Ask anyone what they would most like to do in Africa, and the word “safari” always tops the list! Victoria Falls, the Winelands of the Cape region and the Sossusvlei Dunes of Namibia also feature highly.
It can be hard to know where to start with planning a trip to Africa, so World Journeys has done it for you: its “Best of Southern Africa” tour is the perfect trip-of-a-lifetime with all the must-sees along with some very special additions that only those “in the know” can suggest.
One of those “in the know”, Ange Pirie of World Journeys, shares her suggestions for your ultimate Africa wish list:
CAPE TOWN
Table Mountain is the spectacular backdrop of this great city – pick a fine day for incredible views from its summit. The Victoria & Alfred Waterfront offers incredible dining and shopping, or visit Robben Island where Nelson Mandela was incarcerated, with former political prisoners as your guides adding a very personal insight.
CAPE WINELANDS
Beautiful Cape Dutch architecture graces the picturesque towns of the Winelands. A fun way to enjoy the area is on the Franschhoek Wine Tram around the many historic vineyards offering world-class wines, local artisan cheeses, chocolates and olive oils.
GROOTBOS PRIVATE NATURE RESERVE
Head along the Cape Whale Coast to the ancient forests and floral wonders of Grootbos Private Nature Reserve. Enjoy horse riding, cave exploring and shark dives, or take it easy with whale- or birdwatching, spectacular sunsets and luxurious spa treatments!
SOSSUSVLEI DESERT LODGE
Wow. Just, wow! Set in the vast Namib Desert, this lodge is an oasis of tranquillity offering romantic luxury in the heart of sheer wilderness. Stargazing with the resident astronomer is a must, as is dining out in the dunes, and spotting desert wildlife such as oryx, aardwolf and bat-eared fox.
VICTORIA FALLS
Victoria Falls is a true bucket list sight, with the mighty force of cascading waters sending up a spray to drench anyone in the vicinity. I always recommend you stay at the legendary Victoria Falls Hotel, with cocktails on Stanley’s Terrace overlooking the Falls at sunset. Magic!
CHOBE NATIONAL PARK
This 11,700 sq km park in northern Botswana is famed for its vast herds of elephants, and you can view them enjoying a morning drink along the Chobe River, or head out in 4x4 vehicles with expert guides to get up close to hippo, buffalo, puku antelope and other wildlife.
OKAVANGO DELTA
Arguably Africa’s ultimate wildlife hotspot, these seasonal floodplains are home to prolific numbers of wildlife. Stay at a luxury lodge in the Delta itself, with thrilling safari activities, sumptuous meals, and guides who are passionate about sharing this very special place with guests.
By all means pick and choose your own wish list, but to cover it all, a small group hosted journey makes it easy. There is company to share the experiences with, all the nittygritty details are taken care of, and your host is there to smooth the way should anything unexpected happen. Africa awaits!