Unconventional Locations: Sub-Saharan Africa

Much like South America, a large portion of the African continent remains one of the least explored and most adventurous regions on Earth. As you move south the vast plains of the Savannah give way to the lush rainforests of the Congo Basin before ending at the coastal beaches of the Cape region in South Africa. While the region is so vast that it's impossible to adequately cover everything, we've put together a small list of unusual locations and events to check out if you want to go deeper than Cape Town and the tourist safari.

Zanzibar, Tanzania

Nestled just off the east coast of Tanzania, the Spice Island is packed to the brim with culture and history in addition to its white beaches and palm trees. Old Stone Town is one of the old colonial outposts that remains relatively untouched, with its high townhouses and winding streets providing adventure opportunities. The island also hosts day-long spice tours that offer visitors the chance to see the working plantations growing cloves, vanilla, nutmeg and cinnamon among other famous spices.

Sossusvlei Dunes, Namibia

Originally formed from material flowing from the Orange River into the Atlantic, Sossusvlei is a an area comprised mainly of giant red sand dunes with salt flats between them. While the area is mostly bone-dry, during exceptional rainy seasons the flat pan between the dunes fills and transforms into a fascinating mirror lake reflecting its surroundings. The landscape therefore is a big draw for photographers and nature lovers alike.

Lower Zambezi National Park, Zambia

While still relatively underdeveloped, Lower Zambezi National Park remains mostly in a state of untouched wilderness, and thus offers a chance to get closer to the natural flora and fauna of Africa. The park lies on the bank of the Zambezi river, so there is the possibility of taking a canoe safari and witnessing various wildlife including hippos, zebras and elephants. The park also contains populations of lion and leopard, so keep your eyes peeled as you travel through!

Lake Malawi, Malawi

Despite the somewhat obvious naming convention, Lake Malawi, dubbed the 'Lake of Stars' by Dr. David Livingstone, is one of the largest in the world. If you're into diving, this lake is a must visit location, with over 1300 species of tropical fish swimming in its waters. The bio-diversity of the lake hasn't escaped international attention, with the area designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the world's first freshwater national park.

Orlando Towers, South Africa

Located in Soweto, the Orlando Towers are part of a decommissioned coal-fired power station. Since its cessation as a functioning power plant, the twin cooling towers serve as an advertising billboard as well as hosting the largest mural painting in South Africa. The platform stretching between the two is also now used as a popular bungee jumping spot and observation deck. So if you're a thrill seeker it's definitely worth checking out!

Solio Reserve, Kenya

While sub-Saharan Africa has its fair share of national parks and nature reserves, Solio holds a special place in the roster. Nestled in the valley between the dramatic slopes of Mount Kenya and the peaks of the Aberdare Mountains, the reserve is home to around 250 black and white rhinos and is considered the best place to see these endangered species. If you really want to get a glimpse of a rhino while in Africa, this is probably your best bet.

Tzaneen, South Africa

A tropical town in the northern region of South Africa, Tzaneen hosts a wide variety of natural attractions full of wildlife. Particular highlights include the Agatha Crocodile Ranch, an enormous Baobab tree (inspiringly named the big Baobab), and the Vervet Monkey Foundation which cares for over 600 monkeys. The area is also popular amongst hikers, with a selection of natural trails offering an abundance of plants and animals to observe.