Top 12 African Experiences (Part 2)

Read on for the second part of our guide to the top 12 African experiences.

7. Stars and stripes in the southwest

A trip to Africa isn't complete without a safari experience. Spot the big five (buffalo, elephant, lion, leopard and rhino), see warthogs roam, or watch the cheeky monkeys stealing food. For a safari with a difference, Africa's largest game park in the southwest offers stripes as well as stars with camping facilities and the chance to spot mountain zebras. Namib-Naukluft Park is 40,000 square kilometres and is also home to springbok, baboon and around 200 species of bird.

8. Fall in love with Zimbabwe

The Victoria Falls are one of the seven natural wonders of the world and stand a little over a mile (1,708 metres) wide, with a thundering vertical drop of up to 351 feet (107 metres). Known by the locals as Mosi-oa-Tunya - the smoke that thunders - the Victoria Falls and surrounding national parks are a world heritage site. Cruise the Zambezi River, view it from the air or go on a guided safari to view this natural wonder. Again, before doing something adventurous, check that your travel insurance adequately covers you.

9. Animal magic in Benin

Situated on the western edge of Nigeria, Benin was once a powerful empire in Africa. Voodoo is an important part of everyday life here and in most towns you can see fetish markets stocked with a wide variety of animal heads and skins. Stilt villages are home to thousands of people in the southern lagoons and in the north you can visit the wildlife parks to see elephants, lions and crocodiles.

10. On top of the world at Table Mountain

Easily accessible from the city of Cape Town, Table Mountain boasts spectacular views. For the adventurous, hiking and climbing routes will take you to the top. For the less energetic, a cable car ride will get you there. The highest point of Table Mountain is Maclear's Beacon, 1,086m above sea level.

11. Sporting antics in South Africa

Sporting enthusiasts won't be disappointed with the fixtures on offer in South Africa. Home to world-class stadiums and Rugby World Cup winning teams, 2009 also sees the country play host to the British and Irish Lions. For a chance of catching a game, the tour runs between late May and early July 2009. You can also see the South African rugby team take on Australia and New Zealand in the Tri-Nations, or if football is more your style, then start saving: 2010 sees Cape Town host the FIFA World Cup.

12. Durban's beaches

South Africa's third largest city calls itself the Playground of the Zulu Kingdom and its sun-drenched beaches are fit for any king or queen on holiday. Swim, sunbathe, sail or simply relax in this area of natural beauty. When you've got enough sand between your toes, explore the city's botanical gardens or surrounding nature sanctuaries and parks.

What's the best time to visit South Africa?

Whether it's sun, sea or safaris you're after, Africa is a continent that caters for all tastes. Just be sure to check the weather before you go. The equator goes through the middle of Africa and as a result, temperatures and seasons can vary dramatically. The wet season can turn dirt tracks into mudslides; the dry season can leave you sweltering. But you can guarantee that whatever time of year you go, you're sure to have a trip of a lifetime.

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