Each itinerary is different, but tour packages generally include accommodations, in-country transportation, airport transfers, most meals, entrance fees for scheduled activities, and the services of local guides and Refracting Africa hosts. International airfare, visas, travel insurance, and personal expenses are typically not included unless otherwise noted on the tour page.
We carefully select accommodations that reflect the character of each destination while prioritizing comfort, safety, and quality. Depending on the itinerary, this may include boutique hotels, safari lodges, eco-lodges, and locally owned properties. Accommodation details are provided on each tour page.
Our tours are intentionally kept small to create a more personal experience. Most tours accommodate approximately 6-12 travelers. Single occupancy is available at no additional cost; however, availability depends on the accommodations included in the itinerary, particularly safari lodges.
Children ages 5 and older may be accommodated on a case-by-case basis, depending on the group’s dynamics and the nature of the itinerary. Please indicate in the booking form if children will be traveling with you so we can determine whether the tour is a good fit.
A non-refundable deposit is required to reserve your space. The remaining balance is paid in installments leading up to departure. Cancellation and refund policies vary by tour and are outlined in the Terms & Conditions and on each tour’s booking page.
Select your preferred journey and complete the booking form for review. Once your reservation is approved, you’ll receive an invoice for your deposit and a Client Services Agreement to review and sign to secure your spot on the tour.
Our tours require a minimum of 6 travelers to operate. If the minimum is not met, you will be notified at least 60 days before departure and may choose to transfer your reservation to another departure, receive a travel credit, or receive a refund of your payments, in accordance with our Terms & Conditions.
No. Our itineraries are carefully crafted to provide the best possible experience for the group and are not customizable. Travelers are welcome to make independent arrangements during designated free time; however, any activities or changes made outside the itinerary are at the traveler’s own discretion, expense, and risk. Refracting Africa is not responsible for independently arranged activities.
Yes. Most itineraries include scheduled free time for rest, personal exploration, or independent activities. Optional activities may also be available at select destinations for an additional cost. Specific opportunities vary by itinerary and destination.
Packing recommendations vary by itinerary. Before departure, you’ll receive a pre-departure guide with a detailed packing list and travel preparation information specific to your journey.
Travel insurance is required for all travelers. Vaccination requirements vary by destination and your country of departure. We recommend consulting your healthcare provider or a travel medicine clinic before your trip. Destination-specific health and travel requirements will be included in your pre-departure guide
The level of physical activity varies by itinerary. Each tour page includes information about the expected activity level so travelers can determine whether it matches their comfort and mobility. Feel free to contact us if you have questions or would like more details about the physical requirements of a specific journey.
Our local guides and Refracting Africa group coordinators speak English. Many of our local guides also speak the local language(s), providing both clear communication and local insight throughout the journey.
Each journey is accompanied by a Refracting Africa group coordinator and experienced local guides. The group coordinator serves as your primary point of contact before and during the trip, helping ensure the journey runs smoothly, while our local guides provide destination expertise, cultural context, and logistical support throughout the experience.