FAQ's
Everything You Need to Know – Partnering with Thompsons Africa Made Simple
Partner Support and Common Questions
As a trusted inbound operator for Southern Africa, Thompsons Africa is committed to making your client journeys seamless, supported, and extraordinary. This FAQ page is designed specifically for our international agents, wholesalers, and trade partners – providing clear answers to the most common operational, service, and destination-related questions.
Whether you’re finalising an FIT itinerary, managing group logistics, or managing the unique operational considerations across Southern Africa., you’ll find the insights you need right here.
About Thompsons Africa
Q: Who is Thompsons Africa?
A: Thompsons Africa is a leading inbound tour operator offering exceptional travel experiences across Southern Africa. With over 40 years of expertise, we specialise in meet & greet services, transfers, escorted and independent tours, open-vehicle safaris, and tailor-made luxury travel.
Q: What regions do you operate in?
A: We operate throughout South Africa, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Mozambique, and Eswatini (Swaziland).
Q: Who do you work with?
A: We proudly serve international travel agents, wholesalers, and tour operators, ensuring their clients receive the highest level of care and experience from arrival to departure.
Booking & Reservations
Q: How do I make a booking with Thompsons Africa?
A: Bookings can be made through your preferred travel agent or wholesaler. If you’re a trade partner, you can contact our sales team or reservations team directly or use our agent portal.
Q: How do I register as a trade partner or travel agent with Thompsons Africa?
A: To become a registered trade partner, please visit our Customer Zone and complete the registration process. Once registered, you’ll gain access to a wealth of resources, including rates, bookings, and marketing materials.
Q: What are your payment and cancellation policies?
A: Payment and cancellation terms vary by product. A full set of terms and conditions is available on request and will be provided at the time of quotation or confirmation.
Q: Can I make changes to a confirmed itinerary?
A: Yes, our team will do their best to accommodate changes. Amendment fees or supplier charges may apply depending on the nature and timing of the request.
Q: Does Thompsons Africa offer XML/API integration for B2B travel agents and wholesalers?
A: Yes, Thompsons Africa provides robust XML and API integration options to streamline connectivity for our trade partners. Our technology allows you to access real-time rates, availability, and instant confirmations directly within your own booking platform or travel system. Whether you’re a tour operator, or global wholesaler, our API suite is built to support high-volume, automated transactions with exceptional speed and reliability. To begin integration, contact our sales team for technical documentation and onboarding support.
Transfers, Touring Services and Meet and Greet
Q: What is included in your meet & greet service?
A: Our professional airport representatives assist guests on arrival with immigration guidance, luggage support, and a warm welcome, ensuring a smooth start to the journey. Choose between Silver, Gold, and Platinum Meet & Greet services.
Q: Do your tours include entrance fees and guides?
A: Some guided touring services include a professional guide and all applicable entrance fees, unless otherwise stated in your itinerary. Ask your Thompsons Africa reservations expert for more information.
Travel Requirements & Logistics
Q: Do I need a visa to travel to Southern Africa?
A: Visa requirements depend on your nationality and the countries you’re visiting. We strongly recommend checking with your local embassy or consulate well in advance. Alternatively, visit https://www.visahq.com for details on visa requirements.
Q: Are vaccinations required?
A: Some regions require proof of yellow fever vaccination, and malaria prophylactics are recommended in certain areas. Please consult your travel clinic or healthcare provider.
Q: What is the luggage allowance on tours and transfers?
A: For seat-in-vehicle tours and transfers, luggage is generally limited to one standard-size suitcase and one piece of hand luggage per person. Different rules apply for fly-in safaris and small aircraft.
Child & Family Travel
Q: Are your tours child-friendly?
A: Yes, many of our itineraries are ideal for families. We also offer family-friendly properties and activities tailored for children.
Q: Are there age restrictions for safaris?
A: Yes, most game reserves and safari lodges have minimum age requirements. Check with your Thompsons Africa reservations expert for details of your selected lodge. Family lodges often provide child-specific activities.
Luxury Travel & Custom Itineraries
Q: Do you offer luxury travel services?
A: Absolutely. Thompsons Africa specialises in tailor-made luxury journeys, with access to five-star lodges, exclusive experiences, and private guides.
Q: Can I customise my itinerary?
A: Yes, our FIT division designs bespoke itineraries to suit individual preferences, interests, and budgets.
Q: Do you offer private guides or drivers?
A: Yes, we can provide experienced private guides and drivers for a fully personalised travel experience.
Sustainable & Responsible Travel
Q: How does Thompsons Africa support sustainable tourism?
A: We partner with eco-conscious suppliers, support community upliftment projects, and operate under strict environmental guidelines to protect our natural and cultural heritage. Read more about our commitment to Sustainability.
Q: Can guests participate in conservation or community activities?
A: Many of our partner lodges offer meaningful guest experiences such as anti-poaching initiatives, wildlife rehabilitation visits, or community-based tourism. We also partner with Travel with Purpose approved experiences. Read more about these.
General Travel Tips
Q: What is the best time to travel to Southern Africa?
A: Southern Africa is a year-round destination. For safaris, dry months (May–October) offer the best wildlife viewing. Coastal and city experiences shine in summer (November–March).
Q: Is it safe to travel in your regions?
A: Yes, with Thompsons Africa, safety is a top priority. We operate in well-travelled regions and use trusted service providers. As with all destinations, standard precautions are advised.
Q: What currency should I bring?
A: South African Rand is widely accepted across Southern Africa. In some countries, USD is also accepted. Credit cards are commonly used in cities and lodges.
Q: Will I have access to Wi-Fi and mobile signal?
A: Most hotels and lodges offer Wi-Fi, though coverage may be limited in remote safari areas. Local SIM cards or international roaming can be used for mobile access.
