Our Top 5 African Combo Vacations

A vacation to Africa promises a once-in-a-lifetime experience. If you’d like to get the most out of this journey, it’s important to think big. Many travellers often grapple with the decision of choosing just one African destination. But why limit yourself when you can explore more than one?

Given the time and investment of long-haul flights, it’s wiser to explore multiple countries in one trip. Along with being more cost-effective, it’s also a more sustainable choice regarding responsible travel.

The great news is that airline connectivity has significantly improved post-pandemic, with many airlines now offering convenient non-stop regional flights.

A massive win for American travellers is the lack of visa requirements for many African countries when travelling on a US passport, making multi-destination trips a breeze.

Looking for inspiration for a multi-destination African adventure?

Here are our top 5 picks.

Rwanda & Seychelles

Enjoy a combo of: Gorilla trekking in the dense rainforests, scenic hiking experiences, and relaxing on pristine beaches.

Unforgettable experiences:

Rwanda: Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park, experiencing the Kigali Genocide Memorial, and hiking in Nyungwe Forest.
Seychelles: Snorkeling in the Sainte Anne Marine National Park, visiting the Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve, and island hopping to La Digue and Praslin.

Top travel suppliers:

Wilderness Bisate Lodge, Rwanda: An ‘eco-chic’ lodge in the heart of Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park. It features just six en-suite forest villas for an ultra-exclusive rainforest retreat.
Four Seasons Resort Seychelles, Seychelles: Nestled on Petite Anse Mahe Island and known for its luxurious tree-house villas.

Travel tip: For those trekking to see gorillas, remember that the activity isn’t child-friendly. Most providers only allow minors over the age of 15 to participate. That said, the activity is highly accessible, with various suppliers making it possible for travelers with disabilities and older travelers with reduced mobility to experience this life-changing adventure with the help of sedan chairs, stretchers, and porters.

Rwanda, Tanzania & Zanzibar

Enjoy a combo of: Mystical gorilla encounters, vast Tanzanian savannahs, and exotic Zanzibari shores.

Unforgettable experiences:

Rwanda:
Tanzania: Witnessing the Great Migration in the Serengeti, climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, and visiting the Ngorongoro Crater.
Zanzibar: Exploring Stone Town (a UNESCO World Heritage site), enjoying a fragrant spice tour, and relaxing at Nungwi Beach.

Top travel suppliers:

Virunga Lodge, Rwanda: This hill-top lodge boasts breathtaking views of the Virunga Volcanoes and the beautiful lakes of Ruhondo and Bulera. All bandas (small thatched houses) have a private terrace.
andBeyond Lake Manyara Tree Lodge, Tanzania: Located in Lake Manyara National Park (known for its tree-climbing lions) and offering night game drives, opulent treehouse suites, and a captivating children’s program.
andBeyond Mnemba Island Lodge, Zanzibar: Think beachside paradise – yoga on the beach, dhow cruises, and 12 chic bandas (two of which are ideal for families).

Travel tip: In Tanzania, venture to local markets for authentic Maasai jewelry made with love by local artisans. This jewelry makes for a beautiful, meaningful souvenir and helps support local communities.

South Africa, Zambia & Botswana

Enjoy a combo of: Wildlife-rich safaris, thundering waterfalls, and serene river cruises.

Unforgettable experiences:

South Africa: Sampling vintages in the Cape Winelands, embarking on a Big Five safari in the Kruger National Park, and experiencing the bustle of the Mother City (Cape Town).
Zambia: Admiring the mighty Victoria Falls, walking safaris in South Luangwa National Park, and canoeing down the Zambezi River.
Botswana: Cruising through the Okavango Delta, watching wildlife at Chobe National Park, and visiting the ancient rock art in Tsodilo Hills.

Top travel suppliers:

Cape Grace, Cape Town, South Africa: Reopening in December 2023 following renovations and right on the iconic V&A Waterfront. Choose from harbor view, mountain view, rooftop rooms, and many more classy accommodation options.

The Royal Livingstone Victoria Falls Zambia Hotel by Anantara, Zambia: Found inside the wildlife-rich Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, with free unlimited access to Victoria Falls. Various rooms and suites are available, all with complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi.

Sanctuary Baines’ Camp, Botswana: A tiny, intimate camp in the Okavango Delta with just six luxury suites. It’s a go-to for a couples’ retreat due to its romantic sky beds and star baths on each suite’s private deck.

Travel tip: Take your experience to new heights with helicopter flights in Botswana or Zambia (or both), giving you a gorgeous new perspective on the Okavango Delta and Victoria Falls, respectively. You can enjoy a similar perspective in various South African destinations through hot air balloon rides (including in the Winelands and the Kruger Park).

South Africa & Mozambique

Enjoy a combo of: Vibrant city life, unparalleled safari adventures, and idyllic beaches.

Unforgettable experiences:

South Africa: As above.
Mozambique: Diving in the Bazaruto Archipelago, exploring the historic Ilha de Moçambique, and tasting the local peri-peri dishes.

Top travel suppliers:

Dulini Moya, Sabi Sand Nature Reserve, South Africa: Offers six exquisite, thatched suites on the banks of the Mabrak River, each with floor-to-ceiling windows to allow you to gaze at the stunning views and wildlife at all times during your stay.
Azura Benguerra Island, Mozambique: Set on Benguerra Island’s postcard-perfect white-sand beaches with 20 hand-built villas.

Travel tip: Mozambique is known for its fresh seafood. Don’t miss the opportunity to savor a meal at a beachfront restaurant.

Namibia, Zambia & Botswana

Enjoy a combo of: Desert landscapes, rich biodiversity, and cultural immersion.

Unforgettable experiences:

Namibia: Climbing the dunes at Sossusvlei, spotting wildlife in Etosha National Park, and exploring the German-influenced town of Swakopmund.
Zambia: As above.
Botswana: As above.

Top travel suppliers:

Zambezi Queen by Mantis, Chobe River region, Namibia: An ultra-luxe floating boutique hotel with a plunge pool. Choose between standard and luxury suites, all with air-conditioning and an en-suite bathroom.
Royal Chundu Zambezi Island Lodge, Zambia: Located on a remote island on the Zambezi with its own spa and restaurant. There are only four villas to allow for a peaceful escape – ideal for couples and groups.
Duba Plains Camp, Botswana: Reminiscent of a luxury safari experience in the 1920s and nestled by the Okavango Delta. The camp has five bespoke suites, each with eco-friendly air conditioning and a private verandah with a shaded sala and plunge pool.

Travel tip: Don’t miss the opportunity to witness nature’s awe-inspiring spectacle on one of the tender boats on the Zambezi Queen.

There’s a combo vacation for everyone, no matter what your dream African getaway looks like. Each brings unique sights, sounds, experiences, and emotions. At GILTEDGE, we’re here to guide you, ensuring you make the most of your African adventure and that every part of it – including the lead-up – is stress-free and seamless.

*These are just examples of some of GILTEDGE’s preferred suppliers. We have many trusted travel suppliers in destinations across the continent.

**Note that while visas aren’t required to enter certain destinations, other requirements may apply. Please do your research before your travels or choose GILTEDGE to lead the way and ensure a seamless journey.

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