Southern Africa Safaris
Why Travel to Southern Africa
Southern Africa is where private concessions and open waterways define the safari experience. In Botswana, the Okavango Delta unfolds into papyrus-lined channels explored by mokoro, while Namibia offers an entirely different landscape — the world's tallest dunes at Sossusvlei, the otherworldly Deadvlei, and the wild, remote Skeleton Coast.
Then there is Victoria Falls, shared by Zambia and Zimbabwe, and the Cape — Table Mountain, the Cape Winelands and the Garden Route in South Africa. For travellers who want to end a safari on the coast, Mozambique's Bazaruto and Quirimbas Archipelagos add a classic safari-and-beach combination.
How the Destinations Combine
Botswana + Victoria Falls
The Okavango Delta's private concessions pair naturally with the roar of Victoria Falls, a short flight away across Zambia or Zimbabwe.
South Africa + Botswana
A well-matched combination — Cape Town and the Winelands, followed by a private-concession safari in the Delta.
South Africa + Mozambique
Kruger's private game reserves followed by the white-sand islands of the Bazaruto and Quirimbas Archipelagos — safari and beach in one trip.
Namibia + South Africa
Namibia's deserts and Skeleton Coast combine well with a Cape Town extension or a Greater Kruger safari.
Zambia + Zimbabwe
Both countries share Victoria Falls, making it easy to base a trip on either side and add walking safaris in South Luangwa or Mana Pools.
When to Travel
Southern Africa's safari regions generally follow two broad seasons. The dry season (roughly May to October) thins the vegetation and draws wildlife to permanent water sources, making game viewing more concentrated and predictable — this is traditionally considered peak safari season.
The green season (roughly November to April) brings lush scenery, dramatic skies, newborn animals and excellent birdwatching, along with quieter camps and generally lower rates, though afternoon rain is more likely in some areas. Exact timing varies by destination and by year, so it's worth discussing your priorities — game density, budget, or scenery — with a travel designer before booking.
Suggested Journeys
A few starting points for a Southern Africa itinerary: