General Information
While game-viewing is certainly the biggest draw for visitors to East and Southern Africa, the region has recently gained attention as an angler’s paradise.

Fishing Seasons
Zambezi Tigerfish: Prime tigerfish season on the Zambezi River typically runs during the dry season, from August into November. Seychelles Islands: Fishing season runs from the second week in September to the first week in June. The months of May and September are typically windier. Benguerra Island, Mozambique. Fishing is usually very good to excellent to excellent year-round. However, weather conditions are typically best from March to November.

Getting there
There are several routes to Africa, depending on the countries you are visiting. From the United States, Southern Africa is most easily accessed by direct flights to Johannesburg, including daily service from New York and Atlanta on South African Airlines. Several other international airlines offer connecting service via Europe.

Entry
A valid passport required for U.S. citizens. Tourist cards are provided on your international flight to South Africa. Zambia and Mozambique require tourist visas, which are currently available on arrival in the country. Passengers assume all responsibility for obtaining valid passports and necessary visas.

Health issues
Your doctor or travel health clinic will recommend several inoculations for travel to Africa. While there are typically very few mosquitoes during the dry season, malaria tablets are recommended. Sunscreen is also recommended. Be sure to bring sunscreen and polarized sunglasses. Note: Health precautions are offered here as an informational service only. See your doctor or health clinic.

Language
English is widely spoken in most of the countries we visit. Lodge hosts speak English.

Weather
Daytime temperatures in the featured fishing areas typically range the low 70s to mid 90s. On the Zambezi River, night-time temperatures can drop to the 50s during the winter months. More detailed weather information is available in the trip details section of each destination.

Packing/Dress
The less luggage you have to manage, the easier it will be to get around. Charter flights may specify baggage weight limitations. However, most lodges offer daily laundry service, so you can really pack light with respect to safari clothes.

Fishing partners should coordinate their packing of some items to avoid unnecessary duplication and excess weight. We recommend a durable, water-resistent, lockable, top-zipper soft-duffel as the checked luggage. Carry your most valuable, essential and fragile items (preferably a change of clothes as well, in your carry-on pack. A goal would be to fit everything into a single piece of checked luggage (duffel-bag), in addition to a rod tube and a carry-on pack.

Dress at the camps is very informal. The only places you might want to spiff up a bit would be for evenings in Johannesburg, Cape Town, and other cities. The best restaurant at the Victoria Falls Hotel, does require a dress for ladies and jacket for men (jackets may be provided).

Early morning and evening game drives can be a bit cool, so a sweatshirt or light jacket is recommended. Tan or other subdued colors are preferred for the gameviewing, as they are less intrusive on the wildlife and natural setting. For those going to Cape Town, a jacket will also be helpful during the cooler months of May through October.

Also, some experienced travelers get very comfortable for the long-haul flight from Atlanta to Johannesburg. On that same subject, be sure to drink lots of water during the flight, to prevent dehydration which will compound the effects of jet lag.

Detailed packing and tackle recommendations and other briefing materials will be furnished on receipt of your trip deposit and reservation form.

Camera:
A good telephoto or zoom lens is really important for wildlife photography. I use a 28-200mm zoom, which covers most situations, from a wildlife shot, to the tight shot in the boat of you holding the new world record tigerfish. More serious photographers may prefer a longer telephoto, up to 300-400mm. In any case, be sure to bring LOTS of film, and perhaps a tripod. I’ve seen ordinary people fire off two rolls on just one elephant herd.

Fishing gear:
Most camps have very limited fishing gear, so it is highly recommended that you bring your own. Detailed packing and tackle recommendations and other briefing materials will be furnished on receipt of your trip deposit and reservation form. Our tackle service, QuesTackle can provide you with many of the items you might want for such a trip, or feel free to work through other sources.

Tips:
Normal tipping practices apply. Fishing guides typically receive $10 to $20 per guest per day, with camp staff receives a lump sum of $50-$100 per guest at the end of the week. Bellhops and other service providers along the way will also appreciate the customary gratuities. Please do not feel obligated to tip beyond your comfort level, and tip only for good service.