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Africa Logistics
#7411972
01/22/19 09:59 PM
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Joined: Jan 2007
Posts: 8,797
GOLDSTEIN
OP
THF Trophy Hunter
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OP
THF Trophy Hunter
Joined: Jan 2007
Posts: 8,797 |
Seems I bought a trip to Africa at the DSC Auction this last weekend.
Ive never been, so I am looking for any input regarding travel logistics. I have to get from DFW to Johannesburg. Specific airlines you prefer? Flights? Best options for business or first class on these flights? Are there travel agents you would recommend?
Im all ears, and greatly appreciate any input.
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Re: Africa Logistics
[Re: GOLDSTEIN]
#7411975
01/22/19 10:03 PM
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Joined: Dec 2008
Posts: 4,521
syncerus
Extreme Tracker
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Extreme Tracker
Joined: Dec 2008
Posts: 4,521 |
If you find a business or first class route that isn't insanely expensive, please post it here.
That out of the way, where are you going and are you taking your own rifle or using a loaner?
NRA Patriot Benefactor & DSC Lifer
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Re: Africa Logistics
[Re: GOLDSTEIN]
#7411981
01/22/19 10:06 PM
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Joined: Jun 2006
Posts: 8,420
Dave Davidson
THF Trophy Hunter
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THF Trophy Hunter
Joined: Jun 2006
Posts: 8,420 |
I went 2 years ago. We flew to London and then to Johannesburg. Damn, that's a lot of seat time. A friend goes from Florida. He's tried it both ways and said the trip across the Atlantic is a little more expensive but well worth it.
Without a sense of urgency, nothing ever happens.
Boy, if I say "sic em", you'd better look for something to bite. Sam Shelley, Rancher Muleshoe Texas 1892-1985 RIP
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Re: Africa Logistics
[Re: GOLDSTEIN]
#7411986
01/22/19 10:11 PM
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Joined: Jun 2015
Posts: 5,999
Jgraider
THF Trophy Hunter
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THF Trophy Hunter
Joined: Jun 2015
Posts: 5,999 |
I use Steve Turner, Travel With Guns out of San Antonio. He offers first rate service including air fares, overnight in J'burg if necessary, meet and greet services including gun premits, etc. He does great work.
I always wound up using Delta through Atlanta, then non stop to J'burg. I'ts a long flight, but that's the shortest route. First class is ridiculously expensive, so I always chose economy comfort seats on the bulkhead. It offers the most legroom by far for a modest fee.
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Re: Africa Logistics
[Re: GOLDSTEIN]
#7411991
01/22/19 10:21 PM
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Joined: Oct 2012
Posts: 25,527
Creekrunner
THF Celebrity
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THF Celebrity
Joined: Oct 2012
Posts: 25,527 |
Seems I bought a trip to Africa at the ... Boy, I've been there! Ditto for Steve Turner. If I ever go again, I'll overnight in Europe and rest a day. 'Can't do the ATL- Joeburg coach flight anymore.
...and have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over every living thing that moveth upon the earth. Gen. 1:28
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Re: Africa Logistics
[Re: syncerus]
#7412050
01/22/19 11:28 PM
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Joined: Jan 2007
Posts: 8,797
GOLDSTEIN
OP
THF Trophy Hunter
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OP
THF Trophy Hunter
Joined: Jan 2007
Posts: 8,797 |
If you find a business or first class route that isn't insanely expensive, please post it here.
That out of the way, where are you going and are you taking your own rifle or using a loaner? Insanely expensive is relative. I will pay more if it means I dont have to sit in a cattle car. To be honest, Im not 100% where Im going yet. I just know that I won the auction. Its somewhere in northern South Africa. Im planning to take my own rifle as well as my bow.
