Having just returned from a spectacular couple of weeks in South Africa, I was struck yet again by the array of incredible experiences in Africa and the vast distances that separate them. Having travelled around Africa for the past 30 years, I was once again blown away by the quality, service and genuine friendliness of everyone I met. For me, Africa is still as special and wonderful as it was when I first visited and there is always something new to discover. To showcase just some of the highlights of this incredible part of the world, I have handpicked five of my favourite countries, all of which offer experiences and adventures beyond all expectations.

South Africa Garden Route

SOUTH AFRICA

South Africa is one of Africa’s most spectacular and diverse countries, from the malaria free Madikwe Game Reserve and the game rich Sabi Sands to the cosmopolitan and buzzing city of Cape Town. This is why we love South Africa; for its abundance of magical experiences. Just one of your highlights could be sleeping under the mesmerising stars of the bush in a remarkably luxurious sleep out. A self-drive along the Garden Route is another must, exploring the rugged coastline of the Western Cape – ideal for those looking for a more cost effective escape. To the South Africans nothing is too much trouble and the service here is the best in Africa. The new Skukuza airport makes accessibility to the best game areas better than ever taking you straight from the heart of the bush into the stylish hub of Cape Town and vice versa. With the South African Rand making the country incredibly affordable there has never been a better time to visit. No matter what your budget or taste, South Africa is a country that never disappoints and there is always something new and exciting to explore.

Botswana Okavango Delta

BOTSWANA

Those looking for an exclusive safari experience need look no further than Botswana which offers some of the best game viewing, guiding and lodges in Southern Africa. The enchanting Okavango Delta is unsurprisingly one of our favourite areas, exploring the landscape by Mokoro (a dugout canoe) through the winding hippo highways littered with water lilies is an unforgettable experience and one that is unique to the area. Combining this with the sweeping plains of the Linyanti and the dazzling Makgadikgadi Pans makes a trip to Botswana hard to beat. Due to the exclusivity of Botswana it is admittedly one of the more expensive safari options, but we believe it is worth every penny. Botswana is the perfect destination for a once in a life time family holiday or an incredibly romantic and memorable trip for a couple. It is the country where Susie Cazenove and myself first worked together, so our contacts go back over 30 years.

Seychelles Beach

THE SEYCHELLES

The Seychelles is the ultimate beach getaway. The outer islands boast stunning white sand beaches and rainforests. They are the perfect escape for those who are looking for complete peace and utter relaxation. For the more active, don’t let this put you off; there are also a vast number of activities to enjoy, including diving, snorkelling and fishing. That is the beauty of the Seychelles; you can do as little or as much as you like, from enjoying your private pool to bone fishing in the crystal clear waters. The Seychelles is unsurprisingly a wonderful honeymoon destination but also perfect for families and some of the outer islands have a host of family villas and kids clubs to accommodate all ages of explorer.

Namibia Desert

NAMIBIA

Namibia is home to some of the most breathtaking scenery Africa has to offer. The burning red dunes of Sossusvlei are out of this world and a trip to the top of the dunes is well worth the hot climb- the view is truly staggering. Namibia is also a brilliant option for those interested in culture; explore the rock carvings and visit the Himba Tribe, some of the last remaining nomadic people. For those looking for a game fix, try and scout out the elusive Desert Elephant or perhaps visit the Etosha Pan which is teaming with wildlife. Arguably the most original safari in Africa and the best way to view the mesmerising coastline is with the Schoeman family by light aircraft. You access true wilderness based out of dramatic semi permanent camps, it is one of the greatest adventures on the planet with a true sense of pioneering. For those who prefer four wheels, Namibia is also the ideal destination for a self-drive trip: the roads are wide, safe and easy to navigate and you won’t even notice the long journeys for the ever changing scenery en route.

Morocco market

MOROCCO

Morocco is one of Africa’s most exhilarating countries. Where else in the world can you find yourself surfing in the Atlantic Ocean one day and hiking up wild and snow-capped mountains the next, stopping off along the way to haggle for spices in an ancient souk. This buzzing country never ceases to surprise and delight us as we dive headfirst into the exotic chaos of Marrakech or into the heart of Fez’s medieval medina. There is always something new and exciting to experience whether it is riding by camel into the majestic Sahara dunes to your private desert camp or learning the art of couscous rolling in a traditional Berber village. Whatever your budget, Morocco is the perfect escape and we can arrange romantic mini breaks or family friendly week long adventures discovering the hidden corners of this diverse country. Morocco is one of our favourite countries in Africa and all less than 3.5 hours from the UK (7.5 hours from the US). These are just some of the incredible countries in this fascinating continent. Africa is where cazenove+loyd began and our love for this ever changing part of the world remains unchanged.

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Karen Chapman
Terry Moohan
Auriole Potter

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