YOU ARE CORDIALLY INVITED TO JOIN THE THE INDIANAPOLIS ZOO
ON AN EXCLUSIVE SAFARI TO SOUTHERN TANZANIA
East Africa’s Pristine Wilderness
JUNE 19 TO 29, 2021
Schedules, accommodations and prices are accurate at the time of writing. They are subject to change.
YOUR ZOO ESCORT ~DR. ROB SHUMAKER
Robert W. Shumaker, Ph.D. President of the Indianapolis Zoo, is an evolutionary biologist who specializes in the study of behavior and cognition. Rob started his career at the Smithsonian National Zoo where during his 20-year tenure he worked as an animal keeper, curator, biologist, exhibit designer, and scientist. He went on to spend several years at the Great Ape Trust in Des Moines, Iowa as the senior scientist supervising all research with orangutans. In 2010 he moved to the Indianapolis Zoo where he is now the Zoo President.
YOUR PROFESSIONAL NATURALIST-GUIDE ~ ROBERT MARKS MOSHI
Robert Marks Moshi is a native Tanzanian with the distinction of being adopted at a very early age and raised by a Scottish missionary doctor. Robert’s love for conservation and wildlife started early and he earned his master’s degree by focusing on the study of elephants and their behavior. His mentor is Cynthia Moss and he spent time studying in her Amboseli headquarters, as well as the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust in Nairobi. Now a naturalist guide back in his beloved native land, Robert lives in bustling Arusha when he is not showing guests around Tanzania. Robert is most at home in the wild where his keen eye can spot a lion or a cheetah in the distance and his passion for his fellow people is evident as he shares insights and lore. He has a generous heart and a gentle smile and is excited to share the glories of Tanzania with you.
Schedules, accommodations and prices are accurate at the time of writing. They are subject to change.
YOUR ITINERARY
DAY 1~SATURDAY~JUNE 19 INDIANAPOLIS / EN- ROUTE Your journey begins as you board your overnight flight to Dar es Salaam via Amsterdam. (Meals Aloft)
DAY 2~SUNDAY~JUNE 20 AMSTERDAM/DAR ES SALAAM Tonight, land in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania's premier city, the political and economic capital of the country, even though the official seat of government was moved to Dodoma in 1973. The 'Haven of Peace' started life as a fishing village in the mid- 19th century when the Sultan of Zanzibar got the urge to turn a creek (now a harbor) into a safe port and trading center. Now it's a teeming metropolis of millions of people where Arab dhow boats mingle with huge ocean-going vessels. Upon arrival you will be met by your Classic Escapes representative and escorted to your hotel.
Amidst the bustle of one of Africa's most dynamic cities there is a sanctuary offering peaceful respite...the Dar es Salaam Serena Hotel. Encircled by tropical gardens and just minutes from the broad sweep of Indian Ocean beaches, the 230-room Dar es Salaam Serena Hotel is considered one of city’s finest hotels. The rooms are simple and elegant in their design and equipped with all modern amenities. Enjoy the swimming pool, restaurant, excellent gift shop and the comfort of your delightful room. Overnight at DAR ES SALAAM SERENA. (Meals Aloft) http://www.serenahotels.com/serenadaressalaam/default-en.html.
DAYS 3/4 ~MONDAY/TUESDAY~JUNE 121/22 DAR ES SALAAM/SELOUS GAME RESERVE~ RUFIJI RIVER CAMP After breakfast transfer to the airport for a short flight to the Selous Game Reserve where you will be met and escorted to Rufiji River Camp, your home for the next two nights. The less visited Rufiji River has some of the highest concentrations of hippo and crocodile on the continent. It is home to the largest populations of Africa's most sought-after wildlife including elephant, lion, wild dog, leopard, buffalo, and herds of plains animals. And yet, it remains one of the least visited of the great game sanctuaries on the continent. The reserve is also superb for birding as it is home to over 400 species. Among these are the Knob-billed duck, Southern Ground Hornbill, Bateleur Eagle, Red-faced Crombec, Green-capped Eremomela, Spotted-flanked Barbet, Stierling’s Barred Warbler, Pearl-spotted Owlette and Bennett’s Woodpecker. For optimal bird viewing we suggest you embark on the boat safaris. Schedules, accommodations and prices are accurate at the time of writing. They are subject to change.
The little visited Selous is particularly refreshing. Selous stands out from many of the other wonderful reserves and parks in Africa because of the opportunity to take both boat and walking safaris. Both options bring you far closer to the natural environment than regular 4x4 game drives and are not generally available in other reserves. Swim in a remote hot spring and boat upstream to the rocky cliffs of Stieglers’ Gorge which provides some of the best leopard sightings in the region.