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Re: Africa Logistics
[Re: Creekrunner]
#7412051
01/22/19 11:30 PM
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Joined: Jan 2007
Posts: 8,797
GOLDSTEIN
OP
THF Trophy Hunter
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OP
THF Trophy Hunter
Joined: Jan 2007
Posts: 8,797 |
Seems I bought a trip to Africa at the ... Boy, I've been there! Ditto for Steve Turner. If I ever go again, I'll overnight in Europe and rest a day. 'Can't do the ATL- Joeburg coach flight anymore. funny how things work out sometimes. Several have mentioned TWG to me. I will be giving Steve a call, thanks.
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Re: Africa Logistics
[Re: GOLDSTEIN]
#7412094
01/23/19 12:06 AM
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Joined: Dec 2009
Posts: 783
Gringocazador
Tracker
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Tracker
Joined: Dec 2009
Posts: 783 |
I havent been in years. 2003 was the last time. I need to make another trip before I get to old. I flew Houston to Atlanta, then Joberg. Dang long flight. We stopped on some island middle of knowhere and refueled. I think it was 24-26 hr flight. I knocked myself out with Tylenol PM. I slept 14 hr, bit not straight. Sure made the trip better.
Thanks, Billy
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Re: Africa Logistics
[Re: GOLDSTEIN]
#7412123
01/23/19 12:32 AM
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Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 60,805
BOBO the Clown
kind of a big deal
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kind of a big deal
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 60,805 |
Dont forget to shave your head so they dont scalp you!!!! Im sure glad I didnt go with you now
Bottom line, never trust a man whose uncle was eaten by cannibals.-Sen Joni Ernst
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Re: Africa Logistics
[Re: GOLDSTEIN]
#7412136
01/23/19 12:41 AM
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Joined: Dec 2015
Posts: 574
nyalubwe
Tracker
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Tracker
Joined: Dec 2015
Posts: 574 |
Another +1 for Steve Turner, and I've also had great luck with Gracey travel..
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Re: Africa Logistics
[Re: GOLDSTEIN]
#7412633
01/23/19 03:39 PM
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Joined: Dec 2017
Posts: 826
Red Pill
Tracker
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Tracker
Joined: Dec 2017
Posts: 826 |
I went in 2004. Had to go coach, as it was with a business trip. We flew through New York. I don't remember why. You will have to take your rifle to Customs and get a form to take it with you. No trouble for me. We also hunted in northern SA. Great experience.
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Re: Africa Logistics
[Re: GOLDSTEIN]
#7412664
01/23/19 04:02 PM
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Joined: Sep 2011
Posts: 788
DonPablo
Tracker
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Tracker
Joined: Sep 2011
Posts: 788 |
Beware travel agents. My buddy and I booked a flight to SA once and due to a misunderstanding were not able to board. The airline said they could've rebooked for a later date if we'd bought the tickets from them but that since we bought through an agent we had to get them to rebook. Well the travel agent didn't give two flips and we each got a $1500 tour of the DFW Airport lobby. If you go with a travel agent I'd make sure you know several people who have had good experiences with him/her first.
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Re: Africa Logistics
[Re: GOLDSTEIN]
#7412693
01/23/19 04:22 PM
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Joined: Dec 2008
Posts: 2,124
Black02z28
Veteran Tracker
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Veteran Tracker
Joined: Dec 2008
Posts: 2,124 |
We fly American from DFW to London or Amsterdam, then British Airways to Jo'Berg. We usually spend a day in London or Amsterdam to help break up the seat time. Our family travels a lot as it is, so us having airline miles helps a ton with the expense of flying business class. If you have some time before your trip you may want to consider getting a credit card that offers a miles program (I use Citi AAdvantage card) Pay for EVERYTHING with that miles card and pay the card off at the end of each month, that's a good way to stack some miles if you dont fly normally. We had a two issues traveling with firearms this last time coming into London and then leaving Jo'Berg but nothing too major
Congrats on your purchase and enjoy Africa!
Last edited by Black02z28; 01/23/19 04:24 PM.
