Think “wildlife documentary” and the soothing voice of Sir David Attenborough is bound to come to mind. Ever since his debut series Zoo Quest hit the screen back in ‘54, this staunch conservationist has influenced a generation of documentary filmmakers and intrepid travelers. And to think, he didn’t initially appear on television because producers thought his teeth were too big.
Today Attenborough is hailed as the “father of the modern nature documentary”. His wildlife adventures have taken the world from the icy tips of the Arctic to Malaysia, Australia, and beyond.
David Attenborough and his documentary Africa
But there’s one place he holds dearest: Africa. His critically acclaimed series, Africa spent four years in the making and takes viewers on an awe-inspiring journey through the continent’s most diverse places.
Now in his 90s, his love of the natural world shows no sign of abating. So if, in more than a half-century of broadcasting, he has inspired you to live out your own wildlife documentary then here are the top 5 African destinations to follow in his footsteps.
The top 5 destinations to visit in Africa
5. Namibia
Best time to travel: June to October
If you think that traveling in Namibia will have nothing to offer then think again. David Attenborough’s series showcases the beauty and wildlife of the Kalahari and Namib deserts. Yet, watching this will only give you a sample of what can be explored in Africa’s most underrated safari destination.
Although it is often referred to as “Africa for beginners”; make no mistake, Namibia is one of Africa’s best places to go on a safari. In a land of barren deserts, Etosha National Park is brimming with life. And, with more than 40 waterholes at Etosha National Park, patient visitors are rewarded with easy wildlife sightings plus exciting predator-prey interaction.
Photo credit: Elin Tabitha – Unsplash
But the beauty of Namibia is not limited to the Big Five. Nature and wildlife lovers will discover a wealth of lesser known but equally fascinating animals. From the fork-tailed drongo with its talent for mimicry to the critically endangered golden catfish lurking in Dragon’s Breath Cave, there is plenty to explore.
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Tour Length 20 days Group Size Max 20 Starts & Ends Starts: Cape Town Ends: Victoria Falls Countries South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe Overview Craving action and adventure? This 20 day expedition reads like a synopsis for the Amazing Race: scenic flights over the Okavango, white water rafting on the Zambezi, desert hikes, nights under a sprawling blanket of stars — and that’s just the start! We’ve also included wildlife safari drives in Etosha, Moremi Game Reserve and a relaxing sunset river cruise on the Chobe River to give you the best chance of experiencing the diversity of Southern Africa. Price from
Original price was: R86,950.R69,560Current price is: R69,560.
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Tour Length 12 days Group Size Max 20 Starts & Ends Starts: Swakopmund Ends: Victoria Falls Countries Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe Overview Pressed for time? Think of this short and sweet tour as your safari adventure trailer. On the road from Namibia to Botswana you’ll have a front row seat to all of Southern Africa’s bucket list experiences. From capturing a snapshot of some the elusive big five in Etosha to hearing ancient stories told by Southern Africa’s first people - this is an authentic African adventure and you’re at the heart of it. Price from
R58,650
4. Kenya
Best time to travel: June to October
When you think of Africa, you’re probably thinking of Kenya (thanks for stereotyping the continent, Lion King.) It’s the lone umbrella thorn tree silhouetted against a golden sunset and the vast savannah peppered with migrating wildlife. Kenya, more than any other destination, is known as the land of safaris.
The abundance of Kenya’s wildlife owes everything to the successful anti-poaching conservancies and community development that have saved the region from a poaching holocaust.
With over 40 national parks and reserves in Kenya, picking just one to explore is no easy task. But no matter where you go, you’re bound to have a spectacular wildlife experience. The Masai Mara is Kenya’s best-known reserve, famed for its consistent predator sightings. But its highlight is the thousands-strong wildebeest migration.
Photo credit: Sutirta Budiman – Unsplash
On the other hand, Amboseli National Park is a haven to over a thousand elephant – including some of Africa’s largest tuskers. The park is brimming with dramatic landscapes ranging from expanses of dry savannah to delta-type swamps, and the snow-capped peaks of Kilimanjaro.
These are two of Kenya’s most popular reserves. However, chances are you’ll have to overnight in Nairobi at some point on your African overland tour. If this is the case then be sure to check out the country’s bustling capital city and its nearby game park. Nairobi is a hip and edgy city, buzzing with culture, art, and development. At the doorstep of this cosmopolitan city is Nairobi National Park, best known for its significant black rhino sanctuary.
Photo credit: Rohan Reddy – Unsplash
In short, if you want your safari travels to make a difference, you’ve come to the right place.
