Botswana is one of Africa’s premier wildlife destinations and thus, a popular African holiday choice. A beautiful country of breathtaking landscapes teeming with wildlife, it has managed to convert its natural resources into sustainable wealth for its people.

Botswana's geography is mostly flat land with a major part occupied by the Kalahari Desert, and the rest by Okavango Delta, an unspoilt reserve for wildlife and the world’s largest inland delta. The Okavango River and Chobe River provide water for millions of migrating animals each year.

Popular things to do in Botswana: Travel in a mokoro (canoe) along the Okavango Delta and view the Nile crocodile, hippopotamus and the lechwe jumping across the reeds. Journey across Chobe National Park and Makgadikgadi Pans to sight the Big Five—African Elephant, African buffalo, Lion, Leopard and Black Rhino. Travel to Botswana to witness one of the world’s largest concentrations of wildlife.

Antarctica is the southernmost continent on Earth. It is almost entirely south of the Antarctic Circle and is surrounded by the Southern Ocean. Also known as the ‘White Continent’, it is the fifth largest in area. Antarctica is the coldest, windiest, highest (on average), and driest continent. About 98% of the terrain is ice sheets and the remaining 2% is barren rock. It houses over 350 species of lichen (some of which can even survive inside rocks) and over 100 species of colourful moss. There are no trees or shrubs in Antarctica. With no permanent human residents, the only human settlements are the ones found in research stations scattered across the continent.

Approximately 45 species of birds breed south of the Antarctic Convergence, including seven of the 17 species of penguins. Whales and seals are the two groups of marine mammals to be found off the coasts of Antarctica. From fascinating fur seals to charming penguins, majestic whales to ferocious leopard seals, Antarctica hosts wildlife seen nowhere else and embodies the sheer wonder of nature

Located in South East Asia, Malaysia shares borders with Thailand, Indonesia and Brunei. It is also linked to Singapore by a causeway and a bridge. West Malaysia, also known as Peninsular Malaysia hosts most of the country’s population and the capital city of Kuala Lampur. East Malaysia comprises one third of the island of Borneo, rich in wilderness and wildlife.

A major part of Malaysia is covered in rainforest and the country houses diverse flora and fauna. Along with the world’s tallest tropical tree species, tualang, Peninsular Malaysia alone has over 8000 species of plants. Borneo is in a league of its own, it hosts the biggest known flower species, rafflesia, the biggest cockroach species in the world, and the biggest land mammal, the elephant. Nature enthusiasts will be spoiled for choice between Gunung Mulu National Park (home to the world’s largest chamber, the Sarawak chamber), Bako National Park (spot the rare proboscis monkey here), Taman Negara National Park (famed for birding), Niah Caves National Park (fascinating caves featuring rock paintings dating back to over 40,000 years ago) and Pulau Kalampunian Damit (famous for its snake island). Also not to be missed is the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre (SORC), one of only four orangutan sanctuaries in the world. If you’re in the mood for trekking across jungle trails and viewing gushing waterfalls, head to the Cameron Highlands or Kelabit Highlands.

The official religion of Malaysia is Islam but you will find that the population is a mix of Muslims, Hindus, Christians, Buddhists and many other religions contributing to the unique culture of the nation. The capital city of Kuala Lampur is a heady cultural blend of modern and traditional values. Explore the aromas of quaint Chinese markets, experience peace at the many temples and mosques or indulge in retail therapy at one of KL’s world-class malls. Head to the boroughs of Georgetown for old-world charm, narrow streets, colonial architecture and beautiful beaches.

Other places of interest include:

• Colonial architecture in the city of Ipoh
• Beaches of Langkawi, Pulau Tioman, Pulau Redang, Pulau Pangkor and Sabah
• Batu caves
• Chinatown in Malacca

The Republic of Ecuador, the second smallest country in South America is surprisingly also one that scores large on the travel quotient. Bordered by Columbia, Peru and the Pacific Ocean, this diversity hotspot also comprises the laboratory of evolution, the Galapagos Islands.

