urban and safari

Beyond the Safari: Urban Adventures in Africa’s Bustling Cities

Introduction.

For many travellers, Africa evokes images of wild savannahs, magnificent wildlife, and unparalleled safari experiences. While these aspects of the continent are undeniably alluring, Africa also offers vibrant and bustling cities that are well worth exploring. In this article, I’ll take you on a journey through some of the most fascinating urban centres in the countries that The Grown-up Travel Company serves. So, let’s dive into the world of urban adventures in Africa and discover the wonders that await you beyond the safari.

Cape Town, South Africa

The Mother City’s Blend of Nature and Urban Excitement

Cape Town, affectionately known as the Mother City, is a breathtaking destination nestled between the iconic Table Mountain and the sparkling Atlantic Ocean. This cosmopolitan city offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural diversity, and a rich history.

Exploring the V&A Waterfront

The V&A Waterfront is a must-visit destination for anyone venturing to Cape Town . This bustling harbour, located in the city’s historic heart, offers a variety of attractions, including shopping, dining, and entertainment venues. You can also visit the Two Oceans Aquarium or take a boat trip to Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for 18 years.

The Colourful Bo-Kaap Neighbourhood

The Bo-Kaap neighbourhood is famous for its brightly coloured houses, cobbled streets, and rich Cape Malay history. Stroll through this vibrant area, take pictures of the picturesque homes, and learn about the district’s unique heritage at the Bo-Kaap Museum.

Nairobi, Kenya

The Green City in the Sun

Nairobi, Kenya’s bustling capital, is affectionately known as the “Green City in the Sun” due to its lush parks and gardens. This thriving metropolis offers a unique blend of modern development and rich cultural heritage.

Nairobi National Park and the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust

Located just a short drive from Nairobi’s city centre, Nairobi National Park offers the rare opportunity to spot wildlife such as lions, giraffes, and rhinos against a backdrop of towering skyscrapers. After exploring the park, pay a visit to the nearby David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust , where you can learn about elephant and rhino conservation efforts and even “adopt” an orphaned elephant.

The Colourful Maasai Market

For an authentic taste of Kenyan culture, don’t miss the Maasai Market, held at various locations throughout the city. Here, you can browse colourful stalls selling traditional Maasai crafts, clothing, and jewellery, all while interacting with the friendly vendors and experiencing Nairobi’s vibrant atmosphere.

Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

The dynamic capital of ethiopia.

Addis Ababa, the bustling capital of Ethiopia, is often referred to as the “political capital of Africa” due to its historical, diplomatic, and political significance. The city boasts a rich cultural heritage, diverse population, and an array of fascinating attractions.

The National Museum of Ethiopia

The National Museum of Ethiopia is a must-visit for anyone interested in the country’s history and culture. The museum houses a diverse range of artefacts, from ancient fossils to traditional art and clothing. The most famous exhibit is the 3.2 million-year-old skeleton of Lucy, an early human ancestor.

Mercato, Africa’s Largest Open-Air Market

No trip to Addis Ababa would be complete without exploring the bustling Mercato, Africa’s largest open-air market. Covering several square kilometres, the market offers a fascinating insight into Ethiopian culture and daily life. Wander through the maze of stalls, discover local handicrafts, and sample delicious traditional cuisine.

Durban, South Africa

The Seaside Gem of South Africa

Durban, a bustling coastal city in South Africa , is renowned for its golden beaches, warm subtropical climate, and vibrant cultural scene. The city is a melting pot of African, Indian, and European influences, creating a unique and diverse urban landscape.

Durban’s Golden Mile

The Golden Mile, stretching along Durban’s beachfront, is the city’s most iconic attraction. Lined with hotels, restaurants, and entertainment venues, this lively promenade is the perfect place for a leisurely stroll or an invigorating jog. Don’t forget to take a dip in the warm waters of the Indian Ocean or catch a wave at one of the popular surf spots.

The Durban Botanic Gardens

Established in 1849, the Durban Botanic Gardens are the oldest surviving gardens in Africa. The gardens showcase a diverse collection of indigenous and exotic plants, including a remarkable collection of cycads, orchids, and palms. Take a leisurely walk through the gardens, marvel at the magnificent flora, and relax in the tranquil surroundings.

