Why Southern Africa needs to be on your adventure travel bucket list
Usually, the number one reason for travelers wanting to visit Africa is to embark on a wildlife safari adventure. Whilst the whole continent offers breathtaking destinations, for us, one region stands out for its unparalleled beauty, diverse landscapes, and rich cultural experiences – we may be biased, as for us, Zimbabwe is home, the place we have been raised and educated, where our friends and family are, it’s in our blood!
From the raw and wild savannahs and deltas of Botswana, the stunning beaches, coastline and mountains of South Africa to the awe-inspiring Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe, Southern Africa promises unforgettable experiences you can see, taste, hear, smell and feel.
Here’s why Zimbabwe, Zambia, Botswana, South Africa or Namibia should be the very top of everyone’s adventure bucket list;
Wildlife:
In Zimbabwe, you will be on a totally wild adventure on dirt tracks through unfenced national parks, in the Delta in Botswana you will experience game up close and personal in dug out canoes, in South Africa you will be escorted by some of the worlds best adventure guides, and in Namibia, you will wander at how small you are in a desert and a sky so big. Whether you opt for a game drive, walking safari, or a horse back safari ride, the wildlife encounters in Southern Africa are guaranteed to leave you spellbound.
Diverse Landscapes:
From the lush Okavango Delta in Botswana to the rugged mountains of the Drakensberg and the arid deserts of Namibia, there's something for everyone, whether traveling solo, as a family or a group of friends. We love the thrill of quad biking over the towering sand dunes of Sossusvlei, navigating the rapids of the upper Zambezi River on a canoe safari, and hiking the dramatic cliffs of the Drakensberg Mountains, and kayaking with seals in Hout Bay.
The Smoke That Thunders:
No trip to Southern Africa would be complete without a visit to Victoria Falls, our home town, place of birth and Memories of Africa headquarters. Need “Mosi oa Tunya” by the local Lozi tribe meaning “The Smoke that Thunders” this awe-inspiring natural wonder is the largest waterfall in the world and a World Heritage Site. Known as Africa’s adrenalin (or adventure!) capital, there is so much to do in this town (it is actually officially a city now, but that’s a story for another day!) for thrill seekers and more land-loving adventurers alike. You can opt to do a thrilling bungee jump off the Victoria Falls Bridge, tackle the white water rapids in the Grade 4 White Water Rafting below the Falls or enjoy a scenic helicopter ride, a leisurely sunset cruise, haggle with the locals in the curio market or enjoy an interaction with elephants at the Elephant sanctuary. This is easily a 3 or 4 night stay if you want to see and do everything!
Rich Cultural Heritage:
There are at least 35 different languages spoken in the region and as many different tribes, each with its own traditions, beliefs, and customs. Check out the vibrant street markets of Cape Town, and the historic townships of Soweto or Chinotimba where you can interact with locals and gain insight into their way of life. Whether you're learning the art of beadwork from the Ndebeles in Victoria Falls or dancing to the rhythm of the drums with the Zulus in Durban, the cultural experiences in Southern Africa are known to get under your skin and once you’ve been, you will ‘feel’ Africa in your blood.
Adventure Activities Galore:
As I’ve mentioned, Victoria Falls is the Adventure Capital of the world, and for adrenaline junkies, South Africa is a playground of epic proportions. Take to the skies in a Vietnam era Huey Helicopter over the Cape beaches, brave the rapids of the Orange River on a white-water rafting expedition, or go cage diving with great white sharks off the coast of Gansbaai, sandboarding or quad biking down the dunes of Swakopmund in Namibia or zip-lining over the Zambezi Gorge, the adventure opportunities in Southern Africa are endless.
Southern Africa awakens all 5 senses with experiences that are sure to delight even the most world weary of travellers. From thrilling wildlife safaris to jaw-dropping natural wonders and immersive cultural encounters, the region has something to offer everyone. So, if you're seeking adventure off the beaten path, be sure to add Zimbabwe, Zambia, Botswana, Namibia and South Africa to the top of your bucket list. You won't be disappointed.