The joys of the holiday season are upon us, and the idea of embracing the opportunities awaiting in the new year is super exciting – but, man, it’s cold out there! You could probably do with a bit of Vitamin D and something magical to look forward to, right?
Well, you’re in luck – our Africa experts visited some pretty special spots in 2022 and have curated a spectacular wish list just for you. Read on to discover our favourites and why they should be on your radar for 2023.
Botswana
Sunshine and safari
Who went? Des Fredericks
Where she went: Botswana, with visits to the Makgadikgadi Salt Pans (Jack’s Camp), Khwai Private Reserve (Tuludi Camp) and the Okavango Delta (Duke’s Camp).
What she experienced:
- Views of the Okavango Delta
- The magic of a desert safari
- Game viewing
- Game drives
- Mokoro (dugout canoe) excursions
- Fishing
- Sunset boat trips
- Hot-air ballooning
- Scenic helicopter flights
- A look at ancient artefacts
- Rock art visits
What she loved the most: Giving back. Khwai Private Reserve is a private concession, and proceeds go straight back into the area’s eco-tourism initiatives and to the surrounding communities.
A travel tip: Book early – the camps fill up fast!
Who’s the trip best suited for? The discerning traveller and the safari enthusiast. It’s great for both young and old, couples, as well as families with kids, due to the variety of activities on offer.
Why it should be on your radar for 2023: You’re in for a balanced vacation with equal parts relaxation and equal parts adventure. It can be tailored to suit your preferences (and budget!).
Mauritius
Get your dose of Vitamin-Sea!
Who went? Paula Nobre
Where they went: Mauritius, with stays at Constance Belle Mare Plage, Constance Prince Maurice and C Mauritius.
What they experienced:
- Kite surfing
- Great food (cellar dinner and wine paring)
- Lots of fun and relaxation on the beach
What they loved the most: The beach and the food.
A travel tip: It’s so worth it to book an all-inclusive package, especially if you’re a foodie.
Who’s the trip best suited for? It depends on where you stay. C Mauritius is for the active and young at heart, while Constance Belle Mare Plage and Constance Prince Maurice are for luxe-seekers and families.
Why it should be on your radar for 2023: Mauritius sees over 300 days of sunshine a year, making it a true year-round destination for sun worshippers.
Seychelles
Private island spoils
Who went? Jenna De Allende
Where they went: Sainte Anne private island, staying at Club Med Seychelles.
What they experienced:
- Lounging by the pool and on the beach
- Swimming in the ocean
- Snorkelling amongst fish and turtles
- Summit hiking
- Island hopping
- Distillery visit
What they loved the most: The evening entertainment, with each evening planned according to a different theme.
A travel tip: Pack mosquito repellent. Although the rooms offer mosquito wall plugs, you’ll need a spray or a cream for protection in the evenings when heading out at dinner time.
Who’s the trip best suited for? With the Club Med brand being so versatile in its offering, the resort caters for any type of client: honeymooners, families, groups and incentives trips and for guests that are looking for the ultimate island experience but also the ability to explore the land along various hiking routes.
Why it should be on your radar for 2023: Jenna insists that travellers will return home feeling completely refreshed, sun-kissed and ready to continue the daily grind, working towards the next opportunity to set foot on the white, sandy beaches of Seychelles.
Montagu, South Africa
Five-star encounters with nature
Who went? Nadine Stevens
Where they went: Sanbona Wildlife Reserve, with a stay at Sanbona Dwyka Tented Camp.
What they experienced:
- Star gazing
- Game drives
- Nature walks
- Photography
- Bird watching
- Exploring rock art
What they loved the most: The delicious food and world-class hospitality.
A travel tip: Make sure that you’ve packed comfortable shoes and clothing to be able to make the most of the many activities on offer.
Who’s the trip best suited for? Travellers who love nature and who are interested in conservation. It’s an ideal choice for those looking to enjoy an authentic safari/nature experience close to Cape Town, or even before heading off to the Kruger National Park.
Why it should be on your radar for 2023: It’s your chance to get closer to nature without letting go of any of your creature comforts.
Hoedspruit, South Africa
Go on a self-care safari
Who went? Lenecha Saaiman
Where they went: Hoedspruit, Thornybush, staying at Saseka Tented Camp.
What they experienced:
- Game viewing
- Spa treatments
- Guided bush walks
- Community interaction
What they loved the most: The passion that emanated from the staff, guides and trackers, leaving Lenecha hungry for more safari experiences.
A travel tip: Be sure to enjoy a G&T in the bush – Lenecha insists that it just tastes better!
Who’s the trip best suited for? Travellers who love the luxurious side of safaris, and honeymooners.
Why it should be on your radar for 2023? It allows for an authentic look at African wildlife, while still ensuring that there’s plenty of time for self-care and rejuvenation.
Mozambique
A picture-perfect island vacation
Who went? Charlotte Smith
Where they went: Bazaruto Archipelago, with stays at Kisawa Sanctuary, Azura Benguerra and Anantara Bazaruto.
What they experienced:
- Fine dining
- Spa treatments
- Strolls along deserted beaches
- Exploring in an electric mini moke
- Snorkelling
- Climbing sand dunes
- Walking tours
- Cooking classes
- Deep-sea fishing
What they loved the most: Taking a day trip to Santa Carolina (Paradise Island) for snorkelling, a walking tour and a BBQ lunch.
A travel tip: If staying at Kisawa Sanctuary, be sure to complete the pre arrival form – you can select in-room snacks, tea/coffee, flipper and rash vest size, and it even allows you to select arrival room temperature.
Who’s the trip best suited for? There’s something on the menu for anyone and everyone.
Why it should be on your radar for 2023? It’s a vacation in paradise with plenty of unique activities to choose from, and the opportunity to be as active (or as lazy) as you wish.
Zambia
Revel in Mother Nature’s finest masterpieces
Who went? Sandra Devoti
Where they went: The Lower Zambezi, staying at Lolebezi Safari Lodge.
What they experienced:
- Game viewing
- Relaxing at the private pool
- River cruises
- Walking safaris
- Fishing
What they loved the most: Game viewing! Sandra speaks passionately about her experiences: she even saw a leopard carrying its prey up into a tree.
A travel tip: To save time, it’s definitely best to fly directly from Johannesburg.
Who’s the trip best suited for? Anyone looking to experience Zambia in all its glory, especially honeymooners in search of an intimate, secluded escape.
Why it should be on your radar for 2023? The Lower Zambezi is a true natural wonderland. It’s where the Zambezi River slows, expands and transforms into a tranquil haven for all types of birds, fish and animals, including spoonbills, tiger fish, waterbuck and kudu.
Botswana
Because Botswana is just too amazing to only appear once on the list!
Who went? Suzaan Nel
Where they went: The Okavango Delta in the Selinda Reserve, with stays at Zarafa Camp and Xigera Safari Lodge.
What they experienced:
- Bird watching
- Photography
- Walking safaris
- Game drives
- Fishing
- Outdoor dining
- Helicopter excursions
- Traditional mokoro cruises
What they loved the most: The food! Suzaan says there was always something spectacular to savour, from light sharing platters (including fresh salads) to a la carte dinners. Her highlight was a surprise brunch, followed by a Chef’s table for dinner.
A travel tip: Book a ‘sleep out’ under the stars at Xigera – Suzaan can’t stop talking about the unforgettable experience.
Who’s the trip best suited for? Couples and honeymooners, small groups and families.
Why it should be on your radar for 2023? It’s a vacation for nature lovers in a truly jaw-dropping setting.
Chat to an expert consultant and start planning your tailor-made holiday.