Africa holds unique and timeless attraction regarding its vast diversity of landscape, peoples and culture. From majestic deserts to lush wetlands, the continent remains an incomparable host to the widest range of flora and fauna. Whether you seek the silence and tranquility of deserts, or the vibrant wildlife of the wetlands, a visit to Africa is an unforgettable trip to the magic of change and unexpected challenge.
The Desert Views
The Namib Desert
This is one of the oldest deserts in the world. Known for its stunning landscapes, it features some of the tallest sand dunes on Earth, particularly in the Sossusvlei area. Despite its arid conditions, the Namib supports a variety of life, including the welwitschia plant, which can live for over a thousand years, and animals like the oryx and the desert-adapted elephant. A crucial source of moisture comes in the form of a coastal fog that rolls in from the Atlantic Ocean, bringing relief to this otherwise harsh environment.
The Karoo Desert
South Africa’s famous scrubland desert is defined by its unique geology, climate, and astonishing historical record. Home to the largest variety of succulents on earth, here you will find the richest desert floras in the world – 40 percent not found anywhere else on earth. A well-preserved ecosystem over hundreds of million years is represented by a vast record of extraordinary fossils that will fascinate and enthral any visitor.
The Sahara Desert
The Sahara Desert spans approximately 9 square kilometres, covering parts of Algeria, Chad, Egypt, Libya, Mali, Mauritania, Morocco, Niger, Western Sahara, Sudan, and Tunisia. The world’s hottest desert, the Sahara is characterised by vast sand dunes, rocky plateaus, and minimal rainfall, and is home to a surprising array of life adapted to its harsh conditions. Sparse vegetation includes hardy plants like the date palm and acacia. Animal life includes the dromedary camel, fennec fox, and various reptiles and insects. Human populations, such as the Tuareg and Berber peoples, have adapted to the desert environment over millennia, developing unique cultures and survival strategies.
The Savanna Grasslands
The Serengeti
Spanning northern Tanzania and southwestern Kenya, the Serengeti is renowned for its annual migration of over 1.5 million wildebeest and hundreds of thousands of zebras and gazelles, creating one of the most spectacular natural events in the world. The Serengeti's ecosystem also supports a rich diversity of predators, including lions, leopards, cheetahs, and hyenas. The landscape is characterised by vast, open plains, interspersed with acacia trees and rocky outcrops.
The Miombo Woodlands
Another significant savanna region stretches across central and southern Africa, and is dominated by the miombo tree species. These woodlands cover parts of Angola, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Zambia, and Tanzania, and are home to a variety of wildlife, including elephants, giraffes, and various antelope species. Human populations in the region rely on its resources for timber, honey, and medicinal plants.
Rainforests, Highlands and Mountains
The Congo Basin
Located in Central Africa, you will find the second-largest rainforest in the world after the Amazon. Covering an area of nearly 4 million square kilometers, it spans several countries, including the Democratic Republic of Congo, Republic of Congo, Central African Republic, Gabon, Equatorial Guinea, and Cameroon. This rainforest is a biodiversity hotspot, home to gorillas, chimpanzees, forest elephants, and a myriad of plant species.
The Ethiopian Highlands
Often referred to as the "Roof of Africa," the Ethiopian Highlands are a rugged mountainous region in the Horn of Africa. These highlands are characterised by deep gorges, towering peaks, and fertile valleys. The Simien Mountains, part of this range, are home to unique species such as the gelada baboon, Ethiopian wolf, and walia ibex. The highlands also have significant cultural and historical importance; here you will find ancient rock-hewn churches and the historic city of Axum.
Mount Kilimanjaro
Mount Kilimanjaro, located in Tanzania, is Africa's highest peak, standing at 5,895 meters above sea level. This iconic mountain is a freestanding volcano with three distinct volcanic cones: Kibo, Mawenzi, and Shira. Kilimanjaro's varied climate zones range from tropical forests at its base to arctic conditions at its summit. The mountain attracts thousands of climbers annually and is a symbol of Tanzania's natural beauty.
Wetlands – the world in water
The Okavango Delta
Located Botswana, this presents as one of the world's largest inland deltas. This unique wetland is formed by the Okavango River, which flows into the Kalahari Desert, creating a lush, water-rich environment. The delta is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and supports a diverse ecosystem, including hippos, crocodiles, elephants, and numerous bird species. The seasonal flooding of the delta creates a dynamic and ever-changing landscape that is crucial for both wildlife and local communities.
The Sudd
Located in South Sudan, the Sudd is one of the largest wetlands in the world. This vast swamp is formed by the White Nile River and covers an area that can expand to over 130,000 square kilometers during the rainy season. The Sudd is a critical habitat for numerous species of fish, birds, and other wildlife. It also plays an essential role in the livelihoods of local communities, providing water, fish, and fertile land for agriculture.