Harare, Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe’s thriving capital.

Harare, the capital of Zimbabwe , is a vibrant city filled with striking architecture, lush green spaces, and a friendly atmosphere. Despite its tumultuous past, Harare has emerged as a dynamic urban centre with a thriving arts and culture scene.

The National Gallery of Zimbabwe

The National Gallery of Zimbabwe is a must-visit for art lovers. The gallery features an extensive collection of contemporary Zimbabwean art, showcasing the country’s rich artistic heritage. Regular exhibitions and events ensure there’s always something new and exciting to discover.

Mukuvisi Woodlands

Escape the bustling city streets and immerse yourself in nature at the Mukuvisi Woodlands, a beautiful nature reserve in the heart of Harare. Home to a variety of wildlife, including giraffes, zebras, and antelopes, the woodlands offer a unique opportunity to experience Zimbabwe’s natural beauty up close. Take a guided walk, explore the scenic trails, or enjoy a relaxing picnic in the serene surroundings.

Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

Tanzania’s bustling coastal metropolis.

Dar es Salaam, Tanzania’s largest city and former capital, is a bustling metropolis with a rich history and diverse cultural influences. From lively markets to beautiful beaches, Dar es Salaam offers a unique urban adventure in the heart of East Africa.

Kariakoo Market

Experience the hustle and bustle of Dar es Salaam at Kariakoo Market, the city’s largest and most vibrant market. Discover a treasure trove of local produce, colourful textiles, and handmade crafts, all while getting a taste of the city’s dynamic atmosphere.

Located along the Msasani Peninsula, Coco Beach is a popular destination for both locals and visitors. The beach offers a picturesque setting for sunbathing, swimming, and people-watching. Sample delicious street food from the nearby vendors, or simply relax and soak up the lively atmosphere.

Entebbe, Uganda

The gateway to uganda’s natural wonders.

Entebbe, situated on the shores of Lake Victoria, is a charming city with a laid-back atmosphere and a rich colonial history. Often regarded as the gateway to Uganda’s natural wonders, Entebbe is the perfect starting point for exploring the country’s diverse landscapes and wildlife.

Entebbe Botanical Gardens

Established in 1898, the Entebbe Botanical Gardens showcase a diverse array of flora from across Uganda and beyond. Wander through the beautifully landscaped grounds, admire the lush tropical vegetation, and keep an eye out for the many bird species that call the gardens home.

Uganda Wildlife Education Centre

For an up-close encounter with Uganda’s fascinating wildlife, visit the Uganda Wildlife Education Centre. This conservation centre and sanctuary is home to a variety of rescued and rehabilitated animals, including lions, elephants, and chimpanzees. Join a guided tour to learn more about the centre’s conservation efforts and the animals that reside here.

From the stunning landscapes of Cape Town to the rich history of Addis Ababa, the lively markets of Dar es Salaam to the picturesque beaches of Durban, Africa’s bustling cities offer a wealth of urban adventures waiting to be discovered. As you embark on your next African journey with The Grown-up Travel Company, make sure to venture beyond the safaris and immerse yourself in the vibrant cultures, captivating attractions, and unforgettable experiences that these dynamic cities have to offer.

Ready for some urban adventures in Africa? Contact The Grown-up Travel Company today to start planning your unforgettable city adventure!

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Moscow, like other international urban areas , is decentralizing, despite considerable barriers. The expansion will lead to even more decentralization, which is likely to lead to less time "stuck in traffic" and more comfortable lifestyles. Let's hope that Russia's urban development policies, along with its plans to restore population growth, will lead to higher household incomes and much improved economic performance.

