Questions You Need Answered Before Going to Victoria Falls

There is an array of interesting locations that you could choose to visit on your next African safari, but when it comes to excitement, there’s no better destination than Victoria Falls.

One of the most popular destinations for safari-goers around the world, Victoria Falls offers a range of activities you can pick for one of the most thrilling, memorable vacations of your entire life. However, if you’re a first-time visitor to Victoria Falls, it’s likely that you have a few questions that you need answered before your trip. Here are answers to a few of the most common Victoria Falls questions that should help you see why your safari should include a stop at this location.

Which Side to Visit?

One of the most frequently asked Victoria Falls questions is which side is best to visit: Zambia or Zimbabwe? Victoria Falls is fed by the famous Zambezi River, which is also the border between the countries of Zambia or Zimbabwe. Fortunately, you don’t need to choose and can enjoy thrilling activities on both sides of Victoria Falls.

If your main goal is sightseeing, then you’ll probably prefer the Zimbabwe side, which is where three-quarters of Victoria Falls is located. On this side of Victoria Falls, the water flows throughout the entire year, and you’ll also have more opportunities for viewing wild animals.

On the other hand, if you’re looking for pulse-pounding activities, you should focus on the Zambia side, where you can enjoy a microlight flight or take a swim in the Devil’s Pool.

Is Malaria a Risk?

Before going on a safari, regardless of the location, most travelers want to know that they’ll be safe, which is why many people ask about the risk for malaria before visiting Victoria Falls. Because the weather is warm and there is a large amount of water, there’s definitely an increased change for malaria exposure in Victoria Falls. Fortunately, there are a few simple steps you can take to protect yourself.

Simply by frequently using insect repellent and remembering to take your full course of malaria pills, you can have a safe and fun time while you’re staying in Victoria Falls.

When Should You Visit?

Maybe the most common question when it comes to a safari in Victoria Falls is what time of year is best to visit this exciting destination. The time of year you visit can influence what sights and activities you’ll be able to enjoy, making this a very important decision.

If your main priority is seeing the waterfall in its full glory, then its best to visit between February and May, which is when the rains from the spring season will have finally made their way to Victoria Falls. For travelers who are primarily going on safari for game viewing, it’s better to visit Victoria Falls between June and August. During this time of year, you can take a quick trip to nearby Botswana to see gorgeous wild animals in their natural habitat.

Now that you’ve found answers to your most pressing Victoria Falls questions, it’s time to get started on the process of booking the dream safari you deserve.

Unforgettable Victoria Falls Experiences

If you have an adventurous spirit and have been planning to go on a vacation, then you should think about taking an African safari. While on safari, you’ll have access to a wide array of activities that are perfect for thrill seekers, particularly if you make sure your trip includes a stop in Victoria Falls.

Victoria Falls is one of Africa’s most exciting locations thanks to experiences that you won’t find anywhere else in the entire world. Here are a few Victoria Falls activities that you should choose if you’re interested in a holiday that is filled with unique, memorable adventures.

Elephant Back Safari

One of the most popular reasons to go on safari is being able to interact with exotic animals in their natural habitat. While there are several ways to see animals up close and personal in Victoria Falls, the most exciting activities is going for a ride on a majestic elephant.

There are several locations in the Victoria Falls area that offers elephant rides, and there’s virtually no more memorable way to enjoy your safari than on the back of an elephant. Make sure to check this item off of your bucket list during your Victoria Falls safari.

Go Fishing in the Zambezi

For many people looking for an exciting vacation, there’s nothing better than spending a day on the river trying to catch a fish. Luckily, Victoria Falls offers some of the best fishing in the entire world thanks to the nearby Zambezi River.

The reason that fishing on the Zambezi is so exciting is that there are several big game freshwater species, including the challenging Tiger Fish. Fishing the Zambezi is a particularly excellent choice if you want to try your hand at fly fishing. Whether you spend a whole or half day, you’ll always remember fishing for the Tiger Fish on your safari.

Visit Devil’s Pool

After you’re finished with your fishing out on the Zambezi, you should take your boat to Livingstone Island, which is just outside of Victoria Falls. On this very small island, you can experience some of the most breathtaking views anywhere in Africa.

When you’re done taking in the scenery, you can enjoy one of the most pulse-pounding Victoria Falls activities: Going for a swim in Devil’s Pool. This natural pool is located right on the edge of the falls, and if you’re stout of heart, you can swim right up to the rim and peer over the waterfalls.

See the Falls from the Sky

If you’re limited in time and simply want to see Victoria Falls in person, the best way to do so is by taking a microlight flight. On your microlight flight, you’ll be able to soar over the falls and enjoy them in all their glory. While this activity is only for the most adventurous safari-goers, it’s an experience that you’re sure to treasure.

If you want to pack your next African safari with adventure, the only location that you should visit is Victoria Falls. Pick any of these Victoria Falls activities, and your next trip will be one of the most memorable of your entire life.

The famousZambia

Zambia is home to some of the most spectacular aquatic sites in the world, including its lengthy list of majestic and stunningly unique waterfalls. Victoria Falls, the largest waterfall in the world in terms of sheer size, counts among these.

You will also find all manner of spectacular waterfalls and cascades all throughout the country. Here are our top five we recommend:

Victoria Falls

One of the most iconic natural landmarks in Africa and one of the officially designated “Seven Wonders of the World,” Victoria Falls sits in a league all unto its own. Locals know it as “Mosi-oa-Tunya” or “the smoke that thunders” because its spray and thunderous roar can be seen and heard from miles away.

In total, Victoria Falls measures 5,604 ft in width and 354 ft in height, creating the world’s largest single curtain of falling water. During the height of the rainy season, over five hundred million cubic meters of water cascade over its edge. Cutting through zigzagging gorges, the pools that result from the falls draw rare wildlife from all around the region, including Grant’s zebra, Katanga lions, water buffalo, giraffe, elephants, vervet monkeys, baboons and many more.

Kalambo Falls

Located on the border between Zambia and Tanzania, Kalambo Falls is among the tallest waterfalls in Africa. Here, you will not only find rare sights like marabou stork nests but also fascinating anthropological sites. These extensively excavated sites were once home to prehistoric cultures dating back tens of thousands of years.

Ngonye Falls

Next to Victoria Falls, the Ngonye Falls make up some of the most majestic and incredible waterfalls in Zambia. They surround a wide, horseshoe-shaped basin at the transition point between the Zambezi River’s wide Kalahari flatland region and its more tumultuous and narrower path through basalt rock.

On either end of the falls, you can stand on rocks while the water gushes underneath. Below in the gorge, you will frequently find herds of elephants bathing, drinking or taking a rest.

The Kundalila Falls

The Kundalila Falls are not quite as noteworthy for their water flows as they are for the unique ecological habitat they create. Thin veils of water cascade over a wide swathe of rock, carving out deep pools on the bottom while sending sprays throughout the area. These sprays sustain a striking array of wild flowers as well as a richly diverse community of wildlife.

Lumangwe Falls

These falls are like a thunderous version of Victoria Falls writ small. They are found at a sudden drop in the Kalungwishi River in the Northern Province, providing a remote and frequently secluded camping spot for visitors. New lodges and visitor facilities have also been recently built nearby, making this area the perfect getaway spot for those on safari.

Come See Victoria Falls and the Other Famous Waterfalls of Zambia on a Safari Tour

You can book a trip to Victoria Falls, one of Africa’s most famous locations, as well as to any and all of these other gorgeous waterfalls when you enjoy one of our Zambia safari tour packages. Find your perfect safari vacation itinerary, and then book your trip today!

Jill Liphart for Roho Ya Chui, Travel Africa

Fruits and Foods Native to Africa

When most people picture Africa in their minds, they see grassy plains, desert landscapes and fierce animals. Far from a place where fruit and other foods grow in abundance—but, Africa is a surprising land of plenty in many, many ways. Much of African culture revolves around the delicious food that is produced by the diverse peoples that make up the continent. South Africa, in particular, is abundant in plant food sources. This is most evident when tourists taste the world class cuisine that chefs put together using local sources. Once you experience an African safari vacation, you will never think of this place in the same way again. Here are some of the native fruits and foods native to Africa.

1. Amaranth

The lowlands of Africa are associated with the stunning gorillas that many tourists travel around the world to see. The countries that comprise this area are hot, humid and full of thriving plant life. This plant diversity includes the edible greenery, Amaranth. Amaranth thrives and grows quickly in the humid environment and is used by the locals, as well as others around the world, for a variety of uses. As an excellent source of protein, essential minerals, iron, calcium, magnesium, potassium, zinc and other vitamins, this plant plays an important role in the diets of people who call the African lowlands home.

2. Cowpea

Thousands of years ago, the hearty people who called Africa home grew a major crop that is still a staple in the land today. Cowpea is a legume that could not be more perfect for life on the diverse continent. Not only is it efficient in drought, but it can also be grown successfully in poor soil conditions.

