A long weekend in Africa is not somewhere many would immediately think of when planning a short trip away. However, with direct overnight flights and very little time difference, this is a great destination to have a proper break from the usual routine at home. An unforgettable weekend encountering endangered mountain gorillas, the herds of the wildebeest migration or simply soaking up the sunshine and enjoying some delicious South African wine, will ensure your short break feels like you have been away for longer, and doesn’t require a two week itinerary.
Countries such as Kenya, Rwanda and South Africa are perfect countries for one of these breaks with direct flights from London to each. With excellent connectivity from all three as well, other countries are a short hop away. We take a look at what makes them so good and what you can expect in each.
1. Kenya
Kenya, and the Masai Mara in particular, are world-renowned for the quality of its wildlife viewing. With its abundant wildlife and sweeping savannahs, It’s especially well-known for playing host to the annual wildebeest migration, one of the greatest natural spectacles on Earth. The skyline is dominated by the thousands of wildebeest and zebra, whilst other wildlife species such as giraffe, buffalo and other antelope species, abound as well. During the migration season (usually late July to October), the opportunity to see a river crossing draws many, but these being wild animals no crossing is guaranteed, even if you – and they – have waited all day.
Out of season the resident wildlife has a chance to shine and watching a herd of elephants, a pride of lion or family of cheetah will certainly feel like a world away from home.
The Masai Mara is not all that Kenya has to offer however, with plenty of wildlife to see on private land. These private reserves offer the chance to not only see wildlife at close quarters from a vehicle, but also to get out and experience Africa another way, perhaps on foot, on the back of a horse, on a bicycle or even in a helicopter from above. Not forgetting the coast – miles of Indian Ocean and white sandy beaches are the perfect place to recharge batteries and top up the vitamin D levels, especially in the European winter.
Highlights: Witness the Great Migration, go on a riding safari, fly-camp, take a camel supported walking safari get up close with elephants in Samburu or enjoy the sandy beaches and Indian Ocean.
2. Rwanda
For many, coming face to face with a mountain gorilla is not only humbling, but also the ultimate bucket-list experience. Volcanoes National Park, where the gorillas in Rwanda are located, is a scenically beautiful three hour drive from Kigali and for the ultimate experience a 30 minute helicopter transfer offers a birds eye view of this stunning country. Coming face-to-face with of of the world’s most endangered and captivating species is an extraordinary experience.
This is an ideal destination for a long weekend with a difference – knowledgeable guides will lead you through bamboo forests and volcanic slopes to meet these gentle giants. It’s a challenging but rewarding trek, and an extraordinary privilege, observing gorilla families in their natural habitat; a true ‘bucket list experience’ pinch-me’ moment.
Alongside seeing the mountain gorillas, a long weekend would also offer time to visit centres such as the Ellen DeGeneres Campus and Dian Fossey Centre to learn more about the the conservation work being undertaken. Rwanda’s commitment to conservation and sustainable tourism means your visit directly supports the protection of these incredible animals and their habitat, with the opportunity to also track Golden Monkeys, visit the Musanze Caves and enjoy culturally immersive activities with the local communities.
Highlights: Trek through the lush forests of Volcanoes National Park and have a life-changing encounter with mountain gorillas.
South Africa: Safari, Cape Town, Winelands, Whales and More
With direct, overnight, flights from London into both Johannesburg and Cape Town, South Africa is ideal for a long weekend. With so much to enjoy in one country it can be overwhelming to know where to start and a long weekend offers the chance to concentrate on one area, experiencing it to its fullest. Perhaps it is a long weekend of wildlife viewing, walking in the Drakensburg Mountains, learning about the battles of Isandlwana and Rorke’s Drift, wine tasting in the world famous Winelands or enjoying the sights and sounds of Cape Town, there is something for everyone.
For wildlife lovers the range of safari options is huge from the justifiably renowned Kruger National Park and its adjoining private reserves to the beauty of the private reserves in the Eastern Cape and KwaZulu Natal, there are options for everyone. There are excellent riding safari opportunities for experienced and novice riders alike and for those who like to get out on foot or bicycle there are camps which are ideal for these as well. It really is a country with endless possibilities, all of which can be enjoyed in bite-sized chunks on a long weekend.
For those who prefer a city-break, what about Cape Town? This vibrant and cosmopolitan city has so much to offer, from world-class restaurants to natural wonders of Table Mountain and the penguins of Boulders Bay. With world-class museums, including the Zeitz-Mocaa, stunning coastal scenery and its rich history, there is no end of things to fill your time here. For those interested in history, a visit to Robben Island should definitely be on the list of things to do. For whale watchers, head to Hermanus between June and November for some of the best land based whale watching in the world.
Not far away and the beautiful Winelands South Africa is so well known for. With villages like Franschhoek, Stellenbosch and Paarl all having a slightly different feel to them, and no to mention the plethora of vineyards making wine to suit all tastes, happy days can be spent enjoying the scenery and wine-tasting.
Highlights: Iconic wildlife viewing, the beauty of Cape Town, wine tasting in the Winelands, whale watching in Hermanus, world class restaurants make it a places where foodies are in heaven, historical sites.
4.When to visit each for the ultimate long weekend escape
These three countries differ in different seasons, so it’s worth planning when you travel based on what you want to see:
– Kenya: Easily visitable throughout the year, with July to October being the key season to witness the great migration. November, April and May are the months when the country typically receives its rain, so for a sunny long weekend avoid these months.
– Rwanda: Like Kenya, Rwanda is good all year round, though the dry seasons from December to February and June to September make gorilla trekking a little easier.
– South Africa: A large country, there are two distinct climate zones and as such there is always somewhere ideal for a long weekend, no matter the time of year. Safaris in the north of the country (for example to the Kruger National Park) are best during their dry season from May to October, whilst in the south Cape Town and the Winelands are at their most vibrant and with the best weather in the Southern Hemisphere summer (October to March/April), and whale watching is between June to November.
Why These Long Weekends Are So Special
A long weekend should feel restorative and like you have been away for longer than a few nights. With the direct flights and experiences a world away from life in Europe. By day two you cannot believe you have only been in the country for such little time. There are the ultimate destinations offering iconic experiences and a taster of what makes the continent so special. Whether it’s tracking gorillas, witnessing the drama of the migration, or feeling the vibrant energy of Cape Town, you can have an unforgettable African adventure in just a few days. It is good for the soul and a great re-set.
So, if you’re dreaming of an African getaway but short on time, these experiences are waiting to turn a long weekend into a lifetime memory. Pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready for a long weekend away with a difference!
If you would like to chat about planning a long weekend, or longer holiday, to Africa or the Indian Ocean, or any other holiday in Africa, please do get in touch with Lucinda and she would be delighted to help.