Wendell Cox is a Visiting Professor, Conservatoire National des Arts et Metiers, Paris and the author of “ War on the Dream: How Anti-Sprawl Policy Threatens the Quality of Life ”

Note 1: The 23 ward (ku) area of Tokyo is the geography of the former city of Tokyo, which was abolished in the 1940s. There is considerable confusion about the geography of Tokyo. For example, the 23 ward area is a part of the prefecture of Tokyo, which is also called the Tokyo Metropolis, which has led some analysts to think of it as the Tokyo metropolitan area (labor market area). In fact, the Tokyo metropolitan area, variously defined, includes, at a minimum the prefectures of Tokyo, Kanagawa, Chiba and Saitama with some municipalities in Gunma, Ibaraki and Tochigi. The metropolitan area contains nearly three times the population of the "Tokyo Metropolis."

Note 2: The expansion area (556 square miles or 1,440 square kilometers) has a current population of 250,000.

Note 3: Includes all residents in suburban districts with at least part of their population in the urban area.

Note 4: Urban area data not yet available.

Photo: St. Basil's Cathedral (all photos by author)

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Road in city area.

The roads and ways of the city areas are very clumsy and many accidents are happening due to the short road. But you need to maintain the driving properly otherwise you may face accident. So now the government decided to expand the road which may put the positive effect on automobile sector. I think it is a helpful service for the society people. If you have a BMW car and you have faced any problem then better to repair it at BMW Repair Spring, TX for the best service.

Transit & transportation

Transit and transportation services are quite impressive in most of the urban cities; therefore people were getting better benefits from suitable transportation service. Urban cities like Moscow, Washington, New York and Tokyo; we have found high margin of transportation system that helps to build a better communication network in these cities. I hope through the help of modern transportation system we are able to bring revolutionary change in automobile industries; in this above article we have also found the same concepts to develop transportation system. Mercedes repair in Torrance

Moscow is bursting Noblesse

Moscow is bursting Noblesse at the seams. The core city covers more than 420 square miles (1,090 kilometers), and has a population of approximately 11.5 million people. With 27,300 residents per square mile (10,500 per square kilometer), Moscow is one percent more dense than the bleach anime watch city of New York, though Moscow covers 30 percent more land. The 23 ward area of Tokyo (see Note) is at least a third more dense, though Moscow's land area is at least half again as large as Tokyo. All three core areas rely

Belgravia Villas is a new

Belgravia Villas is a new and upcoming cluster housing located in the Ang Mo Kio area, nested right in the Ang Mo Kio landed area. It is within a short drive to Little India, Orchard and city area. With expected completion in mid 2016, it comprises of 118 units in total with 100 units of terrace and 18 units of Semi-D. belgravia villas

Russians seeing the light while Western elites are bickering?

What an extremely interesting analysis - well done, Wendell.

It is also extremely interesting that the Russian leadership is reasonably pragmatic about urban form, in contrast to the "planners" of the post-rational West.

An acquaintance recently sent me an article from "The New Yorker", re Moscow's traffic problems.

The article "abstract" is HERE (but access to the full article requires subscription)

http://www.newyorker.com/reporting/2010/08/02/100802fa_fact_gessen

One classic quote worth taking from it, is: "People will endure all manner of humiliation to keep driving".

I do find it odd that the "New Yorker" article author says nothing at all about the rail transit system Moscow had, on which everyone was obliged to travel, under Communism. It can't surely have vaporised into thin air?

Moscow is a classic illustration of just how outmoded rails are, and how important "automobility" is, when the auto supplants rails so rapidly than even when everybody did travel on rails up to a certain date, and the road network dates to that era, when nobody was allowed to own a car; an article written just 2 decades later does not even mention the rail transit system, other than to criticise the mayor for "failing to invest in a transit system".......!!!!!!!!

This is also a give-away of "The New Yorker's" inability to shake off the modern PC ideology on rails vs cars.

