Have you ever dreamed of climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest free-standing mountain in Africa? Or of viewing wildlife at Kruger National Park?
South Africa offers visitors world-class infrastructure and luxurious safari lodges. But it also provides adventurers with incredible landscapes including epic mountain ranges, rain forests and deserts, as well as the celebrated Garden Route.
Mount Kilimanjaro
Often referred to as ‘the roof of Africa’, this magnificent mountain boasts snow-filled ancient craters and sweeping plains trodden by elephant herds. It also promises a truly breath-taking experience for anyone brave enough to tackle it.
It is a dormant stratovolcano comprising three volcanic cones – Shira, Mawenzi, and Kibo. The landscape of the mountain features five different vegetation zones ranging from the lower slopes through rainforest, heath and moorland, alpine desert, to the summit. The mountain is also famous for its snow-capped peak and glaciers.
The mountain is home to the semi-nomadic Maasai tribe, which shares the land with zebra, giraffe and typical dry-country antelope. The lower slopes of the mountain are rich in flora and fauna, while the higher elevations are characterised by wide-open savannahs and mineral-rich flat plains. The Ngurdoto crater is a spectacular feature that looks like a smaller version of the Ngorongoro crater and is home to over 250 parasitic lava domes.
Lake Malawi
A shimmering jewel in Malawi’s crown, this great expanse of fresh water oozes into every corner of this tiny country and provides lifeblood for locals. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is also a water-sports Mecca with crystal clear waters and miles of immaculate beaches that are perfect for swimming, snorkelling, sailing, kayaking, boating and more.
The pristine wildlife reserves bordering the lake are ideal for game viewing as rainfall is at its lowest and animals tend to gather around the water sources. Wildlife sightings are guaranteed during these months especially in Liwonde National Park where translocated animals have helped to boost numbers of the Big 5 species.
Malawi’s villages are enchanting with many boasting a colourful culture and traditional craft industries. The larger towns host bustling markets while clusters of roadside stalls offer visitors the opportunity to engage in some friendly banter with the locals. Lively Malawian music and dance are an integral part of the culture and there is an uplifting emergence of musicians who are now making international names for themselves.
Kruger National Park
The Kruger National Park is a wild and natural wonder that is home to a wide array of animals. Located in South Africa, it features five distinct vegetation zones and is one of the best places in the world for observing wildlife.
Guests can experience a number of activities in the Kruger Park including game drives, bush walks and bird watching. Visitors can also stay at various campsites and lodges inside the park. The most popular camp is Skukuza, which is the largest in the park and contains the administrative headquarters. It is a hub of activity, but it can be crowded with day-visitors and safari tour groups.
The park is also home to some fascinating archaeological sites. The Albasini Ruins are the remains of a 19th-century trading post that was used by Portuguese traders and local Ba-Phalaborwa people. The site is near the Phabeni Gate and is a must-visit for history buffs. Another archaeological site is the Thulamela Settlement, which was occupied from 1250 to 1700 CE. It is known for its well-preserved iron smelting furnaces and offers an opportunity to learn about the early human inhabitants of this area.
Isalo National Park
The vast and dramatic Isalo National Park is a geological masterpiece, featuring sandstone canyons and enormous eroded cliffs that are home to spectacular panoramic views. The park is a paradise for hikers, with numerous hiking trails and incredible natural forms to explore.
The park’s landscape features rugged sandstone canyons, oases surrounded by palm trees and a variety of vegetation, including thorny bushes and medicinal plants. The park is also dotted with endemic lemur species, including ring-tailed lemurs and Verreaux’s sifakas.
Isalo is a good place for those who want to see Madagascar’s unique wildlife in a natural habitat. It’s also a sanctuary for no less than 14 lemur species, and 80 bird species – 70% of which are endemic. Isalo is also home to reptiles, frogs and other small mammals.
Zimbabwe
A hospitable nation, Zimbabwe offers outstanding natural landscapes and wildlife. It also has world-class beaches and mediaeval ruined cities. This country is unfairly overlooked as a travel destination.
Its five UNESCO World Heritage Sites include cultural and natural attractions. The Khami Ruins, Great Zimbabwe National Monument, and Matobo Hills are among the most significant ruins in Africa. The latter features one of the highest concentrations of rock art in Southern Africa.
The magnificent Victoria Falls (Mosi-oa-Tunya, or “The Smoke that Thunders”) border the countries of Zambia and Zimbabwe. The spray from the 108-meter high cascade is breathtaking. You can walk along a trail or swim in Devil’s Pool to get close to the spray and experience its power.
The Masai Mara National Reserve in Kenya is home to lions and rhinos. Its villagers, who speak the Maa language, are renowned for their hospitality. The Vadoma people are fascinating for a different reason: they have a genetic condition known as ectrodactyly, which causes their middle three toes to turn inward. This gives them the appearance of ostrich feet.
