by Geoffrey Ravoire, Luxury Travel Advisor & Marketing Manager

These socially-distant destinations are ideal to combine with your next safari. and offer a vast array of experiences: From wine tasting to scuba diving and shopping to golfing.

Which one will you pick?

Franschhoek

Ideally situated in the wine region, Franschhoek is just 30 minutes from Cape Town airport and makes for a great starting point or end to any Southern African adventure. Commonly referred to as “the Hamptons of South Africa”, Franschhoek offers incredible wine, delicious food, and beautiful hikes through the vineyards. With such fantastic hotels as La Residence, Le Quartier Français, or Delaire Graff, everyone is sure to have a perfect time.

September to February are the best times to enjoy all that Franschhoek has to offer.

Best for: Southern Africa safaris

UAE - United Arab Emirates

With many commercial flights to Africa and the US, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and the desert are great options for your pre or post safari. Our current favorite? The Anantara Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort, built among the sand dunes. If you prefer to stay closer to the action, the Burj Al Arab is always a wow!

The UAE is a wonderful destination year-round, except in summer due to the extreme heat and humidity.

Best for: both Southern and East Africa safaris 

Zanzibar

Just off the coast of Tanzania, Zanzibar offers something for everyone! It is widely accepted as one of the best diving spots in the Indian Ocean. Stone Town and its historic streets plunge you in the world of the spice trade between Africa and the Middle East, a rare cultural encounter. Although there is no uber-luxurious option, boutique resorts are lovely and well-maintained. We especially love Zuri, Zawadi, and Baraza.

The weather in Zanzibar pairs perfectly with Africa’s safari destinations and the only months to avoid are April to May.

Best for: East Africa safaris with flights from Tanzania and Nairobi

Seychelles

One of the most romantic destinations, the Seychelles are made of over a hundred islands. Getting around by plane or boat is key, and may require an overnight in the capital city, Mahé. Once you arrive, intimate and luxurious resorts await. Among our favorites, the Four Seasons, the North Island private island, and the Six Senses Zil Pasyon never disappoint!

Although December to March are considered cyclone season, the location of the atoll makes it unlikely to suffer from cyclones.

Best for: Southern and East Africa safaris with flights from Johannesburg and Nairobi

Mauritius

Mauritius offers superb service and is a paradise for golfers and families. The ease of access from Africa makes it a perfect spot to end your vacation in style. Among our preferred resorts, we recommend the One&Only Le Saint Géran, Le Touessrok Shangri-La, and The Oberoi.

Please note storms may appear between January and March, and cool breezes may blow in winter, from May to July.

Best for: both Southern and East Africa safaris with flights from Cape Town, Johannesburg, and Nairobi

Mozambique

Mozambique is a world of its own and an unbelievable beach destination. Accessible by helicopter or light plane, these boutique resorts are uniquely remote. The beaches of Mozambique are the perfect culmination of African culture and service. Benguerra Island, Azura Retreats, and the Anantara Bazaruto Island are all beautiful choices.

Avoid visiting January to March, it's cyclone season.

Best for: Southern Africa safaris with flights from Johannesburg and Kruger

Kenyan Coast

The Kenyan Coast is by far the most convenient add-on to a Kenya safari. Expect long beaches and authentic resorts around Diani (we love the privacy at Alfajiri Garden Villas), and even more charm and culture in the Lamu Archipelago.

June to March is ideal, whereas the spring is generally associated with the rainy season.

Best for: East Africa safaris

Madagascar

Madagascar is most rewarding for adventurers and nature lovers. The island offers fascinating biodiversity, incredible unspoiled beaches, and the famous lemurs and baobabs! Madagascar truly deserves to be a standalone trip, but, if time is a constraint, head to Miavana private island eco-lodge, one of the most impressive retreats we’ve seen. What else could you need to complete your African adventure?

While Madagascar can be enjoyed year-round, the best time to travel to Madagascar is between through and mid-December to avoid the rainy season.

Best for: both Southern and East Africa safaris with flights from Johannesburg and Nairobi