From Mozambique and Reunion to Puglia and Cognac: Where to in 2022?

It’s a new year, and that blank calendar in your diary is crying out to be filled with new adventures. From bucket list expeditions to tropical short-breaks, try these 2022 trips on for size.

Mellow out in Mozambique

While some Indian Ocean islands (we’re looking at you, Mauritius) have been quick to slap travel restrictions on South Africans, Mozambique’s glorious coastline has remained open for travel throughout most of the pandemic.  And there’s plenty to pique your interest in 2022, from the design-led suites at Sussurro, near Vilanculos, to the brand-new Banyan Tree Ilha Caldeira resort that is due to open in mid-2022 off the coast of central Mozambique.

Island adventure on Reunion

If you want more than a sun lounger from your island holiday, look no further than the island of Reunion. This dramatic island four hours’ flight from Johannesburg is dominated by its volcanic landscape, and the 2,631m Piton de la Fournaise occasionally still throws up a bellyful of lava. These towering peaks offer remarkable hiking, canyoning and mountain biking, while the oceans offshore are famed for their diving. As an Overseas Department of France there is a charming Gallic flair too, making a croissant from the boulangerie an ideal picnic on the gorgeous beaches of Boucan Canot.

Road-trip through Puglia

We are avoiding the crowds, right? So slip away from the packed pavements of Venice, Florence and Rome and soak up the rural charm of Puglia. The heel to the boot of Italy offers an entirely different taste of la dolce vita, with charming coastal villages and medieval towns offering a slower, more authentic taste of Italy. Don’t miss the rustic Valle d’Itria and the baroque architecture of Lecce, on the Salento peninsula.

See the migration

The lack of international visitors made 2021 one of the best years to see the legendary migration across the plains of the Maasai Mara and Serengeti. And, with the pandemic still grinding on, 2022 could shape up to be another year of lower rates, good availability and no crowds at the dramatic river crossings. If it has been on your bucket list, make a booking. 

São Tomé and Príncipe

Dubbed the “Galapagos of Africa” for its numerous endemic species, these volcanic islands — Africa’s second-smallest nation — in the Gulf of Guinea offers a Goldilocks mix of beguiling history, island adventure and tropical luxury. Discover the centuries of trade (and slavery) that shaped the islands, before setting off on waterfall hikes and snorkelling excursions. At day’s end, choose between luxe seafront resorts or charming plantation houses converted into boutique hotels.

Cruise the Nile

For an immersive discovery of Egypt’s ancient treasures, without the hassle of the crowds, a Nile cruise offers a leisurely way to enjoy both the desert landscapes and beguiling history. Cruises typically sail between Cairo and Aswan, taking in the Pyramids of Giza, the Valley of Kings and Queens, and the Temple of Kom Ombo.

Uniworld River Cruises debuted the SS Sphinx on the Nile in 2021, offering 42 luxury suites, gourmet dining venues and a rooftop swimming pool.