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Tour Length 57 days Group Size Max 20 Starts & Ends Starts: Nairobi Ends: Cape Town Countries South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Malawi, Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda Overview From open top safaris in the Masai Mara, to camping in the Serengeti, and gorilla trekking in Uganda, this is a wildlife odyssey like no other. Throw in a paradise island, dramatic canyons, and intimate village tours, and you’ve found yourself in a story book expedition that will change your life. Fifty-five days, nine countries, seven national parks, one continent. This is how you travel Africa. Price from
R248,700
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Tour Length 42 days Group Size Max 20 Starts & Ends Starts: Cape Town Ends: Nairobi Countries South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Malawi, Tanzania, Kenya Overview Safari drives in the Serengeti? Check! A river Cruise in Chobe National Park? Check. Comfortable accommodation? Big Check! We’ve left no stone unturned when putting together this legendary itinerary. All you need to do is kick back discover the stunning wilderness and vibrant cultures of eight countries across the continent. This is how you travel Africa. Price from
Original price was: R178,350.R142,680Current price is: R142,680.
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Tour Length 12 days Group Size Max 16 Starts & Ends Starts: Nairobi Ends: Nairobi Countries Kenya, Tanzania Overview Nothing can compare to encountering the legendary wildlife of the Serengeti and Masai Mara in the flesh. That’s why we’ve dedicated 12 full days to exploring this iconic safari circuit. Traverse incredible national parks where golden grasslands stretch onto the ends of the earth, watch wildebeest kick up the rich African dust as they migrate in their millions, and venture off track to isolated regions to meet local tribes world apart. The road is as diverse as it is unpredictable, so be prepared for adventure. Price from
R61,890
3. Mozambique
Best time to travel: August and September
For the longest time, this palm-fringed southeast African country was well off most travelers’ maps. After centuries of resisting onslaughts of various invaders, Mozambique has emerged as a postcard-worthy destination, primed for exploration.
A messy colonial past has led to poor infrastructure which makes exploring the region pretty challenging. However, Mozambique’s fascinating mix of cultures, its magnificent coastline, well-preserved corals, and remote archipelagos make it well worth every (literal) bump in the road.
Photo credit: Redcharlie – Unsplash
At the forefront of the country’s attractions is it’s 2,414 km strip of pristine Indian Ocean coastline. But, there is more to this enigmatic country than horizontal me-time on golden sands.
To the north of the region, travelers can explore beautiful landscapes such as the mysterious mountains of Namúli and Unango, the historical settlements of Angoche.
Further south, Maputo bustles with a distinct blend of African, Arab and Portuguese influences that can be tasted in the region’s sumptuous dishes and heard in its upbeat music. But if city slicking is not your vibe then the remote southern coastline is sure to delight with roads and dunes primed for extreme 4×4 adventures and secluded game parks teeming with big game.
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Tour Length 36 days Group Size Max 20 Starts & Ends Starts: Cape Town Ends: Johannesburg Countries South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Eswatini, Mozambique Overview This is an action-packed Cape Town to Mozambique via Victoria Falls Adventure through diverse landscapes. Experience them all by a range of exhilarating adventure activities that will pump you full of African adrenaline. Come and experience the most popular overland route which starts in Cape Town travels up through Namibia, Botswana before travelling down to Mozambique and ends in Johannesburg. Price from
R117,550
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Tour Length 14 days Group Size Max 12 Starts & Ends Starts: Johannesburg Ends: Johannesburg Countries Mozambique, South Africa Overview This beach to bush safari ticks all the boxes of a dream African escape, including plenty of time spent on footprint-free shores and fantastic game viewing in the world-famous Kruger National Park. Leave the planning to the guides while you enjoy the undulating grasslands of the highveld, verdant mango and cashew nut plantations, and authentic local cuisine around blazing fireplaces. Get the best of both as you explore tropical waters while you snorkel, dive and fish and encounter the Big Five while exploring the African bush. This is how you travel Africa. Price from
R46,270
+ Local Payment 1600
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Tour Length 14 days Group Size Max 12 Starts & Ends Starts: Johannesburg Ends: Johannesburg Countries South Africa, Eswatini (formerly Swaziland), Mozambique Overview Bush breaks and beach escapes are at the front-and-centre on this 14-day trip across three countries - South Africa, Swaziland, Mozambique. The adventure kicks off with the chance to get your boots dirty on a three day Big Five escapade in the Kruger Park followed by a scenic drive through the legendary Panorama Route. From then on, it’s all dense coconut plantations, ocean safaris, and bustling seaside villages in the Portuguese-influenced cities of Mozambique. Price from
R51,950
2. Uganda
Best time to travel: June to September
Channel your inner explorer and discover the beauty of Uganda. Sir David Attenborough’s encounter with a family of mountain gorillas is one of the most iconic moments of his time in Africa. That, combined with Diane Fossey’s famed conservation travels make Gorilla trekking in Uganda the perfect place to live out your wildlife documentary adventure.
