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Here are the best African destinations to visit in 2023, according to CNN

• Business Insider and the Africa Collective initiative it supports present the best travel destinations in Africa for 2023 according to CNN.
• Tourism sectors all across the world are projected to bounce back hugely in 2023. 
• The original list contains 23 destinations with only 4 African countries making it to the list.

It’s now officially 3 years since the Covid-19 pandemic disrupted the global economy, and put a lot of industries on hold, but slowly and surely economic activities have since resumed, and are quickly reaching levels that the world was accustomed to.

Amongst these affected industries was travel and tourism, which was the worst hit. Domestic and international travel restrictions defined the global lockdown, and even after 2 years since the pandemic was declared over, countries like China were still hesitant to ease up on travel restrictions.

Fortunately, the past few months have seen the rectification of this issue as China eased up its travel restrictions, being one of the last countries to do so.

With eased access to foreign countries, tourism sectors across the world can start returning to peak pre-pandemic form.

In light of this, the US-based news agency, CNN, released a report listing the 23 best tourist destinations for the year 2023.

“International tourism was expected to reach 65% of pre-pandemic levels by the end of 2022, according to the United Nations World Tourism Organization, with some areas recently reaching levels closer to 80% or 90% of their 2019 arrivals. And experts are cautiously optimistic about a continued travel rebound.” An extract from the report stated.

CNN also noted that now would be the best time to book these trips as prices are expected to skyrocket once tourism begins to heat up.

The CNN list details 23 countries to visit in 2023 based on its tourism sector, specific reasons to visit said countries, and specific locations to see if you choose to travel to any of these destinations.

Below are the 4 African destinations that made the list

Rwanda: This country is on CNN’s list based on the opening of its new hotel, Sextantio Rwanda. This hotel is touted to be the first project outside Italy for Daniele Kihlgren, whose part-hotel, part-living history projects keep local tradition alive. The hotel is an exciting wildlife adventure complete with a 1,000-square-mile lake, Volcanoes National Park, numerous exotic animals, and fun-activities tailor-made for a natural experience. Also, there is the 4,500-square-meter Ellen DeGeneres Campus which opened in 2022 via the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund. Its visitor center includes exhibits, virtual reality gorilla encounters' and nature trails. Rwanda is also home to some of the most exotic wildlife in Africa.

Tanzania: Tanzania has been one of Africa’s prime tourist destinations for years now for a slew of reasons, its wildlife, hospitality, its security, etc, and it is for these very reasons that CNN has this country as one of its 23 tourist destinations for 2023. With sights like Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa's highest mountain, UNESCO world heritage site Serengeti National Park, and the Zanzibar Archipelago, among its many highlights, it's easy to see why this country is on the list. Also like Rwanda, Tanzania’s Delta Hotels by Marriott brand is making its Africa debut with the opening of its Dar es Salaam Oyster Bay property later this year.

Egypt Cairo: It’s hardly any surprise that this country is on this list, owing to its magnificent sites like the pyramids of Giza, historic Islamic architecture, and rich blend of history and cross-continental cultures, but CNN has Egypt on this list for additional reasons. Egypt is expected to complete the construction of the GEM museum, the largest museum dedicated to a single civilization, costing around $1 billion and holding the entire King Tut collection.

Uganda: Uganda is easily one of the friendliest countries in Africa, not just from the hospitality of its people but also its serene and awe-inspiring wildlife conservation centers. Uganda, according to CNN presents an emphatic opportunity for adventures owing to scenes like the expansive shores of Lake Victoria, the snowy Rwenzori Mountains, treks through the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, the craters of the Virunga volcano chain, the Ugandan 1,600-kilometer unpaved 22-stage Cycling Trail, and whitewater rafting along the Victoria Nile, amongst others. Not to mention the region's local cuisine.

**This post forms part of the Africa Collective initiative, for which Business Insider Africa is the lead media partner. Learn more about the initiative here.

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Best Countries to Visit in Africa? Here are 15 Amazing African Countries

Posted by Andrew Hofmeyr on April 17 2024 in Places in Africa Enquire Now!

Each of Africa's 54 countries has a unique history, culture, and natural beauty. Choosing the best Africa travel destination would be hard if it weren't so much fun!  

African safaris that seek out wild animals in their natural environments are some of the most popular, and we have kept this in mind when choosing our 15 best African travel destinations. 

While wildlife is a priority, with the Big 5 being at the top of many bucket lists, Africa has plenty of other reasons to visit, including history, culture, scenery and natural wonders, not to mention beaches, jungles, and mountains. 

African cities are growing fast and the youth is striving for a modern identity that makes African cities some of the most vibrant and dynamic places to visit.

Let's dive in and look at 15 of Africa's best countries to visit.

The Best East African Safari Destinations

1. ethiopia, east africa.

Ethiopia, located on the horn of Africa, north of Kenya, was one of Christianity's early strongholds, and also the birthplace of the Rastafarian movement.

A rich history and fascinating culture make it an alluring destination for those looking for something different and willing to travel off the beaten track.

Famous for the rock-hewn churches of Lalibela, the landscapes of the Danikil Depression, the rare Ethiopian wolves of the Simien Mountains, exciting Addis Ababa, and the tribes of the Omo Valley, Ethiopia offers some breathtaking landscapes that include deserts, mountainous plateaus, lakes, and tropical coffee plantations.

• Ethiopia is the best African Country for its culture, history, and mountainous regions.

Ethiopia Travel Guide  |  Ethiopia Tours

2. Kenya, East Africa

Kenya is #2 on our best countries to visit in Africa list and offers classic safari experiences, authentic tribes, and some of the best conservation organisations in Africa.

Known for the Masai Mara and the Great Wildebeest Migration, Kenya is a top destination for wildlife enthusiasts. Witnessing frantic wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles making the dangerous Mara River crossing is the safari experience of a lifetime.

Amboseli and Tsavo are famous for abundant elephant herds. Amboseli also offers iconic views of Mount Kilimanjaro across the border in Tanzania.

Other attractions in Kenya include Mount Kenya, the Great Rift Valley Lakes, Samburu National Reserve, and the Samburu and Maasai people who offer unique cultural experiences.

In addition to its natural wealth, and cultural heritage, Kenya has a vibrant contemporary culture best witnessed first-hand in the capital city Nairobi. Lonely Planet has picked Nairobi as one of 2024's best travel destinations in the world, as well as the Swahili Coast as one of the best regions, think white sand beaches and watersports in Malindi, Kilifi, Mombasa, and more.

• Kenya is the best African country for wildlife encounters, Maasai culture, and city exploration.

Kenya Safari Guide  |  Kenya Safaris

3. Malawi, East Africa

Malawi is a scenic country located in southeastern Africa.

Known as the ‘warm heart of Africa’ Malawians are famously friendly and chatting will soon have you feeling like you have arrived home. 

Malawi's main attraction is Lake Malawi, Africa's third-largest lake. With its palm trees and sandy beaches, it's easy to imagine you are on a tropical island. Home to endemic cichlid fish and phenomenal speciation, Lake Malawi is a fantastic destination for freshwater diving and snorkelling.

While not a traditional Big 5 destination, African Parks is making great progress restoring wilderness areas and their flagship park, Majete , is a beacon of hope for the continent. Other worthwhile parks include Liwonde, Mangochi, and Nkhotakota.

Malawi also boasts abundant birdlife due to its diverse ecosystems, which include wetlands, lakes, forests, and the Afromontane highlands.

• Malawi is the best African country for freshwater beaches, unique and colourful fish, and lakeside eco-lodges.

Malawi Safari Guide  |  Malawi Safaris

4. Rwanda, East Africa

Rwanda, the Land of a Thousand Hills is one of the best Africa travel destinations.

Recovering from a tragic past, Rwanda is blessed with incredible natural beauty and friendly locals. It is also one of the best places to go trekking with gorillas.

Experience lush rainforests, volcanic peaks, primates galore, and the critically endangered mountain gorilla at Volcanoes National Park where Dian Fossey pioneered primate conservation. 

• Rwanda is the best country in Africa for environmental responsibility, pristine forests, gorilla trekking, tea and coffee.

Rwanda Safari Guide  |  Rwanda Safaris

5. Tanzania, East Africa

Tanzania is fantastic for Big 5 safaris, tropical beaches, and classic African safari landscapes. 

Tanzania is the home of the Serengeti National Park and the Great Wildebeest Migration. Whether you choose calving season on the Ndutu Plains, or predator action in the Seronera region, the Serengeti remains one of the top destinations to witness the greatest show on earth.

The Northern Safari Circuit includes Arusha, Mount Meru, Ngorongoro, Lake Manyara and Natron, Oldupai Gorge, Tarangire, and the Serengeti. This is Tanzania's most popular safari circuit. For those who prefer to get off the beaten track and are looking for a wilder experience, consider the Southern Safari Circuit which includes Tanzania's biggest parks Nyerere and Ruaha as well as some of the smallest and most remote in Mahale Mountain and Gombe Stream.

In addition to these incredible safari destinations, Tanzania's Swahili Coast is a mecca for tourists looking for a bush and beach break. Zanzibar, Stone Town, and Mafia Island are all excellent.

• Tanzania is the best African country for the Great Migration, remote safari experiences, and bush & beach holidays.

Tanzania Safari Guide  |  Tanzania Safaris

6. Uganda, East Africa

Uganda is the Pearl of Africa, and a country that boasts friendly people, the source of the Nile, and some uniquely African food to sample.

Uganda’s wildlife reserves include the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, the Queen Elizabeth National Park, the Murchison Falls National Park, the Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, and the Kibale National Park to mention only a few. These parks preserve pristine landscapes that make up about 20% of Uganda and remain untouched, and teeming with wildlife. 

Uganda is a good gorilla trekking option it is more affordable than Rwanda, and guests can track chimpanzees too.

Adventure enthusiasts can visit Uganda's adventure capital, Jinja, and go white-water rafting on the Nile River. Besides the breathtaking scenery and diverse wildlife, Ugandans are known for their kindness and hospitality, and they will greet you with beaming smiles wherever you go.

• Uganda is the best African country for chimpanzee trekking, gorilla trekking, adventure sports, culture, and banana cuisine.

Uganda Safari Guide  |  Uganda Safaris

The Best North African Travel Destination

7. morocco, north africa.

Morocco, although not a classic safari destination, is a melting pot of culture and history, fusing European and African influences.

The epic Atlas mountains, desert scenery, beaches, and bazaars have long made Morocco a favourite with tourists from around the world.

Go surfing at some of Morocco's incredible beaches like Essaouira, visit the markets of Marrakech, or explore the Blue City of Chefchaouen. Morocco also has some impressive national parks like Talassemtane National Park which protects Morocco's rare forests and Khenifiss which protects wetlands and coastal dunes. 

Morocco is a mix of Berber, African, Arabic, and Jewish influences, reflected in its eye-catching architecture, which includes Islamic and Hispano-Moorish-inspired designs. Buildings range from mosques to ancient ‘riads’ - traditional Moroccan homes built around open courtyards - palaces, and religious centres. 

• Morocco is the best African country for architecture and the fusion of European and African cultures. 

The Best Southern African Countries to Visit

8. botswana, southern africa.

Botswana is known for its pristine wildlife reserves and unique safari experiences.

A haven for African elephants, Botswana boasts the largest population of African elephants anywhere in Africa. 

The Okavango Delta , which spans 15,000 square kilometres, is one of Africa's Seven Natural Wonders and is famous for its diverse wildlife. The Delta is best explored in a traditional Mokoro where you drift silently through waterways watching for hippos, elephants, crocodiles, and more.

The Tsodilo Hills in the Kalahari is home to the world's most extensive collection of rock art, with more than 4,500 paintings that date back over 100,000 years, it is known as the Louvre of the Desert.

• Botswana is the best African Country for conservation, wildlife, and mokoro rides in the Okavango Delta.

Botswana Safari Guide  |  Botswana Safaris

9. The Kingdom of Eswatini, Southern Africa

Eswatini – formerly Swaziland – is a small landlocked kingdom bordered by South Africa to the north, west, and south and by Mozambique to the east.

Despite being the southern hemisphere's smallest landlocked country, Eswatini is packed with attractions and activities.

Hlane Royal National Park and Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary  both offer intimate safari experiences and while they lack the wilderness feel of the larger southern and east African parks, they have their charm.

The Ezulwini Valley, the Valley of Heaven is picturesque and dotted with worthwhile boutique hotels and restaurants, not to mention waterfalls, hikes, horse riding, and craft centres all a stone's throw away. For a taste of Swati culture, visit the  Mantenga Cultural Village .  

The jewel in Eswatini’s crown, however, is the Bushfire Festival , held each May at House of Fire. This is Eswatini's biggest festival, and with musicians from all over Africa and a ‘small festival’ vibe, is perfect for family-friendly fun.

• Eswatini is the best African country for compact travel that is accessible and packs a big punch .

Kingdom of Eswatini Safari Guide  |  Eswatini Safaris

10. Madagascar, East Africa

Madagascar is located off the southeastern coast of Africa and is viewed by many as a bucket list destination.

It is famous for its unique biodiversity, containing 5% of the world's fauna and flora of which 80% is endemic. Madagascar is the only place where you can find lemurs, which is reason enough to visit. Visitors can explore wildlife reserves such as Andasibe-Mantadia National Park , Ankarana Special Reserve, and the famous Avenue of Baobabs in Morondava . 

Previously a French colony, Madagascar boasts diverse cultures and traditions, and being so remote, has remained out of the mainstream. The Malagasy culture is a fusion of African, Arab, and Indian influences, and the people are renowned for their hospitality.

• Madagascar is the best African country for rare and endangered animals like lemurs and beaches.

Madagascar Travel Guide  |  Madagascar Tours  

11. Mozambique, Southern Africa

Situated along the southeastern coast of Africa, Mozambique's coastline stretches over 2 600km / 1616 miles, making it an excellent destination for beach lovers.

The former Portuguese colony boasts some of the most stunning beaches in the world, coupled with a rich cultural heritage. Visitors can relax on the beaches of Vilanculos, go diving in Tofo , or visit the Bazaruto archipelago .

Mozambique is a premier location for diving – the warm, clear waters of the Indian Ocean offer a unique marine experience, and the chance to dive with whale sharks.

• Mozambique is the best African country for beaches and diving with whale sharks.

Mozambique Travel Guide  |  Mozambique Safaris

12. Namibia, Southern Africa

Namibia in southwest Africa is rugged and remote, with some of the continent’s most breathtaking natural landscapes.

Adventures await inland and on the coast, from dramatic Damaraland with its endangered desert elephant and rhino to hiking up the world’s largest dunes at Sossusvlei . Etosha National Park is renowned for its abundant wildlife and floodlit watering holes, and hiking the Fish River Canyon  - the largest canyon in the southern hemisphere - is a test for avid adventurers. The Skeleton Coast offers the unique spectacle where the desert and ocean meet, ships lie wrecked on the shoreline and the water teems with marine life.

Namibia is a huge country, one of the safest in Africa, with long distances and wide open spaces. The good roads and gorgeous scenery in Namibia make it one of the best road trip destinations anywhere on the continent.

• Namibia is the best African Country for desert-adapted animals, surreal desert landscapes, and epic road trips.

Namibia Safari Guide  |  Namibia Safaris

13. South Africa, Southern Africa

South Africa is an amazing all-round destination and remains one of Africa's most popular travel destinations.

Starting with the Kruger National Park , Pilanesburg, Hluhluwe, and Isimangaliso, and moving on to Addo, Table Mountain, Tankwa, and the Garden Route , the country is a veritable playground for nature lovers and adventurers alike. 

Johannesburg and Cape Town offer contrasting experiences. Cape Town has it all from malls, restaurants, museums, and nightlife, to beaches, hikes, cable cars, marine life, and penguins on the beach, it even offers Big 5 safaris within a 3-hour drive of the city centre. The Mother City is the world's darling and frequently makes the Top 10 lists of best cities in the world.  Johannesburg on the other hand has grit and some superb sights, sounds, and experiences for those who are willing to brave its bad reputation.

From Big 5 safaris to wine land tours, and land-based whale watching, South Africa is as diverse as it is exciting. Never a dull moment, you could spend your life exploring South Africa and never see it all!

• South Africa is the best African Country for diversity and value for money.

South Africa Safari Guide  |  South Africa Safaris

14. Zambia, South-Central Africa

Zambia is an off-the-beaten-track destination that is remote and still has a wilderness appeal.

With over 20 national parks and 34 game management zones, which comprise more than 30% of the country, Zambia is a safari aficionado's dream. Located along the Zambezi River Basin, South Luangwa National Park is the home of the walking safari and is famous for having some of the best guides and trackers in Africa. Other destinations include Mosi-oa-Tunya, Kafue, Lower Zambezi, Liuwa Plains, Kasanka, and many more.

Livingstone is Zambia's side of the  Victoria Falls , and a must-visit attraction, that includes, amongst other attractions, the chance to take a dip in the Devil's Pool on the edge of the falls.

• Zambia is the Best African Country for walking safaris and true wilderness experience. 

Zambia Safari Guide  |  Zambia Safaris

15. Zimbabwe, Southern Africa

Zimbabwe, located between South Africa and Botswana, boasts incredible natural wonders and wildlife.

Zimbabwe is the home of Hwange National Park , Mana Pools, and the Matobo Hills , the resting place of the great Cecil John Rhodes, but Zimbabwe's real draw card is the Victoria Falls . The largest sheet of cascading water in the world, Victoria Falls is a natural wonder not to be missed. It is also an adventurer's playground with everything to offer from white water rafting to bungee jumping, helicopter rides, and safaris.

The Great Zimbabwe Ruins , a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers an extraordinary opportunity to visit a site of ancient African sophistication and culture.

• Zimbabwe is the best African country for adventure travel and the Great Zimbabwe Ruins

Zimbabwe Safari Guide  |  Zimbabwe Safaris

Plan your African Safari to Your Best Safari Destination

This is the African Budget Safaris list of the 15 best African countries to visit. Each country offers a unique experience, and whether you are a budget traveller, a family looking for a relaxing getaway, or an adventurer looking for your next hit of adrenaline, African Budget Safaris can help find the best safari for you and your budget. 

Talk to one of our experienced African safari travel experts and start planning your safari today. 

Updated from original post in 2023

About the Author

Andrew hofmeyr naturalist, artist & writer.

Places Mentioned in this Post

1. Tanzania

4. Botswana

5. Madagascar

6. Mozambique

8. South Africa

9. Zimbabwe

13. Eswatini

14. Ethiopia

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Best places to visit in africa for 2023-2024.

Africa may not always register on the average traveler's radar, but those who visit have the chance to experience the perfect blend of ancient and modern, wild and urban, and East and West. From Cape Town's coastal beauty to Tanzania's game reserves, choosing your adventure on the second-largest continent can be difficult. To help you start planning, U.S. News ranked the best places to visit in Africa based on accessibility, affordability and the variety of things to do, as well as user votes and expert opinions. Help us choose next year's top spots by voting for your favorite destinations below. 

Serengeti National Park

Victoria falls, masai mara national reserve, kruger national park.

If you're enamored with the prospect of coming face to face with elephants, giraffes, zebras and wildebeests, then a safari tour through Tanzania's Serengeti National Park is the bucket-list adventure for you. The price will be steep, but a journey here affords an unforgettable African savanna experience. To save some coin, book one of the park's campgrounds instead of staying at a high-end safari lodge or luxury tented camp. Plan on arriving in January or February (calving season) or between June and October (dry season and prime migration time) for the best game-viewing conditions.

Outdoorsy types travel far and wide to admire this breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage Site. Straddling the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe in Mosi Oa Tunya National Park, Victoria Falls is roughly twice as deep and wide as Niagara Falls, making it one of the world's most jaw-dropping waterfalls . To see this natural wonder at its prime, plan a visit in April or May when the region's rainy season has concluded. Popular vantage points include the Knife-Edge Bridge, Livingstone Island and Devil's Pool. When you're not enjoying the view from above, go whitewater rafting in the Zambezi River to admire the falls from a different angle.

Most tourists head to Tanzania to go on safari, but you'd be remiss if you didn't save time for the country's other must-see treasures. In addition to its animal-filled plains, Tanzania boasts otherworldly natural wonders, including red-hued Lake Natron, Ngorongoro Conservation Area's expansive crater and Mount Kilimanjaro – the tallest mountain in Africa (and largest free-standing mountain on Earth). For the ultimate adrenaline rush, book a climbing excursion up the continent's famous mountain through a local tour operator.

Mauritius appeals to vacationers in search of a bit of everything. Though its main draws are its powdery sands and luxe beach resorts , this small island nation east of Madagascar also charms visitors with its mix of cultures; friendly locals; lively festivals and tasty teas and rums. After a day of exploring some of the island's nature reserves and soaking up the sun, retreat to one of its premier properties to savor fresh seafood while watching a traditional sega dance performance or the sun set over the Indian Ocean.

Home to cheetahs, elephants, lions, wildebeests, hippos and more, Masai Mara National Reserve is one of Kenya's premier spots to see wildlife. Sign up for a safari to explore this protected area's 373,000-plus acres of rolling grasslands. (Tip: Look for companies with guides certified by the Kenya Professional Safari Guides Association.) For an extra dose of adventure, opt for a horseback riding excursion or hot air balloon safari. To increase your chances of spotting the big five (lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants and buffaloes) and other migrating animals, time your visit between July and October during the Great Migration.

Zanzibar offers something for everyone, whether you're in search of beautiful white sand beaches or an unforgettable adventure. After trekking to this Indian Ocean archipelago off the coast of East Africa, you'll instantly feel at ease as you lounge on quiet beaches like Matemwe and Kiwengwa. Next, visit UNESCO World Heritage-listed Stone Town, where you'll find the ruins of a 19th-century palace and a graveyard with ties to Zanzibar's former Arab royals. And no trip would be complete without taking a spice tour in the countryside and exploring Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park. As an added bonus, you'll find this is a surprisingly cheap tropical destination .

A grouping of 115 islands in the Indian Ocean, the Seychelles has long attracted those looking for a truly relaxing, off-the-beaten-path getaway. Spend your days lounging on pristine, crowd-free beaches like Anse Lazio and Anse Source D'Argent, one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Or, head deep into the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Vallée de Mai nature reserve to gaze at its unique flora and fauna. Keep in mind that lodging here is expensive (especially at the luxury resorts), so it's best to save up and book in advance.

With numerous hiking trails, miles of dramatic scenery and stunning beaches (including one with wild penguins), this South Africa hub caters to both adventurous and laid-back travelers. Getting to Cape Town won't be cheap, but your dollar will go far once you arrive. Make sure you take the aerial cableway up Table Mountain, visit Nelson Mandela's jail cell on Robben Island and explore the world-renowned Constantia Valley wine region. You'll also want to save time to trek through the Cape of Good Hope, which lies 40 miles south of Cape Town on the southern tip of Africa.

Cairo can be overwhelming, as there's so much to see and do everywhere you turn. From Islamic Cairo's bustling Khan El-Khalili bazaar to the ancient Pyramids of Giza to the picturesque Nile River, you'll be immersed in this Egyptian city's history and culture before long. Though winter offers the most pleasant weather of the year (with daytime temperatures in the 60s and 70s), it's also the busiest season, so consider visiting in spring or fall when room rates are lower, temps are bearable and crowds thin out.

Like other historic Moroccan cities, Marrakech buzzes with life: Performers vie for your attention in Jemaa El Fna (an open-air square in the heart of the Medina of Marrakesh) while vendors hawk aromatic spices, homemade textiles, ornate lanterns and more at the bazaars along the alleyways. When you need a break from the hustle and bustle of the city, unwind at a hammam, visit the Jardin Majorelle or head to a rooftop bar and relax before retiring to your riad. During your visit, keep an ear out to hear the striking tones of the nearby mosques' calls to prayer.

You'll spot plenty of animals – ranging from lions to rhinos to elephants to giraffes – in this massive game preserve in South Africa. Kruger National Park's network of paved roads makes it easier to navigate than Serengeti, and it tends to be cheaper to visit. However, its popularity (especially from May to October, which are the best months for wildlife viewing) means you're more likely to encounter hordes of visitors during game drives. Consider visiting one of the park's private game reserves for a more exclusive experience, and to ensure lodging, flight and tour availability, you'll likely want to finalize your trip at least a year in advance.

The habitat on the island of Madagascar is unlike any other in the world: Most of the landscape is unspoiled, giving visitors a chance to see animals in their natural environment. Travelers should look out for the country's signature animal: the lemur. Madagascar is home to more than 100 species of these creatures, as well as 11,000-plus plant species, including majestic baobab trees. Some of the best places to see wildlife and Madagascar's geological wonders include Isalo National Park and Tsingy de Bemaraha Strict Nature Reserve. Be sure to save some time to island hop to Nosy Be for its world-class beaches.

Despite its small size and landlocked location in southeastern Africa, Malawi draws visitors with its gorgeous lake, diverse wildlife and friendly people. At Lake Malawi, one of the deepest lakes in the world, travelers can enjoy water sports activities like kayaking and sailing, soak up some sun on a white sand beach or dive beneath the lake's surface to look for colorful cichlid fish. The tiny country also features nine national parks and wildlife reserves, making it an excellent less-crowded option for a self-drive or a guided safari. For the best wildlife viewing, arrive during the dry season, which lasts from May to October.

Adventurous travelers who dream of spending their vacation surrounded by nature will love Botswana. A less crowded alternative to nearby safari destinations like South Africa and Tanzania, Botswana has a strong conservation focus and offers ample opportunities to spot rhinos, elephants and more in protected areas like Khama Rhino Sanctuary, Chobe National Park and Moremi Game Reserve, the oldest reserve of the Okavango Delta. Plus, adrenaline junkies can participate in all kinds of heart-pumping activities, including quad biking, mokoro (canoe) safaris and helicopter tours.

Kenya's capital city offers the perfect blend of urban pursuits and natural splendor. With museums highlighting its pre- and post-colonial heritage, bustling street markets and a thriving nightlife scene, Nairobi is a cultural hub. But its proximity to (and preservation of) wildlife is what makes Nairobi one of the world's most unique cities. The city boasts its own national park – Nairobi National Park, whose grassy plains host 100-plus mammal species including black rhinos – as well as wildlife conservation parks such as the Giraffe Centre and Sheldrick Wildlife Trust. What's more, scenery seekers can also visit the urban Karura Forest or hike the surrounding Ngong Hills.

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Alexandria, Egypt

Addis Ababa

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The 9 Best Countries in Africa for a Safari in 2024

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Where To Go and What To See on a Safari in Tanzania

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While Kruger National Park in South Africa is one of the most popular destinations on the African continent to see the Big 5 — lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant, and African buffalo — many other African countries offer incredible safari experiences and once-in-a-lifetime wildlife sightings, assuming you’re willing to think a bit outside the box and get off the beaten path.

These are some of the best places to go on a safari in Africa, from Botswana’s Okavango Delta to fan favorites like the Serengeti and Kruger to a safari you can do just outside of Kenya’s capital at Nairobi National Park.

1. How To Plan a Tanzania Safari

Most people planning a safari trip in Tanzania should head to Serengeti National Park , a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its massive migrations of zebra and wildebeest . Start by organizing travel to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) or Arusha Airport (ARK). From there, you can travel by land to the Serengeti or fly to one of the park’s 7 airstrips and transfer to your desired safari lodge.

Most people take a safari trip to Tanzania to see the wildebeest migration, but you can also expect to spot the Big 5, cheetahs, hyenas, and leopards in the Serengeti.

Some of the best lodges in the Serengeti National Park are the Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti (which can even arrange a hot air balloon safari) and various tented camps and luxury lodges from Singita , a company focused on sustainable exploration of the region. But start saving up Marriott Bonvoy points, as Marriott announced the opening of JW Marriott Serengeti Lodge in 2026 , an ideal spot to view the Great Migration between the Grumeti and Mbalageti rivers.

Travelers can also head to the Ngorongoro Crater , one of the world’s largest intact volcanic calderas, where you can also view the Big 5, zebras, impalas, hippos, and more. You may also spot flamingos there.

Birders or those who want to avoid larger crowds should consider Tarangire National Park , which has one of the largest elephant populations in Africa, more than 500 bird species, and a wildlife migration that’s not as large as the Serengeti’s but impressive nonetheless.

Besides taking more traditional safaris, visitors can go chimpanzee trekking in Tanzania in Gombe Stream National Park , one of Africa’s smallest national parks (and only accessible by boat).

The best time to visit Tanzania for a safari is June to October, the dry season in the Serengeti . This is when the bush is thin and you can see more wildlife, including the Big 5. However, May through June is when visitors can see the wildebeest migration in the Serengeti. Those who want to view wildebeest calving should visit in January and February . And if you’re looking for a Tanzania safari on a budget, months like April and early May can offer better prices and fewer crowds.

See the most wildlife at Ngorongoro Crater from December to February and June to September, which are the months with the driest weather, when you can spot herds out in search of water. For Tarangire National Park, the best time for migrations is the June to November dry season , where you can spot many different animals grazing around and drinking from the Tarangire River.

