Wild at Heart: The Best Adventure Activities in Africa

1. Canoeing Down the Zambezi

Location: Mana Pools National Park, Zimbabwe
Fitness Level: Medium
Adrenaline Level: 6/10

Deep within Zimbabwe's lower Zambezi region, Mana Pools National Park unfurls its majestic tapestry. The name ‘mana' – meaning ‘four' in Shona – pays homage to the four expansive pools created by the Zambezi River's serpentine path. This 219,600-hectare haven is a testament to Africa's untamed splendour, hosting an incredible diversity of wildlife. From the regal elephants and buffaloes to the elusive wild dogs, lions, leopards, and cheetahs, each species plays its role in the grand symphony of the wild.

As you canoe down the Zambezi River, the boundaries between you and the wild dissolve. The experience is nothing short of magical – witnessing wildlife at water level, with buffaloes, elephants, and antelopes grazing on the riverbanks, while crocodiles and hippos lurk beneath the surface. Your guide will point out the incredible birdlife, aquatic life, and wildlife, sharing stories that reveal the intricate tapestry of this ecosystem. With each stroke of the paddle, the thrill builds – will you spot a crocodile sliding silently into the water, or a hippo's yawning mouth revealing its deadly teeth? The uncertainty is exhilarating, the experience unforgettable.

2. See The Great Migration from A Hot-Air Balloon

Location: Masai Mara, Kenya
Fitness Level: Low
Adrenaline Level: 7/10

Imagine witnessing the grandest spectacle on Earth – the Great Migration, aptly termed Africa's “race for life”. This epic journey unfolds across the Serengeti's sun-kissed plains, as 2 million wildebeest, accompanied by zebras and gazelles, go on a quest for sustenance and survival. The odyssey begins in the southern Serengeti, where the scent of green grass and the promise of new life beckon. As the herds traverse the landscape, they are met with the primal rhythms of birth and predation – a testament to the eternal cycle of life.

The migration's ancient paths are etched across the land, a clockwise journey that spans the seasons. From the southern Serengeti to the Masai Mara, the herds move in search of grazing grounds, driven by the primal urge to survive. River crossings offer a dramatic spectacle, as wildebeests, zebras, and gazelles brave the treacherous waters, while crocodiles lie in wait, their jaws open wide. The cycle is complete when the herds return to their calving grounds, their footsteps echoing across the plains.

Now, take the experience to new heights soaring above this majestic landscape, the wind whispering secrets in your ear. A hot air balloon safari offers a unique perspective on the Great Migration, as you drift above the landscape. From this lofty vantage point, the rhythms of the wild unfold below – the hunt, the chase, the eternal dance of predator and prey. As you float above the herds, the sounds of the wild rise up to meet you – the grunting of hippos, the roar of lions, the rustling of leaves as the wildebeest make their way to the river’s edge.

3. Sand Boarding on Dunes

Location: Namib Desert, Namibia
Fitness Level: High
Adrenaline Level: 9/10

Picture the thrill of surfing, but instead of riding the waves, you're carving through the dunes of the Namib Desert, one of the oldest and most stunning deserts on Earth. Stretching over 2,000 kilometres (772 square miles) along the Atlantic coast of Namibia, Angola, and South Africa, this vast expanse of sand is a treasure trove of adventure. The Namib's sand dune sea is a marvel of nature, with dunes towering up to 300 meters high, their pink and orange hues glistening in the sunlight. And from the crest of these giants, you can see the Atlantic Ocean stretching out to the horizon.

Sand boarding is the ultimate way to experience the Namib's majesty, harnessing the power of gravity to propel you down the dunes at heart-pumping speeds of up to 80 kilometres per hour. With two styles to master – stand-up and lie-down boarding – sand boarding offers an adrenaline rush like no other. For the uninitiated, the thrill is even more intense, as the loose, powdery sand threatens to send you tumbling. Yet, with every descent, you'll crave the next, as the rush of sand boarding becomes addictive.

4. Traditional Mokoro Safari

Location: Okavango Delta, Botswana
Fitness Level: Low
Adrenaline Level: 4/10

In the heart of the Okavango Delta, a timeless mode of transportation awaits – the majestic mokoro. Born from the ancient trunks of Sausage trees, Jackalberry trees, and Mangosteen trees, these dugout canoes have been the lifeblood of the Bayeyi tribe for generations. With their slender profiles and shallow drafts, mokoros effortlessly glide through the Delta's shallow waters, lily pads, and reeds, carrying travellers on a serene and immersive journey.