Your home in this region of the Selous will be the Rufiji River Camp. Each tent has a thatched roof, marvelous verandah, and en suite bathroom with solar heated water for showering. The focus here is truly on game and wildlife; guests feel immersed in nature throughout their stay. Spend your evenings dining al fresco, and relaxing in the pool after a long day of game drives. Overnights at the RUFIJI RIVER CAMP. (B,L,D Daily) www.rufijirivercamp.com
DAYS 5/6~WEDNESDAY/THURSDAY~JUNE 23/24 SELOUS GAME RESERVE~MIVUMO RIVER LODGE Get set for exciting wildlife viewing on foot, boat and 4x4 vehicle during your stay at Selous (pronounced Seloo) – the second biggest conservation area in Africa, and the largest wildlife reserve on the continent. Measuring an astounding 22,000 square miles it is also a proclaimed World Heritage site. To give scale to these figures, the reserve covers an area more than twice that of Denmark, is bigger than Switzerland, and is nearly four times the size of the Serengeti! Named after the legendary 19th century explorer and hunter Frederick Courteney Selous, the reserve was founded by the German colonial administration in 1905. It was later expanded to include traditional elephant migration routes and accommodate the vast herds of buffalo that roam this remote, untouched corner of Africa. Selous boasts an impressive variety of mammals, birdlife and wildflowers in a mosaic of wooded hills, open miombo woodland and grassy plains and marshes.
Here, there’s no fixed itinerary…rather, you’ll pick up on the rhythm of the wilderness around you, all the time looking to explore and expand your knowledge and understanding. The wonder of exploring the wilderness on foot, the magic of following the stately footprints of an old bull elephant, cut crisp and smooth in the white river sand, to discover his tracks interrupted by the passage of a female leopard dragging her recent kill, her tracks leading to a nearby tamarind tree; the small and industrious workings of termites to the dead silence of midday interrupted by the sound of gigantic ears flapping, to cool him deep in the shade; to the rush of five hundred buffalo stampeding away through tall grass… that’s what this is all about. The focus here is on wildlife, exploring and Schedules, accommodations and prices are accurate at the time of writing. They are subject to change.
connecting with the landscape by 4X4 vehicle, on foot and in a canoe. The tracking of buffalo and elephant, on foot with experienced porters, trackers and trained guides, is a big part of what they do here, often forming the undercurrent through the day that draws you to discover other natural wonders. The rivers are navigable and with a fleet of modern inflatable canoes; it is a fantastic and relaxed way to gently travel the land. In addition, the sheer dramatic scale of Selous makes it an outstanding example of untouched African wilderness, and as one of the last refuges of healthy populations of the endangered African wild dogs the reserve truly can claim to offer a unique African safari experience.
Your lodge for the next two nights is situated on the panhandle of the Rufiji River in view of the mighty Stiegler’s Gorge. All of the twelve rooms are set along the river among a large shady riverine forest characterized by acacia, tamarind, fig and sausage trees. The rooms are equipped with spacious bathroom facilities and an outside shower. Each room has large comfortable beds, luxurious linen, full length mirrors and air-conditioning. Traditionally thatched with high vaulted ceilings and picture windows, each room features an engaging mix of classic safari antiques and ultra-modern leather and rattan styled furniture. Each room has its own extensive private sundeck, loungers, and plunge-pool and river views. The lodge also has a full aromatherapy spa offering a range of facilities. Overnights at SERENA MIVUMO RIVER LODGE. (B,L,D Daily)www.serenahotels.com/serenamivumo Schedules, accommodations and prices are accurate at the time of writing. They are subject to change.
DAYS 7/8/9~FRIDAY/SATURDAY/SUNDAY~JUNE 25/26/27 RUAHA NATIONAL PARK~JONGOMERO CAMP Your flight now takes you to Ruaha National Park, the largest national park in Tanzania. Covering an area of approximately 5,000 square miles, Ruaha, with its undulating miombo bush-covered hills, huge kopjes, open river plains and tree-lined sand rivers, contains a wide variety of game. Because this park is part of what has always been a remote wilderness area, it has little recorded history. It was not far from here that the famous Hehe chief, Mkwawa, was eventually cornered by the Germans in 1898, after having resisted for many years the German’s efforts to subjugate the Hehe people. Ruaha is bounded by the Great Ruaha River in the south and the Njombe River in the northwest. In recent years the Great Ruaha River has stopped flowing towards the end of the dry season and is reduced to pools which teem with fish, crocodiles and hippos. With the onset of the rains the river is transformed to a wide, fast flowing body of water peaking in April. Thirty-eight species of fish have been identified in the Great Ruaha River which provide an important part of the diet of people living along the river.
Ruaha represents a transition zone where eastern and southern African species of fauna and flora overlap. Miombo woodland with its fauna is common in central Africa, but not found further north in Tanzania. The Park is the most southerly protected area where Grants gazelle, lesser kudu and striped hyena are found. To be able to see both greater and lesser kudu, roan and sable antelope in the same park is one of the special attractions of Ruaha. Lions are often seen, as are leopards and cheetahs, as well as wild dogs and smaller predators such as bat-eared foxes and jackals. Groups of elephants, buffalo and eland frequent many areas of the Park, while more than 400 species of birds have been recorded in Ruaha, more than any other East African park. Its geographical location means that it is visited by both northern and southern migrants. Ruaha also has a great variety of resident species due to the diversity of habitats in this transition zone.
Botanists will delight in this park. Baobab trees, some between 100 and 800 years old, are in abundance, producing white flowers just before the onset of the rains. The resultant fruits are rich in "cream of tartar" and are eaten by people and animals – they're also a rich source of honey. Baobabs are surrounded by legends and superstition such as the well-known tale that God planted them upside down. Winterthorn is another interesting tree in this park, easily identifiable in the dry season as it gets its leaves when most other trees have none, and vice versa. It has a distinctive seed pod which gives it its other Schedules, accommodations and prices are accurate at the time of writing. They are subject to change.
common name of apple-ring acacia. Tamarind trees are evergreen with a pale gray bark and provide shade year-round along the riverbanks. The fruit can be used for many purposes including making chutney, jams and a tangy refreshing drink.
