Condé Nast Traveler has put Cape Town and the Winelands at the top of its list of “The Best Places to Go in Africa in 2025”.
Ascot Tours has several outstanding golf, safari and beach itineraries to the South African hotspots as well as Uganda and Zambia. These African destinations have also been singled out by the prestigious travel publication that is widely regarded as an authority on luxury travel.
Let’s take a look at why they deserve their inclusion.
Cape Town
The Mother City’s tourism scene is anchored by its iconic landmarks and natural beauty. Table Mountain is the crown jewel with its stunning views and hiking trails. Robben Island shares stories of the past and Nelson Mandela’s imprisonment. The V&A Waterfront is alive with shops, restaurants and family-friendly activities. Beach lovers adore Camps Bay and Clifton for their pristine sands and turquoise waters. The Cape Peninsula Point features dramatic cliffs and wildlife. The colourful Bo-Kaap neighbourhood gives visitors a glimpse into the cultural heritage of the Cape Malay people.
The Winelands
The Cape Winelands, located just outside Cape Town, is a picturesque escape into one of the world’s most renowned wine regions. Stellenbosch, Franschhoek and Paarl are popular destinations, each with its own charm and award-winning vintages. Visitors can enjoy cellar tours and sample gourmet cuisine while overlooking lush valleys. Beyond wine, the area is rich in culture, from art galleries to museums highlighting its winemaking heritage. Adventurous visitors can explore the terrain through hiking or cycling trails.
Uganda
Uganda is a land of astonishing contrasts and unforgettable experiences. Encounter the rare mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest or relax on the tranquil islands of Lake Victoria. Wildlife safaris in Murchison Falls and Queen Elizabeth National Parks showcase Uganda’s incredible biodiversity, from tree-climbing lions to countless bird species. The mighty Nile invites you for rafting adventures while the Rwenzori Mountains provide challenging yet rewarding treks. The Ugandan capital of Kampala offers lively markets and delicious local cuisine.
Zambia
If ever there was an authentic African safari experience, Zambia is it. The country’s raw natural beauty includes the mighty Victoria Falls, which it shares with neighbouring Zimbabwe. Going on a walking safari in South Luangwa National Park should be undertaken at least once in a lifetime. Kafue National Park is Zambia’s largest national park and brings sightings of species like wild dogs. Each year between October and December one of the biggest natural spectacles occurs in the Kasanka National Park when millions of straw-coloured fruit bats migrate to the park from across Africa.
