation team to co-ordinate with the times they run and your flight schedule/requirements.

PASSPORT & VISA REGULATIONS:

Ensure your passport is valid for 6 months after your expected date of return and has a minimum of 4-6 blank pages. US citizens do not require a visa for business travel or travel for tourism if your stay is less than 90 days. If you are planning on visiting any of the countries neighbouring South Africa, please ensure you have the necessary documentation. Note that as of June 1, 2015 new immigration regulations have been instituted. These new regulations pertain to the travel of minors to South Africa. It is now a requirement that children under 18 years of age, traveling with parents/family must produce a parental consent affidavit as well as a certified copy of their birth certificate. Our Reservations can assist with forms and links on this subject.

CHECK IN/OUT TIMES:

• Check in Time – 2h00pm

• Check out Time – 10h00am

Whilst the Zulu Nyala Group will endeavour to accommodate any early check-ins or late check-outs it reserves the right to do so at its sole discretion. Arrangement of early and/or late check-in/check-out times depends on room availability.

NOTE: Should you require an early check-in or late check-out an extra cost of R750 may be levied to you, the guest.

WHAT SHOULD I PACK?

• Valid Passport (with a minimum of 4-6 empty pages)

• Travel Insurance & Medical Kit

• Warm Clothes (for morning/evening drive)

We do have branded merchandise for purchase

• Tennis Shoes – for safari/walking trail

• Sandals (During the day/summer season)

• Long sleeve shirt & long pants – preferred during game viewing

• Light, cotton clothing – shirts and shorts (for the humid warm weather)

• Light weight waterproof jacket (for cooler weather/winter/rainy season)

• Gloves /scarf/beanie – for winter travellers

• Swimsuit – for summer travellers

• Peak or wide brimmed hat and sunglasses

• Gym attire (if you plan on exercising in the gym)

• Mosquito repellent and sunblock – high SPF between 30-50

• Converter – to charge units

• Lightweight flashlight and alarm clock (or you can use your cell phone)

• Binoculars and camera (you’ll get great photos with your phone, too)

Recommended camera lenses for Africa – 75 to 300 mm or 150 to 500mm

• Extra memory card for cameras and battery/battery charger

AMENITIES ON PROPERTY:

The following amenities are available on the Heritage Safari Lodge property:

• Walking & Jogging trails

• Gym

• 2 swimming pools

• TV lounge, library, pool table, bars and curio shop

• Authentic Zulu Cultural Village on the property with daily tours (booking essential)

• Free WIFI in common areas

• Animals on site at the Heritage include nyala, impala, monkeys, crocodiles in a secure enclosure and birds (NOTE: these animals remain wild and need to be treated with respect)

AMENITIES COMMON TO EACH ROOM TYPE:

• Ensuite Bathroom with shower and bath

• Airconditioned with fans. Fans only in the tented accommodation

• Shampoo, conditioner, lotion, soap (complimentary on first day)

• Tea/coffee station and bar fridge

• Telephone

• Hairdryer and clothes hangers

• A safe in the wardrobe for your valuables

Note: Keep doors and windows closed when you’re not in your room/tent.

FACILITIES AND SERVICES:

Whilst care is taken to ensure that the description of facilities and services at Zulu Nyala is accurate, these are continually being changed, upgraded and on occasion taken out of service and if any feature/facility is essential to you in choosing a particular property – it is your responsibility to confirm with Zulu Nyala prior to making your booking that the feature/facility will be available during your stay – Zulu Nyala is not liable for omissions, errors or changes to the facilities and services at the properties, whether temporary or permanent. Accommodation facilities listed may not apply to all room types – Please, also note that whilst Zulu Nyala attempts to satisfy all special requests, we do not guarantee that special requests can be accommodated.

GAME-DRIVES ON OUR PRIVATE RESERVE:

Our highly skilled, qualified, and knowledgeable Rangers host you while you’re with us on your safari. The drives are done in game viewing vehicles on our private reserve with each drive being 2 hours long – early morning and late afternoon. Times are season dependent.

