Top 5

Top 5 - South Africa - Further Afield

For those of you who crave a little more, or who fancy relaxing in a word class beach resort then the following destinations can easily be added to your current ideas to create the perfect trip; whether it is a more in depth, more varied Safari experience you seek, or if you just want to relax in luxury on beaches surrounded by crystal clear waters.

Head up to Botswana and visit Chobe National Park, home to huge herds of elephants and the incredible Okavango Delta where you can travel through the unique ecosystem in dug out or motorised canoe. Visit Namibia and the incredible sand dunes that are the symbol of this country and Etosha National Park with its incredible biodiversity. If you're looking to reduce the pace a little then head to the world class resorts of Mauritius, the secluded privacy of the Seychelles or give the new exclusive resorts of Mozambique a try.

Top 5 places to Visit

Botswana is one of the finest tourist destinations on the African continent. The Okavango, which originates in the uplands of Angola to the north-west, flows into and then spreads over the sandy spaces of the Kalahari.

Namibia, the country of wide and open spaces, known for its contrasting landscapes and rich diversity. Namibia is a photographers’ dream, with its arid, rough and magnificent landscapes.

Mauritius is the ideal location for a beach break for those who like their evening entertainment, local culture and activities. It’s a perfect place for the family to relax and top up the tan before heading home.

Made up of exquisite resorts offering pampering, privacy and pure luxury, the Seychelles are a honeymooners paradise. Enjoy world class dining, in stunning locations with exceptional service and attention to detail.

Mozambique has over 2000 kilometres of pristine Indian Ocean coastline dotted with beautiful beaches and clear water, colonial hotels, an abundance of some of the world’s most exquisite seafood, as well as an interior with beautiful scenery and wildlife.

Each of its provinces has its own unique cultures, languages, dance, music and handicraft. Formerly a Portuguese colony, it has become the playground of international tourists who visit the turquoise waters of various islands and coastal resorts. The Bazaruto Archipelago is home to 5 virtually untouched islands and is located in the south of the country whilst the Quirimbas Archipelago located in the north is a group of 32 and support some of the richest coral reefs in the world. Both are perfect for relaxing on unspoilt, uncrowded, pristine beaches while for the more active there is excellent bird watching, superb diving and snorkelling, as well as excellent fishing.

Namibia

In the south-west of Africa lies Namibia, the country of wide and open spaces, known for its contrasting landscapes and rich diversity. Namibia is a photographers’ dream, with its arid, rough and magnificent landscapes. The country is an adventure just waiting to happen, though it’s easy to travel around, with the country’s well maintained road network.

Namibia is one of the first countries in the world to include protection of the environment and sustainable utilisation of wildlife in its constitution. Therefore the bush savannah, majestic Fish River Canyon, prehistoric rock art, the Kalahari Desert with its red sand dunes and the wetlands of the Caprivi, with its many game reserves are protected and can be cherished by all.

Home to the Sesriem Canyon, a narrow gorge running for over half a mile, 40 metres deep and the incredible sand dunes of Sossusvlei. The South of Namibia is a photographers dream. The best way to see this incredible region and appreciate the big skys and incredible horizon is by road. The roads, although not all tarmac, are of exceptional quality and link all the major sights.

Travellers to Namibia are sure to be impressed by the warmth and friendliness of the Namibian people. Indeed, it is said that once you have been in Namibia, have experienced the hospitality and the Namibian sun has burnt into your heart, you will always return and become attached for life.

The colonial town of Swakopmund is a popular seaside resort and is characterised by numerous German colonial buildings. For the adventure enthusiasts there are ample activities to get involved in with a stunning skydive over the skeleton coast being top of the list.

Probably the most unique feature about Namibia is its space. Incessant deserts stretch for miles to meet the most dramatic sunsets you can imagine. This is a stunning country with fabulous people that will make you want to come back for more.

Dominating the north of the country is the magnificent Etosha National park and this dominates this self drive. The grand Etosha National Park at 22270 km, one of the largest game reserves in Africa, is famous for its unmatched game viewing. There are 114 mammal species found in the park, including lions, elephants, rhinos, zebras and giraffes, an animal world as rich in species as any other on earth. Etosha's current population of approximately 600 black rhinos represents one of the few growing populations in the world.

If you fail to spot the "Big 5" you get another chance by visiting the Africat Foundation which concentrates on the conservation and rehabilitation of leopards and cheetahs.