Southern Africa

Southern Africa

 

Discover Southern Africa - The "Land of Contrasts"

Southern Africa showcases one of the most diverse and stunning natural environments in the world. Visitors are able to soak up golden rays on sun-drenched beaches, journey through acre upon acre of dry savannah, admire lush, green meadows, walk through tropical forest and stop to take in views of wide, ancient canyons. It’s also possible to stroll the streets of an urban city one day and meander along a dirt track passing small farms and villages the next. Southern Africa truly is a land of contrasts and this begins with the landscapes and environment. 

Located on the tip of Southern Africa, South Africa shares land borders with Botswana, Mozambique, Namibia, Zimbabwe, Lesotho and Swaziland. It also shares a long stretch of coastline with the Indian and South Atlantic Oceans. The topography of the land changes remarkably around the country, from the lofty plateaux of the inland region to the low-lying coast and mountainous ranges of the Cape. This variance in topography makes South Africa rich in many species of flora and fauna, something that attracts many tourists and travellers from all over the world. South Africa’s culture is one of the most diverse in the world. From indigenous tribes like the Zulu, San Bushmen and Xhosa to the Afrikaners of Dutch heritage, and immigrants of British descent, visitors will be able to experience a magnificent melting pot of customs and traditions. The significant Indian and Jewish populations also add to the ethnic mix. From the proud, beaded Zulu warriors that have inhabited the land for centuries to newly arrived immigrants from Europe and Asia, South Africa’s culture has been shaped by millions of people. 

Cape Town. Easily one of the most picturesque cities in the world, Cape Town has some of the most photo-worthy landscapes in the world. From breathtaking Table Mountain to the stunning coast and beautiful beaches, Cape Town has profound natural beauty coming at you from every angle.

Durban. Sure, Durban’s beaches are special but the interesting mix of Indian, Muslim, African and European influences makes for great photography. Durban’s cultural cornucopia of markets, mosques and galleries offers rich fodder for snap-happy travellers looking to capture a different side of Africa.

Located in Southern Africa, Mozambique shares land borders with Malawi, South Africa, Tanzania, Zambia, Zimbabwe and Swaziland. The eastern side of the country runs along the Indian Ocean, giving Mozambique plenty of coast line crucial for recreation, trade, tourism and the fishing industry. Inland, mountainous terrain extends along the western and northern borders with the Limpopo and the Zambezi Rivers running through the country into the sea.

Scuba Diving. Home to perennially warm waters, pristine coral reefs and a wide variety of marine life, Mozambique is one of Africa's best spots to dive. Explore the archipelago and find exquisite tropical fish, graceful rays, rare dugongs and (if you're lucky), colossal whale sharks.

Snorkelling. Travellers not into diving don't have to miss out on the underwater wonders, as snorkelling opens an exhilarating (and often cheaper) window into the colourful creations that live under the waterline.

Red desert dunes, rugged bushveld, dense woodlands and plains of gravel make up Namibia's ancient terrain. Home to the monumental Fish River Canyon and sharing the iconic Kalahari Desert with South Africa and Botswana, Namibia has some of the most interesting landscapes in Africa, if not the world. With little arable land and a warm climate, Namibia is prone to prolonged periods of drought, making farming difficult. Bordered by Angola, Botswana, South Africa and Zambia, Namibia also has a stretch of coastline along the Atlantic Ocean where visitors can see where the desert meets the sea.

Skeleton Coast. Namibia's Skeleton Coast has been called 'The Land God Made in Anger' by the San Bushmen and 'The Gates of Hell' by the Portuguese, and it's not hard to see why. With gale force winds battering the shore, rolling surf and thick fog, the Skeleton Coast has ruined many a mariner over the years. Evidence of this is scattered along the coastal sands, with a collection of rusting ships resting on the beaches - an eerie yet enthralling sight.

If you’re after a small ship cruise or an expedition ship cruise to Southern Africa Wild Earth Travel can help you find a trip of a lifetime. We are ready to guide you through our range of different options with impartial advice so you can experience the very best of this unique destination. Our team are all passionate expedition & small cruise ship travellers and our knowledge and stories come from our own personal experiences.

 

Our Associates Include

Adventure Canada
Heritage Expeditions New Zealand
UnCruise Adventures
Hurtugruten
Ponant
Pandaw