An Introduction to Africa

Discovering the vast continent of Africa is really about experiencing a series of significant places. At each place, something meaningful to you reveals itself and adds to your understanding and appreciation of African people, wildlife and culture. Some places in Africa are huge, like Botswana’s Okavango Delta (almost twice the size of Yellowstone). Yet Duba Plains Camp perched on an island shaded by ebony and fig trees feels intimate. Sleeping enveloped in raised luxury tents and dining on a deck overlooking a flood plain alive with animals is breathtaking. Gazing upon 3,000 Cape Buffalo at the end of a game drive is a true wilderness experience.

Smaller places are surprising. Trekking high into Rwanda’s Virunga Mountains, through lush rain forest, cool and bug free at 65° and 9,500 feet of altitude you encounter rare and profound beauty. Ahead a grove slopes upwards as you enter, and the clearing seems like it’s covered with shiny black boulders — until they gently move. For the next 90 minutes you are a guest in a quiet green expanse where Mountain Gorillas eat and play around you. When one of them finally looks at you, searching into your eyes, there is no other place you can imagine being.

Finally, a special place may be very small. After an afternoon of shopping in Marrakech’s souks, the inner courtyard of Villa Des Orangers invites you to relax in plump sofas amidst the soft murmur of fountains. Sweet Moroccan tea arrives, accompanied by snacks piled high on a silver tray. Moments later, rejuvenate in a plunge pool on the rooftop terrace, then emerge, sliding your feet into leather slippers. Our new Africa brochure features many significant places like these that can be a part of your own series of African discoveries. Peruse, dream and imagine what your journey could be. We can help make it real.

– Nathaniel Waring, President, Cox & Kings USA