In the second of a two-part series I have written, these are my bucket list destinations in Africa and the Americas for 2023.
Africa: Africa is an incredibly diverse country and a vast continent, with landscapes ranging from endless lush rainforest to bone dry deserts, different and unique cultures, as well as some of the world’s most fascinating wildlife.
Capetown, South Africa: Capetown has some gorgeous five star hotels, suburbs to explore, shopping, as well as striking natural wildlife. Humboldt Penguins and Great White Sharks can be seen here in the wild – and this is where the sharks have been photographed jumping of the water metres into the air.
Food in Capetown is exceptional, with the local delicacies including deer with chocolate sauce, Biltong, Meat on braai and more are not to be missed. The local wines are incredible, and wine tasting in Franschoek is one of the world’s greatest experiences for food and wine lovers.
There are some spectacular hotels to explore within The Royal Portfolio, a family run business with five star hotels beyond your wildest dreams. I love everything about travelling here.
Kruger National Park, South Africa: This is one of the largest game reserves in Africa and can be found in the North East of South Africa. A safari is a life changing experience in so many ways.
Here you can go on the Safari adventure of a lifetime and see lions, elephants, different species of antilopes, and zebras in their natural habitat. Staff have studied the history of the area so are bursting with stories to share with guests. There is plenty of luxury accommodation around including the exceptional Sabi Sabi Private Game Reserve,
Pyramids of Gizeh , Egypt: The pyramids of Gizeh are the only ancient world wonder still standing. The best time of year to visit is between October and April to avoid the searing desert heat.
These fascinating and stunning ancient tombs are located on the outskirts of the Egyptian capital city Kairo.
The pyramids were built between 2620 and 2500 BC and are part of an ancient cemetery. Luxury hotel groups Four Seasons, The Oberoi and Ritz Carlton all have exceptional luxury hotel offerings in the area to indulge in.
Marrakesh, Morocco: Marrakesh is the fourth largest city in Morocco and has been a favourite of celebrities, fashion elite and high profile travellers forever. There are beautiful gardens, mosques and soukhs all over town and a unique energy that has to be experienced to be believed.
Have some fresh peppermint tea in one of the many cafés and enjoy a completely different side of the African continent. Four Seasons, Mandarin Oriental and Oberoi all have hotels here.
Grand Canyon, Arizona, USA: A first view of the Grand Canyon is breathtaking and something you will never forget.
This naturally carved canyon is 446km long, 29km wide and almost 2km deep. The view at sunrise and sunset is not to be missed, and if you can afford a helicopter ride, this is the ultimate. Best time to visit is April – June. Phoenix and Las Vegas are the two closest cities to the canyon, but the easiest location to seat at is Valle, which is about 30 minutes drive from The Canyon.
Los Angeles, California: This fabulous, sprawling American city has something for everyone at every age from the best theme parks to incredible Hollywood history, glorious beaches, fantastic wellness programs and gyms and extraordinary five star luxury hotels as well as some of America’s best restaurants.
You can literally spend weeks here there is so much to do and see. Visit unique museums, go celebrity spotting, discover amazing food, and chill on the beach.
Niagra Falls and Canada: The Niagra Falls lie on the border of the US and Canada.
You can either view the falls from the US side or simply hop over the border to Canada for a day or two and have a better view of the falls.
You can also go to the bottom of the falls in a boat (“Maid of the Mist”) to feel the power of the water. Stay at one of the luxury hotels on the Canadian side which is also packed with great restaurants,
Yosemite national park, California: Yosemite [pronounced: yoh-SEM-ih-tee] is one of the most famous national park in the US.
It is known for incredible views, amazing wildlife, and it’s stunning waterfalls.
Take one of the hikes or climb up one of the many mountains for those famous vistas.
South America: South America is known for friendly people and their zest for life as well as unique landscapes and fantastic food.
Andes: This is longest mountain range in the world enchants travellers with its rugged beauty. It stretches over seven South American countries including Colombia, Peru, Bolivia, Chile, and Argentina.
The highest peak is Mount Aconcagua in Argentina with an elevation of 6,961m.
Discover some of the highest plateaus, lakes, cities, and villages when traveling along the Andes.
Patagonia: Patagonia is full of national parks, and surprises travellers with its vast, ever changing series of natural landscapes ranging from rainforest and deserts to some of the highest mountain peaks in the world and even icebergs.
This is all about the great outdoors, with some the hardest mountains ever to be climbed by mankind, rough and wild waters at Cape Horn and stunning landscapes shaped by volcanos.
This is where the famous outdoor clothing brand Patagonia was born with an incredible story behind the founders who subsequently bought up a lot of the land here to ensure it is never built up.
There are many luxury hotels in the location including Singular Hotel
Salar de Uyuni: The Salar de Uyuni is one of South America’s most popular natural attractions. Located in south western Bolivia, it is the largest salt flat in the world. Here you will be able to take stunning photos and see flamingos in the wild. Stay at the simple town of uyuni, to access them.
To Book your bucket list adventure today, click here for Renae’s favourite travel agent.
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