Tanzania and Zanzibar

Tanzania remains one of the most popular safari destinations and is a top choice for classic luxury safaris. The Serengeti, known for the Great Wildebeest Migration, is surely one of the greatest wonders of the natural world! The Serengeti National Park is home to an array of safari experiences, including traditional game drives, walking safaris and even hot air balloon safaris

The best way to round off these phenomenal safari experiences is with spending a few days on the beaches of Zanzibar! The islands, known for its spices and luminescent waters, are easily accessible with daily nonstop flights from the capital, Dar Es Salaam, as well as flights from smaller runways within the national parks. Enjoy the vibrant markets of Stone Town, enjoy the private beaches at your resort or catch rays by the ocean - these are just a few ways to recharge your batteries.

Pro-Tip: The best time to visit this combination is June to October - when the weather is cool and dry. It even gives you the best weather to do some scuba diving in Zanzibar!

Kenya and Lamu Island

It is undeniable that the Masai Mara is one of the most well-known parks in Africa. Situated in southwest Kenya, Masai Mara extends south to the Serengeti National Park. The name, Masai Mara, comes from the local Masaai people who call this land ‘Mara’, or spotted, referring to the way the acacia trees, indentations and craters dot these expansive plains. Between the months of July and November, these lands provide nourishment for wildebeest herds of epic proportions!

For your post-safari beach break, one could either choose Zanzibar (which is a short flight away) or head over to the lesser known Lamu Island! Lamu is one of the half-forgotten, unspoiled by mass tourism kind of places in Kenya – peaceful, tropical and quasi-bohemian. In Lamu, life slows down. You’ll spend your day either strolling endlessly along the waterfront, exploring the town or relaxing on the beaches. The famous dhow safaris allow for a leisurely cruise around the archipelago to the islands of Manda, Siyu, Pate and Kiwayu.

Zambia and Madagascar and Nosy Ankao

South Luangwa National park is rated as one of the best wildlife sanctuaries in the world by experts, especially given the high game-dense area due to the Luangwa river. The now famous ‘walking safari’ originated in this Park and is still one of the finest ways to experience Africa’s pristine wilderness first-hand. What’s best about a safari at South Luangwa is that it is relatively untouched by modern humans when compared to the larger Serengeti, Masai Mara or Kruger National Parks – thus providing an unpredictable and exhilarating safari experience.

For the perfect beach destination to go with your Zambia holiday, head to Madagascar - the fourth largest Island in the world and home to a whopping 5% of the world's plant and animal species. The island country boasts of beautiful, pristine reefs and gorgeous sandy beaches and is known for scenery and wildlife, adventure tourism and of course, its stunning beaches! .

Pro-Tip: For a more luxurious experience, take a trip to the small island of Nosy Ankao, off the northeastern shore of the island of Madagascar. The island has Madagascar’s first five-star luxury resort, Miavana, which set a new bar when it came to African luxury!

South Africa and Mauritius

South Africa is home to the Kruger National Park, one of the biggest National Parks in Africa. Pick the correct time to visit and you might just be able to experience one of the cheapest wildlifespotting opportunities in Africa. This fact alone is one of the best reasons to select Kruger as a safari destination - whether you’re traveling solo or with family. Good road connections and an array of amenities make this one of the easiest parks to visit.

Mauritius is one of the most beautiful islands off the coast of Africa and just a short, four-hour flight from Johannesburg. A large portion of the island is surrounded by an outer reef, creating the perfect lagoon for swimming, snorkeling and water sports and at the same time, keeping the big fish (aka sharks), away. The islands have no shortage of luxurious beach resorts and is one of the popular spots for a romantic getaway/ honeymoon.

Pro-Tip: Mauritius’ beaches are ideal for some sea adventures like snorkeling, submarine ride and the sub-scooter. Do make sure to add this to your itinerary when visiting.

Other stunning beach destinations in Africa:

Seychelles

Of all the islands on the vast continent of Africa, Seychelles is probably the most romantic and exclusive. The beaches in Seychelles feature azure waters and picturesque boulders rising out of the soft white sand - we’re sure you’ve seen the famous Anse Source D’Argent - it’s the most photographed beach in the world! In Seychelles, you can spend your days relaxing on the picture perfect beaches, hiking through the lush jungles or even exploring the underwater riches. Resorts across Seychelles offer over-the-top luxury, ensuring you have a memorable experience.

Mozambique

While the islands of Seychelles and Mauritius are more about a refined European experience, Mozambique is more about enjoying the simple things in life. This off-the-beaten-path island is known for its pristine beaches, rich history, abundant wildlife and some of the friendliest people on the planet. It’s colourful reefs are ideal for diving and snorkeling and bring with it a vibrant marine life including sea turtles, dolphins, whale sharks, and more .