Most Remote Places In Africa Worth Visiting

Remote Places in South Africa Worth Visiting

Tswalu Kalahari, South Africa

Tucked away in the Northern Cape on the edge of the Kalahari Desert lies Tswalu Kalahari Reserve, a place lauded as one of Africa's last remaining wildernesses. Sprawling across 282,000 acres, the reserve is a complex ecosystem that supports a number of endangered and elusive species, including brown hyena, bat-eared fox, Temminck's pangolin, and the Cape fox to name a few.

Visitors to this diverse area are afforded the luxury of a private vehicle, guide, and tracker, for the ultimate explorative journey. With the opportunity to slow down and truly experience your surroundings, allow your tracker to reveal tracks and signs of fascinating wildlife like the black-maned lions of the Kalahari, wild dogs, desert black rhinos, and even cheetah. Venture out on nature walks and uncover rock engravings etched in time, which document the area's earliest inhabitants and San tribes.

Mkambati Nature Reserve, South Africa

A glorious patchwork of grasslands, forests, and rugged coastlines paint the perfect picture of South Africa's Wild Coast. Declared a nature reserve in 1977, this sprawling stretch of land has maintained its raw, unspoilt beauty – layered waterfalls, pristine beaches, and views as far as the eye can see await visitors as well as a host of wildlife. Watch as eland and red hartebeest graze peacefully among other herbivores while aviary species such as waxbills, sunbirds, and sugarbirds swoop overhead.

Part of the reserve has become a private concession, a gorgeous area where GweGwe Beach Lodge resides cliffside overlooking a rugged outcrop and beach. Thriving completely off-grid thanks to an impressive bank of solar panels and filtration of water from the GweGwe River, the lodge does its best to blend into its home on the Wild Coast. Watch as waves crash upon the shore and keep a keen eye out for whales frolicking in the ocean on their migratory route – the sea here is part of a marine protected area designated back in 1981. Small rock pools offer insight into the fascinating sea creatures while flora – 10% of which is endemic – keep guests entertained back on land. As far as remote places in Africa go, this is amongst the best.

Northern Kruger, South Africa

While most visitors to South Africa have heard about the internationally lauded Kruger National Park, not many explore the lesser visited, northern sector of the park. Not only is this part of Kruger typically less crowded as most flock to the southern sectors, but it's also a fascinatingly biodiverse area where fever trees can be spotted thriving next to a towering baobab. Although there is a lower density of animals here, the north enjoys localised mammals and birds that aren't seen in other parts of the park, particularly in summer when migrant species flock to nest in the area. That being said, the best time to visit South Africa greatly depends on what you want to see and do.

Two of its most prominent areas include Lebombo and Pafuri, the latter of which is a twitcher's paradise containing 350 odd species including the African broadbill, bat hawk, and Pel's fishing owl. Keep an eye out for an array of interesting wildlife including safari staples such as elephants, lions, leopards, hyenas, various antelopes, and water dwellers such as crocodiles and hippos. To truly experience the best these regions have to offer, enjoy a remote South Africa safari in the luxurious accommodations of Pafuri Tented Camp and Singita Lebombo Lodge.

Remote Locations In East Africa for the Ultimate Safari

Usangu, Southern Tanzania

When it comes to vying for the most remote place in Africa, Usangu has to be amongst the top contenders. Tucked away in Tanzania's Ruaha National Park – a hidden gem in its own right – is Usangu Game Reserve, home to the Usangu wetlands and some of the most valuable ecosystems in the whole of Tanzania. Fed by various water sources, the wetlands are the lifeblood of the region, allowing species such as wild dogs and various antelopes to thrive.

Sadly, Usangu was unprotected for many years and suffered from mismanagement. Fortunately, a path was forged for protection and restoration of its former glory in 2017 and it has been on the up and up ever since, now a glorious destination for adventurous travellers. Asilia's Usangu Expedition Camp is a perfect home-away-from-home while exploring this region for a fantastic personalised and exclusive experience. Enjoy meals made on an open fire underneath the star laden sky and immerse yourself in a truly raw wilderness.

Kafue National Park, Zambia

Kafue National Park certainly ranks amongst the most remote places in Africa. Although it stands proudly as Zambia's oldest and largest national parks, it's arguably the least visited and most sparsely populated with camps and lodges few and far between. Sprawling across 22,400 square km (8,650 miles), the park is simply vast, but it's not for the rushed visitor. Due to its sheer size, it's not a place where wildlife will lurk around every corner, but when you do see something, it may just be a special sighting. Rare species of antelope including sitatunga, roan, sable, hartebeest, lechwe, and even blue- and yellow-backed duikers await those patient enough to find them.

