Grand Voyage to South Africa, Egypt & Italy

• Return international full-service flights (economy class), departure city surcharges may apply
• 1 Internal Flight from Johannesburg to Cape Town

• 26 night cruise on the magnificent MSC 'Splendida'

• 3 nights at 5 Star Shepherd's Tree Game Lodge
• 3 nights at 3 & 4-star accommodation

• 88 meals including all meals while cruising

• Qualified safari field rangers and trackers
• Airlines taxes and surcharges

• Transportation by air-conditioned vehicles and open-air 4x4 Safari vehicles

• Day 1: Johannesburg Airport to Shepherd's Tree Game Lodge
• Day 4: Shepherd's Tree Game Lodge to Johannesburg Airport
• Day 4: Cape Town Airport to Hotel
• Day 6: Cape Town Hotel to Cruise Port Terminal

• Arrive Early: Arrive up to 30 days before your tour starts. (Does not include hotel accommodation, meals or transfers)
• Stay Behind: Return up to 30 days after your tour concludes. (Does not include hotel accommodation, meals or transfers)
• Stopover Packages: Break up the long-haul flight with a stopover at a fantastic location. (See checkout for details )
• Cabin Upgrades: Cabin upgrades are available. (See checkout for details)
• Flight Upgrades: Upgrade to Business Class or Premium Economy. (See checkout for details)
• Guaranteed Airline: Fly with a guaranteed airline. (See checkout for details)

Today, depart Australia (or New Zealand) for Johannesburg, South Africa!

Upon arrival, be met by a representative at the airport meeting point before being transferred to the 5-star Shepherd's Tree Game Lodge in Pilanesberg National Park (approximately 227 KM/drive).

Just a few hours from Johannesburg lies a slice of heaven in the heart of the bush. Shepherd's Tree Game Lodge is a phenomenal hideaway tucked quietly away in its exclusive-use zone in the southwest of the Pilanesberg Game Reserve. Shepherd's Tree Game Lodge brings the best of the Pilanesberg to life, with bright sunsets setting the horizon alight as the silhouettes of the mighty Big 5 pass by in the lush green and gold grass. Shepherd's Tree Game Lodge is ideal for romantic getaways; perfect for fine family breakaways; fully equipped for state-of-the-art conferences, and offers the ultimate in flawless, memorable weddings.

Come and experience rustic hospitality subtly steeped in five-star luxury with the finest finishes, exquisite architecture and flawless interior design. Share the wonder of the best views on the vast, temperate continent and embark on a guided game drive in a comfortable open 4X4 Land Rover accompanied by professional English-speaking field rangers and trackers, ensuring an informative and detailed safari experience. Keep your cameras ready for some incredible photo opportunities. Return to the lodge early evening in time for dinner.

Shepherd's Tree Game Lodge

Meals included: Dinner; In-Flight

Begin the day with an early morning game drive through the reserve. The varied habitats on a game reserve provide ideal conditions for an outstanding selection of large mammals, including the Big Five: lion, leopard, rhino, elephant and African buffalo. You will also have to opportunity to spot other predators, such as hyena and jackal, and a variety of antelope from Red Hartebeest to Eland, Gemsbok to Blesbok. That’s not to mention the elusive cheetah, cheeky honey badger and the omnipresent crèches of warthogs that flit across one’s path during your safari. Return to the lodge mid-morning for breakfast before heading out again later in the afternoon to spot more wildlife on an evening safari. Afterwards, wind down your evening and relax before dinner.

Overnight: Shepherd's Tree Game Lodge

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Discover new and exciting areas of the reserve and its diverse wildlife with another early morning and evening game drive.

Overnight: Shepherd's Tree Game Lodge

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

This morning after an early game drive, you will be transferred to Johannesburg airport in time for your domestic flight to Cape Town. Upon arrival in Cape Town, you will be transferred to the hotel. Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.

Cape Town

Cape Town is a city located in South Africa. It is the legislative capital of South Africa and the largest city in the Western Cape Province. Known for its stunning natural beauty, Cape Town is situated on the shores of Table Bay, surrounded by iconic landmarks such as Table Mountain and Cape Point. Cape Town has a rich history and cultural heritage. It was originally established as a trading post by the Dutch East India Company in the 17th century. Over the years, it has grown into a vibrant and cosmopolitan city, blending African, European, and Asian influences. Cape Town is also known for its beautiful beaches, such as Camps Bay and Clifton Beach, where locals and tourists alike can relax, swim, and enjoy the coastal scenery. 

