Community established networks also referred to as “Community Networks” (CN) have existed for many years and, provide a sustainable solution to address the connectivity gaps that exist in urban, remote, and rural areas around the world.
Our host venue takes you to the heart of the remote and rural Eastern Cape. Please note the packing suggestions to be best prepared for the rustic environment.
- Terrain is steep, pack sensible shoes and clothing
- Weather: September can have rainfall, raincoat or umbrella and non slip shoes are advised
- Towels: please bring own towels and toiletries ex. soap, shampoo etc. The backpackers do not provide these. Towels for rent available on request in dire case.
- Electricity: Lubanzi backpackers runs on solar powered large batteries
– Bring torch / head lamp for evenings if power low
– Power bank for smart devices
– Converter if you won’t be using South African plugs
– Please do not use hairdryers etc. (high voltage appliances) due to the solar batteries - Water: the Eastern Cape is not as badly affected by the drought as the Western Cape. Sensible water usage is still advised.
Lubanzi backpackers offers designated water stations, as the facilities ex ablutions make use of rain or recycled water
- Health: The closest clinic and hospital is Zithulele Hospital. It is a 20-minute drive from the backpackers and a well-established hospital and well stocked hospital pharmacy.Warning: The Wild Coast is known for tick bite fever, there are no immunisation against this, except prevention.
When hiking in the area, wear longs pants and socks, and keep legs & arms covered, walk in the centre of trails
“ African tick bite fever (ATBF) is a bacterial infection spread by the bite of a tick. Symptoms may include fever, headache, muscles pains, and a rash. At the site of the bite there is typically a red skin sore with a dark center. Onset usually occur 4–10 days after the bite.”
Prescription antibiotics are available for treatment and clears up symptoms under 14 days
- Lubanzi is also a tourist destination, we do hope you have time do enjoy the area while you are here, and recommend packing leisure wear to enjoy the beach and easy hikes around
- Shopping: there are no shopping malls in close proximity to venue, small shops selling very basic items on cash sale only are available close by.
- ATM’s : there are also no ATM’s in the village. Please make use of these services in the major airports.
International Travel
NOTE: Some airports require an airport tax fee in cash. Please check with your departure airport if they charge airport tax fees.
For your travel you will need the following:
- Passport that is valid at least six months from date of entry to South Africa with two blank pages.
- Copy of your electronic ticket.
- APC invitation letter
- This logistics advisory, which has all contact details you need while travelling
- Medication for all your health needs.
- Yellow Fever vaccination certificate, if required.
If you are coming from a country at risk of Yellow Fever you must bring your Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate or you will not be allowed to enter the country.
Travel Insurance
We recommend that all participants obtain travel insurance for their trip. Please ensure that this insurance covers the date of departure from your country until the date of your return home.
Accommodation & Meeting Venue
Wild Lubanzi Backpackers & Trail Lodge
Lubanzi Location
Mncwasa A/A 1
Elliotdale District 5070
Eastern Cape, SOUTH AFRICA
E-Mail: [email protected]
Personal expenses
International and local telephone calls, laundry, use of the bar and all other personal expenses such as additional drinks and meals must be paid by the individual who ordered them before you check out of the backpackers.
Dietary and Special Requirements
If you have not done so already, please inform us before you travel if you have any special dietary requirements – vegetarian, halal and food allergies; and of other health and special requirements that you might have (email: [email protected])
Communications
Wireless connectivity is available at the backpackers and the meeting venue. SIM Cards are not available at venue, please purchase these in main airports. Vodacom is recommended.
Climate
September is a rain fall season, with mild temperatures. Evenings can still be cold. Day’s get warmer as we head into Spring.
Electricity
The power supply in South Africa is 220vAC, 50Hz. Electrical sockets are rounded three pronged but some facilities also have 2-pin sockets available. We advise that you bring your own adaptor.
Currency
The current rate of exchange of the South African Rand is approximately R14 = 1 USD. Money can be exchanged at the airport. There are no major banks in close proximity of the venue.
Safety
Participants should take some basic precautions to ensure your safety and the security of your valuables.
Event & emergency Contacts:
ISOC Event PCO
Madeleine Kruger
083 687 4003
[email protected]
APC representative
Carlos Rey-Moreno
076 986 3633
[email protected]
Zenzeleni representative
Jay Siya
073 374 9728
[email protected]
