Southern Africa

Southern Africa includes countries south of the Zambezi River and the Kalahari Desert.

Botswana

Botswana: Africa’s Ultimate Safari Destination

Botswana, a land of untamed wilderness, diverse wildlife, and breathtaking landscapes, is one of Africa’s premier safari destinations. From the vast Okavango Delta to the elephant-rich Chobe National Park, Botswana offers an unparalleled adventure for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.

Start in Gaborone, the capital, where you can explore Mokolodi Nature Reserve, a sanctuary home to giraffes, rhinos, and cheetahs. Visit the Three Dikgosi Monument, which honors the country’s traditional leaders, and experience the city’s lively markets and restaurants.

For an unforgettable safari, head to Chobe National Park, known for having the largest elephant population in Africa. A Chobe River cruise offers up-close encounters with elephants, hippos, and crocodiles, while game drives provide a chance to spot lions, leopards, and buffalo.

The Okavango Delta, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the world’s most unique ecosystems. Take a mokoro (traditional canoe) safari through its maze of waterways, where you can see hippos, antelope, and colorful birdlife. Walking safaris and luxury lodges make this one of Africa’s most exclusive wildlife experiences.

In Moremi Game Reserve, located within the Okavango Delta, visitors can enjoy big cat sightings, wild dogs, and diverse bird species. The reserve offers off-the-beaten-path safaris, combining water-based and land-based game viewing.

For a surreal landscape, visit Makgadikgadi Pans, one of the largest salt flats in the world. During the dry season, the pans create a shimmering white desert, while the wet season brings thousands of flamingos and zebras on migration. The nearby Kubu Island, a sacred granite rock formation, is a mystical place to witness the beauty of the pans.

For a cultural experience, visit the San Bushmen of the Kalahari, where you can learn about traditional hunting techniques, survival skills, and ancient storytelling.

Botswana’s cuisine is simple but delicious—try seswaa (slow-cooked beef), bogobe (maize porridge), and fresh game meats.

With its pristine wilderness, rich culture, and world-class wildlife encounters, Botswana is a dream destination for those seeking an authentic African safari experience.

Eswatini (Swaziland)

Eswatini: Africa’s Last Absolute Monarchy and Hidden Gem

Eswatini (formerly Swaziland) is a small but breathtaking country in Southern Africa, offering a mix of rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and abundant wildlife. Known for its vibrant festivals, rolling mountains, and warm hospitality, Eswatini is a perfect destination for travelers seeking authenticity and adventure.

Start in Mbabane, the capital, where you can explore the Swazi Market for traditional crafts, vibrant fabrics, and handmade beadwork. Visit the National Museum to learn about Swazi history and culture before heading to the King Sobhuza II Memorial Park, dedicated to the nation’s beloved former ruler.

For wildlife lovers, Hlane Royal National Park is a must-visit. Home to lions, rhinos, elephants, and leopards, this park offers guided safaris and thrilling encounters with Africa’s Big Five. Nearby, Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary provides a more relaxed experience with walking safaris, mountain biking, and horseback riding among antelopes and zebras.

For breathtaking scenery, head to Malolotja Nature Reserve, where rolling hills, waterfalls, and hiking trails create a paradise for nature lovers. The Malolotja Canopy Tour offers an adrenaline rush with zip-lining adventures over lush forests and deep gorges.

Eswatini’s cultural traditions are among the most authentic and well-preserved in Africa. If visiting in August or September, witness the Umhlanga Reed Dance, a spectacular festival where thousands of Swazi maidens perform for the king. Another must-see is the Incwala Ceremony, the country’s most sacred ritual celebrating kingship and unity.

For a peaceful retreat, explore Ngwenya Glass Factory, where skilled artisans create stunning glassware from 100% recycled glass.

Swazi cuisine is simple but flavorful—try sishwala (maize porridge with meat and vegetables), emasi (fermented milk), and braaied (grilled) meat, a popular local favorite.

With its deep-rooted culture, stunning landscapes, and rich wildlife, Eswatini is a hidden gem in Southern Africa, offering a unique and unforgettable travel experience.

Lesotho

Lesotho: The Kingdom in the Sky

Lesotho, a breathtaking mountain kingdom completely surrounded by South Africa, is a land of rugged peaks, traditional villages, and untouched wilderness. Known as the “Kingdom in the Sky”, it is one of Africa’s most unique destinations, offering adventure, culture, and stunning landscapes at every turn.

