GETTING THERE Zambia: U.S. citizens need a visa to enter Zambia; you can purchase this when you arrive at the airport in Livingstone by paying $50 (American) in cash (per person). The State Department recently issued a travel alert for the country, warning of the potential for unrest or disruptions surrounding this week's presidential, parliamentary and local elections. The alert expires Oct. 15. Go to www.travel.state.gov for more information.
South Africa: U.S. citizens are not required to have a visa for stays of up to 90 days. The State Department advises having at least two blank visa pages in passports, one for an entry sticker and another for an exit stamp.
WHERE TO STAY
Zambia: With its view-oriented design, access to wildlife and secluded edge-of-the-river location, Royal Chundu Zambezi River Lodge makes you feel like you're an explorer, not just a tourist. Rates start at $390 per night and include all meals (www.royalchundu.com).
Famous for its colonial décor and location just upstream from Victoria Falls, the Royal Livingstone Hotel is as bustling as Royal Chundu is quiet. Room rates start at $469 per night, including breakfast (www.suninternational. com; click on "destinations.")
South Africa: Sanbona Wildlife Reserve contains three luxury wilderness properties. Rates for each start at about $600 per night and include all meals and two game drives daily (www.sanbona.com).
MORE INFORMATION
PETER MANDEL
In heated western Minn. GOP congressional primary, outsiders challenging incumbent
Minnesota Sports Hall of Fame: A class-by-class list of all members
This retired journalist changed professional wrestling from Mankato
