So while we cannot be complacent, we can still have a great time, while supporting the travel and tourism industry right on here on our home continent.
If you’re unsure about where to go, here are the top 10 must-see locations in sub-Saharan Africa:
Every animal lover should have an encounter with gorillas on their bucket list. The endangered mountain gorillas of Rwanda are closely monitored and protected. Tours through the magnificent landscape are led by expert guides and you’ll get to observe these amazing creatures close up, along with a variety of other animals.
These spectacular falls are located on the border of Zambia and Zimbabwe. See them from one of the land-based viewing points or take a trip on the river for another perspective. Either way, be sure to take a raincoat.
This one is for adrenaline junkies. Nyiragongo, a beautiful and active volcano in the Virunga National Park, last erupted in 2002. The crater is 1.2km wide and filled with boiling lava, which glows at night. No one is sure when it will next erupt, but for now, you can join hiking tours to the summit, with the option to spend the night there in a tented camp. Your holiday photos will be unbeatable.
From the flat top of Table Mountain, lofty 360° views of the beautiful City of Cape Town unfold. Ride a rotating cable car up or, for the more energetic, take one of the hiking routes to the top. Pathways on the summit are well laid out and, if you’re lucky, you may spot a dassie sunning itself on a rock. Look out for a variety of special offers available to locals.
Mount Kilimanjaro is Africa’s highest peak at 5,805 metres. To climb it, you’ll need to be relatively fit and put in the essential pre-training. The journey takes you through grassland plains, rain forests and alpine meadows, to an almost lunar landscape just before the summit, which often sits above the clouds. As altitude sickness can be a factor, it’s important to work through a reputable tour operator.
The Kruger Shalati Train on the Bridge perches on the historical Selati Bridge, high above the Sabie River in the Kruger National Park. The original steam train carriages have been converted into glass-walled, luxury rooms with incredible views of the riverbank below, where wildlife gathers to graze and swim. Game drives, gourmet food and excellent service complete the package.
This archipelago comprises 10 islands off the west coast of Africa. African and European influences blend to make for unique offerings of music, arts and cuisine. With balmy temperatures all-year-round, luminous blue water and beaches with sand that ranges from milk-white to black, this is a beach lover’s dream. Other activities include sailing, jet skiing and diving, hiking, and bird or sea turtle watching.
The Masai Mara is one of the best places in Africa to view the continent’s wildlife. Try a horse-back safari or take a traditional game drive or guided walk to experience the magic of the African bush with a local expert. Depending on the time of year, you’re likely to encounter anything from lion, elephant, hippo, buffalo or crocodiles through to vast herds of migrating zebra and wildebeest. The Elewana Elephant Pepper Camp’s remoteness is perfect for enjoying the bright stars and busy wildlife in comfort.
This village in western Ghana is like a rustic and much smaller version of Venice, where the locals have lived their lives the same way for centuries. It’s built entirely on stilts over the water so canoes are the only method of transport – and don’t be surprised if you’re asked to help paddle. While you’re there, you’ll want to try the world-famous local gin, which is made from raffia palm.
Recently voted as boasting the best beaches and reefs in Africa, the six islands that comprise the Bazaruto Archipelago are a protected conservation area and famous for their unspoiled beauty. The pristine coral reefs are home to a vast array of marine life, making for an exceptional diving experience, especially if you’re lucky enough to spot one of the endangered dugongs, which were often mistaken for mermaids by sailors of old. Anantara Bazaruto Island Resort is the perfect base for all your activities, from sea to spa. It’s also the ideal spot to soak up the view of the turquoise waters, white beaches and spectacular sunsets from your luxury beach villa, with a cocktail in hand.
You're spoilt for choice with all of these idyllic locations on our wonderful continent. You'll certainly be content with whichever choice you make. Happy travelling!
