Africa!
Where you can soak up an extra dose of sun in winter
01/20/2022 Reading time: 3 Minutes
During the winter months in Europe, everything revolves around the mountains, skiing and snow. Sure, with a bit of luck there's plenty of sun and snow in our latitudes too. But the T-shirt weather and soothing warmth on bare skin can be a little difficult. It's a good thing that Africa is a nearby continent that can also boast summer temperatures in January and February. This works particularly well in these five places in Africa:
Namibia: endless expanses, desert and sea
Mountain dunes, untouched savannah, the red sands of the Sahara and the iconic dune landscape of the Sossusvlei area characterize the landscape in Namibia, as does the moon-like environment in Damaraland. The Namib Desert is a sensation in itself; it not only gave the country its name, but is also the oldest desert in the world. Despite its barrenness, Namibia is rich in biodiversity. In addition to typical desert dwellers, you can also observe oryxes, penguins, giraffes, big cats and zebras. One of the most popular activities is hot air ballooning over the Namib. Also spectacular: the particularly clear starry sky at night.
Overnight stay: Little Kulala
Botswana: diverse wildlife
In Botswana, the world's largest inland delta meets the dry savannah landscape of the Kalahari. The result is a particularly diverse flora and fauna. Botswana is still an insider tip for animal safaris. Above all, the world's largest elephant population of 130,000 makes Botswana an attraction. In the African summer, from November to March, the desert, savannah and delta are in full bloom. Excursions on the delta in the traditional dugout canoe Mokoro will certainly remain in your memory.
Overnight stay: King's Pool Camp
Rwanda: rainforest and savannah
It is above all the mountain gorillas that have made Rwanda a popular destination for safaris. After all, nowhere else can you get as close to these gentle giants in the wild as here. The lush, pristine landscape of the Volcanoes National Park, the habitat of the mountain gorillas, is well worth a visit. Akagera National Park is located in the east of the country. It attracts visitors with its huge sen and forest landscapes, creating an exciting contrast to the rest of Botswana. For bird lovers, there is plenty to discover, especially at Lake Rwanyakazinga.
Overnight stay: Bisate Lodge
Zimbabwe - elephants, buffalo & co
Hwange National Park is Zimbabwe's largest wildlife sanctuary. After the rains in December, the bush shines in lush green, the trees blossom and baby animals take their first steps. Now is also the best time for bird watching. The famous Ngamo Plains are crossed by a constant stream of elephant, buffalo, wildebeest, zebra, antelope and other wildlife on their way to the waterhole. Mild evenings make for fantastic stargazing.
Overnight stay: Linkwasha Camp
Zambia - Adventure at the Victoria Falls
Zambia is one of the least traveled countries in Africa. This is a shame, because savannahs, deltas and endless, wild landscapes characterize the country just as much as the imposing Victoria Falls. Hippos, crocodiles, elephants and an incredible variety of birds can be observed along the mighty Zambezi River. Guests at Wilderness Safari's Toka Leya Camp can also get to know the people and cultures during a visit to a local community. They can also relax in a wellness area directly on the Zambezi. Rafting, bungee jumping and ziplining at the Victoria Falls provide an adrenaline rush.
Stay overnight: Toka Leya Camp
