Discover Africa: Unforgettable Summer Holidays from the UK (June–July 2025)
03:05:38 May 19, 2025
Dreaming of an adventure this summer? Africa offers UK travellers the perfect blend of thrilling safaris, paradise beaches, ancient wonders, and vibrant cultures. Plan your ultimate escape with our expert guide-covering flights, top destinations, package types, pricing, and essential travel tips!
Best Places to Visit in Africa (June–July 2025)
Africa’s diversity shines in its top destinations, each offering unique landscapes, wildlife, and culture:
- Kruger National Park, South Africa:
The ultimate Big Five safari destination, Kruger is renowned for its wildlife diversity and luxury lodges. June–July is peak game-viewing season-dry weather means animals gather at waterholes, making sightings almost guaranteed. Private reserves offer exclusive experiences like guided bush walks and off-road drives. - Serengeti National Park & Maasai Mara, Tanzania/Kenya:
Witness the Great Migration-millions of wildebeest and zebras crossing the plains and rivers. June–July is prime time for dramatic river crossings and predator action. Balloon safaris and luxury mobile camps add to the magic. - Zanzibar, Tanzania:
Famous for its white-sand beaches and turquoise waters, Zanzibar is also a cultural gem. Explore UNESCO-listed Stone Town, spice plantations, and enjoy world-class diving and snorkelling-June is perfect for underwater adventures. - Cape Town, South Africa:
A cosmopolitan city with Table Mountain, iconic beaches, Cape Winelands, and rich history. Don’t miss Boulders Beach’s penguin colony and the vibrant V&A Waterfront. - Okavango Delta, Botswana:
Explore this UNESCO World Heritage site by mokoro (traditional canoe) for a unique, water-based safari among hippos, elephants, and rare birds. Botswana’s eco-friendly, high-value tourism ensures an exclusive experience. - Namibia:
Home to the otherworldly Sossusvlei dunes, the Skeleton Coast, and Etosha National Park-perfect for adventure, photography, and conservation-focused travel. - Rwanda:
Trek to see endangered mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park, and stay in eco-luxury lodges for a once-in-a-lifetime wildlife encounter. - Marrakech, Morocco:
The “Red City” is a sensory feast-exploring bustling souks, historic palaces, and vibrant festivals. June hosts the Gnaoua World Music Festival in Essaouira.
Traditional Foods to Try
African cuisine is as diverse as its landscapes. Here are must-try dishes from top destinations:
| Country/Destination | Traditional Foods & Culinary Experiences |
| South Africa | Bobotie: Spiced minced meat with fruit and egg custard topping. Biltong: Air-dried meat snack. Braai: Social BBQ. Potjiekos: Slow-cooked stew. |
| Morocco | Tagine: Slow-cooked stew with spices, often with lamb, chicken, or vegetables. Couscous: Steamed semolina with meat/veg. Pastilla: Savoury pie with almonds. |
| Egypt | Koshari: Pasta, chickpeas, lentils, rice, and fried onions with spicy tomato sauce-a beloved street food. |
| Kenya/Tanzania | Ugali: Maize porridge. Nyama Choma: Grilled meat. Pilau: Spiced rice. Wali wa Nazi: Coconut rice. Try Swahili seafood on Zanzibar’s coast. |
| Botswana | Seswaa: Shredded beef stew. Dikgobe: Maize and beans. Phane: Mopane worms, a local delicacy. |
| Mauritius | Dholl Puri: Flatbread with split peas and curry. Rougaille: Tomato-based Creole sauce. Boulettes: Dumplings in broth. |
| Senegal/Gambia | Maafe: Rich peanut stew with meat or fish, a West African staple. |
Immersive Cultural Experiences & Festivals
Africa’s living cultures are a highlight for 2025 travellers:
- Tanzania:
Experience Maasai, Hadzabe, and Chagga village life-learn beadwork, coffee-making, and ancient hunting skills. Zanzibar’s Sauti za Busara music festival and Mwaka Kogwa celebration are cultural musts. - Botswana:
Visit San communities for bush walks, tracking, and storytelling. Explore Tsodilo Hills’ ancient rock art, guided by San elders. - Namibia:
Engage with Himba and San communities to learn about semi-nomadic traditions and bush survival. - Kenya:
Community-based tourism thrives-walk with Maasai or Samburu guides, participate in ceremonies, and support local conservation. - Ghana:
Chale Wote Street Art Festival in Accra (August) transforms the city with murals, music, and avant-garde fashion. - Morocco:
The Gnaoua World Music Festival in Essaouira (June) celebrates spiritual music and dance. - Senegal:
Saint-Louis Jazz Festival (May) blends global jazz with African rhythms in a historic island setting. - Eswatini:
The Umhlanga Reed Dance (late August–early September) is a vibrant celebration of Swazi culture and womanhood.
