The Bazaruto Archipelago is a beautiful string of islands off the coast of Mozambique in the peacock blue waters of the Indian Ocean. Groves of fragrant orange and cashew trees strewn with delicate white blossoms grow along the unspoiled beaches. The exquisitely diverse ocean life, including dolphins, whale sharks, humpback whales, manta rays and green sea turtles, is protected in the waters of a marine national park that encircles the archipelago. From the edge of the dhows dip below the ocean surface to explore the pristine coral reefs teeming with life, or snorkel among Africa's largest population of manatees as they float lazily along. Enjoy a round of challenging angling in pursuit of some of the thousands of species of fish, including the Black Marlin. A wide array of seabirds are wonderful to watch throughout the sweeping sand dunes, tidal flats and salty inland lakes. For a glimpse into the mysterious history of the area, the little known Vilankulo Ruins are wonderful to explore away from the usual tourist crowds. It is believed to have once been a trading post between Mozambique and the ancient Great Zimbabwe empire.

Hidden amid the aromatic forests and sandy beaches are a handful of lodges and resorts that offer secluded accommodation for those hoping to sink into the slow, relaxing pace of island life. There is something for every type of traveler from wonderfully private hideaways for honeymooners to charming places perfect for families. Despite being part of Mozambique, the archipelago is best accessed by a flight from Johannesburg, South Africa. Once into the Vilankulos Airport, travel to the rest of the islands is via light aircraft transfer or speedboat.

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The setting of many daydreams, the idyllic island paradise of Praslin in the Seychelles is the perfect place for an escape from the hectic pace of life. It perfectly blends the hustle and bustle of Mahe island with the sleepy tranquility of La Digue island. Ribbons of pristine white sand beaches with a delicate lacing of palm trees on one edge and an endless expanse of brilliant turquoise waters on the other are the ideal place to unwind and soak up some sunshine. When you need a break from the slow pace of beach life, jump into the many activities offered by the island's lush jungle and vibrant coral reefs. Explore the exotic jungles teeming with broad-leafed plants by foot or bike, then dip below the ocean's surface to marvel at the hidden gems offered by the coral reefs. Venture to nearby islands that are known for their impressive bird-watching or go see the legendary Coco-de-Mer, the world's largest coconut growing at the top of an ancient palm. As the days filled with fun and relaxation wind down, watch the sunset illuminate the sky in bursts of vivid oranges and pinks while sipping on a custom made tropical cocktail.

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The capital city of Kigali sits in the heart of Rwanda, acting as the economic, cultural and transport hub of the nation. It is nestled in a series small lush valleys and gentle ridges making a beautiful backdrop for the city. Irregular rows of red and yellow roofed houses stack on top of each other as they climb up the hillsides. In efforts to draw international tourists and business the city has been going through renovations to help create beautiful modern buildings and numerous coffee shops, markets, entertainment venues and restaurants. The downtown has maintained its air of authenticity of eras past, creating a city of interesting contrasts. The city may be developing into the modern world, but it has been inhabited by the Hutus, Tutsis and Twas tribes since the 11th century.

There are several touching memorials, museums and visitors centers that have been dedicated to the tragic Rwandan Genocide that destroyed the country just a few decades ago--these include the Kigali Genocide Memorial Center, the National Museum of Rwanda, The Kandt House Museum of Natural History and the Hotel Mille Collines, which was the real-life location of the stories told in the famous movie Hotel Rwanda. The Presidential Palace Museum offers guided tours of the lavish home of the former dictator President Habyarimana who ruled in from the 1970s until his death in 1994. Visitors may also venture into the Muslim Quarter, or one of the bustling markets for a taste of what the local life is like. The Dancing Pots Craft Center and the Cards for Africa workshop are wonderful places to purchase authentic hand-crafted souvenirs that celebrate local art and artists.

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The Historic Route through northern Ethiopia offers travelers a chance to delve into the mystery and intrigue of sub-Saharan Africa's rich and storied history. Journey through the cities of Bahir Dar, Gondar, Axum and Lalibela and unravel their legends as the beautiful landscapes dotted with ancient sites, rolling valleys and rocky mountains unfold before your eyes.

Bahir Dar curves along the shores of Lake Tana, which has been deemed the official source of the Nile River. Paddle your kayak across the lake while watching local fishermen, who still use traditional papyrus reed boats, catch tilapia, barbs and catfish. As the sun rises above the misty lake, take in the sounds of grunting hippos, melodic songbirds and diving waterfowl, all before venturing into the city to see the Tana Chirkos monastery, the mummified emperors on display at Daga Estiphanos and the wall paintings of Ura Kidane Mehret.

The city of Gondar, once the capitol of Ethiopia, houses a fascinating imperial compound that has several castles built for Emperor Fasiladas. Marvel at the architectural feats that date back to 1636 that are considered true treasures today. These include the 18th century Palace of Ras Beit, the Bath of Emperor Fasiladas, the crumbling Palace of Kusquam and the ornately adorned Debrebirhan Sillassie church.

Escape from the hustle and bustle of city life and go for a brief trek through the Simien Mountains National Park where centuries of heavy erosion has left the dramatic Ethiopian Plateau amid the deep sweeping valleys that lie between the sharp peaks. It is the only place in the world to see the Walia Ibex, but there are also gelada baboons, Ethiopian wolves and caracals.

