21 days in Africa Itinerary

Still relatively unvisited by international tourists, Mozambique boasts plenty of natural and cultural charms that could easy make it into a major vacation destination. The beaches of the south come in all shapes and sizes, while the less-visited north offers island archipelagos and untouched coral reefs. The colonial architecture of the main urban areas complements the colorful African heritage that still holds sway here, with the region's art, cuisine, and music ensuring each trip to Mozambique allows the visitor to appreciate the country's distinct culture and vast landscape.

Landlocked Swaziland remains one of the few absolute monarchies in the world--it's also one of the smallest countries in Africa. Known for its peacefulness and welcoming atmosphere, the country doesn't rush past you (even in the most built-up areas) like some of its neighbors. This laidback atmosphere suits the country, where age-old traditions are practiced in an everyday, rather than a made-for-tourists way. Aside from these singular characteristics, the country matches its better-known neighbors in terms of protected savannah landscapes rich in wildlife, the focal point for tourism in Swaziland.

Mountainous Lesotho lends itself well to an adventurous holiday itinerary. Entirely located above 1,000 m (3,280 ft) in elevation, the country enjoys a cool climate with around 300 days of sunshine each year. Explorations of the mountains form the backbone of many Lesotho holidays. Remote villages located way up in the highlands, only accessible on foot or by horseback, offer a glimpse into the country's authentic culture with their lively markets, traditional eateries, and musical traditions.