Kenya

Lovingly known as the ‘Mara’ by locals, this world-renowned park brings sheer delight to safari-goers that prefer things big and bold. Where wildlife instincts run deeper than any watering hole they’re searching for, it’s the place to be for the Great Migration and the year-round spectacle of the Big 5. And, best of all, with the highest density of lions in the world, it’s almost expected to watch the King of the Jungle go strutting by.

Trumpets call in this dreamland for elephant-lovers and vista enthusiasts. Expect a multitude of flappy ears dancing to the backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro, (being one of the best places to view it in Kenya on a clear day), with the expected bonus of wildebeest and zebra zipping by. And, if you’re lucky, there’s a reasonable chance of lions and cheetahs roaming the pride.

Kenya’s best-kept secret, heading north to the eco-conservatories of Borana, Laikipia and Lewa is about so much more than a change in scenery. With conservation being at the heart of what they do, teams go to great lengths to protect highly endangered and lesser-known species. Including rhinos, jackal, oryx, striped polecat, and even the jet-black panther, this is a safari experience that challenges even the most familiar feet with a fresh perspective.

A unique beating heart where urban epicentre meets ‘safari capital’, Nairobi encapsulates all the breadth of Kenya’s character in one manageable and excitable boundary. A hubbub for its café culture, restaurants, and bustling night life, there’s soul in the streets and crafts galore. And, because it wouldn’t be Kenya without our very own friends, there’s a national park and plenty of wildlife conservations to explore.

Like a chilled out older sibling whose already paved the way, Kenya’s coastline awaits for when all the adrenaline's done. Think white sandy beaches, days lazing in hammocks and a relaxed village vibe. There’s only one rule in these parts: stop, take a breather, and let the whole trip sink in.

You’ve never felt as remote as in Botswana, with its placid lagoons, eco-diverse island game reserve and the lunar-like salt flats of Makadikadi Basin.

Unspoilt and uncrowded, Madagascar is the land of the ‘blue safari’ – where snorkelling, diving and sailing in the warm turquoise waters is only paused for a bit of lemur spotting.

Arabia’s mystical allure and Africa’s vibrancy converge in Morocco, refusing to give in to Western ways and instead delivering a splendid culture contrast that’s sure to stay rooted in traveller’s minds forever.  

A country still with some growing to do, these lesser-trodden coastlines that often act as an add-on to a South African safari are a rare find of authenticity-meets-blissfully-beachy break.

Ethereal expanses of dunes merge into wild, coastal wilderness in this sun-baked land, casting the spooky spell of the sands that’s all too exciting and easy to succumb to.

Untamed and mysterious, the sulky rainforests of Rwanda are a wildlife wonderland, where golden monkeys peak out from behind dense leaves, bushbuck scarper at the slightest of sounds and gorillas take over the mountains.

The ‘Rainbow Nation’ that earnt her stripes in a cacophony of languages, three buzzing cities, and everything from safaris to Winelands in-between; it’s not just a colourful diversity, but the sheer joy for surprises that keeps familiar feet coming back for more.

Tanzania is a Great Migration, the volcanic peaks watching over herds as they cross vast plains and indented craters, eyed intensely by the climbing lions from their treetop perches; but this book holds more than just its front cover.

There may be no need for the classic beige suit, but the boots are essential in this home of the iconic walking safari that encapsulates the memory of 70s treks gone by.

The archipelago of Zanzibar is somewhat of a wildcard, but with its bohemian vibe, mellow pace and decidedly quieter yet still sugar-white sands, it gives the Maldives a run for its money.

Bringing off-the-beaten-track safari experiences that’re just as active as its dramatic Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe is no stranger to a thrilling escapade.