A Guide to Exploring Hidden Gems in Southern Africa

A Guide to Exploring Hidden Gems in Southern Africa

Sep 18, 2024 | English

A Guide to Exploring Hidden Gems in Southern Africa

Blog post with #NANANtravel
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Southern Africa, known for its stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural heritage, offers a collection of hidden gems that promise an unparalleled luxury travel experience. Embark on a journey through this captivating region as we uncover its best-kept secrets, from exclusive lodges to unique cultural encounters.

1. Cape Town, South Africa: The Mother City’s Best-Kept Secrets

While Cape Town is famous for Table Mountain and its pristine beaches, the city holds many lesser-known treasures for luxury travellers:

  • Tintswalo Atlantic Lodge: Perched within Table Mountain National Park, this exclusive retreat offers panoramic sea views, private road access, and beautifully decorated suites with direct ocean access.
  • Ellerman House Wine Gallery: At the prestigious Ellerman House in Bantry Bay, indulge in private wine tastings in their state-of-the-art wine gallery, showcasing South Africa’s finest wines. Enjoy gourmet dining experiences paired with rare vintages guided by an in-house sommelier.
  • Boulders Beach Private Penguin Tours: While Boulders Beach is known for its penguin colony, a private tour accompanied by a marine biologist offers an intimate experience. Explore hidden coves, learn about penguin conservation, and enjoy the charm of these flightless birds in peaceful seclusion.

For more exclusive experiences in Cape Town, check out South African Wine & Safari: The Ultimate Luxury Combination and The Other Side of Cape Town.

2. Windhoek, Namibia: A Fusion of Modernity and Tradition

Windhoek blends urban modernity with deep-rooted cultural traditions, making it a must-visit for those seeking a unique Namibian experience.

  • Olive Exclusive Boutique Hotel: Windhoek’s premier boutique hotel offers lavish suites with panoramic views of the Eros Mountains. Each suite boasts a private plunge pool and elegant décor inspired by Namibia’s natural beauty, ensuring a luxurious stay.
  • Naankuse Wildlife Sanctuary: Located just outside Windhoek, this exclusive conservation experience allows guests to take part in activities such as cheetah feeding, carnivore tracking, and bush walks with the San people. Accommodations include villas and bush lodges, combining luxury with adventure.
  • Sossusvlei Fly-In Safari: Embark on a private charter flight from Windhoek to the iconic red dunes of Sossusvlei in the Namib Desert. Stay in a luxury lodge and enjoy guided tours, private picnics, and stargazing under the clear desert sky.

For more on Namibia, read May in Namibia: Embrace Luxury in a Land of Breathtaking Landscapes.

3. Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe: The Smoke that Thunders

Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, offers exclusive ways to experience its grandeur:

  • Matetsi Victoria Falls Lodge: Nestled along the Zambezi River, this private game reserve lodge offers luxury suites with plunge pools and river views. Enjoy private game drives, river cruises, and helicopter flights over the falls.
  • Private Zambezi River Sunset Safari: Experience a peaceful and exclusive sunset safari along the Zambezi River, with wildlife sightings and stunning views of the river’s golden waters as the sun sets behind the falls.
  • Livingstone Island & Devil’s Pool: For thrill-seekers, a trip to Livingstone Island is essential. Take a swim in Devil’s Pool, a natural infinity pool perched on the edge of the falls, offering a heart-pounding and unforgettable experience.

Explore more about Victoria Falls in Discover Victoria Falls in February: The Ultimate Experience.

4. Vilankulos, Mozambique: A Blend of Cultures and Coastlines

Skip the busy streets of Maputo and discover the serene beauty of Vilankulos, the gateway to the Bazaruto Archipelago. Known for its unspoiled beaches and crystal-clear waters, Vilankulos offers exclusive experiences for travellers seeking relaxation and adventure:

  • Private Boat Tours & Snorkelling: Embark on private boat tours to explore the archipelago’s vibrant coral reefs and secluded islands. Snorkelling and diving in the turquoise waters reveal a rich array of marine life, including dolphins, turtles, and tropical fish.
  • Luxury Beachfront Lodges: Stay in exclusive beachfront lodges, where you can enjoy private beach picnics, horseback rides along the shore, and sunset cruises. The tranquil environment and top-tier service make Vilankulos an ideal luxury escape.

For more on Mozambique, visit Mozambique: An April Escapade with a Safari Twist.

5. Okavango Delta, Botswana: An Aquatic Wonderland

The Okavango Delta, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is an expansive wetland teeming with wildlife and offering unparalleled safari experiences. Stay at one of these exclusive lodges for an unforgettable adventure:

  • Xigera Safari Lodge: This eco-luxury lodge offers a seamless blend of sustainability and luxury. With private game drives, mokoro excursions, and incredible wildlife encounters, Xigera provides an intimate connection with the Delta’s natural wonders.
  • North Island Okavango & Duke’s Camp: For a more remote experience, these luxury camps offer private, customisable safaris in pristine areas of the Delta. Enjoy tailored game drives, bush walks, and wildlife photography sessions with expert guides.
  • Mombo Camp: Known for its remarkable location and exclusivity, Mombo Camp offers luxurious accommodations with unparalleled views of the Delta’s wildlife. Guests can enjoy private mokoro rides, game drives, and boat safaris in this untouched wilderness.

