DESTINATION DEFENDER: SUB-SAHARAN AFRICA FAQS

GENERAL

  • Who operates the journeys?

    Destination Defender: Sub-Saharan Africa is operated by Agentur für Promotion und Service GmbH (APS)/Land Rover Experience Germany, who are licensed and authorised by Jaguar Land Rover.

  • Who does the driving?

    You’re behind the wheel, but there will be a qualified instructor on hand to provide guidance and support.

  • What language will the journeys be delivered in?

    The instructors and hosts will communicate with guests in English.

INCLUSIONS

  • What is included in the price of the journey?

    Driving activities, accommodation, breakfast, lunch & dinner, drinks with meals and airport transfers to/from Windhoek Airport for Namibia journeys, and transfer to/from Maun International Airport and Victoria Falls International Airport for Botswana journeys. There will be one fixed transfer arrangement for each group.

  • What isn’t included in the price of the journey?

    Flights, visa fees (if required), vaccinations, travel insurance, tips, all personal expenses (e.g. minibar in the hotel, spa treatments etc.), and any pre or post-trip arrangements that deviate from the itinerary.

  • Do I need insurance to participate?

    We recommend comprehensive travel insurance.

DRIVING

  • I’ve never driven off-road before, can I still go on the journey?

    Each journey is designed for drivers of all abilities. You will be accompanied by a qualified instructor who will provide expert guidance and support.

  • What vehicle will I be driving? Will it be manual or automatic?

    Guests will drive the latest Defender. All vehicles are equipped with automatic transmission.

  • How will we navigate the terrain?

    Guests will generally travel in convoy using radio communication between vehicles.

  • What are the driving licence and minimum age requirements?

    All driving guests must be at least 19 years old and have held a full valid driving licence for at least one year. An International Driving Permit is required.

  • Do I need a certain level of physical fitness?

    To participate in Destination Defender, you should ensure that you do not know of any circumstances or conditions which would impair your ability to drive or disqualify you from driving, such as eyesight which doesn’t meet the standards for driving, pregnancy, or heart problems.

  • How many guests are in each vehicle?

    Prices are based on two people sharing a vehicle. On request, a third and fourth guest can be booked into the vehicle.

  • Will I have my own vehicle if I’m travelling by myself?

    For safety reasons, solo travellers will be paired with another guest. If there is an odd number of guests, one of our instructors will accompany you in the vehicle.

  • Can I bring my own vehicle?

    It is not possible to participate with your own vehicle.

TRAVELLING

  • Do I require a visa?

    Your travel concierge will inform you in advance about the provisions of passports, visas, and health regulations. If you need an invitation to get your visa, please inform the concierge team, who’ll provide this to you. 

  • Do I require vaccinations?

    Information on recommended or prescribed vaccinations for the respective destinations can be found here.

  • Are children allowed on Destination Defender?

    Destination Defender is generally suitable for children over 11 years, but please contact the concierge team for further details and to discuss your individual requirements.

     

  • Can I book a whole Destination Defender for a private group?

    We will gladly facilitate private journeys for group bookings of 10 guests or more. The programme can be tailored and adapted to meet the needs of the group.

  • Who can I contact to help with flight bookings or travel insurance?

    Your travel concierge will gladly assist you with booking your flights and travel insurance. They will also inform you about any possible changes prior to departure.

  • Is there a maximum group size on each journey?

    To maintain an intimate and exclusive experience, the maximum group size for Destination Defender is as follows:

    -        10 guests maximum (two per vehicle) for Botswana Safari and 8 guests for Namibia Safari, with a minimum group size of 6 guests per journey.

    -        8 guests maximum (two per vehicle) for Skeleton Coast, with a minimum group size of 8 guests.

  • Can I extend my journey?

    Your travel concierge will be happy to assist with holiday planning and booking extensions before or after your trip. 

  • Is there a specific type of luggage I should bring?

    There are no specific luggage recommendations – Defender can handle various combinations of suitcases and travel bags.

  • Which currency is used in Namibia?

    The local currency is Namibian Dollar (NAD).

  • Which currency is used in Botswana?

    The local currency is the Botswana Pula (BWP).

  • Is there an evening dress code?

    Evening dress code is casual.

  • What happens if a Destination Defender does not reach its minimum numbers? Will it be cancelled?

    We endeavour to finalise all journeys and travel documentation 65 days prior to departure. Journeys are subject to change based on local conditions, accommodation, availability, and minimum guest numbers. Your travel concierge will be in contact should a withdrawal be necessary. Please refer to our terms and conditions for more information.

  • Are itineraries and accommodation confirmed?

    The itineraries and accommodation displayed may be amended and replaced with similar alternatives based on availability.