On my first trip to SA, I booked through Siyabona. It was fine, but slow and not too flexible. The second trip I found a website and seemed to be able to book more directly with SAN parks. But I remember (vaguely), that there was still something I could have done to give me more flexibility to cancel or change a game drive closer to delivery. And using the website, my request for specific camp units (e.g., cabin 17) got left out. But I don't remember what I figured out 3 years ago (and it might have changed since then).

Can anyone give me advise about the easiest ways to look up the rates and room types for the rest camps, the choices for game drives, then book with maximum flexibility.

My search of this forum yielded the info about phoning SAN directly for easier cancellations. I'm not worried about cancellation, but rather these other aspects. Thanks in advance.

Larry

You can get availability and book directly at Sanparks.com. If you need to make a change, email or call. If you make a double booking (which I did) you can't get your money back - no cancellations. But changes can be made, but if you want to change to a lower priced accommodation (which I did) they don't refund the difference. It's easy and quick and you can pay with a credit card online. Email or call them to make game drive bookings. I prefer email due to the time change, but don't email your CC number - safer to fax.

To check availability on sanparks.com, go to the park you want, then the camp, then check by date or month you want. Then create a login name, etc to make a booking. Or call. The prices are all on the site. FYI - we liked having dishes, etc provided, so try to get accommodation that has those provided. It wasn't fun eating cereal out of a coffee mug. Pay the extra for the equipped kitchen even if you don't think you'll need it.

If you want specific cabins or tents, you'll have to call. We were happy with all of our accommodations -perimeter views and fully equipped were the best. But also the most pricey. At this late date, I'd be happy with whatever is available. The best ones sell out early.

From what I understand, no cancellations, just changes allowed.

Hi Larry,

I agree with Christabir on booking direct with San parks, in fact I found a 40% Discount in some lodging for several days in between 1 and 9 December.
Follow the link!
http://www.sanparks.org/about/news/default.php?id=1597

If you want to know more about SA in general a helpful link is http://www.africa.com/south-africa/travel

I hope you enjoy our wonderful country.

Thanks for the advice. My travels are planned for next Sept, so I have a chance to get the reservations I want.

If things are same as they were back in 2004, whilst no refunds are allowed, if you switch to a lower-priced accommodation, you can use the difference as credit in the rest camp restaurant or store.

We did just that when we switched our booking in Ithala on arrival.