Apart from amazing wildlife, Ecuador also preserves some rare historical locations including the capital, Quito, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Banos, famed for its interesting nightlife. The country also holds the distinction of being the first to have enforced Rights of Nature through its constitution. From the majestic Chimboraza Volcano to the wild Cajas Nationa Park, the serene Lake Mica and exciting Andean mountain trail, Ecuador offers you a chance to truly indulge in wilderness.

Greet the armadillos, the tapirs, the parrots and the cockerels, discover the land of evolution at the Charles Darwin Research Centre in Galapagos, feel the thrill as you explore the ruins of Ingaprica and step into the extremely bio diverse Cotopaxi National Park. In Ecuador, you breathe in the wilderness, relive history and reinstate your belief in the strength of nature

The Republic of Peru is located in western South America. It shares borders with Ecuador, Chile, Brazil, Bolivia, Columbia and the South Pacific Ocean. It is not only a land of great historical significance, but also one of natural beauty. Discover the labyrinth city of Cuzco – the gateway to Machu Picchu, trek the perilous mountains of Cordillera Blanca and gape at the wonder of Peru’s many volcanoes.

Peru is extremely rich in terms of bio-diversity as it hosts the Andes and the Amazon, and is linked to the Pacific coast. The jungles of Peru are rich with varied flora and fauna. You can spot rare cats like the puma and the jaguar, different species of bears, and river dolphins in the Amazon. Explore the wilderness of the Iquitos, spot giant river otters at the Oxbow Lakes and go birding across the Amazon. Peru has 53 protected natural areas, so there is a lot to discover and keep the wildlife enthusiast satisfied.

Any holiday to Peru is incomplete without a thorough exploration of the Sacred Valley of the Incas and Machu Picchu - the lost city of the Incas. You can either follow the Inca trail and trek all they way to the top, or take a bus from Aguas Calientes to get there. It is still not exactly clear why the Incas built Machu Pichhu, some archaeologists believe that it was a city for the elite while others believe that it was a place for religious gatherings and ceremonies.

The Peruvian capital of Lima is also bound to be on your list as this is the most popular way to arrive in the country. The people of Lima, and Peru in general, are usually laid back, welcoming and willing to help tourists when in need. The city itself is a mix of contemporary establishments and colonial architecture.

Kenya is a land of natural wonder, rich with culture and history. Situated in East Africa, across the equator and along the Indian Ocean, Kenya has mountains, deserts, open grasslands, sandy beaches and corals. The country is a photographer’s delight with abundant natural beauty to capture.

Witness some of the mightiest mammals that trod the face of the earth, ranging from the cunning ‘Big Cats’ to the famous ‘Big Five’, and more on a Kenya safari. Birdwatching enthusiasts will be delighted to learn that Kenya is also counted as one among the top five birding destinations in the world.

In July, the Masai Mara becomes a destination for one of the most amazing events in the wild – The Great Migration, an event where 1.5 million wildebeest migrate from the neighbouring Serengeti National Park. An expert-led Great Migration Safari is the best way to witness this spectacular event!

That’s not all, if you want to experience an adrenaline rush you can go snorkelling at the Marine National Park, or trek along the glacial ridges of Mt Kenya. A hot air balloon ride over the Masai Mara can be an experience of a life time. Meet the friendly Maasai people, observe their unique culture and revel with them in their celebration of life.

Popular Things To Do in Kenya include:

• Visiting Great Rift-valley lakes: Baringo, Bogoria, Naivasha and Nakuru
• Exploring Mombasa’s Portuguese fort
• Relaxing at Diani and Tiwi Beaches
• Trekking up the snow-capped Mount Kenya
 

Namibia, situated in southern Africa, is sandwiched between the Atlantic Ocean to its west, and the Kalahari Desert to its east. Angola and Zambia lie along its northern border, Botswana marks the eastern limit, and South Africa in located to its south. Namibia's geography is known for its contrasting landscapes that include beaches, rough mountains and vast spans of barren desserts. Rock paintings and engravings suggest that the area was a seat of early human habitation, dating back to a period of about 2900 to1500 years.

