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. 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 a significant pride of lions; and the Tsodilo Hills, where 4500 rock paintings form a unique record of human settlement over many millennia.
The Okavango Delta in Botswana is the world’s largest inland delta. In June 2014, it was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, marking the 1,000th site on the list. The area was once part of Lake Makgadikgadi, an ancient lake that dried up 10,000 years ago. Today, the Okavango River does not reach the sea. Instead, it empties into the Kalahari sands, irrigating 1,500 km² of the desert.
The water entering the delta is exceptionally pure due to the lack of agriculture and industry along its banks. As the water passes through the sandy soil of the islands and evaporates, it leaves behind vast amounts of salt. This process is so intense that vegetation disappears in the center of the islands, resulting in thick salt crusts.
The delta’s population consists of five ethnic groups: the Hambukushu, Dceriku, Wayeyi, Bugakhwe, and IIanikhwe. The Hambukushu, Dceriku, and Wayeyi are Bantu people who practice traditional economies like farming, fishing, and hunting. The Bugakhwe and IIanikhwe are San. The Bugakhwe utilize both the forest and the river for food, while the IIanikhwe rely primarily on the river.
The Okavango is home to a vast array of wildlife, including: African bush elephants, Cape buffalo, hippos, red lechwe, tsessebe, blue wildebeest, giraffes, Nile crocodiles, lions, cheetahs, leopards, hyenas, African wild dogs, greater kudu, sable antelopes, black and white rhinos, water monitors, and zebras.
Tip: Before your trip, watch Surviving Paradise: A Family Tale on Netflix for a spectacular look at the animals and landscapes of the Okavango.
Zimbabwe is a nation of spectacular natural beauty, friendly people, and rich culture. Once affected by political instability, the country is now returning to a state of balance and is emerging as a must-visit destination in Africa.
Visitors are drawn to the awe-inspiring Victoria Falls, known locally as ‘The Smoke That Thunders’, one of the seven natural wonders of the world. The power of the water plunging into the Zambezi Gorge is simply unforgettable. Lake Kariba, with its game-rich shores and islands, offers idyllic safari opportunities and breathtaking sunsets. Wildlife enthusiasts will love Hwange National Park, famous for its enormous elephant herds, and adventurous travelers can take a kayak trip down the Zambezi through Mana Pools National Park, spotting crocodiles, hippos, and other remarkable wildlife along the way.
With its friendly locals, lively markets, and a rich cultural heritage, Zimbabwe blends adventure, nature, and history into an unforgettable African experience.
Known locally as Mosi-oa-Tunya—“The Smoke That Thunders”—Victoria Falls is one of the world’s great natural landmarks. Straddling the Zambezi River between Zambia and Zimbabwe, it forms a vast curtain of water that fills the air with mist and sound. The Zimbabwean side grants the most dramatic views, where mist rises like ghostly curtains and rainbows arc through the spray. Measuring about 1,708 metres across, it is regarded as the largest single continuous sheet of falling water on Earth. The adjacent town of Victoria Falls provides a convenient base for exploring the region, with a wide range of activities from scenic flights and microlight trips to white-water rafting, bungee jumping, kayaking, and safaris into Chobe National Park.
Central Hwange National Park, encompassing Sinamatella, is a sanctuary of Zimbabwean wilderness. Flowing rivers, natural springs, and dams sustain its vibrant ecosystem, drawing a rich diversity of wildlife. A network of waterholes, bustling with game, punctuates the landscape, offering captivating wildlife encounters. Sinamatella's elevated vantage point provides breathtaking views, while the park's intricate water sources create a thriving oasis. This region is a haven for nature enthusiasts seeking an authentic African safari experience amidst the untouched beauty of Central Hwange's untamed landscapes.