Overnight: The Commodore or Similar

Meals included: Breakfast

Today is free at leisure to discover the beautiful city of Cape Town. Independently explore the iconic landmarks, visit Table Mountain, head to the vineyards or enjoy browsing the shops.

Overnight: The Commodore or Similar

Meals included: Breakfast

Departure: 18:00

Today, check out of your hotel and spend the day at leisure before being transferred to the cruise port in time to embark on your 26-night MSC Cruise to Civitavecchia, Italy. Luggage can be stored in the hotel's reception until it is time to board the cruise. 

Your travel packs will outline boarding times 4-6 weeks before departure. 

Overnight: MSC Splendida

Meals included: Breakfast; Dinner

Enjoy a day at sea and make the most of the onboard facilities. While at sea, take the time to recharge before embarking on the next adventure.

Overnight: MSC Splendida

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Enjoy a day at sea and make the most of the onboard facilities. While at sea, take the time to recharge before embarking on the next adventure.

Overnight: MSC Splendida

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Docked: 07:00 - 18:00

When you arrive in Durban, South Africa’s third-largest city and the continent’s largest port, you will be captured by the tropical colours and vibrant atmosphere. The pulsing warren of bazaars, alleyways and mosques that makes up the Indian area around Dr Yusuf Dadoo Street is ripe for exploration, and there are some excellent restaurants around Durban’s photogenic harbour area. Durban’s beachfront is a high-energy, happy environment just east of the centre and is South Africa’s most developed seaside destination.

Overnight: MSC Splendida

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Enjoy a day at sea and make the most of the facilities on board. While at sea, take the time to recharge before embarking on the next adventure.

Overnight: MSC Splendida

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Enjoy a day at sea and make the most of the onboard facilities. While at sea, take the time to recharge before embarking on the next adventure.

Overnight: MSC Splendida

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Enjoy a day at sea and make the most of the onboard facilities. While at sea, take the time to recharge before embarking on the next adventure.

Overnight: MSC Splendida

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Docked: 09:00- 19:00

La Possession, on the splendid Punta des Galets, makes one of the most unique stops in Southern Africa. As soon as you disembark, you can independently explore or choose to embark on an optional excursion (not included). Possibly head off to the so-called Circus of Salazie, the remains of an enormous volcanic caldera located a few kilometres from La Possession. Instead of geysers of lava extinguished centuries ago, you will find an explosion of life, where marvels of nature live side by side with small towns scattered throughout a lush forest. Another must-see in Saint-Denis, La Possession is the Central Post Office, reminiscent of some Algerian cities, and the unique building housing the Department of Agriculture and Forestry is worth visiting.

Overnight: MSC Splendida

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Docked: 07:00 - 23:59

A holiday in Mauritius means disembarking at Port Louis, the capital of this island nation off the coast of Madagascar. Port Louis has taken its role seriously as the country’s first city and has expanded with new streets, buildings and a beautiful promenade. Possibly stroll along the Caudan Waterfront, lined with old cannons and numerous shops. Traces of Port Luis’ colonial past can be seen in Place D’Armes, where the statue of Bertrand François Mahé, the count of La Bourdonnais and a former governor of the island, observes passers-by surrounded by palm trees.

Overnight: MSC Splendida

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Docked: 00:01 - 23:59

Spend another day exploring or relaxing on this beautiful island! One of the prominent landmarks in Port Louis is the waterfront area known as the Caudan Waterfront. It features a range of shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues. Visitors can enjoy shopping for local crafts, dine at restaurants offering local and international cuisine, or stroll along the waterfront promenade.

Overnight: MSC Splendida

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Docked 00:01 - 12:00

Enjoy one last day exploring paradise island! 

Overnight: MSC Splendida

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Enjoy a day at sea and make the most of the onboard facilities. While at sea, take the time to recharge before embarking on the next adventure.

Overnight: MSC Splendida

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Enjoy a day at sea and make the most of the onboard facilities. While at sea, take the time to recharge before embarking on the next adventure.

Overnight: MSC Splendida

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Enjoy a day at sea and make the most of the onboard facilities. While at sea, take the time to recharge before embarking on the next adventure.

Overnight: MSC Splendida

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Enjoy a day at sea and make the most of the onboard facilities. While at sea, take the time to recharge before embarking on the next adventure.

