Southern Africa’s best-kept travel secrets you must visit
From Lesotho’s highlands to Lake Malawi’s shores, Southern Africa offers fresh paths for connection and adventure.
When we think of places to visit in Southern Africa, we often think of Kruger National Park or the Victoria Falls.
Today I want to take you beyond the familiar with five hidden gems across our region – destinations where Africans, and the world, can feel at home away from home, all the while discovering something new.
These five places show that Africa’s magic isn’t always in its most famous icons – it’s in quiet capitals, mountain towns, emerald lakes and interlinked experiences.
1. Maseru, Lesotho
Nestled high in the Maloti Mountains, Maseru is often overlooked but rich in Basotho culture, craft markets and mountain views.
It’s close enough for a road trip, yet it feels like a world apart. Visitors can explore the morning buzz at the Central Market and later ride a pony across the peaks.
The low tourism numbers make the experience peaceful and authentic.
2. Gaborone, Botswana
Botswana’s capital is shedding its “business-only” tag and showing off a creative side – art galleries, local food scenes and nature reserves just minutes from the city.
You’ll feel rooted in culture and comfort. The nearby wildlife gives you safari thrills without the log-jam of tourists.
3. Eastern Highlands, Zimbabwe
Green hills, misty tea estates and serene countryside make this region a gentle alternative to the typical safari hustle.
It’s where nature slows down, and you merge into Zimbabwe’s side of Southern Africa’s tapestry.
The climate is soothing, and the views are soul-deep.
4. Lake Malawi, Malawi
Often passed by on the way to more popular beaches, Lake Malawi’s warm clear water and uncrowded shores feel like a hug from Africa itself.
For South Africans living abroad, it’s a beach escape different from home yet deeply familiar in spirit.
5. Multi-destination experiences across the SADC region
What makes these destinations stand out is their connectivity. The SADC region’s simplified visa practices and cross-border initiatives mean you can start in Maseru, hop into Gaborone, and slide into Zimbabwe or Malawi – all in one journey.
Tourism in the region contributed up to 8% of GDP in recent years and supports millions of jobs, signalling that travel here is both meaningful and impactful.
Let’s travel where we feel home and discover somewhere new at the same time.
So pack your bags, set your sights beyond the usual, and explore Southern Africa’s quiet wonders together.