The elephant is one of the most iconic species found in Africa. Photos: Supplied.
An expedition to Africa is a call to ”witness the untold majesty of nature’s greatest theatre” — the African wilderness.
Africa is a continent of staggering beauty and contrast, bursting with some of the world’s most iconic wildlife, epic landscapes and ancient cultures. For the adventurous traveller, this is serious bucket-list territory: from its vast savannas to lush wetlands, snowcapped mountains to sunbaked deserts, and palm-studded beaches to mighty river systems.
The list is endless, but the world’s second-biggest continent is arguably the best for travel with its expansive landscapes and formidable animal life.
Discover Africa’s diversity across vast national parks, high mountain ranges, lush rainforests and seemingly endless dunes. From South Africa and Namibia in the south to Tanzania and Kenya in the east, wonders abound.
Tanzania is the visual masterpiece of Africa. It is a land of natural beauty, incredible animals, enticing beaches, fascinating ancient cities, archaeological monuments, and geological wonders. Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s tallest and only freestanding mountain, is in Tanzania. Kruger National Park is the most famous safari destination in South Africa, perhaps even the entire continent.
A lioness and her cub cuddle up close in the Kruger National Park, South Africa.
One of the advantages of going on a safari is having an up-close encounter with an elephant. Our tour guide, Tawanda, made sure we got out of the four-wheel drive and didn’t observe the countryside throw the window pane.
“You must get out of the car after lacing up your shoes and take in the colours, sounds and smell of Africa,” Tawanda said. “We share with you our favourite routes and places, so you experience Africa the way it should be.”
Tawanda, from Zimbabwe, was quick to explain the meaning of his name: “We are many” or “We are abundant” in the Shona language. The description gave us an insight into his patriotism. It wasn’t difficult to start conversations, shake hands and respond to smiles. We were part of a small group, travelling in comfort and staying in friendly camps.
Nature is the world’s most precious treasure as it’s at the core of everything. It is pertinent to have faith in a region’s social and economic development through tourism. Especially because tourism done right has the power to transform communities.
Join World Expeditions on one of its exciting programs of African adventures that include opportunities to trek, climb, cycle, kayak, cruise and camp throughout these diverse environments.
The green valley of Drakensberg in South Africa.
Witness millions of animals in migration, trek through rainforests in search of rare primates, and seek out the iconic big-five game animals on an unforgettable safari. Canoe along the lush tributaries of the Okavango Delta, see the spectacular Victoria Falls and explore the glittering cultural riches of Morocco and Egypt.
Challenge yourself with a thrilling ascent of one of Africa’s highest peaks, then head to the continent’s tropical islands to discover unique cultures, snorkel among rich sea life and kick back on tranquil beaches.
Visit vibrant cities and World Heritage-listed treasures, experience the rich cultures and traditions of Africa’s many ethnic groups and aim your lens at an improbable degree to capture some amazing photogenic scenes.
World Expeditions pioneered the first commercial treks of Mount Kilimanjaro‘s remote Northern Circuit route, which starts at 2360 metres on the far west. It traverses through rainforest, where wild game may be seen, continuing up to Shira Ridge, Kilimanjaro’s third summit.
It has also developed new trekking routes in the Ruwenzori, High Atlas and Simien Mountains. Its Madagascar Adventure also gets plenty of attention for its unique itinerary.
Visit Victoria Falls, one of the world’s most majestic water spectacles, which is part of the mighty Zambezi River and forms the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia.
Table Mountain, in South Africa, makes Cape Town, one of the world’s best beach cities, and one of the world’s most photogenic. Cable-car rides are available to the top of the mesa, giving great views, fantastic sunrises/sunsets and a great photograph.
Tour operators support local economies, minimise impacts on the natural environment and practise the ”7 Principles of Leave No Trace” responsible travel on a continent rich in wildlife, spectacular landscapes and cultural diversity.
Included among the top African safari parks and destinations are Serengeti National Park, Tanzania; Sabi Sand Private Game Reserve, South Africa; South Luangwa National Park, Zambia; Okavango Delta, Botswana; Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park, Botswana and South Africa; Masai Mara National Reserve, Kenya; Moremi Game Reserve, Botswana; Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania; Ruaha National Park, Tanzania; and Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe.
You have to be in one of these adventurous groups to experience the different facets of this incredible continent!
