Your FAQs answered – Travelling to Africa

Sep 26, 2024 | English

Your FAQs answered – Travelling to Africa

Blog post with #NANANtravel

A land of breathtaking landscapes, diverse cultures, and unforgettable experiences. From the majestic savannas teeming with wildlife to the vibrant cities pulsating with energy, Africa has something to offer every traveller. But planning a trip to this vast and exciting continent can feel daunting. That’s where Nanan Travel comes in.

1. What are the best luxury destinations in Africa?

Every national park in Africa can become a luxury destination, provided you choose the right luxury lodge. Popular locations include Cape Town for its cultural diversity, Botswana’s Okavango Delta for exceptional safaris, and private islands like Zanzibar and Seychelles for beach luxury. Victoria Falls offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation, while Rwanda presents unique experiences like gorilla trekking. For more insights, explore Rwanda in June: an unforgettable journey of luxury and wildlife.

2. When is the best time to visit Africa for a luxury safari? 

You can visit Africa year-round by choosing the right destination for the season. Southern Africa (Botswana, South Africa, Namibia) is ideal from May to October, while East Africa (Kenya, Tanzania) is best from July to October during the Great Migration. For gorilla trekking in Rwanda and Uganda, visit from June to September or December to February. Cape Town, on the other hand, is perfect from October to March. More details can be found on each destination on our blog.

3. What should I pack for a luxury safari in Africa?

Pack light, neutral-coloured clothing, binoculars, a camera, sunscreen, insect repellent, comfortable walking shoes, and smart-casual attire for luxury lodges. Don’t forget your travel documents and necessary medications.

4. What health precautions should I take before travelling to Africa?

Consult a travel health specialist 6-8 weeks before your trip. Necessary vaccinations may include yellow fever, hepatitis A and B, typhoid, and rabies. Malaria prophylaxis is required in many regions, and travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage is recommended.

5. How safe is it to travel to Africa?

Africa is generally safe for tourists, especially in luxury accommodations. Stick to reputable tour operators and guides, avoid isolated areas, and heed local advice. Cities like Cape Town and Stone Town in Zanzibar are well-known for catering to luxury travellers. Always check travel advisories and register with your embassy for added security. For a comprehensive guide, read Avoiding Tourist Traps in Africa and Peru for Luxury Travellers.

6. What unique luxury experiences can I enjoy in Africa?

Enjoy private game drives in the Kruger area, hot air balloon safaris over the Serengeti, and fly-in safaris to Namibia’s Sossusvlei. For relaxation, indulge in private island retreats in Zanzibar or Seychelles. You can also enjoy gourmet dining on a Zambezi River cruise or a meal on Livingstone Island at the edge of Victoria Falls. Discover more in 5 Top Luxury Adventures in Africa.

7. How can I ensure my travel is sustainable and supports local communities? 

Choose eco-friendly lodges and tour operators committed to sustainability. Support community-based tourism initiatives, ensuring your visit benefits local communities directly. Responsible tourism practices also contribute to wildlife conservation efforts. For additional information, visit The 6 Least Known but Impressive African Safaris.

8. What are the visa requirements for luxury travel in Africa?

Visa requirements vary by country. Many nations offer visas on arrival or e-visas for short stays. Check specific entry requirements well in advance and ensure all necessary documents are in order before travelling. For a detailed checklist, click here to download.

9. How can I experience Africa’s luxury train journeys?

Africa is home to some of the world’s most luxurious train journeys. Experience the charm and opulence of Rovos Rail and the Blue Train in South Africa, combining world-class service with stunning landscapes and gourmet dining. These iconic journeys require advance booking. Learn more in Luxury Trains Redefine Excellence and Adventure.

10. What kind of luxury accommodations are available in Africa? 

From boutique hotels and exclusive lodges to private villas and tented camps, Africa offers a wide variety of luxurious accommodations. Examples include Singita in South Africa or Jack’s Camp in Botswana, where all-inclusive packages often include private game drives and personalised services. For more inspiration, check The Top Luxury Safari Lodges to See the Big Five in South Africa.

Ready to start planning your dream African adventure?

Contact Nanan Travel today and let our expert team craft a personalised itinerary that perfectly matches your interests. We’ll take care of all the details, so you can sit back, relax, and get ready to experience the magic of Africa.

