If you're searching for a less-traveled side of Southern Africa, look no further than Botswana, where wide horizons and stunning nature beckon. Things to do in Botswana tend to revolve around wildlife: cruise the Chobe River to spot hippos and crocodiles or tour the expansive Khutse Game Reserve or conveniently central Mokolodi Nature Reserve. Those interested in diving into the country's rich culture and history can also learn about the Indigenous San people at camping lodges in the Kalahari Desert.

With a well-developed tourism infrastructure, a fun-filled capital city, and two dozen national parks, Kenya is a spectacular spot for travelers looking for a wide range of travel experiences. The country is best known for its wildlife-viewing opportunities, particularly during the annual Great Migration, which can be viewed in all its splendor at the Masai Mara National Reserve. That said, there are tons of other things to do in Kenya beyond safaris, from chilling out on white-sand beaches to learning about animal rehabilitation efforts.

Bordered by the Atlantic Ocean, Namibia is a country of visual contrasts and symmetry—with the waves crashing on its beaches mirroring the swells of the sandy desert and the rolling sand dunes and red desert unrolling under a deep blue sky. Things to do in Namibia range from tucking into fresh oysters in Swakopmund to exploring the harsh beauty of Namib-Naukluft National Park. It’s also popular as a destination for game drives—skip the bustle of some of the more famous South African game parks and still see the Big 5.

South Africa is a country of ever-changing landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. From the rolling winelands of the Western Cape to the endless plains of Kruger National Park, the changing topography of the land means you’ll never run out of things to do in South Africa. Nature lovers are drawn to safari trips; foodies flock to Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Durban; and music lovers congregate in Makhanda for the National Arts Festival. No matter your interests, the Rainbow Nation offers a diversity of experiences and cultures.

If you want to see wildlife, you’re in the right place. Tanzania is among Africa's most popular safari destinations, with 22 national parks, endless things to do, and all sorts of wild beasts, including giraffes, zebras, hippos, rhinos, and lions. Tanzania is also the site of the tallest mountain in Africa—Mount Kilimanjaro—a bucket list destination for many hikers and climbers. And when you’re done with the parks, you can zip over to Zanzibar, Tanzania’s spice island, for your fill of white-sand beaches and gorgeous old architecture.

Undulating landscapes, abundant wildlife, and a rich history characterize the East African nation of Uganda. The country boasts 10 national parks, including the UNESCO-listed Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, which is home to more than half of the world’s population of mountain gorillas. Add in natural features like Lake Victoria and the Rwenzori Mountains, vibrant cities like Kampala and Jinja, and ancient cultures like the Acholi, Lango, and Ganda, and you’ll find no end of things to do in Uganda.

Home to Victoria Falls and Zambezi National Park, Zimbabwe is filled with natural beauty and rich culture. On a drive through Zimbabwe, you’ll travel through stretches of dusty desert interrupted by twisted trees and marvel at the lush green oasis of Victoria Falls. The list of things to do in Zimbabwe is long—from going on a safari to spot the Big 5, to exploring the 9th-century ruins of Great Zimbabwe city, to watching the sunset on a Zambezi River cruise.