One of the biggest struggles for parents? Feeling constantly overstimulated.
Think both kids demanding different things while climbing all over you, the TV blaring in the background, the dogs barking, the kettle whistling in the kitchen, and weight of the ever-present mental load on your shoulders.
Deal with this kind of sensory overload for most of the day and even the most put-together person would be desperate for a peaceful escape.
If “peace and quiet” is the most important part of your holiday (with plenty of hard-earned “me-time” included), we share Africa’s top 10 quiet escapes, courtesy of Flight Centre’s Travel Experts with recommendations for specific accommodations, as well as broader destinations to help inspire your retreat.
Destinations
NamibRand Nature Reserve, Namibia
Quiet Parks International has recently designated NamibRand Nature Reserve as Africa’s first Wilderness Quiet Park. Quiet Parks International’s handpicked destinations are known for safeguarding solitude in a world where quiet locations are quickly disappearing. The reserve is one of Africa’s largest – and it’s also recognised as an International Dark Sky Reserve, making it one of the best locations for stargazing.
The Okavango Delta, Botswana
This inland delta, spanning 15 000 square kilometres, is born from the Okavango River’s journey from Angola, breathing life into an otherwise parched landscape. A labyrinth of waterways, lagoons, and islands awaits with plenty of opportunity to relax amidst nature.
“The most peaceful activity available is gliding silently through the delta on board a traditional mokoro (a dugout canoe), allowing you to get closer to the birds and animals without disturbing them,” says Antoinette Turner, General Manager at Flight Centre Travel Group.
Hluleka, Wild Coast, SA
This serene area includes Hluleka Nature Reserve and the Hluleka Marine Protected Area (MPA) and is full of enchanting ecosystems to explore, from rocky shorelines and sandy beaches to lagoons and flourishing forests. The walking trails are like therapy for the soul, full of untouched natural beauty and interesting creatures like bushbucks and blue duikers.
Sossusvlei, Namibia
A beloved desert sanctuary far from the crowds, Sossusvlei is a salt and clay pan, famous for its red sand dunes, reaching heights of up to 325m.
“This area is part of the Namib-Naukluft National Park, the largest conservation area in Africa, and its where you’ll find some of Namibia’s most mind-bending attractions, including Deadvlei – another clay pan known for its striking contrast of white clay and blackened, 900-year-old camelthorn trees, and Big Daddy, one of the Namib Desert’s tallest dunes,” comments Turner.
La Digue Island, Seychelles
(Literally) picture-perfect island bliss is a guarantee when holidaying on La Digue Island in the Seychelles – it’s home to Anse Source d’Argent, the most photographed beach in the world.
La Digue is barefoot, beach-bum luxury at its best, and if you can tear yourself away from your towel, there’s lots of other gorgeous scenery to explore. Think granite boulders and tropical vegetation – plus, the island is almost completely ensconced by coral reefs.
Accommodation
Wolwedans Plains Camp, NamibRand Nature Reserve, Namibia
Tranquillity rating: 10/10
You’ll find this intimate camp in a dune valley of the Namib Desert, surrounded by wind-swept sands for as far as the eye can see – it doesn’t get any more remote than this!
Amenities to boost your zen: An exclusive sala, a private guide and vehicle, and a private chef and house manager.
Highlights: Stargazing safaris, hot air ballooning, and sundowner horseback rides.
Paradis Beachcomber, Mauritius
Tranquillity rating: 7.5/10
Perched on the southwestern tip of Mauritius, Paradis Beachcomber is surrounded by a beautiful lagoon and Morne Brabant Mountain, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and offers a 5km stretch of private beach.
“Mauritius consistently delivers on luxury, convenience, and tranquillity, which is why it has been the number one holiday destination for South African travellers for well over a decade. Beachcomber’s kids’ clubs are a hit with the kids and parents alike, giving mom and dad a chance to enjoy a breather while knowing their children are also having the time of their lives,” Turner says.
Amenities to boost your zen: Complimentary kids’ club for children 3 – 11 years old and an opulent spa with a sauna and steam room.
Highlights: 18-hole championship golf course, water sports, and various evening entertainment.
Tankwa River Lodge, Tankwa Karoo, SA
Tranquillity rating: 9/10
Tankwa River Lodge is a rustic, off-grid accommodation and 300-year-old homestead on a 2,500-hectare farm. It’s well off the beaten path, only accessible via a 33km dirt road. But beware – it can get extremely hot here during the spring and summer months.
Amenities to boost your zen: A massive farm kitchen, a plunge pool, an outdoor shower, and a fire pit.
Highlights: Nature drives to see the region’s succulents and wildlife (keep your eyes peeled for aardvarks!). The lodge is also pet-friendly (prior arrangements essential).
Bekkie, Paternoster, SA
Tranquillity rating: 8/10
If you must bring the kids along, then at least bring the grandparents to lend a hand (and also enjoy the getaway, of course)! Bekkie is a great option for multi-gen holidays. It’s a self-catering holiday home located right on the beach with views of Bekbaai and the Cape Columbine Nature Reserve.
Amenities to boost your zen: 3 separate living areas, a Morso fireplace, and both outdoor and indoor braai areas.
Highlights: The beachfront location and the fact that it’s reserved for your exclusive use.
Baobab Beach Resort & Spa, Diani Beach, Kenya
Tranquillity rating: 9/10
Luxury rating: 8.5/10
Baobab Beach Resort & Spa is a luxurious all-inclusive resort on Kenya’s iconic Diani Beach. It’s set within over 30 hectares of flourishing gardens overlooking the Indian Ocean… and there are plenty of palm trees swaying in the wind to ensure it lives up to its reputation as a tropical paradise.
Amenities to boost your zen: 700m of golden beachfront, a spa centre, and 3 swimming pools.
Highlights: The kids’ club and 5 restaurants.
