South Africa

South Africa’s majestic wildlife is undoubtedly the major drawcard, but add to this stunning scenery, adrenalin pumping outdoor activities, world-class restaurants and wineries, and serious shopping, and you’ve got a holiday for everyone.  After an animal encounter? There are more than a dozen national parks to explore. The largest is Kruger National Park, home to the holy grail of African nature spotting “the big five” – elephants, lions, leopards, rhinoceroses and buffalo. It’s also a great spot for bushwalking, mountain biking and four-wheel driving.

Best for: everyone.

City: Cape Town

This is a nature lovers city, not least of which because of its proximity to the stunning Table Top Mountain. Bushwalk its rugged terrain or take a cable car to the summit. Or hire a wetsuit and board and brush up on those surfing skills in either the Indian or Atlantic oceans. There are great restaurants and markets too. And Robben Island, the former prison where Nelson Mandela was held, is a must to learn about South Africa’s history of apartheid.

Best for: everyone.

City: Johannesburg

This big, bustling city is shaking off its risky reputation to become a tourism destination in its own right – but personal safety should still be in the forefront of every traveller’s mind. History buffs, head for Constitution Hill and the Apartheid Museum in the city. Then on to the township of Soweto to learn more about the anti-apartheid movement.   For great shopping, art, dining and nightlife head to neighbourhoods like Braamfontein, Parkhurst and Melville and go exploring.

Best for: Amateur historians.

Zimbabwe

Animal encounters, ancient ruins and the spectacular Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe has no shortage of sights. But political tension and an unstable economy, mean a visit to this country won’t appeal to everyone.

Best for: seasoned travellers

City: Harare

Zimbabwe’s capital is home to the National Gallery of Zimbabwe, with its collections of local and international art.  It has wide, tree-lined streets and numerous parks.

Best for: seasoned travellers.

City: Bulawayo

Zimbabwe’s second largest city is a good starting point to explore the nearby Khami Ruins and Matobo National Park.  Or tour the city and take in the colonial era architecture and local parks.

Best for: seasoned travellers.

Botswana

A bucket list destination for nature lovers, Botswana is one of the best countries to take a safari. The Okavango Delta in the southern part of the Kalahari Desert is home to an abundance of creatures from birds to elephants, especially when in flood. Safaris of all shapes, sizes and price tags are on offer. Moremi Game Reserve covers more than a third of the Delta.

Best for: Nature lovers.

City: Gaborone

The Gaborone Game Reserve is located within Botswana’s capital city, home to animals such as zebra, impala and wildebeest. Or take a day trip to the Khutse Game Reserve. Head to the Thapong Visual Arts Centre for an exhibition, or to a restaurant to try some local cuisine. Seswaa is the national dish. It’s a meat stew served over thick polenta, known as pap.

Good for: everyone.

City: Maun

This tourist town is primarily visited as the gateway to safaris in the Okavango Delta.

Best for: Safari-goers.

Morocco

This cultural melting pot is a vibrant mix of Arabic, European and African influences. Soak up the atmosphere and do a little shopping at a souk in Marrakesh. Relax on a beach in Agadir.  Camp under the stars in the Saharan desert. And dine on local specialties, tagine and mint tea.

Best for: everyone.

City: Marrakesh

Visit Marrakesh’s main square Jemaa el-Fna for shopping by day and dining by night. Its evening performances are a good way to learn about Moroccan culture. Dust off those haggling skills and pick up some local wares in one of the city’s bustling souks. Visit the popular Jardin Majorelle gardens and stop by the Yves Saint Laurent Museum next door. The fashion designer helped restore the gardens in the 1980s and had a holiday home there.

Best for: experiencing Moroccan culture.

City: Fez

Take a step back into medieval times in the city’s walled medina, Fes El Bali. There are lots of historic buildings to visit there.

Good for: History buffs.