Discover the Magic of Africa

Hemingway once said, “I never knew of a morning in Africa when I woke up that I was not happy,” which sums up a vacation here beautifully. The world’s second-largest continent, Africa covers 20% of the Earth’s land area, is home to the world’s largest desert – the Sahara – as well as the world’s longest river, the Nile. Africa isn’t just a destination—it’s a life-changing experience. Its vast landscapes, from deserts to lush deltas, create a backdrop that’s both breathtaking and humbling. Here, you’ll find an exceptional diversity of wildlife, some of the world’s oldest cultures, and places where ancient traditions and modern life coexist. 

Serengeti National Park

Imagine starting your day in a hot air balloon floating over the Serengeti, witnessing thousands of wildebeest on the move during the Great Migration, hiking Cape Town’s Table Mountain, or ending your day with a warm community welcome in a traditional Maasai village in Kenya. Every corner of Africa tells a story and promises to be a destination that lingers in your memory long after you leave.

Our team of Destination Specialists have explored so much of this special place, with many having spent time living across the continent. Let’s go on a journey to discover our top destinations: South Africa, Kenya, Tanzania and Botswana. Hold on to your safari hats: these places offer some seriously magical, bucket-list vacations!

South Africa: A Country of Contrasts

South Africa is located at the southern tip of Africa. Around twice the size of Texas, there are nine different cultures living within South Africa’s borders – all helping to form its distinct national identity. 

Cape Town

Blending adventure, wildlife and rich heritage, this is where lions prowl and elephants roam; where Table Mountain stands sentinel and where the poignant reminders of apartheid remain. Add in world-class wineries, the soaring Drakensberg mountains and ancient rock art dating back 2,500 years, and you’ve got a country that dances entirely to its own beat.

Greater Kruger Park

For those seeking adventure, South Africa delivers. From Big Five safaris in Greater Kruger Park to diving with great white sharks off the coast, there’s no shortage of thrilling experiences. History lovers can explore the sobering but inspiring sites in Johannesburg and visit Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned, to gain insight into South Africa’s fight for freedom. Cap off your journey with a trip to the Cape Winelands, where world-renowned vineyards offer tastings set against a backdrop of rolling hills and rugged mountains.

Because it’s in the southern hemisphere, South Africa’s seasons are the opposite to ours, but the best time to visit is actually in the cooler winter months, as the cooler days make for superb conditions for viewing big game.

For the ultimate South Africa experience, discover our 7-night journey through Cape Town and Kruger. 

Botswana: The Pinnacle of Pristine Wilderness

Land-locked Botswana borders South Africa to the south, making this country a natural pick for dual-destination African vacations. With a commitment to sustainable tourism, Botswana’s protected lands offer some of the best wildlife experiences in Africa. The Okavango Delta is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a stunning inland oasis that floods seasonally, drawing an impressive array of wildlife. Glide through its waterways in a mokoro (dugout canoe), spotting elephants, hippos, and colorful bird species along the way.

Mokoro on the Okavango Delta

To the north, Chobe National Park boasts one of the world’s largest elephant populations. Witness herds along the Chobe River or watch lions and other predators as they roam freely across the plains. No visit to Botswana is complete without a trip to Victoria Falls from the town of Chobe. Here, the Zambezi River plunges over a huge, dramatic cliff, creating a breathtaking curtain of water.

Victoria Falls

Further south, the Makgadikgadi Pans present an otherworldly desert landscape, where you can explore ancient salt flats and meet the San people to learn about their rich cultural heritage and remarkable survival skills in this harsh environment.

The climate in Botswana is classed as semi-arid. It’s hot and dry for most of the year, with intense, sporadic rainfall in the summer season. The best time to visit is in the winter from April to August. Nights and early mornings can be chilly, so ensure clients pack warm clothing.

When it comes to planning a visit to Botswana, our Destination Specialists recommend this Botswana and Victoria Falls 10-night adventure. 

Tanzania: Safari Wonders and Island Escapes

Tanzania’s vast savannahs, the Great Migration, Mount Kilimanjaro and the spice-infused Island of Zanzibar read like the ‘Greatest Hits’ of Africa. Combine that with the fascinating local culture, delicious cuisine and wildlife a-plenty, and this is a destination that won’t disappoint.

The Serengeti National Park, famous for the Great Migration (June through November), is a bucket-list destination where millions of wildebeest and zebras move across the plains in search of greener pastures. For a truly unique perspective, take a sunrise hot air balloon ride to see this wildlife spectacle from above.

Serengeti National Park

Then there’s the fascinating culture of the Maasai. Visit traditional villages and interact with their communities, learning about their unique customs and semi-nomadic way of life.

At Tanzania’s northern border lies the Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO-listed volcanic caldera filled with lush landscapes and an abundance of wildlife, including rare black rhinos. After experiencing the thrill of safari, head to the idyllic island of Zanzibar. Known as the “Spice Island,” Zanzibar offers white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a blend of African, Arab, and European influences. Stroll through Stone Town’s narrow alleyways, tour fragrant spice plantations, and relax on the numerous beaches.

Zanzibar

The best time to visit Tanzania is during the dry season, from June to October, when wildlife viewing is at its peak, especially in places like the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater.

Tanzania is an incredible place for tented safaris, which offer a closer connection with nature. Discover our 10-night Tented Expedition. 

Kenya: A Classic Safari Destination

Kenya, the birthplace of safari, offers travelers a chance to experience Africa’s diverse landscapes, vibrant culture, and abundant wildlife. In the southwest lies the Maasai Mara National Reserve, where you can witness the tail end of the Great Migration as animals cross the Mara River—a thrilling and iconic African experience.

Nairobi, Kenya’s bustling capital, offers its own unique appeal. Visit Nairobi National Park, where you can spot giraffes and lions against a city skyline backdrop or explore the Karen Blixen Museum to learn more about the famous author of Out of Africa. For those interested in beach escapes, Kenya’s Indian Ocean coastline boasts beautiful, palm-lined beaches, historic Swahili towns, and marine parks teeming with coral reefs and colorful fish. 

Masaai Village

In Kenya, culture is as much a highlight as wildlife. Visit a Maasai village to learn about this ancient semi-nomadic tribe, famous for their beaded jewelry, red robes, and incredible jumping dance. Engaging with local communities is a deeply enriching experience, offering insight into the vibrant traditions that have been passed down through generations.

Tented Safari

In terms of the best time to visit Kenya, July through September is the country’s dry season, which also coincides with the Great Migration heading south to Tanzania and the Serengeti.

Kenya is very much one of the jewels of Africa, and our Destination Specialists couldn’t agree more. Explore this 7-night journey where you can track big cats on foot, learn bird calls and search for the Big Five. 

For those ready to experience the wonders of Africa, the continent stands ready to surprise, captivate, and inspire you every step of the way. More than just a journey through spectacular landscapes, a trip to Africa offers encounters with a way of life that is grounded in community, respect for nature, and a deep sense of connection to the land.