Start in Maseru, the capital, where you can visit the Royal Palace, explore the lively Basotho Hat Market, and learn about the country’s history at the National Museum. Just outside the city, the Thaba Bosiu Cultural Village tells the story of King Moshoeshoe I, who founded Lesotho in the 19th century.

For breathtaking views and outdoor adventures, head to Sani Pass, one of Africa’s most famous mountain roads. The winding, high-altitude pass offers spectacular scenery and thrilling 4x4 drives. At the top, visit Sani Mountain Lodge, home to the “highest pub in Africa,” where you can enjoy a drink with an unforgettable view.

Lesotho is a hiker’s paradise, with incredible trails in Ts’ehlanyane National Park, home to crystal-clear streams, ancient forests, and rare mountain wildlife. For serious adventurers, Thabana Ntlenyana, the highest peak in Southern Africa (3,482m), offers a challenging but rewarding trek.

For a unique cultural experience, visit the Sehlabathebe National Park, a UNESCO-listed reserve featuring prehistoric rock art, dramatic sandstone formations, and hidden caves. The Basotho people, known for their colorful blankets and iconic mokorotlo (conical hats), welcome visitors with warm hospitality and share stories of their deep-rooted traditions.

Lesotho is also famous for its pony trekking, a traditional way to explore the mountains. The Basotho pony, a strong and sure-footed horse, is perfect for navigating the highland trails around Malealea Lodge or Semonkong, home to Maletsunyane Falls, one of Africa’s highest single-drop waterfalls.

Lesotho’s cuisine is simple but hearty—try pap-pap (maize porridge), moroho (wild spinach), and braaied meat. Warm up with a cup of joala, a traditional sorghum beer enjoyed in rural villages.

With its majestic landscapes, rich culture, and thrilling adventures, Lesotho is a hidden gem for travelers seeking both relaxation and excitement in Africa’s mountains.

Namibia

Namibia: A Land of Endless Horizons and Untamed Beauty

Namibia, one of Africa’s most breathtaking and sparsely populated countries, is a land of towering sand dunes, rugged coastlines, and diverse wildlife. From the red sands of the Namib Desert to the vast plains of Etosha, Namibia offers an adventure like no other.

Start in Windhoek, the capital, where German colonial architecture meets modern African culture. Visit the Christuskirche, explore the Independence Memorial Museum, and experience the lively Post Street Mall, filled with local crafts and souvenirs.

For an iconic desert experience, head to Sossusvlei, where the world’s tallest sand dunes create a surreal landscape. Climb Dune 45 at sunrise for breathtaking views or visit Deadvlei, a white clay pan dotted with ancient, dead camelthorn trees, creating one of Africa’s most photographed sights. Nearby, Sesriem Canyon offers a fascinating look at the region’s geological history.

For wildlife enthusiasts, Etosha National Park is one of Africa’s best safari destinations. Its vast salt pan attracts a stunning array of wildlife, including elephants, rhinos, lions, and cheetahs. Waterholes provide excellent game viewing, especially during the dry season when animals gather in large numbers.

The Skeleton Coast, known for its shipwrecks and dramatic landscapes, offers a hauntingly beautiful experience. Further north, Kaokoland is home to the Himba people, a semi-nomadic tribe known for their distinctive red ochre body paint and traditional lifestyle.

For adventure seekers, Swakopmund is Namibia’s adrenaline capital. Go sandboarding, quad biking, or skydiving over the desert, or take a scenic flight over the stunning Namib-Naukluft National Park. Nearby, Walvis Bay is perfect for spotting flamingos, pelicans, and even dolphins on a kayak tour.

Another must-see is Fish River Canyon, Africa’s largest canyon, offering spectacular hiking trails and breathtaking viewpoints.

Namibian cuisine is influenced by both indigenous and European flavors. Try kapana (grilled meat), potjiekos (slow-cooked stew), or biltong (dried, cured meat). Enjoy a cold Windhoek Lager, Namibia’s famous beer, to refresh after a day of exploring.

With its vast, otherworldly landscapes, rich cultural traditions, and thrilling adventures, Namibia is a dream destination for those seeking the ultimate African road trip and safari experience.

South Africa

South Africa: A World in One Country

South Africa, a land of diverse cultures, breathtaking landscapes, and world-class wildlife, is one of the most exciting travel destinations in Africa. From the iconic Table Mountain to the Big Five safaris of Kruger National Park and the stunning Garden Route, South Africa offers an unforgettable mix of adventure, history, and relaxation.

