The very nature of game drives being held outdoors (as with most of our other lodge activities) means that they are considered “safe”. This doesn’t mean we aren’t taking all the expected precautions.
All guides will wear a mask or an alternative and suitable replacement. We are testing masks and other alternatives to find the best possible solution that allows our guides to remain safe while ensuring that it does not impact the guest experience.
As a precaution, we advise all guests to be cautious and wear face protection and this will also be required from guests who are taking part in shared activities.
Guests who are travelling together, who choose to book private and exclusive activities, and who are able to maintain a safe distance of more than 1.5m (5 feet) from the guide, will not be required to wear face protection if they choose not to do so.
All vehicles will be sanitised, and a maximum of six guests will be allowed in our safari vehicles. Each room will receive their own Adventure Kit, which includes a Guides’ Journal and lodge fold-out map as well as a pair of Swarovski binoculars (specific to African safari lodges only and sanitised on check-out).
Refreshments served during activities (at stops and along the way) will follow the same food preparation guidelines at our lodges and strict sanitation procedures will be adhered to.
Our WILDchild activities will still be available, with added sanitation protocols and social distancing.
For our culture and adventure activities, which involve transportation, we have adopted the same protocols as our transfers in the “Getting There” section above.
As the rural communities surrounding our lodges are extremely vulnerable, we will be working very closely with community leaders and will take our lead from them as to when they feel comfortable to resume with guest visits, without compromising community members. Once both sides are satisfied that visits can go ahead without undue risk, community members and visitors will need to follow strict protocols. The exact nature of these is still under discussion with community leaders.
Guests at &Beyond lodges will still be able to support the local communities by making a donation to community and conservation projects supported by &Beyond or by buying locally produced crafts online.
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