Botswana, Madagascar and Zanzibar have emerged as hot African destinations this year as travellers increasingly look to mix luxury travel with safari experiences, according to Intrepid Travel.
The operator has seen passenger numbers lift 10% across East Africa, but the clear stand-out destination is Botswana, where bookings have doubled year-on-year.
Intrepid spokesperson Jo Stewart said the surge reflects Botswana’s reputation as a safe, stable country. “It has also become known as a premium destination to view wildlife, [where] you’re more likely to see all the animals you want,” she said. This shouldn’t come as a surprise given the number of appealing attractions located in such close proximity, she added.
Stewart was more surprised by the sudden peak in popularity for Intrepid’s Madagascar tours, which the company started running last year. After a “modest” start, the East African island has seen great traction in the new year, with the first departure for 2012 sold out.
“Travellers are always looking for that next destination and Madagascar ticks most of those boxes – it’s remote, biologically diverse and not visited by most people,” she said.
For similar reasons, Intrepid travellers have looked to Zanzibar, where Stewart said they can experience remote seaside relaxation after “roughing it” on a safari.
Intrepid introduced five-day Zanzibar beach breaks from $645 last year, which are now gaining momentum. “Forward bookings for these are particularly good right now,” Stewart said.
“Zanzibar’s proximity to Dar es Salaam makes it a simple transfer in and out, so it’s a convenient choice for international travellers.”
