Are you an adrenaline junkie looking for thrilling experiences wherever you travel? Have you already seen the big five and itching to ignite the African travel bug? Are you ready to explore the many unforgettable adventures in Africa?
We know it can be hard to decide on a holiday that ticks all the boxes of exhilarating, exciting and breathtakingly beautiful. Luckily though, there are many adventure tours across Africa that tick these exact boxes, and more.
If you’re ready to take things up a notch, we’ve got the best African adventure tours that you truly cannot miss out on.
6 African adventure tours
Dune bashing in Namibia
Expect red-hot dunes, deserted salt pans and breathtaking scenery. This jam-packed Namibian desert experience is a thrill-seekers delight.
From exploring the Namibian dunes through to going on a walking tour, safari game drives and quad biking over the dunes – the desert paradise of Namibia offers endless activities.
If you’re not afraid of heights and looking for more unique adventures in Africa – then join a hot air balloon trip to view the desert plains from a great vantage point. The hot air balloon safari is an incredibly romantic adventure if you’re looking for something extra special.
This Namibian tour allows you to see Sossusvlei, the Kulala Wilderness Reserve, Swakopmund and the impressive Deadvlei clay pan. It’s also an excellent option for one of many family adventure holidays in Namibia!
Shark cage diving in South Africa
Shark cage diving is one of the adventures in Africa that is truly not for the faint of heart.
Our full-day shark cage diving experience departs from Cape Town, travelling to the small seaside town of Gansbaai. The boat heads out to an area fittingly known as ‘Shark Alley’, located between Geyser Rock Island and Dyer Island. Here, you can choose to either hang out on the deck or hop into the specially-designed cage to get up close and personal with the great white sharks!
The experience is absolutely incredible, and far more calming than you’d expect. If you’re lucky enough, you’ll also spot a few dolphins on your drive out.
Shark cage diving is one of the adventure tours which is best suited for keen, adrenaline-fuelled individuals, so it may be best to leave the family at home for this one! Also, if you tend to get motion sickness, make sure to take prevention medication beforehand. You’re out on the boat for a while, and it tends to get rocky.
White water rafting in the Zambezi
If you’re looking for one of the most high-action and memorable adventure tours in Africa, look no further than white water rafting in the Zambezi River while in Zambia.
The Zambezi is the fourth-longest river in Africa, at a length of over 2,574 kilometres. It starts in Zambia and flows eastward through eastern Angola, the north-eastern border of Namibia, the northern border of Botswana and along the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe to Mozambique. It’s also famous for housing Victoria Falls, located on the edge of Zimbabwe and Zambia.
River levels vary each season, which means that you’ll take different routes depending on when you decide to visit. The river is continually changing, so no two experiences are alike.
If you’re looking for an extra-adrenaline trip with high water levels, then you can generally expect to book your trip during the opening or closing of the low season from late July or August up until the end of December or January.
If you fancy a trip with lower water levels, you can generally expect to book from January until mid-July. Depending on when you visit, the bedrock could be exposed or covered, making for a variety of different rafting experiences.
While you’re in Zambia, make sure to take full advantage of all of the amazing experiences on offer:
- Book a safari in one of the top game reserves
- Explore the beautiful Victoria Falls and maybe take a dip in Devil’s Pool
- Enjoy a sunset cruise and water safari on the Zambezi River (this is one of our favourite experiences in Africa)
Safari in Botswana
With its unique ecosystems, incredible culture and an abundance of wildlife, Botswana is one of the most beautiful countries in Africa.
Did you know that over 40% of Botswana’s land has been demarcated as protected game-viewing areas? Botswana is dedicated to preserving the longevity of all forms of life within its borders.
One of the most quintessential African experiences you can embark on is an Okavango Delta safari adventure. It’s one of only two naturally-formed deltas on the planet and is an incredible sight to explore. Genuinely one of the only experiences in Africa where you can see diverse environments all in one place, including vast savannah plains, mopane woodlands, lush forests and winding water channels.
If you’re after a different kind of safari adventure, you could also take a trip to the Chobe National Park in the northern end of Botswana. The Chobe is a haven for viewing elephants and other water-loving animals and contrasts the Delta experience nicely.
Cape Winelands Cycle and Wine Tour
This one is for the avid cyclists who are looking for something a little different.
You’re able to get your exercise in while still getting to do a few wine tastings at the same time. The cycle and wine tour is an interactive, engaging way to explore the Cape Winelands and all of its natural beauty.
Depending on timing, you’ll get to do up to four wine tastings at a variety of well-regarded wine farms in the Cape Winelands area. Lunch and equipment is provided for you, so all you need to do is gear up and enjoy the delicious wines (between cycling, of course)!
Scuba diving and snorkelling in Mozambique
Looking to explore more of Africa’s oceans? Meet the Quirimbas in Mozambique!
Located off the Mozambican coast, the Quirimbas is home to coral islands, picturesque landscapes, delectable cuisine and a host of island-style activities to occupy yourself during your trip.
Scuba diving and snorkelling is a great option to put on your list of family adventure holidays. Azura Quilalea in Mozambique is a prime choice as it is located in a protected marine sanctuary and just a few steps from the beach.
It also has some of the most well-regarded scuba diving sites globally, with the protected reefs located in the Quirimbas Archipelago. The area offers opportunities for divers of all skill levels and is sure to be an exquisite excursion.
Additionally, getting to Azura Quilalea is an adventure in itself as it requires a private helicopter trip from Pemba Airport in Mozambique. Azura Quilalea is also a top choice for couples looking for a romantic getaway, with picnics on the beach and luxury island accommodation.
Let’s get adventurous!
Regardless of the African adventures that you’re after, you can expect a variety of travel experiences in Africa to scratch your travel itch.
If you’re interested in any of the adventure tours that we’ve mentioned, get in touch with us today to start organising your next African expedition.