3. The Spider Plant

The Spider Plant is to Africa what lettuce and other leafy greens are to many areas of the world. This plant is grown throughout the continent and plays a significant role in the diet of the people who live here.

4. African Eggplant

Like many other plants that are grown in Africa, the African Eggplant can thrive in poor soil and drought conditions. It is also very easy to store and is long lasting. Most importantly, second to being a very nutritious vegetable, this plant is the fiscal lifeline for many African families. While tourism plays a giant role in the economies of many African nations, agriculture is also a driving force. This plant, in particular, is a multi-beneficial staple in many areas.

Book Your African Safari Vacation

Are you ready to try some of these native fruits and vegetables for yourself? You can get your questions answered and begin booking your African safari vacation by visiting our safari page or contacting a representative with Rohoyachui today.

Jill LIphart for Roho Ya Chui, Travel Africa

Visiting the different regions of Africa

Roho Ya Chui offers safaris all across Africa so that you can travel the locations you’re most drawn to. Each part of the continent offers unique experiences from scenery to wildlife to cuisine. Explore our site and guides for more details, but consider these brief descriptions of some of our favorite regions of Africa to start narrowing down your trip choices. Remember not to stress over your decision—all the safaris are incredible, and you can always come back for another!

Botswana & Namibia

Surround yourself with wildlife during your trip to Chobe National Park in Botswana. The park is home to one of the largest concentrations of elephants on the entire African continent. As the game roam freely in the large natural space, you’ll also be likely to spot buffalo, antelope, rafts of hippo, lions, crocodiles, zebras, and hyenas. Sound like your ideal trip? Think about the 9-day Signature Botswana safari or check out what our Namibia trips have to offer.

Southern Africa

The country of South Africa is a great place to visit if you’re interested in exploring Southern Africa. Cape Town offers incredible views of the ocean and mountains. Visit the Jackass penguins on Boulders Beach and watch the gorgeous sunset over Table Mountain. Kruger Park offers highly skilled and qualified professional rangers and trackers who will land you intimate wildlife encounters with leopards, elephants, buffalo, rhino, and lions. There are plenty of safaris to think about taking throughout the nations of Southern Africa, but a few to consider in South Africa are the 7-day Signature Kruger, the 10-day Cape Town, Kruger & Victoria Falls, and the 6-day Blyde River, Kruger, and Panorama Route fly-in tour.

Victoria Falls, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Malawi, & Madagascar

Trips to Victoria Falls offer the opportunity for activities like white water rafting and bungee jumping. If you’re seeking something a little less extreme, there are also the more low-key options of elephant back safaris and sunset cruises. The largest sheet of falling water on earth, The Victoria Falls are one of the natural Seven Wonders of the World. In this region, expect to see warthogs and sample interesting dishes like crocodile risotto and kudu steaks. Consider the 11-day Best of Zimbabwe, Signature Zambia tours, and many more throughout these various nations.

Tanzania, Kenya, Rwanda, & Uganda

A Tanzanian tour will guarantee spotting an abundance of wildlife. With more than 550 species of birds, the swamps surrounding the Tarangire River support the largest number of breeding bird species found anywhere in the world. You might also come across elephants, pythons, herds of oryx, and tree climbing lions. Additionally, you’ll view impressive rock paintings that were created by men tens of thousands of years ago. Visit the Serengeti to experience an ongoing source of inspiration for filmmakers, photographers, and writers around the world. Try the 18-day Grand Tour Tanzania, or look into our trips to Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda.

Jill Liphart for Roho Ya Chui, Travel Africa

8 Packing Essentials for your Safari

Packing for your grand safari adventure is different from packing for a trip to Disney Land or a weekend in Las Vegas. While you are dreaming of excitement and vistas that take your breath away, keep in mind that you are going to spend the majority of your time out of doors, and you do not want to get dirty or be schlepping four bags in your wake.

Packing Light

The name of the game is pack light. In fact, if you are planning on doing any plane hops between sites, you could be limited to less than 25 lbs. Your best bet is not to bring things you do not need, and, if possible, to bring a small duffel bag of absolute essentials to take on your safari, while you leave your larger roller bag and less needed items in your arrival/departure city. Check with your tour operator to find out any luggage restrictions they may have, as well as to get details about lockers or other long-term storage options for while you are “on safari.”