As you settle into the mokoro's gentle rhythm, the Okavango's secrets begin to unfold. Your standing boatman, skilled in the ancient ways of the Delta, propels the canoe forward with a long pole, while sharing tales of the land, its creatures, and the mysteries hidden beneath the water's surface. With the mokoro's leisurely pace, the wildlife of the Okavango reveals itself in spectacular detail – elephants drinking from the Delta's waters, hippos and crocodiles basking in the golden light, and a kaleidoscope of birdlife flitting through the reeds. As you drift along, the water-level perspective grants you a profound appreciation for the sheer scale and majesty of this African wonderland.

5. Gorilla Trekking

Location: Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda
Fitness Level: Medium to High
Adrenaline Level: 7/10

Tucked away in the heart of Africa, Rwanda beckons with an adventure of a lifetime. This enchanting land, nestled between Kenya and Tanzania, is a tapestry of lush rainforests, emerald hills, and rolling mountain slopes. It is here, amidst this stunning topography, that the majestic gorillas call home. Renowned for their intelligence, strength, and gentle nature, these incredible creatures have captivated the hearts of many.

Rwanda's national parks provide a sanctuary for these endangered giants, with two distinct species: the mountain gorillas and the lowland gorillas. Each troop is led by a wise and powerful silverback, who governs with a gentle yet firm hand. The opportunity to embark on a gorilla trekking adventure is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, often described as unforgettable, humbling, and life-changing. It's certainly earned a spot on our best adventure activities in Africa.

As you venture into the heart of the forest, accompanied by expert trackers and guides, the thrill of encountering these gentle giants just mere meters away is palpable. The journey begins with a hike, which can range from a leisurely 30 minutes to a more challenging four-hour trek, winding through the mountains to reach the gorillas' location. The altitude can be daunting, with hikes reaching up to 4,000 meters, but the reward is well worth the effort.

6. Sleep Out Under the Stars

Location: Makgadikgadi Salt Pans, Botswana
Fitness Level: Low
Adrenaline Level: 5/10

In a bygone era, the Makgadikgadi Salt Pans were a vastly different landscape. A massive lake sprawled across the region, surrounded by lush swamps, wetlands, and an abundance of life-giving water. Fast-forward to the present, and the Pans have transformed into a surreal expanse of salt and sand, stretching across 16,000 square kilometres (6,200 square miles). This harsh, yet hauntingly beautiful landscape, is a place of extremes – where the seasons dictate the rhythm of life.

During the dry season, the Pans are a desolate, yet mesmerising sight – a seemingly endless white plain that shimmers like a mirage. But with the arrival of the rains, the Pans are transformed into a vibrant savannah, teeming with life. It's a place where the boundaries between reality and illusion blur, where the silence is almost palpable, and the stars shine with an intensity that is nothing short of exhilarating. Sleeping out under the stars can be experienced by staying at Leroo La Tau – a journey into the very heart of solitude. As night falls, the sky is set ablaze by the Milky Way, and the sound of silence is almost deafening.

As you drift off to sleep, surrounded by the vast, dark expanse of the Pans, the shooting stars twinkle like diamonds above, guiding you into a deep, restorative slumber. And when the sun rises, casting its golden light upon the Pans, you will be awakened to a new world – one that is full of life, full of beauty, and full of wonder. By day, you will embark on thrilling adventures – quad biking across the Pans, Jeep drives to the edges of the salt pans, and visits to the meerkat colony, where you will encounter the fascinating creatures that call this surreal landscape home.

7. Scuba Diving & Snorkelling in Paradise

Location: Praslin and La Digue, Seychelles
Fitness Level: High
Adrenaline Level: 7/10

There is a place where turquoise waters lap against pristine white sandy beaches, where granite boulders stand sentinel against the horizon, and where the gentle rustle of palm trees whispers secrets to the wind. Welcome to the enchanting islands of Praslin and La Digue, nestled in the heart of the Seychelles archipelago. Located a mere 50 kilometres from the main island of Mahé, these two islands are a haven for those seeking a tranquil, laid-back atmosphere, where the stresses of everyday life melt away beneath the warm tropical sun.

