Whether you are a student or out in the workforce, everybody needs some time to unwind. But while some may choose to sunbathe in Florida, explore Europe or hop around Asia, why not open your mind to a different experience by planning an incredible, unforgettable vacation in Africa? With its breathtaking landscapes, vast wildlife reserves, and open, friendly people, you are sure to have memories that will last a lifetime. Here are some suggests on where to go in Africa for 2017.
Cape Town (South Africa)
If you want a mix of nature, modern cosmopolitan life and beach time, Cape Town – the largest city in South Africa and located along the coast – has you completely covered. Take a cable car up to Table Mountain; shop and enjoy some fine dining along the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront; and party it up at Cape Town’s hottest night clubs. Of course, if you need a break from the hustle and bustle of the city but don’t want to stray too far, Kirstenbosch Gardens, located right outside the city, provides you with some peace and tranquility.
Moremi Game Reserve (Botswana)
While not among the largest parks on the African Continent, Moremi Game Reserve as diverse as it gets in terms of its nature and animals. You’ll find acacia forests, marshland, and lagoons mixed with vast grassland plains. The area is navigable overland or by ferry as it runs along a delta. The reserve is also home to more than 500 species of birds, not to mention the lions, giraffes, elephants, zebras, and rhinos that you’ve always dreamed of seeing on their national habitats. Best of all, safaris and accommodations can be arranged in a way that suits your needs whether you are traveling alone, with a group of friends, or even with your family.
Mount Kilimanjaro (Tanzania)
Located in Tanzania near the border with Kenya, Mount Kilimanjaro is the highest mountain on the African continent. If you are looking for a destination in Africa that tests your fitness and adds new perspectives, climbing to the summit of Kilimanjaro is right up your alley. But even if you aren’t a world-class mountain climber, don’t fret – there are plenty of easy treks along the base of the mountain, complete with waterfall excursions and other extraordinary sites.
Sossusvlei (Namibia)
Sossusvlei is a dry lake surrounded by surreal red-colored dunes located in the Namib Desert, Namibia. The area is the most popular tourist attraction in Namibia because there simply isn’t anything like it anywhere else in the world. You can explore petrified dunes and even a 260-foot sand dune made from 5-million-year-old sand. While basically located in the middle of nowhere, it is accessible along a modern road, and you also have the option to soak in all of the scenery via a small plane or even hot air balloon.
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (Uganda)
Bwindi is where you want to go if you dream of visiting a pristine forest that has largely remained undisturbed. Aside from the beautiful plants (including more than a 1000 different types of flowers), butterflies (over 200 varieties) and nearly 350 different species of birds, you also have a chance to see chimpanzees and apes in their own natural habitat. In fact, it is one of the few places in the world where you can visit mountain gorillas.
Thinking About Traveling Alone?
As you plan your trip to Africa or anywhere else abroad, the very first step should be to decide whether you intend to travel alone or with a company. This is important because it ultimately determines the budget, destinations and even how you spend your time while visiting these places (after all, if you love museums but your traveling companions do not, that could cause real issues). Consider these pros and cons when deciding whether to travel solo. Of course, also be aware of potential travel warnings, as in certain places you might be strongly discouraged from traveling by yourself.
Author Bio
Robert Everett: I am a freelance writer currently based in Chicago, solving students’ career and university problems, and having an interest in marketing and business.
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