Under the shade of magnificent trees, blending in beautifully with its surroundings, on the banks of a seasonal river in the remote southern sector of the Ruaha National Park, Jongomero is gloriously isolated and far from the madding crowds. Your tented suite, one of only eight, is well-appointed, built on wooden platforms, with an enormous verandah and thatched roof, and is overlooking the riverbed. Furniture is unique and designed from reclaimed dhow wood, and your experience here will be of comfort, luxury and full of wonder as you fall asleep to the hum of Africa under canvas, and indulge in excellent cuisine and cold drinks at the bar. When not on game drives, you can laze around the pool, enjoy the reference books in the camp’s library, and socialize with the welcoming staff and fellow travelers. Overnights at JONGOMERO CAMP. (B,L,D Daily) http://www.selous.com/jongomero/camp
DAYS 10/11~MONDAY/TUESDAY~JUNE 28/29 RUAHA NATIONAL PARK/DAR ES SALAAM/AMSTERDAM/INDIANAPOLIS Leave the wild behind and fly to Dar es Salaam where you will be met and escorted to your hotel. A dayroom is provided for you at Dar Serena Hotel. Later, transfer to the airport for your overnight flight back to home via Amsterdam, bringing with you all the beautiful memories of East Africa. (B, Meals Aloft)
OPTIONAL POST-EXTENSION TO MAHALE MOUNTAIN NATIONAL PARK
DAYS 10/11/12~MONDAY/TUESDAY/WEDNESDAY~28/29/30 RUAHA NATIONAL PARK/MAHALE PARK Wake up feeling refreshed and eager to continue your adventure as you transfer to the Ruaha airstrip for your flight to Mahale, one of the most isolated and beautiful parks on the African continent. What better opportunity to discover this pristine park than in the company of Dr. Rob Shumaker, the Zoo’s President and one of the world’s leading primate experts who is overseeing the creation of the Zoo’s new Chimpanzee Center. For the next three days, you’ll trek for chimpanzees, birdwatch, take boat excursions on the lake, discover the sandy beaches of Lake Tanganyika and be a part of creating one of the world’s most exciting exhibits for chimpanzees.
There are no roads in Mahale; walking and boating along the shoreline are the only ways to get around. Mahale Mountains National Park covers 623 square miles of rugged terrain on the western border with the Congo and along the eastern shores of Lake Tanganyika. The park is famous for containing some of the last remaining wild chimpanzees in Africa and is home to one of Africa’s most studied chimpanzee population as there are approximately 800 to 1,000 chimpanzees that inhabit this beautiful forest. Our primate relatives are split into 14 groups residing in and around the park, along with leopards, blue duikers, red-tailed monkeys and giant pangolins. Chimpanzees move over this whole area freely throughout the year depending on where the best feeding is. As a general trend, the main fruit (liana Saba comorensis -Apocynaceae) chimps eat grows higher in the mountains in June through August.
But it's not just about chimpanzees; the forest at Mahale Mountains is home to eight other species of primates, including black and white colobus, red colobus and red-tailed monkeys. There are also hippos, crocs and otters in the lake and lions,
elephants, buffaloes and giraffes roaming the savannah of the near-impossible-to-reach eastern side of the mountains. Leopards, though not uncommon are rarely seen, but often heard.
There are over 300 species of butterfly recorded and the western slopes of the Mahale Mountains are unique because they contain savannah adapted species of east or southern Africa and forest adapted species of western and central Africa or the Congo Basin.
The birdlife in Mahale, although prolific, is more often heard than seen. Birds include the Malachite Kingfisher, Pied Kingfisher, Purple-crested Turaco and Narina Trogon. Fish Eagles and Palm- nut Vultures are often spotted along the shoreline, and special sightings include the elusive Pel’s Fishing Owl.
After a morning of chimpanzee-tracking, you return to the shores of Lake Tanganyika, where sugar white beaches slope into clear waters. The warm, clear blue waters of Lake Tanganyika, the world’s longest and second-deepest lake, contain over 250 cichlid species in every color of the rainbow and are found nowhere else on earth. Snorkeling and floating amongst them is the ultimate relaxation.