Note: FIT/Domestic guests – It’s essential to pre-book in order to confirm your space. If you’d like a private host Ranger, a surcharge is applicable.

Note: Whilst we love children at Zulu Nyala, for safety reasons there is an age restriction placed on game viewing activities. No child younger than 5 years of age will be allowed to go on a game drive.

NOTE: NO DRONES OR AIRBORNE PHOTOGRAPHIC EQUIPMENT WILL BE ALLOWED TO BE USED ON ZULU NYALA OR SURROUNDING GAME RESERVES. Geotagging of photos needs to be disabled in order to protect our wildlife.

FOOD & BEVERAGE:

Beverages available from our establishment include a comprehensive range of both local and international branded alcoholic drinks. Zulu Nyala is a fully licensed establishment.

Note: No alcohol may be brought onto or consumed on these Premises unless purchased from the bar or restaurant. No alcohol will be sold to persons under 18 years or age.

WATER

We suggest that guests do not drink the water out of the taps. Water can be purchased at our bar.

MEAL TIMES:

• Breakfast – 07.00 – 09.30

• Lunch – 12.30 – 14.30

• Dinner – 18:30 – 21.30

Zulu Cultural entertainment each night during dinner

Note: Menus are changed daily and any special dietary requirements are catered for by prior request only and may be subject to a surcharge. There are always plentiful options available for vegetarians.

OFF-SITE EXCURSIONS:

Zulu Nyala is situated in an ecologically diverse and unique location. To ensure our guests get to experience as much of the beauty around us as possible, we offer a variety of off-site excursions in the surrounding area. Additional day excursions can be booked at our reception desk. Some of excursions available include: Crocodile and Reptile Park; Cheetah Rehabilitation Centre; Scuba diving/snorkelling; Tembe Elephant Park; Pineapple farm visit; Gin Distillery visit and tasting; St Lucia boat cruise; Tiger fishing; Elephant interaction; Deep Sea Fishing; Local visit to school/village; Safari/beach horse riding; Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Game Reserve.

A comprehensive list of all available excursions as well as pricing can be obtained upon request from our Reservation’s office.

ZULU NYALA SPAS: – Spoil yourself – you deserve it!

Further enhance your stay at Zulu Nyala by spending time in our onsite Spas!

Both the Heritage Safari Lodge & Game Lodge have dedicated spas for your relaxing & pampering pleasure. Our highly skilled & experienced therapists are trained in various relaxing massage techniques, facials, hand & nail treatments plus a variety of beauty therapies. The spa at the Heritage is conveniently situated within a private space on the grounds, among the beautiful gardens. Our Game Lodge spa is spacious, airy & light with forever views of our privately owned Game Reserve.

Book your treatments directly with us to avoid disappointment.

Cancellation policy: within 6 hours of booked treatment time to avoid being charged.

ZULU NYALA CULTURAL VILLAGE:

Located on the Heritage Safari Lodge property is our fascinating Zulu Cultural Village, here the residents still live and practice Zulu traditions as their ancestors did hundreds of years ago. A visit will expose you to traditional Zulu beer and spear making; sangomas who read your future in the bones that they throw; the Zulu version of martial arts: stick fighting; bead and basket making, and the high-kicking, rhythmic Zulu dancing. Bookings are essential and can be done through your host ranger or with the front desk.

ON-SITE CURIO SHOP & BOUTIQUE – ‘CURIOSITY’

‘Curiosity’ is situated on the Zulu Nyala Heritage property and showcases the richness and artistry of African craftsmanship. It is a must visit during your stay! There is a large selection of items to choose from across a price range that suits each individual purchasing need. Functional and creatively crafted clothing plus some essentials you may have forgotten to bring, can be purchased.