When it comes to chimpanzee trekking, it’s best to go between May and October in the dry season, when the forest flora is short and trails are less muddy. Keep in mind these experiences require permits, and most companies require visitors to be over the age of 15 .

2. How To Plan a Kenya Safari

Some of the best African safaris in Kenya allow you to see the Great Migration and the Big 5 (just as you can in Tanzania). Masai Mara National Reserve is probably the most popular spot . Start by flying into the main airport, Jomo Kenyatta International (NBO) in Nairobi , then pop over to the nearby Nairobi Wilson Airport (WIL) for shorter, domestic hops to airstrips closer to the park.

Besides the Big 5, you can also expect to see animals like cheetahs, hyenas, gazelles, and wildebeest on a safari. Our top pick for lodging would be the  JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge , one of the few safari accommodations in Africa you can book using points and miles. The all-inclusive property features 20 luxury tents overlooking the Talek River.

Another iconic riverside camp is the Governor’s Camp , a collection of luxury tents overlooking the Mara River, where you can spot hippos and crocodiles. Both hot air balloon safaris and walking safaris are popular in the region, offering unique ways to enjoy the region’s flora and fauna. As the Maasai are one of the largest tribes in Africa, don’t forget to visit local villages and experience some of the tribe’s unique cultural practices.

Amboseli National Park at the base of Kilimanjaro is another Kenyan destination to experience a safari. Here, you can see the Big 5 and more than 600 types of birds. You can also get close-up views of large elephant herds. Samburu National Reserve  is another popular safari destination, known as one of the best Kenyan destinations to spot leopards.

And if you’re extra short on time, remember that Kenya is one of the only countries in Africa where you can spot wildlife just a short drive from a capital city. Nairobi National Park is just a few miles outside of Nairobi, home to animals such as leopards, lions, black rhinos, and giraffes.

If you’re dying to stay at the famous Giraffe Manor (a hotel where the resident giraffes poke their heads into your bedroom window each morning) but it’s too expensive or fully booked, you can visit the Giraffe Center instead.

In most cases, the best time to take a safari in Kenya is between June and October, the dry season . You’ll be able to catch the wildebeest migration in Masai Mara in September . November and December can offer lower prices and fewer crowds. March through May is also a more affordable time to visit, but heavy rain or flooding may disrupt your trip.

There aren’t many opportunities to use your points and miles for safari lodges, but if the JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge is on your list (or you want to start saving up for the JW Marriott Serengeti for a 2026 safari), building up a stash of Marriott Bonvoy points is a great plan. Consider getting a co-branded Marriott Bonvoy credit card . Amex Membership Rewards points from a card like The Platinum Card ®  from American Express  and Chase Ultimate Reward points from cards such as the  Chase Sapphire Reserve ®  or the  Chase Sapphire Preferred ®  Card transfer to the Marriott Bonvoy program at a 1:1 ratio.

‌3. How To Plan a Botswana Safari

Those looking for a more remote, intimate safari experience should consider Botswana. The country is a bit more difficult to get to, making it feel far-flung and offering an authentic African safari experience. As tour operators need to adhere to strict conservation requirements, safaris in Botswana are often smaller and more exclusive, which is why safari prices in Botswana can also be more expensive . Anyone in the market for a water safari will likely appreciate Botswana, as some of the best ways to spot wildlife are by boat or even canoe.

If you’re coming from abroad, you may fly into Sir Seretse Khama International Airport (GBE), just outside of Gaborone. Still, many safari camps are much closer to the Maun Airport (MUB) or Harry Mwanga Nkumbula International Airport (LVI), which you can get to from hubs in South Africa .

One of the most unique and popular destinations for a Botswana safari is the Okavango Delta , grassy flood plains home to the Big 5 and more. Here, you can explore the area by water safari on small boats or even canoes, as well as on land — both walking safaris and driving safaris. Make sure to keep an eye out for African wild dogs. There are less than 6,600 left in the wild, and many reside in this area. Stay at Xigera Safari Lodge in Moremi Game Reserve, an intimate lodge with just 12 suites and the stunning 32-foot baobab treehouse suite.

Chobe National Park is another emblematic destination in Botswana for a safari, especially if you’re in the market to support female guides. Guests at the Chobe Game Lodge can book a female guide as part of an all-female safari guide team, the Chobe Angels . Boat up and down the Chobe River, spotting lions, buffalo, elephants, and more along its banks.

For something different, consider a safari in the Kalahari Desert. Here, you can ride horses through salt pans, sand dunes, and savannas, go fishing, ride camels, hike, or even take a cycling safari. Keep an eye out for oryx, giraffes, and meerkats.

Similar to the aforementioned countries, the dry season in many areas of Botswana runs from May to October and is one of the best times to visit, as much of the wildlife comes out in search of watering holes. However, December to April is the rainy season, turning the Kalahari Desert into a green and blossoming paradise , making it the perfect time to visit this unique region.

‌4. How To Plan a Namibia Safari

Namibia is a special place for a safari because not only can you see 4 out of the Big 5 in places like Etosha National Park, but you can also see a distinct collection of wildlife in the Namib Desert in Namib-Naukluft National Park. Namibia is more difficult to get to than many other safari spots, especially from Europe and the U.S., so most visitors come from destinations like South Africa first.

The most popular place in Namibia for a more traditional safari is Etosha National Park . One of the largest game reserves in Africa, it’s home to large populations of elephants, lions, cheetahs, giraffes, leopards, black rhinos, and black-faced impalas, among many others. There are several accommodations within the park, but the more luxurious, like Mokuti Etosha and Ongava Lodge (built into a rocky enclave), can be found just outside the park. Ongava Lodge is also home to an airstrip, and you can fly there from Namibia’s capital airport, Hosea Kutako International Airport (WDH), in Windhoek.

Sossusvlei is where the landscape changes , so don’t expect a traditional experience in this red-dune salt and clay pan. Part of Namib Naukluft National Park and Desert , it’s so vast you may want to explore it by hot air balloon to take it in from above. Hike dunes like Big Daddy, explore the ancient trees at clay pan Deadvlei, or traverse the entire area by 4×4 or quad.

While this desert landscape may seem barren, keep an eye out for wildlife like hyenas, jackals, foxes, ostrich, and geckos. Sossusvlei offers accommodation for all budgets, but luxury travelers should plan to stay at the andBeyond Sossusvlei Desert Lodge , home to 10 glass suites from which you can admire the sparkling, starry night sky (the NamibRand Nature Reserve is an International Dark Sky Place ).

And don’t discount Namibia’s barren Skeleton Coast — you may spot desert elephants, cheetahs, black rhinos, ostriches, lions, hyenas, and more. Named for the whale and seal bones once scattered on its beaches but now known for its numerous shipwrecks, it’s also home to Cape fur seals, too. Explore the area on foot, boat, surfboard, or quad.

June through September is the driest and best time to visit Etosha , as animals are crowding around sparse watering holes. The same goes for Sossusvlei when the dry season (May to October) brings crisp, blue skies that juxtapose beautifully against the ochre desert sands. However, those heading to the Skeleton Coast may prefer to travel between May and December . Although November and December bring some showers and fog, the weather also gets warmer at this time of year.

There’s a lot to know when planning a safari. Our safari adventure guide has updated tips on finding accommodation, booking travel, and packing for your upcoming African safari.

‌‌5. How To Plan a Uganda Safari

Although visitors can see animals like elephants, hippos, and lions on a Uganda wildlife safari, the main call of this African country is gorillas in the wild . About 400 mountain gorillas call Uganda home , which is about half of the mountain gorilla population left in the world. Gorilla safaris are different from more traditional safaris. In lieu of driving around in a Jeep-style vehicle, gorilla trekking is all about getting up into the hills to see these giant creatures in their natural habitat .

Chimpanzee trekking is also popular in Uganda, as are birding safaris. Most travelers start their adventure by flying into the Entebbe Airport (EBB) and then taking a quick domestic flight to smaller airports. However, visitors planning to gorilla trek in Uganda may find it faster to fly to Kigali International Airport (KGL), Rwanda’s capital, then drive to the national parks .

The most popular location for a safari in Uganda is Bwindi Impenetrable National Park , known for birding, forest elephants, chimpanzees, and, of course, mountain gorillas. There is some gorilla trekking in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park , but your chances of spotting gorillas are higher in Bwindi, as this park has more gorilla groups.

For gorilla trekking in general, many visitors are stuck between Uganda and Rwanda. When it comes to Rwanda versus Uganda for gorilla trekking , budget travelers ready for an adventure should select Uganda , where gorilla trekking permits for either park cost $800 per person per day . (It’s nearly double in Rwanda, as we’ll outline below). You must be at least 15 to get a permit.

However, those heading to Uganda should be ready for an adventure, as the treks can be tougher and longer . Always book permits well in advance .

If you go to Bwindi, stay within the park at cozy lodges like Buhoma or just outside the park at Mahogany Springs , perched along the Munyanga River. Birders may want to visit Queen Elizabeth National Park , home to more than 600 bird species, plus tree-climbing lions .

Visit UNESCO World Heritage Site Bwindi Impenetrable National Park for gorilla trekking between June and September and December and February . Since you’ll be hiking along hilly, forested trails, it’s better to go during the dry season, when it’s less muddy and slippery . The same times of year are best for visiting Queen Elizabeth National Park, though March through May are some of the best times for birding.

6. How To Plan a Rwanda Safari

Rwanda safaris can be on the expensive side , and they’re best for adventure travelers who are also ready to splurge. The country offers some of the most accessible gorilla trekking but also some of the most costly.

Start with a flight into Kigali (KGL), then take the 2.5-hour drive to reach the country’s most renowned destination for viewing mountain gorillas, Volcanoes National Park . The park itself is stunning, home to 5 volcanoes and a lush, hilly rainforest, home to mountain gorillas, elephants, buffalos, and nearly 200 bird species. Permits start at $1,500 per person per day , and they only issue 96 per day, so it’s important to book in advance. Stay at one of the 6 conical, luxury bird nest villas at Bisate , which overlooks an amphitheater formed by volcanic cones.

And yes, if you’re in the market to see the Big 5 after you’ve spotted the elusive mountain gorillas, head to Akagera National Park . It borders Tanzania and is one of the largest protected wetlands in Africa. Spot elephants, lions, black rhinos, buffalos, hippos, hyenas, zebras, antelopes, and more than 500 different types of birds, including the shoebill stork.

Down south, aid in rainforest conservation by visiting Nyungwe National Park , a UNESCO-listed site that’s home to 13 of Africa’s primates (including chimpanzees) and a stunning canopy bridge where you can walk amid the towering treetops

The best time to visit Volcanoes National Park is during the dry seasons, which run from mid-December to early February and June to mid-September . However, if you find yourself there from March to May, make sure to view the many butterfly species that come along with the heavy rains . The dry periods are also the best times to visit Nyungwe National Park and Akagera National Park.

Some countries on this list require U.S. citizens to obtain a visa. Others, such as South Africa, require 2 full, consecutive blank pages in your passport per entry. Some require your passport to be valid for at least 6 months after your visit. Some require you to have certain vaccines, or you may need to take malaria medication. Check passport, permit, visa , and vaccination requirements before booking travel.

7. How To Plan a South Africa Safari

South Africa is the most popular African country for a safari, but that doesn’t necessarily make planning any easier. With so many different game reserves, tour companies, and other options, it can be difficult to decide exactly where to go. The good news is, because there are so many choices, it’s easy to find a safari that fits your budget and travel style. Start by flying into either Cape Town (CPT) or Johannesburg’s O.R. Tambo Airport (JNB). From there, many safaris have private airstrips, but you can also fly into smaller airports like Mpumalanga International Airport (MQP) or Hoedspruit (HDS) and be on your way to viewing the Big 5.

Start by deciding if you’d like to visit a state-run or private game reserve. Popular state-run game reserves include Kruger National Park and Addo Elephant National Park , which is actually home to the Big 7 (the Big 5 plus the great white shark and the southern right whale, found within the park’s marine section). Pilanesberg National Park also features the Big 5, while Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park is known for its big cats . These larger parks often offer more budget-friendly safaris, though they can get crowded during peak season.

Luxury travelers may prefer a more exclusive safari experience, where a lodge or tented camp on a private game reserve includes all the safari excursions. Some of the best private game reserves for a luxury African safari experience include Sabi Sand, Phinda, Timbavati, Kwande, MalaMala, Amakhala, and Phinda, among many others. Choosing a game reserve and safari lodge may come down to where you want to base your trip: You can start in Johannesburg or Cape Town. While Johannesburg is the most convenient hub for visiting Kruger, Cape Town is known for its immense beauty and unique cultural offerings and is a favorite among seasoned travelers.

‌Go on a South African safari during the dry season, where less vegetation makes it easier to spot animals, which you can often find gathering near rivers and watering holes. Most of the country’s wildlife parks see their dry season between May and September. However, this is when the Western Cape sees rain , so if you’re heading to that area of the country, it may be best to go to this region in the other months.

‌8. How To Plan a Zambia Safari

If you’re in the market for something a bit more off the beaten path, consider a safari in Zambia. Start by flying into the Kenneth Kaunda International Airport (LUN) in the nation’s capital, Lusaka. Then, catch a short flight to Mfuwe Airport (MFU), which is the hub for South Luangwa National Park , the most popular area in the country for a Zambia safari, where you can spot wildlife such as leopards, hippos, and rare Thornicroft giraffes. Or, fly to the Royal or Jeki airstrips to visit Lower Zambezi National Park .

‌South Luangwa National Park is the ideal destination for walking and driving safaris, as the Luangwa River can be unpredictable, so boat safaris aren’t common. Those who want to see wildlife by boat should visit Lower Zambezi National Park, where you can paddle through the Zambezi River via canoe with expert guides who can help you spot all kinds of wildlife, including elephants, hippos, and birds.

The nice part about a safari in Zambia is that it’s appropriate for any budget . Stay at cozy river lodges, in luxury tents, or open-air villas. The Old Monodoro camp in Lower Zambezi has 5 chalets — and don’t be surprised if you find an elephant sipping water out of your outdoor tub in the morning. Elephants also regularly walk through the open-air lobby at Mfuwe Lodge in South Luangwa.

Most lodges in South Luangwa National Park and Lower Zambezi National Park are only open during the dry season between March and October. To have the full Zambia safari experience, booking your trip during this period is best.

‌9. How To Plan a Zimbabwe Safari

Most travelers combine a visit to Victoria Falls with a Zimbabwe safari . The best way to do this is to fly to Victoria Falls International Airport (VFA), which is about a 20-minute drive to the falls .

Just a short drive from Victoria Falls, you’ll find Zambezi National Park (a completely different park than the aforementioned Lower Zambezi National Park in Zambia ). This park features the Big 4 (everything but rhinos). You can also cross the border into Zambia via a quick drive to visit Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park , where you can spot elephants, buffalo, giraffes, zebras, and white rhinos.

If you’re hoping to spot the Big 5, Hwange National Park is just over an hour’s drive away , though you’ll have to look hard to find rhinos, as they’re few and far between. You can even do horseback safaris through this park, getting up close and personal with wildlife on your horse. Plan to stay at Davidson’s Camp , where the en suite tents look out over a watering hole for prime wildlife-watching from your room.

Victoria Falls is also just an hour’s drive from Chobe National Park in Botswana , home to one of the world’s largest elephant populations.

June to September is the best time for a safari in Zimbabwe , and June is an especially beautiful time to see Victoria Falls , as you may catch the tail end of the rainy season, bringing powerful sprays and cascades. However, those visiting Hwange to birdwatch should visit from November to April , when the migratory birds return from the north.

When planning a safari, you have endless possibilities to consider. But knowing you can visit other countries besides just Tanzania or South Africa may make it easier to create a safari trip that fits your timing, budget, and travel style. Whether gorilla trekking, birdwatching, or a traditional safari searching for the Big 5, these African countries have got you covered.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Which african country has the most wildlife.

Tanzania has an estimated 4 million animals, but countries like South Africa, Botswana, and Kenya are also excellent places to view wildlife or take a safari vacation.

Which African country is the safest for safaris?

Botswana is considered one of the safest African countries. It’s politically stable and has low crime rates. Rwanda is also safe for tourists, and Namibia is also a safe country for a safari.

What country in Africa has the most safaris?

South Africa has numerous public and private game reserves, making it an easy place to find a safari, no matter what part of the country you’d like to visit. The top safari destination in South Africa is Kruger National Park.

Is Tanzania or Kenya better for safaris?

Both Tanzania and Kenya are excellent destinations for a safari. Tanzania is often considered better because it has so many animals, but Tanzania safaris can often be very expensive. However, seeing the Masai Mara villages and embracing Kenyan culture is a wonderful addition to seeing wildlife in Kenya. You can’t go wrong with a safari in either destination!

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About Lori Zaino

Lori is an intrepid traveler who loves creating itineraries that exude “luxe on a budget.” She’s written for CNN, NBC, The Infatuation, and more, and loves to muse about points-fueled trips to Sri Lanka, Sicily, and Myanmar.

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15 Best Countries to Visit in Africa Right Now

Home | Travel | 15 Best Countries to Visit in Africa Right Now

Last update: 04/01/2024

If you’re interested in discovering the  best countries to visit in Africa  right now, keep reading. In this guide, you’ll find the top  places in Africa open for tourism , along with entry requirements.

While many  countries have opened for tourism , not all  countries in Africa are open to travel . Check this list to see where the  best vacations in Africa  are amidst the pandemic.

We’re updating this list regularly, so check back at any time to see where you can travel to next.

Countries in Africa reopening to tourists

This map shows which  countries in Africa are open to tourists  right now.

• Countries in Africa open without entry restrictions
• Countries in Africa that require a negative pre-trip PCR test result
• Countries in Africa that require quarantine (more than 24h)

Below, you’ll find our list of travel restrictions in Africa. Remember, certain countries may have different entry requirements based on nationality or origin.

You can also check our specific guides on:

Where Americans can travel

Where UK Citizens can travel

Where Canadians can travel

Where Australians can travel

Where Europeans can travel

Where Norwegians can travel

Check where to get a quick PCR test for travel near you

Where to get a quick PCR test for travel in the United States

Where to get a quick PCR test for travel in the United Kingdom

Where to get a quick PCR test for travel in Canada

List of countries in Africa open for tourism

List of countries in africa where you can travel without quarantining.

Before we list the top  countries open for travel in Africa , I want to remind you of the importance of  COVID-19 travel insurance . Even if this insurance isn’t an entry requirement (it is for most African countries), it’s a good idea to have it.

5% OFF your travel insurance

Also, countries that required travelers to have a valid tourist visa before the COVID-19 pandemic still have that rule in place. You can check below whether you need a travel visa.

Finally, remember that some  places in Africa open to travel  may enter a lockdown phase in the future. We’ve written specific guides to all the countries that are open in Africa, so you can check the latest information about entry restrictions, quarantine and testing requirements, curfews, and open attractions.

15 Best places to visit in Africa

Below are the best countries to visit in Africa . Keep reading to learn what makes them a top destination, as well as any travel restrictions or entry requirements .

1. South Africa

South Africa is one of the best places to visit in Africa. It’s full of beautiful natural landscapes, including serene beaches and national parks. Tourists usually visit the metropolitan areas of Cape Town and Johannesburg, the “City of Gold.”

If you’re interested in ecotourism or you’d like to experience a different culture, South Africa won’t disappoint.

As of October 1, 2020, it’s one of the best countries in Africa to visit . It began accepting all nationalities on November 11.

Tourists must present a medical certificate with a  negative COVID-19 PCR test result that was obtained within 72 hours of departure.  As long as they present this medical certificate, they will not need to quarantine upon arrival in South Africa.

All travelers must download the  COVID Alert SA mobile app .

For more information, check our guide on South Africa reopening to tourists .

A trip to Egypt is one of the best vacations in Africa. Here, you can see the Giza Necropolis, the last remaining Wonder of the Ancient World. The coastlines along the Mediterranean and the Red Sea attract visitors from around the world.

Egypt is also one of the  countries in Africa open for tourism .

Most tourists must submit a negative PCR test result issued within 72 hours of arrival. However, some countries can submit a result issued within 96 hours of travel. Also, travelers must complete a health form when they arrive, and they must have COVID-19 travel insurance, like  this one .

You can get more information about  Egypt reopening for travel   in our specific guide .

3. Tanzania

Tanzania is an amazing land of ancient fossils, natural landscapes, and wildlife, making it one of the  best countries to visit in Africa .

Many tourists take the time to do a circuit including Zanzibar, Serengeti, Mount Kilimanjaro and other national parks in the northern part of the country. Tanzania is also one of the most popular safari destinations in Africa.

As of June 2020,  Tanzania is one of the countries in Africa open to tourists.

Travelers to Tanzania must complete an  online Health Surveillance Form  within 24 hours prior to arrival. They will then receive a Unique Health Code, which they must present to officials on arrival. Travelers must also present a medical certificate for a negative RT-PCR test result that was obtained within 72 hours prior to arrival.

On arrival in Tanzania, travelers will undergo rapid testing, which costs $25 per traveler. If they test positive, they will have to quarantine in a quarantine hotel at their own expense.

For more information, check our guide on  Tanzania reopening its borders .

4. Ethiopia

Ethiopia is known for its food, but it’s also one of the most interesting countries in Africa. The nation is full of World Heritage Sites, national parks, and important historical and religious sites.

Starting September 23, 2020,  Ethiopia is one of the countries in Africa open to travel.

Travelers must present a digital negative RT-PCR test result that was obtained within 5 days (120 hours) of arrival in Ethiopia.

Travelers must also complete a Passenger Health Registration Form.

For more information, check our guide on  Ethiopia travel requirements .

Malawi is a top destination in Africa, thanks to its stunning landscapes. One of the most popular spots is Lake Malawi, where you can participate in water sports or visit the national park, which is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Malawi is one of the countries in Africa open to tourists , but only by air.

All travelers must have a medical certificate for a negative PCR COVID test result that was obtained within 72 hours of arrival in Malawi. They must also complete Travel Surveillance Forms, which they will be given on board their flight or in the airport terminal building.

Travelers with a valid certificate for a negative test result must self-monitor for COVID-19 symptoms for 14 days from their arrival in Malawi and may be tested on arrival.

For more information, visit our guide on  is Malawi open for travel .

Uganda is one of the top countries in Africa for ecotourism.

You can kayak along the Nile River or take a cultural tour. There are plenty of forests and national parks where you can see leopards, elephants, cheetahs, and more. However, Uganda is best known as one of the top places in the world for gorilla trekking.

Besides, Uganda is another  place in Africa open for tourism  regardless of nationality.

Visitors must submit a negative PCR test result within 72 hours of their flight. At the airport, they’ll go through a medical evaluation.

For more information, visit  this website .

7. Botswana

Botswana is one of the most beautiful countries in Africa . There are lots of landscape photography opportunities, particularly in the Okavango Delta region.

Botswana is one of the  places in Africa open for travel  without nationality restrictions.

Tourists must submit a negative PCR test result within 72 hours of their flight. If they don’t present this certificate, they’ll have to self-isolate for 14 days upon their arrival.

For more information, check our guide on  Botswana is open for travel .

Zambia is one of Africa’s best countries , thanks to its friendly locals, abundant wildlife, and gorgeous landscapes.

A vacation in Zambia can be laid-back, or you can be adventurous and join one of the many safari tours in the country. In fact, this is one of the most popular safari destinations in Africa and it is a quite safe country.

It’s also one of the  countries in Africa open for tourism .

All travelers must have proof of a negative PCR test from within 72 hours prior to departure. Upon arrival in Zambia, all travelers will undergo a health screening and have to complete a  Traveler Health Questionnaire .

Travelers from countries that are not considered “high-risk” and have a valid negative PCR test result do not have to quarantine upon arrival.

Travelers from “high-risk” countries must undergo PCR testing at their own expense on arrival in Zambia, either at the airport or within 48 hours of entry. They must also quarantine for 14 days from their arrival, although they can end their quarantine early if they receive a negative result from their arrival test.

You can also visit our guide on Zambia open for tourism for more information .

Morocco is one of the best countries to visit in Africa , as it appeals to a variety of interests. Be sure to explore the mountains, sand dunes, and beaches around the country. The cities of Marrakesh and Casablanca are home to important mosques and incredible attractions.

Morocco is one of the countries where you can travel , but travel restrictions depend on if you’re traveling from a country on List A or List B.

Travelers from List A countries  must present either a vaccination certificate or a certificate for a negative PCR test result that was obtained within 72 hours prior to boarding.

Travelers from List B countries  must submit a certificate for a negative PCR test result that was obtained within 48 hours prior to boarding and either a vaccination certificate or a completed  affidavit , and a voucher for payment for 10 days of quarantine at a  designated hotel  with PCR testing on day 9 of the quarantine period.

Also, all travelers must submit a  Public Health Passenger Form .

You can find more details on our guide on Morocco reopening for travel .

Kenya offers the possibility to participate in ecotourism, making it one of the best countries to visit in Africa . There are dozens of national parks and natural areas where you can experience the incredible landscape and see animals in the wild.

Since August 1, 2020, Kenya has been one of the  places open to travel in Africa .

All travelers must have a  negative PCR test result that was obtained within 96 hours of travel to Kenya.  The test result must be digitally verified through the  Trusted Travel Initiative . All travelers must also complete an online  Travelers Health Surveillance form  prior to travel. Once they arrive in Kenya, travelers must submit daily updates on their health to the  Jitenge app   for 14 consecutive days.

Travelers from regions and countries that are on  this list  are exempt from quarantine on arrival in Kenya as long as they have a valid negative PCR test result and do not exhibit symptoms of COVID-19.

You can check our guide on Kenya open for travel  for more details .

11. Namibia

Namibia is another top tourist country in Africa for ecotourism.

Along with its national parks, Namibia offers lots of opportunities for sports and activities, such as windsurfing, kayaking, and hiking. It’s also a popular place among photographers, thanks to its beautiful landscapes.

Starting on September 1, 2020, Namibia is a  place in Africa open to travel .

All international travelers must have proof of a negative PCR test result that was obtained within 72 hours prior to entering Namibia. 

You can find more information on our guide on  Namibia is open for tourism .

12. Seychelles

One of the best places to travel to in Africa is Seychelles . Its beaches are the perfect backdrop for watersports, hikes, and wildlife viewing.

All travelers, even if they are vaccinated, must have a medical certificate for a negative PCR test result that was obtained within 72 hours before departure. They must also submit a  health travel authorization application  online before departure.

International travelers must have valid  travel insurance with COVID-19 coverage  and a reservation at a  certified accommodation .

Check our guide on Seychelles reopening for travel for more information .

13. Tunisia

With its combination of natural beauty and cultural attractions, Tunisia is one of the best African countries.

Tunisia has lots of ancient ruins and religious sites to explore, as well as gorgeous beaches and warm, sunny weather to enjoy.

As of November 16, 2020, Tunisia has been a country in Africa open for tourists from all countries.

Currently, all travelers, regardless of vaccination status, must present  proof of a negative PCR test result from within 72 prior to travel  and complete an  online questionnaire . They must also download the Tunisian government’s  Track and Trace app .

Unvaccinated travelers must quarantine for 10 days from their arrival at a  government-approved hotel  and take a PCR test between day 7 and day 10 of their quarantine period.

Vaccinated travelers are exempt from quarantining at a government-approved hotel as long as they provide proof of vaccination, but they must still self-isolate at their residence for 10 days from their arrival.

Check our guide on is Tunisia open for tourism for more information .

14. Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe is one of the nicest countries in Africa, with its majestic mountains, ancient ruins, and wondrous geological structures. Be sure to visit Victoria Falls and one or more of the eight national parks in the country.

Since October 1, 2020, Zimbabwe has been one of the  places in Africa open to travel  without nationality restrictions.

All travelers must have a medical certificate for a negative PCR test that was obtained within 48 hours departure. The negative test result must be verified through the Trusted Travel Initiative.

Travelers from countries that are considered COVID-19 hotspots must quarantine for 10 days from their arrival in Zimbabwe. They must also undergo COVID-19 testing within 48 hours of arrival in Zimbabwe, and on days 3, 5, and 10 of their quarantine period. The government of Zimbabwe has not yet declared which countries it considers COVID-19 hotspots.

Travelers must also present a negative PCR test result that was obtained within 48 hours of departure in order to leave Zimbabwe.

You can check our guide on  Zimbabwe travel restrictions for more information .

Rwanda is one of the best African countries to visit  if you love the outdoors.

Rwandans respect the wild animals here, and you can visit the King’s Palace Museum and see traditional singers croon for the cows. There are also lots of volcanoes, waterfalls, and rainforests to explore, and it’s a popular place for Gorilla trekking, too.

As of August 1, 2020, Rwanda is one of the  countries in Africa open to travel  without nationality restrictions.

All travelers must present a medical certificate with a negative RT-PCR result issued within 72 hours of departure for Rwanda. They must also complete a  Passenger Locator Form  and upload their test result certificate.

All travelers will take a second RT-PCR test, which costs $60, on arrival in Rwanda. They must then stay in a  designated transit hotel  and wait 24 hours to receive the results of that test. If this test is negative, travelers can explore Rwanda freely.

