Ponte de Lima sits along the Lima River in northern Portugal and is often regarded as the country’s oldest town. Its identity centers on the medieval bridge that spans the river, parts of which date back to Roman times and still structure how the town is experienced today.

Erindi Private Game Reserve is a large wildlife area in central Namibia, situated between Windhoek and the coast. The reserve covers a broad landscape of open savanna, dry woodland, rocky hills, and seasonal watercourses. Its name comes from a Herero word meaning “place of water,” reflecting the importance of water sources within the reserve’s semi-arid environment.

Altun Ha, where archaeologists found a nine-pound jade carving among these ruins, the largest ever uncovered in a Mayan civilation.

Gabon, located on the west coast of Central Africa, is a country of lush rainforests, vast savannas, and a pristine Atlantic coastline. Despite its small population, it is home to remarkable biodiversity, including gorillas, chimpanzees, forest elephants, and countless bird species. National parks such as Loango and Ivindo protect these habitats, offering visitors a chance to experience Africa’s wildlife in relatively untouched landscapes.

Cameroon is often called “Africa in miniature” for good reason. Within its borders, travelers can explore coastal beaches, dense rainforests, vast savannas, active volcanoes, and snow-capped peaks, all without crossing a border. The country’s most iconic landmark, Mount Cameroon, is the highest mountain in West Africa and an active volcano that draws hikers from around the world.