Southern Africa Adventure

Known as South Africa’s “Mother City,” Cape Town is a premier tourist destination and a cosmopolitan jewel of the African continent. Nestled between awe-inspiring mountains and a sparkling coastline, Cape Town bursts with history, art, culture, and natural beauty.

Natural and geological marvels abound in Cape Town. Table Mountain, the city’s iconic sandstone formation and most popular landmark, hovers over the Cape of Good Hope and offers spectacular views of the sprawling city below. The mountain can be traversed on foot, for those who enjoy hiking, or by a quick cable car ride. South of Table Mountain, the Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens display a stunning variety of South Africa’s lush and colorful native plant life. Nearby beaches, including Clifton Beach and Boulders Beach, are excellent sites for swimming and surfing (though colder ocean temperatures may make your swim a bit chilly!). Boulders Beach, in particular, has become a favorite sightseeing spot; locals and tourists alike enjoy watching African penguins traipse along the sand.

Cape Town’s history of racial discrimination through the apartheid system, ended in 1994, and the people’s anti-apartheid revolution led by Nelson Mandela are essential to understanding the city’s current political and social makeup. Robben Island, the prison in which Mandela served 27 years for his anti-apartheid demonstrations, is a must-see historical landmark and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Book a tour to explore the prison’s halls and see Mandela’s cell for yourself. The city’s many museums, including the District Six Museum and Slave Lodge Museum, provide an immersive look into Cape Town’s colonial and segregationist past.

Eat, drink, and be merry while partaking in Cape Town’s rich cultural life! Vineyards and wineries lie just beyond the metropolitan center and offer a diverse assortment of aromatic wines, including South Africa’s unique pinotage blend. Popular promenades near the city center, including the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront and Long Street, will delight you with an impressive array of dining, shopping, and entertainment venues. Be sure to sample biltong, a dry-cured beef peppered with delectable spices that has become a staple of Cape Town cuisine. If you’re in the mood for heartier dishes, step in a local restaurant for piping-hot bunny chow (with loads of flavorful curry) or fresh fish and chips.

Fascinating Cape Town awaits. Kom ons gaan!

Sesriem, located in the heart of Namibia’s Namib Desert, serves as the gateway to the world-famous Sossusvlei and Deadvlei, two of Namibia’s most iconic landscapes. The dramatic red dunes of the Namib Desert, some of the highest in the world, are an awe-inspiring sight, particularly at sunrise when the light casts long shadows, creating an otherworldly contrast of colors. One of the highlights for visitors is climbing Dune 45, which stands at 170 meters tall and offers panoramic views of the vast desert landscape below.

A visit to Sesriem Canyon is another must. Formed by the Tsauchab River over millions of years, this narrow, 30-meter-deep canyon provides a cool respite from the desert heat. Its name, "Sesriem," translates to "six belts" in Afrikaans, referring to the six ox-hide belts early settlers needed to lower buckets into the canyon to draw water. Walking through the canyon, visitors are immersed in a natural history that dates back to the early formation of the Namib Desert.

For travelers seeking adventure, Sesriem is also an excellent base for hot air ballooning, offering a bird’s-eye view of the surreal desert landscape. As you soar over the dunes, the sheer scale of the Namib Desert becomes evident, making this a truly unforgettable experience. Wildlife enthusiasts will be delighted to spot oryx, springbok, and ostriches that roam the desert plains despite the harsh conditions.

Fun fact: Sossusvlei's name is derived from the Afrikaans word "vlei," meaning "marsh," and "Sossus," which is Nama for "no return" or "dead-end," referring to the salt and clay pan's enclosed nature, where water from rare rains does not drain away. This combination of dramatic desert landscapes and unique natural history makes Sesriem a destination unlike any other.

Sossusvlei, located in the heart of the Namib Desert in Namibia, is a breathtaking destination that captivates travelers with its surreal landscapes and towering red sand dunes. The star attraction of Namib-Naukluft National Park, Sossusvlei is famous for its clay pans surrounded by some of the highest sand dunes in the world, some reaching heights of over 300 meters. The name “Sossusvlei” translates to “dead-end marsh,” referring to the rare floods that fill the pan, creating a temporary oasis. This stark yet beautiful environment, with its intense colors and dramatic shapes, offers photographers and nature lovers a dreamlike canvas to explore.

