From Cape Town’s fashionable beaches below Table Mountain to the incredible Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe, southern Africa has long held an interest for the experienced traveler.
Explore: Botswana • Lesotho • Malawi • Mozambique • Namibia • South Africa • Swaziland • Zambia • Zimbabwe
The region is largely safe for visitors and an extensive transport system makes it relatively easy to move around. With its diverse cultures and histories, southern Africa is a land of exquisite riches, where wild animals and magnificent birds roam free.
South Africa’s terrain varies from grasslands and forests to sprawling savannas. Low lying coastal areas are interspersed with mountainous terrain. Platinum, gold iron and diamonds are all mined here, which has caused some political troubles in recent years. The region is home to lions, leopards, white rhinos, impalas, kudus, wildebeest, elephants and vervet monkeys, all of which can be seen in their natural habitats.
The vibrant cities of South Africa contrast with the Mediterranean style Cape, and the ultimate peace of the country’s national parks. South Africa can sometimes be a dangerous place for travelers but with scenery like this, it really deserves to be seen. The stark Kalahari Desert still supports some wildlife, and the underdeveloped coastline of Mozambique is absolutely stunning.
Zambia is home to one of the world’s most majestic rivers, and also to the stunning Victoria Falls, while Zimbabwe also offers the chance to see the magnificent falls.
Soak up the legacy of Portuguese colonialism in Mozambique’s capital, Maputo: a shoppers’ paradise full of trendy bars and fashionable folk. Pristine Botswana is home to big game, while Malawi is dominated by the stunning Lake Malawi. Namibia’s beautiful yet underdeveloped Skeleton Coast, with its sparkling sand dunes, makes Namibia one of the most outstanding places to visit.
Many examples of the regions colonial heritage can still be spotted, and despite some dangers and trouble spots, southern Africa is a relatively safe place to travel.