For further inspiration, read October’s Unparalleled Adventure in Botswana: A Luxury Traveler’s Guide.

Embark on Your Luxurious Southern African Adventure

Southern Africa’s hidden gems offer the perfect combination of luxury, adventure, and exclusivity. Whether you’re exploring Cape Town’s secret tidal pools, marvelling at the majestic Victoria Falls, relaxing on the serene beaches of Vilankulos, or embarking on a private safari in the Okavango Delta, each destination promises a once-in-a-lifetime journey.

Indulge in the opulence and natural beauty of these lesser-known treasures, and let your next luxurious adventure in Southern Africa begin.

READY TO DISCOVER SOUTHERN AFRICA’S HIDDEN LUXURIES?

Get in touch for personalised travel planning and let us curate your exclusive journey through Southern Africa’s most breathtaking destinations. Luxury, adventure, and bespoke experiences await.

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Zambia in August: A Safari and Adventure Vacation

Zambia in August: A Safari and Adventure Vacation

Jul 25, 2023 | English

Zambia in August: A Safari and Adventure Vacation

Blog post with #NANANtravel
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Are you excited to discover Zambia’s remarkable landscapes? August is the perfect time to embark on a luxurious and adventurous journey in this stunning country.

August is a great time to visit Zambia, as the weather is dry and sunny, the crowds are smaller than during the peak season and the levels of water of the Zambezi river are perfect for the Victoria falls. This makes it the perfect time to go on a safari or enjoy an adventure in one of the country’s many national parks.

 

SAFARIS

Zambia is home to some of the best safari destinations in Africa, including the South Luangwa National Park, the Kafue National Park, the Lower Zambezi National Park, and the Liuwa Plain National Park. These parks are home to a wide variety of wildlife, including lions, elephants, giraffes, zebras, and leopards.

If you’re looking for a safari experience, Zambia has a number of excellent lodges and camps to choose from. These lodges offer stunning views of the surrounding landscapes, and they often have private plunge pools and butler service.

 

Victoria Falls

The falls are one of the main reasons why people got o Zambia, and Zimbabwe, located right at the border between these two countries is an amazing sight to look at and the entire area of the waterfalls has an incredible amount of activities for the outdoors and adrenaline lovers. 

ADVENTURE ACTIVITIES

 

In addition to safaris, Zambia also offers a number of adventure activities, such as:

White-water rafting: This is a great way to experience the adrenaline rush of rafting on the rapids of the Zambezi River. There are a number of companies that offer trips on different sections of the river, from the calm stretches to the more challenging rapids.

Kayaking: This is a great way to explore the waterways of Zambia. You can kayak on the Zambezi River, the Luangwa River, or one of the many smaller rivers and streams. But make sure you do this with a guide, these rivers are full of crocodiles and hippopotamus.

Canoeing: This is a great way to get up close and personal with the wildlife of Zambia. You can canoe on the Zambezi River, the Luangwa River, or one of the many smaller rivers and streams.

Fishing: Zambia is a great place to go fishing. You can fish for tigerfish, bream, catfish, and a variety of other species.

Hiking: Zambia has a number of great hiking trails, from short and easy hikes to challenging multi-day treks. You can hike in the mountains, the forests, or the national parks.

Visiting Victoria Falls: Victoria Falls is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. It is a truly awe-inspiring sight, and it is definitely worth seeing it if you are in Zambia or you can cross the border and visit the falls from the Zimbabwean side. 

Devil’s Pool: Devil’s Pool is a natural pool on the edge of Victoria Falls. It is accessible most of the year, especially during the dry season, it closes from April to August depending on the water levels, but it is an incredible experience to swim in.

Zambia - Victoria Falls - Devil's Pool
Zambia - Victoria Falls - Devil's Pool

WHERE TO STAY IN ZAMBIA

Zambia has a wide range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxurious lodges. Here are a few of the best places to stay in Zambia:

Royal Livingstone: Royal Livingstone is located in Livingstone, and it offers stunning views of the Victoria Falls. The lodge has a number of luxurious suites, as well as a swimming pool, a spa, and a variety of activities, such as game drives, boat rides, and bungee jumping.

Royal Chundu: Royal Chundu Lodge is located in the Lower Zambezi National Park, and it’s the perfect place to go white-water rafting. The lodge has a number of luxurious chalets, as well as a swimming pool, a spa, and a variety of activities, such as game drives, boat rides, and fishing.

Tongabezi Lodge: Tongabezi Lodge is located in the Mana Pools National Park, and it’s a great place to go kayaking and canoeing. The lodge has a number of luxurious chalets, as well as a swimming pool, a spa, and a variety of activities, such as game drives, boat rides, and fishing.