The Wearables: Clothing and Accessories

Temperatures can fluctuate wildly from day to night, so packing in layers is important. Bringing specialty travel wear, or anything that dries quickly, can save you space as you can wash them in the sink and air dry overnight. You want to avoid any brightly colored items, including white, to ensure you do not stand out and distract the animals.

Loosely fitting clothing will help prevent over-heating in the day time, and a fleece or sweatshirt will keep you cool in the chilly morning or evening. A thin roll-up raincoat can be packed in an outside pocket or bottom of the bag and will be needed during the rainy season. Long pants and sleeves will protect you from the elements as well as mosquitoes.

For a typical safari of a week to ten days, the following items should be sufficient, but again, check with your tour operator.

1. Tops: 3-4 T-shirts, 2 long sleeved shirts
2. Bottoms: 1 pair comfortable, loose shorts, two pairs of long cotton pants (avoid jeans)
3. Outerwear: 1 sweatshirt or fleece, 1 thin raincoat
4. Undergarments: 2-3 pairs of socks, 4 pair underwear, 2-3 sports bras (if needed) all in a material that can be washed in sink
5. Shoes: 1 pair water shoes/ flip flops for shower, 1 pair waterproof, comfortable, lightweight shoes for everyday
6. Pajamas: 1 pair warm pajama pants can be paired with your t-shirts or sweatshirt to keep you warm during the chilly nights
7. Accessories: Sunglasses and a hat with strap to protect you not only from the sun but also the dust
8. Your swimsuit

Extra Gadgets
You are going on a safari to see the scenery and wildlife around you, so you do not need to pack a lot of “extra” entertainment. You are, however, going to want to capture your trip, so a camera is a must. With the camera make sure you consider extra batteries and/or charger, as well as additional SD/memory cards. You should also consider bringing binoculars to spot birds and hiding wildlife. Other items to include are a flashlight for walking around at night and a cell phone with an international plan (and the charger!)

Toiletries and Medicines

You do not need to go overboard with medicine and first aid, as the tour company will have first aid kits, but it is always a good idea to have a small stash on hand. When packing for your safari, consider packing Band-Aids, antibiotic ointment, pain relievers, antihistamine (pills or creams), bug spray/repellent, sun block and antacids/antidiarrheals. You can also pack hand sanitizer for when hand washing water is unavailable. You will also need to pack any feminine hygiene products (if needed) and you should consider panty liners—toilet paper is nowhere to be found nor is there any place to dispose of it while on a game drive.

You are Ready To Go

Keep in mind when packing for your safari that you are limited in the space you can bring. You will be spending the majority of your time outside in the dust and sun; you do not need to bring a fashion runway’s worth of clothes. Pack light and with layerable items for fluctuating temperatures. Moreover, don’t forget your camera! Bon Voyage!

Jill Liphart for Roho Ya Chui, Travel Africa

Must Try African Dishes

It’s no secret that indulging in delectable new foods is one of the greatest parts of exploring a place you’ve never been before, and your journey to Africa will be no exception. Crispy barbecued meats, spicy sauces and rich flavors are just a few aspects of the cuisine you can start looking forward to. These delicious African dishes will undoubtedly get your palate just as excited for the big trip as the rest of you.

Briouat

Briouats are a must-try. The baked or fried Moroccan pastries boast a variety of stuffings: beef, lamb, chicken, cheese, lemon, vegetables and spices like coriander and paprika. Get them as an appetizer, or try every flavor and make them your whole meal.

Pap en vleis/Shisa nyama

A South African favorite, pap en vleis means “maize porridge and meat.” You can try steak, kebabs, chicken, sausage or chops. The meat is barbecued and served with gravy or chakalaka, a spicy vegetable relish with a fiery flavor. Eat it with a local South African beer and you’re in for an unforgettable experience.

Kachumbari

This flavorful dish is especially popular in East Africa.  It consists of raw chopped onions, tomatoes, salt and chili peppers for flavor and heat. Some enjoy it with pilau rice, a dish cooked with cumin, cardamom, cloves, turmeric and cinnamon. Even better? In Kenya, Kachumbari is eaten with roasted goat or beef.

Piri piri Chicken

A dish most commonly found in Mozambique, just reading about Piri piri chicken will likely get your mouth watering. Cooked with lime, garlic, pepper, coconut milk and cilantro, this meat and its marinade make for an amazing dish. We promise that the crisp, spicy roast chicken and its succulent center is delicious beyond belief.

Muamba de Galinha

Originally from Angola, Muamba de Galinha is a chicken cuisine made with palm oil or butter, garlic, okra and chilis. It’s often served with white rice and cassava leaves in the Congo River region, or macadamia or palm nuts in Gabon. If you’re looking for rich and spicy, Muamba de Galinha is the right choice.

