A nation of spectacular natural beauty, friendly people and rich culture, Zimbabwe’s status as one of Africa’s leading safari destinations was dampened for years by its political instability. But now that the country is transcending its strife and returning to a state of equilibrium, it is once again emerging as a vacation highlight of the continent.
Victoria Falls – known to locals as ‘The Smoke That Thunders’ – is one of the seven natural wonders of the world and the sheer power of this massive body of water plunging into the Zambezi Gorge is awe-inspiring and unforgettable. Lake Kariba, with its game-rich shores and islands, is an idyllic safari spot featuring mind-blowing sunsets; Hwange National Park is known for its huge herds of elephants; and a kayak trip down the Zambezi through the Mana Pools National Park will appeal to the intrepid traveller, providing close encounters with crocodiles, hippos and a host of other wildlife. (ITT)
Resting on the southern banks of the Zambezi River at the western end of the eponymous falls, this popular tourist town is compact enough to walk around and makes an ideal base for travellers exploring the Seventh Wonder of the World, the unfathomably vast Victoria Falls.
About two thirds of the Falls can be viewed from the Zimbabwean side and, whilst the falls are undoubtedly the star attraction, the area provides both adventure seekers and sightseers with plenty of opportunities to warrant a longer stay. Popular activities include scenic flights over the falls in helicopters or micro lights, bungee jumping off the Victoria Falls Bridge, white-water rafting (seasonal), and day trips to Chobe National Park in neighbouring Botswana. The town itself offers some excellent accommodation and restaurant options as well as a variety of African curios and authentic art sold by friendly Zimbabwean locals who are very welcoming and eager to help you enjoy your stay. (ITT)
Situated in the southern reaches of Africa, Botswana is renowned for its pristine wilderness areas characterised by deep lagoons, wetlands, lush palms, rugged hills and desert plains scattered with scrubland.
The country’s primary tourist drawcard is undoubtedly the vast red expanse of the Kalahari Desert and its remarkably beautiful Okavango Delta, the largest inland delta in the world. These natural wonders provide a tranquil haven for an abundance of African wildlife to thrive.
Other highlights include the impressive Makgadikgadi Salt Pans, where visitors are privy to massive zebra migrations during the flood season; the Savuti plains, which host large prides of lions; and the Tsodilo Hills, where 4500 rock paintings form a unique record of human settlement over many millennia. (ITT)
Situated 180 kilometres north of Francistown, the small village of Nata is a popular stopover between Maun and Kasane along the ‘game drive route’ (there is often a chance to catch a glimpse of wildlife along the way). The unique surrounding landscapes feature white sand, tall termite mounds, and Mokolwane palm trees. The Nata Sanctuary is a particular highlight for avid bird watchers, where lucky visitors can be rewarded with large flocks of Flamingos and Pelicans, which breed here each year. The town is also a perfect base for exploring the legendary and spectacular Makgadikgadi Pans, where quad biking and four-wheel-drive tours can be enjoyed.
Situated on the banks of the Khwai River near the famous Okavango swamp, the village of Khwai is set in the North-West District of Botswana. The village fringes the magnificent Moremi Game Reserve which is known for its incredible array of wildlife. It serves as a gateway to the reserve as it is set just outside the North Gate. of Moremi. Khwai provides an excellent base from which to explore the spectacularly scenic surrounding area. It is to be home to some of Botswana's most beautiful landscapes which feature vast grass plains, a patchwork of lagoons, shallow pans and lush woodland forests. Visitor can look forward to spotting a fantastic variety of wildlife, learning about the San community and enjoying a wide selection of ecotourism activities. Commonly spotted wildlife species include: lion, leopard, elephant, cheetah, hippo, wild dog and buffalo.