Mbali Mbali Mahale Lodge is nestled on a secluded golden beach of Lake Tanganyika. The lodge has nine spacious safari tents with thatched roofs on raised platforms set back on the edge of the forest with breathtaking views over the crystal- clear waters of Lake Tanganyika. All guest rooms are furnished in the traditional safari style with spectacular views of the Lake. Each tent has en-suite bathrooms with hot and cold running water, flush toilets and mosquito nets. The communal areas consist of a lounge, dining area, library, and cushioned lounge beds. The camp is run on solar power and BBQ candlelit dinners are served on the beach, to the unique sounds of Africa: beetles, crickets and the night calls of chimpanzees. Overnights at the MBALI MBALI MAHALE LODGE. (B,L,D Daily) https://mbalimbali.com/
DAY 13~THUSRDAY~JULY 1 DAR ES SALAAM/EN ROUTE After the morning’s activities, transfer to the airstrip for your flight to Dar es Salaam where you connect with your overnight flights home. (B, Picnic L; Meals Aloft)
DAY 14~FRIDAY~JULY 2 AMSTERDAM / INDIANAPOLIS Today you arrive back home bringing with you the memories of all the wonderful sights of East Africa. (Meals Aloft) Photo credits: © Photoblueice, © Ron Magill, © Mike Carlson, ©Alpha Tours, ©Dar es Salaam Serena Hotel, © Moizhusein, © Attila Jandi, © Jean-jacques Serol, © Serena Mivumo River Lodge, © Mafuta, © Andrewmolinaro, © Andrey Gudkov, © Giampaolo Cianella ©Zepherwind, ©Mbali Mbali Mahale Lodge @Jongomero Camp
INCLUSIONS
• Flights between Dar es Salaam/Selous, Selous/Ruaha, Ruaha/Dar es Salaam on the main program. • On the post extension flights between Ruaha/Mahale Mountains National Park/Dar es Salaam. • Superior accommodations throughout as indicated or similar. • Meet and greet services both in Tanzania. • All meals on safari in Tanzania. • Dr. Rob Shumaker, will accompany the group with 10 travelers on the main trip and 10 travelers on the extension. • Professional naturalist will accompany the group with 10 travelers throughout. • All wildlife viewing by land cruiser. • Complimentary bottled water in vehicles and during lunch/dinner. • All applicable hotel and lodge taxes and gratuities for baggage handling. • All park entry fees. • Complimentary passport wallet and luggage tags. • Complimentary medical emergency evacuation insurance.
EXCLUSIONS
• Round trip air transportation between Indianapolis and Dar es Salaam including taxes and fuel surcharges (quoted separately). • Passport and visa fees and service charges for obtaining visas. Visas are currently required for Tanzania. • Gratuities to specialist guide, driver/guides and other conveyance attendants. Gratuities should only be given as a reward for exceptional service and is at your discretion. We estimate $10.00 per person/per day for the specialist guide. $10.00 per person/per day for the safari driver. $5.00 per person/per day for the camp staff. $3.00 per person for each arrival and departure transfer from the airport/ hotel. These are daily per service estimates and an exact tipping chart will be detailed on your final itinerary. • Excess baggage charges levied by airlines. • Meals and beverages, other than specified. • Laundry and other items of a personal nature. • Personal and baggage insurance. • Cost for anything not specifically mentioned in the listing above.
Please Note That The Itinerary Sequence Is Correct At The Time Of Writing, But Is Subject To Change.
THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT TANZANIA
Participants: • Must be able to climb in and out of, as well as move around in confined quarters within safari 4 x 4 vehicles, minibuses, and small aircrafts unassisted. People need to be willing to rotate seats. • Must be able to tolerate riding on uncomfortably uneven, bumpy roads (some with many potholes) for long periods of time (6-9 hours maximum), as well as some off-road experiences when opportunities allow. • Must be able to stand and/or walk moderate distances when visiting villages, towns, or other sites. This walking will be on uneven ground or uphill, often at altitudes many people are not used to. • Should generally be in good health and prepared to travel in locations without medical facilities.
In general, this trip requires: • Flexibility and good humor – unexpected changes and/or glitches will occur • A spirit of adventure and curiosity • Interest in and willingness to appreciate a destination with a modest infrastructure and a bending definition of comfort. That being said, some locations are nestled in absolute luxury where pampering is the norm.
Air Schedules Choosing the best possible air arrangements for our travelers is always a challenge. We work with many airlines that offer the best level of service, routings and value for our programs. While there may indeed be more direct routings available with another airline, the cost of these flights may not be within the budget that allows us to give you the best value possible. If you prefer to purchase your own international air, please feel free to choose the “land only” rate for this program. The start and end city for this program is Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.
Upon registration, you must provide your full legal name as it appears on your passport. In the event an airline ticket is issued with incorrect information you have provided, you will be responsible for charges associated with reissuing the ticket.
SAFARI AIR LUGGAGE RESTRICTIONS It is of vital importance that all guests traveling to Tanzania strictly adhere to the luggage limits and regulations as stipulated below.
Please note: LUGGAGE WEIGHT LIMIT PER PERSON * 33 Lbs. (15 kg) – total weight inclusive of luggage and hand luggage/camera equipment. Carry-ons may not weigh more than 4 lbs. (2 kg) LUGGAGE TYPE Soft sided (all sides) bags – no hard-shelled bags or frames allowed. Wheels should be avoided. LUGGAGE DIMENSIONS** 12 inches wide x 10 inches high x 24 inches long.
*This is the total weight including both luggage and hand luggage/camera equipment.
This is a safety requirement due to the sensitive weight and balance checks on the small aircraft and must be strictly adhered to. Travelers who require additional luggage must pre-book and pay for this on confirmation of the reservation. We would like to remind you that complimentary laundry services are available in all camps and lodges.
**Please keep in mind that the baggage compartments on most of the light aircraft are only 25cm (10 inches) high, so the pilots must have the ability to manipulate the bag into the compartment.
