Touring Africa turned out to be best trip I never saw coming, and here’s why.

One of the most under-travelled regions in the world, tourists are often turned off by the uncertainty of what to expect in region associated with a considerable amount of negativities. I am ashamed to admit that was how I approached my trip to Africa – namely South Africa, Botswana and Zimbabwe – countries in Southern Africa; setting off initially with trepidation but by the end of my two-week trip, this fear was replaced by a genuine wonder for the beauty of the continent, and what it had to offer.

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© Vanessa Koh

It would only be fair to say that Africa can be likened to a raw gem that has much untapped potential. In this world where little of it has not been touched by men, it is a huge waste to miss an opportunity to visit something as raw and close to nature as what you would get should you visit the African national parks.

The beauty of this place goes beyond your imagination and it was indeed my privilege to have had this wonderful experience.

Get up close and personal with wildlife

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© Vanessa Koh

Chobe National Park, Botswana, is indeed the place to be if you are keen on sighting both land and water animals in their natural habitat.

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© Vanessa Koh

Begin your day with a cruise along the Chobe River where the boat will take you up close to the waterfowl and wildlife along the river. It was indeed truly a game of hide and seek in an attempt to spot animals lying just below the water.

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© Vanessa Koh

To truly revel in the the full African experience, head for a guided game drive within the National Park. Be careful not to make loud noises, you do not want to startle the animals.

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© Vanessa Koh
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The Chobe National Park is said to be home to about 45,000 elephants, buffaloes, wildebeests and giraffes, and there was certainly no shortage of animal sightings!

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© Vanessa Koh

It was a wish of mine to see the resident lions and I thought that dream was dashed when we left without spotting the king of the jungle. But alas, that was not to be, as we chanced upon one with its gorgeous golden mane, standing right in front of our bus as we were making our way across the border to Zimbabwe. Truly an experience to remember!

Be one with nature

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© Vanessa Koh

Measuring about 1,708 metres across, Victoria Falls is located between both Zambia and Zimbabwe. It is helmed as one of the most popular UNESCO’s World Heritage Sites, and it not only lived up to, but also exceeded, my expectations.

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© Vanessa Koh
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© Vanessa Koh

As I stood in front of the world’s largest curtain of falling water and felt the spray of the falls, I was truly in awe of the world’s marvellous creations – it’s something that words cannot describe.

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© Vanessa Koh

Truly, these photos of my trip do Africa absolutely no justice. If you have been, by any chance, captivated by the beauty of the country from the photos here, do yourself a favour and plan a trip to Africa now. You will not regret it!