Summary of Southern Africa’s Top Destinations
From tawny savannah plains to white sand beaches and snow-dusted mountains, Southern Africa is a place of a thousand different landscapes. Its people are just as diverse, and new experiences await around every corner. Encounter exotic wildlife while on safari in the Okavango Delta or Kruger National Park, or swim in the warm waters of Mozambique’s tropical Quirimbas Archipelago. Victoria Falls is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, while Cape Town is renowned for its award-winning vineyards and gourmet restaurants. Discover the region’s top highlights below.
Victoria Falls, Zambia/Zimbabwe
Known locally as Mosi-oa-Tunya, or The Smoke That Thunders, Victoria Falls is the largest waterfall in the world by volume. During the rainy season, over 500 million liters of water cascade down the edge of the precipice. Positioned on the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe, the falls are best appreciated from the air or from the viewpoints along the Zambezi River gorge. Here, the powerful spray of the falls is so significant that you can get soaked in seconds.
South Luangwa National Park, Zambia
Famous for its walking safaris, Zambia’s South Luangwa National Park allows for an immersive experience in the African bush. Look for a plethora of wild animal species (60 in total), including large prides of lions, herds of elephants, and solitary, enigmatic leopards.
Life in South Luangwa revolves around the river, which is teeming with hippos, crocodiles, and vibrant waterbirds. Birding here is especially rewarding, with over 400 avian species recorded within the park’s boundaries.
Cape Town, South Africa
Nestled at the foot of Table Mountain, Cape Town is one of the most picturesque cities globally. The surrounding region features tranquil vineyards, stunning beaches, and majestic mountains. Within the city center, cultural experiences abound.
Experience top-tier restaurants and upscale shopping centers alongside rustic markets and intriguing museums. Cape Town is rich in historical sights, including District Six, Bo-Kaap, and Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela spent the majority of his imprisonment.
Chobe National Park, Botswana
Located in northern Botswana, Chobe National Park hosts one of Africa’s highest concentrations of wildlife, including all of the Big Five. The park is particularly known for its elephant population, thought to be among the largest globally.
The centerpiece of the game reserve is the Chobe River, where animals gather by the hundreds to drink, play, and sometimes hunt. A river safari offers a rewarding and unique experience, allowing you to observe the park’s diverse birdlife as well.
Quirimbas Archipelago, Mozambique
If you’re seeking the ultimate beach vacation, Mozambique’s remote Quirimbas Archipelago is a breathtaking choice. Comprised of 32 coral islands stretching along the northern coast, the archipelago offers paradise-like white sand beaches, slender palms, and crystal-clear turquoise waters.
Below the surface, vibrant reefs await, making this locale popular for snorkelers, scuba divers, and deep-sea fishermen. Ibo Island is also renowned for its decaying yet magnificent colonial architecture.
Okavango Delta, Botswana
The Okavango Delta is a unique ecosystem, influenced by the seasonal flooding of the Okavango River, resulting in a diverse range of animal and birdlife. The best time to visit is from May to September when wildlife is concentrated on small islands formed by rising waters.
This aquatic landscape allows for exploration by traditional canoe known as mokoro, or on foot. Several luxury lodges are available in the area, but for a truly memorable experience, arrange to camp under the stars.
Lake Malawi, Malawi
The third-largest lake in Africa, Lake Malawi covers nearly a third of Malawi’s total area. It is a stunning freshwater lake, so vast that at times standing on its shore feels like being on the edge of the ocean.
Expect golden beaches, rustic fishing villages, and a variety of watersports including powerboat cruises, sailing, kayaking, swimming, and scuba diving. If you dive in, keep an eye out for Lake Malawi’s unique cichlid fish; there are at least 700 species here, most of which are endemic. Yet, please be aware that bilharzia is a potential risk in some areas.
The Wild Coast, South Africa
Known as the Transkei, the Wild Coast features a stretch of rugged and unspoiled coastline in South Africa’s Eastern Cape province. With plunging cliffs, strong waves, and breathtaking secluded beaches, it is the perfect destination for nature enthusiasts.
Unsurprisingly, this area is a hotspot for rock and surf fishing, hiking, and surfing. The Wild Coast serves as the homeland of the Xhosa people, whose colorful rondavels can be seen perched on the hills above the beach. In the north, Port St. Johns is the best starting point for the annual Sardine Run.
Sossusvlei, Namibia
Part of the ancient Namib Desert, the Sossusvlei dune sea presents a surreal landscape of soaring sand peaks contrasted against the vivid blue sky. Staying within the park at Sesriem Campsite allows for early access to the dunes.
Challenge yourself by climbing iconic Dune 45 at sunrise for breathtaking views. Sossusvlei is a paradise for hikers and photographers. The ancient oasis of Deadvlei, with its cracked white clay and fossilized trees, framed by towering red sand dunes, is particularly atmospheric.
Kruger National Park, South Africa
Located on the Mozambique border in northeast South Africa, Kruger National Park is celebrated for its size and diversity. It is the oldest, largest, and most renowned of South Africa’s game reserves. It stands out as one of the best places in Africa to spot the Big Five: rhino, elephant, leopard, lion, and buffalo.
With a variety of accommodation options available and well-maintained roads, visitors can enjoy a self-drive safari at their convenience. Furthermore, night drives provide the thrill of observing wildlife after dark in the heart of Africa.