SOFT SIDED BAGS PERMITTED HARD SIDED BAGS NOT PERMITTED
HANDLING OF INCORRECT LUGGAGE ON ARRIVAL The carriage of excess baggage is at the sole discretion of the company after taking into consideration the aircraft being used and the number of passengers booked. When excess baggage is carried it will be charged at the prevailing rate. Excess luggage is charged at USD $3.00 per kilogram. Guests who are unable to depart on the scheduled charter will be given the option to book a private charter at additional costs to be paid directly prior to departure and subject to the availability of aircraft at the time of booking these flights. No refunds on the costs paid for scheduled charters which were missed due to their incorrect luggage and or accommodation not provided due to this delay will be provided. In all cases, additional arrangements for transfers, overnight accommodation in the Serengeti or Arusha and meals are on the guests’ own account.
ASSISTANCE WITH BAGGAGE PRIOR TO ARRIVAL Should guests be travelling with the incorrect luggage and require assistance with storage (which we offer at no additional cost) or transportation to their point of departure from Tanzania (transportation costs apply), this can be arranged provided this has been bought to our attention prior to their arrival in Tanzania, preferably at the time of final booking confirmation.
YOUR JOURNEY AT A GLANCE
INCLUDING: DAR ES SALAAM, SELOUS GAME RESERVE, RUFIJI RIVER & RUAHA NATIONAL PARK
SPONSORED BY: INDIANAPOLIS ZOO
ESCORTED BY: DR. ROBERT W. SHUMAKER, PRESIDENT OF THE INDIANAPOLIS ZOO
DATES: JUNE 19 TO 29, 2021
COSTS: PER PERSON, BASED ON DOUBLE MAIN TOUR POST-EXTENSION OCCUPANCY TO MAHALE NATIONAL PARK BASED ON 10 TRAVELERS BASED ON 10 TRAVELERS LAND ONLY COST $9,895 PER PERSON $6,895 PER PERSON
ESTIMATED AIRFARE FROM INDIANAPOLIS, $2,590 PER PERSON, ADDITIONAL N/A INCLUDING ESTIMATED DEPARTURE TAXES & FUEL SURCHARGES (SUBJECT TO CHANGE) SINGLE ROOM SUPPLEMENT* $2,995 PER PERSON, ADDITIONAL $795 PER PERSON
* SINGLE SUPPLEMENTS ARE VALID FOR FIRST TWO SINGLE ROOMS BOOKED. IF MORE THAN TWO SINGLE ROOMS, ADDITIONAL SUPPLEMENT MAY APPLY. SINGLES ARE ASSIGNED ON A FIRST COME/FIRST SERVE BASIS. **ALL INTERNATIONAL AIRFARES ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE AND BASED ON MINIMUM OF 10 TRAVELERS. TAXES ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE UNTIL TICKETED. IF LESS THAN 10 TRAVELERS, THE FARE WILL INCREASE & SUPPLEMENTAL COSTS WILL BE GIVEN TO THE TRAVELERS PRIOR TO ISSUING THE TICKETS, APPROXIMATELY TWO MONTHS PRIOR TO DEPARTURE. NOTE THAT THE SPECIAL RATES NEGOTIATED BY CLASSIC ESCAPES ARE NOT UPGRADABLE.
DEPARTURE CITY: INDIANAPOLIS (OTHER DEPARTURE CITIES AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST)
CONDITIONS OF TRAVEL:
REGISTRATION
HOW TO BOOK: Fill out and sign the enclosed reservation form and send it, along with the relevant deposit as shown below, to: Classic escapes Inc. 58-25 Queens Blvd., Woodside NY, 11377. Upon receipt of your signed reservation form and deposit, we will, subject to availability, reserve your spot on the tour. You may consider your booking confirmed when you receive a confirmation notice and invoice from us.
PAYMENTS
DEPOSIT: A deposit of $2,000 per person must be submitted at the time of booking for the main trip, as well as $1,500 for the extension must be submitted at the time of booking. Deposits may be paid by check or charged to American Express, MasterCard, Visa or Discover.
FINAL PAYMENT: Final payment is due 95 days before departure (March 16, 2021) – you will receive a final invoice. Final payment is payable by check or money order ONLY.
RATES: Rates are based on the minimum number of guests outlined in this document, plus airfare costs, currency exchange rates and other factors and are subject to change. Though it is rare for Classic Escapes to make a price adjustment after promotion of an itinerary, we do reserve the right to assess a surcharge if the minimum is not met, or if increases are forced upon us by airlines or other partners or because of changes in currency exchange rates.
NOT INCLUDED: Cost of passport and departure/entry taxes; excess baggage charges levied by airlines; laundry and other items of a personal nature; optional travel insurance policy; cost for anything not specifically included in listing above.
GRATUITIES AND TAXES: Gratuities for baggage handling, service charges and taxes imposed by hotels, and entrance fees to all points of interest as outlined in the itinerary are included. U.S. and foreign airport taxes are included in air costs. Tips to drivers and naturalist and camp staff are NOT included.
CANCELLATIONS, DEVIATIONS & CHANGES
TRAVEL INSURANCE: We recommend travel insurance. Travel insurance can provide financial reimbursement should the unexpected occur.
CANCELLATION POLICY: Cancellations are only effective on receipt of written notification. The following per person fees are applicable on this tour:
CANCELLATION POLICY: Cancellations are only effective on receipt of written notification. The following per person fees are applicable on this tour: • Up to March 16, 2021, less $300 handling fee, plus $500 on the main trip and $500 on the post extension non- refundable deposits given to overseas suppliers. • March 17 to April 5, 2021, deposit is forfeited. • April 6 to April 15, 2021, less 75% of tour cost. • April 15, 2020 no refund is possible. These cancellation fees are also in addition to any imposed by airlines.
