There are a plethora of unique experiences waiting to be uncovered on the African continent. And unlike for city escapes, travelling to this vast area of the globe requires preparation. Lots of it. Otherwise, you run the risk of not being able to find availability, or worse, having a subpar holiday. Who would want that?
We give you our top epic Africa holidays to book in advance to avoid disappointment.
South Africa over Christmas
Whilst the Northern hemisphere is battling with icy winds and grey skies, South Africa is in full summer season – which makes it the perfect destination for a sunny Christmas. Abundant wildlife, breathtaking road trips, exciting activities for everyone… it’s easy to see why South Africa attracts travellers from all around. Which means, booking up to a year in advance (particularly for Cape Town), is not just recommended, it’s highly necessary
When to book: up to a year in advance
The Great Migration
If witnessing the Great Migration isn’t at the top of your bucket-list (yet), start to make some room for it. The mass, yearly movement of the wildebeest is explained by their continuous search for water and quality grazing. Whilst the migration is accessible throughout the year, it’s important to plan ahead so as to be at the right place at the right time. Our preferred season is June to October, the time during which the wildebeest make the dangerous river crossing, where crocodiles await. The calving season (December to March) and mating season (March to May) are also fascinating.
When to book: at least a year in advance, particularly for peak season (July to August)
Gorilla trekking in Rwanda
Coming face to face with these incredible primates is likely to give you a rush of adrenaline. But before experiencing this unique, heart thumping encounter, you will need to get your hands on a gorilla permit, which are in very short supply. Planning ahead will not only enable you to ensure getting a permit, but more importantly, that your permit is for one of the more interesting, more easily accessible and reliable family of gorillas.
When to book: 6 months in advance and a year in advance for high season (December/ January and July/ September).
Okavango Delta
Botswana is famed for the Okavango Delta, a unique and vast wetland covering 15000 square kilometres of channels, lagoons and islands. Each year, the Okavango River floods into the delta, transforming this desert into a fantastic wetland, attracting an array of incredible wildlife. Bird enthusiasts can marvel at the astounding variety of birdlife whilst those keen on wildlife rarely seen anywhere else will be able to catch a glimpse of the sitatunga, wild dogs and wattled cranes. Predators are aplenty too, with leopards and lions casually roaming around, on the hunt for antelope, zebra and buffalo. For a unique change of pace, hop aboard a mokoro (canoe) and explore this fascinating ecosystem. If it’s wildlife you want, you can be sure that the delta will deliver!
When to book: High season is June to September and it’s recommended to book 9 to 12 months in advance.
Contact Ashworth Africa for to plan a once-in-a-lifetime holiday in Africa.