Photo credit: Francesco Ungaro – Unsplash
Known as The Pearl of Africa, this beautiful country has emerged from the shadows of a harrowing history and transformed into a nature lover’s paradise. Although small in size, Uganda packs a lot into one small country.
The biggest drawcard is, of course, the iconic mountain gorillas found in the misty Bwindi Forest. However, there is more to Uganda than primate business.
The pearl of Africa is abounding with postcard-worthy scenery and cultural gems just waiting for you to explore. Murchison Falls beckons with the roaring cascades of the Nile River, while Kampala’s Kasubi Tombs give a glimpse into the lives of former Ugandan kings.
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Tour Length 57 days Group Size Max 20 Starts & Ends Starts: Nairobi Ends: Cape Town Countries South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Malawi, Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda Overview From open top safaris in the Masai Mara, to camping in the Serengeti, and gorilla trekking in Uganda, this is a wildlife odyssey like no other. Throw in a paradise island, dramatic canyons, and intimate village tours, and you’ve found yourself in a story book expedition that will change your life. Fifty-five days, nine countries, seven national parks, one continent. This is how you travel Africa. Price from
R248,700
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Tour Length 37 days Group Size Max 20 Starts & Ends Starts: Livingstone Ends: Nairobi Countries Zambia, Malawi, Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda Overview 37 Day Livingstone to Gorillas Overland Tour travels up from Southern Africa seeing all the wildlife and culture in between Zambia and Uganda. The trip gives you an opportunity to visit the Mountain Gorillas in Uganda is one of the most established combination tours that we offer. All of this in comfort. Price from
Original price was: R159,750.R127,800Current price is: R127,800.
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Tour Length 13 days Group Size Max 16 Starts & Ends Starts: Entebbe Ends: Entebbe Countries Uganda Overview Africa's tallest mountain range, the continent's largest lake, the world's longest river, the biggest living primates, and of course, the iconic Big Five - Uganda is home to colossal natural wonders. This 13-day expedition sees you hiking in misty forests to spot wild gorillas and the lesser-known sights of tree-climbing lions, exploring verdant waterways teeming with pods of hippo, and discovering a world apart as you encounter the region’s colourful cultures. 10% discount for departures in December 2024. For more information, please speak to your travel agent.
Price from
R50,100
1. South Africa
Best time to travel: December to February
South Africa’s dramatic landscapes and excellent wildlife-watching opportunities have been on the world’s travel radar for a long while now. If variety is what you’re after while living out your wildlife documentary escapades, then this is the place to be. From big-game sightings in the legendary Kruger National Park, to seal encounters, whale watching, and great white shark spotting in Cape Town, this is a country of astounding diversity.
Photo credit: Slawek – Unsplash
And, when it comes to outdoor adventures, you won’t be left wanting either. Think, zip-lining through the verdant canopy of the Tsitsikamma forest, abseiling from the iconic Table Mountain, and bungee jumping from a 216 m bridge. South Africa’s ever-changing scenery is the perfect canvas on which to paint an activity-packed adventure.
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Tour Length 18 days Group Size Max 16 Starts & Ends Starts: Johannesburg Ends: Cape Town Countries South Africa, Eswatini formerly known as Swaziland Overview When it comes to adventure, South Africa's ever-changing scenery is the perfect canvas on which to paint an activity-packed trip. In 18 days, you’ll hike rugged mountains, sip on world-famous wines in picturesque valleys, join khaki-clad rangers on wild safari game drives, bungee jump from the Garden Route's Bloukrans Bridge, and so much more! Top it off with learning about the region’s tumultuous history through insightful museum tours and you’ll gain a much deeper understanding of the fabric of South Africa. Price from
R57,460
Visit Africa
In the words of the travel legend, David Attenborough; “It seems to me that the natural world is the greatest source of excitement; the greatest source of visual beauty, the greatest source of intellectual interest. It is the greatest source of so much in life that makes life worth living.”
So, what are you waiting for? There is a world of adventure out there and yours starts right here. Go on your African overland adventure and live out your best wildlife documentary escapade.
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