WE STRONGLY RECOMMEND THAT YOU OBTAIN OPTIONAL TRAVEL INSURANCE.
CHANGE FEES: Once you reserve your tour, changes are possible at a cost of $150 per person subject to availability of air or land space at the time of request. Should there be any change fees imposed by airlines or ground operators, or additional costs incurred due to availability of any space, this cost will be invoiced to you.
SPECIAL ARRANGEMENTS: We would be happy to make additional travel plans for you, including specially arranged pre- or post-tour extensions different than those that may be offered in conjunction with this tour. A service charge of $150 per person (over and above the cost of the services required) will be assessed.
DOCUMENTS
PASSPORT & VISAS: The onus is upon the guest to ensure that passports and visas are valid for the countries visited and for the applicable time period, as outlined by the U.S. Department of State (travel.state.gov) or by the passport holder’s country. Classic Escapes, their staff and their agents cannot be held liable for any visas, etc. not held by the guests, nor for the cost of obtaining visas.
PRE-DEPARTURE INFORMATION: Upon receipt of your registration and deposit, we will send a pre-departure packet to you. This packet contains all the information you need to prepare for your tour, including the complete itinerary, packing checklist, required documents, insurance information, etc.
FINAL DOCUMENTS: Final documents and tickets will be sent to you approximately two weeks prior to departure, provided all monies have been paid in full.
TRANSPORTATION OPTIONAL AIR TRANSPORTATION: Roundtrip, economy-class flights via DELTA AIR LINES and/or other IATAN carriers are between INDIANAPOLIS, and the destination city noted in the itinerary. Rates are based on special promotional fares; cancellation fees apply once tickets are issued. Departures from other cities in the USA are possible at additional cost; inquire at the time of reservation. Please note that these promotional fares are subject to 10 passengers traveling together on the same airline routing and itinerary. If this minimum is not met, the special group rates are not applicable and it might become necessary to issue instant purchase tickets earlier than when final payment is due in order to take advantage of airfares that are similar to the group rates. Should this occur, you will be contacted with the details.
AIRLINE SEATING: For DELTA AIR LINES, we request seats together for the group. All planes are non-smoking. We can request a seating preference on your behalf, however requested seats cannot be guaranteed. Requests should be made in writing no later than 60 days prior to departure. Bulkhead and/or emergency row seats can only be requested at airport check-in on the day of departure. Classic Escapes cannot provide the Comfort Seating Service as this is available on specific flights subject to availability and commercial laws as determined by each airline and at their own discretion. Boarding passes will only be issued at the airport on the day of departure. You may inquire about seat changes during check in, based on availability and is at the sole discretion of airport staff.
FREQUENT FLYER MILEAGE: This program is based on traveling via DELTA AIR LINES. For a list of the airline’s partners, visit http://www.delta.com/content/www/en_US/skymiles/earn-miles/earn-miles-with-partners/airlines.html. Obtain frequent flyer mileage on any of these carriers. Present your frequent flyer card for all flight check-ins and keep the boarding passes until you receive a statement with the mileage credit
TRANSFERS: Roundtrip airport transfers are included in the tour for guests arriving on group flights. If travelers make their own air arrangements, they will be subject to extra transfer fees.
DEPARTURE TAXES & FUEL SURCHARGES: Please note the amount of departure tax and fuel surcharges reflected in the airfare is subject to change, at the discretion of governments and airlines, and with no advance notice. Should this occur, you will be invoiced prior to departure for any additional taxes imposed.
TRIP DETAILS ACCOMMODATIONS: You will marvel at the wonderful accommodations provided throughout your tour. All rooms have private bathroom facilities and air conditioning and/or fans. All rates are based on double occupancy. Most rooms are twin- bedded, but king-size beds are occasionally available and should be requested in advance. Accommodations listed in this itinerary are correct at time of writing, but on rare occasions may be substituted for a different property of comparable quality.
MEALS: All meals as specified in the itinerary. Please notify us if you have special dietary needs or requests, and we will do our best to accommodate.
INOCULATIONS: When it comes to vaccination and disease prevention, we suggest that travelers first review information provided by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (www.cdc.gov/travel) and then review those details with their personal physicians.
WATER: It is always advisable to drink bottled and/or filtered water when traveling overseas. Safe drinking water will be provided to travelers free of charge in the vehicles and during meals.
BAGGAGE: On average, international flights from the USA allow one piece of checked luggage, each not exceeding 50 pounds; however, we always recommend that you check your airline’s policy just before departure, as luggage limitations are always subject to change. Despite this weight allowance, we always suggest guests travel light. Also, soft-sided duffel bags are ideal for this tour, as they stow best in vehicles and airplanes with limited space.
LUGGAGE ALLOWANCES ON INTERNAL FLIGHTS: Your journey includes internal flights aboard light aircraft which are designed with a maximum luggage allowance; this is closely monitored by the flight operators for safety reasons. You are allowed one carry-on and one piece of luggage, total weight: 33 Lbs. (15 kg’s) per person including the camera equipment.