Namibia’s unique environment attracts people from all over the world on holidays to witness natural wonders like the Fish River Canyon, red sand dunes of the Namib desert – the oldest in the world, the Great Escarpment, and many interesting wildlife species that reside in popular national parks and reserves.

Take time out to tour Windhoek, the capital city, it is the largest city in Namibia and still bears old-world charm. The beach city, Swakopmund, with a milder temperate climate, is an ideal gateway for some relaxation by the sea.

Other popular Things to Do in Namibia include:
• Hiking along the rim of the Fish River Canyon & Sesriem Canyon
• Taking a desert walk in the Sossusvlei area
• Adventures at Swakopmund include: quad biking, sand boarding, sky diving, dolphin cruise, scenic flights and fishing

A tour to Namibia is incomplete without meeting indigenous tribes like the lively San tribe and the pastoral cattle-breeding tribe – Herero, amongst others.

With about one fourth of the land covered by national parks and reserves and approximately 20% of Africa’s wildlife in attendance here, Tanzania is undoubtedly one of the most sought after wildlife destinations in the world. You'll witness thousands of wildebeests, zebras, gazelles, elands and impalas as they follow their migration route across the vast plains of the Serengeti, on a Tanzania safari. If you’re looking for a physical challenge, brave the terrain to trek up Mount Kilimanjaro - the tallest freestanding mountain in the world. Walk along the white sandy beaches of “Spice Island” Zanzibar or roam through the historic city of Dar es Salaam -Tanzania has all this and more on offer.

Popular Things To Do in Tanzania include:

• Trip to a Masai Village
• Explore Ngorongoro – the largest unbroken and unflooded volcanic caldera in the world
• Visit Olduvai Gorge
• See the Great Rift ValleyHome to about 364 species of mammals and 1108 birds species

Geographically situated at the heart of Africa, Uganda is where the East African savannah meets the West African Jungle. It is where 30 different indigenous languages are spoken by ancient tribes in perfect harmony, and English is the common language among modern urbanites. It is where rock paintings dating back several centurys in history, exist with a rich mosaic of music, art and handicrafts.

Uganda has a varied landscape ranging from plains and savannahs to the high mountains. The diversity in Uganda's geography is reflected in its wildlife. It harbours the African Big Five as well as its most recognisable and endangered mammal, the Mountain Gorilla. It is home to more than half the world’s population of mountain gorillas along with a sizeable population of chimpanzees.

It ranks high as a bird watching destination playing host to over 1,000 species of birds. Lake Victoria, the second largest lake in the world and the origin of River Nile is situated in Uganda.

The Republic of Zambia is a land-locked country in Southern Africa. The terrain here mostly comprises high plateaus, gushing rivers and beautiful hills and mountains. It is also graced by the presence of Victoria Falls, the largest waterfall in the world!

Travel to Zambia is not easy but the destination is more than worth its reward. It is Africa, uncut. Most of the country is still not majorly affected by tourism, so if you want to get away from the crowds on an offbeat holiday, this is the place to go. Victoria Falls, Zambia’s most popular attraction is not only famous for its breath-taking beauty but also for the nearby forests where you can find diverse flora and fauna. South Luangwa National Park is the most famous Park of the country, known for its diverse fauna and wide lodging options. See elephants, leopards, impalas and pukus make their way nonchalantly across the marshes, woodlands and plains of the Park. Lower Zambezi National Park is also a popular place of interest dotted with camps and lodges. Exploration here is mainly done by boats and large elephant herds can be seen near the river. If you’re in the mood for some fishing or relaxation on a boat, head to Lake Kariba.

The capital city of Lusaka is a contrast of traditional and modern architecture. It’s not much of a tourist hub, more like a convenient transit spot. There are some lively markets to be explored and nightlife can be enjoyed over the weekends. 

Safety Note: Refrain from travelling to the border areas with the Democratic Republic of Congo, Angola and Mozambique as there is a high risk of encountering live landmines here. Crime is a concern in Lusaka. Tourists are advised to exercise necessary caution, consult a travel expert, and check safety warnings issued by their respective countries before planning their trip.