Axum is the country's oldest settlement, and is known for its influences from European culture and Christianity. The ancient ruins of the once powerful city can still be seen with its 300 towering monolithic obelisks decorated in identical, hand-carved designs. Stone slabs with engraved inscriptions, ruined palaces and ancient currencies of gold, silver and bronze are all among the historical gems this city offers. It is also home to the St Mary of Zion Church, believed to be of the original biblical Ark of the Covenant, which draws many pilgrims.

Lalibela, named for King Lalibela, is the final stop on the route, and offers a remarkable eleven monolithic churches from the 12th century. They were chipped and carved by hand from the solid volcanic rock upon which they sit. The impressively difficult and arduous work is considered to be a testament to the dedication of religious devotion that has be integral to Ethiopia's history. Anthropologists have excavated deep into the earth to unveil the magnificent churches, and revealed that several are connected with a winding maze of tunnels.

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Once an ancient pirate lair, the coastal city of Casablanca is still a happening place where trade is thriving and culture, art and fashion are always striving for the latest and greatest. It is a more Western area compared to other parts of Morocco, which is reflected in its beaches, restaurants and nightclubs. Contrasting with the shanty towns are broad boulevards, manicured parks and beautiful colonial architecture with Hispano-Mauresque influences. The historical buildings blend with modern art-deco styles in a perfect representation of the way Casablanca blends its rich history with its bright hopes for the future. Interesting landmarks to visit include the marvelously ornate Hassan II Mosque, the French period Ville Nouvelle, the Parc de la Ligue Arabe, the Casablanca Cathedral and The Old Medina.

Casablanca is the main gateway to Morocco with the largest international airport.

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The city of Fez, located in northern Morocco, is the soul of a fascinating culture where rich colors and heady aromas intrigue the senses while wandering the narrow alleys of a traditional souk. Buildings intricately detailed with geometric patterns and high archways traditional to the medieval institutions jut up from walkways lined with vendors selling stacks of rolled up carpets, tinkling metal lanterns, colorful mounds of spices, fragrant carts of oranges and heaping bowls of olives. A city of beautifully forlorn relics of a mysterious time passed, visitors will find a jumble of ancient crafts, booths of delectable cuisine, and remnants of past eras of influence from Roman to Berber and French.

Endless historic and cultural sites are spread throughout the colorful mosaic of Fez. The Bou Inania Madrasa, Al-Attarine Madrasa and University of Al-Karaouine are religious educational institutions that have been integral parts of the city since the university, touted as the world's first, was founded in the mid 9th century. The Ibn Danan Synagogue provides a contrast to the Islamic influences that reach back for many centuries. Moulay Idriss II's tomb, a powerful former ruler and the patron saint of Fez is interesting to see, and the Dar al-Magana is a fascinating tower that houses a weight-powered water clock that uses brass bowls draining at a regular pace.

An eclectic and interesting collection of riads and boutique hotels are available. They give travelers a lovely sense of place with restored historical buildings that have been transformed and refurbished into hotels complete with all the modern conveniences.

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The Atlas Mountains range across most of Morocco, acting as a natural barrier between the Sahara Desert and the coastal regions. Dusty red valleys with desert shrubbery and palm groves growing out of every crevice sit between the jagged ridges that rise on either side in a dramatic and beautiful landscape. The scenery is made even more striking when the peaks are blanketed in brilliant white snow. Densely clustered villages cling to the valley walls, creating pops of striking geometric contrast against the rugged setting. Hiking trails wind along the craggy mountainsides, offering unprecedented views of the stunning vistas, which are also perfect for landscape photography.

The range is home to a unique array of species that are not part of the usual African sightings. Many endangered and rare species thrive here, including Barbary Macaque, Barbary Leopard, Barbary stag, Barbary sheep, Barbary Mountain Badger, Cuvier's Gazelle, Northern Bald Ibis, dippers, Atlas mountain viper, Atlas cedar, Algerian oak and European black pine.

A collection of small mountain retreats offer guests a relaxing stay an adventurous day hikes in an absolutely beautiful setting that blends the best views of mountains with the coveted warm Mediterranean climate.

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Chobe National Park in northern Botswana, east of the Okavango Delta, is the most diverse park in the country. It is a uniquely subtle landscape of sweeping grasslands and forests supported by an expanse of Kalahari sands. Seasonal floodplains dotted with dense groves of mahogany trees radiate out from the deep blue ribbon that is the Chobe River winding through the northeastern part of the park. Each year the desolation of the dry season is broken when the rains attract back the herds of elephants, giraffes, sable, zebras, buffalo, puku antelope, spoonbills, ibis, storks, baboons, lions, leopards, hyena, jackals, hippos, crocodiles, Pel's fishing owls, carmine bee-eaters and many other birds. Most notably, the density of elephants is greater here than anywhere else in the country, with up to an estimated 50,000 individuals roaming through the park during high season. The photography opportunities are endless with the concentration of wildlife and the predictability of their attraction to the watery areas.

A sunset boat cruise on the Chobe River is right up there on the list of great things to do in Africa.

Game drives in 4x4 vehicles give guests a great chance to explore the wilderness, but don't be surprised if the curious creatures wander right into your campsite or lodge's vicinity. Campgrounds are set back from the main game drive areas and have remained free of fences to help bring visitors closer to their natural surroundings. Private lodges have been established on their own private concessions and these are available both inside and outside of the park's boundaries in the gateway town of Kasane. Access to the area is via road or light aircraft transfer to the more remote areas.

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