Flights from the UK to Africa
| Region | Countries/Islands | Flight Time from UK |
| North Africa | Morocco, Egypt, Tunisia | 3–5 hours |
| East & Southern Africa | Kenya, South Africa | 9–12 hours |
| Indian Ocean Islands | Mauritius, Cape Verde | 6–12 hours (with stops) |
Tip: Most holiday packages include return flights, airport transfers, and internal connections for a hassle-free experience.
Top African Destinations for Summer 2025
| Destination | Highlights |
| South Africa | Big Five safaris, Cape Town, Garden Route, wineries |
| Kenya & Tanzania | Great Migration, Maasai Mara, Serengeti |
| Botswana & Zimbabwe | Victoria Falls, Chobe safaris, luxury wilderness |
| Mauritius & Zanzibar | White-sand beaches, coral reefs, luxury resorts |
| Egypt & Morocco | Pyramids, Red Sea diving, souks, desert tours |
| Cape Verde & Gambia | Laid-back islands, music, West African culture |
Africa Holiday Packages: What’s Included?
| Package Type | What’s Included |
| Safari Adventures | Guided game drives, luxury lodges, wildlife walks, park fees |
| Beach Escapes | All-inclusive/half-board, water sports, island tours, spa |
| Multi-Centre Tours | Mix of safaris, cities, and beaches-custom itineraries |
| Cultural Journeys | Local villages, markets, ancient ruins, heritage tours |
Packages & Price Guide
| Package Name | Duration | Stay | Activities | Meals | Price From |
| Safari & Culture | 10–16 days | Luxury lodges | Game drives, bush walks, tribal | Full/Half | £2,457 pp |
| Beach Island Retreat | 7–14 days | Resorts/Hotels | Snorkelling, boat tours, spa | All/Half | £459 pp |
| Multi-Centre Adventure | 12–17 days | Hotels/Lodges | Safari, scenic drives, beach, city | Breakfast+some | £3,852 pp |
What’s Usually Included
Return flights from the UK
All airport transfers & local transport
3–5 star accommodation (lodges, resorts)
Guided safaris & excursions
Most meals (varies by package)
National park fees & activity permits
FAQs – Africa Holidays for UK Travellers
Q: Are flights included in packages?
A: Yes, most packages include return flights and internal transfers.
Q: Best time for a safari?
A: June–July is ideal-dry season means animals gather near water, making them easier to spot.
Q: Can I customise my holiday?
A: Absolutely! Many operators offer tailor-made packages.
Q: Is Africa safe for UK tourists?
A: Yes, especially with licensed tour operators. Follow local advice and stay informed.
Booking Tips for Summer 2025
- Book Early: Summer is peak season-secure your spot now!
- Compare Packages: Find the right fit-safari, luxury, budget, or multi-centre.
- Read Reviews: Real traveller feedback helps you choose wisely.
- Get Insurance: Essential for safaris or remote adventures.
Why Book Your Africa Holiday Now?
From breathtaking safaris in Kenya and Botswana to tranquil beaches in Mauritius and Zanzibar, Africa has it all for UK travellers in June and July 2025. With convenient flights, expert-led packages, and endless opportunities for adventure and relaxation, your dream trip is just a booking away.
Pro Tip: Book early, compare packages, and prepare for the African journey of a lifetime!