One of the most iconic experiences in Sossusvlei is climbing the massive dunes, such as Dune 45 or the famed Big Daddy, which towers at 325 meters. The view from the top provides a panoramic vista of endless dunes rolling into the distance, a sight that is particularly magical at sunrise or sunset when the sands glow in shades of orange, pink, and deep red. Below, the dry, cracked clay of Dead Vlei creates a stark contrast, dotted with the gnarled, blackened skeletons of 900-year-old camelthorn trees, frozen in time against the shifting sands. The interplay of light and shadow at these times of day offers an ethereal experience that few other places on earth can match.

Beyond the dunes, Sossusvlei's stark beauty is home to an array of unique flora and fauna adapted to the harsh desert environment. Visitors can spot oryx, springbok, and the elusive desert-adapted elephants and lions that roam the Namib’s vast expanses. The plant life, such as the resilient welwitschia, a species endemic to Namibia that can live up to 2,000 years, tells the story of survival in one of the oldest and driest deserts on Earth. For those looking to understand more about this ecosystem, guided tours offer insights into the incredible adaptations of desert life, both plant and animal.

A fun fact about Sossusvlei is that it sits within the Namib Desert, which is considered the oldest desert in the world, estimated to be around 55 to 80 million years old. The best time to visit is during the cooler months from May to September, when temperatures are more comfortable for exploring the dunes and desert landscapes. Whether you are hiking up dunes, exploring the salt pans, or capturing the iconic sights with your camera, Sossusvlei offers an unforgettable adventure in one of the most unique natural settings on the planet.

Spitzkoppe, often referred to as the "Matterhorn of Namibia," is a stunning granite peak rising majestically from the desert floor, offering some of the most dramatic landscapes in the country. Located between Usakos and Swakopmund, this isolated mountain range, with its highest point standing at 1,728 meters, is a paradise for hikers, climbers, and nature lovers. The area is also rich in ancient San rock art, providing visitors with a glimpse into Namibia's prehistoric past. Exploring these rock paintings, which date back thousands of years, adds a fascinating cultural dimension to the natural beauty of Spitzkoppe.

For adventure enthusiasts, Spitzkoppe offers numerous hiking trails that range from easy walks to more challenging routes up the granite peaks. Sunrise and sunset are magical times to explore, as the warm light bathes the rocks in hues of orange and red, making it a photographer’s dream. Rock climbers from around the world flock to Spitzkoppe to scale its rugged surfaces, with routes for both beginners and experts. For those seeking something less strenuous, simply camping under the vast Namibian sky, surrounded by towering rock formations, is an unforgettable experience.

Beyond its geological splendor, Spitzkoppe is a haven for stargazing. With virtually no light pollution, the area boasts some of the clearest night skies in the world. Visitors can marvel at the Milky Way, which stretches vividly across the sky, and spot constellations with the naked eye. The tranquility and isolation make Spitzkoppe the perfect place to reconnect with nature.

Fun fact: The granite at Spitzkoppe is over 120 million years old, making this iconic mountain range not just a natural wonder but a geological marvel as well . Whether you're drawn to its adventurous activities or its serene beauty, Spitzkoppe is a destination that will leave you in awe.

Chobe National Park, located in the far northeastern corner of Botswana, is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and one of Africa's premier safari destinations. Known for its immense elephant population—estimated at over 120,000—the park offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. The Chobe Riverfront, a major highlight, provides a unique vantage point for game viewing, particularly during the dry season when large herds of elephants, buffalo, and other wildlife congregate at the river's edge. Game drives and boat safaris along the Chobe River afford visitors close encounters with hippos, crocodiles, and a myriad of bird species, making Chobe a photographer's paradise.

Beyond its riverfront, Chobe National Park is divided into four distinct ecosystems: the Serondela area (Chobe Riverfront), the Savuti Marsh, the Linyanti Marsh, and the dry hinterland of Nogatsaa. Each region offers a different experience, from the wide-open savannahs of Savuti, famous for its lion and hyena populations, to the remote and quiet Linyanti, known for its exclusive lodges and intimate wildlife experiences. Exploring these diverse landscapes reveals an ever-changing panorama of nature, where a single safari can transition from tracking elusive predators to watching herds of antelope grazing on the plains.

A trip to Chobe is not just about wildlife; it is also a chance to immerse oneself in Botswana’s rich culture. The nearby town of Kasane serves as the gateway to the park and offers a glimpse into local life. Visitors can enjoy the flavors of traditional Setswana cuisine, learn about the region's history at the Kasane Hot Springs, or take a day trip to the Chobe Crocodile Farm. For a truly unique experience, consider a sunset cruise on the Chobe River, where you can sip sundowners as you watch elephants bathe in the golden light—a quintessential African safari moment.