TERMS & CONDITIONS
RESPONSIBIITIES: Neither Classic Escapes (the Company) nor any person or agent acting for, through or on behalf of the Company shall be liable for any loss or damage whatsoever arising from any cause whatsoever and without restricting the generality of the aforegoing shall particularly not be responsible for loss or damage arising from any errors or omissions contained in its brochure or other literature, loss or damage caused by delays, sickness, theft, injury or death. In addition, the Company shall have the right at any time at its discretion to cancel any trip or the remainder thereof or make any alteration in route, accommodation, price or other details and, in the event of any trip being rendered impossible, illegal or inadvisable by weather, strike, war, government or interference or any other cause whatsoever, the extra expenses incurred as a result thereof shall be the responsibility of the passenger. The Company may at its discretion and without liability or cost to itself at any time cancel or terminate the guest’s booking and in particular without limiting the generality of the aforegoing it shall be entitled to do so in the event of the illness or the illegal or incompatible behavior of the guest, who shall in such circumstances not be entitled to any refund. The person making any booking will, by the making of such booking, warrant that he or she has authority to enter into a contract on behalf of the other person included in such a booking and in the event of the failure of any or all of the other persons so included to make payment, the person making the booking shall by his/her signature thereof assume personal liability for the total price of all bookings made by him/her.
PHOTOGRAPHY: The Company reserves the right without further notice to make use of any photograph or film taken on the tour by our photographers without payment or permission. We guarantee that no photographs of a compromising nature will be used.
CHANGES TO SCHEDULES: Although every effort is made to adhere to schedules it should be borne in mind that the Company reserves the right and in fact is obliged to occasionally change routes and hotels as dictated by changing conditions.
REFUNDS: While the Company uses its best endeavors to ensure that all anticipated accommodation is available as planned, there shall be no claim of any nature whatsoever against the Company for a refund either in the whole or part, if any accommodation or excursion is unavailable and a reasonable alternative is not found. If the guest is unable to use any service provided in the itinerary, then there are no refunds due.
AIRLINE CLAUSE: The airlines concerned are not to be held liable for any act, omission or event during the time the passengers are not on board their planes or conveyance. The passengers’ tickets in use by the airline or by other carriers concerned when issued shall constitute the sole contract between the airlines and the purchaser of these tickets and/or passengers.
DELAYS: We cannot be held liable for any delays or additional costs incurred as a result of airlines not running to schedule. If one of our guides is unable to take a trip due to illness, etc. we reserve the right to substitute with another guide. This agreement is made subject to and shall be governed by and construed according to the laws of the country in which the trip takes place. Classic Escapes act merely as an agent for the operating companies. To the best of our knowledge the itinerary is correct at the time of printing. We cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracies or changes that may occur after printing.
CONSENT: The payment of the deposit OR any other partial payment for a reservation on a trip constitutes consent by all guests covered by that payment to all provisions of the conditions and general information contained in this brochure whether the guest has signed the booking form or not. The terms, under which you agree to take this trip, cannot be changed or amended except in writing signed by an authorized director of the Company.
INSURANCE: It is a condition of booking, that the sole responsibility lies with the guest to ensure that they carry the correct comprehensive travel and medical insurance to cover themselves, as well as any dependents/traveling companions for the duration of their trip. Classic Escapes, including their representatives, employees and agents will take no responsibility for any costs, losses incurred or suffered by the guest, or guest’s dependents or traveling companions.
Please visit the website to obtain an enrollment form – http://www.travelguard.com/classicescapes/. For any questions you may have on insurance, contact Travel Guard at 1-866-385-4839 and refer to ARC #71298.
INCLUDED EMERGENCY MEDICAL EVACUATION COVERAGE: For the convenience of our travelers, Classic Escapes provides a complimentary Medical Insurance Plan during this trip through Travel Guard Group, Inc. This includes: • Emergency evacuation insurance up to $100,000. • Up to $25,000 medical expense and up to $500 dental expense coverage subject to the terms and limitations of the insurance policy. • 24-hour worldwide travel and medical assistance. Please click here to view complete coverage of details. https://webservices.travelguard.com/Product/FileRetrieval.aspx?CountryCode=US&StateCode=NW&ProductCode=009031&PlanCode=P4 &FileType=PROD_PLAN_DOC
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HELP US GO GREEN
Dear Traveler,
In an effort to help protect our planet, Classic Escapes has begun the transition of becoming paperless. We need your help getting there!
Did you know? Recycling one ton of paper saves 20 trees, 7,000 gallons of water, three cubic yards of landfill space, 60 pounds of air pollutants, and saves enough energy to power the average home for six months…
Please indicate in the chart below whether or not you prefer to receive paperless correspondence from us – all you need to do is put a check under the “green” symbol for yes or a check under the “NO” for no.
Simply fax or email your responses to [email protected]!
You Will Receive The Following Items For Your Program: NO
Welcome Letter Preliminary Materials – prelude packet and invoice Reminder Invoice with balance due Paid-in-Full Invoice Final Documents – species list, journal and final booklet
Your Name: ______
Email Address: ______
Trip Tour Code: 21AFZ0619/INDY
Together we can make the world a better place!
Thank you for your support,
RESERVATION FORM INDIANAPOLIS ZOO ~ SOUTHERN TANZANIA 21AFZ0619/INDY
Enclosed is my deposit for $ ______($2,000 per person plus $1,500 for the extension) to hold ______place(s) on the classic safari to Tanzania departing June 19, 2021. Cost is $9,895 per person, double occupancy, land only. Estimated international air from Indianapolis is $2590, including departure taxes & fuel surcharges (As of April 6, 2020, subject to change).
