Imagine stepping off a long flight and being instantly enveloped by the wild beauty and vibrant cultures of
Southern Africa. Many dream of exploring this iconic region, waking to the sound of distant lions or watching
the sun rise above Table Mountain. Too often, those dreams feel out of reach, tangled in uncertainty about where
to begin or how to make each moment meaningful.
What if, instead of settling for the familiar or the safe, you could experience Africa’s cities, waterfalls, and
wilderness in ways that transform not just your perspective, but you as a traveler?
My recent journey across South Africa, Zimbabwe, and
Botswana shattered every expectation I had about what an African adventure could be. This is more than just a
trip recap.
It’s an invitation to reimagine what’s possible!
Join me, Amy
Bakko, on my journey kayaking with penguins in Cape Town, seeing elephants from my lodge balcony, and
venturing to the edge of the world’s mightiest waterfall. Along the way, you’ll discover how each Southern
Africa destination can surprise, delight, and connect travelers to something greater than themselves.
Ready to move from dreaming to doing? Let my travels inspire you to design your own once-in-a-lifetime African
vacation!
Cape Town: Coastal Beauty & Urban Adventure
My African adventure began with three dazzling days in Cape Town, South Africa. Truly, the most beautiful city
I’ve ever visited.
Cape Town is unique, surrounded by ocean on three sides and crowned by the unforgettable Table Mountain.
Highlights
- Kayaking With Penguins:Sharing the waters with these playful locals is an unforgettable
experience.
- Hiking Lion’s Head:The panoramic views of Table Mountain are simply breathtaking.
- Cape of Good Hope:We trekked to Africa’s most southwestern tip. Windblown, wild, and
spectacular!
- A Day in the Winelands:Our wine and chocolate tasting was unforgettable. South Africa’s
vineyards know how to impress!
- Apartheid History: We immersed ourselves in Cape Town’s complex past with remarkably
knowledgeable tour guides.
If you’re the type of global traveler who loves coastal beauty, check out Riverdale Travel’s Top
Destinations for Beach Vacations.
- On the List: Camps Bay, Western Cape
This suburb of Cape Town is located on the Atlantic coast, just a short drive (10–15 minutes) from the city
center. Known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant
atmosphere, and stunning views of Table Mountain and the Twelve Apostles, Camps Bay is part of the greater Cape
Town metro area.
Sabi Sands: A Big 5 Safari at Lion Sands River Lodge
Next, we journeyed into safari country: Sabi Sands, a private reserve adjacent to Kruger
National Park in northeastern South Africa.
Our home base, Lion Sands River Lodge, was absolutely stunning. Our group enjoyed all-inclusive
luxury with expert guides and trackers who brought our wildlife dreams to life.
Safari Perks
- Off-road game drives with close-up views:Only two vehicles are allowed per animal at a time
for a respectful experience.
- All meals, drinks, and game drives included!
Wildlife Spectacle
- The Big Five:We saw elephants, rhinos, buffalo (all on the drive from the airport), and, by
the end, lions and a leopard. Not to mention zebras, giraffes, hippos, and countless antelopes!
Interested in what to pack for a safari? We’ve covered that in our Tips
for Your First African Safari.
Victoria Falls: Nature’s Roar & River Adventure
Our next awe-inspiring stop: Victoria Falls, the planet’s largest waterfall.
We stayed on the Zimbabwean side at Victoria Falls River Lodge, nestled on the banks of the Zambezi River and
within Zambezi National Park.
Top Experiences
- Elephant Encounters:Feeding rescued elephants at the Elephant Café.
- Devil’s Pool: Peering over the edge of the thundering falls!
- Guided Falls Tour:The sheer power and mist of Victoria Falls is indescribable.
- Sunrise Cruise Safari:Spotting hippos, crocodiles, elephants, antelopes, and vibrant
birdlife.
Again, our guided tours were
wonderful! Whether you go on a southern or eastern safari, I would highly recommend adding Victoria Falls to
your itinerary.
Khwai Leadwood, Botswana: Delta Magic & Intimate Wildlife
The last stop took us into the enchanting Okavango Delta, staying at the intimate Khwai Leadwood River Lodge in
the Moremi Game Reserve. With just seven rooms and a close-knit staff, the service here felt delightfully
personal.
Nature at Your Doorstep
- Elephants and hippos mere yards away!
- Plenty of water even in the dry season, with abundant sightings.
Safari Discoveries
- Lions, elephants, endangered wild dogs, crocodiles, hippos, zebras, buffalo, giraffes, warthogs, and
antelopes.
Reflections & Planning for Your Own Trip
This journey through Southern Africa was a tapestry of natural wonders, thrilling wildlife, luxury lodges, and
warm personal connections. Each destination offered something unique, whether it was the cultural tapestry of
Cape Town, the wild excitement of Sabi Sands, the marvel of Victoria Falls, or the serenity of the Okavango
Delta.
If you’re considering an African trip, whether traveling with a group like I did or a private
adventure, I highly recommend these destinations! Let Riverdale Travel help you craft a journey that mixes
iconic sights, authentic experiences, and personal comfort at every step.
Ready to Start Planning Your Adventure? Let’s Talk!
I’ve always been passionate about traveling! I love to become immersed in new cultures and have
once-in-a-lifetime experiences at every new destination. My favorite types of trips blend classic tourist spots
and finding amazing places off the beaten path. Check out reviews from my
happy clients!
When you’re ready to chat about your ideal Southern Africa trip, feel free to send me an email
or call Riverdale Travel at
763-323-3665 and request me (Amy Bakko) as your travel consultant.
Wherever you want to go, chances are I can give you personal insight into that destination!