FAQS
What is a Justifi Trip?
Justifi is Adventure with Purpose. We provide an amazing, growth-oriented, immersive adventure to many of the world’s great destinations. Our South Africa trip starts in Cape Town at the tip of the contninent where the Atlantic and Indian Oceans meet, continues inland to the capital of Johannesburg and its major outlying township, Soweto, and then concludes with a once in a lifetime safari in the Sabi Sands Game Reserve by Kruger National Park. We arrange all the logistics (domestic transportation, accomodations, meals) as well as fantastic educational experiences with Justifi staff and local guides. In addition, we will learn about the human rights challenges that South Africa faces by meeting with inspirational leaders and have the opportunity to volunteer to help make a difference.
What is the pace and how exhausting is this trip? Will there be time to rest and relax? Do I have to attend everything on the schedule?
Even though Justifi Trips accomplish a lot in a short time, one of our guiding principles is that we each need a calm mind and inner peace in order to truly grow and explore. This is not a hectic, on-the-bus-off-the-bus style program; the trip does move, but at a relaxed and fun pace that includes free time to explore on your own. Every activity and educational session is amazing and you’re not going to want to miss even one, but if someone feels like they need a bit of “me time” that’s ok, too.
How much educational time will there be?
We typically begin each day with a morning educational session of informal discussions, guided meditation and/or personal growth workshops all in a Jewish context led by Justifi’s amazing educators. In addition, we’ll be dealing with various human rights issues throughout the journey.
Who else will be on the trip?
An amazing group of fabulous women who a want to explore South Africa, to learn about themselves, and to help improve the world. The trip will be run by the awesome Justifi staff of educators and logistical coordinators, as well as our private local guides and staff.
Besides the trip fee what do I need to pay for?
International airfare, travel medical insurance, recommended tip of $100 for our local staff (guides, drivers, chefs, etc), extra snacks/drinks, activities during free time, and shopping.
Are there discounts? How can I defray the cost?
Unfortunately, Justifi doesn’t offer any direct discounts, but past participants have used tools like GoFundMe.com to raise well over $1,000. Just like your friends who run marathons, bike races, or take up their own cause, you too can fundraise for your program to offset the trip costs. Many travellers use their credit card or airline “points” to book to their international flights.
What’s the weather?
Should be great — it’s the African summer! High 80’s during the daytime with cool evenings. We may get a bit of rain, but typically not too much
How do I book my flights? What if I want to come early or extend?
See “Flight Booking Details” here. If you want to arrive early or stay late Justifi can help with those arrangements, too. If there’s sufficient interest, Justifi will arrange a “group flight” for the international travel.
Do I need travel or medical insurance?
Yes! All Justifi participants are required to have emergency medical coverage while abroad (there will be an option to join Justifi’s group policy). In addition, Justifi recommends getting a “CFAR” (Cancel For Any Reason) policy just in case something unexpected comes up.
Do I need a Visa to enter the country?
South Africa does not require a visa in advance for passport holders from the US or Canada visiting for less than 90 days. See www.visahq.com to confirm your status
Do I need cash?
The currency in South Africa is called the “rand” and its symbol is R. Currently $1.00 is approximately R14.00. There are ATM machines and money changers in the public concourse of the international arrivals terminal (after collecting your luggage and clearing customs). The rates they offer are reasonable. We recommend that you withdraw/change at least R1,400 (roughly $100) to get started, but you will be able to find ATM machines throughout South Africa. International credit cards are widely accepted but there are still many shops and venues that only accept cash.
What are the hotels like?
Our 4-star hotels in Cape Town and Johannesburg are located in safe, fun areas with a variety of restaurants, activities, and shopping in the area to explore. Accommodation is based on double occupancy and you’ll be able to request a roommate (or we can pick for you!).
A true highlight of the trip will be the 3-day/2-night safari in the Sabi Sands Game Reserve by the world-renowned Kruger National Park. We will be staying at the exquisite Dulini Lodge for the adventure of a lifetime. In between game drives and bush walks led by expert trackers and rangers you’ll have the opportunity to be pampered with a selection of lavish treatments in the Lodge’s private Wellness Center.
What do I need to pack? How much luggage can I bring?
Prior to the trip, Justifi will provide a recommended packing list but you should pack lightly and use luggage that is easy to transport (e.g., a rolling bag) as you will be responsible for your own luggage! During the trip we will be flying on domestic airlines that have a limit of one suitcase per person with a maximum weight of 20kg (44 lb.) — Note that this is less weight than a typical international flight permits and they charge for overweight baggage!
Will my phone work? Is there Wifi? Can I get a local SIM card?
Check with your phone service provider about enabling international roaming. All the hotels where we’ll be staying have Wifi but no promises on the quality (this is Africa!). At the airport you can purchase an inexpensive prepaid SIM card that includes data if your phone is already unlocked.
Do I need an adapter and/or a convertor for my electrical plugs?
Bring your phone charger! The prongs’ shape in South Africa are unique so you’ll also need to get the appropriate adapter. Also, be aware that the voltage is 220v (like in Israel and Europe) which will damage American electrical appliances that do not have the appropriate rating. If you have items that are usable only with the American voltage, you must bring a step-down converter with a sufficient wattage rating and which will protect your items from the 220 voltage.
What are we going to eat? Will it be too spicy? Should I bring snacks?
Meals provided by Justifi come from local caterers and restaurants with recipes that you will typically find quite familiar. Nevertheless, many travellers like to bring their favorite snacks and treats for a taste of home. Please check the sample itinerary to see which meals are excluded.
What about kosher and other dietary restrictions?
All meals that Justifi serves are strictly kosher. We do our best to accommodate dietary limitations (vegans, gluten-free, etc) as well as allergies. For meals not incldued in the itinerary, there are readily available kosher options.
Is it safe? Are there security precautions?
South Africa (and Johannesburg, in partcular) can be a dangerouos place! Justifi’s itinerary avoids known problematic areas and we have a local private security service that advises us on potential security issues. It is still a best practice to beware of petty crimes like pickpocketing and purse snatching so we advise our participants to leave aluables in hotel safes and keep an eye on purses/wallets when in crowded marketplaces or touristy destinations. In addition, women in particular should not be travelling alone (especially at night).
Can I drink the water?
The water in South Africa is generally considered safe and drinkable, howerver we advise short-term travelers to drink bottled water throughout the trip. We will have regular access to purchase inexpensive, safe, clean bottled water.
Do I need vaccines?
See here
Are there bugs?
You may find some critters while travelling. We recommend that participants use insect repellent.
What type of transportation/company will we be using to get around to the various places?
We use a combination of large buses and smaller vans depending on the accessibility in each locale. While on safari we utilize shaded, open-air bush vehicles that hold 5-6 people to enable an intimate experience with nature.
What is the medical situation in the various cities? If someone G-d forbid is sick or breaks something which hospital facilities will be available to us?
Our policy is that Justifi staff accompany any participant requiring medical attention. We have a list of highly recommended urgent care centers / emergency rooms from our local partners for each destination.
Who will be on the ground from your company during the trip? How many people? and how many local tour guides as well?
Justifi will be sending 2-3 of our educational and logistics staff. We also have local African staff for guding, catering, etc.
Will we meet members of the Jewish community? Local Rabbi ? Visit synagogue? Learn about Jewish life in South Africa? What will we do on Shabbat?
Yes! We will be spending Shabbat with the wonderfully warm Cape Town Jewish community as well as visiting a variety of Jewish organizations in both Cape Town and Johannesburg