At Hills of Africa, we plan hundreds of tailor-made African journeys every year, each one designed to match our travelers’ dreams and passions. After guiding so many unforgettable adventures, we know what captures hearts and inspires lifelong memories.
Today, we’re excited to share the top 5 African experiences that are consistently among our most requested and beloved trips. If you’re dreaming about Africa, these are the must-see, must-do adventures that should be at the top of your list.
1. Safari & The Big Five: A Classic African Adventure
Where: Kenya, Tanzania, South Africa, Botswana
Why It’s a Must:
There’s nothing quite like the thrill of watching a lion on the prowl or a herd of elephants moving silently across the savannah. A Big Five safari, featuring lions, leopards, elephants, buffalo, and rhinos, is the classic African experience. Many private reserves and national parks we partner with are leaders in conservation, contributing directly to anti-poaching efforts, habitat restoration, and community development.
Highlights:
- Private game drives in luxury open-air vehicles
- Expert-guided wildlife tracking and storytelling
- Intimate safari camps with panoramic views
- Sunset cocktails in the bush and stargazing around campfires
2. Gorilla Trekking
Where: Rwanda or Uganda
Why It’s a Must:
Coming face-to-face with a mountain gorilla in the wild is emotional and exhilarating experience. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience where the journey is as powerful as the encounter itself. With fewer than 1,100 mountain gorillas left in the wild, trekking responsibly to see them is not only life-changing, it’s crucial for their survival. Permit fees directly support conservation efforts and fund local communities, creating an economic incentive to protect the forests and the gorillas themselves.
Highlights:
- Small, guided treks into lush rainforest terrain
- Close encounters with habituated gorilla families
- Photography opportunities like no other
- Cultural experiences with local communities and conservationists
- Add-on experiences like golden monkey tracking or chimpanzee trekking
3. Cape Town and the Winelands
Where: South Africa
Why It’s a Must:
Cape Town’s breathtaking landscapes, vibrant neighborhoods, and rich history create one of the most captivating cities in the world. With wild oceans, towering mountains, and rich cultural history, there is so much to do and see. From the colorful Bo-Kaap neighborhood to the dramatic cliffs of Cape Point, it’s endlessly photogenic. Just a short drive away, the Cape Winelands offers charming vineyards, world-class wines, and farm-to-table cuisine.
Highlights:
- Table Mountain cable car and panoramic views
- Robben Island tours for meaningful history – where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned
- Explore the colorful Bo-Kaap neighborhood and coastal drives to Cape Point
- Wine tastings at centuries-old estates in Stellenbosch and Franschhoek
- Scenic drives along the Cape Peninsula
4. Victoria Fall’s
Where: Zambia & Zimbabwe
Why It’s a Must:
Known locally as Mosi-oa-Tunya (“The Smoke That Thunders”), Victoria Falls is one of the world’s most breathtaking natural wonders. From the roaring waters to the lush rainforest trails surrounding the falls, whether viewed from a helicopter or felt from the rainforest trail, the falls are pure drama and awe.
Highlights:
- Sunset cruises on the Zambezi River
- Helicopter “Flight of Angels” over the falls
- Optional adrenaline activities like Devil’s Pool and whitewater rafting
- Luxury lodges with views of hippos and elephants at water’s edge
- Elephant Encounter
5. Community and Cultural Immersion
Where: Everywhere
Why It’s a Must:
Beyond wildlife and scenery, Africa’s greatest treasure is its people. Travel that changes you often comes from connection. We partner with many lodges and organizations that provide programs and opportunities to be a part of their culture, whether that is providing direct assistance, volunteerings, supporting through shopping, and unique cultural experiences. One of our spotlights is Ol Lentille in Kenya, a luxury lodge partnered with local Maasai and Samburu communities, guests not only witness conservation in action but also engage in meaningful cultural exchange.
Highlights:
- Visit local villages and schools with trusted guides
- Learn traditional customs and stories directly from elders
- Participate in sustainability and conservation initiatives
- Visit to a Maasai or Samburu Home
- Experience and witness Warrior Initiations
- Enjoy being a part of a wedding and/or blessing
- Singing Wells
- Warrior Dances
- Market and School Visits
These are just a few of the extraordinary journeys we create every year for travelers who want more than just a vacation, they want an experience that leaves them changed. Whether you’re dreaming of thrilling wildlife encounters, misty mountain treks, vibrant cities, or community-led conservation success stories, we’ll help you craft a custom African journey that’s meaningful, sustainable, and unforgettable.
Let’s start planning the trip of a lifetime!