Southern Africa is high on many bucket lists — but where should you go in 2026?
Travel trends change, seasons shift, and some destinations are becoming busier every year.

Because we live in Southern Africa and design custom journeys from the inside out, we’re sharing five destinations that truly stand out for 2026 — based on wildlife conditions, exclusivity, experience and timing.

1. Greater Kruger (Private Reserves) – South Africa

Why 2026?
The private reserves bordering Kruger National Park remain one of the best safari experiences in Africa.

• Off-road game drives
•  Fewer vehicles at sightings
• Highly skilled rangers
• Luxury without mass tourism

Best for:
First-time safari travelers and those looking for a deeper, more refined wildlife experience.

Expert tip: Combine this with a scenic self-drive through Limpopo for the perfect balance of adventure and comfort.

2. Limpopo Bush & Hidden Lodges – South Africa

Why 2026?
Travelers are increasingly looking for smaller, more personal lodges — and Limpopo delivers exactly that.

• Authentic bush experience
• Peaceful, uncrowded areas
• Easy to combine with Kruger or a self-drive route

Best for:
Those who want to feel Africa, not rush through it.

3. Okavango Delta – Botswana

Why 2026?
Water levels are cyclical, and 2026 is shaping up to be an excellent year for water-based safaris.

• Mokoro excursions
• Incredible birdlife
• Remote, exclusive camps

Best for:
Travelers seeking something truly special and willing to invest in quality and exclusivity.

4. Namibia – Space, Silence & Self-Drive Freedom

Why 2026?
Namibia remains one of the best self-drive destinations in Africa, with excellent infrastructure and dramatic landscapes.

• Sossusvlei dunes
• Etosha National Park
• Vast open spaces
• Safe and easy to navigate

Best for:
Independent travelers who value freedom, scenery and raw nature over luxury.

5. Zimbabwe – Victoria Falls & Hwange National Park

Why 2026?
Zimbabwe is still one of Southern Africa’s best-kept secrets: wild, powerful and deeply authentic.

• Fewer tourists
• Excellent guiding
• Easy combination with Botswana

Best for:
Experienced Africa travelers or those looking for something beyond the usual routes.

When should you book your Africa trip?

For journeys like these, timing matters.
The earlier you plan, the more choice you have — especially for 2026 and 2027.

We design journeys from within Africa, with first-hand knowledge of seasons, routes and hidden gems.

Thinking about Africa in 2026?

Let’s plan it properly — from the ground up.