Overnight: MSC Splendida

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Enjoy a day at sea and make the most of the onboard facilities. While at sea, take the time to recharge before embarking on the next adventure.

Overnight: MSC Splendida

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Enjoy a day at sea and make the most of the onboard facilities. While at sea, take the time to recharge before embarking on the next adventure.

Overnight: MSC Splendida

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Enjoy a day at sea and make the most of the onboard facilities. While at sea, take the time to recharge before embarking on the next adventure.

Overnight: MSC Splendida

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Enjoy a day at sea and make the most of the onboard facilities. While at sea, take the time to recharge before embarking on the next adventure.

Overnight: MSC Splendida

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Docked: 06:00 to 20:00 

Port Safaga is a village on the Red Sea coast, which you will discover on your Cruise. The nearby phosphate mines drive the town’s economy. Don’t miss the chance to go on a shore excursion and find Luxor and the overwhelming concentration of relics in the area starting from Port Safaga. Ever since Nile streamers began calling in the nineteenth century, visitors come to view the remains of Thebes, Ancient Egypt’s New Kingdom capital, and its associated sites. The town boasts Luxor Temple, a graceful ornament to its waterfront and “downtown”, while a mile or so north is Karnam Temple, a spectacular complex built over 1,300 years. Across the river are the amazing tombs and mortuary temples of The Theban Necropolis, an attraction not to be missed on your holiday in Egypt. Luxor Temple stands aloof in the heart of town, ennobling the view from the waterfront and Midan el-Haggag with its grand colonnades and pylons.

Overnight: MSC Splendida

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Docked: 08:00 - 19:00

If you're interested in ancient history, Aqaba is a great stop on your cruise in the Middle East. Jordan's only seaport has been an important trading port since 1500 BC, and under Byzantine rule, it's thought the world's first church was built here. Half-built, half-carved into the rock and surrounded by mountains riddled with passages and gorges, the ancient city of Petra is one of the most spectacular archaeological sites in the world. Yet it was hidden and unknown for centuries until Johann Ludwig Burckhardt, a Swiss explorer, rediscovered it in 1812. Dating to around 3,000 BC, it was the capital of the Nabataean Kingdom, an ancient nomadic Arabic tribe that enjoyed immense wealth from the incense trade. Nicknamed "Rose City" because of the pink sandstone cliffs that its tombs and temples are carved into, today it is a listed UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Overnight: MSC Splendida

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Cruise down the Suez Canal, a man-made canal connecting the Mediterranean Sea and the Red Sea, is the shortest route to Europe.

Overnight: MSC Splendida

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Whilst cruising through the canal, enjoy the facilities on board the ship.

Overnight: MSC Splendida

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Enjoy a day at sea and make the most of the onboard facilities. While at sea, take the time to recharge before embarking on the next adventure.

Overnight: MSC Splendida

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Enjoy a day at sea and make the most of the onboard facilities. While at sea, take the time to recharge before embarking on the next adventure.

Overnight: MSC Splendida

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Docked: 09:00 - 18:00

Dating back to the 2nd millennium B.C., Naples is one of Italy’s ancient jewels. Boasting a vibrant historical centre set around a striking harbour bay, discover architectural landmarks, masterpiece artworks, and sumptuous food. The volcano of Mount Vesuvius offers a picture-postcard backdrop. From the city, travel further afield to the archaeological site of Pompeii or take in Capri’s glamorous culture.

Overnight: MSC Splendida

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Disembark: 07:00

This morning after breakfast, disembark the cruise. Discover the culture and colour of Civitavecchia. This Italian gem is an enjoyable flight from many European and non-European cities. Celebrated for its 16th-century Michelangelo Fort, ancient Taurine Baths, and marble Vanvitelli fountain, the port is a convenient gateway for visiting Rome, Italy’s regal and romantic capital.

Make your own way to Rome, either by bus, taxi or train or choose to embark on the optional Rome excursion (not included). Upon arrival in Rome, make your own way to the hotel; if you arrive too early for check-in, then luggage can be stored at the hotel while you independently explore this magnificent city.

Rome

Rome is the capital city of Italy and is located in the central-western part of the country. It is one of the most historically significant cities in the world and is renowned for its rich cultural heritage, ancient ruins, and artistic treasures. Rome is also known for its vibrant street life, delicious cuisine (including classic dishes like pasta, pizza, and gelato), and charming neighbourhoods like Trastevere and Monti. Additionally, the city offers numerous museums, galleries, and parks to explore.