For more information, check our  guide on Rwanda reopening to tourists .

Other countries in Africa open for travel

While there are other  countries open for tourism in Africa , the 15 destinations above are the safest places to visit in Africa. However, if you want to explore other less touristy options, you can check which other countries are open in Africa and entry requirements below .

Burkina Faso

Burkina Faso is another country in Africa that is open for tourists of all nationalities.

Travelers to Burkina Faso must present a negative PCR test no later than five days after arrival. Otherwise, they’ll have to pay for a test at the airport ($150) and quarantine for 14 days.

For more information, check  this Ministry of Health document .

Cape Verde is another destination in Africa, allowing visitors of all nationalities since October 12, 2020.

Travelers must submit a negative PCR test result within 72 hours of arrival. They don’t have to quarantine, but they should complete  this registration .

Those who want to move between islands must submit  this form  and a negative PCR test within 72 hours of departure.

You can go to  this website  for more information .

Central African Republic

The Central African Republic is another country in Africa you can visit.

Traveler must quarantine for 14 days upon arrival and undergo a medical examination, which may include a PCR test at the  Institut Pasteur .

For more information, consult  this website .

Chad is also accepting travelers of all nationalities.

Tourists are required to submit a negative PCR test certificate within seven days of arrival.

If they’re staying longer than one week, they’ll have to self-isolate for one week at their accommodation. On the last day of their quarantine, they will retake the PCR test.

For more details, check  this website .

Democratic Republic of the Congo

The Democratic Republic of the Congo has been open to all nationalities since August 15, 2020.

Travelers must submit a negative PCR test result within seven days of arrival. They should also register for a second test with the  Institut National de la Recherche Biomédicale  ($45) and take it once they reach their destination. The results take about 24 hours, during which tourists must quarantine.

For more details, check out  this website .

Gabon is another country in Africa open to tourists. As of June 30, 2020, commercial flights are very limited.

Tourists must submit a PCR test upon arriving at the airport. The results take about 48 hours, during which they must quarantine. If they receive a negative result, they’ll get a 14-day certificate of free movement. They must take another PCR test if they want to renew it after 14 days.

You can visit  this website  for more information .

The Gambia is one of the countries in Africa that is open for tourism. As of October 16, 2020, the country is open for tourism without nationality restrictions, but flights are very limited.

Travelers must submit a negative PCR test within 72 hours of arriving. If they don’t have a test result, they must undergo a medical examination and adhere to a 14-day quarantine.

You can find more information on  this website .

Ghana is another country in Africa open to travelers.

Tourists must submit a negative PCR test result within 72 hours of their departure and complete a  Health Declaration Form .

Also, travelers must pay for a mandatory rapid test ($150), which they’ll take at the airport. They’ll get the results in 30 minutes and, if they’re negative, they can bypass quarantine.

Liberia is another place in Africa you can visit , and it has been open to tourists since July 22, 2020.

Travelers are required to download the  Lib Travel  mobile app and use it to purchase a PCR test ($75) that they’ll take upon arrival. They can also pay for it at the United Bank for Africa (UBA) once they arrive.

Tourists who receive a negative result must self-isolate and track their symptoms on the app, if any, for 14 days. Check  here  for exceptions.

Unlike other African countries with open borders, Liberia requires anyone leaving the country to undergo a PCR test within 72 hours of their departure.

As of June 16, 2020, Mali is open to tourists of all nationalities.

Travelers must present a negative PCR test result within 72 hours of arriving. They should also fill out this  Coronavirus Disease Surveillance Form .

For more information, check the  Ministry of Health and Social Affairs website .

Mauritania is one of the places in Africa open for tourism  to travelers who present a negative PCR test within 72 hours of their trip.

For more information, check  this website .

Mauritius is another country in Africa that has reopened to tourists.

Tourists must submit a negative PCR test certificate within seven days of their departure. They should also quarantine for 14 days at one of  these accommodations . Upon arrival, they’ll complete this  Passenger Self Declaration Form  and this  Passenger Locator Form .

Once they land in Mauritius, they’ll take a PCR test on their day of arrival, their 7th day in the country, and their 14th day.

You can find more information on the  official tourism website .

Nigeria is also open for travelers, but it’s not one of the safest countries in Africa right now.

Tourists must present a negative PCR test certificate within 72 of their departure. They will take a second test after being in Nigeria for seven days, and they must quarantine until the results arrive.

To board their flight, travelers must use  this form  to register and pay for the second test and upload the results of their first test.

Republic of the Congo

The Republic of the Congo is also open regardless of your nationality.

Travelers are required to submit a negative PCR test within 72 hours of their flight. If they don’t, they will undergo a test at the airport and self-isolate until they receive a negative result (up to 14 days).

Sierra Leone

As of June 15, 2020, Sierra Leone is one of the countries open for tourism.

Travelers must fill out this  travel authorization form  and submit a negative PCR test within 72 hours of arriving in Sierra Leone.

They’ll also have to pay for any additional PCR or rapid tests they take at the airport. If they receive a positive result, they’ll have to immediately self-isolate. All other tourists may travel freely with a negative result.

You can check  this website  for more information .

Somalia is open for tourism by air regardless of nationality.

Visitors must submit a negative PCR test certificate within 96 hours of arrival. Otherwise, they must self-isolate for 14 days.

Given the social and political instability and terrorist attacks in Somalia, we don’t recommend traveling there .

There aren’t nationality restrictions to visit Sudan. However, all travelers must submit a negative PCR test within 72 hours of arriving in Sudan.

If they show COVID symptoms, tourists may also undergo temperature checks and medical evaluations at the airport.

Togo is another country in Africa open without nationality restrictions .

Tourists must present a negative PCR test within seven days of their departure. They should also fill out  this form  and pay for the mandatory PCR test they’ll take at the airport. It takes about 24 hours to receive the results, during which travelers should self-isolate.

Togo also requires tourists to download the  TOGO SAFE mobile app  and purchase  COVID-19 travel insurance .

These are the  current countries in Africa open for tourism , although the list may vary as the COVID situation develops. We’ll update the list if anything changes.

If you have any questions about a specific African country, leave us a comment and we will be happy to help.

Safe travels!

Ascen Aynat

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14 Best Countries To Visit In Africa

Looking for the Top Tourist Countries in Africa ? These 15 incredible Best Countries to Visit in Africa offer it all, including breathtaking beauty, a wide variety of cultures, an interesting history, and more! Discover where to go and what to do on this comprehensive bucket list and the Best Time to Travel to Africa !   1. South Africa

Book Package: South Africa Tour Packages 2. Botswana

Book Package: Mozambique Tour Packages 6. Ethiopia

Book Package: Kenya Tour Packages 8. Mauritius

Book Package: Mauritius Tour Packages 9. Seychelles

Book Package: Seychelles Tour Packages 10. Tanzania

Book Package: Uganda Tour Packages 12. Tunisia

Book Package: Morocco Tour Packages 14. Egypt

• Best Countries to Visit in Africa
• Most Visited Countries in Africa
• Top Tourist Countries in Africa
• Best Time to Travel to Africa

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15 Best Countries to Visit in Africa

If we are being honest all 54 countries in Africa deserve to be on this list of the best countries to visit in Africa. Why? Because there’s a gem in all these countries. From the iconic pyramids in the North to abundant wildlife in the East and Central Africa, vibrant cities in the South, and picturesque views on the islands, there’s something for everyone. But to pique your interest, we’ll focus on just 15 of the best African countries to visit. Let’s get started!

15 Best African countries to Visit

In this guide on the best places to visit in Africa, we look into the less traveled areas that should have their place on the map. We’re talking about the ancient Roman architectural remains in Tunisia, eccentric scenes in Morocco, gorilla trekking in Uganda, and much more. But that’s not all! Among the best countries in Africa to visit, we’ll also delve into statistics such as the safest, most affordable, and most touristic countries in Africa. If that’s something you’re interested in, then keep reading.

1. South Africa

Coming in the first place is South Africa , which is by far the most popular and touristy country in Africa. Starting with the most important city, and one of the most visited places in South Africa: Cape Town . This is a place one must visit if one visits this country!

The destination offers diversity in activities such as cage diving with white sharks at the Gansbaai’s Shark Alley, hiking Table Mountain, and exploring Cape Winelands, which produces some of the world’s finest wines. You could also game drive around Kruger Park or explore the history of Soweto at the Nelson Mandela House in Johannesburg.

As a worthwhile mention, South Africa also earned a spot as the best country to visit in Africa, thanks to the Durban Botanical Garden. This is Africa’s oldest surviving botanical garden and one of the greenest gardens in the world. The 15-hectare garden is a habitat for many trees and flower species like cycads, palm trees, Centenary trees, and orchids.

2. Seychelles

The second best African country to visit is Seychelles. It’s the smallest yet incredibly beautiful country that inhabits about 115 islands featuring coral reefs, lush rainforests, valleys, secluded beaches, and vast marine life. To taste the land, you could visit the largest and most popular island, Mahé Island, which boasts the highest mountain ranges, pink sands, and granite boulders at the shores.

As one of the best African countries to visit, you can indulge in plenty of activities, such as snorkeling, sunbathing, scuba diving, taking boat trips, photography, bird watching, and sightseeing. Plus, despite its breathtaking landscapes surrounded by water, the country reports no major natural calamities or serious diseases. That means the island is located safely outside the hurricane zone and is safe for habitation.

If you love animals, game drives, and the idea of species conservation, then Kenya is surely one of Africa best countries to visit. The country homes about 60 safari destinations , including national parks, marine parks, national reserves, and national and private conservancies. That said, the best place to visit in Africa has to be the Maasai Mara National Park, where you get to watch the great wildebeest migration amongst other wildlife.

Kenya is also one of the most touristic countries in Africa thanks to its pristine beaches on the Swahili coast, historic forts at Mombasa and Lamu, and unique experiences like dining with giraffes at the Giraffe Manor. Not to mention, there are plenty of city activities, like visiting the museum, snake park, and culturally-inspired eateries. Also, check out our list of the best hotels in Kenya !

In the North, Egypt is among the best African countries to visit due to its rich history. The country has unique archeological sites such as the UNESCO world heritage iconic pyramids, extraordinary tombs and temples, the Valley of Kings, and the Great Sphinx. All these monuments have helped mark Egypt as one of the best countries to visit in Africa.

Of course, we wouldn’t fail to mention the Great Pyramid of Giza, which remains one of the most beautiful places in Africa. But besides the ancient monuments, you could also visit the vast red sea coastline, a world-class scuba diving destination. You could also enjoy breathtaking views at the Red sea beaches or cruise the world’s longest river, River Nile.

5. Tanzania

With the Northern Safari Circuit that hosts incredible safari parks like Serengeti and Ngorongoro, Tanzania qualifies as a great country in Africa to visit. The parks offer game drives, vast African wildlife viewing, and the Great wildebeest migration to keep you entertained during your trip. Moreover, you could also opt for the Southern Safari Circuit, which is also incredible though less popular.

Another great activity would be a hike up Mount Kilimanjaro which is 5,895 meters high. It’s the highest mountain in Africa and the highest single free-standing mountain above sea level worldwide. It’s a dormant volcanic mountain hence no such safety hazards.

Lastly, Tanzania is the best country to visit in Africa if you want to enjoy an affordable island with great beach destinations and beautiful landscapes. The country has great beaches and diving spots at Zanzibar Island and Pemba.

Malawi is one of the warmest countries in Africa. Their atmosphere screams kindness and warmth to strangers and foreigners. And even though it’s a small country, it features some of the best places to visit in Africa. For starters, despite this South-Eastern country being landlocked, it offers incredible beach and diving destinations.

Second, it’s home to Africa’s third-largest lake and third deepest freshwater lake in the world, Lake Malawi. This eponymous lake is the richest in fish species, housing about 800 to 1000 fish species. So if you’re up for fishing or fish exploration, Malawi is the best African country to visit.

For more water activities, Likoma Island offers paddleboarding, kayaking, snorkeling, scuba diving, boating, and waterskiing. Plus the island has exquisite landscapes with leafy baobab trees, rocky shores, and clear waters.

For a more culturally grounded experience, Morocco is the best country in Africa to visit. The country is heavily influenced by the Arab, Mediterranean, Western, Berber, and African cultures and heritage. The country has attractions from the Sahara Desert, the Atlantic Ocean, and the beautiful cities of Marrakesh, Fez, Essaouira, and Casablanca.

The eccentric architecture and crafts of the blue-painted walls and stairs in the Chefchaouen alleys along with the handicraft shops in Meknes and Fes have made Morocco among the best countries to visit in Africa. Plus, if you didn’t know, Morocco has incredible food. Probably from its diverse influence or its great cookware like the Moroccan tagine famous for traditional slow-cooked stews and one-pot meals.

8. Mauritius

Mauritius, just like the other best African countries to visit, offers numerous activities for tourists. Moreso, because it’s an island, you’re sure to enjoy the 330-kilometer coastline that boasts pristine white-sand beaches, clear blue waters, mountains, and palatial resorts. Plus, there are adequate water sports to keep you engaged throughout your trip.

Being amongst the best countries to visit in Africa, Mauritius also has dry land activities like a visit to the Egret Island called Ile Aux Aigrettes. This is a nature reserve for the Mauritian ecology which houses multiple plant species and rare bird species like the kestrel and pink pigeon. Other wonders to see include the Eau Bleue waterfalls, the Chamarel Seven Colored Earth Geopark, and the Heritage Nature Reserve in Bel Ombre.

Rwanda may not seem like the best country to visit in Africa but unbeknownst to many, the country features incredible scenery and beautiful landscapes. After the 1994 genocide, the country rebuilt itself into one of the safest and most modernized countries in Africa.

From the Kigali Genocide Memorial Center, you’ll experience a powerful memorial ground that showcases how far the country has come. You could also visit the Ethnographic Museum, which houses one of Africa’s best collections and archeological artifacts from pre-colonial Rwanda.

For some relaxation, you could explore Lake Kivu and indulge in water sports like canoeing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. Of course, we couldn’t fail to mention that you can also game drive at Akagera National Park or track Primates at the Gishwati-Mukura Park.

10. Botswana

For a while now, Botswana has been the most stable country in Africa. Not to say the rest are unstable, but with little to no political instabilities and a rigid economy, Botswana remains one of the best countries in Africa to visit. But despite its safe status, the country is a prime safari destination.

In southern Botswana, there’s Chobe National Park, where you can enjoy land and boat safaris. Thanks to the subtropical climate, the park is a habitat for many animals like cheetahs, antelopes, giraffes, elephants, hippos, and crocodiles. You could also visit the Okavango Delta, that’s home to many bird species. And in the northern region, the Kalahari Desert and Makgadikgadi Pans are dry but also occupied by predators and various antelopes.

Zambia is the best country in Africa to visit if you want to explore amazing natural wonders, precisely waterfalls. Firstly, you’ve probably heard of Victoria Falls, what’s natively called Mosi-Oa-Tunya Falls. It’s one of the world’s largest free-falling waterfalls, visible from both Zambia and Zimbabwe. Other incredible waterfalls you should see include Kalambo Falls, which have existed for centuries, and Chishimba Falls, which is sacred.

Besides viewing these waterfalls, there are other things you could try out, such as swimming at the devil’s pool. This is the highest and most dreadful infinity pool located at the precipice of Victoria Falls. Alternatively, you could soak yourself in the Kapishya hot springs located amidst the beautiful rainforest in Chinsali.

Finally, as is the trend with the other best countries to visit in Africa, you could also game drive at the Luangwa Parks. They allow night safaris, walking safaris, and canoeing safaris.

Undoubtedly, Uganda is one of the best African countries to visit because of the Gorilla trekking. Yes, you could go for a Gorilla trek in Rwanda or DRC, but for a more indulgent experience, Uganda is the place to be. Thanks to the River Nile offering large amounts of water at the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, you could trek with over 300 mountain gorillas amongst other mammals and birds. Indeed, it’s the best place to visit in Africa.

Amongst other best places to visit in Africa, precisely in Uganda, include Queen Elizabeth national park, Kasumbi Tombs, and the Murchison Falls National Park, which is nature’s reserve for chimpanzees, elephants, African lions, leopards, and hippos. Take a drive to Jinja town and enjoy quad/mountain biking, horseback riding, kayaking, and whitewater rafting for adrenaline-packed activities.

13. Tunisia

Tunisia is one of the least visited countries in Africa, but it’s truly one of Africa best countries to visit. The country is filled with character, history, and magnificent Roman architecture to show for it. The country has years-old cultural riches from Roman empires; for example, the El Djem Amphitheater, a mighty Roman amphitheater located near its main town.

Besides Roman influence, Tunisia was also inhabited by Arab Empires who left behind exemplary Islamic architecture (Mosques), marking them as such beautiful places in Africa that you must see. Other fun-filled activities you could do is visit the ancient ruins of Carthage showing piles of marble rubble, walk the alleyways of Medina, or take a trip to the picturesque blue and white town of Sidi Bou.

14. Namibia

Namibia is the best country to visit if you want to explore the untamed wilderness and extensive dune fields. From a coastal desert to immense dunes, long adapted wildlife to real-life 4×4 excursions, Namibia is truly a gem country in Africa.

To start your trip, visit the Namib Sand Sea, the world’s only coastal desert braced with extensive dunes and fog. Then, hike up the dunes starting with Dune 45 and Elim Dune, the most popular. Follow that up with Big Daddy, the highest dune measuring 325 meters high. Lastly, see the iconic salt pans like Sossusvlei with red dunes and Deadvlei.

You could also visit the Namib Desert, the Etosha National Park, and Fish River Canyon, the largest canyon in Africa.

15. Zimbabwe

The final best African country to visit is Zimbabwe. You get to see wildlife and the famous Victoria Falls, which many claim offers a better, broader view from Livingstone, located in Zimbabwe. Another gem is the Matobo hills which boast a beautiful landscape and a dedicated game park for African rhinos, antelopes, baboons, leopards, and wildebeest. Moreover, the hills have a rich history as the battleground for African and European empires and where Cecil Rhodes’s tomb was.

If you find yourself in Zimbabwe, the best place to visit in Africa is its diverse national parks. From Nyanga, Hwange, Mutirikwi, Mana Pools, and Matusadona, you’ll find something to experience. Another gem that makes Zimbabwe among the best African countries to visit is the Chiremba Balancing Rocks, located in Epworth, Harare. This geomorphological site of igneous rocks is a pride for the country and a unique destination.

Wrapping up the best African countries to visit

Upon concluding our review of the best countries in Africa to visit, you’ll note that you get a taste of just about everything. You can deep dive in Egypt, enjoy a myriad of safaris and wildlife exploration in East and Central African countries, and enjoy modernization with a mix of traditions in South Africa. That said, there’s no one best country in Africa to visit. Instead, plan a trip to Africa best countries to visit to include every mainland and island, as there’s something in each.

Hungarian article: Afrika országai

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10 Best Countries To Visit In Africa In 2024

• by Jonny Duncan
• January 2, 2024 January 9, 2024

Africa is one of the most fascinating and culturally rich continents you can visit and these are 10 of the best countries to visit in Africa to help you plan a trip there.

Personally, I have spent around one year in Africa travelling to many different countries and having amazing adventures. Some of my best memories come from my time there.

Normally I wouldn’t like to use a ‘best’ country as every country has its own things to offer, but I understand if you are going to Africa for the first time you may want to visit some of the more popular countries to go there.

After all, they’re popular for a reason.

Go to Africa, you won’t regret it!

The best countries to visit in Africa are in no particular order.

South Africa

South Africa makes one of the best countries to visit in Africa for a first-timer to the continent as it eases you in slowly, especially if you land in Cape Town.

The country has a lot to offer the traveller and plenty of varying landscapes and things to do.

Start in Cape Town and work your way up the gorgeous Garden Route where you can see whales off the coast of Hermanus and cage dive with great white sharks in Gansbaai. Then onwards to the east for one of the best safaris in Africa at Kruger National Park.

If you love wine then head to the Stellenbosch region for some of the best wine in Africa and enjoy it in the scenic surroundings.

Kenya is one of my favourite countries to visit in Africa and I’ve been there three times.

It has everything you could want from an African experience; local culture, wildlife safaris, white-sand beaches, hiking up mountains, plus more.

A must-do for the ultimate wildlife experience in Africa is to go on safari in the Masai Mara as well as other national parks like Lake Nakuru which has the highest densities of rhinos in Africa.

Some of the best food can be found along the coast, especially in the city of Mombasa where excellent Swahili food is cooked up.

Tanzania has a very similar feel to Kenya and is indeed its neighbour. I also visited there three times and it’s easily one of the best countries to visit in Africa.

The Masai Mara in Kenya extends across the border into Tanzania where it is known as the Serengeti National Park, and also makes for an epic safari experience. The Serengeti is one of the best places to visit in Africa, period.

The continent’s largest mountain, Mount Kilimanjaro, can be climbed, while the white-sand beaches and excellent multi-cultural food await you on the island of Zanzibar.

Ethiopia is one of the best countries to visit in Africa for history as far as I’m concerned as well as stunning landscapes.

Explore the old rock churches of the Tigray region, go hiking in the Simien Mountains, see traditional culture in the Omo Valley, and escape everything in the remote and barren Danakil Depression.

There are lots of Unesco World Heritage Sites to visit at Lalibela with its famous rock-carved churches and the castles at Fasil Ghebbi, as well as the very historic city of Harar in the east of the country.

Morocco is also a fascinating place for history and varying landscapes as well. It also has some of the best food in Africa you can try.

This was the first African country I ever visited but it was as a child. Later on, as an adult, I spent several weeks travelling the country.

See the ancient city of Fez, hike in the Atlas Mountains, eat some of the best seafood in Africa at Essaouira while exploring the world heritage site of the Medina of Essaouira, and get lost in the markets of Marrakech.

Oh, and there are the remote Sahara desert safaris to do and some of the best surfing in Africa on the coast near Sidi Ifni.

The food in Morocco is also some of the best food in Africa and the tagine dishes are out of this world tasty.

If you are in Europe then Morocco is very easy to reach by budget airlines as well as a ferry from southern Spain. Morocco truly is one of the best countries to visit in Africa.

Rwanda has made a massive comeback from the site of genocide in the 90s to one of the safest countries in Africa and a teeming tourist network of places to visit.

The capital sits surrounded by lush green mountains and there are excellent trekking opportunities in the jungle.

Rwanda is most famous for its gorilla trekking where you hike through the jungle to see gorillas in the wild.

A beautiful country with very friendly people and right next to Tanzania and Kenya so is easy enough to get to from there.

One of the best country loops in Africa is to go to Tanzania, then Rwanda, into Uganda, and finish up in Kenya.

Ah, Egypt! This was my first country to visit in Africa as an adult. The pyramids at Giza should be on any traveller’s bucket list to see at least once in their life.

Egpyt is also one of the best countries to visit in Africa for a first-timer as it’s heavily touristed and has a lot of places to see and many experiences to have.

Having said that you won’t get a ‘proper’ African experience such as wildlife safaris etc, that you would get in places like Kenya and Tanzania.

However, with so much history and things to see, it’s worth going to.

Botswana is one of the safest places to visit in Africa and also has an abundance of wildlife and nature opportunities to explore.

From the vast Okavango Delta to the easier-to-reach Chobe National Park, and then the vast landscape of the salt plains and the Kalahari Desert awaits you for an adventure.

The Okavango Delta is one of the most unique experiences I had in Africa. Going up the delta rivers in a small local canoe and getting up close to wildlife is an unforgettable journey.

Ghana is one of the best countries to visit in Africa in West Africa, especially for a first-timer to Africa as it is easy to travel, in comparison with other countries in the region, and it’s possible to travel to Ghana on a budget , unlike many other countries in West Africa.

It has beautiful beaches and a laid-back tropical feel along with excellent seafood. There are wildlife safaris to do in the interior and traditional cultures to explore.

Grab a drink and relax on the beach, maybe try surfing, watch the sunset, and take in the charm of Ghana.

Zambia has it all, except for the beaches. You can go on some of the best safaris in Africa such as at South Luangwa National Park and get an in-depth look at African life.

The main draw for the country without a doubt though is the famous Victoria Falls which is one of the biggest tourist attractions out of any of the African countries. There are so many fun activities to do there and the stunning sight of the falls themselves.

Relax with a beer at sunset by the Zambezi River at the Royal Livingstone Hotel and listen to hippos grunting away in the water and soaking up the atmosphere.

Apart from Victoria Falls, it seemed to me that there were a lot fewer tourists in other parts, which is a shame as it has a lot more to offer and is one of the best countries to visit in Africa for many reasons.

Bonus: African Island Countries

The 10 countries mentioned above are definitely some of the best countries to visit in Africa, but Africa also has some beautiful island groups to visit as well, if you want more of an island getaway.

Mauritius is actually one of the safest countries in Africa and is one of the premier island destinations on the east coast.

Seychelles is a group of tropical islands in Eastern Africa and is a paradise of white-sand beaches and lush jungles to explore. The perfect island getaway destination.

The Comoro Islands are located off the east coast of Africa between Mozambique and Madagascar and have some of the best white-sand beaches in Africa to relax on.

Cape Verde is, unlike the two above, located off the western coast of Africa in the Atlantic Ocean near Senegal. They are volcanic islands and are actually one of the most developed countries in Africa to visit.

São Tomé and Príncipe are also a group of volcanic islands on the west coast of Africa near Gabon and have great beaches as well as jungles to explore.

I couldn’t honestly say which are the best countries in Africa to visit as far as islands go as they are all good if what you want is to relax on beaches and enjoy great seafood.

However, if I had to choose right now where to go I would probably pick the Comoro Islands as they are easy to get to and the beaches are out of this world.

The Best Countries To Visit In Africa

And that’s what I recommend for some of the 10 best countries to visit in Africa and as I said before there are lots of other countries to visit in Africa that are worth going to as well. I had a great time in Malawi, for example, but it’s small and doesn’t have as much to offer as other countries listed here.

If I was going to suggest where to exactly go then I would say do Kenya and Tanzania together for the ultimate African experience and then head to nearby Ethiopia for some of the best history and mountain scenery on the continent.

Find out what the safest countries in Africa to visit are .

If you have a big interest in doing a safari in Africa then have a read of:

I recommend using SafetyWing Travel Insurance for your trip, just in case, it’s best to be prepared.

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Discover the World

24 Best Places to Visit in Africa

Africa is an enormous continent, and it offers countless destinations worth exploring. In a trip through Africa, you can meet the Masai Mara people in Kenya, look out onto the plains of the Serengeti or relax on a tropical island. Africa is diverse and beautiful, and there is no end to what you can see, do and explore there. As you plan your next African journey, be sure to include at least one from this list of best places to visit in Africa as your schedule will allow.

24. Ait Benhaddou (Morocco) [SEE MAP]

On the edge of the High Atlas Mountains in Morocco is the incredible city of Ait Benhaddou. Also known as Mud Brick City, Ait Benhaddou is an ancient fortified stop that was a haven for travelers going between the Sahara and the city of Marrakesh. On a visit to Ait Benhaddou, you can tour the mud buildings, explore the ancient Granary at the top of the hilltop city and even tour the Mausoleum of Ben-Haddou.

23. Isalo National Park (Madagascar) [SEE MAP]

Just off the coast of Mozambique, and in the waters of the Indian Ocean, is the island of Madagascar. While the island nation has a lot to do, see and explore, a highlight is undoubtedly the Isalo National Park. Within the park, you will have access to a wide range of terrain types. Be prepared to spot enormous canyons, lush palm-tree oases and even unique sandstone formations. The best way to see Isalo National Park is on a guided trek, and many people opt for overnight camping to enhance the once-in-a-lifetime experience.

22. Zanzibar (Tanzania) [SEE MAP]

The archipelago off the coast of Tanzania is semi-autonomous, and it is a truly unique destination in Africa. Zanzibar boasts an interesting blend of architecture, and you’ll find Arabic, Middle Eastern, Moorish and Indian styles represented in its cities. There are many world-class beaches to choose from, and Zanzibar also boasts a very vibrant and well-preserved history. Be sure to spend time in the capital city of Stone Town, home to several fantastic museums and the 17th century Old Fort.

21. Djenne (Mali) [SEE MAP]

Probably the most historically and architecturally interesting city in all of Mali is Djenne. The city served as an important element of the trans-Saharan gold trade, and it is still a regional hub thanks to its impressive weekly market that gathers residents from all the surrounding areas. By far the most amazing landmark in the city, however, is the Great Mosque, which is the largest mud brick building in the world. The Islamic Mosque dates back to the 13th century, although it wasn’t officially completed until 1907.

20. Lake Malawi (Malawi, Tanzania & Mozambique) [SEE MAP]

One of the largest bodies of water in Africa is Lake Malawi. As the name suggests, much of the lake is within the borders of Malawi, but it also stretches into the countries of Tanzania and Mozambique. If you want to see Lake Malawi, one of the best ways to do so is with a visit to the Lake Malawi National Park, located on the southern end of the lake itself. There are miles of hiking available in the park, not to mention countless vantage points where you can admire the lake and take spectacular photographs.

