Holiday in 2013：Unexpected African getaways

Hot Air Ballooning over Sossusvlei

 

Writing on behalf of the world’s leading foreign exchange specialists, Travelex, published writer and enthusiastic travel blogger Maya Verber gives her take on Africa’s hidden holiday destinations. They might just surprise you…

A Zambian adventure

A Zambian adventure

If you’re looking for an African adventure, Zambia is the perfect place to start. Home to the magnificent Zambezi River as well as three of Africa’s largest lakes, thrilling white water rafting, canoeing, and even abseiling and bungee jumping at Victoria Falls Bridge are all activities available for visitors to Zambia. There’s also some excellent opportunities to spot wildlife including the ‘big five’ from the back of a horse or on foot.

Zambia is a fantastic destination choice for South African holidaymakers, since you won’t need a visa to enter the country. The Zambian kwacha has also become slightly steadier in recent years, but you’re still likely to get a better deal if you exchange some cash before travelling, try Travelex SA’s currency converter to check how many you’ll get for your South African Rand.

Beach paradise in Kenya

Beach paradise in Kenya

When you think of Kenya, thenit’s only natural that a safari comes to mind, but it’s not all Kenya has to offer. Just south of Mombasa lies the Indian Ocean, and 10km of one of the most beautiful beaches in the country.

Diani Beach is home to white sands, palm trees, coral reefs, rare monkeys, high class restaurants and a variety of accommodation options. This is a great place for a honeymoon with a difference or an activities based trip – kite surfing is very popular here.

Surfing in Namibia

Surfing in Namibia

If you’re searching for that perfect surfing spot then definitely give Namibia a try. The world class surf and consistent swell of this African country’s coastline is relatively unknown, so get a piece of the action before the word gets out. While the country’s beaches can be hard to get to, they are worth the journey (here’s a video to prove why).

Visitors from Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, the UK and Canada can all visit Namibia visa free, so as long as you’re not too afraid of sharks, it’s time to grab your board.

Challenging horizons of Ethiopia

Simien Mountains

Ethiopia also makes an excellent travel destination and offers some of the most dramatic trekking in the continent. Head for the Simien Mountains and Bale Mountains National Parks for some of most interesting scenery in the country. Here you can also spot rare wildlife such as the mountain ibex (Africa’s most endangered carnivore) and the Ethiopian wolf, which can only be found in Ethiopia.

Holiday in 2013：Unexpected African getaways