Fun fact: Chobe National Park was Botswana’s first national park, established in 1967, and remains one of the most biologically diverse parks in the country. Not only does it boast one of the largest concentrations of game in Africa, but it is also renowned for the Chobe bushbuck, a subspecies of antelope that is rarely found outside this region. With its abundance of wildlife, stunning scenery, and authentic cultural experiences, Chobe National Park is a destination that promises to leave a lasting impression on all who visit.

Chobe National Park, located in the far northeastern corner of Botswana, is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and one of Africa's premier safari destinations. Known for its immense elephant population—estimated at over 120,000—the park offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. The Chobe Riverfront, a major highlight, provides a unique vantage point for game viewing, particularly during the dry season when large herds of elephants, buffalo, and other wildlife congregate at the river's edge. Game drives and boat safaris along the Chobe River afford visitors close encounters with hippos, crocodiles, and a myriad of bird species, making Chobe a photographer's paradise.

Beyond its riverfront, Chobe National Park is divided into four distinct ecosystems: the Serondela area (Chobe Riverfront), the Savuti Marsh, the Linyanti Marsh, and the dry hinterland of Nogatsaa. Each region offers a different experience, from the wide-open savannahs of Savuti, famous for its lion and hyena populations, to the remote and quiet Linyanti, known for its exclusive lodges and intimate wildlife experiences. Exploring these diverse landscapes reveals an ever-changing panorama of nature, where a single safari can transition from tracking elusive predators to watching herds of antelope grazing on the plains.

A trip to Chobe is not just about wildlife; it is also a chance to immerse oneself in Botswana’s rich culture. The nearby town of Kasane serves as the gateway to the park and offers a glimpse into local life. Visitors can enjoy the flavors of traditional Setswana cuisine, learn about the region's history at the Kasane Hot Springs, or take a day trip to the Chobe Crocodile Farm. For a truly unique experience, consider a sunset cruise on the Chobe River, where you can sip sundowners as you watch elephants bathe in the golden light—a quintessential African safari moment.

Fun fact: Chobe National Park was Botswana’s first national park, established in 1967, and remains one of the most biologically diverse parks in the country. Not only does it boast one of the largest concentrations of game in Africa, but it is also renowned for the Chobe bushbuck, a subspecies of antelope that is rarely found outside this region. With its abundance of wildlife, stunning scenery, and authentic cultural experiences, Chobe National Park is a destination that promises to leave a lasting impression on all who visit.

Majestic Victoria Falls, a waterfall of gargantuan proportions, sits atop the Zambezi River in Zimbabwe. This cascading natural wonder is the main attraction for Victoria Falls National Park and the local town of Victoria Falls to its west. Accessible by cruise, train, or hike, there are myriad ways to explore this exciting landmark. Go for a swim in the Devils Pool on the waterfall’s edge, bungee jump off the Boiling Pot, raft down the nearby Zambezi River, or simply take in the awesome sight of Victoria Falls from one of many vantage points throughout the park.

Majestic Victoria Falls, a waterfall of gargantuan proportions, sits atop the Zambezi River in Zimbabwe. This cascading natural wonder is the main attraction for Victoria Falls National Park and the local town of Victoria Falls to its west. Accessible by cruise, train, or hike, there are myriad ways to explore this exciting landmark. Go for a swim in the Devils Pool on the waterfall’s edge, bungee jump off the Boiling Pot, raft down the nearby Zambezi River, or simply take in the awesome sight of Victoria Falls from one of many vantage points throughout the park.

Travel to Johannesburg, the cosmopolitan city at the heart of South Africa, and find some of the country’s most iconic landmarks. Replete with cultural excursions, historical sites, and superb restaurants, Johannesburg has plenty to explore. A visit to the city’s Apartheid Museum, Constitution Hill Human Rights Center, and Mandela House is absolutely essential; immerse yourself in these crucial exhibits to learn more about the country’s recent history of apartheid, as well as the important work of Nelson Mandela and Desmond Tutu to combat racial discrimination. Take advantage of Johannesburg’s diverse flavors by indulging in culinary bites and cocktails at the sprawling Neighbourgoods Market, or head east of the Fashion District for boutique shopping and eclectic art galleries at the Maboneng Precinct. Unwind at the Gold Reef City Amusement Park, where you can hop aboard thrilling roller coasters and water rides, or head just outside the city to the Cradle of Humankind, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to venture inside ancient caves brimming with fossils. Johannesburg is guaranteed to enchant you!