Overnight: Hampton by Hilton, Rome East or similar

Meals included: Breakfast

Today, make your own way to the appropriate time to airport for your international flight back to Australia (or New Zealand). 

Meals included: Breakfast; In-Flight

Please note that some customers may arrive +1 day.

After purchase, you will receive a receipt and a Purchase Confirmation, directing you to an online Passenger Information Form. You must complete the Passenger Information Form within 72 hours of purchase.

Any special requests, preferences and optional extras MUST be clearly stated in your Passenger Information Form. Any change requested after submitting your Passenger Information Form cannot be guaranteed, is strictly subject to availability and will incur surcharges as outlined in the Schedule of Fees below.

On purchasing this Travel Offer, you are bound by the General Terms and Conditions and the specific terms and conditions outlined in this Important Information. 

Please note: All countries and territories have different entry requirements in relation to vaccinations, quarantine/isolation periods and travel restrictions. Due to the evolving nature, we would ask all of our customers to monitor, meet and adhere to the specific requirements of their intended destination(s) in the lead-up to and immediately before travel, as well as any requirements post-travel upon their return.

Tour packages are non-refundable. If your tour package is affected by Covid-19 related travel restrictions and you are unable to travel, you will receive either a free date change (credit that is specific to your original package and purchase value) or an open credit less any non-recoverable supplier fees to the value of your original purchase for use on any other tour or package available via the TripADeal website.

Please note: Date change credits are subject to availability and not guaranteed until confirmed by TripADeal, not the tour operator you are due to stay with.

We recommend you consider purchasing travel insurance with Covid-19 protection. The standard cancellation policy will apply if you cannot travel because you have tested positive for Covid-19.

Please note: All additional charges are payable in AUD (unless otherwise stated). 

This travel offer is valid for travel on selected dates until the 29th March 2024.

This travel offer is priced per person based on a twin share.

Single Traveller Supplement  

For solo travellers, a mandatory single supplement applies:

Inside Cabin: $2,800

Ocean View Cabin: $3,500

Balcony Cabin: $4,200 

Please note: accommodation for single customers who are travelling on a tour or cruise package may be in a single room, depending on availability.

Departure Dates  

29th March 2024

Please note: see checkout for live dates and availability.

Departure Cities  

Sydney, Melbourne, *Brisbane, *Adelaide, Perth or *Auckland

Departure City Surcharges  

Brisbane, Adelaide or Auckland: $200 per person

International Full-Service Airline(s) Used  

• Cabin Class: Economy Class

• International Airlines: Singapore Airlines, Emirates, Qatar, Cathay Pacific, Qantas, Etihad, Air New Zealand and airline partners (subject to availability).

• Internal Airlines: SA Link, South African Airlines, Fast Jet and airline partners (subject to availability). 

Please note: We cannot accommodate one-way flights. Travellers must take all included flights within the package, and any flights intentionally forfeited will result in later flights being subject to cancellation. 

Missed Flights   

If you fail to arrive for your outbound flight, you risk all flight and land arrangements in your destination being automatically cancelled by the airlines and land operator, respectively. Additional fees may apply to reinstate these services. If you will miss your flight for whatever reason, please contact us as soon as possible to make arrangements. 

Guaranteed Airline surcharge  

• Cabin Class: Economy Class

• Emirates: $400 per person 

• Qatar: $400 per person 

Please note: 

• Guaranteed airlines are subject to availability. If we are unable to fulfil your request, the above extra cost will be refunded.

• On any upgrade purchase, short-haul flights and domestic flight sectors are not guaranteed, subject to aircraft configuration.

• In the event that a purchased stopover package and a purchased guaranteed airline upgrade are not compatible, you will have the option to receive a refund for the guaranteed airline upgrade or be offered an alternative stopover city option, e.g if you choose to fly with Singapore Airlines you cannot stopover in Dubai.

• Guaranteed airline refers to the marketing carrier and could include codeshare partners. 

Arrive early in Johannesburg, South Africa  

$300 per person, subject to availability

Please note:

• This fee does not include extra nights' accommodation, meals or airport transfers.

