Southern Africa’s 10 Must-see Natural Treasures
Southern Africa is home to some of the most breathtaking natural wonders in the world. From vast, untamed landscapes to rich wildlife havens, this region is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Here are some of Southern Africa’s must-see natural treasures that will leave you spellbound and breathless. 1. Victoria Falls (Zimbabwe and Zambia) Straddling the border of Zimbabwe and Zambia, Victoria Falls is a powerful display of nature’s force. They are known as “Mosi-oa-Tunya” or “The Smoke That Thunders” The falls span over a mile and cascade into the Zambezi River, creating a mist seen from miles away. Visitors can explore the falls from multiple perspectives, including hiking trails, helicopter rides for aerial views, adventurous whitewater rafting below the falls, or simply marvelling at the sheer scale of the waterfall; this UNESCO World Heritage Site is an unforgettable experience. 2. South Luangwa National Park (Zambia) South Luangwa National Park is often considered one of Africa’s best-kept safari secrets, a gem for wildlife enthusiasts. Located in Zambia’s Eastern Province, this park is home to some of the continent’s most concentrated wildlife populations. It’s particularly famous for its walking safaris, which allow visitors to experience the bush on foot, immersing them in the environment in a way few other places can offer. 3. Table Mountain (South Africa) As a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature, Cape Town’s iconic Table Mountain is one of the world’s most recognisable landmarks. Rising over 1,000 meters above sea level, its flat summit offers panoramic views of the city, the Atlantic Ocean, Robben Island and the surrounding mountains. Whether you hike to the top or take the cable car, the diverse flora, fauna, and stunning vistas make it a must-see destination. 4. Bazaruto National Park (Mozambique) Located off the coast of Mozambique, Bazaruto National Park is an idyllic island destination. Known for its crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and abundant marine life, this park is perfect for snorkelling, diving, and fishing. Manta rays, whale sharks, dugongs, and sea turtles are frequently spotted in the area with vibrant coral reefs, making it a paradise for those looking to explore the underwater world. 5. Deadvlei, Sossusvlei, and Etosha (Namibia) Namibia offers surreal landscapes that look like something out of a dream. Deadvlei is hauntingly beautiful with its stark, white clay pan and petrified trees against towering red dunes. Sossusvlei’s vast dunes are some of the tallest in the world, while Etosha National Park is a wildlife lover’s paradise, where you can spot elephants, lions, and rhinos around its vast salt pan. 6. Maloti-Drakensberg Park (Lesotho) A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Maloti-Drakensberg Park is a natural wonder spanning the border between Lesotho and South Africa. The park is famous for its rugged mountain scenery, spectacular waterfalls, and ancient San rock art. Whether hiking the escarpments or exploring the caves, this park offers adventure for all types of outdoor enthusiasts. 7. Okavango Delta (Botswana) A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Okavango Delta is a vast inland river delta in northern Botswana. The delta’s unique wetland ecosystem, combining land and water-based landscapes, supports a diverse wildlife, including elephants, lions, hippos, and countless bird species. Take a traditional mokoro (dugout canoe) ride through the delta’s winding channels to experience its beauty and wildlife from a unique perspective. 8. Lake Malawi (Malawi) Lake Malawi, often called the “Lake of Stars,” is one of Africa’s Great Lakes and spans three countries—Malawi, Mozambique, and Tanzania. Its crystal-clear waters are home to more fish species than any other lake in the world, making it a haven for snorkelling and diving. The lake’s beautiful beaches and serene surroundings offer a perfect retreat for relaxation. 9. Bwindi Impenetrable Forest (Uganda) Though not in Southern Africa, Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest deserves mention for its unique appeal. Home to nearly half of the world’s mountain gorilla population, Bwindi is a sanctuary for these endangered creatures. Trekking through the dense forest to see gorillas in their natural habitat is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for wildlife lovers. 10. Amboseli National Park (Kenya) Amboseli National Park is located in Kenya and is renowned for its stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest peak. The park is famous for its large herds of elephants and offers unparalleled opportunities for photography, with the majestic Kilimanjaro as a backdrop. It’s a great spot to witness wildlife, including lions, cheetahs, and flamingos, against one of Africa’s most iconic landscapes. Conclusion Southern Africa’s natural treasures offer diverse experiences, from exhilarating safaris to serene landscapes and underwater paradises. Whether you’re searching for adventure, wildlife, or awe-inspiring beauty, these hidden gems will make your journey unforgettable. Add these destinations to your travel bucket list and experience the wonders of Southern Africa firsthand.