Bobotie

South Africa’s national food, Bobotie is a combination of spicy ground meat, chutney, curry powder, raisins and apricot jam generally topped with baked eggs and milk. It tastes as incredible as it sounds.

Fufu

Fufu is a paste created from starchy root vegetables like plantains, cassava, or yams. Originally a West African dish, the vegetables are pounded into a doughy substance and then rolled into tiny balls that are served with a variety of sauces or aside the main course. The starch perfectly complements spicy gravies or stews.

Cholent

Also a Jewish tradition, Cholent is frequently eaten in Northern Africa. It typically consists of potatoes, pinto or kidney beans, onions, barley and meat. Beef is usually the meat of choice, but chicken or sausage can be substituted. Garlic, paprika, pepper and cayenne create the dish’s irresistible flavor.

So many spectacular dishes are just another sign that Africa could be your best vacation yet. Find out how Roho Ya Chui can help you make the most of this once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Jill Liphart for Roho Ya Chui, Travel Africa

 

 

 

Planning Your Safari Adventure

When planning your dream African safari adventure there are two major considerations: Where, and, less intuitively, when. Sure, when picking a time of year to go on a vacation, school holidays, work schedules, and family appointments are all important concerns, but you must also contemplate what you hope to accomplish on your grand Safari. Do you want to see the “Big 5” game animals? Or are you an avid bird-watcher? Are you sensitive to extreme temperature swings? Do you detest excessive rain fall? These are all things that should be considered when planning your trip to Africa.

Creating the Perfect Experience for You

For most explorers on Safari, the wildlife is the main draw. For best animal viewing, you’ll want to go in the dry season. Lack of grasses and foliage mean that the animals migrate to known watering holes. This increases your guide’s chances of finding animals for you to view. While wildlife can be hard to spot in the tall grasses of the wet season, if birding is your goal, the wet season can provide better opportunity, as migrant birds are in the region. This is due to the nesting and/or breeding patterns of the birds.

Africa is largely equatorial; of the 54 countries in Africa, the equator passes through twelve of them, and it does so almost in the smack middle of the continent. That means depending on where you are choosing to journey, chances are you will be going south of the equator. And in the southern hemisphere, the seasons are opposite from the United States.

Temperature fluctuations do occur, and depending on region and elevation can be rather extreme. The daily temperature ranges in the eastern part of Africa typically are more affected by altitude changes. Southern Africa, including the subtropical region, is more affected by winter and summer (and, again, seasons are opposite of what you would expect in the northern hemisphere.)

The Dry Season

The common dry season in the eastern part of Africa on, and south of, the equator (think Kenya, Rwanda, and parts of Tanzania) is Winter, and because this region is in the southern hemisphere, winter means from June to October. A second, smaller “dry-season” also occurs typically during December to the middle of March.

Southern and Western Tanzania elevations border the sub-tropic region, and have a blend of both equatorial east Africa, and Subtropical Africa climatic temperaments. The subtropical region (Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Botswana and parts of South Africa) has its dry season from April to October.

The Wet Season

Mother Nature rarely adheres to a schedule, so yes, it can rain at any time. But rainfall is most typical during the rainy months. Rain is crucial for the wildlife, as it allows for the grasses and other flora in the region to flourish, and these plants are necessary for the survival of the animals in the region. This is especially important for the equatorial eastern portion of the continent, which, in addition to the countries listed above, encompasses most of the Serengeti. The Serengeti is one of the seven natural wonders of Africa and this rainfall is life-giving for the many animals that migrate and live there. In this region rainfall should be expected in April and May, with a potential for a rainy November.

The subtropical region of Africa has a much more predictable (if one can call weather predictable) rainy season than the eastern portion of the continent. November to March is considered the rainy season, although when the precise start of the season, and how much rain will come does vary from year to year.

Planning Your African Safari

No matter the time of year you choose to go, you are sure to be awed an amazed and the landscape and animals around you. A little planning and forethought are all you need to frame your expectations and have the experience of a lifetime. Contact us at Roho Ya Chui today to learn more about planning the perfect African safari.

