The African continent is one of profound beauty, and as the birthplace of human civilisation, it is like no other place on earth. Its vastly different countries, customs and spectacular landscapes is a backdrop for a story that runs older than time itself. From the smooth dry dunes of Namibia to the lush tropical rainforests of Central Africa, these are the places you need to see.
Namib Naukluft National Park, Namibia
The Namib Naukluft National Park is part of the oldest desert in the world, and is the largest game park in Africa. Its towering sand dunes are the highest in the world, with the silent sweeping sands rising more than 300m off the desert floor. Watch a breathtaking sunset from Dune 45 in the Sossusvlei area and take in one of the most photographed places on the African continent.
Go there with Namibia Nomad: 15 destinations in 22 days.
Mountain Gorillas, Rwanda
No two encounters are the same with these charismatic, gentle giants. Around half the world’s population of Mountain Gorillas live deep in the impenetrable bamboo covered forests of Rwanda. To come face to face with the gorgeous animals in their natural environment is one of life’s most amazing experiences.
Go there with East Africa Encounter: 14 destinations in 23 days.
Victoria Falls, Zambia and Zimbabwe
Known to the locals as ‘the smoke that thunders’, Victoria Falls is the largest curtain of falling water in the world. The noise of Victoria Falls can be heard from a distance of 40 kilometers away, with the spray and mist rising to a height of over 400 meters. Take a walk through the fog and rainbows to a buttress called the Knife Edge. And for real adrenaline junkies, there’s white-water rafting, abseiling, bungee jumping and jet-boating to get your heart pumping.
Go there with Wild Dogs and Victoria Falls: 7 destinations in 8 days.
Flamingos, Kenya
The millions of flamingos that line the shore of Kenya’s lakes has been described as the greatest bird spectacle in the world. These colourful, long-legged, long-necked birds not only draw attention to themselves for their incredible beauty, but also for their honking which drowns out any other noise in the area.
Go there with Flight of the Flamingos: 30 destinations in 44 days.
Kilimanjaro, Tanzania
Climb Mt Kilimanjaro and you have climbed to the top of Africa. One of the continents most dramatic sights, this freestanding mountain is the highest volcano outside of South America. Affectionately known to its climbers as ‘Kili’, the summit soars over the rolling hills and tea plantations of Tanzania. A dedicated but rewarding climb, this will be one journey you will never want to forget.
Go there with Climb Kilimanjaro: 2 destinations in 7 days.
Lake Malawi, Malawi
Stretching and shimmering its way through the East African Rift system, this African Great Lake is home to more species of fish than anywhere else in the world. The colourful fish dart and dive in the depths of the lake’s clear water, while above diverse natural landscapes shape the surroundings. This lake is perfect for diving, snorkelling, kayaking or relaxing on one of its desert islands.
Go there with Northern Trails: 36 destinations in 54 days.
