Cusco once served as the heart of the Inca Empire, and that legacy still shapes every corner of the city even as it serves as a gateway to Machu Picchu. Outside the historic center, the ruins of Sacsayhuamán overlook the city from a nearby hilltop. This ceremonial complex is best known for its massive zigzag stone walls, some weighing over 100 tons. During the Inti Raymi festival in June, thousands gather here to reenact ancient Andean rituals.

South Luangwa National Park in eastern Zambia is one of Africa’s most treasured wildlife areas, lying along the lush bends of the Luangwa River. Designated as a protected area in the 1970s, it stands out for its consistently high wildlife densities and landscapes that shift with the seasons. Dry grasslands, shaded woodlands, and green floodplains all unfold beneath wide skies, shaping the canvas for memorable animal sightings.

Lilongwe, the capital of Malawi, blends modern development with a laid-back atmosphere, offering visitors an introduction to the country’s culture and daily life. Markets are at the heart of Lilongwe’s character, with the bustling Old Town Market standing out as a must-visit. Here, traders sell everything from fresh produce and local crafts to colorful fabrics and handmade goods.

On the north-western coast of Sal Island in Cape Verde sits Palmeira, an authentic fishing settlement where day-to-day life still revolves around the sea. The village’s seaside restaurants serve grilled tuna, octopus, and flying fish fresh from the day’s catch. Just a short trip from the centre lies Buracona, a natural lava rock pool famous for the “Blue Eye,” a glowing underwater cave that shines when the sunlight hits at just the right angle.

Bulawayo is Zimbabwe’s second-largest city and a place where industrial heritage and deep cultural roots intersect. Founded near the former capital of the Ndebele kingdom, the city carries strong historical significance tied to King Lobengula and the resistance to colonial expansion.