Set on the banks of the beautiful Thamalakane River in northern Botswana, Maun is the third-largest town in this spectacularly scenic southern African country. Maun is the starting point for most expeditions into the Okavango Delta and as a result, has developed into a bustling metropolis that is considered Botswana’s tourism capital. Area attractions include a renowned riverboat that offers cruises up and down the Thamalakane River; the forest groves of the Maun Game Reserve; and Moremi Game Reserve, home to hippos, lions and rhinos. Maun also serves as the jumping-off point for many safaris and air charters as well as offering private 4x4 rentals. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Nhabe Museum exhibiting the local history, art and culture of the Ngamiland region.
The Mapula and Sekwana Concession, also known as NG12 (an acronym for the broader Ngamiland) is situated north of the breathtaking Okavango Delta, spreading out over 220,000 acres, and is accessible via a 45-minute light aircraft trip from Maun. This Community Concession boasts magnificent delta landscapes, as well as mopane woodlands. In the southern part of the park, visitors will be able to see prolific birdlife (African paradise flycatcher, Carmine bee-eaters, and the endangered wattled crane) as well as giraffes, elephants, buffaloes, lions, wild dogs, and numerous antelope species. A range of guided tours and game drives are on offer. Several villages are encompassed by the concession, and the local communities work in conjunction with NG12 management to sustain the beautiful natural area.
Located in the south western reaches of the African continent, Namibia boasts a well-developed infrastructure, some of the best tourist facilities in Africa and an impressive list of breathtaking natural wonders.
Visitors can explore the capital of Windhoek and discover the lovely coastal town of Swakopmund, boasting remnants of the country’s German influence reflected in the architecture, culture, cuisine and the annual Oktoberfest celebrations. But to properly appreciate this extraordinary country, guests need to venture out of these two towns to explore the remarkable natural landscapes Namibia has to offer. These include the impressive Fish River Canyon, the world's second largest canyon, the vast Etosha National Park teeming with abundant wildlife, the hauntingly beautiful Kalahari Desert and of course the Namib Desert, the oldest desert in the world, stretching for over 2000 km along the Atlantic Coast.
Namibia is undoubtedly an ideal destination for travellers seeking an unforgettable African experience in a uniquely beautiful and untamed wilderness. (ITT)
Situated on the southern banks of the Zambezi River, the small town of Katima Mulilo is the capital of the Zambezi region. This riverside town is surrounded by lush vegetation and is home to an array of tropical bird species and cheeky monkeys. Katima Mulilo is the service centre for the Caprivi and serves as the commercial hub for the East Caprivi region. Visitors can enjoy a variety of interesting attractions including the vibrant street market, where arts and crafts, such as traditional grass-woven baskets, wood carvings, clothes and jewellery, can be found.
Situated in the southern reaches of Africa, Botswana is renowned for its pristine wilderness areas characterised by deep lagoons, wetlands, lush palms, rugged hills and desert plains scattered with scrubland.
The country’s primary tourist drawcard is undoubtedly the vast red expanse of the Kalahari Desert and its remarkably beautiful Okavango Delta, the largest inland delta in the world. These natural wonders provide a tranquil haven for an abundance of African wildlife to thrive.
Other highlights include the impressive Makgadikgadi Salt Pans, where visitors are privy to massive zebra migrations during the flood season; the Savuti plains, which host large prides of lions; and the Tsodilo Hills, where 4500 rock paintings form a unique record of human settlement over many millennia. (ITT)
Tucked away in the northeastern corner of Botswana, on the banks of the famous Chobe River, the scenic little town of Kasane rests on the doorstep of the spectacular Chobe National Park. There are no boundary fences separating the village from the park and game such as elephant and hippo are often spotted roaming around the town. If on the lookout for elusive game, pay a visit to the Sedudu Valley Road, where large dead trees provide temporary homes for leopards. Within Kasane, an ancient baobab tree stands on display, once serving as a local prison. Visitors can look forward to a multitude of activities including: enjoying a game drive through the park, taking a sunset cruise down the Chobe River, visiting a local village or jumping on a day trip to the breathtaking Victoria Falls.