19. Etosha National Park (Namibia) [SEE MAP]

The second largest game reserve in Namibia is the Etosha National Park. It was created around the Etosha salt pan, which many animals gravitate to. As a result, the national park is a spectacular spot for seeing wildlife. Be sure to bring along binoculars, because you’ll be able to see zebras, springbok, lions, giraffes, elephants and more. Three rest camps are designated for visitor accommodation, allowing you to see these amazing animals 24/7.

18. Lalibela (Ethiopia) [SEE MAP]

The city of Lalibela in Ethiopia is known as a city of pilgrimage. Lalibela boasts 11 monolithic, rock-cut churches, each of which is fascinating to explore. Most residents are Egyptian Orthodox Christian, and most of the churches were constructed in the 12th and 13th centuries. If you only have time for a tour of one church in Lalibela, make it Bet Giyorgis, which is shaped like a cross and carved entirely from rock in a spectacular fashion.

17. Virunga National Park (DR Congo) [SEE MAP]

Near the eastern border of the Democratic Republic of Congo, and just minutes away from Uganda, is the Virunga National Park. Virunga was founded in 1925 by the Belgian King Albert, and it was Africa’s very first national park. While poaching was a serious problem in the park in the past, now it is a growing tourism destination. The Virunga National Park is most famous for its mountain gorillas, but you can also see the Tongo chimpanzees or even trek to the summit of the Nyiragongo Volcano to see the world’s largest lava lake glowing.

16. Fish River Canyon (Namibia) [SEE MAP]

The incredible Fish River Canyon in Southern Namibia is one of the world’s largest canyons, and it is a spectacular, breathtaking scene to behold. As one of the Natural Wonders of Africa, Fish River Canyon is one of the nation’s most popular attractions. You can trek along the Fish River Canyon Trail if you’re up for adventure, or you can take a scenic overhead flight to admire the multicolored rock canyon contrasted with the bright blue water of the river.

15. Merzouga (Morocco) [SEE MAP]

While Merzouga is a small village, it is a popular destination for travelers in Morocco . Located in the Sahara Desert, Merzouga is surrounded by enormous sand dunes known as the Erg Chebbi. Much of the local population is Berber, a group that is traditionally nomadic. If you visit, you can join a camel safari into the dunes to see the traditional Berber lifestyle. In addition to checking out the nomadic desert lifestyle, you can try birdwatching in the spring, when a wide range of birds migrate through the area.

14. Praslin (Seychelles) [SEE MAP]

The second largest of the tropical islands that make up the Seychelles , located in the heart of the Indian Ocean, is Praslin. The island is dotted with a few luxury resorts, but the two main attractions on the island are Anse Lazio and the Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve. Anse Lazio is a gorgeous beach with clear water and amazing opportunities for snorkeling. The Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve is a palm forest that is preserved and serves as the home to countless reptiles and birds, including the very rare Seychelles Black Parrot.

13. Okavango Delta (Botswana) [SEE MAP]

Where the Okavango River meets the basin of the Kalahari, you’ll find the Okavango Delta. The delta is breathtaking to behold, and the source of water means that it is almost always surrounded by wildlife. The Okavango Delta is a popular spot for safaris, and you can also enjoy some amazing scenery. A fantastic and unforgettable way to explore the Okavango Delta is with an aerial tour by airplane, allowing you to see the meandering Okavango River as well as some of the larger game animals.

12. Black River Gorges National Park (Mauritius) [SEE MAP]

Another of the incredible islands in the Indian Ocean, located just off the Eastern Coast of Africa, is Mauritius. Known for beaches and tropical weather, Mauritius is also home to the magnificent Black River Gorges National Park. The park is relatively new, founded in just 1994 to protect the natural beauty of the island. When you visit, you’ll be able to hike along gorgeous trails and see a wide range of endemic wildlife and beautiful waterfalls.

11. Mount Kilimanjaro (Tanzania) [SEE MAP]

In the far north of Tanzania, close to the Kenyan border, is the famed Mount Kilimanjaro. The peak is the tallest in Africa, and the tallest free-standing mountain in the world, making it a bucket-list destination for many travelers. While the very fit can trek to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, there are also other ways to explore the area. There are several shorter, easier hikes around the base of the mountain along with some gorgeous waterfalls and plenty of amazing scenery.

10. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (Uganda) [SEE MAP]

If you are interested in seeing rare wildlife, then the Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in Uganda should definitely be on your itinerary for an African adventure. With a permit from the Uganda Wildlife Authority, you can hike from the two hubs of Buhoma to Nkoringo and kayak on gorgeous lakes. The main attraction, however, is tracking gorillas. The Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is one of the best places in the world to see mountain gorillas in their natural habitat.

9. Kruger National Park (South Africa) [SEE MAP]

The best known of the many parks located in South Africa is the Kruger National Park, named after former South African President Paul Kruger. The park has three primary goals: Conservation, education and tourism. While it is possible to purchase a permit to enter the park and then drive on your own, most visitors prefer to join a guided tour or safari. Kruger National Park’s top attractions include the Crocodile River view point, the Iron Age village known as Masorini and the abundance of the big five animals: Lion, cape buffalo, rhinoceros, African elephant and leopard.

8. Marrakech (Morocco) [SEE MAP]

After Rabat and Casablanca, Marrakech is the largest city in Morocco . It is the most popular destinations in the country, because it is such an exciting city with an ancient history and amazing architecture. The historic district of Marrakech is called the Medina, and its main square is the bustling Djemaa El-Fna, where you can watch snake charmers and acrobats while strolling through shops and snacking on local culinary delights. You can also tour souks, or outdoor markets, and then relax at a local hammam, or spa.

See also: Where to Stay in Marrakech

7. Luxor (Egypt) [SEE MAP]

The ancient city of Luxor in Egypt is divided into halves by the Nile River. On the East Bank, you’ll find the famed Luxor Temple as well as unique museums like the Luxor Museum and the Mummification Museum. Across the Nile on the West Bank, you’ll be able to explore both the Valley of the Kings and the Valley of the Queens. The Valley of the Kings is one of the most iconic destinations in Africa, as it served as the burial place of many Egyptian kings.

6. Ngorongoro Conservation Area (Tanzania) [SEE MAP]

The nature preserve known as the Ngorongoro Conservation Area is one of Tanzania’s many attractions. The area is named after the Ngorongoro Crater, a volcanic caldera in the center of the preserve. The crater is a highlight, and so is the steep ravine called Oldupai Gorge. The conservation area is also one of the best places to visit in Africa for nature lovers, and just some of the wildlife you might spot while visiting can include the African buffalo, black rhinoceros, hippopotamus, blue wildebeest and even the occasional Tanzanian cheetah.

5. Cape Town (South Africa) [SEE MAP]

The capital city of South Africa is Cape Town , an extraordinary, historic and vibrant city named for its location on the Cape of Good Hope. To get to know the history of Cape Town, be sure to explore incredible landmarks like the colorful homes in the Bo-Kaap neighborhood as well as Robben Island, where political prisoners like Nelson Mandela were once held. One of the top natural attractions is Table Mountain, which offers breathtaking views over the Cape of Good Hope as well as the sprawling city. You can hike up Table Mountain or take a ride on the cable cars.

See also: Where to Stay in Cape Town

4. Masai Mara National Reserve (Kenya) [SEE MAP]

Africa is inhabited by many different people groups, but few as are fascinating as the Masai. This group owns the Masai Mara National Reserve toward the southern part of Kenya, and every year thousands of tourists come to explore the scenery and the wildlife. In addition to seeing everything from rhinos to lions, you can visit a local village to learn more about the Masai Mara culture, cuisine, customs and dress.

3. Victoria Falls (Zambia & Zimbabwe) [SEE MAP]

Right on the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe is Victoria Falls, an incredible waterfall on the Zambezi River. In Zimbabwe, the falls as well as the surrounding town is known as Victoria Falls. Across the border in Zambia, the falls are called Mosi-oa-Tunya. From December to March, the falls are more dramatic because it is also the rainy season, but the rest of the year can offer a less obscured view. In addition to admiring the views, you can enjoy Victoria Falls by canoeing or rafting near its base or having a romantic sunset cruise beneath the falls.

2. Serengeti National Park (Tanzania) [SEE MAP]

In Northeast Tanzania is the Serengeti National Park, one of Africa’s most incredible conservation areas. The name Serengeti means endless plains, and that is exactly what you’ll find within the park. More than a million wildebeest, and over 200,000 zebras, migrate through the plains each year. When you visit the Serengeti National Park, you will be able to see wildlife like cheetahs, leopards, giraffes, buffalo, gazelles and so much more. Hot air balloon trips as well as photo safaris are both incredible ways to make the most of the Serengeti.

1. Giza Necropolis (Egypt) [SEE MAP]

If you have always wanted to see the pyramids in Egypt , then make Giza your next travel destination. Giza is the gateway to Egypt’s most iconic structures, and it is very close to the city of Cairo. While in Giza, you can step inside the Great Pyramid of Khufu, now the last remaining structure of the Seven Ancient Wonders of the World. You can also tour the Sphinx, several smaller pyramids and a number of incredible museums helping to explain the role of these pyramids and their significance in Egyptian history.

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Discovering the Best Places to Travel in Africa

If you’re looking for an incredible continent to visit, check out the best places to travel in Africa according to a travel expert!

Home to more than 50 different countries, Africa is one of the most culturally and environmentally diverse places on the planet. From the glistening Sahara Desert to the glittering Indian Ocean, it’s full of amazing travel destinations that are just waiting to be explored! We know traveling through such an enormous continent may be slightly overwhelming. It can be challenging to know where to even start! But don’t worry—we’ve created this list of the best places to travel in Africa for you.

Adventuring in Africa With Let’s Roam

With so much area to cover, you’re going to need a little help diving into the best places to travel in Africa. Let’s Roam can be your travel guide! Choose one of our app-guided scavenger hunts to see a unique side to the city of your choice. We’ll test you with a little trivia about your surroundings, and challenge you to climb the local leaderboard. Bring your crew, and get ready to snap some funny pics! And along your travels, Let’s Roam Local can let you know which destinations are worth the detour. Take us with you as you explore!

Where to Go in Africa

Below, you’ll find a list of our favorite African countries and the best places to visit while you’re there. These destinations have been hand-picked by our team of in-house travel experts. We’ve scoured the entire continent to find the most fascinating and beautiful places—just for you!

Disclaimer: As a full-time traveler, I’ve traveled extensively through Africa both as a solo budget traveler and on guided tours. There are a few fantastic places I’ve left off this list, such as Lalibela, Ethiopia, and Djenne, Mali, due to political unrest and safety concerns. If these are places you’re really interested in seeing, keep an eye on the security situation there. Sometimes, there are periods of stability that make travel possible. Likewise, the situation can change quickly in many African countries. Always keep abreast of the current situation before traveling anywhere.

This fascinating country really needs no introduction. From the pyramids of Giza to the ancient temples of Aswan, Egypt is the place where you can witness your elementary history classes come to life. 

As the capital city of modern Egypt, Cairo boasts a bewildering collection of European architecture. It serves as a reminder of the country’s history as a French and British territory. Behind the colonial architecture, you can find narrow alleyways packed full of tiny shops, apartment buildings, and food stalls. They demonstrate that rather than just being a historic site, this is a living, breathing, and extremely chaotic city. It can be a little overwhelming at first. But once you begin to relax and just go with the flow, you may notice it beginning to grow on you!

Without a doubt, the highlight of most people’s trip to Cairo is a visit to the famous Pyramids of Giza, the only ancient world wonder that is still standing today. Other must-sees include the Egyptian Museum and the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization. Both provide a mesmerizing look into Ancient Egypt and are the perfect place to start or end your trip. 

Situated on the east bank of the Nile River, Luxor is located on the site of Thebes, the capital of ancient Egypt from the 16th to 11th centuries B.C. The Luxor and Karnak Temples stand right in the city center as a testament to Thebes’s heyday. Just outside of Luxor on the west bank of the river, you can find the Valley of the Kings and Valley of the Queens where many of the most illustrious pharaohs were entombed. While you’re there, visit the Luxor Museum to get a more in-depth look at the role that Thebes once played.

Like Luxor, Aswan is overflowing with archaeological sites thanks to its location right on the Nile River. Formerly known as Syene, this was the frontier town of Ancient Egypt. It served as a commercial center for caravans heading into the Nubian Desert. The city and its surrounding region are dotted with archaeological sites, including Temple Philae and the Temple of Kom Ombo. You can also use Aswan as a base for day trips to Abu Simbel. 

Aswan is surrounded by interesting Nubian villages that are worth exploring. It’s also a popular place to go on feluca rides on the Nile River.

Located in the northwestern corner of Africa, Morocco has turned into a bit of a tourism powerhouse. And it’s no surprise why! From the exotic backstreets of Fez to the ancient madrassas of Marrakech, this beguiling country is both mysterious and welcoming at the same time. You can easily take a ferry from Spain to Morocco. As such, Morocco is an easy destination to add to a European vacation if you feel like making things a little more exotic for a few days.

If you’re short on time but want to make the most of your trip to Morocco, don’t forget to read our guide on the “ The Best Ways to Experience Moroccan Culture as a Tourist .” 

Once the imperial capital of western Morocco, Marrakesh is a bustling city of nearly a million people. The city was founded in 1070, and its iconic red walls were erected in the early 1100s. Many other red sandstone buildings were built soon afterward, giving the entire city a reddish tint. Although the city went through a few centuries of decline, it got its groove back in the 16th century. Many of its most remarkable buildings date back from this period. 

The highlight for many visitors to Marrakech is a walk through the world-famous Medina, a fortified city chockablock with shops, restaurants, markets, hotels, and more. It’s one of the busiest places in Africa (which says a lot!). Everywhere you look, there’s something fascinating to see. Just outside of the medina, the “newer” section of Marrakech boasts colonial architecture and slightly more organized streets. The entire experience is undeniably intoxicating, and a trip there feels a little bit like entering another world. 

Located in northeastern Morocco, the small city of Fez is often considered the cultural capital of the country. It was once the actual capital of Morocco, and it’s famous for its ancient medina that is full of medieval Marinid architecture. Here, you’ll feel like you’ve just stepped back in time as you wander around the lively souks and amongst 14th-century madrassas and mosques. The Medina is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, so this is certainly one place that the history lovers out there won’t want to miss! 

When people think of Morocco, they probably imagine scenes of deserts full of dunes and exotic cities. However, the country has an enormous coastline! One of the best ways to enjoy the coast is in the port city and resort town of Essaouira. Besides being nestled on the glittering Atlantic Ocean, the city also boasts a historic medina, 18th-century ramparts, world-class surfing, and year-round sunshine. Talk about an ideal spot to escape the gloomy European winters! 

Tucked in between the much larger countries of Libya and Algeria, Tunisia may be tiny, but it packs in a sea of wonderful attractions. It’s relatively hassle-free and one of the most inexpensive places to travel to in Africa thanks to the well-developed public transportation system and a wide variety of accommodations on offer. 

Unlike many of the other major cities in North Africa, Tunis is laid-back and relaxed, making it a hassle-free destination. The Old Medina, the city’s historic center, is a labyrinth of cobblestone alleyways where you can find tons of shops selling traditional items. Their colorful doorways are pretty cool. The medina is surrounded by Ville Nouvelle, where you’ll find an intriguing mix of European architecture and welcoming squares that provide the perfect spot to take a load off.

The highlight of any trip to Tunis is the breathtaking Bardo Museum. It’s home to one of the biggest collections of Roman mosaics in the world. You can easily imagine these incredibly restored mosaics adorning the floors and walls of luxurious Roman villas. The museum is easy to get to, and even if you don’t normally flock to museums, you definitely don’t want to miss this one. 

Founded by the Phoenicians over 3,000 years ago, the ancient city of Carthage was decimated during the Punic Wars before rebuilding itself under the Roman Empire. Today, you can still wander around the scattered ruins of the city and ancient port to get a glimpse of just how grand this city used to be!

Sidi Bou Said

This gorgeous blue and white city bears a great resemblance to the Greek tourist hotspot of Santorini. However, you get to explore this seaside paradise with a fraction of the crowds! You can easily spend hours walking up and down the town’s narrow streets, admiring the dazzling architecture and the glistening Mediterranean Sea. The best part about it is that you can access Sidi Bou Said via a quick train ride from Tunis!

Unlike other countries in Africa, Kenya is actually pretty well connected by public transportation, which means you can skip the expensive safari tours if you’re traveling on a budget. 

Masai Mara National Reserve

Located in western Kenya, the Masai Mara National Reserve features a mind-boggling array of landscapes along with elephants, lions, and giraffes (oh my!). It’s one of the best wildlife destinations in Kenya. Like many of the other parks in East Africa, the reserve is famous for hosting the Great Migration. During this time, the reserve welcomes more than 1.5 million wildebeests as they make their way across the savannahs. 

Lamu Island

Lying just off of Kenya’s northern coast in the Indian Ocean, Lamu Island is a relaxing spot. It seamlessly combines gorgeous white sand beaches with a historic town heavily influenced by Swahili and Arabic cultures. During your stay at this idyllic island, you can wander around the narrow streets of Lamu, go on a sunset dhow tour, or enjoy a luxurious beach resort experience. The island feels like a miniature Zanzibar, and it’s a wonderful place to discover Kenya’s history and culture.

When it comes to African adventure, you can’t go wrong with Tanzania. This relatively small East African country is home to some of Africa’s best safari destinations, including the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater as well as the tantalizing island of Zanzibar. 

The Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater

Often visited as part of a multi-day safari, these two areas are some of the best places in the world to spot the Big Five. Stretching over 5,700 square miles, Serengeti National Park is home to over two million ungulates, 4,000 lions, 1,000 leopards, 550 cheetahs, and over 500 different bird species. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site thanks to its incredible biodiversity. Its location right on the migration path of many animals makes it a wonderland for animal lovers!

Meanwhile, the Ngorongoro Crater is an enormous caldera that was formed over 2.5 million years ago when Mount Kilimanjaro erupted. It’s considered one of the largest unfilled, intact, and inactive volcanoes in the world. It also has one of the highest concentrations of wildlife anywhere in Africa. This is an amazing place to go on game drives as you’re pretty much guaranteed to see the Big Five. 

Few places in Africa evoke the same sense of intrigue as the island of Zanzibar. Located at the crossroads of India, Arabia, and Africa, Zanzibar has long been an important stop on trade routes, making it a bewilderingly vibrant cultural melting pot. From the narrow streets and historic homes of Stone Town to the crystal clear waters of its white sand beaches, Zanzibar has everything you need for a few days of rest and relaxation after your African safari.

Mount Kilimanjaro

Standing nearly 20,000 feet above the surrounding savannah, it’s hard to miss the snow-capped summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. Considered to be the African jewel of the Seven Summits, it’s the tallest freestanding mountain in the world and can be seen from miles away.

It may be the highest mountain in Africa, but it’s surprisingly accessible. Mount Kilimanjaro was first summited in 1889, and today, hordes of tourists rush there every year to complete the multi-day climb to the mountain’s peak. You can reach Mount Kilimanjaro from Nairobi and Arusha, which also happens to be the starting point for trips to the Serengeti.

Rwanda—Uganda

Rwanda and Uganda are both world-renowned for gorilla trekking thanks to their large populations of mountain gorillas. These gentle giants live deep in the forest and are amazing to see in real life. 

Volcanoes National Park

Located on the border of Uganda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Volcanoes National Park is the best place to go gorilla trekking in Rwanda. The park hosts around 600 gorillas, and it’s possible to visit one of the 18 gorilla families living there. The experience costs around $1,500 for four to six hours, which certainly makes this a bucket list activity, but a lot of the price supports the park and local communities. 

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

Another great option for gorilla trekking, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest in Uganda is home to around 450 mountain gorillas, including nine “families” that you can visit as well as baboons, chimpanzees, antelopes, and elephants. It costs “just” $700 to visit the gorillas here, which makes it a much more budget-friendly option than going to see the gorillas in Rwanda. 

South Africa

South Africa is one of the largest countries in sub-Saharan Africa and has a ton of awesome places to offer visitors. From the epic surfing beaches around Cape Town to the never-ending savannahs of Kruger National Park, South Africa is the perfect destination for all types of travelers regardless if you’re looking for a laid-back week of luxury or an outdoorsy adventure!

Johannesburg 

As South Africa’s largest city, Johannesburg can be a bit rough around the edges. However, if you look below the surface, you can find a plethora of interesting sites to see. Some of the most popular attractions here include the Apartheid Museum, Nelson Mandela’s house, and Soweto, one of Johannesburg’s townships that played a pivotal role in the end of apartheid. 

Johannesburg also serves as the gateway to Kruger National Park, which can be accessed via a long-ish bus ride. If you want to extend your trip through southern Africa, you can also head overland to the tiny countries of Lesotho or Eswatini or to South Africa’s eastern neighbor, Mozambique. You can also take the iconic Blue Train to Cape Town and watch as South Africa’s countryside glides by. 

With its soaring topography, colonial architecture, and eclectic neighborhoods, Cape Town is the poster child of fabulous African cities. This unique landscape provides plenty of hiking opportunities. While you’re there, you can head up to the top of Table Mountain or Lion’s Head for sweeping views of the city and surrounding ocean. Otherwise, you can grab dinner or drinks at the V&A Waterfront, take a tour of Robben Island, or go hang out with the penguins at Boulders Beach. There are a ton of great things to do here, and Cape Town provides the perfect place to finish off a great South Africa adventure!

If you choose to start your trip here, it’s easy to hop on the Garden Route, which takes you on a road trip along the South African coastline through some amazing landscapes and adorable beach towns. While you’re in Cape Town, don’t forget to check out the Let’s Roam Cape Town: Rounding the Cape Scavenger Hunt . This hunt will take you to some of the best sites in Cape Town’s downtown area, giving you insight into the city’s unique history. 

Kruger National Park

Home to the Big Five as well as rhinos, hippos, cheetahs, zebras, leopards, and crocodiles, Kruger National Park is one of the best places to view some of Africa’s most spectacular animals. It’s possible to explore the park using your own vehicle or as part of the frequently organized game drives. This is much more touristy than what you find in places like Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater, but it’s also much cheaper and easier to access. This could be the perfect option for anyone looking for the “Safari-Lite” experience.

While most of Africa was divided between the British and French, Namibia has the unique history of having been a German colony, a heritage that it still displays proudly in cities like Windhoek and Swakopmund. While these cities are charming, the main reason for traveling to Namibia is to see the breathtaking and otherworldly Namib Desert. 

Namib Desert

Considered one of the oldest deserts in the world, the Namib Desert stretches along the coasts of Namibia, Angola, and South Africa. Here, you’ll find some marvelous natural wonders hidden in the desert, including the soaring sand dunes of Sossusvlei, one of Namibia’s most famous natural attractions. You can do a guided tour of the Namib Desert or rent your own 4X4 and go exploring on your own (make sure you know how to change a tire, though!). 

Etosha National Park

While Namibia doesn’t have the enormous game reserves that you find in South Africa or eastern Africa, they do have Etosha. Unlike other parts of Africa, where the wildlife may be obscured by plants and trees, the landscape of Etosha is largely barren. That makes it easy to spot the 114 different mammal species that live there, including black and white rhinos, elephants, giraffes, lions, leopards, cheetahs, and ostriches. The park is the gateway to northern Namibia and Angola and could be an interesting stop on a southern Africa road trip. 

Botswana, Zimbabwe, and Zambia

Located just north of South Africa, Botswana, Zimbabwe, and Zambia are three very different countries with a lot to offer intrepid travelers. This region is a little tougher to tackle than its southern cousin, but you’ll really feel like you’re off the beaten track here—without having to go too far off the beaten track!

Okavango Delta

Famous for its sprawling grassy plains and abundance of wildlife, the Okavango is a massive inland river delta. It’s a spectacular spot for wildlife spotting thanks to the diverse landscape. One moment, you may be gliding by hippos and crocodiles in a canoe and the next, you could be in a game drive, watching elephants and giraffes trundle by. It can be very expensive to visit due to the remoteness of the delta. But the time and money you spend getting there will seem like nothing when you see your first herd of elephants go by. 

Victoria Falls

Located on the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe, Victoria Falls is one of the world’s biggest waterfalls. Here, the full width of the Zambezi River tumbles over 355 feet to the pool below. It’s an impressive site thanks to the sheer height and width of the waterfall. Luckily for us, you can view the falls from both the Zimbabwe and Zambia sides to get a completely different perspective on just how powerful they are! You can easily access the falls from the Zambian town of Livingston or from the town of Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe. 

Lying in the western Indian Ocean near the much bigger island of Madagascar, Mauritius is a tiny little country that kind of seems like it somehow drifted away from the Indian coastline. The population of this tiny island country is mainly of Indian descent; however, you’ll also find a large Chinese population as well as expats from all over the world. The result is an incredibly diverse country with delicious food, incredible white sand beaches, and a laid-back attitude that most popular beach destinations find hard to match. The island is also extremely safe with low crime rates. As the icing on the cake, it’s much less expensive than nearby destinations, like the Seychelles and Reunion. 

Many visitors to Mauritius head straight up to the northern part of the island, known as Grand Baie. This stretch of coastline is lined with luxurious hotels and high-end apartment buildings, and the town is full of cute restaurants, bars, and boutiques. From here, you can join one of the many snorkeling trips. Look for turtles and colorful fish! Or you can stay a bit closer to shore and go kayaking or paddle boarding right off the coast of some of Mauritius’s most beautiful beaches.

So, Ready to Roam?

We hope this list of the best places to travel in Africa has left you inspired to grab your passport and hit the road! If you want to learn more about great destinations to visit in Africa and beyond, make sure to head over to the Let’s Roam Explorer blog . Here, you’ll find hundreds of travel guides and must-see lists for places all over the world. 

Before you head off on your African adventure, download the Let’s Roam app . This is where you’ll find all of our awesome scavenger hunts as well as great user-generated tips and tricks submitted by travelers just like you! There’s tons of great info for places across the U.S. and beyond.

Frequently Asked Questions

Some of the best places to visit in Africa include the Serengeti Desert and Ngorongoro Crater in Tanzania, Lamu Island and the Masai Mara in Kenya, and Cape Town in South Africa.

Some of the most popular game reserves and national parks in Africa include Serengeti National Park in Tanzania, Kruger National Park in South Africa, and Masai Mara National Park in Kenya.

The most popular cities to visit in Africa include Cape Town , South Africa; Cairo, Egypt; and Marrakech, Morocco. All of these cities have rich history, culture, and architecture.

Africa is a huge continent, so where you go depends a lot on what you want to do there. Cape Town and Cairo are good for people who like history, while you can’t beat the wildlife in Tanzania and Kenya.

If you’re traveling to North Africa for the first time, Tunisia is one of the best countries to visit. It’s very laid-back with a ton of great attractions inside a very small country.

Featured Products & Activities

The Best Places to Go in Africa in 2024

By CNT Editors

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

This is part of our global guide to the Best Places to Go in 2024 —find more travel inspiration here .

This past year saw a surge of travel throughout destinations in Africa , with air travel across the continent approaching prepandemic levels . Safari camps from South Africa to Kenya were fully booked, and travelers lingered in popular destinations like Cape Town and Zanzibar well past peak season. What does this mean for the year ahead?

A wave of hotly anticipated luxury resorts —many of which were in the works long before grinding to a halt in the pandemic—are finally ready to throw open their doors, new air routes are making parts of the continent more accessible than ever, and popular events and festivals are enticing visitors to explore regions they may not have contemplated before. Yes, there are plenty of thrilling safari camps in the pipeline that we’re excited about, from iconic corners of Botswana to a less-visited park in Mozambique , but there’s also a compelling food movement in Accra , a milestone anniversary in Rwanda , a monumental new cultural landmark in Morocco ’s capital city of Rabat, and so much more to look forward to. Could this be the year Johannesburg pries visitors away from Cape Town with a cool new city hotel and a dynamic dining scene, or when sunseekers take another look at Mauritius instead of the Maldives ? Might you sail into Madagascar on an adventurous new cruising itinerary or consider adding Sierra Leone to your travel plans? Frankly, the hardest part will be choosing. Below are the best places to go in Africa in 2024. — Sarah Khan

All listings featured in this story are independently selected by our editors. However, when you book something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Accra, Ghana

Go for: the heart of a pan-African cultural renaissance, Indigenous pop-up dinners, Afrobeats

Accra continues to draw travelers with a surge of cool new pop-up restaurants, museums, and the pilgrimage-worthy music festival, AfroFuture (previously Afrochella).

Accra has steadily been cementing its reputation as the continent’s capital of cool, and a reimagining of pan-African heritage has ignited the city’s foodies. Leading the way is the Ghana Food Movement , a network of food change makers intent on surfacing the sexy in sustainable dining. With the May 2024 opening of its Link-up Kitchen in the buzzing Osu neighborhood, this meeting place–cum–test kitchen will house the Movement’s popular Dine and Dance series, where young chefs highlight local ingredients in multicourse dinners before getting down to beats by local DJs. The hub will also host pop-ups featuring up-and-coming chefs and Indigenous menus, such as those offered by Abena Offeh-Gyimah, whose food tours spotlight heirloom ingredients and a “reconnection to ancestral ways of eating.” This year also sees chef Selassie Atadika of Midunu resuming her Nomadic Dinners celebrating African ingredients , as well as quarterly chocolate tastings of her gorgeous bonbons inspired by flavors like beriberi chili and Cape Malay spice. After dinner, you’ll find the balmy West African capital’s electric club scene spoils you for choice. And while the Grammys have just come to the party (the awards will feature a Best African Music Performance category for the first time, in 2024), locals have been lighting it up at festivals like Chale Wote Street Art Festival (August) and AfroFuture (previously Afrochella ; December) for years. Should you find time to sleep, the December 2023 opening of the 145-room Hilton Accra Cantonments marks the brand’s debut in Ghana.

Looking ahead: A state-of-the-art cultural institution is coming just outside the city as well. Enriched by voices from the diaspora, an overdue zeitgeist to reclaim African narratives finds a physical home in the Pan African Heritage Museum , which has begun construction and will open in 2025 or 2026. Located on 10 lush acres in Winneba (40 miles from Accra), the space’s first offerings will include a music amphitheater, a youth innovation center, and a food court. Like all its planned exhibits (you can digitally preview the collection), these will both showcase and connect the continent’s rich history and cultures to its contemporary global might. — Lee Middleton

Johannesburg, South Africa

Go for: hot tables, an art center, and new hotels from beloved brands

The Voco Johannesburg is one of several hotels offering high design in the South African city—and in 2024, it will be joined by the Park Hyatt Johannesburg.

Johannesburg is a gold rush city, built on a sense of gritty determination and unbridled optimism. And though the city battles infrastructure challenges and social inequality, it’s impossible to ignore the positive energy infusing South Africa’s economic capital. That’s evident in a resurgent restaurant scene rapidly giving Cape Town a run for its money. Cape stalwart the Pot Luck Club expanded with a new location here in 2023, as did Insta-worthy British café EL&N London , marking its only African outpost. For a more continental culinary journey, book a table at Gigi , the new outing by celebrated local chef Besele Moses Moloi . Make your base in the artsy suburb of Rosebank, where the upscale Park Hyatt Johannesburg will open in late 2024 with decor by Yabu Pushelberg. Until then, Voco Johannesburg Rosebank —the first of the Voco subbrand from IHG in Africa—offers Art Deco glamour and an enviable in-house art collection (ask for a guided tour). It’s just a short taxi ride to artist Roger Ballen’s engaging new Inside Out Centre for the Arts , a striking exhibition space and educational center opened in March 2023.

Rosebank is less than 30 minutes from the international airport on the high-speed Gautrain. United and Delta fly direct from the US, Cathay Pacific and LATAM relaunched flights in 2023, and Air Algérie and Saudia have brand new routes to the city. Come June 2024, Lufthansa will add a direct flight from Munich , and in July 2024, Qantas will fly its A380 from Sydney to the city for the first time, nearly doubling capacity. — Richard Holmes

Go for: biodiversity, castaway vibes, and water sports

Miavana in Madagascar exemplifies the island's allure with water sports, adventures through baobab forests, and jaw-dropping views.

In 2024, it will become easier to travel between remote destinations across Madagascar, thanks to a new flight circuit and cruise itineraries.

An otherworldly land of undiscovered species and bizarre biological riches, the rugged, remote Indian Ocean isle of Madagascar has always promised to upend visitors’ senses and logistical prowess. Happily, the latter is changing as the pioneers responsible for some of the continent’s finest conservation tourism offerings are upping the ante on the world’s fourth largest island. Located inside the essentially unvisited Namoroka National Park, Namoroka Tsingy Exploration Camp’s mid-2024 opening will make seven luxury safari tents your portal to a landscape of baobabs jutting from the formations of limestone knives known as tsingy and populated by lemurs that haven’t learned to fear people.

More of a coastal explorer? Look no further than Masoala Forest Lodge , which recently launched a Blue Lagoon Expedition trip in 2022. Paddling the breathtaking rainforest- and mangrove-fringed Antongil Bay, kayakers en route to a magical island campsite will share pellucid waters with migrating humpback whales and schools of reef fish. If that’s a touch too rugged, Time + Tide’s Miavana —arguably the Platonic ideal of exclusive island luxury—is launching a kiteboarding center and new mainland excursions (think quad biking through baobab forests), in January 2024 and March 2024 respectively, for those who enjoy a splash of adrenaline in their bliss cocktail.

Finally—and critically—2024 sees access to the Red Island expanding. Masoala Forest Lodge and Madagascar Classic Collection are starting a new flight circuit that will link choice remote destinations, like Andasibe, Namoroka, and Masoala parks, and luxe cruise lines like Silversea , Lindblad , Swan Hellenic , and Seabourn have added the country as a port of call on new voyages. — Lee Middleton

Go for: Indian Ocean waters, a museum, and dazzling beach villas

The island nation of Mauritius is entering a new golden era, with expanded cultural offerings and the unveiling of renovated resorts, like Lux Belle Mare, that beg travelers to visit again, and again.

Mauritius’s heyday as a destination in the 1980s conjures images of striped parasols, a tanned Stéphanie de Monaco on water skis, and all of Europe’s jet set holed up in the few—but fabulous—hotels. Fast-forward three decades and the Indian Ocean island has even more to land itself on your travel list: A dynamic cultural scene and new wave of hospitality are unfolding on its shores. In the capital of Port Louis, the years-in-the-making Intercontinental Slavery Museum , located inside a restored 1700s military hospital, opened in September 2023, marking the nation’s first monumental step in making amends for its long colonial history. Culture buffs are also gravitating to the recently opened House of Digital Art (HODA) nearby: Old meets new in this historic Port-Louis building, housing a cutting-edge array of contemporary art installations. Mauritius has always been renowned for its dreamy seaside resorts, but encouraging visitors to venture away from the beaches is the forthcoming Socio Tribeca in late 2024—heralding the launch of a new hotel brand from the Lux Collective—which promises to be an impressive contemporary hotel with its finger on the pulse of the island. Muse Villas , a newcomer seeking to offer an elevated resort experience, enables travelers to stay on their own private islet. Meanwhile, legendary resorts Lux Belle Mare and Paradis Beachcomber just unveiled massive restorations in October, and Hotel Riu Palace Mauritius , a kitesurfers’ paradise, will emerge from its own facelift in May 2024. But beyond the well-trodden coastline of Mauritius, this may be the year its little sister, Rodrigues, a speck of an island an hour-and-a-half flight east, gets its due. It’s long been a well-kept secret among even the most in-the-know travelers, but now a clutch of reimagined properties is adding a touch of luxury gloss: The island’s two historic hotels, Play Mourouk and Cotton Bay Resort & Spa , are reopening after months of renovation and reinvention (the first as of November 1, 2023; the latter in 2024). — Anissa Macaulay

Go for: epic wildlife restoration, a pristine coastline, standout safaris

Just as Mozambique enters a new era as a destination, the country's Gorongosa National Park has done the same through rewilding efforts that travelers can witness firsthand at Muzimi Lodge—the first and only luxury tented camp in the area, opening in 2024.

While the past few years of conflict and COVID-19 temporarily suppressed this Southern African gem—known for its 1,500 miles of pristine coastline , vast terrestrial wildernesses, and vibrant Afro-Portuguese culture— Mozambique will bounce back in 2024.

On the mainland, the country’s revival is most famously evidenced at Gorongosa National Park , where rewilding efforts have resulted in a more than 700 percent increase in large mammals from 2008 to 2018, restoring both ecological and economic hope to this magical land of fever trees and meandering rivers. Experience the conservation success story firsthand from the comfort of Muzimu Lodge , the park’s first and only luxury tented camp, whose official 2024 opening will be accompanied by its introduction of a new walking safari-fly camp experience to Gorongosa Mountain’s summit. For those on a tighter budget or timeline, head south to Ponta Membene , where 24 new self-catering chalets—brilliantly located on a spit of coastal dune forest less than three hours from Maputo—and e-bike coastal safaris, currently in a trial phase, hope to broaden access to the spectacular Maputo National Park . Finally, hardcore travelers can head to the Niassa Special Reserve, where Anderson Expeditions is resuming a life-changing seven-night adventure tracking wildlife (by foot, game drive, and canoe) within a private concession with one of the industry’s finest guides. Supporting the Niassa Carnivore Project ’s Mpopo Trails Camp, the expedition represents the future of sustainable community-led tourism. The forthcoming opening of Banyan Tree Ilha Caldeira —featuring sea views from the private island sanctuary’s 40 pool villas; snorkeling with manta rays; and a spa from the award-winning brand—will follow (official opening date to be announced).

Topping it all off, Mozambique’s once-arcane entry requirements have been radically simplified with the addition of 28 countries to its visa exemption list—including the US. — Lee Middleton

North KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa

Go for: major game lodges off the beaten path

In the country's far east, KwaZulu-Natal's Babanango Game Reserve—home to the Big Five—is a lesser-visited alternative to South Africa's Kruger National Park.

Madwaleni River Lodge, which opened in September 2023 in KZN's Babanango, is just one of the reasons to visit the destination in the year ahead.

This year brings with it multiple new reasons to bypass South Africa ’s iconic Kruger National Park and head instead into the scenic Zululand hills of northern KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), the country’s easternmost province. If you’ve traveled here before, you may have been to &Beyond Phinda Private Game Reserve , known for species such as cheetahs, black rhinos, and pangolins. Phinda Forest Lodge , one of six properties on the reserve, reopens after an extensive refurbishment, with a new family suite and a reimagined pool, in December 2023. It comes on the heels of the Madwaleni River Lodge ’s opening in September 2023, in Babanango Game Reserve —there, from a private deck overlooking the White Umfolozi River, you might spot elephants cooling off in the water. (Their recent reintroduction completed the reserve’s Big Five population.) The reserve has been rewilded over the past five years, a project driven by community trusts who own parts of the reserve. Next up, the long-awaited Homestead will welcome guests to the Nambiti Private Game Reserve in early 2024. The 12-suite lodge is set to have electric vehicles and private butler service. With suites starting at $7,500 a night, though, its rates are double those of comparable properties—time will tell what kind of bang it offers for the buck. Looking to combine these camps with a luxe seaside escape for the ultimate bush-and-beach combo? The new-ish Sala Beach House is the chicest option—when it opened on Thompson's Bay in 2022, Sala plugged a gap in the market for a modern luxury boutique beach hotel on KZN’s appropriately nicknamed Dolphin Coast. — Heather Richardson

Okavango Delta, Botswana

Go for: a watershed moment for exclusive camps in a unique landscape

African Bush Camps opened Khwai Lediba this past year—a drop in a sea of new safari lodges that make a visit to the Okavango Delta more desirable than ever.

In 2024, the team behind North Island Okavango (pictured), which has just three suites perched on an island in the Delta, will add a new build to their portfolio.

Go. Go now. Because if you’ve always dreamed of discovering Botswana’s Okavango Delta, where seasonal floodwaters transform parched sands into a filigree of shimmering channels, right now is when you’ll be spoiled for choice. A surge in demand, coupled with a proactive approach to developing community-owned concessions, has led to a flush of new lodges across the world’s largest inland delta.

Take Sitatunga Private Island , or Natural Selection’s North Island Okavango , where just three tented suites rest on an island beneath wild ebony trees. Natural Selection will add to their portfolio in May 2024 with a new build: Tawana . Set in the wildlife-rich Moremi Game Reserve, this partnership with the chief of the local Batawana tribe will offer eight thatched suites amid the grasslands lining the perennial Gomoti River. Each stay is at least 1,000 square feet in size and comes with a private plunge pool and terrace.

Water is gold in the Delta, and this past year, African Bush Camps (ABC) opened the riverside Khwai Lediba . But our eye is really on Atzaro Okavango , slated for a March 2024 debut: It’s the third Icon camp in the Delta for ABC, with 10 lagoon-side suites promising impressive levels of Delta luxe and a strong sense of place through design (both markers of the Icon portfolio).

If you’re feeling adventurous, look east to the untapped Mababe marshlands and the brand-new Wilderness Mokete (opening mid-2024) for a fresh look at under-canvas exploration—out with plush campaign-style furnishings and in with geometric lines and contemporary decor. But be quick: Mokete will only stand for two years before being replaced by a new-build permanent camp set to open in 2026. — Richard Holmes

Rabat, Morocco

Go for: new cultural outposts, a music festival, and shiny hotels

Cool music festivals? Big-name architecture? Luxury hotels? Morocco's capital of Rabat has all that and more, and 2024 brings a wave of newness.

The Moroccan capital of Rabat may be one of the country’s four imperial cities, but it’s long been bypassed by travelers drawn to the timeworn beauty of places like Marrakech , Fez , and Tangier . That may change this year, as the city is in the midst of a cultural and artistic reinvention. One of the most talked about attractions: the forthcoming Mohammed VI Tower, designed to be LEED Gold and HQE-certified and projected to be the tallest and only spire of its kind in Africa. But perhaps even more exciting is the new Grand Theatre of Rabat opening nearby. One of legendary architect Zaha Hadid’s unfinished masterpieces, it will incorporate an 1,800-seat theater, an experimental performance space, and a 7,000-person amphitheater, along with green spaces and a restaurant. It is set to be the largest venue of its kind in both Africa and the Arab world and will host symphony, ballet, opera, and philharmonic performances (all of the above are anticipated before 2023 comes to a close). Another hotly anticipated cultural foray is the 2024 return of the Mawazine festival , coming back this summer after a COVID-19-induced hiatus—there’s no word on a lineup yet, but in the past Africa’s largest festival has drawn A-listers like Rihanna and Mariah Carey.

A flurry of high-profile hotel openings will make for a soft landing in the city while you’re there: The newly opened Fairmont La Marina Rabat Salé and Conrad Rabat Arzana both herald a new era of modern luxury in the historic city; now, the buzz is centered around the hotly anticipated Four Seasons Hotel Rabat at Kasr Al Bahr , opening in late 2023, as well as a the planned Ritz-Carlton Rabat Dar Es Salam . — Harriet Akinyi

Go for: a historically significant anniversary, gorilla treks, and culinary innovation

Meza Malonga in Kigali is a celebration of Afro-fusion, drawing on chef Dieuveil Malonga's travels to 48 African countries.

In addition to great dining at Meza Malonga, Rwanda promises new trekking, houseboat cruising, and even craft beer in 2024.

Beyond famed gorilla treks, 2024 is the year Rwanda unveils lesser-known adventures and plenty of new reasons to hire a guide, hop in a Land Cruiser, and traverse the four national parks. Nyungwe National Park , freshly anointed with UNESCO World Heritage status, is one of Africa’s oldest rainforests, renowned for its chimpanzee trekking, cycling, and hiking. The new Cyinzobe trail —a thrilling three-day, 15.5-mile hike, reveals breathtaking views of three cascading waterfalls, and the Kamiranzovu river. With lodging limited to six wooden A-frame cabins, you’ll have the rainforest almost to yourself. Spend your days learning about wild orchids, spotting silver monkeys and gray-cheeked mangabey, and marveling at some of the 345 bird species inside the park—30 of which are Albertine Rift endemics. Kingfisher Journeys invites adventurers to explore Rwanda’s uncharted white water rivers for the first time—there are 30 intermediate-grade rivers in the country for pioneering descents—led by expert rafting guides. In November 2023, the Mantis Kivu Queen uBuranga introduces luxury houseboat cruising with a three-day voyage on the emerald waters of Lake Kivu—one of the African Great Lakes. Kayaking, swimming, cycling, hiking, and cultural immersion in local villages on small islands await.

And at Meza Malonga in Kigali, Congolese-born chef Dieuveil Malonga boasts Afro-fusion cuisine inspired by his travels to 48 African countries. The culinary marvel—voted a Champion of Change winner by World’s 50 Best —will open an expansive innovation lab in Musanze in August, where he’ll train young chefs and offer unique accommodations for food enthusiasts. The newly opened Kweza Craft Brewery , Rwanda’s first craft brewery, is fully female-owned and operated using 85% locally sourced ingredients, with an aim to once again empower women in what was historically a female-led craft.

As Rwanda commemorates the 30th anniversary of the devastating Tutsi genocide in 2024—marked by the poignant lighting of the flame of remembrance on April 7 at the Kigali Genocide Memorial —these new openings and experiences showcase just how far the country has come. — Alicia-Rae Light

Sierra Leone

Go for: ecotourism, glamping, and fantastic birding

Sierra Leone is a country on the rise, with new flights, a first ever ecotourism circuit, and national park lodges coming in 2024—visit before everyone else you know catches on.

The small West African nation of Sierra Leone has been working on a new tourism-centered vision. A recent visa on arrival program has already simplified the process of getting there. And, in 2023, a solar-powered airport near the capital, Freetown, opened a new terminal with a fivefold increase in capacity. In the year ahead, new international flight routes are expected to make the country even more accessible, with flights to Nigeria and South Africa first in line.

Perhaps the most exciting development is Sierra Leone’s push to safeguard and showcase its diverse wildlife, with new experiences for travelers. Spearheaded by Freetown-adjacent Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary , the initial phase of the country’s first ecotourism circuit opens in 2024 (keep an eye on the Tacugama website for details). It will offer first-ever accommodations at two important sites: A pair of one-bedroom ecolodges are slated to open at southeastern river island of Jaibui, where the elusive Pygmy Hippo lives, by spring 2024, and tent stays at Loma Mountains National Park will follow. Loma is home to Mount Bintumani, the tallest peak in West Africa west of Mount Cameroon, with an astounding array of rare animal and bird species like the bizarre-looking white-necked rockfowl, “ the avian Holy Grail ” for birdwatchers. In 2024, construction will begin on a world-class research and innovation center at Tacugama, with an exhibition hall dedicated to Sierra Leone’s national animal, the chimpanzee.

A host of new accommodations elsewhere in the country offers access to Sierra Leone’s coastline. Jethel Garden Eco-Resort opens in December 2023 near Freetown at Tasso Island , an important stop on the country’s slave trade history route. Further south, a previously inaccessible chain of remote sandbar islands in the Atlantic, Turtle Islands , is adding new accommodations and better boat transfers with project Tomatribe, which includes glamping-style bell tents opening by the start of 2024.

More is coming out of Sierra Leone in the next few years: The Peninsula City , a public-private partnership in conjunction with W Hotels, is building a resort and marina city just south of Freetown, and Sherbro Island City , a long-term initiative funded by Sierra Leone’s brand ambassador Idris Elba, has plans to transform this tropical island into the “Afro-dynamic eco-city.” — Yulia Denisyuk

Go for: a rich history, scuba diving, and improved access

Just because the island of St. Helena is remote, doesn't mean you won't find elevated stays—grab a room at Mantis St. Helena in Jamestown.

Increased flight connectivity means it no longer requires an arduous boat ride to reach the isle—or the world-class snorkeling and diving it offers.

A volcanic island in the South Atlantic Ocean, St. Helena is a British overseas territory about the same size as Walt Disney World Orlando , with a population under 4,500.

Until the first commercial flights touched down on the island in 2017, the remote isle could only be reached via a five-day boat journey from South Africa. Weekly flights from Johannesburg eventually made that journey easier, despite a pandemic pause, which ended in 2022. As of November 2024, St. Helena departures will be even more frequent, taking off twice a week from Cape Town throughout the summer and effectively making the island much easier to visit. The reason to go? To get that remote island feel , while still taking advantage of the infrastructure—which rivals the neighboring islands of Ascension and Tristan da Cunha.

There’s a rich history to dig into once you land. Uninhabited when the Portuguese arrived in 1502, St. Helena was later claimed by the Dutch before becoming a British territory—today, residents, known as Saints, have ancestral links to Britain but also to China , Madagascar, India , and West Africa . Tours detail the island’s past, from its enslaved African population to Napoleon Bonaparte’s exile and death. In the historic capital Jamestown, the Mantis St. Helena remains the smartest hotel on the island. Whale sharks visit St. Helena’s clear waters from December to March; tour operators like Sub-Tropic Adventures run trips to swim with the gentle marine giants. Snorkelers might spot turtles and devil rays, and there are several wrecks to explore by scuba. On land, trails cut through lush forests and up rugged hillsides; at the end, you might find a distinctive British red postbox with a notebook in which to leave a comment. — Heather Richardson

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The Best African Countries to Visit for Vacation in 2024

Africa is one of the most stunning continents in the whole world. There’s so much to see and do, you’ll be spoilt for choice. This article is the best travel information which will help you to discover the best African countries to visit.

There are 54 countries in Africa, so planning your vacation can be tricky if you don’t know where you want to go. Vibrant cities, small rural villages, and breathtaking scenery. Africa is full of these things.

It’s called the Mother Continent for a reason, it’s supposed to have been where humanity began. There are so many hidden gems you may never have heard of before, as well as tried and true classics you cannot miss.

Africa is a continent of adventure.  Tourism to the continent  is on the up and up, and for good reason. With so much on offer from each country, you have to decide what you want to get out of your trip.

In this article, we will be listing some of the best countries in Africa you need to visit. Read on to find out more.

The Best African Countries to Visit On Your Next Adventure

The best African countries to visit are of course subjective. Everyone’s experiences will differ. But, here are a few of the most popular destinations to add to your African adventure bucket list.

Located in Northern Africa, Morocco has so much to offer. Bustling cities, quiet seaside villages, and snowy mountains, Morocco has it all.

It’s a melting pot of cultures. With elements of European, Arabic, and Berber influences to find on every corner. Get a taste of delicious Moroccan cuisine and your taste buds will be in heaven. Tagine dishes are the food of the gods!

Ait Benhaddou is a  UNESCO World Heritage Site  you have to cross off your list. Experience pre-Saharan life with original houses with their unique structures. For history buffs, this is a must-see.

Of course, you have to make sure to visit the Djemma al Fna. This is the main square in Marrakech and from 10 am onwards it becomes a hub of activity. Street theatres, snake charmers, and incredible street food. There’s something here to stimulate all the senses.

Zambia is a gorgeous country that has so much to see. If you’re a nature lover, there are so excuses for missing out on this one.

Zambia is home to Victoria Falls, the largest waterfall in the whole world. For thrill-seekers, take a microlight over them for the view of a lifetime.

If you get there at the right time of the year, take a dip in the famous Devil’s Pool. Experience the beautiful views from your own personal pool. For something a little more thrilling, try white-water rafting down the Zambezi. But make sure you watch out for crocs!

Zambia is also home to incredible wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled for hippos, giraffes, and hundreds of beautiful birds.

3. Tanzania

Tanzania is a country rich in nature reserves and natural beauty. Staying here  should be at the top of everyone’s bucket list.

The people here are some of the friendliest you will ever meet. They will go above and beyond to help you out and make you feel welcome in their country.

Serengeti National Park is one of the best safaris  you can go on. Here, you can expect to see the ‘big five’: Lion, Leopard, Elephant, Rhino, and Buffalo.

Tanzania is home to the famous Mount Kilimanjaro. It’s an  incredible mountain to climb . But if hiking isn’t for you, the view from the ground is breathtaking too.

If you are looking for the best African countries to visit, Tanzania should be on the list.

4. South Africa

South Africa is an adventure lover’s paradise. There’s so much to do and see here, you’ll never want to leave!

Take a trip to Durban to experience some of the best Indian cuisines outside of India. Go on a road trip up to the Transkei or travel the Garden Route for stunning nature and incredible surf.

For a quiet weekend getaway, take a drive down to Vermaaklikheid for a relaxing boathouse retreat. Here you can leave technology behind and enjoy the simple things in life like fishing and boat rides.

Stay in the amazing Kruger National Park in a hut amongst the wildlife. Experience one of the best safari parks in the world for memories that will last a lifetime.

This country also made our list of the best African countries to visit.

Namibia is another country in Africa where you can spot the Big Five wild animals. Etosha National Park is the best place to go if seeing them is the main goal of your African vacation.

For an authentic, raw experience, opt to stay in guesthouses. This gives you the chance to live like the locals as well as interact with them on a deeper level.

Make sure to visit the Okahandja craft market for some of the best handmade items you’ll ever see. Here, people from all across Nabimia come together to sell their wares. They make for great souvenirs so make sure to get your hands on something!

You may recognize the Namib desert sand dunes from the movie “Max Max: Fury Road.” They are some of the highest sand dunes in the world, so try climbing them or take a hot air balloon over them!

6. Madagascar

The island nation of Madagascar is the  fourth largest island  in the world. The landscapes here are so rich and diverse, there are lots to see here. With deserts, beaches, and rainforests in plenty, you will have plenty to do here.

Fun fact: You can find 5% of all plant and animal species in the world only in Madagascar!

To experience trees that are over 800 years old, take a trip to the Avenue of the Baobabs. You will feel humbled to walk amongst them and it’s a great place to reconnect with nature.

The UNESCO World Heritage site of Ambohimanga is perfect for history buffs. It is a fortified Royal settlement that is easy to get to and well worth a visit.

It is not easy to list the best African countries to visit without mentioning Kenya!

Kenya is a hotspot for wildlife activity as it is the main site of the Great Migration. Over 2 million zebras, wildebeest, and gazelle travel from the Maasai Mara to the Serengeti.

It is an incredible thing to witness, and people all around the world travel to Kenya to see it happen. Here, it is easy to find huge herds of elephants or lions when on a safari drive.

Not only is the wildlife and nature of Kenya incredible, but so are the Kenyan people. Interact with the Maasai people and learn about their ways of life. Or, take a trip along to Loyangalani along the shores of the Jade Sea for a warm welcome from the Turkana people.

8. Botswana

Botswana is a country dedicated to environmental conservation and wildlife protection. Botswana is a high-end but low-impact tourist spot. This means you can get the safari experience without the crowds of tourists.

The Okavango Delta is a must-visit place in Botswana. This is where you can find natural beauties which remain untouched by man. Experience the cultures of the San and Hambukshu people in the Tsodilo Hills.

Botswana is less populated with tourists, so you can experience a safari in a different way. Instead of a safari drive, take a traditional mokoros canoe to see the game closer than ever before.

The Chobe National Park and Central Kalahari Game Reserves are the best in Botswana. Also, the sunsets in Botswana are out of this world incredible, so make sure to bring a camera.

Best African Countries to Visit: Book that Flight!

This is only a small list of the best African countries to visit on your trip. But, they are some of the best on the continent and have so much to see.

Any African adventure is bound to be an incredible experience. The continent is home to the most amazing wildlife and natural beauties in the world. To miss out on any of it would be a travesty.

Exploring Africa in depth should be something everyone aspires to do. If you are fortunate enough to do it, you cannot pass the opportunity by. Whether it’s safari, nature, or food you travel for, Africa has it all.

So what are you waiting for? Get that visa, book the ticket, and start your African adventure now!

Are you thinking about heading to Tanzania for a safari trip?  Check out our list  of safari destinations in Tanzania for some more inspiration.

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16 Best Places to Visit in Africa

Written by Becca Blond and Carri Wilbanks Updated Feb 10, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Author Becca Blond has traveled extensively through Africa, including a recent trip in June 2022, and considers Cape Town her second home.

The African continent is one of the world's most mesmerizing destinations. There are so many diverse adventures to be had on this amazing continent, home to more than 50 different countries, that it's hard to narrow them down for a best places to visit list.

Whether you are looking to explore vibrant cities like Cape Town, Cairo, and Marrakesh or hoping to see the wildlife on a safari in Kenya, South Africa, or Tanzania, there is no shortage of things to do for travelers of all types.

The African continent is also home to some stunning natural attractions, like Victoria Falls , which straddles the border of Zimbabwe and Zambia and is often described as one of the seven natural wonders of the world . And you'll find soaring mountain peaks, like Tanzania's Mount Kilimanjaro, which, at more than 19,000 feet, is Africa's highest mountain .

And then there are Africa's beaches . With thousands of miles of coastline, you'll find warm, turquoise-hued waters and white-sand beaches on mystical islands like Zanzibar off the coast of Tanzania and the Bazaruto Archipelago off the coast of Mozambique on Africa's eastern coastline.

Wherever you wander in Africa, we promise you'll leave with a new appreciation for the magic of this culturally rich, vibrantly colored, and welcoming continent that will have you wanting to return over and over.

Plan your adventures with our list of the best places to visit in Africa.

1. Explore Cape Town, South Africa

2. go back in time in zanzibar, tanzania, 3. witness the pyramids of giza, egypt, 4. experience victoria falls, zimbabwe and zambia, 5. wander the souks in marrakesh, morocco, 6. go gorilla trekking in rwanda, 7. watch the sun rise over the dunes in sossusvlei, namibia, 8. find serenity by the sea and in the sahara in tunisia, 9. summit mount kilimanjaro in tanzania, 10. go on safari in kruger national park, south africa, 11. see the great migration in masai mara, kenya, 12. descend into the ngorongoro crater on safari in tanzania, 13. take a beach vacation to the bazaruto archipelago in mozambique, 14. traverse the okavango delta in botswana, 15. discover the beauty of lake malawi, 16. watamu on kenya's swahili coast.

One of the most beloved destinations on the continent, Cape Town sits at the southern tip of South Africa, near where the Atlantic Ocean and Indian Ocean meet at the Cape of Good Hope . It is a culturally rich and visually stunning city that is very easy to fall in love with on a first visit.

Table Mountain rises from the center of the city, while the striking Twelve Apostle rock formations beyond provide the backdrop for gorgeous white-sand beaches, like Clifton and Camps Bay , along its Atlantic Ocean coastline.

There is so much to see and do in Cape Town . There are active adventures, like hiking to the top of Lion's Head to watch the sunrise. And, important historic places to visit, like taking a somber trip to Robben Island , where Nelson Mandela was a political prisoner for 27 years before the Apartheid regime fell.

The city is also home to a plethora of museums, galleries, local boutiques, and world-class restaurants and hotels. You'll want to spend some time exploring the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront , as well as the downtown around Long Street and Greenmarket Square .

Slightly further afield, you can see African wild penguins at Boulders Beach or learn to surf in the beach town suburb of Muizenberg .

A visit to Zanzibar feels like stepping into another world, one where time stands still, and the only city, Stone Town , is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

This island in the Indian Ocean, just off the coast of Tanzania, is a place where Arab dhows (fishing boats) still ply the picture-perfect turquoise sea. You can get lost in the beauty of Stone Town, wandering its narrow alleys past old mosques, vibrant bazaars, and riads with intricately carved doorways.

Away from the hustle of the "city" (really it feels like a small town), the rest of the island is filled with gorgeous beaches where days are spent lazing on white sand or snorkeling and diving in the colorful coral reefs surrounding the island. These are still teeming with life and home to more than 500 marine species.

Nungwi, at the northern tip of the island, is a favorite beach destination. There are a number of hotels and guesthouses here, including The Z Hotel Zanzibar . This chic beachfront boutique hotel is set in a beautiful tropical garden, and all rooms come with floor-to-ceiling glass doors opening onto sea-facing balconies. The beds are draped in mosquito nets and have a romantic vibe.

Watching the sun rise or set over the Pyramids of Giza from the back of a camel is an experience you'll never forget.

The pyramids and the Great Sphinx date back to the 26th century BCE and are Egypt's most iconic attractions .

The Pyramids of Giza are easy to access from Egypt's capital and largest city, Cairo, which is equally fascinating to visit. Set on the banks of the Nile River, Cairo is a chaotic and buzzy place that appears to never slow down, even in the dead of night.

Here, ancient history meets a modern metropolis. A highlight of Cairo is a visit to the Egyptian Museum .

Book one of the higher floor rooms at the Fairmont Nile City for sweeping views of the river and the Pyramids of Giza in the distance. This luxe hotel also has a rooftop swimming pool and restaurant with more mesmerizing vistas, and a spa for post-flight pampering.

Visit Victoria Falls during the rainy seasons, when the water volume is high, and you'll understand why locals call this impressive waterfall "The Smoke That Thunders."

The sound of water rushing over rock before dropping into a pool some 300-plus-feet below sounds like the roll of thunder, and the mist that spews back up resembles thick smoke. It is an impressive sight.

Protected as a UNESCO World Heritage site, Victoria Falls is on the mighty Zambezi River and creates the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia. This waterfall is not only impressive for its dramatic drop but also for its length, which creates a 1.7-kilometer-long curtain of water as it drops.

For the best views of the falls in full, you'll want to explore the Zimbabwe side , where you can follow a walking trail to various viewpoints (expect to get drenched when the water volume is high).

On the Zambia side , you can get very close to the falls themselves and, if you're brave enough, even take a dip in Devil's Pool , which literally sits at the top of the falls before they tumble down, down, down. Both sides have lodging options, as well as restaurants.

Beautiful Marrakesh in Morocco makes for the perfect introduction to this fascinating North African country, which can actually be accessed via an overnight ferry from southern Spain.

Marrakesh is located in western Morocco and is the country's fourth-largest city and home. The walled Medina here dates back to the Berber Empire. Spend a day sightseeing, wandering its maze-like streets filled with souks (marketplaces) selling everything from spices to jewelry to brightly colored traditional clothing and slippers.

With a Moorish minaret that is part of the city skyline, Koutoubia Mosque is one of the top attractions in Marrakesh , dating back to the 12th century.

For a different perspective of this vibrant, chaotic, and very lovable city, book a hot air balloon ride for early morning. You'll watch the sun set the rooftops ablaze as you float above Marrakesh.

Trekking to see endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat is on the bucket list for many animal lovers, and Rwanda's Virunga Mountains are home to more than half of the remaining wild population on the planet.

Volcanoes National Park is where the treks to see these majestic primates take place. You cannot just go on your own, but must join a guided trip that requires a permit.

Rwanda is one of Africa's smallest countries and its capital city of Kigali is heralded for being one of Africa's cleanest. It is also located just 2.5 hours from the gorilla trekking, making this emerging tourism destination easy to explore.

Read More: Top Tourist Attractions & Things to Do in Rwanda

Located in southwest Africa, Namibia is a one-of-a-kind destination that is often overlooked when planning trips to the continent. It shouldn't be. The country is chock-full of adventures and landscapes you won't find anywhere else on the continent, including the Namib Desert and Sossusvlei .

Part of Namib-Naukluft National Park , Sossusvlei is a giant, flat salt pan surrounded by a sea of red and orange sand that has been sculpted into an otherworldly landscape of towering dunes and desolate valleys sprinkled with petrified dead trees. It is especially spectacular at first light, when the rising sun brings the dunes into focus and makes them glow.

Other major attractions in Namibia include the Skeleton Coast , named for the skeletons of wrecked ships that crashed along the misty Atlantic Coastline here, and Etosha National Park , one of Africa's best game reserves .

Facing towards Europe's Mediterranean coastline, Tunisia is Africa's most northerly country. It is a gorgeous, sun-soaked destination, where European and Arab influences blend together.

Home to a beautiful stretch of beaches on the Mediterranean Sea, Tunisia is a popular vacation destination for Europeans seeking some winter sun. The island Djerba is a perfect spot to indulge.

Afterwards, venture into the Sahara Desert for more mesmerizing scenery. The desert covers much of Tunisia's interior, but its most stunning section is known as the Grand Erg Oriental . Here, you'll find a rolling sea of orange sand juxtaposed against a bright blue sky. Sightsee via dune buggy, on foot, or from the back of a camel.

The town of Douz serves as the adventure hub for this area, and from here you can book the above mentioned excursions.

With an elevation of 19,341 feet, Tanzania's Mount Kilimanjaro ("Kili" for short) is Africa's highest mountain and also holds the world record for the highest single freestanding mountain (it isn't part of a range). Rising from the plains of the Serengeti, it is a dormant volcano and creates a stunning backdrop for wildlife safaris in the region.

Most people visit Kili to climb to its summit. It is especially popular because the trek involves no rock climbing expertise or mountaineering equipment.

You also won't face the extreme weather challenges of climbing other continents' highest peaks, like Mt. Everest. You will need to be in good shape and adjusted to the altitude. The trek to the top takes a minimum of six days, and you will need to go on a guided excursion.

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Tanzania

South Africa's Kruger National Park is one of Africa's oldest conservation areas and a top safari destination on the continent .

This vast park, which actually extends into Mozambique to the east, is home to South Africa's most diverse wildlife population. It is also surrounded by upscale private reserves, like Sabi Sands Game Reserve, which animals can cross into and out of at will.

Kruger is also a safari destination within reach for many different budgets. As a national park, visitors can actually explore Kruger on self-drive safaris and then camp or stay in national park lodges.

However, we recommend joining an organized game drive for the best shot of seeing the most animals, as you'll be in an open vehicle and with guides who know where to look for the Big Five (elephant, lion, leopard, buffalo, and rhino).

Accommodation: Top-Rated Luxury Safari Lodges in South Africa

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in South Africa

Every year, millions of wildebeest and other hoofed animals like zebra and gazelles migrate between Tanzania's Serengeti and the Masai Mara in Kenya in what has become known as the Great Migration. The most dangerous part of this journey is crossing the Mara River , where many of the grazing animals get picked off by hungry lions and other predators.

The crossing usually happens between July and August, but the timing can change with the year. Watching the Great Migration in real time is a dream for many wildlife enthusiasts, who plan safaris to this part of Kenya to coincide with it.

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Kenya

Created about 2.5 million years ago, the Ngorongoro Crater is the largest inactive, unfilled, and unbroken volcanic caldera on the planet. Considered one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World (Victoria Falls is another), it is home to thousands of animals and is a top safari destination in Tanzania.

It is also on one end of the Great Migration route , mentioned above, and during this time of year, massive herds of wildebeests, zebras, and other grazing animals can be seen here.

Guests stay at lodges perched on the edge of the crater's rim and then descend down for day long wildlife drives.

All of the Big 5 African animals (lion, leopard, rhino, elephant, and Cape buffalo) can be seen down here, but one species you won't see on the crater floor are giraffes. This is because they find the rocky descent too difficult, and there are few trees. This lack of trees also makes it very easy to spot wildlife while on safari, including the big cats.

Off the Mozambican coastline in the Indian Ocean, the Bazaruto Archipelago Marine Park is home to a group of islands with some of the more beautiful beaches in Africa .

Bazaruto Island is the main destination and offers a range of accommodations, from budget to luxury. But there are also deserted islands and others that are home to just one hotel or two.

Besides brilliant white-sand beaches backed by coconut palms and sand dunes, these islands are also famous for their excellent diving and snorkeling opportunities. There is a thriving coral reef system protected by the park, and the turquoise water is warm and clear.

Botswana, in southern Africa, is another legendary safari destination.

In the northern portion of the country, the Okavango Delta is a top attraction. This large inland river delta floods during the rainy season and becomes a unique safari experience. That's when you'll get to explore the river in a dugout canoe, paddling past hippos and crocodiles while keeping your eyes peeled for elephants, giraffe, and other animals who come to the river to drink.

The Moremi Game Reserve covers a large section of the Okavango Delta and is where many upscale safari lodges are located. Maun is the gateway town to the delta, and this is a good place to organize more budget-focused canoe and land safaris.

Spanning three countries, Malawi, Mozambique, and Tanzania, Lake Malawi is the third-largest lake on the African continent at 29,600 square kilometers. It's part of the African Great Lake system, and its age is estimated at about one or two million years.

The majority of tourists visit the Malawi side of the lake, which is called Lake Nyasa in Tanzania and Lago Niassa in Mozambique.

One interesting fact about Lake Malawi is that it is home to more kinds of fish than any other lake on Earth ! Needless to say, fishing is very popular here.

You can also swim and snorkel in the warm, clear water, but you'll want to take a short course of a fast-acting antibiotic after doing so to protect yourself from bilharzia, which is found here.

Read More: Best Lakes in Africa

On Kenya's Swahili Coast, Watamu is the perfect town for a beach vacation. The Indian Ocean here is stunning—think turquoise, aquamarine, and emerald hues with sugar-white-sand beaches and an underwater world to explore.

Unlike beaches in South Africa, the water here stays warm enough to swim comfortably all year. And, with near-constant trade wind breezes, it never gets too oppressively hot, and it's also one of the hottest kitesurfing destinations in Africa .

The sunsets are also stellar here, especially when witnessed from the deck at Lichthaus, which has west-facing hammocks, DJs spinning in summer, and a food menu.

Watamu is a small village, and lodging is spread out over a number of miles on the coastline. It is easy to get between places by bodu bodu (a local motorbike taxi that costs around $1 per ride).

The most luxurious place to stay in town is Hemingways Watamu . Right on the beach, it offers accommodation in rooms, suites and residences. The residences are especially luxe.

They have up to two bedrooms, are done-up in gorgeous modern décor, come with full kitchens, and feature walls of windows. Beds are draped in mosquito nets so you can sleep with the windows open to hear the ocean. The food at the house restaurant is also excellent.

Another option, which is very popular with couples and groups of friends (although families are welcome as well), is Temple Point Resort . It also has a beachfront location and is spread across lushly landscaped grounds.

The public spaces here are wonderful, and there is even a room dedicated for remote working. The restaurant serves an international menu with excellent pasta dishes. Accommodation is in charming bungalows with whitewashed décor, and each has a unique look. The on-site dive center can take you swimming with whale sharks or to thriving coral reefs.

More on South Africa

17 Best Countries to Travel in Africa in 2024 (with map)

By Deb Hendricks | Updated February 11, 2024 | African Countries to Visit

There is no other place in the world with more to offer the traveller than Africa! From wildlife safaris and camping under the stars, to exotic cities and fascinating cultures, Africa has it all .

I’ve been travelling for decades, and Africa is the place that keeps drawing me back. I’ll never run out of things to see! I travel here every chance I get, for anywhere from one month to six.

Choosing where to go can be the toughest part of planning your trip, so here’s some help. This article lists the 17 best countries to travel in Africa. Out of its 54 utterly unique nations, these should be first on your bucket list .

These countries are presented in no particular order, except roughly north to south, as they’re all amazing. Put them in order of what looks best to you. See if you can guess my favourites, and find your own.

You’ll also find phrases in red that will lead you to other articles or amazing tours of the country you’re reading about. Click through and find the perfect way to see the places you dream of.

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The Best Countries to Travel in Africa: North

• Official language : Arabic & Moroccan Berber.
• Why Morocco ? Go for the exotic markets and food, and the inexpensive travel.

Morocco is an exotic mix of mountains, desert and lovely seashore. Its big, sprawling cities are colourful and chaotic and full of the aromas of incense and spices .

Smaller villages boast everything from sea views and Mediterranean-style charm to downhill ski resorts and lonely desert settlements.

Morocco is a personal favourite of mine. Plus, it’s the most visited country in Africa – so you know it must have a lot going for it.

Explore the exotic cities of Fez, Marrakech and Casablanca for their famous markets. One of the best is the night market in Marrakech, in Djemaa el Fnaa Square.

Here you can find an amazing full-day tour of Marrakech and all of its sights. Then if you have another day, you can go back to your favourites knowing you haven’t missed a thing.

In the markets you’ll find performers and craft sellers, spices and soaps, and, of course, food.

From snail soup and goats’ heads to tagines with bread and olive oil, you can be as adventurous as you want. Or not – the chicken and couscous are great too.

And you won’t find better shawarma anywhere. I tried it in Marrakech before it had made its way across the ocean. Now every time I have some, it takes me back to the Medina.

There’s something magical about wandering through the souks of Casablanca in the heat of the day. It’s also a great place to sharpen up your bargaining skills. It’s expected, so don’t hold back!

Plus, if you happen to be in Morocco between December and March, visit Oukaïmeden for a day on the slopes.

A 2-hour drive from Marrakech , Oukaïmeden is located in the High Atlas Mountains. The ski resort offers altitudes of 2,600 – 3,200 metres, with 6 lifts.

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If your time here doesn’t coincide with ski season, hiking is another terrific way to enjoy the area. Go for a few hours or a few days! Or drive on a bit and spend the night in the Agafay Desert .

By rail is a great way to travel between cities in Morocco. With high-speeds, air conditioning, and comfy seats, you can sit back and enjoy watching Morocco go by.

What to wear as a woman in Morocco: remember to dress with respect to the culture. This is a very Muslim country, but liberal. Women can wear shorts, but nothing showing too much skin. No crop tops, for example. Cover shoulders, knees, and chest in more rural towns. Loose, lightweight pants and flowy skirts, and loose weave, long sleeve shirts are perfect. Women on their own are less likely to get harassed if they’re dressed modestly. Men can wear shorts, but will stand out less as a tourist if long trousers are worn.

• Official Language: Arabic. Berber and French are also spoken, as well as some English and Italian.
• Why Tunisia? Go for the historical sites and the outdoor activities!

The beautiful North African nation of Tunisia is a destination that’s often overlooked. With its stunning landscapes, vibrant culture and wonderful people, it’s easy to lose yourself in .

From soaking up the sun on white sandy beaches to exploring ancient ruins. Tunisia offers a unique and unforgettable experience.

One of the best reasons to visit Tunisia is to explore its many historical sites . The country is home to some of the oldest and most interesting ruins in Africa.

These include the area’s Roman ruins such as El Djem’s Colosseum and Carthage’s ancient streets.

The hustle and energy of Tunisia’s medina, with its narrow alleyways and colourful markets is another great experience.

The weather in Tunisia is perfect for outdoor activities . In summer, you can expect warm to hot temperatures, ideal for swimming, sunbathing and exploring the beach.

The winter months are milder and still beautiful. The weather will allow you to take part in some of the country’s outdoor activities. There’s great hiking, mountain biking, and rock climbing.

Tunisia also gives you a unique chance to experience the traditional way of life , in the country’s many rural villages. You can sample locally-produced food and drink, including Tunisian wine and couscous.

You can also take part in traditional activities like camel riding, pottery making, and shopping for local handicrafts.

What to wear in Tunisia : In this conservative shorts and T-shirts should generally be avoided. This is especially true when visiting more traditional and religious sites. For women, it is recommended that they cover their arms and legs with lightweight material such as cotton or linen. Men should also avoid shorts or revealing clothing.

• Official language : Egyptian Arabic. English is widely spoken in the main centres, with some French and Italian, as well.
• Why Egypt ? Go for the Great Pyramids of Giza and other remnants of the oldest civilizations in the world. Also some of the best, and least expensive, diving in the world .

The lure of Egypt goes far beyond the ancient ruins that we all associate with the country. I think it could be the most interesting country in Africa. It’s also one of my own best-loved North African countries .

As well as a fascinating centre of ancient history, Egypt is the Mediterranean. It’s the Middle East. And it’s mysterious. The name conjures up images of sheiks and treasures.

Some of the most famous movies ever filmed were set in Egypt – Casablanca, Death on the Nile, and The Spy Who Loved Me are classics. Not to mention Stargate and The Mummy.

But, the archaeological sites of Egypt are often the primary reason for visiting Egypt. It certainly was for me. The ancient history that’s available for the public to explore is incredibly fascinating.

But even if you aren’t wowed at the prospect of ancient ruins, I’d suggest at least visiting the Great Pyramids of Giza or the Valley of the Kings.

Or make a quick stop at the Egyptian Museum – I could have spent days there.

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Once you’re awestruck by those, you’ll want to see it all.

The Abu Simbel Temple is an amazing enormous sight, as is the Valley of the Kings. Visit by camel, of course. If nothing else, the sheer size of these artifacts will make your head spin.

Also, the Khan al-Khalili bazaar and souk are located in the historic center of Cairo.

Here you can find copper, spices, leather goods, and gold. Also the vibrant energy and combination of aromas that are somehow specifically Egyptian.

It’s easy to spend hours and hours taking it all in.

A lexandria , on the other hand, is a city unlike any other. Its European architecture and 12 miles of Mediterranean coastline set it apart.

Unlike most of the bustling cities in Egypt, Alexandria is a good place for walking . Stroll along the Corniche as the locals do, wander by the sea, and catch a sunset.

While in Alexandria, be sure to visit the Montazah Gardens. Here you’ll find 150 acres of islands, lighthouses, and palaces, in addition to the stunning botanics.

Before leaving Egypt, try to find time for a visit to the Aswan Dam . A  felucca sailboat cruise on the Nile River is fantastic, too!

In addition, Egypt has some of the best scuba diving on the planet. The Red Sea is a world-famous diving destination, and on the Mediterranean side, you can find some sunken ruins to explore.

Egypt is the second most touristed country in Africa, and I can absolutely see why – there’s just so much to see. And so much of it is incredibly fascinating.

What to wear in Egypt: Is Egypt safe for women? Yes, if you dress according to the culture . Shoulders, knees, and chest should be covered. No shorts – loose, lightweight pants and flowy skirts, and loose weave, long sleeve shirts are perfect. Dressing immodestly, by muslim standards not yours , is asking for trouble.

• Official Language: although French is the official language of Senegal, it’s spoken by only 37% of its people. In contrast, 72% of the population speaks the native language of Wolof.
• Why Senegal? This beautiful country is well-known for its warm hospitality, or teranga, toward visitors. It also has outstanding music and markets, as well as surf and wildlife.

The country of Senegal has everything you might be looking for when you travel to Africa. It’s a terrific example of the warm and friendly people of Africa .

It may also be the most beautiful country in West Africa .

The capital city of Dakar is a colourful, bustling seaport town. It’s full of museums, theatres, and shopping. And if you love to experience the local music when you travel, there’s no place better than the nightlife scene of Dakar.

Or if you prefer a quieter scene , you can find that here, too. The smaller area of N’gor is lovely, as is the peaceful little island of Île de N’Gor.

This island that is has been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site . The historical and haunting Île de Gorée was the largest slave trading post on the African coast.

Niokolo-Koba National Park is another UNESCO Site. The 900 km² park is a unique mix of savannah and forest.

Lions, elephants, chimpanzees, leopards, hippos, and derby elands make their homes here. They share the park with some 70 other species of mammals .

And of course, there is Lake Retba, the mystical-looking pink lake north of Dakar. Go for a swim and feel the gravity-defying buoyancy the very high salt content of the water gives you.

Even bird lovers will love Senegal. In the Parc National de la Langue de Barberie alone, there are more than 160 species of birds for your list .

What to wear in Senegal: While this is a very tolerant country when it comes to the religious beliefs of others, it is very conservative . Women should keep shoulders covered, and avoid shorts, short skirts, and cropped tops. Men should also avoid wearing shorts.

5. Cabo Verde

• Official Language : Portuguese. However, English and Kaboverdianu (Cape Verdian Creole) are also widely spoken.
• Why Cabo Verde? Go for the diving and the surf! The rugged landscapes make for some epic adventures, and it’s always beach weather.

The stunning island chain of Cabo Verde is made up of 10 islands, only 9 of which are inhabited. There are also 5 islets in the chain .

If you’re after an amazing hike, set out on the popular climb up the active volcano, Pico do Fogo. If water sports are more your thing, the island of Sal, especially, has you covered there.

From windsurfing to scuba diving, there are water sports galore. For some, these are the only reasons they need to travel to Cabo Verde .

And you don’t have to miss out on marine life if you’d rather stay dry. Both humpback whales and loggerhead turtles are seasonal visitors to Cabo Verde, and can be seen from aboard a boat.

What to wear in Cabo Verde : While the islands are very casual, beachwear is not allowed in hotel restaurants. Do dress modestly by covering knees and shoulders when away from the main tourist spots.

• Official language : though Ghana has over 50 indigenous languages, English is the official language.
• Why Ghana ? Go because it is a tropical paradise! It also has yet to be “discovered”. This makes a visit here more affordable and less touristed than it will be once the floodgates open. Enjoy!

G hana is not a name that’s heard often outside of Africa. This is whether the subject is tourism, politics, or Africa in general .

Though still a hidden gem, it has one of the world’s fastest-growing economies, based on cocoa and gold. It’s also one of the safest countries in Africa in 2022.

Ghana is a successful and independent nation, and its independence is celebrated each July 1 as Republic Day.

Accra is the capital city of Ghana and its largest city. It’s a prosperous trading centre that lies partly on a cliff that’s 8-12 metres high, on the Gulf of Guinea.

There is a lot to see in the capital, from Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park to the James Town Lighthouse.

Plus, the shopping, the history, and the views can keep you busy for days. You can make sure you don’t miss anything with a tour around the city .

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The Ghanaian love for life is everywhere, from its warm, welcoming people to its traditional monthly festivals. If you love to find great festivals when you travel, then you’re in the right place .

Over 70 festivals are celebrated every year in Ghana. Reportedly one of the grandest is Homowo, held between August and September. The word translates to “Hooting at hunger”.

It commemorates the bumper harvest that followed a famine that struck Ghana many years ago.

Others are the Odambea Festival and the Bridal Festival. Plus, there is the boat pageant known as the Edina Bakatue Festival.

Research the dates for the time you’re going to see which festival you’ll be able to catch.

In between the festivities, be sure to go out and enjoy the natural wonders that Ghana has for you. You’ll find amazing spots like the Kakum National Park and the Digya National Park.

In these, you’ll get to see large elephant populations and the endangered Diana monkey . Also stunning birds, flowers, and river creatures such as crocodiles and otters. Hiking and canoeing anyone?

Also, keep in mind Bobiri Forest and Butterfly Sanctuary and the Hippo Sanctuary at Wechiau. They’re just a couple of examples of village-based conservation operating in Ghana.

Here you can experience the variety of wildlife with the benefit of expert local guides.

One more thing NOT to miss is the turtle viewing at Anyanui, from August to February. Check out the Facebook page for Anyanui Tourism Information Centre for info.

If you’re lucky, you may have the opportunity to see the hatching of leatherback turtles and their journey to the ocean. Your visit supports the work that’s done to protect these turtles.

The people’s warmth and the joy they take in welcoming visitors make it a perfect place to visit. Especially if you like to meet the locals.

Be prepared for people to express protectiveness toward you if you’re a woman travelling on her own. Smile and feel happy that there are such kind people in the world. It’s a great place to travel in Africa.

What to wear in Ghana : really are no clothing restrictions in Ghana, beyond making sure that your midriff is covered. Loose, long sleeves and pants are recommended though, to protect the skin from the sun.

• Official language : there are 9 main languages, with most people speaking Tigrinya.
• Why Eritrea? go for the ruins, the trekking, the beaches, and the surprising Modernist architecture.

Eritrea, located in the horn of Africa, is also home to stunning landscapes and an exciting culture. From deserts to beaches to towering mountains, Eritrea captures hearts with its unique charm .

With so much to explore and experience, there is a wide variety of activities you can enjoy in this pretty little country.

Whether you like strolling through rich historical sites or taking part in outdoor adventures, you’re going to enjoy Eritrea.

Visitors can explore the ancient cities of Axum, Adulis, and Dahlak Island. Take a boat ride along the Red Sea, or trek through one of the incredible mountain ranges . Ocean lovers will love diving off Dahlak Island.

Even bird watchers will love it. The Gash-Barka region , especially, attracts a high density and wide variety of birds.

And once you’ve taken in all of the amazing activities, you can lounge on the pristine beaches of Massawa. Or simply explore the colourful markets of Asmara.

What to wear in Eritrea : Try to keep knees and shoulders covers when you’re not at the beach .

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The Best African Countries to Visit: South

8. Mauritius

• Official Language : No official language, but most people speak Creole.
• Why Mauritius : Its blend of cultures, activities, and natural beauty, along with its rich history, and vibrant experiences that you simply can’t find anywhere else.

In the Indian Ocean east of Madagascar, Mauritius is a gem waiting to be discovered. Currently considered the safest country in Africa , it’s blessed with a unique blend of cultures .

It offers an equally unique experience to visitors. Despite the lack of an official language, English speakers can easily communicate with the friendly locals.

Mauritius is ideal for nature lovers , home to nine bird species found nowhere else in the world. The island’s fascinating history even includes the dodo , an extinct bird and national animal .

Plus, winter horse racing is an age-old favourite event. Thousands of people show up to the Champs de Mars racecourse to cheer on their favourites. Races happen from March to early December each year.

And my favourite, the Mauritius National Botanical Garden is home to a fantastic variety of tropical plants. Many of them are endemic to the island.

And of course, the stunning beaches with crystal-clear waters, soft sand, and abundant coral reefs are unbeatable. I wonder if these beaches aren’t somehow responsible for the impressive life expectancy on the island.

As well, there are several festivals that you can enjoy. Which one you get to see depends on when your time on the island falls. November is the time to catch the Festival Reggae Donn SA and the Beach Humour Festival.

What to wear in Mauritius : You’re welcome to relax and wear what you please in Mauritius. As the weather is warm and the water is inviting, be sure to bring a swimsuit and light clothing.

• Official languages : Swahili, though there are 43 languages spoken in Uganda today.
• Why Uganda ? The mountain gorilla is an important reason to visit Uganda. Also, tourism is still relatively a new industry in Uganda, which means a more authentic experience. 

Uganda’s   Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park is definitely a spot you’ll want to visit while you’re in Uganda .

It’s one of only 3 places in Africa where the endangered mountain gorilla can be found.

Responsible gorilla trekking is one of the main fund-raising tools for their conservation. Taking part supports these efforts.

But for their protection, always go with a trained guide, and follow all rules. Seeing these guys in their natural habitat is an unforgettable experience.

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Even apart from the mountain gorillas, Uganda has one of the highest populations of primates in Africa. Kibale National Park is a great place to see chimpanzees, making destination for travellers.

If you want a little more action and adventure, try white water rafting on the Nile River.

Jinja is located on Lake Victoria, at the source of the Nile. It’s a popular starting point for rafting trips . Other, less heart-stopping adventures are offered too, like kayaking, ATV rentals and bodysurfing.

Once you’re done for the day, be sure to relax with a locally-made Nile Beer .

Or visit Rwenzori’s “ Mountains Of The Moon ” National Park for epic hiking trails. It can be cold, though, due to the high altitude, so go prepared.

You’ll actually find glaciers in the Rwenzori, as well as stunning waterfalls and lakes. A guide is required to explore here.

Budongo Forest in Murchison Falls National Park is known for its butterflies and birds.

And if you’re looking for lions and elephants, head to Queen Elizabeth National Park in the western part of Uganda.

Once you’ve satisfied your craving for time with the animals, get to know the tribes of Uganda. One of the incredible festivals is a great way to do this.

The Nile Festival is the last weekend of January and features music, dance, folklore and food.

There is also the International Film, Music, and Arts Festival of Bayimba, held at the end of August. It showcases local artists, as well as those from other parts of East Africa.

There’s so much to see and do in Uganda that it’s really impossible to do it all. But it’s fun trying!

What to wear in Uganda: Give a bit of thought to how you dress while in Uganda. For both men and women, shorts should be avoided out of respect for the culture, as well as anything tight or revealing.

• Official languages : Swahili and English
• Why Kenya ? Go for the wildlife safaris, especially during the Great Wildebeest Migration, for coastal beaches, or for Mount Kilimanjaro!

The dramatic wildebeest migration ongoing throughout the year is the perfect excuse to visit Kenya. They move from the southern Serengeti, in Tanzania, northwest to Kenya’s Maasai Mara .

These 2 regions are contiguous, and the animals move with the seasons, following the rains and the new grass. Catching sight of the mass of animals crossing the Mara River is something you’ll never forget.

The best time to see this in Kenya is between late July and early September . Also on the way back south from mid-October to early November.

The Maasai Mara National Reserve is one of the best places in Africa to experience the epic wildlife.

At any time of year, you’ll see what is known as the Big 5 . These are lions, leopards, cape buffalo, rhinos, and elephants.

On top of these are an incredible number of other animals , from hippos and antelope to tortoises and crocodiles.

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In addition, learn about the Maasai people . They’re noticeable by the bright red and purple cloths they wrap around themselves. Many still live a pastoral lifestyle in northern Tanzania and southern Kenya.

These nomadic warriors enjoy sharing their music and dance with visitors.

The best way to experience their culture is to visit a Maasai village while you’re on safari. Visiting this fascinating culture on your own will make the rest of your world melt away.

Nairobi, the capital city , is definitely worth a stop. Take a guided walking or driving tour if you have time. Try some local cuisine, maybe nyama choma and ugali.

This is charcoal-roasted meat and maize-meal cake, and the one from Tamambos in the Village Market is delicious.

Try to leave time for the beach before you move on from Kenya. The coast runs along the Indian Ocean, and is a great spot for soaking up some sun.

There are options from luxury to backpacker if you decide to stay awhile.

Don’t forget Diani Beach , south of Mombasa, another popular destination. You can snorkel, dive, or just lounge in the sun.

What to wear in Kenya: avoid wearing anything short, tight, or revealing. Loose, airy trousers and skirts, and longer, flowy shirts are the way to go. Respect the culture – this applies to women and men!

11. Tanzania

• Official Languages: Swahili and English
• Why Tanzania? The Great Wildebeest Migration can also be seen here, in the Serengeti National Park. Then you can spend some time enjoying the sun in Zanzibar, or climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro.

The best times to see the wildebeest migration in the Serengeti are from late June to August. Also from January to mid-March, if you’re hoping to catch that .

T his area is also where you’ll find the Ngorongoro Crater , aka the “Garden of Eden”.

The Crater plays host to a staggering number of wildlife species. On top of that, it’s one of the most important prehistoric sites in the world.

Olduvai Gorge is a part of the Ngorongoro Conservation area. Some of the earliest known evidence of humans was discovered here.

Ruaha National Park and Selous Game Reserve are more remote and less travelled safari destinations. These are located in southern Tanzania.

These are both definitely worth checking out if you’re looking to get off the beaten path a bit. They are a bit pricier than the other spots, though.

There also are several cities to choose from if you’d like to see the more cosmopolitan side of Tanzania.

Arusha is a base for Mount Kilimanjaro expeditions and many safaris. It has everything you might need when stocking up for these adventures.

You’ll also find nightlife, museums and markets ! The warmth and energy of the local people really shine when you get out to meet them here.

D on’t be surprised if they seem a little protective of you here, too, if they find out that you’re travelling solo .

I’ve been asked if Tanzania, especially the bigger cities, is safe for solo female travellers . I can honestly say, I always felt safe. But again, common-sense precautions, like anywhere else.

Mwanza is the second largest city in Tanzania and offers a similar experience to the capital of Dar es Salaam.

L ocated on Lake Victoria, Mwanza’s center has many historical buildings and shops . It’ll give you a good snapshot of city life in Tanzania. But I wouldn’t recommend driving here! It’s chaos.

A short flight or ferry ride – I recommend the flight – away is  Stone Town, the main city on Zanzibar Island.

It is a maze of narrow alleys connecting bazaars, mosques, and shops. More than 99% of people on Zanzibar are Muslim.

This is the perfect place to relax from your travels. Enjoy some cold local beer, and ruminate on how lucky you are to be here.

Zanzibar is well-known for its idyllic beaches. Jambiani Beach , in the south, is where I learned the fine art of lying in the sun. It was a very successful lesson!

Another of Zanzibar’s amazing attractions is its superb diving ! Whale sharks and stingrays – need I say more?

Stone Town is another popular place in Zanzibar. There are many friendly street merchants, local shops, and pretty and unique places to eat or have a cup of amazing African coffee.

What to wear in Tanzania : this is a deeply conservative country – knees and shoulders should be covered. This applies to men, too. Loose pants or skirts, and sleeved shirts in cool fabrics are perfect. T ake note that camouflage and military clothing is NOT permitted.

12. Mozambique

• Official Language : Portuguese. Over 40 other languages are also spoken.
• Why Mozambique? Go for the 2,500 km (1,600 mi) of coastline, the spectacular marine life, and the variety of terrestrial wildlife.

Mozambique is a fascinating and diverse country, located in southeastern Africa. With stunning beaches along the Indian Ocean, lush rainforests, unique wildlife, and vibrant cultures, Mozambique has something for everyone .

One major draw of Mozambique is its incredible beaches . From the islands of Bazaruto and Ibo to the mainland coastal regions, there is a beach for every taste.

Whether you want to relax on a secluded beach or join in some fun water sports such as snorkelling, windsurfing, or sailing, Mozambique has plenty of options that are sure to please.

In fact, Mozambique scuba diving is some of the best in the world. The Bazaruto Archipelago, a national park, protects more than 2000 types of fish.

It’s also home to dugongs , leatherback turtles, and dolphins, just to name a few creatures.

In addition to the beaches, Mozambique also has a variety of outdoor activities. From rock climbing and kayaking in Cahora Bassa National Park to game viewing in Gorongosa National Park, there is something that you’ll love.

Bird watching is especially popular, as it gives you a chance to observe some of the country’s many exotic birds . You can also go on a safari, or take a guided fishing trip to catch some of the local fish species.

The culture in Mozambique is also incredibly diverse and vibrant . There are many different ethnic groups living throughout the country, each with its own unique traditions and customs.

Music and dance are an important part of the culture here, and you can find performances in many different parts of the country. The cuisine is quite varied, as well — from seafood to Portuguese-inspired dishes, there is something for everyone’s taste buds.

What to wear in Mozambique : The culture is not overly concerned with how its visitors dress, but do dress conservatively . Longer shorts and sleeveless tops may be acceptable in the urban centres , but take clothing that will cover knees and shoulders when you venture farther inland.

13. Madagascar

• Official Languages : Malagasy and French
• Why Madagascar ? Go for the lemurs – more than 30 species! The large island is also home to some of the world’s most unique plants and animals. And koba cake. Yum.

M adagascar is the third largest island in the world. It’s a peaceful paradise for hundreds of species of animals, birds and insects .

Five percent of these live nowhere else on Earth.

It is also home to 15,000 species of plants, 80% of which are found nowhere else . Wild orchids anyone? The way to see the amazing wildlife here is in the excellent national parks, on foot and with a guide.

The parks are car-free for the most part. Most have hiking trails for all levels of fitness, from 2 hours to multiple days. Perfect for your adventures in Madagascar .

Isalo National Park is a place of wildly varying terrain, over 300 species of animals, and extraordinary sunsets.

The Andasibe Mantadia Rainforest is the place to go if you’d like to see the Indri lemur .

If your visit to Madagascar is between June and September, you can go whale watching at Antongil Bay. Humpback whales come here every year for mating season.

The bay is also home to mangroves, coral reefs, and marine turtles. As well, many mammal and fish species make for some amazing snorkelling.

What to wear in Madagascar: You don’t need to worry too much about what you wear on the island. Do refrain, though, from wearing anything too revealing or too short.

14. Namibia

• Official language : English
• Why Namibia ? Go for the sandboarding, stargazing, and otherworldly landscapes. There is an endless list of things to do in Namibia.

Namibia is named for the Namib Desert, one of the world’s oldest. Namib means “the vast place”, and there couldn’t be a more appropriate name for this stunning landscape .

Sparsely populated Namibia is a heart-stopping combination of red dunes , bleached-white pans, scrubby savannah, and rocky mountains.

It also may be one of the best places to visit in Africa for first-timers . There’s so much to see, and there are excellent wildlife viewing opportunities.

In addition, it’s one of the safest countries in Africa. If you’re new to travelling in Africa, this is a great place to start your adventures.

Namibia is relatively easy to navigate, and you can usually find someone who speaks some English. It’s also quite a tidy nation, and less chaotic than some parts of Africa.

As well, its excellent infrastructure and tamer traffic are much less intimidating to drive in than some other countries in Africa.

A road trip here is like no other road trip you’ve ever taken. Watching the Namibian light and topography change with the miles and the position of the sun is truly mystical.

My month-long road trip through Namibia is one of my very favourite memories.

In southern Namibia, you’ll find Fish River Canyon , the second-largest canyon in the world. This is well-known, serious hiking territory.

But only from May through mid-September, due to the heat and flooding the rest of the year.

Farther north is Swakopmund – a paradise for the adventurer in you.

You can take your pick of skydiving , sandboarding, 4x4ing on the dunes , paragliding, and many other activities. These can be as wild or as mild as you like.

Whatever you choose, follow it up with some traditional German cuisine. The country is a former German colony, and you’ll find their apfelstrudel – apple strudel – stacks up against anybody’s.

Namibia’s German heritage also comes out in the Oktoberfest celebration in the capital city of Windhoek. O’zapft!

➤ Get 41 Safety & Travel Tips in this IWIF article .

The bleak and stunning shores of the Skeleton Coast run up into Angola. They hold the bones of centuries of ships run aground, some still visible today.

Haunting whale and seal bones are a disturbing reminder of past hunts. The desert-adapted elephants and lions that wander the area are a bit haunting, as well.

The dunes of Sossusvlei and Deadvlei may be the landmarks that many people think of when they hear Namibia mentioned. The orange dunes against the bluest blue sky highlighting the fossilized acacia trees is an iconic image of this area.

Etosha National Park , one of Namibia’s most famous attractions, is where you’ll find the densest population of wildlife in the country.

This national park is one of the best places to visit in Namibia, especially if you’re on your first self-drive safari.

In addition, this is an excellent place to find endangered black rhinos. Also, when the pan is full, pink flamingos number in the thousands.

What to wear in Namibia: Shorts and tank tops are fine to wear in Namibia. But take note that military-type camouflage is NOT allowed.

• Official Language: English, though Bemba and Nyanja are the main languages spoken outside of business.
• Why Zambia? Victoria Falls is one of Zambia’s main attractions. It’s also a beautiful example of unspoiled African wilderness, with impressive wildlife viewing opportunities.

Victoria Falls is a major draw for tourism in Zambia. It receives about one million visitors every year! The world’s largest falls*, the Falls was chosen as a World Heritage Site in 1980 .

The local Zambian name for the falls is Mosi-oa-Tunya , which means the smoke that thunders . Standing in front of the mass of falling water, the reason is obvious.

The mist that rises up from the falls and the booming sound that comes from it will stay with you long after you leave the area.

Another of Zambia’s claims to fame is the bush walk , also known as the walking safari. This method of wildlife viewing was introduced in Zambia in 1950, and is one of the most exciting activities offered in Africa.

Zambia is one of the few countries in Africa that has been able to avoid the war, conflict, and political upheaval that much of Africa has suffered over the years.

It has earned a well-deserved reputation for political stability .

What to wear in Zambia : camouflage and military-style clothing is NOT permitted in Zambia. Shorts and skirts should be long enough to cover the knees, with shoulders covered.

* Based on height and width

16. Botswana

• Official languages : Tswana and English, though there are at least 31 languages recognized here.
• Why Botswana ? Go for the Okavango Delta, and to support the efforts of the Botswana government in the conservation of its country’s wildlife.

Whether you’re looking for city life or wildlife, Botswana’s got it for you! And it’s another of the safest countries to visit in Africa, and an incredibly beautiful country .

After spending an extended trip exploring the country, I developed a soft spot for Botswana. I revisit it whenever I have the chance.

Gaborone is the capital city, and there’s a lot to see in and around it. If you’ve been travelling for a while, you may have things you need to stock up on.

You’ll be able to find whatever you need at one of the modern shopping malls .

If you don’t have the time to travel through the many beautiful parks and reserves of Botswana, you can still see the wildlife from Gaborone.

Thirty minutes outside of town is the Mokolodi Nature Reserve . They offer a variety of activities that give you a chance to get a feel for the variety of wildlife that calls Botswana home.

Hopefully, you will have a bit of time to explore, because Botswana boasts some of the best wildlife viewing in Africa.

A few of the most well-known spots are the Okavango Delta , the Central Kalahari Game Reserve , Savuti National Park and Chobe National Park.

The Okavango Delta is one of Botswana’s two UNESCO World Heritage Sites. It’s home to some of the most endangered mammals in the world, and is utterly gorgeous.

In addition, all of these spots offer unforgettable safari experiences. You might start with a scenic flight over the Delta. This is a breathtaking way to take in the wonders of this area as a whole.

Botswana is also the home to the Elephant Haven . Only about an hour’s drive from Maun, the starting point for many excursions in this area, this elephant orphanage is well worth the time it takes to get there.

A visit to the Elephant Haven will give you a chance to meet some of their young charges, and support the work they’re doing.

Now if you’ve always wanted to see meerkats in the wild , Botswana has Planet Baobab. This unique lodge is about 2 and a half hours from Maun, on Makgadikgadi Pan in Gweta.

These little guys are great fun to watch, and you might see some elephants and giraffes on your way there. Drive carefully, just in case!

And for a little taste of how the locals eat while you’re in Botswana, stop in at Maun’s Akacia Cafe for a mopane pizza.

Mopane worms are plentiful in some parts of Africa and are eaten in stews and sauces, and as dried, crunchy snacks.

Don’t think about it, just take a bite. Want more restaurants (without mopane) and activities in Maun? Have a look at Things to Do in Maun for the whole scoop.

On top of all that, the Batswana, as the people of Botswana are called, are lovely.

If you’re travelling solo and get tired of your own company, don’t be afraid to strike up a conversation with the person behind you at the food store.

You just might be making a friend.

What to wear in Botswana: There are no strict rules as to what not to wear in Botswana, but do try to dress modestly. Camo or military style-clothing is a bad idea in Botswana.

➤ Read More About Botswana: 33 Fun & Interesting Facts About Botswana

17. South Africa

• Official languages : there are 11 of them. English is the 4th most widely spoken.
• Why South Africa ? Go for the enormous variety of sights and activities, from safari to wine tasting to botanical gardens.

Most people have heard of Cape Town , in southwestern South Africa. Its Table Mountain is a top African tourist spot, and one of the most popular places in the area to visit .

You have your choice of hiking to the top or taking the cable car. The view from the top will make the trip worthwhile!

Cape Town is also home to the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront , aka the V & A Waterfront. This is a great area for shopping, having a bite to eat, or finding a seat and people-watching.

A harbour cruise will give you a different perspective of the area. And you’ll get to see the seals curled up wherever they can find some sun.

Nearby is the Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens , one of the world’s largest. If you have any gardener in you, or just enjoy flowers, this is a don’t-miss.

If you’re up for a road trip, the world-famous Garden Route is an epic one. You can spend anywhere from 3 days to 14 cruising along this 300 km stretch of coastal road.

It will take you past lagoons and lakes, through forests and over mountains. You’ll find activities such as whale watching, eco-tours and hiking to break up the drive.

And as you can imagine, the views are stunning, from beginning to end.

✔️ Get a free Printable   Travel Bullet-Journal  📚 for your trip Plus more info on exploring Africa !

If the Cape Winelands sound more your style, set out on Route 62. Stretching 850 km, it is considered to be the longest wine route in the world.

I f you don’t have several days to meander along this spectacular highway, try a wine-tasting day trip from Cape Town.

There’s a hop-on hop-off one that’ll let you enjoy without having to drive.

And of course, no trip to South Africa would be complete without some wildlife viewing .

Kruger National Park is the perfect destination if you’d like to take your first self-drive safari. You can fly right into the park and rent a car at the airport.

KNP is equipped with everything you need for a stay as long or short as you’d like. There are food shops and cafes, as well as a variety of accommodations, from campsites to luxury tents.

There is an extraordinary variety of wildlife throughout the park. This includes one of the few remaining populations of African Painted Dogs.

The variety of birdlife numbers around 520 species, and includes rare ones that are seldom seen anywhere else. You’ll want to bring an extra memory card for your camera if you’re a bird lover.

Read 14 Reasons to Visit South Africa if you need more convincing!

What to wear in South Africa : South Africans are generally not concerned with whether or not you show your knees. Camouflage, however, IS illegal , and it’s best leave any military-style clothing at home as well.

➤ Read more about South Africa: 14 Reasons to Visit South Africa

Map of Africa

Frequently Asked Questions :

✓ what is the safest country in africa .

Currently,  Mauritius  is considered the safest country in Africa. It’s been deemed safer than Italy, Spain, and the UK. You can check the  Global Peace Index  to find out where the others lie.

✓ What is the friendliest country in Africa ?

Morocco is thought to be friendliest to its tourists. Find how your  favourite countries rank here .

✓ Which countries in Africa are not safe to visit?

The answer to this question changes according to the current political climate. As of the end of 2022, the country of the Central African Republic has advisories discouraging travel.

This is due to the high incidence of violent crime in the country. Be sure to do some research in this regard when planning your trip.

✓ Which African country has the best weather?

The island nation of Seychelles is the African country with the best weather. You’ll enjoy a short rainy season and warm temperatures all year. Never cold and rarely warmer than 31º in summer, temps hover between 25ºC and 28ºC all year long.

✓ What is the most underrated place to visit in Africa?

Senegal is a small country on the west coast of North Africa. With a culture based on hospitality, it’s also known for its music, markets, surf, and wildlife. A pretty politically stable country, it’s an incredibly underrated destination.

✅ Don’t ever forget travel insurance ! You earned your trip to Africa – don’t let anything as small as an illness or loss of luggage derail it. I always use SafetyWing !

Summing It Up: Best Country to Travel in Africa in 2024

Africa boasts 54 amazing countries waiting to be explored, and these are the 17 absolute best. Each one offers its own unique blend of culture, landscapes, and experiences.

As you plan your trip, consider your interests, budget, and travel goals. Whether you’re drawn to the pyramids of Egypt, the wildlife of Kenya, or the history of Morocco Africa has something to offer you.

Once you’ve explored these 17 countries, start on the remaining 36. If your list turns out differently than mine, let me know!

Don’t keep waiting – pack some bug spray and your common sense in a single carry-on bag and go. You’re going to love it!

Happy Travels!

Read More About Africa: • Dream Destinations in Africa • Iconic Animals of Botswana & Where to See Them • 24 Best Things to Do in Zanzibar (with map) • What to Do in Kenya Beyond Safari • Winter in Africa – 15 Important Facts

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I had been travelling for years before I first went to Africa. Once I had been on my first safari, I was hooked. Now I go back every chance I get. I've lived in Botswana, explored the wild coast of Namibia, toured Southern Africa and so much more.

There's no place that has more to offer a traveller than this enormous and stunning continent. I write about it here to hopefully inspire you to experience it for yourself, and to make your travels easier. It'll be the trip of your life! Happy travels!

8 Best Places to Visit in Africa (and Where to Stay!)

Looking for the top destinations and best places to visit in Africa? We have your back:

The African continent is often forgotten when we talk about tourism. Even the best places to visit in Africa are not widely known as top destinations. 

This is more than a shame since there are countless unique places to visit in Africa that are unlike anything you can find on any other continent. 

Learning a bit more about African traditions, the natural beauty of the land, and historical landmarks is the best way to become more aware of the treasures of the Big Continent.

To provide a quick start and challenge some of the common preconceptions about traveling to this part of the world, we prepared an overview of the 8 best destinations in Africa that could appeal to solo travelers as well as groups or families.

Do you have a personal favorite? Let us know in the comment section!

What to know before traveling to Africa

In our minds, Africa is just a massive shape somewhere in the South, but in reality, it is a massive continent with more than 50 different countries and over 1 billion inhabitants. It is home to many different cultures and features several distinct geographic regions, including deserts, rainforests, savannahs… 

Security is admittedly a problem in some places, but there are many safe African countries to visit where guided tours are available. 

Another issue that should be taken seriously is a tropical disease, and vaccines are necessary for traveling to some parts of the continent. 

This is why it is highly advisable to gather information from official sources such as your country’s embassy, or the national tourist bureau before scheduling a flight to one of the most beautiful places in Africa.

1. Cape Town, South Africa

Some people think that South Africa is the best country in Africa for Western visitors because of its large cities and developed infrastructure. 

Cape Town is definitely one of the best places to visit in South Africa if you would like to taste a different culture while enjoying all the perks of urban life . 

This city is located next to the sea and features amazing beaches, while the visitors interested in history might want to visit the infamous Robben Island where freedom fighter Nelson Mandela was imprisoned.

Where to stay

Radisson RED hotel V&A Cape Town Waterfront – Ideally placed on the waterfront of Cape Town, this unique hotel is close to the main tourist sites and the central business district. 

You can relax in a modern room decorated with wall art, enjoy great food in the on-site restaurant, or unwind by the pool in RED Roof Bar with amazing views of one of the most beautiful cities in Africa.

2. Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Tanzania

Tanzania has a reputation as one of the safest African countries to visit , and it’s also renowned for its untouched nature. Ngorongoro conservation area was named after a volcanic crater and is today regarded as one of the top places to visit in Africa for nature lovers. 

The area is rich in wildlife, including big game like lions, rhinos, and buffalos, making it perfect for a photo safari . If you are looking for cool places in Africa, Ngorongoro must be near the top of your list!

Planet Lodges – This hotel is located in Arusha and features African-style chalets that are equipped with mosquito nets and air conditioning, making it one of the safest places to visit in Africa. 

A bar and restaurant on premises offer a selection of drinks and serve dishes from international and local cuisine. Guests can relax with a massage of choice or linger by the pool in the lush garden whilst enjoying the view of Mount Meru.

3. Okavango Delta, Botswana

With an official place on the list of ‘Seven Natural Wonders of Africa’, the Okavango Delta is rapidly becoming one of the most popular tourist destinations in Africa. 

This region is located on the edge of the Kalahari Desert, and as an inland delta represents a unique ecosystem. 

Okavango Delta is among the best places to vacation in Africa if you want to go off the beaten path and explore the wilderness. A visit to the nearby Moremi Game Reserve is a great idea once you arrive in this amazing region!

Hilton Garden Inn Gaborone – A modern hotel in the Central Business District, less than 1 km from the Three Dikgosi Monument and Square Mart Shopping Centre. The rooms are comfortable and equipped with private bathrooms, LCD TV, AC, and complimentary wi-fi. 

Garden Grille & Bar is one of the best places in Africa to go if you want to try steaks from the best quality Botswana beef. An outdoor pool is a perfect antidote for hot days typical for this part of Africa.

4. Maasai Mara National Reserve, Kenya

Many international tourists count Kenya as one of the best African countries to visit, and the Maasai Mara National reserve receives a steady influx of visitors. 

It’s a jaw-dropping destination where large African fauna including elephants and lions can be encountered in its natural habitat. 

If you don’t know where to travel in Africa and haven’t been to Western Africa until now, Maasai Mara is an excellent choice that combines picture-perfect scenery with an abundance of fun activities for a truly memorable experience.

Ol Tukai Lodge – Located inside the Amboseli National Park, this eco-rated lodge has a unique collection of African art and is one of the best spots to watch elephants directly from your room. 

In case you don’t want to stay in the room, there are a restaurant and 2 bars available for snacks and drinks throughout the day. Accounting for the proximity of Mt. Kilimanjaro, this is clearly one of the best places to visit in Africa.

5. Mountain Gorillas, Rwanda

Virunga Mountains in Rwanda are one of the last refuges of the mountain gorilla, so this area is one of the best places to visit in Africa if you’re looking for a chance to get a glimpse of endangered animals. 

This region also happens to be one of the most beautiful places in Africa, as the terrain is of volcanic origin and therefore quite impressive. 

In addition to mountain gorillas, you can observe other animal species in this area, for example, golden monkeys and countless exotic birds.

Mountain Gorilla View Lodge – This eco-lodge is set around 1 km from Volcanoes National Park, which is the starting point of the exciting gorilla trekking tours and one of the best places to visit in Africa. 

30 spacious cottages are available for accommodation, and all of them come with fireplaces and private bathrooms. Each night the guests are treated to Rwandan traditional song and dance, put on by the local community.

6. Pyramids of Giza, Egypt

There are very few famous places in Africa that compare to the Pyramids in terms of global interest. This ancient location has a special charm and belongs on the shortlist of the best places in Africa to visit if you are into cultural monuments . 

Since the Pyramids are located very close to Cairo, the tombs of the Pharaohs are easily available for a touristic visit, with plenty of organized tours. That’s why the Pyramids of Giza are one of the best places to travel in Africa for a first-timer .

Azar Hotel – This hotel is located in central Cairo, within a 10-minute walk from the National Egyptian Museum and the famous Tahrir Square.  The rooms are equipped with anything you can wish for, from LCD TVs to balconies with amazing city views. 

If you are visiting the town because of the leading tourist attractions in Africa, the Giza Pyramids are only 13 km away from the hotel.

7. Bazaruto Archipelago, Mozambique

Mozambique stands out among the beautiful countries in Africa for its marvelous coastline, and few locations can match the natural beauty of the Bazaruto Archipelago. 

Comprising six lovely islands in the Indian Ocean, this area is protected as a national treasure and attracts many tourists from around the world. 

In addition to marine life, you can also experience the savannah and sand dunes in this area, making Bazaruto a microcosm of the entire continent and one of the best places to visit in Africa.

Bahia Mar Boutique Hotel – Set on the island of Vilanculos, this hotel is the right choice for people who want to experience local culture and the famous beauty of the Bazaruto Archipelago. 

This luxurious property features a spa, a wellness center, an infinity pool, and a tropical garden. Great accommodations definitely help Bazaruto rise up a notch on the list of best places to visit in Africa.

8. Kilimanjaro, Tanzania

The iconic, snow-covered mountain is without a doubt one of the enduring symbols of Africa. It is located in Tanzania , which is among the safest countries in Africa as we discussed before, and well-connected with flights to Europe, Asia, and America. 

Any tourist with doubts about where to visit in Africa should put Kilimanjaro on the top of the itinerary and experience the magic that inspired so many works of art. 

Green Light Hotel – The hotel is ideally located in Dar es Salaam, just 7 km away from the International Airport. The rooms are spacious and some of them even have luxuries such as a sauna & Jacuzzi. 

You can log on to the internet for free from anywhere in this hotel, so you can stay in touch with your friends at home or explore where to go in Africa next after you see Mt. Kilimanjaro up close.

Keep reading: 5 Maps that will help you understand Africa

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• The 5 best countries in Africa for a first-time visitor
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Travel inspiration

By Jana Brnáková and Hana Leakey January 5, 2023

By Jana Brnáková and Hana Leakey | January 5, 2023

These are the prettiest, most tourist-friendly, all-around best places in Africa that are ideal for first-time visitors to the continent

As the second largest continent by both area and population, Africa is certainly worth experiencing. It’s a place abundant in incredible hiking opportunities, Unesco World Heritage Sites, and cities where there’s so much going on, you won’t know where to look first. If you’re planning your first trip to Africa, you might find the number of options daunting, so we’ve lined up our five best countries — and specific places of interest — that you should visit. They’re all tourist-friendly, safe, and seriously stunning.

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Caplaki Craft Village (@caplakiofficial)

Rwanda is a small landlocked country in the middle of Africa. For the last 25 years or so, it’s worked hard to reinvent itself as a modern, thriving society . Its geographical and political center, Kigali, has spotless streets and a low crime rate. It’s no longer a place you drowsily pass through on your way to the safari or a national park; it’s a capital that boasts a vibrant restaurant, café and nightlife scene, galleries and sports events, and its own little quirky “craft village” called Caplaki. You might well feel right at home quicker than you thought you would.

Outside of the capital, Volcanoes National Park is one of the places that attract the most tourists, becoming the first national park in Africa in 1925. It’s a large area of preserved wilderness, home to mountain gorillas and golden monkeys — two primates that it strives to protect. On this note, Dian Fossey, who dedicated her life to saving gorillas from extinction, has her resting place in the Park. Her life was later documented in the 1988 feature film Gorillas in the Mist , which was nominated for and won a number of awards.

The Park is also great for trekking and hiking. Mount Karisimbi is an inactive volcano on the border with the Democratic Republic of Congo and, at 4,507 meters, is also the highest peak in Rwanda. A little further south of Karisimbi lies Lake Kivu, the largest lake in Rwanda, with its emerald green waters and views of the surrounding mountains.

By African standards, Ghana is a relatively small country by area. Yet, it’s a notable nation for its economic stability and considerable biodiversity, and it’s a safe place in which to experience authentic Sub-Saharan Africa for the first time.

European influence has contributed to Ghana’s rich history; for example, it’s the reason there are several forts and castles here, mostly dotted along the coast of the Gulf of Guinea . The Cape Coast and Elmina Castles are perhaps the most famous. Since its foundation in 1482, Elmina Castle stands as a major landmark, roughly in the middle of the country’s coastline. Throughout the centuries, it’s seen a lot — it was constructed as a trading post and later became an important place for the slave trade.

Heading inland just a touch, you’ll come across Kakum National Park. It’s an area of tropical rainforest, home to numerous species of animals. In 1931, it became a reserve, before being upgraded to national-park status in 1992. Aside from its very obvious natural beauty, Kakum offers a 350-meter-long canopy walkway — the grandest entrance into the forest for sure. It’s one of only three canopy bridges in the whole of Africa.

A little further up lies the town of Kumasi and its Kejetia Central Market. With an incredible total of 11,000 stalls and stores, it’s the largest open-air market in West Africa, selling everything from kente cloths to jewelry to food. With a bit of luck, you’ll come across fufu , sticky dumplings; and waakye , a traditional dish made from rice and beans.

It might be the tiniest mainland African country, but The Gambia has a lot going for it. Its balmy temperatures all year round make it an ideal getaway, especially since it’s also known for its fine beaches.

Its shape is unusual — the border outlines the River Gambia, making it a narrow, somewhat squiggly country. It’s only up to 50 kilometers wide, but 480 kilometers long, surrounded almost entirely by Senegal . As the story goes, the territory of The Gambia was decided by a British warship that navigated up the river and shot out cannonballs; the British claimed the land that fell within range of the shots.

So, what is there to see? There’s plenty around the river — aside from the beaches, this is what most people come to The Gambia for. Kunta Kinteh Island (officially James Island), a Unesco World Heritage Site, sits right in the middle of it. Unfortunately, it’s suffering from erosion and is now approximately a sixth of its original size, so you best see it sooner rather than later! Since the river takes up a significant portion of the country’s length, a boat trip will uncover many more of its beautiful natural sights. And if you set out early in the morning, you can watch as the jungle awakens — an unforgettable spectacle.

Botswana is in Southern Africa and has an area about the same size as that of France . It’s one of the most developed nations in Africa, which means fewer concerns and considerations to be had here as a first-time visitor to the continent; and its low population density makes it a real haven for wildlife and nature.

Take the Makgadikgadi Pan, for example, which is one of the largest salt pans in the whole world. It’s the only remnant of the once-large Lake Makgadikgadi, which dried up thousands of years ago.

Meanwhile, the Okavango Delta continues to fill up every year. It’s one of the few inland deltas in the world, and in 2013, it was named one of the seven natural wonders of Africa. It also became the 1000th place to be inscribed as a Unesco World Heritage Site in 2014. Every year during the rainy season, the Delta takes in the water from the highlands of Angola . For months afterward, the area swells up to three times its normal size. The wildlife has been forced to adapt to the frequent flooding — it’s not unusual to spot cheetahs and lions taking a dip.

Mount Kilimanjaro might be just the most famous natural wonder in Africa. This dormant volcano in northeastern Tanzania reaches a height of 5,895 meters — the tallest peak on the continent. There are six pathways up the mountain through the surrounding National Park. Some are more challenging than others, but on average, reaching the summit takes about seven days. Not exactly a walk in the park in the metaphorical sense — ascending Kilimanjaro requires quite a lot of preparation and commitment, but if you’ve got what it takes, it’s an experience of a lifetime.

A few hundred kilometers northwest across the rumpled plains of Tanzania lies the renowned Serengeti National Park. The area spans 30,000 square kilometers and bleeds over into neighboring Kenya , making its name — which means “endless plains” — pretty much spot-on. The Park is the setting for the biggest migration of mammals in the world.

And of course, what better way to reward yourself after an expedition than with a relaxing beach break? Zanzibar is one of the most visited places in Tanzania, and this is mainly down to its picture-perfect white-sand beaches reminiscent of the Maldives or Seychelles, only Zanzibar is a cheaper destination. Its eclectic cultural heritage, endemic wildlife and the bustling night market in the city are all other unmissable things that keep the tourists coming; rest assured that if you’re visiting Africa for the first time, this archipelago is very much used to catering to others just like you.

Do you want more travel inspiration? Visit Kiwi.com Stories .

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What are the Main Tourist Attractions in Africa?

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Africa is a vast continent with the most diverse countries in the world. Filled with lush inland forests and picture-perfect beaches, Africa is a growing tourist attraction in itself. Here is the list of the best tourist attractions in Africa.

Each country has something unique to offer from tradition and culture to natural wonders the draw tourists from all over the world looking to experience their own piece of Africa. 

To choose just one reason to visit Africa and select one attraction is impossible, there are many. To help you on your journey toward your own African adventure, here are just ten of the best tourist attractions in Africa. Of course, this list is by no means comprehensive; however, these should give you plenty of food for thought.

The Top 10 Tourist Attractions in Africa

Cape town, south africa.

As far as the best tourist attractions in Africa go, Cape Town as a city and its surrounding area is very much the easiest and most accessible way to get a taste of Africa as a whole. 

Cape Town is one of the top tourist destinations in the world, a colorful mix of people, cultures, tradition, history, nature, and food, is perhaps the best way to define the Mother City.

Here a tourist can explore top tourist attractions in Cape Town South Africa , everything from Robben Island to the iconic Table Mountain National Park, Cape Point, Cape Winelands, and Camps Bay, getting a taste of fresh mountain air and ocean breezes all year round. If you play your cards right, you might be able to attend one of the best music festivals in South Africa .

Best Time to Visit: Peak Season is from November to January. Secret Seasons (best time to be a local) are October and late February to March.

Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, and Zambia

The falls in Zimbabwe and Zambia are something everyone has heard about, and for many, what African dreams are filled with. Victoria Falls is a jointly owned tourist attraction and can be viewed and explored from either Zambia or Zimbabwe. 

A majestic 108 meters high cascade of water, often called “The Cloud that Thunders” is not only one of the top tourist attractions in Africa but the world. Victoria Falls is a mesmerizing and awe-inspiring top ten tourist attractions in Africa that is a bucket list item for millions of people. 

Best Time to Visit: February to May

Omo River Region, Ethiopia

The Omo River region of Ethiopia is one of the most remote and secluded places in the world. Vast expanses of this picturesque African plains are extremely difficult to reach. To visit this place to explore the depths of African culture barely touched by the world in the 21st century, you will have to use a specialist tour . 

Historically, Ethiopia tends to heavily value their independence and unique culture by restricting external influence. However, it is slowly opening its doors to let the rest of the world experience its paradise. Once you visit Ethiopia, your view of Africa will be changed forever, and you will understand why it is of the main tourist attractions in East Africa.

Best time to visit: September to April – especially the very beginning of September and the end of April.

Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania

Mount Kilimanjaro , or just “Kili” to many in the climbing fraternity, is a major tourist attraction in Africa. For those seeking an adventure holiday, a trek to the peak of Mount Kilimanjaro is perhaps the epitome of such a vacation. 

Standing at 5,895 meters tall, it takes around 5 to 10 days to summit and returns back to the foot of the tallest mountain in Africa. The climb does not really require any specialist climbing equipment, but the right level of fitness is essential. Be warned of altitude sickness, this is a prevalent problem among those who attempt the climb.

Best times to visit: January to March, which is much colder with the potential of snow and June to October.

The Maasai Mara National Reserve, Kenya

When people think of Africa, they think of wild animals and safaris . The Massai Mara National Reserve in Kenya is one of the top 10 tourist attractions in Africa, and every tourist has a dramatically different experience when they visit. 

The Massai Mara is one of the top 10 tourist attractions in Africa, not just to see but experience the big 5 but because of the wildebeest migration. Continuing through the Maasai Mara National Reserve will lead you to the Serengeti National Park and Game Reserves in Tanzania.

There are many specialist tours of this impressive nature reserve and with a variety of game viewing experiences from regular overland vehicles to hot air balloons.

Best time to visit: The cold season from July to October is the best time to visit. This is peak season and can be costly.

Virunga National Park, DR Congo

African wildlife is by far the number one tourist attraction in Africa, and each African nation has different animals to see.

The Congo and nearby Uganda are famous for its mountain gorillas, and the Virunga National Park is perhaps the best place in the world where these impressive beasts can be seen. 

Established in 1925 as the very first national park in Africa, the park is also one of the top places in the world to see chimpanzees in the wild. Tourism to this beautiful region is growing and as well as seeing a wide variety of apes tourists. You can climb the slopes of the Nyiragongo Volcano and see the world’s largest pool of lava. 

Best time to visit: April, May, October and November

Okavango Delta, Botswana

One of the most breathtaking places on earth, the Okavango Delta, a UNESCO world heritage site, is one of the top tourist destinations in Africa.

This vast river delta at the foot of the massive Kalahari attracts thousands of tourists each year who want to experience the true beauty and wilds of Africa. 

Many tourists explore the wild game hotspot by air either in light aircraft or hot air balloon, and the views are beyond comprehension. The land-based safaris offering some of the best game spotting experiences anywhere in the world, and many tourists simply wish they could stay a lot longer in the fantastic place.

Best time to visit: May to September

Zanzibar, Tanzania

Just off the coast is an exotic archipelago with pristine beaches and warm oceans. This fantastic location is one of the top tourist destinations in Africa because, for some, it is the ideal place for the perfect, relaxing beach holiday. 

With a vibrant history dating back to the 17th century, the destination has a magical blend of Arabic, Middle Eastern, Moorish, and Indian cultures and styles, making it unique like no other place in Africa.

Best time to visit: June to October

Giza Necropolis, Egypt

A lot of people do not think of Egypt as being in Africa. In the Giza Necropolis, you will get to see the Great Pyramid of Giza , the Pyramid of Menkaure , and the Pyramid of Khafre .

Still, it is, and the Giza Necropolis has to be something on many travel bucket lists. The ancient Egyptian civilizations are brought back to life along the river Nile through pyramids and tombs. Not the Africa everyone immediately thinks of but certainly a part of Africa everyone should indeed visit.

Best times to visit: October to April when temperatures are cooler

Kruger National Park, South Africa

South Africa is perhaps the most accessible of all African nations. While Cape Town attracts the majority of tourists, the Kruger National Park in the North of the country is often the starting point for a superb trek down the coast toward Cape Town. 

This South African National Park is one of the top places in the world to spot all the Big 5 and top tourist attractions in South Africa. Visitors can obtain a permit to visit and take a self-drive safari. Still, the majority of visitors join an organized safari.

Best time to visit: Between April and September

Concluding the Top Tourist Attractions in Africa

Africa has so many top tourist destinations , and each country, region, and the town will have its own hidden gems. To cover everything in one place would be difficult.

Visiting Africa is becoming easier with major airlines flying into most major African cities. There is a lot to see in Africa. 

Whether you choose a grand tour starting at the bottom with South Africa and all the way up to Egypt , or if you merely cherry-pick the destinations of your choice, the continent welcomes you.

For many people, exploring Africa is a dream, and we would love to turn your vision into reality. We would love to hear your thoughts. What tourist attractions in Africa are on your bucket list, and which attractions exceeded your expectations?

FAQs for the Main Tourist Attractions in Africa

Cape Town, South Africa Victoria Falls , Zimbabwe, and Zambia Omo River Region, Ethiopia Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania The Maasai Mara National Reserve, Kenya Virunga National Park, DR Congo Okavango Delta, Botswana Zanzibar, Tanzania Giza Necropolis, Egypt Kruger National Park, South Africa

Africa has several top tourist destinations. However, with about 25 million annual visitors visiting Victoria and Alfred Waterfront in Cape Town, it is considered the most notable tourist destination in Africa.

Perhaps the country with the most Tourist attractions in Africa is South Africa , as this is one of the fast-developing countries in terms of tourism diversity.

This is the most impossible question to answer. From pyramids to mountain ranges, people to places, and oceans the plains of Africa. Africa means something different to everyone, but the continent is well known for the Safaris.

In recent years, Africa has opened up in terms of tourism. Tourists today are a great deal more adventurous and independent. Safaris are still very popular, as are pure sunshine and sand beach holidays. Where tourists got is ultimately up to them. However, most tourist’s first visit is either to South Africa , Kenya , Tanzania , Morocco , or Egypt .

The definition of “best” can be subjective. However, for tourists, because of the robust infrastructure, booming tourism, and ease of travel to the country, South Africa is regarded as the best country to visit in Africa.

Beauty is more than skin deep. To answer this, you need to visit and get under the surface of the country you are visiting. Africa itself is perhaps the most perfect definition of beautiful that you will ever find. However, Ethiopia , Seychelles , South Africa , and Guinea , are known to be amongst the most beautiful countries in Africa.

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How could this list dare forget the Famous Serengeti plains, the top most largest wildlife attraction in the world, with an amazing scenic value. The famous largest seasonal wildlife migration.

Hello Fadhili, that’s a great point! The Serengeti national park should be on the list. We’ll definitely include it in the next blog post update! 🙂

Love, Lydia

YOU ARE RIGHT — SERENGETI NATIONAL PARK IN TANZANIA SHOULD BE IN THE LIST ( BEST NATIONAL PARK IN AFRICA , ALSO AMONG SEVEN NATURAL WONDERS OF AFRICA)

I second that, Tino! You can see our previous comment for reference.

Thanks for the article. Visiting more Africa countries is on my bucket list. Do you have an article focusing on the best countries to visit based on different regions (e.g., West coast/East Coast)?

Hello Wayne, we do have a post on the best African countries to visit . However, it’s not ordered by region. If I were to pick one country per region, these are my recommendations:

• North Africa: Morocco
• West Africa: Ghana
• East Africa: Kenya (this is a tough choice since there’re so many great options)
• Southern Africa: South Africa (same as East Africa, many great options)

The reason I chose these countries is they have a well-developed tourism industry and cater specifically to visitors. A tip for South Africa, stick to the tourist areas, and you’ll be fine. Please let me know if you have any other questions.

Dear Wayne, if you want to visit East Africa, the dream place to visit is Uganda. You will surely discover why its called the “Pearl of Africa”.

Hi! Thanks for sharing such a great post related to tourism,I also wanna know about some best things to do in Sharjah, So I request you to also post some instructive guidelines related to Tourism, as I have some great interest in such kind of things.

Thanks for visiting our site. We only cover content about Africa so Sharjah wouldn’t be a good fit. If you do have any African-related questions, please let us know.

This is ammazing.. too bad my trip was canceled earlier this year due to COVID 19

I would love to see more pictures. l am awed at the ones that l saw, my heart is beating.

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10 Best Destination Countries in Africa

Tourism in Africa is an important economic activity. The tourist characteristics of Africa lie in the wide variety of points of interest, the diversity, and variety of landscapes, as well as the rich cultural heritage. According to the World Tourism Organization (WTO), Africa could “more than double the number of tourist arrivals from 50 million in 2010 to 134 million in 2030.”

Approximately 57.8 million Tourists traveled to Africa in 2016, with 4.4 million more than in 2015. This is “a strong rebound, after lower performances in 2014 and 2015, following health, geopolitical, and economic problems,” summarizes WTO in its annual report published on 15 August.

An Analysis of Seat Capacity for the Top Ten International Airports in Africa, produced by ForwardKeys reveals that there has been stand-out performances from Tunisia and Egypt, which are recovering from the outcomes of the revolution, up 33.5% and 24.8%, respectively. In addition, Morocco and Tunisia received a huge boost in arrivals from China, up 450% and 250%, respectively, after they relaxed visa restrictions. The one disappointment is Nigeria, which has seen a 0.8% drop in the wake of recession in 2016, caused by a collapse in the oil price to a 13-year low.

Historic vestiges such as the Egyptian pyramids, the rock churches of Ethiopia, the South African Robben Island Prison where Nelson Mandela stayed for 27 years, or the island of Gorée in Senegal, a symbol of the memory of the slave trade in Africa, as well as safari parks and other grandiose landscapes (Victoria Falls, Sahara desert) are all assets that make the African continent an increasingly coveted tourist destination.

In addition, many initiatives have been launched in recent years to encourage more tourists to visit the continent. This includes progress in visa facilitation and regional cooperation with the introduction of e-visas and single visas. A single visa is sufficient for all member-countries of the Southern African Development Community, for example.

Speaking to Africa.com, Moroccan Professor, Khalid El Messaoudi, an expert in urban development, tourism and environment, thinks that Africa has a rich tourist potential which can explain the dynamism of the sector on the continent.

“Tourism in Africa has grown since the last decade of the twentieth century. The rate of arrivals is in rise thanks to the natural characteristics of the continent and the “virginity” of its regions, making it a destination of many types of tourism. Africa is a great destination of  safari and wildlife tourism where tourists can watch animal species in their natural habitats and experience a unique excitement that can only be found in Africa. The continent welcomes, also, a great number of sports trips because of the rough terrain and diversity of climate in addition to the density of its water network (falls, rivers, and lakes). Africa is also a destination for historical tourism where there is a rich history and memories of the primitive life,” explains Dr. El Messaoudi.

However, much remains to be done to truly boost the growth of this industry in Africa, starting with the development of adequate and functional transport infrastructure and services. According to Dr. El Messaoudi, Africa should develop its infrastructure and promote security and democracy, in addition to adopting modern marketing strategies based on leading research centers in the field. African countries, according to the same expert, must also encourage South-South cooperation to promote the local tourism on the continent.

Here are Africa’s top ten destination countries as published by ForwardKeys, based on the international arrivals from January to July 2017.

South africa.

With 6.5 million international tourists, South Africa appears as the first destination of the African continent by 18% of international arrivals in Africa. South Africa is experiencing a steady rise in tourism. The discovery of national parks and other animal reserves with excellent reception facilities remains one of the main arguments for the stay, but the country has many other attractions. The beauty of the countryside, the magnificent exteriors, the sunny climate, the cultural diversity – all of these reasons have made the country one of the fastest-growing destinations in the world in terms of leisure and business.

South Africa is very diverse in terms of climate, culture, tourism activities and infrastructures meeting the needs of each tourist niche, economic, and cultural tourism, adventure, sport and paleo-tourism. The country hosts a great diversity of cultures, ranging from the Zulus who resisted the European conquest to the San nomads of the Karoo Desert. Each culture has evolved to develop its own music, its own forms of art and traditional rites, while the descendants of settlers have evolved on the basis of variations of their European roots.

According to the South African Ministry of Tourism, China was, in 2016, the market of having grown the most in the tourism sector of the country. With a 38% growth compared to 2015, the Chinese market is now one of the most important for South African tourism, behind the usual leaders of Great Britain, the United States, and Germany. The growth in the number of tourists arriving from China is mainly linked, according to Derek Hanekom, the Minister of Tourism, to the improvement of the visa process.

In 2017, tourism is strengthening its position as the engine of the South African economy. The attractiveness of the country is expected to continue to strengthen in 2018, thanks to the efforts of professionals in the sector to offer tourist-varied experiences at an affordable price.

According to ForwardKeys, the country has reached 13% of international arrivals from January to June 2017, which means that it has been able to recover and improve its tourism after the negative outcomes of the revolution.

Tourism is Egypt’s largest foreign currency resource and one of its main sectors of activity with revenues of around $7 billion per year, higher than the transfer of Egyptian emigrants abroad. However, the sector was weakened by the attacks targeting tourist sites in 1997 and 2004, and also  between 2010 and 2014 due to the political instability of the country.

Now, the situation is becoming more and more suitable thanks to the efforts made by Egyptian authorities to attract more tourists. Egypt recorded $1.6 billion in tourist revenues from approximately 1.7 million tourists who visited the country in the first three months of 2017, compared with about 1.2 million tourists during the same period last year, Tourism revenues in the country recorded about $1.5 billion from January to March of last year.

The Germans are first on the list of tourists with 227,000 visitors, an increase of 35% compared to the same period last year. The Ukrainians come in second, followed by British tourists.

Morocco has a relatively comfortable place in terms of tourism on a continental scale as part of the leading trio of South Africa and Egypt. A total of 4.6 million tourists visited Morocco between January and June 2017, an increase of 9% compared to the same period a year earlier, according to the Ministry of Tourism, Air Transport, Crafts and Social Economy. The country has received 11% of international arrivals in Africa from January to July 2017, while arrivals of Moroccans living abroad increased by 3%.

In the case of emerging tourism markets, Morocco is maintaining its upward trend, said the ministry of tourism, pointing out that China recorded a 565% growth, while Japan, South Korea, the United States, and Brazil posted increases of 46%, 42%, 27% and 41%, respectively.

The total number of nights spent in classified accommodation establishments increased by 18% during the first six months of 2017 (22% for non-resident tourists and 8% for residents), the ministry said.

The two tourism centers, Marrakech and Agadir, alone accounted for 60% of the total overnight stays at the end of June, with an increase of 19% and 18%,, respectively.

Other destinations also posted good performances, particularly the cities of Fez and Tangier, with increases of 38% and 29%, respectively.

International tourism is an essential economic sector for the Republic of Mauritius, the small island country in the Indian Ocean which has few natural resources.

Tourist arrivals to Mauritius are increasing month after month, and after a good start in 2017, growth forecasts have been revised upwards.

Some 1,350,000 visitors are expected to have arrived in Mauritius by the end of 2017. According  to ForwardKeys, there is already an increase of 6% between January and June 2017, compared to the same period in 2016. About 1,275,227 tourists travelers enjoyed spending their holidays  under the hot Mauritian sun.

Mauritius is a multicultural country with a population coming from several communities: Asian, African and European. Thus, the country has an abundance of people who have come from many corners of the world with their own cultures.

Tourism in Tunisia is one of the important sectors of Tunisia’s economy and a source of foreign exchange for the country. Tourism has a ripple effect on other economic sectors, such as transport, communications, crafts, commerce, and construction.

According to ForwardKeys, Tunisia has welcomed 6% of the international tourists coming to Africa, but with noticeable progress. Tunisia, therefore, is overcoming the outcomes of the revolution on the activity of the sector. The year-to-year variation has reached 33,5 between January and June according to the same source.

Approximately 1,776,976 tourists entered the Tunisian territory on 10 June 2017, according to figures published by the Tunisian National Tourist Office (ONTT), nearly 500,000 tourists more than in 2016. This is largely thanks to the return of French and German tourists. Indeed, compared to the year 2016, approximately 46% of tourists were French and 33% German. Moreover, English tourists also returned to Tunisia with a 16% increase in arrivals from England.

In fact, the geographical position of Tunisia south of the Mediterranean basin, with 1,300 kilometers of mainly sandy coasts, a warm Mediterranean climate in summer and mild winter, a rich civilizational heritage (eight sites inscribed on UNESCO’s World Heritage List), and, above all, a low cost of tourism make this country one of the main destinations for European tourists in Africa and the Arab world.

The tourism sector of Kenya is taking off after a drop in tourist arrivals in recent years. From January to June 2017, the country received 6% of international  arrivals to Africa.

On the Kenyan Coast, the tourism sector is struggling to lift its head after the crisis triggered by repeated attacks by Islamic Shebabs in the region between 2012 and 2013. Until last year, European countries and the United States advised travelers not to go to the coast. As a result, to attract customers, hotels and travel agencies have had to lower their prices and diversify their offers. Additionally, the Kenyan Government has strengthened security at tourist sites.

There is a noticeable increase in the number of Chinese visitors to Kenya in the first six months of 2017. While about 69,000 Chinese tourists have arrived in the country in 2016, the local authorities are expecting that number to double in 2017, according to the Tourism Marketing Agency in Kenya. The same agency has explained that  China will be the largest market source of Kenyan tourism in three years. At present, the United States is the largest source market for tourism in Kenya, followed by Great Britain, India, and China.

Algeria is the fourth North African country after Egypt, Morocco, and Tunisia in terms of international arrivals to the continent by 5%. The local authorities are not satisfied with this figure. Therefore, recently, travel agencies and hotel infrastructures announced before the end of the year of the establishment of a national confederation, the aim of which is to awaken the Algerian tourist industry and attract more foreigners to the destination of Algeria. These different concerns were at the heart of this 18th International Tourism Fair in Algiers. For the participants of this fair, it was an opportunity to further promote their products to Algerians.

In 2017, Algeria recorded more than 2 million tourists, an increase of 19% compared to 2015, but the high cost of hotel infrastructures and the lengthy visa issuance procedures are often obstacles to the take-off of the sector.

Algeria is the largest country on the African continent, famous for its main tourist attractions, the Sahara, the second largest desert in the world. It is also a destination for lovers of prehistoric and ancient vestiges. Visitors can also enjoy the very mild and temperate Mediterranean climate, in addition to a very hospitable population.

With 4% of international arrivals to the continent, according to the Tanzania Tourist Board (TTB), the number of tourists visiting the country is expected to double to 2 million by the end of 2017. Tanzania is one of the preferred travel destinations for safari enthusiasts, and one can understand this desire to visit. These vast expanses are populated by one of the largest concentrations of wild animals in the world -Zebras, wildebeests, monkeys, antelopes, lions, cheetahs, giraffes, buffalos, gazelles, pink flamingos. By falling head-to-head with the wildlife of Tanzania, the traveller feels, before all else, the feeling of his smallness. This destination is a living treasure that explorers have always dreamed of seizing, formerly by means of a gun, today by the more peaceful one of a camera. Indeed, visiting Tanzania is most often done through safaris.

An economically-developing country, mistreated by the opportunism of the colonial powers, Tanzania has some of the most beautiful animal reserves on the African continent. Serengeti National Park, Mount Kilimanjaro, or the Ngorongoro Crater quickly forget the sadness of the cities of the country. The visitor will also be seduced by Zanzibar, the most famous of the islands of Tanzania.

Ethiopia has reached 3% of international arrival to Africa in the period between January to July, according to ForwardKeys.  The country has been able to receive  918,000 tourists during the first seven months of 2017, an increase of  5.7% compared to 2016 (3.32 billion USD, the third source of revenue after agriculture and industry). New international links, expanded airport capacity in Addis Ababa, increased international hotel chains in the capital, and increased business and diplomatic tourism are all factors explaining growth. With nine sites classified as UNESCO Heritage, Ethiopia aims to become, by 2020, one of the top 5 tourist destinations in Africa (2.5 million tourists).

Ethiopia has a very interesting tourist profile with the capital, Addis Ababa, and its ancient palaces, Lalibela, the monastic city classified as World Heritage of Humanity, famous for its 11 churches carved in the rock in the twelfth century; Bahar Dar, Lake Tana and its 37 islands; the ruins of the City of Aksum, which represents ancient Ethiopia; the fortified historic town of Harar Jugol and its 82 mosques, three of which date back to the 10th century and the walls built between the thirteenth and sixteenth century, and its 11 medieval stone churches dating from the 13th century, and its 102 sanctuaries, etc.

The wealth and excellent conservation of the historic monuments of Addis Ababa have also enabled the country’s capital to participate in the “victory” of Ethiopia in tourism. Addis Ababa, the capital, is housing various international and regional organizations, including the headquarters of the African Union (AU), as well as the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA).

Nigeria remains the biggest surprise. The Study of Seat Capacity for the Top Ten International Airports in Africa, conducted by ForwardKeys, shows that Lagos is seeing substantial declines in both domestic and international capacity, reaching only 2% of the total of international arrivals. This decrease can be explained by the ravaging effect on the lack of security mainly in the north of the country, the collapse of the oil price, in addition to the fall in dollar exchange, which has also had a negative impact on the sector of tourism in the country.

Nigeria remains a business destination rather than a tourist attraction. It is one of the biggest economic powers in Africa. However, the country is culturally diverse and can become a leading tourist destination thanks to the number of attractions for tourists such as the  historical sites, the colorful festivals, and the diversity of cultures. Lagos, the capital, is the largest city on the continent, with more than 15 million inhabitants, a huge metropolis, and one of the musical capitals of Africa, where one can experience astonishing achievements. In fact, travelling in Nigeria is also necessarily a musical experience: Afro-beat was born here and is exported all over the world; juju, Nigerian hip-hop, refers to African music. The city counts a multitude of box nightclubs and music clubs.

Moreover, Kano, south of the Sahara, is one of the oldest cities on the continent, founded more than 1,000 years ago. In addition to other sites, the city has a strong tourist potential that can be improved so as to overcome the decline of the sector in the country. Authorities are now doubling their efforts to promote the industry of tourism in the country.

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