One of the truly special places within the park are the Busanga Floodplains found in the northern sector. Due to flooding, the plains are only accessible from June to November, a time where predator action is amplified and bright birdlife swoop in. Although the floods recede, the floodplains still contain a kaleidoscope of smaller channels flowing through the area – bringing out antelope, wildebeest, zebra, and buffalo. Amongst the herbivores, lions too have sought out the plains as a perfect hunting ground, while channels ought to give buck a chance, the local lions have watched, learned, and adapted to leaping across. Explore the magic of the Busanga Plains from the likes of Chisa Busanga Camp, Busanga Bush Camp, and even Musekese Camp.

Namunyak Wildlife Conservancy, Northern Kenya

Once again looking north, this time to Kenya, to the pristine Namunyak Wildlife Conservancy, a wildlife refuge and conservation area. Not only is the conservancy home to species such as African wild dogs, leopards, elephants, and gerenuks, but also to the rare De Brazza colobus monkey. The lush Matthew's Mountain Range, sometimes referred to as a ‘sky island', stand tall in a series of impressive peaks providing an untouched haven for an array of wildlife and over 200 aviary species.

Secluded within the Ngeng Valley sits the eco-conscious Kitich Forest Camp, offering a truly immersive natural experience steeped in cultural interactions and unique settings. Set out on foot with superlative Samburu trackers as your guides and discover the wild- and birdlife who call this area home. While exploring, stop along the way for bush picnic, sundowners in enchanting meadows, and swim in glorious refreshing rock pools. Visit the Samburu Singing Wells and nearby Ngilai Village to hear young warriors sing, call their cattle, and learn their traditions and history.

Congo Rainforest, Republic of the Congo

Known for housing the second largest rainforest in the world, second only to the Amazon Rainforest, the Republic of the Congo has become Africa's answer to the South American icon. The Congo Basin and its lush rainforests have been referred to as the planets' green lungs and are known as an important biodiversity hotspot. Between the rainforests, wetlands, savannahs, and rivers, discover western lowland gorillas, the rare bongo antelope, forest elephants, and a diverse array of other mammals. Unsurprisingly, the basin is also a twitcher's paradise with over 400 species to spot.

Embrace an immersive forest experience at the likes of Ngaga Camp, found in the pristine rainforest of Odzala National Park. A unique combination of guest comfort and environmental consideration, the camp strikes a special balance of impact and experience. Watch as nature continues to move to the beat of its own drum around you and curious colobus monkeys investigate. Embark on guided treks to find local gorilla families and observe their daily life from a respectful distance – a truly soul moving experience.

Southern Africa's Remote Locations Worth Visiting

Eastern Highlands & Honde Valley, Zimbabwe

Explore the lush Afro-montane forests of Zimbabwe's Eastern Highlands and down into the beautiful Honde Valley. Known as one of the premier birding destinations in Zimbabwe, the valley offers an enticing array of species with some standouts such as the moustached grass-warbler, stripe-cheeked greenbul, and back-fronted bush-shrike. Found 850 metres above sea level, the fertile soil here has made it prime tea producing territory and is currently one of the major producers in Zimbabwe.

Tucked away within the forest on the edge of the Honde Valley escarpment lies the Sky Deck Retreat. With sweeping views of Mt Nyangani and immersive experiences, this beautiful retreat is the perfect base from which to explore the surrounding forests. Venture out on guided hikes, walk across a suspension bridge above Zimbabwe's second highest waterfall, try your hand at high roping, or enjoy a scenic picnic and plunge at Pungwe Falls. Stay at the intimate main lodge or embrace privacy in one of the Executive Villas – whatever you choose, luxury fittings and fantastic views await.

Our Africa Safari Experts Say…

Sky Deck: A very unique ‘hidden gem' offering; great for a diverse itinerary, as it's green all year round, the contrast with the brown and orange landscapes of Mana Pools and Hwange is incredible. Mutarazi Falls National Park is on the Eastern Zimbabwe border between Honde Valley & Nyanga Highlands between 1800m and 2593m above sea-level overlooking the mountain ranges into Mozambique. Just being in the forest, surrounded by ancient trees & birdsong is magical, but the villas are also incredible, with hot tubs, outdoor showers, fireplaces, and decks that make you feel you are floating in the sky. For nature-lovers, enjoy multiple scenic walks & hikes, for the more adventurous, take the 90m Mutarazi SkyWalk across the gorge and the 752m waterfall, zipline 400m at over 60km per hour at 350 metres above the valley floor. Other day trips can include a drive to Pungwe Falls for a picnic and swim. I highly recommend en route stopping at Imire Rhino Sanctuary for a wonderful close encounter at this wildlife project.

