With Easter fast approaching, it’s the perfect time to plan an escape to Southern Africa. Pleasant weather, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant wildlife promise unforgettable adventures in the heart of the African wilderness. Travellers from South Africa and other Southern African Development Community (SADC) member countries can also enjoy discounted rates at many of these destinations, making the trip affordable.
Whether you’re yearning for thrilling safaris, natural wonders or island getaways, this region caters to every traveller’s desires. Picture yourself on a classic game drive in Kruger National Park, or maybe gliding silently in a traditional dugout canoe through the lush Okavango Delta or relaxing on a tropical Mozambican island beach. Experience the excitement of a river cruise in the Chobe National Park or a dune bashing excursion on some of the world’s biggest sand dunes in Namibia, all complemented by luxurious accommodations.
In this guide, explore top nature hotspots in Southern Africa for your next Easter break, featuring highlights, accommodations, and unique experiences at each spot to help you plan your ideal getaway.
Kruger National Park, South Africa
For many, Kruger National Park is synonymous with a true African safari. As one of the continent’s most famous game reserves, Kruger offers Big Five sightings and an impressive diversity of landscapes and ecosystems.
Why Easter? The cooler, early winter climate starts in April, making the safari experience comfortable. Easter is also post-rainy season, so the bush is green, with plenty of waterholes attracting wildlife.
Unique Experiences: Join guided or self-drive safaris to spot lions, elephants, rhinos, buffaloes, leopards and more. Night Drives are perfect for meeting nocturnal wildlife such as hyenas and bush babies.
Where to Stay? Luxury lodges such as Singita Lebombo Lodge and Jocks Safari Lodge offer elegant accommodations overlooking their scenic surroundings.
Okavango Delta, Botswana
Considered one of the world’s largest inland deltas, Botswana’s Okavango Delta is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its lush landscapes, extensive floodplains, and waterways teeming with life.
Why Easter? Easter is an ideal time to visit the Okavango Delta, as it coincides with the seasonal floodwaters arriving from Angola. This unique phenomenon creates lush channels and wetlands that attract wildlife, offering incredible water-based game viewing.
Unique Experiences: Explore the unique waterways in a traditional dugout canoe (Mokoro Safari), take a stroll into the wilderness with guided walking safaris, and spot rare bird species (including Pel’s fishing owl and African skimmers) with a notable birdwatching excursion.
Where to Stay? Lodges such as Sanctuary Chief’s Camp and Camp Okavango are both located on different islands, so expect a secluded stay with luxury amenities.
Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe/Zambia
No adventure is complete without a visit to one of the natural wonders of the world –Victoria Falls. This iconic wonder is a breathtaking sight as water cascades down the cliffs, creating a mist that can be seen from miles away.
Why Easter? The falls are at their most impressive during the rainy season, which peaks in March and April. Easter is a perfect time to witness the falls in full flow and enjoy the surrounding landscapes.
Unique Experiences: Wander through the misty green rainforest before making your way to the falls. At the falls, go bungee jumping, zip-lining, or white river rafting. Swim at the waterfall’s edge (via Devil’s Pool) or enjoy a scenic helicopter flight over this wonder for a stunning aerial perspective.
Where to Stay? Options like the Victoria Falls Hotel (on the Zimbabwe side) or Royal Livingstone Hotel (on the Zambia side) are short distances away from the falls.
Read Related Content: Victoria Falls: Why Zambia
Chobe National Park, Botswana
Famous for its elephant population, Chobe National Park is one of Botswana’s premier safari destinations. The park offers diverse ecosystems, including floodplains, savannahs, and woodlands.
Why Easter? As the dry season approaches, animals congregate around water sources, making for excellent wildlife sightings.
Unique Experiences: Enjoy a River Safari on the Chobe River for up-close encounters with elephants, hippos and crocodiles. The riverbanks provide fantastic vantage points for photography and wildlife watching. Tiger fishing and birdwatching are other popular activities in the area with over 450 bird species, including African fish eagles and carmine bee-eaters.
Where to Stay? The Zambezi Queen is a luxury river houseboat that offers opulent accommodations and river safari experiences on the Chobe River; while the Chobe Game Lodge is an excellent choice for travellers seeking luxury comfort on land.
Namib-Naukluft National Park, Namibia
Home to some of the world’s highest sand dunes, Namib-Naukluft National Park offers a striking contrast to the green safari landscape. The park’s scenery includes dry salt pans, canyons and ancient Welwitschia plants.
Why Easter? With milder temperatures and clear skies, Easter is a great time to explore the park.
Unique Experiences: Climb Dune 45 for a spectacular sunrise view or visit Deadvlei, known for its eerie, dead camel thorn trees set against bright white clay and red dunes. Other activities include dune bashing, sandboarding and stargazing.
Where to Stay? The Sossusvlei area offers lodges such as &Beyond Sossusvlei Desert Lodge and Little Kulala, where you can delight in comfort and easy access to the park’s highlights.
South Luangwa National Park, Zambia
Dubbed “The Valley of the Leopard,” South Luangwa National Park in Zambia is a prime destination for witnessing leopards in their natural habitat. This park is ideal for travellers looking for an off-the-beaten-path experience that feels more remote and exclusive.
Why Easter? The Easter period lies in the transition between the rainy season and the start of the dry season, offering a unique opportunity to witness seasonal changes and the park’s abundant greenery.
Unique Experiences: South Luangwa is known for walking safaris, which are a fantastic way to get close to nature. Many lodges also offer nighttime game drives, where you can spot leopards, bush babies, and the elusive aardvark.
Where to Stay? Settle atop a hill at Chichele Presidential Lodge and enjoy a regal experience with panoramic views of South Luangwa. Overlook the bustling Kakumbi Dambo floodplain at Puku Ridge Camp and experience an intimate luxury tent stay.
Bazaruto Archipelago National Park, Mozambique
The Bazaruto Archipelago offers stunning marine life and beautiful beaches, making it perfect for combining relaxation with adventure. The archipelago consists of five islands –Bazaruto, Benguerra, Magaruque, Santa Carolina, and Banque, each with its own unique charm and character.
Why Easter? The weather is typically warm and dry, perfect for beach activities.
Unique Experiences: Explore the colourful coral reefs while snorkelling, swimming or scuba diving. Relax on the pristine beaches surrounded by crystal-clear waters and soft sand.
Where to Stay? Places like Anantara Bazaruto Island Resort and Azura Benguerra Island provide luxury accommodations and direct access to their respective islands’ natural beauty.
Southern Africa is a treasure trove of stunning destinations that offer an Easter escape you’ll never forget. Whether it’s the call of lions at dawn in the Kruger, the mist rising from the powerful Victoria Falls or the burnt orange peaks of the dunes glaring down at you – each experience rejuvenates and inspires the spirit.
So what are you waiting for? Let’s start planning your next Easter getaway!