Spirits & Specters

Put away your pumpkins and leave your Halloween costume at home, as according to Acacia Africa, on the continent there’s a more enticing side to the supernatural. Filled to the witches brim with myths and legends you can even meet spectral serial killers en route.

Step back in time with the San Bushmen, a tribe who have been dancing themselves into a trance for near on 2,000 years. The chanting, foot stomping and rock art paintings found in Spitzkoppe are part of the entire spiritual process. Swap the commercial side of Halloween for something otherworldly on the 19-day Desert Tracker overland expedition, from £695pp (no single supplement) + local payment from £450pp including camping accommodation, most meals, transport and services of a local driver/guide. 18+ years. Guaranteed departure 27 October. Starts Cape Town – ends Livingstone.

Adventurers with a penchant for all things spooky should book an optional night drive to view the Kruger National Park’s nocturnal residents. However, remember to sing when you pass a baobab, as some locals believe that the mind-altering devils who inhabit those very tree trunks will sneak up on you if you’re not humming a tune. 4-day Kruger Encounter from £645pp (no single supplement) including camping accommodation, most meals, transport, park fees and services of a local driver/guide. 18+ years. Guaranteed departure 29 October. Starts Johannesburg – ends Johannesburg.

For a murder most horrid, add on a 4-day city stay in Johannesburg, home to Daisy de Melker, the second woman to die by hanging in South Africa. It is said that the serial killer, who poisoned her family with strychnine, can still be heard walking the floors of the city’s Supreme Court. And for extra chills the Braamfontein cemetery is a city must see. 4-day city stay from £247pp (two sharing) including return transfers, 3-nights B&B accommodation, choice of 2 day tours and Johannesburg City Tour, Soweto or Lion Park (Apartheid Museum except Mondays). Daily departures.

For more information, visit acacia-africa.com.

All prices subject to availability.