Africa’s Premier Tour Operator
Explore the wonders of Africa with DesignAfrique, your trusted tour operator. Compare prices, tailor your experience, and book directly with us for the trip of a lifetime. At DesignAfrique, we believe that Africa should be accessible to everyone. Our speciality lies in offering customized itineraries for both independent travellers, Flexible Independent Travel (FIT), and group tours across Southern and East Africa, including South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Malawi, Mozambique, Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania. Each tour is carefully crafted to match your unique needs, preferences, and expectations, ensuring an unforgettable adventure. With our passion for Southern Africa, attention to detail, and years of experience in the tourism industry, we guarantee an exceptional and personalized travel experience. Whether you’re exploring popular destinations or venturing into Africa’s hidden gems, we provide the expertise and care needed for a truly one-of-a-kind journey. Explore Africa’s Best Destinations From iconic game reserves and national parks to off-the-beaten-path treasures, DesignAfrique takes you everywhere you want to go. Whether you’re seeking thrilling wildlife encounters or serene beach getaways, we cover it all. Our itineraries offer a comprehensive selection of Africa’s must-see attractions, and we partner with the top safari companies and tour operators to arrange every detail of your trip. Unforgettable Activities Await Looking for adventure? We’ve got you covered. DesignAfrique offers a wide range of specialized activities, including: Your Journey, Your Way Whether you prefer fast-paced adventures or leisurely exploration, solo travel or group experiences, DesignAfrique tailors the journey to your style. Pick your desired activities, design a custom package, and start your African adventure with us. Your dream vacation begins here — so get your passport ready and let’s go with DesignAfrique!
Discover Whitewater Rafting in Eswatini: Essential Tips
Many may not realise it, but Eswatini, formerly known as Swaziland, is a paradise for outdoor adventurers. With a landscape teeming with excitement, one of the standout activities in the kingdom is whitewater rafting on the famous Usutu River. Since its introduction to Eswatini in 1991, whitewater rafting has been offered on both the Lusutfu (Great Usutu) and Komati (Nkomanzi) Rivers. Today, Swazi Trails operates rafting adventures on the Bulungapoort section of the Usutu River, situated between Sidvokodvo and Siphofaneni, right in the heart of Eswatini. No experience is required to enjoy whitewater rafting here — you don’t even need to be a swimmer! But before you book your first adventure, here are a few must-know tips to help you prepare. 1. The Best Place to Go Whitewater Rafting in Eswatini The top spot for whitewater rafting in Eswatini is the Great Usutu River, especially near Big Bend. As Eswatini’s largest river, the Usutu flows from the western border with South Africa and exits through the Lubombo Mountains toward the Indian Ocean. Rafting here offers stunning views of rural Eswatini, from striking rock formations and riverside communities to glimpses of wildlife. The river’s brown waters rush through gorges, punctuated by calm stretches surrounded by bushland and grazing fields. 2. Understanding River Rafting Grades River rafting grades represent the difficulty and skill level needed for each section of the river. Here’s a breakdown of how the grades work: For most of the year, the Usutu River offers Grade 3 (medium difficulty) rafting, ideal for beginners. During peak flows, however, the river can reach Grade 4, and certain sections even rise to Grade 5 — but these more extreme parts are avoided on commercial rafting trips. 3. Raft Specifications: What You’ll Be Using In Eswatini, inflatable rafts known as “crocs” are used for whitewater rafting. These are two-person inflatable rafts designed to be safer and easier to navigate than traditional canoes, as they are less prone to capsizing. When rafting requires “2 crocs,” it means a minimum of two people are needed for the adventure. Usutu River trips typically use two-person inflatable rafts, giving you more control over the experience compared to larger 8-man rafts. Groups ranging from 6 to 25 people can participate, with raft types varying depending on group size and river conditions. 4. When is the Best Time to Go? The best time for first-time rafters is during Eswatini’s winter season, from May to October, when water levels are lower. Between November and May, water levels rise significantly, raising the difficulty of the rapids. Seasonal rainfall can also cause abrupt changes in water levels, so it’s important to plan accordingly. 5. Is Whitewater Rafting in Eswatini Safe? Whitewater rafting in Eswatini is conducted in safe, controlled environments. While rafting is an exciting adventure, safety remains a top priority. It’s crucial to listen carefully to your guide during the safety briefing to ensure you’re fully prepared for the experience. 6. Types of Rafting Tours Available Swazi Trails offers both half-day and full-day rafting tours. Half-day trips last 2 to 2.5 hours and cover approximately 7km of the Usutu River. Full-day trips take about 5 hours, with a break for lunch before heading back via shuttle. 7. What Are Rapids? Rapids are river sections with a steep gradient, causing faster-moving water and increased turbulence. On the Usutu River, you’ll encounter well-known rapids such as Monica Lewinsky, Station Rapid, and the Initiator, each offering its own thrilling experience. 8. Equipment and What to Bring All necessary equipment, including helmets and life jackets, is provided by tour operators. Be sure to leave valuables behind, as they can easily be lost during the trip. If you bring a camera, make sure it’s in a waterproof case. Don’t forget to pack sunscreen, a bathing suit, a hat, and a water bottle to stay hydrated.