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In This Article Expand or collapse the "in this article" section Moscow

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Moscow by Adrienne M. Harris LAST REVIEWED: 28 July 2021 LAST MODIFIED: 28 July 2021 DOI: 10.1093/obo/9780190922481-0047

According to the 2010 census, Moscow’s 11.5 million inhabitants make it the largest city in Europe. The city has the distinction of having gained capital status in the 16th century, losing it in the early 18th century, and regaining it after the Bolshevik Revolution in the early 20th century. In the 10th century, Eastern Slavs colonized the area; Moscow first appeared in written chronicles in 1147, when Prince Iurii Dolgorukii established the city on a forested bluff overlooking the confluence of the Moscow and Neglinnaia rivers. Although Mongols destroyed Moscow in 1237, during the period of Mongol hegemony known as the “Tatar Yoke” (1237–1480), Moscow flourished and the city replaced Kiev as the capital of East Slavdom, the state of Muscovy born in 1547. The cluster of cupolas in the Kremlin attest to Moscow’s role as a seat of ecclesiastical power: after the Ottomans captured Constantinople in 1453, Moscow gained new cultural significance as the self-proclaimed center of “true Christianity.” In 1712, Peter the Great transferred power to St. Petersburg and Moscow was demoted to a regional capital. During the imperial period, Moscow became an important industrial center that attracted migrants who would continually overwhelm city resources. The destruction resulting from Napoleon’s invasion in 1812 led to reconstruction. After the 1917 Bolshevik Revolution, the city emerged as the capital of the USSR and the global communist movement and, after the Second World War, as the capital of the socialist “second world.” One finds ample scholarship about Moscow during the Soviet period, as it served as an example for the rest of this “second world.” Publications have focused on attempts to alleviate housing shortages and sanitation problems; on the development of public transportation, most notably the Moscow metropolitan—the subway, which remains an architectural monument; on migration; and, considering the Soviet experience, on labor history and social movements—especially as Soviet planners aimed to create new and innovative solutions for the “new Soviet man and woman.” The scholarship reflects the fact that problems that challenged planners in the past continue into the present. One should be aware of the ideological nature of Soviet books, especially those published during the Stalin period when scholars were required to approach their work from a Marxist perspective in line with Soviet ideology. Additionally, sources about contemporary Moscow published two decades ago will be more out of date than a similarly-aged source on a city that did not experience a cataclysmic event such as the 1991 dissolution of the USSR.

Although not solely about Moscow, Riasanovsky and Steinberg 2018 provides the best overview of Moscow history. Perhaps only the historians of the Russian Academy of Sciences have attempted to capture the entire history of Moscow from its founding in the 12th century in one endeavor, publishing a massive six-volume (1952–1959), seven-book edition covering Moscow until the invasion of Nazi Germany in 1941 in the form of Istoriia Moskvy v shesti tomakh . In addition to being out of date, historians commenced this project at one of the most-ideologically rigid Soviet periods—the postwar Stalin years. Nothing comparable exists in English. Colton 1995 remains the most comprehensive one-volume general overview dedicated to Moscow, although most of the book concerns the 20th century. While the title indicates that the book is largely concerned with governance and Colton is a political scientist, the book also covers Moscow history and urban planning, in addition to local governance in depth. For a comparative study covering late-19th to early-20th-century history, see Ruble 2001 . Murrell 2003 provides an accessible, one-volume illustrated history with a focus on architecture for students and travelers. The encyclopedia entry Harris 2019 serves as a short urban and cultural history of the city and concludes with a list of works (literature, cinema, and songs) that depict the city. Although outdated, Corona 2001 introduces the city to a juvenile audience. “Uznai Moskvu” (“ Discover Moscow ”) offers both searchable textual and visual, historical and contemporary information on the city. Leading American, Canadian, and British historians manage the Russian History Blog on which one can find multiple posts about Moscow. The English-language Moscow Times newspaper provides up-to-date information on Moscow events.

Akademiia nauk SSSR: Institut istorii. Istoriia Moskvy v shesti tomakh . 6 vols. Moscow: Izdatel’stvo Akademii Nauk SSSR, 1952–1959.

This massive six-volume (seven book) set produced by historians at the Academy of Sciences of the USSR, Institute of History, covers the history of Moscow from the 12th century through June 1941 from a Marxist perspective: Vol. 1: 12th-17th centuries; Vol. 2. 18th century; Vol. 3. 1800–1856; Vol. 4: 1860s-1880s; Vol. 5. 1890s-1916; Vol. 6. 1917–1941. It includes map, illustrations, and colored plates.

Colton, Timothy J. Moscow: Governing the Socialist Metropolis . Cambridge, MA: Belknap Press of Harvard University Press, 1995.

DOI: 10.4159/harvard.9780674283725

After introducing Moscow’s history prior to the October 1917 revolution, this comprehensive volume details its urban development intertwined with its role as the capital of not just the Soviet Union, but the socialist second world in general. Colton discusses both the city’s development under Soviet general secretaries as well as housing, migration, and planning, and covers local governance in the city across different regimes. The final two chapters cover the capital and its institutions during perestroika and the post-Soviet period.

Corona, Laurel. Life in Moscow . The Way People Live series. San Diego, CA: Lucent Books, 2001.

Illustrated with black-and-white photographs of everyday life and Moscow landmarks, this book is an appropriate introduction to Moscow for a juvenile audience. It covers transportation, socioeconomic status, home life, education, careers, crime and law enforcement, and entertainment.

Discover Moscow .

“Uznai Moskvu” or “Discover Moscow,” a searchable online Russian and English-language guide to Moscow, provides information on houses, routes, museums, monuments, and other places. The site includes maps, photographs—both historical and contemporary, and historical information on notable sites.

Harris, Adrienne. “Moscow.” In The Wiley-Blackwell Encyclopedia of Urban and Regional Studies . Edited by Anthony M. Orum, 1264–1271. Hoboken, NJ: Wiley-Blackwell, 2019.

A concise introduction appropriate for undergraduates. Although the article is focused primarily on history, it concludes with a short list of literature and films set in Moscow.

The Moscow Times .

This English-language newspaper, having only recently moved to an all-digital format, began circulation in 1992 for an audience of primarily expats living in Moscow. It stopped publishing in print in 2017 and turned to an entirely digital format.

Murrell, Kathleen Berton. Moscow: An Illustrated History . New York: Hippocrene Books, 2003.

This accessible history covers the history of Moscow from its settlement by Slavic tribes through the first post-Soviet decade. It includes a map, chronology, and black-and-white illustrations.

Riasanovsky, Nicholas V., and Mark D Steinberg. A History of Russia . 9th ed. Oxford: Oxford University Press, 2018.

Although this authoritative history covers Russian history in general, there are several chapters dedicated solely to Moscow and the Muscovite state that provide the reader an excellent overview of Moscow history.

Ruble, Blair A. Second Metropolis: Pragmatic Pluralism in Gilded Age Chicago, Silver Age Moscow, and Meiji Osaka . Washington, DC: Woodrow Wilson Center Press, 2001.

In this excellent comparative study, the author compares Moscow, Chicago, and Osaka during a period (1870–1920) in which all three experienced robust industrial development, rapid population growth, and increases in both diversity and fragmentation. Three chapters cover Moscow’s development as an industrial center, the relatively successful education of Moscow workers, and the city’s housing ills. Ruble challenges Russian exceptionalism by highlighting similarities to other cities.

Russian History Blog .

Leading Western scholars manage the English-language Russian History Blog on which one finds multiple posts related to Moscow.

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Atlas of Urban Expansion

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Composition of Added Area

Arterial roads, blocks and plots.

The Population of Moscow in 2014 was 15,220,986, increasing at an average annual rate of 1.3% since 2001. The population of Moscow in 2001 was 12,726,303, increasing at an average annual rate of 2% since 1991, when its population was 10,377,113.

The Urban Extent of Moscow in 2014 was 357,596 hectares, increasing at an average annual rate of 2.8% since 2001. The urban extent in 2001 was 247,567 hectares, increasing at an average annual rate of 3.4% since 1991, when its urban extent was 176,270 hectares.

• Exurban Area
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Built-up Area Density in Moscow in 2014 was 68 persons per hectare, decreasing at an average annual rate of -1.2% since 2001. The built-up area density in 2001 was 80 persons per hectare, decreasing at an average annual rate of -1.8% since 1991 when the built-up area density was 95.28 persons per hectare. The Urban Extent Density in Moscow in 2014 was 43 persons per hectare, decreasing at an average annual rate of -1.4% since 2001. The urban extent density in 2001 was 51 persons per hectare, decreasing at an average annual rate of -1.4% since 1991 when the urban extent density was 59 persons per hectare.

A total of 63,416 hectares of built-up area was added to the Moscow urban extent between 2001 and 2014. Of that added built-up area, 22% was Infill, 27% was Extension, 5% was Leapfrog, and 47% was Inclusion. A total of 51,110 hectares of built-up area was added to the urban extent between 1991 and 2001. Of that added built-up area, 36% was Infill, 21% was Extension, 3% was Leapfrog, and 39% was Inclusion.

Average road width in the Moscow 1990-2014 expansion area was 5.62 meters, compared to 9.68 meters in its pre-1990 area. The share of built-up area in Moscow occupied by roads in the 1990-2014 expansion area was 15%, compared to 20% in the pre-1990 area.

The density of arterial roads in Moscow's 1990-2014 expansion was 0.33 km/km2, compared to 1.13 km/km2 in its pre-1990 area. The share of built-up area within walking distance of an arterial road in Moscow's 1990-2014 expansion area was 35%, compared to 79% in the pre-1990 area.

Average block size in Moscow's 1990-2014 expansion area was 4.8 hectares, compared to 6.1 hectares in its pre-1990 area.

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Moscow Urban Forum 2019: Quality of Life, Projects for a Better City

• Published on May 29, 2019

Pierre de Meuron, Richard Sennett, Reinier de Graaf, and Winy Maas will join a diverse group of city makers, developers, investors, startups, urbanists, local governments, international institutions, citizen, and more, at this year's Moscow Urban Forum .

Quality of life in cities is in the centre of discussions among politicians, economists, urban managers and planners nowadays. Megacities focus their efforts on the improvement of the quality of urban environment, the development of housing, transport, and social infrastructure, launch and expansion of wide range of urban services, as well as the promotion of their cities as tourist destinations. Thus, the overall objective of city administrations all over the world is the enhancement of quality of life and the provision of services for well being of their citizens.

Moscow Urban Forum 2019 under the title ‘Quality of life. Projects for a better city’ is dedicated to the presentations and discussion of the initiatives and megaprojects that are launched by city administrations, business, citizens and are aimed at balanced and sustainable urban development.

Two days of the Business Programme are focused on such topics as housing, sustainable urban development, social infrastructure, transport, and smart city technologies. The Urban Health Congress will be held in the framework of the Business Programme. The Congress will be dedicated to the discussion of how urban health indicators could inform municipal policies in the wide range of fields – from housing and transportation to city planning and social infrastructure.

This year the MUF will also include parallel events:

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Urban forests of Moscow: typological diversity, succession status, and fragmentation assessment

• Research Article
• Published: 28 October 2023
• Volume 38 , pages 3767–3789, ( 2023 )

Cite this article

• Ivan Kotlov   ORCID: orcid.org/0000-0002-3251-2778 1 , 2 ,
• Tatiana Chernenkova   ORCID: orcid.org/0000-0001-6608-2254 3 &
• Nadezhda Belyaeva   ORCID: orcid.org/0000-0001-8410-2714 3  

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Urban forests provide ecosystem services such as temperature regulation, air purification, carbon sequestration and biodiversity conservation. It is important to perform baseline assessment and regular monitoring of biodiversity, vegetation dynamics and spatial structure of urban forests. Most cities suffer from the lack of a unified monitoring system. The heterogeneity of Moscow territory land use determines different functions and state of urban forests. To what extent are the forests of modern Moscow support natural resource and ecological potential, and what are the risks in maintaining the social and ecological needs of the population in the urban region?

Assessment of typological diversity, succession status and spatial structure of Moscow forests in the context of three sectors of different land use.

This study integrates typological (cenotic), succession and fragmentation approaches on the basis of remote sensing data. Field relevés were used for cenotic classification into forest formations and association groups. Random forest algorithm was used for cartographic modeling. Forest patches assigned with formations and groups of associations were subject of diversity, dynamics and spatial structure of forests analysis.

Current study presents the assessment of the composition and spatial structure of the Moscow forests in the context of three sectors of different anthropogenic pressure and land use. 11 forest formations and 33 association groups were identified. Overall accuracy of cartographic modeling was 59% for association groups, and 67% for formations. Unsatisfactory ability of forests to support social and ecological needs of residents was revealed especially in the central part of the city. The combination of low fragmentation metrics with a high proportion of long-term derivative forest types is critical for the sustainable existence of forest cover within city center. With distance from the center a fairly high typological diversity of forests is noted.

The combination of low fragmentation metrics with a high proportion of long-term derivative forest types is critical for the sustainable existence of the forest cover. Overall, the methodology and results of the work create a basis for regular monitoring of the Moscow forests, as well as in other urban areas.

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Acknowledgements

The authors thank many colleagues who participated in the collection of the primary material, among whom the proportion in relevés is E.G. Suslova, E.V. Tikhonova, O.A. Pesterova, N.G. Kadetov, O.V. Morozova, M.A. Arkhipova, S.Yu. Popov.

The study was funded by State research tasks of the Institute of Geography RAS FMWS-2024-0007 (1021051703468-8) and Severtsov Institute of Ecology and Evolution RAS «Historical ecology and biogeocenology» (121122300052-5 (0089- 2021-0008)). This study was funded by Basic Research Program at the National Research University Higher School of Economics (HSE University).

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Kotlov, I., Chernenkova, T. & Belyaeva, N. Urban forests of Moscow: typological diversity, succession status, and fragmentation assessment. Landsc Ecol 38 , 3767–3789 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10980-023-01788-7

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Kenya ’s coastal hub, Mombasa, makes for a perfect urban beach stay, with untouched and more laid-back beach options of Malindi, Watamu and Diani all excellent spots to try diving and snorkelling, join a whale shark watching tour, or sail into the sunset on a traditional dhow boat cruise.

The islands of East Africa’s “Swahili Coast”, including Kenya’s Lamu archipelago and Tanzania ’s legendary “Spice Island” of Zanzibar , allow visitors a fascinating glimpse into Swahili culture, and the centuries of international trade which have shaped the historic UNESCO World Heritage Centres of Lamu Old Town and Zanzibar’s Stone Town.

Just 22 miles off the coast of Zanzibar, you could find yourself on a thrilling safari in Kenya or Tanzania, where you can marvel at the natural wonders of East Africa. After, it’s a short hop to the island for a relaxing stay in a stunning oceanfront villa at Le Mersenne Zanzibar, Autograph Collection on the Michamvi Peninsula, or a traditional Makuti-thatched seaview room at Nungwi Beach Resort by Turaco .

Embarking on urban adventures

Exciting, culturally rich cities complement your wildlife adventures when visting East Africa, be it Kenya's capital Nairobi, Dar es Salaam in Tanzania or Rwandan capital Kigali (Photo: Getty Images)

While East Africa is known for its incredible wildlife encounters, it's important to remember that beyond its natural wonders, there are also vibrant urban landscapes just waiting to be explored.

Kenya’s capital, Nairobi , has a thriving nightlife scene. Expect hip neighbourhoods pulsing with live music and DJ sets, cool cafés to watch the world go by over a cup of the world-famous Kenyan coffee, and chic sky-soaring restaurants and bars – not least the five internationally inspired dining destinations at the JW Marriott Hotel Nairobi . Rising high above the upmarket district of Westlands, this towering sanctuary also offers a must-see luxury spa.

Located on the Swahili Coast in Tanzania, Dar es Salaam promises great shopping, museums and galleries – all a stone’s throw from the Indian Ocean. A tasteful and tranquil retreat, Protea Hotel Dar es Salaam Courtyard is the perfect base for exploring, with a lush green courtyard and pool to cool off after a day soaking up the sights and sounds of the city.

And before you head off on your gorilla trek in Rwanda , spend a few nights at the Four Points by Sheraton Kigali to sample this thriving capital ’s fantastic street food, art and music in Nyamirambo, and to visit the buzzing bars and restaurants of leafy Kimihurura, or “Kimi”.

Cherishing wild encounters

From the “Big Five” – rhino, lion, leopard, buffalo and elephant – to gorilla trekking, opportunities for once-in-a-lifetime wildlife experiences abound in East Africa (Photo: Getty Images)

With some of the best-known wildlife reserves and most iconic animal species on Earth, East Africa is the spiritual home of the safari and the world’s premier gorilla trekking destination.

With twenty stylish ensuite tents overlooking the legendary Masai Mara Reserve, the JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge is a luxury safari lodge that puts you at the heart of the action. From here, it’s a short drive into the realm of Africa’s “Big Five” – rhino, lion, leopard, buffalo and elephant – and the famous plains where the “Great Migration” sees more than 1.5 million wildebeest, plus thousands of zebras and gazelles, moving clockwise around the Masai Mara and Tanzania ’s breathtaking Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Conservation Area. The lodge also invites guests to relax and rejuvenate before the next stage of their adventure.

In Zambia, guests at the Protea Hotel Lusaka Safari Lodge have their own private game reserve on the doorstep, just thirty minutes' drive from the capital Lusaka . You'll also have the chance to visit some of the country’s twenty national parks, including spectacular South Luangwa, Kafue and the Lower Zambezi.

Intrepid travellers to Rwanda , meanwhile, can experience the ultimate bucket-list wildlife adventure – trekking to see mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park – while wild chimpanzees can be tracked on foot in Rwanda’s Nyungwe National Park and Tanzania’s Mahale Mountains.  

Embracing rich cultural experiences

Victoria Falls isn't just a spectacular sight: it's also a hub of fascinating historical stories (Photo: Getty Images)

Known as the “Cradle of Humankind”, Africa has fossil evidence from every key stage in human evolution, with many key discoveries found in Tanzania ’s Olduvai Gorge. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the excavation site and Olduvai Gorge Museum make a fascinating stop on the way to Serengeti National Park , while Tanzania’s port city of Dar es Salaam is the place to embrace music, theatre and art. A highlight here is the open-air Makumbusho Cultural Centre & Village Museum, which showcases the country’s rich cultural heritage and traditional dance shows. 

A stay at the Protea Hotel Livingstone , in Zambia’s tourist hub near the mighty Victoria Falls , offers the chance to uncover important aspects of East Africa’s history at the Livingstone Museum, as well as to wander the historic town named after Dr David Livingstone, the Scottish explorer and missionary who visited the falls in 1855.

Across Kenya and northern Tanzania, there are opportunities to responsibly visit local Maasai tribal communities, and meet some of the many Maasai who work as skilled animal trackers and guides. Marriott’s Tribe Hotel, Nairobi, a Member of Design Hotels , honours the continent’s rich tribal culture with 900 hand-sculpted artefacts and architecture inspired by authentic Kenyan design.

Experiencing the serenity of wellness and relaxation

Hiking and biking opportunities are endless in East Africa, with some of the world's greatest scenery – not least Victoria Falls – as your backdrop (Photo: Getty Images)

Whether you’re looking to get a little fitter, spend some time unwinding in nature, or escape for a full-on pampering holiday, you’ll find plenty of ways to reach your wellness goals in East Africa.

From the awe-inducing Victoria Falls, to soaring mountains like Mount Kilimanjaro and Mount Kenya, the sparkling African Great Lakes including Victoria and Tanganyika, and the rainforest-clad peaks of Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda, hiking and biking opportunities are endless. 

Be sure to balance the physical side of your East African adventure with some tender loving care - the Saray Spa at the Kigali Marriott Hotel in Rwanda’s capital is the perfect tranquil oasis for a swim, sauna and massage before you head home. 

For a deep wellness dive, Ciêla, Lusaka, a Tribute Portfolio Resort and Spa , on the outskirts of Zambia’s capital, has all you need for a rejuvenating break, with a golf course, a large indoor/outdoor pool, a gym and bright contemporary rooms overlooking the resort’s expansive grounds. At The Spa , choose from a range of treatments, which include natural local ingredients, including sandalwood, coffee and baobab, or soak any stress away in the hydrotherapy room. 

Published:  April 26, 2024

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