But Praslin and La Digue hold a secret, a treasure trove of underwater wonders that beckon to scuba divers and snorkellers like a siren's call. The crystal-clear waters surrounding these islands are a paradise, boasting an astonishing array of marine life, from the majestic eagle ray to the playful sea turtle, and from the vibrant reef fish to the cautious octopus. With over 17 dive sites to explore, divers of all levels can experience the thrill of discovering an underwater world teeming with life, colour, and beauty. As you descend into the depths, the gentle swaying of sea anemones, the soft undulations of coral reefs, and the swift movements of reef sharks create an impressive symphony of sights, sounds, and sensations.

8. Kayaking and Sailing

Location: Lake Malawi
Fitness Level: Medium
Adrenaline Level: 6/10

Lake Malawi is a natural wonder that straddles the borders of Malawi, Mozambique, and Tanzania. As the fourth largest freshwater lake in the world by volume, and the ninth largest by area, Lake Malawi is a haven for aquatic life, boasting an incredible array of fish species that call its transparent waters home. This majestic lake is protected by the Lake Malawi National Park, the world’s first freshwater national park, and is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

As you gaze out onto the lake's glistening surface, you will be mesmerised by the dazzling display of tropical fish that dart and weave through the silky waters. The lake's inhabitants are so tame that they will even feed from your hand, adding a touch of enchantment to your encounter. With its waters glinting like silver and white, Lake Malawi is a kayaker's and sailor's paradise, offering a unique African safari experience that is unmatched anywhere else on the continent.

The lake's vast size and calm waters make it an ideal playground for kayaking and sailing enthusiasts, with winds that rise and fall as they please, creating an ever-changing pattern of waves and currents. And with no tides or currents to contend with, sailors of all levels can navigate the lake's waters with ease, making it the perfect venue for the annual Lake Malawi Sailing Marathon, a highlight of the international sailing calendar. Whether you are a seasoned sailor or a novice kayaker, Lake Malawi's tranquil waters and stunning scenery will leave you spellbound, with memories that will linger long after your journey ends.

9. Explore the Bush on Foot

Location: South Luangwa National Park, Zambia
Fitness Level: Medium
Adrenaline Level: 10/10

Tucked away in the heart of Zambia lies the South Luangwa National Park, a veritable Eden of mature woodlands, open grassy plains, and the majestic Luangwa River. This park is renowned for its unspoiled vegetation and abundant wildlife, ensuring that every expedition is a unique and awe-inspiring experience. Spanning 9, 050 square kilometres (3,500 miles) of the Luangwa valley floor, the park unfolds as a mosaic of rugged landscapes and teeming wildlife.

To truly immerse oneself in the beauty and drama of the African bush, walking safaris are an absolute must. This unique experience allows you to become one with the surroundings. Walking safaris offer a range of options, from leisurely three-hour strolls to day-long treks from one camp to the next. As you navigate the bush on foot, guided by experts with an intimate knowledge of the flora and fauna, you will encounter an astonishing array of wildlife, including elephants, crocodiles, buffaloes, hippos, and elusive leopards. The park is also home to the endemic Thornicroft's giraffe, as well as zebras, wildebeests, and a host of other iconic African species.

10. Swim on the Edge of Vic Falls

Location: Victoria Falls, Zambia
Fitness Level: Medium – High
Adrenaline Level: 13/10

Located on the Zimbabwe-Zambia border, the Victoria Falls is a magnificent spectacle that defies description. As the world's largest sheet of falling water, it plunges 105 meters deep into a precipice, creating a misty veil that rises 500 meters into the air. This awe-inspiring display of natural power has earned the falls the name Mosi-Oa-Tunya, or ‘The Smoke That Thunders'. For the truly adventurous, there is one experience that stands above the rest, swimming in Devil's Pool. Located on the edge of the falls, this natural rock pool is a mere three meters deep, yet it offers an unparalleled thrill. As you leap into the pool, the force of the river pushes you to the edge, where a thin rock lip separates you from the raging waters below.

The experience is nothing short of exhilarating, a mix of adrenaline-pumping fear and awe-inspiring beauty. It is an experience reserved for the brave and the daring, those who are willing to push themselves, literally to the edge and beyond. The best time to visit the Victoria Falls is during the low water season, between August and January. It is during this time that the Devil's Pool is accessible, offering a unique and unforgettable experience for those who dare to take the leap.

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