Jill Liphart for Roho Ya Chui, Travel Africa

Choosing the right Safari Adventure for You

You want to go on an African safari adventure, but there are so many to choose from. Of course, you would like to see as many of the iconic and amazing creatures of the land that you can, as well as the beautiful, diverse landscape. There are also many other aspects of South Africa and the surrounding areas that some tourists do not consider or even know exist. For instance, did you know that there are luxury camping options available to guests? You will also be able to taste some of Africa’s most amazing flavors and dishes. Of course, your trip itinerary and experiences are dependent on the safari adventure that you choose. Here are some tips to help you to pick the right one.

Your African Safari Goals

It is important to realize that you will not be able to see all of Africa’s most beloved animals in a single location. Some animals are exclusive to certain areas—the Mountain Gorilla, for example, is critically endangered and can only be seen in four national parks. Be sure to list the animals that you would like to see most, and choose to visit an area where you will most likely be able to see them. Of course, if the main event for you would be to see Victoria Falls up close and personal, you would want to plan your trip around that.

Your Safari Style

There are many ways to experience Africa. You could rough it along the way and stay in popular camps while making life-long friends with other members of your group, or you could partake in a more luxurious adventure. Consider your limits when planning—you do not want to go on an adventure that you do not enjoy.

Location, Location, Location

Africa has many amazing national parks that attract tourists from around the world, but no two are the same. Thanks to the extremely diverse landscape, you will have the opportunity to visit different worlds within a single continent. Research the parks that you find most attractive, and be sure that they include everything that you want to get out of your safari vacation.

Mode of Transportation

Of course, if one area does not quite cut it as far as fulfilling your safari dreams, you should travel to another to make up the slack. Many people argue that the best way to see Africa is in the air, though that is not an option for everyone. You can also travel on a guided vehicle tour, self-driven vehicle or even on the back of a horse. How would you like to see Africa?

Plan Your African Safari Vacation

We can help you to plan your perfect African Safari vacation. Seeing everything that Africa has to offer is a dream for many people, and it can become reality when you choose the right adventure package. If you would like more information, visit our safari tours page or contact a representative with Rohoyachui today.

Jill Liphart for Roho Ya Chui, Travel Africa

Family Friendly African Safari Destinations

If you’re looking to take your family on the trip of a lifetime, an African safari may just be the perfect option. Think about how much joy your children get just looking at the chimpanzees and snakes at the zoo; now imagine how much they’ll light up seeing lions in their natural habitat. With breathtaking scenery and unforgettable wildlife spotting, a family-friendly African safari is an ideal way to create shared memories that will last a lifetime.

Why Choose an African Safari for Your Next Family Trip?

There are many positive reasons for choosing Africa as your next family vacation destination. For one thing, a lot of African societies are very family-oriented themselves, and are quite welcoming and accommodating to children. It won’t be long before your kids start to feel at home! Additionally, many safari camps and lodges offer specifically family-friendly options for accommodation.

English and other western languages are widely spoken in many African nations, so getting around and communicating should not be a problem. Plus, exposing your children to a culture entirely different from their own can be incredibly beneficial.

Of course, there are certain precautions to take before setting off on a family-friendly African safari adventure. Be sure your children know all the rules of the trip in order to stay safe around wildlife. Also, there may be vaccinations they’ll need to get before visiting Africa for the first time.

Family-Friendly Safari Destinations

Once you’ve settled on the idea of a family-friendly African safari, it’s time to narrow down your destination. Where will you and your family go? With the abundance of wildlife and natural wonders in Southern and Eastern Africa, it’s hard to make a wrong decision in terms of destination. For a family-friendly African safari, however, these are a few of our favorite destinations:

• Cape Town: This cosmopolitan city on the coast of South Africa serves as a great bookend to any safari trip. You can either visit Cape Town first as an introduction to African culture before setting out in the wilderness, or after you’ve gone on safari to relax pool and beachside before heading back home. Children will especially love visiting the penguins on Boulders Beach, and riding a Table Mountain cable car is sure to delight the whole family.
• Chobe National Park: Your children will see something straight out of a dream at Chobe in Botswana: one of Africa’s largest concentrations of elephant. There are also two species of antelope—the puku and the Chobe bushbuck—that you won’t find anywhere else in the country. Children and parents alike will marvel at the reserve’s plethora of majestic big game.
• Phinda Private Game Reserve: This reserve in South Africa is home to Africa’s “big five”: lion, elephant, leopard, buffalo, and rhino. You’ll perhaps even spot a cheetah! Phinda is the perfect family-friendly safari destination for the true animal lover in your household.

To get started dreaming up your next family holiday, our safaris page is there to offer inspiration. We hope to show your family the wonders of the African wilderness sometime soon!

Jill Liphart for Roho Ya Chui, Travel Africa