• You may book a date to arrive early via our website but only a date that is within 30 days of the tour departure date. If you wish to arrive earlier than 30 days before your tour departure date, please call our friendly staff for availability and pricing. Additional costs may apply

• No flight booking changes or cancellations are permitted after air tickets have been issued.

• Flight changes are subject to availability at the time of booking.

• Blackout dates apply to flights departing between the below date ranges:

1st December 2023 - 9th February 2024

18th March 2024 - 30th April 2024

1st June 2024 - 14th August 2024

Stay behind in Rome, Italy  

$300 per person, subject to availability

Please note:

• This fee does not include extra nights' accommodation, meals or airport transfers.

• A stay behind can only be booked up to one month after your package end date upon check-out. Should you wish to stay later, please contact us to request availability. Additional costs may apply.

• No flight booking changes or cancellations are permitted after air tickets have been issued.

• Flight changes are subject to availability at the time of booking.

• Blackout dates apply to flights departing between the below date ranges:

1st December 2023 - 9th February 2024

18th March 2024 - 30th April 2024

1st June 2024 - 14th August 2024

Stopover Packages  

* Doha

Twin share: $1,000 per person/one way

Solo Traveller: $1,500 one way

* Dubai

Twin share: $1,000 per person/one way

Solo Traveller: $1,500 one way

* Singapore

Twin share: $1,200 per person/one way

Solo Traveller: $1,800 one way

Includes:

• 2 nights in 4-star accommodation

• Daily breakfast

• Return airport transfers 

Please note: 

• When a pre and post-tour stopover is chosen, the same stopover location must be chosen each way, due to the airline used

• When selecting an Arrive Early or Stay Behind in conjunction with a Stopover Package, the stopover will take place after the departure date you select for your Arrive Early or Stay Behind

• Stopover packages are subject to availability.

• In the event that a purchased stopover package and a purchased guaranteed airline upgrade are not compatible, you will have the option to receive a refund for the guaranteed airline upgrade or be offered an alternative stopover city option, e.g if you choose to fly with Singapore Airlines you cannot stopover in Dubai.

• Blackout dates apply to flights departing between the below date ranges:

1st December 2023 - 9th February 2024

18th March 2024 - 30th April 2024

1st June 2024 - 14th August 2024

Flight Class Upgrades  

Premium/Business Class: For pricing, please refer to the payment cart at checkout.

Please note:

• Flight upgrades are subject to availability and pricing changes (if we cannot fulfil your request, the upgrade cost will be refunded).

• On any upgrade purchase, short-haul flights and domestic flight sectors are not guaranteed, subject to aircraft configuration.

MSC 'Splendida' Ship 

Eco-ship MSC Splendida carries you in comfort, style and luxury to the most desirable cruise destinations in the world, while at the same time being a beautiful destination in her own right. With so much to see and do on board, every day on MSC Splendida promises travellers of all ages a world of new discoveries before they even step ashore.

Get ready to dive into one of the pools, let your hair down at the themed parties, treat yourself to something delicious in one of the amazing restaurants, and much more! You’ll love the live music and the extraordinary variety of themed bars and restaurants. Complete the night with a world-class show in The Strand Theatre, a winning streak in the Royal Palm Casino or dancing in the Club 33 Disco. Sports facilities at MSC Splendida include four swimming pools, a jogging track, a squash court and an ultramodern gym. 

Cabins/Staterooms  

Inside Cabin:

Surface 17 sqm, deck 5-9

Relaxing armchair

Bathroom with shower, vanity area and hairdryer

TV, telephone, Wifi connection available (for a fee), safe and minibar

Ocean View Cabin: 

Surface 18 sqm, deck 5

Window with sea view

Relaxing armchair

Bathroom with shower, vanity area with hairdryer

Interactive TV, telephone, Wifi connection available (for a fee), safe and minibar 

Balcony Cabin: 

Surface 19 sqm, balcony 4 sqm, deck 8-9

Sitting area with sofa

Bathroom with shower or bathtub, vanity area with hairdryer

Interactive TV, telephone, Wifi connection available (for a fee), safe and minibar 

Please note: cabins are subject to availability and timetable changes. Some cabins may have restricted views.

Accommodation Used:

3-5 Star Properties (Self-Rated)

South Africa: 5 Star Shepherd’s Tree Game Lodge 

Cape Town: The Commodore Hotel 

Rome: Hampton by Hilton Rome East 

Cruise: 4 Star MSC Splendida

Please note: Accommodation/rooms offered are based on a lead-in room type and are subject to availability based on seasonality. In the instance a property is not available, a similar standard of accommodation will be provided. Properties will be confirmed and included in your travel pack, which you will receive 4-6 weeks before travel.

