Kruger and the Islands

One of the continent’s most famous wildlife watching areas, the Kruger National Park and its surrounding private reserves need little introduction! Filled to bursting with an abundance of wildlife, the Big Five are all present and correct and the chances of seeing cats are excellent. Many come to Kruger to see the secretive leopard with a good success rate, and white rhino also feature high on the elusive species list. In the northern, remote areas, the birding is fantastic, and they are your best bet for a back-to-nature walking safari (although walks are also available in other areas too).

All in all, an iconic safari destination that you will remember forever.

Mauritius is the quintessential Indian Ocean escape, ringed by blonde beaches and at its centre, a blend of stunning rainforests, mountains and waterfalls.

There’s no end to the aquatic activities on offer, including kayaking, paddleboarding, kite and windsurfing, water skiing and parasailing. Head out to deeper waters for a fishing excursion, as well as the chance to spot a variety of whales (year round) and migrating humpbacks (between July and November). Boat across a tranquil lagoon with the hopes of seeing a pod of Spinner or Bottlenose dolphins - and then jump in and wait for them to circle you curiously.

With up to 50 metres of visibility on the south coast, Mauritius is ideal for snorkelling and diving (day or night), where you might see moray eels, sea turtles and lion fish amongst incredible coral formations. For more experienced divers, the west coast is famous for its drifts and the northeast is lined with shipwrecks.

Back on shore, enjoy horseback rides into the mountains or along the beach, explore the mangroves and stop for a sunny picnic, or cycle down lanes of sugarcane.