Africa brings to mind thoughts of vast open plains filled with abundant wildlife, and the ever popular, Big Five – the landscape dotted with acacia trees, scrubland, lakes and untamed rivers. In a nutshell Africa is a veritable feast of raw energy and it’s these evocative images that are main reason for a holiday on the continent. The Mara Game Reserve and Serengeti National Park draw record numbers of safari goers to their respective savannahs during the annual migration and while beach havens might come further down on the travel checklist, Africa should never be overlooked. Offering more than powdery terra firma and azure blue waters, there are plenty of sun, sea and sand locations where the adventure never stops.
Zanzibar
Zanzibar is a great place to catch some R&R and contemplate your next safari, but you may find that traditional sunbathing takes second place to more active pursuits. Independently governed, but still part of Tanzania, Zanzibar is often combined with game viewing in the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater, the beach and bush holiday gaining in popularity. A cultural melting pot with an intricately woven history and once a major hub for the spice trade, it’s good to kick things off with a aptly titled spice tour so you sample the island’s more sensual wares including cloves, cinnamon, ginger and vanilla. another top tip, before you get horizontal, is to take a walk down Stone Town’s cobbled streets, the narrow alleyways leading you through to secret courtyards. Once you hit the beach you’ll be spoilt for choice as Zanzibar is one of the world’s best dive spots, but more leisurely pursuits include dolphin watching, fishing or cruises round the island.
Malawi
Malawi is one of the lesser-visited countries on the continent, but named the “warm heart of Africa” it’s warm welcome is compelling many travellers to return. Kande Beach is situated on the shores of Lake Malawi, home to the famous Lake Of Stars Festival.
Kande
There is something special about visiting destinations which have not quite hit the mainstream, and that’s why Kande is a real find. Of course, on the backpacker front its tried and tested, but with tourism still in its infancy this is the real unspoilt Africa deal. It’s nice to watch the day go by from the comfort of your canoe, the life of the local fishermen changing little since we tourists started to arrive. Alternatively, you can choose to travel to several nearby villages on horseback, the cultural experience ending back at the lake where you get to swim the horses. A place where you can really get your feet wet, there are also opportunities to dive, snorkel and windsurf to your heart’s content.
Cintsa
Close to the Wild Coast of South Africa’s Eastern Cape, Cintsa is certainly worthy of a mention. The quaint seaside village is surrounded by lush forests that are home to varied birdlife, so if you’re an offline twitterer this is the place to be. For those wanting to escape the crowds this spot also clinches the title of most blissful beach location and its secret paradise status makes it one of the best places to catch the waves and learn to surf!
Lived in England since 1998 and travelled the world since 2005, visiting over 100 countries on 5 continents. Writer, blogger, photographer with a passion for adventure and travel, discovering those off beat places not yet on the tourist trail. Marco contributes the very best in independent travel tips and lifestyle articles.
Sierra Leone is another great one! River No. 2 and Bure Beaches are nothing short of immaculate.