Extra Nights  

Not available

Maximum Room Capacity  

2 people.

Child Policy  

• No child discounts. The full price applies to all children travelling with their parents.

• Valid for Children 10 years old and over.

Please note: Children must be accompanied by a responsible adult 18 years old and over to travel. No unaccompanied minors are allowed.

Triple Share  

Not available

Bedding Configuration  

Double or twin (subject to availability).

Minimum group size 10, maximum group size 14 per vehicle whilst on safari (this does not include transfers).

Optional Tours/Activities  

Please note: 

• Some tours or Shore excursions require minimum numbers to operate.

• Shore excursions can be booked/reserved directly with the cruise line before travel (subject to availability)

• Shore excursions can also be booked whilst onboard (subject to availability).

• Shore excursion programmes and itineraries may vary depending on local conditions and/or any unforeseen events concerning the timing on the day of the tour. Some excursions are very popular, and therefore availability cannot always be guaranteed, it is advisable to book in advance to avoid disappointment.

• Visa fees and requirements 

• Domestic transfers and flights not stated in the deal offer

• Meals/beverages not stated in the deal offer

• Gratuities/tipping 

• Optional activities/tours 

• Personal expenses

• Travel insurance

• City Tax

TOUR GUIDE VS. TOUR LEADER

Tour Guide:   

Often locals with intimate knowledge of an area, its culture, and history. Their role entails providing commentary, routing the tour, and seeing that people have a good time. They are a licensed, qualified expert who supplies specific information on the history, art, architecture and culture of the city/village/attraction where they are guiding the tour. The guide meets the group at the required place and leaves it at the end of the tour; they do not travel with the group. 

Tour Leader:   

An experienced person tasked with ensuring the smooth operation of tours, as well as providing practical support to passengers throughout the whole trip. Their role primarily includes assisting with accommodation, transportation between locations, and communication with tour guides at each stop. A tour leader may provide general guidance around a city or village and offer information on the place visited on the bus. However, they are not required to have specific art, architecture, or historical knowledge. They are not allowed to provide a guided tour or commentary of a city/village/attraction once there and, if caught doing so, can be fined. 

Please note: Tour leaders/guides are not a standard inclusion in all travel offers. Tour leaders/guides will only be made available when required to enhance the experience of the destination featured. 

CLIMATE & AVERAGE TEMPERATURES

South Africa

South Africa has a Mediterranean-style climate: wet and cool winters, dry and warm summers. With highs of 27°C and lows of 14°C in March. 

Egypt  

March/April is the first month of spring in Egypt with an average temperature fluctuating between 23.5°C and 11.6°C.

Mauritius  

March/April is a popular time to visit Mauritius, the weather is warm reaching a maximum of 27°C and lows of 21°C. November is also a good time to visit Mauritius with highs of 20°C and highs of 29°C.

Europe 

March/April brings wonderful spring weather to the Mediterranean with the average high temperature being 17°C. 

FLIGHTS

Seat Selection & Frequent Flyer Points:  

We do not arrange seat selection. It is essential to highlight that some airlines do not allow pre-selected seats. We strongly suggest you contact the airline directly with seating allocation requirements and/or arrive at the airport earlier to arrange your seating. While we do not add frequent flyer member details to bookings, you can do this directly with the airline once you have your flight information.

Passport Validity:  

Customers must provide valid passport details either at the time of purchase or no later than 45 days before the departure date. Failure to do so may result in the cancellation of the booking. Customers will be responsible for any costs and fees incurred in this instance.

CRUISE

Embarkation / Disembarkation:  

• Begins approximately 2 hours after docking.

• Due to security reasons, all guests must be on board 2 hours before sailing.

• Itineraries are subject to change at any time without notice.

• Check your specific sailing for exact departure and arrival times. All times are local to the port.

Please note: strict Covid-19 terms may also apply regarding proof of insurance covering Covid-19 and/or vaccination. Please refer to the cruise lines’ terms and conditions for further information before boarding.

Cruise Loyalty Discounts:  

Please note: Travellers must contact the cruise line directly upon receiving their travel documents in order to request any membership benefits they may be entitled to.

