Introduction to Southern Africa
The southern tip of the African continent is unrivalled when it comes to scenic landscapes and the abundance of wildlife. It is just the right region for travellers intent on embarking on a memorable safari experience.
From the wild and wonderful nature of Botswana, Zambia and Zimbabwe, to the best of both sea and bush in South Africa, Mozambique and Namibia, the area is a top choice offering several experiences, from wildlife encounters to adventure excursions. National parks and game reserves offer ample opportunity to get up close and personal with the famed Big Five—the lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo and rhino. A myriad of other mammals, reptiles and bird species will keep binoculars and cameras pointing in all directions.
Highlights on the wildlife trail in Southern Africa include the Kruger National Park in South Africa, Chobe National Park in Botswana, Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park in Botswana and South Africa, Etosha National Park in Namibia, South Luangwa National Park in Zambia, Hwange National Park in Zimbabwe and Gorongosa National Park in Mozambique.
What to do in Southern Africa
There are plenty of natural wonders that are worth visiting. These include the Fish River Canyon in Namibia which is the second-largest canyon in the world, Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe, also referred to as “The Smoke That Thunders” and Ilha de Mozambique in Mozambique that is home to some of the most notable heritage anywhere in Africa. Additionally, Southern Africa is an adventure haven. The region has some of the highest bungee jumping spots in the world, fantastic hiking and biking trails, great rivers for white-water river rafting and canoeing and excellent surf for surfing and kite-boarding.
Best time to visit Southern Africa
The optimum time to venture to these shores if a safari is on the itinerary is during the cooler months between April to August when the climate tends to be mild, sunny and rain-free. From September to March temperatures and humidity levels rise with cooling coming in the form of the summer rains. Summer in Southern Africa brings the wet season.
South Africa
South Africa should be a top choice when looking for a safari destination as the country offers something for everyone—from couples looking for a romantic getaway, family and friends gathering, to adventure seekers after a thrill.
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Namibia
In Namibia, the most visited places and attractions include the capital city of Windhoek, Caprivi Strip, Fish River Canyon, Sossusvlei, the Skeleton Coast Park, Sesriem, Etosha Pan and the coastal towns of Swakopmund, Walvis Bay and Lüderitz.
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Botswana
Botswana’s natural phenomena include the vast salt pans of the Makgadikgadi, defined by granite outcrops and baobabs, the sandy plains of the impressive Kalahari Desert which span 70% of the country’s land, and the famous Okavango Delta.
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Mozambique
Graced with long stretches of white sand and contrasting turquoise waters, Mozambique serves as an idyllic beach destination with attractions for those with a more adventurous personality.
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Zimbabwe
Zimbabwe offers the full safari experience, whether observing wildlife from the comfort of a game-drive vehicle or adrenaline-pumping through the veins while cascading down a river.
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Zambia
The national parks and game reserves in Zambia provide pristine sanctuaries to a wide variety of wildlife and boast some of the best game viewing opportunities in the world.
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