I'm researching cost of airfares to Windhoek for next year and came across a website for Cosolidated Fares, Africa Travel Specialist.

http://www.consolidated-fares.com/

I'm wondering if any of you have used their services? I'm rather leary as their prices seem to good to be true, $927 for Reno To Winhoek

Thanks for any information yopu may have about this company.
Randy

I would be very cautious of booking flights to africa through a consolidator. And the more connections required the more you should be concerned. If something goes wrong you will be on your own and airlines historically have little interest in prioritizing or resolving a consolidator ticket.

I've been flying for my annual safari for 19 years and have never used a consolidator, nor will I ever take that chance. Especially while traveling with firearms.

I'd second LionHunter's comments. Have never booked an airfare through a consolidator and probably never will, particularly if traveling with firearms.

I also fly out of Reno and have found that the best way to book international travel (with or without firearms) is to start your search for airfares from major west coast gateways (SFO, LAX, LAS, SLC, PHX, SEA) and then book the flight from Reno to whatever gateway seperately on Southwest or Alaskan.

Looking from a west coast gateway rather than Reno is even more important if you're planning on using frequent flyer miles for any part of the trip.

I'd be happy to chat with you if you want, send me a PM.

Jason

Randy,

I think I would stick with one of the establish travel agents that specializes in African travel. Their assistance if you run into a problem will be invaluable.

Mark

quote:

Originally posted by MARK H. YOUNG:
Randy,

I think I would stick with one of the establish travel agents that specializes in African travel. Their assistance if you run into a problem will be invaluable.

Mark

Sound advice!

And, most importantly, the lest connections you have the less likelihood of problems you will have.

In fact, I travel quite a bit, and ALWAYS pick flights on the least connections they offer, regardless of price.

quote:

In fact, I travel quite a bit, and ALWAYS pick flights on the least connections they offer

Wise, wise advice.

I got a quote from a consolidator several years ago from Austin, Tx to Windhoek. The first leg of the flight was from Austin to San Francisco, followed by a string of intermediate destinations which I don't fully recall. When the lady told me the first stop was 1800 miles in the wrong direction I stopped her right there and told her that I didn't think that itinerary would work for me.

That place would scare me simply because they won't show a physical address. Just email and an 800 number.

Thank you for your advise, I apprceiate it. You confirmed my thoughts but just wanted to know if anyone had used them before.

Randy

If going on the cheap just book thru South African on line.
Sometimes they offer a 2for 1 fare just pay the taxes and airport fees. Only goes usually to Joberg.
If you want to fly first class at business rates PM ME. I can get you in touch with a company I have used great deal.
Larry