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THE 6 LEAST KNOWN BUT IMPRESSIVE AFRICAN SAFARIS 2024

Feb 20, 2024 | English

THE 6 LEAST KNOWN BUT IMPRESSIVE AFRICAN SAFARIS 2024

Blog post with #NANANtravel

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Embark on an unforgettable journey through the hidden wonders of Africa with our guide to the continent’s lesser-known safari gems. Beyond the famed Serengeti and the iconic Kruger National Park lies a world of untouched wilderness, where nature thrives in its purest form. From the walking safaris of Zambia’s South Luangwa to the canoe adventures in Zimbabwe’s Mana Pools, the vast salt pans of Botswana’s Makgadikgadi, the elephant havens of Kenya’s Amboseli, the pristine waters of Tanzania’s Lake Tanganyika, and the expansive landscapes of Kenya’s Tsavo, each destination unfolds a unique story of beauty, adventure, and wildlife. These hidden treasures offer a glimpse into the heart of Africa, where the wild roams free and the landscapes speak to the soul. Dive into our guide to discover the road less traveled, where the essence of safari comes alive.

1. South Luangwa National Park, Zambia

Known as the birthplace of the walking safari, South Luangwa offers an unparalleled wildlife viewing experience, with its high concentration of animals along the Luangwa River. This park is famed for its diverse mammal population, including the unique Thornicroft’s giraffe and large herds of elephants and buffalo.

The untamed landscapes, ranging from dense woodlands to open grasslands, provide a dramatic backdrop for both game drives and walking safaris.

2. Mana Pools National Park, Zimbabwe

A UNESCO World Heritage site, Mana Pools is celebrated for its remote wilderness, situated along the lower Zambezi River. The park’s name, “Mana,” means ‘four’ in Shona, referring to the four main pools that attract abundant wildlife, especially during the dry season.

Visitors can engage in unique safari experiences such as canoeing and walking without a guide among elephants, hippos, and a plethora of bird species. The park is also one of the few places where you can encounter the endangered African wild dogs in their natural habitat.

3. Makgadikgadi Pans National Park, Botswana

This vast salt pan, one of the largest in the world, transforms into a spectacular wildlife haven during the wet season. The Makgadikgadi Pans are known for their surreal landscapes and seasonal migrations of zebra and wildebeest, followed closely by predators.

The region offers unique interactions with meerkats and the opportunity to witness ancient baobabs, making it a stark contrast to the typical safari experience.

4. Amboseli National Park, Kenya

Famous for its stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro and large herds of elephants, Amboseli provides a classic safari backdrop. The park’s swamps attract diverse wildlife, ensuring excellent game viewing opportunities.

Birdwatchers will find a paradise here, with over 400 species recorded. The Maasai community adds a cultural dimension to the wildlife-rich landscapes of Amboseli.

5. Tsavo National Park, Kenya

Tsavo, divided into East and West, offers some of Kenya’s most rugged wilderness. Tsavo East, known as the “Theatre of the Wild,” presents a vast semi-arid wilderness dominated by red dust-covered elephants and maneless lions unique to this region. With the Galana River providing a lifeline, the park is a stronghold for diverse wildlife, including vast herds of buffalo, lions, leopards, and over 500 bird species.

The park’s rich history, marked by the infamous Tsavo Man-Eaters and archaeological sites dating back to the Late Stone Age, adds a fascinating cultural dimension to its natural beauty.

6. Lake Tanganyika, Tanzania

The world’s longest freshwater lake and second deepest, Lake Tanganyika offers an exotic safari destination. It is renowned for its vibrant aquatic life, including hundreds of cichlid species, making it a dream for snorkelers and divers.

The surrounding national parks and reserves, such as Mahale Mountains and Gombe Stream, provide habitats for chimpanzees, inviting visitors to explore Africa’s great apes in their natural setting.

These destinations exemplify the beauty and diversity of the African continent, each with its unique allure, promising unforgettable safari experiences far from the beaten path. From the walking safaris of South Luangwa and the canoe adventures in Mana Pools to the vastness of Makgadikgadi, the elephant encounters in Amboseli, and the pristine waters of Lake Tanganyika, these hidden gems offer a deeper connection with nature’s marvels.

Discover More: Journey Beyond the Beaten Path

Ready to explore the untouched beauty of Africa’s hidden safari gems? Our expertly curated adventures are designed to connect you with the raw and unfiltered beauty of the continent. From intimate wildlife encounters to breathtaking landscapes, let us guide you through an extraordinary exploration of these lesser-known destinations. Dive into the adventure of a lifetime and create unforgettable memories in Africa’s most secluded paradises.

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