Sausage Tree Camp: Sausage Tree Camp Lodge is located in the South Luangwa National Park, and it’s a great place to go on a walking safari. The lodge has a number of luxurious tents, as well as a swimming pool, a spa, and a variety of activities, such as game drives, boat rides, and bush walks.

Thorntree River Lodge: Thorntree River Lodge is located in the Lower Zambezi National Park, and it’s a great place to go fishing. The lodge has a number of luxurious chalets, as well as a swimming pool, a spa, and a variety of activities, such as game drives, boat rides, and fishing.

Time + Tide lodges: Time + Tide group of lodges is located in a variety of national parks in Zambia, and they offer a variety of activities, such as game drives, boat rides, fishing, and hiking.

Lions Camp: Lion Camp is an intimately private lodge, Situated in the most northern reaches of the South Luangwa National Park in Zambia, a truly authentic safari experience awaits you in one of the most exclusive, remote and abundant game-viewing areas of Africa. During the dry season (May to October), game viewing is impressive. 

Zambia - Accommodation Zambia
Zambia - Accommodation Zambia
Zambia - Accommodation Zambia

Planning a trip to Zambia? Here are a few things to keep in mind:

 

The best time to visit Zambia is July-September, when the weather is dry and sunny. However, Zambia is a year-round destination, so you can visit anytime.

You’ll need a visa to enter Zambia. You can apply for a visa online or at the airport.

The currency in Zambia is the Zambian kwacha. You can exchange your currency at the airport or at a bank.

English is widely spoken in Zambia. However, it’s always a good idea to learn a few basic phrases in Nyanja.

Zambia is a safe country to travel to. However, petty theft can occur, so it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions.

The malaria risk is high in Zambia, so it’s important to take malaria medication.

There are a number of different activities to enjoy in Zambia, including safaris, white-water rafting, hiking, and visiting the Victoria Falls.

When planning your trip, be sure to book your accommodation and activities in advance, as Zambia is a popular tourist destination.

Zambia - Giraffes
Zambia - activities
Zambia - Restaurant

Zambia is a beautiful country with a lot to offer visitors. Whether you’re interested in wildlife, adventure, culture, or simply relaxing in a beautiful setting, you’re sure to find something to your liking in Zambia.

The best time to visit Zambia is July-September, when the weather is dry and sunny. However, Zambia is a year-round destination, so you can visit anytime.

If you’re planning a trip to Zambia, I recommend starting your planning early. There are many great lodges and camps in Zambia, and they tend to book up quickly.

Zambia Safari Adventure
Zambia Safari Adventure Snack
Zambia Lunch Times

I hope this article has inspired you to visit Zambia. Start planning your trip today!

Ready to embark on your dream luxury adventure in Zambia?

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Discover Victoria Falls in February: The Ultimate Experience

Discover Victoria Falls in February: The Ultimate Experience

Apr 21, 2023 | English

Discover Victoria Falls in February: The Ultimate Experience

Blog post with #NANANtravel
Blog Posts

February is a fantastic time to explore Victoria Falls, one of the world’s most impressive natural wonders. With optimal water levels and an array of exhilarating activities, there’s never a dull moment during a visit to Victoria Falls in February.

Victoria Falls, affectionately known as Vic Falls, is a breathtaking destination that can be enjoyed year-round. However, February offers the perfect balance of water levels, allowing visitors to experience both the power of the falls and the thrill of activities like Devil’s Pool. From March to June, water levels are too high for Devil’s Pool, while during the dry season, the experience isn’t quite as impressive.

Spanning 1 kilometer in width, Vic Falls transforms into an adventure lover’s paradise during the low river season. This is the perfect time for adrenaline-pumping activities such as white water rafting, high-speed boat rides, bungee jumping, zip-lining, and the exhilarating giant swing. Don’t miss a visit to The Lookout Cafe for stunning views and delicious food.

For a more serene experience, visit The Elephant Cafe, where you can get up close and personal with these gentle giants. To fully immerse yourself in the wonders of Vic Falls, we recommend a minimum stay of two nights, which allows enough time for a helicopter flight over the falls and various activities.

Victoria Falls is accessible via two airports: Livingstone Airport in Zambia or Victoria Falls Airport in Zimbabwe. To make the most of your trip, consider obtaining a multiple-entry visa, as activities are spread across both countries. A safari in Chobe National Park in Botswana or Hwange National Park in Zimbabwe adds an unforgettable touch to your adventure.

 

When choosing where to stay, consider the luxurious Royal Livingstone Hotel, located close to the falls. For those staying longer than two nights, we recommend upriver lodges like the exquisite Royal Chundu Lodge, which offers a variety of unique activities.

In summary, February is an ideal time to visit Victoria Falls, with a perfect blend of powerful falls and exciting activities. Combine this unforgettable experience with other African destinations like Cape Town and a safari for a 10-12 day trip of a lifetime.

Ready to plan your dream vacation to Victoria Falls in February?

Book a 30-minute consultation with me via Calendly. During our call, we’ll discuss your travel preferences, budget, and itinerary. I will provide you with expert advice and help you plan an unforgettable adventure that meets all of your needs and expectations. Don’t miss this opportunity – schedule your consultation today!

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