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Re: Africa Logistics
[Re: Red Pill]
#7412697
01/23/19 04:24 PM
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Joined: Oct 2012
Posts: 25,527
Creekrunner
THF Celebrity
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THF Celebrity
Joined: Oct 2012
Posts: 25,527 |
I went in 2004. Had to go coach, as it was with a business trip. We flew through New York. I don't remember why. You will have to take your rifle to Customs and get a form to take it with you. No trouble for me. We also hunted in northern SA. Great experience. The form is CBP From 4457. Google it. It's for re-entry to prove the items are yours. You can fill out a second one for binos, cameras, etc. Anything expensive with a serial number. The form is also handy when the stellar personnel at any of your African airports ask for your rifle "license". Don't look confused. Don't tell them you don't need or have one. Just confidently hand them this U.S. Customs stamped form. They love forms with stamps on them and you will soon be on your way to your hunt.
...and have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over every living thing that moveth upon the earth. Gen. 1:28
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Re: Africa Logistics
[Re: Creekrunner]
#7412702
01/23/19 04:30 PM
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Joined: Dec 2017
Posts: 826
Red Pill
Tracker
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Tracker
Joined: Dec 2017
Posts: 826 |
The officials in SA were extremely professional and friendly. When we returned, the US official didn't even look at the form. He inspected the soles of our shoes. Obviously, we didn't wear the same shoes while hunting.
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Re: Africa Logistics
[Re: GOLDSTEIN]
#7412704
01/23/19 04:31 PM
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Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 6,402
Blank
THF Trophy Hunter
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THF Trophy Hunter
Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 6,402 |
Five trips over, and have never had a problem using a good agent. Definitely recommend Steve Turner and TWG. I also used them to send my wife on three trips to Italy, Paris, Prague. The trip over will be approx. 16-17 hours, and we prefer the non-stop Delta flights out of Atlanta.You will need a current 4457 from US Customs for whichever rifle you take. I would also get one for expensive binoculars, cameras, etc. It is only to show your ownership and allows you not to pay customs on your return, but Africans tend to think they are gun registration forms, and will want to see it. As far as the length of flights, some people take Tylenol PM, some all the way up to sleep aids and Ambient. Drink PLENTY of water, get up and walk occasionally, and stay away from too much alcohol. You will feel jet lag the following day. Good luck and have a fabulous time.
Beer and whiskey, 'cause you can't drink bacon!!
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Re: Africa Logistics
[Re: GOLDSTEIN]
#7413023
01/23/19 09:48 PM
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Joined: Jan 2007
Posts: 8,797
GOLDSTEIN
OP
THF Trophy Hunter
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OP
THF Trophy Hunter
Joined: Jan 2007
Posts: 8,797 |
I spoke with TWG. We will use them to make sure all our "I"s get crossed and "T"s get dotted.
From my conversation thus far, we are looking at Qatar business class. It is a reasonable difference in fare compared to the business class of the other options. Main difference is it will take a little longer to get there.
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Re: Africa Logistics
[Re: GOLDSTEIN]
#7413033
01/23/19 09:59 PM
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Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 60,805
BOBO the Clown
kind of a big deal
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kind of a big deal
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 60,805 |
So you taking pops or household CEO?
Bottom line, never trust a man whose uncle was eaten by cannibals.-Sen Joni Ernst
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Re: Africa Logistics
[Re: GOLDSTEIN]
#7413045
01/23/19 10:15 PM
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Joined: Jan 2007
Posts: 8,797
GOLDSTEIN
OP
THF Trophy Hunter
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OP
THF Trophy Hunter
Joined: Jan 2007
Posts: 8,797 |
Dad will be joining me for this one.
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Re: Africa Logistics
[Re: GOLDSTEIN]
#7413084
01/23/19 10:48 PM
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Joined: Apr 2005
Posts: 44,254
Stub
THF Celebrity
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THF Celebrity
Joined: Apr 2005
Posts: 44,254 |
Good luck
“I never forget a face—but in your case, I’ll be glad to make an exception.” —Groucho Marx
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Re: Africa Logistics
[Re: GOLDSTEIN]
#7413326
01/24/19 03:01 AM
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Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 60,805
BOBO the Clown
kind of a big deal
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kind of a big deal
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 60,805 |
Dad will be joining me for this one. The ol mans going to Africa. This should be interesting Sir if your reading dont forget all your shots.
