The 10 best destinations in Africa

Covering some 30.2 million square kilometres or 11.7 million square miles and being home to 15% of the world's human population - at 1.1 billion people - as of 2013, Africa is a truly fascinating land of sharp contrasts and incredible wonders. 

So, if you wish to experience this endlessly enchanting country, which destinations should you look to? It's a long list - here are our favourite 10. 

10. Kenya

Of all of the potential places in Africa in which to head for a romantic honeymoon or scorching beach holiday, Kenya has to be near the top of the list. It truly impresses with its diverse mix of attractions. 

9. Mauritius 

This gorgeous Indian Ocean island serves up the irresistible weather that its location indicates, with holidaymakers also routinely flocking here on account of its fabulous beaches, welcoming waters and diverse culture. 

8. Namibia 

Namibia straddles two of Africa's most awe-inspiring deserts, the Namib and the Kalahari. As such, it presents the opportunity to embark on a safari with a difference, seeing the wildlife that survives some of the most inhospitable (to us humans) conditions on earth. 

7. Rwanda

Although Rwanda will probably always be most strongly associated with its mountain gorillas, there's also no question of the sheer variety of its people and landscapes. If you want to be surprised on your African break, head to Rwanda. 

6. Zimbabwe 

There are plenty of great reasons to stop off in beautiful Zimbabwe, including the extremely friendly locals, exceptional high quality guiding and the amazing views of Victoria Falls. It's a great value for money destination, too.  

5. Tanzania  

If you want to experience the still wild and untouched side of Africa, Tanzania is a great spot. National Parks and protected game management areas account for a large proportion of what is undoubtedly one of the continent's best places for a safari. 

4. Botswana 

This is another part of Africa with that much sought-after authentic, unspoilt feel. You have plentiful opportunity as a visitor here to see such beloved wildlife as hippos, crocodiles, elephants and wild dogs - all of which makes the April to November dry season an excellent time to book a Botswana safari. 

3. Malawi 

You would struggle to find landscapes more dramatically sculpted than those on display in the long, slender, landlocked Malawi, with its lowest point just 35 metres above sea level and the highest, an astounding 3,000 or so metres. 

2. Mozambique 

Africa's southeastern coast offers no shortage of jaw-dropping natural attractions, with the beaches around the Quirimbas and Bazaruto Archipelagos particular highlights. Given the many subtropical Indian Ocean islands to explore along 2,500 kilometres of coastline, Mozambique certainly makes for one of the more rewarding African breaks.  

1. South Africa 

For the journey of a lifetime in Africa, it's difficult to beat "The Rainbow Nation" itself. While the country certainly offers the traditional attractions of an African destination, including some of the continent's best game reserves, it also has a well-developed tourist infrastructure that makes it a great choice for less seasoned travellers to this part of the world. 

The renowned specialists in luxury tailor-made safari holidays, Safari Club have a range of tours in South Africa, for more info click here. In the meantime, we wish you only the very best for your African break!