Final payment due date is March 16, 2021 Please make check payable to CLASSIC ESCAPES and mail to 58-25 Queens Blvd., Woodside, NY 11377 OR Charge deposit to: MasterCard Visa American Express Discover (Credit Card Authorization form needs to be completed and returned to Classic Escapes via mail or fax to 718-204-4726)
Deposits can be made by credit card; however, all final payments are required to be made by check or money order only.
Please note that a copy of your passport will be required to complete your reservation, showing the page with your photograph. Passport must be valid for at least 6 months after the return of your trip.
1) NAME (As appears on passport): Mr. Mrs. Ms.
Passport No. Green Card No. Expiration Date Nationality
2) NAME (As appears on passport): Mr. Mrs. Ms.
Passport No. Green Card No. Expiration Date Nationality
NAME FOR NAME BADGE IF DIFFERENT FROM ABOVE: 1) ______2)
STREET ADDRESS:
CITY: ______STATE: ______ZIP:
PHONES: HOME: ( ) ______OFFICE: ( ) ______MOBILE: ( )
E-MAIL ADDRESS: ______FAX: ( )
I certify that I have not recently been treated for, nor am I aware of any physical or other condition or liability that would create a hazard to myself or the other members of this tour.
The two of us above are sharing a room and, where possible, would like a room with: ONE TWO Beds (Make one selection only)
I am sharing with ______(form sent separately)
I need assistance in securing a roommate. I understand if Indianapolis Zoo or the tour operator cannot locate one for me by final payment date, I agree to pay the additional single supplement amount. I prefer to share with: Smoker Non-smoker $2,995 for the main program $795 for the post-extension
I desire to participate in post extension at a cost of $6,895 per person
Please make my/our round-trip air reservations on the group flights from Indianapolis on Delta Air Lines.
Please make domestic round-trip air reservations for me from my home city: ______to connect with the group flights and let me know the additional cost.
Please send me information on air upgrades for: Business/First Class (only one class – business/first – exists)
Airline Seating Preference Aisle Window Frequent Flier # ______**We can request a seating preference on your behalf, however this is only a request and NOT guaranteed, as some seating assignments may be airport check-in only. Requests should be made in writing no later than 60 days prior to departure. Bulkhead and/or emergency row seats can only be requested at airport check-in on the day of departure. Also note that even if we do obtain your preferred seat, it is not guaranteed that the seat will be provided during check-in as there might be equipment changes that nullify our selection.
All rates quoted are based on tariffs and value of foreign currencies in relation to the U.S. dollar in effect as of April 6, 2020 and are subject to change. Refund of deposit is not possible. Refund is made less any cancellation charges levied in accordance with the policy outlined in the accompanying Conditions of Travel. WE STRONGLY RECOMMEND THAT YOU OBTAIN TRAVEL INSURANCE. RESERVATIONS ARE ACCEPTED SUBJECT TO TOUR CONDITIONS AND WILL BE CONFIRMED ONLY IF ACCOMPANIED BY COMPLETED FORM SIGNED BY THE TOUR PARTICIPANT(S).
SIGNATURE: ______DATE: ______
SIGNATURE: ______DATE: ______CLASSIC ESCAPES INC. 58-25 Queens Blvd., Woodside, NY 11377 (We recommend that you keep a copy of your selections as noted above for your future reference)
Schedules, accommodations and prices are accurate at the time of writing. They are subject to change.
Indianapolis Zoo~ SouthernTanzania June 19 To 29, 2021
CREDIT CARD PAYMENT AUTHORIZATION
Please Note: If you wish to charge your deposit to Visa, MasterCard, American Express or Discover, this authorization form MUST be completed and returned to us along with your reservation form before we can process your application.
I authorize (Classic Escapes Inc.) to charge my VISA/MASTERCARD/DISCOVER/AMEX listed below:
Name appearing on credit card
Card number Expiration date
Card Verification Number* Card Type
Billing address of credit card
Amount of transaction
Services rendered/Items purchased
Phone number
Signature Date
*How To Locate Your Card Verification Number: (Visa, MasterCard, Discover: Locate the credit card number on the back of the card above the signature box. Enter the 3- digit number which follows the credit card number. American Express: Enter the 4-digit number found directly above and to the right of the credit card number.)
I understand that all rates quoted on this tour I’m making a payment on are based on tariffs and value of foreign currencies in relation to the U.S. dollar in effect as of April 6, 2020 and are subject to change Cancellations are only effective on receipt of written notification. The following per person fees are applicable on this tour:
• Up to March 16, 2021, less $300 handling fee, plus $500 on the main trip and $500 on the post extension non- refundable deposits given to overseas suppliers. • March 17 to April 5, 2021, deposit is forfeited. • April 6 to April 15, 2021, less 75% of tour cost. • April 15, 2020 no refund is possible. These cancellation fees are also in addition to any imposed by airlines
PLEASE NOTE: At times, our bank requires photocopy of credit card (both sides) and driver’s license or document showing signature of cardholder, in order to process the charge. While it is not required at this time that you include these materials with your deposit, if our bank requests it, we will contact you for these copies.