COACH TOUR

Meals:  

For meals not included, the tour leader (when available) will offer assistance with reservations, suggestions and directions to local restaurants. It is your responsibility to notify us of any dietary requests/requirements. Please note: We will do our best to meet your requests/requirements; however, we cannot guarantee that we will always be able to.

Luggage:  

You will be responsible for all your personal belongings whilst on tour. You must carry your own luggage from the vehicle to the hotel room and back to the vehicle. The driver will assist with the uploading and unloading of bags from the vehicle.

OTHER 

Mobility:  

If you require wheelchair access please contact our friendly sales and service team to inquire on your behalf.

Fitness Level Required:  

A leisurely level of fitness will be required. 

Leisurely is described as light walking, including up multiple stairs, and occasional hiking, which may involve uneven surfaces. Able to travel unassisted and get on and off vehicles and small boats. Suitable for most fitness levels and mobility. 

Yellow Fever:  

A valid international certificate of vaccination against Yellow Fever is required in many countries. You may need to present this on arrival at the airport or border crossing. Some countries will refuse entry if you are unable to present your certificate. It's also common for your home country to request a Yellow Fever certificate upon arrival.

You must check with your doctor well before leaving home about the Yellow Fever requirements for the countries you'll be visiting.

Gratuities / Tipping:  

Land 

Gratuities (tips) are not included in the tour price for services of the driver, qualified safari field rangers, lodge staff and trackers. Please note: tipping for services provided is always a matter of personal discretion; however, please be aware that many locals consider tipping part of their normal remuneration, and they may approach you for payment; there's no need to be intimidated by the request.

Cruise 

Gratuities (tips) are not included for the cruise staff's services throughout this tour's cruise component. MSC is an internationally registered company & operates to US & European standards, both of which have an economy driven by a tipping culture. Gratuities are expected on your cruise and will be charged to your onboard account at approximately $14 USD per person per day. If you have any questions regarding the gratuities on your cruise, please speak to the guest services staff onboard the ship.

Sightseeing: 

Please note: If the entrance to a site is affected by changes in operating hours or public holiday closures, your itinerary, where possible, may be adjusted, or a similar activity will be offered in its place (subject to availability).

Shopping:  

Shopping overseas can be a daunting and confusing experience, especially when there is a language barrier. Please be very cautious when foreign currencies and prices are involved. If paying by credit card, please pay close attention to the amount you are being charged and keep all your receipts. 

Do not make any purchases you are not comfortable with or feel pressured into. If you are uncertain or need assistance with the language barrier, please seek assistance from your Tour Guide/Leader.

Please refer to our Terms and Conditions regarding shopping for further information.

South Africa  

A tourist visa is not required for Australians travelling to South Africa.

Europe  

A tourist visa is not required for stays up to 90 days if travelling on an Australian or New Zealand passport.

Important:   

• Please start arranging your visa three weeks before departure to account for any delays due to consulate operating hours.

• Visa rules may have changed since Covid-19. Some countries and airlines may require you to obtain an additional visa before arrival. Please check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination you're entering.

Please note: 

• Passengers who are not Australian citizens must also check with the respective consulate or visa agency to determine what their visa requirements are and what personal identification is required.

• It is also important to note that some areas of employment, such as journalism, government authorities and charity organisations, may have additional restrictions in applying for Visas. This may, in turn, affect the type of application required.

Voluntary Changes  

This includes booking changes requested by you, including but not limited to those changes requiring an airline ticket or a Purchase Confirmation reissue.

• Changes - $100.00 per booking and any additional charges applied by the airline/cruise company/accommodation/other travel providers.

Name Changes Due To Passenger Error  

• If the incorrect name has been provided, charges of $100.00 per booking and any additional charges applied by the airline/cruise company/accommodation/other travel providers.

Supplier Fees  

In the event the tour package you have purchased is unable to proceed, and/or a travel Supplier is unable to fulfil the Qantas Tour due to external circumstances (Limitation of Liability e.g. a Force Majeure event), there may be a fee or amount of money that is withheld by our Suppliers and is unrecoverable. This may be due to non-refundable airline tickets, cancellation penalties with cruise cabins or unrecoverable payments with our land/accommodation partners. If refunds are not available from Suppliers, we will endeavour to obtain a travel credit on the best terms available and communicate these outcomes to you. In the event we are unable to obtain a refund or travel service credit, or part thereof, this cost is passed on to the customer as a Supplier Fee.