Start in Cape Town

Begin in Cape Town, one of the most beautiful cities in the world. Take a cable car ride up Table Mountain for panoramic views, visit Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned, and explore the colorful streets of Bo-Kaap. For wine lovers, a day trip to Stellenbosch and Franschhoek offers world-renowned wine tasting in picturesque vineyards.

Go on a Safari

For an authentic African safari, head to Kruger National Park, one of the best places to see the Big Five (lion, elephant, rhino, buffalo, and leopard). Private reserves like Sabi Sands offer luxury lodges and thrilling game drives. Alternatively, Addo Elephant Park and Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park provide incredible wildlife experiences in different regions of the country.

Drive the Garden Route

The Garden Route is one of the most scenic road trips in the world, stretching along South Africa’s southern coast. Stop at Knysna for its beautiful lagoon, visit the Cango Caves in Oudtshoorn, and experience thrilling activities like bungee jumping off Bloukrans Bridge or whale watching in Hermanus.

Explore Johannesburg & Pretoria

In Johannesburg, South Africa’s economic hub, visit the Apartheid Museum for a powerful insight into the country’s history. Take a guided tour of Soweto, where you can see Nelson Mandela’s former home and experience the vibrant township culture. Nearby Pretoria is home to beautiful Jacaranda-lined streets, historical monuments, and government buildings.

Relax on the Beaches

For beach lovers, Durban offers warm waters, golden sands, and a strong Indian influence in its cuisine and culture. Surf at Jeffreys Bay, known for its world-class waves, or unwind in the luxurious seaside town of Ballito.

South African Cuisine

Try local favorites like braai (South African BBQ), bunny chow (spicy curry in a hollowed-out bread loaf), bobotie (spiced minced meat baked with egg), and biltong (dried cured meat). Pair it with Rooibos tea or a glass of South African wine.

With its stunning natural beauty, rich history, thrilling safaris, and welcoming people, South Africa truly is a world in one country, offering an unforgettable experience for every type of traveler.

Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe: A Land of Majestic Waterfalls and Timeless Wildlife

Zimbabwe, a country of breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and world-class safaris, is one of Africa’s most rewarding destinations. From the mighty Victoria Falls to the wildlife-rich savannas of Hwange, Zimbabwe offers an adventure that blends natural wonders with cultural heritage.

Start at Victoria Falls

Begin your journey at Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. Locally known as Mosi-oa-Tunya ("The Smoke That Thunders"), this UNESCO-listed waterfall is twice the height of Niagara Falls. Take a walk along the rainforest trails for panoramic views, or for thrill-seekers, try bungee jumping, white-water rafting on the Zambezi River, or a helicopter flight over the falls.

Go on Safari in Hwange National Park

For an unforgettable wildlife experience, head to Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe’s largest and most diverse wildlife reserve. Home to massive elephant herds, lions, cheetahs, and wild dogs, Hwange offers some of the best game-viewing safaris in Africa. Visit the Ngamo Plains for a chance to see predators in action and take a guided walking safari for an up-close encounter with nature.

Explore the Ancient Ruins of Great Zimbabwe

Step back in time at the Great Zimbabwe Ruins, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Africa’s most important historical landmarks. Once the capital of the Kingdom of Zimbabwe (11th-15th century), these massive stone walls and towers reveal the mysteries of an ancient African civilization that thrived in trade and innovation.

Discover Matobo Hills

Matobo National Park is home to some of Zimbabwe’s most stunning granite rock formations, ancient cave paintings, and diverse wildlife. Visit the grave of Cecil Rhodes, hike to scenic viewpoints, and go on a rhino-tracking safari to see endangered black and white rhinos up close.

Experience Lake Kariba & Mana Pools

For water-based adventures, visit Lake Kariba, one of the largest man-made lakes in the world. Sunset boat cruises, fishing excursions, and houseboat safaris offer a peaceful escape into nature. Further upstream, Mana Pools National Park is a UNESCO-listed wildlife haven where elephants, hippos, and crocodiles gather along the riverbanks. Canoe safaris in Mana Pools offer one of Africa’s most thrilling wildlife experiences.

Taste Zimbabwean Cuisine

Enjoy sadza, Zimbabwe’s staple maize dish, served with nyama (grilled meat) and leafy greens. Try mopane worms for a local delicacy, and don’t miss peanut butter-infused stews. Wash it down with a refreshing Zambezi Lager or maheu, a traditional fermented maize drink.

Why Visit Zimbabwe?

With its spectacular scenery, legendary wildlife, and deep historical roots, Zimbabwe is a hidden gem that offers some of Africa’s most authentic travel experiences—from thrilling safaris to awe-inspiring waterfalls and ancient ruins.