See another side of Africa beyond the safari parks

Go beyond the safari and see another side of Africa

24 April 2026

Africa is often introduced through safari, but that’s only one part of a much wider experience. Across the continent, you’ll find coastlines, cities, mountains, and food scenes that feel completely different from one another. South Africa is a good example of this variety, where you can move from beaches to vineyards to historic sites within a relatively short distance. It’s a destination that works just as well for a multi-stop trip as it does for a single base with day trips.

Go beyond the safari and see another side of Africa

Coastlines and beach towns with personality

Cape Town’s Camps Bay is known for its wide stretch of sand backed by the Twelve Apostles, with cafés and restaurants lining Victoria Road, while further along the Garden Route, Plettenberg Bay offers a quieter feel, with places like Robberg Beach for long walks and viewpoints along the Robberg Nature Reserve. For powdery white sands and turquoise waters, head to Diani Beach in Kenya or Mozambique’s Bazaruto Archipelago. Meanwhile, Namibia’s Skeleton Coast provides a dramatic and unique experience, with its windswept dunes meeting the Atlantic Ocean.

Cities that balance scenery and everyday life

Cape Town is easy to explore at your own pace. The cable car up Table Mountain gives a clear view across the peninsula, while the V&A Waterfront is a convenient area for shops and casual dining by the harbour. In Johannesburg, the Apartheid Museum provides a moving insight into South Africa’s history, while the Maboneng Precinct is a lively area filled with art galleries, street markets, and cafés. In East Africa, Nairobi is a great city to spend a couple of days between safari visits with amazing local restaurants and the unmissable Maasai Market. Finally, Lagos is a dynamic city with a thriving arts and music scene. Visit the Lekki Conservation Centre for a peaceful escape, unwind at Tarkwa Bay Beach, or explore the city’s vibrant nightlife.

The Drakensberg Mountains and open landscapes

For an active holiday away from Africa's conservancies, the Drakensberg Mountains in KwaZulu-Natal are ideal. This is a region focused on walking trails, wide views, and quiet surroundings. The Amphitheatre hike is one of the best-known routes, leading to Tugela Falls, and there are options for horse riding and guided walks to see San rock art. Accommodation here ranges from simple lodges to more comfortable stays, all centred around the landscape.

History in the Battlefields

The Battlefields region of KwaZulu-Natal focuses on the Anglo-Zulu War of 1879. Sites such as Isandlwana and Rorke’s Drift are usually visited with a guide, which helps explain the events in detail. The setting itself remains largely unchanged, which adds context to the stories told during the tours. It’s a different pace of travel, with more time spent learning about the area.

Winelands and a slower pace

Africa is a fantastic destination for wine lovers and foodies, with the famous Cape Winelands centred around towns like Stellenbosch and Franschhoek. Stellenbosch is known for its historic streets, galleries and cafés, while Franschhoek has a strong food scene alongside its vineyards. Wine tastings are available across a range of estates, and the Franschhoek Wine Tram connects several of them in an easy way. It’s a relaxed way to end a trip, with a focus on food, wine, and time outdoors.

To experience a different side of Africa, contact your Travel Counsellor today.

Why Constantinou Bros Athena Beach Hotel is one of Paphos' most versatile hotels

12 June 2026

Choosing the right hotel in Cyprus often comes down to finding the right balance. You want a beachfront location, plenty of facilities, comfortable accommodation, and enough choice to keep everyone happy throughout the holiday. That's exactly where Constantinou Bros Athena Beach Hotel stands out. Located on the seafront in Paphos and surrounded by beautifully maintained gardens, the hotel combines a relaxed atmosphere with an impressive range of facilities for couples, families, and multi-generational groups. With Paphos town centre just a short distance away, guests can enjoy both the convenience of the resort and easy access to one of Cyprus' most popular destinations. Following a recent renovation programme, Constantinou Bros Athena Beach Hotel now offers refreshed rooms and upgraded facilities, creating a contemporary base from which to enjoy everything the region has to offer.

Discover a more effortless way to experience the Maldives

12 June 2026

For many people, the Maldives is the ultimate luxury escape, but at OZEN RESERVE BOLIFUSHI, the experience goes far beyond beautiful surroundings. Located in South Malé Atoll and reached by a private luxury catamaran from Velana International Airport, the resort combines spacious beachfront and overwater villas with a level of inclusivity that removes the usual questions about what's extra and what's included. From the moment you're welcomed into the resort's private airport lounge to your arrival on the island, complete with traditional Boduberu drumming and personalised service, every detail feels carefully considered.

Why Cascade Wellness Resort Lagos Algarve by Domes is redefining active luxury in Portugal

12 June 2026

With Formula 1 set to return to the Algarve International Circuit in 2027 and 2028, Portugal's southern coastline is preparing to welcome motorsport fans from around the world. But while the racing may provide the perfect excuse to visit, there's another reason travellers are beginning to take a closer look at this corner of the Algarve. Just outside the historic town of Lagos, Cascade Wellness Resort Lagos Algarve by Domes is entering an exciting new chapter, evolving into one of the region's first fully integrated athleisure lifestyle resorts. Combining sports, wellness, family-friendly facilities, and one of Portugal's most spectacular coastal locations, it's a resort designed for those who want more from their holiday than simply a sun lounger and a swimming pool.

Go beyond the safari and see another side of Africa

Why Constantinou Bros Athena Beach Hotel is one of Paphos' most versatile hotels

Discover a more effortless way to experience the Maldives

Why Cascade Wellness Resort Lagos Algarve by Domes is redefining active luxury in Portugal

Keep dreaming with us

Every unforgettable journey starts with the right person by your side.