5 ways to add magic to a safari in southern Africa

Without doubt, most people who visit Africa are drawn in by the abundant wildlife – and rightly so. However, A&K’s Jennifer Morris has a few ideas for those wanting to add a little extra magic to their African adventure.

For incredible views:

Climb Table Mountain, South Africa

Table Mountain is instantly recognisable. It was recently named one of the New7Wonders of Nature and it’s easy to see why. Stunning views from summit, elevated over 1,000 metres above sea-level, quite literally take your breath away. Feel as though you’re on top of the world as you gaze out over the beautiful cosmopolitan city of Cape Town, from the bustling V&A Waterfront to the city's more sparsely populated outskirts. However you choose reach to the summit – whether by hiking one of the many trails or with a short cable car ride – when you get there, you'll be glad you did.

Where to stay: One & Only, Cape Town

For the thrill seeker:

Flight of Angels at Victoria Falls, Zambia

The world-famous Victoria Falls are located on the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe. First discovered by David Livingstone in 1855, this fascinating natural wonder was named after Queen Victoria. At its peak, over two million litres of water pass over the rim every minute. After a leisurely stroll on the surrounding walkways, there's no better way to get your adrenaline pumping than to take to the skies on an exciting helicopter ride over the falls and Zambezi National Park. Look out for rare African wildlife and seize this opportunity to take unforgettable photos from above.

Where to stay: Sanctuary Sussi & Chuma, Livingston

To meet the locals:

Take a walk around a township, South Africa

The thought of visiting a township in South Africa is met by most travellers with equal measures of fear and intrigue, and it’s not something we’d recommend doing alone. However, if you visit with one of our expert local guides it can be a truly fascinating experience. Visit local enterprises, meet with residents and artisan craftspeople, and enjoy traditional food. For me, the highlight of the day was getting to take part in local community projects – while there, I assisted with building sustainable planting gardens and taught a nursery class to some very excitable children.

Where to stay: Cape Grace, Cape Town

For the stargazer:

Treehouse Sleepover in Kruger

Spend a magical evening under the clear African sky, gazing up at hundreds of glittering stars. This incredible experience was one I’ll treasure for a lifetime. After long days out in the bush, this is the perfect way to see the wild outdoors. A whole new community of nocturnal animal creep out to explore the landscape after dark. Enjoy a delicious dinner in the treehouse and unwind in five-star luxury on a four-poster bed. A tip for waking up in the wilderness: have your camera ready as early mornings are the best time for wildlife-spotting. 

Where to stay: Lion Sands River Lodge or Lions Sands Ivory Lodge, Kruger, South Africa

To see A&K Philanthropy in action:

Take a bike tour of Nakatindi Community, Zambia

Abercrombie & Kent Philanthropy works on projects around the world but I'm particularly impressed by the work we have done to improve the lives of residents in the small village of Nakatindi. Located just outside the Mosi-Ao-Tunya National Park, this tiny village is just a short drive from Victoria Falls. AKP’s achievements here include building a well to provide clean water, providing daily meals for school children, building a community health centre and, most recently, setting up a bike shop which now provides a living for five local women. A bike tour of the village is by far the best way to get an insight into the lives of the locals and how we can continue to help. For me, this was a truly humbling experience.

Where to stay: Sussi & Chuma, Livingston

Jennifer’s trip in numbers:
 
9 flights
8 lion
7 nights
6 different hotels and lodges
5 of the Big 5 spotted
4 countries
3 rare birds observed
2 herds of elephant
1 experience of a lifetime