Southern Africa’s Top 8: Safari, Surf & Scenery All in One Trip

Southern Africa is one of the most diverse and rewarding regions to explore on the continent. From coastal escapes and beach adventures to dramatic desert dunes and world-class wildlife safaris, these countries deliver unforgettable holiday experiences. Whether you’re chasing lions on a game drive, sipping local wine in the mountains, or diving into turquoise waters, there’s something for every traveller.

Here are 8 must-visit countries in Southern Africa — complete with capital cities, travel tips, food to try, and whether they offer beautiful coastlines or inland adventure.

8 Countries in Southern African and what they are famous for

• South Africa – Cape Town, wine tours, Kruger

• Namibia – Desert dunes, wildlife, stargazing

• Botswana – Okavango Delta, luxury lodges

• Zimbabwe – Victoria Falls, national parks

• Zambia – Adventure sports, Zambezi River

• Mozambique – Beaches, diving, Portuguese influence

• Lesotho – Mountain trails, pony treks

• Eswatini – Culture, reserves, craft markets

More detail on the 8 most visit Southern African Countries

1. South Africa

• Capital: Pretoria (administrative), Cape Town (legislative), Bloemfontein (judicial)

• Interesting fact: South Africa has three capital cities and 11 official languages!

• Must-try food: Bunny Chow – a spicy curry served in a hollowed-out loaf of bread (originating from Durban)

• Coastline or landlocked?  Coastline – long stretches of beach from Cape Town to Durban

2. Namibia

• Capital: Windhoek

• Interesting fact: Home to the world’s oldest desert, the Namib — some dunes are over 5 million years old!

• Must-try food: Kapana – grilled street meat often served with spice and salsa

• Coastline or landlocked?  Coastline – along the Atlantic Ocean, including the eerie Skeleton Coast

3. Botswana

• Capital: Gaborone

• Interesting fact: Over 30% of the country is protected wilderness, making it one of the best safari destinations in the world

• Must-try food: Seswaa – slow-cooked beef served with pap (maize porridge)

• Coastline or landlocked?  Landlocked

4. Zimbabwe

• Capital: Harare

• Interesting fact: Home to Victoria Falls, one of the largest waterfalls in the world — known locally as “The Smoke That Thunders”

• Must-try food: Sadza with Nyama – maize meal with meat and vegetables

• Coastline or landlocked?  Landlocked

5. Zambia

• Capital: Lusaka

• Interesting fact: You can go white-water rafting on the Zambezi River, one of the wildest rafting spots in the world

• Must-try food: Nshima – a maize-based staple served with relishes or stews

• Coastline or landlocked?  Landlocked

6. Mozambique

• Capital: Maputo

• Interesting fact: Known for its rich Portuguese heritage and stunning Indian Ocean coastline

• Must-try food: Piri Piri Prawns – spicy grilled prawns marinated in peri-peri sauce

• Coastline or landlocked?  Coastline – over 2,500km of beautiful beaches

7. Lesotho

• Capital: Maseru

• Interesting fact: Entirely surrounded by South Africa, Lesotho is the only country in the world entirely above 1,000m elevation

• Must-try food: Motoho – a fermented sorghum porridge often eaten for breakfast

• Coastline or landlocked?  Landlocked

8. Eswatini (formerly Swaziland)

• Capital: Mbabane (administrative), Lobamba (royal and legislative)

• Interesting fact: One of Africa’s last remaining absolute monarchies

• Must-try food: Sishwala – a thick porridge made with maize or sorghum

• Coastline or landlocked?  Landlocked

Ready to explore Southern Africa?

From the surf of Mozambique to the safaris of Botswana, Southern Africa is a holiday wonderland just waiting to be explored. Whether you crave culture, adventure, or beach bliss, there’s a destination here for you.

 Start planning your dream African getaway now with ViewAfrica – your passport to unforgettable experiences.