Africa Beyond the Obvious
Hidden Gems for Your Last-Minute Holiday So, you’ve missed the window for the Great Migration – now what? The Mara camps are packed, the big-name reserves are booked, and suddenly everyone and their safari hat seems to be in East Africa. But here’s the good news: there’s still time to experience Africa at its finest – just not where everyone else is going. This is your invitation to explore a different side of Africa: the quiet corners, the wild treasures, the lesser-known destinations that offer every bit as much magic – just without the crowds. Think misty mountains, golden savannahs, barefoot beach lodges, and river safaris where yours is the only boat in sight. From Mozambique’s dreamy coastlines and Zambia’s uncrowded national parks to South Africa’s warmer winter escapes, these are the last-minute holidays that prove Africa’s best-kept secrets are still very much open – and just waiting to be discovered. Let’s explore five unforgettable places where you can still find sunshine, safari, and soul this summer. 01. Mozambique – Beach Bliss and Wilderness Revival If you’re craving sun-warmed sands, castaway luxury, and a safari experience that feels deeply authentic, Mozambique delivers all that – and then some. Far from the crowds of East Africa’s migration routes, Mozambique offers an intoxicating blend of barefoot beach romance and wild, soul-stirring landscapes. Bazaruto Archipelago: Indian Ocean Magic Mozambique’s coast is at its most dazzling in winter, with long sunny days, minimal rainfall, and warm turquoise waters. The Bazaruto Archipelago – a cluster of islands off Vilanculos – is home to some of the most exclusive beach lodges in Africa. Think: palm-fringed beaches, dhow cruises at sunset, and private villas with plunge pools just steps from the sea. For high-end travellers seeking tranquillity, Azura Benguerra and Azura Marlin Beach are honeymoon-worthy hideaways offering exceptional service, fresh seafood feasts, and just the right amount of indulgence. Gorongosa – Safari with heart and soul Looking for something more untamed? Pair your island escape with a safari in Gorongosa National Park – Mozambique’s great conservation comeback story. Once devastated by war, this park has become a global model for ecological restoration and community engagement. It’s also incredibly beautiful, uncrowded, and bursting with wildlife during the dry winter months. Stay with the Gorongosa Safari Company in intimate tented camps that bring you close to nature while offering thoughtful touches and warm hospitality. Expect elephants, lions, rare antelope, and exceptional birdlife – plus the chance to support a destination where tourism truly makes a difference. Why Mozambique now? Dry season: best game viewing and island weather Under-the-radar: fewer travellers, more serenity Easy combinations: bush + beach in one seamless journey Whether you’re chasing the sun, the silence, or a safari with purpose, Mozambique is Africa’s best-kept secret for last-minute travellers who want it all. 02. Zambia & Zimbabwe – Under-the- Radar Safari Greats If you’re yearning for a real-deal safari – one without the selfie sticks and traffic jams – then Zambia and Zimbabwe are where the wild things still roam, quietly. These two neighbouring countries offer some of Africa’s most rewarding game experiences, guided by some of the most skilled naturalists on the continent… and yet they remain blissfully uncrowded, even in high season. Zambia: Walk on the wild side In Zambia, it’s all about intimacy with nature. South Luangwa National Park is considered the birthplace of the walking safari, and today still delivers spectacular sightings on foot and by vehicle. Think leopards slinking through riverine woodland, elephants dust-bathing under winter skies, and campfire stories under a thousand stars. The Lower Zambezi is equally unforgettable, with canoe safaris, riverside lodges, and boat-based wildlife watching that feels like a dream. Many camps here are owner-run, ultra-personalised, and effortlessly luxurious. Zimbabwe: Quiet icons and Grand Falls Meanwhile, Zimbabwe offers all the wow factor with none of the queues. Hwange National Park, with its huge elephant herds and exceptional guiding, is perfect for classic game viewing in a quieter setting. And Mana Pools, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is beloved by safari purists for its raw beauty and canoe-based safaris along the mighty Zambezi. Round off your adventure with a stay at Victoria Falls – where you can bungee, boat, or simply sip champagne above the spray. It’s the ideal end to a last-minute trip that still feels five stars. Why Zambia & Zimbabwe now? July–September is peak safari season, but without migration-level crowds Unrivalled walking and canoe safaris Expert guides, charming camps, and incredible value for luxury If you’re craving wild Africa – with elegance, adventure, and breathing room – Zambia and Zimbabwe are summer’s unsung safari heroes. 03. South Africa’s Garden Route – Green, Gorgeous & Family-Friendly If you’re looking for a trip that blends coastal charm, forested adventures, and culinary delights – with enough flexibility to suit families or last-minute travellers – the Garden Route ticks every box. Stretching along South Africa’s southern coast, this lush, scenic corridor is tailor-made for leisurely road trips, romantic retreats, or multi-gen holidays. Not summer, but still stunning Let’s be honest: it’s winter in the Southern Hemisphere. But while Cape Town may be wrapped in a scarf and dreaming of spring, the Garden Route enjoys a gentler climate – think crisp mornings, sunny afternoons, and a golden-hued light that makes every landscape pop. You’ll want a jacket, but you’ll also want your camera. Whales, wine and wonder This time of year is whale-watching season, especially around Plettenberg Bay and Knysna. It’s also a beautiful time to explore the region’s forests, beaches, and boutique wine estates without the usual bustle. Add in a few canopy tours, ocean safaris, and art galleries – and you’ve got a crowd-pleasing escape with a relaxed, luxurious feel. For those seeking family-friendly lodges, private villas, or cozy hideaways with fireplaces and mountain views, the Garden Route delivers in spades. Why the Garden Route now? Whale season: marine magic without the masses Shoulder season: better rates, fewer people Ideal for self-drives, couples, or multigenerational families