Bottom line, never trust a man whose uncle was eaten by cannibals.-Sen Joni Ernst
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Re: Africa Logistics
[Re: GOLDSTEIN]
#7413340
01/24/19 03:20 AM
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Joined: May 2012
Posts: 434
NTO
Bird Dog
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Bird Dog
Joined: May 2012
Posts: 434 |
Steve at TWG is the way to go. Got ticket prices today for my July trip. Dfw to Joberg Emirates Businesss $5100 Coach $1500
Delta Business $14500 Coach $2500
I have done my last 3 trips on Emirates and it is way better than any other way. Just my 2cents
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Re: Africa Logistics
[Re: GOLDSTEIN]
#7413408
01/24/19 06:30 AM
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Joined: May 2010
Posts: 1,732
HorizonFirearms
Pro Tracker
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Pro Tracker
Joined: May 2010
Posts: 1,732 |
Seems I bought a trip to Africa at the DSC Auction this last weekend.
Ive never been, so I am looking for any input regarding travel logistics. I have to get from DFW to Johannesburg. Specific airlines you prefer? Flights? Best options for business or first class on these flights? Are there travel agents you would recommend?
Im all ears, and greatly appreciate any input. I Have been twice and am booked for 2019 and 2020 already. Call the shop n Feb 2 when we get back from all these shows and I can help you with logistic answers if you are interested there are some things that you definitely want to do. 9792294664
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Re: Africa Logistics
[Re: GOLDSTEIN]
#7413413
01/24/19 08:13 AM
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Joined: Feb 2016
Posts: 613
Kingsview Safaris
Tracker
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Tracker
Joined: Feb 2016
Posts: 613 |
[/quote]
To be honest, Im not 100% where Im going yet. I just know that I won the auction. Its somewhere in northern South Africa. Im planning to take my own rifle as well as my bow. Please be sure to find out 100% which Outfitter you going with and do background checks and reference calls on them. Wouldn't want the cost of flights to be a waste.
Jono and Justine McHugh Eastern Cape, South Africa www.kingsviewsafaris.co.zaListen to our Podcast: Round The Fire With Kingsview Safaris
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Re: Africa Logistics
[Re: GOLDSTEIN]
#7413586
01/24/19 03:15 PM
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Joined: Aug 2014
Posts: 2,136
EddieWalker
Veteran Tracker
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Veteran Tracker
Joined: Aug 2014
Posts: 2,136 |
I've only been to Africa twice, but I've also been to New Zealand, Quebec and 3 times to Alaska, and what I've learned is that if I can leave my rifle behind and borrow one when I get there, it makes the entire trip a lot easier and more fun.
I don't want to get a hotel when I land and wait until the next day to be picked up by my outfitter, so I plan my flight there according to when I can land at the pick up airport at the right time.
I like to see new places and combine hunting trips with sight seeing. The direct flights to South Africa can be extremely expensive. Last time we went, we had a choice between 12 hours in London or 12 hours in Germany. My wife wanted to see London, so when we landed, we took the train into the city, watched the changing of the guard, had a fantastic lunch in a pub, walked along the Thames and took tons of pictures of the sites.
The time before that we stopped in Paris and spent the day exploring the city and seeing all the major landmarks. I've found that I can see most everything that I want to see in 6 to 8 hours and still have plenty of time to get back to the airport.
After our last hunt, we spent a day at the beach, went to Aldo Wildlife Park for a few days and really enjoyed seeing some of the country. Not having to deal with rifles was huge.
When looking at flights, I try to check all of the major online websites. I play with different times and dates to leave and come back, which can make a big difference in the cost of a ticket. For me, the planning and working out all the details is a big part of the fun in going on big trips.
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