– Liesel van Zyl, Head of Positive Impact & Product Development at Go2Africa

Kaokoveld, Namibia

Between the contrasting landscapes of Namibia's Etosha National Park and the Kunene River lies Kaokoveld, one of Southern Africa's last and greatest untouched wilderness areas. Its climate is extreme with harsh, frigid winters and hot, dry summers with the odd downpour. Kaokoveld is home to the Himba people who live a nomadic and pastoral life and are known for their striking appearances – for the women at least – due to a paste of crushed ochre rocks and butter applied to their faces, giving them a reddish gleam. Their primary currency is cattle with potential exchange of other smaller goods for things they need.

While the climate appears harsh, birdlife continues to thrive, especially around the river, and local wildlife has long since adapted. Explore this vast, remote wilderness at the likes of the luxury Okahirongo Elephant Lodge. Emerging from the contrasting soil, the pale walls of the lodge and refreshing swimming pool offer a true oasis amidst the surrounding purple-hued mountains. Venture out on exciting game drives in search of desert-adapted wildlife and night drives under the star-studded sky. To immerse yourself in local culture, take an early morning walk to visit the local Himba village.

Makgadikgadi, Botswana

Thousands of years ago, a once great lake surrounded by wetlands and swamps created a perfect habitat for ecosystems and life to thrive. Today, the water has all but gone, replaced by a vast series of salt pans interspersed with small pockets of water supplied by the Nata and Boteti Rivers, plus a little seasonal rain. These waterholes support an extraordinary number of birds and wildlife who have adapted to this dry environment. Adventurers to this region can experience game drives, guided walks, quad-biking, bird watching, and sleep-outs under the stars.

Explore two contrasting regions from the intimate, eco-conscious luxury at Meno-A-Kwena Tented Camp, found in the confluence of the labyrinth-like waterways of the Okavango Delta and the dry plains of the Kalahari. With its hilltop position over the Boteti River, the camp enjoys prime daytime viewing of the sparse water sources during the dry season – attracting ample game – and fabulous bird watching during the wet summer season as water begins to fill the pans.

Luxury Beach Vacations – Remote African Island Style

While the mainland of Seychelles is a pristine island paradise in its own right, its outer islands are equally special and offer the epitome of remote, luxury getaway destinations.

Platte Island

Located around 130 kilometres (80 miles) from Mahé, lies the beautiful Platte Island. Despite being just 1.3 kilometres (0.8 miles) long and 550m wide, this small island offers an impressive barrier reef and seagrass meadows that act as a safe haven and nursing station for various marine life.

Arrive via private plane and journey to the exclusive Waldorf Astoria. A lovely array of luxury villas sit amongst towering palm trees, lush gardens, and along the seaside. Choose to relax and embrace barefoot island luxury or explore the surrounding sea with watersports, snorkelling, fishing, and catamaran cruises. Alternatively, enjoy state-of-the-art wellness facilities and a superlative on-site spa. With an engaging kids club, tennis and padel courts, and a seemingly endless array of activities, it's an ideal remote escape.

Alphonse Island

Found 400 kilometres (248 miles) from Mahé, Alphonse Island is one of the most remote islands in the Seychelles Archipelago. As it's just 7 degrees off the equator, Alphonse enjoys balmy climes year-round, making it a perfect tropical paradisical escape. Lush forests, raw natural beauty, and pristine white sandy beaches await.

Exuding luxury, AndBeyond's Alphonse Island Lodge offers an exemplary example of a private island sanctuary. Spend days relaxing by a pool, lounging on the beach, and enjoying sundowners on the beach bar or answer adventure's call. Visit the on-site Activity & Dive Centre and explore local reefs teeming with sea life, try your hand at stand-up paddleboarding, enjoy seasonal surfing, and the lodge's world-renowned Fishing Centre.

Our Top Remote Africa Safari Tours

If discovering some of the most remote places in Africa calls to you, browse a few of our pre-curated itineraries for inspiration or to perhaps discover your dream adventure. Whether it's remote South Africa, a safari in Zambia or Botswana's wildest places, or the beautiful beaches of Seychelles, there's an adventure for every traveller.

Ready to Talk Remote Africa Safari Adventures?

Whether one or several of these locations call to your adventurous spirit, one of our Africa Safari Experts is on hand to help that calling turn into a tangible expedition through the some of the top remote places in Africa. Connect with an expert: