20 days in South Africa, Mozambique & Eswatini (Swaziland) Itinerary

The landscapes of South Africa match its people in terms of diversity, richness, and vitality. From desert lands and coastlines, to the famous nature reserves sheltering the "Big Five" game animals, the country has natural charm in spades. The main cities provide a wealth of bars, clubs, shopping districts, and entertainment options to please the most demanding visitors, while traditional life can still be admired and respected in a collection of villages with beehive-style huts and an age-old cultural heritage. When in need of a minute to digest all that's happened during your trip to South Africa, sit down to a braai (traditional barbecue), and a bottle of wine made at one of the country's thriving vineyards.

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.

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.