Africa Travel Guide - Horizon Guides

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There's some dispute over the etymology of the name 'Africa' but one theory is that it came from the Ancient Greek and Roman words for "warm" and "sunny."

If this is indeed the case, it seems sadly fitting: this is the continent that has been the object, rather than the subject, for much of its history. The continent that has been talked about and done to by outsiders, at the cost of finding its own voice and place in the world.

The tourism industry plays its own grubby role: property ownership and tax domiciliation – especially at the super luxury high-end of the market – are murky subjects. Marketing imagery is still overwhelmingly of black Africans serving wealthy white visitors. Things are changing, but not fast enough.

It almost feels tasteless to attempt to talk about "Africa" as a singular entity. Instead we'd much rather talk about its various regions, countries and locales – on the human scale, where local cultures, stories and heritage have more space to breathe.

One thing we can tell you: despite the tourism industry's emphasis on traditional safari, there's so much more to this continent than staring at the Big Five from an open-top jeep. Come for the wildlife, stay for the human connections, the emerging slow travel scene and the myriad other ways to hear, finally, Africa talking for itself.

Hidden gems in Africa

Nxai Pan National Park

Nxai Pan

Rory Sheldon

Accommodation

Best for: Africa's second biggest land migration I’d recommend Nxai Pan if you’re looking for somewhere that feels peaceful, remote, and completely removed from the usual safari crowds. You’re on the edge of a fossil pan, looking out over open grasslands and there’s nothing built-up or busy about it. What really sets it apart, though, is the chance to catch the zebra migration. If you’re here between March and late April, you could witness thousands of zebras arriving to drop their young. It's the second-largest land migration in Southern Africa, and it’s a game changer if you hit it right. The camp is the only permanent lodge in the park, with nine spacious tents, all facing the waterhole. Each one has a viewing deck, a relaxed lounge area, and both indoor and outdoor showers. One of the rooms is set up for families, with an extra twin bedroom. There’s also a plunge pool, and the thatched communal areas help keep things cool and comfortable throughout the year. The activities are a real highlight. I’d especially recommend the San bushman walk, a fascinating insight into how the San people have traditionally hunted, gathered, and lived in this landscape. You can also take a day trip to Baines’ Baobabs, which are just as impressive today as they were when painted 150 years ago.

Makgadikgadi Pans National Park

Jack’s Camp

Rory Sheldon

Accommodation

Best for: Quirky camp and excellent activities I’d recommend Jack’s Camp to anyone looking for something completely different. It's not cheap but it's one of the most eccentric camps in Botswana – part vintage safari, part theatrical spectacle, and it’s a real experience just to stay here. The tents are lavish, with a 1940s safari style that somehow blends old-world elegance with a splash of Freddie Mercury flair. Even the bathroom feels like a set piece – the toilet’s practically a throne. There are ten en-suite tents in total (seven twin, three double), each with indoor and outdoor showers and a huge amount of space. The camp also includes a private museum, drinks tent, pool pavilion, and shop, all laid out in an oasis of comfort in the middle of the Kalahari. But it's the activities that make this place special. You can ride horses across the pans, walk with Bushmen guides, spend time with habituated meerkats, and sleep out under the stars, something I’d call genuinely life-changing. There are also game drives, birding, and visits to Chapman’s Baobab, one of the largest and oldest trees in Africa.

Chobe National Park

Chobe Safari Lodge

Rory Sheldon

Accommodation

Best for: mid-range value Chobe Safari Lodge is one of the longer-established properties in the area, and thanks to a recent refurb, it continues to deliver a great experience. It’s well priced, comfortable, and in a brilliant spot right on the riverbank. The views from the deck are fantastic, and the evening boat cruises are always a highlight. It’s also home to the Sedudu Bar and Restaurant, which I rate as one of the best sundowner spots in Kasane. The lodge sits just outside the park in Kasane and borders the Chobe River, where four countries – Botswana, Namibia, Zambia, and Zimbabwe – all meet. It’s a great base for combining Chobe with places like Victoria Falls or the Caprivi Strip. With easy access from three airports and a range of transfer options, it’s also one of the more convenient lodges logistically. It works really well for families too: relaxed atmosphere, lots of space, and plenty of things to do without feeling overstructured. It's also conveniently located to add on Vic Falls.

Chobe National Park

Chobe Game Lodge

Rory Sheldon

Accommodation

Best for: family safaris If you’re heading to Chobe and want comfort without compromise, I’d recommend Chobe Game Lodge. It’s the only lodge actually inside the national park, which means you’re waking up right where the action is: no long drives to reach the gate. I’ve always found their service a step above anywhere else in the area, and they really go the extra mile. It’s also one of the few high-end lodges I’d happily recommend for families with kids. With space for up to 90 guests, the lodge is large, but the layout makes it feel far more spacious and relaxed. There are several pools, six viewing decks, two bars, and no fewer than four different dining areas, so you’re never short on places to unwind. If you’re after a bit more privacy, there are four superior suites with river views. And the wildlife is excellent, especially if you’re into elephants. You’ll often see them right from the lodge.