Hours of business:

Monday to Saturday – 8:30am to 12pm / 3pm to 7pm

Sunday – closed

WI-FI & INTERNET ACCESS:

Complimentary internet/Wi-Fi is available to our guests. Strongest signal is in the common areas (reception, restaurant, and bar). Guests with laptops/smart phones may use wireless internet in the common areas and those without laptops/smartphones, can use the internet stations available.

LAUNDRY:

Zulu Nyala offers laundry facilities at an additional cost. A laundry pricelist and laundry bag are placed in the wardrobe of each room. The laundry is collected by housekeeping in the morning and returned to your room that same day. Alternately, you can drop your bag off at reception in the earlier part of the morning and they will make sure all is taken care of as per your instructions.

We are waterwise.

If you require your bathroom towels to be changed, please leave them in the bath for housekeeping.

SAFES & ELECTRICITY:

All the rooms/tents contain a safe in the wardrobe. We recommend you keep all your valuables (money/phone/jewellery) in the safe when leaving the room. Please, ensure you check the safe before checking out. We at Zulu Nyala are not responsible for any loss/theft/damage that may occur to your belongings during your stay with us or for anything that may be left in the safe on departure. While we endeavour to store such in our ‘lost property’, we can’t guarantee its safety.

ELECTRICITY:

There are four typical plug types in South Africa, types C, D, M and N. Plug type C has two round pins. Plug type D has three round pins in a triangular pattern as do types M and N. South Africa operates on a 230 VAC supply at 50Hz. Adaptors are available for purchase at front desk/reception.

GRATUITY: – Do I tip and if so, how much?

At Zulu Nyala, our staff work hard to ensure your comfort and enjoyment for every moment of your stay. Tipping is at your discretion, but should you decide to show your appreciation, the most common approach is for guests to add a percentage to their final bill on check-out. This may be paid by credit card. Tips are shared amongst all the hotel and junior staff, ensuring that those working hard behind the scenes are also included. However, should there be any staff members you wish to tip directly, you are most welcome to do so too. Your Ranger & Transfer Driver tips are paid directly by you either in Rands or Dollars.

VAT REIMBURSEMENT AT THE AIRPORT:

VAT reimbursement is only available on goods purchased with the proper documentation which is a detailed invoice with a description of the goods as well as a price breakdown of the items and taxes. Officials will also need to inspect the items so they can’t be packed in your checked luggage.

TRAVEL INSURANCE:

Zulu Nyala strongly recommends that you purchase comprehensive travel insurance for the duration of your stay in South Africa and neighbouring countries. The insurance should cover items including but not limited to:

• Medical expenses

• Loss of booking amount through cancellation

• Loss or damage to personal baggage or loss of money

Zulu Nyala is partnered with Global Rescue, and highly recommend them as a travel insurance partner. Our Reservations department can assist you with contacting them.

MEDICAL:

Ensure any recommended vaccinations are up to date before your trip. Consult your doctor or pharmacist at least 4 weeks before your departure date or visit www.cdc.gov/travel for more information. If you use prescription drugs, please ensure you have enough for your entire trip. Although there is very low risk of contracting malaria in our area, it is advisable to take precautions especially in the summer months. It is advisable to use a mosquito spray/repellent or cream for outdoors activities. This is available for purchase at the reception if you happen to forget yours. Make sure to bring your own medication with you such as Paracetamol in case of a headache. We unfortunately are not able to administer any form of medication. If medical care is required, we will endeavour to assist in getting the necessary actioned.

CURRENCY, BANKING & PAYMENT:

The currency in South Africa is Rand (ZAR).

Banking hours are between 9h00 and 15h30 weekdays and 8h00 to 11h00 on Saturdays.

There are ATMs throughout the country at airports, petrol stations and shopping centres. Larger establishments accept most international credit cards (VISA, MASTERCARD or AMERICAN EXPRESS). Cash is preferred when purchasing at smaller shops or curio stalls when dealing with informal traders. WE DO NOT ACCEPT TRAVELLER’S CHECKS or DINERS CLUB CARDS AT ZULU NYALA.